2021 Season Preview

National Premier Leagues WA

ARMADALE

State Championships: None
State Cups: 1 (2018
Coach - John O'Reilly
2019 – 6th (Upper Table)
Goals Scored - 31
Goals Conceded - 42
Top Goalscorer – Angel Andres 13

The Reds earned a spot in the Top Six last season, but injuries to key players curtailed their chances late. Top goalscorer Angel Andres was the focal point up front but Head Coach John O’Reilly had a squad playing for each other and hard to beat. On their day they matched it with the best and wins at Champions ECU Joondalup in round 5 and Perth SC in round 7 showed that. The coach has added some experience to the squad with Yousri Gharsallah and Callum Mellowship joining, Ryan McEvoy joining from Darwin City, and youngsters Manase Abandelwa and Cheron Bah have also joined. Not many teams look forward to going to Alfred Skeet Reserve, and it will be same this season.

Players in: Manase Abandelwa, Cherno Bah, Callum Mellowship, Ryan McEvoy, Yousri Gharsallah
Players out: Ali Nasari, Roberto Soares, Seb Stenqvist
Players from within the club elevated to first team: Pieter Jacobsz.
Skipper in 2021: Brian Patterson
Player to watch in 2021: Angel Andres – The Spanish striker will be vital for the Reds this season. He was clubs top goalscorer last season, despite missing game time late with injury, but is fit and ready for a strong season.
Young Player to make an impact in 2021: Harry Quigley and Pieter Jacobsz - Both established themselves as first team players last year, both still at a young age. Now with some experience under their belt they should. push on to another level this year.
What the coach said - “For us we feel quietly confident that we can be competitive in the league and cup, with the squad we have. There is a mix of experience and youth but most importantly all share the same work ethic and desire to graft to get results” - John O’Reilly.

BALCATTA

State Championships: None
State Cups: None
Coach – Bobby Taneski
2020 – 2nd (Lower Table)
Goals Scored - 25
Goals Conceded - 30
Top Goalscorer – Adam Zimarino 14

Balcatta stormed up the lower table last season and went within one point of making the Top Four finals series and head coach Bobby Taneski will be hoping to continue that form in 2021. Adam Zimarino was top goalscorer last season, but the striker has beaded to Perth Glory and they will need find someone else to fill the void. The club have added some experienced players, with defender David Cyrus and midfielder David Perich as they look to push for a finals spot for the first time since 2019 come seasons end.

Players In: David Cyrus, Amir Ajan, Jawad Rezai, Hristijan Jankuloski, Hamza Hina, David Perich
Players Out: John Kearney, Adam Zimarino, Adam Tong
Players from within the club elevated to first team: N/A
Skipper in 2021: Calum O’Connell
Player to watch in 2021: Jon Corness - The midfielder will play a pivotal role next season and he has been a standout for several campaigns at Grindleford Reserve. He continues to perform week and week out with a good engine and eye for goal, but he will need to be at his best if the Red and Blues are to claim their first NPLWA title.
Young Player to make an impact in 2021: Jawad Rezai – The youngster has impressed since joining the club. Technically his excellent and has ambition to learn and succeed.
What the coach said? – “We are looking forward to playing competitive games, the squad is young and want to impress. We will keep providing them the opportunities and platform to perform, we had great performances last season and with the new additions looking to add more wins in season 2021.” Bobby Taneski

BAYSWATER CITY

State Championships: 4 (2013, 2014, 2015, 2017)
State Cups: 2 (2013, 2014)
Coach – Gareth Naven
2020 – 5th (Lower Table)
Goals Scored - 24
Goals Conceded – 29
Top Goalscorer – Daryl Nicol – 8

Bayswater City finished a disappointing 5th in the lower table in 2020 and the club will be looking to make emends this season. There has been a change in the dugout with Gareth Naven taking over from Chris Coyne, who has joined the Perth Glory NPL coaching staff. The lack of goals hurt City in 2021, only scoring 24 goals but Naven has brought in Ndumba Makeche to rectify this. Daryl Nicol was top scorer last season, but the Scottish striker has headed back to ECU Joondalup so the responsibility to score the goals falls on Gordon Smith, Gustavo Marulanda, Luke Salmon and Makeche. The club has won the NPL title three times in the past seven years and their supporters will be hoping for a better showing in 2021.

No information sent by club.

Players In:
Players out:
Players from within the club elevated to first team:
Skipper in 2021: Player to watch in 2021: Ndumba Makeche - The striker comes in at Frank Drago Reserve a proven goalscorer and after last season when City struggled in front of goal, he will be vital. He has pace and guile can turn a game in a moment and no doubt he will give the rest of the leagues defences problems this season.
Young Player to make an impact in 2021:
What the coach said –

COCKBURN CITY

State Championships: 3 (1979, 1982, 1986)
State Cups: 3 (1983, 1984, 1985)
Coach – Scott Miller
2020 – 2nd (Upper Table)
Goals Scored - 28
Goals Conceded - 17
Top Goalscorer – Jesse Lazzaro 10

Cockburn City were one game away from the Top Four Final after losing 2-0 in the semi-finals in 2020. Scott Miller would have been delighted the way his side played in the top six upper table and their win against Floreat Athena in their final game could have seen them take out the title but a win for ECU Joondalup saw them win it. Jesse Lazzaro was the clubs top goalscorer and the former Perth Glory youth midfielder will once again be important for the Cockerels, but Miller will be hoping midfielder Cameron Edwards can stay fit after missing several games last season due to injury.

Players in: Dor Jok, Daniel Robinson
Players out: Hayden Stevens, Chris Thackray, Kristian Santich
Players from within the club elevated to first team: Alex Basto
Skipper in 2021: Euen Grant
Player to watch in 2021: Jesse Lazzaro - The former Perth Glory Youth player was a standout last season as they pushed for the title and there is more to come from the talented midfielder. He reads the game well and is dangerous at set pieces and he also has a good eye for goal and was the top scorer at the club last season.
Young Player to make an impact in 2021: N/A
What the coach said – “Very competitive lots of movement and some very strong squads, so every point will have to be earnt” – Scott Miller

ECU JOONDALUP

State Championships: 2 (1999, 2020)
State Cups: 2 (1998, 2002)
Coach – Kenny Lowe
2020 – 1st (Upper Table)
Goals Scored - 40
Goals Conceded - 19
Top Goalscorer – Danny Hodgson 17

ECU Joondalup won the NPLWA title for the first last season and it was a great turn around for Kenny Lowe and his players. The Jacks finished second bottom in 2019 so to take the cub from that position to the title is a great achievement. They have lost several players back to A-League football, but Lowe has acted quickly to fill the void, bringing in Chris Harold, Daryl Nicol and Declan Hughes to name a few. Danny Hodgson was the league’s top scorer last season and his partnership with Nicol and Harold will be dangerous this season. The Jacks will be there or thereabouts come season end.

Players In: Chris Harold, Daryl Nicol, Nelson Tshongo, Declan Hughes, Jeremy Tshongo, Jakub Prajza, Ben Rutter
Players out: Callum Timmins, Luke Bodnar, Riley Warland, Ethan Brooks, Ross Millard, Bayley Brown-Montgomery, Cian Hirrell,
Players from within the club elevated to first team: Luke Davis, Sonny O’Shea, Danny Douglas and Oscar Malifiore
Skipper in 2021: Johnny Perkins
Player to watch in 2021: Chris Harold - The former Gold Coast United, Perth Glory and Central Coast Mariner striker has hit the ground running at the Campus bagging seven goals in the recent Night Series. He is a great pick up for the Jacks and he bags of energy pace and a good football brain and he will be pivotal if the Jacks are to go back-to-back.
Young Player to make an impact in 2021: Luke Davis – The teenager broke into the senior side in the Night series and never put a foot wrong. He can play left back, and centre half and has been impressing the coaching staff and has a chance to do well this season.
What the coach said – “We worked hard to bring the players into the club, and I think our squad is stronger heading into the new season. We have a good mix of youth and experience and it was good to see some of the youngsters play good minutes in the Night Series, which bodes well for the season ahead, because we need depth throughout the season.” Kenny Lowe.

