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31.8.2021
PERTH TO PART WAYS WITH FALZON
Perth SC have made the decision to part company with coach Ramon Falzon on the completion of the 2021 National Premier Leagues season. The surprise announcement came just two days after Falzon guided Perth to their fourth National Premier Leagues title in six years.
“It will be the end of a highly successful era for Perth SC under the five and a half years stewardship of Ramon Falzon, which has included 4 league championships, 3 Top Four trophies and 1 Night Series title, including the 2021 NPLWA championship,” read a club statement on perthsc.com.au
“Perth SC would like to thank Ramon Falzon for his dedication and success over the past five and a half years. Ramon has made a significant contribution to the success, history and standing of our proud club - not just in WA, but on the national stage too. Falzon will coach the Azzurri for the remainder of the 2021 season.”
Falzon tasted success in his first season by guiding Perth to 2016 NPL title and Top Four Cup. He was named the Coach of the Year in 2018 and 2019 after collecting back-to-back NPL and Top Four Cup doubles. A Night Series crown arrived in 2020 before leading Perth to this years’ NPL title.
30.8.2021
GLORY SIGN EX LA LIGA STRIKER SARDINERO
Perth Glory have replenished their attacking stocks with the signing of former La Liga striker Adrian Sardinero for the next two seasons. The 30-year old finisher brings with him a wealth of experience gleamed from spells in Spain, Cyprus and Greece.
"I'm very happy to join the Perth Glory family," said Sardinero, whose arrival will help offset the loss of attackers Chris Ikonomidis and Nick D'Agostino. "I'm very excited about this new challenge and can’t wait to get to Perth and meet my new team."
Glory coach Richard Garcia is confident Sardinero's qualities will make him a key figure for the club in the coming seasons. "Adrian is a very adaptable forward who can play in several positions, either out wide, up front, or just behind the strikers," he said.
"He's very direct, has a good goalscoring record and provides great delivery from wide areas. He has been playing consistently at a high level in Europe for the past decade and will add more experience and quality to the squad."
Sardinero graduated through the youth ranks at Getafe, eventually making his first team debut in 2010 as a teenager. A loan spell at Hercules turned into a permanent deal with the Alicante-based club, for whom the attacker would go on to make over 100 appearances.
Sardinero gained his first taste of overseas football in 2014 by moving to Cyprus First Division side AEL Limassol, and two years later he completed a switch to crosstown rivals Apollon Limassol. He featured in the Europa League for both Limassol clubs.
Sardinero was signed by Greek Super League club OFI Crete in July 2020 and was a virtual ever-present for them across four competitions last season. He fills the import spot left by German defender Sebastian Langkamp, who managed just two games last season.
30.8.2021
BURGESS MASTERING THE ART OF DEFENDING
Stopping goals is in Cameron Burgess’ blood. His grandfather, Campbell Forsyth, was a professional goalkeeper who was capped four times by Scotland and played top-tier football for Southampton during the ‘60s.
And his father, Stuart, had a long career as a professional centre-back, playing in the Scottish top-tier for Falkirk during the late 80s. So it’s no wonder that Burgess, who won more aerial duels than any other defender in League One last seasons, ended up falling in love with the art of defending.
The 6ft 4in centre-back won more aerial duels than any other defender in the division as Accrington Stanley finished 11th in League One last season. He ranked in the top five for interceptions too.
“First and foremost it’s about trying to keep the ball out of the net,” said 25-year old Burgess, who recently signed a three-year deal with Ipswich Town. “I have a roll your sleeves up, work hard and defend mentality.”
“Starting out at Fulham, it was obviously possession-based. I learnt that side of the game and hopefully I can show that I can be calm and composed on the ball. But it’s also about putting your body on the line.”
“Even the best ball playing defenders in the world are equally as good off the ball as they are on it. That art of defending sometimes get overlooked. You see guys like (Giorgio) Chiellini celebrating like mad when they make sliding challenges in the box or blocks on the line.”
"Yes, assists and goals are the things which excite people in football, but clean sheets are always the biggest sense of pride for a defender. If you can cover each others’ mistakes and regularly walk off the pitch with clean sheets then you’re onto a winner.”
Burgess’ football journey has been an interesting one. He started out in Celtic’s academy before his family emigrated to Perth. “I was 10 years old when we moved out there,” he said. “My mum works in oil and gas and it was a straight transfer from what she was doing in Aberdeen.”
“There was a lot of people from different countries ... It definitely mellows you out a bit Oz. Waking up in the sun and getting to do so many different sports was great. The lifestyle was amazing and my family still live out there now.”
At the age of 16, ECU Joondalup arranged for Burgess to trial at Aston Villa and Fulham. “That club I was at had a good record of getting players pro deals in England,” he said. “They'd got Jordan Lyden (now at Swindon Town) in at Aston Villa, while Ryan Williams had moved over to Fulham.”
Burgess got a contract at Fulham and went on to make his senior debut, age 18, at Portman Road on the opening day of the 2014/15 season. Ipswich won 2-1 that day, handing a newly-relegated and young Cottagers side a bit of a physical lesson.
“It was bittersweet to be honest,” he says. “That was a tough Mick McCarthy side to play and we had lots of young lads in the team. I never thought my debut was on the cards for that first game at the start of pre-season, but I worked hard and got myself in.”
“We played a diamond and I was at the base of that. The game sort of passed me by if I’m honest. It was a surreal moment. It felt like it lasted about five minutes. But I loved every minute of my time at Fulham.”
Burgess ended up making just four senior appearances for the West London club before loan spells at Ross County, Cheltenham Town, Oldham Athletic and Bury. He signed Two seasons with Scunthorpe United were followed by a season-long loan to Salford City for 2019/20.
He stepped back up a level by making 48 appearances for Accrington Stanley last summer. “I feel I’ve matured over the last couple of years and worked out my role in the team,” he said. “Experience shapes you as a player. I’ve played a fair few games for my age I think – all different types of styles and levels.”
“You realise what you’re good at, what you’re not so good at, what you want and what you can bring. I’m at a stage now where I can hopefully kick on. I want to go further in my career and Ipswich Town want to go further. Hopefully we can do that together.”
Burgess has described himself as a leader and someone who wants to drive standards. He arrived after Lee Evans was made skipper by boss Paul Cook though. “I don’t need to be captain to be honest with you,” he said. “I can go about my own business the same way.”
“There’s a lot of lads to bed in, and it will take time for the club, but hopefully I can help that process. There’s no doubt that it’s a massively talented squad, so hopefully I can try and bring the best out of everyone and get their respect. If I can do that then I’ll be really happy.”
29.8.2021
REDBACKS QUARTET REACH 200-GAME MILESTONE
A binding team culture, cultivated by years of trophies, dedication and friendship, has helped four Northern Redbacks teammates reach an extraordinary 200 games together. While it is not uncommon for a club to produce one player who notches 200 seniors games, the Redbacks proudly boast four of them.
Carla Bennett, Emily Dunn, Larissa Walsh and Renee Leota have played together for the past decade and formed an integral part of a Redbacks side who have won five league titles, four knock-out cups, last year’s NPLW Top Four cup and the 2013 Interstate Challenge Cup.
Bennett has been involved with the club since she was in high school and recalled watching a Redbacks game with her dad and deciding she wanted to play for them. Having now notched more than 250 games for the club, the former Perth Glory Women defender said the culture at the Redbacks had driven their accomplishments.
“I came here when I was 15, I looked up to the senior players a lot and now I’m considered a senior player,” Bennett said. “I’ve always liked the Redbacks because it’s about building the women’s game in WA. It’s not just about fielding a team, it’s about getting the youth involved.”
Leota, a New Zealand national, can still remember her first training session with the team many years ago and said she had never considered leaving the side. “It’s the only club I’ve been involved with in Perth, so when I first moved here from New Zealand, they immediately became my family,” she said.
Like Leota, the Redbacks have been Walsh’s only team since she made the move from Albany to Perth. “It just shows how much the club means to the players. We’re a close-knit team ,so it’s good to see quite a few of us are playing such a high number of games,” Walsh said.
Dunn echoed Bennett’s comments about the culture as being a key contributor to their success. “What’s kept me playing there for so long is the players. There’s a good group of girls and I think when you have quite a strong core group, you bring similar people in,” Dunn commented.
The four were unanimous in selecting their 2013 penalty shoot-out victory over Adelaide City as their favourite memory. “The year we won the interstate club, we won the league and we flew to South Australia to face the winners of the South Australian league. Being able to travel interstate with the team and being able to bring home silverware from that was probably my favourite experience,” Bennett said.
The quartet could soon add to the club’s trophy cabinet as they currently sit top of the ladder with two rounds to play in the NPLW season. The Redbacks are Western Australia’s most successful women’s club with 15 league titles and nine Cup successes since formation in 1991.
29.8.2021
BELT UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION - ROUND NINETEEN REVIEW
The title race in the Belt Up Amateur Premier Division continues to be tight, with the top two sides, South West Phoenix and Maddington White City recording convincing wins. But first up in our ‘Match of the Round’ Kwinana United consolidated third place and put a dent in Joondalup United’s survival hopes with a 5-1 win at Beldon Park. “Really happy with our performance and response from last week. We had picked a few injuries going into this game and those who stepped up were very good,” Kwinana coach Mark Purvis said. “Joondalup gave us some problems after we scored the first which we had to be strong to deal with, but we stayed calm and I thought we deserved the three points.”
Kwinana were ahead on nine minutes, Lee Bates finding the target from a good cross from Mathew Banks. They doubled their advantage on the half hour, with the unfortunate Curtis Wreglesworth scoring an own goal. Bates added his second early in the second half, finishing off after a neat build up. Joondalup found a lifeline on 67 minutes, with Ryan Pellow reduce ng the margin. But Bates completed his hat-trick from the spot five minutes later, before adding his fourth, and 12th goal of the season in stoppage time, heading in 16-year-old Finley Murray’s cross.
League leaders Phoenix maintained their one-point lead at the top after a 3-0 win against Queens Park at Coker Park. They dominated early, but couldn’t turn their possession in goals, but they did head into the break with a 1-0 lead, Lydon Hodgkiss on target. They made sure of a happy trip back down south, with Lee Stewart scoring a brace to complete a comprehensive win. “We started the more aggressive side but couldn’t finish chances, but we scored the goals at important times of the game,” Phoenix coach Nick Carter said. “It was good to see us defensively so good. Our forwards get most of the credit at times but they can’t do their job without the defence and midfield. They broke up play and let us reset, and it’s important to have that balance.”
Maddington kept the pressure on the Phoenix after a 3-1 win against UWA Nedlands at the UWA Sports Park. Jose Zuniga scored two and Jhonatan Barbosa one for the visitors, while Walter Torres’ penalty was the consolation goal for the hosts. Quinns consolidated fourth spot after a 5-1 win against already relegated Hamersley Rovers at Gumblossom Park. Quinns were ahead after only three minutes, Ryan McCready saw his spot kick saved, but he managed to turn home the rebound. McCready doubled the advantage on 25 minutes, finished well after good lead up play from Kieran Friett and Ian Cookland. Cookland scored the third before the break, finishing at the back post at the second attempt.
It was 4-0 eight minutes into the second half, Callum Wells Murphy with the pick of the goals, he picked the ball up on the left of the penalty area and dribbled past a couple to finish neatly past the keeper. Dut Mathiang pulled one back for Rovers on the hour, but McCready completed his hat-trick seven minutes later, Heading home his 24th goal of the season, after some neat work down the right wing by Nick Hopkins. “Hamersley made the game hard for us this weekend. They played with a lot of spirit and maybe should have had a couple more goals to their name,” Quinns coach Vinny McMillan said. “However, we enjoyed playing at home for the first time in a month and getting back into the winners circle.”
Leeming Strikers boosted their survival hopes with a 3-1 win against Cup Finalists North Perth United at John Connell Reserve. The hosts were ahead after an error at the back from North Perth saw Kieran Witt run onto the ball and finish into the bottom corner. It was 2-0 when Michael Maratea corner was met by Justin Onek, whose powerful header gave Todd Ross no chance. They added a third on the hour, a cut back from out wide was converted by Cameron Anderson, before North Perth scored a late consolation goal through Simon El Chami. “It was a really good team effort yesterday, going into the game we felt confident that we could get a result playing on a pitch fit for purpose unlike the one in the reverse fixture,” Leeming player/coach David Palin said.
“We knew if we could bring a good energy and tempo to the game, they wouldn't be able to go with us for 90 minutes, especially with it being their third game in a week which is always tough going. Once we got the first there was only going to be one winner, but the second just before half time and one early into the second half really killed the game off and gave us full control. Good to get the three points and always a good compliment when you can keep the North Perth supporters very quiet throughout the game.”
The final game was a six-goal thriller at the Herb Graham Recreation Centre, with Jaguar and Wembley Downs playing out a 3-3 draw. Wembley’s goal came from a hat-trick from Matthew Devereux, while Mawien Deng, Connor O’Driscoll and Mabor Thomas scored for Jaguar, although Deng was sent off late. “It was very disappointing to not get the win, however given the chances both teams had, a draw was probably a fair result,” Jaguars keeper Michael Dudek said. “The boys are looking forward to next week where we can hopefully get a good result against North Perth at their home ground.”
28.8.2021
SAINSBURY AND TAGGART CALLED UP FOR WORLD CUP QUALIFIERS
Trent Sainsbury and Adam Taggart have been named in a 27-player Socceroos squad for upcoming World Cup qualifiers. Coach Graham Arnold selected the West Australian duo in a star-studded squad which faces China and Vietnam in the opening matches of the third round of qualifying.
"I believe this is a great squad and one that will help Australia achieve a strong start in the final round of qualifying," Arnold said. "We have at least two players for every position, which provides us both cover and tactical flexibility, and many players will arrive in camp off the back of strong form for their clubs throughout Europe, the UK and Asia."
"Unfortunately, there were several players we couldn't consider for this window due to injury or matters related to COVID. Fran Karacic has a minor injury that has prevented him from traveling to Qatar, while complications and challenges with travel, quarantine, and personal factors ruled several Australia-based players out of contention."
The Australia squad to play China (2 September) and Vietnam (7 September) is Daniel Arzani, Aziz Behich, Martin Boyle, Milos Degenek, Kenneth Dougall, Mitch Duke, Callum Elder, Denis Genreau, Rhyan Grant, Ajdin Hrustic, Jackson Irvine, Paul Izzo, James Jeggo, Awer Mabil, Ryan McGowan, Riley McGree, Aaron Mooy, Tom Rogic, Mat Ryan, Trent Sainsbury, Brad Smith, Harry Souttar, Ryan Strain, Adam Taggart, Lawrence Thomas, Danny Vukovic, Bailey Wright.
28.8.2021
PERTH SEND ROCKINGHAM DOWN AND WIN THE TITLE
Perth SC are the 2021 NPLWA champions after a narrow 1-0 win against Rockingham City at the SafeRad Stadium on Saturday afternoon. Michael Domfeh’s goal decided the game, giving Perth their 24th title, but defeat sent Rockingham down to the First Division. “It’s always tough to play away at Rockingham, but we had multiple chances that we couldn’t convert but showed a dominant performance to win the title,” Perth midfielder Calvin Whitney said.
“I think the title was out of our hand when Floreat were 11-12 point ahead, but felt even better to clinch it off them in the last few games. Proud of our boy and performance and the league was well deserved. Young boys stepped up big when we lost a fair few to injuries and other opportunities, so all in all very happy with our performances this year.”
The only goal of the game came four minutes before half time. Whitney slide-rule pass sent Domfeh clear and the former Glory Youth striker lifted the ball over the on-coming Brad Stout. Both sides pressed after the break, but that goal was enough to seal the title. “We managed to create an incredibly high number of goal scoring opportunities, however we only managed to convert one as Rockingham fought hard and the saves by their goalkeeper kept them in the game till the end. The 1-0 score line was enough to secure the points and our fourth NPL title in the last six years,” Perth coach Ramon Falzon said.
“As coaches, Marc Wingell and I are very proud of what the players have achieved this season. We knew beforehand that it was going to be a very hard 2021 season due to the level and quality of our opponents, and it became more challenging from the get-go, as we experienced a high number of players who suffered serious long-term injuries. However, the resilience and never say die attitude of the players managed to get us over the line. Massive credit goes to the hard-working playing squad and it is great to see our players being rewarded with another NPL title.”
Rockingham City: GK Bradley STOUT, 2 Ian NG, 6 Harry BOLAN, 7 Feisal ZAW, 10 Luke COLLINS, 14 Robbie GALVIN (11 Mustafa MKANZA 57’), 15 Declan COLLINS, 19 Noah WITTSTROM LEA (9 Christos VAENAS 57’), 20 Dylan ROGERS (37 Sam FOSTER 87’), 21 Joseph MOSS 28 Harvey HANCOCK - Subs not used: RGK Nestus BURGER, 13 Nathan NG,
Perth SC: GK Ryan MONTGOMERY, 2 Alex SILLA, 4 Lachlan BYRD, 6 Nik MCDONALD, 10 Michael DOMFEH, 11 Yagoub MUSTAFA, 13 Calvin WHITNEY, 17 Aiden FORMSTON, 19 Bojan RADINOVIC, 21 Jayden GORMAN (18 Federico ACHILLI 88’), 22 Kristian SANTICH (15 Will GORDON 91’) – Subs not used: RGK Adrian SINAGRA, 8 Daniel ZIVKOVIC, 12 Sam FLORES – Referee: Josh Mannella
28.8.2021
GLORY AND BALCATTA PLAY OUT A SIX GOAL THRILLER
Perth Glory have missed an opportunity to seal a top four spot before the final game, after playing out a thrilling 3-3 draw against Balcatta at Grindleford Reserve in our 'Match of the Round'. The hosts scored in stoppage time to snatch the point, enough for their survival in the NPLWA. “The game was a great spectacle for the neutral with both teams playing a high tempo aggressive style with either wanting to give an inch,” Balcatta coach Michael Johnson said. “We knew Ruben would have them well drilled, we had a game plan that the lads executed very well. The pleasing objective was we have retained our NPL status and not relied on results elsewhere. We can go to the champions next week with a huge amount of confidence that we can get a result.”
Glory hit the front on 15 minutes, Giordano Colli finding Charlie Leech, his shot was saved low by Sebastian Medica, but Joshua Anasmo fired home the rebound. Balcatta hit back and Cameron Cook produced a stunning one-handed save to deny Jack Leech, but from the resulting Anthony Topini, they were level, Hristijan Jankuloski turning the ball home from four meters. But Glory regained the lead nine minutes before the break. Aiden Edwards sent Ciaran Bramwell down the right his cross wasn’t dealt with and Charlie Leech finished clinically.
But Balcatta were playing for their season and restored parity, nine minutes into the second half. Elliot Tattersall shot fell kindly for Michael Scafetta, who looked in an offside position, but he finished well, much to the annoyance of the Glory players. The game took another twist on 72 minutes, Adam Zimarino and Colli combined to find Leech, his shot was well saved by Medica, but second half substitute Tyler Vecchio was on hand to fire home the rebound.
It looked like that goal would seal a top four finish for Ruben Zadkovich’s side, but there was more drama to come. From Amir Ajan’s corner in stoppage time referee Julian Serra spotted a shove by Joseph Forde on substitute David Perich, and pointed straight to the spot. Ajan stepped up and sent Cook the wrong way from the resulting penalty to give both sides a share of the spoils.
Balcatta: GK Sebastian MEDICA, 2 Joe MARINO (21 Coby SUTTON 80’), 5 Hristijan JANKULOSKI, 7 Amir AJAN, 8 Jack LEECH, 10 Jon CORNESS, 11 Elliot TATTERSALL (12 David PERICH 80’), 13 Anthony TOPINI, 14 Luke ALESSANDRINO (14 Nicholas MESSINA 20’), 15 Nick WALSH, 22 Michael SCAFETTA (16 Adam FALCONE 87’) - Subs not used: 23 Luke HEWINGS
Perth Glory: GK Cameron COOK, 3 Jacob MUIR, 4 Aidan COYNE, 5 Joseph FORDE, 7 Charlie LEECH, 8 Aiden EDWARDS (6 Chris DONNELL 57’), 9 Ciaran BRAMWELL, 10 Giordano COLLI, 11 Adam ZIMARINO, 17 Joshua ANASMO (15 Tyler VECCHIO 68’), 20 Jack PAINTER-ANDREWS - Subs not used: RGK Sam REILLY, 14 William FORMSTON, 16 Lewis TUCKER – Referee: Julian Serra
28.8.2021
HEALING AT THE DOUBLE FOR JACKS
After two years away from the game through injury, Ellis Healing returned with a bang scoring a brace in only his second NPL first team appearance, as ECU Joondalup beat Bayswater City 4-2 at the ECU Football Stadium. “Firstly, good to get the win and on a personal level it was good to get the two goals after being out for so long with injury,” Healing said post-match. “The lads have been a bit of a tough run recently, win wise, but it was great to see them stick in and Kenny asked me to come on and give them a bit of magic and I obliged. I’m just happy to apart of it again, we should be in the top four, but we’ve left points on the pitch, which is disappointing, but there is still a slight chance we can into them and we’ll go to Cockburn and give it a crack.”
The Jacks opened the scoring on 16 minutes, Daryl Nicol’s free kick was flicked on to the post by Sami Riak and Danny Hodgson was on hand to fire home his 15th goal of the season. Bayswater, who arrived at the Campus with three straight wins, were level on 31 minutes. Fraser Dunlop won possession on the right and slipped the ball into Michael Zimarino, who played the ball back to Albert Fullard on the edge of the box and he found the bottom corner. But the home side regained the lead two minutes later. Riley Woodcock’s diagonal ball found Nicol on the right who controlled the ball before finding the top corner from the edge of the box.
The visitors made a perfect start to the second half and they levelled two minutes in. A back pass wasn’t dealt with by keeper Joe Pollard and Ndumba Makeche nicked the ball of him and rolled the ball into an empty net. Healing was introduced off the bench on the hour and he gave them the lead on 78 minutes. Declan Hughes’ shot hit the arm of Fullard on the edge of the box and Healing curled the resulting free kick into the corner of the net, for his first goal of the season.
But the points were secured in stoppage time, Nicol’s flick hit the arm Jordan Abrahams on the edge of the penalty area and referee Joshua Nixon spotted it and awarded a free kick. Up stepped Healing and curled the ball over the wall and into the net to secure the win. Despite the win, ECU’s chances of a top four finish look bleak, sitting two points behind both Perth Glory and Inglewood, who meet next week. Their goal difference is seven and nine goals respectively behind the pair, so if they draw next week, they will have to thrash Cockburn by a big score, not impossible, but very unlikely.
ECU Joondalup: GK Joe POLLARD, 4 Declan HUGHES, 5 Ryan LOWRY, 6 Sami RIAK (14 Ellis HEALING 60’), 8 Tom HOUGH, 9 Daryl NICOL, 10 Andy HIGGINS (13 Tommy AMPHLETT 87’), 11 Riley WOODCOCK (16 Shane CASSIDY 46’), 12 Jakub PRAJZA, 17 Danny HODGSON, 18 Luke PALMATEER – Subs not used: RGK Isaac DRIESSEN, 3 Nelson TSHONGO
Bayswater City: GK Nic SPECA, 2 Lucas COOK, 3 Jack ALLEN, 4 Michael ZIMARINO (15 Leonard GAMA 60’) , 5 Albert FULLARD, 7 Ndumba MAKECHE, 8 Gordon SMITH, 13 Jordan ABRAHAMS, 18 Fraser DUNLOP (22 Luke SALMON 72’), 23 Daniel KATZ (10 Jason MIRCO 55’), 29 Tyler GARNER – Subs not used: RGK George JACKSON, , 19 Shaun MUKWEVHO - Referee: Joshua Nixon
28.8.2021
ARMADALE BEAT TEN MAN COCKBURN
Armadale have won the local derby against a ten-man Cockburn City to end their home season games with a 3-0 win. “Cockburn have been hard to beat in several meetings over the years, so getting the three points yesterday was enjoyable,” Armadale coach John O’Reilly said. “Some very good performances from the young players and the keeper pulled of some fine saves.”
The Cockerels had skipper Euen Grant sent off on 28 minutes, a long clearance from Yousri Gharsallah sent Angel Andres racing clear and he was pulled down by Grant and referee Michael Jasinski showed him a straight red card. The host hosts took advantage with Angel Andres scoring just before half time, finding the bottom corner of the net from the edge of the box. Pieter Jacobsz doubled their lead just after half time, nipping in to finish from Andres’ flick.
They sealed the points in stoppage time, Gharsallah’s long clearance was brought down well by substitute Vladimir Naumovski, before crossing to an unmarked Chad Nilson to score at the back post. “Great result from the boys yesterday, and Cockburn are our bogey team for sure and all the lads wanted to set the record straight,” Armadale skipper Brian Patterson said. “We’re looking to finish the season on a high and we did that by putting in a performance like that.”
