|
28.6.2019
NPL-WA ROUND FOURTEEN
It's week 14 of the NPL WA and this week’s Footballwa.net 'Match of the Round' takes us to SafeRad Stadium at Lark Hill where Rockingham City host league leaders Perth SC. Both sides go into this one after wins last week, Perth edging out Stirling Lions 1-0, while Rockingham ended a seven-game run without a win, thrashing Armadale 5-0. The last time these two sides met in the Premier League at Rockingham was in round nine 2000 when Perth ran out 5-0 winners, with Adrian Caceres scoring four and the other from Nick Mrdja.
The win last week for Perth was a hard fought one, against a desperate Stirling side and in terrible weather conditions, but in his first game back from a long-term injury, Harley Orr said it was a battle, but he thought they deserved the points. "It was tough conditions in the rain, but yes was definitely deserved the win,” he said. “We played really well and dominated possession for most of the game but struggled to get the finishing product but luckily Paul Zimarino provided us with another fantastic goal to get the win.”
The midfielder who damaged ankle ligaments against Floreat in round four has worked hard to get back in the side and he said the depth in their squad this season has made it harder. "Yes, I injured the same ankle I fractured back in the NPL nationals last year in September, when we travelled to Sydney, it was a repeat of the injury on the same ankle,” he explained. “Delighted to get my first 90 minutes under my belt, and with us having great depth this year which is a great thing and a massive reason as to why we are doing so well, there’s always someone to fill the void if there’s an injury and of course makes it tough to come back.”
Orr is expecting a fired-up Rockingham side on Saturday, after their big win last week, but he said they are ready for the challenge. "Like all games this season we will need to be at our best to get the result,” he said. “It’s a long trip down to Rocky and they have been doing ok this season after being promoted, and we know it will be a tough game, but our boys will be ready for it and hopefully we can come home with the three points.”
Rockingham winger Riley van Dieken grabbed a brace in last week’s big win against Armadale, and he said it was a good team performance against an in-form Reds outfit. "It wasn’t the best weather last week but it was a great overall performance from the team,” he said. “It’s a great feeling for the team to score five and get back to winning ways, and hopefully we can take that performance into our next game against Perth on Saturday.”.
Results haven't gone their way in recent weeks, but the performances have been good, but Van Dieken said they need to cut out silly mistakes that has cost them. " Each week the team is playing better and better, and less mistakes are happening, and we don’t go out there to make mistakes it’s a learning curve for us this season, “he explained. “As a team we have identified the problems and work each week at training to improve them.
Van Dieken said Saturday is a huge game for the club, with the Champions and league leaders heading to the SafeRad Stadium. They have met each other twice this season with both sides winning once, and he said they are hoping to make it 2-1 on Saturday in front of their loyal supporters. "Perth are a great team, it’s obvious why they are top of the league,” he said. “We have beaten them before, so we can do it again, and we’ll be doing all we can to do that and hopefully we can get the win with the help of our amazing Rocky fans.”
In other games this weekend the inform Bayswater City host Balcatta in the Italian derby at Frank Drago Reserve. Chris Coyne's side are one of the form team of the league at the moment and have only lost once in their last nine league and cup games, and with news signings Daryl Nicol and Gordon Smith hitting their straps they showed the rest of the league their qualities with a big win last time out at Floreat. Balcatta sit level on points with Saturday's opponents and have also been in good form and last week's last gasp draw against Glory made it only one defeat in their last five games. Lewis Italiano has been outstanding since joining the club, while Jon Corness, whose long-range shot earned their point against Glory, has been his consistent self. This one should be a great game.
ECU Joondalup won only their second game of the season at Sorrento last week, and they face another stern test when fourth placed Cockburn City visit the ECU Football Stadium. A Bayley Brown-Montgomery brace earned the points, but the performances of new signing Jamal Reiners and young defender Nick Koefler would have pleased coach Dale McCulloch. The Cockerels thumped Inglewood away from home last week, with striker Hasani Sinclair and Devon Gibson both on the scoreboard, and both put in good performance, Scott Miller's side will fancy their chances in this one. Both Inglewood United and Floreat Athena conceded four in defeats last week and the pair will be looking to bounce back when they meet at the Perth Plasterboard Centre Stadium, while Armadale had a day to forget at Rockingham last week, the five goal defeat was their worst of the season, and John O'Reilly will be looking for a response from his chargers this week when they travel to E&D Litis Stadium to take on Perth Glory.
In the final game Stirling Lions will be desperate to get the points when they host Sorrento at Macedonia Park. Sorrento were disappointing in their 1-2 defeat against ECU Joondalup, while the Lions lost to the only goal at the Perth and defender Steven McDonald said they deserved something from the game. “It was a great performance last week against Perth, everyone played out of their skin, and followed the game plan to what we thought could get us a result,” he said. “But unfortunately when you're playing against a quality side like Perth, they only need half a chance and that’s all it took to get them the three points. But take nothing away from us, we took the game to the league leaders, and a lot of positives came out of the game, and if we play with that same hunger and desire, we won't be in the position we are in for too much longer.”
On Saturday McDonald will play against the club he played with for many years, but he said it will be all about Stirling on the day. “This week is a bit of a surreal feeling really, playing against a club that I have spent nearly 20 years with, 15 years as senior player, but all that will be put to the side come 3 o'clock Saturday,” he explained. “We badly need to get on a run of games if we are to pull ourselves out the situation we are in the now. Sorrento aren't in the best of form right now, but I know just as well as anyone that means nothing to a club like Sorrento who are more than capable of bouncing back into form. So we'll have to be on our game right from the start to make sure we get something out of it, and I would love nothing more than to put one past my pal James Morgan on Saturday.’
28.6.2019
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND THIRTEEN – PREVIEW
We go into round 13 of the State League Division One with the top five teams separated by only four points, and this week’s Footballwa.net 'Match of the Round' features two of them, as third placed Fremantle City entertain second placed Western Knights in the derby at Hilton Park. The Knights were held to a draw at home by league leaders Ashfield last week, while Fremantle were too strong for Morley on the road. The last time these two sides met at the venue in the league was in round 21 last season, when Bobby Wilson scored the only goal of the game in a 1-0 win.
The win at Morley last week was Fremantle's eighth game without defeat in the league and club skipper Danny Clapham said it was a good performance especially with the poor weather on the day. "Yes, we knew we were going to have to work hard for the three points especially with the poor weather conditions,” he said. “We started slow but eventually settled and controlled the majority of the game played some good football and created chances which was pleasing to see.”
It's been a long road to recovery for Clapham, after a serious knee injury saw him side lined for a number of months, but he's back training and has been part of the game day squad for the last few weeks and he's happy to be back. "Yes, I’ve been out of action for 18 months with the knee, which has been a tough journey at 35, but the club have been fantastic to me supporting me in all way,” he explained. “I love a challenge and I’ve worked hard to get where I am now, and I just want to help the players to be the best they can be and help the club gain promotion.”
Clapham is well aware the Knights have recruited well this season and will be tough opposition, but Mauro Marchione’s side have a great home record, only losing once this season, and the striker said they are looking to the challenge in the derby. "Saturday is a massive game for both teams, and there’s about four or five teams fighting it out at the top and we can’t afford to drop any points,” he said. “Mauro took over three weeks before the first league game so we are 2-3 months behind everyone, but are starting to bond on the pitch which is showing with us been eight games unbeaten. The boys will be more than ready on Saturday we know what they’ve got and we’re looking forward to the challenge.”
The Knights dominated the second half against the leaders Ashfield last week but could only take a point with Andrija Jukic on target, but he said they had their chances to take all three. "I thought we deserved all three points, it was tough conditions but I thought we were the better team with the better chances,” he said. “But credit to them they defended well, and were dangerous on the counter, which we had to be careful of. We gave them their goal with a silly error at the back, but we done well to get back in the game. Seems to be our story this year, so we need to be better at both ends. Bit tighter at the back and a little more clinical in front of goals.”
Jukic who joined the Knights from NPL side Bayswater this season said the club are very ambitious and they working hard both on and off the pitch to secure a spot in the NPL. "It’s a great club, great history, definitely need to be in the top league,” he explained. “Everyone involved works tirelessly every week, and they need the reward of promotion. If it doesn't happen this year, it won't be long before they will be in the NPL and they deserve it.”
The midfielder said Fremantle will be a tough game on their own patch, but they are ready for the challenge. “It’s a very tough game on the weekend, as Fremantle have been getting some great results lately and are right in the mix, and the addition of Cisco must have given them that extra bit of flair they needed,” he said. “The boys will definitely be up for it it should be an exciting game, with plenty of goals. It’s Rycrofts birthday weekend so we will want to win and celebrate well, hopefully Sammy Stone doesn't start early and can stay in, on Friday night.”
In other games league leaders Ashfield host Joondalup United at Ashfield Reserve, looking to maintain their lead at the top, while Joondalup will be looking to go back-to-back away wins after a win at UWA Nedlands last week. Speaking of UWA they host Forrestfield United at the UWA Sports Park and will hope to end a two-game streak without a win, while Forrestfield need to turn draws into wins, after drawing their last two game. Mandurah City came back from two goals down to draw last week against Forrestfield and this week they host Olympic Kingsway at Securities Protect Stadium. Olympic bounced back from two games without a win at Subiaco last week and will be looking to make it back-to-back away wins for the first time this season.
In the final game we head to Wishart Road where Gwelup Croatia entertain Morley Windmills. The visitors have only won once this season and that was against Gwelup in round two, and with them being six points off the drop zone, they need to start finding results sooner rather than later. Gwelup are coming off the bye, but last week’s draw between the top two sides was a great result for Taki Nicolaidis’ side, and they sit two points behind the leaders and have two games in hand. Nicolaidis said the bye gave his side chance to refresh and he will be looking for a better performance they produced in the first game against Morley.
"Guess it’s always good to have a mid-season break to freshen up the playing group however we pretty much have a full squad to pick from and now have the next 11 games to focus on and keep up the momentum that we have built since our loss against Morley last time,” he explained. “We were bitterly disappointed with our performance and result when we last played Morley and the playing group have learnt from it and haven’t looked back since. The players will be reminded however of the consequences when you switch off in games and not play out a full 90 minutes.” – Subiaco have the bye this week.
28.6.2019
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND TWELVE – PREVIEW
Quinns lead the State League Division Two by five points, and in week 12 their nearest challengers Murdoch University Melville visit Gumblossom Park in the Footballwa.net 'Match of the Round'. Both sides were winners last week, Quinns beating Balga, while MUM overcame a gallant Curtin University, and the visitors, and a number of the chasing pack, will be hoping Gavin Brown's side can home with a win to keep Quinns in sight. The last time these two sides met at the venue was in round 18 last season when MUM won 1-0. Quinns were down to ten men and conceded a last-minute penalty, but Sam Garces spot kick was well saved by Ellis Compton. But from the resulting corner MUM won it, Tulie Mumbi's cross was headed home by Broden Brown from close-range.
Quinns were made to fight hard for the points against Balga, but Mike Kenny said they should have had put the game to bed earlier. "It was really a game of two halves, first half we played them off the park and were unlucky not to be three or four up at half time hitting the post and missing a couple chances that should've been buried,” he said. “Second half we started slow then I missed a penalty which would've put the game to bed, two penalties to Balga and a red card for us really gave them a fighting chance until Richard Howles brilliant solo goal finishing them off. A late consolation made it look more respectable than it was, we got dragged into a battle again.”
Just the one defeat for Ian Ferguson's side this season, and Kenny said the squad is strong and positions are up for grabs and you need to perform each week. "We are five points clear and that is great, but we know it's not enough and we need to create more breathing space from the two behind us,” he explained. “Every week we have a different player stepping up and putting in their application for the starting 11. Some very good experienced players alongside some very talented young boys means we all need to keep doing the extra bits away from training to stay in the first 11. All the boys are really enjoying their football this year with some coming off recent seasons of discontent.”
Kenny said Saturday is a huge game for both clubs, and with MUM and Gosnells in the chasing pack, a win is important to keep their lead at the summit. "Not much to be said really, just look at the table and you can see how important this match is for both sides,” he said. “We're confident we can beat anyone on our day, but are excited to see what MUM have to offer. No doubt it’s another match of the round, hopefully it's good conditions for both teams to try play attractive football.”
MUM were lucky to go into half time even last week at Curtin, but after half time they proved to strong and Broden Brown said they have to improve in certain areas. “Last week we got off to a bit of a slow start and allowed Curtin to have a few good chances,” he said. “I think it was collective disappointment at half time as we expect higher standards than the first half but I think we started to meet those standards in the second half and got the right result.”
After only one loss in their last seven games MUM are on a good run of form and confidence is high, but like Saturday's opponents Brown said a strong squad has helped them this season and training has been intense with spots in the side up for grabs. “Yes absolutely, Gavin (Brown) keeps on mentioning that competition for places within the squad is better than ever,” he explained. “So with probably two or more good players in every position everyone knows they have to work to stay in the team, which probably contributes to our good form.”
Brown said Saturday is massive game for them if they want to keep in touch with Quinns, and they will be heading there looking for a positive result. "We’re all buzzing for Quinns on Saturday, and last year’s last minute winner there has been mentioned a couple of times and although both teams have improved since then we’ll go out there with the intention of getting the same result,” he said. “We’re seeing it as a clash between the two best teams at the minute and knowing that a win puts us within two points of them gives us all the motivation we need.”
In other games Gosnells City will be hoping to take out the three points when they entertain Wanneroo City at Walter Padbury Reserve. Marc Anthony's side have re-discovered their form in recent weeks and need to keep winning to keep the pressure on Quinns, while Wanneroo will have a new face in the dugout this weekend after Tim Kantor was sacked on Monday and Jesse Bridgman is the interim coach. Shamrock Rovers travel to Princess Road Reserve hoping to maintain their good form, which has seen win the last two games. Balga sit in fifth and are coming off a hard-fought loss against the league leaders Quinns last week, Joondalup City entertain Dianella White Eagles at Iluka Sports Complex, while Kelmscott Roos make the trip to Burrendah Reserve to take on Canning City.
In the final game, Swan United returned to the winner's circle last week and this week host Curtin University at Francis Street. Curtin pushed MUM all the way last week and were the better team in the first half but they faded after the break. Swan coach Paul Dundo was pleased to get the three points and hopefully kick start their season. “Last week saw us get back to winning ways with a solid 4-0 win, and it was a good performance from the boys, with four different goal scorers and keeping a clean sheet at home was also very pleasing,” said. “Saturday will be another tough encounter with Curtin also chasing a top four position this season. We are going to have to be on top of game today and take off where we left last week if we are going to claim the points.”
28.6.2019
AMATEUR CUP - ROUND THREE – PREVIEW
This Sunday it’s the third round of the Belt-up Sunday Amateur Cup and the Footballwa.net ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to Kelly Park where Premier League Kwinana United host Division three league leaders Mandurah City in a local derby. Kwinana, who won the cup in 2017 a 1-0 win against North Perth United, had to fight hard to get through the last round at Belmont Villa and Coach Kris Donnell said it was the time they made wholesale changes to their side. “Yes, Belmont was a tricky game for us with changing the team so much going into it,” he explained. “They throw everything at us and we managed to fight through and get the result in the end.” Donnell said Sunday’s game is going to be another tough one and the cup always gives a few surprises. “We’re looking forward to the cup tie with Mandurah, and even though they are in a lower league they are a great side and are doing good things,” he said. “We will prepare well and be ready for a tough game and I think it’s going to be a good cup battle.”
Mandurah sit five points clear at the top of Division Three, and beat UWA Nedlands in the opening Cup round and Coach Pete Taylor they are improving each week. “The league season has been solid up to this stage, we’ve got the five-point gap at the top heading into the halfway point and the lads have been unplayable at times,” he said. “There’s some really good teams around us and we need to stay focused and continue to work hard if we want to stay ahead.” Taylor said the cup run has given his players a chance to focus on something else rather than the league and they will be heading to Kwinana looking to cause an upset. “It’s a game that we’re all looking forward too and we know we have to be at our very best to come away with a victory,” he said. “Having been a player under Kris, I’m well aware that his lads will be highly motivated to get the win and we’ll have to match their desire come Sunday. We can be a tough opponent for anyone on our day so it could end up being tie of the round.”
The last team to qualify for this round was Warnbro Strikers who beat Westnam United 6-0 on Thursday evening, and they host Peel United in the next round. Evano de Pontes scored a hat-trick, with Morgan Walters scoring a well taken free kick, with Dominic Sumner and Sean Troup scoring the others to see Warnbro through and coach Joe Boyham was delighted with the performance. “The boys fought extremely hard and their determination to succeed excelled early in the first half with two quick goals to make it 3-0 at half time. The lads continued to battle and niggle away at a strong Westnam team in the second half, ending the game 6-0. Thoroughly deserved and a great performance,” he explained. “It was a great night all-round at Beale park for both Warnbro teams progressing to the next round as well.” Boyham said Sunday’s game against Division Two leaders Peel will be another tight game and he said his players are ready for it, despite only playing on Thursday. “We’re all looking forward to playing a well-respected Peel United at George Town reserve on Sunday,” he said. “They have been doing well in their league and have built up a strong team over the past few years, I'm sure they will be hungry for victory and it’s going to be a great test for both teams, we’re looking forward to it.”
Peel are two points clear at the top of the Division Two table, and beat Fraser Park 3-0 in the last round and coach Clint Brown said it’s been a great team effort this season. “We started well and have continued with that momentum heading into the half way point of the season. The boys’ attitude and moral are brilliant, applicable to training and match days,” he explained. “I think our goal difference gives some good insight into our season performances so far, starting with exceptional defending with Daniel Fretwell in goals with our Maddison, Fenton, Bradley and Mallinder back four combination which has been consistent for 90% of games. “Mitch Kelman has 18 so far in all formats which completes our transitions moving forward and into the last third, his closing down pace has proven to be major trouble for all defending sides and it's been a pleasure to see him develop week in week out in 2019. We sit top in the league format, and have a good opportunity for a cup run so the destiny now sits in our hands, evaluating each week as it comes.” The cup win at Fraser Park pleased Brown and he will be looking for more of the same against the Strikers. “Fraser Park are a very competitive team, their results in the league indicate that with only the one lose, so the result 3-0 didn't reflect the score because they worked us till the end with quick movement and on the counter breaks, however we stuck to our game plan and executed in the final third which got us the result,” he said. “Warnbro are local opposition so I suspect it to be a physical encounter, they have runs on the board this season and look to be playing good football but we will be up for the challenge.”
Another intriguing game is at Gumblossom Park, where Quinns host Division Three side Kalamunda United. Quinns eased through the last round at Yanchep United and coach Lee Garnish said a good cup run is what they are looking for this season. “Last round was against a local team who were up for the game, but the big focus for us is a good cup run for the squad this year and we manage to get the result,” he explained. “On Sunday we have home ground advantage, which is massive for us, but the cup always has some excitement about it and we need get the right result and continue our run.” Kalamunda upset Olympic Kingsway in the last round a brace from Adrian Street and another to Eddie Soma, and Street said it was one of their best 90 minutes of the season, and they will need a similar one on Sunday. “Our last round against Kingsway was probably our best overall performance this season. Defensively we were solid front to back and we scored goals at the right time,” he explained. “The boys can’t wait to play a Premier side. We know Quinns will be a massive challenge but if play like we know we can we think we can be more than competitive, and hopefully an upset is on the cards.”
In other games Wembley Downs host Floreat Athena at Butlers Reserve, North Beach entertain Carramar at Charles Riley Reserve, while Emerald and Southern Spirit meet at Fraser Park Reserve. The game between Leeming Strikers and Stirling Lions has been forfeited and Leeming go through. The final game sees Cup holders Kingsley making the trip to the Perth Plasterboard Centre Stadium to take on East Perth. The hosts are sitting mid-table in Division Two and moved into this round with a 4-1 win against Maccabi. Kingsley had a tough fight in the last round beating Jaguar 3-1 and assistant coach Stuart Montgomery said it was a battle. “The win against Jags was a good performance by the boys we scored two goals in the first two minutes and had them under pressure from there,” he explained. “But to Jags credit they came out second half and put us under pressure but we were happy to get the win and move onto the next round.”
Montgomery said they have heard some good reports on East Perth and will defiantly not be taking them lightly. “We are looking forward to this game against East Perth, and I have heard some really good things about them, the way they play football and the way they are coached and they have had some really good results so far in the cup so I am sure this is going to be a typical cup game where we can’t take anything for granted,” he said. “We have a few boys missing with injuries but have signed a few new faces this week so hopefully their registrations are cleared before Sunday and they can help get us to the next round of the cup.” In the Reserves Cup the fixtures are as follows: Wembley Downs v North Perth United, North Beach v Queens Park, Emerald FC v Southern Spirit, Quinns FC v Gosnells City, Leeming Strikers v Stirling Lions (Forfeited), Perth AFC v Mandurah City, East Perth v Kingsley, Warnbro Strikers v Fraser Park.
27.6.2019
WANNEROO PART WAYS WITH KANTOR
Wanneroo City have parted company with Head coach Tim Kantor on Tuesday with reserves coach Jesse Bridgeman taking over as interim coach till the end of the season. The former Floreat Athena assistant coach under Glen Grostate, was standing down next season anyway, and despite having a horrendous run of injuries he took them to fourth spot after week 10, but a away draw against Kelmscott Roos last week saw them drop to seventh and the club have acted to part ways. Kantor coached 51 league games, winning 31, drawing seven and losing 13 in two and half season’s in the job, but he said there are no ill feeling towards the club.
“I wasn’t going to continue beyond this season and the club felt it would be a good opportunity to blood the reserves coach till the end of the year,” Kantor explained. “Being only one point out of a play-off spot and with the crippling injuries we’ve had, I still think this group of lads can make the play offs and after that anything can happen.”
Kantor said he will have to find something else to do on a Saturday afternoon, and he may have to get his golf clubs out again. “I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone at the Roos all the best for the rest of the season and beyond, like I said there are no ill feelings,” he said. “For me now I’ll take a well-earned rest and go and watch some football as a spectator, and do more of my other passion, golf.”
27.6.2019
PORTSMOUTH REUNION AS WILLIAMS RETURNS
English League One club Portsmouth have brought Ryan Williams back to Fratton Park. Pompey manager Kenny Jackett has swooped for the out-of-contract winger, who started his career with the Blues.
"He's an attacking winger," Jackett told portsmouthfc.co.uk. "He can play on either side and ensures we have good competition in that area. Ryan's just made his debut for Australia, but has been in England for many years now and established himself."
Williams, 25, turned out for Championship side Rotherham last season, however, he has elected to return to the south coast – and the club he left seven-and-a-half years ago. The lively wideman came through the Blues’ Academy to make six appearances during the 2011/12 campaign.
Williams went on to join Fulham, in January 2012, before spells with Oxford United, Barnsley and Rotherham United. He made his senior international debut for Australia earlier this month, coming on as a second-half substitute in the Socceroos friendly with South Korea.
27.6.2019
LYDEN TO TRAIN WITH SOUTHEND
Former Aston Villa midfielder Jordan Lyden is to train with Southend United during pre-season. Lyden, 23, spent seven years at Villa Park before being released at the end of the 2018/19 campaign.
“Jordan is coming in to just train with us at the moment,” said Bond. “He’s a great guy and a great pro and is coming in to get fit so we can assess him.” Lyden made eight appearances for Villa, including four in the Premier League.
27.6.2019
SCUNTHORPE'S BURGESS SUBJECT OF POTENTIAL LOAN
Scunthorpe United defender Cameron Burgess is the subject of interest for a potential loan move away from Glanford Park. It is believed that two League Two sides - one believed to be Oldham Athletic - along with a Scottish Premier League side have enquired about taking the 23-year old on a season-long loan.
Burgess is in the last year of his contract with Scunthorpe. He will likely find himself down the pecking order after Andy Butler was brought in. Butler, a player with similar traits to Burgess, is expected to start with Harrison McGahey, with the likes of Rory McArdle, Charlie Goode and Jacob Bedeau pushing them for their spots.
Whilst Burgess could certainly find himself amongst those pushing for a spot, he would probably the player most expected to leave during the off-season. However, new manager Paul Hurst is unlikely to let players leave the club until he has the chance to assess them for himself.
26.6.2019
YOUNG JOINS BUNDESLIGA CLUB
Australian defender Jacob Young has joined Bundesliga club TSG 1899 Hoffenheim. The Perth-born teenager, the son of former Perth Glory striker Stuart Young, is the latest in a long list of youngsters joining the ranks of Bundesliga.
Young exits Sunderland after three seasons with the club. The 19-year old played 14 matches in the Under-23 Development League division two last season. He made 15 appearances for Sunderlands’ Under-23 side and a further 37 in the Under-18s.
Young was offered a new contract by Sunderland but it was turned down in pursuit of more development abroad. He will be aiming to find game time in Hoffenheim II as they compete in Regionalliga Südwest, the German fourth division.
Young played youth football with Cockburn City and Perth Glory before catching the eye of the Black Cats as a 15-year old in 2016. He attended the Young Socceroos training camp ahead of last years’ AFC Under-19 Championships but was omitted from the final squad.
26.6.2019
NEVILLE EXITS GLORY
Defender Scott Neville has left Perth Glory, with Brisbane Roar his expected destination. The 30-year old returned to Glory for a second stint before the 2017/18 campaign, adding 41 appearances to take his A-League tally to 199 games.
Neville started just seven games under Tony Popovic last season and is now set to join the Robbie Fowler era at Brisbane. "I'm departing on good terms and would like to thank everyone at Glory," commented Neville, a former Australia Under-23 international. <
"It was fantastic to be a part of the squad last season that finally brought some silverware to a club that will always be close to my heart." Neville is the second defender to depart Glory over the past week after Jason Davidson, who has joined Ulsan Hyundai.
25.6.2019
GLORY SWOOP FOR EXCITING YOUNG DUO
Perth Glory has confirmed the recruitment of young talents Dane Ingham and Nick D’Agostino, both signing two-year deals with the club. The pair, who were teammates at Brisbane Roar, joined the rest of the Glory squad for pre-season training earlier this week.
Ingham is a versatile defender who can play on either the right or the left. The 20-year old made his Brisbane debut aged just 17 years and five months and made a total of 19 appearances during three seasons with the club. He has been capped by the All Whites on seven occasions.
“After such a good year, it’s clear that the club is moving in an upwards direction,” said Ingham. “That made my decision really easy when I found out that the club was keen to bring me over. Hopefully I can start as many games as possible and add some depth to the squad.”
D’Agostino is a versatile attacker with 35 appearances for Brisbane to his name. capable of operating anywhere across the forward line. The 21-year old will add versatility to an already lethal looking Glory front line that features Andy Keogh, Chris Ikonomidis, Diego Castro, Joel Chianese and Bruno Fornaroli.
“I’m very excited and have come here to improve as a footballer,” said D’Agostino. “Tony Popovic is a great manager who gets the best out of players, especially young players. He’s promised to get the best out of me and hopefully I can help the club go one step further and win the Grand Final this season.”
Ingham and D’Agostino could make their Glory debuts in next months’ friendly against Manchester United at Optus Stadium. "I'm a Manchester United fan, so I'd be very thrilled to be involved in that game if I can," said D'Agostino of the fixture on Saturday 13 July.
24.6.2019
VELAPHI PENS NEW GLORY DEAL
Perth Glory is delighted to confirm goalkeeper Tando Velaphi has signed a new, one-year deal with the club. The 32-year old returned to Glory last season having previously made over 70 appearances for his hometown club between 2007 and 2011.
Having been a member of the 2018/19 A-League Premiership winning squad, Velaphi is determined to help Glory secure further silverware. “I’m really pleased to have re-signed,” commented Velaphi, who re-joined Glory last season from Wellington Phoenix.
“The success the club achieved last year was fantastic, but as a group, we feel that we have unfinished business and plenty of improvement in us. I’m looking forward to playing my part in what I’m sure will be another exciting campaign for everyone involved with Glory.”
Velaphi began his career locally with Perth SC from where he was loaned to Brisbane Roar in 2007. Spells at Glory, Melbourne Victory and Melbourne City followed prior to a two-season stay at Japanese outfit Shonan Bellmare. Velaphi played 2017/18 with Wellington.
23.6.2019
MATILDAS CRASH OUT OF WORLD CUP
Australias' Womens World Cup dream is over after a heartbreaking penalty shoot-out loss to Norway in their round of sixteen clash. A campaign of setbacks ended in the most depressing way this morning, when the Matildas showed their fighting qualities but came up short.
After Isabell Herlovsen's opener, Elise Kellond-Knight drew Australia level with a stunning 83rd minute equaliser. The Matildas clung on despite Alanna Kennedy's extra-time dismissal but Sam Kerr and Emily Gielnik missed from the spot to condemn Australia to their worst World Cup result in 16 years.
"The girls have already gotten around me. I feel like I let the team down but they've been quick to cut that out," Kerr said post-game. "I'm proud of the team and how we fought back there, went down a man and it sucks to lose in a penalty shoot-out but we learn from this," said Kerr post-game.
"The first half wasn't at our best but in the second we came out and dominated. We would've liked to win it in the 90 like I said it was disappointing to lose on penalties but these are the moments you grow and you become stronger as players and a team so feel like we've let some people down, we'll be stronger from it."
"I couldn't be prouder of the girls, we've stuck together through thick and thin. It's been a little bit of a rollercoaster ride for us but to see where the girls have come and how the team have stuck together and the staff has stuck with us, we're grateful for the support we've had."
23.6.2019
BELT UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION - ROUND TEN REVIEW
Kingsley continue to lead the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division after an 8-0 win against the bottom of the table Ellenbrook United at Chichester Park. The home side opened the scoring when Adam O’Neil finishing from a corner. Jayden Drummond added the second before Aaron Lickiss added the third before the break. Further goals from Jesse Higgins, Ryan Brown and Drummond added another three to make it four goals on the day for the winger to seal a comprehensive win. “First half we were a bit slow with our ball movement and moving off the ball,” Josh Waldock said. “A half time we addressed it and came out a lot better than the first and got the result.”
North Perth United kept in touch of the leaders after a 4-1 win against Leeming Strikers at Woodville Reserve. The hosts were ahead when Edin Nalic was brought down 28 meters from goal, and Lee Thoele free kick flew into the net giving the Leeming keeper no chance. It was 2-0 when Oscar Kelly was brought down in the box and Ago Mujic fired home the resulting penalty. It was 3-0 before the break, Kelly’s corner headed home by Paddy Montgomery AKA Rattlesnake. Leeming pulled one back just after half time, Lucas Pickering cross was turned home by Ben Greaves from five meters. But North Perth sealed the points when Montgomery scored after a long clearance from the keeper. “It was the best 90 minutes of football we have put together this year,” North Perth Coach Alex Carter said. “We moved the ball with intent, played forward at every opportunity and the pleasing this was we took our early chances this week. Training during the week we set about with a very specific game set up, one that I have not used before at the club. All the credit must go to the squad for the discipline they showed in executing this, it was a deserved three points.”
There was an eight-goal thriller at Beldon Park where Joondalup United drew 4-4 with Quinns. It was the home side on top early, and Sam Davis hit the crossbar, but Liam McNanus hit the post at the other end. But on 16 minutes Joondalup hit the front, Kitson Catalfano’s cross was turned into his own net by a Quinns defender. But Quinns levelled on the half hour, with Liam Hunt on target. But after the break the floodgates opened and Kyle Osborne gave Joondalup the lead. But two goals in as many minutes from Wayne Carter and Hunt gave Quinns the lead, before Adam Gianassi restored parity for Joondalup. McManus regained the lead for Quinns on the hour and it looked like that would be the winner but in the final minute Chris Boyle fired home to give both sides a share of the spoils. “I was pretty happy with a point, it was a fair result,” Joondalup Ben Williams said. “It’s nice to get the draw right at the very end but I think we had our chances – the keeper was brilliant for them today. We made a couple of mistakes at the back so a point, we’ll take that.”
In other games Jaguar bounced back after two games without a win, with 6-2 win against Kwinana United Herb Graham Recreation Centre. Paul Sopp scored a hat-trick, with a brace from Laurance Gama and another from Morad Idris. UWA Nedlands are back in the winner’s circle after a 2-1 win against Belmont Villa at UWA Sports Park. The host were ahead when Mitch Barrington raced clear and lobbed the on-coming keeper, before Jack Retallack added the second following a quick attack and after one touch he finished clinically. “We played a very good first half and an average second half,” UWA Coach Arthur Hiemstra said. “Had we been a bit more clinical in front of goal we could have put the game to bed in the first half.”
In the final game Wembley Downs have travelled to Carine Open Space and came home with a 2-0 win against Hamersley Rovers. Dan Keady opened the scoring for the visitors on 20 minutes, his powerful strike from the edge of the box flew past the keeper. They wrapped up the points in the second half, Stephen Geoghegan intercepting a pass from the keeper, and slotted it under him. “Great for us to get a win after a couple of close losses. Our first half was as good as we’ve played recently and really should have had one or two more going into the break,” Wembley’s Jay McDonald said. “Hamersley got into the game after the restart and we were lucky not to concede but we managed to weather it, get the second goal and come away with the win.”
22.6.2019
ECU BEAT SORRENTO IN NORTHERN DERBY
ECU Joondalup have won bragging rights, and their first win on the road this season, after a come-from-behind 2-1 win against Sorrento in the Northern Derby at Percy Doyle Reserve in the DT38 Round 13. Sorrento skipper Reece Vittiglia had given the host the lead early, before Bayley Brown-Montgomery levelled just before half time. Brown-Montgomery, who wasn’t in the starting side until an injury to Tommy Amphlett, sealed the win twenty minutes from time to move them four points clear of the drop zone. Before kick-off Jacks skipper Johnny Perkins and his Sorrento counterpart Reece Vittiglia and officials walked out wearing DT38 tee-shirt as Football West teamed up with the DT38 Australia charity to help raise awareness of testicular cancer. DT38 “Awareness Down Under” is named in honour of the late West Australian footballer Dylan Tombides, who died of testicular cancer in 2014 aged just 20.
The home side, who were on a two-game losing streak, made the perfect start and were ahead after only three minutes. Jordan Roberts made space down the left and his cross was headed home by Vittiglia. ECU hit back, Ollie Annis sent Brown-Montgomery down the left and his cross picked out Andy Higgins at the back post, his shot fired over the top. Moments later Higgins’ cross was headed over the top by Brown-Montgomery, before Jamal Reiners shot on the run flashed wide. Sorrento went close to a second on 23 minutes when Roberts again eased past his marker on the left and picked out Jack Salter who failed to find the target. ECU continued to press and Annis’ long-range shot stung the palms of James Morgan as the game opened up.
Moments later ECU keeper Johnny Perkins produced a great save to deny Vittiglia’s free kick, before he was out quickly to smoother Cameron Teece’s effort. The Jacks continued to take the game to their hosts and four minutes before half time they levelled. A speculative shot from Brown-Montgomery bounced just in front of Sorrento keeper Morgan, and the ball slid through his hands and into the net. Both sides pressed after the break, and Vittiglia shot on the run was saved low by Perkins, before Ollie Annis’ long-range effort drifted just wide. Then second half substitute Ronald Rixer was picked out by Higgins at the back post, and his first-time shot was saved low by Morgan. Reiners was a constant threat going forward for the Jacks and on 67 minutes he raced down the left and he found Annis, whose shot on the run drifted just wide of the far post.
But on 70 minutes the Jacks hit the front. Henry Durr won the ball in the middle of the park and his ball sent Brown-Montgomery down the right, he eased past his marker and raced into the box, and his shot from the angle beat Morgan at his near post, much to the delight of the large Jacks supporters in the crowd. ECU almost added a third when Annis and Higgins combined down the left, and Higgins’ goal bound shot was superbly tipped over by the Sorrento custodian. It was backs to the wall for the Jacks as Sorrento pressed late looking for the equaliser, and Teece’s flick was caught at full stretch by Perkins, before Teece’s shot on the turn was saved low by Perkins to seal the three points. A great team performance and a valuable three points, which moved the Jacks four points clear of the drop zone and closer to the teams above them.
Sorrento: GK James MORGAN, 2 David STOKOE, 3 Jakub PRAJZA, 4 Shaun KILKELLY, 10 Jordan ROBERTS, 11 Tim HILL, 17 Reece VITTIGLIA (c), 18 Jordan BROWN, 19 Jack SALTER, 20 Jaxon TEMATA (16 Daniel PEARCE 81’), 23. Cameron TEECE - Subs not used: RGK Noah BLOCH, 12 Jesse OWUOR, 21 Tristan STEVENS, 34 Reece ABRAMS
ECU Joondalup: GK Johnny PERKINS (c), 3 Nicholas KOEFLER, 4 Henry DURR, 5 Shane CASSIDY, 6 Ollie ANNIS, 7 Jamal REINERS (17 Charlie KENNA 84’), 8 Josh WHITMORE (11 Ronald RIXER 61’), 9 Bayley BROWN-MONTGOMERY, 10 Andy HIGGINS, 12 Billy QUINNCROFT, 14 Ewan FAWCETT - Subs not used: RGK George JACKSON, 2 Ben HINSHELWOOD, 15 Lukas DE LIMA - Referee: Josh Mannella
22.6.2019
CORNESS SALVAGES A POINT FOR BALCATTA
Balcatta midfielder Jon Corness scored a spectacular stoppage time goal to salvage a 2-2 draw against Perth Glory in the DT38 Round 13 game at Grindleford Reserve on a wet Saturday afternoon. Debutant Jayden Gorman had given Glory the lead on 17 minutes, but Alex Zimarino levelled on the hour. It looked like Glory had won it two minutes from time with Gorman again on target, but Corness had the final say with the last kick of the game.
Glory made a great start and were ahead on 16 minutes, a poor clearance from former Glory keeper Italiano went straight to Jack Leech, who picked out Gorman on the left and the winger raced towards goal an unleashed a powerful shot into the top corner of the net giving Italiano no chance. Glory went close again when a superb cross field ball from Leech found the overlapping Josh Rawlings, who raced into the box but his shot was deflected behind by Calum O’Connell. Moments later Glory were in again, a good advantage was allowed by referee Michal Jasinski and Henry Hore raced forward and slipped the ball into Ciaran Bramwell, his shot was well saved by Italiano at full stretch.
Glory went close to a second in the opening minute of the second half, Ethan Brooks cutting in from the left and his shot was pushed around the post by Italiano. Both sides pressed as the game opened up, first Glory keeper Nic Speca had to be alert to push away a dangerous cross from Shubham Mokala, before Italiano tipped Hore’s curling effort around the post moments later. Zimarino blazed over on 50 minutes when well placed, but eight minutes later he made emends to level for the home side. Alex Wild finding him on the right of the penalty area and he cut inside his marker and drilled the ball low past Speca.
Glory almost responded instantly when Hore sent Gorman clear, whose shot on the run flashed just wide of the far post. Balcatta went close again on 80 minutes, Corness’ corner was headed back across goal by John Kearney at the back post, but Speca got back to tip the ball over the top. The visitors were dangerous going forward and second half substitute Gabriel Popovic headed over Zayd Farah’s cross moments later, but two minutes from time Glory regained the lead. A great ball from Hore sent Gorman clear, and he finished clinically over the on-coming Italiano. It looked like being the winner but with the last kick of the game Balcatta found the equaliser. A long clearance by Italiano wasn’t dealt with and the ball fell to Corness, whose first time shot from the edge of the box flew into the top corner.
Balcatta: GK Lewis ITALIANO, 2 Joseph MARINO, 3 John KEARNEY, 4 Calum O'CONNELL, 5 Shubham MOKALA (13 Carmelo GIUFFRE 68’), 7 Ben PELLIZZARI, 10 Jonathan CORNESS, 11 Adam ZIMARINO (9 Gavin KNIGHT 83’), 12 Roberto DEL BORRELLO, 15 Calum STOCKS (8 Alex WILD 30’), 16 Alex CASTIELLO - Subs not used: RGK David KEENAN, 22 Michael ZIMARINO
Perth Glory: GK Nicolas SPECA, 2 Zayd FARAH, 3 Joshua RAWLINS, 4 Luca BODNAR, 5 Nicholas WALSH, 6 Josh SAMSON, 7 Ethan BROOKS (15 Gomo DUKULY 55’), 8 Jack LEECH (16 Kristian POPOVIC 55’), 9 Ciaran BRAMWELL (24 Gabriel POPOVIC 62’), 10 Henry HORE, 11 Jayden GORMAN - Subs not used: RGK Jacob RANGE, 22 Alessandro CIRCALI – Referee: Michal Jasinski
22.6.2019
ZIMARINO WINS IT FOR PERTH
A stunning strike from Perth SC striker Paul Zimarino has secured a narrow 1-0 win for the league leaders against bottom of the table Stirling Lions at Dorrien Gardens on Saturday afternoon. The goal 19 minutes from time secured the three points and moved them ten points clear of their nearest challengers and continued the unbeaten start to the NPL WA season for Ramon Falzon’s men.
It was a special day for both clubs on DT38 Round 13, with Dylan Tombides playing for both clubs in his time in WA football, and he was remembered by players, coaches and supporters before the game and a round of applause from everyone in the ground on 38 minutes in memory of him. The rain was falling at kick off and clear-cut chances were few and far between early, but it was Stirling who had the better chances and new signing Yagoub Mustafa long-range shot flying over the top before midfielder Dean Cumming did likewise moments later. Perth went close themselves when Harley Orr, in his first game since injury, got on the end of a Kristian Santich free kick, but he couldn’t find the target, and at the break it was scoreless.
It was Perth who opened the send half the better and they went close early. Midfielder Santich found space on the edge of the box, and raced into the area, but his effort was well saved by Stirling custodian Ryan Montgomery, before substitute Andreas Theodosiades effort on 70 minutes was pushed behind by the leg of Montgomery. It was backs to the wall for the visitors with Steven McDonald working overtime to keep Perth at bay.
But there was little he, or anyone else could do, when Perth found the opener sixty seconds later. Stirling failed to clear a corner and Theodosiades played the ball back to Zimarino on the edge of the penalty area and his first time shot flew past Montgomery and into the bottom corner of the net. Stirling pressed late looking for the equaliser and substitute Michael Gama shot failed to test Francis Soale and at the final whistle it was Perth with the victory, the defeat leaving Stirling rooted to the bottom of the table.
Perth SC: GK Francis SOALE, 4 Tom SOUTHGATE, 6 Harley ORR, 9 Gustavo CATARCIONE (18 Michael DOMFEH 71’), 11 Matt MILENKOVIC, 12 Jordan DE LEO, 13 Rocco PIZZATA, 14 Kristian SANTICH, 16 Kieran COLWELL, 17 Frank FURFARO (3 Andreas THEODOSIADES 61’), 20 Paul ZIMARINO - Subs not used: RGK Dejan ALEKSIC, 2 Alex SILLA, 7 Aleks JOVIC
Stirling Lions: GK Ryan MONTGOMERY, 3 Darren O’RIORDAN, 5 Steven MCDONALD, 6 Dhhors CHOL, 8 Dean CUMMINGS, 9 Zdenek BEZDEK (2 Mile PETKOVSKI 75’), 10 Danny JONES, 11 Yagoub MUSTAFA, 12 Jackson MORGAN, 16 Renee KISESA, 18 Gino HAMPSHIRE (15 Michael GAMA 85’) - Subs not used: RGK Daniel MARQUES, 3 Nelson TSHONGO - Referee: Matthew Southern
22.6.2019
COCKERELS FLY HOME WITH THE POINTS
Cockburn City have moved to fourth on the NPL WA table with a 4-0 win over Inglewood United at Perth Plasterboard Centre Stadium on Saturday afternoon. American striker Hasani Sinclair gave Scott Miller’s side the lead early, before Devon Gibson doubled their lead before the break. Then second half goals from Hayden Stevens and Ashley Rosindale completed a comprehensive win.
The Cockerels were missing skipper Cameron Edwards and top goalscorer Daniel Robinson for this one but they weren’t missed early and five minutes in they were ahead. Gibson’s cross found Sinclair and his looping header gave Alex Dunn no chance. Inglewood were struggling to create any clear-cut chances and it was the visitors who doubled their advantage on the half hour. A long clearance from Luke Radonich caused problems in the Inglewood defence and Gibson nipped in and fired home, a great strike, but he has to work on his celebration.
The visitors were on the front foot after the break and Sinclair went close to a second early, but they did add a third just before the hour mark, Jesse Lazarro’s corner was headed powerfully home by Stevens. Inglewood pressed and created some half chances, but it was a former Inglewood player who added Cockburn ‘s fourth three minutes from time. Rosindale, who replaced Sinclair five minutes earlier, raced beyond the Inglewood defence and slide the ball home, to seal the three points.
Inglewood United: GK Alex DUNN, 2 Alex ISHIDA-LIVINGS, 3 David CYRUS, 4 Scott BLACKMORE, 5 Samuel RIAK, 7 Hamza HINA (11 Harry EVANS 54’), 8 Jason BARRERA, 9 Chok DAU, 10 Anthony BAFOBUSHA (6 Miki VUJACIC 66’), 17 Mark BARNETT, 23 Brian WOODALL – Subs not used: RGK Josiah GODFREY, 12 Ryan MORRAN, 13 Shale MOOTHEN.
Cockburn City: GK Luke RADONICH, 2 Christopher THACKRAY, 3 Daniel DOLS (7 Jethro YUMANGE 76’), 5 Julian TELES, 6 Reuben TRISTAO, 14 Hayden STEVENS, 15 Daniel SANTICH, 17 Devon GIBSON, 18 Adam ANFUSO, 19 Hasani SINCLAIR (20 Ashley ROSINDALE 82’), 21 Jesse LAZZARO Subs not used: RGK Ben RADONICH, 12 Ryan PRATT - Referee: Tom Glavovic
22.6.2019
ROCKINGHAM PUT ON A FIVE STAR SHOW
Rockingham City have won for the first time in seven games after a 5-0 win against Armadale in the DT38 Round 13 clash at SafeRad Stadium at Lark Hill on Saturday afternoon. First half goal from skipper James Harmer and Riley van Dieken set them on their way and another two from the duo in the second half and a late strike from Harry Collins gave them all three points. It was a fantastic win, and one that we felt has been coming with some of our recent performances,” Rockingham Coach Cameron Lord said. “We must now consistently perform in our next nine league games and continue our focus on being clinical and resilient.”
The home side were ahead on 21 minutes, when van Dieken won possession on the edge of the Armadale box and played in Harmer, whose cut inside and his shot slipped through the hands of Armadale keeper Sam Hutchings and rolled into the net despite the vain attempt to clear it from the keeper. It got better sixty seconds later when Rockingham added a second. Harmer was picked out down the right and his cross made its way to Van Dieken on the left of the penalty area and his first time shot flew into the top corner of the net giving Hutchings no chance.
Armadale defender Blake Adams was lucky he had a team mate covering him after he brought down Harmer on the half hour as he raced into goal but referee only showed the defender a yellow card. Both sides had chances as half time approached. First Van Dieken’s free kick saved low by Hutchings and moments later a corner from Armadale caused panic in the Rockingham defence ad Chad Nilson had two attempts to score, the first hit the woodwork the second was pounced on by former Reds keeper Cyril Sharrock. A final change fell to the home side in stoppage time when Justis Bradley crossed to Victor Brauner, whose shot from the edge of the box flashed wide and at the break the home side held the advantage.
The home side added to their lead early in the second half, a long ball from Bradley sent Harmer racing forward, he raced into the box and Hutchings lost his footing so the striker just rolled the ball into an empty net. Both sides continued to press as the rain worsened and on 82 minutes Rockingham added a fourth. Harry Collins sent Shaz Ramlee down the right and his cross picked out Van Dieken who made no mistake from five meters. They added a fifth in the final minute, Brauner sent Collins down the left, his cross wasn’t dealt with and the ball eventually came back to Collins who swept the ball home from close-range to complete a comprehensive win.
Rockingham City: GK Cyril SHARROCK, 3 Justis BRADLEY (5 Harry COLLINS 81’), 20 Mitch FIRTH, 6 Robbie GALVIN (18 Michael FARMER 76’), 8 Jason POTTIER (14 Ryan KENNEDY 77’), 9 Sam MCKEARNAN, 10. James HARMER (c), 11 Riley VAN DIEKEN, 13 Jarred MORT, 15 Shaz RAMLEE, 23 Victor BRAUNER - Subs not used: RGK James GREAHAN, 7 James MILLARD
Armadale: GK Sam HUTCHINGS, 2 Josh KUSER, 3 James HARAN, 4 Nathan COSTELLO, 5 Ali NAZARY (7 Joshua CORTES 46’), 6 Joel SANDERSON (10 Sam GARCES 71), 8 Michael LAWSON, 9 Uriel MACIAS, 11 Chad NILSON (22 Ryan HASLETT 64’), 12 Dannie RICHMAN, 13 Blake ADAMS - Subs not used: RGK Blake HANSHELL, 23 Abdul OSMAN - Referee: Shane Skinner
22.6.2019
BAYSWATER MOVE TO THIRD AFTER WIN AT ATHENA
Bayswater City showed the rest of the league they are the real deal after thumping Floreat Athena 4-1 on their own patch, in Saturday’s DT38 Round 13 clash at E&D Litis Stadium. A comprehensive first half display from Chris Coyne’s side proved the difference as they climbed to third in the table. Adam Tong opened the scoring before Daryl Nicol added the second and an own goal from Jason Saldaris gave them a good lead at the break. Nick Ambrogio pulled one back for Floreat with 20 minutes to go, but Nicol sealed the win late in stoppage time.
This was a rehearsal for next months Belt-Up State League Cup Final and it was the visitors who hit the front on 27 minutes, Giordano Colli’s corner was headed home by Tong. Bayswater doubled their advantage seven minutes later, great combination between Nicol and Gordon Smith, and Nicol poked the ball home at the back post. Nicol was a contestant threat all afternoon and in first half stoppage time his low cross was turned into his own net by Floreat keeper Saldaris.
Floreat shuffled the pack at the break with three half-time substitutions and a change of shape as Floreat chased the game. Nick Ambrogio dragged his side back into the contest with a composed finish 20 minutes from time. But despite Floreat pressing, Bayswater stood firm and launched a late counter attack of their own. Nicol’s pace in stoppage time took him clear to score. Floreat are now ten points behind leaders Perth SC, and will be hoping to bounce back at Inglewood next weekend, while Bayswater look to consolidate third spot against fellow top-four contenders Balcatta.
Floreat Athena: GK Jason SALDARIS, 3 Tristan COLLI, (29 Jack PAINTER-ANDREWS 45’) 4 Adrian MADASCHI, 6 Jesse FULLER, 9 Robert PETKOV, 10 Nick AMBROGIO, 13 Dennis GALAN, 15 Chris SALDARIS (5 Thomas JEBB 45’) 17 Dean EVANS (c), 18 Phillip ARNOLD, 33 Tyler HOLDEN (14 Ludovic BOI 45’) - Subs not used: RGK Jordan BARBAS, 32 Robert Harding
Bayswater City: GK Devon SPENCE, 3 Jack ALLEN (2 Declan HARGREAVES ), 10 Jason MIRCO, (24 Jake SARDELIC), 11 Ryan PEARSON (5 Adam HARRIS) 13 Trent KAY (c), 17 Daryl NICOL 18 Brent GRIFFITHS, 19 Gordon SMITH, 20 Giordano COLLI, 27 Ross MILLARD, 30 Adam TONG - Subs not used: 9 Gustavo GIRON MARALUNDA, 14 Sean MCMANUS - Referee: David Bruce
22.6.2019
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND TWELVE – REVIEW
The top of the table clash between Western Knights and Ashfield has ended in an entertaining 1-1 at Nash Field on Saturday afternoon. "Pleased with the draw on such a horrible day for football," Ashfield Coach Matt Wardle said. "I thought it was a match of two halves, where I thought we had the better of the first half but the Knights really pressed us in the second. We defended well and they couldn't break us down, so I was disappointed to done by a set-piece, but all in all a draw was probably a fair result on the day."
The visitors were on top early and it wasn't a surprise when they took the lead. Ashfield pressed high and forced a turnover at the back and the poor clearance from the keeper fell to Dan Tait, who lobbed the keeper to give Ashfield a deserved lead at the break. The Knights reset at the half time and throw everything at Ashfield after the break and they were rewarded with the equaliser mid-way through the second half. Paul Lloyd's corner was met by Andrija Jukic who headed home. Both sides had late chances but it ended all-square. "We were really disappointed with not winning," Knights coach Ivan Zuvela said. "Despite creating a number of chances and for me being the better team, it still wasn’t our best game and we know we have to improve."
Olympic Kingsway stayed in fifth after a hard fought 2-0 win against Subiaco at Rosalie Park. The visitors were ahead when they broke down the left and the ball into the box found Alex Randall, who scored against his former club. Olympic made sure of the points with a second, Charlie Breen eased past his marker on the right, and his ball across the face of goal picked out Jakub Sklenar at the back post who made no mistake. "It wasn’t an easy game due to weather conditions but I thought we played well and everyone had a good game," Sklenar said. "We were unlucky to draw last weekend, so we wanted to bounce back on the winning track and we did."
Mandurah City's good form continued after they came from 0-2 down to draw 2-2 with Forrestfield United at Securitas Protect Stadium. “It was disappointing to let a 2-0 lead slip with 10 minutes to go away from home, but credit to Mandurah who never gave up,” Forrestfield’s Rhys Loxley said. “It is pleasing to see some of the youngsters coming in and having such a big influence though which will benefit us in the long run.” Forrestfield were ahead when Mitch Crocker played in Damon Kalamaras, who raced clear with the Mandurah players looking for the offside flag, that never came, and he crossed to Mella Loding who finished well. They doubled their lead when a corner wasn’t dealt with by the Mandurah defence and the ball was put back in the mixer and Dan Corbett headed home.
It looked the points were in the bag but Mandurah pulled one back ten minutes from time. Jeff Bright won possession and played Andy Brown in on goal, who cut it back to Lee Stewart who slip it home. It was game on and in the final minute the Dolphins found the equaliser. A ball over the top sent Joey O’Brien in one-on-one with the keeper and he slotted home. “The lads showed a lot of fight to get themselves back into the game after being 2.0 down but ultimately, sloppy goals could have cost us the game,” Mandurah Coach Alex Grayson said. “The weather was a leveller and either side could have come out winners depending on who wanted it more. Undefeated in four is a massive boost for us but we will be aiming to get back to winning ways next week against a tough Kingsway side.”
Fremantle City kept pace with the leaders after a 3-0 win against Morley Windmills at Wotton Reserve. The visitors were ahead when a throw back to the keeper went through the keeper’s legs and Nicola Gazzola pounced to roll the ball into an empty net. They added a second early in the second half with a stunning long-range free kick from Angel Andres. The points were wrapped up when Denzel Tshuma played a neat give and go with Gazzola, and Tshuma finished low past the keeper. “In the first half it was an even game but we scored due to a defensive fault,” Fremantle striker Angel Andres said. “But in the second half we came out with a different attitude and dominated, and we scored two but it could have been more, but happy to get the three points.” In the final game Joondalup United won a vital three points at the bottom of the table after a 2-0 win against UWA Nedlands at the UWA Sports Park. The visitors were ahead in the first half when Ian McMurray scored from close-range, and before the break Ben Wantee added a second from the spot. Both sides had chances after the break but it was Joondalup their third away win of the season. "Really pleased and for the first time this season we produced a 90-minute team performance," Joondalup Coach Nick Jennings said. "Delighted for the boys and they were duly rewarded with an overdue victory." - Gwelup Croatia had the bye this week.
22.6.2019
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND ELEVEN – REVIEW
State League Division Two league leaders maintained their seven-point lead at the top after a hard fought 3-2 win against Balga at Gumblossom Park. The hosts opened the scoring on seven minutes a shot crashed off the crossbar and Richard Howles was quickest to the rebound to score. Quinns doubled their lead on the half hour after Howles pounced on a defensive mistake and slipped the ball to Jamie Stewart, whose first time shot flew into the bottom corner of the net. Quinns had the perfect opportunity to make it three early in the second half when they were awarded a penalty, but Mike Kenny fired over the top. Balga then had a penalty of their own moments later, but Dejan Andric's spot kick was well saved by James Bosdet.
But Balga did reduce the margin when they were awarded another penalty and this time Andric beat Bosdet from the spot. Both sides had chances as the game opened up but it was Quinns who scored the decisive third goal in the final minute, when Howles raced past three Balga defenders before finishing clinically. But Aleks Vrteski's side weren’t finished and they scored again two minutes later, a corner picked out David Martins, who headed home to make it a grandstand finish, but Quinns held on for the points. "It was a big win, but the score line is disappointing for us as it makes the game look closer than it was," Quinns custodian Bosdet said. "We really should have been out of site before they scored, but the boys played well in tricky conditions and most importantly getting the three points."
Murdoch University Melville kept the pressure on the league leaders after a 5-1 win against Curtin University at Murdoch Uni. The home side were ahead when Godfrey Asimwe scored, but Curtin hit back and Danny Todd levelled and had a number of chances to take the lead, but at the break the teams went into the break level. The hosts took control after the break and regained the lead from the penalty spot after Asimwe was brought down in the penalty area and Broden Brown converted from the spot. It was 3-1 when second half substitute Declan Tanna finished well. It was 4-1 when MUM was awarded another penalty, this time Ryan Tucker was fouled in the box and Brown added his second from the spot. Another second half substitute Christian long added the fifth late to seal a comprehensive win. "We were poor first half and probably a little bit lucky to go in level," MUM coach Gavin Brown said. "But the second half was a different story and we dominated possession and territory to get the win. We are now looking forward to next week and a big challenge against league leaders Quinns."
Swan United moved back to fourth after a 4-0 win against Canning City at Francis Street. "It was good to get back to winning ways and do so keeping a clean sheet,” Swan Coach Paul Dundo said. “We went into the game with injuries and suspension to a few of our more experienced players and knowing that Canning shouldn’t be under estimated as they snatched a draw with us in the first encounter and with us coming off two losses it was very important, we turned up with right attitude. The players that took part certainly did that and the coaching team was very pleased with the result.” The hosts were ahead when John Monterosso cross into the box was handled by a Canning defender and referee Frank Laval pointed to the spot, and Monterosso stepped up to score. They added a second when a free-kick into the penalty area picked out Brennan Borzecki, who looped his header over the keeper.
The Swans added a third before the break, a corner was flicked on by Monterosso and Chris Marshall finished well. The home side added a fourth after the break Monterosso raced past his marker out wide and he cut the ball back to Marco Reinhold who made no mistake at the back post. “I thought the young Canning side had played some decent football and could have been in the game if it wasn’t for Joey Smith with some fine saves and our back four defending gallantly,” Dundo added. “We perhaps should have scored more with the opportunities we created, but fair play to Canning they looked to play out when possible and certainly didn’t give up pushing us for the 90 minutes, but for us a good result, with four different scorers and was a much needed three points for the club.”
Joondalup City's poor home form continued when they were beaten 2-0 by Shamrock Rovers at the Iluka Sports Complex. Coming off a win last week Rovers were on the front foot and they were ahead when Jack Bardsley's throw was flicked on and Aaron Delaney headed home. It was 1-0 at the break, but Rovers wrapped up the points when a corner from Jack Bardsley was headed home Lachy Parker. "I thought we played well and pressed Joondalup well and deserved to be 1-0 up at half time," Rovers' Ger Fitzgerald said. "The second half was pretty even but we missed a few chances and felt we could have scored again. They pressed us near the end of the game but our keeper, back four and midfield who were brilliant the whole game dealt with everything they threw at us. It was a great team effort from everyone and we deserved to win, great ball and great header for both goals. We look forward to the next game against Balga and hopefully continue playing well and pick up some more good results."
In the final Saturday afternoon game, Kelmscott Roos and Wanneroo City have fought out a 1-1 draw at Frye Park. "Coming out of a poor performance against Joondalup we had to revisit our fundamentals and principles and do a bit of soul searching," Kelmscott coach Richard Changadzo said. "Wanneroo are a tough outfit to break down, and we were down to 10 men early in the second half, but credit to the lads for adjusting well to contain Wanneroo and also even creating chances to try and win the game. All we have to do is build on this good performance, and we will be ready for the next game." It was the hosts who made a perfect start and they were ahead after only five minutes. A great ball from Jody Thomson behind the Kelmscott defence found Alec Robinson who finished clinically. Robinson had another great chance, ten minutes later, only for his shot to go inches wide. But the home side lifted and were level on 25 minutes, when Amos Doegolia forced a turnover from the Wanneroo centre back Thomson just outside the penalty area, and he raced towards goal and slotted a low shot into the far corner.
The heavy rain hit after half time and clear-cut chances were few and far between, but Kelmscott were reduced to ten men when Amos Doegolia was sent off, while Wanneroo lost Jean-Marc Davray and Andy Williamson with injury. Both sides had late chances, first Robinson rounded the Kelmscott keeper only for his shot to be cleared off the line by a sliding Ibrahima Soumah, while Kelmscott were convinced, they had a penalty when Kade McNamara was taken out by the Wanneroo keeper, but the referee waved way their penalty claims. "With a number of teams battling out for the play-off spot, we knew tody was a must in game," Wanneroo Coach Tim Kantor said. "The heavens opened in the second half and it was a matter of which team was going to have a bit of luck to find a winner in dark, wet and gloomy conditions, we lost a few players to injury and when they went down to ten men we went all out for the winner and pushed men forward but couldn't find it. Despite our injury woes this season the lads have been resilient and I’m sure are looking forward to playing one of the benchmark teams in Gosnells next week."
The final game of the round was at Dianella Reserve on Saturday evening, where Gosnells City beat Dianella White Eagles 1-0 in horrendous conditions, and the match was called off at half time. The only goal of the game came when a deep cross from the left from Feisal Zaw to the back post picked out Wade Farmer who finished clinically. The game was abandoned at half time with Gosnells taking the three points. "The pitch deteriorated quickly the weather conditions were awful, heavy rain all first half," Gosnells keeper Tom Allan said. "The rain got worse and the pitch turned into a river, and the ball wasn’t rolling anymore and was beginning to get dangerous, so at half time the referee made the call and called the game off. To be fair I was unsure why the game went ahead in the first place if I’m honest knowing the weather would be coming in later in the evening, but I believe we get the 1-0 and the three points."
21.6.2019
NPL-WA ROUND THIRTEEN PREVIEW
It's week 13 of the NPL WA and this week’s Footballwa.net 'Match of the Round' takes us to E&D Litis Stadium on Saturday afternoon, for a State League Cup Final preview, as Floreat Athena entertain Bayswater City in the DT38 Round 13 as Football West teams up with the DT38 Australia charity to help raise awareness of testicular cancer. The teams and officials at all six matches will enter the pitch behind a DT38 banner, with the respective captains and match officials sporting DT38 T-shirts. Clubs are also being encouraged to get their players, members and supporters to take up the offer of a free screening, with a prize up for grabs to the club which gets the most. The DT38 Australia charity is named in honour of the late West Australian footballer Dylan Tombides, who died of testicular cancer in 2014 aged just 20.
Both sides won FFA Cup / State League Cup semi-finals last weekend and they will meet each other in the next month’s final, but both will be looking to continue their good form in the league, with Floreat thrashing Perth Glory last time out, while Bayswater well beat Inglewood United. The last time the two sides met in the league at the venue was in round 22 last season. Keylun Pollard gave the hosts the lead early, before Dean Evans doubled their lead just before half time. Gian Albano pulled one back for Bayswater but they couldn't find the equaliser and to make matters worse Brent Griffith was sent off in stoppage time.
Bayswater striker Gordon Smith was the hero last week, bagging the winner against Rockingham, and he was also on target in the win against Inglewood and he said they are starting to hit their straps and after the cup win and he hopes they can start to push up the table. "The last few weeks we’ve been performing really well and getting the results too, and the hard we’ve put has been rewarded,” he said. “We’re also starting to be more ruthless at both ends of the park and cutting out the mistakes, and our performances and results have shown that.”
Smith joined the club from ECU Joondalup this season, after stints with Hearts, Raith Rovers and Stirling Albion in Scotland, and he said the club couldn't have done enough since his signing and he hopes to repay their faith in him by helping them to silverware this season. "The club have been great to me since I arrived, and I’m determined to bring success back to the club, and winning a trophy would be great,” he explained. “There is still a long way to go in the season, but we’re in a cup final and fighting for a league title, as well as having a FFA Cup draw to look forward too.”
The Scotsman knows Saturday is a tough game against the in-form Floreat, but he said they are ready for the challenge. "Saturday is a big challenge, and Floreat is always a tough game, but we go their full of confidence," Smith explained. "We've had a few good battles against them this season already, and Saturday will be no different. They have a strong squad and quality all over the park, as do we, so it has the makings of an exciting game."
Floreat striker Robert Petkov scored Floreat's goal from the spot in normal time, before they won it in a shoot-out, and coming off the big win against Perth Glory in the last round he said they go into Saturday's big game in a confident mood. "Definitely, I think it's been a very good two weeks by the guys and we are all very happy the way we are going," he said. "We knew going into the games it would be tough, and that our season hung in the balance if we didn't win both games, and the lads showed great character to get the job done."
Petkov joined Floreat from Stirling Lions in the off season, and formed a great partnership with Luka Ninkovic, who has left the club and now Phil Arnold, but Petkov said they have a strong squad and great comradery between them. "I didn't get to play with Luka much, but when he did play, we linked up well, and Phil's an experienced player and he's adapted well into the roles he has to play for the side," he explained. "But we have a really good group of guys at Floreat, we all get along very well and have a good bond which is always important, and in games everyone steps up when we need to."
The striker said games against Bayswater are always tight and challenging and he believes Saturday will be the same. "Games against Bayswater are always tough, and Saturday will be a very close game and most likely a grind for both teams," Petkov said. "I don't think either team is going to try and hide much for the final as we both know each other well so both encounters will be close games. We obviously played them in the Night Series Final and had to go to penalties to get the result. The coaches and players will definitely be up for the challenge, it could be a season defining moment for either team."
In other games this week, it's top v bottom at Dorrien Gardens, with Perth SC hosting Stirling Lions. Perth are still unbeaten this season, but did drop two points last time out at ECU Joondalup, and Ramon Falzon will be looking to bounce back in this one. The Lions are only one point adrift at the bottom and have improved under the tutelage of Trevor Morgan, and he will be looking for a similar performance that they produced to upset Floreat in round ten. Third placed Perth Glory were hit for six in their last game against Floreat, and Richard Garcia's side head to Grindleford Reserve to take on Balcatta this week looking to make emends. However, Balcatta moved to fourth after a 2-0 win at Rockingham and Goran Stajic and with both sides level on points this one will be a tight encounter.
Inglewood United have had back-to-back defeats, and will hope to change that when they host Cockburn City at Perth Plasterboard Centre Stadium. Losses to Glory and Bayswater has seen Inglewood drop to seventh, while Saturday's opponents have won back-to-back games, and moved on to sixth, and both sides sit level on points and a win in this one will be vital. There is a local derby at Percy Doyle Reserve, with Sorrento hosting ECU Joondalup. The Gulls have lost their last three games in all competitions, which has seen them slip down the table, while ECU have had a first half of the season to forget, with only one win. So, both sides will be desperate for the three points, and like any local derby this one will be on for one and all.
In the final game Armadale travel to SafeRad Stadium at Lark Hill to take on Rockingham City. Cameron Lord's side were knocked out of the FFA Cup last week, while in the league they have gone six games without a win, so they will be hoping to change that on Saturday. But John O'Reilly's side arrive in good form, having won their last two games, and skipper Nathan Costello said their new signings have strengthened the squad and the results show that. "The new signings have complemented us well, although we felt that we had been playing well prior to these wins but just not getting the results," he said.
"We knew if we kept playing well the wins would come and we’ve deserved our wins the last two weeks." The former Perth Glory Youth defender said Rockingham are always tough at home and it will take a good performance, but they are on a good run of form and he's confident they can come home with a positive result. "We have great confidence headed into this week, the togetherness in the squad is high," Costello said. "We are all working for each other and we are hungry for another win to extend the gap between us and Rockingham and look at the teams above us."
21.6.2019
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND TWELVE – PREVIEW
This week’s Footballwa.net State League Division One 'Match of the Round' is the top of the table clash between Western Knights and Ashfield at Nash Field. Both sides are coming off wins in derby games, the Knights beating UWA Nedlands, while Ashfield beat Morley Windmills, and with only one point separating the two sides this one should be a cracker. Last time they met at the venue was in round two last season, when the pair fought out a 2-2 draw.
Former Ashfield defender Tom Kennedy said last week win was important after their defeat at Mandurah, and he thought it was well-deserved and kept the in touch of Saturday's opponents. "Yes, it was a solid performance from the whole squad, and derby games are always tough but we managed to get the result," he said. "We had a point to prove after the disappointing result down in Mandurah, and to our credit we went out and controlled the game."
The Knights have added some experience during the transfer window, and Kennedy said that is vital heading into the second half of the season. "Squad depth is what wins leagues essentially, and now we’re at the half way mark you’re always going to pick up injuries or have players leaving," he explained. "So the addition of Noah and former player Paul Lloyd is very important. Both are already settled in and have added a lot to the squad and no doubt will play a big part in the push for the title."
Kennedy said Ashfield have a good side, but having home ground advantage is important and he is looking forward to the challenge. "Saturday is a massive game for us, and the boys are buzzing for it," he said. "Their defence has been solid this year, but we look to continue on from last week’s performance and keep up our good home form. The fans have been unreal at our home games and no doubt will be down helping us get the three points this Saturday, it should be a great game."
The win last week kept Matt Wardle's side at the top, and they have the best defensive record in the league only conceding nine goals in ten games, and keeper Paul Rainford has had a lot to do with that. The former Kingsley custodian has fitted in well at the club and he said the win at Morley was hard fought, but they got the job done in the end. "Yes, it was a very tough game against a team that were really up for it," he said. "We knew it was wasn’t going to be easy especially away at their place, but conceding the goal in the first half kicked us into gear and after that I feel we dominated the game and deserved the win."
Rainford has been in outstanding form between the sticks, but he was first to congratulate the team in front of him, and he said they know they will have to keep that up for the rest of the season if they want success out of the season. "As a keeper I'm very pleased with how little we have conceded so far, but we have defended very well as a team," he said. "We set the standard in the first half of the season but we know we have to maintain this until the end of the season if we want to reach our targets."