FLOREAT ATHENA

State Championships: 4 (1977, 1988, 1997, 2007)
State Cups: 6 (1987, 1988, 1989, 1997, 2009, 2019)
Coach – Vas Vujacic
2020 – 3rd (Upper Table)
Goals Scored - 33
Goals Conceded - 19
Top Goalscorer – Noah Shamaki and Liam Murray 5

Floreat Athena missed out on the title in the final game of last season, but they bounced back to win the Top Four Finals Series, and Head Coach Vas Vujacic will look for more success in 2021. They didn’t have the best of Night Series, losing their opening three games to miss out on a Semi-Final spot, but the calibre of players at Vujacic’s disposal will have them there or thereabouts come season end. Gold Medal winner Dean Evans led the side superbly last season, while Dennis Galan and the Saldaris boys all standing up when required, while youngster Liam Murray came on leaps and bounds.

Players In: Sean McManus, Cameron Murray, Kye Murray
Players out: Noah Shamaki, Nelson Tshongo, Moses Kalau, Luka Ninkovic, Andrew Maranta
Players from within the club elevated to first team: Wes Casimir, Elijah Haas, Ethan Momm, Josh Anasmo, Josh Hunter
Skipper in 2021: Dean Evans
Player to watch in 2021: Dean Evans - The Floreat skipper was outstanding last season and he deservedly won the Football West 'Gold Medal' as player of the season. He is like a good bottle of wine and gets better with age, and his leadership hard work and determination seems to rub off on his teammates. The midfielder will be important if the club are to win their fourth League title.
Young Player to make an impact in 2021: The club don’t want to single anyone out but they have some good young talent and they are confident they will give us good depth this season.
What the coach said – “I think this season will be very competitive, there will be no easy games. Most of the big teams have strengthened their squads and there’s a good spread of talent across the league. We’ve maintained the core of our squad and added some quality, especially from within the club. We are looking to continue our success from last year.” – Vas Vujacic

GWELUP CROATIA

State Championships: None
State Cups: None
Coach – Taki Nicolaidis
2020 – 4th (Upper Table)
Goals Scored - 40
Goals Conceded - 21
Top Goalscorer – Ndumba Makeche 12

Gwelup Croatia have only been a semi-professional club since 2017, and it will be their second season in the NPLWA, a remarkable rise from the northern suburbs club. Taki Nicolaidis’ side just missed out on a Top Four Final Series spot last season, but injuries to key players hurt them late. They have lost Daniel Stynes to the A-League, but the coach has bolstered his squad bringing in former Glory duo Brent Griffiths and Mitch Oxborrow for the season ahead. They have lost strikers Ndumba Makeche and Sean McManus, but Paul Zimarino and Ethan Brooks will hopefully fill that void. The club are very ambitious on and off the park, so could this be the year they rise to the top - only time will tell.

Players In: Stefan King, Thomas Southgate, Brent Griffiths, Paul Zimarino, Mitch Oxborrow, Ethan Brooks. Blamo Qua Qua, Ben Ratajczak, Oliver La Galia, Lennon Crane.
Players out: Daniel Stynes, Connor Campbell, Andrew Scaldaferro, David Heagney, Ndumba Makeche, Sean McManus, Bobby Wilson, Aiden Holloway, Kian McGuigan, James Sammut
Players from within the club elevated to first team: Lucas Triglavcanin and Owen Goodliffe
Skipper in 2021: Blair Govan
Player to watch in 2021: Mitch Oxborrow – The former Newcastle Jet, Perth Glory and Brisbane Roar midfielder returns to the west after a stint in NSW. The busy midfielder will be ideal replacement for Daniel Stynes, who has left. He is hard working and will be dangerous around the penalty area with his free kicks.
Young Player to make an impact in 2021: Ethan Brooks is a super athlete that can tear defences apart and can be a regular match winner.
What the coach said – “Like most other clubs we’re quite optimistic for the season ahead. We have recruited well and feel that the playing group are hungry enough to be right in the mix come end of season.” – Taki Nicolaidis

INGLEWOOD UNITED

State Championships: 1 (1996)
State Cups: 2 (1977, 1999)
Coach – Andres Oliveira
2020 – 10th (Lower Table)
Goals Scored - 23
Goals Conceded - 24
Top Goalscorer – Steve Sokol 9

Inglewood United broke a 16-year trophyless run by taking out the NPLWA Night Series title last week, and they have a squad that could bring more success this season. Andres Oliveira has built a squad that can compete with everyone in the competition, and they will be one of the favourites for the title. Steve Sokol led the line well last season and was the top scorer at the club, but with the inclusion of Andreas Theodosiades and the lively Ajak Riak they have more firepower. The club have also some talent youngsters coming through the ranks, with Will Nicholson and Giovanni Soares to name a few, so things look bright at Perth Plasterboard Centre Stadium.

Players In: Rob de Borrello, Giovanni Soares, Roberto Soares, Andreas Theodosiades, Ajak Riak
Players out: David Cyrus, Brian Farrell, Chris Jackson
Players from within the club elevated to first team: Will Nicholson, Adrian Manno, Chad Samuel
Skipper in 2021: Alex Dunn
Player to watch in 2021: Mark Barnett - The tall central defender had another solid season and was catalyst in the club’s night series success. The former Perth Glory Youth player reads the game well and is composed on the ball. He is good in the air but also has good distribution and turn defence into attack with a telling pass.
Young Player to make an impact in 2021: Ajak Riak and Giovanni Soares have both brought in something different that we needed with their abilities and I believe either one can win player of the year if they keep working on maintaining their consistency.
What the coach said – “The season will be competitive with all teams recruiting well in players and coaches. We are no different and our challenge is to go out there to win every game.” – Andres Oliveira

PERTH

State Championships: 23 (1960, 1962, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1971, 1975, 1976, 1981, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 2002, 2003, 2005, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2016, 2018, 2019)
State Cups: 11 (1960, 1965, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1973, 1981, 1990, 1993, 2001, 2005)
Coach – Ramon Falzon
2020 – 7th (Lower Table)
Goals Scored - 32
Goals Conceded - 23
Top Goalscorer – Michael Domfeh 9

Perth Soccer Club missed out on a Top Six spot when the league split last season, but Ramon Falzon’s side powered through the lower group and took their place in the Top Four Finals Series. The Azzurri had a good Night Series, only losing once, that in the Final last week against Inglewood. The coach has brought in striker Cameron Teece, and his partnership with Michael Domfeh and Yacoub Mustafa will cause defences problems, former Perth Glory Youth midfielder Calvin Whitney has also come in, while youngster Kristian Santich returns to the club. Perth are many favourites for the title, and the team to beat.