Armadale: GK, 3 Andy REALE, 8 Brian PATTERSON (23 Friday ZICO 78’), 9 Angel ANDRES (16 Shane BOYLE 68’), 10 Isaac KOOMSON, 11 Chad NILSON, 12 Callum MELLOWSHIP, 14 Blake ADAMS, 17 Pieter JACOBSZ, 18 Kevin ASHWOOD, 20 Adriano JELENOVIC (19 Vladimir NAUMOVSKI 84’) – Subs not used: RGK Michael CRAGGS, 2 Matt WORTON
Cockburn City: GK Ben RADONICH, 3 Daniel DOLS (18 Adam ANFUSO 70’), 4 Euen GRANT, 5 Julian TELES, 7 Ryan PRATT, 8 Cameron EDWARDS, 12 Sebastian DA SILVA, 17 Fanuel DAWIT, 21 Jesse LAZZARO, 22 Daniel ROBINSON (10 David ARAYA 70’), 25 Breckan BAKER – Subs not used: RGK Ryan BARKER, 9 Anthony SKORICH, 13 Justin TANG, – Red Card: Grant 28’ - Referee: Michal Jasinski
28.8.2021
INGLEWOOD GAIN VITAL THREE POINTS
Inglewood United moved close to a NPLWA Top Four spot after a 1-0 win against Gwelup Croatia at Inglewood Stadium, and they now need to beat Perth Glory next week to secure a spot. “I thought we showed great character to get a tight win and keep a clean sheet, there were some tired bodies out there from Wednesday’s night game against Joondalup,” Inglewood skipper Alex Dunn explained. “We managed to score a set piece that Scott Blackmore headed home, then we were able to dig in against a determined Gwelup side to not concede. Makes for an interesting last game against Glory to make finals.”
The only goal of the game came twenty minutes from time, Roberto del Borrello’s free kick was headed home by Scott Blackmore, the win setting up a winner take all clash with Perth Glory next weekend. “Gwelup are a physical side with excellent players, which we knew it will be difficult and to make it worse we weren’t 100% due to the mid-week game against ECU,” Inglewood coach Andres Oliveira said. “But the players dig deep to try to find a winner and it came from our reliable experience player Scott Blackmore from nothing. I got nothing but praises for the players to play two difficult games in one week and to get a result.
Inglewood United: GK Alex DUNN, 2 Alex ISHIDA-LIVINGS, 4 Scott BLACKMORE, 7 Ajak RIAK (11 Egide NGENDAKUMANU 77’), 8 Jason BARRERA (5 Thiak KUEL 57’), 9 Robert PETKOV, 10 Anthony BAFOBUSHA, 12 Roberto Del BORRELLO, 13 Brodie LANGAN, 14 Steve SOKOL, 17 Mark BARNETT – Sub not used: RGK Josiah GODFREY, 15 Roberto SOARES, 21 Hamza BELHASSAN
Gwelup Croatia: GK Ben RATAJCZAK, 4 Tom SOUTHGATE, 5 Blair GOVAN, 6 Declan HARGREAVES, 8 Jon STYNES (7 Brent GRIFFITHS 85’), 11 Ethan BROOKS, 12 Hasani SINCLAIR, 14 Shubham MOKALA 20 Sam MITCHINSON, 30 Max THORNILEY (2 Ciaran SALINGER 69’), 35 Dejan LEWIS (18 Gustavo GIRON MARULANDA 75’) - Subs not used: RGK Charlie PRTENJACA, 45 Sebastian HOOSHANGIAN – Referee: Shane Skinner
28.8.2021
SORRENTO EDGE OUT FLOREAT
A goal on the hour by Sorrento midfielder Ollie Annis has given third placed Gulls a 1-0 win against second placed Floreat Athena at Percy Doyle Reserve and secure a top four finals spot. “It was a scrappy game but we dug deep and scrapped out the win,” Annis said. “Floreat were up for it and created a few chances towards the end of the game, but we held on and on a personal note it was great to get on the scoresheet and secure a top four finish.”
The only goal of the game came when Jordan Brown’s long throw wasn’t dealt with and Ryan McLaughlin’s ball into the box found Annis, who ghosted in and finished low past Thomas Chudy, the win a perfect send off for retiring coach Steve Neville’s final home game. “Delighted with the resilience and character of the players to come away with the three points with a number of players out,” coach Jamie Harnwell said. “We worked extremely hard defensively and great to get another clean sheet.”
Sorrento: GK Connor CAMPBELL, 2 David STOKOE, 3 Daniel FAICHNEY, 4 Shaun KILKELLY, 7 Alex MORGAN, 10 Ollie ANNIS, 11 Tim HILL, 16 Ryan MCLAUGHLIN, 17 Dean CUMMINGS, 18 Jordan BROWN, 19 Jaxon TEMATA – Subs not used: RGK Matthew GIUDICATTI, 12 Joe TWEATS, 15 Tristan STEVENS, 20 Jordan ROBERTS, 21 Ethan BANKS
Floreat Athena: GK Thomas CHUDY, 2 Marco SANTALUCIA, 4 Ben STEELE, 6 Jesse FULLER, 8 Sean MCMANUS, 9 Robert HARDING, 10 Nick AMBROGIO, 13 George FESTA, 15 Chris SALDARIS, 18 Phil ARNOLD, 20 Andrew PALMER, 46’) - Subs not used: RGK Theodore SARRIS, 11 Dennis GALAN, 14 Ludovic BOI, 16 Kyle MURRAY, 40 Wesley CASIMIR– Referee: Tom Glavovic
28.8.2021
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE ROUND TWENTY – REVIEW
Our State League Division One ‘Match of the Round’ ended all-square, with Quinns and Fremantle City playing out a 1-1 draw at Gumblossom Park. Hayden Doyle gave the hosts the lead just after half time, his shot from the edge of the box finding the top corner. But Ben Hinshelwood levelled for the hosts 20 minutes from time, firing home from the angle. The hosts thought they had won it late Kade Fearnall finding the net, but goal was ruled offside, much to the disappointment of the hosts “I thought the first half we had the better chances and could have gone in a couple of goals up but Fremantle did well defensively,” Quinns defender Adam Tong said. “Great goal by Ben to get us back in the game and we thought we won it at the end but Kade’s goal was narrowly ruled offside, but probably a draw was a fair result in the end.”
The win sees Glenn Grostate’s side almost cement a top four finish, sitting six points clear of Fremantle in the top four, with only two games remaining. “It was a very entertaining game, and I thought it was a fairly even contest up to half time at 0-0, and we started the second half much brighter and deservedly went ahead,” Fremantle’s Matty Sparrow said. “I thought we looked very comfortable from then on after until we got caught on the break to pull it back level. Both teams looked to kick on to find a winner which we so badly needed to give us a glimmer of hope of sneaking into that top four but it wasn’t to be unfortunately. I can’t fault the players for their efforts and desire today but we need to learn how to be ruthless at both ends of the field. We now look to finish off the season well with two games remaining against Kingsway and Subiaco respectively.”
Champions Stirling Macedonia were presented with the trophy at Macedonia Park on Saturday evening, but Forrestfield United spoilt the party, scoring with the last action of the game to draw 2-2. “The game was entertaining from start to finish, and I thought we played very well in the first half and could have been three or four up,” Stirling striker Gavin Knight said. “But second half we took our foot off the gas and let them back in game, and with last kick of game they found the equaliser. But there are still two games remaining and we’re looking to win them both.”
The hosts were ahead on 32 minutes, Dhuors Chol found Knight on the left, and he brought the ball down well before curling it into the top corner of the net. It was 2-0 four minutes later, Luke Garas’ cross from the left hit the arm of Luqman Sayyed, and referee Steven Gregory pointed straight to the spot. Knight stepped up and found the bottom left-hand corner of the net. But the visitors found a lifeline just before half time, Jiddan Muhafidin ball sent Moses Macauley in on goal and he finished low past James Bosdet. Both sides had chances in an action-packed second half, in front of a bumper crowd, and the visitors’ chances of finding an equaliser looked lost when Mitch Crocker was sent off on 92 minutes, for an off the ball incident with Gyles Davies.
But three minutes later Forrestfield levelled, Rhys Loxley’s corner was headed home by Trent Kay to seal a point with the last action of the game. “I thought our performance warranted at least a draw even if it came with the last kick of the game,” Loxley said. “We created quite a few chances throughout the game, and whilst we rode our luck at times in the second half, we kept ourselves in the game and got our reward in the end. Take nothing away from Stirling though, they are league winners for a reason and have some outstanding players in their squad. Good luck to them in the NPLWA next season.”
Joondalup United remain third after a hard fought 1-0 win against UWA Nedlands at the UWA Sports Park. The only goal of the game came on 54 minutes, Jamie Gardiner’s cross to the back post was headed home by Andrew Flint, his first goal of the season. The hosts ended the game with ten men after Ivwananji Simbile was shown a second yellow card late by referee Stewart Beattie. “Another superb victory on the road, despite not being at our fluent best, Joondalup coach Nick Jennings said. “I felt we controlled the game from the start and were rewarded for our hard work with an overdue clean sheet and the three points.”
Swan United boosted their chances of survival with a 3-1 win against Subiaco at Rosalie Park. The visitors were ahead on 11 minutes, a poor back pass was pounced upon by Brennan Borzecki, at the third time of asking he fired home. But their lead only lasted three minutes, Oscar Barry’s quick free kick caught Swan napping and Lucas Munoz found the bottom corner of the net, via the post. But one minute before half time Dan Evans’ side regained the lead, Borzecki sent Deng Dut into the box, he beat two players before finishing low past Teophile Brown.
The black and whites sealed the valuable three points 14 minutes from time. Skipper James Shamim sent John Monterosso racing down the left, he cut inside his marker, rounded the keeper and fired home his ninth goal of the season. “It was a strong performance and obviously we are delighted with the three points against Subiaco,” Swan coach Dan Evans said. “With results going our way we are now two points clear of the automatic drop zone and importantly our destiny is back in our hands. Now our focus shifts to UWA at home next week and of course there is still everything to play for. It’s important we get our preparation right all week and if so, I’m confident we can get the job done at home.”
Ashfield drop to the bottom of the table after 3-1 defeat against Western Knights at the Acclaimed Catering Arena. It was the hosts who opened the scoring after only six minutes, James Sammut’s free kick was flicked on by Lewis Robinson and Joshua Tumoe shot was deflected past Sam Stone. But the Knights levelled 12 minutes later, Kurtiss Allen-Nash brought down Alex Kretowicz and referee Albert Muyembe pointed straight to the spot. Ciaran Byrne stepped up and converted the resulting penalty, his 24th goal of the season. The visitors hit the fron just after the half hour, Jack Rycroft picking out Kretowicz, whose shot on the turn flew past Jamie Serra.
The points were wrapped up on 78 minutes, Kretowicz crossing to the back post and Rycroft finished from close-range. Referee Albert Muyembe was a busy man late in the game, first he sent off Ashfield defender Zoran Vrteski, after an incident with Rycroft, before giving a second yellow card to Adam Harris after an off the ball incident, and a second yellow after the final whistle to Ashfield’s Isak Hlawnmual. “A good victory in the end but another slow start which caused us to go down an early goal,” Knights’ striker Ciaran Byrne said. “Ashfield battled well throughout the game but once we got settled, we found the equaliser and went on to win pretty comfortable in the end. It was disappointing to see Adam Harris see red, but we move on and try keep this winning momentum going leading into the top four.”
In the final game Olympic Kingsway closed the gap on Mandurah City on the table, after a 3-1 win at Kingsway Reserve. It was Mandurah who opened the scoring on 20 minutes, a poor back pass from Ronald Rixer was pounced upon by player/coach John Baird, who made mistake past Dave Keenan. But David Tough’s side were level on 34 minutes, Rene Kisesa and Harry Edwards combined to send Harry Evans in on goal and he out-muscled his marker and finished well past Alfie Brincat. Olympic were ahead five minutes later, Kisesa finding Asa Sippits down the right, and his chip flew over Brincat and into the net. They sealed the points ten minutes from time, some neat build up play ended with Evans, who finished well. Mandurah finished the game with ten men after referee David Avison sent Brincat off, after bringing down Gino Hampshire on the edge of the box.
“I thought it was a complete performance for 90 minutes, we kept the ball and created chances throughout what we’ve been working on in training with Toughy, Olympics’ Harry Evans explained. “It’s been an up and down season but yesterday we showed how good we can be when we want to be. We have a great bunch of players. On a personal note, it’s great to be back playing, scoring and firing on all cylinders again after a frustrating couple of injuries, we will look to finish the season strong in our next two games.”
28.8.2021
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO ROUND TWENTY – REVIEW
The week 19 State League Division Two ‘Match of the Round’ didn’t disappoint with Gosnells City keeping their top four finals hopes alive after a thrilling 3-2 win against second placed Kingsley Westside at Walter Padbury Reserve on Thursday evening. “It was a great win against a really good side,” Gosnells’ coach Marc Anthony said. “It gives us a chance of getting into the play offs, so very pleased with the performance.”
It was the hosts who opened the scoring against the run of play on 20 minutes, with Edward Wynne-Willson finding the target. But six minutes before half time Kingsley levelled, Lewis Flatt was picked out, unmarked in the box from a corner, and he made no mistake. The visitors hit the front ten minutes into the second half, Flatt cutting in from the flank, easing past his marker and finding the top corner of the net with a stunning strike. But Gosnells weren’t finished and found the equaliser, with Aden Hoddy finding the net from a corner. Both sides looked for the winner, but it was Gosnells that found it Conor Kavanagh scoring ten minutes from time to seal the three points.
“The lads were really up for the game on Thursday night as it would pretty much determine our season. We started off a bit slow and probably scored against the run of play,” Gosnells’ skipper Scott Pereira said. “The second half was much better and the boy’s response from going behind, which was great and showed great character. It was a great result for us and something to build on for the next few games to guarantee play offs” Kingsley coach Steven Dimitrovich said it was a fair result. “It was another tough high intensity game against Gosnells which was played at an unbelievable pace,” he said. “In the end they probably deserved the win as they had us pinned back for the last 15 minutes or so knowing they needed to win to keep their top four hopes alive.”
Champions Dianella White Eagles still remain unbeaten this season after a Bobby Wilson hat trick sealed a 3-0 win against Curtin University at Dianella Reserve on Saturday evening. “I think it was one of our overall stronger performances defensively as I think we limited them to one attempt on target all game,” Wilson said. “It didn’t quite fall for us going forward and the bounce just didn’t go our way on many occasions but on another day the score line could have been ten. It’s nice to score a hat-trick and help the team get another victory to push us towards our goal of going the whole season unbeaten.
“The whole club has been fantastic this year and the fans have been there every game supporting the boys and giving us that extra 10% we needed sometimes to get the result. It’s nice to give them what they deserve and that’s division one football. I have enjoyed every minute of football this year and a huge part it’s the club culture and support, two more games to go.” The hosts opened the scoring six minutes before the break, Kristian Despotovski whipped in a free kick to the back post and Wilson headed home. The former Floreat Athena defender add a second just after the hour mark, heading home Despotovski’s corner. He completed his hat-trick and sealed the points 14 minutes from time, Despotovski’s corner was headed onto the crossbar by Nikola Talimdzioski and Wilson was on hand to fire home the rebound. “The game was no different to any other game we went out there to win and to continue our good form and go the season undefeated,” Despotovski explained. “We went out with a new formation which we thought worked very well and we had a lot of possession and just played with enjoyment, we look forward to the next two weeks.”
Third placed Wanneroo City missed the opportunities to jump to second after they were beaten 3-0 by Joondalup City in the northern derby at Wanneroo Reserve. Joondalup were ahead just before the hour mark, with former ECU Joondalup defender Nick Koefler heading home a set-piece. They doubled their lead on 72 minutes, Matt Blake picking up a poor defence clearance and finding the net. The points were wrapped up four minutes later with Sam McCracken scoring from the spot. Some of the gloss was taken off the win when Koefler was sent off late by referee Lawson Rimmer. “Never an easy task to come to Wanneroo searching for a win but after a good display mid-week against Carramar (losing with the final kick of the game) we felt we could give Wanneroo a good go,” Coach Brad Haywood said.
“We had six under 20s players step up into the match day squad due to some injuries, suspensions and personal commitments and it’s a testament to the clubs’ strength and depth in quality young footballers. Nigel (Smith) and I couldn’t be happier with the response from the boys it’s been a tough year but the spirit and desire from the boys is still there and we want to finish as high up the table as we can. All in all, a great day for the club picking up a huge nine points on the road at top four side Wanneroo.”
Murdoch University Melville also missed an opportunity to move up the table after they were beaten 2-1 by Morley Windmills at Wotton Reserve. The hosts were ahead on the half hour, Ryan Treacey corner to the near post found Danny O'Shea, who beat his marker and his glancing header found the bottom corner. But MUM was level nine minutes later, Pat Sara finding the net. It looked like the points would be shared but deep into stoppage time Morley won it. A quick transition saw the ball played to skipper Leigh Morgan who beat his defender and slotted the ball across the keeper.
“The boys were disciplined defensively throughout and they had to be against a very well organised MUMFC side,” Antony Benetti said. “We were a bit unlucky to go in 1-1 all at half time but we addressed some areas at the break. Luke Hutcheson was outstanding in goal in the second half and it lifted the lads, despite being an arm wrestle in the second half we started to dominate the transitions and were confident of that second goal, so this was a game of character and these boys had it in spades.”
Balga continued their recent good form with a come from behind 2-1 win against already relegated Kelmscott Roos at Princess Road Reserve. The visitors lead at half time with George Ballah scoring three minutes before the break, but the host were guilty of missing a host of chances in the first half. But they levelled on the hour when Bleron Mamudi was fouled in the box and referee Sailota Phiri pointed to the spot, and the consequent penalty was converted by Weldu Tekeste. It took time to break down a fighting Kelmscott team, but the winner was scored by Enrico Anza three minutes from time on a counter attack, assisted by keeper Carlos Bervenotti.
“It is always difficult to play against a team that has nothing to lose after a relegation, every scrap of successful action will be taken as motivation if you are unable to score early as we were,” Balga coach Gerhard Janssen explained. “But the improvement of the team, with 17 points in the second round of the season until now, is expressed in the ability to keep going until the opponent finally breaks down.”
In the final game Shamrock Rovers beat Canning Coty 3-0 at Burrendah Reserve. Rovers were ahead midway through the first half, Tyler Holden scoring after Alex Radonich had saved Jack Bardsley shot. It was 2-0 early in the second half, skipper Callum Trayner scoring from a great Alan Reidy corner. They wrapped up the win 20 minutes from time, Holden scoring after a scramble in the box. “Happy with the win and the clean sheet, I thought we played well and deserved to win,” Rovers’ Ger Fitzgerald said. “We look forward to the Morley game next week and hopefully keep up our good form.”
27.8.2021
NPL-WA ROUND TWENTY ONE PREVIEW
We head into the penultimate week of the NPLWA and the title, top four and relegation spots are still up for grabs. In our ‘Match of the Round’ we head to Grindleford Reserve as Balcatta entertain Perth Glory (All game kick off at 3.00pm unless stated) Balcatta sit four points away from the drop zone and need a win to make sure of safety, while the Glory are in the top four bit have Inglewood and ECU Joondalup breathing down their neck, so three points are a must for them as well, so it should be great game.
Glory beat Rockingham City last week to sit in pole position for the top four and defender Aidan Coyne said the visitors made them earn the win. “It was a tough game and Rockingham did really well to keep us at bay,” he said. “But on another day, we could’ve taken a few more chances, but we’re working hard to keep improving, and I was happy as a defender to keep a clean sheet.”
Coyne said Balcatta will also be fighting to avoid the drop, and he is expecting another hard-fought game. “Our main goal is to keep improving and keep growing as a squad, and getting into the top four would be a bonus for our hard work,” the defender explained. “We know Balcatta away is always a tough game and we will treat with them with respect like every other team, but we will also have the same mindset and mentality we do every week.”
Balcatta coach Michael Johnson has been pleased with the way the side have rallied in recent weeks and he said last week's draw against Inglewood could have gone either way. “Both sides fought hard to gain control of a tight game and both created good chances, so in the end a draw was a fair result,” he said. “The lads have worked extremely hard on the training ground and the results of the past three games is just reward for their efforts. It’s three games unbeaten, and it gives us a foundation of belief going into the last two fixtures.”
Johnson, who took over the reins from Salv Todaro at the club last month, said Saturday’s game is massive for both sides, but all his side can do is take care of business and not worry about other results, but he is expecting a great game. “Both teams need the three points for very different reasons,” he said. “We will be looking to continue our good form, but we know Glory have a good structure. We can’t control what happens elsewhere, we just need to concentrate on our own game.”
There is another huge game is at SafeRad Stadium where Rockingham City host Perth SC. The hosts have to get three points and hope Balcatta slip up to keep their NPLW survival alive, while Perth need three points and hope Floreat slip up to win the title. Perth edged out Sorrento last week to take one step closer to a 24th league title, while Rockingham were beaten at Glory, and Coach Lee Taylor said they gave it everything. “We played reasonably well against Perth Glory and created a couple of early opportunities to score which we unfortunately didn’t take,” he said. “Although Glory had most of the chances the game was tight for large periods and if we could have been better in the final third, we could of took something from the game, the lads didn’t give up and we kept knocking on the door until the end but we didn’t get the result we wanted.
“I can’t fault the players commitment and attitude since the club made the change of the coach, we have managed to keep pretty much the full squad together other than a few long-term injuries which set us back a little. I think we’ve shown over the last seven games that the players can play and get results at this level, our form has probably been mid-table form. At the start of my reign my thoughts were we probably needed five wins from nine games and we have three of those so far, it’s clear to everyone that we need those extra two wins over the last two games for us to survive.”
Taylor said it doesn’t get any harder, with league leaders Perth visiting the SafeRad, but he said they will be up for the challenge. “It’s a huge game, Perth have been in excellent form for a while now and are at the top of the league for a reason. The last time we played them it was a close game and we ended up on the end of 1-0 defeat, only three points is good enough for us to this weekend to keep our season alive,” he explained. “No one outside of the club is expecting us to take anything from the game, but we have shown before this season that we can get a result when no expects us to. As you would expect we will put everything into the game on Saturday to get the result we need to hopefully take the fight into the last game of the season.”
In other games this weekend Floreat Athena will aim to take the title race to the final game of the season when they make the trip to Percy Doyle Reserve to take on third placed Sorrento. Inglewood welcome Gwelup Croatia to the Inglewood Stadium needing a win to keep their top four hopes alive, likewise ECU Joondalup who welcome the inform Bayswater City to the ECU Football Stadium, while it’s a local derby at Alfred Skeet Reserve as Armadale host Cockburn City.
27.8.2021
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE ROUND TWENTY – PREVIEW
It’s Week 20 of the State League Division One and our ‘Match of the Round’ is a huge clash at Gumblossom Park as Quinns entertain Fremantle City, with both sides pushing for a top four spot. (All games kick off at 3.00pm unless stated) The hosts are in pole position sitting six points ahead of Saturday’s visitors, but a win for Cameron Lord’s side could make things interesting in the final round. Fremantle let a lead slip last week against Western Knights, while Quinns came-from-behind to beat Swan and end a three-game run without a win, so three points are desperately need by both clubs.
Fremantle Coach Cameron Lord said he was disappointed with the loss against the Knights, but knows his players are up for the fight. “We disappointingly stopped playing the way we play and lost complete control of the game in the first half,” he said. “We found solutions to play our way in the second half but Knights were clinical in front of goal and they took the points.”
Lord, who led Rockingham to the NPL in his time at the club, knows Fremantle can still make the top four, and he said nothing less than three points are required on Saturday. “We will continue to fight until the end of the season for an opportunity in the top four, but we know this weekend is a must-win game,” he explained. “The instruction to the lads for Saturday is simple, we must win.”
Quinns Owen Goodliffe said the come-from-behind win against Swan was important, as both sides needed three points and either end of the table. “It was a massive three points for us and Swan put up a fantastic fight, you could tell both sides had a lot to play for but across the 90 minutes, but I thought we definitely deserved points,” he said. “It’s been a tough three weeks since I’ve arrived, but Glenn (Grostate) has been brilliant with us all, he’s not bagged us out or pointed fingers, he’s kept his door open and we’ve all spoke about what we needed to do to get out of this patch and thankfully we did Saturday.”
Goodliffe, who started the season at Gwelup in the NPL, said Saturday’s game is vital, and three points would seal their spot in the top four. “It’s been a really tough season and the top four spot is really ours to take. We aren’t looking at it like we need X number of points, we’re looking at it as if we’ve got five games until we’ve got a trophy which would be the perfect way to end this year,” he explained. “Fremantle are an excellent side with bags of experienced players, but we know what’s a stake and know that a win secures top four for us. We’ve been working hard and getting the system into place so that we can attack any team we come up against. It’s a great group of young players here so we’re just excited to hopefully get a positive result Saturday and then continue all the way into the finals.”
In other games this weekend champions Stirling Macedonia welcome Forrestfield United to Macedonia Park (5.30pm), Joondalup United make the trip to the UWA Sports Park to take on UWA Nedlands, while Mandurah City head up the Mitchell Freeway to take on Olympic Kingsway. In the final two games both Ashfield and Swan United need positive results to keep their survival hopes alive, with only one point separating the two sides at the foot of the table.
