Tag: Janine Van Wyk

Unsung Hero of the Week: Dynamic Dash Duo

Posted on by RJ Allen

In this weekly series, I will be highlighting a player from the weekend who was their respective team’s unsung hero, win or lose. A player who does the dirty work, does the little but important things in a game, and someone who didn’t exactly fill up the stat sheet but found other ways to contribute.

This week is special–two for the price of one! I’ve chosen Houston Dash defenders Janine Van Wyk and Amber Brooks to highlight together because I believe that the on-field relationship between the two women really contributed to the Dash’s play this week.

Van Wyk is in her first year in the NWSL and has adjusted nicely to the American way of playing. The 30-year-old is the first South African player to suit up for an NWSL side, earning a place after her 2015 Women’s World Cup showing and her impressive performance against the USWNT in a mid-year friendly in 2016. Van Wyk is the caps leader for either male or female for South Africa, with an incredible 143. She impressed on the biggest stage so it was a no-brainer to recruit her. I, for one, was hoping she would make her way over here and it seems she has made a home with the Dash.

Brooks is a player who has been in the NWSL since 2014, with Portland and Seattle before settling in with Houston. The 26-year-old played her college ball at the Taj Mahal of women’s soccer, the University of North Carolina from 2009-2012. She is a player that has been solid no matter what team she has been on, yet she is on her third NWSL team. And while it is certainly not a preference for any player to move around that much, she has definitely made a home for herself in Houston.

Houston 1-1 Portland:

Going into this matchup, I wasn’t heavily favoring Portland but I certainly didn’t think Houston would put in this kind of performance. Keep in mind the Thorns were without Amandine Henry, Nadia Nadim, and Dagny Brynjarsdottir as they are with their respective teams for the European Championships.

From the starting whistle the Dash were buzzing, putting pressure on early to take control of the game right away. Portland would have a half chance in the second minute but Van Wyk intercepted a pass from Hayley Raso in the Dash’s own 18 that was intended for a charging Lindsey Horan. Van Wyk read the play perfectly and the Dash have a hard time coming back from behind so it was a much-needed play.

Although youngster Janine Beckie scored a goal for Houston in the eighth minute, the Thorns were not fazed, bringing wave after wave of attack.

Midway through the first half, the two Dash veterans continued their strong start, making back-to-back plays to keep Portland off the board. Van Wyk was up for the challenge of the Thorns attack in the 14th minute when, with Sinclair waiting on the doorstep, she remained a step ahead of the Canadian legend. Van Wyk cleared the dangerous ball sent in from Australian import Ashleigh Sykes and relieved the pressure momentarily for Houston.

Just a minute later in the 15th minute, Brooks took Hayley Raso’s chance away in Houston’s box. Brooks’ style isn’t to dive in with the speedy forward barreling down. Instead, she waits, patiently, unafraid. In this game, she waited and contained Raso long enough for Van Wyk to arrive and help support, eventually clearing the ball out of danger. Not too long after that, Brooks was busy once again. This time she sacrificed her body her block a vicious shot by Meghan Klingenberg, who was moving in her typical left-to-right tread.

A close call in the 27th minute required Brooks to be aware of just which Portland player was around her. In this instance, it was Allie Long attempting to get in behind the backline about 25 yards out. Brooks stretched out to steal the slotted ball, breaking off what was sure to be a breakaway date with Houston’s rookie goalkeeper Jane Campbell.

In the second half, it was much of the same from the Dash dynamic duo.

With the Thorns piling on the pressure, Van Wyk and Brooks had to do whatever it took not to allow a goal, let alone a goal right after half. In the 53rd minute, they stood their ground on teasing ball after ball being whipped in by the Thorns, each rising to head it out two different times. Even with the high pressure, Houston and its backline displayed steady composure, led by Van Wyk and Brooks in the center.

Several minutes later Brooks showed how dangerous her service can be, almost grabbing an assist, but Carli Lloyd’s header went just wide. It’s a shame Lloyd couldn’t quite get it on target because it was a gorgeous ball in from Brooks.