Players In: Calvin Whitney, Cameron Teece, Kristian Santich, Riley van Dieken, Samuel Flores
Players out: Andreas Theodosiades, Giovanni Soares, Jawad Rezai, Leigh Morgan, Paul Zimarino, Sasa Njegic, Tom Southgate
Players from within the club elevated to first team: Aiden Formston, Daniel McKenzie, Lachie Byrd, Will Gordon
Skipper in 2021: Jordan de Leo
Player to watch in 2021: Cameron Teece - The striker was in demand this season, but he headed to the Gardens and will be a huge boost for the Azzurri. He is strong in the air and holds the ball up well to bring other players into the game. He is also deadly from set-pieces around the penalty area. Goals are what he was brought to the club for, and he won’t disappoint.
Young Player to make an impact in 2021: We have a considerable number of young players whom we expect to have a considerable positive impact during 2021. Therefore, it is difficult to choose only one. However, based on what we’ve seen to date, I must mention that young Lachie Byrd is already making a huge impact this season and we expect him to retain the current consistency in his performances. Lachie got his first team debut in the friendly against Perth Glory and he performed well, although he was marking none other than Bruno Fornaroli. Since then, he even played four Night Series games and he looked very solid in our back line.
What the coach said – “Our last 5 seasons have been exceptional to say the least. We were very proud to see the boys win the NPL 3 times, the Top 4 Cup 3 times, the Night Series once & qualifying for 5 consecutive Grand Finals. The boys are well accustomed by now that we do not focus on trophies because we do not have any control over it. What we can control is continuously working hard to improve our performances to make sure that we are highly competitive at the business end of the season, so our focus is solely on improving ourselves and our performances. In 2019, we even had the privilege to beat Heidelberg away from home in the NPL National Finals, so I am sure that the boys are very motivated to repeat such a feat in the near future. I think this year the NPL will be tougher and probably more balanced and competitive. Although it is too soon to say, I think that last year’s main contenders have all strengthened their squads.” - Ramon Falzon.

PERTH GLORY

State Championships: None
State Cups: None
Coach – Ruben Zadkovich
2020 – 9th (Lower Table)
Goals Scored - 25
Goals Conceded - 30
Top Goalscorer – Bryce Bafford 9

Perth Glory finished a disappointing ninth last season, but the youngsters performed well and could have made the top four final Series but drew the last game of the season against Perth SC, who just pipped them to the spot. Former Socceroos, Derby County and Newcastle Jets midfielder Ruben Zadkovich will coach the talented youngsters in 2021, taking over from Richard Garcia, while Chris Coyne also joins the clubs coaching panel. Once again there has been a big turnover of players but they showed in the recent Night Series they will once again be competitive and will be there or thereabouts come season end.

No information sent by the club.
Players In:
Players out:
Players from within the club elevated to first team:
Skipper in 2021: Giordano Colli
Player to watch in 2021: Giordano Colli - The skipper leads by example on the pitch and his energy in the middle of the park will be important for the young side. A tenacious midfielder leaves nothing on the park and he also had an eye for goal especially from set pieces. He had a taste of senior football in the recent ACL and he didn’t look out of place.
Young Player to make an impact in 2021: Chris Donnell - The talented midfielder has been a standout in the Night Series and his form was rewarded after being named vice-captain for the upcoming season. The creative midfielder played his junior football at Perth SC but has made a swift rise through the ranks at the club, and his vision and telling pass makes him a player on the up in 2021.
What the coach said – N/A

ROCKINGHAM CITY

State Championships: None
State Cups: None
Coach – Goran Stajic
2020– 12th (Lower Table)
Goals Scored - 14
Goals Conceded - 55
Top Goalscorer – Mitchel Gruin 3

It’s all change at The SafeRad Stadium for 2021with Goran Stajic heading to the Lark Hill club to replace Gary Christie. The former Balcatta coach has hit the ground running as the club look to bounce back from a disappointing 2020, where they finished bottom of the table with only one win. The coach has revamped his squad and the additions of keeper Cyril Sharrock, Papa Kpatar, Feisal Zaw and Shame Boyle to make a few will make them a stronger side in 2021. If the Night Series performances are anything to go by, they will be very competitive. It will be clubs third season in the NPLWA, and it looks like they are moving forward on and off the pitch, but do they have the depth to challenge, only time will tell.

Players In: Cyril Shamrock, Papa Kpatar, Feisal Zaw, Diaz Sumail, Denaudo Murray, Shane Boyle, Hamish van Dieken, Christos Vaenas, Noah Lea, Mali De Araujo, Ian Ng, Afian Giyanto,
Players out: Max Snelson, Michael Farmer, Blake Sokolowski, Jacob Aquino, Jason Pottier, Alex Grayson, Shaz Ramlee, Lydon Hodgkiss, Jarrad Mort, Brian Gwataringa, Jack Gibson, James Paylor
Players from within the club elevated to first team: Nathan Ng, Jethro Yumange, Harry Bolan, Declan Collins, Joseph Moss
Skipper in 2021: Co-Captains Ryan Kennedy and Feisal Zaw
Player to watch in 2021: Feisal Zaw – The speedy midfielder has headed to the club and he has fitted in well and was outstanding in the recent Night Series. He has a good engine and can play a telling pass to open up the opposition, and can also pop up with a few goals, so he will be an important signing for City this season.
Young Player to make an impact in 2021: With an incredibly young squad Stajic could mention up to five or six players however he selected Hamish van Dieken and Luke Collins who are only 17 years of age yet display enormous talent and attributes of experienced players. Both are big, fast and strong in one v one along with finesse, desire and attitude to compete and score, they have promising football careers beyond NPL...
What the coach said – “As a club we understand where we are starting from and are working extremely hard to start winning both on and off the field. I have come here to try and transform RCFC into a living NPL entity as opposed to an existing one. The RCFC players we have retained along with the new recruits will define that approach yet as a squad we also have a major goal that we are all striving towards. The most important and synonymous aspects of our Senior Team will entail hard work and the desire to compete for our supporters, sponsors and each other. Ultimately our aim is to be alive and kicking in the NPL for many years to come.” – Goran Stajic

SORRENTO

State Championships: 4 (2001, 2006, 2008, 2012)
State Cups: 3 (2011, 2012, 2015)
Coach – Jamie Harnwell
2020 – 4th (Upper Table)
Goals Scored - 34
Goals Conceded - 40
Top Goalscorer – Cameron Teece 15

Sorrento missed out on a top four finals spot last season but made the top six and a win in their final game would have seen them progress, but it wasn’t to be. Cameron Teece was their main avenue to goal last season, but the striker has joined Perth SC so Jamie Harnwell will need to find a replacement. The former Perth Glory defender goes into his eighth season as Head Coach at Percy Doyle Reserve, and he has been busy on the off-season bringing experience into his squad for the new campaign, adding Dean Cummings, Billy Quinncroft and David Stokoe to name a few. The Gulls have won the Premier League title on four occasions, the last time in 2012, but they haven’t lifted the NPLWA title, will this be the year?

Players in: Dean Cummings, Scott Robertson, David Stokoe, Billy Quinncroft, Joe Tweats, Neil Gillies, Jordan Pokler
Players out: Clark Keltie, Jakub Prajza, Cameron Teece, Amir Ajan
Players from within the club elevated to first team: Tristan Stevens, Matt Guidicatti, Daniel Faichney
Skipper in 2021: TBC
Player to watch in 2021: David Stokoe – The big defender returns to the club after stints at Perth Glory Youth and Bayswater City. He is good in the air and good with his feet, and his partnership at the back will hopefully reduce the goals the Gulls conceded last season.
Young Player to make an impact in 2021: The club are hoping for several of their young players to step up. Tristan Stevens, Daniel Faichney and Jaxon Temata all have great opportunities in front of them to play significant roles in the first team if they can grasp those chances.
What the coach said – “It will be interesting to see how teams settle after the Night Series, there is a good spread of talent across the league with no easy games. Personally, our focus is to start the season well and build on there. We have recruited some good players and more importantly good characters which will hold us in good stead for the season.” – Jamie Harnwell

ASHFIELD

Coach – Greg Hart
2020 – 12th Division One
Goals scored – 24
Goals conceded – 39
Top Goalscorer – Sakon Sylia 8

Ashfield finished a disappointing 12th place last season, their lowest position since 2008, and new coach Greg Hart has set about turning the club’s fortunes around. He replaces Mitchell Prentice as Head Coach, and along with his assistant Alex Carter, they have started to get his squad together for the new season. They only won one game in the recent Night series competition, but the club have a good ground and a new committee and will want to improve on last season’s position, but it will be tough. The inclusion of James Sammut and keeper Jamie Serra will be huge, but do they have the depth, only time will tell.