Ashfield host Western Knights at the Acclaimed Catering Arena, while Swan, who sit bottom of the table, travel to Rosalie Park and a win is vital. Defender Chris Marshall said they head into the game confident they can get the win. “Definitely disappointed not to get anything out of the game at Quinns last week, as I felt like we had chances there but couldn’t capitalise,” he said. “It will be a tough fixture away at Subiaco, but we have confidence in the side that we are capable of getting the win and will be going out for maximum points.”
27.8.2021
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO ROUND TWENTY – PREVIEW
We have reached Week 20 of the State League Division Two, and our ‘Match of the Round’ is tonight’s blockbuster between Gosnells City and Kingsley Westside at Walter Padbury Reserve. (7.00pm) The hosts have dropped off the pace in recent weeks, three games without a win leaving them four points off the top four, but they do have a game in hand. Kingsley sit second on goal difference after being held by Balga last week so three points are massive in this one under lights.
Gosnells skipper Scott Pereira missed the trip to Joondalup, but he said they deserved more than the point they returned with. “Last week was a difficult game for us always hard to go up there and get a result,” he said. “The boys struggled to get into the game in the first half and went into half time 1-0 down the second half was better and we started to get on top a bit in spells of the game and really could have won it at the end.”
The midfielder returns tonight and he said three points are a must. “The league is so tight and we knew that our poor start in the league could have affected us, that’s why the run of wins was so important,” Pereira explained. “It’s still important to get back to that in Thursday’s game against Kingsley, and it’s a massive game and really will decide our season. I know the boys will be up for it and will fight for one another to make sure we get the result.”
Kingsley Westside skipper Jayden Drummond said the draw at Balga last week was disappointing, but their form has been on the up after a mid-season slump. “We knew Balga were going to be tough, they are set up really well and all know their roles. We really should’ve been up 2-3 in the first half but just couldn’t finish, and unfortunately we conceded a penalty for them to share the points,” he explained. “The boys have been brilliant over the last 5-6 weeks. We suffered a couple defeats after such a good run and that halted us a bit, but we seem to slowly be picking up some momentum again which is good.”
Drummond said Thursday night football is different, but it doesn’t matter what day the game is played, three points will be massive. “Every game from now on in is huge for all four teams fighting for those three spots,” he said. “Gosnells gave us a hiding last time around at home, and it’s something that doesn’t sit well with us as a group, so the boys will be up and about to change the result this time around.”
There was a round 16 catch up game in midweek with Carramar Shamrock Rovers beating Joondalup City 2-1 at Wanneroo Reserve. Nick Koefler gave Joondalup the lead just before half time, but Alan Reidy levelled early in the second half. It looked like the points would be shared but in the third minute of stoppage time Reidy added his second to win it for Rovers.
In other games on Saturday, Champions Dianella White Eagles host Curtin University in the late game at Dianella Reserve (5.00pm), looking to continue their unbeaten season, while relegated Kelmscott Roos will be looking to end their final three games off well, starting with a trip to Princess Road Reserve to take on Balga. It’s a local derby at Wanneroo Reserve as Joondalup City meet Wanneroo City, while Canning City host Carramar Shamrock Rovers at Burrendah Reserve.
In the final game Murdoch University Melville will look to consolidate their top four spot when they visit Wotton Reserve to take on Morley Windmills. Morley drew at Curtin last week and will look for some home comforts on Saturday, while MUM was beaten for the first time in seven games by Wanneroo, and skipper Mark Lucas said it was a tight game. “Last Saturday was a close game and ultimately was decided by a penalty which was anything but clear cut,” he said. “Wanneroo are a very hard side to break down when they sit back and defend like they did. We didn’t think we deserved to lose and a draw would have been fair. We have a good belief and team spirit in our squad and have been in good form and were unlucky to lose last week. We will keep pushing and have put top four back in our own hands which wasn’t the case six weeks ago.”
Lucas said Morley have had the wood on them this season, and he hopes to turn that around on Saturday and press for a top four spot. “The game at Morley will be interesting as they have actually beaten us twice already this season, so we will look to turn this around. It’s always a good trip to Morley as we have some old friends there, so we will be looking to get the three points Saturday,” he explained, “The top four race will certainly have a few more twists and turns as it has over recent weeks and Kingsley, Wanneroo and Gosnells are all very good sides so will be a shame one has to miss out but we will be trying to make sure it isn’t us.”
27.8.2021
BELT UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION - ROUND NINETEEN PREVIEW
It’s week 19 of the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division and with only five games remaining the title and relegation spots are still not decided. In our ‘Match of the Round’ Joondalup United welcome Kwinana United to Beldon Park with both sides needing the points at either end of the table. Joondalup boosted their survival hopes with a win at Hamersley Rovers last week, which sent Rovers down. But Kwinana lost ground on the top two after losing narrowly to leaders South West Phoenix, so both need the points in this one so it sets up a cracking game.
Kwinana coach Mark Purvis said last week game was tight and could have gone either way. “Yes, it wasn’t the result we wanted but it was a tight game which could have gone either way and unfortunately we didn’t get anything from it,” he said. “There is still plenty of football to be played but whoever does win it will thoroughly deserve because this league is so tough.”
Purvis said Sunday’s opponents are fighting at the bottom of the table and he believes they don’t deserve to be there and is expecting a tough game. “Joondalup seem to be fighting down at the bottom but from our last game against them I think it’s a false position,” he explained. “I know they are well coached and are a very good side. Neil will have them ready to go for sure and we want to bounce back with a win so it’s set to be a belter of a game.”
Joondalup coach Neil Sherwin said the win last week was well deserved, and goes to show this league is tight. “The result was all that mattered against Hamersley, although it would have been nice to have a clean sheet to go with the three points. We’ve been more solid defensively in recent weeks and only conceded with the last kick of the game having gone down to ten men. It was an important result, as they all are at the moment,” he explained.
“The league proves time and time again that there is very little between most of the teams. We need a couple of favours over the next few weeks but that will only come into play if we keep doing our job by picking up points. We’ve improved a lot since the halfway point of the season and that needs to continue.”
Sherwin said they are looking forward to the challenge on Sunday, and they are ready to go. “Kwinana are one of the best teams we’ve played this season and we didn’t deserve anything from the reverse fixture,” he said. “But we’re a different side since that game three months ago and will go into the game focused on the job at hand. We’ve had a good week at training and the boys are keen to go again.”
In other games this weekend leaders South West Phoenix make the trip to Coker Park to take on Queens Park, in another game with ramifications in the title and relegation battle, likewise, second placed Maddington White City who travel to the UWA Sports Park to meet UWA Nedlands. Jaguar welcome Wembley Downs to the Herb Graham Recreation Centre, while Quinns host Hamersley Rovers at Gumblossom Park.
In the final game Leeming Strikers, who still need the points to avoid relegation, host North Perth United at John Connell Reserve. The visitors were held to a scoreless draw at UWA last week, but won in the Cup Semi-Final on Wednesday against Wembley. Leeming were edged out at Wembley last week, the defeat leaving them only four points off the drop zone, and player/coach David Palin said it was a game of two halves.
“Last week people got to see the good and the bad of us this season. First half we moved the ball with purpose, pressed high and recycled the ball well but second half we were slow getting up the pitch, gave the ball away a lot and couldn't find any rhythm in our play,” he explained. “It really was a chalk and cheese display from first half to second half that was the most disappointing part from Sunday that we couldn't put a 90-minute performance in after giving ourselves every chance to. “
Palin said Sunday will be tough but knows how important three points will be. “North Perth will be as tough as they get, we know what we will get from them but our focus is on how we plan to go about the game,” he said. “Like you say three points would be massive but it's more important that our focus goes on our performance individually and as a team if it's at a high level then that will be the deciding factor, if we are able to walk away with one or three points. It's tight at the bottom but we're still in a good position as we still have control of the situation, were not relying on favours from other teams which is good, so we will look forward to the challenge of playing North Perth this week.”
25.8.2021
ECU AND INGLEWOOD PLAY OUT A THRILLER
ECU Joondalup and Inglewood United are still in NPLWA top four mix, after the pair produced a thrilling 2-2 draw in Wednesday’s Round 14 catch up game at Dorrien Gardens. ECU were ahead on 11 minutes, Daryl Nicol’s free kick to the back post was knocked back by Luke Palmateer, and Danny Hodgson fired home from close-range for his 14th goal of the season. “It was entertaining game between two great attacking teams, and it could have gone either way as both teams were looking for a win,” Inglewood coach Andres Oliveira said. “I think both myself and Kenny would of came out this game saying we should have won, but really proud of our performance, I couldn’t ask any more effort from the players.”
Inglewood looked for an immediate response, and striker Robert Petkov cut in from the left, but his shot was well saved by the alert Joe Pollard, who was making his first start of the season. The visitors went close again on the half hour, Petkov’s flick sent Steve Sokol in on goal, but Pollard stood tall to deny him. It was end-to-end football and two minutes later Declan Hughes sent Hodgson down the left, he slipped Nicol into the penalty area, but his shot was well saved by Alex Dunn, who was making a return from a lengthy lay-off.
From the resulting Andy Higgins corner Palmateer looked as if he had doubled the Jacks lead, but Robert del Borrello cleared the ball off the line. But two minutes later Inglewood found the equaliser. Anthony Bafobusha’s free kick was knocked back across goal by Ajak Riak, Petkov’s shot was touched onto the bar by Pollard, but Sokol was quickest to react to fire home his 17th goal of the campaign. ECU looked to hit back, but Nicol couldn’t keep his header down from Hodgson’s cross and just before half time Pollard made a smart save to deny Bafobusha, but at the break it was all-square.
The visitors made the best possible start to the second half, taking the lead four minutes in. Sokol burst down the right and crossed to Riak, who scored via the post. But ECU weren’t finished and levelled three minutes later. Andy Higgins’ corner picked out Hughes, whose bullet-like header flew into the net. ECU and the crowd thought they had the lead again two minutes later. Sami Riak sent Nicol racing clear and the Scottish striker finished clinically past Dunn. But after consulting with his assistant referee Arvin Shanmuganathan disallowed the goal as the ball had struck him in the lead up, much to the displeasure of the ECU players and coaching staff.
After the disappointment ECU started to get on top and on the hour mark Higgins sent Nicol racing clear, but he was pulled back by Inglewood defender Mark Barnett, who was shown a yellow card, and was quite lucky not to see red, as Nicol was in on goal. Moments later Nicol’s corner found Hughes, whose shot was cleared off the line by Barnett, and Hodgson’s follow up shot was saved by Dunn. Moments later Higgins’ corner wasn’t dealt with and Hughes shot crashed off the post, before Nelson Tshongo’s cross was headed inches wide by Hodgson.
Still the goal wouldn’t come for ECU and 13 minutes from time second half substitute Ellis Healing’s long-range free kick was tipped onto the bar by Dunn. But Inglewood held firm and should have won it three minutes from time. Riak made space down the right and crossed to the unmarked Egide Ngendakumana. With the goal at his mercy, he fired straight at Pollard, before his second effort was superbly saved by the youngster, before Thiak Kuel fired his effort wide of the target, and both sides had to settle for a point. “I thought we started really well early in the first half but we let them back in the game off our mistakes,” ECU midfielder Sami Riak said. “But I have to say young Pollard made some world-class saves whenever Inglewood threatened so a draw in the end wasn’t a bad result, but it’s just very disappointing because we know we could do a lot better and win these types of games.”
ECU Joondalup: GK Joe POLLARD, 3 Nelson TSHONGO (14 Ellis HEALING 74’), 4 Declan HUGHES, 6 Sami RIAK (7 Oscar MALFIORE 86’), 8 Tom HOUGH, 9 Daryl NICOL, 10 Andy HIGGINS, 11 Riley WOODCOCK, 12 Jakub PRAJZA, 17 Danny HODGSON (13 Tommy AMPHLETT 88’), 18 Luke PALMATEER – Subs not used: RGK Isaac DRIESSEN, 16 Danny DOUGLAS
Inglewood United: GK Alex DUNN, 2 Alex ISHIDA-LIVINGS, 5 Thiak KUEL, 7 Ajak RIAK, 8 Jason BARRERA (6 Andres THEODOSIADES 63’), 9 Robert PETKOV (4 Scott BLACKMORE 74’), 10 Anthony BAFOBUSHA (11 Egide NGENDAKUMANU 74’), 12 Roberto Del BORRELLO, 13 Brodie LANGAN, 14 Steve SOKOL, 17 Mark BARNETT – Sub not used: RGK Josiah GODFREY, 15 Roberto SOARES - Referee: Arvin Shanmuganathan
25.8.2021
BELT-UP AMATEUR CUP SEMI-FINAL REVIEW
It was Belt-Up Amateur Cup Semi-Finals in midweek and in the first at Gerry Archer Sports Complex, Division One South Perth United ended the run of Division Two side Maccabi, winning 4-0. United made the perfect start and were ahead on seven minutes, good work down the left from John Philippidis and Scott Williams, saw Williams fouled close to the corner flag. Alex Godfrey whipped in a great set-piece which was headed home by George Stephens. They doubled their lead 13 minutes later, and it was Stephens again who scored, getting his 6”5 frame to slide in and beat the keeper from close range.
It was 3-0 on the hour, Williams’ corner was headed home by Jack Dalla Via, and they wrapped up the tie five minutes from time with a fourth. Substitutes Ben Godfrey and Callum Barry combined well, with Godfrey going one v one with the keeper before squaring the ball to Barry who slotted it away well on the outside the boot. “I was a little nervous going into the game after losing my centre back pairing due to suspension and injury, however the lads that came in did a fantastic job as did the whole squad,” South Perth coach Lee Haywood said
“I felt we dominated much of the game, in the first 30 minutes of the game Maccabi struggled to get out of their own half, although they did enjoy a good spell of possession in last 15 minutes of the first half with multiple corners but that was about it. The second half I felt we dominated again and got the 3rd goal which basically killed off the game, to Maccabi’s credit they kept their heads up and never stopped until the 90th minute.”
The second Semi-Final, was an all Belt Up Premier League clash with North Perth United running out 4-2 winners against Wembley Downs at E&D Litis Stadium. Wembley opened brightly and created a couple of good chances that thy failed to convert, with Todd Ross producing a smart save. But it was North Perth who opened the scoring, Scott Wrightson’s cross fumbled into his own net by the Wembley keeper. They doubled their lead before half time, David Houston taking on two defenders before cutting the ball back to Ben Cooper who slotted home.
Wembley were back in the game in the second half when James Kilbee fired home from the spot on the hour. But North Perth responded well with Robert Faulkner playing the ball to Alex Corner who found Wrightson on the left, he took the ball to bar line and crossed the ball back into the path of Corner who made it 3-1. They added a fourth when substitutes Simon El Chami and Andy O’Neill linking up well together, the latter running through and chipping the ball over the keeper from a tight angle. Wembley scored a late consolation goal with Kilbee racing clear and finishing well, but it was too little too late.
It was a great night for the club, both teams into the final and waiting on the metros prem team next week to make it three teams what would be an amazing achievement,” North Perth coach Luke O’Neill said. “We played very well in the first half, Wembley had the first 10 minutes and I’m happy we have Todd Ross in goals who made a great save to keep it 0-0 early on. It was a reaction we were looking for as the boys knew Sunday wasn’t acceptable. The lads put a great team performance in and worked hard till the final whistle, what was pleasing to see. We will enjoy it for a night and then our focus is on Sunday in the league.”
25.8.2021
GLORY TO STRENGTHEN ATTACK WITH SPANISH STRIKER SARDINERO
Perth Glory are on the verge of strengthening their attack, snaring the signature of former La Liga forward Adrian Sardinero. The 30-year old striker, who is currently with Greek Super League club OFI Crete, played for La Liga side Getafe, Spanish club Hercules, and Cypriot sides AEL Limassol and Apollon Limasol before moving to OFI last year.
Glory have been in talks with OFI for some time with reports from Greece suggesting the club rejected an initial bid for Sardinero. They returned with an improved offer and are expected to make an announcement in coming days. Sardinero will fill the international vacancy left by German defender Sebastian Langkamp, who did not return after an injury plagued season.
Glory are still talks with marquee midfielder Diego Castro who has not made a decision on extending his time in the A-League. The 38-year old, who has been at the club for six years, made no commitment about his future at the end of last season but coach Richard Garcia is keen to bring him back.
Meanwhile, defender Darryl Lachman is closer to re-joining training after being stranded in Amsterdam. He is currently quarantining in Adelaide before travelling to Perth. And new goalkeeper Brad Jones, who has been stuck in Saudi Arabia, is expected to arrive in Perth on Sunday to begin his quarantine.
22.8.2021
BELT UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION - ROUND EIGHTEEN REVIEW
The Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division title looks like going down to the wire after the top two sides, South West Phoenix and Maddington White City, both won their respective games in Week 18. In our ‘Match of the Round’ the Phoenix beat third placed Kwinana United in a tight encounter at Kelly Park on Sunday afternoon. “It was a tough game, Kwinana are very organised and pressure you quickly, we worked hard in the week to get used to that high pressure and it paid off,” Phoenix coach Nick Carter explained. “We’re just glad for the three points against an opposition as good as them.”
The visitors made the perfect start and were ahead after only four minutes, Rory Binnie bundled the ball home after his initial shot was saved by Ellis Roberts. But Kwinana, who were still in the title mix themselves, levelled on the half hour, with Glen Smith on target. The game was up for grabs with both sides having their chances, but it was the visitors who won it on 70 minutes. A corner was fumbled by Roberts and Ababio Bright was quickest to react and capped off an excellent performance by scoring to seal the victory. “It was a huge win for us, Kwinana have been in great form lately and creeping up the table so it was important that we came away with all three points,” Phoenix’s Lee Stewart said.
“It was a hard-working performance from the boys in a very tight game. We had to scrap for everything and there was a feeling a goal could separate the teams with so much on the line and thankfully we managed to get it. Jamie (Oakey) came up big for us again with a couple great saves at 1-1, we were then able to get that important goal and defended very well to secure the win. Another win on the board but with five games to go there’s still a lot of football to be played and we will prepare to travel away again this week to Queens Park.”
Maddington sit one point behind them after a convincing 4-0 win against fourth placed Quinns at Nikola Tesla Reserve. This one wasn’t for the faint-hearted with both sides desperate for the three points, and it was the hosts who found the opener on the half hour, skipper George Burke scoring. Jose Zuniga doubled their advantage nine minutes before half time, but they were then reduced to ten-men after Burke was shown a red card by referee Peter Kaiser.
The official was in for a busy second half, first Quinns Thomas Ashworth was sent off on 56 minutes, and Maddington added a third goal five minutes later with Samir Ramos firing home from the spot for his 15th goal of the season. It was 4-0 five minutes later, with Zuniga adding his second and 12th goal of the campaign. The hosts were then reduced to nine men on 81 minutes after Ramos was sent off, but Quinns were soon also down to nine after Connor McCready was sent off, but it was Maddington taking the points at the final whistle.
“We knew we made a mistake drawing with Joondalup the previous weekend, but it is also clear that this is how amateur leagues work, anything can happen,” Maddington midfielder Alejandro Sarria explained. “For now, we are happy since we have been undefeated in eight games, and even with the possibility of becoming champions. Against Quinns it was not an easy game due to the expulsions, however we managed to get a very good result and take the three points, and with five games left, we will give everything in every game.”
Joondalup United had an important win in their hopes of avoiding relegation after they beat Hamersley Rovers 2-1 win on Friday night at Carine Open Space. The hosts opened brightly and created some good chances, but it was Joondalup who opened the scoring. Adam Taylor found space in the penalty area and he rolled the ball into the bottom corner of the net. Both sides had chances as Hamersley hit the crossbar with a header and Taylor had a shot saved.
But it was Joondalup who doubled their lead when Taylor's corner was dropped by the Hamersley goalkeeper Liam Barclay and Curtis Wreglesworth was on hand to score at the back post. The second half was end-to-end and United keeper Patrick Lawless made an excellent low save to keep the two-goal lead. Wreglesworth tried his luck from outside the box but his shot was well held by Barclay, but the visitors played out the closing stages with ten men due to injury and Hamersley pulled a goal back with the last kick of the game.
"We're satisfied with the win against a good Hamersley side who were very dangerous in the final third. The early goal helped us settle but we rode our luck at times and picked up a few injuries that didn't help matters as the game wore on,” Joondalup coach Neil Sherwin explained. “It was far from a polished performance however we've played better this season and lost. Getting three points is all I'm concerned about at the moment so we'll take it and move to another big game this weekend."
Wembley Downs moved up to sixth after beating Leeming Strikers 2-1 at Butlers Reserve. The Strikers were ahead on 19 minutes, with Reece Terry scoring his first goal of the season. But eight minutes into the second half the hosts levelled with James Kilbee on target. But Wembley won it just after the hour mark, with the unfortunate Terry also scoring an own goal to give Anthony Cochrane’s side the points.
"It was a cagey game, and Leeming played well and were deserving of taking the lead. We struggled to deal with their movement and physicality early on,” the Wembley coach explained. “Second half we got a bit more control of the game, played some good football before equalising and then taking the lead. Most of all I'm happy we got through the game without any injuries or suspensions and now we can focus on our Amateur Cup Semi-final against North Perth at E&D Litis Stadium on Wednesday evening (Kick off 8.15pm)."
The final games of the round ended in 0-0 draws. First at Herb Graham Recreation Centre Jaguar and Queens Park both had chances, but keepers Michael Dudek and Tom Livingstone couldn’t be beaten, the point leaving Jaguar in eighth, with Queens Park in tenth. “The game was played mostly in good Coach Ricardo Fynn said. “We had a few opportunities to win it after going through on goal three times in the second and wasting them all. We were awarded a penalty with five minutes left on the clock and wasted the chance by kicking wide and not even working the keeper. At the end of the day a draw was probably a fair result with Jags creating chances and also not taking their opportunities, and for 90 minutes it felt like either side could get a goal but it wasn't meant to be.”
Finally in the early Sunday game at Woodville Reserve North Perth United and UWA Nedlands couldn’t be separated, the point leaving North Perth fifth, and UWA seventh respectively. “It wasn’t a great a game of football for the neutrals, we had a few good opportunities to score but couldn’t find the net, while UWA worked hard and were well organised,” North Perth coach Luke O’Neill said. “It’s a game I’d like to quickly forget and move on and look forward to the next one, hopefully we can start performing well again.”
21.8.2021
PERTH CLOSE IN ON THE TITLE
The title race is still up for grabs in the NPLWA after another exciting weekend of football. In our ‘Match of the Round’ top of the table Perth SC maintained the three-point lead after a hard fought 2-0 win against Sorrento at Dorrien Gardens. “That was one very difficult game and a tightly contested encounter, credit to Sorrento because they have been a solid side the entire second round,” Perth coach Ramon Falzon explained.
“The first half was quite balanced and both teams did not manage to create any clear-cut chances to score. In such tight contests, usually it is individual brilliance that breaks the deadlock and we managed to do that through a well-executed counter attack. Quite obviously they responded by committing more players forward in the final minutes of the game, however we managed to secure the three points through a brilliantly executed free kick, it was good to see our players getting rewarded for a good performance.”
Both sides had half chances in a tight first half, Chris Jackson headed over the top for the Gulls, before Calvin Whitney’s curling shot was well saved by Matthew Giudicatti. The Sorrento custodian then got down well to push Kristian Santich’s long-range shot around the post. But the hosts hit the front on the hour mark, Lachlan Byrd made a great interception and found Whitney, who sent Jayden Gorman racing down the right and he crossed to the back post to Michael Domfeh who swept the ball home for his ninth goal of the season.
Sorrento looked to hit back and substitute Daniel Faichney was sent into the box by Alex Morgan, but Byrd got back with a great last-ditch tackle to deny him. Perth sealed the points three minutes from time, Gorman was brought down on the edge of the box by Ollie Annis and Whitney fired home the resulting free kick into the top corner. “It was a tough tight contest in trying conditions,” Perth keeper Ryan Montgomery said. “We knew they were going to come out of the blocks, but credit to the boys for weathering the storm and sticking to the game plan to get the result we needed. I thought we defended well when we needed to and took our chances when they come.”
Perth SC: GK Ryan MONTGOMERY, 2 Alex SILLA, 4 Lachlan BYRD, 6 Nik MCDONALD, 10 Michael DOMFEH (11 Yagoub MUSTAFA 72’), 13 Calvin WHITNEY, 15 Will GORDON, 16 Kieran COLWELL, 19 Ben RADINOVIC, 21 Jayden GORMAN, 22 Kristian SANTICH (18 Federico ACHILLI 88’) – Subs not used: RGK Adrian SINAGRA, 12 Emerson ALEXIS, 17 Aiden FORMSTON
Sorrento: GK Matthew GIUDICATTI, 2 David STOKOE, 4 Shaun KILKELLY (21 Ethan BANKS 88’), 6 Chris JACKSON, 7 Alex MORGAN (15 Tristan STEVENS 88’), 10 Ollie ANNIS, 11 Tim HILL (12 Joe TWEATS 83’), 16 Ryan MCLAUGHLIN, 17 Dean CUMMINGS, 18 Jordan BROWN, 19 Jaxon TEMATA (3 Daniel FAICHNEY 71’) – Subs not used: RGK Patrick HUGHES – Referee: Steven Gregory
21.8.2021
FLOREAT STILL IN THE TITLE MIX
Floreat Athena are still in the title mix after beating a ten-man ECU Joondalup 2-0 at E&D Litis Stadium. “It was a very important game for us as we had to win to keep pace with Perth, and I felt we were very professional in our performance and controlled the game creating some great opportunities in the first half,” Floreat coach Vas Vujacic explained. “The red card was going to make it difficult for ECU but at the same time can be tricky for us to maintain a high level and ECU have the quality to hurt you, but we continued to create opportunities and were rewarded with a penalty and goal very late on.”