Van Wyk and Brooks orchestrated a solid game-plan from the back all night long, switching fields when necessary and providing support to the midfield. They did a fantastic job leading the Dash, and while they earned just one point, it was a sign of life once again from this team.

The other two points slipped away when Horan scored a lovely free kick in the 91st minute. Houston had done a wonderful job keeping Horan in check all game until a moment of magic spoiled the result. It was certainly a stunner for Dash fans, just seconds within reach of a rare win at home.

Still, it doesn’t take away from the performance of Van Wyk and Brooks that kept it that close for 90 minutes.

No matter what Portland tried, Houston had an answer. They were just making all the right decisions. Staying organized, working for quality spells of possession, movement on and off the ball was satisfying, and they worked hard to control the pace of the game. I could’ve picked several Dash players for this week’s column on the defensive side alone. It was one of my favorite performances of the year so far.

My Heart is with Houston: Exclusive Interview with Janine van Wyk

Posted on by RJ Allen

South Africa national team captain Janine van Wyk, the most capped player in the country’s football history, male or female, has signed for the Houston Dash ahead of the 2017 season.

Backline Soccer snagged the first exclusive interview with the two-time Olympian following the much-anticipated announcement on Tuesday.

Backline Soccer: Congrats! How has the reaction been to the news?

JvW: I’m so overwhelmed. Since it was announced people have been going crazy, I really didn’t expect this. I thought it would be announced with a few retweets, but I’ve been on my phone since last night and looking at the response, it’s been phenomenal. It makes me want to go there tomorrow.

I’m really proud of how far I’ve come, and the hard work I’ve put in, and being recognized for all the work I do on the field. I’m super stoked, and I can’t wait to go.

BS: What’s the deal with your visa, when do you come over?

JvW: I know I go over in March for the pre-season, so we need to get my Visa sorted before then.

BS: How did you decide on the Dash?

JvW: They were the first team to react after the US match [in July this year]. It was going to happen after that match, but because the transfer window closed, they couldn’t get the signing done. So then Randy [Waldrum, Dash head coach] worked on it for this coming season. They were the very first club to approach me, and now my heart is with Houston.

BS: There were rumblings for weeks about the mystery defender he’d agreed a deal with, and everyone was convinced it would be you…

JvW: We had to keep quiet because we were waiting for them to release the news, and for the contract to be approved and all that. I was ready to tell everyone, it was hard not to!

BS: What attracted you to the NWSL in general?

JvW: Growing up, I always wanted to play at that level in America, because that’s where women’s football started being recognised. I always wanted to play in a US league, but I never, ever thought I would reach that level. But it was always one of my dreams, and seeing the US women’s national team doing so well and being the best in the world, it had to say something about the league.

I told myself I saw myself playing in this league, and I knew that when we played the USA that if I played well it would be an opportunity for me. Clubs would look at me and want to sign me, and that’s exactly what happened. I still can’t believe it.

BS: Of all the games to do really well in, that was it.

JvW: Yeah, especially after I saw the response after the match from people in the US, I knew that I did something right, and I waited for the clubs to react, and they did.

BS: With Roxanne Barker [SA goalkeeper] and Steph Malherbe [SA and Texas A&M midfielder] living in the US, did you discuss this with them to get advice?

JvW: Yes, I did. Roxanne was really thrilled for me. Even when we were playing against the Netherlands [earlier this year] and she got scouted for a club there, she wanted me to join her. This was before the US match, but I thought, “Let me hold on for a bit, maybe there will be something out there for me,” so I didn’t sign with the Netherlands team. Steph is just so excited, because she stays in Texas. We have a really good relationship, so we’re really excited to see each other over there.

BS: How do you think your game will suit the Dash?

JvW: I think Randy is looking for a central defender that has good leadership qualities and experience in that role, and I can bring that to the team.

I am not one of the tallest centrebacks in the world, and most clubs are looking for tall players. I think after Randy signed Bruna [Benites, of Brazil], I think it will be a good balance because she is a very tall player, whereas I’m more a build-up player, and communication-wise I’m very experienced and confident about helping the players around me.