Players In: James Sammut, Zoki Vrteski, Jamie Serra, Stephen Kirk, Josh Selman, Zak Huss, Sebastian Munoz, Leon Anderson, Niall Murphy
Players out: Hamish Van Dieken, Jake Lumpkin, Dimitri Theodorous, Kade Fearnall
Players from within the club elevated to first team: Alex Petrie, Gabriel Riquelme, Danyel Dos Santos
Skipper in 2021: James Sammut
Player to watch in 2021: James Sammut - Experienced winner, great clubman and teaching the younger players around him correct mannerisms on and off the pitch. A quality footballer who hopefully will see us step up a gear this season.
What the coach said – “It's going to be a tough competition, harder than last year - some coaches making some great signings and coaches who were raw in the league last year will have that experience to come in with a better understanding, no doubt each week will be a testing run out against ever side we'll come up against.’ – Coach Greg Hart

FORRESTFIELD UNITED

Coach – Graham Normanton
2020 – 5th Division One
Goals scored – 28
Goals conceded – 29
Top Goalscorer – Rhys Loxley 4

Forrestfield United faded late in 2020, finishing fifth, and Head coach Graham Normanton will be looking for an improvement this season. He has brought in some experienced players for 2021, to join the ‘Forrie boys’ and with Normanton, who won five league titles with Perth SC in his time at Dorrien Gardens, at the helm the club will be looking to regain their NPL spot they relinquished in 2018. Trent Kay was with Normanton at Perth, and he will be huge this season, along with Steven McDonald and long-time Forrie winger Rhys Loxley. They will be right in the mix this season, but need to improve their home form after only winning two last season.

Players In: Tony Chandler, Jake Melia, Steven McDonald, Jason Pottier, Tyron Pottier, Lawrie Todd
Players out: Steve O’Leary (injury), Ben Wantee, Vlad Naumovski
Players from within the club elevated to first team: Tarek Atta aged 17, Jordan Lyall 19
Skipper in 2021: N/A
Player to watch in 2021: Trent Kay.... his experience and quality will be invaluable. Josh Pereira....his energy, quality and never say die attitude are second to none. Rhys Loxley on his day there is no better left sided player in the state.
What the coach said – “This league is more competitive over the whole league than the NPL and consequently it is so difficult to win. No game will ever be easy. There are many clubs who have the ambition and the backing to get promoted. This will make the league very competitive and very difficult to win. The challenges for all clubs are a high level of performance on a consistent basis. I think it will be a very entertaining league with lots of good teams with good players playing in it.” – Graham Normanton

FREMANTLE CITY

Coach – Cameron Lord
2020 – 3rd Division One
Goals scored – 29
Goals conceded – 26
Top Goalscorer – Riley van Dieken 12

Fremantle City have also recruited strongly for 2021, and Cameron Lord has a squad packed with experienced and former NPL players. City were promoted to Division One in 2016, and have been there or thereabouts since, the club will be hoping Lord can take them to the next step, and the former Rockingham City coach has a good pedigree to do that. They lost a few players this season but the coach acted quickly to fill the void, with Todd Howarth and Noah Shamaki being two players who will give the side a lift, and once again the port side will be in the mix come season end, but they need to improve their away record after only winning once on the road last season.

Players In: Jordan Barbas, Ollie Rigler, Mitch Firth, Max Snelson, Todd Howarth, Hayden Stevens, Corey Towie, Adriano Jelenovic, Charlie Parry, Harry Hall, Chris Thackray, Shale Moothen, Matt Brook, Noah Shamaki.
Players out: Riley van Dieken, Abias Bukuru, Egide Ngendakumana, Jordan Pokler, Shaydon Passalacqua, Graham Tough, Todd Hoyle, Noah Cavanaugh, Dantae Greer
Players from within the club elevated to first team: Angus Grant and Thomas Maycock-Hansen
Skipper in 2021: James Harmer
Player to watch in 2021: Callum Stocks. We started to see what he can truly offer with directness and pace as a threat at goal towards the back end of last season as he returned to fitness.
What the coach said – “There are no easy games in this league, and every team is capable of beating the other on the day and the league championship decided on the final round.” - Cameron Lord

JOONDALUP UNITED

Coach – Nick Jennings
2020 – 6th Division One
Goals scored – 30
Goals conceded – 35
Top Goalscorer – Jamie Gibson 6

Nick Jennings goes into his sixth consecutive season at the club, and the coach is determined to get the club back to the NPL, after being relegated in 2018. He has brought in former player Nic Maplestone, after injury and interstate work, while the experienced Brad McDonald is a great pick up. Jennings’ side are always well disciplined and hard to beat, but they need to be more ruthless in front of goal and the signing of Jamie Stewart and Tony Taylor will help that. United will once again be in the mix, but promotion, we will have to wait and see.

Players In: Jamie Stewart, Brad McDonald, Nic Maplestone, Bobby Irving, Tony Taylor, Ayden Dragun
Players out: Neil Gillies, Callum Speed, Conor Dolan, Kye Murray, Ehjayson Henry
Players from within the club elevated to first team: Peter Stewart, Jonah Vozzo and Joel Solitt
Skipper in 2021: Scott Hoyle
Player to watch in 2021: Jamie Gardiner is a threat to any team with his superb dribbling skills and is a match winner. If he can add goals to the package teams had better watch out.
What the coach said – “I’m really looking forward to the season, as ever it will be ultra-competitive, with so many quality coaches and players in State Division 1, you’re going to have to bring your A game every week or you’ll be turned over.” – Nick Jennings

KINGSWAY OLYMPIC

Coach – Michael Janssen
2020 – First Division Champions
Goals scored – 41
Goals conceded – 24
Top Goalscorer – Ajak Riak 12

Olympic Kingsway resurgence continued in 2020, taking out the Division One title, only two years after winning the Division Two crown. It’s all change at the club this season, with Gary Williams stepping down as Head Coach, with Michael Janssen coming in. He has continued the good form of the side, reaching the Night Series Final, before losing to Mandurah. The club lost a number of players to NPL clubs, but the coach has acted quickly to fill the void, with Harry Evans, Luke Rhodes and Asa Sippits to name a few of the quality he has brought in. The club have big ambitions and will once again be one of the team to beat for the title.