The keeper is looking forward to the top of the table clash, and he has never played at the ground, but has heard playing at Nash Field is difficult, but knows how important the game is, and they are ready for the challenge. “Saturday is a massive game for both clubs, it should be a great game with top spot up for grabs," Rainford said. "This will be my first game at the ground, but Matt and all the lads have told me it’s never an easy place to go and get a result. So, it's a challenge for us, but I'm really looking forward to the game and coming home with a positive result."
In other games this weekend UWA Nedlands and Joondalup United will be looking to bounce back after defeats last week when they meet at UWA Sports Park. Joondalup are drifting away from teams above them and a win in this one is vital, while UWA will be hoping to continue their unbeaten run at home in the league. Fourth placed Fremantle City return to action after the bye last week, with a trip to Wotton Reserve to take on bottom of the table Morley Windmills, who were impressive despite the loss against league leaders Ashfield last week. Olympic Kingsway hit the road, with a trip to Rosalie Park to take on Subiaco, and the home side will be looking to close the four point between the two sides.
In the final game we head to the Securitas Protect Stadium for the clash between Mandurah City and Forrestfield United. Graham Normanton's side sit level on points with Alex Grayson's side on the table, but are still searching for their first win on the road this season. Mandurah have won their last three games including a big win at Joondalup last week and defender Jeff Bright said they had a great start to the game and that was vital. "I Just thought our start against Joondalup was the difference between the teams on the day, we scored two really quick goals and then another just before half time it gave us a chance to just settle and see the game out," he explained.
"I think Alex and Sam French have found a very good formula within the squad that seems to finally all be coming together and full credit to them." Forrestfield like playing at Mandurah and won the NPL play-off there in 2017, but Bright said that game is gone and Saturday is another three points up for grabs. "I think that NPL play off is a distant memory now and Saturday is another opportunity for three points," he said. "So, we will just go into this home game quietly confident we can get a result and keep our winning run going." - Gwelup Croatia have the bye this week.
21.6.2019
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND ELEVEN – PREVIEW
State League Division Two league leaders Quinns return home this week for the local derby against Balga at Gumblossom Park, in the Footballwa.net 'Match of the Round' Balga came home from Wanneroo with the three points after a seven-goal thriller last week, while Quinns maintained their lead at the top with a comfortable 4-0 win at Curtin. The last time the sides met at the venue was in round two last season. Danny Moss gave the visitors the lead after only three minutes, but Quinns levelled five minutes later with Rowdy Yates on target. Scott Bulloch then missed a penalty for Quinns, before Balga regained the lead just before the break with a goal from Harry Bissett. Bulloch restored parity for Quinns early in the second half but a goal from Vlad Naumovski, five minutes from time sealed the 3-2 win for Balga.
Quinns’ Mike Kenny said the win at Curtin was important, an although it wasn’t their best performance it was a clean sheet and it kept their five-point lead intact. "Probably our most creative game going forward with at least 10 chances we should've taken,” he said. “But defensively another clean sheet with Curtin being contained to just two shots on target, one from a free kick. The pitch wasn't in the best nick for playing football but I think we adapted well and played to our strengths to get the points.”
Kenny knows there are some quality teams in the league this season, and they will need to keep improve to keep them at bay. In the second half of the season. "With the start we've had you'd expect a bigger gap but that really just shows the quality of the teams in the league,” he explained. “We couldn't have asked for a better first 10 games but the boys and I really look back on that one loss as a sour note. We've still got a good few areas to improve to keep the rest of the league at bay so we'll be putting in all the extra required efforts to plug holes and fill in the blanks.”
That loss was against Balga earlier in the season, and it’s still fresh in the minds of the players, and Kenny said they are a good side and they will need to be at their best to get the job done on Saturday. "This is the team that have put a sour note on our first half of the season so the boys and coaches are absolutely buzzing to write the wrong,” he explained. “The reverse fixture was a tough one to take because we had started the better side missing some good chances and then got hit with two sucker blows. Balga were very physical and once they got the two-goal cushion, they did everything possible to stop us playing. This will be a great game to watch with Balga needing a win to keep pace with top four and we want some payback, I'd say match of the round for sure.”
Balga coach Aleks Vrteski said the win at Wanneroo was a hard fought one, but it showed the character of his side to win it late. "It was a great game of football with both sides going for the win,” he explained. “It was a tough encounter and to score so late was pleasing, and I was really happy with the great team spirit shown by the boys to get the win and keep our form going.”
Vrteski said the win was important and left them fourth, and it made it six games without a loss, but he said they need to improve in certain areas of their game if they want to continue that form in the second half of the season. "Our form has been ok this season, but we still need to do a lot more to achieve the success we want,” he said. “Like I said we need to pick up in certain areas, and we need to maintain the standards we’ve set and I’m confident we will.”
Balga are the only team to beat Quinns this season, a 2-1 win in round six and the coach said that game was a hard-fought one and he is expecting the same on Saturday. "Quinns are the benchmark of the league, and they will be the favourites going into Saturday’s game, and they deserve that,” Vrteski said. “We will go there with no fear and the desire to achieve a positive result. The lads have trained well this week and they are ready for the challenge.”
It's the 'Battle of the Universities' when second placed Murdoch University Melville host Curtin University at the Murdoch University Campus. MUM have won the last five games to surge up the table including a big win in the last round against Dianella, and Gavin Brown's side are one of the form teams in the league. On the other hand, Curtin have only one once in their last five games, and are coming off a heavy loss against Quinns last week. In other games Kelmscott Roos entertain Wanneroo City at Frye Park, both looking to return to the winners' circle, Joondalup City host Shamrock Rovers at Iluka Sports Complex, while Gosnells City make the trip to Dianella reserve to take on Dianella White Eagles.
In the final game Swan United host Canning City at Francis Street. Canning were beaten at Shamrock last week, leaving them anchored to the bottom of the table, while Swans slipped to seventh last week after conceding a late goal to lose at Gosnells, and John Monterosso said they will be looking to bounce back this week. “It was a very tight game at Gosnells with both sides having limited chances, it was disappointing for us to concede so late after being on top for most of the second half, but the performance at least second half was there which is what we’re going to take into this week,” he said. “Saturday is another tough game against a very desperate side. So, we won’t be taking anything for granted. We conceded a last-minute penalty against them which got them a point away so we’re going to be looking to not give anything away this week.”
21.6.2019
BELT UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION - ROUND TEN PREVIEW
It's week 10 of the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division and this week’s Footballwa.net 'Match of the Round' takes us to Beldon Park where Joondalup United host Quinns in the Northern Derby. Both sides are coming off impressive performance, Joondalup winning their first game on the round this season, with a 4-2 win against UWA Nedlands, while Quinns fought out a ten-goal thriller, conceding a late goal to draw 5-5 against Jaguar. The last time the two sides met at the venue was in round 14 last season in Division One when Joondalup ran out 4-3 winners.
Joondalup Coach Ben Williams was delighted with the performance and he hopes it can kick start their season. "It was a great performance last week, and it’s taken a while to get the winning formula away from home,” he explained. “But the lads have been great and stayed positive and kept working away and we were worthy winners last week.”
The win moved Joondalup nine points clear of the bottom of the table, and moved them closer to the teams above them and Williams said they are hoping to end the first half of the season strong. "Obviously it’s a new league and we had a tough start, but we are improving each week,” he said. “We have had a lot of new players and they are just starting to understand each other’s games, and also the fixtures have been a little kinder.”
Sunday is a derby and Williams said it's a game the players and coaches are all looking forward too, and with only five points separating them a win is important. "Quinns Sunday were looking forward to it and we have had a great rivalry with them last couple of seasons,” he said. “They are a very strong side with a couple of excellent players, but we will be hoping to continue the good form and hopefully pick up three points, but we know it will be a tough one.”
Quinns coach Lee Garnish was happy with the performance against Jags, but bitterly disappointed to let the win slip in the final minute. "Yes, happy with our performance last week, but we need to see out games,” he explained. “As a group we were gutted not to take the three points, but we move on.”
Garnish has taken over the reins from Darren Kay only two weeks ago and he said the players have responded well to his coaching style and he hopes to push up the table in the second half of the season. "Robbie Kelly and I have taken the reins and the lads have responded well,” he said. “We knew it would take time to adjust, but the lads have been great, and Robbie and I are looking to continue the good work Darren put in.”
Garnish said Sunday's derby should be a great game, and he hopes the bad weather that is forecasted stays away. “I love a local derby games and we have had some great battles with JUFC over the years,” he said. “With us both getting promoted last season we have continued our rivalry in the Premier Division and we’re looking forward to the game. The only downside is the poor weather conditions reported, but we will be ready to play either way.”
In other games League leaders Kingsley will be looking to maintain their three-point gap at the top when they host bottom of the table Ellenbrook United at Chichester Park, while second placed North Perth United entertain Leeming Strikers at Woodville Reserve. Both Wembley and Hamersley Rovers will look to bounce back from defeats last week when they meet at Carine Open Space. Wembley lost against North Perth while Rovers lost a seven-goal thriller against Kwinana and coach Glynn Shaw said they will have to be at their best to get the win on Sunday. “We have key players out at the moment and we are struggling to close games out, which we hope to improve this week,” he said. “This week is a big game and the league is very close so we are one win away from jumping back up the league. Wembley are a very good team and we will have to be at our best to beat them.”
UWA Nedlands were edged out against Joondalup last week and this week they host Belmont Villa, who eased past Ellenbrook last week, at the UWA Sports Park. In the final game Jaguar host Kwinana United at Herb Graham Recreation Centre. Jags fought back and scored in the last minute to draw 5-5 with Quinns last week, while Kwinana’s made it back-to-back wins against Hamersley. Kwinana coach Kris Donnell said they more consistency in their game, and they will need it against the Jags. “It was good to keep the momentum going last week but the team know we have to be consistent to get ourselves back up that ladder,” he said. “Jags is always a tricky tie especially away from home, with their pitch being the length of Hay Street, but we are up for it and will go into the game with key players being back in the squad.”
20.6.2019
MATILDAS READY FOR NORWEGIAN CHALLENGE
Goalkeeper Lydia Williams says Australia's second-place finish in Group C of the World Cup should be seen as mission accomplished. The Matildas are marching on in France, turning their attention from Sam Kerr's goal glut to their next World Cup opponents, Norway.
Kerr's astonishing four-goal salvo in Grenoble on Wednesday night helped the Matildas beat Jamaica and sure-up second place in the group by the finest of margins. It took Kerr's fourth strike to push Australia to an equal goal difference with Brazil, edging the South Americans on goals scored.
No matter how thin the margin, and despite coming in as top seeds, goalkeeper Lydia Williams says finishing second equals success. "It's mission accomplished. If we finished third we'd be playing against France or Germany," she said. "Right now we're playing against Norway. That's a good outcome."
Now that they are through, Williams said the Matildas needed to take lessons from their opening three matches without replaying the matches in their heads. "If you reflect too much on the past you're not going to get through in the present and the future," she said. "We're through to the round of 16 and we have to put all our focus into the next game."
Group D winners England are in the same quarter of the draw as Australia, meaning the Matildas could face Phil Neville's side if they both win their round of 16 clashes. "That's way too far ahead," Williams said. "Though we haven't beaten them yet so there's a bit of a salty taste on that. It's definitely first game first."
20.6.2019
I HAD TO ‘GRAB’ KOREA OPPORTUNITY, DECLARES DAVIDSON
Departing Perth Glory full-back Jason Davidson has described his switch to Ulsan Hyundai as an opportunity too good to pass up. Negotiations between the K-League leaders and Glory lasted barely a week before an undisclosed fee was agreed.
Davidson saluted Glory for allowing him to accept the lucrative, two-year deal. “When I came to the club I wanted to give myself the best opportunity to be successful, and Tony Popovic and everybody at the club gave me that platform,” Davidson said.
“I’m very grateful for that - but in football when opportunities arise like this you need to grab them with both hands. Ulsan are a big club and are everything that Perth - having qualified for the (AFC) Champions League - are striving to follow.
“Ulsan are up there fighting for the title and play Urawa Reds tonight (Wednesday) chasing a place in the last eight of the ACL. To be a able to be a part of something like that - if the deal all goes forward - really attracted me.”
The approach for Davidson - who recently signed a season-long extension with Perth - came out of left field, quite literally. Ulsan were initially looking for a winger and sent scouts to watch Craig Goodwin (Adelaide United) and Chris Ikonomidis (Glory) when wing-back Davidson caught the eye.
“If you perform on the pitch you just never know who’s watching,” added 27-year old Davidson. “For me, I was fortunate enough that they were watching our games and I played to a standard that interested them.”
“They continued to watch and obviously they have come in and put an offer down which Perth have accepted. That showed how keen they were to bring me in mid-season, which was a huge positive. It’s a big reason why I was so interested in the move when I heard about it.”
Davidson hopes his latest move will strengthen his claim to a Socceroos recall. “Having an opportunity like this, to be able to go over there to a big club, and hopefully play week-in week-out will give me a stronger claim to the national team,” he added.
“For me now is just the beginning. It’s back to the drawing board. I must go over there and perform and get the job done like I did when I came to Perth. The hard work begins now. I’m feeling the best I have ever - strong, fit and slim.”
“I’m coming off a holiday and while I aim to hit the ground running, it’s mid season and it may take me a little bit of time and the club understand that. I’m excited and hungry to go over there and prove a point, and have a real go at it.”
19.6.2019
DE VANNA HOT 150 GAME MILESTONE FOR AUSTRALIA
Evergreen attacker Lisa De Vanna has become just the second Matilda to reach 150 international appearances. The 34-year old started Australia's Women's World Cup fixture with Jamaica and showed glimpses of her greatness even as her heir apparent, Kerr, stole the show.
De Vanna has scored seven goals at three previous tournaments to be Australia's highest World Cup scorer. And on her next appearance she will tie her mentor Cheryl Salisbury on 151 caps to become Australia's most capped footballer.
"It's a fantastic achievement and I'm sure it's not gonna stop at 150," coach Ante Milicic said of De Vanna, who made her international debut in 2004. "I've only been in the job five months and she's been fantastic to work with."
"The season she was coming back off, I don't think she scored in the W-League, and we got her up to speed. She's really special one v one and she needs to back herself a lot more in the front third, because I don't think there's a better player of running at defences when she goes at 'em."
19.6.2019
GLORY STALWART NEVILLE READY FOR ROAR SWITCH
A-League title-winning defender Scott Nevillle is set to join Brisbane Roar next season, with New Zealand international Dane Ingham possibly heading the other way. Currently in his second spell with Glory, the 22-year old Neville is looking to nail down regular first team action after playing second fiddle to former Socceroo Ivan Franjic for most of last season.
Neville did make 22 appearances for Tony Popovic’s team with 15 of those off the bench. His extra-time goal against Adelaide United in the play-off semi-final helped Glory into the decider against Sydney FC, after a penalty shootout. He has spent a total of six seasons in the west, sandwiched between spells at Newcastle Jets and Western Sydney Wanderers, for a total of 198 A-League appearances.
Sources close to Glory also suggest that Ingham - who was first linked with the club in March - is in discussions over sealing a move there. The 20-year old defender made 13 appearances last season for a struggling Brisbane side, where he has a year left on his deal. However, it’s understood the Roar product may be allowed to make the switch with Neville likely to arrive at Suncorp Stadium on a multi-year deal.
19.6.2019
KERR HITS JAMAICA FOR FOUR
Sam Kerr has become the first Australian to score a World Cup hat-trick, firing four goals in a 4-1 rout of Jamaica to send the Matildas into the knockout rounds of the Women's World Cup. Australia's reward is a round-of-16 clash with Norway in four days' time in Nice, the Matildas now free to lift their eyes towards a deep run in France.
Ante Milicic's side flirted with a third-placed finish in the group as Brazil's 1-0 defeat of Italy temporarily put them on a collision course with the tournament favourites and hosts. Instead, Kerr's stunning quartet of goals banked Australia second place, bettering the Brazilians on goals scored and sending the Matildas to the Allianz Riviera on Sunday morning.
"I actually wanted more (goals) than that after myself, being my selfish self," Kerr said. "I knew every goal would count and I'm just happy we could get that second spot." Aside from Kerr's four-goal haul, there were other individual achievements to savour at the Stade des Alpes. Lisa De Vanna played game 150, Karly Roestbakken made her first Matildas start and Aivi Luik, a late substitute, played in her first World Cup match.
16.6.2019
BELT UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION - ROUND NINE REVIEW
Belt-Up Sunday Amateur Premier League leaders Kingsley and Leeming Strikers have fought out a seven-goal thriller at John Connell Reserve on Sunday afternoon. “We started very poorly and credit to Leeming scoring two quick goals,” Josh Waldock said. “But after a very poor half from us and basically starting 3-1 down in second half to come back and win it 4-3 just shows the fight all of us lads had, and it was a great game to be a part of, and just shows what we have when things aren’t working at the start.” The hosts were ahead in this one after only eight minutes with Jay Dost scoring. Things got better for the home side when they doubled their lead five minutes later, Aiden Evans scoring at the back post after being picked out by Lucas Pickering. Kingsley were the only unbeaten side in the league at kick off and that record looked in jeopardy, but they found a lifeline on the half hour, with Aaron Lickiss heading home to narrow the gap at half time. But two minutes into the second half Leeming regained their two-goal lead, after Ben Greaves pounced after Kingsley failed to clear their lines.
But Kingsley weren’t finished and Jayden Drummond reduced the margin three minutes later, racing clear and finishing well past Jordan Jones. Then on 54 minutes Kingsley restored parity, and it was Drummond again who was in thick of the action, he eased past his marker and his low cross was turned into his own net by a Leeming defender. Both sides had chances in a great advert for the league, but it was Kingsley who found the winner 18 minutes from time, Joel Gillespie’s free kick picked out Lickiss who headed past Jones to complete the comeback and seal the three points. Although Leeming almost levelled it five minutes from time when a drop ball was passed back to the Kingsley keeper but Leeming won possession and raced towards goal but Ryan Moss blocked his shot and the rebound was cleared, much to the displeasure of the Kingsley players and coaches. “Just another game with Leeming, it had it all, from being 2-0 down and 3-1 down, but we were never going to roll over,” Drummond said. “The fight in the boys this year has been second to none and we held on for a gutsy win, despite some poor sportsmanship late in the game from the opposition.”
North Perth United have stayed in touch with Kingsley but were also made to work hard, after a 1-0 win against Wembley Downs at Butlers Reserve. The only goal of the game came when Edin Nalic picked the ball up on the halfway line, turned and hit a diagonal ball to Oscar Kelly on the right wing. He drove at the defender and squared the ball across the box to Alpha Sherif who finished with aplomb. “It was a big three points for us, especially after being in complete control last week and coming away with nothing, so it was good to see the fight in the boys this week,” North Perth coach Alex Carter said. “There was nothing pretty about it today, but at any level sometimes you just roll the sleeves up and dig in for one and other.”
The home side made a couple of changes at the break, while Jags keeper Mapooth went off injured and it was striker Guot going in goal. Quinns pulled one back when Gout brought down Carter and Liam McManus scored from the penalty spot. But Jags regained their two-goal advantage after Laurence Gama found space in the penalty area to fire home. But amazingly Quinns hit back and three quick goals from Carter, Hunt and substitute Will Oldfield had Quinns in front 5-4. It looked like being a great comeback for the home side but in the fifth minute of stoppage time, James Wuor’s cross was turned into his own net by a Quinns defender and it ended 5-5. “Robbie and I were bitterly disappointed we didn’t get the win after all the heart shown by the boys today,” Quinns coach Lee Garnish said. “But it was a great effort from the squad and the mental toughest shown to get back into the game was fantastic, but it is now on to next week game against Joondalup United.”
In other games Kwinana United backed up from last weeks big win at North Perth with a hard fought 4-3 win against Hamersley Rovers at Kelly Park, with a hat-trick from Brad Titherington, another from Lewis Tiherington. “We were two nil down, so delighted to comeback and get the win,” Kwinana coach Kris Donnell said. “We changed the formation a few weeks ago and since then the lads have worked there socks off to get us the last couple of wins. It’s always nice to win a game with a lot of players missing but I can’t credit the boys enough who have stepped up they really put a shift in.” Belmont Villa are back in the winner’s circle after a 5-0 win against bottom of the table Ellenbrook United at Gerry Archer Sports Complex. Villa Tom Moderval was happy with the win. “A massive three points for us this week and a clean sheet which is always pleasing,” he said. “The score-line might have flattered us a bit, but Kadir was outstanding in goals today and he deserves all the credit for our win. Ellenbrook's position in the league certainly doesn't reflect the talent they have in the team and I expect they will come good eventually, hopefully against the teams round about us in the league. There are only five points separating eight teams, so there is a lot still to play for.”
In the final game Joondalup United won for the first time on the road after a 4-2 win against UWA Nedlands at the UWA Sports Park. The visitors were ahead when Sam Davis fired home from a cross at the second attempt after a great save by the UWA keeper, but UWA levelled with Jack Retallack on target with a great finish. But Joondalup regained the lead when Davis held off his marker and his shot on the turn beat the keeper. But UWA restored parity when Joondalup keeper Luke Green fumbled the ball and Tope Olasanoye shot deflected into the net off Joondalup defender Mark Walsh. But Joondalup were determined to get that away win and they hit the front again, Davis’ free kick found Adam Gianassi, who lost his marker to score. They added a fourth to seal the points when Sandy McKay long-range shot crashed off the post, and Davis was quickest to react to score. “Great to get much needed points away from home, but we have a lot of work still to do to start climbing out of relegation zone,” Joondalup Coach Ben Williams said. “But we are staying in touch and our luck seems to be changing, I’m happy for the lads who haven't given up and worked super hard all week at training now onto local derby with Quinns Sunday, it should be a cracker.”
15.6.2019
SMITH SENDS BAYSWATER INTO THE FINAL
Bayswater City moved into the FFA Cup Round of 32 and the Belt-Up State League Cup Final after a hard fought 1-0 win against Rockingham City at Frank Drago Reserve on Sunday afternoon. The only goal of the game from Scottish striker Gordon Smith twenty minutes from time, and despite Rockingham pressing late in the game they couldn’t find the equaliser and Bayswater move into their first Cup final since 2014.
The home side who were on the front foot early and Daryl Nicol’s shot on the run flashing inches wide after only 10 minutes, before the Scottish wingers’ acrobatic volley went over the top moments later. But Rockingham hit back and veteran keeper Gianni Papalia was out quickly to thwart James Harmer five minutes later, before Riley van Dieken shot whistled the wrong side of the upright. The best chance of the half fell to Rockingham two minutes from time, a great run by the speedy van Dieken ended with a ball into Harmer, whose goal bound shot was well saved by Papalia.
Smith was in on goal early in the second half after good approach work from Jason Mirco, but a great last-ditch tackle from Mitch Firth saved the day for Rockingham. Rockingham were dangerous going forward and Papalia was at full stretch to tip Jason Pottier’s shot from the edge of the box around the post on the hour. Bayswater thought they had a penalty five minutes later when Nicol fell under a challenge from Jarred Mort, but referee Josh Mannella was well placed to wave away their protests. But on 70 minutes the home side found the opener. A ball over the top sent Smith clear, and he held off his marker before finishing with aplomb past Cyril Sharrock.
Rockingham weren’t finished and led superbly by skipper Harmer they pressed for the equaliser, and Papalia reacted well to save Harmer’s angled shot, before Firth fired straight at the Bayswater custodian moments later. With Rockingham pushing men forward they were getting caught out at the back and Nicol shot straight at Sharrock, before Todd Howarth’s cross picked out Giordano Colli, but his effort was well saved by Sharrock. But Rockingham couldn’t find the equaliser, and at the final whistle it was Bayswater celebrating a spot in the last 32 of the FFA Cup and place in next month’s Belt-Up State League Cup Final.
Bayswater City: GK Gianni PAPALIA, 3 Jack ALLEN (6 Todd HOWARTH 75’), 10 Jason MIRCO, 11 Ryan PEARSON, 13 Trent KAY (c), 17 Daryl NICOL (24 Jake SARDELIC 85’), 18 Brent GRIFFITHS (2 Declan HARGREAVES 51’), 19 Gordon SMITH, 20 Giordano COLLI, 27 Ross MILLARD, 30 Adam TONG – Subs not used: RGK Sam REILLY, 5 Adam HARRIS
Rockingham City: GK Cyril SHARROCK, 3 Justis BRADLEY, 6 Blake SOKOLOWKI (14 Ryan KENNEDY 84’), 8 Jason POTTIER (5 Harry COLLINS 79’), 9 Sam MCKEARNEN, 10. James HARMER (c), 11 Riley VAN DIEKEN, 13 Jarred MORT, 18 Michael FARMER, 20 Mitch FIRTH, 23 Victor BRAUNER (15 Shaz RAMLEE 84’) - Subs not used: RGK James GREHAN, 16 Luke HOBSON - Referee: Josh Mannella
15.6.2019
SORRENTO PAY THE PENALTY
Floreat Athena have won a dramatic penalty shoot-out to beat Sorrento 4-3 on penalties at E&D Litis Stadium, after the game ended 1-1 after extra time. Jesse Fuller scored the decisive spot kick to seal a spot in the FFA Cup Round of 32 and the Belt Up Cup Final next month. It is the second time Floreat have advanced to this stage of the FFA Cup, after facing Melbourne City in 2016. And this is the third time they have prevailed on penalties in 2019 after wins over Rockingham and Bayswater in the Night Series.
It was perhaps no surprise the match was decided on penalties after referee Matthew Southern awarded three during the match itself. The home side were presented with the first opportunity on 17 minutes when Gulls keeper James Morgan fouled Robert Petkov in the area. But Morgan made amends as he dived to save Dean Evans’ penalty and gathered at the second attempt. Both sides continued to create chances, and Cameron Teece headed over the bar for the Gulls, before Floreat’s Chris Saldaris hit the post, but other chances in a first half were few and far between. The second half was far more open. Jordan Roberts forced Athena’s Jason Saldaris into a terrific save, before Marco Santa Lucia’s header crashed off the Sorrento bar.
Moments later Saldaris saved a Teece header before the Floreat custodian denied David Stokoe with a great save to claw the ball away from the top corner. Floreat rode their luck on those occasions, but they were presented with another opportunity from the penalty spot with eight minutes to play, which Petkov didn’t waste as he sent Morgan the wrong way. But their lead lasted for just three minutes though as Saldaris clattered into several bodies in the area and Southern gave a third penalty, which Teece blasted down the middle to level the score at 1-1.
Extra time couldn’t split the sides either as Chris Saldaris headed over from six yards, while at the other end Reece Vittiglia’s goal bound shot was deflected wide. So, it was off to penalties and with the shootout tied at 3-3, Vittiglia’s penalty was saved to his left by Saldaris, leaving Fuller to blast high into the net and win it for Floreat to send them into the State League Cup Final against Bayswater City next month.
Floreat Athena: GK Jason SALDARIS, 2 Marco SANTALUCIA, 6 Jesse FULLER, 9 Robert PETKOV, 10 Nick AMBROGIO (32 Robbie HARDING 83’), 11 Dennis GALAN, 15 Chris SALDARIS, 16 Ryan MALTON (5 Thomas JEBB 57’), 17 Dean EVANS, 18 Phil ARNOLD, 33 Tyler HOLDEN (14 Ludovic BOI 74’) - Subs not used: RGK Jordan BARBAS, 4 Adrian MADASCHI
Sorrento: GK James MORGAN, 2 David STOKOE, 3 Jakub PRAJZA (4 Shaun KILKELLY 52’), 5 Scott ROBERTSON, 7 Alex MORGAN, 10 Jordan ROBERTS, 11 Tim HILL, 17 Reece VITTIGLIA, 18 Jordan BROWN, 19 Jack SALTER (20 Jaxon TEMATA 91’), 23 Cameron TEECE - Subs not used: RGK Matthew GIUDICATTI, 16 Daniel PEARCE, 30 Jesse OWUOR - Referee: Matthew Southern
15.6.2019
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND ELEVEN – REVIEW
Ashfield maintained their lead at the top of the State League Division One after a hard-fought 2-1 win against Morley Windmills at Wotton Reserve. The home side took the lead on 21 minutes, Boas Mtwale played in Dion Berman who finished low past Paul Rainfield. But Ashfield were level five minutes later, Josh Kotio beat his man out wide, and cut the ball back to Kevin Ashwood. whose shot was well said by Aiden Holloway, but the rebound fell to Pat Quinn, who finished clinically. Ashfield were on top early in the second half and Joshua Kotio long-range shot smacked off the crossbar, but just after the hour they hit front. A ball was played wide and with a neat first touch Matt Worton took him around his marker and into the box he made no mistake from a tight angle to seal the points. "Today's result was fantastic for our club, as Derby games are always hard matches regardless of ladder position and credit to Morley, they came out really hungry and were worthy of their lead," Ashfield Coach Matt Wardle said. "But credit to my boys again to show character to come from behind and get another win. I feel we were the only team in the second half who wanted to win the game and showed the little bit of quality needed to get the result. Every game in this league is big, and they don’t get much bigger than Western Knights away next week, and we are ready and can’t wait for it."
Gwelup Croatia kept pace with the leaders after a 3-1 win against Subiaco at Rosalie Park. They were ahead after only 13 minutes, when Ellis Healing was brought down in the box by Antonio Naglieri, and Healing picked himself up to convert the resulting penalty. It was 2-0 on the half hour, David Heagney made space out on the right and his inch perfect cross was headed across Subiaco keeper Teophile Brown and into the corner of the net. Subiaco pressed after the break but couldn't convert the good chances they created and Gwelup made them pay for those misses by added a third on 80 minutes. A quick counter attack from Taki Nicolaidis side saw Heagney race down the right and his cross was turned home by Danny Hodgson to seal the points. Subiaco did pull one back in the final minute, referee Stephen Knight spotted a push in the box by Matt Sparrow and pointed to the spot and Naglieri converted, but it was too little too late. "It was a good win for us today and we’re now unbeaten in our last eight league games,” Healing said. “I think we’ve started playing well as a team the last couple of weeks, so hopefully we can carry on the good run of form into the second half of the season.”
Western Knights bounced back from last week’s disappointing defeat at Mandurah with a 4-1 win against UWA Nedlands, in the Derby at Nash Field. The Knights were ahead on 16 minutes, when Noah Shamaki beat his defender and scored clinically from just inside the box. But UWA were level 60 seconds later. A through ball from Riaz Kelly sent Ivwa Simbile in on goal and he was brought down by Knights keeper Sam Stone and the referee pointed straight to the spot, and Kelly sent Stome the wrong way from the penalty to level things up. After the break the Knights regained the lead when Andy Cartwright sent Jack Rycroft in on goal and he finished well. UWA had their chances but failed to convert them and it was the Knights who added a third. Rycroft's cross was tapped home by Dean Hurley from close-range. UWA were chasing the game late and they were caught out again in the final minute, Luka Jukic put Paul Lloyd through and he finished with aplomb. "I thought we responded very well after a disappointing result last week," Knights coach Ivan Zuvela said. "We have a very big squad and each week there are different players who are contributing for us every week, and this week was a genuine team performance for the whole 90 minutes."
Olympic Kingsway have come from behind to draw 1-1 with Forrestfield United at Kingsway Reserve. It was Forrestfield who were ahead on 25 minutes, Nick Tatasciore's free kick found Steve O'Leary at the back post and he was bundled over and the referee pointed to the spot. Daryl Platten stepped up to score from the penalty. But Olympic hit back and levelled five minutes later, when new signing Jakub Sklenar received the ball on the left before crossing across the face of goal, and Charlie Breen took one touch before firing home. The home side went close again before the break with Elliott Tattersall effort crashing off the crossbar. Both sides had chances after the break the best fell to Olympic with Sklenar hitting the post late on. "The game was a tough competitive encounter, and Forrestfield came and defended deep and tried to hit us on the counter and as a result we had a lot of possession," Olympic coach Gary Williams said. "We created a number of chances in the first half but we didn't produce a great deal in the second half. We have a number of games coming up where we have to get some wins to stay in touch with the leaders. Forrestfield United midfielder Mitch Crocker said the result was about right. "The game was pretty even if I’m honest, they had their fair share of the ball and so did we so I think a draw was a fair result," he said. "A good point away from home, but we need to start beating the teams above us to start climbing the table."
In the final game Mandurah City’s recent good form has continued after a 4-1 win against Joondalup United at Forrest Park. The visitors were ahead when Joe O’Brien cut inside his marker and crossed to Jeff Bright who made no mistake from five meters. It was 2-1 to Alex Grayson’s side when Regan Davidson sent O’Brien clear one-on-one with the Joondalup custodian and he lifted the ball over the onrushing keeper. It was 3-0 before half time, this time Bright’s through ball sent O’Brien clear again and he made no mistake, rounding the keeper and rolling the ball home. Joondalup pulled one back after the break, add details. But Mandurah regained their three-goal lead to seal the points when Jack Terrell squared the ball to the edge of the penalty area for player/coach Grayson, and his first touch took him past his marker and he finished with aplomb. “It’s been a long time since the club celebrated three wins on the bounce and the run of form has come at a great time,” Grayson said. “We can now head into the turn of the season with a positive light on things. Massive credit to the lads for getting through a tough patch and special mention to Sam French, who has been instrumental to our success over the past few weeks.” – Fremantle City had the bye this week.
15.6.2019
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND TEN – REVIEW
It’s as you were at the top of the State League Division Two, with Quinns maintaining their five-point lead at the top of the table after a 4-0 win against Curtin University at Edinburgh Oval. “We played some good football today, but we weren’t at our best, but we got the job done and it’s nice to get another clean sheet,” Quinns keeper James Bosdet said. “We now focus on next week against Balga, a game we are all looking forward too.” The visitors were ahead when great approach work by Richard Howles was finished off by Jamie Stewart. Quinns were flying and Howles bagged a second finishing clinically past the keeper to send them into the break with a 2-0 lead. Curtin started the second half well and Bosdet made a couple of good saves to keep them at bay. But Quinn’s hit back and started to take control and added a third. Good lead up play ended with a ball into the box and Brad McDonald lost his marker to score. They added a fourth in similar circumstances this time Brent Quick found space in the penalty area and made no mistake to seal a comprehensive win. “We were delighted with the win on Saturday as it keeps our momentum going,” assistant coach John Lavery said. “They (Curtin) are a young side with good potential but the extra experience and class that Quinns have at the moment paid dividends and I don’t think the result was ever really in doubt.”
Murdoch University Melville are still in touch with the leaders after a 4-0 win against Dianella White Eagles at Murdoch Uni. The hosts were ahead when Sasa Slavujevic’s free kick was flicked home by Mark Lucas. It was 2-0 when Slavujevic spotted the Curtin keeper off his line and lobbed the ball over him. The home side were dominating and it wasn’t a surprise when they added a third, wit ha good finish from substitute Grant Mowatt. The went close to a fourth but Lucas’ shot crashed off the post and Slavujevic’s free kick whistled over the top. But it was 4-0 when another substitute Christian Long’s powerful shot into the top corner. “It was a very strong performance against a team who are better than their results suggest,” MUM Coach Gavin Brown said. “The goals were good quality and it was encouraging to have four different scorers again. Notable performances from Ryan Tucker who was filling in at left back and Josip Vujica who ran his socks off and got through a lot of unselfish work up top.”
Gosnells City sit third after a hard fought 2-1 win against Swan United at Walter Padbury Reserve. Gosnells opened the scoring on 37 minutes, Kenel Mouithys sent Josh Wade down the left and his first time cross was turned home by Eddie Wilson at the near post. Marc Anthony’s went close to a second before the break, Sheldon Nogueira cross picked out Scott Pereira, whose header crashed off the crossbar and away to safety. It was a tight second half with both sides having good chances, David Foster heading over the top for the Swans, before Swans keeper Joe Smith produced a stunning save to keep Wilson’s header out at his near post. But on 77 minutes it was Swan who levelled the game. A long free kick into the box was spilt by Tom Allan, under great pressure from Chris Marshall, and the ball fell to Monterosso who made no mistake from the angle. But Swan midfielder Brian Patterson was sent off three minutes from time and Gosnells won all three points deep into stoppage time, when a free kick was spilt by Smith, and it was headed back across goal and Wilson headed home from close-range to set off wild celebrations on and off the pitch.
Balga moved up to fourth after winning a seven-goal thriller against Wanneroo City at Wanneroo Reserve. It was Balga who made the best possible start and they were ahead after only 60 seconds, with Kris Spaseski on target. But the home side levelled midway through the half with Jean Marc D’Avray scoring. But Balga regained the lead just before half time when Kristian Despotovski was fouled in the box and Dejan Andric scored the resulting penalty. Wanneroo restored parity early in the second half with D’Avray adding his second. But it was Balga who hit the front again when Herman Michael scored after a quick counter attack from Aleks Vrteski’s side. Then in the second minute of stoppage time Wanneroo found another equaliser with Jack Hailstones scoring and it looked like the points would be shared. But Balga had other ideas and with the final move of the match Despotovski made a darting run down the wing, cut inside the box, his shot on the run crashed off the upright, but the rebound fell to Tyron Torre who fired home much to the delight of the players and supporters alike. “A huge effort by the Balga boys today,” Despotovski said. “It was a very intense game and both sides were up for the challenge, and we knew that it was a must win game. Every game is a tough game in this league and Wanneroo are a good side but we took our chances and kept fighting until the last whistle and got our rewards.”
Shamrock Rovers moved five points clear of the drop zone after a 4-1 win against bottom of the table Canning City at Harold Rossiter Reserve. The home side were ahead at the break, when a long-throw was flicked on and Ger Fitzgerald headed home. The home side doubled their lead after the break when Fitzgerald headed a corner back across goal and Aaron Delaney scored. It was 3-0 in similar circumstances, Fitzgerald head back across goal and Jack Bardsley finished this time. Canning found a life line when Mohammed Al Bunajim scored from the spot, but Rovers sealed the points when Josh Hart fired home from 20 meters. “We played very well today and the young boys in particular played very well especially the keeper Jake Seymour, centre back Jack Barron and right back Jarrod Evans,” Rovers defender Fitzgerald said. “It was a brilliant team effort from everyone and the manager was delighted with the win and it was well deserved. Need to keep this effort up and get some more wins under our belt and move up the league because I know we are good enough to do so.”
In the final game Joondalup City moved up to fifth place on the table after a 4-2 win against Kelmscott Roos at Frye Park. The visitors were ahead when Liam McGurk was picked out at the back post by a corner and he headed home. Kelmscott levelled through Deng Dut on the quarter-hour, but Joondalup regained the lead moments later after some neat link up lay Luke Doyle finished. But again, Kelmscott hit back with Amos Doegoloa pouncing on 23 minutes and it was locked up at 2-2 at the break. But it was the visitors who went on with it after the break, first a ball was cut back to McGurk who rolled the ball home, before some good approach work ended with Sam Rawlings who went one-on-one with the Kelmscott keeper and he finished clinically. “It was a great performance from the lads it was a scrappy game at times and we were under the pump for big parts of the game all the boys showed big hearts and we dug deep and stuck to our game and eventually the goals started to come,” Joondalup’s Liam Pickering said. “It was a great win for us, and it keeps us right in the mix in the top half of the table, and with a game in hand.”
14.6.2019
MATILDAS DETRACTORS COP KERR PASTING
Sam Kerr has taken aim at commentators and fans that wrote off the Matildas after their first-up loss to Italy, telling them to "suck on that one". The response from the Matildas captain came after Australia ignited their World Cup campaign with a stunning comeback 3-2 victory over Brazil.
Trailing two-nil and with their qualification hopes appearing dead, Caitlin Foord and Chloe Logarzo brought Australia back from the brink before Monica's own goal gifted the Matildas a priceless win. It is only the second time a team have come from 2-0 down to win at the Women's World Cup.
"There was a lot of critics talking about us but we're back so suck on that one," Kerr said when interviewed pitch side. "We don't listen to the haters. "Look at that performance to come back from the deep. I love these girls, they're something else."
The Matildas have always been powered by an us-against-the-world mentality. In the last two decades, as they improved their world standings, they have fought for fair conditions and pay. And last week intense criticism of the side bubbled over after their 2-1 loss to Italy.
"We haven't been reading (the criticism) but at the end of the day you can feel it," Kerr added. "Social media gives people a platform to say whatever they want, so it was good to kind of send a message back home and send a message to the rest of the world."
"We knew this would happen. We knew people would be quick to judge but that's football and look what we did today. We had three different goalscorers and outplayed them most of the time. Coming back from two goals down with the pressure we had on us, it's pretty special."
The Matildas sent a message to their detractors, but did they send one to the rest of the tournament as well? "Hell yeah," Kerr continued. "Well, we've got to focus on Jamaica first, we're not gonna get too far ahead of ourselves.
"Brazil's one of the best teams in the world, they've got the best player probably ever in the history of the game (in Marta). So if people don't keep watching the Aussies, we'll come get ya like we did then. People don't understand the belief we have in this team."
"They don't understand the confidence we have in each other, the confidence we have in (coach) Ante (Milicic). One game was not gonna derail our World Cup hopes - and that's why it was so frustrating for us because instead of the media being 'we can turn this around', it turned negative on us and it only fuelled us, so thank you."
14.6.2019
FFA CUP - ROUND SEVEN – PREVIEW
It's the FFA Cup Semi-Final's this weekend, with Floreat Athena, Sorrento, Bayswater City and Rockingham City, only one win away from a spot in the National stage of the competition and the Belt-Up State League Final. In the first semi-final on Saturday afternoon Floreat Athena entertain Sorrento at E&D Litis Stadium. The last time these two sides met in the cup was in 2014 (Soccer Pools Cup) The dismissal of Sorrento striker Sean Canham late in the first half tilted the game in Floreat’s favour but it wasn’t until after the break that Ashley Corker and Mark Walsh each bagged a double with substitute Yves Mwilia added the other, in a 3-0 win.
Sorrento made it to this stage after a penalty shootout win against ECU Joondalup in the fourth round, and they need a stoppage time equaliser from keeper James Morgan to send it to spot kicks. In round five goals from Alex Morgan and Jakub Prajza saw them edge out a gallant Gwelup Croatia 2-1, before a hard-fought win on the road against Fremantle City. It could have been a banana skin game for the Gulls, but goals from Jack Salter and David Stokoe saw them home 3-0 and Head Coach Jamie Harnwell was delighted with the performance. "I was really pleased with how we went about the game against Fremantle, because they sat back and tried to catch us on the counter attack," he explained. "But the boys kept the ball for long periods of time and shifted Fremantle around. We did have enough chances in the second half to make it a more comfortable victory, but in any cup game it is just a good thing to go through to the next round."
The Gulls were beaten 1-3 in the only meeting in the league this season at Litis Stadium, and they will be looking to reverse that result on Saturday. Harnwell said it's a huge game for the club, and they would like to fly the flag for WA again in the round of 32, like they did in 2015 against Sydney FC. "It's a game that the players are looking forward to, and I don't think you can read previous results into as there is a lot on the line for both clubs and this is different to any league match," Harnwell said. "Floreat are a good side and well drilled by Garrett, and they have a number of exciting players that can hurt you. For our part, we had a poor day out last time we played them and didn't get close to the potential that we have. Though the results in the league haven't gone our way in the last couple of games, the performances for large parts has been there. We are confident that we can put together a strong 90 minutes to grab that spot in the national round of 32 and the State League Cup Final."
Floreat Athena were drawn away to Kelmscott Roos in the fourth round and came home with a 4-0 win, before a trip to high flying Division One side Olympic Kingsway in round five. It was a tricky tie, but goals from Nick Ambrogio, Robert Petkov and Jon Stynes saw them run out 3-0 winners. That set up and all NPL tie on the road at Balcatta, and a goal from Stynes gave them a narrow 1-0 win at Grindleford Reserve. Floreat Coach Garrett McDuling thought it was a professional performance from his side. "We drew a tough away match against Balcatta, who tried to prevent our players the freedom of play that has seen us score some terrific goals this season, and Balcatta were compact and tried to play on the counter at times,” he explained. “They created some chances however we also had some terrific goal scoring opportunities. However, we were made to wait until the final whistle to ensure our spot in the semi-final as we could not find the net a second time to put the game to bed.
“Trying to juggle the league and cup games over a few days and manage players loading we included some youngsters in Jack Andrews, Rob Harding and Tyler Holden you all did a terrific job ensuring we now look forward to a tasty challenge against Sorrento.” Floreat sit in second on the table at the moment and coming off a big win against Perth Glory last week, and McDuling said his side are playing well at the moment and head into the game confident they can get the job done, but he is well aware cup games are one off and they need to turn up on the day. "Sorrento are always a tough side to play (let alone in the cup) and they will be well organised under the guidance of Jamie Harnwell,” he said. “We finally got a home draw in the cup which is great and I’m sure the pitch conditions will be an improvement of what we saw last week during our solid win against the Glory. It will be a terrific match and with no other games scheduled on the same day I would encourage everyone to come down and watch cup football at its best.”
The second semi-final is on Sunday afternoon where Bayswater City entertain Rockingham City at Frank Drago Reserve. The last time these two sides met in the cup was in 1999 (The Boral Cup) and the then called Bayswater City Panthers won 1-0. Bayswater have had to fight hard to get into Sunday’s game, and in the fourth round they took on Division Two leaders Gosnells City at Walter Padbury Reserve, and a brace from Daryl Nicol saw them edge out Marc Anthony's side 2-1. In the fifth round they had to fight back from two goals down at home to beat Cockburn City 3-2, Nicol, Gordon Smith and an own goal from Cockburn defender Hayden Stevens completed the comeback and set up an Italian derby in the quarter-final. The game against the league leaders and unbeaten Perth SC was a thriller and goals from Nicol, Adam Tong and an own from defender Rocco Pizzata saw them leave Dorrien Gardens with a 3-2 win. Bayswater assistant coach Alun Vernals said it was a great game and great victory for the club. "Games between the two sides are always tough, and this one was a cracking cup tie," he explained.
"To be fair we rode our luck at times but that’s cup football, the lads put in a great shift and got their rewards with the win. We all know cup games can sometimes be won on set pieces and we took full advantage and showed great character to run out the game." Vernals, who must be still on a high after his beloved Liverpool won the UEFA Champions League Final in Madrid, and was over in the UK and travelled to Porto and Barcelona in the quarter and semi-final, said Sunday will be another tough game, but they are looking forward to the challenge. "We played them (Rockingham) in the league and should have gone on with it after leading 2-0, but fair play to them they fought back for the draw," he said. "But we need to be as professional as we can be, and with it being a Sunday game we’ll get the boys in Saturday so that extra session really helps. We’d love to make the final for the first time since 2014 and I’m sure the squad will pull out all stops to do that, but we know it's a cup tie and anything can happen so the lads will need to put in a strong performance and we're confident they will."
It's Rockingham City first season in the NPL WA and they have performed well and will be looking for their first cup final spot since 1990 on Sunday. They started their run in the fourth round with a tricky tie at Division One leaders Ashfield and a brace from Riley Van Dieken saw them win 2-1, and they had to come-from-behind in the fifth round against Curtin University 5-1 at SafeRad Stadium. They were on the road in the quarter-final with another tricky trip to UWA Nedlands, but with goals from Jason Pottier, skipper James Harmer and Blake Sokolowski saw them come home with a comprehensive 3-0 win. Rockingham Head Coach Cameron Lord said it was a good team performance. “In the last round the victory against UWA was a professional and assured performance from the boys,” he said. “To be fair we were relatively comfortable throughout the 90 minutes, which was pleasing.”
Lord said it’s great for the club to play in cup Semi-Final, as they look for a spot in their first cup Final since 1990, when they were beaten by Perth Italia in the D'Orsogna Cup at Bayswater’s ground. The then Division One side were 3-2 up with Steve Duckworth scoring a hat-trick, but went down 4-3. “We are excited to be in the position we are in the cup, and looking forward to the Bayswater-sized challenge in front of us,” he said. “This is the furthest that the club has gone in this cup, but we want to go that extra step and advance to the final. In doing so we know we will have to perform at our best against a very talented Bayswater group. But the recent league fixture showed the spirit and quality we have in our group. We must play with no fear, be resilient, and make sure we are clinical at both ends of the pitch.”
14.6.2019
STATE RESERVES CUP - SEMI FINALS – PREVIEW
It's Belt-Up State League Reserves Cup Semi-Finals this weekend with Armadale, Perth Glory, Cockburn City and Division One side Gwelup Croatia battling it out for a spot in the final. In the first semi-final on Saturday Perth Glory take on Armadale at E&D Litis Stadium. Glory beat Joondalup United in the first round, before a 4-1 win against Bayswater City in the second round. That set up a quarter-final tie against Floreat Athena and a goal from Jordan Abrahams gave them a 1-0 win at Grindleford Reserve. Glory Head Coach Richard Garcia said it was a hard-fought win. "The young lads played a great game, but Floreat made it hard for us, and Jordan’s goal saw us through," he said. "We did have chances to make the win a little more comfortable but failed to take them, but the players are looking forward to Saturday, as we look to regain the cup." Glory beat Armadale 4-1 in the league in round three but Garcia said that result will have little impact on Saturday's game. "This is a cup tie and it's who wants it the most on the day, and we'll doing all we can to make sure it's us," he explained. "The players have worked really hard at training this week, and are really keen to lift the cup again, but we all know we will have to be at our best to do that."
Armadale were drawn out in the preliminary round, and faced a trip to Quinns, and came home with a 3-1 win. They were also on the road in the first round, and came home with a comprehensive 6-0 win against Balga. In the quarter-final they hosted ECU Joondalup, who had well beaten them in the league on the Saturday, and put in a great performance running out 5-2 winners with doubles goals from Ayela Santa and Chad Nilson, and Coach Warren Smith was delighted with how they went about it. "The boys were very disappointed from their performance on the Saturday against ECU and needed to re-group,” he said. “They did so with their best performance so far this season, passing and moving the ball working hard and not allowing ECU to play to their game plan. don't think the score line reflects how tough the game really was and credit to ECU they never gave up but, on the day, Armadale were ready for this one - It was a great team effort.”
Reds keeper Blake Henshall played well against ECU, while striker Santa and skipper Jason Peppin will both be vital against a good Glory side. Smith said Glory are a strong team, and they will have to be at their best, but he is confident they can get the right result. "Glory will be tough, but I believe we are ready for the semi-final,” he said. “This will be a huge test to see how we have grown as a group over the season, all we have to do is concentrate on our game and not be intimidated by the Glory name and understand we are a development side for the future also. So, we need to go out and perform to our best as we should do every game, and we are looking forward to the challenge.”
On Sunday we head to Frank Drago Reserve where Division One leaders Gwelup Croatia take on Cockburn City. Gwelup travelled to Macedonia Park in the first round and came home with a 3-0 win, before a tense penalty shoot-out win against Wanneroo City in second round, after the game ended 2-2 at normal time. In the quarter-finals they visited Dorrien Gardens, and goals from Lewis Robinson and an own goal saw them surprise their NPL opponents 2-1. Gwelup coach Rob Milevski said it was a massive win for his side. "To go 1-0 down at Perth in the second half and to show the character we did afterwards was a tremendous effort, and it was a massive win for us," he said. "To be fair we were fortunate with an own goal but to win it four minutes from time through young Lewis' goal was fantastic. It was a memorable day for the club as a whole and one of the best wins I've been involved in for a very long time."
Skipper Jordan Costanzo has led from the front this season for Gwelup, and is joint top scorer with Alley Manyol, and they will need to be watched closely by Cockburn on Sunday. Milevski said they are relishing the opportunity of taking on another NPL club, and they will be doing all they can to reach the final. "We are all relishing the Cockburn City challenge this weekend and know it will be even tougher against the current second-placed under 20's NPLWA side," he explained. "We don't know too much about them, other than taking notice of their strong results in the league and cup so far this season. But as always we will treat it like any other game and are more than confident of springing yet another surprise."
Cockburn City moved through the first round with a big 4-1 win against Olympic Kingsway, before a 3-0 win against Rockingham City in round two. In the quarter-final they took on another NPL side and beat Inglewood United, and ran out 2-0 winners, and coach Joe Pereira was pleased the way his side played on the day. “It was a good win against another NPL opposition to move to the semi-finals.” he said. “We have played well all season against strong sides, and we see this as a bonus for our side rewarding them for the football, they have been producing all season.” Ben Radonich is vital for the young side, he has been outstanding in goal, but is also the skipper of the side, while top scorer Seb da Silva will also have a big role to play on Sunday.
Pereira is well aware Gwelup have beaten some good sides to reach this stage, but he is confident they can get the right result on Sunday. “Obviously, Gwelup will go into the game looking to cause an upset and they must be doing something right to have made it this far in the competition so we will respect them but in saying that we will be very disappointed if we couldn’t make it to the final,” he explained. “I understand it is a one-off game and anything is possible but after beating Olympic Kingsway reserves in an earlier round 5-1 and Gwelup being beaten by them last weekend, we have the utmost faith in our young talented side to get a positive result. We don’t have the ability to play older physically bigger players so that will be a factor we will have to overcome but our work rate and ball movement should hold us in go stead.”
14.6.2019
STATE UNDER 18'S CUP - SEMI FINALS – PREVIEW
The Belt-Up State League under 18's Semi-Finals take place this weekend, with Sorrento, Balcatta, Bayswater City and Perth SC fighting it out for a spot in the final next month. The first semi-final is on Saturday morning when Sorrento take on Balcatta. (10.45am) Sorrento won the local derby 2-1 against ECU Joondalup in first round, before a big 5-2 win against Subiaco in the second round. In the quarter-finals they took on Division Two side Quinns, and were pushed all the way and after the game ended 0-0 the Gulls won on penalties 4-2, with Laurits Christophersen scoring the winning spot kick. Sorrento Coach Stuart Banks said it was a great game against a good opposition. "I was impressed with Quinns, they had good players, were well organised, stuck to their game plan and worked hard," he explained. "They defended well and looked to win every first and second ball, and based on their performance against us I think they’d go ok in the NPL."
Keeper Noah Bloch was also the hero in the shoot-out saving a penalty, and he will be vital again, while skipper Jake Shaked and striker Dayan Bhudia will have big roles to play in the final. Banks said they have had some tight games against Balcatta this season and he is expecting more of the same on Saturday. "We know it will be another hard-fought game against Balcatta, and we've played each other in a preseason friendly and drew 3-3 and then in the league game a few weeks ago we drew 2-2," he said. "So, I think we are quite evenly matched and hopefully that makes for a good game and an exciting one for the crowd. They have some quality players and pace up front so we will have to play well to get the result."
Balcatta won convincingly in the first round, beating Joondalup City 7-1, before they had a hard fought 2-1 win against fellow NPL side Inglewood United in the second round. In the quarter-final they took on another NPL side in Cockburn, and ran out 5-2 winners with Matthew Mustica bagging a hat-trick, while Patrick Sinicki added a brace. Balcatta coach Igor Colic was delighted with the performance especially after losing in the NPL on the Saturday. “The win against Cockburn was very special for us, as it came off the back of a disappointing loss in the league just two days prior, and with a number of injuries and suspensions, could only take 13 players to the game,” he explained. “Cockburn probably started the better team and we had to work hard to keep scores level, but a well-executed set piece mid-way through the first half gave us our first, and I think from then on we looked good for the win. Cockburn played well for large parts of that game, which made the win even more pleasing, as we really had to earn it. It was one of those performances where the boys showed some character and we'll use that as motivation heading into the semi-final.”
Matthew Mustica has been good in front of goal for Balcatta, and skipper Luke Alessandrino has led from the front all season, while keeper Kody D’Vauz has also been in good form, and all three will have to be at their best on Saturday. Colic said they have had some good games against Sorrento and this one will be another one. “Yes, we've played Sorrento twice this year already, once in preseason and then again in the league, and on both occasions, we let a comfortable lead slip and the games ended in draws,” he said. “This is mostly a testament to Sorrento's resilience and focus. I never felt like we gifted anything to them, they simply refused to quit and fully deserved to get something in both games. So, we know what we're up against on Saturday, this isn't a team that will ever capitulate. To win, we will have to be at our best for all of 90 minutes, and we're confident we can do just that.”
The other semi-final is at Frank Drago Reserve on Sunday morning when Bayswater City entertain Perth SC. Both sides are having good NPL season's and are sitting one and two respectively on the table. Bayswater opened the cup run with a hard-fought 2-1 win on the road against UWA Nedlands, and they had to fight all the way to beat Joondalup United by the same score line in round two. That set up a quarter-final with Floreat Athena, and a clinical performance saw them run out 6-0 winners, with a first half hat-trick from skipper George Norton and a double from Sebastin Hooshangian and another from Alex Evangelista. Bayswater coach Chris Barbas said they were looking for a fast start and they got one. "We went into the game with the mind set to start off quickly and put them on the back foot," he explained. "And we did exactly that and were 4-0 up at half time and went on with it after the break which was pleasing."
Daniel Mackenzie has been in top form in front of goal and he will be important in this one, and Barbas said it's going to be another tough game against Perth. "No doubt it will be a very tough encounter both sides have the best defences and attacking powers in the league so the entertainment will be at its best," he said. "Sam Riley in goals has been in some good form which has seen him recently promoted to the 20’s, while skipper George Norton is our go to man if we have injuries, he will fill that spot. It should be a great game and we hope there is a big crowd on hand to watch the talented youngsters from both sides play."
Perth SC had no trouble in the first round, beating Curtin University 11-0, before a 3-0 win against Murdoch University Melville in round two. In the quarter-finals they hosted Division Two side Gwelup Croatia, and after an entertaining game ended 1-1, Perth won through on penalties. Perth coach Tony Di Toro said it was a great game, but they should have put the game to bed earlier. “We all know league positions or divisions mean very little in a cup game, and this one was a hard fought game played in the right spirt by both teams .They were all well organised team with some quality players who once played for us, so there was probably a bit more incentive there to win,” he explained. “Jojo Parise managed to score the first goal and had plenty of chances to kill the game but lacked a bit of composure in the final third. We then had a player sent off and with 20 minutes to go after a second yellow card and they took full of advantage of that pressing us hard and managed win a penalty scored to send it to penalties.
“We were quietly confident as our keeper Adrian Sinagra has been in great form saving three penalties in three games through the regular season. He went on to save three penalties in a row won the game for us and made himself a bit of a hero, while Liam Alderson scored the winning spot kick.” Perth skipper Lachlan Byrd and top goalscorer Jordan Nikolajevic will be vital on Sunday, has Di Toro’s side look to reverse the score line from last season’s final, when they went down 0-1. But the coach is expecting it to be a great game. “it should be a cracking game against the two best teams in the state at the moment,” Di Toro said. “Our boys have worked hard all season and in particular the last few weeks leading into this game. I think it will come down to a little bit of quality from someone on the day hopefully it’s from one of our boys, but we are definitely up for it, and I am sure Bayswater are as well, so I’m looking forward to the contest.”
14.6.2019
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND ELEVEN – PREVIEW
It's week 11 of the State League Division One and this week’s Footballwa.net 'Match of the Round' takes us to Nash Field where Western Knights entertain UWA Nedlands in the derby. UWA moved to sixth on the table after a 4-1 win against Morley Windmills, while the Knights suffered a shock 2-3 loss at Mandurah, which saw them drop to fourth. Last week’s win for UWA was important as they were coming off the bye and coach Michael Janssen said it was even better in the difficult conditions. “Last weekend was important to us and we performed well, and the boys showed what we expected from the group and delivered a very focused game in tough conditions,” he explained. “I thought our midfield played a lot of positive balls and put pressure on their lines for most of the game, and the result was well deserved and we didn't allow anything in the second half working defensively compact.”
Janssen said a trip to their neighbours is never easy, and with them losing last week makes even tougher, but they are ready for the challenge. “Playing at Nash Field is always a big task and we are looking forward to the game and facing a strong Western Knights team,” he said. “We expect a hard fight and we’ve worked very well during the week towards the game and how to approach the opponent in the right manner. The Derby is big for both clubs and we feel confident enough to go out and get a positive result on Saturday, and last week's results mean nothing when the first whistle goes in the Derby.”
The loss at Mandurah was only their second loss of the season and defeat denied them top spot, and coach Ivan Zuvela said despite dominating the game they let it slip late. “Yes, we were very disappointed with last week’s result against Mandurah and I thought we controlled the game but just didn’t take our chances,” he explained. “But you have to give credit to Mandurah they just kept coming at us and scored two very good goals right at the end to seal the win.”
Zuvela said that result is in the past and they now focused on Saturday’s derby against UWA and getting back to winning ways. “We know that UWA is going to be a tough game, and they had a very good win last week and I’m sure they will bring that momentum this week,” he said. “But this is our chance to turn around the result from last week and get a result at our home ground and keep the pressure on the league leaders.”
In other games league leaders Ashfield return from the bye with a trip to Wotton Reserve to take on bottom of the table Morley Windmills, while Olympic Kingsway host Forrestfield United at Kingsway Reserve. Forrestfield were back in the winners’ circle last week against Joondalup United, while Olympic were beaten at Gwelup, a result that saw them drop to fifth, but with only three points separating the two sides this one should be a tight game. Third placed Gwelup Croatia are on the road this week when they visit Rosalie Park to take on Subiaco, while in the final game Mandurah City travel to take on Joondalup United at Forrest Park. Joondalup were well beaten at Forrestfield last week, while Mandurah produced a thrilling 3-2 win against Western Knights.
Mandurah Coach Alex Grayson said the win was a huge boost to the players as they look to kick start their season. “I was very pleased with the performance and result last week, and we’ve been on the other side of those games more often than not so to win one in that fashion was great for the lads,” he explained. “I feel it was the bit of luck we deserved this year so hopefully it's a sign of things to come.” Grayson said Saturday is a massive game for them, and he is expecting a tough challenge. “The past two weeks won't count for anything if we can't follow it up this weekend, but Joondalup will be a fierce task,” he said. “Nick will have his boys organised and fired up for this one so regardless of league position, I guarantee it will be a great contest.” - Fremantle City have the bye this weekend.
14.6.2019
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND TEN – PREVIEW
It’s week 10 of the Belt-Up State League Division Two and the Footballwa.net ‘Match of the Round’ is at Wanneroo Reserve, where Wanneroo City entertain Balga. Both sides are coming off wins last week, Wanneroo edging out Curtin University 3-2 to move to fourth, while Balga moved to fifth after a narrow win against Kelmscott. Balga are unbeaten in their last five games and skipper Danny Cain said the win was outstanding, especially in the poor weather conditions. “Yes, it was a difficult game against and improved Kelmscott team, and in tough weather conditions,” he said. “The lads showed desperation and commitment all over the park for 90 minutes to get the win and that was perhaps something that had been missing for us this season.”
Cain said Wanneroo are on the improve and is expecting a tough derby on Saturday, but its important they keep their unbeaten run going, but need to pick up points against the top sides after two draws against Gosnells and Swan. “This week is huge for us and we will go into the game with confidence on the back of last week’s effort,” he said. “We are looking to go on a run now after a few decent performances without bringing home three points, but we know it’s going to be a tough game, and a challenge, but it’s one we are up for.”
After an indifferent start due to injuries and player movement, Wanneroo are on the up and Coach Tim Kantor said it’s been a big turnaround and he has been delighted the way some of his younger players have come on. “Yes, it’s been a great achievement by the group and highlights the depth that we have in the club. In the first nine weeks of the season we have played 21 players already which is quite extraordinary really. We have through necessity had to change our formation and the lads have bought into the new structure and back to back wins is very pleasing.”
Kantor said Saturday is a huge game for both clubs, especially with only one point separating the two sides. “This is a massive game for us with three points separating half a dozen teams, and one between us and Balga,” he explained. “Aleks has recruited well and Balga are staking their claim as a play-off contender there’s absolutely no doubt about that. Having said that, there is a real resilience in our group and the boys coming into the team each week are doing their job. The new lads that joined the club over the past few weeks have settled in well and are starting to play some real quality football, so it’s going to be a cracking game and one that we are really looking forward too.”
In other games this weekend league leaders Quinns make the trip to Edinburgh Oval to take on Curtin University. Quinns sit five points clear at the top of the table, and are coming off a big win against Dianella last week, while Curtin were edged out at Wanneroo. Kelmscott Roos host Joondalup City at Frye Park, Murdoch University Melville entertains Dianella White Eagles at Murdoch Uni, while the bottom two teams meet at Harold Rossiter Reserve, when Shamrock host Canning City.
In the final game third placed Gosnells City host sixth placed Swan United a t Walter Padbury Reserve. Gosnells got back to winning ways last week at Shamrock, while Swan were beaten at home by MUM. New Swan striker Chris Holland said it was a disappointing result, but they had their chances to win it. “Yes, it was very disappointing, both teams had chances, but I thought we had the more clear-cut chances on the day,” he explained. “But credit to Murdoch, when the weather turned for the worse in the second half, they kicked on and were rewarded taking the lead and held on for the rest of the game.”
Holland, who has played for Gosnells, said Saturday will be a tough game but he’s looking forward to catching up with old friends, but hopes to bring the three points back to the Swan Valley. “Should be a great game, last time the two met at Gosnells swan edged a win which always seems to be a close match between the two teams,” he explained. “Gosnells have a great team and I’m still close with all of them I hope for a good entertaining game, but I see Swan coming away with the win and keeping in and around the top half of the table.”
14.6.2019
BELT UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION - ROUND NINE PREVIEW
It’s week nine of the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division and this week Footballwa.net “Match of the Round’ takes us to John Connell Reserve, where third placed Leeming Strikers entertain league leaders Kingsley. Leeming have been scoring for fun recently, bagging 17 goals and conceding none, and are coming off a 9-0 win against Ellenbrook last week. Kingsley edged out Wembley Downs 2-1, the win moving them three points clear at the top of the table. Leeming coach David Palin said his side have been very competitive this season and despite not getting off to the best start in the league are improving each week. “Apart from the Jags game where we were completely out played, our general performance in the other games where we dropped points was good but also highlighted a few issues that over the last couple of weeks we have been able to sort out and seen the benefits of,” he said. “It's been nice to score a lot of goals and keep clean sheets over the last couple of weeks and full credit to our players for taking up the challenge of doing better and taking responsibility in key moments. It was a hit and miss start but we are happy where we are at now as a side moving into Kingsley this week.”
Palin said games against Kingsley are always tough, and he knows it will be the same on Sunday. “Over the last couple of seasons when you've mentioned Leeming and Kingsley, whether it has been at reserve level or firsts it's been an important game and that is no different this week. There is an opportunity for us to close the gap but on the other hand for Kingsley to give themselves a considerable gap moving into the halfway point of season so the stakes are high,” he explained. “Though both sides are different in how they play, the games are always tight and I think it's very hard to separate the two sides on paper, it really does come down to who executes their game plan better and makes less mistakes in key moments. We've enjoyed the last two weeks’ but these are the games we really look forward to and enjoy most as a squad, I'm expecting two really good games Sunday and it's a credit to both squads, that we find ourselves in such important games again this season.”
Kingsley assistant coach Stuart Montgomery said the win against Wembley was terrific, in the terrible weather conditions on the day, and he said the players took their chances when they came along. “Yes, it was a tough game against Wembley as we knew it would be, and it wasn’t helped by the conditions,” he said. “But we were really impressed with the way the boys ground out the result in the end, Wembley are a decent side and we had to make sure we were ready to take our chances when they came and keep their chances to a minimum, which is exactly how the game played out.”
Montgomery said Sunday is a huge game and he knows they can’t have a slip up, like North Perth did last week. “Leeming have had some very good results the last few weeks, and are starting to show how good a team they are with some real quality players in their side,” he explained. “The last two years I have been at Kingsley we have played Leeming in night series finals and cup finals and league games and they are always very tight physical games and I am positive it won’t be any different this Sunday. I am sure David (Palin) will have his side fired up as they will want to the close the four point gap we have on them, and from our point of view we are really looking forward to testing ourselves against a form team and to hopefully continue our good run and pick up some important points.”
In other games North Perth United will be looking to bounce back defeat last week against Kwinana when they travel to Butlers Reserve to take on Wembley Downs, while Quinns host Jaguars at Gumblossom Park, with both sides level on 13 points. Fresh off their surprise win against North Perth, Kwinana United host Hamersley Rovers at Kelly Park, while Belmont Villa host the winless Ellenbrook United at Gerry Archer Sports Complex.
In the final game Joondalup United will be looking to make it back-to-back wins when they travel to the UWA Sports Park to take on UWA Nedlands.
UWA produced a great win on the road at Jaguar last week, the win made it one loss in their last five games, while Joondalup’s win against Belmont, closed the gap on the rest of the pack. Joondalup coach Ben Williams said they need to start to take their chances in games, and he is sure they will. “We were very good last week apart from in the final third which has been our biggest problem this year converting the chances, we missed three or four we should of put away,” he said. “To be honest we have been up against it this year and when your luck is down everything goes against you, but to be fair apart from our dreadful Saturday night at Chichester and ten really bad minutes early against Hamersley we haven't been that far behind the teams and if we had been better in final third when our chances presented themselves we could of maybe had a few more points on the board. We must keep improving every week and hopefully before long we can start to climb up the table.”
Williams said UWA are a good side and well coached, and he said Sunday will be another challenge, but one they are looking forward too. “UWA always are a competitive outfit, and Arthur (Hiemstra) has them well drilled and you never know what you are going to get as they have a huge turnover of players usually being a Uni club,” he explained. “We keep the hard work at training and keep the mood positive and I'm sure good things are around the corner the group of players are to talented to not change their fortunes around.”
11.6.2019
ANGRY DE VANNA SAYS MATILDAS MUST GEL UP FRONT
She took another step towards becoming Australia's most capped player, but Lisa De Vanna was not happy on Sunday night. She was not happy at the scoreline: Australia 1, Italy 2. She wasn't happy about the manner of the defeat – a goal in the last seconds of stoppage time.
But more than anything, she wasn't happy because the Matildas did not do themselves justice in their disappointing World Cup opener against a team ranked nine places behind them in the world standings, an opponent they were expected to see off with relative ease.
The loss is not the death knell for their World Cup hopes, but it means there is little margin for error in the final two group games, against Brazil and Jamaica. "I'm not happy at the moment, I'm frustrated, angry," De Vanna said after the opening game in which she started on the bench.
"It's important to get three points but not just the three points, to give us confidence for the rest of the tournament. I guess now it's a big hurdle for us and we have to rise. There's no bigger team to do that against than Brazil."