I will fit in well, and I won’t have to do everything on the field. I’ll have 10 other players who can do their jobs, and I’ll be there to help guide them in the right direction.

BS: Yes, you’re going from being the most experienced player on the field to a side with Carli Lloyd as captain, and the likes of Rachel Daly, Morgan Brian, Kealia Ohai on the team … it takes the pressure off you a bit.

JvW: Definitely. I’m going to learn from them as well. I know I’m experienced and I have good knowledge of the game, but a football player can never stop learning. I’m going to go there and learn as much as I can from these players as well. But I’m pretty sure they can learn something from me too, so I think it will work hand in hand. I hope I can contribute as much as people think I will, and get us to a certain position Houston want.

BS: African players tend to be a bit more direct and physical, which I don’t think the opposition strikers are going to appreciate …

JvW: [laughs] Yes, I found that in the US game, where the strikers didn’t really like having someone on their ankles, and that’s something I do a lot. I put pressure on the striking force, and that’s maybe one of the reasons why Randy wanted me there, not to give the strikers any space or time to make vital decisions. It’s a different game completely, but I’m a player that can be direct but also patient if needed.

BS: Is there anyone you’re looking forward to playing with or against?

JvW: Obviously Carli Lloyd. She’s a world icon in women’s football, and I will be playing right next to her. It’s going to be amazing to play with her and see what qualities she can bring to my game. But everyone, really. I’m an open-minded person and I need to learn as much as I can from these players.

BS: And obviously you’ll be looking to take all that back to Banyana and your own club.

JvW: As a South African going there, I’m not just going for myself. I need to go there and perform well, to show other clubs what women’s football is about in South Africa. There’s so much talent out here that’s not being exposed, because we don’t play enough good international friendlies. I would be opening up doors for my fellow Africans as a whole for scouts to look at.

BS: How will this stint affect your club [JvW FC, also founded and coached by JvW]? How do the seasons overlap?

JvW: Our season starts before I even leave, but I have so many people assisting me with the club and the league, so it’s not a problem that I step away. Things won’t fall apart without me, and I’m really grateful for that.

People are really happy for me, and it’s motivating for the players in my club, for them to see that the founder is going out there to pursue her dreams and they could do the same thing. It’s really encouraging and inspiring for them, to see me go to Houston.

Around the World of WoSo: W-League Madness and African POY Nominees Announced

Posted on by RJ Allen

Canberra United beat Melbourne City:

History was made this past weekend in the W-League when Canberra United won 2-1 over Melbourne City. Not only was it United’s first win against City, but it was the first loss in Melbourne’s short existence. In that span of 18 games, they only trailed a total of eight minutes. Talk about a remarkable start for an organization. To put it in another perspective, City’s unbeaten run lasted 419 days.  

All three goals came in the second half, starting with United scoring just a few minutes into the half. Jenna McCormick managed a beautiful header to get past City keeper, Lydia Williams. Less than five minutes later, Bev Yanez equalized with a sweet rocket from distance to grab her first goal down under. The clincher for United came in the 82nd minute by way of teenager Karly Roestbakken, who got on the end of a cross at the back post to put the game away.

The next match for Canberra is versus Brisbane Roar on Saturday, while City looks to rebound later in the day against Western Sydney Wanderers.

African POY Nominees Announced:

The five nominees for African Player of the Year were announced, with no surprises or exclusions. The list is very solid: Asisat Oshoala, Elizabeth Addo, Gabrielle Abdudi, Raissa Feudjio, and Janine Van Wyk. The two players who have the best chance to win, in my opinion, are Oshoala and Van Wyk, who play for Arsenal Ladies and JVW, respectively.

The 22-year-old forward was a huge part of the 2015 World Cup success for Nigeria. They played fast and fun, with Oshoala leading the way. She hassled opposing defenses with her speed, and she scored in the 3-3 draw against Sweden. Oshoala has 17 caps and 11 goals in her short career for Nigeria. The young player already has racked up a handful of hardware, including BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year (2015), African Women’s Footballer of the Year (2014), and the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup Golden Ball and Golden Boot in 2014. Oshoala’s aggressive style of play fearless attack is a joy to watch.