Players In: Marco Perrizoli, Harry Evans, Andrew Scalfaderro, Luke Rhodes, Otto v d Poel, Jack Lavis, Chris Rizidis, Asa Sippits, Matt Cherrie, Sean Cronin
Players out: Tyler Garner, Hamza Hina, Luke Palmateer, Gyles Davies, Keylun Pollard, Ajak Riak
Players from within the club elevated to first team: Darus Flomo
Skipper in 2021: Chris Balazs
Player to watch in 2021: Marco Perrizoli will strengthen our defense with his experience and quality as well as Harry Evans adding the quality in the attacking department.
What the coach said – “State League Division One will be stronger than before in 2021 and it will be tough each week. There will be no easy game and our aim is to go game by game and always have the right mindset regardless of our opponents to win each game. After a long pre-season the team is buzzing to be released and to fight for the points. It's important to have a strong start and the Green Machine is ready for that.” – Michael Janssen

MANDURAH CITY

Coach – Kris Donnell and Pete Taylor
2020 – 4th Division One
Goals scored – 25
Goals conceded – 25
Top Goalscorer – Joe O’Brien 6

Mandurah City’s rise continues with the club taking out the State League Night Series for the first time, with Joe O’Brien’s goal giving them a 1-0 win against Olympic. New coaching duo Pete Taylor and Kris Donnell have the club buzzing at the moment, and they go into the new season eying a return to the NPL, which they last played in 2017. Scottish striker John Baird will be vital in 2021, his leadership and presence on the pitch is something the coaching duo will look to tap into, while Joe O’Brien and new signing Jamie Burns and Alex Grayson will give them added firepower up top. But they do have a well-balanced squad, and will be there or thereabouts come season end.

Players In: Alfie Brincat, Graham Tough, James Paylor, Jack Gibson, David Clark, Alex Grayson, Jamie Burns, Craig Barker, Mitch Gruin, Jake Robinson
Players out: Oscar Thompson, Andy Brown, Matt Stares, Jordan Rhodes, Mitch Firth, Shane Boyle, Phil Herschell
Players from within the club elevated to first team: Taylor Carter and Silas Becsi
Skipper in 2021: Graham Tough
Player to watch in 2021: Scottish striker John Baird, now he’s settled and well rested. John’s showing every inch of his ability and it’s a pleasure to watch.
What the coach said – “Were confident and excited to get started. It’s looking as though it’s going to be extremely competitive and we’re all looking forward to the challenges ahead.” – Pete Taylor

QUINNS FC

Coach – Glen Grostate
2020 – 8th Division One
Goals scored – 34
Goals conceded – 20
Top Goalscorer – Sam Wynne 8

Quinns head into 2021 with a completely new squad, after Ian Ferguson moved to Stirling Lions in the preseason. Glen Grostate has been appointed as Head Coach and he hasn’t wasted anytime recruiting a new squad. Experienced players like Adam Tong and Cian Hirrell have joined both who played in the NPL last season, while young striker Ben Hinshelwood is another great pick-up for the Jacks. They have some talented youngsters coming through the ranks, so it looks positive for the northern suburbs club, and if the new squad can gel quickly, they will be a team to watch this season.

Players In: Adam Buckingham, Adam Tong, Aidan Holloway, Ben Hinshelwood, Caelan Cooper, Cian Hirrell, Declan Hudson, Dougall Kindness, Henri Mulwila, Hermon Michaele, Joel Ledsham, Juma Awaka, Liam Hudson, Matthew Grostate, Micky Elamin, Nathan Scully, Reece Abrams
Players out: The 2020 First Team Squad
Players from within the club elevated to first team: Matthew Corrigan (19 years old) and Reece Corrigan (17 years old) - both have been at the club since they were six years of age.
Skipper in 2021: Adam Buckingham and Reece Abrams
Player to watch in 2021: The whole First Team really, as we've started a long term rebuild with an emphasis on promoting youth players.
What the coach said – “We're focused more on the next three years, rather than just the season ahead. Having taken the reigns at the club, we've started a long term rebuild, focusing in youth. These are players both within the club, who have a great track record on developing youth, and young NPL players, who aren't being given the opportunities they deserve. It's really about building it for the future, but we'll still surprise a few with the quality we've signed.” – Nicholas Cooper ‘Quinns Football Operations Manager’

STIRLING MACEDONIA

Coach – Ian Ferguson
2020 – 7th Division One
Goals scored – 33
Goals conceded – 24
Top Goalscorer – Gavin Knight 13

It’s a new era at Macedonia Park in 2021 with the club reverted back to their former name Stirling Macedonia. They also have a new Head Coach with former Perth Glory and Quinns coach Ian Ferguson taking over from Rob Milevski. The Lions have spent the majority of life in the top flight of WA Football, and many have them penciled in for a return to the NPL after dropping out in 2019, but they will have a few other clubs pushing them. Ferguson has brought in a number of players from his former club, with Richard Howles and Sam Wynne a potent strike force, while James Bosdet and Greg Pellow adds strength at the back. The Lions will be strong in 2021 and another side in the mix for promotion.

Players In: James Bosdet, Greg Pellow, Brent Quick, Richard Howles, Josh Booyson, Sam Wynne
Players out: Lawrence Sharuma, Luke Randazzo, Sam Carello, Adrian Koios, Gavin Knight
Players from within the club elevated to first team: Shay Bahmani, Sam Richardson
Skipper in 2021: Dejan Spaseski.
Player to watch in 2021: Our Skipper Dejan will have a big impact with his willingness to lead and motivate the boys to give their all.
What the coach said – “We are all looking forward to a tough season ahead, consistency is the aim in a positive direction.” – Keegan Ashley

SUBIACO AFC

Coach – Paul Vallerius
2020 – 10th Division One
Goals scored – 17
Goals conceded – 32
Top Goalscorer – Hanafi Ghazali 3

Subiaco also have a new coach in the dug out in 2021, with Paul Vallerius taking over from Brad Hassell. The club were in the NPL only three years ago, and they are working hard to return their as soon as possible. A tenth-place finish in 2020 wasn’t what they were looking for, but there is a new optimism heading into this season. Vallerius and his assistant Gary Colliver have added some depth to the young squad, with Ben Wantee a big inclusion up top. They had a good Night series campaign, eventually losing to winners Mandurah City in the Semi-Final, but it will remain to be seen if the Rosalie Park club can challenge for the title, but they will be competitive.

Players In: Vasco Dasilva, Lucus Munoz, Ben Wantee
Players out: Ayden Dragun, Shay Donovan, Hayden Boffey
Players from within the club elevated to first team: Tim Page, Aaron Simpson and Cian Gust
Skipper in 2021: Co Captains – Vasco Da Silva and Ben Johns
Player to watch in 2021: Ben Davis – elevated from the clubs Under 18’s
What the coach said – “2020 was a tough year for the club. We have a new coaching set up with fresh ideas and we have added some new faces to the group. We have had a good preseason and some real improvement on the pitch based on Night Series performances and hopefully that is something tangible that we can take into the season proper.” - Gary Colliver Assistant Coach

SWAN UNITED

Coach – Dan Evans
2020 – 11th Division One
Goals scored – 17
Goals conceded – 56
Top Goalscorer – John Monterosso 5

Swan United head into 2021 with Dan Evans in the dugout. The experienced development coach has taken over from Eric Williams and Paul Dundo, who remains as his assistant. It was a season to forget for the Swans, winning only two games and the eleventh-place finish wasn’t what they were looking for. Evans has acted quickly to revamp the squad, with experience players heading to the Swan Valley. John Monterosso continues to be a focal point for the side, but the new signings especially the lively Boas Mtwale has given Evans some good selection headaches, but they need to improve from last season and they are heading in the right direction.