De Vanna was quick to identify the areas in which the team must improve. "I just think we couldn't keep the ball at times. We rushed our decision at times, and for the strike force we have we're not quite gelling just yet," she said. Once we can get that on the mark we'll be quite dangerous up front."
10.6.2019
STRONGEST MALAYSIA WILL KEEP IMPROVING SAYS DAVIES
Right back Matthew Davies is confident Malaysia will improve further in the coming stages of the World Cup/Asian Cup qualification. Malaysia downed Timor-Leste 7-1 in the first leg of the play-offs last week, and a similar scoreline is expected in the return game.
Davies, who plays his club football for Pahang, is adamant that he and his teammates will retain their hunger for the second leg, despite the advantage they already hold. "We're relaxed, we're positive, but at the same time we're still hungry to get another good result and determined to build on Friday's performance."
"I've been involved (with the national team) for four or five years now, including in the previous qualifying round. I think this is one of the strongest (Malaysia) teams in a while. We've got a few good results and fielded a lot of young players. We're confident that we'll develop further as a team, and of having better chances going into the next round."
10.6.2019
KERR ON THE MARK BUT MATILDAS OFF PACE
Sam Kerr has saluted one of her football idols after breaking her Women's World Cup duck. The Matildas captain scored from the penalty spot in a 2-1 loss to Italy on Sunday, netting the game's opener in the 22nd minute.
After tucking into the net, Kerr ran to the corner and punched the flag like another Australian goalscorer of years gone by. "The legend, Timmy Cahill lives on," Kerr said. "My first ever (World Cup) goal and he's our greatest-ever goalscorer."
"Just a bit of fun and a shoutout to Timmy ... Timmy's a legend. He's one of my idols. I thought he probably should have got on at the last World Cup and scored so that one was for him."
Unfortunately, Barbara Bonansea scored twice to steer Italy to victory. Despite the loss, Kerr says the Matildas are still very much alive. "We've still got two more games to get out of the group," she said.
"We just lost in the last moment but I think we dominated the game. We feel really confident still. There's a lot of positives. We'll stick together and go on to Brazil."
Kerr's confidence rests on Australia's dominance over Italy. At times, the Matildas were confident and vibrant in their forward play, ably supported by full-backs Ellie Carpenter and Steph Catley.
Australia starved Italy of possession and took 16 shots to their opponents' three. Kerr's belief is also supported by history. In Australia's six previous World Cups, the Matildas have just one opening match win - yet they've reached the quarter-finals three times.
9.6.2019
DE VANNA: ‘I USED TO LOSE MY MIND ABOUT SIMPLE THINGS’
In the highly sanitised and carefully cultivated image-conscious modern world there are few professional athletes like Lisa De Vanna. Never afraid to speak her mind, the 34-year-old has had almost as many clubs as years spent as a professional footballer.
Yet as she approaches the twilight of her playing career there’s a sense a more self-contented De Vanna has finally come to terms with her emotions. Ahead of her first World Cup, De Vanna was described by her then coach Alistair Edwards as “high maintenance”, “a brat” and possessing mood swings “like the stock market crash of 1987”.
It was a tempestuous relationship, and Edwards was not alone in having difficulties with De Vanna. But coaches around the world continued to persist for one simple reason: the lightning-quick forward was prodigiously talented. An outsider who endured a challenging upbringing, De Vanna makes no apologies for her previous behaviour.
“I was never a sheep when I was younger,” De Vanna told the 'Guardian Australia'. “I’ve always been my own person. And if I didn’t like something I was quite happy to say, ‘nah, I’m leaving’. I didn’t feel any peer pressure because I had such a big strong personality.”
“I’m not the best communicator, I don’t know how to express my emotions. A lot of the time, I don’t understand how you can’t understand what I’m thinking. How can I see something as not good enough, and you don’t?”
A notorious perfectionist, the biggest source of De Vanna’s frustrations was a perceived lack of professionalism around her in an era when women’s football in Australia was moving from amateurism to semi-professionalism.
One of the first to crack the professional women’s scene in the United States with Washington Freedom in 2009, De Vanna was caught between two worlds when returning to an Australian context that appeared light-years behind.
“I used to lose my mind about simple things,” she says. “I mean, how do you not want to work hard, how do you not want to play with pride? Because I was in that environment when I had the best in the world, with Abby Wambach and Sonia Bompastor – these legends of the game – and they drilled it into my head, to be the best you have to train the best.
“In the past (other Matildas) didn’t care – but I cared. So then I’m the one blowing up because I wanted the best for myself, I wanted the best for my team and I expected better from my teammates.”
Part of De Vanna’s frustrations arose from the challenges she overcame to represent the national team. “I missed most of my teenage years, I gave up everything for football, but the good thing was I had good people around me,” she said.
“My friends who were going out partying turned around and said, ‘nup, go home’. They never got me involved in that environment because they knew from the way I talked about football that this was something I always wanted.”
And with the game around her professionalising rapidly, De Vanna now feels more in step with her surroundings. “We’ve just had a conversation about ‘developing a winning mentality’,” she says.
“I’ve had that winning mentality. I was like that ten years ago but I got in trouble for it – and now I was turning away from that because my whole life I was told that it’s not acceptable to blow up!”
Twice removed from the Matildas set up for behavioural issues, De Vanna has overcome every obstacle set in her path. She now stands on the cusp of becoming Australia’s most-capped footballer, surpassing Cheryl Salisbury’s mark of 151 appearances.
Approaching her fourth World Cup, and with the chance to join an elite club of players to have scored at all four, De Vanna now finds her role changing. Today she is less an impassioned motivator of her teammates and more of a mentor for the next generation.
“Ellie (Carpenter) might get a little bit cheeky, but she’s also young – she hasn’t been in the game long enough to understand the maturity of it,” De Vanna commented of her fellow attacker.
“Mary Fowler, she goes and plays NPL and scores six, seven goals, has this confidence, goes and plays young Matildas, kills it. But now she’s in an environment that’s a little tense. It’s high pressure, and she’s now realising, ‘wow, I need to up my game’.”
“In terms of mindset she’s such a humble kid, who just purely wants to do great things ... But it’s been a good wake-up call for her as well. A couple of weeks ago we were doing sprints and I said ‘I’ll go with Mary’ and I made sure I beat her on every single one just to bring her back down to earth a little bit.”
A strong adherent to what she calls “old school” ways, De Vanna also wants to imbue the next generation with traditional values: work hard, train hard, never let your passion for the game be distracted.
“Everything’s so superficial now – it’s all about social media, and I don’t like that. I think you have to have a little old school in there,” De Vanna commented.
“Everyone’s looking for acceptance and approval from people they don’t know, and I just feel like you have to be happy within yourself. If you start letting people who don’t know you make opinions about yourself then you’ll never be successful.”
Despite her stellar career, it’s been a frustrating few years both on and off the pitch for De Vanna, who for the first time in her career failed to score a single goal during an injury-ravaged W-League season with Sydney FC.
But the belief of new coach Ante Milicic in backing the veteran star has helped lift the mercurial striker. “Just how I’m feeling at the moment, I think my mindset is probably the best it’s been in the last few years,” she said.
“I just want to walk off the field knowing I’ve given it everything; and I’m happy because the last 10-15 years of football have been stressful because I’ve expected so much. But now I don’t feel like that.”
9.6.2019
FROM TUGGERANONG TO FRANCE: WILLIAMS' JOURNEY TO A FOURTH WORLD CUP
Lydia Williams dreamed of representing Australia as she watched Cathy Freeman tribute the Indigenous flag at the Sydney Olympic Games. And now the 31-year old goalkeeper is championing the indigenous community herself at the Women's World Cup in France.
"(Representing the indigenous community) is something really cool and it hasn't been an easy road," said Katanning-born Williams. "It's nice to hopefully see more indigenous people in the game in the future."
Women's football in Australia has evolved enormously since Williams first stepped out for Tuggeranong United 20 years ago. Her family moved to Canberra when she was 11 years old and she initially joined the club to make friends.
With the likes of Sam Kerr, Lisa de Vanna and rising star Mary Fowler as teammates, the goalkeeper said she's been privileged to play alongside the golden generation of Matildas.
"I love playing for my country and getting to it in such an amazing stage (of women's football) with such amazing players is humbling," Williams said. "People are coming to our games and our jerseys are being sold."
"With that kind of high profile there's more pressure on us but that's part of the game when you become well known. It's amazing to see how much the game has evolved in Australia."
But Williams' journey to her fourth World Cup hasn't been easy as injuries and the pressure to maintain form has taken its toll. She has undergone two knee reconstructions but was back in the Matildas fray just nine months after the surgery.
"Injuries take a toll on you so to be able to play this long has been pretty crazy," Williams said. "I'll have to look after my body but I wouldn't rule out the next World Cup as a possibility."
Matildas great Heather Garriock believes Williams is essential for Australia to make their maiden World Cup final. "I think she's one of the world's best goalkeepers, not just Canberra's best but one of the world's best," Garriock said.
"Lydia is key for the Matildas to have a successful World Cup campaign. She's very dynamic, she's a great shot stopper. In big moments in tournaments she has really produced and she's very experienced as well."
9.6.2019
KERR CAST AS CAPTAIN FANTASTIC
Star forward Sam Kerr is used to scoring goals but she's still growing into the role of Australia's captain at the Women's World Cup. Kerr didn't completely take in what it meant to captain Australia when she was first handed the armband.
Now, as she prepares to lead the Matildas in the World Cup in France, she's come to grips with the honour and is ready. Kerr will lead Australia out at the Valenciennes' Stade du Hainaut on Sunday, widely seen as the best opportunity the Matildas' have had to leave a mark on the world stage.
Kerr is a world class goalscorer; the winner of the two latest golden boots in both the United States and Australian domestic leagues. She was appointed captain by coach Ante Milicic back in February as one of the incoming boss's first decisions.
Milicic already had the notion that Kerr, the team's brightest star, was ready for the role. His thoughts were confirmed as soon as he started his first team meeting. "Sam sat in the front row. First meeting. Front row. Eyes on me," he said when announcing his decision.
"She's a fantastic choice. She's confident. She has that belief and she really carries the team. She's a leader, she's fearless and she's very important to the team. She's ready at this moment to take this opportunity."
Kerr first captained Australia in the Cup of Nations win over New Zealand in Sydney three months ago. "I didn't really think about it (then but) when I was finally about to walk out, I was in the tunnel, and this nervousness came upon me. It was a really proud moment," she said.
"It's going to be a special moment for me leading the girls out. The most important thing for me is that I feel the support of the girls. To be at my third World Cup is going to be amazing. I'm just focusing on the game, not the tunnel."
9.6.2019
BELT UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION - ROUND EIGHT REVIEW
Kingsley moved three points clear at the top of the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division after a hard fought 2-1 win against Wembley Downs at a wet Chichester Park. The hosts were out of the blocks early and Wembley had to soak up some early pressure, with Jesse Higgins and Joel Gillespie both going close. But on the half hour Wembley's resistance ended, Joel Gillespie's corner wasn't dealt with and Ryan Carr stabbed the ball home from close-range. The hosts went close to a second before the break, but Wembley keeper Jeff Cornez saved well to deny Aaron Lickiss' header. Wembley started the second half well and Juraj Galba and Dean Woll both tested Kingsley keeper Ryan Moss. But it was the hosts who doubled their advantage on 54 minutes, when Lickiss lost his marker and headed home from close-range. The visitors found a lifeline ten minutes from time when Jay McDonald was brought down by Lickiss and referee Stewart Beattie pointed straight to the spot. Stephen Geoghegan converted the resulting penalty to set up a grandstand finish, but Kingsley held on for their fifth win in a row and to continue their lead at the summit.
“It was a very solid performance from my boys yesterday in a game in which was going to be tough due to the conditions and coming up against a Wembley side that had the best defensive record going into the game," Wembley coach Steven Dimitrovich said. "We spoke about been patient as we were going to have a lot of possession and we did and we were very patient so really happy with the way we played. Wembley are a very well drilled side and got numbers behind the ball very quickly all in all a very good game played in great spirits and I think the result was the right one at the end of the game."
North Perth United lost ground on the leaders after a 0-2 home defeat against Kwinana United at Woodville Reserve. Shane Boyle put Kwinana ahead with a lovely volley just outside the box early on in the game. But the visitors were reduced to ten men when Ryan Shackleton received a second yellow card early in the second half, but the ten men hit back and doubled their lead when Lee Bates finished clinically. North Perth pressed but they couldn't find a way past a hard-working Kwinana defence. But on 70 minutes Kwinana were reduced to nine men when Glen Smith was sent off, but Kris Donnell's side held on for three valuable points. "I'm delighted for the boys as they worked there socks off for the whole 90 minutes and this wasn't the first time, I felt we have been dealt with harshly for poor red cards," Donnell said. "I thought our system worked very well and it proved difficult for them to break us down. Even with the nine men we didn’t look like conceding which was a big positive for me and Paul to see. The boys will take a lot of confidence out of the result and we’ve set a level now we know we can play at."
Leeming Strikers jumped to third after thrashing bottom of the table Ellenbrook United at Jack Mann Oval. Lucas Pickering gave the visitors the lead, before Danny McKenzie added a second with a sweet half volley from the edge of the penalty area and Pickering added the third before the break. The Strikers went on with it after the break and Pickering completed his hat-trick, Evans added a second, and others to Michael Maratea, Scott McDowell and David Palin gave them a comprehensive win. "Ellenbrook seem to be still trying to find their way this year but they never gave up and made us work for every goal, they'll improve throughout the season so to go there and to get three points was pleasing," Leeming player/coach David Palin said. "That's 17 goals and no goals conceded in last two games, we've worked hard the last two weeks to make sure we take our opportunities when presented and hopefully that continues as we head into some tricky fixtures."
Jaguar dropped to fourth after they were beaten 1-2 by UWA Nedlands at Herb Graham Recreation Centre. The visitors made the best possible start scoring in the first 20 seconds. A back pass from the kick off was misplaced and Gerry Fatouros raced one-on-one with the Jags keeper and scored. But the home side levelled in the second half when David Kai headed home from a corner. But UWA won it late, when Frazer Childs was sent down the right, and his teasing cross found Louis Papalia at the back post who after taking a touch hammered it low and hard in the back of the net to seal the three points. "It's good to get the three points after the draws against North Perth and Hamersley in recent weeks," UWA coach Arthur Hiemstra said. "I was very happy how the lads applied themselves against a tough opponent, particularly when Jags equalised late in the second half. The game was very even and open and could have gone either way as always is the case against Jags."
Joondalup United moved away from the relegation zone after a 3-0 win against Belmont Villa at Beldon Park. Adam Taylor opened the scoring, and he was the supply for the second, his great run and cross finding Adam Gianassi at the back post to head home. It was 3-0 when Sam Davis finished well, and it was almost four when Gianassi header was knocked in on the line by Davis, but the flag was up for offside. " A good performance, and finally some points from the hard work the lads have put in," Joondalup Coach Ben Williams said. "We looked like winning from the off, and had lots of possession and could have been more but for some dreadful finishing. Belmont were always a threat on the counter attack, with the two quick lads up top but good to get a clean sheet too."
In the final game new Quinns coach Lee Garnish won his first game in charge, after a come from behind 2-1 win against Hamersley Rovers at Carine Open Space. The visitors were ahead with Patrick Barry on target, but Quinns levelled when some good approach work found Mark Hayes, who won a vital challenge and put Liam Hunt through on goal and he side footed home past the keeper. The home side won it when a corner was flicked on and Liam McManus managed to get a foot to the ball, and found the top corner. "I thought it was a really hard-fought game," Garnish said. "We were wasteful in front of goals as I thought we had the better chances in the game and should have put the game to bed. But overall very happy with the performance of the boys and looking forward to next week’s get against Jags."
8.6.2019
JACKS HOLD LEAGUE LEADERS
ECU Joondalup have stalled the Perth SC juggernaut after holding the league leaders to a 0-0 draw at the ECU Football Stadium on Saturday afternoon. In terrible conditions Perth had the better chances in the first half but the game was almost abandoned after puddles of water lay on the pitch, but after some hard work from the home side staff the game continued, and the Jacks should have taken all three points late in the game after Perth winger Niccolò Sabatini was sent off on the hour, but they couldn't find a way past keeper Francis Soale and a tight Perth defence. "A great performance form the lads today in hard playing conditions," ECU assistant Coach David Tough said. "We went into the match with a game plan and the players ticked all the boxes and showed great desire and they all left everything out there, and I thought we had the better chances on the day to win it. But we'll take a lot of positives from the performance and move on to the derby in the next round at Sorrento."
Both sides had good chances in a tight first half. First Paul Zimarino’s curling free kick was well held by ECU keeper Johnny Perkins, before Sabatini fired wide from a tight angle. The Jacks also had chances teenager Ewan Fawcett raced past his marker and his low ball was cleared well by a Perth defender, with Tommy Amphlett ready to pounce. Amphlett went close again moments later, but his shot from the edge of the penalty area flashed over the top. But the best chance of the half fell to the hosts just before the break, Andy Higgins’ set-piece found Billy Quinncroft at the back post, but with the goal at his mercy he blazed over the top.
The start to the second half was delayed for 20 minutes, with referee Josh Nixon concerned about a pool of water near the touchline, but play eventually resumed, but so did the rain. Perth keeper Francis Soale was the busiest keeper after the break and he got down well to deny ECU new signing Jamel Reiners’ header and Quinncroft’s follow up shot was wide. Moments later Zimarino’s long-range shot beat Perkins, but the crossbar came to the rescue of the Jacks custodian, as both sides pressed for the winner.
But on 69 minutes Sabatini was sent off after a late tackle and it was backs to the wall for the visitors and they had Soale to thank for keeping them level when Ollie Annis made a great run into goal, but the Perth custodian stood tall to make a great save to deny him. The Jacks pressed late looking for the winner but they couldn’t find one and Perth almost nicked all three points late when a free kick fell to Michael Domfeh, but Henry Durr got back with great last-ditch block to deny him.
ECU Joondalup: GK Johnny PERKINS, 3 Nicholas KOEFLER, 4 Henry DURR, 5 Shane CASSIDY, 6 Ollie ANNIS (2 Arran MAPLESTONE 85’), 7 Jamal REINERS (11 Jakub SKLENAR 80’), 8 Josh WHITMORE, 10 Andy HIGGINS, 12 Billy QUINNCROFT, 13 Tommy AMPHLETT, 14 Ewan FAWCETT – Subs not used: RGK George JACKSON, 9 Bayley BROWN-MONTGOMERY, 15 Charlie KENNA
Perth SC: GK Francis SOALE, 2 Alex SILLA, 4 Thomas SOUTHGATE, 5 Niccolò SABATINI, 9 Gustavo CATARCIONE (7 Alex JOVIC 71’), 12 Jordan DE LEO, 14 Kristian SANTICH, 16 Kieran COLWELL, 17 Frank FURFARO (11 Matthew MILENKOVIC 62’), 18 Michael DOMFEH, 20 Paul ZIMARINO – Subs not used: RGK Dejan ALEKSIC, 6 Harley ORR, 15 Leigh MORGAN - Red cards: Sabatini 69’ - Referee: Josh Nixon
8.6.2019
COCKBURN WIN IT FOR DEREK COMBE
Cockburn City's recent good form has continued after a strong 4-1 win against Sorrento at Dalmatinac Park in a somber day for the home side, with a minute’s silence held prior to kick off for long time sponsor and club man Derek Combe who passed away last week. Daniel Dols gave the hosts the lead on the half hour, before Jack Salter levelled for Sorrento 15 minute from time. But Hasani Sinclair regained the lead sixty seconds later, before further goals from Daniel Robinson and another from Sinclair sealed the victory.
“I thought it was a deserved win, it was just one of those games where we all had to dig in and get the job done,” defender Hayden Stevens said. “Everyone did their jobs on the day, from us boys at the back to the boys up top who took their chances when they came. Obviously, there was a little more in it for us as Derek passing away during the week so the boys were keen to get the job done. It was a whole team effort, everyone defended as a team and were desperate at both ends of the park both defending and attacking and that ultimately got us over the line.”
Like all the ground, the wet and windy conditions made things difficult for both sides in the first half with chances few and far between, but it was the hosts who did find the opener on the half hour. Dols’ free kick from the edge of the penalty area burst through the wall and past James Morgan. Sorrento pressed late in the half looking for the equaliser but they couldn’t break down a solid Cockburn defence.
The hosts continued to take the game to Cockburn after the break, but couldn’t find the equaliser and it looked like being one of them days for Jamie Harnwell’s side, but on 75 minutes they did find the leveller. A cross into the penalty area found Cameron Teece who headed the ball down to Salter whose half-volley flew past Luke Radonich. But they were level for just 60 seconds, Cameron Edwards’ corner found Sinclair, and the American made no mistake from close-range.
Sorrento went in search of another equaliser but they were caught out again on 82 minutes, when Cockburn added a third. A free kick into the penalty area wasn’t dealt with by Sorrento and Robinson made them pay, his shot on the turn from the edge of the box gave Morgan no chance. The visitors pushed men forward looking to get into the game and were caught out on the counter attack with Sinclair racing one-on-one with Morgan and rounding the Sorrento custodian and rolling the ball into the net.
Cockburn City: GK Luke RADONICH, 3 Daniel DOLS, 5 Julian TELES, 6 Ruben TRISTAO, 8 Cameron EDWARDS, 12 Ryan PRAT (25 Jethro YAMANGE 90’), 14 Hayden STEVENS, 16 Daniel ROBINSON, 18 Adam ANFUSO, 19 Hasani SINCLAIR, 21 Jesse LAZZARO (2 Chris THACKRAY 88’), 23 Riley WOODCOCK (17 Devon GIBSON 71’) - Subs not used: RGK Ben RADONICH, 22 David SANTOS
Sorrento: GK James MORGAN, 2 David STOKOE, 3 Jakub PRAJZA, 5 Scott ROBERTSON (4 Shaun KILKELLY 90+3’), 7 Alex MORGAN, 10 Jordan ROBERTS, 11 Tim HILL, 17 Reece VITTIGLIA (30 Jesse OWUOR, 90+3’), 18 Jordan BROWN, 19 Jack SALTER, 23 Cameron TEECE (14 Mathew McROBERTS 90+3’) - Subs not used: RGK Matthew GIUDICATTI, 20 Jaxon TEMATA - Referee: David Bruce
8.6.2019
BALCATTA TOO STRONG FOR ROCKY
Balcatta continued their good NPL form after a 2-0 win against Rockingham City at SafeRad Stadium, Lark Hill on a wet and windy Saturday afternoon. It was a tight game all afternoon, but two second half goals in as many minutes from Alex Castiello and Ben Pellizzari gave Goran Stajic's side the points and move them up to fourth on the league table.
“The win for us was huge before this week’s break and we wanted to climb back into that top four where we all strongly believe we should be,” Balcatta defender Alex Castiello said. “It has set us up well for our next game against Perth Glory we’re we hope to take the three points and continue our climb. The game itself wasn’t pretty given the conditions but we kept our focus on our objectives and managed to come away with the result we wanted.”
It was a vital game for both sides at either ends of the table but the wind and heavy rain made it difficult to play the attractive football both coaches like their respective teams to play. The visitors played into the wind in the first half and struggled to create any chances, while Rockingham also failed to use the conditions to their advantage. The best chance of the half fell to Balcatta late when Shubham Mokala raced past his marker and into the box, but his shot was wide of the target.
The wind was as strong as ever after the break but thankfully for players and spectators alike the rain eased slightly. Balcatta started to get on top and it wasn’t a surprise when they hit the front on 51 minutes, Castiello finding the target. Then sixty seconds later the visitors added a second. Castiello was the supplier this time, finding Pellizzari who made no mistake. Rockingham pressed late but couldn’t break down a tight Balcatta defence well led by skipper Calum O’Connell
Rockingham City: GK Michael FARMER, 3 Justis BRADLEY, 4 Mitch FIRTH 6 Blake SOKOLOWKI, 9 Sam MCKEARN (8 Jason POTTIER 68’), 10 James HARMER (16 Luke HOBSON 78’), 11 Riley VAN DIEKEN, 12 Lydon HODGKISS, 13 Jarred MORT, 15 Shaz RAMLEE, 23 Victor BRAUNER (14 Ryan KENNEDY 69’) - Subs not used: RGK James GREHAN
Balcatta: GK Lewis ITALIANO, 2 Joseph MARINO, 4 Calum O'CONNELL, 5 Shubham MOKALA (19 Nicholas CHALLOT 64’), 7 Ben PELLIZZARI, 10 Jonathan CORNESS, 12 Roberto DEL BARRELLO, 13 Carmelo GIUFFRE, 15 Calum STOCKS (8 Alex WILD 64’), 16 Alex CASTIELLO, 11 Adam ZIMARINO (18 Dougal KINDNESS, 71’) - Subs not used: RGK David KEENAN, 20 Anthony TOPINI - Referee: Julian Serra
8.6.2019
BAYSWATER CONTINUE TO BUILD MOMENTUM
Bayswater City's NPL season continues to build momentum after a 3-0 win against Inglewood United at Frank Drago Reserve. Gordon Smith gave the hosts the lead early, before Gordano Colli added a second mid-way through. They made the points safe when Kenny Keogh added a third in first half stoppage time against his former club, the win moves Chris Coyne's side up to fifth on the ladder.
“I thought it was a carbon copy of what happened last time we played Inglewood, we played some really good football and managed to get 3-0 up with good play from the striker and midfield lads,” Bayswater defender Adam Tong said. “We were fortunate enough not to concede after some sloppy defending gave them a couple of opportunities which they didn’t take. We came out the second half and against the wind and rain and Inglewood were better in possession but didn’t really create any clear cut chances whilst we could have had a couple more but Alex Dunn saved a couple on the line, So, all in all a clean sheet and scoring three against a side inform was a great boost for us as we go into next week’s Cup semi which I’m sure will be a belter.”
The visitors went close to the opener on nine minutes, Chok Dau’s shot stung the palms of Bayswater keeper Devon Spence. But two minutes later it was the hosts who opened the scoring. A long ball over the top by Ryan Pearson sent Smith clear of the offside trap, and the Scotsman finished clinically past Dunn. They doubled their lead on 23 minutes, Colli and Smith combining, with Colli firing home at the second attempt, after his first shot was parried by Dunn. Inglewood still looked dangerous going forward and former Bayswater striker Brian Woodall and Dau went close, before Woodall pounced on a mistake by Brent Griffiths but his curling effort drifted the wrong side of the upright. But in first half stoppage time Bayswater added a third, Pearson picking out Keogh, and he fired home from a tight angle against his former club.
Inglewood were on the front foot after half time, but lacked quality in the final third. They did create the better chances early in the half, Dau’s goal bound shot was blocked, before Jason Barrera’s shot was well saved by the alert Spence. With Inglewood pushing men forward Bayswater almost added a fourth late, Colli cut the ball back to the striker, but he failed to find the target, but it didn’t matter to much as the damage had already been done.
Bayswater City: GK Devon SPENCE, 3 Jack ALLEN, 11 Ryan PEARSON, 14 Sean MCMANUS (2 Declan HARGREAVES 71’), 17 Daryl NICOL (24 Jake SARDELIC 80’), 18 Brent GRIFFITHS, 19 Gordon SMITH (9 Gustavo GIRON-MARULANDA 61’), 20 Giordano COLLI, 21 Kenny KEOGH, 27 Ross MILLARD, 30 Adam TONG - Subs not used: RGK Sam REILLY, 13 Trent KAY
Inglewood United: GK Alex DUNN, 2 Alex ISHIDA-LIVINGS, 3 David CYRUS, 4 Scott BLACKMORE (6 Miki VUJACIC 65’), 7 Hamza HINA, 8 Jason BARRERA, 9 Chok DAU, 10 Anthony BAFOBUSHA, 11 Harry EVANS (12 Brendan ITALIANO 73’), 17 Mark BARNETT, 23 Brian FARRELL - Subs not used: RGK Josiah GODFREY, 13 Sitale MOOTHEN - Referee: Matthew Southern
8.6.2019
REDS TOO STRONG FOR LIONS
Armadale have won back to back NPL WA games for the first time since the opening two games of the season after a 3-0 win against bottom of the table Stirling Lions at Macedonia Park on Saturday afternoon. Youngster Chad Nilson opened the scoring early, before the Lions were reduced to ten men with Michael Wantee sent off. Nilson doubled the Reds lead on the hour, before Michael Lawson wrapped up the points from the penalty spot seven minutes later.
“The first half was hectic and they (Stirling) swarmed at us, pushing plenty players forward, but we defended well and used the space well to get our goal,” Reds Coach John O’Reilly said. “After the silly red card, we then had a chance to keep ball and wait for more chances. The second half was a mature performance and we deserved the win and full credit to our squad of players, really pleased for Chad scoring his first goals in senior football in only his second game.”
The rain was pouring at kick off and it was a perfect start for the home side, Ali Nazary’s low cross was well finished by Nilson at the back post after only five minutes. Nazary went close to doubling their lead on 20 minutes, his mazy run ended with a shot but Lions custodian Ryan Montgomery produced a stunning save to deny the striker. Stirling thought they had found the equaliser when Wantee’s header crashed off the crossbar and down on the line.
Referee Michal Jasinski and his assistant deemed the ball hadn’t crossed the line, much to the disappointment of the striker and the Lions supporters. Wantee was injured in the incident, colliding with Reds keeper Sam Hutchings, and when receiving treatment, he kicked out at Armadale defender Josh Kuser and referee Jasinski saw the incident and showed the striker a straight red card.
With a man advantage Armadale dominated the second half and Nilson made it 2-0 on the hour, finishing clinically after being picked out by Sam Garces. The points were made safe for the Reds when they added a third seven minutes later, Jasinski pointed to the spot after spotting a foul on Nilson by Dhhors Chol. Lawson stepped up to score from the resulting penalty for his fourth goal in three games. But at the final whistle it was the Red Army celebrating the three points.
Armadale SC: GK Sam HUTCHINGS, 2 Josh KUSER (22 Ryan HASLETT 31’), 4 Nathan COSTELLO, 5 Ali NAZARY, 6 Joel SANDERSON, 8 Michael LAWSON, 9 Uriel MACIAS, 10 Sam GARCES, 11 Chad NILSON (21 Abdul OSMAN 80), 12 Dannie RICHMAN, 13 Blake ADAMS – Subs not used: RGK Blake HANSHELL, 14 Bradley GREIPL, 16 Jason PEPPIN
Stirling Lions: GK Ryan MONTGOMERY, 5 Steven MCDONALD, 6 Dhhors CHOL, 8 Dean CUMMINGS, 9 Zdenek BEZDEK, 10 Danny JONES (17 Andrew MARANTA 83’), 11 Michael WANTEE, 12 Griffin BECSI, 15 Michael GAMA (2 Mile PETKOVSKI 38’), 16 Renee KIESA (4 Josh ANASMO 64’), 18. Gino HAMPSHIRE – Subs not used: 3 Kadyn WATT, 20 Daniel MARQUES - Red cards: Wantee 30’ - Referee: Michal Jasinski
8.6.2019
ATHENA GIVE GLORY SIX OF THE BEST
Floreat Athena jumped to second spot on the NPL WA table after thrashing co-tenants Perth Glory 6-0 at E&D Litis Stadium. First half goals to Jon Stynes and Jesse Fuller had Floreat on their way and second half goals from Nick Ambrogio 2, Tyler Holden and Chris Saldaris gave Garret McDuling’s side a comprehensive victory. “We worked all week on a game plan against Glory, and luckily for us it worked really well,” Floreat defender Dennis Galan said.
“The boys worked hard not letting them play out as easily, and to press higher up the pitch and seemed to work. We’ve also been working on our set pieces a lot lately and think three of the six goals were from set pieces, so it’s good to see what we put in practice worked out on games days. Great win for the lads as it was a six pointer, so we now go second and head into the semi-final of the cup with great confidence and momentum.”
The weather in the Perth CBD was horrendous, with rain and strong winds making football difficult, but it didn’t stop Floreat taking the lead on nine minutes. A ball into the box found Chris Saldaris, whose header was well saved by Nik Speca, but the rebound fell kindly for Jon Stynes, who swept the ball home. Glory looked for an immediate response and Ethan Brooks raced down the left and his shot on the run from a tight angle was pushed around the post by the alert Jason Saldaris.
Moments later Gomo Dukuly and Gabriel Popovic combined, but Popovic couldn’t keep his shot from the edge of the box down, and then Dukuly effort from long-range was well claimed by Saldaris low. But despite creating those chances it was Floreat who doubled their advantage on the stroke of half time. Dean Evans' corner to the back post found Jesse Fuller, the defender made no mistake heading past Speca.
The rain was heavier after the break and Glory's hopes of comeback were somewhat washed out when another Evans corner was headed home by Nick Ambrogio to make it 3-0. Second half substitute Tyler Holden made it 4-0 when he fired home at the far post, before Chris Saldaris added the fifth shortly. They added a sixth deep into stoppage time with Ambrogio claimed his second, volleying home a cross from Holden.
Perth Glory: GK Nicolas SPECA, 2 Zayd FARAH, 7 Ethan BROOKS, 9 Gomo DUKULY, 8 Henry HORE, 4 Luca BODNAR (22 Alessandro CIRCATI 45’), 6 Josh SAMSON, 5 Nicholas WALSH, , 10 Trent OSTLER, 11 Gabriel POPOVIC (15 Ciaran BRAMWELL 57’), 3 Joshua RAWLINS - Sub not used: 26 Jacob RANGE, 17 Jack LEECH, 12 Jordan ABRAHAMS
Floreat Athena: GK Jason SALDARIS, 2 Marco SANTALUCIA, 6 Jesse FULLER, 8 Jon STYNES (3 Tristian COLLI 70’), 9 Robert PETKOV, 15 Christopher SALDARIS, 17 Dean EVANS, 18 Phillip ARNOLD (33 Tyler HOLDEN 58’), 10 Nicholas AMBROGIO, 11 Dennis GALAN, 16 Ryan MALTON - Subs not used: RGK Jordan BARBAS, 4 Adrian MADASCHI, 31 Jacob STUBBERFIELD - Referee: Steven Gregory
8.6.2019
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND TEN – REVIEW
Gwelup Croatia closed the gap on the State League Division One leaders after a hard fought 3-1 win against Olympic Kingsway at Wishart Street. It was tight contest early, but the home side suffered a huge blow on 14 minutes when skipper James Sammut was carried off with a suspected broken leg – Everyone at Footballwa.net wish James a speedy recovery. The visitors went close to the lead mid-way through the half, but Gwelup keeper Riley Stephenson produced a superb double save to deny Charlie Breen and Elliott Tattersall. But the home side made the break through on the hour, Ellis Healing’s curing free kick took a slight deflection and beat Duncan Lennon-Black. They doubled their lead on 72 minutes, former Olympic striker Danny Hodgson was brought down in the box by Tattersall and referee Josh Mannella pointed straight to the spot. Healing stepped up and coolly converted from the resulting penalty. The visitors weren’t finished and Tattersall pulled on back four minutes from time to set up a grandstand finish, but Gwelup regained their two-goal advantage sixty seconds later Healing finding David Heagney who made no mistake. “After back to back draws in the league it was great getting back to winning ways against an inform Kingsway side in very difficult conditions,” Gwelup coach Taki Nicolaidis said. “The win however was soured by the loss of James Sammut who will miss the remainder of the season with a broken leg.”
Western Knights missed a chance to leap frog Ashfield at the top of the table after letting the lead slip late to lose 3-2 to a resurgent Mandurah City at Securitas Protect Stadium. The hosts were ahead when a clearance to edge of box, dropped to Lee Stewart who beat the defender and scored across keeper. But the Knights were level when Andrija Jukic finished well with a shot from outside the box. The visitors turned it around to lead at half time when Dean Hurley was brought down and Hurley picked himself up to score the resulting penalty. But the home side were level four minutes from time when a through ball found Joe O’Brien on the left of the penalty area ns his half volley flew into the top corner. It looked like the points would be shared but in the last minute of the game, O’Brien eased past his marker on the edge of the penalty area and rifled the ball home to win it. “Two wins on the bounce does a lot for our league position and to win a game in that fashion, in those conditions was fantastic for the lads,” Mandurah Coach Alex Grayson said. “The past two years have seen us lose games when being ahead so we were buzzing to be on the other side of a dramatic finish for once. Hopefully we can take this run of form into Joondalup United next week and look positively to the turn of the year.”
In other games Fremantle City jumped to second on the table after a 2-0 win against Subiaco at Hilton Park. Angel Andres opening the scoring for the home side before Emmanuel Kenkpeyeng added a second to secure the win. Forrestfield United are back in the winner’s circle after a comfortable 4-0 win against Joondalup United at Hartfield Park. The home side were ahead when a good run down the right by Jordan Hart saw his driven cross rocket into the roof of the net with the Joondalup keeper wrongfooted. It was 2-0 when Stephen O'Leary headed home Daryl Platten’s cross. It was 3-0 after good play by Justin Ngeny, who drew the keeper out of position and he squared the ball to Mella Loding who scored in an empty net. The icing was put on the cake with a fourth when Platten’s perfectly measured found Ngeny who finished clinically. “With so many players out unavailable it was really pleasing to see the squad step up in such a big game. Games against Joondalup have always been difficult in the past and we didn't expect anything other. The conditions didn't exactly suit us either but we rose to the occasion and produced a fantastic performance,” Forrestfield winger Rhys Loxley said. “It was equally pleasing to see youngsters such as Ishmael Blackwood and Justin Ngeny stepping up and adapting to first team football. We have begun to build a bit of momentum and with a few more wins, we should hopefully find ourselves back at the right end of the table.”
In the final game UWA Nedlands moved up to sixth place on the table after a solid 4-1 win against Morley Windmills at the UWA Sports Park. The home side played against the heavy rain and wind in the first half and were rewarded after only two minutes when they were awarded a penalty for handball. But Conor Devlin saw his spot kick saved by the Morley keeper. But Devlin did open the scoring on 18 minutes, with a neat chip from the edge of the box. Morley hit back and were level on the half hour, but UWA regained the lead on the stroke of half time, Tim Robertson’s on target. The hosts continued to dominate and Robertson shot hit the post, but they did make it 3-1 on the hour, Lloyd Prout on target, before Robertson added his second to seal the win, heading home Bryce Conway’s corner. “Overall we managed to play our brand of football we missed in the past few weeks on the weekend,” Michael Janssen said. “It is promising to be back to our football with the team picking up the important things from the training week. Now we are looking forward to playing Western Knights game next Saturday and continue our good form.” – Ashfield had the bye this weekend.
8.6.2019
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND NINE – REVIEW
State League Division Two league leaders Quinns FC maintained their five-point lead at the top of the table after a 3-0 win against Dianella White Eagles at Gumblossom Park. They were ahead when a free kick out wide was played short by Joe McQuade to Josh Booysen who laid it back to McQuade who whipped the ball in first time and Jamie Stewart was first to the ball and his diving header from five meters gave the keeper no chance. It was 2-0 when McQuade found space in the middle of the park and his long-range shot beat the keeper, despite him getting a hand to it. The points were wrapped up when Booysen's long-range shot deflected off a Dianella defender and it looped over the keeper. “It was a tough game in tough conditions but a massive win and another clean sheet,” Quinns keeper James Bosdet said. “Were playing well and taking each game as it comes, but we are aware there is still a long way to go in the season but hopefully we can continue the run.”
Murdoch University Melville are hot on the heels of Quinns after a hard fought 3-2 win against Swan United at Francis Street. The visitors were ahead on the quarter hour, with Declan Tanna scoring after a neat one-two with Daniel Davey. But the hosts levelled when Brian Patterson's corner was headed home by Anthony Mihalj. It was a tight game played in rain and wind, which deteriorated as the game went on, but fifteen minutes from time MUM regained the lead. Tanna crossed to the back post was back healed by Sasha Slav and the unmarked Mark Lucas made no mistake from close-range. Lucas was then brought down in the box and referee Brendon Skinner pointed to the spot. Broden Brown stepped up scored the resulting penalty and it looked game over, but Swan had other ideas. They reduced the margin three minutes from time when a long clearance from Joey Smith found Jay Lang who made no mistake. It set up a tense final few minutes but MUM hung on for the win. “It was a very tough game in tough conditions and on their tight pitch against a team who play very direct, and it was raining sideways at times reminded me of playing back in England,” Mark Lucas joked. “We were dealt a blow on Saturday when our club captain and leader Scott Campbell couldn’t play against his old club due to sickness. “Gavin and Danny put on fantastic training sessions at Melville at the new facilities we have, and this is really starting to show in some of our games. We will work hard again this week at training ahead of a very tough match against Dianella on Saturday.”
Wanneroo City moved into fourth place on the table after a hard fought 3-2 win against Curtin University at Wanneroo Reserve. It was the home side who hit the front, Gareth Lloyd's corner was headed home by Jean-Marc D'Avrey. It was almost two moments later but Jack Hailstones long-range free kick crashed off the crossbar and away to safety. But they did double their advantage before half time, Hailstones good work on the right ended with a ball into Alec Robinson, who finished clinically. But the visitors were back in the game when Mark Donnelly bundled the ball home after Wanneroo failed to clear Kye Middleton’s corner. But Wanneroo soon restored their two goal advantage Hailstones was again the provider finding Marc-D'Avrey who scored his second. Robinson then saw his long-range shot rattle the crossbar as Wanneroo looked to finish the game off. But 10 minutes from time Curtin pulled one back with Donnelly’s looping header from Dilip Masrangi cross set up a frantic finish, but they could find the equaliser. "It's been a bizarre season so far for us, and we had to make three changes yet again to the starting 11 from the week before, but I thought the first half was probably the best football we’ve played all season," Wanneroo coach Tim Kantor said. "We conceded a goal from a set piece late in the game, which made the last 5-10 minutes interesting but we hung on for a well-deserved three points."
Gosnells City are back in the winner’s circle after a 3-1 win against Shamrock Rovers at Harold Rossiter Reserve. The visitors were ahead when the ball dropped just outside the penalty spot and Scott Pereira smashed it home. They increased their lead when Pereira got on the end of a cross to finish well, before Josh Wade added a third from the penalty spot. Rovers fought the game out and were rewarded ten minutes from time when Lachy Parker fired home from the spot, but it was too little too late. "I was an important three points as we had only taken one from six previously," Gosnells Coach Marc Anthony said. "So, to get back on the winning trail was vital for us." In the final game Balga have beaten Kelmscott Roos 1-0 at Princess Road Reserve. The only goal of the game came just after half time with Tyron Torre on target. "It was an extremely hard-fought win by the boys in testing conditions," Balga coach Aleks Vrteski said. "We were disappointed as a group to drop points in the two previous games and wanted to put things right and we did."
7.6.2019
NPL-WA ROUND TWELVE PREVIEW
It's week 12 of the NPL WA and the Footballwa.net 'Match of the Round' takes us to E&D Litis Stadium where Perth Glory host co-tenants Floreat Athena. (3.00pm) Both sides were winners in the last round, Floreat holding off a fast finishing Rockingham City, while Glory proved to strong for Inglewood United. The last time these two sides met each other at the venue was in week one this season, with Floreat winning a tight one 2-1. Goals to Jonathon Stynes and Robert Petkov either side of a strike from Gomo Dukuly ensured Floreat kept the winning feeling alive, despite a red card to skipper Dean Evans.
It was a busy weekend for Floreat, and after their win at Rockingham they travelled to Balcatta in the FFA Cup Quarter-final and came home with a hard fought 1-0 win, and skipper Dean Evans said it was two tough games, and they are delighted to win both. "Yes, it was two tough away games definitely but we needed to bounce back after a disappointing result against Stirling, and we know Rockingham play a good brand of football and credit to them,” he explained. “I think we started off quite slow and scored against the run of play which settled us a bit better. We were quite efficient in taking our chances so we are extremely happy to come away with 3 points after a difficult away game. We had to regroup knowing we were missing a few bodies for the cup game against Balcatta. We knew it was going to be another tough game but I thought we managed it quite well, probably needed the second goal to kill the game off but we defended really well and we deserve our spot in the semi-final.”
Evans who played for the Glory between in the A-League and the Youth league for Glory, said Saturday will be another hard-fought game, and will be their third game in seven days, but one they are looking forward too. "Glory have matured a lot under Richy Garcia and obviously play a good style of football keeping the ball really well but also turning possession into goals so we know if we give them that luxury to play it will make for a pretty difficult afternoon,” the midfielder said. “I think both teams going into the game know that they can create a three-point gap depending on who takes the points so it sets up to be a good contest but I have every confidence in our boys to get the job done and close the gap on Perth.”
Last week’s win against Inglewood took Glory to second on the table, ahead of Saturday's opponents on goal difference, and keeper Nic Speca said it was good team performance from the whole side. "We went into the game very focused because we knew we had to win to go to second and overtake them but most importantly we wanted to win because we didn’t have the best run the last two weeks with only racking up a point so we knew we had to perform and win,” Speca said. “We got off to a sloppy start conceding off a rebound from the penalty which was a cheap goal, but I felt like our team reacted and after that the boys switched on and we were playing the way we wanted to play and that’s what made us get to the 3-1 win.”
Speca knows Floreat have a strong squad and is expecting Saturday to be a huge challenge, but he said they are ready for the challenge, and reversing the result from their first meeting this season. "We definitely know they (Floreat) are a quality side and physical but if us boys perform how we know we can play and capitalise our goal scoring opportunities and defend well there is no reason for our glory side to not come away with a win,” he said. “They are equal points with us on the ladder and it’s going to be an tough and exciting game this weekend, but hopefully we come away with a good team performance and the three points.”
Armadale moved clear of the relegation zone with an important win at second bottom ECU Joondalup last round, and this week they take on another team struggling at the wrong end of the table, with Stirling Lions making the trip to Alfred Skeet Reserve. Michael Lawson’s winner last week broke a nine-game run without a win for John O'Reilly's side, but they were worthy winners. New American striker Uriel Marcias was good on his starting debut, while youngster Chad Nielson and skipper Nathan Costello where outstanding, and they will need to show the same intensity again this week. The Lions were edged out at home in the local derby against Balcatta, but there has been an improvement in recent weeks under new coach Trevor Morgan. Big defender Steve McDonald has fitting in well at the heart of the Lions defence, and there were good signs last week with skipper Dean Cummings returning from injury off the bench. They need more goals and Morgan will be looking for Danny Jones and Michael Wantee to do that on Saturday, a win would close the gap on the rest of the league, but they will be without defender Darren O’Riordan who is suspended.
Bayswater City suffered their fourth defeat of the season last week at Cockburn, and they will be looking to bounce back when they host Inglewood United at Frank Drago Reserve on Saturday. Chris Coyne's side sits seventh on the table after the loss on Saturday, but they did manage to move into the FFA Cup Semi-Final after beating Perth SC on Monday. Daryl Nicol is finding his goal scoring form from last season, while Jason Mirco and Ryan Pearson have been good in recent weeks. New signing Sean McManus made his debut at Cockburn and will be hoping to keep his spot in the talented Bayswater starting-line up. Inglewood lost for the first time in seven weeks against Glory last weekend, but Andres Oliveira side head into this one with a good record at the venue. Chok Dau has been the star in recent weeks, and he will need to be at his best again on Saturday, while skipper David Cyrus and Mark Barnett have formed a good partnership at the back, and there will have their hands full with Nicol and Gordon Smith in good form. Sam Riak will miss this one for Inglewood, the midfielder is serving a one-match suspension.
League leaders Perth SC hit the road this weekend, when they visit the ECU Football Stadium to take on the struggling ECU Joondalup. It's been a poor season to date for Dale McCulloch's side, and it doesn't get any easier hosts the leaders. They are on a poor run of form which has seen them win once in 11 games, the latest defeat a 0-2 loss at home against Armadale. Like all the teams at the bottom of the table, ECU are lacking goals, and they need to turn that around sooner rather than later. Skipper Johnny Perkins produced three or four outstanding saves last week, and he will need to do the same again this week if they to upset the leaders. Perth are still unbeaten in the league this season, but they did draw in the opening round against the Jacks. Matthew Milenkovic has been in great form for Ramon Falzon's side, while Michael Domfeh has been on fire in front of goal, and is top scorer for his new club, and his partnership with Gustavo Catarcione is one Joondalup will need to stop. They did suffer their first loss of the season in the cup on Monday, but they should have too much firepower for the struggled Joondalup side in this one.
Cockburn City have found their straps in the last few weeks, and last week’s home win against Bayswater moved them level with them on the table. They are back at Dalmatinac Park this week when they take on Sorrento, in the battle of the birds. Sorrento won through to the FFA Cup Semi-Finals last week, but were edged out by Perth SC in the league last week, and will want to bounce back in this one. Jack Salter and Cameron Teece have formed a good partnership, and Jordan Roberts Reece Vittiglia and Scott Witschge continue to perform well, but keeper James Morgan's form has been outstanding, and he will go close to the keeper of the season if he keeps his form up. Cockburn bounce back to winning form last week against Bayswater, with Daniel Robinson the star bagging a hat-trick. Riley Woodcock and Hayden Stevens have both settled in well at the club while Hasani Sinclair's pace has caused problems for defenders all season. Scott Miller will be hoping midfielder Cameron Edwards is back this week after missing last week’s win with injury.
Rockingham City have been dragged into the relegation zone in recent weeks, but they will be looking to address that on Saturday when they host Balcatta at SafeRad Stadium, Lark Hill. The loss to Floreat Athena on Saturday was their fifth league game without a win, and coach Cameron Lord will be looking for a solid performance in this one. Skipper James Harmer continues to lead from the front, while James Millard and Lydon Hodgkiss have both been good, and Lord will be hoping youngster Riley van Dieken is fit after a nasty head injury against Floreat. Balcatta have been in good form in the league and last week’s win at Stirling moved them to fifth, and they have won their last two games. Goran Stajic's side are hard to beat, with a solid spine which includes keeper Lewis Italiano, John Kearney, Alex Castiello and Gavin Knight, while youngsters Nic Challot and Shubham Mokala both impressed in the cup defeat against Floreat on Monday. This one will be a tight affair, but with home ground advantage Rockingham should take the points, but I won’t bet against Balcatta.
7.6.2019
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND TEN – PREVIEW
It's week ten in the State League Division One, and this week’s Footballwa.net "Match of the Round' takes us to Wishart Street where Gwelup Croatia entertain Olympic Kingsway. (3.00pm) Olympic leapfrogged Gwelup after last week’s big win against Joondalup United, while Gwelup were held to a draw at Fremantle City, so with both sides equal on points in fourth and fifth respectively, this one is vital to both sides as they look to keep tabs on the leaders. Last time they met was in round 19 2017 in Division Two, when Gwelup ran out 2-0 winners, in the season they won promotion.
Gwelup's Danny Hodgson said Saturday was a disappointing result and two points dropped, but it could be a good point come the end of the season. "Yes it was disappointing to get the draw, and we had lots of possession but couldn’t finish the chances we had,” he said. “I think they had one chance all game and score but that’s football.” Hodgson will come up against his former on Saturday, the striker won the Division Two Golden Boot at Olympic last season, and he said it will be another tough game. "Saturday should be a great game, as Kingsway have been scoring a lot of goals so it should be an interesting game,” he explained. “We know what we have to do, we have two games in hand which if we win them, we go top so we know what we have to do. If we don’t win on the weekend then we start to slide away so I think this is a big game in our season hopefully we can come away with the three points.”
Olympics’ coach Gary Williams said the win against Joondalup was a good performance and he said it was good to see youngster Charlie Breen bag a brace in the 7-2 win. “Yes, it was a good team performance against Joondalup United, and I asked the players for a reaction after our performance against Fremantle the week before and I got one,” he said. “We started well, scored a number of goals, created numerous chances but conceded two goals which is an area we need to improve on. Charlie had a good game, he scored two, won two penalties and assisted Eraste for his goal. Charlie is young and still has a lot to learn but he is moving in the right direction and I am sure there is more to come from him as the season progresses.” Williams said Saturday is a massive game for both clubs and he said they are ready for the challenge. “We have a massive game this week, and they (Gwelup) have a number of players who are good enough to play in the NPL, so it’s no surprise they are competing at the top bearing in mind their player group and budget,” he explained. “It will be a tough competitive encounter for us this week and will be a great test for our young group but these are the types of games we would like to be involved in every week.”
In other games Forrestfield United and Joondalup United will be looking to bounce back from defeats last week when they meet at Hartfield Park. Likewise, Subiaco when they make the trip to Hilton Park to take on Fremantle City, whose draw against Gwelup moved them to third on the table. UWA Nedlands had the bye last week and host Morley Windmills at the UWA Sports Park. In the final game second placed Western Knights make the trip south to take on Mandurah City at Securitas Protect Stadium. Both sides are coming off wins last week, the Knights jumped to second after a 2-0 win against Forrestfield, while Mandurah won for only the second time this season with a big win at Morley. Knights defender Tom Kennedy said the win against Forrestfield was a good performance and kept the pressure on the leaders.
"I thought it was a convincing result for us, and our first clean sheet of the year as well,” he said. “Getting the two-goal lead early on in the game allowed us to control large portions and obviously once the red card went against Forry it was always going to be an uphill battle for them. To their credit they fought to the final whistle and made us work for it towards the end, they showed a lot of character especially considering they’ve a lot out injured.” A trip to Mandurah is never easy but Kennedy said they are playing with confidence at the moment and will go there looking for the three points. "It’s always tough going down there and there’s a lot of experience and quality in their squad so we’re not expecting an easy encounter,” he said. “There’s no doubt we will be up for the challenge, training has been intense as usual and we are treating every game as a final. We know a win this week will see us top as Ashfield have the bye, and as a club that’s where we aim to be, so it should be a great game.” - League leaders Ashfield have the bye this weekend.
7.6.2019
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND NINE – PREVIEW
It's week nine of the State League Division Two, and we head to Francis Street for the Footballwa.net 'Match of the Round' where Swan United entertain Murdoch University Melville. (3.00pm) Second placed MUM fought out a win against Joondalup City last week, while fourth placed Swan scored late to draw against Balga. The last time these side met at the venue was in the final game last season when MUM ran out 3-1 winners. A brace from Christian Long and another from Rion Robertson gave the visitors a 3-0 lead, while Gavin Knight scored a late consolation goal from the penalty spot in the final minute.
Swan midfielder Jay Lang said the draw last week against Balga was disappointing, but to hit back late to earn a point was important. "Yes, a little disappointing to draw at home as I felt we had enough chances to win the game,” he said. “However, we did have a few boys missing and we had a little bit of disruption before the game with the team having to change just before kick-off so I guess under the circumstances we’ll take the draw and try to get back to winning ways this weekend.” Lang said MUM are one of the form teams in the league at the moment and will be a big challenge, but they need to get back to winning ways on Saturday to stay in touch with the leaders. “Yes, they have been travelling really well so far and we had a very close game with them earlier in the season so we’re expecting another difficult encounter against them on Saturday,” he said. “We just need to focus on ourselves and continue trying to pick up points and aim to bridge the gap between ourselves and the teams above us.”
MUM midfielder Scott Campbell said the win last week was a good, but conceding two late goals took the gloss off the three points. "Overall it was a decent performance, and I thought we started really well, our intensity was good, our press worked and we were able to force Joondalup into turnovers in our attacking half. That lead to some good chances in front of goal and we managed to take a 3-0 lead inside the first 20 minutes,” he explained. “We scored again early in the second half and were looking comfortable, but Joondalup then scored a good goal from distance and were awarded a penalty a minute later which they converted. So, after conceding two quick goals we were a little rattled and Joondalup had us in the back foot but eventually we took back control, managed the game well and were comfortable for the last 15 minutes.”
Campbell returns to his former club this week, and he said they are always tough to beat at Francis Street, but they go there full of confidence and looking for the three points. "It is an important game this weekend. We have had a decent start to the season and need a win to keep pace with teams at the top of the table,” he said. “We played Swan earlier this year and came out with a 2-1 defeat, and we were far from our best that day, so we hope to put in a better performance this weekend and come away with another three points.”
In other games Shamrock Rovers host Gosnells City at Harold Rossiter Reserve, Joondalup City entertain Canning City at the Iluka Sports Complex, while Wanneroo City and Curtin University meet at Wanneroo Reserve. League leaders Quinns welcome Dianella White Eagles to Gumblossom Park, looking to maintain their five-point lead at the top of the table. In the final game Kelmscott Roos make the trip to Princess Road Reserve to take on Balga. Balga conceded late at Swan last week to draw, while Kelmscott bounced back from defeat in round seven with a 2-0 win at Shamrock. “I thought we started well and got a goal mid-way through the first half which settled us,” Kelmscott striker Asa Sippits said.
“We created a lot more chances and should have put the game to bed before half time, but Shamrock came out better second half but our keeper and back four were solid. We got the second goal and that killed the game really, it was a professional performance from us to get the win but we know we can play a lot better and put more goals away.” Sippits is expecting a tough game against Balga, who he believes will be at the top end of the table come season end. “We know Balga are a good team and will be up there end of the season, we’ve played them earlier in the season and they were lucky to come away with a point after scoring last kick of the game,” he said. “But we knew they could play much better and this time around the boys will be switched on for the full 90+ minutes and hopefully show everyone that this year we are going to be a real contender for the play offs.”
7.6.2019
BELT UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION - ROUND EIGHT PREVIEW
It's week eight of the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division and this week Footballwa.net 'Match of the Round' takes us to Chichester Park where league leaders Kingsley take on fifth placed Wembley Downs. (3.00pm) Both sides are coming off big wins last week, Kingsley beating Kwinana United 5-1, while Wembley put eight goals past Ellenbrook United. The last time these sides met in the league at the venue was in round four last season when Kingsley ran out 2-1 winners. Mark King gave Kingsley an early lead but Wembley hit back on the hour Blaine Slater scoring. Then eight minutes from time the home side won it. Luke Coltman’s corner was headed against the crossbar by Sean Johnson, and Jesse Higgins fired home the rebound.
Wembley skipper Jay McDonald said they are starting to play well, although the win last week was against the bottom side, but to score eight has given them confidence going forward. "To be fair our form has been a bit up and down so was a pleasing performance and it’s always nice to bang in a few goals,” he said. “Not sure what we can take from it as Ellenbrook are struggling at the moments, but as you say it should give our lads some confidence.” McDonald knows a trip to the leaders is a tough assignment, but he said they are looking forward to the challenge. "We’re going into a tough run of games now against teams above or around us, and while we competed we barely got any points last season against these sides,” he explained. “First up Kingsley, Dimma and Monty have been ruthless with their recruitment for this season so it’s no secret of what the club’s intentions are. We’ve always had good battles up at Chichester and Mike will ensure we go there with a strong squad mentality and back each other up for the full 90 minutes.”
Kingsley striker Josh Waldock bagged a couple last week in the come-from-behind win against Kwinana, but he said despite going down early they were in control for most of the game. "I thought it was a game of two halves in my eyes, but we fought back to get the three points,” he said. “We know the game last weekend wasn’t our best performance, but to win the league you have to grind results out which I thought we did well.” Waldock said with the league being so tight this season you have to be on your game for 90 minutes, and he is expecting a fired-up Wembley to be a tough challenge on Sunday. "Wembley will be another test for us and we will need to turn up for both halves,” he explained. “It’s going to be wet so won’t be the perfect football conditions but I’m sure it will be a great game to watch.”
In other games Joondalup United and Belmont Villa meet at Beldon Park, both looking to bounce back from defeats last week. United pushed Jaguar all the way but went down 0-2, while Villa slumped to a heavy defeat at home to Leeming. Second placed North Perth United return home this week when they entertain Kwinana United at Woodville Reserve looking to keep the pressure on the league leaders, while Leeming Strikers head north to take on Ellenbrook United at Jack Mann Oval
In the final game Quinns make the trip to Carine Open Space to take on Hamersley Rovers, without coach Darren Kay, who has stood down due to personal reasons. They will be led by new coach Ian Garnish who is hoping to keep Kay’s good work going. “It’s very sad news with Darren leaving, he will be missed,” Garnish said. “He has left this group in a great position and Robbie Kelly and I will continue to take the squad and proof we belong in this division.”
Injuries have hit them hard this season and after back-to-back defeats against the top two sides Garnish said they are hoping to bounce back this week. “The last two games against last year’s champions and arguably this year’s favourites has been tough for our side coming at a time when we had a heavy injury list,” he said. “We are now coming out of this and looking to field a strong side this coming week and a chance to bounce back. But there are no easy games in this division, so we need to continue to play our style of football and with few players back from injury this will help our side.”
7.6.2019
KERR’S WORLD CUP CHALLENGE
Having taken incredible strides, but with still more to come, the Women’s World Cup kicks off in Paris this weekend amid great anticipation. France plays host to the 2019 tournament, beginning with a sold-out opening match against South Korea on Saturday.
Records will be broken. Indefatigable Brazilian midfielder Formiga will become the first footballer - male or female - to play at seven World Cups. Canadian veteran Christine Sinclair needs three goals to become the sport’s greatest ever international goalscorer.
And a new champion will be crowned. France could become the first nation to unite the men’s and women’s World Cups by winning on home soil, and Les Bleus are one of two favourites to do so.
“Last time in Canada, to me, just didn’t have the same buzz around as Germany (in 2011) did,” Matildas captain Sam Kerr said. “I’m excited to see what France put on for this World Cup and I think it will be the best one I’ve been to yet.”
The other favourites are reigning champions the United States of America. “They will be up there,” Kerr continued. “I would love to see France go as far as us to the final but you can’t go past the USA and also Germany.”
Australia hope to make a splash at the tournament, both on and off the pitch. Off the pitch, they’re leading a push for improved prize money for female players, with just 7.5 per cent of the men’s 2018 World Cup prize pool on offer.
Under new coach Ante Milicic, the Matildas can be unplayable at their best, attacking with unpredictability and venom. But they can also be susceptible at the back, as recent losses to the Americans and Netherlands have shown.
7.6.2019
SCOTT JOINS WELLINGTON
Wellington Phoenix have snapped up Young Socceroo fullback Walter Scott following his release by A-League Premiers Perth Glory. The 19-year old is Ufuk Talay's second signing after All Whites goalkeeper Stefan Marinovic was announced yesterday.
Scott is the start of a rebuild of the deplenished Phoenix squad after the success of last season. "I have brought in the young full-back to provide depth in the squad as he can play multiple positions across the backline," said Talay.
"Walter is a very talented young player with great potential that I’ve worked with in the Young Socceroos. I believe he has a great attitude and mentality and his style suits the way I want to play this season."
Scott comes in having played under Talay in the Australia Under-20s set-up and is looking forward to the challenge ahead. "Coming to Wellington really excites me as I aim to fight for that starting place every week," said Scott.
"Working under Ufuk (previously) was a real privilege as he’s the type of coach who gives clear direction, instilling a real confidence in his players ... A really positive mindset is something I have always believed in as it drives success on and off the pitch.
"Last year was an excellent season for me being in such a professional environment at Perth but I believe playing time is a priority for me. I have only visited Wellington once and it looked picturesque so I’m looking forward to travelling to my new home and I can’t wait to get started."
4.6.2019
TAGGART READY TO FILL SOCCEROOS' STRIKER VOID
Adam Taggart is confident he can answer the Socceroos' longstanding striking woes after making his long-awaited return to the national team. After five years in the international wilderness, the striker’s selection for Friday's friendly away to South Korea marks his first Socceroos appearance since losing to Spain at the 2014 World Cup.
Form and fitness issues plagued Taggart in the five years since but the 26-year old is now itching to make up for lost time now he's finally fit and firing. Taggart is the only out-and-out striker in Graham Arnold's squad and a strong performance against the country he now lives in will go a long way to cementing his place in future Australia squads.
"It’s an opportunity and definitely one that I want to take as best as I can," Taggart said. "It’s probably the depth that we need in all the positions and these sorts of camps will be really good for that for us players who haven’t been in the national team for quite a while to understand the way the boss likes to work."
Taggart will be looking to rekindle the bright goalscoring hopes he once carried, being the only Socceroo striker currently scoring regularly abroad. He's bagged five goals in 12 games for Korean club Suwon Bluewings since joining from January, providing a bright end to an otherwise turbulent year he describes as "mental".
It began with a bitter departure from his hometown club Perth Glory to join Brisbane Roar, a move that was met with a harsh response from the Glory's leadership. A disrupted campaign with Brisbane didn't see the best of his talents on show but a mid-season move to Suwon was the change he needed.
The work rate, training load and spike in technical standards required in the K-League has forced the best of Taggart. "The Koreans can just run for days, they’re animals on the field," Taggart said. "Whenever you get the ball you have a handful of players behind you putting pressure on you.”
“It’s so quick, physical and tough. You have to make sure you’re on top of your game to perform well and there is no easy week, no easy training session and it’s something you have to be on top of your game at all times. I think if you can focus on that, you can slowly start to develop and improve in this league."
3.6.2019
STYNES HEADS ATHENA INTO THE FFA CUP SEMI-FINAL
A goal five minutes before half time from Floreat Athena midfielder Jon Stynes has secured them a hard fought 1-0 win against Balcatta in the FFA Cup WA Quarter-finals at Grindleford Reserve on WA Day. Stynes got on the end of deep cross from Phil Arnold to head past David Keenan to send Floreat into their second consecutive Semi-Final.
Both sides had come off tiring games on Saturday in the NPL WA, but it was the visitors who opened the better and Balcatta had Keenan to thank for keeping them in the tie. First on five minutes he got down well to his left to tip Robert Petkov’s shot around the post, and ten minutes later he was out bravely to save at the feet Dennis Galan. The hosts went close themselves moments later, good work on the right by Shubham Mokala ended with a ball into the feet of Adam Zimarino, but his first time shot whistled inches over the top. Keenan did well again to tip over Petkov’s cross shot on 25 minutes, before Jesse Fuller’s shot on the run fizzed just wide of the target.
But the decisive goal came on 40 minutes. Phil Arnold raced down the right and whipped in a great cross to the back post and Stynes lost his marker to head home, much to the delight of the travelling supporters. Balcatta coach Goran Stajic brought on striker Gavin Knight at the break, and the home looked far better and Nic Challot’s header was cleared off the line by Galan early. Knight then almost produced a stunning acrobatic overhead kick, after being picked out by Callum Stocks, but it was straight at Floreat keeper Jason Saldaris.
It was end-to-end football with both sides pushing forward. Petkov fired just wide for Floreat, before Balcatta skipper Calum O’Connell’s snap shot was saved low by Saldaris, and Knight headed inches past the post. With Balcatta pushing men forward late Floreat were catching them on counter attack and Rob Holding shot was well saved by Keenan, before Petkov rattled the crossbar late. But at the final whistle it is Floreat going through to the next round.
Balcatta: GK David KEENAN, 2 Joseph MARINO, 3 John KEARNEY, 4 Calum O’CONNELL, 5 Shubham MOKALA, 10 Jonathan CORNESS, 11 Callum STOCKS (34 Quinn CONNOLLY 79’), 12 Roberto DEL BORRELLO, 16 Alex CASTIELLO, 21 Nicholas CHALLOT (13 Carmelo GIUFFRE 66’) 23 Adam ZIMARINO (9 Gavin KNIGHT 46’) - Subs not used: RGK Damien STANOEVSKI, 29 Adam FALCONE
Floreat Athena: GK Jason SALADRIS, 2 Marco SANTALUCIA, 3 Tristian COLLI (16 Ryan MALTON 81’), 6 Jesse FULLER, 8 Jon STYNES, 9 Robert PETKOV, 11 Dennis GALAN, 15 Chris SALDARIS, , 17 Dean EVANS, 18 Phil ARNOLD (32 Rob HOLDING 88’), 33 Tyler HOLDEN (29 Jack PAINTER-ANDREWS 74’) - Subs not used: RGK Jordan BARBAS, SALDARIS, 31 Jacob STUBBERFIELD - Referee: Matthew Southern
3.6.2019
TONG SENDS BAYSWATER THROUGH
Bayswater City moved in to the Semi-Final of the FFA Cup WA after a thrilling 3-2 win against Perth SC at Dorrien Gardens on Monday afternoon but they had to come from behind twice to seal the win. Paul Zimarino had given the hosts the lead on the half hour, but an own goal from Perth defender Rocco Pizzata levelled things up eight minutes later. Matthew Milenkovic regained the lead for the hosts just before the break, but a Daryl Nicol penalty restored parity for the visitors after the break, before Adam Tong scored the winner on the hour.
It was a typical derby with both sides going for everything early, but the game settled down and both sides had good chances. First Michael Domfeh found space on the edge of the box, but his volley flashed wide of the target. Moments later Gordon Smith was picked out in the box and he finished well, but his celebrations were cut short, with the flag up for offside. Ryan Pearson was next to go close, after he was picked out by Giordano Colli’s ball, but the former Glory midfielder blazed over the top.
But on the half hour it was the home side who opened the scoring. A corner wasn’t cleared by the Bayswater defence, the ball falling to Zimarino whose long-range volley flew into the top corner of the net giving Devon Spence no chance in the Bayswater goal. Their lead only lasted eight minutes, Tong’s long-throw was helped on by Brent Griffiths and the ball went in off the unfortunate Pizzata.
It was a great game with chances at both ends, but it was the home side who restored their lead in the final minute of the first half. Niccolò Sabatini deep cross found Milenkovic, whose looping header beat Spence. Perth were on the front foot after the break and Zimarino almost added a third early, his volley flashing wide of the target, before the hard working Domfeh fired wide when well placed.
Bayswater weren’t going away and on 53 minutes they restored parity, Nicol brought down in the penalty area and referee David Bruce pointed straight to the spot, and Nicol picked himself up to score from the resulting penalty. The equaliser boosted the visitors and six minutes later they were ahead. Nicol’s free kick was dealt with and Tong scrambled the ball home at the back post. It was a hectic finish to the game, Nicol’s free kick whistling just wide for Bayswater, before Spence stood tall to deny Gustavo Catarcione late, but Bayswater hung on for the win.