The hosts dominated early with Sean McManus a constant threat, and he went close to the opener on 27 minutes. Jesse Fuller won possession in the middle of the park and he slipped in McManus down the left, his shot on the run whistled inches past the far post. But five minutes before half time Joondalup were reduced to ten men after former Wellington Phoenix defender Ryan Lowry was shown a straight red card by referee David Bruce after a tackle on McManus. The referee deemed the defender to be the last man, but with two Jacks players in front of McManus it looked a little harsh.
But on 62 minutes it was the hosts who took the lead. A under hit back pass from Shane Cassidy was pounced upon by Robert Harding and he was brought down by Johnny Perkins, and Fuller stepped up to take the resulting penalty and sent Perkins the wrong way to give the hosts the lead. Perkins was replaced soon after, by Joe Pollard after injuring his leg. The young Jacks keeper was soon in the action tipping over Fuller’s long-range shot, and moments later he denied McManus, then produced a stunning reaction save to thwart Ambrogio.
But he was finally beaten in the third minute of stoppage time as Floreat scored a second to seal the points. Wesley Casimir, who had only been on the pitch sixty seconds, raced down the right and whipped in a cross to the back post and Ambrogio headed home from close-range. “It’s always tough playing against ECU, they keep the ball well so you have to be patient and disciplined and take your chances when they come,” Floreat striker Ambrogio said. “Credit to the lads on the work rate and defensive discipline, and we were compact from front to back, with the back four barely giving them a sniff at goal. Good to come away with a clean sheet and three points.”
Floreat Athena: GK Jason SALDARIS, 2 Marco SANTALUCIA, 4 Ben STEELE, 6 Jesse FULLER, 8 Sean MCMANUS, 9 Robert HARDING (12 Wesley CASIMIR 91’), 10 Nick AMBROGIO (16 Kyle MURRAY 94’), 13 George FESTA, 15 Chris SALDARIS, 20 Andrew PALMER, 21 Ethan MOM (14 Ludovic BOI 46’) - Subs not used: RGK Theodore SARRIS, 19 Laat MATHIANG
ECU Joondalup: GK Johnny PERKINS (RGK Joe POLLARD 73’), 5 Ryan LOWRY, 6 Sami RIAK, 8 Tom HOUGH, 9 Daryl NICOL, 10 Andy HIGGINS, 11 Riley WOODCOCK (13 Tommy AMPHLETT 84’), 12 Jakub PRAJZA, 16 Shane CASSIDY, 17 Danny HODGSON, 18 Luke PALMATEER – Subs not used: 3 Nelson TSHONGO, 7 Oscar MALFIORE, 15 Jason PETRIE – Referee David Bruce
21.8.2021
GLORY IN POLE POSITION FOR TOP FOUR SPOT
Perth Glory have made a huge step towards the top four finals after a 2-0 win against Rockingham City at Crazy Domains Stadium, Hartfield Park on Saturday evening. “At times we played some very dynamic and attractive football against a very resolute and tough Rockingham side,” Glory coach Ruben Zadkovich said. “We created more than enough to win the game by five or six, but credit to them they dug in and didn’t give in. We are not the finished article, and we’ll continue to refine, and add layers to our game and look to improve in the coming weeks.”
Rockingham veteran Cyril Sharrock was in superb form in this one, and he got down well to deny Ciaran Bramwell early, but he was beaten on 20 minutes. After sustained pressure from the hosts skipper Giordano Colli slipped Bramwell into the box on the right and held off his marker before finishing low past Sharrock. The Rockingham custodian then denied Colli, Bramwell and Adam Zimarino as the Glory dominated, but they only trailed by the one goal at the break. Big striker Joshua Anasmo rattled the crossbar early in the second half as Glory looked to kill the game off and it duly arrived on the hour.
Charlie Leech found Colli on the edge of the box and he slid in Zimarino who made mistake. Substitute Andrew Maranta came close to adding a third late, but he fired inches over the bar following another sweeping move from the hosts. Glory are three points clear of Inglewood having played a game more, but defeat for Rockingham leaves them four points adrift with two matches to play.
“I thought it was a good performance for us, and we had control of the game for most of the 90 minutes,” Glory striker Bramwell said. “We created good chances and perhaps could’ve been a bit more clinical and decisive in the final third. But defensively I thought we limited them to few chances and to pick up another clean sheet is always a positive.”
Perth Glory: GK Cameron COOK, 3 Jacob MUIR, 4 Aidan COYNE, 5 Joseph FORDE, 6 Chris DONNELL, 8 Charlie LEECH (15 Aiden EDWARDS 72’), 9 Ciaran BRAMWELL (7 Andrew MARANTA 85’), 10 Giordano COLLI, 11 Adam ZIMARINO, 17 Joshua ANASMO (18 Tyler VECCHIO 67’), 22 Josh RAWLINS (12 Jack PAINTER-ANDREWS 46’) - Subs not used: RGK Sam REILLY
Rockingham City: GK Cyril SHARROCK, 2 Ian NG (11 Mustafa MKANZA 89’), 6 Harry BOLAN, 7 Feisal ZAW, 9 Christos VAENAS (13 Nathan NG 60’), 10 Luke COLLINS, 14 Robbie GALVIN, 15 Declan COLLINS (28 Harvey HANCOCK 65’), 19 Noah WITTSTROM LEA (18 Sam FOSTER 89’), 20 Dylan ROGERS, 21 Joseph MOSS - Subs not used: RGK Bradley STOUT – Referee: Matthew Southern
21.8.2021
INGLEWOOD SLIP UP AT BALCATTA
Inglewood United lost ground in their search for a top four spot after drawing 2-2 with Balcatta at Grindleford Reserve. “Given the effort we put up to try find a winner were all pretty gutted to come away with only a point,” Inglewood defender Alex Ishida-Livings said. “On another day we might have scored three or four in the first half. We'll need to show the same desire again on Wednesday against ECU in our catch-up game if we want to make top four.”
The visitors were ahead on 15 minutes, Mark Barnett’s diagonal pass sent Steve Sokol down the right, his low cross was turned home by Robert Petkov for his ninth goal of the season. It was nearly two for the visitors, but Ajak Riak was denied by a stunning save from former Newcastle Jets keeper Lewis Italiano. That save was rewarded on 27 minutes when Balcatta levelled. Skipper Callum O’Connell’s in-swinging corner was headed home by Hristijan Jankuloski from close-range.
It got better for the hosts ten minutes later when they added a second. Amir Ajan cross wasn’t dealt with and the ball fell to Nick Walsh who slammed the ball home from six meters for his first goal for the club after joining from Perth Glory. But Inglewood levelled just after the hour, Petkov returning the favour to Sokol, sending the striker in on goal and he fired low past Italiano for his 16th goal of the season and three goals clear in the race for the Golden Boot.
Both sides pressed for the winner but had to settle for a point. “I thought we played quite well for large parts of the game and deservedly got ourselves into the lead,” Balcatta defender Nick Walsh said. “Unfortunately, we dropped off in the second half and let Inglewood back into the game, and I thought in the end a draw was a fair result.”
Balcatta: GK Lewis ITALIANO, 2 Joe MARINO, 4 Calum O'CONNELL, 5 Hristijan JANKULOSKI, 7 Amir AJAN, 10 Jon CORNESS, 11 Elliot TATTERSALL, 13 Anthony TOPINI, 14 Luke ALESSANDRINO, 15 Nick WALSH, 22 Michael SCAFETTA (73’) - Subs not used: RGK Sebastian MEDICA, 12 David PERICH, 17 Matthew ALESSANDRINO, 21 Nicholas BURMEJ, 23 Luke HEWINGS
Inglewood United: GK Josiah GODFREY, 2 Alex ISHIDA-LIVINGS, 5 Thiak KUEL, 7 Ajak RIAK, 8 Jason BARRERA, 9 Robert PETKOV, 10 Anthony BAFOBUSHA, 12 Roberto Del BORRELLO, 13 Brodie LANGAN, 14 Steve SOKOL, 17 Mark BARNETT – Sub not used: RGK Jack LANGLEY, 4 Scott BLACKMORE, 6 Andres THEODOSIADES, 11 Egide NGENDAKUMANU, 15 Roberto SOARES – Referee: Tom Glavovic
21.8.2021
BAYSWATER MAKE IT THREE WINS ON THE BOUNCE
Bayswater City have continued their good end of season form after a 3-2 win against Armadale in front of the ‘Gerry Maio Stand’ at Frank Drago Reserve. “Great to make it three wins on the bounce, and I thought we played some good stuff at times, and we’re always a threat and deserved the three points,” Bayswater striker Gordon Smith explained. “Although we made it hard for ourselves in the end, but we now look forward to ending the season strong against two tough opposition.”
The hosts were on the front foot early and lively striker Cherno Bah was denied by alert Bayswater custodian Liam Driscoll. But it was the hosts who opened the scoring on 14 minutes. Zayd Farah sent Fraser Dunlop down the right and his cross was volleyed home by Smith. But Armadale hit back and levelled five minutes later, Bayswater failed to clear their lines and Bah slipped in Pieter Jacobsz who fired home at the near post. But four minutes before half time Bayswater regained the lead, Jack Allen won possession in the middle of the park and his through ball was missed by Andy Reale and it left Ndumba Makeche racing in on goal and he finished clinically past Michael Craggs.
The points looked safe just after the hour mark when the hosts added a third. Jason mirco’s free kick was headed down by Allen and Smith volleyed home his tenth goal of the season. But John O’Reilly’s side weren’t finished and they pulled one back two minutes from time. Angel Andres’ corner was headed home at the back post by former Bayswater defender Reale. It set up a frantic finale and Farah was then sent off after an off the ball incident with Adriano Jelenovic, and from the resulting free kick Andres shot was saved low by Driscoll, but the hosts hung on to claim all three points.
“It was an important victory for us, we have struggled to find some consistency this year and coming off back-to-back victories we set the task of getting our third win in a row,” Bayswater midfielder Mirco said. “As always Armadale made the day difficult for us to settle and get in our rhythm, but credit to the boys we kept the pressure on and got our rewards. Ndumba and Goggsy are looking more and more dangerous the more they play together and I think we’ll start to cause teams some serious trouble in the run home.”
Bayswater City: GK Liam DRISCOLL, 2 Lucas COOK, 3 Jack ALLEN, 4 Michael ZIMARINO (22 Luke SALMON 87’), 7 Ndumba MAKECHE, 8 Gordon SMITH, 10 Jason MIRCO, 13 Jordan ABRAHAMS, 18 Fraser DUNLOP (29 Tyler GARNER 55’), 26 Zayd FARAH 28 Konstantinos SPARTA – Subs not used: RGK Nic SPECA, 5 Albert FULLARD, 23 Daniel KATZ - Red Card: Farah 90’
Armadale: GK Michael CRAGGS, 3 Andy REALE, 6 Joel SANDERSON, 7 Cherno BAH, 8 Brian PATTERSON (9 Angel ANDRES 69’), 12 Callum MELLOWSHIP (18 Kevin ASHWOOD 85’), 13 Nathan COSTELLO, 14 Blake ADAMS (11 Chad NILSON 64’), 16 Adriano JELENOVIC, 19 Vladimir NAUMOVSKI (10 Isaac KOOMSON 60’), 35 Pieter JACOBSZ – Subs not used: RGK Yousri GHARSALLAH – Referee: Stewart Beattie
21.8.2021
POINTS SHARED AT COCKBURN
Cockburn City and Gwelup Croatia have shared the spoils after a 1-1 draw at Dalmatinac Park. “I thought we played very well, we moved the ball around very nicely and created some really good chances,” Cockburn striker Anthony Skorich said. “Jesse scored a great free kick to get us back in the game and to be honest I should have scored another two with some great service from wide. The last half of the season has been very promising and even though we will not play finals this year I think it’s looking very promising going into next season.”
The visitors hit the front on 13 minutes, Declan Hargreaves’ corner from the left was headed home by Hasani Sinclair against his former club. Moments later Skorich’s header crashed off the woodwork, before Shubham Mokala’s curling effort flashed inches wide of the post at the other end. Sinclair went close to a second on the half hour, getting to Thomas Soutgate’s cross before keeper Ben Radonich, but he headed just wide. Both sides had late chances, Gwelup youngster Max Thorniley, who was making his first team starting debut, saw his shot on the run roll inches past the far post, before Daniel Robinson saw his shot whistle over the top.
Gwelup had the ball in the net again on 54 minutes, Ethan Brooks burst down the right and his low cross was turned home by Jon Stynes, but his celebration was cut short with the flag up for offside. But two minutes later it was the hosts who found the equaliser. Skorich was fouled on the edge of the box by Gwelup skipper Blair Govan and Jesse Lazzaro curled the ball up and over the wall and into the corner of the net. Both sides looked for the winner but had to settle for a point.
Gwelup are five points clear of Rockingham at the bottom and one point from their final two games will be enough to ensure they stay up given their superior goal difference. “I thought we started very well considering there was 2-3 first team debuts in our side,” Gwelup midfielder Declan Hargreaves said. “Both teams had very good chances to win it, but it wasn’t meant to be.”
Cockburn City: GK Ben RADONICH, 3 Daniel DOLS, 4 Euen GRANT, 8 Cameron EDWARDS, 9 Anthony SKORICH, 12 Sebastian DA SILVA, 16 Ali GHOLAMI, 17 Fanuel DAWIT, 21 Jesse LAZZARO, 22 Daniel ROBINSON, 25 Breckan BAKER – Subs not used: RGK Ryan BARKER, 6 Ismail HAJI, 14 David Dos SANTOS, 19 Sam COOK, 20 Alessandro BASTO
Gwelup Croatia: GK Ben RATAJCZAK, 4 Tom SOUTHGATE, 5 Blair GOVAN, 6 Declan HARGREAVES, 8 Jon STYNES, 11 Ethan BROOKS, 12 Hasani SINCLAIR, 14 Shubham MOKALA (18 Gustavo GIRON MARULANDA 68’), 20 Sam MITCHINSON, 30 Max THORNILEY (2 Ciaran SALINGER 61’), 35 Dejan LEWIS (7 Brent GRIFFITHS 94’) - Subs not used: RGK Joshua TOWIE, 45 Sebastian HOOSHANGIAN – Referee: Josh Mannella
21.8.2021
DONNELL STUNNED BY MANDURAH DEPARTURE
Mandurah City former coach Kris Donnell was stunned after he was told his services weren’t required, this after being told he had the job next season. The 36-year-old has been at the Dolphins as co-coach with Pete Taylor this season and they have overseen the transition of players, and they sit seventh on the ladder.
Donnell said it was a huge disappointment. “The club spoke to me two weeks ago and offered me the position again for next season,” he explained. “But then last week I was advised the club were going to advertise the position, and it was a real kick in the guts to me, so I decided to walk. I wish the club all the best in future, but still feel the whole situation was dealt poorly by the clubs hierarchy.”
Donnell, who was a successful coach at Kwinana United before heading to Mandurah said he will take time away from the game, but is hoping to return in the future. “I’ll take some time away from football, but anyone who knows me know I love the game and this disappointment has only given me the motivation to get back in to the game again,” he said. “So, I’ll have a few months to recharge the batteries and see what is on offer, football hasn’t seen the last of me.”
21.8.2021
MANDURAH ANNOUNCE NEW COACH FOR 2022
Mandurah City have appointed John Baird as first team Head Coach/player for 2022. “John’s technical ability, professionalism and overall football knowledge is immense and we are really pleased to have him onboard,” a club spokesman said. “For the remainder of the season Pete Taylor will be the Head Coach for the 1st Team and be supported by John. This will provide continuity to the playing group and we would like to recognise the commitment that Pete shows week in week out, he is a true clubman.
“Finally, this week Kris Donnell decided to step down from the club. We would like to acknowledge the tremendous effort and contribution Kris has made during his time at the club and wish him well with his future footballing endeavours.” Mandurah President Nigel Mann added. “We are so lucky to have such a highly qualified coach in John Baird at our club, he is a UEFA A licence qualified coach. We have had quite a few clubs have been circling around John for a while to get him to join them in a playing and coaching role.
“Being President I had the duty to our Junior and Senior players and members to secure John in his new role at MCFC and not lose a good clubman, player and now head coach of our club, our future is bright and with some good young players coming through Bairdy will bring the best out of them and provide them with the best chance possible to further their ambitions. On behalf of the Committee and our Members I want to thank Kris and Pete for their commitment and hard work they have given over the last 2 years at the Club"
21.8.2021
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE ROUND NINETEEN – REVIEW
Week 19 of the State League Division One is done and dusted, and in our ‘Match of the Round’ Forrestfield United and Subiaco have played out a 1-1 draw at Rosalie Park. “It was an end-to-end game, on a very tough surface with not many chances created either end,” Forrestfield’s Tarek Atta said. “It felt a scrappy game that we had to just grind out till the final whistle.” The visitors were ahead in the shadows of half time, when referee Joshua Nixon spotted a foul on Dan Corbett in the box and pointed to the spot. Skipper Rhys Loxley stepped up and sent Teophile Brown the wrong way from the penalty.
But the hosts levelled just after the hour mark with a penalty of their own. Ben Campbell was brought down by Luqman Sayyed and Elliot Ireland stepped up and scored from the resulting penalty, despite Luke Martino getting a hand to it. “Another step in the right direction for us against an experienced Forrestfield side,” Subiaco skipper Ben Johns said. “Although we’re disappointed not to get the three points after we dominated for large portions of the game but couldn’t take our chances, but we move on to Swan next week.”
The Champions Stirling Lions scored late to draw 3-3 against UWA Nedlands at the UWA Sports Park. It looked business as usual as the visitors hit the front after only six minutes, Sam Wynne firing home after being picked out by Shay Donovan. It was 2-0 to Stirling on the half hour when Luke Garas was brought down in the box by Bryce Conway, and Garas picked himself up to score from the spot. But three minutes before half time UWA pulled one back, Dhamon Kalamaras raced down the right, his cross was headed down by Conway and Ivwananji Simbile volleyed home.
The hosts were level on 56 minutes, a deflected shot looped up into the box and Simbile challenged James Bosdet, the ball falling to Kalamaras who finished from close-range. Then on 75 minutes UWA hit the front, Sam Moffatt sent Kalamaras racing clear, he rounded the on-coming Bosdet and laid it off to second half substitute Sam Kent and he rolled the ball into an empty net. It looked like UWA would hang on to the points and the Champions would leave empty handed, but second half substitute Gavin Knight had other ideas. Dhuors Chol’s ball into box wasn’t dealt and Knight pounced a poor defensive header and he made no mistake for his 18th goal of the season.
Western Knights maintained second spot on the ladder after a come from behind 2-1 win against Fremantle City at Hilton Park. The hosts were ahead after only four minutes, Matty Sparrow’s free kick was headed home by Thomas Kinnane. But the Knights levelled on 32 minutes, Ciaran Byrne raced into the box and his cross wasn’t dealt with and Alex Kretowicz nipped into finish. The visitors secured all three points 14 minutes from time. John Chalmers long ball sent Byrne in on goal and he won the ball off the on-coming keeper and rolled the ball into an empty net for his 24th goal of the season, despite a tackle from defender Hayden Stevens. “I thought we played really well, although disappointing to concede so early, but we didn’t panic and played our style,” Knights coach Ivan Zuvela said. “We created a number of chances but lacked composure in the final third, but we were rewarded with two goals and got the win.”
Joondalup United are hot on the heels of the Knights after a 2-1 win against Olympic Kingsway at Kingsway Reserve. “A fantastic team performance from the boys throughout, but particularly in the second half, when down to 10 men we showed great commitment, desire and above all else quality,” United coach Nick Jennings said. “It was a well-deserved victory and it keeps our winning run going.” They had to come from behind as well, when the hosts made the best possible start and were ahead after only three minutes. Harry Evans’ free kick was turned home by Asa Sippits at the back post. But United levelled midway through the first half, Jamie Gardiner sent Joel Prout into the left of the penalty area, his cross shot was saved by David Keenan, but the rebound fell to Brad McDonald who fired home from five meters.
United were reduced to ten men on the stoke of half time, after Joel Sollitt shown a second yellow card by referee Peter Kaiser after a tackle on Ronald Rixer. But the ten men held firm and won it four minutes from time. James Oldroyd was brought down by Chris Balazs 20 meters from goal and Jay Lang curled the resulting free kick into the top corner to seal the win. “I felt that we were the better side throughout the game even with 10 men in the second half,” Lang explained. “We limited them to very few chances and always looked threatening ourselves at the other end. The boys put in an incredible amount of work during the 90 minutes and we got our rewards at the end with the winning goal.”
Mandurah City turbulent week ended on a high after a 3-0 win against Ashfield at Acclaimed Catering Arena. With the departure of Kris Donnell in the week, new player/coach John Baird took control of his first game and on the hour, he was brought down by Zoran Vrteski and referee Ammar Timour pointed straight to the spot. Baird picked himself up and sent Jamie Serra the wrong way from the resulting penalty. They added a second six minutes later, Baird finding Craig Barker who found the bottom corner of the net from the edge of the box. They sealed the three points on 72 minutes, Taylor Carter racing into the box and finishing clinically past Serra. “Delighted with the performance, massive credit to Peter who sorted the team all week in difficult times,” Baird explained. “Obviously, the boys have responded really well this week and all credit has to go Pete and the boys.”
In the final game Swan United chances of staying up took a hit when they were beaten 2-1 by Quinns at Gumblossom Park. Dan Evans’ side did take the lead in this one on 16 minutes, John Monterosso was brought down in the box by Jackson Dongray and referee Lawson Rimmer pointed straight to the spot. Deng Dut stepped up and sent Patrick Stephenson the wrong way from the resulting penalty. But Quinns, who were desperate for a win after three games without one, hit back on the half hour. Liam Hudson made space down the right and crossed to the back post and Ben Hinshelwood headed home his 17th goal of the season. It looked like the points would be shared, but eight minutes from time the hosts won it, Denzel Tshuma finding Kade Fearnall who finished clinically past Nick Stone. “Very happy with the win, especially after the three loses in a row,” Quinns skipper Adam Buckingham said. “Hopefully we can get a bit of a roll going now towards the end of the season.”
21.8.2021
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO ROUND NINETEEN – REVIEW
In our week 19 State League Division Two ‘Mach of the Round’ Murdoch University Melville have been beaten for the first time in seven games after a 1-0 loss against Wanneroo City at Wormall Civil Stadium at Murdoch Uni. The only goal of the game came 15 minutes from time, Charlie Breen made a great run, driving into the penalty area and he was being brought down, and referee Walter Ciotti pointed straight to the spot. Breen picked himself up and slotted the penalty past Tom Allan and leapfrog their hosts on the ladder.
“That was a very good game to be a part of both sides played some quality football on a perfect slick pitch which suited both sides for the way we want to play football and it was end to end the whole 90 minutes and good quality,” Wanneroo coach Jesse Bridgeman explained. “I want to pay huge credit to all the players who took part in that game because the intensity was 100 miles an hour the full game and they all gave everything they had which you could see because those three points were as important to both clubs and huge credit to my boys who stuck to the plan the whole game and worked their socks off for the win.”
The Champions Dianella White Eagles have continued their unbeaten season, but were pushed all the way by a gallant Canning City side, eventually running out 5-3 winners at Dianella Reserve on Saturday evening. “We felt very confident coming into the game, we knew that it wouldn’t be easy as teams will try and stop our unbeaten run,” Dianella striker Kristian Despotovski said. “We got the early goals which really set us up for the second half, we scored two more straight after half time and then we took the foot of the pedal a bit. We weren’t winning second balls and we just allowed Canning a sniff back into the game which we cannot do. But all in all, I felt it was a decent team performance and we look forward to next week’s game against Curtin.”
It looked business as usual when Despotovski’s cross on 18 minutes found Ryan Pretorius who rolled the ball home. It was 2-0 two minutes later, Bojan Ninkovic made space out wide, and his cross picked out Daniel Mackenzie to score from close-range. It was 3-0 early in the second half Mackenzie adding his second from the spot. The game looked over three minutes later when Despotovski shot from the edge of the box found the top corner. But Canning hit back and pulled one back moments later, a good advantage was played by the referee that allowed Rowan Steed to blast it in from the edge of the box.
They added a second on the hour, a corner whipped in by Dylan Tzoganos and headed back across goal and into the net by skipper James Atkins. But ten minutes later the game was put to bed as Dianella added a fifth, Nikola Talimdzioski finishing from close-range. Canning did pull another one back late, Shaydon Leeum looped the ball in over the defenders and followed it up with an outstretched leg to redirect it into the net from a tight angle. “We went into the game knowing it will be a challenge against the league winners,” Canning skipper James Atkins said. “With injuries and suspensions impacting our numbers the lads all rallied together and battled until the last minute and left everything they had on the pitch.”