Players In: Boas Mtwale, Alex Young, Faustinho Machochi, Loic Anga, Deng Mawien, Deng Dutt, Oluwasijibomi Adeniyi, Jacob Stubberfield, Adrian Koios, Kurt Kouakou, Jordan Junco, Matej Centrih, Gabriel Vieira, Samson Araya, Rob Flynn
Players out: Nick Stone, Luqman Sayyed, Cherno Bah, Albert Amankwaa, Albert Lui, David Luwauya
Players from within the club elevated to first team: N/A
Skipper in 2021: Jimmy Shamin
Player to watch in 2021: Boas Mtwale. Hardworking attacking midfielder with good technical ability, signed from Stirling.
What the coach said – “It’s a competitive league with no easy games. We know we will have to work hard and be at our best to get results. We have a much-changed squad from last year and we have bought in players that we think can do a good job for us in 2021 and bring some consistency to Swan.” – Dan Evans

UWA-NEDLANDS FC

Coach – Dom Gangemi
2020 – 9th Division One
Goals scored – 34
Goals conceded – 28
Top Goalscorer – Pascal Sedgewick 6

UWA Nedlands have only been in State League football since 2012, and after promotion to Division One in their first season they have struggled to push for a NPL spot, and last seasons ninth place finish was their equal worst since their promotion. Head Coach Dom Gangemi joined the club midway through last season, and he will be looking for an improvement this campaign. The club performed well in the recent Night Series, losing to Olympic Kingsway in the Semi-Final, but its set them up for a good season. Unfortunately, no information has been sent by the club for the preview, but they will once again be competitive in 2021

Players In
Players out:
Players from within the club elevated to first team:
Skipper in 2021:
Player to watch in 2021:
What the coach said -

WESTERN KNIGHTS

Coach – Ivan Zuvela
2020 – 2nd Division One
Goals scored – 37
Goals conceded – 11
Top Goalscorer – Alex Kretowicz 12

Western Knights finished runners-up in 2020 and Head coach Ivan Zuvela will be hoping to go one better this season. The Knights dropped out of the top flight of WA Football in 2012, and have been in the top six every season since, but is this the season for them to get promotion, not many people will be backing against them. The Nash Field club has a quality squad, with a good mix of youth and experience. They only conceded 11 goals last season, and went undefeated on the road, and if they can repeat that and pick up their home form, they will be one of title favorites in 2021.

Players In: Matt Stares, Dylan White and Connor Thurston
Players out: David Murphy, Lewis McMahon, Rikki Smith
Players from within the club elevated to first team: Caleb Sheedy from the reserves, and Joni Zlendic and Travis Cook from the Under 18s.
Skipper in 2021: Sam Stone and Paul Lloyd (Co-Captains)
Player to watch in 2021: Zuvela never likes to single out any individual players. They have a lot of quality in their team but internally they always talk about getting results as a team, and how important it is to utilise everyone. They are fortunate to have a big squad and that’s due mainly to the culture at the club, that is driven from within the playing group, as well as the support we receive off-field from the committee and volunteers.
What the coach said – “I’m really looking forward to this season. Our pre-season preparation has gone to plan, and for us it’s about being competitive in every game that we play.” – Ivan Zuvela

footballwa.net Predictions

BALGA

Coach – Gerhard Janssen
2020 – 12th Division Two
Goals scored – 19
Goals conceded – 41
Top Goalscorer – Kristian Despotovski 8

It’s all change at Princess Road Reserve in 2021, with a new coach and a completely different squad. Gerhard Janssen has replaced Danny Cain as Head Coach, and has acted quickly in bring players he knows to get the club heading back up the table. Last seasons’ 12th position was the lowest the club have finished since returning to the State League in 2014, so the only way is up. Janssen has appointed new signing Emmanuel Kan-Evelaa Kankpeyeng as skipper for 2021, and he knows he is an outstanding leader, but the squad will take time to gel, and the disappointment of the early FFA Cup defeat against Northam City isn’t the start they were looking for.

Players In: Karar Al-Asadi, Menghoung Chroek, Lucas Goebel, Martin Gorong, Emmanuel Kan-evelaa Kankpeyeng, William Kessel, John Lahai, Karl Maluga, Bleron Mamudi, Farruh Mavlonov, Kuol Riak, Jimmy Taban, Weldu Tekeste, Francisco Carlos Bervenootti
Players out: Anton De Francesch, David Martins, Dejan Andric, Imran Erciyas, Jake Verini, Joshua Conti, Kristian Despotovski, Lance Alavakis, Sebastian Munoz, Vincent Longo, Zoran Vrteski
Players from within the club elevated to first team: The club have added Sasco Romsey Tamber and Anthony Ruhumuriza from the Reserve team, which did well last season, thanks to the great work of Reserve Coach Rich Bryant.
Skipper in 2021: Emmanuel Kan-Evelaa Kankpeyeng - He lives our philosophy and is an outstanding leader.
Player to watch in 2021: Bleron Mamudi is finally fit because of our pre-season. Janssen has known the midfielder for years and he has played for Perth Glory and Stirling, but is now on the way to show his true potential for Balga over a longer period of time.
What the coach said – “The league will be extremely competitive with Shamrock as Champions staying in the league and Dianella and Morley heavily investing. But I see Melville as a candidate for the top position because of the constant work in the club over the last years. Balga as last year’s team at the bottom of the ladder has the target to stay in touch with the top four for promotion as long as possible and maybe we can surprise one or two of the favourites.” – Gerhard Janssen

CANNING CITY

Coach – Chris Finlayson
2020 – 8th Division Two
Goals scored – 31
Goals conceded – 24
Top Goalscorer – Emmanuel Langoya 9

It was a season of consolidation for Canning City in 2020, and new Head Coach Chris Finlayson saw an improvement in the sides position in the league, and they missed out on a top six spot on the final day. They had a reprieve from relegation to the amateur league in 2019 and Finlayson has set high standards and the players have come on board. It was an indifferent Night Series for the club, but they have big plans to climb the league and get the club back to where it once was, after playing Premier League football in 2009. They have added some experience players and will be difficult to beat.

Players In: - Jordan Allen Rana, Shaydon Passalaqua, Connor Nicolaidis, Michael Lawson, Nashe Kuzamba, Steve Ingram, Sabin Shrestha, Jay Lake, Shawn Peppin, Isaac Houghton
Players out: Emmanuel Langoya
Players from within the club elevated to first team: Rowan Steed, Cormac McGinn and Zibu Moyo have all impressed.
Skipper in 2021: James Atkins
Player to watch in 2021: Finlayson said he is pleased with the squad this season and he has a number of players that fit into this category - Michael Lawson experienced, Rowan Steed youth and talented, Jordan Allen Rana speed, Ryan Moran ability to play multiple roles and win matches, Alec Radonich experienced keeper, Shaydon Passalaqua and Josh Wallhead centre Back pairing and understanding, James Atkins leadership and experience.
What the coach said – “We have started a lot slower than last year on the results board however this has been on purpose we asked questions of the squad every week changed formations gave a lot of players the opportunity to impress changed formations constantly throughout matches looking for possible issues resolved them and moved forward so it’s worked very well for us. We were good last year but depth was the issue, this season we have filled those gaps it’s about the new lads and existing ones working together I’m definitely happy how we are tracking - bring on the season.” – Chris Finlayson

CARRAMAR SHAMROCK ROVERS

Coach – Gerry McEwan
2020 – Champions Division Two
Goals scored – 29
Goals conceded – 19
Top Goalscorer – Jack Bardsley, Pat Morrison 5

It was a fantastic first season for the merged clubs, taking out the Division Two title, and it was a great reward for Gerry McEwan and his squad. It was a fourth season at the helm of the club for the Scotsman, and not many will be backing against them again in 2021. Rovers had the best home record in the league last season, and they will look to continue on with that and push for promotion, and with McEwan at the helm they will be in the mix. Ger Fitzgerald, Nathan Diaz and Tom Forbes will be vital this season, and it could be another season of success for the club.