Perth SC: GK Dejan ALEKSIC, 2 Alex SILLA, 5 Niccolò SABATINI, 9 Gustavo CATARCIONE, 11 Matthew MILENKOVIC, 13 Rocco PIZZATA (4 Thomas SOUTHGATE 77’), 14 Kristian SANTICH, 16 Kieran COLWELL, 18 Michael DOMFEH, 19 Bojan RADINOVIC, 20 Paul ZIMARINO - Subs not used: RGK Francis SOALE, 6 Harley ORR, 7 Aleks JOVIC, 17 Frank FURFARO
Bayswater City: GK Devon SPENCE, 10 Jason MIRCO, 11 Ryan PEARSON, 13 Trent KAY, 17 Daryl NICOL, 18 Brent GRIFFITHS (3 Jack ALLEN 73’), 19 Gordon SMITH, 20 Giordano COLLI, 21 Kenny KEOGH (5 Adam HARRIS 78’), 27 Ross MILLARD (24 Jake SARDELIC 90+1’), 30 Adam TONG - Sub not used: 2 Declan HARGREAVES, 9 Gustavo MARULANDA - Referee: David Bruce
3.6.2019
NO CUP UPSET FOR ROCKY
Rockingham City eased into the FFA Cup Semi-Final after a comfortable 3-0 win against Division One side UWA Nedlands at UWA Sports Park on Monday afternoon. Jason Pottier gave the visitors the lead after only 16 minutes, and James Harmer doubled their advantage two minutes later, before Blake Sokolowski added a third mid-way through the second half to ease Cameron Lord's side trough to the next round.
City were out of the blocks early in this one, and looked fresher of the two teams, despite UWA having the bye on Saturday. They went close to opener on 10 minutes, American winger James Millard headed just wide of the target. But on 16 minutes they did find the opener. The lively Lydon Hodgkiss saw his shot deflected off a UWA defender, into the path of Pottier, who made no mistake past Tim Rossi.
UWA looked for a quick equaliser, but it was Rockingham who doubled their advantage two minutes later. Mitch Firth’s cross found skipper Harmer and the welsh striker made no mistake heading past Rossi, to put Rockingham in control. But as the half ended UWA started to get in the game and Nicholas Theororou shot was saved by Rockingham keeper Michael Farmer, who had replaced Cyril Sharrock, who was away with the Australian Masters side in Thailand.
The hosts continued to take the game to Rockingham after the break and Sah Kent headed over when well placed, before striker Alex Kretowicz was denied by a smart save from Farmer. Rockingham were defending stoutly, but with UWA pushing men forward to get back in the game they were caught out again on 70 minutes, Sokolowski capitalising on a mistake from Rossi to steer the ball home and set up a spot in the FFA Cup Semi-Final for the club.
UWA-Nedlands: GK Tim ROSSI, 2 Sam CUTHRIDGE, 5 Joshua MAROCCHI, 7 Tim ROBERTSON, 10 Alex KRETOWICZ, 12 Nicholas THEOROROU, 13 Tristan TAYLOR, 15 Thomas MORONEY (22 Conor DEVLIN 59’), 16 Sah KENT (11 Bryce CONWAY 66’), 18 Andrew XYDAS, 30 Max WELTON (3 Sam CARRELLO 88’) - Subs not used: 19 Patrick MORRISON, 20 Joshua RODRIGO
Rockingham City: GK Michael FARMER, 3 Justis BRADLEY (15 Shaz RAMLEE 46’), 4 Mitch FIRTH, 5 Harry COLLINS, 6 Blake SOKOLOWSKI (9 Sam MCKEARNEN 72’), 7 James MILLARD, 8 Jason POTTIER 10 James HARMER, 12 Lydon HODGKISS, 13 Jarrad MORT, 14 Ryan KENNEDY (23 Victor BRAUNER 72’) - Subs not used: 11 Riley VAN DIEKEN - Referee: Steven Gregory
3.6.2019
GULLS MADE TO FIGHT FOR WIN AT FREMANTLE
Sorrento were made to fight, before overcoming a gallant Fremantle City 2-0 in the FFA Cup Quarter-Final at Hilton Park on Monday afternoon. A goal just before half time by Jack Salter had Sorrento in control, before David Stokoe added a second twenty minutes from time to seal the win.
It was the visitors on top early but they failed to take their chances, while Nicola Gazzola, and Angel Andres were casing the Gulls back four problems. Marco Perizzolo was dangerous from set pieces for the home side. It looked like we would go into half time scoreless, but in final minute the visitors hit the front. Jordan Brown found space out wide, and his cross found Salter, who made no mistake.
Sorrento pressed for a second after the break, and Fremantle keeper Yousri Gharsallah was alert to tip Stokoe’s effort on to the post early, before Sorrento keeper James Morgan came to the rescue of Stokoe at the other end moments later. There looked like danger when a cross came into the box, but Stokoe’s header was going into his own net, but the Sorrento custodian produced a fine save, to save the big defenders blushes.
Andres was a handful all afternoon, and the Spanish striker thought he had levelled on the hour, but his close-range shot was superbly blocked by the alert Stokoe. The game had now opened up and Sorrento’s striker Roberts saw his powerful shot tipped around the post by Gharsallah. But from the resulting corner Sorrento sealed the tie, Roberts’ corner found Stokoe, who lost his marker and headed home from six meters
Fremantle City: GK Yousri GHARSALLAH, 3 Carlo CHIELLINI, 5 Marco PERIZZOLO, 16. Denzel TSHUMA, 8 Adrian MANNO, 9 Angel ANDRES, 10 Nicola GAZZOLA, 11 Jairo GUZMAN, 13 Mordecai APPIAH, (19. Jesse MARCHIONE 85’), 14 Sebastian MUNOZ (15 Josh SELMAN 63’), 17. Christian MIRAUDO (7. Egioe NGENDAKUMANA 46’) Subs not used: 4 Angus GRANT, 33 Gianluca DE FELICE
Sorrento: GK James MORGAN, 2 David STOKOE, 3 Jakub PRAJZA, 5 Scott ROBERTSON, 7 Alex MORGAN, 8 Scott WITSCHGE (30 Jesse OWUOR 90’), 10 Jordan ROBERTS, 11 Tim HILL, 17 Reece VITTIGLIA, 18 Jordan BROWN, 19 Jack SALTER (21 Daniel PEARCE 87’) - Subs not used: GK Matthew GIUDICATTI, 20 Jaxon TEMATA, 32 Tristan STEVENS - Referee: Michal Jasinski
2.6.2019
KERR LAMENTS MATILDAS WAKE-UP CALL
Matildas coach Ante Milicic says he won't be changing his World Cup plans or preparation despite a 3-0 thrashing by the Netherlands on Sunday. And Sam Kerr says the Matildas won't be dwelling on the humbling as they refocus their sights on next Sunday's World Cup opener.
Australia was second-best in Eindhoven, where the Dutch scored three terrific goals - a brace from Shanice van der Sanden and another from Vivianne Miedema. The Matildas have now conceded eight goals in two friendly losses ahead of their World Cup opener with Italy.
"It was a wake up call and we have a lot of work to do," commented Kerr, who believes her team will be better for the hit-out against the Netherlands. “But we'd rather have our bad games now than in a week's time. It was a good test (and) we'll be ready for it in game one."
"I just think in critical moments the situation got the better of us. I don't think we got outplayed completely," Kerr said. "It was a really big learning curve for us. That's what the crowds are going to be like in France and I think we let it get the better of us but I'm really proud of the girls, we kept fighting to the end."
2.6.2019
BELT UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION - ROUND SEVEN REVIEW
Kingsley maintained their lead at the top of the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division after a 5-1 win against Kwinana United at Chichester Park on Saturday evening. It didn't start of well for the home side with Kwinana opening the scoring with Lee Bates intercepting a poor pass and racing in on goal to score. The hosts were level when Josh Waldock picked out Jayden Drummond whose first time shot found the back of the net and it was all-square at the break. But the home side hit the front for the first time on the night when Kingsley broke after clearing a Kwinana corner and Drummond raced clear and was brought down in the box, and Joel Gillespie made no mistake from the resulting penalty. Kingsley then added a third with Simone Sichel scoring, and it was 4-1 moments later, with Drummond scoring after Kingsley had won the ball back from the kick off. The home side rounded off the scoring when Ryan Brown crossed to Waldock to fire home from close-range. "I thought the first half was very sloppy form us, but fair play to Kwinana they came out and were well structured," Waldock explained. "But the second half we re-grouped and started moving the ball a lot quicker, with four goals coming from it. Sometimes you have to grind out results, which I thought we did pretty well."
North Perth United kept up the pressure on the leaders after a hat trick from striker Ago Mujic has given them a comfortable 6-1 win against Quinns FC at Gumblossom Park on Friday evening. After dropping points last week United made a perfect start and were ahead on four minutes, Niall Murray’s free kick giving keeper Luke Westneat no chance. Mujic doubled their lead just after the half hour, his curling free kick giving the keeper no chance again. It was 3-0 in the shadows of half time Sean Lahert’s stunning long-range shot sent the visitors into the sheds with a big lead. The home side were reduced to ten men when referee Andre Ferrera showed a second yellow card to Leyton Stanley-Hunt, and Mujic made them pay scoring a fourth, and Oscar Kelly added a fifth on the hour, another stunning effort. Wayne Carter pulled on back for Quinns on 78 minutes, but Mujic completed his hat trick four minutes from time converting from the penalty spot after Kelly was brought down in the box. "We were very pleased with the result, especially with the couple of weeks we had before this," assistant coach Kevin Flavin said. "All the lads worked their socks off for each other and that showed in the scoreline."
Jaguar are in third after a 2-0 win against Joondalup United at Beldon Park on Sunday. The visitors were ahead on the half hour with a well worked goal. David Kuat cut the ball to Guot Akuei who made no mistake. Joondalup had the perfect opportunity to level in the second half when they were awarded a penalty, but Adam Gianassi saw his spot kick saved by Makuei Mapooth. The Jags went close to a second on the hour, Ibrahim Hamad long-range shot crashed off the upright and away to safety. But with five minutes remaining the Jags secured the points with a second goal. Substitute Kuol Riak found Paul Sopp and his first time shot flew into the bottom corner to seal the win. "After a disappointing result last week, it was good to get to winning ways against Joondalup," Jags coach Chol Kong said. "Credit to Joondalup though, because they made the game very tough for us and we had to work for the win. This week the boys kept their concentration for the whole game limiting them to a few chances."
Leeming Strikers stay fourth after a big 8-0 win against Belmont Villa at Gerry Archer Sports Complex. The visitors were on top from the first whistle and were ahead when Jay Dost eased past two defenders before finishing well from the edge of the box. It was 2-0 when Ben Greaves pounced on a loose ball to score after the Belmont keeper saved his first shot. It was soon three, a ball over the top was missed by the Belmont keeper and Lucas Pickering rolled the ball into an empty net. After half time it was the Ayden Evans show, scoring a second half hat-trick, and it was topped off with goals from Michael Maratea and another to Dost made it a comprehensive 8-0 win to the Strikers. "I thought it was a great to get the away win, especially as they were a big unknown heading into the game with their recent good wins," Pickering said. "Our pressure off the ball and quality finishing really didn't give them much of a chance. It was also great to keep a clean sheet as well, so it was a great effort across the park."
Wembley Downs are back in the winner’s circle after they beat bottom of the table Ellenbrook United also 8-0 at Butlers Reserve. “We started well and the early goals helped things,” Wembley’s Jay McDonald said. “After a couple it was just a formality and we weren’t really threatened, but we are all looking forward to a big match next week at Kingsley.” The visitors dominated from the start and they were 3-0 up in the first 20 minutes, with Dean Wall scoring twice and another from Diarmaid Ryng. Wall completed his hat-trick on the half hour from the penalty spot, before Stephen Geoghegan added a fifth before half time. Second half substitute Dave Mohan added the sixth, before Jay McDonald and Mohan completed the scoring in a comprehensive win for Mike Ford’s side. "The win is a confidence boost for us going forward," Wembley Coach Mike Ford said. "They (Ellenbrook) are a team with some good mature players, but mainly young lads and I'm sure by the end of the season they will be much stronger team than they are now."
In the final game UWA Nedlands have drawn 2-2 against Hamersley Rovers at the UWA Sports Park. The visitors were top early and raced to a two-goal lead, but the home side reduced the margin when Harrison France finished well after Hamersley failed to clear a corner. They levelled on a swift counter attack and Hamersley keeper saved well from the first shot, but it fell kindly to Adbul Farah who fired home from 12 meters. "I thought we played very consistent across the 90 minutes and did well to bounce back from being two goals down," UWA coach Arthur Hiemstra said. "We gave away the two goals very cheaply and we didn't make the most of our chances. So overall disappointed with the result but happy with how the team played."
1.6.2019
TEN-MAN ARMADALE BEAT JACKS
A ten-man Armadale have moved up to ninth on the NPL WA table after a deserved 2-0 win against ECU Joondalup at the ECU Football Stadium. The visitors were ahead early Michael Lawson’s free kick turned into his own net by Shane Cassidy, and they were reduced to ten men when James Harran was sent off just before half time, but Lawson wrapped up the points with 15 minutes remaining. “We knew it was a vital game today and we played well and deserved the win,” Armadale defender Josh Kuser said. “We’ve been playing well recently but haven’t been getting the results, but today we were up for it and to keep a clean sheet too is good for us defenders.”
This was a real six-pointer at the foot of the table and it was the visitors who made the better start and they were ahead on six minutes. Michael Lawson’s free kick was turned into his own goal by the unfortunate ECU defender Shane Cassidy. Armadale continued to dictate terms with Chad Nielson and new American striker Uriel Macias both impressing for John O’Reilly’s side, and ECU keeper Johnny Perkins produced two stunning saves to deny James Harran and Nielson. But on the stroke of half time Armadale were reduced to ten-men when defender James Harran was shown a second yellow card by referee David Bruce for kicking the ball away, and was sent off.
The hosts lifted after the break and Armadale keeper Sam Hutchings saved well to deny Andy Higgins, before former Armadale defender Billy Quinncroft saw his long-range shot tipped over by the Armadale custodian. With a man down Armadale had their backs to the wall, but led superbly by skipper Nathan Costello, they stood firm, and with ECU pushing players forward Armadale looked dangerous on the counter attack, with the pacey Joshua Cortes and Nielson the perfect outlet.
Then with 15 minutes remaining the Reds sealed the three points. They won a free kick 20 meters from goal on the right of the penalty area, and Lawson’s set-piece missed everyone in the penalty area and nestled in the corner of the net, much to the delight of the travelling supporters. Armadale went close to third late on, Perkins again denying Nielson with a great save, before Macias fired the rebound over the top. The defeat leaves ECU anchored in 11th place on the table, and it doesn’t get any easier for Dale McCulloch’s side, with league leaders Perth SC visiting the campus next weekend, while Armadale return home to take on Stirling Lions.
ECU Joondalup: GK Johnny PERKINS, 3 Nick KOEFLER, 4 Henry DURR (6 Ollie ANNIS 68’), 5 Shane CASSIDY, 7 Ben HINSHELWOOD (16 Charlie KENNA 68’), 8 Josh WHITMORE, 10 Andy HIGGINS, 12 Billy QUINNCROFT, 13 Tommy AMPHLETT, 14 Ewen FAWCETT, 15 Tom HOUGH (9 Bayley BROWN-MONTGOMERY 62’) - Subs not used: RGK Jack NUNN, 2 Arran MAPLESTONE
Armadale: GK Sam HUTCHINGS, 2 Josh KUSER, 3 James HARRAN, 4 Nathan COSTELLO, 6 Joel SANDERSON, 7 Joshua Cortes, 8 Michael LAWSON, 9 Uriel MACIAS (10 Sam GARCES 86’), 11 Chad NIELSON (22 Ryan HASLETT 88’), 12 Dannie RICHMAN, 13 Blake ADAMS - Subs not used: RGK Blake HANSELL, 5 Ali NAZARY, 23 Abdul OSMAN - Red cards: Harran 45’ - Referee: David Bruce
1.6.2019
GLORY’S TRIPLE TREAT
Perth Glory returned to winning ways and moved back to second place on the NPL WA table after a 3-1 win against Inglewood United at E&D Litis Stadium. Chok Dau opening the scoring for the visitors early, but Ethan Brooks levelled things up before half time, and second half goals from skipper Henry Hore and Gomo Dukuly secured the three points. “I’m really pleased with the performance today, against a side who were in red hot form going into the game,” Glory Coach Richard Garcia said.
“We came under pressure early on which hasn’t been the case in most games and we were caught on the back foot and went behind early, but the lads stuck to our game plan and we slowly turned our pressure into a goal before the half time. I thought it was a good first half, but I think we controlled the game very well after half time break, and led by our skipper Henry Hore we managed to take our chances and come away with the three points.”
It was the visitors who opened the better and Brian Woodall picked out Dau in the box, but his shot was pushed around the post by the alert Nic Speca. Moments later Woodall sent Sam Riak clear, but Speca stood tall to deny him. But on 19 minutes Inglewood’s early pressure was rewarded with the lead. Referee Joshua Nixon pointed to the spot after a push on Anthony Bafobusha by Sam Rawlings. Speca saved Dau’s spot kick, but the rebound fell kindly for the Inglewood striker and he made no mistake second time around to give Inglewood the lead.
Glory went close to the equaliser on the half hour, Trent Ostler firing over the top. With Hore and Daniel Stynes pulling the strings in midfield the Glory did level eight minutes later. Stynes eased past two Inglewood players before finding the lively Brooks on the right of the penalty area and he cut inside his marker and finished clinically past Alex Dunn.
The second half was a real arm-wrestle with both sides pressing for the winner but it was Garcia’s side who edged in front 12 minutes from time. Hore stepping up and unleashing an unstoppable free kick that flew past Dunn. Inglewood pressed forward looking for the equaliser and they were caught out on the counter attack five minutes from time. Gabriel Popovic finding Dukuly and the striker made no mistake to seal the three points. The Glory host co-tenants Floreat Athena next week at E&D Litis Stadium, while Inglewood make the trip to Frank Drago Reserve to take on Bayswater City.
Perth Glory: GK Nic SPECA, 2 Zayd FARAH, 3 Ethan BROOKS, 4 Luca BODNAR, 5 Nicholas WALSH, 6 Henry HORE, 7 Joshua RAWLINS, 8 Jack LEECH (14 Josh SAMSON 46’), 9 Gomo DUKULY (12 Liam MURRAY 89’), 10 Daniel STYNES, 11 Trent OSTLER (16 Gabriel POPOVIC 59’) - Subs not used: 26. Jacob RANGE, 13. Alessandro CIRCATI
Inglewood United: GK Alex DUNN, 2 Alex ISHIDA-LIVINGS, 3 David CYRUS (7 Hamza Hina 61’), 4 Scott BLACKMORE, 5 Samuel RIAK, 8 Jason BARRERA, 9 Chok DAU, 10 Anthony BAFOBUSHA, 15 Brian FARRELL (11 Harry EVANS 35’), 17 Mark BARNETT, 23 Brian WOODALL, (14 Steve SOKOL 79’) - Subs not used: RGK Josiah GODFREY, 6 Miki VUJACIC - Referee: Joshua Nixon
1.6.2019
PERTH MARCH ON AFTER BEATING GULLS
Perth SC have continued their undefeated start to the NPL WA season with a 3-1 win over Sorrento at Percy Doyle Reserve. Gustavo Catarcione gave the visitors the lead early, however Cameron Teece levelled for the hosts just before half time. But second half goals to Michael Domfeh gave Ramon Falzon’s side the win and maintained their lead at the top of the table.
These two sides have played some epic games in the past and it was the visitors to strike first, opening the scoring on five minutes, after a cross wasn’t dealt with and Catarcione volleyed home from the edge of the box. The Gulls pressed for the equaliser and they were rewarded four minutes before half time with the equaliser. Scott Witschge found space on the right and his deep cross to the far post found the unmarked Teece, who headed past Francis Soale to level.
Both sides pressed after half time and both created good chances, but it was Perth who regained the lead on 68 minutes. Catarcione raced into the penalty area and picked out Domfeh, and the former Glory striker saw his first shot blocked by some desperate Sorrento defending, but the rebound fell kindly for the big striker who made no mistake second time around. The home side pushed forward looking for the leveller, but their hopes took a blow when Teece was sent off on 89 minutes, after receiving a second yellow card from referee Matthew Southern. Perth wrapped up the points three minutes later, Domfeh was sent clear and he rounded James Morgan and rolled the ball into an empty net. Perth head north next week when they take on ECU Joondalup at the ECU Football Stadium, while Sorrento head south when they visit Dalmatinac Park to take on Cockburn City.
Sorrento: GK James MORGAN, 2 David STOKOE, 3 Jakub PRAJZA, 7 Alex MORGAN, 8 Scott WITSCHGE (32 Tristan STEVENS 87’), 10 Jordan ROBERTS, 11 Tim HILL, 17 Reece VITTIGLIA, 18 Jordan BROWN, 19 Jack SALTER, 23 Cameron TEECE - Subs not used: RGK Matthew GIUDICATTI 12 Joel PROUT, 20 Jesse OWUOR, 22 Mathew MCROBERTS - Red cards: Teece 89
Perth SC: GK Francis SOALE, 4 Thomas SOUTHGATE, 5 Niccolò SABATINI (17 Frank FURFARO 80’), 7 Alex JOVIC, 9 Gustavo CATARCIONE (14 Kristan SANTICH 70’), 11 Matthew MILENKOVIC, 12 Jordan DE LEO, 16 Kieran COLWELL, 18 Michael DOMFEH, 19 Bojan RADINOVIC, 20 Paul ZIMARINO - Subs not used: RGK Dejan ALEKSIC, 2 Alex SILLA, 13 Rocco PIZZATA - Referee: Matthew Southern
1.6.2019
COCKERELS RUFFLE BAYSWATER’S FEATHERS
Cockburn City have beaten Bayswater City 4-2, with striker Daniel Robinson bagging a hat-trick in an entertaining game at Dalmatinac Park. Robinson bagged a brace in the first half, before completing his triple five minutes from time to seal the three points. Jack Allen had levelled for the visitors in the first half, before Hasani Sinclair had made it 3-1 on the hour. Jason Mirco pulled it back to 3-2 seven minutes later, but it was Robinson who had the final word. “Going into the game we were always confident after the disappointing loss to Bayswater in the cup where I thought we had the better of the game,” Robinson said. “But the boys put in a real great team performance once again, and obviously amazing to get the hat trick.”
The home side were ahead on 21 minutes, Julian Teles’ ball into the box was headed home by Robinson. But the visitors were level five minutes later, Jason Mirco’s corner was headed down by Gordon Smith, and it fell to Allen who swept the ball home. But it was Robinson again who restored the lead for Cockburn on the stoke of half time. Reuben Tristao found Robinson on the edge of the penalty area and the striker’s half volley flew past Devon Spence via the crossbar.
Chris Coyne’s side were on the front foot early in the second half, but Smith mi-hit a shot after being found by Mirco, before Mirco’s effort was saved by Luke Radonich. It was one-way traffic and Cockburn were holding on, but against the run of play Cockburn extended their lead. Riley Woodcock sending Sinclair and he finished with aplomb past Spence. But Bayswater weren’t going away and they pulled one back moments later Mirco linking up with Smith, before finishing low past Radonich. Bayswater pushed for the equaliser but they were caught out again at the back when Ryan Pratt was allowed to drive into the area and pick out Robinson, who swept home for his 10th goal of the season to seal the three points. Cockburn are at home again next week when they host Sorrento at Dalmatinac Park, while Bayswater head home, with Inglewood United visiting Frank Drago Reserve.
Cockburn City: GK Luke RADONICH, 5 Julian TELES, 6 Reuben RISTAO, 10 David ARAYA (20 Ashley ROSINDALE 46’) (3 Daniel DOLS 79’), 12 Ryan PRATT, 14 Hayden STEVENS, 15 Daniel SANTICH, 16 Daniel ROBINSON, 19 Hasani SINCLAIR, 21 Jesse LAZZARO, 23 Riley WOODCOCK – Subs not used: RGK Ben RADONICH, 2 Chris THACKRAY, 18 Adam ANFUSO
Bayswater City: GK Devon SPENCE, 2 Declan HARGREAVES (9 Gustavo MARULANDA 59’), 3 Jack ALLEN (20 Giordano COLLI 68’), 5 Adam HARRIS, 10 Jason MIRCO, 11 Ryan PEARSON, 13 Trent KAY, 14 Sean McMANUS, 17 Daryl NICOL (21 Kenny KEOGH 68’), 19 Gordon SMITH, 24 Jake SARDELIC - Subs not used: 27 Ross MILLARD, 30 Adam TONG - Referee: Julian Serra
1.6.2019
KEARNEY SPOT ON FOR BALCATTA
A penalty from defender John Kearney on the hour has given Balcatta a 1-0 win against Stirling Lions in the derby at Macedonia Park. In a match where both sides struggled to take their chances, Balcatta came out firing but the Stirling defence weathered the storm and ensured the score remained 0-0 going into the break.
The visitors continued to push forward in the second term but were frustrated by the solid Lions rear-guard. Balcatta’s hard work finally paid off when Darren O’Riordan gave away a penalty on 58 minutes, which Kearney tucked away past Ryan Montgomery. Despite looking second best for most of the match, Stirling were thrown a lifeline when Alex Wild received his marching orders for a poor challenge on Dean Cummings on 74 minutes.
Stirling’s direct style of play was dealt with well by Lewis Italiano, the former Newcastle Jets goalkeeper acting as a sweeper against another of his former clubs. Despite only having 10 men, Balcatta continued to look dangerous in attack but Montgomery ensured that the match ended 1-0. Balcatta travel to SafeRad Stadium, Lark Hill next week to take on Rockingham City, while Stirling make the trip to Alfred Skeet Reserve to take on Armadale.
Stirling Lions: GK Ryan MONTGOMERY, 2 Mile PETKOVSKI (13 Michael GAMA 9’), 3 Darren O’RIORDAN (8 Dean CUMMINGS 67’), 5 Steven MCDONALD, 6 Dhhors CHOL, 7 Nelson TSHONGO, 9 Zdenek BEZDEK, 10 Danny JONES, 11 Michael WANTEE, 12 Renee KISESA (14 Bleron MAMUDI 70’), 18 Gino HAMPSHIRE – Subs not used: 15. Griffin BECSI, 20. Daniel MARQUET
Balcatta: GK Lewis ITALIANO, 2 Joseph MARINO, 3 John KEARNEY, 4 Calum O’CONNELL, 5 Shubham MOKALA (19 Gavin KNIGHT 66’), 7 Ben PELLIZZARI (8 Alex WILD 30’), 10 Jonathan CORNESS, 12 Roberto DEL BORRELLO, 13 Carmelo GIUFFRE (11 Nicholas CHALLOT 85’), 20 Anthony TOPINI, 23 Adam ZIMARINO - Subs not used: 16 Alex CASTIELLO, 25 David KEENAN - Red card: Wild 74’ - Referee: Josh Mannella
1.6.2019
FLOREAT BACK IN THE WINNERS’ CIRCLE
Floreat Athena bounced back from their disappointing loss to bottom club Stirling last week with an incident-packed 3-2 win over Rockingham City at SafeRad Stadium on Saturday afternoon. Nick Ambrogio gave the host the lead, before James Millard levelled on the half hour. Jon Stynes regained the lead for the visitors just before half time and it looked like the points were safe when Phil Arnold added a third on the hour, but a late James Harmer goal gave Rockingham a lift and they pushed hard for the equaliser but couldn’t find it.
The hosts were dominant early, causing Floreat all sorts of problems, but Cameron lord’s side didn’t take the good chances they created. Then on 15 minutes their profligacy was punished with Floreat opening the scoring, with Ambrogio scoring past Cyril Sharrock. But it didn’t deter the home side and they were level on the half hour mark, Millard finishing well past Jason Saldaris.
But on the stroke of half time Floreat regained their lead. Skipper Dean Evans won the ball in the middle of the park and raced forward, before delivering a pin-point cross to Stynes who headed home to send them into the break with the lead. It was more of the same after the break with both sides pressing, but both sets of defenders were on top. But on the hour mark Floreat took one their chances to increase their lead, Arnold finishing well past Sharrock.
Again, Rockingham hit back and Harmer reduced the margin seven minutes from time and despite dominating late Floreat hung on for the three points. The game ended on a painful note when a clash of heads between Floreat’s Chris Saldaris and Rockingham’s Riley van Dieken left both players dazed, and while Saldaris continued Van Dieken was taken off the pitch with concussion. Floreat are away next week, but will be playing at home when they take on co-tenants Perth Glory at E&D Litis Stadium, while Rockingham host Balcatta at SafeRad Stadium, Lark Hill.
Rockingham City: GK Cyril SHARROK, 3 Justis BRADLEY, 5 Harry COLLINS, 7 James MILLARD, 9 Sam McKEARN (6 Blake SOKOLOWKI, 27’), 10 James HARMER, 11 Riley VAN DIEKEN, 12 Lydon HODGKISS, 13 Jarred MORT, 15 Shaz RAMLEE (4 Mitch FIRTH, 59’), 23. Victor BRAUNER (8 James POTTIER, 27’) - Subs not used: RGK Michael FARMER, 14 Ryan KENNEDY
Floreat Athena: GK Jordan BARBAS, 2 Marco SANTALUCIA, 3 Tristian COLLI, 4 Adrian MADASCHI (19 Louis ROSSI, 59’), 6 Jesse FULLER, 8 Jonathan STYNES (29 Jack PAINTER-ANDREWS, 90+4’), 9 Robert PETKOV, 15 Christopher SALDARIS, 17 Dean EVANS, 18 Phillip ARNOLD (33 Tyler HOLDEN, 31’), 10 Nicholas AMBROGIO - Subs not used: RGK Jason SALDARIS, 31 Jacob STUBBERFIELD - Referee: Michal Jasinski
1.6.2019
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND NINE – REVIEW
State League Division One leaders Ashfield have maintained their lead at the top of the table after a 2-0 win against Subiaco at Ashfield Arena on Saturday. The home side were ahead just before half time, Pat Sara found space down the right side and he cut the ball back to Albert Amankwaa, who’s shot went in off the post. They sealed the points after the break Quinn again finding Amankwaa who raced one-on-one with the Subiaco keeper and finished clinically. “Another hard-fought win against a good Subiaco side,” Ashfield coach Matt Wardle said. “l felt we controlled the game and tempo for long periods of the game and when we were on top, we took our chances. Really pleased with our group today, it took all of our squad to get the result and every one contributing to another good result. We can enjoy our bye weekend next week having points on the board and prepare for Morley which is always a big game and a derby for us.’
Western Knights moved into second spot after a hard fought 2-0 win against Forrestfield United at Nash Field. The home side were ahead on 13 minutes when Callum Roberts eased past his marker on the right and crossed for Scott Johnston to tap it in. They went close to a second when Dean Hurley’s free kick crashed off the post. But they did double their lead just before half time Roberts raced down the right and cut on his left foot inside the box and curled the ball into the far corner. The visitors were reduced you ten men when Mitch Crocker was sent off, but they went close to pulling one back but Sam Stone produced a great save to deny Daryl Platten, but it was the Knights running out winners. “For us it’s about gaining momentum and keeping close to the top of the table,” Knights coach Ivan Zuvela said. “I thought we improved again from last week and it was good to pick up a clean sheet.”
Gwelup Croatia lost ground on the leaders after being held to 1-1 draw by Fremantle City at Hilton Park. The visitors made a perfect start and were ahead on three minutes when Danny Hodgson was brought down by Fremantle keeper Yousri Gharsallah, which saw him yellow carded for the challenge. Ellis Healing stepped up and finished into the bottom corner to give Gwelup the lead. But the home side were level on 25 minutes, Nicola Gazzola was given too much space on the edge of the penalty area and his clever chip went in despite Connor Campbell’s best efforts. Gwelup were then awarded a second penalty just after the hour mark, after a foul in the box on Sam Wynne, but Healing spot kick smacked off the post and away to safety. Gwelup pressed late and James Sammut’s close-range shot flashed wide but they had to settle for a share of the spoils.
Olympic Kingsway moved to fourth after a comprehensive 7-2 win against Joondalup United at Kingsway Reserve. Charlie Breen gave the hosts the lead after only two minutes, heading home Josh Tucker’s free kick. The visitors levelled through James Oldroyd, but Olympic regained their lead on 40 minutes, Luke Palmateer sending Michael Rizidis clear to score. It was 3-1 moments later Rizidis’ cross turned home by Elliott Tattersall. They added a fourth in first half stoppage time, when Breen was brought down in the box and Jordan Pokler scored from the spot. The home side added a fifth on the hour, Tattersall’s shot was parried by the keeper and Breen fired home the rebound. It was 6-1 five minutes from time, Pokler again scoring from the spot after Breen was fouled in the box. Joondalup pulled one back through Lee Jones, but in the final minute Breen’s cross from the right picked out Eraste Vyamunga who volleyed home to make it 7-2. “I was very pleased with the performance and the application shown by the players,” Olympic coach Gary Williams said. “We changed it around a little after last week’s defeat against Fremantle and I got the reaction I wanted from the players. In all honesty it could have been more as we hit the post and the bar on five occasions. We have an extremely tough fixture against Gwelup next week which will be another opportunity for us to benchmark ourselves against quality opposition.”
Mandurah City are back in the winners’ circle after 4-0 win against Morley Windmills at Wotton Reserve. Lee Stewart opened the scoring after being sent down the left, and he shot across the keeper into the corner of the net. Stewart added his second before the break with a curling effort from the edge of the box. The Dolphins added a third after half time, Max Snelson picked the ball up in his own half and eased past a number of Morley defenders before finishing clinically past the keeper. They added their fourth when Morley failed to clear a corner and Andy Brown poked the ball home from close-range. “Really pleased with how we bounced back after a few weeks off and separated ourselves from the bottom,” Mandurah Coach Alex Grayson said. “Hopefully we can take the positivity into the next few weeks.” - UWA-Nedlands had the bye this week.
1.6.2019
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND EIGHT – REVIEW
Quinns have won the State League Division Two top of the table clash 2-0 against Gosnells City at Walter Padbury Reserve. Quinns hit the front, this after keeper James Bosdet produced a great save one-on-one with the Gosnells striker and they raced down the other end of the pitch, the ball ending with Richard Howles, who somehow found the top corner from tight angle. The visitors were reduced to ten man early in the second half with Mike Kenny sent off, but Gosnells couldn’t make their numerical advantage count, with Ian Ferguson’s side defending well. It was Quinns who added a second when Josh Booysen raced down the flank and found Howles who finished well.
The round started on Friday evening with Curtin University scoring late to draw 2-2 with Dianella White Eagles at Edinburgh Oval. The home side went close in the first half a cross in to the box wasn’t dealt with and Jordan Dinga’s shot on the turn flashed just wide. But in the first minute of the second half it was Dianella who hit the front, Yagoub Mustafa raced down the left, cut inside and beat the keeper at his near post. The home side hit back and Oscar Billington’s long-range shot looked destined for the bottom corner of the net but Dianella keeper Giuliano Martino got down well to save. But it was the home side who levelled when Danny Todd fired home, and they went close to the lead when Kye Middleton’s header was cleared off the line.
But it was Dianella who regained the lead when Mustafa raced clear down the left and finished with aplomb past. It looked like the points would be Dianella’s but in the final minute Billington fired home to restore parity and earnt the home side a point. “Disappointed to drop points in the final minute in the manner we did after working so hard, and looking back at the game it was important we took something away with us after the last few weeks,” Dianella Coach Howard Tweats said. “We have struggled with limited numbers due to injury and absence, so considering we had three patched up players playing through the pain barrier with a top output of 60% and losing one during game with a torn Achilles puts a different perspective on result when reviewing. Hopefully better times to come with the squad.”
Murdoch University have kept the pressure on the league leaders after a 4-2 win against Joondalup City at Murdoch Uni. The hosts were in front when Declan Tanna curled home superbly from the edge of the box. It was 2-0 when Godfrey Asimwe raced forward from left back to score, before Josip Vujica finished off good approach work from Scott Campbell and Dan Davey to send them home side in 3-0 to the good. It was 4-0 with Ryan Tucker finishing well, but Joondalup hit back with a hotly disputed penalty and dominated the last twenty minutes, and added a second, but MUM held on for the win. “We lost our composure and were very poor and to be fair they should have scored another couple, but our older players showed good leadership and composure to see us through,” MUM Coach Gavin Brown said. “It was a strange match because we were utterly dominant for 55 minutes, then woeful for 25, before seeing the game through in the last 15. But that’s three wins in a row is encouraging, especially with others around us struggling, but we need to be better to produce a complete performance.”
Swan United and Balga have shared the spoils in a 2-2 draw at Francis Street. With both teams missing players, the visitors went ahead in the third minute. A deep cross found Giulian Zacconi near the far past, and from close range he made no mistake. But Swan levelled seven minutes later, Brennan Borzecki cutting the ball back to David Foster, who finished clinically at the near post. But the hosts regained the lead just after half time, Hermon Michael picked out Zacconi on the edge of the penalty area, his shot beat Joey Smith, crashed off the crossbar and over the line. It looked like Balga would take the points but in stoppage time the Swans levelled. Alen Paterov cross found Anthony Mihalj who made no mistake heading home the equaliser. “It was a tight game with both teams having few good chances,” Swan striker John Monterosso said. “But we showed great character to come back and take a point with a few key players out this week.”
Kelmscott Roos have bounced back from last week’s heavy defeat with a 2-0 win against Shamrock Rovers at Harold Rossiter Reserve. Rovers were coming off their first win of the season last week, but found themselves behind midway in the first half. Some good interchange in the middle of the park ended with George Ballab on the left, he took on his marker and curled the ball over the keeper into the far corner from outside the penalty area. They wrapped up the points on 65 minutes, a long clearance from Ibrahima Soumah found Justin Onek who calmly tucked the ball past the onrushing keeper to seal a 2-0 win. “I thought we started off well taking control of the midfield creating chances which we could not put away, but our defence held up well dealing effectively with the young Shamrock forwards,” Kelmscott Coach Richard Changado said. “After last week’s performance we had to redeem ourselves and playing a team that had won their first game last round was always going to be an uphill task. We worked on our approach all week and it was pleasing to see it actually working on Saturday. I’m glad that the young players stepping up to cover injuries, work commitments, holidays are putting in a great shift maintaining the team balance. Back to training to focus on the next game which will be another challenge as Balga have been performing well.”
Wanneroo City moved up to seventh after a 4-2 win against Canning City at Burrendah Reserve. The visitors were ahead after only ten minutes, Kyle Murray was brought down in the box and Murray picked himself up to score from the resulting penalty. Despite dominating Wanneroo failed to take their chances and on the half hour the home side levelled, with a stunning strike from Sean Morrison. But just before half time Wanneroo regained the lead, after some good work from Rory Kiely, he found Ash Corker in the penalty area, who finished clinically. They added a third just after half time Chris Williams heading home, and Williams added a fourth with a well taken strike into the bottom corner to wrap up the points. Canning pulled one back late through Daniel Kader’s deflected shot, but it was Wanneroo with their first win in four games. “We made four changes once again since our last outing against Quinns however we started very brightly and deservedly took the lead,” Wanneroo coach Tim Kantor said. “But we didn’t go on with it and Canning scored a stunner where only spiders live. But we steadied and deservedly ran out winners so overall pleased to start getting some players back and very pleased with the win.”
3.6.2019
FFA CUP - ROUND SIX – PREVIEW
It's the Sixth Round of the FFA Cup WA on Monday, with four ties across the metro area, and all teams know they are only two games away from the State League Cup Final and the national stage of the competition, when the A-League enter. The Footballwa 'Match of the Round takes us to the UWA Sports Park where First Division UWA Nedlands entertain NPL side Rockingham City. UWA knocked out another NPL side in the last round, beating Stirling Lions 2-1, while Rockingham had to come from behind to beat Curtin University 5-1.
UWA had the bye in round three, before goals from Alex Kretowicz, either side of half time, and another from Nikolas Theodorou put them through against Swan United in round four. That set up the home tie against Stirling and Joe Haydon gave the hosts the lead after half time, but Lions defender Michael Gama levelled just after the hour. The winner came four minutes into the second period of extra time from Riaz Kelly, UWA Coach Michael Janssen said it’s exciting times for the club and they are looking forward to the challenge. “The win against Stirling was a great result for us. Over the entire time of the game the result was well deserved and it gave the players who delivered a great fight a boost for the next couple of weeks. Very positive again that two new and young players were involved in our goals with Tom White and Riaz Kelly That shows us that we made the right picks of players,” he explained.
“Rockingham is a different story and for us another exciting opportunity to play an NPL side in a competitive game. They are doing a remarkable job in NPL, so we must deliver a very focused and strong performance to have a chance to make it into the next round, but I believe and trust our squad to deliver this. The boys are looking forward to such a challenging game and they know that they can achieve something very special for themselves and for the club. We are able to get a very positive result when we play as a unit. We believe in our strength and as an “Underdog” the FFA Cup is the perfect platform to show our best. The pressure is 110% on Rockingham.
Rockingham had a tough fourth round game, away at Division One league leaders Ashfield, but Riley Van Dieken scored both goals either side of half time, Gary Hill pulled one back for the home side 19 minutes from time, but they couldn’t find the equaliser. In the last round City had to come from a goal down to beat Division Two side Curtin University, but a brace from James Harmer and others to Mitch Firth, Jason Pottier and Harvey Hancock saw them home, and coach Cameron Lord said despite going behind they were in control. “Although Curtin did well with keeping us out for as long as they did, we felt it was inevitable for us to get the first goal that would give us the momentum to dominate the score as we did in the end,” he said. “Monday we will be up against a determined and fresh UWA side, who will no doubt be desperate to knock another NPL side out of the cup. We have to ensure we do not allow complacency into our game, and are under no illusion that we must perform to our maximum in order to win the game and reach the semi-final of the cup.”
There is an Italian derby at Dorrien Gardens where Perth Soccer Club host Bayswater City. City has to work hard to beat Division Two side Gosnells City in round four. Daryl Nicol gave Bayswater the lead on the hour, but Edward Wilson levelled for Gosnells sixty seconds later. But the NPL side won it when Nicol converted a penalty on 67 minutes, but they had to withstand a gallant Gosnells side, who went close on a number of occasions late in the game. In Round five have they had to come from two goals down to beat Cockburn City at home. The visitors were ahead just before the break with substitute Hayden Stevens on target, and Daniel Robinson doubled their advantage on the hour. Daryl Nicol pulled one back seven minutes later, before Gordon Smith levelled things up, and an own goal from Stevens gave Chris Coyne’s side the comeback.
Perth beat Morley Windmills 3-1 at Dorrien Gardens in round four with Frank Furfaro, Michael Domfeh and own goal, and they proved too strong for Division Two side Balga, in round five. Domfeh opened the scoring and Kristian Santich doubled their lead from the spot before half time, before a second half brace from Paul Zimarino, another to Santich, Frank Furfaro and Alex Jovic gave Ramon Falzon’s side a comfortable win. Defender Bojan Radinovic said the win at Balga was good especially after they beat Inglewood in the last round. “I thought we did a good job against Balga. The game wasn’t as easy the results looked but we played really well and moved the ball quickly, defended well and came out with a solid win,” he explained. “Monday’s game is going to be much tougher than the game against Balga. We will play against one of the best teams in WA. The Italian derby are always such big games for both clubs and I expect it will be a quality match for the spectators. We are on the good run in the league- still undefeated and we believe we can keep it up with good results in the cup.”
Fremantle City will be looking for a cup upset when they host Sorrento at Hilton Reserve. Fremantle eased through the fourth round with a 5-1 win against Amateur side Queens Park, with a hat trick from Salvatore Ruffo and a brace from Angel Andres. In round five a brace from Egide Ngendakumana, and others to Andres Nicola Gazzola, Junior Mordecai and Luka Malfione gave them a 6-0 win against Amateur side Warnbro Strikers. Fremantle striker Angel Andres said the win in the last round was difficult, despite the score line and he he said Monday will a difficult game having played a number of matches in a short period of time. “The game against Warnbro was more difficult than expected, they played very well specially on the first half, but once we scored, they attacked more in the second half and we had more space to do our football,” he explained. “Monday will be a difficult game because they have a great team and we will play our third game in six days, but we will give it 100% as we are excited to try and make it to semi-finals.”
Sorrento won in round four after keeper James Morgan scored a stoppage time equaliser against ECU Joondalup before Sorrento prevailed 5-4 on penalties. In round five a goal from Czech defender Jakub Prajza gave the Gulls a hard fought 2-1 win against Gwelup Croatia. Alex Morgan had given the home side the lead early, but David Heagney levelled for the State League Division One side after the break, but a long-range shot from the Prajza was enough to see the Gulls home. Sorrento midfielder Jack Salter said the win against Gwelup was hard fought and he is expecting the same on Monday. “Gwelup were always going to be a tough game as they have plenty of quality players. It was a tight game that could have gone either way, we were fortunate to score at the right time and absorbed a lot of late pressure,” he explained. “I’m sure it will be a tough game on Monday, and they a side not many of us know a lot about. There’s plenty of confidence going around at the moment, and we’re starting to link and gel as a team and the last three weeks have been great. We approach the game like no other, and most of us have experienced getting to the FFA cup national draw so it’s something we all want to achieve again.”
In the final game Balcatta host Floreat Athena at Grindleford Reserve. Floreat beat Division Two side Kelmscott 4-0 in the fourth round, before goals from Nicholas Ambrogio, Robert Petkov and Jonathon Stynes gave them a hard fought 3-0 win at Division One side Olympic Kingsway in round five. Balcatta came from behind to beat Shamrock Rovers 3-1 at home in round four, with a double from Dutch import Niels Willems and another from Gavin Knight, and they needed a last-minute goal from Shubham Mokala gave them a hard-fought 2-1 win against Division Two side Canning City. Daniel Bryant had given the visitors the lead early, but Balcatta skipper Calum O’Connell levelled before Mokala stole the show late.
Balcatta coach Goran Stajic said cup games are always tough and they have had work hard to reach the quarter-finals and he knows Monday will also be a tight affair. “Cup games are always tough no matter the team you play, and as for the result against Canning it was not truly indicative of the way we played. Even though we only won 2-1 it should have been more but our class eventually came out on top,” he said. “We’re looking forward to another tough challenge against Floreat and we match up well against them. The team that takes their chance or chances on the day will win.”
31.5.2019
NPL-WA ROUND ELEVEN PREVIEW
It's a busy WA Day long weekend for a number of clubs, with NPL WA and FFA Cup ties across the three days and the Footballwa.net NPL 'Match of the Round' takes us to Percy Doyle Reserve where league leaders Perth SC take on fifth placed Sorrento. Both sides are coming off hard fought wins last week, both scoring late to win their respective game. Sorrento came home from Armadale with a 3-2 win, with Cameron Teece scoring a stoppage time winner, while a late goal from Matthew Milenkovic earned Perth a narrow 2-1 win against Cockburn City, and it sets up a massive game on Saturday. Sorrento have won back-to-back games to move up the table, and midfielder Tim Hill said the win at Armadale was great, and showed the character they have within their squad. "I thought it was an odd game,” he said. “I thought we dominated throughout but every time we started to pull away, they would answer right back with a goal from almost nothing, but luckily Cam nicked one at the end for us to take home the points.”
The Gulls squad has been stretched in recent weeks with a number of players moving on, but Hill believes the youngsters coming through the ranks have been good. "We came into the season with a fairly big squad and that can be hard to maintain at any level so it's not really surprising players have left as every week we've had 2 or 3 very good players on the bench and everyone wants to play,” he explained. “Now it's time for the young boys to step in to those roles and do a job off the bench which we all know they're capable of.” A visit from the league leaders and unbeaten Perth is a huge challenge, but Hill they are looking forward to the game and keeping their winning run going. “The boys are really up for this weekend, we love playing in big games and this will be no different,” he said. “No-one ever needs any incentive to get up for these games so hopefully we come out firing and can be the team to knock Perth off.”
Perth midfielder Milenkovic picked up an injury in the opening game of the season, but he is back fully fit and he said to score the winner last week was a great feeling, but thought they deserved the three points. "There were some good chances for both teams throughout the game to win it, but it was a really tight match and I think us scoring so late is testament to our hard work and positive attitude,” he explained. “It’s always hard when you go a goal down, but I think if anything it was probably a bit of a wakeup call for us, and good to keep our good start to the season going.”
Perth are the only team in the league unbeaten, and Ramon Falzon has almost a fully fit squad at his disposal, but Milenkovic said they have a big squad and competition for places is high. "There’s definitely competition for spots at the club, probably more so than ever, which brings out the best in players,” he said. “The most important thing for us is that no matter who you are, you go out on the weekend playing for the team to get the result which is exactly what we’ve been doing.” A trip to Percy Doyle AKA 'Windy Hill' is never easy, but Milenkovic said they looking forward to the challenge. "Yes, Windy Hill is always a hard place to go and get a result but we are ready to rise to the challenge,” the midfielder said. “Just like any other week there are three points available and we certainly want to come away with all three. We’re all up for it and want to keep this run going. “
Bayswater City flexed their muscles last week to beat Perth Glory, the win keeping them in the top six, but hey had to do it with ten men for over an hour, with Brent Griffiths sent off, and he will miss this week’s trip to Dalmatinac Park to take on Cockburn City. Jason Mirco's goal was enough for Chris Coyne's side, whose squad was cut with a number of players moving on in the transfer window, including Brian Woodall and Clark Keltie. but they still have one of the strongest squads in the league, with Scottish duo Daryl Nicol and Gordon Smith, and Jason Mirco starting to get amongst the goals. Cockburn lost it late at Perth SC last week, this after Hasani Sinclair had given them the lead. That was the first loss in four games and Scott Miller will be looking for a response this week. Another couple of players who will want to impress are former Bayswater players Devon Gibson and Riley Woodcock, while Miller will be sweating on the fitness of skipper Cameron Edwards who limped off last week in the first half.
It may only be round 11 of the NPL season, but there is a real six-pointer at the bottom of the table, when ECU Joondalup host Armadale at the ECU Football Stadium. Both sides are on a bad run of form, ECU with only one win for the season, and Armadale two, and with only one point separating the two sides a win in this one is vital. Both sides have added players to their squads in recent weeks, the Jacks bringing in former Armadale duo Billy Quinncroft and Charlie Kenna, who both will be looking forward to taking on their former club. Arran Maplestone also returned to the club. It's goals that has been missing for Dale McCulloch's side, scoring only 11 in ten games, which the third worse in the league, and they will be hoping Joe Knowles is back from injury sooner rather than later. Armadale have added imports Uriel Marcias and Moez Aloulou to their squad and both have been cleared to play this week, but it's at the other end that Armadale have struggled, conceding 25 goals, which is the second worse in the league. Skipper Nathan Costello and Michael Lawson will be vital in this one, while keeper Sam Hutchings continues to impress, and John O'Reilly will be looking for three points in this one to turn around their recent form.
Inglewood United are one of the form teams of the league, and last week’s win against Rockingham took them to second on the table and three points made it five games without defeat. This week they make the trip to E&D Litis Stadium to take on third placed Perth Glory. Former Glory duo Chok Dau and Sam Riak have been outstanding for Andres Oliveira's side in recent weeks, while at the back David Cyrus and Mark Barnett, who returns from injury for this one, have also been solid. The return of Brian Woodall has bolstered their squad, and they go into this one confident they can continue their push up the table. The Glory youngsters were beaten for only the third time last week at Bayswater, but they dominated the game but couldn't find a goal, which is unusual for Richard Garcia's side, who have scored 24 this season to-date, the second highest in the league. With the end of the A-League season the Glory squad will change, Jacob Italiano and Walter Scott have already left, so it will be to the likes of Daniel Stynes, Gabriel and Kristian Popovic to guide the youngsters’ home.
There is another good game at SafeRad Stadium where Rockingham City entertain Floreat Athena. Both sides are coming off defeats, Rockingham well beaten at Inglewood, while Floreat were surprisingly beat at home by bottom of the table Stirling Lions, so both will be looking to bounce back on Saturday. Floreat dropped to fourth with defeat last week, and Garret McDuling will be looking for a response from his chargers in this one. Dean Evans has starred this season and he is up there in the Gold Medal voting for sure, while Jason Saldaris continues to pin a tight defence which has only conceded 15 goals, which is the fourth best in the league, but they will be without young striker Luke Ninkovic, who has signed for Victorian NPL side Heidelberg United. Rockingham are unbeaten at home in the league and cup this season and they will need to be at their best to continue that on Saturday. Cameron Lord's side have impressed in their first season in the NPL and James Harmer, Riley van Dieken and Sam McKearnan have all been impressive up top, but they need to stop the goals going in at the other end, and the 24 they have conceded is the third highest in the league.
In the final game it's the local derby between Stirling Lions and Balcatta at Macedonia Park. The Lions produced the shock of the round last week, beating Floreat Athena on their home patch, and Trevor Morgan’s experience is rubbing on his players, with new signings Steve McDonald and Danny Jones playing well. Balcatta also returned to the winners’ circle after a hard-fought win against ECU Joondalup and midfielder Jon Corness said it was a vital win for them. “It’s Great to finally get a win, we've had some tight losses recently so to have it go in our favour was nice,” he said. “I thought we deserved it, we created a heap of good opportunities, backed ourselves in the individual battles and dealt with ECU's attack really well.” New signing Lewis Italiano shone on his debut last week, and Corness said he will be important again on Saturday in the derby. “Lewis is a really good addition to the squad, he has A-league talent and it shows on the training pitch and against ECU Saturday gone he made some great saves and distribution from the back was top draw,” he explained. “We're really up for the game against Stirling, it's a big week for us in terms of where we could be so we need a lot of desire to play our style and get the result we need to keep pushing up the table.”
31.5.2019
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND NINE – PREVIEW
It's week nine in the State League Division One and the Footballwa.net 'Match of the Round' takes us to Kingsway Reserve where Olympic Kingsway take on Joondalup United. Both sides were beaten at home last week, Olympic losing their first game at home this season against Fremantle City, while Joondalup went down to Western Knights, so both sides will be looking to bounce back this weekend. Olympic skipper Kieran Stallard said the players were disappointed with the performance against Fremantle, but he said they had chances late to take something from the game. "We started very poorly in the first 20 minutes and Fremantle managed to capitalise on that and grabbed two goals,” he said. “For the rest of the match in terms of possession we were by far the better side, but all credit to Freo, they got everyone behind the ball and were solid enough to withstand our pressure. I don’t think we created anywhere near enough and lost three very, very, soft goals which is disappointing.” Stallard, who played in the NPL with Balcatta, Cockburn City and ECU Joondalup, said there are many people working hard, both on and off the pitch to bring success back to the club, and he said the young Olympic side are determined to do their part on the pitch. "The club have some very talented young lads who have done well so far since they’ve came into the team and I think the exposure in Division One at senior level is doing them the world of good rather than being stuck in the no man’s land of the NPL 20’s,” the defender explained.
“I think a lot of other young lads out there should take a look at that and follow suit. A lot of our lads made that leap out of their comfort zones and all credit to them for doing so. But I think they’re learning quickly that their needs to be a high level of consistency every week as in senior football it’s all about getting results. We have had a couple results not go our way but we haven’t played badly and the lads continue working hard which is the most important thing.” They are back home this weekend against Joondalup United, and the skipper said although their results haven't been good to date, they are a good side and they will need to be at their best on Saturday. "As I always say to the boys, it doesn’t matter who we play or where we play, we play our way and concentrate on causing our opposition the problems,” he explained. “I think if we play at our best, we will beat any team in the league, but I’m sure everyone else will say the exact same thing.”
Joondalup striker Ian McMurray said last week’s loss to the Knights was tough, especially with the awful penalty decision for their winner. "Last week we felt we deserved something from the match. We played very well for long parts of the match and matched a very good Knights team,” he said. “The penalty decision was tough to accept with neutrals as well as supporters from both teams feeling the decision was wrong and especially as the winning goal ended up coming from it. As disappointing as the result was, we’ve taken lots of positives from it and will take them into the Kingsway match and if we apply ourselves in the same way we’ll do well.” McMurray was at Olympic in the pre-season as an assistant coach to Gary Williams, but he moved to Joondalup and he has settled in well. “I was unsure what I wanted to do with football this year and Gary Williams asked me to come down and assist him at Kingsway. As much as it was a great opportunity to work with Gaz at Kingsway, I just felt I needed a break from coaching and decided that I wanted to play this year. Nick contacted me and after a short chat with him I was more than happy to help out,” he explained.
“It’s been tough for Nick and Joondalup as we lost a lot of players from last year’s squad and it’s not been easy to recruit. It’s taken time to get a squad together and although we don’t have the biggest squad, we have a hard-working team with a good blend of youth and experience. We are a team which is improving and will continue to do so. I’m enjoying my football this season which is what it’s all about and hopefully can help Joondalup climb the table.” Saturday's game will be a challenge, but McMurray said their away form is good only losing once and they are looking forward to the challenge. "Another tough match but we will go into it with confidence and Nick will have us fired up for it,” he said. “We know how good they are under Gary and we know we’ll need to be at our best. The surface is great and both teams look to play good football, so hopefully it’s a great game with plenty of goals.”
In other games, league leaders Ashfield entertain Subiaco at Ashfield Arena. Both sides are coming off draws last week against Gwelup and UWA Nedlands respectively, and Ashfield will be looking to maintain their unbeaten home start to the season, while Subiaco will be searching for their first win on the road this season. Western Knights host Forrestfield United at Nash Field. The Knights are one of the form teams in the league at the moment, but Forrestfield have stuttered in recent weeks, but got back to winning ways last week against Morley. The two bottom sides meet at Wotton Reserve with Morley Windmills hosting Mandurah City. In the final game third placed Fremantle City entertain fourth placed Gwelup Croatia at Hilton Reserve. Both sides are unbeaten in their last five games, so this one should be a cracker. Fremantle beat Olympic last week on the road, while Gwelup drew with Ashfield. Gwelup Head Coach Taki Nicolaidis said it was a great game and a fair result in the end. “It was a very tough encounter with both team having chances to win the game however a draw was a fair result,” he said. “But it may be a valuable point come end of season.” Nicolaidis is expecting another tough game on Saturday, against a good Fremantle side. “Freo are probably the most inform team at the moment and have come off a big 6-0 FFA cup win on Wednesday night and playing full of confidence,” he explained. “They will be a very tough team to break down and we will need to be at our best defensively and clinical in attack if we are to come away with the three points.” UWA-Nedlands have the bye this weekend.
31.5.2019
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND EIGHT – PREVIEW
We go into week eight of the State League Division Two, and the Footballwa.net 'Match of the Round' is the top of the table clash at Walter Padbury Reserve, where second placed Gosnells City host league leaders Quinns. Gosnells lost top spot last week with a draw at Balga, but they had to come-from-behind to earn it and a late goal from Scott Pereira saw them come home with a 2-2 draw. Meanwhile a goal from Brent Quick saw Quinns edge out Wanneroo City to leapfrog Saturday's opponents, but with only two points separating these two side it should be an entertaining game. Gosnells keeper Tom Allen said last week’s draw was a tough game, but a draw was probably a fair result. "I thought Balga played well, were hard to get behind and counter attacked quickly with numbers, and to be fair we were lucky to not concede more,” he said. “On the day nothing seemed to go right for us, so to keep pushing on to score with the last kick of the game is great character from the lads.”
The club are celebrating their 50th anniversary this season, and it's been a great start for Marc Anthony's side and Allen said they are hoping to continue that on Saturday against a strong Quinns side. "It’s a huge season for the club in terms of their anniversary and our aim of getting promoted. A lot of work has been put in, on and off the pitch and it’s showing,” he explained. “Quinns is the must win game for us, and big Games like this show if teams are capable of winning the league. Division Two is a lot stronger than we first thought but we are more than ready for the challenge.”
Quinns winger Josh Booysen was the supplier for the winner last week against Wanneroo, and he said they made it hard for them, but were worthy winners. "Yes, it was a tough battle, but I think our quality came through in the end,” he said. “Some games we need to grind out, and that was one of them. A lot of teams will come out strong against us now so we know what to expect, and we’re ready for it. It’s still a fairly new squad we’ve got, but it’s a really good group. We’re all there to play and enjoy football, and we’re trying to build a winning culture within the squad.
Booysen said Saturday will be another tough game, with Gosnells having a good season, but they are confident they can come home with a positive result. "I don’t know too much about Gosnells to be honest, but we’re looking forward to the contest,” he said. “It shouldn’t be any different for our squad, we will just play our best football and fight till the end. Definitely a big game in terms of the league, and we will be ready.”
In other games Curtin University host Dianella White Eagles at Edinburgh Reserve on Friday night. Curtin are coming off last week’s win at Canning, while were beaten at home by Shamrock and Howard Tweats will be looking for a better performance this week. On Saturday Canning City host Wanneroo City at Burrendah Reserve, Canning are still searching for their first win while Wanneroo are looking for their first win in three games. Third placed Murdoch University Melville entertain Joondalup City at Murdoch Uni. MUM are unbeaten in their last three games, the latest a big win at Kelmscott last week, while Joondalup will be looking to bounce back from a heavy loss at home to Swan last time out.
In the final game Fourth placed Swan United welcomes sixth placed Balga to Francis Street. Balga have had two good performances against the top two teams on the table, a win against Quinns and a hard-fought draw with Gosnells City last week, and coach Aleks Vrteski will be looking for more of the same in the Swan Valley. It’s Swans first home game in a month and Coach Paul Dundo said it was good to get back to winning ways last week at Joondalup, and to bag a few goals. "The Boys have tracking nicely during the month of May with more consistent performances and the hard work at training paid of last week with some of the best Football we’ve played all year at Joondalup,” he said. “Well done to the playing group, however there is still hard work to be done.” Swan have only won once at home this season and Dundo said it's important to change that, but knows Balga will be tough. "The hard works starts on Saturday against Balga, another side who have been tracking nicely this Season, with only one loss and who are always a difficult and very competitive opponent,” he said. “I expect Saturday’s encounter to another exciting battle with some good football played also.”
31.5.2019
BELT UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION - ROUND SEVEN PREVIEW
It's week seven in the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division and this week’s Footballwa.net 'Match of the Round' takes us to the UWA Sports Park on Sunday afternoon where UWA Nedlands host Hamersley Rover. (3.00pm) Both sides are coming off good performances, the Hammers beating Joondalup 7-4, while UWA held league leaders North Perth to a 2-2 draw. The last time these two sides met at the venue was in round 15 last season with Hamersley running out 4-2 winners. Steve Kruit, Cosimo Figliomeni and Callum Wells gave the visitors a three-goal lead at half time, and Kruit added his second after the break to make it 4-0. Tope Olasanoye and Simone Sichel scored a couple of consolation goals for UWA but the damage had already been done.
The win against Joondalup was pleasing for Coach Glynn Shaw and he said his side are improving each week. "We started the game well and were three up in the first 20 minutes," he said. "I thought we controlled the game and despite Joondalup scoring earlier in the second half the lads replied straight away, and we took control of the game and were the better team from the off. Although we conceded four, we rarely let them into the game. The boys are now starting to gel as a unit and we hope to keep pushing on from here." Hamersley will be searching for their first win on the road for the season on Sunday, and Shaw said it is another big challenge, especially after UWA's good result at North Perth last week. "After a hard thought win last weekend the boys are looking forward to UWA this weekend and trying to get our first win away from home,” he said. “It's going to be a hard game to get a result as they (UWA) seem to be getting good results but the boys are very much up for the challenge.”
UWA's draw last week continued their unbeaten start on the road this season and Coach Arthur Hiemstra said it was a good performance from his side and hopes to build on that result for the rest of season. "The second half will serve as a reference point for the lads for the rest of the season as to how good they can be and as an example that we can always can get back in the game if we are chasing the score line,” he explained. “So you’re right definitely something to build on for the rest of the season.” Hiemstra said Hamersley have some dangerous players, and Sunday will be a tough test, but he is confident they can get a positive result. "Yes, they have got a potent partnership up front and last time we played them at home they were very dangerous on the break,” he said. “We have got a fully fit squad though and are bringing a lot of firepower into the game so I fancy our chances to keep the three points at home.”
North Perth United and Quinns will both be looking to bounce back from poor results last week when they meet at Gumblossom Park on Friday evening (8.00pm) The draw against UWA lost top spot for Alex Carter's side, while Quinns were well beaten at Kingsley but they remained in fourth. In other games Joondalup United host Jaguar at Beldon Park on Sunday, while Wembley Downs entertain Ellenbrook United at Butlers Reserve. League leaders Kingsley were supposed to be on the road, but the game has been moved to Chichester Park under lights on Saturday evening when they take on Kwinana United. (8.00pm) Kris Donnell's side got back in the winners' circle last week at Ellenbrook, while Kingsley were big winners against Quinns, and assistant Coach Stuart Montgomery said it was a good team performance.
“The game last week against Quinn’s was a very good one from us,” he said. “Quinn’s are a good side and we knew how they would want to play against us and to the boy’s credit they took our instructions out on to the park and played some very good football, some of the best we have played all year and deserved the result.” Montgomery said the game had been switched after consulting both teams, so the players can watch the Champions League Final on the TV early on Sunday morning, and he said his players know what to expect. “This week against Kwinana is going to be another tough physical game,” he explained. “They have had some mixed results but we expect a fired-up Kwinana and we as coaches expect our boys to rise to the occasion and give another consistent performance as they have for the last six games.”
In the final game Leeming Strikers make the trip to Gerry Archer Sports Complex on Sunday to take on Belmont Villa. Last week Belmont produced a great team performance to beat Jaguar to move to eighth on the table, and coach Tom Moderval will be looking for a similar one against the Strikers. Leeming however conceded late to draw at home to Wembley Downs, and winger Lucas Pickering said it was two points lost. “We were looking strong very early on and it was great to get a goal so early in the game,” he said. “From there we continued to create opportunities but missed our chances and really let them back in it. It was devastating to see it fly in, in the last minute, but fair play to lad as it was a good goal, and not much our keeper could’ve done, but it was two points lost.”
Pickering said this week’s venue is somewhere they like to play and have got some good results in recent seasons, and he hopes it continues on Sunday. “We’ve had a lot of success playing at Belmont, it’s almost our second home ground with the amount of cup games we’ve played there,” he explained. “We are fully up for the challenge against this new inexperienced Belmont team and have confidence that our structure and depth will win on the day. Our dropped points so far have been avoidable and disappointing, but it’s great to still be in the race. We’ve 100% got the quality and the passion in the team to head up the table from here.”
30.5.2019
WILLIAMS’ WILDERNESS YEARS ARE OVER
Rhys Williams says he's primed to end five years in the Socceroos wilderness. the 30-year old defender, currently playing for Saudi Arabian club Al-Qadsiah, is among the 24-strong Socceroos squad which has arrived in South Korea ahead of next Friday's friendly.
For Williams, the training camp and fixture against the Koreans signals his return to international football for the first time since 2013. He then tore an Achilles tendon, which ruled him out of the 2014 World Cup and pre-empted a horror stretch of injuries.
"I rushed it to get back and then ended up being out for two years with different injuries," Williams said. "Now, I have been playing consistently for the last few years which is good. I have played 30-odd games this year and I feel like I know my body a lot better and I'm ready to go."
Williams spent two seasons in the A-League at Perth Glory then Melbourne Victory before joining Al-Qadsiah in 2018. Making his return to Socceroos camp even sweeter is the presence of younger brother Ryan, who is in the national set-up for the first time. The Williams brothers have never played on the same team.
"Ryan made his senior professional football debut against me when we were playing in England," said Rhys. "So it would be nice to see his international debut as well. I have never been this close to him during football. To train with him and see him develop is very special."
29.5.2019
NO END IN SIGHT FOR DE VANNA
She’s 34 years old and about to compete in her fourth Women’s World Cup - but don’t count on Lisa De Vanna departing the stage any time soon. The Matildas’ striker is eyeing off the exploits of 41-year old Brazilian midfielder Formiga, who is about to become the first player - male or female - to feature at seven World Cups.
And she’s thinking - ‘why not me’? Realistically, De Vanna - who is studying for her ‘B’ coaching license - sees a potential end point at the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo. “I’d been thinking about going through to the Games and maybe finishing up on that,” said De Vanna.
But then De Vanna’s mind jumps to the formidable Formiga. “I’m not saying I can go that long but I look at her, and I think ‘wow, what an athlete’,” De Vanna said. “She’s going to a seventh World Cup - incredible. I’m not saying I can follow that but it goes to show that age is just a number.”
De Vanna has been training recently with the Young Matildas and gets a buzz being able to impart her wisdom to the next generation. In typically forthright style De Vanna puts it like this: “They might look at me and say ‘wow, I’m training with Lisa De Vanna. “But I’m looking at them and thinking ‘wow, I’m actually training with the next best thing here’.”
One youngster who will be joining De Vanna in France next month as Australia’s most beloved national team chases the ultimate prize is 16-year old fellow striker Mary Fowler, perhaps a mini De Vanna in the making. “There’s something about Mary,” she says. “She’s got a kind of determination different to any other young kid I know.”
De Vanna says there’s an “extra special” feeling ahead of the Matilda’s group games against Jamaica, Italy and Brazil. “I felt more pressure going into the last World Cup than this one, which is strange because there’s a lot more hype around this time,” she adds.
“Last time I wanted to be part of some sort of history and see us change the game. I knew that people would fall in love with us and with how much much heart and soul we put in. Now we’ve got the support and the backing from the public, I have other goals now - and that’s to take it to the next level.”
“I want us to reach a semi-final, which we’ve never done before, and if we go through and win the World Cup, then that’s the icing on the cake. This is definitely the golden generation. If we are going to win it, or come close to winning it, it’s definitely going to be this time.”
“We finally got the respect we deserve as a team, especially when it comes to the attacking side of the game. We’re very dangerous and a lot of teams fear that. But there are things we need to work on still: like how to better press up front and defend as a unit.”
28.5.2019
GALLOWAY: OPPORTUNITY AT CITY TOO GOOD TO TURN DOWN
Scott Galloway says Melbourne City’s potential to be a “powerhouse” of the A-League made it an easy decision to join the club. One of Adelaide United’s most consistent players in 2018/19, the Reds were hopeful of re-signing the 24-year old who is equally comfortable at left or right-back.
But Galloway, who stared his A-League career at Melbourne Victory, opted to return to Victoria and inked a three-year deal with City. "I had an option to stay with Adelaide but there was a change of direction there and I thought the opportunity at City was a good one to take," he said.
"Moving around different clubs, you do learn a lot, you grow and mature as a player and as a person, but I felt that City is a club with so much potential. I feel it's only a matter of time before they become the powerhouse of the league, with the backing they have got, the facilities and infrastructure they have."