Kingsley Westside remain second on goal difference after being held to a 1-1 draw by Balga at Chichester Park in the inaugural Ray Illott Cup. “The result itself was probably a fair one,” Kingsley coach Steven Dimitrovich said. “In the end first half we dominated the game and just could capitalise by scoring, and second half was a more even affair with possession shared quite evenly.” The hosts were ahead just after the hour, Joel Gillespie corner found Aaron Lickiss at the near post to head home. But Balga levelled ten minutes later, Bleron Mamudi’s header was stopped on the line on the line by the hand of Darren O Riordan and referee Niall Gillmor pointed to the spot, but only booked the defender.
Weldu Tekeste converted the penalty to seal a point, and Balga won the penalty shootout 4-3 to take the Ray Illott Cup. “Kingsley showed their quality, especially in the first half, with a fair and physically intense game,” Balga coach Gerhard Janssen said. “The danger came predominantly from set pieces, but our young team dealt with these before developing several good opportunities that Kingsley needed goal-line clearances for to stop us from taking the lead. Our performance was encouraging, as is the entire second half of the season, during which we have closed the gap in performance to the two top teams of the league.”
Gosnells City and Joondalup City have fought out a six-goal thriller at the Iluka Sport Complex. “Nigel and I felt a bit frustrated at having let the lead slip yet again to finish 3-3 with a flying Gosnells side, but the boys did well and proved that we are going to push hard to try finish as high as we can this season, we want top six and it’s still in our grasp,” Joondalup coach Brad Haywood explained. “We have recently promoted some excellent talent from our young reserve side (Josh Pasco, Dylan Morrison, Emilio Chacon, Tyler Uglow) who have galvanised and energised us for a big push in these last four games starting Tuesday night as we take on Carramar in the catch-up match.” The host were ahead just before half time Matt Blake’s cross shot beating Duncan Lennon-Black. But Gosnells hit back four minutes into the second half, new signing Albert Amankwaa shot was saved by William Parkes, but Wade Farmer fired home the rebound.
But Joondalup regained the lead on the hour, defender Nick Koefler bagging his ninth goal of the season. But again, Gosnells hit back and Miguel De Oliveira in-swinging corner found the net. But Joondalup were in front again ten minutes from time when referee Liam Barclay pointed to the spot and Liam McGurk made no mistake. But two minutes later Gosnells restored parity, Dillon White eased past a couple of Joondalup defenders before firing under the body of Parkes to seal the draw. “It was a hard draw to take on the weekend, as we ideally needed to win that game to keep our promotion dream alive,” Gosnells’ defender James Sharp said. “The weather not great with the wind blowing from goal to goal, but we will take the draw and focus on our Thursday night clash against Kingsley Westside.
Curtin University and Morley Windmills have fought out a 2-2 draw at Edinburgh Oval. “Frustrated not to come away with three points,” Curtin coach Troy Reid said. “I thought we were dominant in the second half and should have scored a winner, if it wasn't for Marko Savic having two goal line clearances from back-to-back corners.” The hosts were ahead after only six minutes, Liam McDonald won possession high up the park before a quick interchange of passes found Antony Russo in the box who finished clinically. But Morley levelled on the half hour, a ball into the penalty area found Ryan Treacey, who held the ball up well before finding Otto Van Der Poel who finished from close range.
Morley hit the front 13 minutes from time, Savic spotting the keeper off his line and chipping him beautifully from outside the box. But Curtin levelled seven minutes later, a free kick wasn’t dealt with and Ryan Creighan found Daniel Nocciolino at the back post for a simple tap in. “We were disappointed to finish 2-2 after taking a 2-1 lead late in the game and in particular the second Curtin goal coming from a poor free kick decision,” Morley coach Antony Benetti explained. “I felt we dominated the game and played some very good football and with a number of players out. It's been a tough season but I'm proud of the players commitment every week.”
In the final game Kelmscott Roos relegation was confirmed after they were beaten 2-0 by Carramar Shamrock Rovers at Frye Park. The visitors were ahead on 20 minutes, Jack Bardsley and Owen Coates combined out wide and Bardsley’s cross was headed home powerfully by Nathan Diaz. But just before half time Callum Trayner was shown a straight card by referee Jatin Lodhia. But the ten men held Kelmscott at bay and sealed the win six minutes into the second half, Rhodes Boyce making no mistake after being sent in on goal. “It was a good win and happy to get the three points,” Rovers’’ Ger Fitzgerald said. “We played with ten men for 60 minutes after one of our players got a very harsh red card and all the boys put in a massive effort to make sure we won.”
20.8.2021
WALKING FOOTBALL ALIVE AND WELL IN PERTH (By Andrew Harris)
Sunshine welcomed the Winter Carnival of Walking Football on 31st July at the FIFA accredited artificial turf facility at Fox Football Fives in Floreat. The Association of Walking Football Australia Inc. is a non-for-profit body, based right here in Perth. One of its main aims include promoting an active lifestyle for both men and women, over 50, in a social environment to improve mental and physical health. It is a 5v5 team game on a small sided pitch, strictly walking with no contact, and only tackles from the front allowed.
Current champions Wanneroo Black were unable to make it two back-to-back finals after losing to both finalists in entertaining qualifying games. In the Grand Final between the unbeaten Fox 5's and the rising Rebels, who lost just the one qualifying game, the Foxes had to dig a hard fought come from behind 2-1 win in an action-packed game. Rebels turned the game on its head when hardworking John Cox scored a beauty to give them an early lead, stunning the crowd who up to that point had seen a dogged Fox 5's team move the ball around effectively.
Rebels were now hounding the Foxes, making good positional play, stretching the Fox defence, when a sly fox forage forward saw Gary Elwell strike the ball into the net to equalise. The Foxes were now flying around the Rebels, dominating possession of the ball and with just three minutes to go a neat one-two saw Trevor Humphreys' well placed shot secure the cup. In the 3rd place play-off game Joondalup's JWS stopped the Dribblers 4-1 in a good tempo game. Thanks to all the sponsors, Six Star Projects, Fox Football Fives and Paul Lowthorpe at I.C.E. Thanks also to referees and all the volunteers. The Foxes are the new champions, but the real winner is the emerging sport of Walking Football.
And the AWFAi are planning! Firstly, for their W.A. State Festival in October. Then, their representative side, The Exiles, make an Inter-state trip to the Gold Coast in November, for the Pan Pacific Masters Games, (sponsored by Wittenbaker Engineering Services). To top it all…The Exiles then represent Australia in the Super Masters World Cup Tournament, at FIFA’s HQ in Zurich, Switzerland in May 2022. For more information on Walking football head to - https://awfai.org.au/
20.8.2021
NPL-WA ROUND TWENTY PREVIEW
With only three games remaining in the NPLWA season, Perth SC are in pole position for their 24th League title, and they could go a long way to wrap it up with a win when they host Sorrento at Dorrien Gardens in our ‘Match of the Round’. (All games kick off at 3.00pm unless otherwise stated) Sorrento are also on a good run of form, and they are also still in the mix for the title, and a win would see them close the gap to just two points. Ramon Falzon’s side flexed their muscles last week, thrashing ECU Joondalup on the road, while Jamie Harnwell’s side beat Perth Glory to maintain their five-game unbeaten run, so this one should be a cracker.
The win at Joondalup was an outstanding performance, and coach Ramon Falzon said he couldn’t have been happier. “We were very pleased with the performance and the football we played against ECU,” he said. “They started brightly and they hit the post within seconds from the start of the game, however our players responded brilliantly for the rest of the game.
“We started gaining momentum and started creating goal scoring opportunities midway through the first half. Our players were very determined to come away with the result and it was evidently shown by their clinical finishing. Collecting three points against ECU via a convincing win helped us maintain our good form in the second round of the fixtures, and our confidence in the lead up to the last games of the season.”
Falzon said Saturday’s game will be another highly competitive contest, against a good Sorrento side. “Sorrento will be a tough nut to crack this Saturday, they are in very good form too and their results in the second round pushed them higher up the table,” he said. “In my opinion, Sorrento have considerably improved during the season and credit goes to Jamie (Harnwell) and their coaches and players. We know we have a big job ahead of us and our performance needs to be as good as we usually are at home for us to come away with the three points.”
Sorrento had to battle for 90 plus minutes to see off Glory last week, and coach Jamie Harnwell said it was good three points, after their disappointing result at Balcatta. “I was extremely pleased with how the players bounced back after the disappointment the week before at Balcatta,” he said. “We started well and managed to keep Glory at arm’s length for large parts of the game with some disciplined defending, and it was great to get the three points.”
Harnwell said a trip to Dorrien Gardens is always a tough assignment but he said they go there with no fear and looking for three points. “It’s obviously a huge game in the context of the season, and as a club we want to be involved in the big games and this is certainly that,” he explained. “Perth are a strong team and on a really good run of form, but we will approach the game the same as any other to ensure that we do the right things on the park and from there the result takes care of itself.”
Meanwhile second placed Floreat Athena sit three points behind Perth, and this week they welcome ECU Joondalup to the E&D Litis Stadium. Joondalup have slipped out of the top four after their heavy loss last week, while Floreat produced a stunning comeback with ten men to earn a point at Armadale last week, but did lose Dennis Galan (Red Card) and a serious injury to keeper Jason Saldaris, and midfielder Sean McManus said the injury to Jason took the gloss of the comeback. “Saturday was a tough one we didn’t start well and they punished us,” he explained.
“We went down another goal straight after half time and that’s when Jason hurt his knee, it was a huge blow for us and for Jason, and he is waiting on an MRI to see the extent of the injury. We knew how big it was for us to claw a draw back for our chances to stay in the run for the league, and all the players did well to get it back to 3-3. Hopefully we can take that fight and determination into the next three games, starting against ECU on Saturday.”
In other games this weekend Bayswater City, who scored seven last week at Gwelup, entertain Armadale in front of the newly named ‘Gerry Maio Stand’ at Frank Drago Reserve, while Cockburn City and Gwelup Croatia will look to get back to winning ways when they meet at Dalmatinac Park, likewise Perth Glory and Rockingham City who meet at Crazy Domains Stadium at Hartfield Park. In the final game Balcatta host Inglewood United at Grindleford Reserve.
Both sides scored important wins last week, Balcatta winning the relegation clash at Rockingham, while Inglewood boosted their top four hopes with a win against Cockburn City. Defenders Mark Barnett and Alex Ishida-Livings were delighted with the win and a clean sheet. “We wanted to bounce back after a disappointing loss last week against Rockingham, to be fair it wasn't the prettiest game but we did well to grind out the clean sheet and three points,” Ishida-Livings said. “We all want top four and we can't afford anymore slip ups, so hopefully we can continue to build our momentum through these final few games.”
Barnett agreed with his fellow defender. “It’s been a surprising last couple of weeks with obviously losing to bottom side Rockingham, but even with that we still are in the seat with a game in hand to find ourselves back in the top four, and we knew we needed to win every game now and we did that against Cockburn,” he said. “I thought we dominated the game and created a number of chances to score. We were solid at the back as well which we’ve been working on for some time now. Once we got the penalty and they had their defender sent off it there really wasn’t a way back in it for Cockburn. We now just take it a week at a time and play with the same attacking confidence we showed against Cockburn and win our next game against Balcatta.”
20.8.2021
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE ROUND NINETEEN – PREVIEW
The State League Division One title has been decided, but with four games remaining the top four and relegation spots are still to be played for, and the Week 19 ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to Rosalie Park where Subiaco entertain Forrestfield United. (All games kick off at 3.00pm unless otherwise stated) Only three points separates the two sides on the table, this after Forrestfield won their round four catch up game against Ashfield on Tuesday. The game was switched to Hartfield Park and a brace from Laurence Todd and another to Dan Corbett gave Forrestfield the three points.
That win moved Graham Normanton’s side well clear of the relegation zone, while Paul Vallerius’ side has been dragged into the relegation fight after three straight defeats the latest at Joondalup last week. Forrestfield skipper Rhys Loxley returned to the starting line up in midweek, and the winger said it was good to get back on the park and confidence is high in the camp after back-to-back wins. “Two great results and performances at home which hasn’t happened a lot this season,” he said. “Confidence is sky high at the moment and everyone in the squad is playing their part in the turn around.
“We aren’t conceding goals (2 clean sheets) and are creating enough chances each game to be winning. On a personal note, I’m delighted to be back playing my part for the side. I’ve had a couple of niggly injuries over the past month or so, and with the rest of the squad playing well and getting results, it hasn’t been so easy getting back in the team. I am over the injuries and am enjoying being back on the park so hopefully I can help the squad finish the season well.”
Loxley said Subiaco have been impressive this season, and they did beat them at Hartfield in the reverse fixture, and he is expecting another tight game on Saturday. “Subiaco are a tricky side to play against, and they bring a lot of energy and will punish mistakes with their pace up top,” he said. “They managed to knock us off last time but we are a very different side since that fixture, and I’m confident that if we take our good form into the game and play well, and come home with the three points.”
Subiaco skipper Ben Johns said they were disappointed to come home empty handed from Joondalup last week, but the performance was good. “Last week we showed more of the side that put us in such a good position during the first half of the season,” the defender said. “We're never going to be satisfied with a loss against anyone, but we'll take plenty of positives from last week at Joondalup, and look to finish this season off strong.”
Johns, who scored a cracker last week, said they are looking for three points on Saturday and they will have to be at their best against a strong Forrestfield side. “Forrestfield is never an easy game and especially not now they've found some form,” he said. “We'll continue to work hard at training and build on last week’s positives and we're confident we can get a positive result, like we did at their place earlier in the season.”
In other games this week Champions Stirling Macedonia travel to the UWA Sports Park to take on UWA Nedlands, who need the points to stay clear of the drop zone, likewise Ashfield who welcome Mandurah City to the Acclaimed Catering Arena. There are also a couple of local derbies this week involving team in the race for the top four, as Fremantle City host Western Knights, while Joondalup United make the short trip down the Kwinana Freeway to Kingsway Reserve to take on Olympic Kingsway.
In the final game Swan United visit Gumblossom Park to take on Quinns, with both sides looking to turn their recent form around. The hosts have dropped off the pace with only one win in their last four games, most recently a 0-1 defeat at Mandurah, which saw them slip to fourth. On the other hand, Swan sit bottom of the table and are coming off a loss against Olympic last week, which continued their four-game run without a win, and striker John Monterosso said they need to start finding wins, sooner rather than later.
“It was a disappointing result against Kingsway last week, with two mistakes costing us especially being on top for good parts of the game,” the striker said. “We go to Quinn’s with three points on our minds and know how important each game is now, Quinn’s will be a tough game, but we’ve been in most games and will take that with us to get three points.”
20.8.2021
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO ROUND NINETEEN – PREVIEW
The title has also been decided in the State League Division Two and in Week 19 we focus on the fight for a top four spot and our ‘Match of the Round’ sees fourth placed Wanneroo City make the trip to Wormall Civil Stadium at Murdoch Uni, to meet third placed Murdoch University Melville. (All games kick off at 3.00pm unless otherwise stated) The hosts are the big improvers in the league, and have won six straight games under new coach Taki Nicolaidis, and the win last week at Gosnells saw them leapfrog Wanneroo, who lost ground after being held to a scoreless draw by Curtin University.
MUM’s Ben Howe said the win at Gosnells last week was important, and keeps their winning form going. “It was a great win over my old club Gosnells last week. We all knew it would be a tough encounter down there with them being in great form of late,” he said. “Fighting back from 1-0 down at halftime showed real character and there is a real belief within the squad now that we can continue on and get promoted up to Division One.
“Taki and his assistant Matt (Andrews) have been great since coming in, six wins in a row proves that it’s working under him. After Matt Wardle and a few players leaving I think a few people had written us off, but Taki has managed to turn that around and get the most of the squad he has which is still in my eyes a very strong one.”
Howe said Saturday will be another tough game, but one they are looking forward too. “It’s another six pointer this weekend against Wanneroo like it was last weekend, a loss for either team could mean missing out on playoffs so it’s a huge game,” he explained. “We look forward to having them down on our ground in what should be an entertaining game.”
After a slow start to the season for Wanneroo they have picked up and are in contention for a top four spot, but Josh Booysen said last week’s draw against Curtin was disappointing. “We lost the opening game, but have only lost two more, and it shows we are a strong competing side for top four spot. We’ve struggled this season in front of goal so hopefully can hit form in front of goal going into the final few games of the season,” he said. “We really needed the win last week against Curtin, but it wasn’t to be, but we need to look forward and focus on the next challenge.”
Booysen said, along with Dianella, MUM is one of the form team of the league, and is expecting a tough game at their place, but they will be going there looking for three points. “It will definitely be a challenge and we need to treat it as a cup final,” he said. “We will go out there and leave everything on the pitch and hopefully head back home with all three points.”
In other games Champions Dianella White Eagles host Canning City at Dianella Reserve (5.00pm) looking to maintain their unbeaten run this season, while Gosnells City will look to get back to winning ways and climb back into the top four, but have a tricky trip to the Iluka Sports Complex to take on Joondalup City. Kelmscott Roos need a win to keep their slim hopes of avoiding relegation when they host Carramar Shamrock Rovers at Frye Park, while Curtin University host Morley Windmills at Edinburgh Oval.
In the final game Kingsley Westside welcome Balga to Chichester Park in the inaugural Ray Illott Cup and it’s also ‘Back to Chichester Day’. (5.00pm) Balga moved up to sixth after a win against Joondalup last week, but unfortunately Kingsley’s game against Carramar Shamrock Rovers was abandoned after a melee got out of control. Kingsley coach Steven Dimitrovich said it wasn’t a great look for the game. “The game itself was a typical Kingsley v Shamrock game, very physical and only one side trying to play football,” he explained. “But what happened in the 60th minutes was very unsavoury and something that doesn’t belong on the football field and with all due respect whilst it’s with Football West the less said the better.”
Dimitrovich said they move on and Saturday is a big day for the club. “This Saturday games against Balga is a big game for both sides as we play for the inaugural ‘Ray Illott Cup’,” he said. “Ray obviously played a key role at both clubs Kingsley as a coach and Balga as a player, and I think both sets of players will want to be the first winners of the trophy. It’s also back to Chichester day for us, as the club says goodbye to the clubhouse at the end of the year and the reconstruction of the new facilities begin so we hope to have a lot of blue down supporting us. The game itself will be a tight affair as Balga are very organised team and we will have to be at our best in all areas of the park if we are to get the three points.”
20.8.2021
BELT UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION - ROUND EIGHTEEN PREVIEW
It’s still tight at the top of the Belt Up Amateur Premier Division, and it is a huge Week 18 with the top four sides meeting. In our ‘Match of the Round’ league leaders South West Phoenix make the trip south to Kelly Park to take on third placed Kwinana United. (All games kick off at 3.00pm unless otherwise stated) Both sides are coming off convincing wins last week, Phoenix beating Hamersley at home while Kwinana beat Queens Park on the Road. Nick Carter’s side sit one point ahead at the top, while Mark Purvis’ side are eight points behind Saturday’s opposition, but do have two games in hand, so a win in this one is huge in the title race.
Kwinana skipper Neal Beveridge said last week was a good performance, as Queens Park had been on a good run of form, but they dominated their opponents. “I thought we out played them all over the park and took our chances well on the day,” he said. “It was another good performance and another great three points away from home.”
Beveridge said the league title is still up for grabs with five sides still in the mix, and he said Sunday is going to be a great game and one they are looking forward to. “It is tight at the top so we know the importance of this game,” he explained. “It should be a good contest against the league leaders, and a good game to watch, and we’re really excited for the challenge.”
It’s been a busy schedule for the Phoenix with three games in seven days, but Coach Nick Carter said his players deserve a great deal of credit. “We’ve worked hard and not many teams in the league is are dedicated than our lads, they deserve to be at the top of the table,” he explained. “It’s a credit to our medical team too in helping with recovery over those days, we have a lot of young players bursting to get a league game and it was great to give them a chance, they deserve it.”
Carter said they might be top, but there are a number of clubs who can still win the league and he is sure it will go down to the wire, but his side is ready for the challenge. “Many people think it’s a two-horse race for the title, but that’s far from the truth,” he said. “Mark (Purvis) has Kwinana very drilled and with Lee Bates back they’ve got that fire power they’ve missed. We have to be at our best and I’m sure Kwinana will be too, so it sets up a great game.”
In other games this weekend, second placed Maddington White City welcome fourth placed Quinns to Nikola Tesla Reserve in another vital game on the title race. Quinns lost ground on the leaders after their loss at North Perth last week, and Maddington lost top spot after a draw at Joondalup. Wembley Downs welcome Leeming Strikers to Butlers Reserve. Wembley were in Amateur Cup action in midweek and earned a spot in the Semi-Final against North Perth United after a hat trick from Matthew Devereux and others to skipper Juraj Galba and Harry Browne gave them a 5-0 win against Division One side Forrestfield United.
Talking of North Perth, they will look to maintain their good form when they entertain UWA Nedlands at Woodville Reserve (1.00pm). Queens Park make the trip to Herb Graham Recreation Centre to take on Jaguar, while Hamersley Rovers will need all three points tonight (Friday) when Joondalup United visit Carine Open Space (8.00pm) if they are to keep their faint survival hopes alive.
18.8.2021
PERTH OVAL TO GET $35 MILLION FACELIFT
Perth Oval will receive a $35 million facelift as part of preparations for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup. The upgrades - required to bring the stadium up to FIFA standards - include replacing the halogen lights with LEDs and replacing the turf. New player races and bench areas will also be constructed and the power supply to the venue will also be upgraded.
Built in 1910 to host the East Perth Football Club, the historic Perth Oval - known currently as HBF Park under the terms of a sponsorship agreement - has undergone a number of transformations over the past century including an extensive redevelopment in 2013 that added the eastern and southern grandstands and increased maximum capacity to 20,500.
The remainder of the funding will go towards temporary seating and facilities for players, media and patrons during the World Cup, which is being hosted by Australia and New Zealand from July 2023. Work is also underway on a $32 million State Football Centre in Queens Park which will also be capable of hosting international teams and serving as an elite training facility.
Football West chief executive James Curtis said the World Cup would provide West Australians with an opportunity to watch the globe’s best female stars up close. “We're looking forward to hosting them and having the community turn up and really get behind the sport,” Mr Curtis said. “Certainly we know on the back of the Olympics how popular women's football is and the growth of the game in Western Australia.”
Curtis said contingency planning in the event of a COVID-affected tournament was underway but the hope was the virus would not be a major factor come 2023. “It's a reality at the moment that anyone that's planning large scale events needs to look at those different options,” he said. “But also I think the aim here is to make sure that it does go ahead in whatever format.”
16.8.2021
IPSWICH SIGN BURGESS ON THREE-YEAR DEAL
Ipswich Town have completed the signing of defender Cameron Burgess on a three-deal from Accrington Stanley for an undisclosed fee. Burgess become the Blues 15th arrival of the summer, and the third in a week following the recruitment of Kyle Edwards and Hayden Coulson.
“I am so pleased to be here,” Burgess told itfc.co.uk. “This is a talented squad and I am excited to work with the group. I will work hard, roll my sleeves up and get stuck in. I saw there were more than 20,000 fans at Portman Road for the first game of the season, so I cannot wait to experience that myself.”
“It’s such an honour to be at such a massive club. I don’t think anyone could turn it down in my position and many other positions as well. It’s a bit of a dream come true to progress, be at such a massive club and hopefully be part of some good things.”
"I have a bit of affinity with the place already; I made my professional debut at Portman Road. I think it was when we got relegated to the Championship with Fulham. I played as a defensive-midfielder that night which was a bit of a strange one for me. It was an unbelievable experience and I can’t wait to experience it more.”
Born in Aberdeen and raised in Perth, Burgess played juniors at ECU Joondalup prior to entering Fulham's academy in 2011. He progressed through the youth ranks at Craven Cottage to make his first team debut against Ipswich in August 2014, playing the full 90 minutes in a deep midfield role.
Burgess went on to feature for Cheltenham Town, Oldham Athletic, Bury and Scunthrope United before joining Salford City for the 2019/20 season. He switched to Accrington last August and quickly became a key member of manager John Coleman’s side, making 52 league and cup appearances for the club.
Internationally, Burgess has been capped by Scotland at Under-18 and Under-19 levels before switching his allegiance to Australia, whom he has represented in the Under-20 and Under-23 age groups. He will wear the number 26 shirt at Ipswich for the next three seasons, with the club having the option to extend his stay by a further 12 months.
16.8.2021
COVID-19 LOCKDOWN DISRUPTING GLORY PRE-SEASON
Perth Glory are battling to bring two star players home for pre-season training as COVID-19 lockdown bites. And they have hit more obstacles with doubt over their FFA Cup campaign and an A-League mini pre-season cup while veteran goalkeeper Liam Reddy will miss the first month of the season as he recovers from shoulder surgery.
Defender Darryl Lachman is stranded in Amsterdam and new signing Brad Jones cannot get out of Saudi, where he has been playing for Al-Nassr. Lachman has been in Amsterdam with family since members of the Curacao national team tested positive for COVID, leading to the island nation being dropped from the Gold Cup tournament in the United States.