Players In: Sam Herbison, Owen Coates, James Curran and Tyler Holden
Players out: Jack Barron
Players from within the club elevated to first team: Josh Anderson
Skipper in 2021: Tom Forbes, although Peter Smith remains club captain
Player to watch in 2021: Sam Herbison - Having two good keepers is a blessing and Sam will push Dan for the number one spot
What the coach said – “I think the standard in Division Two will raise again in 2021. Dianella have shown their intentions, but they're not alone, so whoever wins this league will have earned it.” – Gerry McEwan

CURTIN UNIVERSITY

Coach – Troy Reid
2020 – 11th Division Two
Goals scored – 15
Goals conceded – 41
Top Goalscorer – Theodore Chapota 4

Last season’s 11th place was the lowest position for Curtin University since they returned to Semi-Professional football in 2014, and the club have turned to Troy Reid to turn that around. Reid replaces Tim Cash at Edinburgh Oval, and once again the club have turned over a large number of players as they look to get the right mix. Their Night Series didn’t go to plan, but a win in the final game against Dianella will give them confidence heading into the new season. Only time will tell if they can push up the table, but the club will be up for a fight.

Players In: Daniel Nocciolino, Craig Kamocha, Niko Burns, Daniel Davey, Tiago De Souza, Daniel Marques, Archie Culnane, Marc Zagami, Angus Christie
Players Out: Eddie Tokoft, Dilip Masrangi, Jacob Stubberfield, Joshua Selman, Theodore Chapota, Luke Yeates
Players from within the club elevated to first team: Liam Goerke and Ryan Creighan
Skipper in 2021: Jeffrey Ledwidth
Player to watch in 2021: Daniel Marques in goals has been a huge signing for Curtin, and the coach believes he will play a pivotal role in defence this season.
What the coach said – “It’s good to have football back with a full home and away set of fixtures. We’ve put together an exciting young squad who are all eager to push for the top four.” – Troy Reid

DIANELLA WHITE EAGLES

Coach – Bobby Despotovski
2020 – 2nd Division Two
Goals scored – 35
Goals conceded – 21
Top Goalscorer – Asa Sippits 13

Dianella White Eagles have been very busy in the transfer market, bring in a number of players with NPL experience, but an indifferent Night Series wasn’t what they were looking for. The club were last in top flight of WA football back in 1998, but they drifted to Division Two in 2019, but many have them to get promotion in 2021. Bobby Despotovski has been joined at the club by former Bayswater City assistant coach Stewart Moses, and with the talent they have their disposal not many will be backing against them, so their fanatical supporters will be hoping promotion is on the cards.

Players In: Dejan Aleksic, Bojan Ninkovic, Josh Kuser, Bobby Wilson, David Heagney, Conor McKee, Vlad Naumovski, Kian Mcguigan, Kris Gate, Daniel Mackenzie, Kristian Despotovski, Sasa Njegic, Hayden Doyle, Ryan Pretorius, Stefan Bodegrajac
Players out: N/A
Players from within the club elevated to first team: Nikola Zmukic and Stephen Ntoumenopoulos
Skipper in 2021: Dejan Aleksic
Player to watch in 2021: The coach is expecting everyone to play their part as they are all exceptional players
What the coach said: “We are aiming to finish top if we can, as we have invested heavily in the playing squad – looking forward to the season.” – Bobby Despotovski

GOSNELLS CITY

Coach – Marc Anthony
2020 – 6th Division Two
Goals scored – 39
Goals conceded – 37
Top Goalscorer – Feisal Zaw 11

Marc Anthony goes into his third season at Walter Padbury Reserve, and the Scotsman will be trying to take the Blues back to Division One football for the first time since relegation in 2017. The loss of Feisal Zaw and top goalscorer Eddie Wynne-Wilson will hurt, but Anthony and his side will be up for the challenge. The club have always been good at bringing youth through the system, and Anthony has unearthed some talented players in his tenure at the club. Is promotion on the cards, defiantly, and with new President Peter Koulizos pulling the strings off the park, they will surprise a few this season.

Players In: - Aden Hoddy, Kai Sedgeley, Leon Varney Duncan Lennon-Black, Eraste Vyamung
Players out: Tony Chandler, Eddie Wynne-Wilson, Feisal Zaw
Players from within the club elevated to first team: Bryce Rae played a few games last year and is only 17, he will be promoted to the 1st team
Skipper in 2021: Scott Pereira and vice-captain Aaron Coslani
Player to watch in 2021: Eraste Vyamung has shown a lot of quality in the off season and given a run of games will show the quality we believe will improve our team
What the coach said – “We are looking forward to a normal season. It’s just good to get back on the park and hopefully come season end we are up in the business end of the table.” – Marc Anthony

JOONDALUP CITY

Coach – Nigel Smith
2020 – 4th Division Two
Goals scored – 27
Goals conceded – 21
Top Goalscorer – Liam Peacock 8

Joondalup City only entered the Semi-Professional ranks in 2012, but after only spending two seasons in Division One they slipped back to Division Two in 2019, and despite encouraging season’s they have missed out on a return, and finished fourth last season. Nigel Smith goes into his third season at the club and has brought in some good signings for 2021, with Bayley Brown-Montgomery, Ewan Fawcett and Callum Speed joining the northern suburbs club from NPL side ECU Joondalup and Joondalup United respectively. They are always difficult to play against, and with the new signings, they will be a dark house in 2021.

Players In: Bailey Montgomery-Brown, Matthew Blake, Ewan Fawcett, Jack Nunn, Callum Speed, Cameron Stratton
Players out: Dougal Kindness, Jack Hailstones, Joey Smith, Liam McGurk, Sam Doherty
Players from within the club elevated to first team: Josh Pasco (U20s) Ben Seivwright (U20s) Owen Moore (U20s)
Skipper in 2021: Harry Clisby (Captain) Joshua Reid (Vice)
Player to watch in 2021: Bailey Montgomery Brown his experience in the NPL will be pivotal in leading our line and pushing for a high finish in the league this season.
What the coach said – “We are excited to get into a proper competitive season with promotion and relegation once more. We have spent the pre-season working on our fitness and putting together a road map for our success. Our culture of building our youth and developing for the future is starting to pay off with a strong U20s and U18s playing group this season. We are ready to battle and are looking forward to round one.” - Brad Haywood Assistant Coach

KELMSCOTT ROOS

Coach – Warren Smith
2020 – 10th Division Two
Goals scored – 23
Goals conceded – 43
Top Goalscorer – Amos Doegola Junior 10

Kelmscott Roos were one of the powerhouses of WA football in the 80’s but the club have taken time to get going, after dropping out of the league altogether in 1995 after their merger with Gosnells City, and not returning to Semi-Professional football until 2014. Since then, they have struggled to get amongst the teams pushing for promotion, and a tenth-place finish last season was a little disappointing. Warren Smith joined the club midway through last season, and he will be looking to stamp his authority on the club this time around. Unfortunately, no information has been sent by the club.

Players In
Players out:
Players from within the club elevated to first team:
Skipper in 2021:
Player to watch in 2021:
What the coach said -

KINGSLEY WESTSIDE

Coach – Steven Dimitrovich
2020 – 9th Division Two
Goals scored – 33
Goals conceded – 31
Top Goalscorer – Jayden Drummond 9

With the coronavirus cutting last season short, 2021 will be the first full season in State League football for Kingsley Westside. A ninth-place finish was something to build on for Steve Dimitrovich’s side, and the coach goes into his fifth season at the helm of the club. Skipper Jayden Drummond will be vital next season, while new recruit Darren O’Roiden brings experience. The club are heading in the right direction after their merger with Westside, and off the pitch things are ticking along nicely, but can they push for promotion this season, only time will tell, but they will give it a good go.