City will be Galloway’s fifth A-League club since his debut in 2013, having also enjoyed one-year stints at Central Coast Mariners and Wellington Phoenix. He featured in every game for the Reds in 2018/19, scoring the season’s first goal with a stunning long-range hit against Sydney FC in October's 1-1 draw.
About to head into his seventh season as a professional, Galloway said his history of switching clubs was just the nature of the A-League. "Many players only get offered one-year contracts or short-term deals. You see it every season at every club, 10-15 players come off contract and there is lots of movement,” the defender said.
"I signed a two-year deal with Melbourne Victory when I was young, but I felt I had to leave there to get more game time. I did play quite a lot there, but I wanted to play more and a lot of younger players are in that position so they have to move on."
28.5.2019
SOCCEROOS SHOT NO HOLIDAY FOR GRATEFUL WILLIAMS
Ryan Williams was so sure he wouldn’t feature in Australia’s squad for Friday week’s friendly against Korea Republic that he’d booked his post-season holidays. Having been placed on standby for a number of previous Socceroo squads, the off-contract Rotherham United winger wasn’t sure when - or if - his time would come.
Delight at finally making the cut - along with elder brother Rhys - for the clash in Busan led to the quick cancellation of his family’s travel plans. “I’ve re-arranged things but I’d pay handsome sums of money to do it again because this call-up means a lot to me,” Williams told theworldgame.sbs.com.au
“My mum, who used to live near Busan, is coming and it’s just exciting for the whole family. If I get the chance to play I’ll be looking to make an impact. First and foremost it will be good for the coaches to see what I’m like in training and hopefully I can make sure I’m a part of their choices for the future.”
Having brother Rhys in the same squad brings added poignancy, as well as stoking memories of 2011 when Ryan made his professional debut against Rhys’s Middlesbrough. “He was there, playing against me for my Championship debut, and hopefully this time we can be playing on the same side for my Socceroos debut,” he said. “That would be nice.”
The pair join a select band of Socceroos siblings who have featured in squads simultaneously. The list includes Aurelio and Tony Vidmar, John and Ross Aloisi, the Griffiths clan - Joel, Ryan and Adam, and the McGowan brothers, Ryan and Dylan.
After 39 appearances for relegated Rotherham, Williams is set to bounce back to the Championship with a switch to a new club. “There has been an offer but there’s no huge rush,” he said. “I want to go away with Australia first and hopefully make a bit of an impression and re-assess things when I return.”
Williams sees remaining at Championship level crucial to his hopes of maintaining a presence with the national team. “It’s nice to get a bit of recognition but I need to build on that,” he added. “Up to now maybe I just haven’t done enough in terms of scoring goals (with just one in the league last season).”
“With a team like Rotherham that’s struggling, it’s hard. We were the bookies’ favourites to go down and were fighting an uphill battle. Most games we were defending 70 percent of the time. But that’s not the only reason and maybe I could have done better.”
27.5.2019
EDWARDS HOPES HE’S EARNED PLACE IN HEARTS’ FUTURE PLANS
Ryan Edwards admits his Scottish Cup Final goal was all the sweeter following his struggle to establish himself at Hearts. But the midfielder took little solace from the opener after the match as Celtic came from behind to win the trophy thanks to Odsonne Edouard’s double.
The romance of the Cup was in full bloom when Edwards stabbed home early in the second half, after being handed only his third start for the club. The 25-year old had to wait almost ten months for his debut following a summer move from Partick Thistle, and did enough in the intervening weeks to earn a Final start.
“I was on the bench against Rangers five weeks ago and before that I was playing in the reserves,” Edwards said. “So it’s a bit of a rollercoaster four or five weeks for me. The way my season has gone I wouldn’t have known I’d be starting in a cup final.”
“I just kept my head down, worked hard and focused on myself. I couldn’t have asked for anything more apart from winning the cup. I’m gutted, to be honest. We ran them close the full game and Celtic never really got into their rhythm. Credit to the boys, it’s just really disappointing.”
“We have worked really hard the last couple of weeks to come up with a game plan and everything was set up first half to go 1-0 up. It’s a bit disappointing to lose the two goals we did but I’m proud of the boys and we can take this into next season.”
Edwards was loaned to struggling St Mirren in the first half of the campaign and he admitted he wondered at one stage whether he would play for Hearts. “That thought comes in my head the way the season went but I just always control what I can control, and that’s to come into training with a smile on my face and work hard every day,” he said.
“I’m a big believer in that. The injuries helped me get an opportunity in the team and it was up to me to take it. I think I have performed reasonably well and hopefully with the last four or five games I have played here I will be in his plans for next season.”
“The staff have been really, really good for me to stay positive and enjoy coming into work every day. It’s been a pleasure to be at this club, I’m so grateful to have the opportunity and I hope I can have more appearances.”
26.5.2019
BELT UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION - ROUND SIX REVIEW
We have a new leader at the top of the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division, with Kingsley lead frogging North Perth United after a bin win against Quinns at Chichester Park on Saturday evening. The last these sides met was in the Night Series Semi-Final, with Quinns running out winners, but Kingsley were up for this one and were ahead when a ball down the line to Ryan Brown, who crossed to Josh Waldock, who volleyed home first time. It was 2-0 when Joel Gillespie’s corner bounced off the crossbar and Waldock was quickest to react to fire home. The home side added another when a ball over the top was picked up by Brown, and he made no mistake. Waldock completed his hat-trick before half time, a corner was only cleared to Lewis Flatt his ball into the box found Waldock and he tapped home from close-range. Kingsley went on with it after the break and added a fifth when good lead up play from Jayden Drummond and Waldock, ended with a cross to Brown who added his second. The icing was put on the cake in this one late, a great long-range strike from Gillespie make the final score 6-0. “Our aim was to start quickly, and I thought we started outstandingly,” Waldock said. “We knew Quinn’s were going to be a tough team as they beat us in the night series, but I thought the first half was one of the best halves of football we have played and it was amazing to be a part of. We have started the season off pretty well and this result shows the determination all the group has and what we want to achieve this year.”
North Perth lost top spot after they were held to a 2-2 draw by UWA Nedlands at Woodville Reserve. The hosts looked on course for the win after Dan Conway and Alpha Sherif went close early and their pressure was rewarded with the lead on 22 minutes, with Oscar Kelly on target. They doubled their lead 10 minutes later, with Sherif tapping home after a ball into the box by Kelly, but UWA thought keeper Duncan Lissiman was fouled in the lead up, but the goal stood. But on 56 minutes UWA were back in the game, when Tope Olasanoye raced clear, rounded North Perth keeper Jamie Serra and finished from a tight angle. The home side were then reduced to ten men four minutes later when Sam Nicol was sent off for a last man tackle on Mitch Barrington. Then on 64 minutes UWA restored parity, North Perth failed to clear their lines and Olasanoye made them pay firing home. UWA looked for the winner and created a number of chances but were unable to find the winner. “Ahead of the game I would have been happy with a point but after the game I consider us unlucky not to leave with three points,” UWA coach Arthur Hiemstra said. “I thought there second goal followed from a blatant foul on our goalkeeper, but we had the upper hand throughout the second half.”
Belmont Villa continued their good form under coach Tom Moderval, handing Jaguar their first home defeat of the season after a 4-2 win at Herb Graham Recreation Centre. Doubles from Luqman Abdirahman and David Musa, the pick of the goals was Abdirahman’s screamer from outside the penalty area was enough for Belmont, while on target for Jags were Lok Mamal and David Kai. “It was another cracker of a game,” said Moderval. “They (Jaguar) have quality players all over the pitch that will snap you off in a second if you let your guard down, so our midfield had to work their socks off today just to keep us in the game after Jaguar twice took the lead. Getting the win late on was a bonus. More importantly, this is a very young team and they will have learned heaps today.” Musa echoed his coaches’ thoughts on the big win. “Thoroughly deserved victory for Belmont,” he said. “Jaguars threw everything at us but through sheer character, discipline and a bit of magic from our two forwards, we got the win.”
There was an eleven-goal thriller at Carine Open Space, with Hamersley Rovers running out 7-4 winners against Joondalup United. The home raced to a three-goal lead, with Mark Bailey bagging a brace and Cosimo Figliomeni getting the other, but Kyall Osborne reduced the margin before half time, getting on the end of a Andreas Bouzinekis’ cross to head powerfully home. It was 3-2 early in the second half, Taylor Cooper getting down the flank and his cross to the back post was headed home by Sandy McKay. But the home side went straight up the pitch and regained their two-goal advantage with John Goodwood on target. Bailey scored his hat-trick midway the half, before Adam Taylor fired home a free kick to reduce the margin. Rovers added two more to take complete control of the game, and Adam Taylor scored a late consolation goal to make the final score 7-4.
Kwinana United are back in the winner’s circle after a 4-1 win against Ellenbrook United at Jack Mann Oval. Shane Boyle scored the first with a cool finish, before Tino Calisto added a second before half time. Ellenbrook pulled one back just after half time but with 20 minutes to go Jose dos Santos eased past two Ellenbrook defenders and finished clinically past the keeper to make it 3-1. The visitors sealed the points on 80 minutes, with Shane Nunez heading from a corner kick. “Happy to get three points on the board and pleased for the boys,” United coach Kris Donnell said. “I thought we were in control the whole game start to finish and every player on the pitch for us gave 100 percent, which I can’t ask for more.”
In the final game Leeming Strikers and Wembley Downs have fought out a 1-1 draw at John Connell Reserve. Leeming were ahead on five minutes, a diagonal pass from Paulo Coelho found Lucas Pickering on the run, who controlled with his chest into the 18 yard and box finished from 15 meters. Wembley hit back in the second half and Az Gray earned them a point late. “For 89 minutes I was really happy with our performance but yet again we've had long periods of the game in control and had plenty of opportunities to kill the game but the final ball or decision has let us down which is disappointing,” Leeming coach David Palin said. “We allowed Wembley to grow into the game and our wasteful play deserved to be punished and Wembley were able to get the goal in the end, which their last 15 minutes deserved so credit to them. From our end its two points dropped but until we become more ruthless in the final third, we are always going to be at risk of dropping points. We will keep working on it in training and try improve this week against Belmont.” Wembley coach Mike Ford was happy with the point. “I thought it was a game of two halves, they dominated the first half and took a 1-0 lead, and we pretty much dominated and eventually put one of many chances away , so all in all probably a fair result.”
25.5.2019
TEN MAN BAYSWATER TAKE OUT THE GLORY
A ten-man Bayswater City have beaten Perth Glory 1-0 at Frank Drago Reserve at Frank Drago Reserve, the win moving them up to six on the NPL WA table. The only goal of the game came from Jason Mirco on 22 minutes, but they then had former Glory defender Brent Griffiths sent off six minutes later, but Chris Coyne’s side held out gallantly to take out the points. “Today was a massive result for us, not only given our table position but the circumstances that it came by,” Mirco said post-match. “The coaching staff had us well organised and across our plan for the game and early on we were on track as planned. Griffo copped an unlucky send off and that caused us to have to re shuffle the deck. Glory are a great outfit and we knew that it was a case of digging deep and working hard defensively to keep our lead in tack.”
Glory opened brightly and Henry Hore’s shot was saved low by Devon Spence. Moments later Hore sent Ethan Brooks down the right, his low cross found Gabriel Popovic whose flick was pushed around the post by the alert Spence. It was all Glory and Hore’s shot from the edge of the box on 14 minutes stung the palms of Spence, the rebound going to Kristian Popovic who sent Brooks down the right, whose low cross was inches away from Gabriel Popovic in the box.
But on 22 minutes, against the run of play, Bayswater took the lead. Mirco and Kenny Keogh combined down the right, and Mirco raced into the box, his shot took a deflection off Bodnar and wrong footed Nic Speca and the ball crept into the net. But six minutes later the home side were reduced to ten men when Griffiths pushed Brooks on the back of the head. It looked a little innocuous, but referee Shane Skinner saw it as foul play, and showed the defender a straight red card.
Glory opened up brightly in the second half and the dangerous Brooks found space down the right and his teasing cross was met by Stynes, but his header flashed wide of the post. Bayswater went close themselves on the hour, Giordano Colli’s corner was headed towards goal by Adam Tong, but Speca was brave, to get a touch from Keogh’s flick on the line to send it behind for a corner. From the resulting Colli corner Tong’s powerful header was tipped around the post at full stretch by Speca, as Bayswater looked for a second, before Speca had to be alert tip over Ryan Person’s effort moments later.
Glory hit back and had a penalty claim turned down after Brooks was brought down in the box by Daryl Nicol, but the referee waved away their protests. They went even closer on 74 minutes. A foul by Keogh on Gabriel Popovic on the edge of the box, saw them awarded a free kick, and Hore’s free kick crashed off the crossbar.
Glory continued to press and laid siege on the Bayswater goal and the best chance came when Gabriel Popovic sent Stynes in on goal but Adam Harris got back with a good last tackle, before Zayd Farah’s long-range shot whistled wide of the target and time ran out.
Bayswater City: GK Devon SPENCE, 10 Jason MIRCO (5 Adam HARRIS 66’), 11 Ryan PEARSON (3. 73), 13 Trent KAY, 17 Daryl NICOL, 18 Brent GRIFFITHS, 19 Gordon SMITH, 20 Giordano COLLI, 21 Kenny KEOGH (24 Jake SARDELIC 84’), 27 Ross MILLARD, 30 Adam TONG - Sub not used: 2 Declan HARGREAVES, 9 Gustavo GIRON-MARULANDA - Red cards: Griffiths 28
Perth Glory: GK Nicolas SPECA, 2 Zayd FARAH, 3. Jaidon SELDEN, 4. Luca BODNAR, 5. Nicholas WALSH, 6. Kristian POPOVIC, 7. Ethan BROOKS, 8. Jack LEECH (14. Gomo DUKULY 67), 9. Gabriel POPOVIC, 10. Daniel STYNES, 11. Henry HORE - Subs not used: 12. Jacob MUIR, 13. Josh SAMSON, 15. Liam MURRAY, 16. Jacob RANGE - Referee: Shane Skinner
25.5.2019
BALCATTA WILD ABOUT ALEX
Balcatta are back in the winner’s circle after a Alex Wild gave give them hard fought 1-0 win against ECU Joondalup at Grindleford Reserve. The striker fired home on 23 minutes, but the Jacks pressed late looking for the equaliser, but they couldn’t beat keeper Lewis Italiano in the Balcatta goal. “Obviously very pleased with taking the three points, we defended well and with Lewis Italiano in goal we had that extra bit of confidence,” Balcatta midfielder Alex Castiello said. “We also created several good chances and Alex scored a good goal and was unlucky not to get a second hitting the cross bar. It was a good game all round and now we have the momentum back behind us we want to keep climbing back into that top four where we belong.”
There was a somber moment before kick off as both sets of players stood in a minute’s silence for former Jacks defender Charlie Comyn-Platt, whose new baby passed away overnight – Everyone at Footballwa.net send their love and prayers to Charlie and his family at this sad time. Both sides had early chances, first on 14 minutes Shubham Mokala’s corner picked out Castiello, whose header was straight at Johnny Perkins. Then on 22 minutes Tommy Amphlett raced down the right channel, and his low shot beat Italiano, but drifted agonizingly wide of the far post.
But moments later the home side hit the front. A quick break down the right by Ben Pellizzari, ended with a low cross to Wild, who lost his marker and guided the ball home from five meters. Balcatta went close to a second on the half hour, John Kearney’s corner picked out an unmarked Antony Topini at the near post, but he headed wide of the target. It was the best period of the game for the home side and they went close again two minutes later. Calum O’Connell sent Wild racing down the left, he cut inside the penalty area and his shot crashed off the crossbar, bounced on the line and cleared away by Shane Cassidy.
Balcatta had the first opportunity of the second half, Anthony Topini won possession on the edge of the box and raced into the penalty area one-on-one with Perkins, but the Jacks custodian stood tall and produced a great low save to his left to deny him. The Jacks started to take control and they went close to the equaliser on 70 minutes. A great diagonal pass by Bayley Brown-Montgomery found Kenna on the left of the penalty area, he took on his marker, but his shot was straight at Italiano. Balcatta almost added a second, with a helping hand of Jacks midfielder Whitmore. His attempted back pass was over hit and it sailed over Perkins, but luckily for Whitmore and the Jacks it went into the side netting. Moments later Balcatta substitute Gavin Knight was sent clear with a ball over the top, but his attempted lob from the edge of the box was well caught by Perkins at full stretch.
The Jacks thought they had found the leveller three minutes from time, when Higgin’s free kick found Bayley Brown-Montgomery, his bullet header looked destined for the net but the former Wellington Phoenix shot stopper, Italiano, produced a stunning reaction save to deny him. Brown-Montgomery went close again in stoppage time, De Lima headed down to the young striker, but his shot on the turn drifted wide of the post. Balcatta thought they had doubled their lead late when Perkins clearance hit one of his own players the ball rebounded to Knight who raced into goal, Perkins produced a great save to deny him and in the goal mouth scramble substitute Adam Zimarino fired home but the flag was up for offside.
Balcatta: GK Lewis ITALIANO, 2 Joseph MARINO, 3 John KEARNEY, 4 Calum O’CONNELL (C), 5 Shubham MOKALA (19 Michael ZIMARINO 90’), 7 Ben PELLIZZARI (11 Adam ZIMARINO 65’), 8 Alex WILD (9 Gavin KNIGHT 76’), 10 Jonathan CORNESS, 12 Roberto DEL BORRELLO, 16 Alex CASTIELLO, 20 Anthony TOPINI - Subs not used: RGK David KEENAN, 22 Adam FIELDS - Yellow cards: Del Borrello 26’, Wild 57’, Adam Zimarino 91’, Italiano 93’
ECU Joondalup: GK Johnny PERKINS, 2 Arran MAPLESTONE (6 Charlie KENNA 46’), 4 Henry DURR, 5 Shane CASSIDY, 8 Josh WHITMORE, 9 Bayley BROWN-MONTGOMERY, 10 Andy HIGGINS, 11 Jakub SKLENAR (3 Kian MCGUIGAN 83’), 12 Billy QUINNCROFT, 13 Tommy AMPHLETT (7 Lukas DE LIMA 51’), 16 Ewen FAWCETT - Subs not used: RGK George JACKSON, 15 Tom HOUGH - Yellow cards: Whitmore 12’, Amphlett 42’, Higgins 70’, McGuigan 85’ - Referee: Michal Jasinski
25.5.2019
PERTH LEAVE IT LATE TO BEAT THE COCKERELS
Perth SC moved eight points clear at the top of the NPL WA table after a come-from behind win against Cockburn City at Dorrien Gardens on Saturday afternoon. The visitors hit the front just before the hour through Hasani Sinclair, but the hosts levelled twenty minutes from time through an own goal from defender Hayden Stevens. It looked like the points would be shared but in the final minute Matthew Milenkovic popped up to win it. "It was a very open game with both teams having an opportunity to take all three points,” Perth keeper Dejan Aleksic said. “We asked a lot from captain Jordan De Leo and Matt Milenkovic as wing backs today, and I thought they were tremendous and really got us over the line.”
The Cockerels arrived at the Gardens unbeaten in their last three games and it was a tight first half with chances few and far between early. Daniel Robinson and Sinclair looked dangerous for the visitors, with Michael Domfeh and Gustavo Catarcione also dangerous for the hosts. But it was the home side who ended the half the better, and Cockburn keeper Luke Radonich to thank for keeping them in front. First, he produced a stunning reaction save to deny Thomas Southgate's header, before tipping Kristian Santich's effort over the top.
But it was Scott Miller's side who opened the scoring just before the hour. Ryan Pratt eased past his marker on the flank and his cross picked out Sinclair, and the American headed home. Ramon Falzon's side pressed for the equaliser and it finally arrived on 70 minutes. Santich’s crossed caused problems in the box, and an attempted clearance from defender Stevens saw him turn the ball into his own net.
Both sides continued to push forward looking for the winner and Perth went close when Catarcione burst clear and his cross into the box was inches away from Domfeh at the back post. Sinclair had the perfect opportunity to give Cockburn the lead moments later, again it was Pratt who was the supplier, this time racing clear and his cross was inches away from Sinclair.
Cockburn went close again when Daniel Dols was sent one-on-one with Aleksic, but the keeper got down well to save well. Perth had Cockburn on the back foot later and Radonich produced another fine save to deny Matthew Milenkovic, but with the clock ticking to 90 minutes, it was Perth who found the winner. A ball into the box was flicked on by Domfeh and Milenkovic fired home from a tight angle, much to the delight of the home faithful. Perth make the trip to Percy Doyle Reserve next week to take on Sorrento, while Cockburn return to Dalmatinac Park where they host Bayswater City.
Perth SC: GK Dejan ALEKSIC, 7.Aleks JOVIC (3 Andreas THEODOSIADES 66'), 9 Gustavo CATARCIONE, 11 Matthew MILENKOVIC, 12 Jordan DE LEO, 13 Rocco PIZZATA, 14 Kristan SANTICH, 15 Thomas SOUTHGATE, 18 Michael DOMFEH, 19 Bojan RADINOVIC, 20 Paul ZIMARINO - Subs not used: RGK Francis SOALE, 10 Luke GARAS, 16 Kieran COLWELL, 17 Frank FURFARO
Cockburn City: GK Luke RADONICH, 5 Julian TELES, 6 Ruben TRISTAO, 8 Cameron EDWARDS (10 David ARAYA 44'), 12 Ryan PRATT , 14. Hayden STEVENS, 15. Daniel SANTICH, 16. Daniel ROBINSON (18. Adam ANFUSO 66'), 19. Hasani SINCLAIR, 23. Riley WOODCOCK, 21. Jesse LAZZARO (3. Daniel DOLS 74') - Subs not used: RGK Ben RADONICH, 2 Chris THACKRAY - Referee: Joshua Manella,
25.5.2019
TEECE GIVES GULLS THE POINTS
Sorrento maintained fifth spot on the NPL WA table after a dramatic injury time goal from substitute Cameron Teece gave them a 3-2 win against Armadale at Alfred Skeet Reserve. Jordan Roberts gave the Gulls the lead early, but Michael Lawson levelled for the hosts. Jack Salter gave Sorrento the lead just before half time, but Lawson restored parity for the Reds just after. It looked like it was a point a piece, but Teece popped up in the second minute of stoppage time to win it for Jamie Harnwell's side. "It was good to get the three points, especially away from home," Sorrento defender Shaun Kilkelly said. "Armadale is always a tough place to go, but I thought we dug in, and although the game was a little scrappy, we scored late to take home the points."
The visitors were on top early and it wasn’t a surprise when they took the lead after 12 minutes, with Jordan Roberts on target. But the home side were back in the game seven minutes later Lawson fired home from a tight angle. It was a real arm-wrestle and both sides had chances but it was Sorrento who regained the lead three minutes before half time. Slater pouncing on a loose ball in the penalty area to fire past Sam Hutchings, who was injured in the incident and received treatment. But on the stroke of half time Armadale restored parity, after referee Joshua Nixon spotted a handball from Scott Robertson and pointed to the spot. Lawson stepped up and fired home the resulting penalty.
The second half was end-to-end football and Lawson went close to his hat-trick on the hour, but his shot flashed over the top. The home fans thought they had another penalty moments later, but the referee waved away their handball claims. James Morgan then produced a great save to deny Ali Nazary, as the home side pressed for the winner, but Sorrento were also dangerous going forward and in the second minute of stoppage time it was the visitors who won it. A corner wasn’t cleared by the Armadale defence and the ball fell to Teece, whose shot on the turn beat Hutchings, much to the delight of the travelling supporters. Armadale makes the trip north for a really six pointer against ECU Joondalup at the ECU Football Stadium, while the Gulls host league leaders Perth SC at Percy Doyle Reserve.
Armadale: GK Sam HUTCHINGS, 2 John KUSER, 3 James HARRAN, 4 Nathan COSTELLO, 5 Ali NAZARY, 6 Joel SANDERSON (9 Uriel MACIAS 66'), 7 Joshua CORTES, 8 Michael LAWSON, 10. Sam GARCES (22. Ryan HASLETT 58), 12. Dannie Richman, 13. Blake ADAMS - Subs not used: RGK Blake HANSEL, 16 Chad NILSON
Sorrento: GK James MORGAN, 2 David STOKOE, 3 Jakub PRAJZA, 4 Shaun KILKELLY, 5 Scott ROBERTSON, 7 Alex MORGAN (8 Scott WITSCHGE 70') 10 Jordan ROBERTS (20 Jaxon TEMATA 94'), 11 Tim HILL, 17 Reece VITTIGLIA, 18 Jordan BROWN 19 Jack SALTER (23 Cameron TEECE 56') - Subs not used: 60. Noah BLOCH 32. Tristian STEVENS - Referee: Joshua Nixon
25.5.2019
DAU AT THE DOUBLE FOE INGLEWOOD
A brace from Inglewood United striker Chok Dau has helped them to a 3-0 win against Rockingham City at Perth Plasterboard Centre Stadium. Dau’s double and another one from Hamza Hina sent Andres Oliveira’s side to second on the table. “The win this weekend shows how far we have come from the start of the season to now,” Dau said. “In this game we had a strong defensive and attacking structure which allowed us to control the game for 90 minutes and get the three points. We are in good form at the moment so hopefully we carry that into next week’s game against Glory.”
It was a tight opening, but Inglewood started to get on top and it was Dau opened the scoring on 23 minutes, finishing well after good approach work on the left. The former Glory striker went close again moments later, Nina’s cross picked him out, but he put his header over the top when well placed. But they did double their advantage just after the half hour. Anthony Bafobusha cross was headed goal wards by Sam Riak, Cyril Sharrock made the save but Hina was quickest to react to head home the rebound. Rockingham were struggling in the final third, but James Harmer and Mitch Firth were a constant threat, but at half time the home side led 2-0.
The home side made sure of the points 12 minutes from time. Brian Woodall, who returned to the club from Bayswater in the transfer window, played Harry Evans down the left, his cross was headed back across goal by Steve Sokol, who had only been on the pitch for a minute, and his header found Dau on the edge of the penalty area and his volley flew past Sharrock. "I think, overall, we dominated from the start," Inglewood coach Oliviera said. “Our defensive shape has always been good and we got the three goals, so credit to all of them." Inglewood United take on Perth Glory next week at E&D Litis Stadium, while Rockingham City host Floreat Athena at SafeRad Stadium.
Inglewood United: GK Alex DUNN, 2 Alex ISHIDA-LIVINGS, 3 David CYRUS, 4 Scott BLACKMORE, 5 Samuel RIAK (6 Miki VUJACIC 60'), 7 Hamza HINA (11 Harry EVANS 71'), 8 Jason BARRERA (14 Steve SOKOL 77'), 9 Chok DAU, 10 Anthony BAFOBUSHA, 15 Brian FARRELL, 23 Brian WOODALL - Subs not used: RGK Josiah GODFREY 12. Brendan ITALIANO
Rockingham City: GK Cyril SHARROCK, 3 Justis BRADLEY, 5 Harry COLLINS, 6 Blake SOKOLOWSKI (14 Ryan KENNEDY 68'), 7 James MILLARD, 8 James POTTIER (4 Mitch FIRTH 63') 9 Sam MCKEARNEN (23 Victor BRAUNER 68'), 10 James HARMER, 11 Riley VAN DIEKEN, 12 Lydon HODGEKISS, 13 Jarrad MORT - Subs not used: RGK Michael FARMER, 15 Shaz RAMLEE - Referee: Steven Gregory
25.5.2019
LIONS STUN ATHENA
Stirling Lions produced the shock of the round after 2-1 win against the in-form Floreat Athena at E&D Litis Stadium. Darren O’Riordan’s early goal put the Lions ahead, only for skipper Dean Evans to bring Athena back on terms before the interval. But Gino Hampshire’s second half strike proved the difference with Stirling closing the gap on the rest of the pack. “I was delighted for the players. They are the ones who cross the line and put the work in, every single one of them left nothing on the pitch,” Stirling Coach Trevor Morgan said.
“Floreat will probably be disappointed as they are a good side that move the ball around well but we had some really good individual performances from our team that just got us across the line. In terms of a confidence boost it will do wonders for them and we can start to look forward to games now as the players have set a standard that Terry, Jake and myself have to make sure doesn't drop.”
The visitors made a perfect start to this one and were ahead on four minutes. O’Riordan getting to the ball first and toe-poking the ball past Jason Saldaris at the back post. New signing Danny Jones almost added a second on a counter attack, but his shot flashed just wide of the target. But on 24 minutes the home side levelled some sloppy defending let in Evans and he made them pay finishing well.
Garret McDuling’s side were on the front foot after half time and hit the woodwork early, but just before the hour Stirling regained the lead. A ball into the box was headed on by Michael Wantee and Hampshire chipped the onrushing Saldaris. Floreat flooded forward to try to get themselves back in the game but were repelled by the solid Lions defence. Ryan Montgomery produced some outstanding saves in the final minutes to ensure his side took home the points.
Floreat Athena: GK Jason SALDARIS, 2 Marco SANTALUCIA (32 Robert HARDING 90+3'), 3 Tristan COLLI (6 Jesse FULLER 46'), 4 Adrian MADASHI, 8 Jonathan STYNES, 9 Robert PETKOV, 11 Dennis GALAN, 15 Christopher SALDARIS, 17 Dean EVANS, 18 Phillip ARNOLD, 21 Nicholas AMBROGIO (29 Jack PAINTER-ANDREWS 81') - Subs not used: RGK Jordan BARBAS, 13 George FESTA
Stirling Lions: GK Ryan MONTGOMERY, 2 Mile PETKOVSKI, 3 Darren O’RIORDAN (15 Michael GAMA 89'), 5 Steven McDONALD, 6 Dhhors CHOL, 7 Nelson TSHONGO, 9 Zdenek BEZDEK (16 Renee KIESA 90+9'), 10 Danny JONES, 11 Michael WANTEE, 12 Griffin BECSI, 18 Gino HAMPSHIRE – Subs not used: 13. Andrew MARANTA, 19. Joseph PERKINS, 20. Daniel MARQUES - Referee: Julian Serra
25.5.2019
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND EIGHT – REVIEW
The top of the table clash in the State League Division One between Gwelup Croatia and Ashfield at Wishart Street ended in a hard fought 2-2 draw. The hosts hit the front on 35 minutes, Ellis healing made space down the left and he found Danny Hodgson who fired home from close-range. But in the shadows of half time Ashfield levelled, Pat Quinn’s cross was superbly met by Dan Tait and his diving header gave Riley Stephenson no chance. It was a tight second half but it looked like Ashfield had taken all three points when eight minutes from time, when Isaac Nehemie was fouled by Gwelup defender Ciarán Salinger in the penalty area and referee David Bruce pointed to the spot. Substitute Rob Spelman stepped up and beat Stephenson to his right to give Ashfield the lead. But in the final minute a foul on Gwelup defender Bobby Wilson in the box gave them the chance to level from the spot, and Healing made no mistake. The home side thought they had won it in the last minute of seven minutes of stoppage time, David Heagney firing home, but their celebrations were short lived with the assistant spotting a foul in the build-up on Jay Lovell by new Gwelup new signing Clark Keltie. “Very happy with the way my boys played, although I thought we were worth three points, I’ll take one point away from home against a very good Gwelup side,” Ashfield Coach Matt Wardle said. “We can take lots of positives out this match and we look forward to another hard game against Subiaco this weekend.”
Western Knights jumped to second place on the table after a hard fought 2-1 win against Joondalup United at Forrest Park. The visitors were ahead when Andrija Jukic capitalised on an error from the United keeper. But the home side were level early in the second half, Jamie Gardiner eased past three Knights defenders on the left, before finishing with aplomb past the keeper. But the visitors won it when Dean Hurley was bundled down in the penalty and the referee pointed to the spot, much to the amazement of the Joondalup players. Hurley picked himself up to score the resulting penalty to seal the three points. “I thought it was a pretty scrappy game and we were probably lucky to come away with the win if I’m honest,” Knights coach Ivan Zuvela said. “But our character and effort were fantastic, and it was a genuine team display and we battled right until the final whistle to get our rewards.”
Forrestfield United are back in the winners’ circle after a 2-0 win against Morley Windmills at Game Guardian Stadium at Hartfield Park. The host were ahead at the break after Jordan Hart made space down the right and his cross found Dan Corbett at the back post, who made no mistake. The points were wrapped up after the break, Ben Rogers feeding Mitch Crocker, whose long-range shot squirmed under the keeper much to the delight of the home faithful, to end their five-game run without a win. “It was good to get the win, and it’s rewards for a lot of hard work over the past few weeks,” Forrestfield winger Rhys Loxley said. “We have been really unfortunate in the early stages of the season but we have worked on a few key areas throughout our time off. It was really good to see us keep a clean sheet for the first time this season and a lot of credit has to go to the back three who played superbly to deny Morley time and time again.”
In other games, the local derby between Subiaco and UWA Nedlands ended in a 1-1 draw at Rosalie Park. The visitors struck first in this one, Alex Kretowicz chip from the by-line picking out Nick Theodorou, who volleyed home from 6 meters, his first goal for the club. But the home side levelled late on when a cross from Vasco Dasilva found Shay Donovan in the box, and he rose highest to head home. UWA debutant keeper Tim Rossi, who had replaced the unavailable Luke Stonebridge, made a number of fine saves to keep Subiaco at bay, but at the final whistle the points were shared. “Going into the derby we unfortunately didn't deliver exactly what we wanted over 90 minutes. It was the expected intense derby battle but the football wasn't great,” UWA Coach Michael Janssen said.
“In the first half we really played well but didn't put our clear chances away as we were able to score at least two more to put the game to bed early. In the end we are disappointed to concede another late goal not matching up after a late ball into the box, in adding time. We need to turn these draws into wins. We have huge confidence in the players that this will happen shortly.” Subiaco Coach Basil Lenzo agreed with his UWA counterpart, it was a typical derby. “Well it was my first western suburbs “rivalry” and it certainly had all the tension. I thought we played exceptionally well and knew what to expect with some of their movement,” he explained. “The young players kept moving the ball around and stuck to the game plan. Their keeper pulled off two excellent saves to keep them in the game however we take a point and move on to even a bigger weekend with us playing Ashfield. Really proud of the SUBIACO players and what they are delivering.”
In the final game Fremantle City beat Olympic Kingsway 3-2 at Kingsway Reserve. The visitors raced to a two-goal lead with Egide Ngendakumana and Angel Andres on target, but the host hit back just before half time. They won a free kick eight meters inside the opposition half, and Jordan Pokler delivered the ball into the box and found Luke Palmateer who controlled the ball instantly and struck the shot into the bottom corner. Fremantle regained their two-goal lead after half time with Adrian Manno scoring, and despite Kris Gates’ stunning free kick on 70 minutes to pull it back it 3-2 Fremantle hung on for the points. “For the first time since I have been at the club, I am disappointed with the performance,” Olympic coach Gary Williams said. “We started very slowly and did not string three passes together until around 25 minutes. By then we were 2-0 down and facing an uphill battle. We controlled the game for the last 15 minutes of the first half and almost the entire second half as Fremantle sat very deep and allowed us to have the ball in front of them. Going forward we have to be switched on from the first minute otherwise we will continually have to chase games as we did on Saturday.” Mandurah City had the bye this week.
25.5.2019
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND SEVEN – REVIEW
Quinns moved two points clear at the top of the State League Division Two after a hard fought 1-0 win against Wanneroo City at Gumblossom Park on Saturday evening. The goal was a stunner. Quinns played the ball out of the back and sent Josh Booysen on a mazy run which saw him skip past four or five players before sending Brent Quick in one-on-one with the keeper and he finished into the bottom corner. “It’s a big three points for us and good to bounce back with another clean sheet,” Quinns keeper James Bosdet, said. “The game itself wasn’t great, but I thought we deserved the win and now on to a massive game this weekend against Gosnells.”
Gosnells City lost ground on Quinns after being held to a 2-2 draw by Balga at Princess Road Reserve. After a number of early chances went begging, Balga opened the scoring on 37 minutes when Dejan Andric passed a through ball to new signing Kristian Despotovski, who calmly shot past the Gosnells keeper. Gosnells may have got one back a minute later, but Feisal Zaw missed from the penalty spot. Kris Spaseski should have put Balga 2-0 up just before the interval, a great cross by Hermon Michael, found him, but he headed the ball just over the bar. Balga continued their attack on goal in the second half and their pressure was rewarded with a second. Michael was the provider again, sending Despotovski clear, and again he made no mistake past the on-coming keeper. Gosnells were given a lifeline in the five minutes from time, when they were awared another penalty, this time Josh Wade made mistake. Balga's Josh Conti could have made sure of all three points in the last minute, but his shot just went wide of the post. But it was Gosnells that earned a point deep into stoppage time, Scott Pereira headed home. “It was a poor performance from us today, and we really only started playing with urgency when we went 2-0 down,” Gosnells coach Marc Anthony said. “But the boys showed great character to drag themselves back in the match, but a massive improvement is required next week against Quinns.”
Murdoch University Melville maintained third place after a comprehensive 5-1 win against Kelmscott Roos at Frye Park. It was a scrappy first half and MUM were ahead when Scott Campbell’s fortuitous cross dropped over the head of the keeper. They doubled their lead when Mark Lucas sent Declan Tanna down the left and his first-time lob left the keeper standard. It was 3-0 at half time to MUM, with Lucas’ free kick sending Tanna racing into the box, his cross from the bye-line found Campbell who headed home. The visitors went close again after the break Josip Vujica heading wide, but substitute Ryan Tucker did add the fourth with a rasping shot from the edge of the penalty area. It was 5-0 when Broden Brown headed home Dan Davey’s corner. The home side scored a consolation later but it was MUM with a comfortable win. “Overall it was a solid away win with great performances by Godfrey Asimwe, Scott Campbell, Adam Mangion and Beau Abdul Rahim who was making his debut at right back,” MUM Coach Gavin Brown said. “We need to keep winning if we are to keep pace with the leaders.”
Swan United moved to fourth after a big 6-2 win against Joondalup United at the Iluka Sports Complex. Swan opened the scoring when a one-two between John Monterosso and Brian Patterson set up David Foster, who was making his first start of the season, and the striker scored with a great scissor kick. It was 2-0 when Brennan Borzecki cut the ball back to Monterosso who lost his marker and finished into the bottom corner. Foster added his second finishing at the back post from a long throw from Monterosso, and Foster completed his hat-trick flicking home Patterson’s free kick. Joondalup pulled one back after half time but Swan soon added a fifth, Monterosso’s cross found Jay Lang, and his shot was deflected home by Aaron Colli. Joondalup pulled another one back but Swan head the final word, Chris Holland pressed the keeper and the ball fell to Borzecki who finished well into an empty net. “Yes, I’m very happy with the result on Saturday, It was my first game back in the first team and to score a hat-trick in the first half was more than I expected,” Swan striker Foster said. “To be playing back in the state league is a great feeling, and to be four goals up at half time really killed the game for Joondalup. We all have been working really hard at training and it paid off on the weekend. It’s great to be playing at Swan again, with a great bunch of lads and coaches.”
In the other games Curtin University moved to fifth with a hard fought 1-0 win against Canning City at Burrendah Reserve. The only goal of the game came from Jaxon Illman on 75 minutes. A corner was sent deep and Mark Donnelly headed the ball back across the goal, and Illman reacted the best to finish into the bottom corner. “I was very happy with our performance,” Curtin Coach Michael Philp said. “I felt we were largely in control in the first half and had a few chances to score. Obviously, it became difficult in the second half with our goalkeeper being sent off, so I was particularly pleased that not only we continued to defend well, but managed to score and hold the lead, especially as Canning started to increase their pressure towards the end.” In the final game Shamrock Rovers won for the first time this season, a 3-1 win against Dianella White Eagles at Dianella Reserve.
24.5.2019
NPL-WA ROUND TEN PREVIEW
After last week’s cup round, the NPL WA is back this weekend and the Round Ten Footballwa 'Match of the Week' takes us to Frank Drago Reserve, where Bayswater City host Perth Glory. (3.00pm) Glory weren’t in action last weekend, but are coming off a hard fought 1-1 draw at Cockburn in round nine, the point keeping them in second place on the table, but left them six points behind league leaders Perth SC. Bayswater came from behind to beat Cockburn in the cup last week, while in the league they throw away a two lead to draw at Rockingham, which left them in sixth place, five points adrift of Saturday's opponents. The last time these two sides met in the league at the venue was in round 20 last season when Glory ran out 3-1 winners. Michael Domfeh gave the visitors the lead at the break, but Gian Albano levelled from the penalty spot early in the second half. Daniel Stynes restored Glory's lead before Henry Hore wrapped up the points seven minutes from time.
Glory midfielder Daniel Stynes has been outstanding this season and he was on target in the draw against Cockburn last time out and he said they weren't at their best, but he still thought they should have taken all three points. "I thought we deserved more from the game at Cockburn, and despite it not being our best performance, we should have taken all three points but their keeper made some fine saves late,” he said. “But on the whole, it kept us in touch with the leaders but we just needed to be a bit more clinical in the final third.” The 20-year-old is still a youngster, but he is the older statesman in the side, and he said the young players are doing extremely well and are not getting bullied by the more experienced players in the other NPL sides. "We may be young but I think we’ve got a very physical side this year as opposed to previous years,” he said. That helps us when we come up against the physical sides, but we are just as good technically.” Stynes said Saturday is another huge challenge, against a side who have struggled for consistency this season, but he knows what talent they have in their squad. "Bayswater are always a tough team to play against and they have recruited well and have some good players,” he said. “But we’re only concerned on our performance, but we know it should be another tough trip.”
Bayswater City's Scottish striker Gordon Smith was on target in the cup win last week and in the 2-2 draw at Rockingham in the last round of the league, but he said it was a disappointing result. "Yes, we were all disappointed after the Rockingham game, especially after letting our two-goal lead slip,” he said. “We really should’ve put the game to bed with the chances we created.” Smith, who joined the Frank Drago Reserve side from ECU Joondalup this season, believes they are starting to fine their form, but they need to be more consistent, but last week’s comeback against Cockburn in the cup was a great start. "We have been performing well and have all been working hard in training but just need to be more consistent when it comes to Saturday’s and we will start picking up more points,” he explained. “Last week’s fight back against Cockburn in the cup could be just the spark we need to do that.” The former Hearts, and Raith Rovers player knows the talent Glory have in their line-up and he is expecting a tough and entertaining game on Saturday. "Glory are a really hard side to play against, they are fit, sharp and good young players, so we know we will be in for a tough game,” he said. “But with the quality and experience we have in our side we will be going all out for the three points.”
Perth SC will be looking to maintain or increase their lead at the top of the table when they entertain Cockburn at Dorrien Gardens. Ramon Falzon’s side sit six points clear after a 3-1 win against Armadale last week, with Michael Domfeh continuing his scoring, while Matthew Milenkovic and Kristian Santich were again good. They will be without the suspended Niccolò Sabatini, but do regain the services of Alex Silla, Rocco Pizzata and Gustavo Catarcione, while Frank Furfaro should come into the starting line up to replace Sabatini. Cockburn fought out a 1-1 draw against Glory in the last round, Daniel Robinson’s late goal giving them a share of the spoils in that game, while keeper Luke Radonich was outstanding making some vital saves to keep Glory at bay, and he will have to be at his best again on Saturday. American import Hasani Sinclair has fitted in well to his new club, while Devon Gibson and Riley Woodcock continue to give Scott Millers side drive down the flanks, this one will be a tight game.
Floreat Athena are one of the form teams in the NPL at the moment and this week they host bottom of the table Stirling Lion at E&D Litis Stadium. The Lions have bolstered their stocks with new coach Trevor Morgan signing a number of players including Sorrento duo Steve McDonald and Danny Jones and the coach will be looking for an improvement. They had a disappointing result in the cup last week against UWA Nedlands, but the league is their concern and Morgan will be looking for a similar performance from the one his side had against Inglewood last time out in the league. A trip to Floreat is never easy, especially when they are on a good run of form, but that’s the challenge ahead for Morgan and his side. Floreat continued their good form with a clinical win at ECU Joondalup last time out, and eased through to the next round of the cup. Luka Ninkovic and Robert Petkov have both been in outstanding form up top for Garret McDuling’s, while former Lions duo Dean Evans and Phil Arnold are leading by example and both will like to get one over their former club.
It's been a disappointing run of form for Armadale and they will be looking to that around when they host Sorrento at Alfred Skeet Reserve. After leading the league earlier in the season, the Reds have gone eight games without a win in all competitions, which has seen them drop to tenth place on the table. They weren’t in action last week, but were beaten at Perth in the previous round, and Head coach John O'Reilly has been busy on the transfer market with two imports coming on board in Uriel Marcias and Moez Aloulou joining the club. Sorrento moved into the last eight of the FFA Cup WA last week with a win against Gwelup, and the week before edged out Balcatta in the league with Czech defender Jakub Prajza scoring in both games, the win in the league moved them to fifth. The form of the Morgan boys (James and Alex) must be pleasing Jamie Harnwell, likewise the defence duo of Scott Robertson and David Stokoe, who were outstanding in the win against Gwelup in the cup.
It's a real six-pointer at Grindleford Reserve on Saturday when eighth-placed Balcatta entertain eleventh-place ECU Joondalup. Balcatta started the season well, but have also fell off the pace in recent weeks in the league, and needed a last-minute goal to beat Canning City in the FFA Cup last weekend. The problem for all to see at Balcatta is goals, and their nine goals for the season is the second lowest in the league, and something Goran Stajic needs to rectify sooner rather than later, but at the other end they have only let in 11 goals, which is the second best, with Alex Castiello and John Kearney performing well and new keeper Lewis Italian o is in line for a start on Saturday, against his former club. It's been a poor start for ECU Joondalup, only one win this season and they need to start picking up points or they will be in for the relegation fight. They have had a bad run of injuries but welcome back Josh Whitmore and Shane Cassidy this week, while new signings Billy Quinncroft, Charlie Keena and Arran Maplestone will come into contention. Dale McCulloch will be looking for a response from his players so this one should be a cracker.
The final game takes us to Perth Plasterboard Centre Stadium where Inglewood United host Rockingham City. Inglewood have moved into fourth place on the table and will be looking to keep tabs on the top three, and Andres Oliveira’s side are on a three-game winning streak, which included a hard fought 1-0 win at Stirling last time out. Mark Barnett and David Cyrus has been solid at the back for Inglewood, but Barnett is suspended for this one. Rockingham sit in ninth place, and are coming off a big win in the cup against Curtin, while last time in the league they fought back from two goals down to draw 2-2 with Bayswater City, which pleased coach Cameron Lord. "To come back from 2-0 down to draw against a quality side in Bayswater is testament to the quality and will to win that we have in our group,” he explained. “Moving forward though, we must do better to make sure that we stop giving ourselves too much to do to get a result."
With many clubs bringing players in to boost their squad Lord said he is happy with the one he's got and is looking forward to the trip to Inglewood. "We did not feel the need to make any changes within our group. This group of players have been together since November now and there is a fantastic spirit within the group. We want this group of players to continue to grow and develop together this season. The return from injury of Mitch Firth will feel like a new signing for us, and will certainly give us added quality moving forward once 100%,” Lord said. “This week will be another test against a very good side in Inglewood. We are desperate to get back to winning ways in the league. We believe we have the quality to get what we want out of the game, but it is important that we start to get back to perform from the first minute, and not wait until the second half to play with the quality that we have.”
24.5.2019
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND EIGHT – PREVIEW
It's week eight of the State League Division One and the Footballwa.net 'Match of the Round' takes us to Wishart Street for the top of the table clash between Gwelup Croatia and Ashfield. Gwelup were knocked out of the FFA Cup at Sorrento last week, but in the league Taki Nicolaidis side moved to second with a win against UWA Nedlands and with two games in hand they sit only two points behind Saturday’s opponents. Ashfield lost for the first time in the league last time out at Fremantle City, and Matt Wardle will be looking for his side to bounce back this week. The last time this two sides met at the venue was in round 14 last season when Gwelup ran out 3-0 winners. Isaac Koomson gave them the lead early from the penalty spot, and he added another, moments later. Ashfield then had Daniel Tait sent off and Benny Kouakou added the third.
After a first up defeat in the league Gwelup have won the last four games, and defender Ciarán Salinger said they were made to work hard to get the three points against UWA last time out. "It’s been a great reaction from the lads since the Morley game.” He said. “UWA are an energetic team, they made it difficult for us to play in the first half, but in the second half we played some great football and eventually led to two goals that we deserved.” Like Ashfield, Gwelup are ambitious and a new grandstand is under construction at their home ground, and Salinger said the club are well run and it's up to them to do the business on the pitch. "Everyone at the club is looking forward, and the ambitions is to be one of the biggest clubs in WA,” he explained. “We as players have to deliver on the pitch and get results each week, to help the club go forward, and that continues on Saturday.” Salinger is well aware the talent Ashfield have in their side, and he said Saturday will be their biggest challenge this season. "Saturday is massive game of course, we are excited, training has been good and even with the loss against Sorrento the boy’s spirits are high,” he said. “We are confident in our footballing ability, to get the result we desire, so it should definitely be a cracker of a game.”
In other games third placed Olympic Kingsway entertain Fremantle City at Kingsway Reserve. Olympic were held to a draw at the Knights last week, while Fremantle shocked league leaders Ashfield, so this one will be another tight game. Fourth placed Western Knights will look to get back into the winners’ circle when they hit the road, with a trip to Forrest Park to take on Joondalup United. A draw last week left them three points of the leaders, but they do have a game in hand, while Joondalup moved away from the drop zone after a big win at Morley. Forrestfield United are coming off the bye and this week they host Morley Windmills at Game Guardian Stadium at Hartfield Park. It's been a disappointing start to the season for Graham Normanton's side and he will be looking for a response from his players this week. Morley let the lead slip to lose to Joondalup last week to see them bottom of the table, so a win in this one is vital.
The final game of the round is the local derby between Subiaco and UWA Nedlands at Rosalie Park. Subiaco leapfrogged UWA with a win against Mandurah last week, a game that pleased coach Basil Lenzo, and he will be looking for a repeat in the derby this week. UWA were beaten at Gwelup last week which dropped them to seventh, and Michael Janssen will be hoping his chargers can bounce back in this one " As we had some issues with injured players in the last few weeks the results in the league were not ideal. But our performance and the effort the boys in each game were good but we just couldn't finish our chances,” he said. “This week we have players back in the squad. That gives us more and different options for our setup in the next games. The cup win against Stirling was already a first step into the right direction. Now we have to keep on working hard to get the right results.”
Janssen is looking forward to the derby, and he said with only one point separating the two teams a win is important. "Saturday is a different story. Derby time is always special and playing Subiaco in the league now is a game each player wants to start and play in. The week of training was intense and players back in the squad made their statements, so I have to decide now what is best for Saturday and who is ready to come back and start,” he explained. “The club is very excited about the game and the players know what it means this weekend. We played two games in the Night Series against Subiaco, but our team is totally different now from what we had before the season. Now it counts and the Boys in Green will be ready for the Derby.”
24.5.2019
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND SEVEN – PREVIEW
It's week seven of the State League Division Two and the Footballwa.net 'Match of the Round' takes us to Princess Road Reserve where Balga host Gosnells City. Balga stunned Quinns in the last round, handing the leaders their first defeat of the season, while Gosnells bounced back from defeat at Kelmscott with a hard-fought win against Dianella White Eagles. The last time these two sides met at the venue was in round six last season Balga won in an eight-goal thriller, with Vlad Naumovski scoring a hat-trick in the 5-3 win. The loss at Kelmscott was Marc Anthony's sides first of the season and the coach was pleased the way his side bounced back against Dianella last week. "Yes, it was very important to get back on the winning trail after a poor result against Kelmscott,” he said. “I thought we controlled the game against Dianella, which was good to see and to keep a clean sheet was very pleasing." Anthony knows there are no easy game in this competition and he is expecting another tough one on Saturday. "We are expecting a tough game against a good Balga side this weekend,” he said. “They have had some great results already this year beating Quinns and having a great cup run, so we need to be at our very best to get a result with the league so tight this season.”
Balga moved to seventh with their win against Quinns, and Coach Aleks Vrteski said it was a hard-fought game. "It was defiantly a hard fought win against Quinn's who were extremely physical and I thought we were good value the whole game,” he explained. “It was a six-pointer for us, and had we lost we would have been 13 points behind them. The former Perth Glory keeper is expecting another battle on Saturday against a good Gosnells side. “It is definitely becoming a league of who turns up on the day, and if you're ready for a battle you're a chance if not you'll get turned over,” he explained. “Saturday is another real six-pointer for us. Marc has assembled a good side that is free scoring and plays attacking, so we will need to be at our best to combat them, but following our pour result against Perth I'm expecting a response from my boys.”
In other games fifth placed Swan United travel to the Iluka Sports Complex to take on fourth placed Joondalup City. Swan will have new striker Chris Holland available for the trip, and Coach Paul Dundo will be looking to get back to winning ways after back-to-back draws, while City have won three out of the last four games. Canning City will go in search of their first win of the season when they host Curtin University at Burrendah Reserve. City were gallant in the last round drawing with Swan for their first point of the season, and pushed Balcatta all the way in the FFA Cup, and they will be looking for a win against their local rivals. Curtin were beaten by MUM last time out, and they need to improve if they are to climb the table. Bottom of the table Shamrock Rovers make the trip to Dianella Reserve to take on Dianella White Eagles, while the improving Kelmscott Roos host Murdoch University Melville at Frye Park.
The final game takes us to Gumblossom Reserve for the northern derby between Quinns and Wanneroo City, with a 5.00pm kick off. The visitors are having an injury crisis at the moment and coach Tim Kantor will be hoping to get a few back this week. They were beaten at home last week by Kelmscott, the loss dropping them down to eighth on the table. Quinns were beaten for the first-time last week at Balga, which saw their lead at the top cut, and keeper James Bosdet said it was just one of those days. "The loss at Balga was disappointing, it was just a bad day at the office for us,” he said. “We didn't turn up and got punished by a team that wanted it more on the day.” The former Joondalup United keeper said Saturday's game against Wanneroo will be another tough test, like they all are in the league. "The league is tight this season and every game is difficult and especially being at the top of the league, teams have an extra incentive to play against you,” he explained. “We know we are going to have a battle every week and we just need to make sure we are up for it.”
24.5.2019
BELT UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION - ROUND SIX PREVIEW
It’s week six of the Belt Up Amateur Premier Division and the Footballwa.net ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to Chichester Park on Saturday evening where second placed Kingsley host fourth placed Quinns. (6.30pm) Both these sides are coming off big wins in the last round, Kingsley beating UWA 7-0, while Quinns beat Ellenbrook United 7-2, so this one should be a cracker under lights.
Quinns have started life in the Premier League well and are unbeaten on the road this season and Coach Darren Kay said the win last week was important to keep their momentum going after the big win at Leeming the previous week. “Yes, the Ellenbrook game was important to keep momentum, but to be fare the opposition put very little up so it wasn’t much of challenge for the lads,” he explained. “But on the whole the league is very challenging, and what a great thing for amateur football. It’s just one challenge after the next but it also means that a team can go on a run and find themselves top of the pile which is great incentive.”
Kay, whose team have won both games on the road this season, believes Saturday’s game is their biggest challenge of the season, but one they are looking forward too. “Kingsley have definitely been the benchmark in this league and they are in great form, so it’s a huge challenge for us,” he said. “But we’re going to have to test the depth of our squad again this week but as a young emerging group we couldn’t be more excited about another opportunity to have a crack at Kingsley on their patch.”
Kingsley midfielder Jayden Drummond was on target in the big win against UWA in the last round and he said it’s was good to get some goals, and like Kay he said the league is very tough this season. “Ii took us a while to get going against UWA, but good to put some goals away but more importantly a clean sheet,” he said. “Absolutely I agree with Darren, apart from the odd team the league is very strong this year, can’t take anyone for granted and if you do, you’ll get punished. We’ve had a pretty consistent side this year which I think really starting to gel, improving each week. Not ideal but to play Jags away twice in three weeks and come away with a win and a draw shows where we are this year.”
Quinns beat Kingsley in the Semi-Final of the Night series and Drummond said it would be nice to get one back on them. “Yes, we defiantly owe Quinns one from the night series, we certainly didn’t turn up that night at all and we got beat on the counter,” he explained. “That is something we can’t afford to do this time around, because they’ve had a good start to the season, but I think we’ve definitely had the tougher schedule so far, so we are quite happy with how we are travelling.”
In other games on Sunday, Ellenbrook United host Kwinana United at Jack Mann Oval, leaders North Perth United entertain UWA Nedlands at Woodville Reserve, while Jaguars meet Belmont Villa at Herb Graham Recreation Centre. Wembley Downs make the trip John Connell Reserve to take on Leeming Strikers. Wembley coach Mike Ford said they will be looking to bounce back from their disappointing loss at Belmont in the last round. “Yes, I was really disappointed with our performance against Belmont they thoroughly deserved the win, we just had too many players that didn’t turn up prepared to play,” he said. “Leeming will be a real challenge for us and we will need to be at our very best to get anything out if the game. Given recent results in the cup with second and first division teams beating Premier league teams it shows how important it is for players to turn up and be switched on ready to play against any opposition.”
In the final game Hamersley Rovers entertain Joondalup United at Carine Open Space. Rovers were beaten at Jaguars last week and will be looking to bounce back in this one, while Joondalup played well but were edged out by league leaders North Perth United. Joondalup coach Ben Williams said they had their chances to win it. “After having the majority of the possession against North Perth the final third let us down we just didn't create enough and North Perth are clinical and took their chance when it came,” he said. “I was much happier with the lads desire and work rate just we need to be better in front if goal.”
Williams comes up against a mate this week and he said it should be a good game. “Yes Hamersley this week is a huge game, both sides need the points and I'm good friends with Glynn the coach so bragging rights up for grabs,” he explained. “The lads have worked super hard off the field and the bye last weekend came at a good time to get some lads back with knocks. We’re expecting a tough afternoon against a very organised side and Glynn has done great after taking the job week before the season started and they have brought in lots of new players some we know very well after they swapped our shirt for theirs. The lads know how important this one is and I'm sure the opponents feel the same so should be a great contest come 3pm Sunday.”
23.5.2019
SIX UNCAPPED PLAYERS NAMED IN NEW-LOOK SOCCEROOS SIDE
Socceroos boss Graham Arnold has selected six uncapped players for next month's friendly with South Korea. After contesting three international tournaments in 18 months, Arnold has opted to rest several Socceroo regulars for the game 7th June game in Busan.
Sydney FC duo Brandon O’Neill and Andrew Redmayne have received their first call-up, while Melbourne Victory goalkeeper Lawrence Thomas, Germany-based forward Brandon Borrello, winger Ryan Williams and towering Scotland-born defender Harry Souttar all have a chance to make their debut for Australia.
"Being able to test ourselves against an A-grade nation like the Republic of Korea is a fantastic opportunity," Arnold said. "The players have been rewarded for great seasons either here in the A-League or overseas and as I said, it's another great opportunity to get to know our players and creating the depth of the Socceroos."
The Australia squad to play South Korea on 7 June is -
Goalkeepers: Mitch Langerak (Nagoya Grampus), Andrew Redmayne (Sydney FC), Lawrence Thomas (Melbourne Victory)
Defenders: Bailey Wright (Bristol City), Rhys Williams (Al-Qadsiah), Matt Jurman (Al-Ittihad), Harry Souttar (Stoke City), Thomas Deng (Victory), Aziz Behich (PSV Eindhoven), Rhyan Grant (Sydney), Brad Smith (Seattle Sounders), Matt Spiranovic (Perth Glory)
Midfielders: Mustafa Amini (Aarhus), Terry Antonis (Victory), Josh Brillante (Sydney), James Jeggo (Austria Wien), Brandon O’Neill (Sydney), Dimitri Petratos (Newcastle Jets)
Forwards: Brandon Borrello (SC Freiberg), Craig Goodwin (Adelaide United), Chris Ikonomidis (Glory), Awer Mabil (FC Midtjylland), Adam Taggart (Suwon Bluewings), Ryan Williams (Rotherham United)
23.5.2019
MATILDAS WILLIAMS 'NEVER THOUGHT' SHE'D REACH FOURTH WORLD CUP
It's been twelve years since Lydia Williams first pulled on the gloves for the first time at a World Cup. But if playing in front of 30,000 fans was surreal in 2007, it's nothing compared to what the Matildas will face next month in France.
Williams was one of three veterans named in Ante Milicic's 23-player squad last week with Lisa De Vanna and Clare Polkinghorne also earning their fourth selection. The 31-year old shot-stopper never imagined they'd head to France together in 2019 after three World Cups and 340 caps between them.
"It’s crazy. I wouldn’t have thought about this in 2007 – that this would be my fourth (World Cup)," said Williams said after training at the team’s pre-World Cup training camp in Antalya, Turkey. "But I'm definitely glad to be here. It's kind of surreal."
"Women’s football has come a long way. In the last two years it’s developed in a way that no one saw coming. But the experiences from my previous World Cups with people like Alicia Ferguson, Cheryl Salisbury, Di Alagich, and then the youth and talent that we had growing up to now the mature players is definitely going to help our road leading into this campaign."
"I’ve always had the idea that I want to leave the game better than when I first came in. It’s about leaving my mark, in whatever way, shape and form that’s possible. Hopefully inspiring the younger generations – whether that’s goalkeepers, or players, or Indigenous people to come and play the game. That’s my biggest goal."
"I'm happy to share my knowledge and I just want to perform at my best for my team and country." The Matildas kick-off their 2019 World Cup campaign against Italy on Sunday, 9 June, before squaring off with Brazil (14 June) and Jamaica (19 June).
22.5.2019
RISING STAR O'NEILL SET FOR SOCCEROOS DEBUT
Brandon O'Neill is edging towards locking his international future in with Australia after accepting a call-up to the Socceroos for next month's friendly against South Korea. The Sydney FC midfielder is set to cap off an impressive season with his international debut for his country of birth, having been monitored closely by his ancestral home of Ireland.
O'Neill is understood to be one of a several new faces selected by Socceroos coach Graham Arnold for the friendly in Busan on 7th June that will showcase Australia's depth in talent. Arnold is likely to rest several Socceroo regulars, opening the door for players on the periphery of the squad as well as a handful of youngsters yet to be given a chance at international level.
22.5.2019
GLORY HOPEFUL OF RETAINING IKONOMIDIS
Perth Glory attacker Chris Ikonomidis is set to attract significant interest from overseas clubs, but he might stay in the A-League. The 24-year old is contracted with Glory for another two seasons, but is set to attract significant interest from overseas clubs following his standout campaign and hot displays for the Socceroos.
Ikonomidis has flourished under Glory coach Tony Popovic this season, and has settled nicely in Perth. Although Glory missed out on the A-League Championship following their heartbreaking Grand Final loss to Sydney FC, they have qualified for the Asian Champions League for the first time in club history.
The ACL could prove crucial in convincing Ikonomidis to stay with Glory for at least another season. "I haven't spoken to my agent or the club about anything, so we're just going to go as if I'm going to stay for the next two years, because that's the contract," Ikonomidis said.
"We're playing the Asian Champions League next year, and we've got a big player in Bruno Fornaroli arriving at the club. There's a lot of things to look forward to. The Asian Champions League definitely raises your profile individually as a player if you get on that stage and do well. And it's exciting for the club."
21.5.2019
NOW IS THE TIME, SAYS MATILDAS' RECORD HOLDER DE VANNA
Australia’s most prolific World Cup goalscorer says the time is right for the Matildas to stake their claim for greatness. Lisa De Vanna has netted seven times across three World Cups, and she was in a positive mood ahead of a pre-tournament camp in Turkey.
“The hard work starts tomorrow, so we’re really excited,” said De Vanna, whose team have been grouped with Italy, Brazil and Jamaica at France 2019. “It’s been a big long build up for this and it’s just come across so quickly.”
“We’re looking forward to the next 10 days. There is no bigger honour or privilege, or sporting event. I’d give up all my medals just to go to a World Cup. So to be here for a fourth one ... I can’t put words to it.”
De Vanna began her World Cup journey in China in 2007, and alongside goalkeeper Lydia Williams and defender Clare Polkinghorne. The 34-year old also featured in the Germany 2011 and Canada 2015 editions of the tournament.
The Sydney FC forward believes the current Matildas squad is as strong as it has ever been. “Lydia, Polks and myself, we’ve gone through all the generations and I can speak on their behalf that this is the team, it’s a golden generation," De Vanna commented.
“You look at a lot of the girls, it’s probably their third World Cup and they’re still (only) 25. So they’re still young but with a lot of experience. Now they know what it takes to take it to the next level. If we’re going to do something magic it’s going to be at this World Cup.”
21.5.2019
MATILDAS CAPTAIN KERR CALLS ON AUSTRALIA TO #GETONSIDE
Football Federation Australia has launched a video designed to encourage all Australians to #GetOnside with their country’s bid to host the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2023. The video features Matildas captain Sam Kerr who explains that everything the team have achieved so far has been building up to one moment, the opportunity to host a World Cup on home soil.
“This is it,” Kerr said. “Everything we’ve been working for. The early mornings, late nights and sacrifices have all led to this, a World Cup in Australia. The Women's World Cup to me is the pinnacle of our sport, and the pinnacle of my dreams too. It would mean everything to host a FIFA Women’s World Cup on home soil.”
“To be playing in front of your family and friends is one thing but to be playing in front of a full stadium of people that are all on your side is such an amazing experience. To have that kind of home support at a World Cup in Australia would be unbelievable. It gives me chills just thinking about it.”
Records are expected to be broken when the 2019 Women’s World Cup kicks-off in France in just 17 days. The most recent tournament in Canada in 2015, saw a total match attendance of 1.35 million and a global television audience of 764 million.
21.5.2019
IKONOMIDIS PROUD OF PERTH GLORY DESPITE GRAND FINAL HEARTBREAK
Star attacker Chris Ikonomidis says Perth Glory should be proud of its achievements this season. Glory were the best team all season, easily winning the Premiers’ Plate and qualifying for the Asian Champions League for the first time in a brilliant first year under coach Tony Popovic.
But, after a scoreless Grand Final of 120 minutes, Sydney FC snatched the title from Glory’s grasp in a one-sided penalty shootout. “I had my heart set on winning this one. It would’ve been the icing on the cake but it obviously wasn’t meant to be,” Ikonomidis said. “But I think we can be proud of what we’ve achieved this season.”
After being subbed out during extra-time, Ikonomidis admitted it was tough watching the shoot-out - won by Sydney 4-1 - from the sidelines. “I was on the bench so it was harder to watch it and not be involved,” Ikonomidis said. “You can’t really say it’s luck but it’s a cruel way to decide a whole season.”
Ikonomidis, 24, said it was an “unreal” experience playing in front of a record A-League Grand Final crowd of mainly Glory supporters in a sea of purple. The 56,371 attendance beat the previous Grand Final record of 55,436 when Melbourne Victory romped home 6-0 over Adelaide United in 2007.
“It was unreal from our fans, they were awesome the whole game and I’m sorry we couldn’t give them a title at the end of it but they were fantastic and we really appreciate it,” Ikonomidis said. “If we keep playing the way we played this season the (crowd) numbers will continue to grow and speaking to a lot of fans outside, they’re fanatical, they love it.”
20.5.2019
GLORY AIM TO BECOME KINGS OF ASIA
They missed out on being crowned A-League champions but Perth Glory have set their sights on an even bigger goal - to be the kings of Asia. Glory's long history of Grand Final heartbreak continued on Sunday when they lost the title decider to Sydney FC on penalties.
Glory players, coaches and staff were gutted after the match, with owner Tony Sage saying he and his family even shed some tears. Still, he remains proud of the team and rates the season a huge success with Glory capturing the Premiers Plate and qualifying for the Asian Champions League.
Sage has dreamed about the ACL for years and he doesn't want his team to merely make up the numbers. "We really want to be the best club in Asia," said Sage, who has pumped almost $30 million of his own money into Glory over the past 12 years.
"We're the premiers. That's fantastic for us. My whole dream of getting into Asia - once we get over this disappointment (the Grand Final loss), the realisation that next year we'll be hosting those bigger clubs out of Japan and China and Korea - that's going to sink in."
Glory will be boosted by the arrival of star striker Bruno Fornaroli next season. A record A-League Grand Final crowd of 56,371 turned out for Sunday's match and Sage hopes to convert some of them into Glory members.
20.5.2019
THEY ARE CHAMPIONS IN MY EYES: POPOVIC
Perth Glory coach Tony Popovic has labelled his players champions despite yesterday's heartbreaking Grand Final loss to Sydney FC. Glory lost 4-1 in the penalty shoot-out after veteran duo Andy Keogh and Brendon Santalab had successive shots saved by Sydney goalkeeper Andrew Redmayne.
It meant Popovic has now been to four A-League Grand Finals as a coach for four losses. But Popovic refused to dwell on his own misfortune after Sunday's loss. Instead, his heart was bleeding for his players and he wants them to know that they are champions in his eyes.
"I'm proud of everyone at the club. It's been a real pleasure to coach them this year," Popovic said. "In this country you're deemed the champion if you win a one-off final. But there is a group of champions in that room, including the staff and everyone associated with the club."
"We finished first as the best team in the league. We are in the Champions League, we won the Premiers Plate. It was a phenomenal season. We couldn't get the icing on the cake. But the players gave everything. In the end it wasn't meant to be."
Glory's transformation under Popovic has been outstanding. They notched their first piece of A-League silverware this season by winning the Premiers Plate, a feat achieved with two games to spare, and had the best defensive and offensive records in the league.
But Popovic has even higher goals set for the club. "We've been a big team this year. The plan is to be a big club, and that takes time," Popovic said. Glory will be boosted next season by the arrival of Uruguayan striker Bruno Fornaroli, who scored 57 goals in 83 appearances for Melbourne City.
20.5.2019
GLORY RALLY AROUND DISTRAUGHT SANTALAB
Perth Glory players have rallied around Brendon Santalab following the veteran’s penalty shoot-out anguish in Sunday’s Grand Final loss to Sydney. Santalab’s cheeky panenka penalty turned into a horror moment, with goalkeeper Andrew Redmayne holding his ground to snaffle the easiest of saves as Sydney claimed victory 4-1.
Santalab had already announced his retirement earlier in the season, meaning his penalty flop was his last kick in professional football. The 36-year old was near inconsolable after the match. But Glory players were quick to make it known that they didn’t blame Santalab or Andy Keogh for their penalty misses.