“The hard thing for us at the moment is getting players home from overseas,” Pignata said. “We’ve got Darryl a flight and I’m talking with the health department and minister to see if we can get a cap exemption. “We’re looking at other states where he may be able to quarantine and then come to WA.”
“Brad is the same. Paperwork is done but we’re trying to get him on a flight and then into a state where he can quarantine. Worse case scenario if we get them here by the second week in September they’ve still got six weeks to get ready for the start of the season.”
Glory’s FFA Cup clash with Melbourne Victory has been postponed twice and Pignata said it would be hard to organise trial games. “We’re not sure when the Melbourne game is going to be played, or even if it will be played, and I doubt whether the pre-season cup will happen given the COVID situation,” he commented.
Pignata said Reddy’s surgery on his right shoulder had gone well. “Initially he was hoping he wouldn’t need surgery but after a couple of weeks training he realised he needed it,” Pignata said. “We’re hoping to have him back in December if rehab goes well.”
15.8.2021
GLORY MARK 25 BY REVERTING TO ORIGINAL BADGE
Perth Glory is proud to announce that as part of its 25th anniversary celebrations the club will be reverting to its original 1996 badge. The iconic logo, which adorned Glory’s shirts during many of the club’s historic moments including the 2003 and 2004 National Soccer League Grand Final victories, will feature once again this coming season on all A-League and W-League playing kits.
The change of badge is a celebration of Glory’s unique and illustrious history and an acknowledgement of how the club’s past continues to play a key role in shaping its future. "Glory’s rich and proud history sets it apart from every other A-League club," said chief executive Tony Pignata, "And in our 25th year, it is fitting that we celebrate that history fully."
"Reverting to the original 1996 badge enables us to acknowledge not only the achievements of the past, but also the club’s development into a major feature of both the WA and national sporting landscape. We continue to honour the traditions and values that have made this unique football club what it is today and they guide us as we strive to secure the sustained success that our wonderfully loyal and dedicated supporters crave and deserve."
15.8.2021
BELT UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION - ROUND SEVENTEEN REVIEW
With only five rounds to go in the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division the title is still up for grabs after another exciting weekend of football. In our ‘Match of the Round’ Quinns last ground on the top two after a 2-1 defeat against North Perth United at Woodville Reserve. “It wasn’t the best performance, and we missed a couple of good chances in the first half the Quinns keeper made some good saves,” United coach Luke O’Neill said. “They were causing us problems and when they equalised, they probably deserved a point, but full credit to the boys they keep working hard each game what’s great to see.”
Both sides had chances in an open game, with Quinns looking dangerous from set-pieces and Ian Cookland’s long-range shot rattled the crossbar. But it was the hosts who opened the scoring, Alex Corner’s cross shot beating Frazer Imrie and finding the net. After the break Quinns piled on the pressure looking for the equaliser and they found it late, a corner was dealt with by the North Perth defence and Danny Head bundled the ball home in a goalmouth scramble. But the home found the winner in stoppage time, Matteo Rossi’s corner found Jean-Marc D'Avray who finished well to seal the points.
South West Phoenix have moved back to the top of the table after a 5-2 win against bottom of the table Hamersley Rovers at Onside Sports Stadium in Bunbury on Saturday evening. The home side were ahead Corey Barclay played in Lydon Hodgkiss, who fired in from outside the box. It was 2-0 when Jarrad Mort played Lee Stewart in one on one and he rounded the keeper to score. It 3-0 when Stewart picked the ball up on the half way line went past a couple players and finished clinically. It was soon 4-0, Ryan Risdon played Stewart in one on one again and he finished well to complete his hat-trick. Rovers pulled one back just before half time, Benjamin Hall scoring from the spot. Stewart added his fourth and Phoenix’s fifth twenty minutes from time, pouncing on a defensive mistake on the edge of the box to score his 20th goal of the season. Rovers scored a second late with skipper Jordan Nastov scoring.
“We knew with three games in six days it was going to be a big week for us and although we had the disappointment of losing at Maddington, we managed to bounce back well with two wins. The commitment and desire within this playing group is fantastic, we needed a response and the boys stepped up,” Stewart explained. “There was a lot of tired legs out there Saturday night and we knew a fast start would put us in a good position and we started well to go 4-0 up so quickly, from there we were able to make quite a few changes and give some of the younger boys some minutes to see the game out. It’s another important three points for us and now we’ll recover well before we head up for another tough game at Kwinana on Sunday.”
Maddington White City lost top spot after they were held to a 101 draw by Joondalup United at Beldon Park. Maddington took the lead inside ten minutes when a cross from the right deceived the Joondalup defence and looped over goalkeeper Patrick Lawless. Chances were few and far between in the first half, although Maddington did hit the outside of the post with a great strike from distance. In the second half, the hosts took the game to the title contenders and were rewarded with an equaliser on 69 minutes. Jack Walsh put in a pinpoint free kick from the left and Adam Giannasi was in the right place to head the ball into the net. Both sides had chances to take all three points, with Lawless saving well in a one-on-one situation and Curtis Wreglesworth clearing off the line. At the other end, Louis Cheetham had a shot saved and the Maddington defence did well to deal with some more dangerous set pieces.
"We are happy to take a point against one of the top sides in the league and I feel we were good value for it. To go a goal down early was disappointing but we held our own for the remainder of the first half,” Joondalup coach Neil Sherwin said. "At the break, we spoke about taking the game to them and further emphasised that intent by making three attacking substitutions and changing our shape. The game opened up once we equalised and there were a few nervy moments at both ends late on. We still have a lot of work to do but the performance once again shows what we're capable of and we're looking forward to the short trip to Hamersley Rovers on Friday night."
Kwinana United maintained their push for the title with a comprehensive 4-0 win against Queens Park at Coker Park. Mark Purvis’ side sit eight points behind the Phoenix, but do have a couple of game in hand. They were ahead on 18 minutes, Sean Troop arriving at the back post to head home. They doubled their lead on the half hour, Levi Burns finding space in the penalty area to finish neatly. Queens Park should have pulled one back before half time, but they missed a penalty. The points were sealed early in the second half when Lee Bates finished and the icing was put on the cake in the final minute when Jake Fallows’ overhead kick beat Tom Livingstone to make it 4-0. "I thought we were good throughout the game. Queens Park missed a penalty just before half time which could have given them a lift but sometimes you need that bit of luck,” Purvis said. “Really happy with how the boys performed, Queens Park isn’t an easy place to go so to get the three point was it was very pleasing.”
Wembley Downs jumped to sixth after a 2-0 win against UWA Nedlands at the UWA Sports Park. The visitors were ahead on the hour, Lachie Chamberlain turned his marker and played the ball through to Matt Devereux to run onto and finish well. The points were wrapped up six minutes from time, a towering header at the back post from Sam Turner from a Lachie Chamberlain corner. “The boys played really well against an undermanned UWA,” Wembley coach Anthony Cochrane said. “We had a lot more of the ball than we are used to, but we managed the game well and always looked in control. The win puts us in the top six and we want to continue pushing and finish as high as we can."
The big winners this weekend was Leeming Strikers, who thrashed Jaguar 8-0 at John Connell Reserve. 'We've been building our performances over the last few weeks and credit to the players, they've all played individually well but also been able to play well as a team and the score showed a true reflection of the game from start to finish,” Leeming player/coach David Palin explained. “We didn't allow Jaguars to bring their strengths to the game and that was the most pleasing part as we know if Jags get going there a very hard team to stop. It's important we back that performance up next week against Wembley, and I'm confident the team can do that.”
The hosts were ahead early, a corner was only cleared to the edge of the box and Leandro DaSilva first time shot went in the bottom corner. It was 2-0 when Mike Maratea picked out Cam Anderson whose shot on the turn deflected over the keeper off the stretching defenders leg. Leeming continued to dictate terms and it was 3-0 when Maratea crossed to the back post and Ben Greaves headed home into an empty net. It soon became 4-0 Maratea cutting the ball back to Anderson who finished well, and it was five before the break, BJ Andrews crossed to Kieren Witt who headed over the keeper. Anderson completed his hat-trick on the hour, before Greaves added the seventh and Witt the eighth, to complete the big win.
14.8.2021
BALCATTA WIN RELEGATION BATTLE
Balcatta moved three points clear at the foot of the NPLWA table after a 3-0 win against Rockingham City in our ‘Match of the Round’ at SafeRad Stadium. “An important win for the team and the club, and I think on the whole we deserved the three points,” Balcatta skipper Calum O’Connell said. “Our intensity was good from the start and we didn’t give them too many opportunities. The atmosphere the rocky fans created was great and to leave there with all three points was the plan and we executed it well. And a big shout out to our travelling supporters who got behind us on the day.”
Both sides were level on points at kick off but it was the visitors who hit the front on the quarter hour, poor defended let Michael Scafetta ease into the penalty area, and his shot went under Bradley Stout, who should have done better. It went from bad to worse for the hosts after a poor challenge from Ryan Kennedy on Jon Corness on 24 minutes, saw referee Shane Skinner show a straight red card to the Rockingham skipper. But they should have levelled four minutes later, Feisal Zaw racing clear but he was upended by Carmelo Giuffre, and the referee pointed to the spot.
After a length stoppage due to injury to Giuffre, Hamish van Dieken stepped up to take the resulting penalty, but he blazed over the top. Then two minutes into stoppage time, Balcatta doubled their advantage. Corness’ effort was saved by Stout, but Rockingham didn’t clear their lines and O’Connell fires home the rebound. Balcatta then had midfielder Jack Leech sent off early in the second half for a second yellow card, after a late tackle on Van Dieken, and it was game on.
But the hosts couldn’t find a way back into the game and Balcatta sealed victory 16 minutes from time. A long clearance from Lewis Italiano was flicked on by substitute Matthew Alessandrino and Amir Ajan raced down the right, cut into the penalty area and finished across Stout, to give Balcatta a first win in eight games and give their survival hopes a huge boost.
“It was a huge win for playing group and club, and the 3-0 score line was thoroughly deserved as I thought we dominated the game from start to finish,” Balcatta coach Carl Medica said. “We did have a scare at 1-0 up when they missed a penalty, but sometimes you need that little bit of luck. At 2-0 down at half time, we knew they’d come out firing, but the boy’s we’re fantastic and didn’t let them back into the game. We’re not out of the woods yet and with three games to go, we need to pick up as many points as we can.”
Rockingham City: GK Bradley STOUT, 2 Ian NG (13 Nathan NG 73’), 6 Harry BOLAN, 7 Feisal ZAW, 8 Hamish VAN DIEKEN, 10 Luke COLLINS, 12 Fraser MARR (9 Christos VAENAS 46’), 14 Robbie GALVIN, 15 Declan COLLINS (28 Harvey HANCOCK 59’), 18 Ryan KENNEDY, 20 Dylan ROGERS (37 Sam FOSTER 73’) - Subs not used: RGK Cyril SHARROCK – Red Card: Kennedy 24’
Balcatta: GK Lewis ITALIANO, 4 Calum O'CONNELL, 5 Hristijan JANKULOSKI (14 Nicholas MESSINA 84’), 6 Carmelo GIUFFRE (2 Joe MARINO 30’), 7 Amir AJAN (21 Luke HEWINGS 84’), 8 Jack LEECH, 10 Jon CORNESS, 11 Elliot TATTERSALL, 13 Anthony TOPINI, 15 Nick WALSH, 22 Michael SCAFETTA (23 Matthew ALESSANDRINO 73’) - Subs not used: RGK Sebastian MEDICA – Red Card: Leech 47’– Referee: Shane Skinner
14.8.2021
PERTH THRASH JOONDALUP TO MOVE CLEAR AT THE TOP
Perth SC moved three points clear at the top of the NPLWA table after a big 4-0 win against ECU Joondalup at the ECU Football Stadium. “We knew three points were important today, and ECU are a good side and it was big pressure on us, but we held strong and got them, and we will be looking for three more next week,” Perth skipper Bojan Radinovic said post-match. “It was also nice as a defender to get a clean sheet and we will be hoping for another one on Saturday against Sorrento.” The Jacks were on the front foot from the first whistle and went close after only 45 seconds. Jakub Prajza found Riley Woodcock, who sent Danny Hodgson in on goal, his shot beat Ryan Montgomery but crashed off the post and away to safety. Perth settled and went close on the quarter hour. A poor clearance from Johnny Perkins went straight to Perth striker Domfeh, his first-time shot was deflected onto the base of the post and behind.
The hosts went close again when Prajza’s cross from the right was knocked back by Hodgson at the back post to Andy Higgins, who’s shot was cleared off the line by Kieron Colwell. But on 35 minutes it was the visitors who made the breakthrough. Calvin Whitney picked out Gorman on the right of the penalty area, and he cut inside before superbly curling the ball into the top corner, giving Perkins no chance. Things got worse for the hosts on 40 minutes, when Perth doubled their advantage. Santich won possession in the middle of the park and drove into the box, Shane Cassidy got a challenge in and the ball fell kindly to Gorman who finished low past Perkins.
The hosts went close to reducing the margin three minutes into the second half, Higgins slipped Prajza into the penalty area, and he should have gone for goal, but he unselfishly pulled the ball back to Hodgson who fired over the top. That miss came back to haunt the Jacks, as six minutes later Perth found a third. Nik McDonald found Santich in the middle of the park and the midfielder eased forward before unleashing a 20-meter strike which flew into the top corner of the net.
Then nine minutes from time Perth added a fourth. A poor back pass from Shane Cassidy was pounced upon by Domfeh, and he raced into goal, held off his marker, before finishing clinically past Perkins. They were in again moments later, substitute Yagoub Mustafa’s shot flashing across goal, and Perkins then produced a great save to deny Mustafa again late, but at the final whistle it was Perth leaving with the points.
ECU Joondalup: GK Johnny PERKINS, 3 Nelson TSHONGO, (5 Ryan LOWRY 72’), 4 Declan HUGHES (7 Oscar MALFIORE 72’), 8 Tom HOUGH, 9 Daryl NICOL, 10 Andy HIGGINS, 11 Riley WOODCOCK, 12 Jakub PRAJZA (6 Sami RIAK 68’), 16 Shane CASSIDY, 17 Danny HODGSON, 18 Luke PALMATEER – Subs not used: RGK Joe POLLARD, 15 Alfie WHEELER
Perth SC: GK Ryan MONTGOMERY, 2 Alex SILLA (17 Aiden FORMSTON 84’), 6 Nik MCDONALD, 10 Michael DOMFEH, 13 Calvin WHITNEY, 14 Lachlan BYRD, 15 Will GORDON, 16 Kieran COLWELL, 19 Ben RADINOVIC, 21 Jayden GORMAN (11 Yagoub MUSTAFA 72), 22 Kristian SANTICH (18 Federico ACHILLI 86’) – Subs not used: RGK Adrian SINAGRA, 12 Sam FLORES – Referee: Julian Serra
14.8.2021
SORRENTO EDGE OUT GLORY
Sorrento have gone a long way to securing a top four spot, and kept their title hopes alive, after a hard fought 1-0 win against Perth Glory at Percy Doyle Reserve, while the loss for the visitors still leaves them in fourth, but it was a missed opportunity to move clear of the chasing pack. “Fantastic team performance against a team that have been on a good run,” Sorrento skipper Shaun Kilkelly said. “We had a game plan and stuck to it, and we were under a bit pressure at the end but we defended very well as a team. It’s keeps us in with a sniff for the league title and sets up a thrilling game this week against Perth.”
The only goal of the game came after only four minutes, Alex Morgan picking out Jordan Brown, who raced into the area and finished low past Sam Reilly. Glory went close themselves on 20 minutes, Ciaran Bramwell curling effort pushed around the post by Connor Campbell at full stretch. Morgan headed straight at Reilly on the half hour, as Sorrento pressed for a second, while Glory pressed late in the half and Will Formston shot was well blocked by David Stokoe, but at the break the host led.
Sorrento went close early in the second half Roberts racing into the box, but his shot on the run was pushed over the top by the alert Reilly. From the resulting corner Ollie Annis’ inswinger smacked off the crossbar and away to safety. Things got heating late in the game after a melee involving all the players after tackle, and referee David Bruce shown a number of yellow cards. Glory, who were on a good run of form continued to press for the equaliser and Jack Painter-Andrews headed over the top, before Bramwell slipped Charlie Leech into goal, but Campbell was out bravely to save at his feet.
The hosts had the ball in the net again on 82 minutes, substitute Chris Jackson sending Annis clear, who finished but the flag was up for offside. Glory pressed late but couldn’t find the equaliser and it was former Glory great defender Jamie Harnwell’s side taking all three points. “They (Glory) had a lot of the ball but we defended very well and stayed compact,” Sorrento defender Ollie Annis said. “We had a couple of decent chances but just couldn’t take them, but scoring early definitely helped and the boys, and we did well to see the game out.’
Sorrento: GK Connor CAMPBELL, 2 David STOKOE, 4 Shaun KILKELLY, 7 Alex MORGAN (3 Daniel FAICHNEY 84’), 10 Ollie ANNIS (15 Tristan STEVENS 90+5’), 11 Tim HILL, 16 Ryan MCLAUGHLIN, 17 Dean CUMMINGS, 18 Jordan BROWN, 19 Jaxon TEMATA, 20 Jordan ROBERTS (6 Chris JACKSON 55’) – Subs not used: RGK Matthew GIUDICATTI, 14 Jordan POKLER
Perth Glory: GK Sam REILLY, 3 Jacob MUIR, 4 Aidan COYNE, 5 Will FORMSTON, 6 Joseph FORDE (15 Lucas ROSSI 78’), 7 Andrew MARANTA (12 Joshua ANASMO 54’), 8 Aiden EDWARDS, 9 Ciaran BRAMWELL, 10 Giordano COLLI, 11 Charlie LEECH (18 Chris DONNELL 78’), 22 Jack PAINTER-ANDREWS (17 Tyler VECCHIO 72’) – Subs not used: RGK Casey ROBERTSON – Referee: David Bruce
14.8.2021
TEN-MAN FLOREAT FIGHT BACK FOR A POINT AT ARMADALE
Floreat Athena has produced a stunning fight back to earn a 3-3 draw against Armadale at Alfred Skeet Reserve. “It was a good effort from the boys and we showed great character to be 10 men and come back from 3-0 down and even have a couple of chances at the end to win it,” Floreat midfielder Phil Arnold said. “Armadale is always a tough place to go and you know you are going to expect a battle.” Armadale were ahead on 24 minutes Dennis Galan’s clearance went straight to Pieter Jacobsz who found Cherno Bah who curled home superbly from the edge of the box. They doubled their lead 12 minutes later, Bah picking out Adriano Jelenovic, whose shot crashed off the bar, but Jacobsz was quickest to react to fire home the rebound.
It looked game over in the first minute of the second half when the hosts added a third. Jelenovic robbed the Floreat defender and raced into goal, keeper Jason Saldaris raced out to block his effort but Bah’s follow up shot was handled on the line by Galan, and the defender was sent off by referee Arvin Shanmuganathan. Saldaris sustained a nasty injury in the incident, and he was carried off on stretcher and replaced by Theodore Sarris, for his NPL first team debut.
But he could do little from the penalty, Jelenovic sending him the wrong way to give Armadale a 3-0 lead. But Vas Vujacic’s side weren’t finished and pulled one back just after the hour, with the referee spotting a push in the box and former Armadale defender Jesse Fuller made no mistake from the spot. They added a second moments later, Phil Arnold sending Chris Saldaris down the right and he found Nick Ambrogio who finished clinically past Michael Craggs, and it was game on.
Then 13 minutes from time Floreat completed the comeback. Saldaris’ long-throw wasn’t dealt with and Arnold’s header was going into the net but Chad Nilson made sure in his attempt to clear it. Both sides pressed for the winner but had to settle for a share of the spoils. “A very disappointing result for us as we dominated the game in the first half,” Armadale skipper Brian Patterson said. “Between us being our own worst enemy and some of the most bizarre refereeing I have ever seen, we gifted them three goals.”
Armadale: GK Michael CRAGGS, 3 Andy REALE, 4 Nathan COSTELLO, 6 Joel SANDERSON (13 Filippo GIOFFRE 62’), 8 Brian PATTERSON, 12 Callum MELLOWSHIP, 14 Blake ADAMS, 15 Cherno BAH (10 Isaac KOOMSON 73’), 17 Pieter JACOBSZ, 19 Vladimir NAUMOVSKI (11 Chad NILSON 73’), 20 Adriano JELENOVIC– Subs not used: 23 Friday ZICO, 55 Matt WORTON
Floreat Athena: GK Jason SALDARIS (RGK Theodore SARRIS 48’), 4 Ben STEELE (2 Marco SANTALUCIA 46’), 6 Jesse FULLER, 8 Sean MCMANUS, 9 Robert HARDING, 10 Nick AMBROGIO, 11 Dennis GALAN, 13 George FESTA, 15 Chris SALDARIS, 18 Phil ARNOLD 20 Andrew PALMER (14 Ludovic BOI 46’) - Subs not used: 12 Wesley CASIMIR, 19 Ethan MOM – Red Card: Galan 46’ – Referee: Arvin Shanmuganathan
14.8.2021
SOKOL SPOT ON FOR INGLEWOOD
Inglewood United have bounced back from last week’s disappointing loss at Rockingham City, beating Cockburn City 1-0 at Inglewood Stadium. The win moved Andres Oliveira’s side to fifth, only one point outside the top four, and with a game in hand. The visitors went close early, Sebastian da Silva raced down the right, his hot from the angle flashed just wide. Inglewood hit back and Ajak Riak was sent clear, but Euen Grant got back with a great last-ditch tackle.
Riak was in again just above the half hour, a quick free kick catching Cockburn napping, but the big striker fired wide. Sam Cook then fired wide at the other end as the game opened up. Inglewood and the league top scorer Steve Sokol fired into the side netting after being found by Rob Petkov, while in stoppage time the hosts went close again, Petkov’s long-range drifted wide.
Sokol dragged a shot wide early in the second half, before Grant got in another vital tackle to thwart Petkov on the hour. Egide Ngendakumanu fired straight at Ben Radonich as the hosts pressed for the opener. Sokol fired wide again on 84 minutes, but three minutes later their pressure was rewarded with the opener. Petkov got to the bye line and crossed to Sokol, his shot hit the arm of Julian Teles and referee Joshua Nixon pointed straight to the spot, and he showed a second yellow card to the defender and sent him off. Sokol stepped up and sent Radonich the wrong way from the resulting penalty for his 15th goal of the season to seal the in.
“It was a even game, but we defended well and created enough chances to win the game just couldn’t finish them,” Inglewood coach Andres Oliveira said. “At the end Andreas and Egide came on and provide us that extra spark we needed to get over the line. Very proud of boys with the endeavour and desire to push till the end. Fantastic result against a very organised good team.”
Inglewood United: GK Josiah GODFREY, 2 Alex ISHIDA-LIVINGS, 5 Thiak KUEL (4 Scott BLACKMORE 89’), 7 Ajak RIAK (6 Andres THEODOSIADES 65’), 8 Jason BARRERA (11 Egide NGENDAKUMANU 65’), 9 Robert PETKOV, 10 Anthony BAFOBUSHA, 12 Roberto Del BORRELLO, 13 Brodie LANGAN, 14 Steve SOKOL, 17 Mark BARNETT – Sub not used: RGK Jack LANGLEY, 15 Roberto SOARES
Cockburn City: GK Ben RADONICH, 3 Daniel DOLS, 4 Euen GRANT, 5 Julian TELES, 6 Ismail HAJI (18 Adam ANFUSO 72’), 8 Cameron EDWARDS, 12 Sebastian DA SILVA, 16 Ali GHOLAMI, 19 Sam COOK (14 David Dos SANTOS 60’), 21 Jesse LAZZARO (20 Alessandro BASTO 76’), 22 Daniel ROBINSON – Subs not used: RGK Ryan BARKER, 24 Breckan BAKER – Referee: Joshua Nixon
14.8.2021
BAYSWATER WIN IT FOR GERRY
It’s been a sad week at Bayswater City, after the passing of President Gerry Maio, but his players put on a performance he would have been proud off, thrashing Gwelup Croatia 7-0 at Wishart Street. Everyone stood as one prior to kick off as a minute’s silence was observed in honour of Maio, whose hard work over the years has seen the club rise to become of the biggest in the state.
“Our club has had a big couple of weeks, our leader and legend in president Gerry Maio has been unwell and sadly passed last week. We were all given the amazing opportunity to share some final moments with him before our clash last Saturday before our Cockburn match,” Bayswater’s Jason Mirco said. “Saturdays match against Gwelup was extremely heart felt as not only are we pushing to have a strong finish to our season we were mourning the loss of Gerry, the atmosphere around the team was fantastic and it showed in the pitch. The team was at it from the first whistle and never stopped till the last. I’m sure Gerry was watching down on us Saturday with a big smile on his face.”
City jumped out of the blocks and were ahead on two minutes, Jason Mirco’s corner was turned into his own net by Ciaran Salinger. They doubled their lead two minutes later, Lucas Cook’s corner was headed clear by Hasani Sinclair, but Steven Hesketh headed it back towards goal and Gordon Smith lopped his header in to the net at the back post. It was the worst possible start for interim Gwelup coach Richard Abrams, who took over the reins after Trevor Morgan left the club in midweek, and amazingly it was 3-0 on nine minutes.