Players In: Darren O’Roiden, Joe Allsopp, Janno Sa, Owain Thomas, Cameron Rogers, Simone Sichel, Joel Gillespie
Players out: Jarrad McNally, Travis Preston, Ramiro Vilar
Players from within the club elevated to first team:
Skipper in 2021: Jayden Drummond
Player to watch in 2021: I think Darren O’Roiden will have a big impact at our club this year with his experience playing at NPL and Division One level has been a massive boost for our team and squad in general
What the coach said – I can’t wait for the season to start and to play in our first full season in state league is going to be huge for the club. The whole squad has put in a big pre-season and are all ready to go against Dianella in our first game of the season. Haven’t seen much of any other sides but if night series results are anything to go by then we are in for one hell of a good season. I think Carramar Murdoch and Dianella with all their big summer signings are the teams to beat this year.” – Steven Dimitrovich

MORLEY-WINDMILLS

Coach – Antony Benetti
2020 – 7th Division Two
Goals scored – 32
Goals conceded – 22
Top Goalscorer – Scott Wrightson 8

Morley Windmills go into their second season in Division Two and it has been all change on and off the pitch. John Castrilli is back as President of the Wotton Reserve club, while Antony Benetti has replaced Jason van Rooy as Head Coach. Since relegation from Division One in 2019 they have struggled to make an impact, but there is new optimism at the club as they head in to the new season. The coach has been busy in the transfer market bringing in the likes of Lucas De Lima, Lance Alavakis and Leigh Morgan and the squad looks well-balanced. Dion Berman will be vital for the side, and if they can gel early, they could surprise a few teams.

Players In: Leigh Morgan, Marko Savic, Lance Alavakis, Lukas De Lima, Abu Dulleh, Jordan Fazzari, Gustav Perrson, Flynn Nolan, Alfred Jr Beyan, Luke Hutcheson
Players out: N/A
Players from within the club elevated to first team: Young Adam Hammond and Alfred Momo along with reserve keeper Luke Zimmarino
Skipper in 2021: Leigh Morgan. We have a young side and are looking for a sustained period of success. Leigh is only 19 but has huge leadership qualities
Player to watch in 2021: I'm looking for a lot of lads to step up this season. We've gone for an approach of building a young talented and committed group. I think the mature players like Dion Berman will show quality this season and both Leigh Morgan and Flynn Nolan have been great in Preseason. But to be fair there are a huge amount that have shown real promise and will have major impacts
What the coach said – “We have gone for an approach of bringing in young talented players. We have optimism that our qualities will show this season and are confident that with the group we have we can really test the league. It's going to be a tough season but the players have really bought into the standards we have set.” – Antony Benetti

MURDOCH UNIVERSITY MELVILLE

Coach – Matt Wardle
2020 – 5th Division Two
Goals scored – 30
Goals conceded – 24
Top Goalscorer – Declan Tanna 8

Murdoch University Melville are in their fourth season as merged club, and it’s been a good start, with a top five finish in the previous three seasons, but they have missed out on that elusive promotion. New Head coach Matt Wardle will be hoping to change all that, the former Ashfield coach has added some quality to his squad, with the likes of Pat Serra, Pat Quinn and former NPL midfielder Sebastian Stenqvist joining the club. The club are hard to beat at home, and were unbeaten on home soil in 2020, and if they can get their away form right, they will be in the mix come seasons end.

Players In: Pat Sara, Tom Allan, Adam Blewett, Charlie Watt, Jacob Flores, Mitchell Duncan, Pat Quinn, Sebastian Stenqvist, Eddie Wyn-Wilson - Returning from long term injuries, Ryan Tucker and Josh Gardener
Players out: Callum Mellowship, Lucas Debnam, Ryan Pretorius
Players from within the club elevated to first team: N/A
Skipper in 2021: Mark Lucas and vice-captain is Ben Howe
Player to watch in 2021: We have a number of players who have potential to make a massive impact for us this year. I believe we have a well-balanced squad, a good mix of youth and experience. It is too hard to single out any individuals
What the coach said – “I can’t remember a year where Division Two has been so strong with a number of clubs recruiting really well, got their structures in place and going for promotion. It’s exciting for everyone involved. Our players, staff, and club as a whole are really excited for the coming season. We have all worked really hard this pre-season to give ourselves every chance of being there or there abouts come September. Bring on 2021.” – Matt Wardle

WANNEROO CITY

Coach – Jesse Bridgeman
2020 – 3rd Division Two
Goals scored – 41
Goals conceded – 30
Top Goalscorer – Flynn Nolan 12

Wanneroo City will be one of the favorites for the Division Two title in 2021, and Jesse Bridgeman has his side well-drilled and playing some good football. They finished third in the shortened season in 2020, and led well by Ash Corker they will be in the mix again. The club will be chasing their first title since 2013, when they won the Division One title. But they will have to improve their home form after only winning three times in 2020, but on their day, they can beat anyone in the league, and they will be one of the teams to beat this season.

Players In: Joey Smith, Kye Douglas, James Spurry, Greg Greenwood, Conor Dolan, Jack Hailstones, Scott Johnston
Players out: Andy Williamson, Ollie Rigler, Alec Robinson, Rob Faulkner, Flynn Nolan, Jamie Burns
Players from within the club elevated to first team: Dan Coletta, Aaron Louttit, Jason Rule, Lucas White
Skipper in 2021: Ash Corker
Player to watch in 2021:
What the coach said – “We are really looking forward to getting back to a normal football structure with lots to play for this season. The boys are buzzing for the start of the season we added a lot more experience and energy and after a good pre-season they are ready to go.” – Jesse Bridgeman

footballwa.net Predictions

Amateur League First Division

Final Table Prediction

 1 Peel United
 2 Gosnells City Amateurs
 3 Emerald FC
 4 East Perth
 5 North Beach
 6 Forrestfield United Amateurs
 7 Ellenbrook United
 8 Southern Spirit
 9 South Perth United
10 Stirling Panthers
11 Port Kennedy
12 Belmont Villa

Amateur League Second Division

Final Table Prediction

 1 Kingsway Olympic Amateurs
 2 Floreat Athena Amateurs
 3 Fraser Park
 4 Noranda City
 5 Westnam United
 6 Curtin University Amateurs
 7 Perth Hills United
 8 Stirling Macedonia Amateurs
 9 Carramar Shamrock Rovers Amateurs
10 Mandurah City Amateurs
11 Maccabi
12 Subiaco AFC Amateurs

Amateur League Third Division

Final Table Prediction

 1 Bassendean Caledonian
 2 Canning City Amateurs
 3 Perth AFC
 4 Kingsley Westside Amateurs
 5 Fremantle City Amateurs
 6 Ballajura
 7 Lynwood United
 8 Woodvale
 9 La Fiamma
10 Baldivis
11 BrOzzy
12 Kalamunda United

Amateur League Fourth Division

Final Table Prediction

 1 Northern City
 2 Brooklands FC
 3 Cracovia
 4 Yanchep United
 5 Sutherlands Park
 6 Swan Valley
 7 Forrestfield United Amateurs "B"
 8 Rockingham City Amateurs
 9 Murdoch University Melville Amateurs
10 Alkimos-Quinns FC

Back to www.footballwa.net

This page was last updated on the 3rd April, 2021