Van Wyk has been around a for a bit longer. The 29-year-old has accumulated 130 caps and nine goals as a defender for South Africa. She scored her first goal for Banyana Banyana (The Girls) back in 2005, in her debut against Nigeria. It was a lovely free kick, which won South Africa the African Women’s Championship. Since then, Van Wyk has been a crucial member and leader, becoming the team captain as well. Earlier this year, in March, she became the most capped South African player, male or female, with her 125th appearance.

Victory Sign Veteran Yallop:

The Melbourne Victory have gone out and gotten New Zealand international, Kirsty Yallop. Yallop is a much needed addition to a squad that has struggled so far this season. Victory is currently sitting in last place, even with playmakers such as American midfielder Christine Nairn and English forward Natasha Dowie.  

The veteran and 30-year-old Yallop has played 90 times for her country and tallied 12 goals. The midfielder has represented the Kiwi’s in two Olympics (2008, 2012), and two World Cups (2011, 2015). Yallop has plenty of experience across the globe, having played in New Zealand, the United States, Sweden, and Australia.

Victory drew with the Wanderers over the weekend in a 2-2 contest. They face sixth-place Newcastle Jets on Friday in the seventh round.

Trinidad & Tobago Name New Head Coach:

Replacing Randy Waldrum (NWSL-Houston Dash) for the head coaching position with Trinidad & Tobago is Carolina Morace. She formerly coached Canada (2009-2011), Italy (2000-2005), Viterbese in 1999, and Lazio in 1998. As a player on the Italian National team, she appeared in 150 games, scoring 105 goals from 1978-1997. In 2014, she became the first woman to be inducted into the Italian Football Hall of Fame.

While at the helm for Italy, the team qualified twice for the Euros. She led Canada to a 2010 CONCACAF Championship and titles in the 2010 and 2011 Cyprus Cup, while going from 11th to 6th in the FIFA World Rankings. She resigned as head coach of Canada in mid 2011, after a disappointing finish at the 2011 Women’s World Cup, because of budget concerns and disputes about the future of the team.

Morace has plenty of young talent to with with in T&T. Their best player is goalkeeper Kimika Forbes. The 26 year-old should be a recognizable name for American fans from Forbes’s memorable performance in February of this year, when she made 10 saves in a 5-0 loss to the United States. Even in defeat, she stood out with her athletic prowess and incredible effort. 

Roestbakken Second Youngest To Score in W-League:

Karly Roestbakken sets her place in W-League history by becoming the second-youngest player to score. She is 15 years, 10 months and 23 days young. The record for youngest player to score is held by Sam Kerr, who was 15 years and two months in 2008. The W-League is known for grooming its young talent into superstars (Kerr, Williams, De Vanna, Gorry, Polkinghorne, Kennedy, Simon, Heyman)—could Roestbakken be next?

Roestbakken suits up for Canberra United, who, as mentioned earlier, beat City for the first time. Her goal will go down as one of the most important goals for United this season, as they could be one of the few challengers for the title race later on.

Gorry in Form for Brisbane:

One of the best players in the league and for the Roar this season has been Australian native, Katrina Gorry. She has been very consistent this campaign, playing in all 6 games and adding three goals. Gorry shares the lead with Jess Fishlock (City), Natasha Dowie (Victory), Sam Kerr (Perth Glory), Jen Hoy (Newcastle Jets), and Adriana Jones (Adelaide United). The Golden Boot race is extremely close and with only a handful of games left, it’s completely up for grabs.

Gorry has been the leader for a team that also boasts such veterans as Claire Polkinghorne, Amy Chapman, and Tameka Butt.  If Gorry can continue her form, I think they could compete down the road for the top three. The Roar currently sits in fifth place, with three wins, one draw, and two losses. They have 10 points and are just two points behind leaders Melbourne City and Sydney FC.