Ndumba Makeche won possession on the left and found Smith on the edge of the box, and the Scottish striker slipped the ball into Michael Zimarino who made no mistake from four meters. It was 4-0 on the half hour, keeper Ben Ratajczak dallied on a back pass and former Gwelup striker Makeche blocked his attempted clearance and the ball and the ball rolled into an empty net.
It was 5-0 midway through the second half, Smith was the provider, after a neat give and go with Makeche his shot was cleared off the line by Blair Govan, but substitute Tyler Garner fired home the rebound. It soon became 6-0, Makeche curling home superbly from the edge of the box and they added a seventh in stoppage time, Smith sending substitute Luke Salmon clear and he finished with aplomb to seal a comprehensive victory, and one Gerry would have been proud off. The result leaves Gwelup in the relegation fight, and with only three games remaining they are only four points off the drop zone.
Gwelup Croatia: GK Ben RATAJCZAK, 2 Ciaran SALINGER (45 Sebastian HOOSHANGIAN 46’), 4 Tom SOUTHGATE, 5 Blair GOVAN, 6 Declan HARGREAVES, 8 Jon STYNES (35 Dejan LEWIS 76’), 11 Ethan BROOKS, 12 Hasani SINCLAIR, 14 Shubham MOKALA (29 Oli LA GALIA 67’), 18 Gustavo GIRON MARULANDA (3 Adam FIELDS 46’), 20 Sam MITCHINSON - Subs not used: RGK Joshua TOWIE
Bayswater City: GK Liam DRISCOLL, 2 Lucas COOK, 3 Jack ALLEN, 4 Michael ZIMARINO (29 Tyler GARNER 71’), 7 Ndumba MAKECHE (22 Luke SALMON 85’), 8 Gordon SMITH, 10 Jason MIRCO, 12 Steven HESKETH (28 Konstantinos SPARTA 61’), 13 Jordan ABRAHAMS, 18 Fraser DUNLOP, 26 Zayd FARAH – Subs not used: RGK Nic SPECA, 5 Albert FULLARD – Referee: Michal Jasinski
14.8.2021
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE ROUND EIGHTEEN – REVIEW
Stirling Macedonia are the 2021 State League Division One Champions and promoted back to the NPLWA after a 4-0 win against Western Knights in our ‘Match of the Round’ at Nash Field. “We are absolutely delighted to be going back up to the NPL, and I’d like to thank Keegan, Luke and the board for giving us the opportunity to take Stirling back up to the NPL,” Stirling coach Ian Ferguson explained. “I’d also like to thank the coaching staff who have done a fantastic job, this is not all down to one person. And last but not least the players, for their commitment and effort this whole season, what a fantastic year they’ve had, it’s a great credit to them.”
The visitors were sitting 12 points clear of their opponents on the ladder at kick off and made the best possible start, scoring after only 19 minutes. A long ball from James Bosdet wasn’t dealt with by the Knights, and the ball fell to Gavin Knight on the edge of the box and the striker volleyed home his 17th goal of the season. They doubled their lead ten minutes into the second half, Knights free kick was knocked back across goal by Ryan Hogan and Alex Tanevski hooked the ball home, despite Adam Harris attempt to clear. It was 3-0 just after the hour, Tanevski finishing low past Sam Stone, and they put the icing on the cake in stoppage time with a fourth. A throw was intercepted by Hugo Snowden who raced into goal and finished well.
“We knew what the reward was if we got three points against the Knights, but in saying that, nothing changed for us. We have gone out every week with the same aim and that’s to get all three points,” Stirling skipper Dejan Spaseski said. “Both sides had their patches throughout the 90, but our quality showed in scoring four and not allowing Knights to have many chances. We were clinical in front of goal and very hard to break down, as has been the case all season. It’s great to win the league with a month of football still to be played and we thoroughly deserved this based on our performances throughout the season. The club is back where it belongs in the top flight, and this has been a huge effort from everyone involved at the club. We now look to next week to keep our winning streak going.”
Joondalup United moved into third place after a hard fought 3-2 win against Subiaco at Forrest Park. “We were pushed all the way by a youthful but talented Subiaco side,” Joondalup coach Nick Jennings said. “But in the end, I think we just had too much state league experience and football nous.” They were ahead on nine minutes, Jesse Owuor’s long throw wasn’t dealt with by Subiaco, and Jamie Gardiner fired home from close-range. But Subiaco levelled six minutes from the break, E Ireland’s free kick was turned home by Ben Campbell. But Joondalup regained the lead in stoppage time, Nick Maplestone heading home Alan Taylor’s corner. They sealed the points eight minutes after the break, Jay Land sending Taylor into the box, and he was pulled back by Ben Johns and referee Frank Laval pointed straight to the spot. Lang sent Teophile Brown the wrong way from the resulting penalty to make it 3-1. Johns pulled one back for the visitors on 73 minutes, firing home from the edge of the box, but it was too little too late.
Quinns dropped to fourth after a 1-0 loss against Mandurah City at Securitas Protect Stadium. The only goal of the game in the shadows of half time, Rory McGrath sending Afian Giyanto into the box and he fired low past Patrick Stephenson. Quinns pressed after half time but they couldn’t find an equaliser, the loss the third straight for Glenn Grostate’s side. “We went into the game with a number of first team regulars suspended or injured so it was a huge opportunity for our young reserves to make their debuts and they didn’t disappoint,” Mandurah Coach Pete Taylor explained. “Quinns are a direct, physical side and the lads stood firm and delivered in style. Really pleased with the performance and a massive three points after a tough couple of weeks.”
Fremantle City maintained fifth spot after a 3-1 win against Ashfield at Hilton Reserve. “We were slow to get into our groove, but once we did, we looked relatively comfortable,” Fremantle coach Cameron Lord said. “We made it a professional performance in the second half, and puts us in a good run going into an important game next week.” The home side were ahead on 36 minutes, Adam Carlino made space down the right, his cross found Noah Shamaki who fired home from six meters. They doubled their advantage four minutes into the second half, Matthew Brook’s long ball found Shamaki, who beat his marker and finished low past Jamie Serra. It was 3-0 three minutes later, with half time substitute Thomas Kinnane’s cross shot floating over the head over Serra. Ashfield pulled one back 13 minutes from time Lewis Robinson found Ali Khateri he raced into the box his shot was blocked the rebound falling to Leon Anderson who fired home, but it was Fremantle taking the points.
Olympic Kingsway are back in the winner’s circle after a 2-0 victory against Swan United at Francis Street. The visitors were ahead on 22 minutes, Harry Evans’ free kick from the half way line was misjudged by Swan keeper Connor Anderson and the ball ended in the net. They sealed the points ten minutes into the second half, Hamza Hina’s free kick was saved low by Campbell but Harry Edwards fired home. “Swan is a hard venue to get a result, but I thought we fully deserved the win and should have won by more,” Olympic Coach David Tough explained. “The season has been hampered with injuries to key players, so it was great to welcome back experienced trio Chris Balazs, Andrew Scaldaferro and Harry Evans to the starting eleven.”
Forrestfield United moved up to eight, and eight points clear of the drop zone, after a 2-0 win against UWA Nedlands at Crazy Domains Stadium, at Hartfield Park. The home side were ahead in first half stoppage time, Mitch Crocker’s free kick was headed down by Steven McDonald and the unfortunate Joshua Marocchi turned the ball into his own net. They sealed the win six minutes from time, Jordan Lyall’s corner was volleyed home by Scott Barker. “It wasn’t a five-star performance by any means, but sometimes you have to grind out a result,” Crocker said. “The pitch was tough to play on which didn’t help but we made the most of our set pieces.”
14.8.2021
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO ROUND EIGHTEEN – REVIEW
Dianella White Eagles are the 2021 State League Division Two Champions after a 3-0 win against Morley Windmills at Wotton Reserve on Saturday evening. “I thought we controlled the game throughout and it was a convincing win to seal the title,” Eagles coach Stewart Moses said. “I’m delighted for the players, who have been great all season and they deserve all the credit. Bobby and I have put a lot of demands on them this season and they have been equal to them each week, and to get promotion is fantastic for the club and our loyal supporters.”
In front of big travelling contingent of Dianella supporters, they made the best possible start, scoring after only five minutes. Conor McKee made an overlapping run and crossed into the box, and Morley defender Alex Galipo turned the ball into his own net. They added a second in the shadows of half time, Kristian Despotovski’s free kick fell to Daniel Mackenzie, who smashed it into the roof of the net. The title was secured early in the second half, Despotovski’s free kick picked out Mackenzie, who rose highest to head home.
“The game was a must win game, to stay unbeaten but to also guarantee promotion. We didn’t have to pump ourselves up for the game that much as we knew how big it was for us and the club,” midfielder Despotovski said. “I felt like we dominated most of the game and we were very comfortable just knocking the ball around until something opened up forward and that’s what won us the game.”
Our ‘Match of the Round’ was at the other end of the table, and Canning City have moved away from the drop zone after a 5-2 win against Kelmscott Roos at Burrendah Reserve. “We really took the game to them in the opening 20 minutes got a goal early and then we dropped off and lost control of the game a little and to Kelmscott’s credit they took control, and were good for their lead,” Canning Coach Chris Finlayson said. “The half time speech certainly was colourful and the lads came out firing and apart from some good old fashion niggle, we really dominated the second half little, just a bit annoying we didn’t take all our chances, but overall, pretty dominant performance and deserved the points. Kelmscott battled hard all day and full credit to Warren and his lads they definitely made a game of it in patches we wish them all the best in their remaining games and we look forward to the next 4 games with a little bit less pressure.”
Canning made a great start with Jack Murray finding the top corner after only 11 minutes. But Kelmscott hit back with two quick goals midway through the half. First a under hit back pass from Josh Wallhead was pounced on by George Ballah who finished clinically from the edge of the box. Then another defensive mistake allowed Kelmscott skipper Callum Hussain, who placed it across the goal into bottom corner. But three minutes into the second half Canning drew level, Ryan Moran cross was turned home by Connor Nicolaidis. The hosts hit the front seven minutes later, Murray’s corner was headed home powerfully by skipper James Atkins. Canning went on with it to secure the points, first Moran fired home, before Murray rounded off the scoring chipping the keeper.
Murdoch University Melville are up to third after a 2-1 win against Gosnells City at Walter Padbury Reserve. The hosts began brightly and were ahead on seven minutes, with Wade Farmer bagging his eighth goal of the season. But MUM levelled early in the second half, Declan Tanna shot was saved by Duncan Lennon-Black, but Dion Berman was quickest to react to the rebound, firing it into the roof of the net. They sealed their sixth straight win 15 minutes from time. Some excellent build up play between Josh Cortes and Alec Robinson saw them find Pat Sara, who flicked the ball on to Tanna, who finished low past Lennon-Black. “I thought everyone played their part, we worked hard, created lots of chances and took enough to win the game, but also defended really well when we had to,” MUM midfielder Dion Berman said. “The confidence amongst the playing group is high and we want to keep the momentum going, that’s six in a row and onto Wanneroo next week, in what is a huge six-point game.”
Balga are up to sixth after a 2-0 win against Joondalup City at Princess Road Reserve. Joondalup missed a penalty in the first half, and it was the hosts were ahead early in the second half, Amos Gada’s cross from the right found Karl Maluga, who chipped the oncoming keeper. They sealed the points when Farruh Mavlonov defence splitting pass sent Gada in on goal and he finished clinically. “The win was deserved even though Joondalup missed a penalty in the first half that would have changed the set-up of the game,” Balga coach Gerhard Janssen said. “It was good to see that, following weeks of missed chances, we converted the opportunities the team creates through a lot of hard work. For Balga, this means the first win against Joondalup City since our return to the State League and, for the young players, it is important to be part of the proud history of our club.”
Wanneroo City and Curtin University have fought out a scoreless draw at Wanneroo Reserve. “I’m very disappointed with the 0-0 draw, it was two very important points dropped,” Wanneroo coach Jesse Bridgeman said. “We know how important every point is from now to the end of the season and we just didn’t show enough going forward, we defended well, but two early injuries put a stop to the momentum and we struggled to get out of first gear after that, now we have to focus on a huge game next week against Murdoch.”
The hosts were on front foot in the first half, the hosts creating a few good chances, but at the break it was scoreless. Curtin did start well after the break, but almost conceded midway through but Ryan Creigahnan managed to block. The visitors almost won it late but Jakeb Seppings produced a double save, the best denying Allister Gomes at point blank range. “It was a pretty uneventful first half, but they had a few good chances, but we could have won it late but their keeper made a couple of great saves,” Curtin coach Troy Reid said. “Overall, a little disappointed not to get more from the game, but happy with the defensive effort with back-to-back clean sheets.”
The final game between Carramar Shamrock Rovers and Kingsley Westside at Grandis Park. Lachlan Parker had given the hosts the lead just before half time, but the match was abandoned after an altercation with one of the officials. Football West will be investigating.
13.8.2021
NPL-WA ROUND NINETEEN PREVIEW
In our week 19 NPLWA ‘Match of the Round’ we head to SafeRad Stadium for a real six pointer at the bottom of the table as Rockingham City host Balcatta. (All games kick off at 3.00pm unless otherwise stated) City sit at the foot of the table, but produced a great performance last week beating Inglewood United 2-1, to move level with Balcatta, who fought back from two goals down to draw at home to Sorrento. So, with only four games to go this one is vital as both sides fight to avoid the drop.
The fightback last week showed great character from the Balcatta side, and it ended a six-game losing streak, and midfielder Jon Corness said they deserved it. “I thought we played reasonably well against Sorrento so a point was justified even after going down 2-0,” he explained. “We showed character to score the late goals to take a draw which is a good sign moving forward.”
Corness, who has been outstanding this season at Grindleford Reserve, said Saturday is a massive game and one they are looking forward too. “It’s a must win game really, anything less is not acceptable,” the midfielder said. “We have the quality to get ourselves out of the position that we're in and that's the mindset we take into the game. It will be a battle for sure so we need to be ready to compete and I’m sure we will.”
Rockingham also produced a comeback win to beat Inglewood, and striker Feisal Zaw, who missed the game with an injury, said it was a great performance from the side, and the home supporters were outstanding yet again. “Yes, it was a great game to watch, and the home ground atmosphere definitely helped,” he said. “And as much as I hate missing games through injury it was awesome to see us fight back against a strong Inglewood side, and hopefully there’s more to come with a couple of home games left for us.”
Zaw, who has four goals this season, will return to the squad for Saturday’s vital game, and he said it is huge for both sides. “I think we've had this game down as our cup final since midway through the season,” he explained. “I thought we were unlucky to not take points at Grindleford earlier in the season, so everyone’s up and about for this weekend. Hopefully the focus we've had this week will show on the weekend.”
In other games this week, league leaders Perth SC head north to take on ECU Joondalup at the ECU Football Stadium. Perth sot two points clear at the top after a win against Armadale last week, while Joondalup slipped out of the top four after their loss against Glory, so this game is huge for both clubs. Second placed Floreat Athena won for the first time in six games last week against Gwelup, and will look to build on that performance when they travel to Alfred Skeet Reserve to take on Armadale, who lost ground on the top four after their loss at Perth.
Gwelup Croatia are only four points off the drop zone and they will look to end a three-game run without a win when they host Bayswater City at Wishart Street, but they will have a new face in the dugout, after Trevor Morgan left the club in midweek, Richard Abrams will take control on Saturday. Meanwhile Inglewood United will look to bounce back from their disappointing loss at Rockingham when they welcome Cockburn City to the Inglewood Stadium, while in the final game it’s third v fourth as Sorrento entertain Perth Glory at Percy Doyle Reserve.
Ruben Zadkovich’s side continued their charge up the table with a big win against ECU last week, but Sorrento lost ground on the top two after giving away a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 away at Balcatta, which frustrated coach Jamie Harnwell. “It was extremely frustrating not to take the three points on Saturday after putting ourselves in such a good position,” he said. “Balcatta came out and took the game to us in the last 20 odd minutes but we needed to be better defensively. The players were gutted afterwards and all you are looking for as a coach is a reaction from them for the next game.”
Harnwell, who played 256 games for Glory in his playing days, said Saturday’s game is huge for both sides. “This is a massive game for both sides now, Glory have really gelled together well and will be difficult to play against, but we know we need the three points off the back of last week and are focussed on that,” he explained. “We will welcome a couple of players back this week that will provide some competition for places and hopefully get ourselves back on a winning run.”
13.8.2021
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE ROUND EIGHTEEN – PREVIEW
It’s going to be a huge game at Nash Field on Saturday in week 18 of the State League Division One as league leaders Stirling Macedonia meet second placed Western Knights, and the top of table clash is our ‘Match of the Round’. (All games kick off at 3.00pm unless otherwise stated) Ian Ferguson’s side edged closer to the title last week with a win at traditional rivals Olympic Kingsway, and a win in this one could see them gain promotion back to the NPLWA after a two-year hiatus. The Knights are standing in their way, and Ivan Zuvela’s side are coming off a hard-fought win against Mandurah last week, so this one should be a great game.
Stirling are on the verge of promotion and they should great determination to beat traditional rivals Olympic Kingsway last week, and striker Gavin Knight said it was a tough game but a great three points. “It was a great win against Kingsway, and a special one for our supporters, with the big rivalry we have with them,” he explained. “I thought we played very well, as we have been playing with a lot of confidence, and we scored some great goals to, hopefully we do same on Saturday.” Knight said the season at Macedonia Park has been superb and they were determined to get promotion and a win at Nash Field could seal it.
“This season has been amazing for the club. We set our targets at the start of the year and we are one game away from hitting our target and be back in the top league where this club belongs,” he said. “Saturday is a massive game for us, it’s one v two and the chance to be promoted to NPL. The last time we played them it was a great game to be involved in and we just sneaked a victory in last minute but this time they will want to get revenge and try get three points and close the gap. But with the way we have been playing and 15 game winning streak it will be tough for them, and on a personal note it would be a great 41st birthday present to be promoted “
Knights’ striker Ciaran Byrne bagged a hat-trick in the win against Mandurah, and he said it was an important win for them. “It was great win on the weekend an overdue win against Mandurah,” Byrne said. “We didn’t have the best starts with a couple of mistakes that didn’t help us, but we stuck together put our heads down and got back into the game. It was a great team effort to get all three points, and of course it’s always nice to score and help the team get the win.”
The Knights sit 12 points behind Saturday’s opponents, and Byrne said if they had turned some of their seven draws into wins, they would have been closer, but they are looking forward to the game against the leaders. “I think when we look back and reflect on this season the three key games will be the Mandurah away, Stirling away and Kingsway away games, when we threw away good leads but this league isn’t easy and credit to Stirling, they haven’t slipped up much this year and that doesn’t help teams like us trying to catch them,” the striker explained. “Both sides are going to be up for it for their own reasons and it should be another thriller that I’m looking forward to play in. I think if we focus on ourself and do what we need to do on the pitch, we should be fine.
In other games on Saturday, third placed Quinns will look to bounce back from defeat against Forrestfield last week, when they head south to take on Mandurah City at Securitas Protect Stadium. Mandurah pushed the Knights all the way last week, but conceded two late goals to lose, so both sides will look to turn their performances around in this one. Joondalup United continued their good season with a big win at Ashfield, and this week they welcome Subiaco to Forrest Park, Swan United and Olympic Kingsway will look to get back into the winner’s circle when they meet at Francis Street, while Fremantle City, who just sit outside the top four, entertain Ashfield at Hilton Reserve.
In the final game Forrestfield United will look to build on their big win at Quinns last week, when they welcome UWA Nedlands to Crazy Domains Stadium, at Hartfield Park. Midfielder Mitch Crocker said it was an important win on the road, and they now have to get their form at home. “It was a good win on the weekend and it seems like we're getting out rewards for the way we've been playing, and we needed a reaction from the Kingsway game and we got one,” he said. “Our home form has been poor, but it’s not something that is sticking in our minds. UWA have improved from the start of the season, and so have we, so let’s see what happens on Saturday.”
13.8.2021
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO ROUND EIGHTEEN – PREVIEW
It’s week 18 of the State League Division Two and in our ‘Match of the Round’ we head to Burrendah Reserve for the relegation battle between Canning City and Kelmscott Roos. (All games kick off at 3.00pm unless otherwise stated) Kelmscott let a two-goal lead slip last week against Joondalup City, while Canning was beaten by Kingsley and with only seven points separating the two sides and only five games remaining, a win in this one will be huge.
Canning coach Chris Finlayson announced he will leave the club at the end of the season, and he hopes to end his time with a few wins, but he knows they will have to play better than they did last week at Kingsley. “Without a doubt I’d like to finish off my time at CCFC best we can it’s been a tough season but more importantly as a group we would like to finish off our time together the best way we can,” he said. “I couldn’t be prouder of the lads, but things just haven’t gone our way and sometimes you just have those seasons we have five games to go let’s see what we can achieve as a group.”
Finlayson said Kelmscott have found some form in recent weeks and he is expecting a tough game. “Warren (Smith) and his side will be tough on Saturday they are fighting for survival and need to win as many as they possibly can,” he said. “It’s been a tough season for them as well, but from our end we need to probably win one maybe two or a draw in there to be safe. So, both sides will be looking for the points there is a lot to play for and we expect a tough game. Warren has improved them a lot from round one so it won’t be easy. The lads are fully fit we have rested a few the last few weeks ready for this week as long we stick to our game plan, I’m confident we can get the points.”
Kelmscott should have won last week against Joondalup, but two late goals denied them, and coach Warren Smith said they are doing everything they can to climb the table. “Kelmscott has good team spirit and do not want to go Amateur league, so we are all working hard towards staying in the league, it is showing in the results on the field,” he said. “The season is not over and we are keen to work hard to survive. It is not just for the players it's for the clubs’ people who work so hard in trying to rebuild the club to being the best club in the area.”
Saturday’s game is a real six-pointer, and Smith said they will be doing all they can to get the win. “This is another cup final for us, that's the way we are looking at every game until the end of the season,” he explained. “Kelmscott v Canning is always a great game, two local teams working hard for the three points, and it’s the game where we can turn our bad luck around and finish the season strong.”
In other games this weekend, second-placed Kingsley Westside make the trip to Grandis Park to take on Carramar Shamrock Rovers, looking to keep their winning streak going, while Rovers will be hoping to end a three-game run without a win. Gosnells City will look to bounce back from their narrow defeat against Dianella when they welcome the inform Murdoch University Melville to Walter Padbury Reserve, Taki Nicolaidis’ side are unbeaten under his tenure (Kick off 1.00pm). Balga entertain Joondalup City at Princess Road Reserve, while Curtin University travel to Wanneroo Reserve to take on Wanneroo City.
In the late game Morley Windmills welcome league leaders Dianella White Eagles to Wotton Park (5.30pm) Dianella could win the title this weekend with a win, but Morley will be doing all they can to spoil the party and get back to winning ways after a narrow loss at Wanneroo last week. Morley coach Antony Benetti said last week they had their chances but came away empty handed. “I was very pleased in the boy’s game against Wanneroo. We certainly had our chances to put the game away and I felt that we were in control throughout the game though we felt a draw would have been a fair result,” he explained. “It's always tough to drop points with a questionable penalty decision and it's just an opportunity for us to ensure we make those moments insignificant by being a bit better in our execution in the final third.”
Benetti said they are looking forward to Saturday’s game and are ready for the challenge on taking on the leaders. “Dianella are a fantastic team that have adopted an ambitious model for success and credit to them,” he said. “As always our aim will be to play the game and not the occasion and of course we'll be working hard to put on a good performance as we do every week. I think regardless of this week's result we know the outcome will eventually be a Dianella promotion and we are looking at three points ahead of simply delaying that. The only real dangling carrot for us is the opportunity to pit ourselves against the number one team, and were looking forward to it.”
13.8.2021
BELT UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION - ROUND SEVENTEEN PREVIEW
We head into week 17 of the Belt Up Amateur Premier Division and our ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to Woodville Reserve where North Perth United entertain Quinns, kick off 1.00pm. The hosts scored two late goals last week to edge out Joondalup United, while Quinns lost ground on the leaders after being held to a 2-2 draw at Wembley Downs. But with only seven points separating the two sides on the table this one should be cracker.
United defender Mark Donnelly said they had to work hard for the three points last week, and he knows they will have to play better than that over the next month if they want to climb the table. “It was probably our scrappiest performance of the year, against a hard-working Joondalup, who scored two good goals,” he said. “We had a strong bench and we were able to make some changes, and the substitutes were able to get the job done late, with a goal each.”
Donnelly said they know Quinns well after playing them on a number occasions this season, and he’s hoping they can continue the good run of results against them. “It will be the fourth time we’ve faced Quinn’s this season, after a night series semi, and a league and cup round in consecutive weeks,” he explained. “We’ve come out on top so far, but are aware they were missing a few players in those games and will be fired up to turn that around. We know nothing but a 90-minute performance at our best will get us a result this time against a team, sitting comfortably above us in the league.”