“I pulled him aside and said, ’Just keep your head up’ because he’s a mentor for me and a lot of other boys at the club,” Chris Ikonomidis said of Santalab. “He’s had a big impact for all of us this year and he’s got nothing to be embarrassed about or upset about.”
Neil Kilkenny also threw his support behind Santalab. “He was upset, like all of us. A bit gutted,” Kilkenny said. “It’s hard on him, the last A-League game. But he’s had a fantastic career, he’s a fantastic guy, and all the lads love him to bits.”
Glory coach Tony Popovic said Santalab should be proud of his career despite the way it ended. “He’ll reflect in his own time. No words are going to help him now,” Popovic said of Santalab’s penalty. “He’s probably down for a lot of reasons.”
“His career is coming to an end in the A-League. It’s not the way he envisaged it happening. But that’s football. Football does these things. You have great moments, you have ups and downs. We’ve had plenty of highs, and today Santa is a bit down. But I’m sure when he reflects, he’ll be proud of the career he’s had.”
19.5.2019
SYDNEY HOLD THEIR NERVE TO WIN A-LEAGUE GRAND FINAL
Sydney are the 2019 Hyundai A-League Champions after a penalty shot out win against Perth Glory at a packed Optus Oval on Sunday afternoon. The game didn’t reach any heights, but Sydney did have the ball into the net in the first half, but the flag was up for offside, and tv replays showed it was onside. The two sides battled to a 0-0 draw after 120 minutes in front of a record Grand Final crowd of 56,371, with Glory creating some good chances throughout, but Joel Chianese, Dino Djulbic and Diego Castro all drew fine saves from Andrew Redmayne, who was also the star in the penalty shoot-out saving Andy Keogh and Brendan Santalab’s shot to give Sydney their fourth A-League Championship.
"Firstly, congratulations to Sydney and Stevie [Head Coach Steve Corica]," Glory Coach Tony Popovic said post-match. "It was a tight game with not much in it. They defended extremely well and their 'keeper made saves and we defended very well as well. Then it went to penalties and unfortunately, we couldn't get over the line. We just had a chat with the players after the game and told them to reflect on an amazing year, first and foremost. I told them that I'm proud of everyone at the club; staff and players. It's been a real pleasure to coach them and watching them today was a pleasure as well because we did everything, we could to win that game."
The ground was jumping at kick off and the first chance went to the Glory, Chianese nodding narrowly wide after rising highest to meet a Jason Davidson cross from the left. They went close again on 17 minutes, this time Redmayne producing a fingertip save to keep out Djulbic's header after a quickly-taken corner had caught Sydney's defence napping. While under pressure for much of the opening half-hour, Sydney thought they had the lead when Adam Le Fondrw fired home Michael Zullo’s cross, but the flag was up for offside, but it looked like Glory got lucky with replays showing the player was onside.
It was more of the same after the break, Redmayne again going full stretch to keep out a header, this time from Castro who had been picked out superbly by Ivan Franjic. The visitors reacted well to that let-off and proceeded to enjoy their best period of the game and yet it was Glory who continued to create the better opportunities. Franjic delivering another inch-perfect cross which just eluded the sliding substitute Andy Keogh in the box, before Castro saw a goal bound effort blocked by a cluster of Sky Blues defenders.
That was as close as either side came to breaking the deadlock in normal time and neither goalkeeper was tested in a cagey first period of extra time, but in the second half substitute Scott Neville firing over as Glory poured forward and Shane Lowry just failing to keep his header on target moments later. Popovic's side continued to press right up until the final whistle but they couldn’t break down a tight Sydney defence, superbly led by Alex Wilkinson, and we were off to penalties. Juande scored the first of the Glory’s penalties, but Redmayne got down well to his right to save Keogh’s shot, before saving Brandon Santalab’s attempted Panenka. While Adam Le Fondre, Brandon O'Neill and Rhyan Grant all fired past Liam Reddy ahead of Reza Ghoochannejhad's clincher.
“Unbelievable – it’s one of my crowning achievements. I came out here to win big things and what better than winning the prize thing in Australia. I’m really buzzing. It’s what I came for really,” Sydney striker Le Fondre said post-match. “It’s a testament to the boys. They’re such a great group. Team spirit carries you a long way in football. I can’t speak highly enough of the boys and how they’ve accepted me. We’ve got such a fantastic group; it’s carried us all the way here. It fully vindicates everything I’ve done in the past 12 months. To come out here and be a champion – that’s what I wanted to do, I wanted to win things. [Now] we look forward to backing it up again next season, that’s what champions do.”
Perth Glory: GK Liam REDDY, 3 Jason DAVIDSON, 4 Shane LOWRY, 5 Ivan FRANJIC (23 Scott NEVILLE 91'), 6 Dino DJULBIC, 7 Joel CHIANESE (9 Andy KEOGH 73'), 13 Matthew SPIRANOVIC, 17 Diego CASTRO, 19 Chris IKONOMIDIS (11 Brendon SANTALAB 115'), 27 JUANDE, 88 Neil KILKENNY (20 Jake BRIMMER 106') - Subs not used: RGKTando VELAPHI
Sydney FC: GK Andrew REDMAYNE, 2 Aaron CALVER, 4 Alex WILKINSON, 6 Josh BRILLANTE, 7 Michael ZULLO, 9 Adam LE FONDRE, 10 Milos NINKOVIC, 13 Brandon O’NEILL, 14 Alex BROSQUE (16 Reza GHOOCHANNEJHAD 95'), 22 Siem de JONG (17 Anthony CACERES 78'), 23 Rhyan GRANT - Subs not used: RGK Alex CISAK, 8 Paulo RETRE, 11Danny DE SILVA - Attendance: 56,371 - Referee: Shaun Evans
19.5.2019
BELT-UP AMATEUR CUP - ROUND TWO – REVIEW
The biggest upset in the Belt-Up Amateur Cup Second Round came at Britannia Reserve where Premier League side North Perth United were beaten 3-0 by Division Two side Floreat Athena. Ovi Paraschiv gave the hosts the lead at the break, before second half goals from Nick Studer from the penalty spot and Yani Pogbeu gave Floreat the upset win. In the all Premier Division tie Kingsley beat Jaguars 3-1 at Herb Graham Recreation Centre. The visitors made a perfect start to the game scoring two goals in as many minutes. First after 40 seconds Jesse Higgins got on the end of a long throw to head home into the top corner of the net. The second arrived shortly after with a great cross from Ryan Brown finding Jayden Drummond who headed into the bottom corner giving the keeper no chance
Jags pulled a goal back when Paul Sopp fired home after a scramble in the box from a corner. But Kingsley made the tie safe with their third, when Lee Thomas crossed to Ryan Fish at the back post who’s shot was saved by the keeper but fell to Josh Waldock who calmly finished from 10 yards out with his first touch after coming off the bench. “We were very pleased with the result and the performance of our boys. We asked for a fast start to put them under pressure but to score two goals in two minutes was beyond what we expected,” assistant coach Stuart Montgomery said. “But credit to Jags they came at us strongly in the second half and had a few good chances but found our keeper Ryan Moss in fine form. But I have to give credit to our boys who didn’t go into the shells and continued to take the game on and in the end deservedly got the result and progression into the next round which was our goal before the game.”
In Friday’s first tie Kalamunda United moved through after a 3-0 win against Olympic Kingsway at Kingsway Reserve. The visitors were ahead on the half hour, Michael Schalk’s cross was turned home by United skipper Adrian Street. The hosts went close to levelling after the break when Ben Harris found space in the box, but his header went wide of the target. But on 50 minutes Kalamunda doubled their advantage, Eddie Sorna racing clear, rounding keeper Raj Hirani and rolling the ball into an empty net. The game was put to bed deep into stoppage time when Street fired home from the spot to send Kalamunda into the next round. “Today was a great performance,” Street said. “The boys worked hard at the back and a couple of goals was the icing on the cake.”
Peel United moved into the next round after a 3-0 win against Fraser Park at Fraser Park Reserve on Saturday evening. First half goals from Mitch Kelman and Brad Mallinder set them on their way, before Scott Martin sealed the tie in the second. “Consistency is proving to be a factor building a winner culture amongst the playing group only utilising 15 different players to start matches this season while dropping only three points in all competition formats,” United player/coach Clint Brown said. “We knew Fraser Park would be up for the challenge and they came out the box flying, once we settled Douglas Meyer broke down opposition attacking transitions with composure on the ball and sound defence. Scott Martin’s distribution flourished creating several scoring opportunities in which led to two goals before the break. Ryan Maddison’s commitment continued in the second half stopping fast break before another Scott Martin volley finished the trifecta. We have set our short term and long-term goal targets for 2019 and we hope to break down each one week by week.”
Leeming Strikers were too strong for Subiaco winning 5-1 at Rosalie Park on Saturday afternoon. But it was Subiaco who started the better and Cameron Chambers scored after only four minutes. Chambers had an opportunity to add a second moments but fired wide. But Leeming hit back on the half hour, Michael Maratea cutting the ball back to Aaron Bahadori to score. Leeming hit the front nine minutes later, Paulo Coelho finishing from the edge of the penalty area. It was a tight second half but it was Leeming who increased their lead on 70 minutes. Maratea’s shot was well saved by Subiaco keeper Oscar Baxendale but Bahadori fired home the rebound. That goal killed the game off and Leeming added a fourth when Baldave Singh headed home a Coelho corner before Bahadori completed his hat-trick, turning home a Maratea cross to give Leeming a comprehensive win. "We started well but gave a sloppy goal away early, after that I thought we moved and controlled the ball well and deserved the 2-1 lead at half time,” Leeming Coach David Palin said. “Second half we created numerous chances and got the goals to make sure there wasn’t a cup upset, so we are pleased to have moved into the next round. Credit to Subiaco as well they made us work for it all day and for a young side they never gave up and if they keep that up in the league, they'll start getting the wins their effort deserves.”
Premier League side Wembley Downs have had to come from behind to beat Division Three side Forrestfield United 3-1 at Hartfield Park. The hosts were ahead on the quarter-hour mark, Jason Feather received the ball on the edge of the penalty area and his volley flew into the net. The home side dominated the first half and had a number of chances to increase their lead, but they failed to take them. But it looked like they would cause an upset, but Wembley started to get back into the game and found the equaliser seven minutes from time, when Jay McDonald’s glancing header from a long-throw beat the Forrestfield keeper. It was end-to-end now with both sides looking for the winner and it was Wembley who found it in stoppage-time, Will Fishleigh cross shot beat the keeper and went in off both posts before ending in the back of the net. Forrestfield pushed men forward looking for the equaliser and were caught out again with the last kick of the game, with David Morris scoring.
In other games Westnam United beat Port Kennedy 3-2 at Shelvock Reserve in the last Round One game on Sunday afternoon. Quinns eased through to the third round after a 6-1 win against Yanchep United at St Andrew Park on Sunday afternoon, Emerald FC won 4-2 on penalties against Perth Hills United at Fraser Park Reserve after the game ended 1-1 at normal time, while North Beach beat Canning 4-1 at Burrendah Reserve. Stirling Lions beat Fremantle City 2-0 at Hilton Reserve, while Southern Spirit moved through on penalties against Lynwood United at Hossack Reserve after it ended 2-2 at normal time. Carramar FC beat Bassendean Caledonian 5-2 at Jubilee Reserve, and East Perth beat Maccabi 4-1 at Perth Plasterboard Centre Stadium. Finally, Mandurah City moved through after Ballajura forfeited the game.
In the final game, the 2017 cup winners Kwinana United progressed to the next round with a 3-2 win against Belmont Villa at Gerry Archer Sports Complex on Sunday afternoon. There was a somber moments before kick off with both sides standing in a minute’s silence for Kwinana player Tino Calisto, whose mother passed away during the week - from everyone at Footballwa we send our condolences to the Calisto family. But it was the visitors were started the better and it was Calisto who put them ahead, but Belmont levelled soon after through David Musa. Calisto regained the lead for Kwinana, before Shane Boyle added a third with a great finish. Belmont pulled one back through Luqman Abdirahman but it wasn’t enough and it’s Kwinana through to the next round after an entertaining game. “We changed the system up this weekend after a few poor results and also went with a lot of reserve players due to the ongoing injury list we are dealing with,” Kwinana coach Kris Donnell said. “The boys who stepped in did a really good job and I was delighted for the whole team to come away with the result. We played some really nice football today so overall, it’s a good win for us and we can look forward to the next round now. Also, it great for Tino to get the double after a tough week for him and his family.”
18.5.2019
PRAJZA SENDS GULLS FLYING THROUGH
A goal from Czech defender Jakub Prajza has given Sorrento a hard fought 2-1 win against Gwelup Croatia, in their round five FFA Cup WA tie at Percy Doyle Reserve on Saturday afternoon. Alex Morgan had given the home side the lead early, but David Heagney levelled for the State League Division One side after the break, but a long-range shot from the former FC Slovácko defender was enough to see the Gulls home. “I thought it was a good cup tie and you can see why Gwelup have beaten so many NPL sides, but a good goal from Jakub saw us home,” Sorrento Coach Jamie Harnwell said. “We’re looking forward to the draw and see who we get, and we’ve had a taste of the national stage of the competition and it’s an exciting prospect.”
Gwelup had knocked out NPL WA side Armadale in the last round, but it was Sorrento who started the better in this one and they were ahead on 17 minutes. There looked little danger when a ball went into the Gwelup penalty area, but a mix-up between keeper and defender let in Alex Morgan, and the striker finished well. The visitors looked for an immediate response and Heagney was sent clear one-on-one with James Morgan three minutes later, but his lob was well over the top, before the lively Samuel Wynne saw a shot hit the side netting.
The visitors made a great start to the second half and Sam Wynne fed Heagney early, who failed to find the target. Moments later Heagney turned provider playing in Healing, whose shot on the run flashed wide of the post. But on 11 minutes Gwelup found the equaliser. Healings’ corner was flicked on by Bobby Wilson and Heagney found space at the back post to poke the ball home. Sorrento hit back and Prajza shot hit the side netting, but on 64 minutes they regained the lead. A ball into the penalty area was only cleared to Prajza, and the Czech defenders shot bounced just in front of Riley Stephenson and went over the keeper into the net.
Gwelup pressed late looking for the equaliser and James Morgan got down well to deny substitute Danny Hodgson, before the Sorrento custodian pushed away the English strikers shot moments later. Hodgson was a real handful and he went close again on 80 minutes, but his effort was headed inches wide of his own goal by Sorrento defender David Stokoe. The visitors were well on top late and Sparrow’s shot on the turn flashed over the top, Hodgson’s shot was cleared off the line by Jordan Brown, before Wilson’s header was over the top and Sorrento hung on to progress to the next round..
Sorrento: GK James MORGAN, 2 David STOKOE, 3 Jakub PRAJZA, 4 Shaun KILKELLY, 5 Scott ROBERTSON, 7 Alex MORGAN (8 Scott WITSCHGE 79’), 10 Jordan ROBERTS (13 Steven MCDONALD 90+5’), 11 Tim HILL, 17 Reece VITTIGLIA, 18 Jordan BROWN, 19 Jack SALTER (23 Cameron TEECE 70’) - Subs not used: RGK Matt GIUDICATTA, 20 Jaxon TEMATA
Gwelup Croatia: GK Riley STEPHENSON, 2 Ciaran SALINGER, 4 Samuel WYNNE, 6 Brodie MARTIN, 7 James SAMMUT, 8 Matthew SPARROW, 9 David HEAGNEY (12 Isaac KOOMSON 79’), 11 Blamo QUA-QUA, 14 Lawrence SHURUMA (10 Danny HODGSON 61’), 77 Ellis HEALING, 88 Bobby Wilson - Subs not used: RGK Connor CAMPBELL, 15 Andrew SCALDAFERRO, 17 Sean CANHAM - Referee: Shane Skinner
18.5.2019
KELLY’S EYE NUMBER ONE FOR UWA
State League Division One side UWA-Nedlands produced the upset of the FFA Cup WA fifth round after beating NPL side Stirling Lions 2-1 after extra time at the UWA Sport Park on Saturday afternoon. Joe Haydon gave the hosts the lead after half time, but Lions defender Michael Gama levelled just after the hour. The winner came four minutes into the second period of extra time from Riaz Kelly, and despite Stirling pressing late they held on for a famous win. “After a few weeks not being able to finish a game of, we took the opportunity to get back to winning,” UWA Coach Michael Jansson said.
“Overall, we played as a unit and defended well when we needed to, but also played our football going forward. “I thought we deserved to win and go to the Quarter-Finals, the boys coming in for our injured players grabbed their chance and endorsed that we made the right choice to trust our depth of the squad. Led by our captain Tim Robertson we grew into the game and scored twice as a result of our football we enjoy to play. Now we are looking forward to the cup draw and focus on Subiaco.” It was the visitors who opened the game the better, but the same problem, missed chances, that has seen them languishing at the bottom of the NPL table was on show again. But some last-ditch tackles from the UWA defenders and some wrong decisions at vital times cost them. UWA, who missing a number of their first team players battled hard, and they went into the break all even.
But the breakthrough for the home side came on 54 minutes. Patrick Morrison’s shot was well saved by Lions keeper Ryan Montgomery, but the rebound fell to Haydon who made no mistake from close-range. But their lead only lasted for nine minutes. A ball into the box wasn’t dealt with by UWA and in the goalmouth scramble Gama fired home. With UWA substitute Alex Kretowicz a constant threat, UWA looked to finish it in normal time, but it was off to extra time. Both sides had chances in the first period of extra time. First, Stirling keeper Montgomery produced a great save to deny the danger Kretowicz, before Daniel Jones’ long-range free kick beat Luke Stonebridge but it crashed off the crossbar and away to safety. It looked like it would go to penalties but on 109 minutes UWA won it. Some great lead up play on the left ended with Kelly, and he made no mistake to set off wild celebrations amongst the home faithful.
UWA-Nedlands FC: GK Luke STONEBRIDGE, 2 Sam GUTHRIDGE, 6 Riaz KELLY, 7 Tim ROBERTSON, 8 Joe HAYDON, 9 Thomas WHITE (19 Cameron HOLLEY 68’), 12 Nikolas THEODOROU, 13 Tristan TAYLOR, 15 Thomas MALONEY, 18 Patrick MORRISON (10 Alex KRETOCOICZ 58’), 30 Max WELTON - Subs not used: 3 Tim ROSSI, 5 Aaryie SHARP, 22 Adam CIHS
Stirling Lions: GK Ryan MONTGOMERY, 2 Mike PETKOVSKI, 3 Darren O’RIORDAN, 4 Griffin BESCI, 5 Nelson TSHONGO, 6 Dhors CHOL, 7 Blerion MAMUDI, 8 Reive KIASA, 9 Michael WANTEE, 10 Daniel JONES, 11 Michael GAMA, Subs not used: RGK Daniel MARQUES 12 Filip MINIC, 14 Joseph PERKINS, 15 Angel DEJKOVSKI - Referee: Tom Glavouz
18.5.2019
LAST MINUTE HEARTBREAK FOR CANNING
Canning City produced a gutsy performance in their FFA Cup WA Fifth Round against Balcatta at Grindleford Reserve, but a last-minute goal from Shubham Mokala gave the hosts a hard-fought 2-1 win and a place in the next round. Daniel Bryant had given the visitors the lead early, but Balcatta skipper Calum O’Connell levelled before Mokala stole the show late. “The magic of the FFA Cup is always tough and we played against a very determined team in Canning City,” Balcatta coach Goran Stajic said. “I’m so pleased with the attitude and how we fought and approached the game. We created loads of chances and 2-1 is a little short of the result we deserved but to make the last eight of the competition is so important for us.”
The visitors arrived sitting near the bottom of the State League Division Two, but made a perfect start and hit the front on 16 minutes. Bryant’s free kick took a wicked deflection off the Balcatta wall and wrong-footed Balcatta keeper David Keenan and ended in the net, much to the delight of the travelling supporters. But their lead only lasted for nine minutes, when Mokala’s cross picked out O’Connell at the back post and he headed home. Balcatta were now on top and Canning keeper Eric Cutri had to be alert to deny Alex Wild on two occasions, before Jonathan Hoareau cleared another one off the line. Canning hit on the counter attack and went close to the lead just before half time, Ronan Cowley’s cross shot floated across and over Keenan but the crossbar came to the rescue of the Balcatta custodian.
The home side were out of the blocks early in the second half and Cutri saved well to thwart Ben Pellizzari’s low drive, before the same player fired wide when well placed after O’Connell’s header. Cutri was having a great game and he produced the save of the game to deny John Kearney. It looked like the game would head into extra time but in the final minute the home side won it. Balcatta won a free kick 18 meters from goal and Mokala’s curling free kick into the top corner. Canning had one last chance to draw the game, when James Drewett’s cross was inches away from a Canning player in the box.
Balcatta: GK David KEENAN, 2 Joseph MARINO, 3 John KEARNEY, 4 Calum O’CONNELL, 5 Shubham MOKALA, 7 Alex WILD (30 Michael ZIMARINO 60’), 10 Jonathan CORNESS, 12 Robert DEL BORRELLO (29 Adam FALCONE 62’), 16 Alex CASTIELLO (11 Callum STOCKS 66’), 21 Nicholas CHALLOT, 22 Ben PELLIZZARI - Subs not used: RGK Damien STANOEVSKI, 13 Carmelo GIUFFRE
Canning City: GK Eric CUTRI, 3 Shaun MORRISON (2 Steve KANE 64’), 4 Oliver DAHLSKOG, 5 Joshua WALLMEAD, 7 Boubo MORNA, 8 James DREWETT, 9 Ronan COWLEY, 10 Ante JUKIC, 13 Jonathan HOAREAU (15 Nicholas LOMMA 80’), 14 Zibu MOYO, 16 Daniel BRYANT (12 Suyash VASIST 20’) - Subs not used: 11 Alistair GOMES, 21 Lachlan HACKETT - Referee: Steve Gregory
18.5.2019
NO UPSET FOR PERTH AT BALGA
Perth SC proved too strong for State League Division Two side Balga, cruising in to the next round of the FFA Cup after a comprehensive 7-0 victory over Balga at Princess Wallington Reserve on Saturday afternoon. The Azzurri were made to work hard for the first 30 minutes, but once Michael Domfeh opened the scoring it was all downhill for the home side. Kristian Santich doubled their lead from the spot before half time, but second half goals to Paul Zimarino (2), another to Santich, Frank Furfaro and Alex Jovic gave Ramon Falzon’s side a comfortable win.
“It was a hard-fought game, and Balga tried a lot before the game by making the pitch tiny to make it harder for us but we pushed that aside and just played our game,” Zimarino said. “It was a bit of a frustrating start on the small pitch Balga sat back and made it hard for us to break them down but I think we controlled all the game once we got the first forced them to come out a little bit more and found more space in behind for us. The early red card for them in the second half opened the game up and the flood gates opened and we took full control again.”
The hosts were well in the game early with Daniel Cain marshalling the defence and Vincent Longo busy in the midfield, but it was Perth who hit the front on the half hour, Domfeh pouncing on a mistake at the back from Balga to finish low past Lance Alanakis. Balga weren’t going down without a fight and they went close to an equaliser when Hermon Michael’s cross wasn’t dealt with the ball had to be saved on the line by the alert Perth keeper Dejan Aleksic.
The visitors added a second seven minutes later when Matthew Milenkovic was brought down in the box by David Martins, and referee Joshua Nixon pointed straight to the spot. Santich stepped up and scored past Alanakis from the resulting penalty. The hosts started the second half well, but they couldn’t find away past a tight Perth defence, and they were caught out again on 56 minutes with the goal of the game. Zimarino was found on the edge of the penalty area and his first-time volley flew into the top corner of the net to make it 3-0.
That goal took the win out of the Balga side and it wasn’t a surprise when Perth added a fourth seven minutes later. Furfaro, who had only been on the pitch two minutes, raced into the box and finished with a thunderous shot which went in via the crossbar. The home side were then reduced to 10-men when defender Zoran Vrteski was shown a second yellow card and was sent off. Perth took advantage and Aleks Jovic added a fifth, set up after good work from Domfeh. Balga did go close to a goal, but Longo’s shot smacked off the crossbar, but Perth added a sixth with Santich scoring another penalty, before Zimarino grabbed his second and Perth’s seventh with the last kick of the game.
Balga: GK Lance ALANAKIS, 2 Bojan NINKOVIC, 3 Daniel CAIN, 5 Vincent LONGO, 6 Jason STEPONOVSKI, 7 Jake VERINI, 16 Herman MICHAEL, 17 Kris SPASESKI (9 Tyron TORRE 74’), 19 David MARTINS, 30 Christopher COLTTON (4 Zoran VRTESKI 50’), 31 Thiak KVEL (11 Dejan ANDRIC 53’) - Subst not used: 10 Joshua CONTI, 15 Giulian ZACCONI - Red card: Vrteski 64
Perth SC: GK Dejan ALEKSIC, 3 Andreas THEODOSIADES, 7 Aleks JOVIC, 11 Matthew MILENKOVIC (17 Frank FURFARO 61’), 12 Jordan DE LEO, 14 Kristian SANTICH, 15 Thomas SOUTHGATE 16 Kieran COLWELL, 18 Michael DOMFEH (10 Luke GARAS 74), 19 Bojan RADIONOVIC, 20 Paul ZIMARINO - Subs not used: RGK Frances SOALE 9. Gustavo CATARCIONE, , 13. Rocco PIZZATA Yellow cards: De Leo 31, Furfaro 85 Red cards: Nil Referee: Joshua Nixon
18.5.2019
BAYSWATER FIGHT BACK TO SEAL PROGRESS
Bayswater City have come from two goals down to beat Cockburn City at Frank Drago Reserve on Saturday afternoon and move into the next round of the FFA Cup. The visitors were ahead just before the break with substitute Hayden Stevens on target, and Daniel Robinson doubled their advantage on the hour. Daryl Nicol pulled one back seven minutes later, before Gordon Smith levelled things up, and an own goal from Stevens gave Chris Coyne’s side the comeback. “The team showed fantastic character to come from two goals down and get the win,” Nicol said. “It’s the second time this season we’ve came from two behind and hopefully it will give us a huge lift going into next week’s game.”
It was a tight first half with clear cut chances few and far between but it was the hosts who hit the front on 43 minutes. David Araya’s corner found Stevens, who had replaced skipper Euen Grant om the half hour, and the big defender headed past Devon Spence. It was 2-0 when Robinson burst out of the middle of the park and found Ryan Pratt, Robinson continued his run into the box and Pratt found him, the striker finishing low past Spence.
Bayswater made an immediate change bring on Gustavo Giron-Marulanda for Giordano Colli, and they were back in the game seven minutes later. Kenny Keogh was brought down in the box and referee Matthew Southern pointed straight to the spot, and Nicol converted past substitute keeper Ben Radonich, who had replaced his brother earlier. It was level two minutes later, Smith found space in the penalty area and finishing well. The comeback was complete 11 minutes from time when Adam Tong’s ball into the box was turned into his own net by the unfortunate Stevens. Cockburn sent extra men forward in the dying minutes to try to salvage the result but Bayswater’s composure saw them through to the final whistle.
Bayswater City: GK Devon SPENCE, 3 Jack ALLEN (2 Declan HARGREAVES 85’), 5 Adam HARRIS, 10 Jason MIRCO, 11 Ryan PEARSON, 13 Trent KAY, 17 Daryl NICOL, 19 Gordon SMITH, 20 Giordano COLLI (9 Gustavo MARULANDA 59’), 21 Kenny KEOGH (30 Adam TONG 77’), 27 Ross MILLARD - Subs not used: 22 Shaydon PASSALAQUA, 25 Sam REILLY
Cockburn City: GK Luke RADONICH (2 Ben RADONICH 57’), 4 Euen GRANT (14 Hayden STEVENS 35), 5 Julian TELES, 6 Ruben TRISTAO, 10 David ARAYA, 12 Ryan PRATT, 15 Daniel SANTICH, 16 Daniel ROBINSON, 17 Devon GIBSON, 19 Hasani SINCLAIR, 23 Riley WOODCOCK (9 Tonci SKORICH 80’) - Subs not used: 3.Daniel DOLS, 18 Adam ANFUSO - Referee: Matthew Southern
18.5.2019
ATHENA SECOND HALF BLITZ SINK OLYMPIC
Floreat Athena proved too strong for Olympic Kingsway beating them 3-0 and progressing into Round Six of the FFA Cup on Saturday evening ay Kingsway Sports Complex. Kingsway were undone after half time with Nicholas Ambrogio, Robert Petkov and Jonathon Stynes on target, to see Garrett McDuling’s side through. “The match was evenly contested in the first half with both sides playing good football looking to take an early lead. We had good stints of possession however struggled to make effective forward passes as well as the final pass letting us down,” McDuling said.
“We went into the break at 0-0 and brought our captain Dean Evans on who was instrumental in playing provider and getting us the 3-0 win. Credit must go to Jesse Fuller and our back four and keeper Jason Saldaris who kept another clean sheet with us now only conceding the one goal in six games. Dennis Galan was superb and back to his best and we really now look forward to Stirling Lions at home to continue our league surge in order to try bridge the gap to Perth SC.”
The visitors were on the front foot early and went close to the lead when Ambrogio’s corner picked out Petkov, who headed over the top when well placed. Luka Ninkovic thought he had found the lead late in the half, but Olympic keeper Luke Hutcheson produced a great save to deny him. The introduction of Evans at half time gave Floreat the ascendency after the break and it wasn’t a surprise when they hit the front on the hour.
Phil Arnold made space down the flank and his cross picked out Ambrogio at the back post to head home. Hutcheson was called into action again moments later as Floreat looked to kill off the game. The Olympic custodian then made a great save to tip Arnold ‘s curling effort on to the post, before saving the rebound. But the Floreat pressure was rewarded with a second on 70 minutes, Evans’ cross was finished by Petkov. They made sure of the win nine minutes later with Stynes finishing from close-range to seal the win.
Despite the loss Olympic coach Gary Williams was pleased the way his young side performed. “I thought we competed well for the first 60 minutes but then the quality and persistence of Floreat took over,” he said. “We showed for large periods of the game that we can match one of the best sides in the state. We struggled to contain Floreat for the last 30 minutes during which they scored their goals. Congratulations to Garrett and his team on progressing to the next round of the cup.”
Olympic Kingsway: GK Luke HUTCHESON, 3 Jordan POKLER, 4 Luke SERRA, 5 Luke PALMATEER, 6 Kris GATE, 7 David MOLINARI (8 James VENESS 83’), 12 Christopher RIZIDIS, 13 Charlie BREEN, 14 Joshua TUCKER, 17 Eraste VYAMUNGA (10 Nathan THORP 84’), 19 Kieron STALLARD – Subs not Used: RGK Duncan LENNON BLACK, 9 Daragh KAVANAGH, 15 Alexander DOMIANOPOLOUS
Floreat Athena: GK Jason SALDARIS, 2 Marco SANTALUCIA (3 Tristan COLLI 82’), 4 Adrian MADASCHI, 6 Jesse FULLER, 8 Jonathon STYNES, 9 Robert PETKOV, 10 Luka NINKOVIC (17 Dean EVANS 46’), 11 Dennis GALAN, 15 Chris SALDARIS (29 Jack ANDREWS 46’), 18 Phillip Arnold, 21 Nicholas AMBROGIO – Subs not Used: RGK Jordan BARBAS, 13 George FESTA - Referee: David Bruce
18.5.2019
GLORY AND SYDNEY TO BATTLE OUT THE A-LEAGUE GRAND-FINAL
The Premiers Plate is already in there trophy cabinet and on Sunday Perth Glory will be looking to add the Hyundai A-League Grand Final trophy to that when the they host Sydney FC at Optus Stadium (4.30pm) After last week’s tense penalty shoot-out win against Adelaide United at HBF Park, Tony Popovic's side will need to be at their best to beat a Sydney FC side who thrashed Melbourne Victory 6-1 in the other Semi-Final last weekend.
Glory have taken all before them this season winning the Premiers Plate with two games to spare, and having the best defensive and offensive stats of the season, but Sydney have beaten them twice and will be on a high after last weeks thrashing of Victory. There will be close to 60,000 fans at Sunday's Grand Final and Popovic is confident his team are ready for a big game in the clubs first ever A-League home Grand-Final. "You can never anticipate in terms of how many goals will be scored. But I'll anticipate we'll be very good," Popovic said. "I know the mindset we'll go out with on Sunday. They (the players) have been confident all year and they've produced all year.
"They've embraced every challenge that's been put in front of them, and they'll embrace this one. I'm really looking forward to seeing them play. We're very clear on what we need to do on Sunday and how we want to do it - that’s play football. The preparation has really been done throughout the whole year. We've been working towards this moment. We're at home, we'll have a fantastic crowd. It's a great reward for us to get to this stage. We're excited by the challenge."
Both sides have similar strengths, and there are some vital match-up's in this one, but it's in the middle of the park where this game will be won or lost. Former Glory midfielder Brandan O'Neill and Josh Brillante have been outstanding for the Sky Blues this season, but Glory duo Neil Kilkenny and Juande haven't been bad either. Both pairs are the engine room of both teams and this battle will be pivotal.
Up top English striker Adam le Fondre has had a great first season in the Harbour City, and along with skipper Alex Brosque and Milos Ninkovic are a potent strike force, but Glory trio of Andy Keogh, Diego Castro and Chris Ikonomidis have been very officiant. Then wing backs Michael Zullo and Rhyan Grant for Sydney and Jason Davidson and Ivan Franjic for Glory have all had fantastic seasons, and keepers Andrew Redmayne and Liam Reddy are amongst the best in the league.
Reddy saved four penalties in the dramatic semi-final shootout win against Adelaide, and even nailed one himself. Glory will start as warm favourites for Sunday's game, but if the game does go to penalties, Reddy will be backing himself in the shootout. "Hopefully it won't go to that. Hopefully we'll wrap it up in 90 minutes," Reddy said. "But we're prepared to go 120 minutes and then if it goes to penalties, we'll be confident going into that too. When it was sudden death (against Adelaide in the shootout) there was more pressure on the kicker. I tried to psych them out as much as possible and it worked.”
Reddy has been given all the plaudits this season for the clean sheets, but he said it’s a strong defence that has done the work. “We've had 12 clean sheets - that's not me, that's Matthew Spiranovic, Dino Djulbic, Shane Lowry, Alex Grant, Tomi Mrcela, Scott Neville, Jason Davidson, Ivan Franjic," he said. "They've been tremendous. But I think the difference this year is that we defend from the front. Diego Castro, Andy Keogh, Chris Ikonomidis, Joel Chianese - those players start the press and they work extremely hard defending. It's a whole team effort to keep a clean sheet, and that's something all the players have bought into this year."
Alex Wilkinson believes Sydney FC's familiarity with big time football can get them over the line on Sunday. The central defender has tipped his hat to Glory's achievement of dominating the regular season and booking home advantage for Sunday's decider, but the former Socceroo pointed out his team comprise more players hardened by the experience of major matches, which he said counts for plenty in a one-off occasion.
"We've got a lot of players who have been involved in big games that last couple of years. We've been in grand finals, we've been in a few FFA Cup finals, Champions League games," Wilkinson said. "All that breeds experience and confidence in pressure cooker situations. Our boys will know exactly what to expect and hopefully that will be an advantage. Perth's not been a hard place for us to go over the last few years, we've gone over there and got good results, so we take confidence in the fact that we beat them over there... that flight holds nothing to be afraid of."
Hyundai A-League 2019 Grand Final
Perth Glory v Sydney FC
Optus Stadium, Perth
Sunday 19 May 2019
Kick-Off: 4:30pm (Local) (6:30pm AEST)
Referee: Shaun Evans
Perth Glory squad: GK Liam REDDY. RGK Tando VELAPHI, 3 Jason DAVIDSON, 4 Shane LOWRY, 5 Ivan FRANJIC, 6 Dino DJULBIC, 7 Joel CHIANESE, 9 Andy KEOGH, 11 Brendon SANTALAB, 13 Matthew SPIRANOVIC, 16 Tomislav MRCELA, 17 Diego CASTRO, 19 Chris IKONOMIDIS, 20 Jake BRIMMER, 22 Fabio FERREIRA, 23 Scott NEVILLE, 27 JUANDE, 88 Neil KILKENNY - *two to be omitted* - Ins: MRCELA (promoted), FERREIRA (promoted) Outs: None - Unavailable: 2 Alex GRANT (illness – 1 week)
Sydney FC squad: GK Andrew REDMAYNE, RGK Alex CISAK, 2 Aaron CALVER, 4 Alex WILKINSON, 6 Josh BRILLANTE, 7 Michael ZULLO, 8 Paulo RETRE, 9 Adam LE FONDRE, 10 Milos NINKOVIC, 11 Danny DE SILVA, 13 Brandon O’NEILL, 14 Alex BROSQUE, 16 Reza GHOOCHANNEJHAD, 17 Anthony CACERES, 18 Jacob TRATT, 22 Siem de JONG, 23 Rhyan GRANT, 25 Joel KING - *two to be omitted* - Ins: TRATT (promoted), KING (promoted) - Outs: None - Unavailable: 3 Ben WARLAND (ACL - indefinite), 12 Trent BUHAGIAR (ACL – indefinite), 19 Chris ZUVELA (ACL – indefinite)
17.5.2019
FFA CUP - ROUND FIVE – PREVIEW
It's round Five of the FFA Cup WA on Saturday with eight intriguing ties, which includes eight NPL sides, three Division One, three Division Two and two Amateur sides still involved. The Footballwa.net 'Match of the Round' takes us to the UWA Sports Park where UWA Nedlands host struggling NPL side Stirling Lions. UWA opened the competition with a bye, before a 3-1 win at home against Swan United in the last round, while Stirling Lions beat Western Knights 5-3.
UWA Nedlands v Stirling Lions - UWA Sports Park - 3.00pm - Referee: Tom Glavovic
UWA go into this game after 0-2 loss at Gwelup Croatia last week, which sees them sitting seventh in Division One, but Head coach Michael Jansson said this is the cup and they are looking forward to the challenge of taking on an NPL club but the league is their priority. "Reflecting on the games we played so far we dropped a few points in the draws we dominated but this is the past and we need to put another 10 % on top to come out with wins,” he explained. “The Gwelup game was, looking at five potential starting players missing, a close one and their goal keeper had a great day to keep the clean sheet. The boys coming in worked hard and showed that we made the right choices before the season to have quality in the depth of our squad, so we now our focus is on the derby at Subiaco next weekend. For this Saturday we will give some players a rest to be fresh for Subiaco, and we still have five players out and we will test some players on a high level against an NPL side. Stirling has a strong team and under performed so far, and with a new coach a club always expects a quick response from the team. It is on us to make it as difficult as possible for them, it’s a cup game at home and we are definitely prepared to perform to our possible best level. Then the result will show how far we can push the Lions. I guess generally the State League Division One teams can compete with the NPL sides on a special day, so we’re looking forward to it.”
Stirling sit bottom of the NPL table after nine game, with only four points and new coach Trevor Morgan said there were some good signs last week in their 0-1 loss against Inglewood United and he said he's had a full week on the track with the players and he said a positive performance in the cup will give them a boost in the league. "I couldn't have asked for anymore in terms of effort and commitment and I feel we 'lost the game' the right way as the players gave everything,” he said. “We are missing that little extra bit of quality in the attacking third but we are all working g hard behind the scenes to try to rectify that. We know a cup run would be great, but our main objective is to stay in the NPL, we are not taking this game lightly and will prepare for it the same way we would a league game. We expect UWA to be energetic and hardworking, we will have to better that work rate and create more opportunities going forward if we want to progress to the next round.”
Bayswater City v Cockburn City - Frank Drago Reserve - 3.00pm - Referee: Matthew Southern
The all NPL game takes us to Frank Drago Reserve where Bayswater City entertain Cockburn City. Cockburn eased past Joondalup United 4-0 in the last round, with doubles from Daniel Robinson and Lucas Mello, and they head into this one after a hard-fought point against Perth Glory last week and Coach Scott Miller said it was good point. “It was a good game against Glory, and I’m happy with the draw, because they are a very good team very mobile fit and zip the ball around,” he said. “It always seems to be entertaining open end to end games when we play Bayswater so hopefully more of the same this weekend looking forward to the challenge against a very talented team with a great coach.” Skipper Euen Grant echoed the words of his coach. “Yes, we’ve started this season a bit slowly, it’s took us a few weeks to get into our rhythm but we’re starting to put in better performances and are looking a lot more resilient, and hopefully we can keep this little unbeaten run we’re on going on Saturday,” he said. “We’ve done alright against Bayswater in recent times but they have got boys all over the park who can punish you if we give them the opportunity. So, while we’re quietly confident of progressing to the next round we know we’re going to have to be on top of our game to do so! It should be a cracking game between two top sides.”
Bayswater on the other hand were given a fright by Division Two side Gosnells City, before a Daryl Nicol brace gave them a 2-1 win. Striker Gordon Smith was on target last week at Rockingham and he said they were disappointed with the second half fade out but he said a good cup run could be the spark they are looking for. “The Gosnells game was a typical cup tie, and the longer the game was 0-0 the more they grew in confidence, but on another day, we’d have put the game to bed in the first half. Rockingham was a similar story we need to be more clinical in front of goal and also keep concentration at the other end,” the Scottish striker said. “Cockburn is a really tough tie for us, but being at home always helps and the boys have been playing well, and it’s only a matter of time before our performances get the results they deserve.”
Olympic Kingsway v Floreat Athena - Kingsway Reserve - 3.00pm - Referee: David Bruce
Olympic Kingsway will be looking for a cup upset when they host Floreat Athena at Kingsway Reserve. Olympic eased through the last round with a 8-2 win against Joondalup City, with four goals to Ajak Riak, while Charlie Breen scored a double, with others to Eraste Vyamunga and an own goal. Olympic have also started Division One well with only one defeat, and coach Gary Williams said his players have been great this season and although Saturday is a huge challenge, they have nothing to lose and they will have a good go. “We are six games in and have lost one league game so far to Ashfield who currently sit at the top of the table, so you can say we have had a good start to the season. In fairness to the players they have been tremendous, we’re virtually a new team and the spirit and camaraderie amongst the group is very good. We have a young group who are striving to improve and Saturday will be a good test of their character,” he explained.
“Floreat have a group of players who are very experienced and I suspect will go very close to competing for the NPL championship this year. On a game to game basis you would expect Floreat to beat us however we all know there have been shocks and upsets in the past in this cup competition. Garrett will have the players finely tuned and I suspect knowing some of their players they will approach the game with the correct attitude. We will certainly need to be at the top of our game to beat Floreat as they possess many players who can turn a game. It will be a great day for our club given the tradition and history of Olympic Kingsway and will give our supporters a taste of playing teams at the top level again.”
Floreat Athena are one of the form teams in the NPL and head into this one with a clinical win at ECU Joondalup with a squad bristling with talent and they progressed to this round with 4-1 win at Kelmscott and coach Garrett McDuling said Saturday will be a tough challenge but believes if they play their best they will can come home with a positive result. "Our boys are back to winning however I feel their attractive footballs and ability to score has been evident from not only the start of the season but also the night series. Although our indifferent start to the season only earning one win in five, we did have a tough early draw also playing both Bayswater and Perth SC away. We did however score 11 times in those five games but the problem was the amount we conceded, 12,” McDuling explained.
“We have worked hard at training with our defence and made a few changes and our recent form indicates we are on track now conceding only one goal in our previous 5 games against Cockburn, Kelmscott, Balcatta, Sorrento and ECU. We will play our best possible team against Kingsway this weekend to ensure we maintain consistency going into our following league match against our local rivals Stirling. We know Kingsway will be tough as they have indicated under their new coach Gary Williams that they are ambitious and will certainly be looking for a good cup run and promotion in the very near future. We started well against ECU and will be looking to do the same against Kingsway however we know they will certainly be up for the challenge. I would like to wish my good friend Gary Williams all the best in gaining promotion this season and perhaps bowing out of the cup early would do their title challenges no harm at all.”
Sorrento v Gwelup Croatia - Percy Doyle Reserve - 2.30pm - Referee: Shane Skinner
Last season's beaten finalists Gwelup Croatia will be looking for more cup success when they make the trip to Percy Doyle Reserve to take on the 2017 Cup winners Sorrento. (2.30pm) Taki Nicolaidis' side lost to Armadale last season in the final, but did get some revenge, beating them in the last round on penalties, David Heagney scoring a brace in normal time and the coach said they head to Sorrento in a confident mood. They are on a winning streak after a loss in the opening game of the season and Nicolaidis said the new group are improving each week. “We were all bitterly disappointed with our Round One loss but since then we have knuckled down and have put together seven wins in a row. The boys are full of confidence and playing some good football, which is pleasing,” he said. “Whilst we’ve had a history of beating NPL sides in the FFA cup past that doesn’t mean anything in these one-off games. Jamie has Sorrento playing well and currently 5th in the NPL. We’ve prepared well this week and really looking forward to this week challenge.”
Sorrento edged out local rivals ECU Joondalup on penalties in the last round, with keeper James Morgan scoring a last-minute goal in normal time to save the day for the Gulls. They go into this one after a narrow 1-0 win against Balcatta, and coach Jamie Harnwell said it was good to get back to winning ways, and he hopes his keeper isn’t needed again to score in this one. “James has been an important part of this club for a number of years now and has performed fantastically well in some of our biggest games. As a keeper you always want to keep a clean sheet and as a defensive unit, we were much better on Saturday than we had been in previous weeks. Hopefully, we won't need James to step up to score an equalizer for us this week but his performance will be a big part of the equation for us to progress,” he said. “Saturday’s cup game is a fantastic game to be involved with. Gwelup have deservedly gained a reputation as a very dangerous team to play against. They have a good blend of experienced players and attacking flair and it is no wonder they have performed well against NPL sides in previous games. We are under no illusions that it will be a difficult game and we will need to perform well and turn up with the right attitude to progress through to the next round.”
Balga v Perth SC - Princess Road Reserve - 3.00pm - Referee: Joshua Nixon
Balga caused the biggest upset of the last round beating NPL side Inglewood United and they take on another NPL side this week with Perth SC visiting Princess Road Reserve. (3.00pm) Goals from Kris Spaseski, Dejan Andric and Danny Cain saw Aleks Vrteski’s side home at Inglewood, and the coach was delighted with that performance, and even more when they beat league leaders Quinns last week in the league and he said Saturday is a huge game for the club and he is relishing the challenge. “It was a very big win for us at the weekend against Quinns, and the Inglewood was a historic win for the club and Perth will be no different," he said. "There is no pressure on the boys we will go out and continue to build on our values and see where it takes us. I have a lot of respect for Ramon and Perth so it will be a great day for the club, and if we managed to pull off one more coupe and another notch under the belt will be massive. One thing I know for sure is the boys will be up for it."
Perth SC are the most successful club in the State League cup, winning it on 11 occasions, and they started this season's competition with a 3-1 win against Morley Windmills in the last round. They sit six points clear at the top of the NPL this season and it looks like they have carried on from last season's form. "It is great to see that our players have maintained the same momentum like last year's second part of the season," Coach Ramon Falzon said. "We are very pleased with the performances so far this season, however there is still a long way to go. So, from our side, we will retain the usual mentality to approach one game at a time. In the previous FFA Cup round we experienced a very determined Morley Windmills. They were hard to break down and we had to work very hard till we secured the result in the dying minutes of the game."
Falzon said the trip to Balga is a danger game, like all cup ties are, but he is confident they can get the job done. "Cup games are do or die clashes and it does not matter in which division the opposition plays. It always come down to very simply, the best team on the day will progress to the next round," he explained. "We are aware that Balga have eliminated Inglewood in the previous round so they have proven that they have got what it takes to eliminate teams with an NPL status. Our approach does not change, we know that games can only be won in the 90 minutes on Saturday so we will be focused and determined to extend our run of positive results."
Balcatta v Canning City - Grindleford Reserve - 3.00pm - Referee: Steven Gregory
Balcatta haven't won in the NPL for three games and they will be looking for a win in the cup to kick start their season when they host Division Two side Canning City at Grindleford Reserve. Goals from Mohammed Al Bunjamin, Ante Jukic and Jakeb Vucic saw Canning beat Amateur side Port Kennedy in the last round, and assistant coach John Drewett has been pleased the way they are improving and last week’s draw against Swan United showed that. “PK put up a spirited fight against us and scored late on (3-2) which made for a nervy last five minutes for us,” he said. “The mood after last week’s draw with Swan has lifted especially as we were without three key senior players and lost another couple before half time. We started with six 19-year-olds and had another come on, so to get something from the game was very satisfying. We know we start as underdogs against NPL side but we will have a real crack and take some belief from Balga win over Inglewood.”
Balcatta were made to work hard to beat Shamrock Rovers in the last round and had to come from behind for their 3-1 win, with a double from Dutch import Niels Willems and another from Gavin Knight. They go into this one after a narrow loss at Sorrento and Coach Goran Stajic said it was another lost opportunity. “It’s pleasing yet disappointing as we have been in the all the games this season right till the last kick of the game, but unfortunately of late we have been letting ourselves down in the final third. Moving forward we will continue to work hard on our defending along with converting our chances, once they start going again there will be no looking back,” the coach explained. “I thought Shamrock were well organised and came with a plan to suffocate the game which they did very well. As for our boys we went away from what we set out to do, in saying that we made several changes to the starting XI which may have contributed to the poor start, fortunately half time came and we adjusted extremely well and saw out the game.”
Rockingham City v Curtin University - SafeRad Stadium at Lark Hill - 3.00pm - Referee: Julian Serra
Curtin University will also be looking for a cup upset when they travel to SafeRad Stadium, Lark Hill to take on Rockingham City. Curtin caused an upset in the last round, beating Mandurah City on penalties. Malek Domkoc and Farruh Manlonov put Curtin in control but Mandurah hit back but in the shoot-out Jnana Purcell scored the winner to send Curtin through. Curtin Coach Michael Philp said injuries have affected the squad this season, but he knows they will give it a good go on Saturday. “The league probably mirrors our inconsistency in team selection due to injuries, and we haven't been able to pick the same 11 for two weeks in a row. But I thought we battled hard to take Mandurah to extra time and it was a fantastic team effort. There was a real belief we could get the win,” he said. “We know Rockingham are a good team. They had a shaky start to the NPL but seemed to have found their feet of late. So, it's a massive challenge for us, a real David and Goliath moment. But there is no pressure on us, we'll go in giving maximum effort and the boys have been up and about this week at training so we'll see how we go and hopefully we can cause Rockingham some problems.”
Rockingham were made to fight at Ashfield in the last round, but goals either side of half time by Riley Van Dieken saw them home. They are unbeaten at home this season and showed great character to fight back from 0-2 draw against Bayswater last week to earn a point, a comeback that pleased coach Cameron Lord. “It was an excellent comeback against a very good Bayswater side, and the second positive second half performance in a row. But we must start to perform for 90 minutes if we want to get back to winning ways. We are giving opposition teams head starts and that must stop this week if we want to advance in the cup,” he said. “We need to approach Saturday’s game professionally and with respect to Curtin and to the game. Disrespect the game and you get what you deserve over 90 minutes. We must take all of our qualities that have seen us win games of football in the NPL into this week against Curtin. We want to advance through to the quarter finals so will be doing everything to make sure that happens.”
Queens Park v Warnbro Strikers - Coker Park - 5.00pm - Referee: Alexander Best UPDATE: This game has now been POSTPONED
There will be an amateur side in the next round with Queens Park hosting Warnbro Strikers in the late game at Coker Park. Warnbro stunned Wanneroo 3-2 in the last round, with goals from Evano de Pontes, Steven Dunn and Neal Beveridge giving coach Joe Boyham and his players a well-deserved win. The Strikers have played Queens Park in the league this season, going down 1-4, but striker Reece Page said they are now back to a full squad and will be looking for a repeat of the last round. “We were ecstatic with the win, and I think on the day it came down to who wanted it more, we weren't prepared to go all the way to Wanneroo and get bullied. I think they were shocked the way we started the game and we got our rewards with a great victory,” he said. “This game against Queens Park will be a totally different game to what it was like in round two in the league, as we’ve found our feet and had four wins in a row after that defeat. The lads are buzzing at the moment and we really think we can achieve something special this season, and we’re all looking forward to the challenge.”
Queens Park sit top of the Belt-Up Amateur Division One, but were beaten in the last round 1-5 at Fremantle City, but due to a breach of the rules Queens Park were reinstated. Queens Park coach Ricardo Flynn said it’s not the way he would have liked it but they are looking forward to the challenge. “Yes, we all acknowledge that we have been given a second bite of the cherry, but having said that the boys are over the moon to still be involved in the cup and want to do Queens Park and their supporters proud,” he explained. “So far in the league we have come up against top class opposition who will challenge for honours this season. We were measured and came out of those tests with an enormous amount of self-belief. We have a young squad and the boys are loving the vibe and the challenge for us is to keep the boys grounded and working hard. On Saturday Warnbro will no doubt be the toughest game we have played this year. They are without a doubt a quality outfit with players that can hurt you in all areas of the pitch. We will need to be at their very best, and win our individual battles if we are going to proceed to the next round, and I’m expecting an open game with lots of goals from two teams that play attack minded football.”
17.5.2019
BELT-UP AMATEUR CUP - ROUND TWO – PREVIEW
It's the Belt-Up Amateur Cup second round this weekend with most game being brought forward so players can go to the A-League Grand Final. The Footballwa.net 'Match of the Round' takes us to Game Guardian Stadium at Hartfield Park where Forrestfield United host Wembley Downs. Forrestfield moved into this round after a seven-goal thriller against Maddington White Eagle and coach Trent Wood said they were worthy winners despite the closeness in the score line. “The game against Maddington was a great chance to rotate our squad and give game time to a few players,” he explained. “We were in control of the game from start to finish, but a couple of questionable decisions made it a nervy finish as Maddington were awarded two late penalties. But credit to Maddington who at times played some quality football and never game up, but overall we were happy to progress to the next round of the cup.”
Wood, who played in the NPL with Mandurah City, as well as Swan United and Forrestfield in the state league, said Saturday’s game is a tough one but one they are looking forward too. “Saturday’s game against Wembley will no doubt be tough, but as the underdogs we have no pressure,” he said. “Again, we will be using this cup game as a chance to get minutes into a few lads’ legs, but will be doing what we can to upset a premier league side. I know they have some quality throughout their squad and I’m sure it will be a tough contest for both teams.”
Wembley had the bye in the last round, but go into Saturday’s game on the back of a disappointing 1-3 defeat at Belmont Villa, but defender Jay McDonald said that game is gone and he hopes they learned a few things ahead of a tricky tie at Forrestfield. “It was a poor result and performance from us last week in the league, players went hiding and it’s a bit of a reality check,” he explained. “It’s a good thing is we have the opportunity to make up for it this week in the cup this week. It doesn’t matter who we are playing at the moment nothing is a given, so we know Forrestfield will be a tough assignment.”
There is an all Premier Division tie between Jaguars and Kingsley at Herb Graham recreation Centre on Sunday afternoon (1.00pm) The teams met in the league two weeks ago with the game finished 2-2. Lewis Flatt gave Kingsley the lead but Gopjang Monyrach levelled, before Jesse Higgins regained the lead for Kingsley but a late penalty from Goran Nyuon gave both sides the share of the spoils. Jags overcame Brozzy FC 6-0 in the last round, while Kingsley eased past Baldivis 14-0, and assistant coach Stuart Montgomery said it was to get some goals in that one and he is expecting another tight game against Jags on Sunday.
“Yes, the last round was good win for us, and we scored plenty of goals but the main objective was to proceed to the next round which we have,” he said. “The whole club is looking forward to the challenge of playing Jags again, and every game we have played against them has been a good hard battle with both teams respecting each other, and if the semi-final last year was anything to go by this game will be a very entertaining affair. Obviously, we want to win and progress to the next round and have a chance to go back to back in the cup, so we can’t wait till Sunday.”
There is another all Premier League tie at Gerry Archer Sports Complex on Sunday where Belmont Villa host Kwinana United. (3.00pm) Belmont had a bye in the last round, while Kwinana were pushed all the way by Perth AFC, before eventually winning 3-1, and coach Kris Donnell said Sunday’s game at Belmont will be another tough one. “You have got to give credit to Perth in the last round, they came and gave it a good go and had us a little flustered for a while in the game,” he said. “This weekend’s game is another tough one, Belmont aren’t a bad side, there striker is dangerous so it’s going to be another 90 minute battle. We did try move the game so the boys could go and support the Glory but Belmont didn’t entertain it, so its disappointing but the show goes on.”
In other games Olympic Kingsway host Kalamunda United at Kingsway Reserve on Friday night (7.30pm), while Subiaco AFC host Leeming Strikers at Rosalie Park on Saturday (3.00pm). Also, on Saturday Fraser Park entertain Peel United at Fraser Park Reserve (7.15pm). On Sunday Yanchep United meet Quinns at St Andrews Park (10.30am), Emerald host Perth Hills United at Fraser Park Reserve (11.00am), Canning City entertain North Perth at Burrendah Reserve (12.00pm), Fremantle City host Stirling Lions at Hilton Reserve (12.00pm), Lynwood United meet Southern Spirit at Hossack Reserve (12.00pm). Carramar are on the road, with a trip to Jubilee Reserve to take on Bassendean Caledonian (12.15pm), East Perth host Maccabi at Perth Plasterboard Centre Stadium (12.30pm), while Warnbro Strikers tie is still to be confirmed.
In the final Sunday game Premier League side North Perth United make the trip to Britannia Reserve to take on Floreat Athena. (11.00am) Floreat had the bye in the last round, while North Perth had to fight hard to beat Perth Royals, and United coach Alex Carter said Floreat will be up for it also. “Royals put up a resilient display, and it took us until extra-time to really assert our authority. Maybe we were just going through the gears that day,” he explained. “What we know about Floreat is that they have had a good fortnight in terms of league results. A season can turn very quickly for and team and that may week be happening for them. We just have to make sure we aren’t still in the change rooms when the first goal is scored. This was really emphasised with what we did at training this week.”
17.5.2019
GLORY WISE TO ‘SUCKER PUNCHES’ SAYS LOWRY
Perth Glory defender Shane Lowry says his team has learnt from sucker punches that nearly cost them a place in Sunday’s A-League Grand Final. And Lowry, a mainstay of the competition’s tightest back line, has dedicated the clash with Sydney FC to good mate Alex Grant, the unluckiest player in the Glory squad.
Glory twice let Adelaide United back into last Friday’s Semi-Final that went to a penalty shoot-out, letting them claw back a two-goal lead in the first 90 minutes and giving up another lead in extra-time. Lowry knows what it is like to lose on the big stage — he was in the Millwall side that went down 2-0 to Wigan in the 2013 FA Cup Semi-Final at Wembley.
Lowry does not want that feeling again and said the Adelaide experience was a lesson well learnt. “We got sucker-punched twice and to come back from that ... we showed character,” he said. “It was character building. We’ll have that in the back of our mind. We can use that and turn it into a positive. Ideally we would like to have had the game wrapped up after 90 minutes.”
Lowry, who was selected in the Professional Footballers’ Association team of the season, said he would be looking to lift the trophy for fellow defender Grant, who featured heavily early in the season before suffering a mystery abdominal injury. Grant battled back into contention after missing two months only to be struck down with glandular fever as the finals loomed.
“I feel so sorry for Granty,” Lowry said of his fellow former ECU Joondalup junior. “He’s worked so hard this season, he’s been so unlucky but he’s a big part of the squad. We’ll get a win for him and celebrate with him and the others that won’t be out there.”
Communication is key to the back line that has kept 12 clean sheets and let in just 23 goals this season. Lowry said the system drilled into them by coach Tony Popovic gave them confidence. “He has us so focused that we know what we’re doing, where other players are,” he said. Having said that you can still communicate on the pitch.”
“You don’t really notice the crowd noise but we need them to roar us on and make that home advantage count. We have to be on our game, we’ll give Sydney respect, they are a very good side but we’re at home, we want to stamp our authority on the game.”
16.5.2019
DJULBIC'S WAR-TORN YOUTH
When Perth Glory defender Dino Djulbic steps out for Sunday's A-League Grand Final against Sydney FC, his late father Esad will be at the forefront of his mind. Djulbic was just nine years old when he and his family fled war-torn Bosnia. His father stayed behind to fight in the war.
A few months later, Djulbic was given the devastating news that his father had died. For three long months Djulbic and his family grieved until a phone call changed their lives forever. "Someone rang up and said that he's alive and that he's coming to Croatia," Djulbic says.
"We were living in Slovenia at that time. My mum was like, 'Oh no, it can't be real'. And we didn't believe it until he rang from my auntie's house in Croatia. Even now I feel a little bit teary. We really didn't believe it until he actually got there."
Djulbic's dad played professional football in their hometown of Doboj. But as the war intensified, the family decided to flee. "As a kid you don't know exactly what's happening," Djulbic said. "But when there's bullets and stuff flying around, you know there's something not right.
"We were mainly inside homes and they wouldn't let us out much when things were happening. It was more the noises of bullets and planes that we could hear. But we got out just before it got really bad."
"We left our home town and we were travelling around Bosnia for about three months while the war was on. Then we moved to Croatia, and then Slovenia, and then eventually we moved to Germany as refugees."
Djulbic and his family moved to Australia when he was 15, and Perth has been his adopted home base. The 194cm defender has played in China, Germany, the United Arab Emirates and Malaysia but returned to Glory in 2014 to be closer to his father, who was battling skin cancer.
After a brave fight, Esad passed away in 2015 at the age of 62 - just months after Glory was stripped of its spot in the finals because of serious salary cap breaches. If the Glory win Sunday's Grand Final, Djulbic will dedicate it to his dad.
"It would be massive to win it, because I know how proud and happy he would be," Djulbic said. "He was a football fanatic. Even though he's not here, I'm sure he's watching from somewhere. He used to go to every game at Glory."
"When we knew he was ill, that's when I came back to Perth. That's when we had the salary cap breach but we had a good year (results wise) and he was happy. He passed just after the season. So he got a full season to watch before he passed."
Djulbic came within centimetres of scoring in the Semi-Final win over Adelaide; if he gets on the scoresheet against Sydney in the Grand Final, you can bet there will be a proud father watching on from above.
16.5.2019
GLORY DOMINATE PFA TEAM OF THE SEASON
Perth Glory’s dominance of the 2018/19 A-League has been reinforced by the naming of the Professional Footballers’ Association’s team of the season. The Premiers’ Plate winners were rewarded with six representatives, headed by the coach of the year Tony Popovic.
Glory’s player of the year, Diego Castro, was named captain of the all-star outfit, with four of his teammates also selected. Jason Davidson and Shane Lowry were rated among the elite defenders in the A-League competition, Neil Kilkenny made the cut in the midfield and Chris Ikonomidis as a forward. Goalkeeper Liam Reddy was picked as a substitute.
The captain is determined by the player who receives the most votes from A-League players at the end of the regular season. Castro put the honour down to the team’s success this season. “It’s an honour for me to receive the most votes from players from across the league and to feature in this team that has so many great players,” he said.
“It’s also fantastic to see a lot of my teammates in the team. It shows that it has been a team effort this season and it’s not just about one or two players. Of course, we are all happy with this award. But we will be happier if we achieve more team success and win the Grand Final this Sunday. That must be our focus for the rest of this week.”
The 2018/19 Professional Footballers’ Association A-League team of the season is -
Goalkeeper: Filip Kurto (Wellington Phoenix)
Defenders: Jason Davidson (Glory), Shane Lowry (Glory), Bart Schenkeveld (Melbourne City), Rhyan Grant (Sydney FC)
Midfielders: Neil Kilkenny (Glory), Brandon O’Neill (Sydney), Diego Castro (Glory)
Forwards: Chris Ikonomidis (Glory), Ola Toivonen (Melbourne Victory), Roy Krishna (Wellington Phoenix)
Substitutes: Liam Reddy (Glory), Michael Jakobsen (Adelaide United), Isaias (Adelaide), Milos Ninkovic (Sydney), Adam Le Fondre (Sydney)
Coach: Tony Popovic (Glory)
15.5.2019
O'NEILL READY TO TAKE ON GLORY
Returning to his home city and playing against his former club will make next Sunday’s A-League Grand Final even more special for Sydney FC dynamo Brandon O’Neill. The 25-year old midfielder grew up in Perth and started his A-League career with Glory, making 17 appearances across four seasons.
O’Neill’s career flourished under the stewardship of then-Sydney coach Graham Arnold after he headed east before the 2015/16 season. He has made over 20 appearances in each of his first four seasons with the Sky Blues and has been an ever-present member of the side in 2018/19 under coach Steve Corica.
O’Neill’s central midfield partnership with Josh Brillante has become a crucial part of Sydney’s formation and a key factor in the Sky Blues success over the past three seasons. “l’ll always call Sydney my footballing home because of what the club has done for me, this is where I developed my football,” O’Neill said.
“But obviously having family and friends back home in Perth ... it’s going to be extra special to play there this week … It’s good the Glory have done so well this year because people will be talking about football in Perth rather than talking about other sports, so I just can’t wait to get back.”
Sydney have won two matches and lost one to Perth so far this season. “People say results in a season don’t matter heading into the finals but I really think they do,” O’Neill said. “They play on your mind and you look back to the things you did well against them, the things you can obviously improve.
15.5.2019
GALLOWAY CROSSES A-LEAGUE DIVIDE TO CITY
Melbourne City have raided their A-League finals foe Adelaide United to sign full back Scott Galloway for the 2019/20 season. The former Cockburn City junior, returns to Melbourne after spellsd at Melbourne Victory, Central Coast Mariners, Wellington Phoenix and Adelaide.
"I'm looking forward to joining up with Melbourne City next season," said 24-year old Galloway, scorer of the first goal of the 2018/19 season. "It is an ambitious club with a talented group of players, that I'm confident is on the cusp of achieving success."
Galloway's fine season in Adelaide has convinced City to offer him a three-year deal. The Perth-born defender is the 16th player signed up at City next season, though the club is currently without a senior coach following the departure of Warren Joyce.
13.5.2019
GLORY DUO HONOURED AT NATIONAL LEAGUE AWARDS
Perth Glory's Tony Popovic and Chris Ikonomidis have taken out two of the top prizes in a big night at the Dolan Warren Awards. Popovic was named A-League Coach of the Year and striker Ikonomidis picked up the Young Footballer of the Year.
Roy Krishna (Wellington Phoenix) capped a stellar season by claiming the Johnny Warren Award with 31 points along with the Golden Boot with 18 goals. Glory midfielder Neil Kilkenny (Glory) was joint second with Adelaide United's Isaias in the Johnny Warren Award, two points behind Krishna.
Christine Nairn (Melbourne Victory) claimed the Julie Dolan Medal, the W-League’s highest honour, ahead of Glory's Sam Kerr, whose 13 goals won her the W-League Golden Boot. Ellie Carpenter (Canberra United) was the winner of the W-League Young Footballer of the Year and Fabian Monge (Western Sydney Wanderers) won the Y-League's top award.
12.5.2019
CHIANESE GLORY’S UNLIKELY PENALTY HERO
Cometh the hour, cometh the man. Or, in Perth Glory’s case, cometh the heroes. Liam Reddy and Joel Chianese will go down in Glory history after Friday night’s white-knuckle, semi-final penalty shoot-out against Adelaide United.
Reddy pulled off four brilliant saves and iced the performance by blasting home his own spot kick in front of The Shed at Perth Oval. Then, with the game on the line, up stepped Chianese, who had only ever taken one penalty in his life before - 16 years ago in the Blacktown City under-13s. And on that occasion he hit the post.
Chianese didn’t miss this time, sending Adelaide goalkeeper Paul Izzo the wrong way he smashed the ball home and Glory were on their way to their first A-League Grand Final in seven years. They will play at Optus Stadium on Sunday against Sydney FC, who demolished Melbourne Victory 6-1 in today's semi-final.
Ironically, the Glory squad had not practised penalty kicks this week, although Reddy spent time with goalkeeping coach Danny Milosevic studying likely Adelaide players. “It was a night that I’ll remember for a long time. Hopefully I won’t be called up again,” said Reddy, veteran of 18 seasons.
“I was just in the right place, right time and able to do my bit. There have been times this year when players have got me out of the shit. It was my turn to step up. I was glad when Joel tucked it away and we could celebrate. It’s just relief. We’ve worked extremely hard for it. Thankfully we got the job done.”
Reddy, 37, had scored one previous penalty but not in a shoot-out. “It was very satisfying. I had just made the save against Isaias, I took a deep breath, got my composure, but I knew where I was going to go,” he said. “Before the shoot-out the boss (coach Tony Popovic) asked me if I wanted to take one so he had trust and confidence in me.”
Chianese was the third player to step up when the shoot-out went to sudden death after the first five spot kicks. “I had never taken a penalty in my professional career. It was a new thing for me. Not a bad time to do it,” he said. “It was a case of take a deep breath, pick your side, look down the ball and make sure you strike it well.”
“Then you hope you send the keeper the wrong way or he doesn’t make a save. Thankfully it came off. You do feel nervous but I tried to stay calm. It was an awesome feeling. You don’t remember much, just running around like crazy.”
Chianese said his team were confident they could get through the shoot-out despite giving away a two-goal lead in the first 90 minutes, then letting Adelaide claw their way back to level it at three-all in extra-time.
“After being in front, getting knocked down, getting another goal in extra time and conceding one, we could easily have dropped our heads and choked,” he said. “But everyone showed reliance and composure. If it goes to penalties again this weekend, we know we can get through it.”
12.5.2019
BELT UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION - ROUND FIVE REVIEW
Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division leaders, North Perth maintained their two-point lead at the top of the table, but were made to earn the 2-1 win against Joondalup United at Beldon Park on Sunday afternoon. The visitors made the perfect start and were ahead after only eight minutes. Niall Murray stepped in from the back breaking their first line then played a beautifully weighted pass to Edin Nalic who guided the ball past Joondalup keeper Luke Green. The home side lifted but couldn’t find a way past a tight North Perth defence and keeper Jamie Serra. After the break Curtis Wreglesworth went close for the host but failed to find the target, but on the hour, it was North Perth who doubled their lead. Nalic played a first touch pass through to skipper Eamonn Kelly who showed great composure and slid it through Green’s legs for the second. Joondalup found a lifeline seven minutes from time when Andreas Bouzinekis scored, but Ben Williams side couldn’t find the equaliser.
