Røa back on top in Norway

Røa IL have won the Norwegian women's league title for the second time in four years, clinching the title with a game to spare courtesy a 5-1 win against Kattem IL and a 1-0 defeat for reigning champions Kolbotn IL at SK Trondheims/Ørn.

Challenges faced
It was a close race throughout for the top two, but since the FIFA Women's World Cup break, Røa gained the edge. A number of players have caught the eye en route to their title triumph with defenders Marit Fiane Christensen and Siri Nordby, midfielders Marie and Guro Knudsen and striker Lene Mykjåland all playing major roles throughout the campaign. Coach Geir Nordby was elated at the success of his side. "I am very happy now," he said. "Last year the team had enough quality but faltered against the other top sides. This year we have managed to play well against all teams."

European return
Røa will return to the UEFA Women's Cup next season, having been knocked out in the first qualifying round in 2005/06. Kolbotn reached the last four the following year, but this term missed out on the quarter-finals.