“First half we were very slow out of the block we failed to shut down their wingers and full backs so they were able to get a lot of balls into our box. We were also too rushed in the final third for most the half and gave up cheap sloppy possession,” North Perth Coach Alex Carter said. “The boys responded in the right manner after the break and we lifted our tempo to a level that we have prided ourselves on over the years. The game should have been done and dusted midway through the half, but Joondalup to their credit kept chipping away and got a goal which made the last few minutes a bit edgy, however an away win at any time is a box ticked in a league this tight.”
Kingsley kept up the pressure on the leaders with a 7-0 win against UWA Nedlands at the UWA Sports Park. Joel Gillespie gave them the lead from the penalty spot, and he added a second after a cut back from Jayden Drummond. It was 3-0 when Drummond crossed to Simone Sichel to head home, and Drummond made it 4-0 moments later. Josh Waldock added the fifth and the sixth, before Sean Johnson’s shot was saved by the keeper Drummond pounced on the rebound to score. “It was one of those games where it took us about 20 minutes to get the football flowing but once we did it was enjoyable to play in,” Drummond said. “It was also good to see we kept our foot down to the 90th minute to put seven past them, more importantly kept a clean sheet.”
Jaguars bounced back from defeat last week to beat Hamersley Rovers 6-1 at Herb Graham Recreation Centre. The home side were well in command with Akuei Gout bagging the first before Mamadou Ndiaye added a second with Ibrahim Hamdan adding the third. Then Paul Sopp took over the show, he added the fourth tapping home after a low cross from Hamdan. He added his second and Jags fifth after being sent clear by Juma and he raced one-on-one with the keeper and finished clinically. He completed his hat-trick from the spot after he was brought down, to seal a comprehensive win. Quinns are up to fourth after 7-2 win against Ellenbrook United at Gumblossom Park. Liam Hunt scored a hattrick, with Ross Kirrage bagging a brace with others to Wayne Carter and Mark-Sandor Kolts. “It was a game that we were very comfortable in from the start and was always going to win,” Quinns Coach Darren Kay said. “But it was disappointing to concede but they were two high quality strikes from the Ellenbrook lad.”
Belmont Villa moved clear of the drop zone after a 3-1 win against Wembley Downs at Gerry Archer Sports Complex. Belmont Coach Tom Moderval was delighted with the win. ‘I thought we played well today. Our plan every week is to play attacking football, and it was working for us until half time, thanks to Luqman’s opener. As we expected Wembley came out all guns blazing in the second half, but just when they were starting to play their way back into the game our keeper Kadir pulled off a couple of unbelievable saves. I think that more than anything gave the lads a huge confidence boost and David Musa was able to grab a couple of goals late on, which is unusual for him.”
In the final game Leeming Strikers beat Kwinana United 5-0 at Kelly Park. It was a tight first half the only goal coming on 20 minutes when a cross from Ben Greaves found Danny McKenzie at the back post to header home. They doubled their account on 55 minutes Aaron Bahadori beat two men down the left and cut back for Lucas Pickering to control and finish from 12 meters. It was 3-0 ten minutes later when Jay Dost cross from the left was met by Bahadori at back post who headed in. Leeming added a fourth on 80 minutes when Lucas Pickering received a cut back from Michael Maratea, and he controlled and volleyed home from the edge of the box. They rounded off the scoring five minutes later Brad North crossed to find Dost who finished at the front post from six meters. The home side finished the game with only eight men after Lee Bates, Llewelyn Bake and Jose dos Santos were all sent off.
“We couldn't be happier with the performance, from our end we controlled the play from the first minute to the last minute, they just couldn't match our intensity and commitment, it was clear that was a frustration on their end,” Leeming player/coach David Palin said. “The players showed good discipline throughout match and we spoke at half time that when Kwinana implode second half, we need to make sure we were there to finish them off. We didn't expect to play last 20 minutes against eight men but I thought the players handled situation very well, didn't over commit and made sure we got our first clean sheet of season and a valuable three points.”
11.5.2019
TEN-MAN AZZURRI BEAT THE REDS
Perth SC extended their lead at the top of the table to six points after a 3-1 win against Armadale at Dorrien Gardens. Matthew Milenkovic gave Ramon Falzon's side the lead at the break, before Michael Domfeh added a second against his former club. They were then reduced to ten men when Niccolò Sabatini was sent off on 70 minutes and Adriano Jelenovic reduced the margin four minutes later. Armadale pressed for the equaliser but were hit on the counter attack in the second minute of stoppage time with Kristian Santich wrapping up the three points. "A good three points especially after going down to 10 men for the second week in a row, so it turned out to be a tough test for us,” Perth keeper Dejan Aleksic said. “However, the boys were determined to extend our lead after a tough run of fixtures so were happy with the win and to also move six points clear at the top.”
The league leaders squad depth was tested in this one with defenders Alex Silla and Rocco Pizzata, plus striker Gustavo Catarcione out but they were out of the blocks early and were ahead on the half hour. Sabatini cut in from the left, and picked out the unmarked Milenkovic, who finished well at the far post. They doubled their lead six minutes into the second half, and it was Sabatini who was again the supplier, this time the Italian winger found Domfeh, and the former Reds striker finished with aplomb.
It looked like Perth would run away with the game but it took another twist just after the hour when referee David Bruce sent Sabatini off after he retaliated after an incident with second half substitute Jelenovic. The Reds lifted and were now on top and they reduced the margin on 71 minutes, Michael Lawson cutting the ball back to Jelenovic, who lost his marker to score.
It was game on and Armadale pushed forward looking for the equaliser, but they were caught out on a counter-attack when Santich raced clear of the last defender and curling home past Armadale keeper Sam Hutchings to seal the win. Perth are back in league action in two weeks’ time when they host Cockburn City at Dorrien Gardens, while Armadale will hope to put an end to their seven-game run without a win when they host Sorrento at Alfred Skeet Reserve.
Perth SC: GK Dejan ALEKSIC, 3 Andreas THEODOSIADES (17 Frank FURFARO 71’), 4.Thomas SOUTHGATE, 5 Niccolò SABATINI, 11 Matthew MILENKOVIC, 12 Jordan DE LEO, 14 Kristan SANTICH, 16 Kieran COLWELL, 18 Michael DOMFEH, 19 Bojan RADINOVIC, 20 Paul ZIMARINO – Subs not used: RGK Francis SOALE, 7 Aleks JOVIC, 10 Luke GARAS, 15 Nicholas MESSINA - Red cards: Sabatini 67
Armadale: GK Sam HUTCHINGS, 2 Josh KUSER, 3 James HARAN, 4 Nathan COSTELLO, 6 Joel SANDERSON (12 Dannie RICHMAN 61’), 7 Joshua CORTES, 8 Michael LAWSON (5 Ali NAZARY 78’), 9 Billy QUINNCROFT, 13 Blake ADAMS, 19 Harry EVANS, 23 Friday ZICO (11 Adriano JELENOVIC 57’) - Subs not used: RGK Blake HANSHELL, 22 Ryan HASLETT - Referee: David Bruce
11.5.2019
ATHENA FLEX THEIR MUSCLES AT ECU
Floreat Athena produced a clinical 45 minutes to sweep aside ECU Joondalup 3-0 at the ECU Football Stadium. First half goals from Jon Stynes, Robert Petkov and Phil Arnold did the damage for the visitors and although the Jacks put in a strong second half they couldn’t get back into the game. Floreat arrived in red hot form and made the break through on seven minutes. Skipper Dean Evans sent Arnold down the right and his low cross was turned home from close-range by Stynes. ECU looked to hit back immediately but Rixer’s header from Kian McGuigan’s corner flashed wide. But Floreat looked dangerous going forward and keeper Johnny Perkins get down well to tip Evans’ shot around the post, before Chris Saldaris headed inches wide Perkins then saved well from Petkov as Floreat pressed, but there was little the keeper could do when Floreat doubled their lead on 23 minutes. Petkov was sent clear on goal, and he rounded the keeper and fired the ball home.
It was backs to the wall for the home side, but they went close to reducing the margin on 27 minutes. Henry Durr found Amphlett on the right, and the speedy winger raced forward and his shot on the run was saved low by Jason Saldaris. But three minutes later Floreat added a third. Evans played Stynes down the right and his cross found Arnold, whose first shot was superbly saved by Perkins, but Arnold was quickest to react to fire home the rebound. Arnold was in again moments later, but Perkins stood tall to deny him. The Jacks should have pulled one back late in the half, when McGuigan’s deep cross picked out the unmarked Bayley Brown-Montgomery, but the striker headed wide of the target.
The home side had Floreat on the back foot early in the second half and Jason Saldaris had to be alert to push Amphlett’s shot around the post, before the Floreat keeper got down well to save Andy Higgins’ free kick. But Floreat still looked dangerous on the break and went close to a fourth on the hour, Arnold finding Evans on the edge of the box but his shot flew over the top. Floreat went close to a fourth late in the game when substitute Adrian Madaschi’s goal bound shot was blocked by his team mate Petkov on the line.
ECU Joondalup: GK Johnny PERKINS, 3 Ronald RIXER (2 Nicholas KOFLER 53’), 4 Henry DURR, 7 Lukas DE LIMA (12 Harry EDWARDS 46’), 8 Kian MCGUIGAN, 9 Bayley BROWN-MONTGOMERY, 10 Andy HIGGINS, 11 Jakub SKLENAR, 13 Tommy AMPHLETT, 15 Tom HOUGH, 16 Ewen FAWCETT - Subs not used: RGK George JACKSON, 6 Luke RHODES, 17 Ben HINSHELWOOD - Yellow cards: De Lima 40’, Brown-Montgomery 56’, Amphlett 83’
Floreat Athena: GK Jason SALDARIS, 6 Jesse FULLER (4 Adrian MADASCHI 61’), 8 Jon STYNES, 9 Robert PETKOV (2 Marco SANTALUCIA 85’), 11 Dennis GALAN, 15 Chris SALDARIS, 16 Ryan MALTON (3 Tristan COLLI 69’), 17 Dean EVANS, 18 Phillip ARNOLD, 19 Luka NINKOVIC, 21 Nicholas AMBROGIO - Subs not used: RGK Jordan BARBAS, 26 Jack ANDREWS - Yellow cards: Fuller 55’, Ambrogio 59’ - Referee: Joshua Nixon
11.5.2019
GLORY AND COCKBURN SHARE THE SPOILS
Perth Glory have had to settle for a 1-1 draw against Cockburn City in week nine of the NPL WA at Dalmatinac Park on Saturday afternoon. Daniel Stynes gave Glory the lead just before the hour, and they had other chances to seal the win, but Daniel Robinson levelled for the hosts 18 minutes from time and Glory couldn’t find the winner late. “I didn’t think it was our best performance but we fought well and put a lot of effort in and on another day, we could’ve had 3-4 goals,” goalscorer Stynes explained. “But we’ll roll onto our next game and work harder in training and get set for Bayswater in two weeks.”
The visitors were on front foot in the first half and went close when Daniel Stynes eased past former Glory defender Hayden Stevens, but his shot across keeper Luke Radonich missed everyone in the box and drifted wide. Glory continued to press and moments later Stynes was in again the lively midfielder raced into the penalty area and cut the ball back from the bye-line, but Walter Scott effort failed to find the target. Then just before the break Gomo Dukuly found space on the edge of the penalty area, but his shot flashed over the top, but at half time it was all-square.
But on 55 minutes the Glory found a deserved lead. Half time Substitute Trent Ostler was played down the right and he looked up and saw Stynes making a run into the box and his cross found the midfielder, whose header gave Luke Radonich no chance. Cockburn were working overtime at the back and Glory were convinced they had a penalty when Stynes played Ostler in on goal and he was brought down, but referee Steven Gregory waved away their protests. Moments later Henry Hore was also brought down, but again the referee ignored the Glory players protests. But against the run of play it was the home side who levelled on 72 minutes, Robinson racing in on goal and finishing low past Nicholas Speca. Glory pushed late for the winner, and Cockburn keeper Luke Radonich produced a number of fine saves, the best a stunning reflex save to deny Jacob Italiano, but Cockburn held on to earn a point.
Cockburn City: GK Luke RADONICH, 5 Julian TELES, 6 Ruben TRISTAO, 8 Cameron EDWARDS, 12 Ryan PRATT (23 Riley WOODCOCK 46’), 14 Hayden STEVENS, 15 Daniel SANTICH, 16 Daniel ROBINSON, 17 Devon GIBSON (18 Adam ANFUSO 72’), 19 Hasani SINCLAIR (9 Anthony SKORICH 86’), 21 Jesse LAZZARO - Subs not used: RGK Ben RADONICH, 10 David ARAY
Perth Glory: GK Nicholas SPECA, 2 Zayd FARAH, 3 Walter SCOTT, 4 Jacob MUIR, 5 Nick WALSH, 6 Josh SAMSON (14 Liam MURRAY 86’), 7 Ethan BROOKS (13 Gabriel POPOVIC 17’), 8 Henry HORE, 9 Gomo DUKULY (12 Trent OSTLER 46’), 10 Daniel STYNES, 11 Jacob ITALIANO - Subs not used: RGK Jake RANGE, 15 Alessandro CIRCATI - Referee: Steven Gregory
11.5.2019
CZECH-MATE FOR GULLS
A goal from Czech defender Jakub Prajza has given Sorrento a 1-0 win against Balcatta at Percy Doyle Reserve. His goal just before half time ended a three-game losing streak for the Gulls and move them back to fifth on the table. "It's great to get winning again,” Sorrento midfielder Tim Hill said. “We know where we want to be at the end of the season so it was very important to get winning again and that's what we did, and everyone was up for it and it showed.”
It was a tight first half but clear-cut chances were few and far between as both sides looked to bounce back from a poor run of form. But it was the Gulls who did find the opener three minutes before half time. Scott Witschge’s shot beat David Keenan, but the post came to the keepers’ rescue, but the ball rebounded kindly for Prajza and the former FC Slovácko defender fired home.
The introduction of Gavin Knight, Nicholas Challot and Alex Wild after half time gave the visitors a lift in the second-half and they went close twice to the equaliser. Former Gulls striker Knight was denied first by a great save from James Morgan, and the Sorrento custodian was at it again moments later, again denying Knight to ensure Jamie Harnwell’s side got back in the winners’ circle.
Both sides are in FFA Cup Round Five action next weekend with Sorrento hosting Gwelup Croatia, while Balcatta host Canning City. Next in the league Balcatta host ECU Joondalup at Grindleford Reserve, while Sorrento make the trip to Alfred Skeet Reserve to take on Armadale.
Sorrento: GK James MORGAN, 2 David STOKOE, 3 Jakub PRAJZA, 4 Shaun KILKELLY, 5 Scott ROBERTSON, 7 Alex MORGAN, 8 Scott WITSCHGE (18 Jordan BROWN 83’), 10 Jordan ROBERTS (21 Elliot TATTERSALL 89’), 11 Tim HILL, 17 Reece VITTIGLIA, 19 Jack SALTER (22 Danny JONES 76’) - Subs not used: RGK Matt GIUDICATTA, 13 Steven MCDONALD
Balcatta: GK David KEENAN, 2 Joseph MARINO, 3 John KEARNEY, 4 Calum O’CONNELL, 5 Shubham MOKALA, 10 Jonathan CORNESS, 12 Roberto DEL BORRELLO, 16 Alex CASTIELLO, 20 Anthony TOPINI (7 Alex WILD 55’), 22 Ben PELLIZZARI (9 Gavin KNIGHT 65’), 23 Adam ZIMARINO (21 Nicholas CHALLOT 58’) - Subs not used: RGK Yousri GHARSALLAH, 19 Michael ZAMARINO - Referee: Julian Serra
11.5.2019
INGLEWOOD EDGE PAST LIONS
The tenure of Stirling Lions coach Trevor Morgan has started with defeat, after Sam Riak’s first half goal gave Inglewood United a 1-0 win at Macedonia Park on Saturday afternoon. Stirling best chance fell to Sean McManus, whose shot hit the woodwork but it was Inglewood taking the points and maintaining their fourth placed position on the table. Inglewood coach Andres Oliveira was delighted with the win and the starting debut of Brendon Italiano.
“It was a good hard-fought win, and we knew Stirling was going to be difficult and what the effects of a new coach like Trevor Morgan was going to produce,” he said. “Also we had a few injuries coming into this game and with a small squad it made it a little bit more concerning but it also introduce the debut of Brendon, a young 20‘s player and all credit to the players they had set themselves out for a good win and a clean sheet. “
Morgan praised his side's attitude despite the loss. "I think in terms of attitude, commitment and effort from the players, I couldn’t have asked for anything else. I think we probably lacked a little bit of quality,” he told the Football West website. “The goal was a bit disappointing because we spoke before the game about the importance of defending set-plays. One of our lads wasn't in the position he should’ve been and the goal came from it.
“So, it's a very harsh lesson for them because they've given me everything today but we've come away without winning and losing three points. There's a lot of good things, things that we can build on. We've got players out of the team that are due to come back in over the coming weeks, so plenty to look forward to. I really thought it was a great team performance as we started really off and not so great but we grew into the game and thankfully we got the goal and it just happened to be me. Everyone was doing a shift for the team and every week is a different goalscorer, even our defenders are scoring goals, so it’s good for the team and glad we got the win in the end."
Stirling Lions: GK Daniel MARQUES, 2 Mile PETKOVSKI, 4 Alex SULESKI, 6 Dhhors CHOL, 8 Finn GRAHAM, 11 Michael GAMA, 10 Andrew MARANTA, (16 Renee ALI 75’) 9 Michael WANTEE, (12 Bleron MAMUDI 68’) 7 Sean MCMANUS, 5 Nelson TSHONGO, 3 Joseph PERKINS, (14 Griffin BECSI 46’) - Subs not used: RGK Ryan Montgomery, 15 Max JOHNSTON
Inglewood United: GK Alex DUNN, 2 Alex ISHIDA-LIVINGS, 3 David CYRUS, 4 Scott BLACKMORE, 5 Sam RIAK, 7 Hamza HINA, (6 Miki VUJACIC 68’) 9 Chok DAU, (13 Brendan ITALIANO 82’), 10 Anthony BAFOBUSHA, 14 Steve SOKOL, (15 Brian FARRELL 46’) 16 Jamie MURPHY, 17 Mark BARNETT - Subs not used: RGK Josiah GODFREY, 12 Ryan MORAN - Referee: Matt Southern
11.5.2019
HARMER BLOW FOR BAYSWATER
A goal eight minutes from time from Rockingham City skipper James Harmer has given them a 2-2 draw against Bayswater City at SafeRad Stadium at Lark Hill. The visitors led 2-0 at the break with goals to Gordon Smith and Daryl Nicol, but Riley van Dieken pulled one back on the hour and Harmer's late strike gave Rockingham a hard-earnt point.
"We were very disappointed with our first half performance, and particularly the goals that we conceded. In the second half we got back to playing the football we know we can play, with hunger and determination to get back into the game,” Rockingham City Coach Cameron lord said. “But credit to everyone involved for an excellent 45 minutes in the second half, but we need to start performing over 90 minutes to get back to winning ways in our next league fixture against Inglewood.
The visitors were off to a good start and Chris Coyne’s side had a number of chances and they were rewarded with the lead on the half hour. Smith was sent clear and he raced into the box and finished clinically past Cyril Sharrock. They doubled their lead three minutes before the break, Jason Mirco’s cross was headed home by Nicol, his eight goal of the season
Rockingham made a couple of changes at the break with Harry Collins and Ryan Kennedy coming on and they had Bayswater on the back foot and it wasn’t a surprise when they pulled one back on the hour. A mix up at the back between keeper Devon Spence and Adam Harris saw van Dieken nip in and roll the ball into an empty net. It was game on and Smith and Ryan Pearson wasted a couple of chances for the visitors, but roared on by the big crowd Rockingham pushed for the equaliser and it duly arrived seven minutes from time. Jason Pottier’s pass sent Harmer in and the Welsh striker fired home much to the delight of the home faithful.
Rockingham City: GK Cyril SHARROCK, 2 Jason CONSTABLE (5 Harry COLLINS 46’), 3 Justis BRADLEY, 15 Shaz RAMLEE (8 Jason POTTIER 77), 7 James MILLARD, 9 Sam MCKEARNEN, 10 James HARMER, 11 Riley VAN DIEKEN, 12 Lydon HODGKISS, 13 Jarrad MORT, 23 Victor BRAUNER (14 Ryan KENNEDY 46’) - Subs not used: RGK James GREHAN
Bayswater City: GK Devon SPENCE, 3 Jack ALLEN, 5 Adam HARRIS, 11 Ryan PEARSON, 13 Trent KAY, 17 Daryl NICOL, 19 Gordon SMITH, 20 Giordano COLLI (23 Brian WOODALL 86’), 10 Jason MIRCO (21 Kenny KEOGH 69’), 27 Ross MILLARD, 30 Adam TONG - Subs not used: 9 Gustavo MARULANDA, 25 Nemanja JANKOVIC, 22 Shaydon PASSALCQUA - Referee: Tom Glavovic
11.5.2019
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND SEVEN – REVIEW
Gwelup Croatia moved into second spot on the State League First Division table after a 2-0 win against UWA Nedlands in Week seven at Wishart Street on Saturday afternoon. With the rest of the top four dropping points Taki Nicolaidis’ side took advantage, but had to battle hard to secure the win and in a tight first half, with both sides having half chances but failed to take them. That all changed on 52 minutes when Ellis Healing was brought down on the edge of the penalty area, and the midfielder picked himself up and curled the resulting free kick into the top corner. UWA pressed for the equaliser but they found themselves two down on 68 minutes, David Heagney's ball into the box was dealt with and Healing scrambled the ball home. The home side almost added a third late on when Isaac Koomson shot crashed off the post, and Heagney fired home, but his celebrations were cut short with the flag up for offside. "As a collective it was a very good team performance," Gwelup keeper Riley Stephenson said. "It's hard to play UWA in terms of matching their work rate, but the boys stuck to the game plan Taki set out and it paid off. Definitely the most satisfying win for myself as well, finally managing to get a clean sheet. We're now in a commanding position in the league with games in hand, so it's critical to continue to improve and continue getting three points each week."
League leaders Ashfield were beaten for the first time this season after a 1-0 defeat against Fremantle City at Hilton Park. The only goal of the game came from Joseph Emanuele, the win moved City up to fifth. There was a six-goal thriller at Nash Field where Western Knights and Olympic Kingsway fought out a 3-3 draw. The hosts were ahead when striker Dean Hurley raced past his marker and into the box and finished clinically past the keeper. But the visitors levelled on the half hour. Ajak Riak ran at the Knights defence, and cut inside Cameron Yorke, but the defender brought him down and the referee pointed to the spot. Jordan Pokler stepped up and sent the keeper the wrong way to level things up. The visitors were on the front foot early in the second half and were rewarded with the lead. Chris Rizidis found Riak, whose shot on the run from the edge of the penalty area gave the keeper no chance. Then on 53 minutes they added a third, the ball fell kindly to Charlie Breen on the edge of the penalty area and his volley flew into the net.
But 19 minutes from time the Knights found a lifeline when the referee spotted a handball in the box and Hurley sent the keeper the wrong way from the resulting penalty. Then on 80 minutes the Knights were rewarded another penalty for a foul in the box and Hurley converted to secure his hat-trick and a point for the Knights. "If you had asked me prior to the game I would have said a point would have been satisfactory away to Western Knights who are one of the strongest sides in the league," Olympic coach Gary Williams said. "We had a late withdrawal through injury and we had a couple of players playing with character and spirit as they were also carrying injuries. Given the circumstances I am extremely proud of the team. We have a very young side but during the last two matches against two of the best teams in the league we have been competitive and have been unfortunate to secure only one point. We will now prepare for the game against Floreat next week in the FFA Cup."
Subiaco moved up to sixth after a 4-2 win against Mandurah City at Rosalie Park. The hosts were ahead when Antonio Naglieri rocketed home a free from the edge of the box. It was 2-0 when Shay O’Donovan was brought down by Aiden Clarke in the box and Naglieri scored from the resulting corner. Mandurah were back in the game just after half time when Jeff Bright’s header was turned home by Matt Stares. But Subiaco regained their two-goal lead when O’Donovan raced clear after a mistake from Oscar Thompson, and fired low past the on-coming keeper. It was 4-1 when man of the match Naglieri found Adam Carlino to scored from five meters. Joe O’Brien scored a late consolation goal for the Dolphins, but it was too little too late. “We are extremely happy with the game against Mandurah and the result was fantastic,” Subiaco Coach Basil Lenzo said. “The players were keen to wrong the right from the Cup game and played some really good football, it was an excellent team performance.”
Joondalup United continued their good form on the road with a 5-3 win against Morley Windmills at Wotton Reserve. It was the home side who opened the scoring, with Boas Mtwale on target, and it was 2-0 when Mtwale converted from the penalty spot. Joondalup hit back and James Oldroyd fired home from close-range, but Morley were dangerous on the break and they added a third, when Igor Novakovic’s shot was saved by the Joondalup keeper, but Mtwale scored from the rebound to complete his hat-trick. Whatever Joondalup Coach Nick Jennings said at half time worked and they were back in the game when Liam Mooney scored from a corner. They were soon level with the goal of the game, Ben Wantee, on his debut for the club, raced down the left and his curling effort gave the Morley keeper no chance. Joondalup hit the front when Ian McMurray headed home, before Wantee added his second to make it 5-3. Morley were reduced to ten men when Matthew Broome was sent off. "In the first half we struggled to contain the counter attacking style of Morley and found ourselves 3-1 down," Jennings said. "But after a bit of re-organising at half time we completely dominated the second half and a superb display saw us win with ease in the end."
11.5.2019
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND SIX – REVIEW
Gosnells City moved back to joint top of the State League Division Two table after a hard fought 2-0 win against Dianella White Eagles at Walter Padbury Reserve. The home found the lead late in the first half, Sheldon Noguera's cross was finished well by Edward Wynne-Wilson. The points were wrapped after great work from Scott Perriera who found Sean Taylor to score from close-range. "Dianella made it hard for us and they were hard to break down, but we did have multiple chances to seal the game in the first half," Gosnells keeper Tom Allen said. "I thought we had the majority of possession and they only looked for the counter attack, but we defended very well and limited their shots on goal. It was a huge result for us and it was good to bounce back from the loss last week and even more pleased to keep a clan sheet again. We know it's still early in the season an there is a long way to go so we are not getting carried away."
League leaders Quinns lost for the first time this season after a 2-1 defeat against Balga at Princess Road Reserve. The hosts were ahead on the quarter hour mark, Dejan Andric was given far too much space in the middle of the park and his long-range shot gave Quinns keeper James Bosdet no chance. It was 2-0 ten minutes later, when Kris Spaseski was brought down in the penalty area by Brad McDonald and Andric made no mistake from the resulting penalty. Quinns were back in the game mid-way through the second half, when Josh Booysen raced past a number of Balga defenders before finishing clinically. The visitors pressed late looking for the equaliser but Balga held on for the win. “A huge six pointer for the club, and I’m super proud of the boy’s effort across the board,” Balga coach Aleks Vrteski said. “I'm not one to discuss refereeing, however, both clubs can be disappointed I believe. On Quinns, still favourites in my opinion as they won't drop too many points.”
Murdoch University Melville have won the 'Battle of the Uni's with a 4-0 win against Curtin University at Edinburgh Oval. In a clinical performance goals from Anthony Lomma, Josip Vujica and a brace from Dan Davey gave the visitors a comprehensive win. The visitors were ahead early when Lomma finished from close-range after Curtin failed to clear a corner, and it was 2-0 on ten minutes, Vujica pouncing to fire home from close-range. Curtin got back into the game and Anthony Russo fired wide when well placed, but that miss came back to haunt them when Davey finished well from Grant Mowatt’s through ball. The result was put beyond doubt late when Lomma raced into the box and unselfishly played in Davey to fire home into an empty net. "Really pleased with our performance, our intensity and desire was there right from the start and we really dominated from the kick off," MUM Coach Gavin Brown said. "It was a good score line, but it could have been a huge score line, if we had taken all the chances we created. But spare a thought for Mark Lucas who also hit the bar with a penalty, the post with a volley, had two headers that he should have finished and had a chip that cleared the keeper, but was cleared off the line.”
Swan United lost ground on the leaders after a 2-2 draw against Canning City at Burrendah Reserve. The black and whites were ahead when John Monterosso was sent down the flank, and eased past his marker before cutting the ball back to Jamie Burns to score. But the host levelled on the stroke of half time, when teenagers Josh Wallhead and Ronan Cowley combined, Wallhead perfectly weighted pass found Cowley who coolly finished. Swan regained the lead when Monterosso's long-throw picked out Brian Patterson, and he lobbed the keeper. It looked like Swan would leave with the points but in the final minute Laurence Cheney was brought down in the box and Cowley scored his second of the game from the resulting penalty. "I thought it was a deserved point against experienced opponents who will be chasing at least a promotion play-off spot," Canning Coach John Drewett said. "Hopefully this result will give us the boost to get our own campaign heading in the right direction."
Kelmscott Roos continued their resurgence after a 5-1 win against Wanneroo City at Wanneroo Reserve. “We’ve found our formation now and we’re playing great football,” Kelmscott striker Asa Sippits said. “Our keepers been outstanding this year and the defence is solid, so it gives us boys up top the chance to break in numbers and its coming together now.” The visitors took the lead when a mix up between keeper and defender and Asa Sippits nipped in to finish into an empty net. Kelmscott doubled their lead five minutes into the second half, Amos Doegolia’s in-swinging corner was turned into his own net by a Wanneroo defender. It was 3-0 when good work from Adan Hodie who squared to Steve Ingram to score. It soon became 4-0 with Doegolia racing clear and finishing clinically past the keeper. The home side pulled one back through Ryan West after Kelmscott failed to clear a corner. But the icing was put on the cake late when Kelmscott added a fifth, Ingram’s ball into the box was fired home by Brody Walker to seal a great win.
“We started off well capitalising on the defensive miscommunication by the Wanneroo defence. After that we created chances and still could not put them away. We addressed this at halftime and the boys responded very well in the second half scoring four goals,” Kelmscott coach Richard Changadzo said. “I feel we are now starting to show great awareness in the transition moments and getting the ball behind the opposition’s defence at the right moments most of the time. Confidence is starting to build up and players are starting to see games out to the end now. A few more games and I think we should be a functional unit. Even with a few injuries from our starting players the lads who are stepping in are doing a stellar job. Now it’s about building on the last couple of weeks’ positive performances and aim at getting better for the next game. We have a very young squad and we always have to keep them focused and interested and make them know they are important to the club for the whole season. So as always back to hard work for the next couple of weeks and get ready to host MUM who I know are a very good side.”
In the final game Joondalup City moved to fourth after a 4-1 win against Shamrock Rovers at Harold Rossiter Reserve. It was the home side who were out of the blocks early and were well on top and they deservedly took the lead on 20 minutes with Josh Hart finishing well. But the visitors settled and were level before the break, Luke Doyle losing his marker in the box and his diving header gave the Rovers' keeper no chance. The visitors never looked back from there and added a second after the break, Brady Kelly was sent clear by a great through ball from Liam Peacock and he finished well. The game was put out of the reach of Rovers with Sam Rawlings scoring a brace, with aa couple of quality finishes. “They (Shamrock) came out strong for the first 20 mins, and put us under a great deal of pressure and deservedly took the lead,” Joondalup Coach Nigel Smith said. “But gradually we got our passing game going and dealt with the long ball and started to cause them problems and got are rewards to win convincingly.”
11=0.5.2019
GLORY BEAT REDS IN PENALTY SHOOT-OUT EPIC
Perth Glory are through to host the Hyundai A-League Grand Final after winning one of the most extraordinary matches in league history 5-4 on penalties after a 3-3 draw against Adelaide United at HBF Park. The Premiers will now host the big dance against Sydney Fc at Optus Stadium next Sunday. Liam Reddy was the hero, saving four penalties, as Joel Chianese stepped up slot home the spot kick that ensured Glory would reach their second grand final in A-League history.
The Reds fought back from 2-0 down during the match after Diego Castro's brace, with Baba Diawara and then Ryan Kitto with almost the last kick of normal time forcing the game into extra time. Scott Neville put the Glory ahead again in the first period of extra-time, but the Reds refused to give up with Michael Marrone sending the match into penalties with a clinical header.
Glory Coach Tony Popovic was proud of the way his players kept their cool in the shoot-out. “The character was amazing. In the penalty shootout we stayed composed, and Jake Brimmer, at 21 years of age, it was a decisive penalty to keep us in it. It just shows how much he’s maturing,” he explained. “I’m sure that moment will help him in his development. You can’t manufacture a moment like that for a young boy. That’s the faith we have in him, and he certainly stepped up, and then Liam did the rest. I’m delighted for Joel, because he was a bit hard on himself for a header that didn’t go where he wanted to go at the end of the game. That’s another example of how far Joel Chianese has come as a footballer - psychologically to put that aside and make a major contribution in the end.”
Popovic believes his group have the mentality to win the Grand Final. “I think a game like this really showcases that,” Popovic said. “Big games are determined by a fine line and the skillset is one thing. But there’s a lot of things you can’t measure, you can’t get a stat for, which this squad has in abundance. These players showed something that maybe previously they didn’t believe they had - the resilience, the belief, the character, all the things that really stood out tonight.”
Glory started the stronger of the teams, reducing Adelaide to counter-attacks, and were inches from taking the lead on 15 minutes through Dino Djulbic. The Perth central defender rose highest to head the ball against the crossbar and it bounced down on the goal-line. Andy Keogh and Chris Ikonomidis couldn't bundle the rebound home at the post and Reds goalkeeper Paul Izzo managed to get it clear. Adelaide did look dangerous on the break and after a brilliant combination by Ben Halloran and Craig Goodwin in the 23rd minute, the latter fizzed a cross through the six-yard that Nathan Konstandopoulos managed to miss when any touch would have scored.
The home side made Adelaide pay six minutes later when Castro played a superb flick to Ikonomidis, before receiving the return pass and tucking the finish expertly underneath Izzo's body. It was nearly two as the half draw to a close, but Izzo made a superb save in denying Ivan Franjic's fizzing shot across the face that was destined for the far corner. Castro forced a smart save out Izzo in the second half but eventually got the crucial second goal on 74 minutes after a sustained period of Adelaide pressure. Ikonomidis broke free on the break, fed Castro into the area, who cut inside and slotted it into the back of the net via a deflection of Scott Galloway.
But the Reds struck back minutes later with forgotten striker Diawara poking home in the six-yard box after a goal mouth scramble. They completed an extraordinary comeback in the 94th minute when Glory failed to clear a corner and Kitto lashed the ball home to send the match into extra-time. The first half of extra-time nearly passed without incident until Jason Davidson managed to stand up a great ball to the back post which Neville headed into the back of the net off Izzo's legs. A Shane Lowry slip allowed Halloran a sight on goal as extra time wound down, but the shot was well saved by Reddy despite an awkward bounce in front of him.
But extraordinarily, the Reds found another equaliser as Kitto's excellent cross was emphatically headed home by Marrone to send the game to penalties. Castro had his penalty saved early on in the shootout by Izzo but the Reds couldn't make the advantage count with skipper Isaias having his spot-kick block by Reddy. A run of five consecutive saved penalties then ensued with Glory missing two chances to ice the contest before Chianese eventually stepped up to send Perth into the Grand Final.
Perth Glory: GK Liam REDDY, 3 Jason DAVIDSON, 4 Shane LOWRY, 5 Ivan FRANJIC (23 Scott NEVILLE 97'), 6 Dino DJULBIC, 9 Andy KEOGH (7 Joel CHIANESE 85'), 13 Matthew SPIRANOVIC, 17 Diego CASTRO, 19 Chris IKONOMIDIS (11 Brendon SANTALAB 111'), 27 JUANDE, 88 Neil KILKENNY (20 Jake BRIMMER 97') - Subs not used: RGK Tando VELAPHI
Adelaide United: GK Paul IZZO, 2 Michael MARRONE, 3 Scott GALLOWAY (6 Vince LIA 101'), 7 Ryan KITTO, 8 Isaías SÁNCHEZ, 11 Craig GOODWIN, 14 George BLACKWOOD (9 Baba DIAWARA 58'), 16 Nathan KONSTANDOPOULOS, 22 Michael JAKOBSEN (23 Jordan ELSEY 79'), 26 Ben HALLORAN, 31 Mirko BOLAND (17 Nikola MILEUSNIC 75') - Subsnot used: RGK Daniel MARGUŠ - Referee: Alex King
10.5.2019
NPL-WA ROUND NINE PREVIEW
It's week nine of the NPL WA and this week's Footballwa.net 'Match of the Round' takes us to Percy Doyle Reserve where Sorrento entertain Balcatta. (3.00pm) Both sides are coming off defeats last week, Balcatta were beaten 2-0 at home by Perth SC, while Sorrento lost 3-1 at Floreat Athena, and both will be looking to bounce back this weekend to keep in touch with the leaders. After leading the league after round three Balcatta have slipped down the table to seventh, and will go into Saturday's game searching for their first win in four game. There have been two draws in that run, both of them away from home, and they will be hoping to turn that into a win on Saturday. Balcatta Coach Goran Stajic said last week’s defeat was disappointing, and they need to lift. "It was a disappointing loss overall not only for the players but also the club never a good feeling losing a derby," he said. "Even though we were below par we still managed to compete with a great team, but I am not sure we were ever in it to be honest, Perth came out to scrap and we didn’t."
Stajic said his young side are still improving and he believes there is more to come from them, but they need to start to take their chances when they come. "Yes, this observation comes up a lot but I guess this is the by-product of the balance we are working with," he explained. "The pleasing factors are that we are continuously creating scoring opportunities and are extremely hard to score against. The games we have scored in are either wins or draws and the more we can sustain that aspect the better we will become." A trip to Sorrento is always a difficult one but Stajic sad they head there full of confidence and looking for their first win on the road this season. "Ultimately the challenge is there each week for us, either away or at home and Sorrento are a solid outfit," the Coach said. "We have outcomes that we want to achieve first and foremost and if we manage to deliver them then it will help us to get the result we deserve. On top of that if our players up top start finishing off the good work consistently then we will benefit collectively as a club."
Sorrento slipped to eighth on the table after last week’s defeat at Floreat, a game Coach Jamie Harnwell said was disappointing, but they had early chances and didn't take them. "Yes, it was a disappointing result and performance, it was a good week of training leading up to the game, and we had a good early chance, but two sloppy goals in the first half hurt us," he explained. "Then the third just after half time was tough to come back from, however, credit to the players, they had a crack at it for the last 30 minutes and should probably have got more than one goal for our efforts.” The Gulls have only won one home game this season, and will be without striker Cameron Teece due to suspension this weekend, and Harnwell said they need to improve and believes they will as they start to get players back from injury. "When any team loses players, who have been playing regularly in the starting XI it always makes it difficult, but we have got good depth and the coaching staff has complete faith in any player who has to step in," he said. "Now the likes of Reece Vittiglia, Tim Hill and Jordan Brown are coming back it gives some real competition for places again."
Harnwell said Saturday is a big game for both sides, but he is hoping they can get back in the winners' circle after three games without one, to keep in touch with the top four. "It is a big game for us, to have lost three on the trot with the quality of players we have is disappointing," he said. "Every team during the season will have a blip so it is incumbent on us to ensure that we get back to top form this week. Balcatta continue to play a good brand of football and are a dangerous side to play against so we have to ensure we approach the game with the right attitude and work rate before anything else."
League leaders Perth SC return home this weekend when they host Armadale at Dorrien Gardens. Ramon Falzon's side sit four points clear at the top of the table and last week's workmanlike 2-0 win at Balcatta stretched their unbeaten start to the season. Michael Domfeh and Gustavo Catarcione have formed a good partnership for the Azzurri, but in the middle of the park youngster Kristian Santich continues to impress, while the form of keeper Dejan Aleksic has seen him keep his spot despite Francis Soale's return from injury. They go into this one without the suspended defender Rocco Pizzata. Armadale were top after round two, but dropped to tenth after last week’s narrow loss to Cockburn, and John O'Reilly will be looking for a response from his players at the Gardens after six games without a win. Harry Evans has been impressive for the Reds this season, Josh Kuser and James Haran continue to improve, but it's the experience of Michael Lawson, Billy Quinncroft and Nathan Costello that the coach will be looking for at the home of league leaders.
Perth Glory kept the pressure on the leaders after last week’s win against Rockingham, and this week they hit the road for a trip to Dalmatinac Park to take on Cockburn City. Richard Garcia's side are four points behind Perth, and last week they were cruising at 4-0 but seemed to switch off, which didn't impress Coach Richard Garcia. Going forward the Glory youngsters have scored the most goals in the league, but have conceded 12, which I'm sure the coach will be looking to improve. Ethan Brooks has been a livewire for the Glory, while Gabriel Popovic and Daniel Stynes have both been impressive, while keeper Nic Speca has looked composed after coming in for the past two games. Cockburn needed a late Jesse Lazzaro goal to beat Armadale last week, to win for the first time in six games. Scott Miller would have been happy with the win, but the former Glory defender would have been more pleased with the clean sheet. Keeper Luke Radonich is in fine form, while the return of Devon Gibson and the inclusion of new signing Hasani Sinclair has given the side a boost, and they will be looking to get one over Miller's former club in this one.
Floreat Athena continue to improve and this week they hit the road to the ECU Football Stadium to take on ECU Joondalup. A brace from Dean Evans and another to Phil Arnold gave Garret McDulings' side a 3-1 win against Sorrento last week, the win keeping them in third spot. Evans has been outstanding this season while Arnold's partnership with Robert Petkov has been gaining momentum. At the back the inclusion of former Socceroo Adrian Madaschi has given them a huge lift, while Nick Ambrogio and Tom Jebb have both settled into their new club, as Floreat rise up the table. They go into Saturday’s game with defender Dennis Galan who is suspended. On the other hand, ECU Joondalup have taken a dip this season and last week’s loss at Inglewood left them second bottom. Injuries have hit the club hard but Dale McCulloch hasn't used that as an excuse, but without Joe Knowles, Josh Whitmore and Andy Higgins to name a few has seen them struggle. But the club have given the opportunity to some youngsters, with Kian McGuigan and Ewan Fawcett both impressing last week. They need to turn their form sooner rather than later and they will be looking for a repeat of their last home game, when they run out winners against Rockingham, but they will have to do it without defender Shane Cassidy due to suspension.
Bayswater City seemed to have turned the corner and they make the trip to the SafeRad Stadium to take on Rockingham City. Chris Coyne's side hit six last week against Stirling, with Daryl Nicol bagging a hat-trick, the win moving them up to fifth on the table. Ryan Pearson retuned to the side last week after injury, while Steven Hesketh, Jason Mirco and Paul Lloyd will be looking to push into the side after being on the bench last week, while Gustavo Giron-Marulanda is still waiting in the wings. Coyne will also be back on the bench, after watching last week’s win from the stands. Rockingham are coming off back-to-back away defeats and will be looking to continue their 100% home form in this one. Riley van Dieken bagged a brace against Glory last week, and he has been impressive since returning from injury to Cameron Lord's side. Skipper James Harmer has led the side by example this season and he will need to be at his best if Rocky are to get the points, but it will be a farewell game for defender Jason Constable, who has been offered a scholarship at West Virginia University institute of Technology in the US.
In the final game Inglewood United will be looking to make it three wins on the trot when they visit Macedonia Park to take on Stirling Lions. It's been a disappointing season to date for the Lions and interim coach Terry Nicolaou, and only one win for the season sees the Lions bottom of the table, but the coach will be hoping to get skipper Dean Cummings back from injury, but he will be without Darren O'Riordan who is suspended. Dhuors Chol continues to impress in the middle of the park, while Bieron Mamaudi has caused problems down the flanks, but it's scoring that has been a problem for them and Nicolaou will be hoping Ben Wantee, Kristian Despotovski and Sean McManus can change that on Saturday. Goals from Chok Dau and Miki Vujacic gave Andres Oliveira's side a 2-0-win against ECU Joondalup last week, which moved them up to fourth on the table. Defender Mark Barnett was outstanding on the day and he said it was a vital win, and to make it better it was a clean sheet. "It was a massive win for the club, and for us the three points against Joondalup was the turning point for us," he said. "I felt we controlled the game, created chances and we worthy 2-0 winners. I felt we defended outstandingly compared to previous games and our forwards gave problems to their defence. We have worked hard on our playing style and is was great to finally see it come through when it most mattered."
The 22-year-old defender was in Scotland last season trialling with Scottish Premier League club Hearts, and he said it was a great learning curve for him. "It was a fantastic opportunity for myself and glad I got the chance with such a big club, and I learned so much from very experienced players," Barnett explained. "It's absolutely made me a better player, being exposed to a very different playing style can only improve a players development and that’s definitely the case in my situation. Injury unfortunately ended my stay In Scotland but the football knowledge I gained is simply something I’ll never lose." On Saturday Inglewood travel to traditional rivals Stirling and Barnett said it's a game the players are looking forward too. "I think for us, it’s important to take each game as it comes and treat each team with the respect they deserve," he said. "It’s such an open league and teams can take points from anyone as we’ve seen. But I’m confident that if we play with the same desire, aggression and quality and follow our game plan we did against ECU I have no doubts we will walk away with three points this week."
10.5.2019
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND SEVEN – PREVIEW
This week's State League First Division Footballwa.net 'Match of the Round' takes us to Nash Field where third placed Western Knights host second placed Olympic Kingsway in Week seven. Last week Dean Hurley's stoppage time winner gave the Knights all three points against Morley Windmills, while Olympic lost for the first time this season, a 0-2 defeat at Ashfield, and with both sides level on points this one should be great game. The loss at Ashfield put an end to Olympics’ long unbeaten run, after going through last season unbeaten in Division Two, and the opening six games in the Division One, but skipper Kieron Stallard said it was a great game and they had chances to win it. "I think we were very unlucky not to get three points against Ashfield, and the first 45 was by far the best we have played since I’ve been at the club and should have had the game dead and buried by then," he said. "But all credit to Ashfield, they showed why there picking up points this season in the second half, not great football, but they work very hard as a team with a lot of aggression and I don’t think we reacted well to them at all, but hopefully the boys can learn from that going forward."
The experienced defender joined the club from ECU Joondalup and has fitted in well under new coach Gary Williams and he said they are playing with confidence and the whole club is on the up. "We have had a very good start so far which is good considering the huge turnover in players at the club since last season, especially since Gary and Brad took over," Stallard said. "All credit to Gaz he has got together a very good squad in a very short space of time and has us working hard every session. We have a great mix of lads and things are going well and all the boys work hard every week. We all know Olympic are a massive club in W.A and with that comes a high expectation which the boys have been reacting well too. With the amount things the club are putting into place this season off the park, they are definitely a club on the rise with a lot potential on and off the field." This week's trip to Nash Field is one Stallard and his team mates are looking forward to, and he said they head their looking to bounce back from last week’s hic-up. "I don’t think the lads will dwell too much on last week’s result. I think we can take a lot of confidence with how well we have been playing and just keep up the same standards that we have been doing and we will be fine," he said. "The Knights have also had a decent start and I’m sure they will be a very strong and organised side, so it should be a great game."
The Knights left it late last week but coach Ivan Zuvela said it showed the character his team have, and he thought they were worthy winners on the day. "Last week against Morley I thought we played really well, and I was happy with our structure and we were moving the ball very well," he said. "We created a lot of chances but we lacked that clinical finish. We then conceded late but we have an internal belief in our team and we always refer to our character and attitude to never give up. I was really proud of the boys and pleased for them when we got the win." The former Knights defender, Zuvela, has played his part in the clubs’ greatest triumphs and he is now doing all he can to bring that success back to the club, and he said they are heading in the right direction. "Internally at the club we always talk about the journey we are on this year, and we feel we are on track," the coach explained. "Western Knights is a proud club with a history of winning trophies and the current players know this. Our mandate this year is about writing a new legacy, but importantly respecting the shirt and all the tradition that comes with it." Zuvela said Saturday's opponents have started the season well and he is expecting another tough game, like they all are in the league this season. "We know that Kingsway have brought in new players and they are a different side to the one we played against in the night series," he said. "We play every week knowing that it will be a tough game and we are looking forward to another challenge on Saturday."
In other games league leaders Ashfield make the trip to Hilton Park to take on Fremantle City. City drew at UWA last week, while Ashfield won the top of the table clash with Olympic. Striker Angel Andres is in fine form for Fremantle, while keeper Paul Rainford continues to impress for Ashfield, and I'm sure they will see a lot of each other on Saturday and whoever comes out on top in this battle will go a long way to winning the game for their respective teams. Gwelup Croatia have home ground advantage when they host UWA-Nedlands at Wishart Street. Gwelup's game at Mandurah was postponed after their changing room ceiling collapsed on the players, and Taki Nicolaidis will be hoping to get back on track this week, while UWA where held at home to Fremantle. Subiaco came home from Forrestfield United with a hard-earned point last week and this week they entertain Mandurah City at Rosalie Park, while City had the weekend off last week with their game postponed. In the final game Morley Windmills entertain Joondalup United at Wotton Reserve. United are coming off the bye, and coach Nick Jennings will be hoping his side can bounce back their last up defeat at Subiaco. Morley looked like they had a point at Western Knights, until the home side scored deep into stoppage time and defender Dion Berman said they deserved something after coming from behind twice. "Yes, it was definitely a tough pill to swallow," he said. "I thought we worked tremendously hard against one of the top sides and unfortunately we got nothing to show for it."
It's been a difficult time at the club in the off-season with a change of coach, and only one win to start the season, but Berman said the players are working hard to turn things around. "We feel as if we have been well in the contest every week and especially with what happened and how unsettling the start of the season was, I think there are definitely positives to take," he explained. "I must admit we have been very unlucky, but if we keep putting the work in, I’m confident things will turn around." Berman said Saturday's game against Joondalup is a tough one, but they are determined to get the three points and kick start their season. "Yes, this week is another tough game, but it's just another three points that we are desperate to get," he said. "We're all looking forward to the game and facing yet another challenge in this very strong league." - Forrestfield United have the bye this weekend.
10.5.2019
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND SIX – PREVIEW
We head into week six of the State League Division Two, and this week's Footballwa.net 'Match of the Week' takes us to Princess Road Reserve, where Balga host league leaders Quinns. Both sides had wins last week, Quinns edged out Joondalup City in the local derby, while Balga came home from Canning City on Sunday with a 4-1, their first win in the league this season. Quinns were made to work hard for the narrow 1-0 win last week and skipper Greg Pellow said it showed another side of the team, as they had to fight for the whole 90 minutes. "It’s was a hard game against a good Joondalup side and the first half was pretty even both side having chances," he said. "I felt we came out strong in the second half and were pushing for a goal, and we managed to get that with Richard's wonder strike. After the goal we did soak up a lot of pressure which I think we managed well so in the end I think the win was deserved."
The club have ambitions to move up the leagues and with former Perth Glory Coach Ian Ferguson in charge Pellow said they heading in the right direction under the Scotsman's guidance. "Yes, the club has been desperate to get the club promoted for a number of years, and with Fergie and the rest of the coaching staff are installing a winning mentality and expect a high standard whether it’s training or in a game," the skipper explained. "That along with the football knowledge and experience he brings it’s pushing the players and the club as a whole forward." Pellow said Saturday's opponents showed what they can do in the cup win at Inglewood, and he's expecting a tight encounter on their patch. "I don’t know much about Balga if I’m honest," he said. "For us, we need to make sure we turn up ready every game with the right attitude, but I'm sure it will be another tough fixture for us."
Balga had to come from behind to win last week, but defender Danny Cain said the win was well deserved. “We conceded relatively early in the game which was disappointing,” he said “However after that, the lads settled and we played some good football and created some good chances and stuck four away.” The club had a huge win in the FFA cup at NPL side Inglewood, and Cain said they need to bring performances like that every week, because there are no easy games in this league. “Anyone can beat anyone in this league as you can see by the results this season,” the defender said. “So it’s important that we turn up every week and put in consistent performances despite who the opponent is.” Cain said Saturday will be their biggest test in the league this season when they take on the undefeated Quinns, but he said they are ready for the challenge. “We’re looking forward to the challenge against the league leaders,” he said. “But it will be the same approach we have to every game, if our players turn up, we will win.”
In other games Gosnells City will be looking to bounce back from last week’s surprise loss at Kelmscott when they host Howard Tweats Dianella White Eagles at Walter Padbury Reserve, while Swan United make the trip to Burrendah Reserve to take on Canning City. Swan let two points slip late last week at Dianella, and coach Paul Dundo will be looking to bounce back this week, but Canning will be determined to pick up their first point of the season. It’s a battle of the Uni’s at Edinburgh Oval with Curtin hosting Murdoch Melville. Curtin fought back from 0-2 down at half time last week at Shamrock to seal the points, while MUM was held at home by Wanneroo, so this one should be a great game. Shamrock Rovers will be looking for their first point when they host Joondalup City at Harold Rossiter Reserve, while the improving Kelmscott Roos travel to Wanneroo Reserve to take on Wanneroo City. The final game takes us to Harold Rossiter Reserve where Shamrock Rovers entertain Joondalup City. Both sides are coming off defeats last week, Rovers let a two-goal lead slip last week to lose 2-3 against Curtin University, while Joondalup pushed league leaders Quinns all the way but come away empty handed after a 0-1 defeat. Rovers' defender Ger Fitzgerald was on the scoresheet last week and he said it was really disappointing to let the game slip in the second half. "It was a very disappointing second half last week we followed our plan and played very well in the first half and scored two great goals,” he said. “But we just didn’t turn up and do our jobs in the second half.”
The former Subiaco defender said Rovers are getting better with each game but are still searching for their first win, but he believes it's only around the corner. "We have definitely improved in each of our last few games and I know our first win isn’t far away,” Fitzgerald said. “We have had players away working and guys unlucky with injuries but it’s not an excuse the 11 we put on the pitch every week is still good enough to win we just need to get that first win to kick start the season.” Fitzgerald said Joondalup will be another test for them, but he said Coach Gerry McEwan the players are determined to get that first win and kick start their season. "Gerry has been great so far this year and his recruitment of players and training has been very good, and we know what he expects of us it would be nice to reward him and everyone else at the club who do all the hard work behind the scenes with a win on Saturday,” he explained. “We have a great bunch of lads in the squad will go into the game with confidence and know if we play like we are capable of playing we know we can win.”
10.5.2019
BELT UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION - ROUND FIVE PREVIEW
It’s week five of the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division and this week’s Footballwa.net ‘Match of the Round takes us to Kelly Park where Kwinana United host Leeming Strikers. Both sides will be looking to bounce back this week and both were beaten last week, United going down 3-0 at Wembley, while the Strikers were beaten 1-2 at home by Quinns. The last time the two sides played at the venue was in round 21 last season when they fought out a thrilling 3-3 draw. The visitors opened the scoring through Karl Gorman, and Oli Mortenson doubled their advantage, and five minutes after half time, Lucas Pickering fired home a third. It looked game over, but Kwinana pulled one back through Lee Bates scoring. The home side were then reduced to ten men when Martin Barnes was given a straight red card, but the ten men reduced the margin again with Bates added his second. Amazingly the home side then levelled five minutes from time when Craig Tone converted from the spot to seal a point.
Kwinana coach Kris Donnell said injuries have affected them this season but last week they were in the game all afternoon but failed to take their chances. “It was a sore one to take as I felt we dominated for large periods of the game,” he explained. “But at the end of the day we didn’t create enough up top, and Wembley did so they deserve their victory.” Donnell said it’s been a challenge for him this season but it’s challenge he is relishing. “It has been a very tough first four games with three of them been losses,” the coach said. “But everyone at the club knows with all the changes preseason it is going to take time for everyone to gel and I’m positive that it will happen sooner rather than later.” Donnell knows Sunday will be a tough as Leeming will be looking to bounce back after defeat last week, but they will give it a good go. “Were looking forward to playing Leeming it’s always a tasty game,” he said. “I’m sure it will be another good battle and one I always enjoy being involved in. It’s still really early doors and the league is wide open so plenty of time yet to get back up that ladder.”
Leeming’s player/coach David Palin thought they deserved more from last weeks game, but said they failed to take their chances. “For us at home it was a disappointing result, we played some really good football, created more chances than we have in previous four games combined but just wasted chances all afternoon and at the other end gave away 2 sloppy goals,” he explained. “We know at this level playing good football isn't enough and we have to be more clinical at both ends of the field and be more accountable on the field as individuals and as a squad as a whole. In saying all that I thought Quinn's worked their socks off and also played some good stuff and, in the end, got a really good away win so credit to Darren and his players.”
The Night Series winners go into the game two and two, and Palin said they need to improve if they are to challenge the leaders, but he knows they are only four points off them. “We said before the season started we wanted to challenge for top honours in the league and at the moment early on we are showing our achilles heel of other seasons gone by, of inconsistent performances and though it's early on we know we have to address that before four points becomes seven behind leaders,” he said. “So, at this point no need to panic but we also have to recognise we have to be better in being more ruthless in games and when on top making that count, we did that against UWA but Quinn's we weren't able too, it's a concern but one we will fix.”
Palin will be looking for a response from his players this week, and he is expecting they will do. “Kwinana away probably the best place to try and get a response, they hit hard and may spark a few of our boys into life after last week,” he said. “We've had some really good games against Kwinana in last few seasons, there’s no love lost between both sides but there is a mutual respect that you have to be at your best to win the game. We're trying to get our season going but so are they, so it should be a really good game Sunday and hopefully we can get back to winning ways.”
In other games Joondalup United will be looking to bounce back from last weeks heavy loss to Kingsley, but they have league leaders heading to Beldon Park. North Perth sit two points ahead of the chasing pack, and will be hoping to keep that gap after Sunday, but Joondalup will be hoping to cause the upset. Quinns will look to back up last week win at Leeming, when they host bottom of the table Ellenbrook United at Gumblossom Park. Darren Kay’s side are adjusting to Premier League life well and they will fancy their chances to continue on with that in this one. Third placed Wembley Downs are still unbeaten this season and this weekend Mike Ford’s side make the trip to Gerry Archer Sports Complex to take on Belmont Villa, while in the final game fourth placed Jaguars entertain Hamersley Rovers at Herb Graham Recreation Centre, which should be another entertaining game.
In the final game UWA Nedlands host second placed Kingsley at the UWA Sports Park. UWA were convincing winners last week against Ellenbrook, the win moving Arthur Hiemstra’s team to fifth spot on the table and only one point behind Sunday’s opponents. Kingsley are one of three teams unbeaten this season and are coming off a big win against Joondalup last week and assistant coach Stuart Montgomery said they played will last week. “It was a good win against Joondalup and we scored some really good goals, and had quality performances by all our players,” he explained. “But more important than that was the three points to keep the pressure on North Perth who had a good win over jags.”
Montgomery said this season will go down to the wire and he hopes they will be in the mix. “This season seems to be more competitive than the last few years with other teams getting stronger and capable of winning on any day so I think it will go down to the wire and could be decided by the odd point,” he said. “We are hoping to go one better than the last two years but there is a long way to go and some very tough games, starting on Sunday.” A trip to UWA is next up for Kingsley and Montgomery said it will be another tough game. “UWA will be a tough game as they had a good win last week and gave us a tough game at their ground last year,” he said. “They have some good players who can hurt you if you aren’t switched on so we are planning on a tough day and the boys are keen to keep our unbeaten start to the season.”
10.5.2019
GLORY FACE ADELAIDE FOR A SPOT IN THE GRAND FINAL
Perth Glory will go in search of a spot in their first Hyundai A-League Grand Final since 2012 when they host Adelaide United in Friday’s Semi-Final at HBF Park. The Reds qualified for the game with a last gasp winner against Melbourne City last weekend, and Glory coach Tony Popovic was in the crowd at Coopers Stadium on Sunday when the Reds edged out Melbourne City in their Elimination Final, and he feels that the his side will benefit from enjoying a similar advantage at HBF Park as they attempt to secure a second A-League Grand Final appearance. "They [Adelaide] had their reward last week by playing at home," he said, "and their home fans really helped them get across the line. It was a great atmosphere and a great night and it was good to be there. "Now we get the same opportunity. "We get our reward now for finishing first; to have a huge crowd, our own support behind and hopefully, as happened for Adelaide, they can be that extra man and help us get over the line."
Popovic knows Adelaide will be tough opponents on Friday, but he knows the attitude that his players have shown since being crowned Premiers last month. "I've been very impressed by Adelaide and always spoken highly of them and their coach. They are a really good unit and are in a fantastic position, and they are one game away from a Grand Final, as we are," he said. "We worked on our game before we knew who our opponent was and now, we've gone into a bit more detail knowing that it's Adelaide in terms of ways that we can defend well against them and impose our game on them. That'll be our focus.
"As I've mentioned before, since winning the Plate there's been a real lift in focus and intensity. They [the players] have enjoyed the success of winning the Plate and there's a real sense that they want more. That's all we've seen at training; a great attitude, great intensity and focus and they are all enjoying their work and pushing each other because they all want to play. That doesn't guarantee anything for tomorrow night, but we feel it guarantees a great chance of putting on a top performance in front of our fans and we anticipate that can be enough for us to get into the Final."
On a positive note on the injury front Popovic confirmed that influential midfielder Neil Kilkenny has recovered from his ankle injury and hopes he will play. "We expect him to play, he's training this afternoon with the group, so unless something else happens to him and he can't play tomorrow, we'd expect him to be there, " he said. "When a player goes down in a training game and is distressed, you fear the worst for the player first and foremost. But he's worked extremely hard, the medical staff have done a great job and he'll be joining the group. We're pleased for him and the group is delighted that he'll be there. But we are fighting to make a Final. If he's 50%, there's no point playing him and we have players that are ready to go. A fully-fit, confident Neil and he'll play, but if not, we'll go with another option."
Striker Andy Keogh has bagged 15 goals this season, which has been the best return by a Glory player in the A-League era, and he will be looking to add to that on Friday. The 32-year-old's hot form played a key role in Perth snaring their first piece of A-League silverware - the Premiers Plate, and now the Irishman is looking to add the Championship to that. The striker only managed six goals in 24 appearances last season, but since the arrival of Chris Ikonomidis, and individual skill of Diego Castro, it has helped Keogh rediscover his best form, and he said it had been nice to have such a strong season individually but it is team success that is driving him.
"Goals are one thing but winning trophies is another, so that's more important, but as long as I'm contributing to helping the team achieve our overall goal, I'm happy," Keogh said. "We've got a lot of variety (up front). It's all contributed to each other doing well and scoring goals and ultimately helping the team be successful. It's nice when you're winning, it makes life a lot easier. The downs are what make you hungrier for success and that's what teaches you a lot of things as well."
Adelaide United skipper Isaias says more of the pressure will be on Glory on Friday and he insists his underdogs will be up for the fight. "Perth can be the favourites. They are the current champions of the league," the 32-year-old said. "They have a fantastic team and have had a fantastic year, but this is a different competition. This is a one-game elimination. We are coming here to fight. We are not coming here for holidays." Glory are yet to concede a goal against Adelaide in three games this season, but Isaias said Glory's hot form meant more of the pressure would be on them. "We put the pressure on ourselves (as well) because we want to finish the season in the best way possible," he said. "But of course, after Perth have (had an) amazing year, everyone is expecting them to win tomorrow, so probably they have a little bit more pressure than us."
Perth Glory squad: GK Liam REDDY, RGK Tando VELAPHI, 3 Jason DAVIDSON, 4 Shane LOWRY, 5 Ivan FRANJIC, 6 Dino DJULBIC, 7 Joel CHIANESE, 9 Andy KEOGH, 11 Brendon SANTALAB, 13 Matthew SPIRANOVIC, 16 Tomislav MRCELA, 17 Diego CASTRO, 19 Chris IKONOMIDIS, 20 Jake BRIMMER, 22 Fabio FERREIRA, 23 Scott NEVILLE, 27 JUANDE, 88 Neil KILKENNY *two to be omitted* - Ins: LOWRY (promoted), FERREIRA (promoted), JUANDE (returns from injury) - Outs: 29 Kristian POPOVIC (not selected) - Unavailable: 2 Alex GRANT (illness – 1 week)
Adelaide United squad: GK Paul IZZO, RGK Daniel MARGUŠ, 2 Michael MARRONE, 3 Scott GALLOWAY, 6 Vince LIA, 7 Ryan KITTO, 8 Isaías SÁNCHEZ, 9 Baba DIAWARA, 11 Craig GOODWIN, 14 George BLACKWOOD, 16 Nathan KONSTANDOPOULOS, 17 Nikola MILEUSNIC, 22 Michael JAKOBSEN, 23 Jordan ELSEY, 26 Ben HALLORAN, 31 Mirko BOLAND, 32 Carlo ARMIENTO, 33 Apostolos STAMATELOPOULOS - *two to be omitted* - Ins: KONSTANDOPOULOS (promoted), ARMIENTO (promoted) - Outs: nil - Unavailable: 10 Ken ILSØ (suspended)
9.5.2019
ATMOSPHERE IS KEY FOR SUCCESS: MRCELA
Tomislav Mrcela could not have asked for a better return to Australia after several seasons abroad in Croatia and Korea. The towering defender signed from Korean side Jeonnam Dragons having never played professionally in Australia after moving to Croatia at a young age.
Now 90 or 120 minutes away from a Grand Final, Mrcela says the entire Perth Glory squad is focused on this evening’s A-League semi-final against Adelaide United and not on what’s been achieved throughout the season.
“There’s a bit of pressure but this is where we want to be,” Mrcela said. “It’s nice to have that pressure of a home semi-final and be the favourites. But it’s one game so we need to put everything behind us. “For one game we need to play our best and get to the Grand Final.”
Despite only making 12 appearances for the Glory this season, Mrcela has been an integral part of the Glory’s back four, which maintained the league’s best defensive record. The 28-year old heaped praise on coach Tony Popovic for his ability to inspire the team and build a strong culture which led them to a drought breaking premiership.
“Every training session and every game is very important ... he makes every player feel important and that they can contribute,” Mrcela said. “The atmosphere is key for success, it’s not just about quality in the team.”
“You need that spirit and know that your teammate is going to do everything for you – it’s been a highlight seeing how we’re all fighting for each other. We all contribute, whenever someone gets injured another player is ready to step up ... it’s really been a pleasure being part of this team.”
9.5.2019
DJULBIC PUTS FUTURE ON HOLD
Contract talks are looming for veteran defender Dino Djulbic but they are the last thing on his mind as he prepares for tomorrow night’s sudden-death A-League Semi-Final with Adelaide United. In fact, Djulbic is so confident Glory can lift the championship trophy that he has put his future on hold until after the grand final.
“I haven’t thought about the contract. It really has been game to game, training to training,” Djulbic said. “If you think way ahead, like the boss (coach Tony Popovic) says, you get clouds in your head. I have taken that approach and it’s been working so far. We’ll see what happens after the Grand Final.”
In the opening weeks of the season, Djulbic battled for a starting role in a squad stacked full of defenders including new signings Jason Davidson, Ivan Franjic, Matt Spiranovic and Tomi Mrcela. But after a faltering start, Djulbic went on to become an integral part of the A-League’s best defence that has let in just 23 goals and had 12 clean sheets.
Djulbic made 20 appearances with 17 starts to take his Glory record to 113 games. “At the start, it was a difficult period. I knew I had to work hard and eventually I’d get a chance. I got it, and made the most of it,” said Djulbic, now in his third spell with the club.
Djulbic may be in the twilight of his career but the 36-year old says the arrival of Popovic has added to his longevity. “I say to people that I wish I had him earlier in my career because I probably would have gone to bigger and better things. Even at 36 years old, I learn every day from him,” he said.
“People tell me I’m in my old age but I honestly feel five years younger because I am stronger, I am fitter and I’m tactically more aware. I said I would leave my future discussions until the end of the year and then reassess from both sides but I feel 31, so I’ve got another four years in me.”
Popovic has built his success from the back but Djulbic says it has been a team effort. “If we are defensively organised, we are always in with a chance,” he said. “That has been the key to this season. I’m not just talking about the back three or back five. I’m talking about the whole team.”
8.5.2019
IN-FORM KEOGH EYES A-LEAGUE DOUBLE
He's enjoying a golden season with the boot but it's A-League championship success that Perth Glory striker Andy Keogh is craving the most. The 32-year old has been in red-hot form this season, his 15 goals playing a key role in Glory snaring their first piece of A-League silverware - the Premiers Plate.
Now, coach Tony Popovic's charges have set their attention on winning the championship. That quest begins on Friday night when they host Adelaide United in Friday’s Semi-Final at Perth Oval. If Glory win they will host a Grand Final at the 60,000-seat Optus Stadium against Sydney FC or Melbourne Victory.
Keogh managed just six goals in 24 appearances last season. But the arrival of Chris Ikonomidis and the skill of Diego Castro has helped Keogh rediscover his best form. The Irishman said it had been nice to have such a strong season individually but it is team success that is driving him.
"Goals are one thing but winning trophies is another, so that's more important," Keogh said. "As long as I'm contributing to helping the team achieve our overall goal, I'm happy. We've got a lot of variety (up front). It's all contributed to each other doing well and scoring goals and ultimately helping the team be successful."
Keogh has only tasted one finals win during his five seasons at Glory. His best shot at title success was in 2014/15, when Glory started the season in stunning fashion before they were stripped of their spot in the finals because of serious salary cap breaches.
Popovic has taken less than one season to transform Glory into a title contender and Keogh is savouring the experience. "It's nice when you're winning," he said. "It makes life a lot easier. The downs are what make you more hungry for success and that's what teaches you a lot of things as well."
8.5.2019
VICTORY BRING THE BEST OUT OF US SAYS O’NEILL
Sydney FC head into Sunday's A-League Semi-Final against Melbourne Victory buoyed by a history of the defending champions coaxing the best of them. The Sky Blues headed home from South Korea today following a 1-0 Asian Champions League loss to Ulsan Hyundai.
They arrive back in Sydney on Thursday morning looking forward to the fourth Big Blue of the campaign, having been eliminated by Victory at the corresponding stage of last season. Victory won the first two clashes of the season, with the Sky Blues triumphing in their most recent meeting.
"We've probably played our best football in those three games, which is a real confidence booster heading into this," said Sydney midfielder Brandon O'Neill. "The last time we played them I think it was one of the best football games we've played all year, we dominated and created a lot of chances."
O'Neill said the Sydney players were in good spirits as they prepared for the long trip home and a clash at Jubilee Stadium. "Now it's full steam ahead, recovery," he said. "What we eat, what we do in the next 36, 48 hours is massive to make sure we get ourselves as tip-top as we can do for what is a massive semi-final."
Fortunately the squad were booked in first class and had access to steam room and sauna facilities when making stop overs en route to Sydney. Those luxuries pleased the durable O'Neill, the only Sydney outfield player to have started all 37 of their competition games across the A-League, FFA Cup and Champions League.
He has only missed just over half an hour's action due to being substituted three times in A-League games, but is relishing rather than buckling under the workload. "I really thoroughly enjoy it ... I worked really hard in the pre-season," he said.
7.5.2019
GLORY BACKING DEPTH IF KILKENNY GOES OUT
Perth Glory defender Shane Lowry is confident the club has the depth to cover for Neil Kilkenny if the star midfielder is ruled out of Friday night’s A-League Semi-Final against Adelaide United. Kilkenny injured his ankle at training last Saturday and didn’t train on Tuesday.
The club is keeping silent on the extent of Kilkenny’s injury, deciding against releasing the results of scans. The 33-year old would leave a massive void if he is ruled out, and would force 21-year old midfielder Jake Brimmer and Spaniard Juande to shoulder a bigger responsibility.
Lowry is confident that Glory possess enough weapons to replace Kilkenny. “I spoke to him briefly. He’s in good spirits,” Lowry said. “I’m not too sure (if he will play). I’m sure he’ll do his work with the physios and we’ll see what happens on Friday.”
“Our squad is very strong. We’ve recruited well in the off-season. Whoever plays, everyone knows their role. We do a lot of video analysis. Everyone knows where they’re supposed to be on the pitch and what their job is tactically and physically.”
Glory will enter Friday’s game at Perth Oval on the back of a 12-day break. In contrast, Adelaide will have only had five days to recover from their epic 1-0 extra-time victory over Melbourne City last Sunday. Glory beat Adelaide on both occasions in Adelaide this season, but the only clash in Perth resulted in a scoreless draw.
7.5.2019
KOREA MOVE HAS TAGGART BACK ON SOCCEROOS RADAR
Five years after his last national team appearance, striker Adam Taggart is knocking on the door for a Socceroos recall. Should the K League-based 25-year old get the nod for Graham Arnold’s next squad he won’t have to travel far, with Australia to face Korea Republic in a friendly in Busan on 7 June.
Four goals in 10 appearances for Suwon Samsung Bluewings since signing from Brisbane Roar in February has put Taggart back on the radar. The fact that Arnold will rest a gallery of established stars for the duel against the Taeguk Warriors also heightens the possibility of an eighth cap for Taggart.
After his last cap against Spain at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, it’s been a long wait for Taggart, who has notched three goals for his country. “I came up here for the right reasons, and if I get the opportunity with the national team again it will be fantastic,” he said.
“I’d be over the moon to be back involved again ... it’s been a long time. Being there before, it’s meant the world to me. I know how tough it is to get selected but if there is an opportunity I’d be extremely grateful to be back in that environment again.”
“It’s fairly normal in football for players not to get a call up for their country until their mid-20s. I’m 25 now and my last cap was five years ago. I’d be lying if I said it’s not something you sit home and dream about, no matter how old you are.”
Taggart is relishing what is a significant step up in intensity and tempo from the A-League, where he has featured for Newcastle Jets, Perth Glory and Brisbane Roar. “I’ve enjoyed myself so far, with the pace and intensity of the league I feel I’m learning,” said Taggart.
“It’s such a tough league ... the move was a bit of a surprise but I was keen to challenge myself at a big club like Suwon and move away from the A-League. The A-League is a good league for young players coming through but every player who’s determined to see how far they can go has to leave Australia.”
“This is a different pathway again but it feels like a step in the right direction. Timing is everything in football and maybe it wasn’t on my side in terms of previous moves and injuries. But when this came up with me fully fit, and Brisbane willing to let me go, the timing was spot on.”
“I’m feeling fitter than ever - in the A-League I was a bit worried about injuries and things like that and may have held back a tiny but. Since I’ve come here, I’ve been able to play with more freedom. You’re pushed to your limits every single day in training and every single game … that’s helping me start to play the way I used to.”
Taggart sees major disparities between where he’s come from and where he’s landed. “People say the A-League is physical but I don’t think it is any more,” he added. “Since coming to Suwon, the first day in training I saw how physical it is and the fitness levels of the players is ridiculous. They can just run all day like animals.”
“I don’t think I’ll ever be able to run at the same levels they do. But you definitely improve yourself. And technically, wow, the touch and technique here is top quality. I’ve got nothing but good things to say about the players, the team, the club and the culture here. I’d love to stay here for a long time.”
Four-time K-League 1 winners Suwon are sitting ninth on the 12-team ladder after an indifferent start to the season. But Taggart, who has a one-year contract with triggers for three years on both sides, is confident a rebound is imminent.
“It’s been a difficult start but the fans, the support and infrastructure is there and I have no doubt it won’t be long before we start creeping up the table,” he predicted. “We’ve had a fair few draws and have only lost one of our last eight. You turn a couple of those draws into wins and you’re pushing for the top four.”
7.5.2019
IKONOMIDIS: 'THERE'S ONLY ONE THING MISSING'
Perth Glory’s surge to the A-League Premiership has come as no surprise to winger Chris Ikonomidis, who insists the club’s preparation for battle is second-to-none as they look forward to Friday’s Semi-Final clash with Adelaide United.
Ikonomidis, who turned 24 this week, enjoyed a tremendous regular season for Glory as they powered their way to the Premiers Plate, scoring nine goals, registering three assists and earning himself a nomination for the Young Footballer of the Year Award into the bargain.
Like the rest of Tony Popovic’s team, he is now firmly focused on rounding off the campaign by adding the Championship to the trophy cabinet. “The city’s really buzzing for us. They’re really getting behind us,” Ikonomidis told Fox Sports’ ‘Bill & Boz Show’.
“There’s only one thing missing, that’s what everyone’s feeling at the moment. It’s only a couple of weeks to go (to the A-League Grand Final), but if we can do that as well it’ll be something very special for everyone here in Perth.”
Ikonomidis, who joined Glory from Italian giants Lazio in September 2018, added: “It’s pretty close to what I was expecting, what I put on myself expectation-wise. Before making my decision I had quite a few offers in the A-League, especially. I really took my time.”
“I looked at the squad and talked a lot with the boss here, and everything felt right about this project. I didn’t want to do something short term, a quick loan. I wanted to do something with a bit of an idea behind it. Also in the back of my mind was getting back into the Socceroos … fortunately that’s all come true.”
6.5.2019
DESPOTOVSKI SLAMS PLAN TO PLAY GRAND FINAL AT OPTUS STADIUM
Perth Glory legend Bobby Despotovski has slammed a plan to play the A-League Grand Final at Optus Stadium, saying it takes away the advantage of a home final reward for winning the premiership. The club’s greatest-ever goal scorer also believes finishing top of the ladder should bring a second-chance qualification final.
But Despotovski, who won two National Soccer League titles in four Grand Final appearances, says Glory will be physically and mentally strong enough to lift the championship trophy. The Tony Popovic-coached Glory had the weekend off ahead of next Friday night’s sudden-death Semi-Final with Adelaide United at Perth Oval.
If Glory make the Grand Final, it will be played at Optus Stadium on 18 or 19 May, depending on their opponent. “They will make the Grand Final but the advantage of playing at home has been taken away by going to Optus. It’s just ludicrous,” Despotovski said.
“There is no advantage. It’s like being in a neutral stadium for the players ... different grass, different speed, new changing rooms, new environment, the whole lot. The pitch is so far away from the stands you can lose sight of where you are.”
Despotovski compared the Optus move to taking Glory NSL finals to the WACA Ground and Subiaco Oval. “Playing at Perth Oval on the old pitch I knew exactly where I was and where other players were. You familiarise yourself with the environment, the size of the pitch, with everything around it,” he said.
“We knew practically every single patch of grass. It’s exactly the same with these players now. They step on to HBF, they don’t have to look around. They see a glimpse of a corner flag and they familiarise themselves like a GPS. Then you go to Optus and you are in the middle of a ginormous stadium wondering where the hell you are.”
Despotovski said Football Federation Australia also needed to give the premiers a second chance and remove the week off ahead of sudden-death games. “What kind of double chance does the winner of the league have, nothing, and the week off is just a distraction and a killer of momentum,” he said.
Glory go into the Semi-Final as favourites but Despotovski, who scored 129 goals for Glory and won the A-League’s inaugural Johnny Warren Medal, says that tag counts for nothing. “How are we favourites? Because we are top. It means nothing because lose one game and you are out,” he said.
5.5.2019
BELT UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION - ROUND FOUR REVIEW
The Footballwa.net ‘Match of the Week’ turned out to be a real thriller with North Perth United running out 2-0 win against Jaguar FC at Woodville Reserve. The host took the lead mid-way through the first half when the referee spotted a handball and Ajo Mulic made no mistake from the penalty spot. North Perth doubled their lead two minutes into the second half, some neat one touch football in the middle of the park ended with a ball into Edin Nalic, who raced clear to finish clinically. The home side looked in control but then had Paul Gabel sent off, and Jags pressed late but couldn’t get back into the game. “The game was played at a frantic tempo with two good sides going for it, and there where tackles flying in all over the place,” North Perth United Coach Alex Carter said. “We were in complete control until Gabel got a straight red for his first tackle of the game on the half way line, a decision that perplexed everyone at the ground. That then force us to play very deep and we had to start hitting a lot of outlet balls down the channels. That’s not our game style but the way the boys adjusted was great. The passion, hunger and desire that the boys had for one and other all day was so enjoyable to witness.”
The round started on Saturday evening when Kingsley beat Joondalup 9-3 at Chichester Park. Jayden Drummond opened the scoring for Kingsley after only eight minutes, firing home from long-range, before Lee Thomas doubled their lead 12 minutes later. Aaron Lickiss then added a third with a powerful header and a minute later it was 4-0 as Drummond scored another goal from the edge of the box. Joondalup pulled one back a minute later through Sam Davis, but were still 4-1 down at the break. But after the break the unfortunate Joondalup keeper Luke Green extended Kingsley’s lead to 5-1 with an own goal, before substitute Ryan Brown made it 6-1. Alex McKay pulled another back for United, but Lewis Flatt made it 7-2 with a classy finish nine minutes from time. Joondalup plugged away and Adam Gianassi scored a third only for Simone Sichel and Sean Johnson to add two more for Kingsley to complete the demolition. “Overall, absolutely over the moon with the way the boys performed,” Kingsley SC coach Steven Dimitrovich said. “Saturday night football, the boys enjoyed it, they were looking forward to it all week. Disappointed with the goals we’ve conceded but overall ecstatic with the way the boys executed everything on the night.”
Wembley Downs moved up to third after a 3-0 win against Kwinana United at Butlers Reserve. “The game was tighter than the score line suggested,” Wembley Coach Mike Ford said. “But we took our chances in a very hard-fought entertaining match.” The home side had keeper Jeff Cornez to thank early, after he made a great save to thwart Kwinana. But it was the home side who opened the scoring when Keith Rochford volleyed home from 16 meters. They doubled their lead before the break when David Morris rose highest to head home from a corner. They secured the three points with a third five minutes from time when Dean Wall was sent on-on-one with the keeper and finished well. “It’s great to get our first home win of the season, but it could have been a different story, but our keeper made a great save early,” Wembley defender Jay McDonald said. “But it thought we were solid defensively after that and deserved the win.”
In other games UWA Nedlands moved to fifth with a 5-0 win against Ellenbrook United at the Ellenbrook Sports Complex. A hat-trick from Blair Harding, with others to Louis Papalia and Jack Retallack. “It is good to get back to winning after the latest string of results and happy that we kept a clean sheet,” UWA Coach Arthur Hiemstra said. “It was also great to see the reserves take home the win and their first points of the season.” Hamersley Rovers moved up to seventh with a 6-1 win against Belmont Villa at Carine OpenSpace. The home side were on the front foot early and raced to a 2-0 lead, with goals to Jon Greenwood and a deflected cross come shot from Matty Emery. Belmont pulled on back, but Rovers continued to dictate terms and they got a third through Jesse Kosseh with a smart finish before Mark Bailey added a fourth after good work from Patrick Barry. Jarred McConnell added a fifth when his cross floated over the keeper and into the net before Kosseh got his second to finish off the scoring. Rovers’ coach said it was a good win but is expecting more from his group. “It was a good team performance yesterday, but we still have more to give as a group.”
In the final game Quinns leapfrogged Leeming Strikers after a 2-1 win at John Connell Reserve. The visitors started well and when Liam McManus rounded the keeper he was brought down for a penalty, and Wayne Carter put the penalty away for an early lead. They added a second late in the second half Ellis Browne popped up on a corner to head home. Leeming pulled one back from a penalty from Tom Grant but it was too little too late. “I was really happy with the tempo we played at from the start and in the first half,” Quinns Coach Darren Kay said. “But from half time we were really under the pump from Leeming and our back four were massive and kept their shape very, very well. We had a couple of lads out and few lads that had been ill all week and this result just shows how much spirit and fight this group has, so I’m very proud of the boys.”
4.5.2019
REFRESHED CASTRO SHAPES UP FOR GLORY’S FINALS TILT
Perth Glory captain Diego Castro may have added his third best player award to a premiership medal but it will mean nothing without the A-League championship. The Spanish midfielder won his third Most Glorious Player award in four seasons, a remarkable achievement given he missed almost a third of the campaign with hamstring problems.
Castro said it was his sweetest win because it came on the back of the club’s first Premiers’ Plate. “It is beautiful to receive any individual trophy, but the quality of the achievement is when you achieve it when the team is winning,” Castro said.
“My style ... I am in contact with the ball more, with assists, but there are a lot of players who deserve it. I didn’t expect to win it. It was tough because of my injury. I’ve been running and fighting every day to be in the moment I live in now.”
When Castro first signed with Glory four years ago he planned to stay for a single season but has just re-signed a two-year extension. “I have gone through many emotions the last month with all the achievement and the decision on my future,” he said. “I always say I came over here just for a year have a look.”
“Now I try to enjoy every single day. Now I am feeling great. The last game of the season I feel fresh and looking forward to the final. Usually when you reach the last round you are not with the same freshness, but I am in the best shape for the season.”
Glory’s next game is a sudden-death home semi-final on 10 May. “We have achieved the premiership but it’s not enough for us,” Castro said. “Finals, one game, that is tricky but we will go into the finals with confidence. This coach (Tony Popovic) changed our mindset. That is the key. The chemistry with the coaching staff and players, teammates is amazing.”
4.5.2019
INGLEWOOD BEAT THE JACKS TO MOVE FOURTH
Inglewood United moved to fourth on the NPL WA ladder after a 2-0 win against ECU Joondalup at Perth Plasterboard Centre Stadium on Saturday afternoon. Second half goals from Chok Dau and Miki Vujacic were enough for the home side, the win made it back-to-back wins for Andres Oliveira’s side. “We were focusing on performing for full 90 minutes as we switched off against Army, we knew a win would propel us to fourth,” Inglewood keeper Alex Dunn said. “It was good to pick up three points against ECU who have had the better of us of late, we will look to build some momentum after the win.”
It was a tight opening to the game and Inglewood went close to the lead on 20 minutes, Alex Ishida-Livings’ free kick was flicked on by Brian Farrell, but it was straight at Johnny Perkins. The visitors went close on the half hour, Ewan Fawcett was sent down the right by Shane Cassidy’s diagonal ball, but the youngsters shot on the run flashed over the top. Inglewood ended the half the better and former Jacks midfielder Scott Blackmore fired over the top, before Farrell’s glancing header was saved by Perkins.
It was a fast start to the second half by the Jacks and they went within inches of the lead three minutes in. They won an in-direct free kick 18-meters from goal, and De Lima played the ball to Annis whose curling free kick crashed off the post and away to safety. Inglewood hit back and from Anthony Bafobusha cross Dau snap shot was well saved by the alert Perkins. The game started to open up and there were chances at both ends. First on 54 minutes Bafobusha and Dau combined again, but as Dau was about to pull the trigger Cassidy got back with a great last-ditch tackle, before Kian McGuigan’s corner to the back post was headed back across goal by Tom Hough and Cassidy’s flick flashed inches past the post.
But seven minutes later the home side found the opener. Second half substitute Steve Sokol raced down the right and was brought down by Fawcett and referee Julian Serra pointed straight to the spot. Dau stepped up and sent Perkins the wrong way from the resulting penalty to give Inglewood the lead. Th visitors pressed for the equaliser and Brown-Montgomery’s free kick flashed wide of the far post, before the striker headed Annis’ cross over the top. ECU were convinced they should have a penalty of their own moments later when the ball hit the hand of the Inglewood defender, but to the frustration of the coaches and players the referee waved away their protests. Then Perkins came to their rescue three minutes from time after Dau cut in from the right, and his shot was well saved by the Jacks custodian. But on 89 minutes the home side found the decisive second goal, they won a free kick on the edge of the penalty area and substitute Vujacic’s curling free kick beat the wall and Perkins at his near post to seal the points.
Inglewood United: GK Alex DUNN, 2 Alex ISHIDA-LIVINGS, 3 David CYRUS, 4 Scott BLACKMORE, 5 Samuel RIAK, 7 Hamza HINA (6 MIKI VUJACIC 71’), 9 Chok DAU, 10 Anthony BAFOBUSHA, 15 Brian FARRELL (14 Steve SOKOL 52’), 16 Jamie MURPHY, 17 Mark BARNETT - Subs not used: RGK Josiah GODFREY, 12 Brendan ITALIANO, 23 Zdenek BEZDEK
ECU Joondalup: GK Johnny PERKINS, 3 Ronald RIXER, 4 Henry DURR, 5 Shane CASSIDY, 6 Ollie ANNIS, 7 Lukas DE LIMA (17 Ben HINSHELWOOD 69’), 8 Kian MCGUIGAN (12 Harry EDWARDS 89’), 9 Bayley BROWN-MONTGOMERY, 11 Jakub SKLENAR, 15 Tom HOUGH (2 Nicholas KOFLER 77’), 16 Ewen FAWCETT - Subs not used: RGK George JACKSON, 6 Luke RHODES - Referee: Julian Serra
4.5.2019
COCKERELS FLY HOME WITH THE POINTS
Cockburn City have won back-to-back games for the first time this season after a hard fought 1-0 win against local rivals Armadale at Alfred Skeet Reserve. The only goal of the game came 17 minutes from time from Jesse Lazzaro, the win moving the Cockerels up to sixth on the table. “It was an important win for us,” Cockburn midfielder Cameron Edwards said. “For a scrappy game I thought we were dominant for large periods, and it was good to get the three points.”
The Reds went close to the opener in a tight first half. Sam Garces raced down the right and got to the bye-line and cut the ball back to Billy Quinncroft, but his shot was straight at Cockburn keeper Luke Radonich. Cockburn striker Daniel Robinson was a constant threat for the Armadale back four, and his pace caused problems down the flanks, but the final ball was missing on the day. The Reds struggled to create any clear-cut chances with Quinncroft leading the line, but service to him was poor and it was scoreless at the break.
After the break Joshua Cortes and James Haran went close for the home side, but on 73 minutes it was Cockburn who won it. Ryan Pratt’s effort was well saved by Sam Hutchings, but the rebound fell to Lazzaro, left foot strike just from inside the box flew into the bottom corner. John O’Reilly’s side pushed forward late looking for the equaliser but skipper Euen Grant and Julian Teles were solid at the heart of the back four and they couldn’t find one. Next week Cockburn return home to host Perth Glory at Dalmatinac Park, while Armadale travel to the Dorrien Gardens to take on league leaders Perth SC.
Armadale SC: GK Sam HUTCHINGS, 2 Josh KUSER, 3 James HARAN, 4 Nathan COSTELLO, 5 Ali NAZARY (22 Ryan HASLETT 74’), 7 Joshua CORTES, 8 Michael LAWSON (6 Joel SANDERSON 83’), 9 Billy QUINNCROFT,10 Sam GARCES (14 Connor ATKINSON 92’), 19 Harry EVANS, 23 Friday ZICO - Subs not used: RGK Blake HANSHELL, 21 Brad GREIPI,
Cockburn City: GK Luke RADONICH, 4 Euen GRANT, 5 Julian TELES, 6 Ruben TRISTAO, 8 Cameron EDWARDS, 12 Ryan PRATT, 15 Daniel SANTICH, 16 Daniel ROBINSON, 17 Devon GIBSON (10 David ARAYA 83’), 19 Hasani SINCLAIR (18 Adam ANFUSO 74’), 21 Jesse LAZZARO - Subs not used: RGK Ben RADONICH, 9 Anthony SKORICH, 14 Hayden STEVENS - Referee: Joshua Nixon
4.5.2019
EVANS AT THE DOUBLE FOR ATHENA
A brace from skipper Dean Evans has helped Floreat Athena to a 3-1 win against Sorrento at E&D Litis Stadium. The former Glory midfielder scored both goals in the first half to put the home side in control and Phil Arnold added the third early in the second half. Tim Hill pulled one back for the Gulls on the hour but it was just a consolation. "It was a good win against a physical side, " Floreat striker Robert Petkov said. "It was important to get the back to back win and get the three points to continue our momentum into an important last couple games of the first half of the season."
Sorrento arrived into the game on the back of two defeats and they went close to the lead early. Jack Salter was sent in on goal, but Floreat keeper Jason Saldaris stood tall and the New Zealand striker rolled his effort wide of the upright. That miss came back to haunt them on eight minutes as Evans’ volley from outside the penalty area flashed past James Morgan and went in via the crossbar. The hosts doubled their lead on the half hour, when Petkov was brought down by Sorrento defender David Stokoe and referee Steven Gregory pointed to the spot. Evans stepped up and converted from the spot to give the hosts a two-goal lead at the break.
The visitors needed a good start to the second half to get back in the game but it was the hosts who added a third three minutes in. Arnold drove into the penalty area and finished clinically past Morgan. Sorrento continued to press and they pulled a goal back when Cameron Teece headed down for Hill to fire home. Teece went close to a another one, he lost his marker but his volley failed to trouble Jason Saldaris, but it was Floreat celebrating a third straight win at the final whistle. Sorrento return home next weekend when they entertain Balcatta at Percy Doyle Reserve, while Floreat make the trip to the ECU Football Stadium to take on ECU Joondalup.
Floreat Athena: GK Jason SALDARIS, 2 Marco SANTALUCIA, 4 Adrian MADASCHI, 5 Thomas JEBB (19 Luka NINKOVIC 35’), 6 Jesse FULLER, 9 Robert PETKOV, 14 Ludovic BOI (20 Jack ANDREAS 91’), 15 Chris SALDARIS, 17 Dean EVANS, 18 Phillip ARNOLD, 21 Nicholas AMBROGIO (3 Tristan COLLI 75’) - Subs not used: RGK Jordan BARBAS, 12 Andreas FAZZAN
Sorrento: GK James MORGAN, 2 David STOKOE, 3 Jakub PRAJZA, 4 Shaun KILKENNY, 5 Scott ROBERTSON, 7 Alex MORGAN, 8 Scott WITSCHGE, 10 Jordan ROBERTS, 11 Tim HILL (17 Reece VITTIGLIA 60’), 19 Jack SALTER (21 Elliot TATTERSALL 71’), 23 Cameron TEECE - Subs not used: RGK Matt GUIDICATTA, 13 Steven MCDONALD, 18 Jordan BROWN - Referee: Steven Gregory
4.5.2019
NICOL SHINES FOR BAYSWATER
A hat-trick from Bayswater City winger Daryl Nicol has helped them to a 6-1 win against Stirling Lions at Frank Drago Reserve. It was a devastating attacking performance from the Black and Blues with Nicol bagging his three, with Gordon Smith and Giordano Colli adding the other. Sean McManus pulled one back for the Lions on the hour, but Colli rounded off the scoring to give City a much-needed win. “It’s good to get back to winning ways and put on a good performance as a team,” Nicol said. “We’re still working hard every week to try and gel as a unit and we need to build on this convincing victory with another good performance next week.”
City head coach was in the stands this week after being sent off in last weeks Italian Derby against Perth SC but he would have like the start for his team and they were ahead on five minutes. Nicol raced down the flank and his cross was turned home by Colli. It was 2-0 on 18 minutes, Nicol racing clear and finishing clinically from the edge of the box. Nicol then added the third five minutes later, after he was then brought down on the edge of the penalty area, and got back up and fired home the resulting free-kick. The Lions were struggling to cope with the City forward power and on 38 minutes Nicol completed his hat-trick. Smith was brought down by Lions keeper Daniel Marques and referee David Bruce pointed to the spot. Nicol stepped up to score to send the hosts into the break four goals to the good.
In the second half Stirling tightened up at the back and pulled one back on the hour after Dhuors Chol found McManus to score. But Bayswater found their scoring boots again eight minutes later, Smith’s hard work was rewarded with a close-range finish, before Colli added his second after good work again from Nicol two minutes from time. The win moved Bayswater up to fifth on the table, while Stirling remain at the foot of the table. Next week Bayswater make the trip to SafeRad Stadium to take on Rockingham City, while Stirling host Inglewood United at Macedonia Park.
Bayswater City: GK Devon SPENCE, 3 Jack ALLEN (15 Paul LLOYD 74’), 5 Adam HARRIS, 11 Ryan PEARSON, 13 Trent KAY, 17 Daryl NICOL, 19 Gordon SMITH (10 Jason MIRCO 69’), 20 Giordano COLLI, 21 Kenny KEOGH (23 Brian WOODALL 69’), 27 Ross MILLARD, 30 Adam TONG - Subs not used: 24 Jake SARDELIC, 12 Steve HESKETH
Stirling Lions: GK Daniel MARQUES, 2 Mile PETROVSKI (18 Andrew MARANTA 46’), 3 Nelson TSCHONGO, 4 Alexsandar SULESKI, 5 Michael GAMA, 6 Dhuors CHOL, 7 Sean McMANUS, 8 Finn GRAHAM, 9 Ben WANTEE, 10 Kristian DESPOTOVSKI, 11 Bieron MAMAUDI - Subs not used: RGK Ryan MONTGOMERY, 14 Michael WANTEE, 15 Angel DEJKO, 16 Joseph PERKINS - Red cards: Nil Referee: David Bruce
4.5.2019
PERTH SC WIN ITALIAN DERBY
Perth SC’s undefeated start to the NPL WA season continued after a 2-0 win against Balcatta at Grindleford Reserve on Saturday afternoon. Michael Domfeh gave the visitors the lead early, before his strike partner Gustavo Catarcione added a second eight minutes before half time. They were reduced to ten men on the hour with defender Rocco Pizzata sent off, but they held on to claim the points.
"The win against Balcatta was an important for us not only to keep trying to distance ourselves at the top of the ladder but also for a bit of revenge considering we didn’t beat them at all last year," Perth defender Alex Silla said. "The last half hour was difficult as we went down to ten men but our character has been one of strongest attributes this year and we showed that again on the park today."
It was a perfect start for the visitors and they were ahead after only three minutes. Kristian Santich played in Domfeh, who turned his marker on the edge of the penalty area before finishing clincially past David Keenan. Perth doubled their advantage on 37 minutes, Domfeh challenged Balcatta keeper for the ball outside the penalty area the ball fell kindly to Catarcione who rolled the ball into an empty net.
Balcatta pressed after the break but couldn't find a way past Dejan Aleksic, but they had a lifeline on 57 minutes when referee Tom Glavovic showed Pizzata a second yellow card and the defender was sent off. Perth coach sacrificed Catarcione to bring on Keiran Colwell to fill the void at the back. Still Balcatta struggled to create any clear-cut chances, and central defenders Bojan Radinovic and Colwell held the hosts out to claim the three points. Next week Perth host Armadale at Dorrien Gardens, while Balcatta will look to get their season back on track when they make the trip to Percy Doyle Reserve to take on Sorrento.
Balcatta: GK David KEENAN, 2 Joseph MARINO, 3 John KEARNEY, 4 Calum O’CONNELL, 5 Shubbham MOKALA, 7 Alex WILD, 8 Niels WILLEMS (20 Anthony TOPINI 64'), 10 Jonathon CORNESS, 13 Carmelo GIUFFRE (9 Gavin KNIGHT 69'), 16 Alex CASTIELLO, 23 Adam ZIMARINO (11 Callum STOCKS 55') - Subs not used: RGK Yousri GHARSHALLAH, 26 Michael ZIMARINO
Perth SC: GK Dejan ALEKSIC, 2 Alex SILLA, 3 Andreas THEODOSIADES (11 Matthew MILENKOVIC 68'), 5 Nicolo SABATINI, 9 Gustavo GATARCIONE (16 Kieran COLWELL 59'), 12 Jordan DE LEO, 13 Rocco PIZZATA, 14 Kristan SANTICH, 18 Michael DOMFEH, 19 Bojan RADINOVIC, 20 Paul ZIMARINO - Subs not used: RGK Francis SOALE, 7 Aleks JOVIC, 17 Frank FURFARO - Red cards: Pizzata 57 - Referee: Tom Glavovic
4.5.2019
GLORY KEEP TABS ON PERTH WITH WIN AGAINST CITY
Perth Glory kept pace with league leaders Perth SC after a 4-2 win against Rockingham City at E&D Litis Stadium on Sunday afternoon. Walter Scott scored a first half brace, with Nick Walsh scoring the other before the break, and when Ethan Brooks made it 4-0 the game looked over. But a double from Riley Van Dieken made the last fifteen minutes a nervous time for the youngsters but they ran the game out.
“I thought we were very good for 70 minutes, and some of our approach work, and work rate was a pleasure to watch” Coach Richard Garcia told the Glory website. “But we took our foot off the gas an got a little complacent and gave the ball away for the first and conceded from a corner for the second, and to their credit Rockingham pressed us late, but we got back on track and ran out the game. It’s a good lesson for the players, you can be winning well, but you can’t switch off because you will get punished, so we need to learn from that. We’ll take the lessons from this game and move on to next week against Cockburn City.”
Glory made a great start to this one and were ahead on seven minutes. Skipper Henry Hore sent Walter Scott racing down the left and his shot on the run flew low past keeper Cyril Sharrock and into the bottom corner of the net. It got better for Glory on 13 minutes, when they doubled their lead. Hore’s corner picked out Nick Walsh, who lost his marker to power a header in from five meters. Rockingham were on the back foot as Glory continued to dominate and Sharrock got down well to save Josh Samson’s long-range shot, before Ethan Brooks inviting cross was only inches away from Gabriel Popovic in the box.
But eight minutes before the break the Glory pressure was rewarded with a third. Brooks again made his way down the right and his cross wasn’t dealt with by the Rockingham defence and Samson’s shot was well saved by Sharrock, and Walter’s made no mistake from the rebound firing into the bottom corner of the net. It was the more of the same after the break and Sharrock got down well to deny Daniel Stynes, but on 54 minutes the Glory added a fourth. Brooks was sent down the right and he cut inside his marker and drilled his low shot past Sharrock.
It looked game over but Rockingham hit back on 68 minutes. A great run by Jason Constable ended with a ball to the back post and Van Dieken fired home from a tight angle. Glory looked to hit back and Stynes’ shot was tipped over the top by Sharrock. But fifteen minutes from time Rockingham scored a second, a short corner caught Glory napping and Van Dieken fired low past Speca. The visitors continued to press and Speca got down well to deny James Millard, before Van Dieken’s long-range shot was saved by the Glory custodian. Glory almost added a fifth late, Zayd Farah raced down the right and cut inside his marker, but Sharrock pushed the ball around the post, but Glory had done enough to gain the points.
Perth Glory: GK Nicholas SPECA, 2 Zayd FARAH, 3 Walter SCOTT, 4 Kristian POPOVIC, 5 Nick WALSH, 6 Josh SAMSON, 7 Ethan BROOKS (19 Trent OSTLER 57’), 8 Henry HORE, 9 Gabriel POPOVIC, 10 Daniel STYNES (16 Jordan ABRAHAMS 69’), 11 Jacob ITALIANO (17 Gomo DUKULY 55’) - Subs not used: RGK Jake RANGE, 18 Jacob MUIR
Rockingham City: GK Cyril SHARROCK, 2 Jason CONSTABLE, 3 Justis BRADLEY, 6 Blake SOKOLOWSKI (15 Shaz RAMLEE 46’), 7 James MILLARD, 9 Sam MCKEARNAN (5 Harry COLLINS 71’), 10 James HARMER, 11 Riley van DIEKEN, 12 Lydon HODGKISS, 13 Jarrad MORT, 23 Victor BRAUNER - Subs not used: RGK Michael FARMER, 14 Ryan KENNEDY, 16 Luke HOBSON - Referee: Josh Mannella
4.5.2019
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND SIX – REVIEW
Ashfield stretched their lead at the top of the State League First Division after a hard fought 2-0 win against their nearest challengers Olympic Kingsway at Ashfield Arena. It was a tight first half with chances at both ends, but it was the visitors who created the better chances but failed to take them. Ashfield re-grouped at the break and took the lead early in the second half. Kevin Ashwood received the ball 25 meters out and was given time to set himself and his shot flew into the top corner of the net. Olympic pressed for the equaliser but they couldn't find a way past Ashfield keeper Paul Rainford. The points were made safe ten minutes from time, Paul McCormack raced into the box and was brought down and the referee pointed straight to the spot. Pat Sara stepped up and scored the resulting penalty to seal the three points. "It's a great result for Ashfield, because Kingsway are a good team and good club," Ashfield Coach Matt Wardle said. "Kingsway were unlucky in the first half, having the better chances, but second half was a complete turn around and I felt we were the dominate team. The games is all about scoring goals and not conceding, and when were given our chances we took them and when we needed to defend we did so very well. We are very pleased and it's been great start to the year for us, but as most will say there are no easy games in this league, we now move on and look forward to another big game against Fremantle next week."
Western Knights moved up to third spot after a last gasp winner from Dean Hurley gave them a 3-2 win against Morley Windmills at Nash Field. "The main thing is we came out of the game with the three points," Hurley said. "We made hard work of it but sometimes winning games the way we did is a little bit more special, but we showed a lot of character to keep pushing and got what we deserved." The hosts took the lead in the final minute of the first half, Andrija Jukic played the ball out wide to Paul Rycroft on the right, and his cross picked out Hurley, who eased past his marker and fired across the keeper to score. But five minutes into the second half Morley were level, a ball over top found Nick Doutch who scored. The hosts regained the lead five minutes later when Cameron Yorke was in the right place at the right time to turn the ball home after a goal mouth scramble. Morley weren't finished and Darren Francis restored parity, and it looked like they would leave with a point but in the fifth minute of stoppage time the Knights won it. Andrew Cartwright played a great through ball to Hurley, who held off the last defender before finishing and setting off wild celebrations on and off the pitch. "I thought we played really well and created a lot of chances," Knights Coach Ivan Zuvela said. "Our structure, desire and attitude were excellent. We play as a team but we also look for individual brilliance from our players so that was good to see."
Forrestfield United and Subiaco have fought out a 1-1 draw at Game Guidance Stadium at Hartfield Park on Saturday afternoon. It was Subiaco who took the lead, when some interchange play between the Subiaco front three ended with Matt Cherrie, who's hot crashed off the post and Ben Campbell was quickest to react to score from the rebound. It looked like they would hold on to the three points but five minutes from time Forrestfield found the equaliser. Rhys Loxley raced down the left and raced to the bye-line and his cross found Jordan Hart at the back post who finished well from five meters. "I thought we played well against a very strong Forrestfield," Subiaco's Mark Pritchard said. "I thought we had the better of the first half and missed some chances, and second half we defended very well but probably sat too deep in the last 10 minutes and allowed them into our box too much. I felt we were unlucky to concede so late but a point at Forrestfield is always a good point although we felt deflated after being so close to three."
There was also a 1-1 draw at the UWA Sports Park between a ten-man UWA Nedlands and Fremantle City. The hosts were reduced to ten men when Max Welton was sent off, but they did go ahead when Conor Devlin scored, but Fremantle earned a point with Nicola Gazzola scoring. "With five players missing this week through injuries the team played defensively strong and organised,” UWA Coach Michael Janssen said. “The players coming in earned their spot and showed our quality in the squad. The first half was even but from the start of the second half we played stronger and took control of the game. Even after we lost Max with his second yellow we played well and organised the game. After Conor’s goal we unfortunately conceded an unlucky deflection in the box but we fought and played it to the final whistle. Next week it’s Gwelup and we need to prepare us for the next task. " The final game between Mandurah City and Gwelup Croatia was postponed after the ceiling in the Gwelup changing rooms collapsed with the player inside. Luckily no one was seriously injured but the decision was made to call the game of and it will be played at a later date. - Joondalup United had the bye this weekend.
4.5.2019
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND FIVE – REVIEW
The Footballwa.net 'Match of the Week' took us to Frye Park where Kelmscott Roos won for the first time this season with a 2-1 win against Gosnells City in the local derby, the loss was Gosnells first defeat of the season. It was a tight first half with Gosnells creating some good chances but they failed to take them. But it was Kelmscott who opened the scoring early in the second half. Amos Doegolia was sent down the right wing, and he eased past his marker before racing past the last defender before a cheeky chip over Gosnells keeper Tom Allan to score, much to the delight of the home faithful. The home side doubled their advantage 10 minutes later, when good approach work from Deng Dut and Arthur Gaye ended with a ball to Doegolia who raced into the box, his shot was saved by Allan, but George Ballah was quickest to react to poke home the rebound. Gosnells did pull one back with Scott Pereira scoring but it was too little too late. “At half time we addressed how we could exploit their game plan to our advantage and that worked well within a few minutes of the second half. We controlled the midfield from then on and when Gosnells started pumping long balls forward, we were more confident and efficient,” Kelmscott Coach Richard Changadzo said. “It was another intense finish just like every other week playing seven minutess extra time, however this week the boys saw the game through. We have our fundamentals and principles and every week to set out to enhance on them and get better. We have a hard working and eager to learn young group and I can only see them getting better each week. With the depth we have we have different options, and with injuries we had to move players around and they all did a terrific. Now that’s said we focus on the next game and it will be another challenging training week as always.”
Quinns remain unbeaten after a hard fought 1-0 win against Joondalup City in the Northern derby at the Iluka Sports Complex. It was a tight first half with both sides creating some good chances, but the only goal of the game came 20 minutes from time from striker Richard Howles, who stunning long-range strike flew into net. City looked for and immediate response but found young keeper Jamie, who replaced the suspended James Bosdet, in fine form making a number of fine saves. Both sides missed good chances in a frantic last ten minutes, but Quinns held on for the three points. "City have always been a good tough fixture and it was no different yesterday, and the 1-0 score is probably a fair reflection of both teams’ performances, but we are hoping we can lift our level as we're still not playing our best football," Quinns Mike Kenny said. "We're having to work hard in every game, Division Two has always been a difficult league with the teams lower down the league still has good teams whose luck may not be on their side. It's tough to gauge who will be the front runners towards the business end of the season, but we're looking at all fixtures as big challenges."
Curtin University have fought back from 2-0 down to beat Shamrock Rover 3-2 at Harold Rossiter Reserve. The hosts were on top early and Ger Fitzgerald’s header crashed off the crossbar, but it wasn’t long before they took the lead. A corner found Peter Smith at the back post and his powerful header beat Curtin keeper Max Butler. The home side doubled their lead before the break when Fitzgerald saw Butler off his line and his clever long-range lob gave the keeper no chance. Curtin went close to reducing the margin late, but Oscar Billington’s curling free kick was well saved by Ben Robson. Curtin were back in the game after the break when the referee spotted a hand ball and Billington sent the keeper the wrong way from the resulting penalty. The home side were level when Dilip Thapa lobbed Robson and it was game on. But it was the visitors who took all points when Mark Donnelly headed home Danny Todd’s corner. It was almost 4-2 late when Billington’s audacious long-range shot crashed off the post. “It was a very slow start for us and Shamrock really capitalised with high intensity and forced a lot of errors,” Curtin Coach Michael Philp said. “I was really pleased with our response in the second half, with the message to trust our ability to play through the pressure and we started to hold onto to possession more and getting in behind Shamrock defence.”
Dianella White Eagles and Swan United have fought out an entertaining 1-1 draw at Dianella Reserve on Saturday evening. The visitors were ahead early a through ball sent James Shamim clear and he finished well from a tight angle. It looked like the Swans would leave with all three points but in the final minute Dianella pressure was rewarded when they received a penalty or handball. Milan Vulin stepped up and beat Joey Smith fom the spot to secure a point. "It was a very fast paced game with both sides having chances to score but both keepers made some great saves," Swan striker John Monterosso said. "I thought we defended well and Dianella put the pressure on late and were awarded a penalty for accidental hand ball after a scramble in the box in the last minute to level." An undermanned Wanneroo City have come home from Murdoch University Melville with a hard fought 1-1 draw. Without eight first team squad players unavailable it was backs to the wall for the visitors early, but they held on and hit the front when new signing Rory Kiely was brought down in the box and Kye Murray scored from the spot. But the hosts hit back midway through the second half, a corner was whipped in and Adam Mangion lost his marker to head home from five meters. "If there’s one thing that’s saved our season so far and that is the depth that we have in the reserves," Wanneroo Coach Tim Kantor said. "After conceding we continued to push for the winner and I guess when the opposition keeper is best on ground that tells a story. So, it's disappointed to only come home with a point but we now focus on a resurgent Kelmscott who had a great win over ladder leaders Gosnells."
In Sunday's game Balga have beaten Canning City 4-1 at Burrendah Reserve. The home side were ahead on 10 minutes when a corner was headed home by Daniel Bryant. But the visitors were level 15 minutes later, when a corner from Jason Stepanovski was headed home by Kris Spaseski. Balga were ahead at the break after Hermon Michael was brought down in the box and Dejan Andric scored from the spot. It was 3-1 on the hour, a quick throw-in found Spaseski whose shot on the turn found the bottom corner from close-range. The icing was put on the cake on 70 minutes when Balga added a fourth. Some good approach work ended with Bobby Ramic who finished clinically into the corner of the net. "Fantastic to finally get our season up and running,” Balga coach Aleks Vrteski said. “The boys really played well throughout despite conceding a soft goal, so hopefully we can kick on from here.”
3.5.2019
NPL-WA ROUND EIGHT PREVIEW
We head into week eight of the NPL WA with Perth SC leading the league by four points, closely followed by Perth Glory, who are involved in the Footballwa.net 'Match of the Round', when they host Rockingham City at E&D Litis Stadium on Sunday afternoon. (3.00pm) Glory are coming off a big win against Sorrento last week, while Rockingham were beaten by ECU Joondalup, despite dominating for long periods of the game. Both these sides like to play attractive football so this should be a great game and with it being a stand-alone NPL game there should be a big crowd to watch it. Glory striker Domo Dukuly came off the bench last week to bag a brace to seal the 5-2 win, and the youngster said it was an excellent performance. "It’s good to bounce back from a disappointing result against a good Perth SC side that punished us for our mistakes,” he explained. “So, over the week we worked on our mistakes from the previous game and our performance against Sorrento showed the improvement, and three points were well-deserved.”
The youngster has bagged five three goals this season and his pace has caused problems, and he said the squad is great and they are getting better with every game. "It’s good to be playing with such a talented bunch of players but as we believe without hard work talent can only take you so far,” he said. “That was on show against ECU Joondalup, when we fought till the last minute to earn a much-deserved point.” The striker, who played all of his football at Balcatta, is hoping to push for a starting role this week against Rockingham, who have made a good start to the life in the NPL, but he said he’s happy to help the team wherever he can. "Although Rockingham haven’t had the greatest start to the season, they showed what they’re capable of during the night series so we won’t be taking the lightly and yes I expect it to be an entertaining match,” Dukuly explained. “It’s always a good feeling when you’re playing well and scoring goals as a forward and to combine that with a few wins for the team it’s definitely a good moment for us, and we’ll be looking for more of the same on Saturday.”
Rockingham are seventh on the table, but should have won the game last week at ECU, but Coach Cameron Lord said they need to move on from it. "We are still hurting from last week’s defeat at ECU, but credit to them for taking their chances, but the number of and quality of chances that we did not take, particularly after we got back level, was really disappointing,” he explained. “We need to channel that hurt and frustration and use it against a very good young Perth Glory side on Sunday.” Lord said they have settled well to life in the NPL, and after a shaky start to the season they have picked up in recent weeks, and he believes they can get better. "We always knew we would get stronger as each week went on, and we were extremely disappointed with our start, but we knew what we were capable of throughout the tough start to the season and were always positive moving forward,” he said. “Having some key players back to fitness obviously helped, but most importantly the nature and attitude of the group that we have are desperate to prove themselves in the NPL, and we are starting to do that.” A trip to take on Glory is a tough assignment but Lord said they head into the game full of confidence and looking to bounce back from last week's disappointment. "We are looking forward to this week’s fixture against a talented Glory side,” he said. “We want to bounce back from last week’s loss with a positive result, but we know the quality that Glory possess. I am sure it will be an entertaining game with two sides that want to play a good brand of football.”
ECU Joondalup won for the first-time this season in round seven with Tommy Amphlett bagging a brace in the 4-3 win against Rockingham and this week they make the trip to Perth Plasterboard Centre Stadium to take on Inglewood United, who also won 4-3 at Armadale. Amphlett will miss the game after being sent off last week, but it's been a tough start to the season for Dale McCulloch's side, and four draws sees them sitting in the relegation spot at the moment, but their performances haven't been that bad, but injuries have taken its toll. They have conceded goals in stoppage time in a number of games this season, which must concern the coach, but the form of defender Shane Cassidy and midfielder Henry Durr is a huge plus for the Jacks. Inglewood almost let a four-goal lead slip last week, but they managed to hold off a fast finishing Armadale. Inglewood sit in sixth spot on the table, with Chok Dau and Jason Barrera both performing well, but Barrera will miss this week after being sent off last week. Coach Andres Oliveira will be looking to tighten up at the back, with Inglewood conceding 17 goals in the seven games, which is the second worse in the league, so there should be plenty of goals in this one.
Whatever Armadale Coach John O'Reilly said at half time last week against Inglewood worked, but they couldn't find a late equaliser, and this week they have home ground advantage again when they host Cockburn City at Alfred Skeet Reserve. When your four goals down at half time it difficult to win games and the Reds will be looking to turn their recent form around against their local rivals. They are on a three-game losing streak in league and cup games, and have dropped to tenth on the table. Friday Zico will come up against former club and he will be looking to add to his four goals for the season, while despite conceding 18 goals this season keeper Sam Hutchings continues to impress. Cockburn won for the first time in six weeks against Stirling Lions, with Daniel Robinson bagging a brace, while new signing Hasani Sinclair scored on his debut. Scott Miller will be looking for more consistency from his chargers, and what a better way to do it against their local rivals. Cameron Edwards and Harry O’Brien have led the way this season, and Miller will be looking for more of the same in this one.
Bayswater City slipped to eighth after last week’s loss to league leaders Perth SC, and this week they host Stirling Lions at Frank Drago Reserve. City have only won twice in 2019, something that must concern coach Chris Coyne, but he has a squad bristling with talent and he will have confidence they can turn it around. They have had a number of injuries, but youngster Giordano Colli has been outstanding in the middle of the park, while striker Gustavo Giron-Marulanda has had a couple of games off the bench, and he will be pushing for a starting role this week. The Lions won for the first time in week six against ECU, but were brought back down to earth with defeat at Cockburn last week. Skipper Dean Cummings missed the game last week and coach Terry Nicolaou will hope he is available for this one, but he will be without defender Darren O’Riordan, who is suspended. Both sides need the points, but with home ground advantage Bayswater should get back on track in this one.
Floreat Athena moved to third on the NPL table after a 2-0 win at Balcatta last week, and on Saturday they host Sorrento at E&D Litis Stadium. Goals from Chris Saldaris and Nick Ambrogio gave Garret McDuling's side the points, and after a slow start to the season they seem to be hitting their straps again. The inclusion of big defender Adrian Madaschi has bolstered their defensive stocks, while skipper Dean Evans and Calvin Whitney in the midfield engine room, has seen click back into gear. Striker Robert Petkov has bagged five goals this season and his partnership with Phil Arnold is bearing fruit at the moment, and the coach will hope it continues on Saturday. Sorrento were on a good run of form, but back to back defeats, including last week’s loss to Glory in Busselton, has seen them drop to fifth, so Jamie Harnwell will be looking for a response from the side this week. Shaun Kilkelly has been outstanding at the heart of the back four in recent weeks for the Gulls, and Cameron Teece continues to find the back of net, while keeper James Morgan has been in sparkling form, and will need to be at his best in this one.
The final game takes us to Grindleford Reserve where Balcatta entertain league leaders Perth SC in the Italian Derby. Balcatta slipped to fourth after their loss against Floreat last week, this after leading the league three weeks ago. Goran Stajic will be looking to put that run of form, which has seen them go three games without a win, behind them. Dutch midfielder Niels Willems is starting to get used to life at the club, and along with senior players Jon Corness, Gavin Knight, Calum O'Connell and Alex Castiello they will be looking to get back into the winners’ circle in this one. They do however face a Perth side in red hot form, and coming off a big win against Bayswater last week with Michael Domfeh scoring the winner. The big striker said it was a great game and good three points. “It was a hard-fought game against Bayswater which brought out our true fighting spirit once again,” he said. “I was happy to do my part for the team with the goal, but most importantly bringing home the three points was what is was all about.” Domfeh had a successful season at Perth Glory last season, but he’s settled in at the Gardens, and he is formed a deadly partnership with Gustavo Catarcione, but the big striker was quick to say the service the pair have been getting has made it easier. “Yes, Perth are a huge club and it’s great to be part of it,” he said. “It’s been a good experience personally for me playing with Gustavo and we are definitely working well together, but we are getting the rub of the green at the moment, and long may it continue,” he said. “But to get the service from the likes of Niccolò Sabatini and Matthew Milenkovic helps, but we have quality throughout the squad which makes it easier for us to score.”
3.5.2019
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND SIX – PREVIEW
It's week six of the State League Division One, and the Footballwa.net 'Match of the Round' takes us to Securitas Protect Stadium on Saturday evening where Mandurah City host Gwelup Croatia. (7.30pm) Mandurah sit in ninth place on the table and are coming off a narrow loss at Fremantle City, and have been in every game they have played this season, so to have only won one game is a concern for player/coach Alex Grayson. Gwelup on the other hand are on a three-game winning streak, including a 3-1 win in their first home game of the season last weekend against Forrestfield United, so both sides will be looking for three points, so this one should be a great game in the Peel region. Mandurah have narrowly lost their last two games 2-1, and defender Jeff Bright said they deserved more from both games, but mistakes have cost them. “It’s been pretty tough to take, and we don’t won’t to lose games at home and gave away two goals against Ashfield and last week against a 10 men Fremantle we did the same,” Bright explained. “We need to stop just lapses of concentration as a team and finish games out a lot stronger, and we start to get the rewards.”
Bright continues to shine for the Dolphins, and many thought we would pull the pin on the game this season after an illustrious career in the local game, but their play-off win changed all that, and he is looking forward to the Saturday night’s game and he is expecting a big crowd. “Yes, I’m still loving playing the game, and I think winning the play offs last year made it a lot easier to play again this season,” he said. “The buzz around the club during those games and the support was exactly like the old days and I couldn’t wait to go again. We have some good younger players coming through and it’s pretty exciting to see players like Joe O’Brien really start to reach the potential I knew he had. “We know this game will be very tough, but we’re all looking forward to the challenge. This league looks like it’s the toughest I’ve seen and anyone can win on the day. Night games at Mandurah usually bring in a good crowd, and I think that will be the case on Saturday. We just need everyone to step up, be confident in our decision making and be brave enough to take the game to them and look to get a result.”
Gwelup striker Danny Hodgson has fitted in well at Wishart Street since his move from Olympic Kingsway, and he said last weeks win against Forrestfield showed they have improved. After the first up loss. “They beat us in the Night Series Final so we knew it would be another tough game, and it was but it was a great win for us to keep our winning streak going,” he said. “We’ve been playing well over the last few weeks, and we’ve started to work hard at both ends of the park, and hence why the results are going our way.” Hodgson said the club are aiming for promotion this season and he said they are working hard both on and off the pitch to do that. The club have started to build their new grandstand, and they face a difficult trip to Mandurah on Saturday night, but Hodgson said everyone at the club are striving to bring success. “It’s exciting times for the club and the plans for the new grandstand are ambitious and look great. We all know that we want to be an NPL team and everyone is doing all they can to achieve that on and off the field,” he explained. “We have to do our side of the job and that’s winning football games and Saturday will be a hard game. Mandurah won’t be underestimated, but if we play well like we have been there’s no reason why we can’t come away with the full three points.” In other games league leaders Ashfield entertain second placed Olympic Kingsway at Ashfield Arena. These two teams are the only sides that are unbeaten this season so this one should be a cracker. Ashfield scored two late goals to drew with UWA Nedlands last week, while Olympic continued their 100% home record with a win against Morley. Western Knights are coming off the bye and on Saturday they entertain Morley Windmills at Nash Field, with both sides wanting the three points to move up the table, while UWA Nedlands host Fremantle City at UWA Sports Park. Fremantle beat Mandurah with ten men last week, but will be without Jairo Guzman who was sent off, while UWA conceded two late goals to draw at Ashfield.
The final game of the round sees Forrestfield United entertain Subiaco at Game Gaudian Stadium, at Hartfield Park on Saturday afternoon. Graham Normanton's side are on a four-game run without a win, including the loss at Gwelup last week, so three points are a must in this one. Subiaco are coming off a big win against Joondalup United last week, a result that saw them leapfrog Saturday's opponents on the table. Subiaco Coach Basil Lenzo said the result last week was good, and he was delighted the way his side played. "We are only four games in and we are literally taking a game at a time and that is the truth,” he said. “The younger have the energy, they have the commitment, they have the passion and they have a desire to win and that’s a great mix to have for a first team player.
“Also having the likes of Naglieri, Aplegren, De Felice and Pritchard amongst this group of young players is great. It’s a really solid support mechanism for the young lads as they have so much experience. Paddy and I are very lucky to have such awesome guys at the club whom are not only supportive of what we are trying to do but also very engaged. I am a very big believer of culture eats strategy and whilst it’s great to go out and "spend money" we want to build a culture that sees young players come through as well as senior boys to provide the football knowledge on and off the pitch - we want a great football environment.” Lenzo said a trip Forrestfield is never easy, and with them not having the start they would have hoped for, he is expecting a fired-up home side and he will meet up with an old friend with Graham Normanton coach at Forrestfield. “Paddy and I have been very lucky to have worked with Normo for a number of years and every side he has had are fit and play good football. I personally have known Norm for a large part of my life as he worked with my dad when he came to Australia,” he explained. “We have utmost respect for Normo and we know what he will be expecting from his players. For Subiaco, it will be another great game and if we continue with the building blocks, we know we can be highly competitive. There are no easy games and we will take it like any other albeit hope to enjoy a beer with Normo after the game.”
3.5.2019
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND FIVE – PREVIEW
It's week five in the State League Division Two, and we head to Dianella Reserve on Saturday night for the Footballwa.net 'Match of the Round' where Dianella White Eagles entertain Swan United. 7.00pm. Dianella are coming off a hard-fought win at Balga last week, while Swan needed a Brian Patterson goal to edge past Kelmscott. The last time these two sides met was in the play-off's last season when the black and whites won in both legs. This one should be another tight affair and if you haven't got anything on Saturday night get along to Dianella Reserve. Swan defender Rory Mouttet said they were made to work hard against Kelmscott, but he thought they deserved the three points. "It was a tough match and Kelmscott are a great young side and they were very organised, never gave up and made us earn everything, and they defended admirably,” he said. “To our credit, we didn’t give up either. It was one of those days where it looked like the ball was never going to go in. But our boys worked for each other and showed the fighting spirit to keep going until the final whistle. This is a resilience we built our game around last year to find some success. We’ve started to find it again in the past few weeks after a tough start.”
Mouttet said the side are getting better each week and the new signings are fitting in well. "Yes, we’ve had a few boys leave and some new faces around the club, and I think with Eric Williams here as well we have taken some adjusting to the new dynamic,” he said. “The last couple weeks we have added Anthony and Brian and this has really strengthened us at the defensive and attacking ends. I feel that our squad is stronger this year and has more depth. But when you have new guys and a new coaching dynamic added to the club, sometimes you have to take a few steps back before you can go forward. Regardless, it doesn't matter who you have personnel wise. If the will to win and the fighting spirit is not there, the foundation for success is lost with it. We need to meet the bar we’ve set for ourselves in the last week with our one per centres. Concentrate. Prepare well. Work for each other. Improve each week. This starts with ourselves as individuals and how focused we are on our roles that contribute to the team on a whole. It means not compromising on what we expect of ourselves.”
Saturday night’s game at Dianella is another tough test for Paul Dundo's side, but Mouttet said their last trip to the venue was a successful one in the play-offs, and they have prepared well and are going there for three three points. "Sure, our last trip to Dianella was successful. It means nothing in the context of this game. Dianella is a talented side and it’s one of the hardest places to go and win,” the defender said. “They have their own ambitions for their season, and I’m sure they won’t have forgotten last year either and will want to settle the score. A late game. Out of routine. We need to make sure we are well prepared and ready to go out and play to the standards we have set for ourselves. We play the first five minutes and reset for the next five and every five thereafter, and if we win more five-minute spells than them and we give ourselves the chance to gain three more points. This is imperative to us maintaining momentum and growing our belief in our side so we are in the mix at the end of the year.”
Dianella have a new look squad this season and a new coach in Howard Tweats, and was delighted with the win at Balga last time out, and he was also pleased with the clean sheet after conceding seven in their opening four games. "Doesn’t matter home or away our target this season is to achieve points from all our games, but it is pleasing when you do travel away and return with the victory after putting in a commanding performance which would have instilled confidence and set a benchmark for future trips,” he said. “Unfortunately, the club suffered an exodus of players following the relegation with all be it a couple remaining. So, a tough task to facilitate a squad to start the season. We are pleased with the players that committed to the club and campaign; our direction has put a lot of faith in a young side. We have a lot of gifted players here now with a desire to develop, compete and win games to take the club back to its rightful place. Whilst we will encourage our players to express themselves, get the ball down and play, we are working hard to build that within a structure, formation and style of play which will take time but early signs are good and it’s a challenge both the club and myself are relishing.”
Tweats, who was coach at NPL side Floreat Athena last season, said they are getting better each week and currently sit in seventh place on the table, but only one point behind Saturday's opponents and Tweats said they need to get their home form right, starting Saturday against a good Swan side. “The results so far in the league demonstrate that every team is a challenge and capable of taking the points on the day. Swan went close last season and are expected to be in the mix again, they are a strong organised side and their approach will pose problems,” Tweats said. “We have to shuffle the pack again this week due to absences, however we have to start where we finished last week, if we can impose ourselves early in the game and play to our strengths, being consistent in our performance we can put down a marker at home to match Balga away.”
In other games, there is a local derby when league leaders Quinns make the trip to the Iluka Sports Complex to take on Joondalup City. City have started the season well and are coming off a win at Curtin last week, while Quinns thumped Canning City. Shamrock Rovers entertain Curtin University at Harold Rossiter Reserve, with both sides looking to bounce back from defeats last week. There is another evening kick off at Murdoch Uni when Murdoch University Melville host Wanneroo City. MUM were beaten at Gosnells last week, while Wanneroo had to work hard to beat Shamrock.
The final game takes us to Frye Park where Kelmscott Roos host joint league leaders Gosnells City in a local derby. Gosnells maintained their perfect start to the season last week with win against Murdoch University Melville, and Marc Anthony's side are one of the teams to beat for the title, so they head into the game as favourites. Kelmscott on the other hand have struggled this season to date, but the performance at Swan last week, despite the 0-1 defeat, was good and coach Richard Changadzo they are on the improve. “We are starting to play the way we set out to do from pre season and I believe we will get better with time. We did create our chances but could not put them away and in football that’s what counts. Swan did grind it out to the last minute and the difference in experience did show in the dying minutes hence they got the winning goal in the 92nd minute. I feel for my players that after 90+ mins they walked away with nothing,” he explained. “We will keep working hard to improve in certain aspects of the game and hope results will start coming our way. I’m happy with the way we are progressing as a group and have belief in my young players. Swan came out winners because on the day the dice rolled in their favour.”
Changadzo said they are looking forward to the derby and they will be doing all they can to get a positive result to get their season kick started. “Gosnells are flying high at the moment and I do admire that. They with a few other clubs are raising the standard of football in our league and that will compel other clubs to follow suit and push the standard closer to Npl standard,” the coach said. “They have some quality players and so do we. Derbies are always tense games no matter what level you are playing. With both clubs celebrating their 50th Anniversaries it should be a blockbuster in all 3 games with the Southside cup up for grabs. It should be a battle of the midfield and whoever can take control of it should be favourite to win on the day. The lads are ready to give it all as they always do and hope to do the club proud.”
3.5.2019
BELT UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION - ROUND FOUR PREVIEW
It's week four of the Sunday amateur Premier Division and this week’s Footballwa.net 'Match of the Round' takes us to Woodville Reserve where Champions North Perth United host Jaguars FC. This is a top of the table clash, with both sides sitting on seven points, and both undefeated so far this season. The Jags fought back to draw 2-2 against Kingsley last week, while North Perth had to work hard to beat Hamersley Rovers, so this one should be a great game. The last time these sides met at the Venue was in round 10 last season when North Perth came from behind to win 4-2. Jaguar took the lead through Michael Wantee, but Patrick Montgomery levelled for United. George Duka regained the lead for Jags but their lead lasted only two minutes, with Ago Mujic converted from the penalty spot. North Perth were well on top and their pressure was rewarded 12 minutes from time, when Mujic slotted home a second penalty to wrap up the points.
United coach Alex Carter said his players had to work hard to get the points last week, but he said they thoroughly deserved them. "We played well in the first half with a very high tempo, and should have been further in front at half time,” he said. “But we let Hamersley back into the game through a set piece and a penalty, which was disappointing, but it was a very solid performance and we look forward to another enjoyable game this weekend.” Carter said Jags are continuing their impressive form from last season and he is expecting another tough game against them. "The training session this week was hopefully a sign of the intensity that the boys will take into Sunday’s game. Everyone is well aware of the threat Jags cause if we let them get time on the ball,” he explained. “Technically they have some very good players, and I also think each year they are becoming more organised tactically. Our squad are conditioned to the big games so it’s just a case that we make sure we are focussed for Sunday’s clash.”
Jags Coach Chol Kong said last weeks game against Kingsley was a game of two halves. “I thought first half was really our half but we did not take the chances that were produced and we were punished because of that,” he explained. “Kingsley took the lead but the boys showed great character to come back in the game. In the second half we lost control of the game and Kingsley took charge playing really well. I am really happy with the effort the boys had put in you learn a lot from playing these tough games.” Kong said Sunday will be another stern test, but they are ready for it. “A game against North Perth is never a walk in the park that’s for sure,” he said. “We know it will be another tough test for the boys, but one we are all looking forward too.”
In other games Wembley host Kwinana United at Butlers Reserve. United won for the first-time last week at Belmont, while Wembley will be looking to get back in the winner’s circle after a draw last time out against Quinns. Kingsley entertain Joondalup United at Chichester Park. Kingsley dropped points for the first-time last week with the draw at Jaguars and will want to bounce back, while Joondalup won for the first time with a big win against Ellenbrook. Belmont Villa make the trip to Carine Open Space to take on Hamersley Rovers. Villa were unlucky to lose in a goal feast against Kwinana last week, while Rovers pushed North Perth all the way, so both sides will head into this one in positive mode. Ellenbrook United are struggling at the foot of the table but this week they have home ground advantage when they host UWA Nedlands at Ellenbrook Sport Hub.
In the final game Quinns make the trip to John Connell Reserve to take on Leeming strikers. The hosts won convincingly at UWA last week, and after their first-round loss have bounced back with back-to-back victories. Quinns sit two points behind Sunday's opponents and are coming off a 1-1 draw at Wembley, a game coach Darren Kay thought they should have taken all three points. "As frustrating as it was not to finish our chances, I thought we were still the better team last week,” he said. “But I’m sure those chances will start going in." Sunday's game is a repeat of the recent Night Series Final and Kay said it will be a tough encounter, but he knows his players will give it their all. "It doesn’t get much harder than Leeming away and in the night series final we felt how good a team they are,” he explained. “We’ve been hit pretty hard with illness this week but as always we’ll go there and give it our all.”
3.5.2019
WHY LOWRY IS PERTH GLORY’S UNSUNG HERO
Diego Castro, Andy Keogh and Neil Kilkenny have won most of the plaudits in Perth Glory’s ground-breaking season but spare a thought for one of their unfashionable defenders. Shane Lowry has missed just three games in the Glory’s Premier’s Plate-winning campaign and has been a rock at the back in the league’s best defence.
Playing in a three-man backline, Lowry has helped Glory to a club-record 10 clean sheets. The 29-year old centre back has thrived under the coaching of Tony Popovic, one of the best centre halves Australia has ever produced. “Him and Hayden Foxe were centre backs so for me personally its been great,” Lowry told The World Game.
“A great learning curve and I’ve learnt so much under them. The boss is known with his teams for being very strong defensively and we’ve conceded the least amount of goals this season and that’s for a reason. It goes back to the amount of hard work we’ve done on the training pitch, we’ve been getting the rewards in games.”
“It’s a record of number of clean sheets for the club as well. I think we should have had more clean sheets but you can’t be too greedy. From a personal point of view it’s been my most consistent season since I was at Millwall when I played 46 games one year. I think I’ve missed one training session all year so my body’s been good this year.”
Popovic replaced Kenny Lowe at the helm of Glory in May 2018 and the turnaround has been stark. The club only lost three games all season and won the Premier’s Plate by finishing eight points ahead of Sydney FC. “It’s been brilliant. Obviously we won our first trophy in 14 years, it’s been great,” Lowry said.
“Tony’s been brilliant … he came in and changed a lot of things. Everyone knows his attention to detail is second to none. There’s been a lot of hours on the training pitch and our recruitment this year has been great. When we got the boss in we attracted a high calibre of players as well because they wanted to come and play for him.”
Lowry explained Popovic has not only changed the way Glory trains and plays, but improved their fitness levels and their mental strength. “Our physical fitness is very, very good,” he said. “We put in a lot of hard work in pre-season. The same goes for our formation. We started our formation in June 18 and from the first day he came in and said this is the system we’re going to play this year.”
“We had to put in a lot of hard work on the training ground because for a lot of players our system was quite new. I hadn’t played that system very much throughout my career. Our away form as well has very good this season. Over years when we’ve travelled from Perth we’ve struggled.”
“That’s changed our mentality as well and I think our whole mental strength in games, we know if we’re a goal behind or 0-0 we’ll create a chance and go on to win the game. That coupled with our physical fitness has seen us score so many late goals this season.”
Lowry was born and raised in Perth but spent more than a decade playing in England with the likes of Aston Villa, Sheffield United, Plymouth Argyle, Millwall and Leyton Orient. He returned to Australia in 2016 to join Glory, where he has experienced many ups and downs over the past few years.
“When I first signed for the club I said I wanted to win the league,” he admitted. “That was a goal of mine and winning the Premier’s we’ve done that. So that’s a personal goal of mine ticked off. But last season was bitterly disappointing. The turnaround we’ve had this season has been unbelievable.”
“When you’re winning games everything is a lot better and a lot easier - confidence breathes through the squad, you’re not overthinking mistakes. For us it’s been tremendous and I know that the fans supporting this season and our members have been delighted we were able to get trophy for the club because it is a huge club and our owner, Tony Sage, has put a hell of a lot of money into the club.
Glory may have already won one trophy but now have their eyes on a Grand Final crown. They will host an elimination semi-final on May 10 and Lowry believes home advantage will be crucial. “We want to go and get to the grand final and hopefully win it,” he said
“Not just for the club but for all of Perth and the state, it would be great if we got there with it being at Optus (Stadium). We’ve shown over the years we can draw big crowds. We’re happy we’ve got a home semi-final because teams don’t like travelling to Perth to play games.”
1.5.2019
CASTRO IS GLORY’S MOST VALUABLE… AGAIN
Perth Glory captain Diego Castro has capped off a great campaign, winning the Most Glorious Player award as the club's best for the 2018/19 season. The Spanish marquee player took out the award, voted by coaching staff, for the third time in four years despite missing the first nine games of the season.
Castro, nicknamed ‘El Maestro’, scored seven times during the premiership winning campaign and received the MGP award at the club end-of-season presentation last night at Crown Towers Ballroom. Midfielder Neil Kilkenny scooped the Members’ Player of the Year and Goal of the Year trophies.
Spanish import Juande marked his debut season with the club by claiming the Players’ Player of the Year award. Striker Andy Keogh walked away with the Bobby Despotovski Golden Boot after scoring 15 goals, a club record for a single season in the A-League era.
Glory’s W-League captain Sam Kerr retained the W-League MGP award for the third straight season to bring her tally to four. The Matildas striker was also named Women’s Players’ Player of the Year and took home the Women’s Golden Boot.
Exciting midfield prospect Henry Hore was named the Y-League Most Glorious youth player. The Chairman’s Award went to Joseph Marafioti, club manager of membership, ticketing and operations.
1.5.2019
EDWARDS IMPRESSES AFTER FINALLY MAKING HEARTS DEBUT
Heart of Midlothian manager Craig Levein says Ryan Edward “didn’t do himself any harm at all” with his weekend performance against Hibernian. The West Australian midfielder joined from Partick Thistle last summer, but was immediately loaned out to St Mirren for the season.
Williams returned to Tynecastle in January but until this weekend he hadn’t played a single minute, meaning it took him 11 months to make his debut for the club. “Since he came back from St Mirren, our midfield has been pretty strong and he just hasn't had a look-in,” Levein explained.
“But to be fair to him, he has worked really hard in training, played reserve games and done well. And I didn't think Connor Smith would last 90 minutes, he is an all-energy type player Connor, and the the idea was to use Ryan at some point if he did tire. He didn't do himself any harm at all.”
Back to the www.footballwa.net Archived News Index
This page was last updated on the 29th April, 2019