A goal in the final minute from Liam Hunt gave Quinns the draw at Wembley, and he said it was tight encounter, and they were happy to leave with something. “They (Wembley) have definitely improved since we last played them and it was a tough game for us,” he said. “Also, on such a narrow pitch it was hard to play football the way we usually would, but happy to get a last-minute equaliser and leave there with a point.”
The equaliser was Hunt’s seventh of the season, and he said the league has gone from strength to strength this season, and it will be another tight game at North Perth on Sunday, but a win is vital to keep the pressure on the teams above them. “North Perth are always a hard team for us to play, so it will another challenge, but we have to get three points this weekend to keep the pressure on the top two,” he explained. “But if we play to our strengths I don't see any reason for us not to get the win this weekend.”
The round kicks off on Saturday evening when South West Phoenix hosts Hamersley Rovers at the Onside Sports Stadium. (6.00pm) The hosts are pushing for promotion, while Rovers sit bottom of the table and are still searching for their first win of the season, so it should be a home banker, but in this league nothing is certain. All the other games are on a Sunday and kick off at 3.00pm. Fourth placed Kwinana United head down the Freeway to take on Queens Park at Coker Park, Lemming Strikers entertain Jaguar at John Connell Reserve, while Wembley Downs travel to the UWA Sports Park to take on UWA Nedlands.
In the final game Joondalup United host league leaders Maddington White City at Beldon Park. City jumped clear at the top after beating the Phoenix last weekend, but had their lead cut after a draw in midweek against Wembley, so three points are massive in this one. On the other hand, Joondalup have been one of the big improvers in recent weeks, but haven’t got the results their performances deserve, as last week’s narrow loss at North Perth shows, where they conceded two late goals to lose 2-3, something coach Neil Sherwin hopes they rectify. “It wasn't the first time this season that we've snatched defeat from the jaws of victory in the closing stages and we should have taken something from the game. We've won two of our last four but it should be four from four, and those extra points would have us in a much better position,” he explained. “Performances have improved lately though and aside from one awful second half effort against Quinns, we've competed well. With seven games to go, we've set ourselves some achievable targets to ensure we stay in the Premier Division.”
Sherwin said Sunday game against the league leaders is a challenge they are looking forward too. “Maddington are top of the table for a reason; they are technically very good and have a couple of players who are now into double figures for goals. That makes all the difference at this level, and is part of the reason why we are where we are,” he said. “Having said that, we took the game to them at their place and it was disappointing to be on the wrong end of the 4-3 scoreline. We've worked on a few things at training this week and the lads are up for the challenge, we'll go into the contest aiming to cause an upset.”
12.8.2021
AUSTRALIA TO BID FOR WORLD CUP
Australia is set to have a second crack at a chance to host the world's biggest sporting event, with plans reportedly underway to make another bid to host the FIFA World Cup. According to 'the Australian' newspaper, the nation's sport and government officials are reportedly formulating a bid for the men’s 2030 or 2034 World Cup.
Brisbane's success in landing the 2032 Olympic Games has prompted a push to bring major events down under to take advantage of new infrastructure and spending. It is understood Football Australia is also seeking to capitalise on the skyrocketing popularity of Australia’s women’s team, the Matildas, after a commercially successful Tokyo Olympics.
Australia and New Zealand are already locked in to share hosting duties for the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup. Qatar will host the World Cup in 2022 while Canada, Mexico and the United States will share hosting duties in 2026, the first time in history the event has been hosted by more than two countries.
12.8.2021
BELT-UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION MIDWEEK REVIEW
There were two massive midweek games in the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division, with the two front runners playing Week 11 catch up games on Wednesday evening. First league leaders Maddington White City have had their lead at the top cut to one point after being held to a 1-1 draw by Wembley Downs at Gumblossom Park. Maddington midfielder Alejandro Sarria said it was a tough game, but they are now focused on Sunday’s game. and a fair result in the end. “We know that all the teams in this league are difficult rivals, that is why we work match by match. Yesterday was not our best game, however after going down a goal and with a player less, we managed to impose our style of game, tie the game and generate two clear scoring chances that we could not achieve,” he explained. “We are already thinking about the game this weekend, since we continue in the first place of the league and we want it to continue being that way.”
Wembley were ahead five minutes after half time with James Kilbee converting from the spot, and Maddington were then reduced to team men after Nicholas Pardo was shown a straight card by referee Jatin Lodhia. But the ten men hit back to take a share of the spoils with Jose Zuniga levelling, his tenth goal of the season to give both sides a share of the spoils. "It was a good contest and I felt we played really well. We nullified their threats and deservedly went 1-0 up,” Wembley coach Anthony Cochrane said. “Unfortunately, when they went a man down, we lost a little bit of shape and they got their equaliser. But overall, really happy with the performance, now we need to maintain this momentum until the end of the season."
South West Phoenix moved to within one point of the leaders are a 5-1 win against UWA Nedlands at the UWA Sports Park. It was a hard-fought win, as UWA are a solid organised team,” Phoenix coach Nick Carter said. “But it was great to get back to winning ways and with so much clinical finishing.” Kieran Quinn gave the visitors the lead early, and they lead by that goal at the break. But three minutes into the second half UWA levelled with Fernando Riese on target and it was game on. But it was the Phoenix who finished the game the better and they regained the lead 11 minutes from time with Lee Stewart scoring.
They went on to score three late goals with Corey Barclay, Kobe Mayers and a second from Stewart from the spot, his 16th goal of the season to seal a comprehensive win. “It was a tough game, especially being the second Perth trip in three days, and it was quite hard to play football on the slippery pitch,” Phoenix skipper Jamie Oakey said. “UWA are a well drilled physical team and they played well for large parts. We defended well throughout which gave us the platform to push on and really dominate the end of the match. We’re looking forward to a couple days recovery now, before welcoming Hamersley on Saturday in Bunbury.”
11.8.2021
RUKAVYTSYA IN TALKS WITH TURKISH CLUB
Socceroo Nikita Rukavytsya is reportedly in talks with Turkish side Giresunspor. The 34-year old finisher recently parted company with Israeli club Maccabi Haifa, where he made 158 appearances and scored 64 goals across five seasons, and had previously been linked with a move back to the A-League. Giresunspor won promotion to Turkey’s top flight last season and are said to be keen on securing Rukavytsya as well as Croatian striker Ivan Santini.
10.8.2021
GLORY IN GOOD HANDS ACCORDING TO CLISBY
Newly returned Perth Glory defender Jack Clisby says the long-term future of the club is in safe hands. The 29-year old has thrown his support behind coach Richard Garcia’s determination to bring young, local talent through the club pathways into the A-League to lay foundations for coming seasons.
Garcia was in the Glory squad when a 20-year-old Clisby made his A-League debut and believes he can assume a role the Socceroos midfielder played in helping him in the early days of his career. “Richie was in the first team that I signed with as a young boy in the 2012/13 season,” Clisby said.
“As a young boy, you looked up to those kind of players, top professionals that know their football and played at the highest levels. The years go by, now they are coaching, I get the chance to work with them and I’m one of the more senior players. It’s great being able to nurture the younger ones.”
“I remember what it was like being one of them, being a little bit nervous, a little bit wary to express yourself. I turned up to training and I was thinking ‘Oh my God, I’ve got 10 years on some of you’ but I’ve been really impressed with them. They are going to keep us older guys on our toes but we can raise their experience.”
“The future is bright with the young boys coming through. As long as they work hard, they’ve got good futures. They’re all good kids as well as good players. The type of character is what drives a good squad. You can have a great player but there’s nothing stronger for team culture than players who are good people willing to work hard.”
Clisby, who has signed a two-year deal, played his first A-League game on Australia Day 2013 after graduating from Glory’s academy. He made 29 A-League appearances for Glory and added 139 games through spells with Melbourne City, Western Sydney Wanderers and Central Coast Mariners.
“I couldn’t be happier to be home,” Clisby said. “It was something that was in the back of my mind, I had a good talk with Garc (Garcia) and I didn’t have to think twice about it. The opportunity to come back and play for my hometown club, where it all began, is fantastic. The club is definitely going in the right direction.”
9.8.2021
MAYNARD-BREWER SET FOR SCOTTISH LOAN
Ashley Maynard-Brewer has signed a season-long loan with Scottish Premiership outfit Ross County. The 22-year old goalkeeper, a member of Australia’s squad at the Tokyo Olympic Games, has signed on for the 2021/22 season from English League One club Charlton Athletic.
"I am delighted to have Ashley joining us," said Ross County manager Malky Mackay. "He comes highly recommended to us as a very talented young goalkeeper, one that will bring competition to our group. He has had a terrific experience representing his country at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and we are excited to bring that calibre of goalkeeper to our club."
"Ashley has come through one of the most well-respected Academy’s in the UK, and we would like to thank Charlton Athletic FC for allowing us to help further develop his career." Current Socceroos Jackson Irvine and Harry Souttar both spent loan stints at Ross County during the early stages of their careers.
9.8.2021
ANTON RE-SIGNS WITH GLORY WOMEN
Perth Glory Women are delighted to confirm defender Liz Anton will returning to the club for the 2021/22 season. The 22-year old made a huge impact in her maiden W-League campaign last year, playing every minute of Glory's 12 games and being rewarded for her outstanding performance levels with the club's Most Glorious Player Award.
Having recently returned from Tokyo where she was a part of New Zealand's Football Ferns squad, Anton is thrilled at the prospect of building upon the impressive start she has made to her Glory career. "I'm so excited to be back at Perth for a second season," she said. "I'm looking forward to meeting some new faces and to getting back training with the girls in what will be a competitive environment."
Coach Alex Epakis views the Auckland-born centre-back as a cornerstone of Glory’s defence. "We are really happy to have Liz back this season," Epakis said. "She returns on the back of her Olympics experience and spending the majority of the off-season involved in national team training camps in New Zealand. Liz was a player who really stood out and played an important role throughout some of the difficulties of last season."
"It is easy forget she is still very young, but she plays with experience and conducts herself in such a fantastic way on and off the field and is a real benchmark athlete and person. I am fully aware of how focused she is to return and help the team and club bring our vision to life and I am excited to work closely with her to further assist her personal development."
8.8.2021
BELT UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION - ROUND SIXTEEN REVIEW
Maddington White City have moved clear at the top of the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division after a 3-0 win in the top of the table clash against South West Phoenix in our ‘Match of the Round’ at Nikola Tesla Reserve. “The boys heads are high up and we keep pushing hard for the title,” defender Alexander Hoareau said. “In the first half I thought we dominated, but early in the second half, South West Phoenix showed us how good of a team they are and we got put under a lot of pressure. We re-gained our shape and a stunning goal from our Jose gave the team momentum to push through and that is exactly what we did. We were strong and compact in the defence and our in-form keeper Ezekiel, was able to keep a clean sheet on Sunday. The boys put in 110% effort which saw us a win an important game - Proud of my boys.”
Maddington started the game well and were rewarded with the lead on 22 minutes, Stevens Pino finishing, after Samir Ramos’ shot had been saved. The visitors pushed after the break to find the equaliser but they found themselves 2-0 down 19 minutes from time, Jose Zuniga’s stunning shot flew into the top corner of the net giving Jamie Oakey no chance, and setting off wild celebrations on and off the park. The points were wrapped up in the final minute, with Samir Ramos scoring his 14th goal of the season, the win moving Maddington three points clear of the Phoenix with six games remaining. “We are very happy with the victory on the weekend, it was a difficult match, however, we achieved the result we expected, and in front of our supporters,” midfielder Alejandro Sarria said. “We know that the league is not over and that we still have to continue preparing for the last matches of the season, but we are ready for the challenge.”
Quinns missed a chance to keep the pressure on the leaders after they were held to a 2-2 draw by Wembley Downs at Butlers Reserve. “I thought Wembley played very well, and they made it very hard for us to find space and play our normal game,” Quinns coach Vinny McMillan said. “It was nothing less than we expected and in all honestly they probably deserved the win. Our boys did not have the best of days however never gave in and we now look forward to a trip away to North Perth.” Quinns did take the lead early, with Danny Head finding the net after Wembley failed to clear a corner. But the hosts hit back with Daniel Raine levelling on the half hour, before skipper Juraj Galba gave them the lead at the break.
It looked like they would take the points but in fourth minute of stoppage time Quinns found the equaliser, Liam Hunt heading home to give both sides a share of the spoils. "It was a solid effort from the boys and a great reflection of our improvement this season. We pushed Quinns all the way and it's disappointing we couldn't hang on for the win or take more of our chances,” Wembley coach Anthony Cochrane explained. “We are in a good space at the moment and I believe we can beat anyone on our day. I'm looking forward to the next challenge and keen to see how we stack up against the league leaders."
Kwinana United maintained fourth spot after a 7-0 win against Hamersley Rovers at Carine Open Space. Lee Bates gave the visitors the lead early on, and they never looked back. Dominic Sumner added the second and Jake Daley the third before half time. Bates added three more after the break, with Daley also adding another as Mark Purvis’ side completed a comprehensive win. “Extremely pleased with the way we approached the game,” United coach Purvis said. “We weren’t happy with our performance against Maddington so to bounce back the way we did was very pleasing.”
Jaguar have beaten UWA Nedlands for the first time in seven games after a 5-2 win at Herb Graham Recreation Centre. Jags opened the scoring after only five minutes, Mabor Thomas eased past his marker out wide and his low cross found Conor O'Driscoll, who fired in to the top corner above two defenders on the line. It was 2-0 five minutes later, Mahmoud Ramdan's corner was powerfully headed home by Mabor Thomas. But UWA reduced the margin seven minutes later, with Lawrence Lewis converting from the spot. But in the shadows of half time Jags made it 3-1, when referee David Bruce spotted a handball and Deng Akol converted from the spot. The game was delayed for a number of minutes after a serious injury, but Jags continued to dominate and added a fourth late, Malek Domkoc beat his defender and cut inside the box and curled a shot to the top corner.
It was 5-1 in stoppage time, when a scramble in the box from a corner, saw Mabor Thomas attempted bicycle kick land in front of Makuei Mapooth who made no mistake from close-range. UWA added a second deep into to stoppage time with Abel Thomas-Hy scoring. “A good result from our perspective, with the club never having beaten UWA after years of trying, and being thoroughly outplayed at their home ground earlier this season,” Jags keeper Michael Dudek explained. “While the game wasn't mean-spirited, a broken ankle to one of our key players Ceasar Lok, and what looked like a bad concussion to one of the UWA boys, caused long delays and probably took the sting out of the game. I wish the best to both players in their recovery, and thank the UWA players for their patience during the delay.”
There was a six-goal thriller at John Connell Reserve, where Leeming Strikers drew 3-3 with Queens Park. “After going 1-0 down after a positive start, it was good to be back in front before half time,” Leeming player/coach David Palin said. “It's a frustrating result given we controlled the game for 80 minutes, unfortunately for the last 20 minutes we couldn't control the decisions the referee chose, and to concede with the last kick of game is hard to take but that’s just the way it goes sometimes and it's two undefeated now another point on the board and we just have to turn our attention to Jaguars and keep improving from our last two results.”
The visitors were ahead on 20 minutes, with Leigh Bridger finishing low past Jordan Jones at his near post. But Leeming levelled three minutes later, Palin laid the ball back to Michael Jennings who collected 30 meters from goal ran forward before hitting a shot from long-range that beat keeper Tom Livingstone, despite him getting a hand to it. Leeming were ahead just before half time, Steve Murgia won the ball in the middle of the park, played Palin through and he lifted the ball over an onrushing keeper. It looked game over when Leeming added a third on the hour, Cam Anderson played Palin into the box, he squared to Kieren Witt, who scored from close-range.
But Queens Park weren’t finished and referee Michael Nguyen pointed to the spot after Kenny Young was brought down in the box and Hakim Rezaie made no mistake with the resulting penalty. Then in the final minute Queens levelled, with Young racing past several Leeming players before finishing with aplomb. Queens thought they had found the winner in stoppage time, but the goal was ruled out, and Leeming ended the game with ten men after Jennings was sent off. “It was a feisty game with both teams desperate for points,” Queens Park coach Ricardo Fynn said. “Overall, we were gutted to walk away with a point, especially with the goal disallowed late, and I felt over 90 minutes we deserved more. The spirit within the camp is high and to go three unbeaten is definitely a positive in a season where there is nothing but quality in the entire division.”
In the final game North Perth United have edged out Joondalup United 3-2 in the early game at Woodville Reserve. The hosts took the lead on 11 minutes, Scott Wrightson made space down the right and laid the ball into the path of Javier Pineres Mestre who scored from close-range. But Joondalup hit back, and after some neat build up play on the right Alan Taylor headed home a cross. Joondalup hit the front six minutes from time, with Kyall Osborne scoring a creamer from long-range, giving Todd Ross no chance. But straight from the kick off North Perth restored parity, Daniel Conway was sent down the left and squared the ball to Kyran Broadhurst to finish. Then in stoppage time North Perth won it, Andy O’Neill’s corner was headed back across goal Broadhurst and David Houston made no mistake from four meters. “It wasn’t a great performance, probably our worst of the season just couldn’t get things going and Joondalup made things hard for us,” North Perth coach Luke O’Neill said. “A little bit of luck for us today but happy that all the substitutes came on and made an impact late on, and we were happy that we were able to bounce back after two losses in a row.”
7.8.2021
GLORY INTO TOP FOUR AFTER BEATING CHAMPIONS
Perth Glory have moved into the top four of the NPLWA after a 3-0 win against ECU Joondalup in our ‘Match of the Round’ at Crazy Domains Stadium, Hartfield Park, the win moving Glory above the Jacks on the table. The hosts where ahead early when A-League striker Ciaran Bramwell scored, and second half goals to Jack Painter-Andrews and Adam Zimarino secured the points for Glory. “It was nice to get the early goal, but the pleasing thing was we knew how they would set up and I thought our game plan negated that,” Glory coach Chris Coyne said. “Being a former defender, I was pleased with the clean sheet and the players have got that real resolve at the moment, but I have to mention Cameron Cook who was excellent today and he has been all season for us.”
The visitors made a good start, and Andy Higgins’ long-range shot flew wide, before Higgins sent Jakub Prajza down the right his cross found Riley Woodcock, whose header was saved by Cook. Moments later Danny Hodgson volley was well saved by Cook, but the flag was up for offside. It was a solid shirt, but Glory hit back and Charlie Leech fired just over the top, and on 17 minutes they hit the front. Aiden Edwards pass found Bramwell on the edge of the penalty area and he turned his marker well before finishing clinically past Johnny Perkins.
The goal lifted the hosts and Perkins produced a smart save to deny Zimarino three minutes later, as they lifted the tempo, but the Jacks stood firm and went close themselves on the half hour, Higgins made space down the right and he pulled the ball back to Nicol, who goalbound effort was superbly saved by Cook. Moments later they went closer, Higgins free kick was helped on by Hodgson and Woodcock ghosted in at the back post and his shot crashed off the base of the post and Hodgson’s follow up shot was blocked.
It was a tight start to the second half and Nicol was denied by Cook, before Perkins produced a stunning one handed save to thwart Zimarino’s free kick moments later, but on 52 minutes they doubled their advantage. Skipper Giordano Colli’s corner missed everyone and found Painter-Andrews at the back post, who swept the ball home from close-range. It was 0-3 on 61 minutes, Bramwell’s diagonal ball sent Zimarino racing clear, his first effort was saved low by Perkins, but the striker powered home the rebound via the underside of the crossbar to seal the points.
Perth Glory: GK Cameron COOK, 3 Aidan COYNE, 4 Jacob MUIR, 5 Will FORMSTON, 6 Joseph FORDE, 7 Charlie LEECH, 8 Aiden EDWARDS (15 Andrew MARANTA 46’), 9 Ciaran BRAMWELL (17 Tyler VECCHIO 77’), 10 Giordano COLLI (18 Chris DONNELL 77’), 11 Adam ZIMARINO (12 Joshua ANASMO 68’), 22 Jack PAINTER-ANDREWS – Subs not used: RGK Sam REILLY
ECU Joondalup: GK Johnny PERKINS (RGK Joe POLLARD 88’), 3 Nelson TSHONGO (7 Oscar MALFIORE 59’), 4 Declan HUGHES, 6 Riley WOODCOCK, 8 Tom HOUGH, 9 Daryl NICOL, 10 Andy HIGGINS, 12 Jakub PRAJZA, 16 Shane CASSIDY, 17 Danny HODGSON, 18 Luke PALMATEER – Subs not used: 5 Danny DOUGLAS, 13 Kaelan MAJEKS, 15 Jason PETRIE – Referee: Steven GREGORY
7.8.2021
PERTH KEEP LEAD AT THE TOP AFTER BEATING ARMADALE
Perth SC maintained their lead at the top of the NPLWA table after a 2-0 win against Armadale at Dorrien Gardens. Jayden Gorman gave the hosts the lead early, before former Armadale striker Michael Domfeh came back to haunt his former club, scoring the sealer from the spot after the break. Despite creating a number of chances John O’Reilly’s couldn’t find the target and defeat puts a big dent in their top four hopes. “It was a great result that we marked as a danger game, and we knew we would have to be at our best to get the job done and thankfully the result reflected the performance,” Perth keeper Ryan Montgomery explained. “We were solid from front to back and everyone put in a shift, it was a true team performance.”
The home side, who took over top spot last week after a win at Gwelup, made the perfect start and were ahead after only 55 seconds. Gorman sent Domfeh In on goal his shot was saved by Yousri Gharsallah but the ball fell to Gorman, who made no mistake. But the Reds hit back and Chad Nilson cut in from the right but his long-range shot was off target. Despite conceding it was Armadale who were making the running, and on 12 minutes Pieter Jacobsz slipped in Adriano Jelenovic, who rounded the keeper but his touch was too heavy and the chance was gone.
The Reds were in again three minutes later, Angel Andres finding skipper Brian Patterson on the edge of the box his shot flashed inches wide of the far post, and moments later Jacobsz was denied by Montgomery. Armadale then lost keeper Gharsallah with injury, and he was replaced by Michael Craggs. Both sides had late chances, Nilson fired over after finding space in the box and in stoppage time Domfeh’s shot on the run was saved by Craggs.
Perth opened the brighter after the break and on 53 minutes Ramon Falzon’s side added a second. Domfeh’s header at the back post hit the arm of Nathan Costello, who seemed to be appealing for offside, but referee Tom Glavovic pointed straight to the spot, much to the frustration of the Armadale players and coaches alike. Domfeh stepped up and fired home from the resulting penalty. They went close to a third moments later, Gorman made space down the right and cut inside the box but Craggs got down well save.
Armadale weren’t finished, but they found Montgomery in good form with his handling from crosses top class and the 13 minutes from time he produced a smart save to thwart Friday Zico. With Armadale pushing players forward late looking to get back into the game it left holes at the back and the hosts had chances to add to their lead, Lachlan Byrd’s header was saved low by Craggs, before the keeper was out quick to save at the feet of Domfeh, but the damage had already been done.
Perth SC: GK Ryan MONTGOMERY, 2 Alex SILLA, 4 Lachlan BYRD, 6 Nik MCDONALD, 10 Michael DOMFEH, 13 Calvin WHITNEY, 15 Will GORDON, 16 Kieran COLWELL, 18 Federico ACHILLI, 19 Ben RADINOVIC, 21 Jayden GORMAN (8 David ZIVKOVIC 82’) – Subs not used: RGK Adrian SINAGRA, 12 Sam FLORES, 17 Aiden FORMSTON, 22 Kristian SANTICH
Armadale: GK Yousri GHARSALLAH (RGK Michael CRAGGS 31’), 3 Andy REALE, 4 Nathan COSTELLO, 8 Brian PATTERSON (14 Blake ADAMS 62’), 9 Angel ANDRES (48’), 6 Joel SANDERSON, 11 Chad NILSON, 12 Callum MELLOWSHIP, 17 Pieter JACOBSZ, 18 Kevin ASHWOOD (13 Filippo GIOFFRE 62’), 20 Adriano JELENOVIC (19 Vladimir NAUMOVSKI 62’), 23 Friday ZICO – Subs not used: Nil – Referee: Tom Glavovic
7.8.2021
BALCATTA HIT BACK LATE TO DRAW WITH SORRENTO
Sorrento lost ground on the top two, giving away a two-goal lead after 2-2 draw against Balcatta at Grindleford Reserve. A brace from striker Chris Jackson looked to have won it for Jamie Harnwell’s side, but fighting at the other end of the table Balcatta hit back with Jon Corness scoring from the spot, before Elliot Tattersall levelled two minutes from time. “The boys were tremendous and showed great character coming back from 2-0 down five minutes into the second half, they could easily have thrown the towel in but they kept working hard,” coach Carl Medica said. “Michael (Jennings) had to change things up and the substitutions all had an impact. We’ll take a point, train hard this week and look forward to a massive game at Rockingham next week.”
The visitors had jumped to third after their win against Rockingham last week with Dean Cummings bagging a hat-trick, and the midfielder went close again early in this one. Ollie Annis’ deep cross found Cummings at the back post, but he headed wide of the target. The hosts went close themselves moments later, Corness’ great run ended with a low shot which was saved by Connor Campbell. Balcatta were only two points off the drop zone at kick off, went close again on 15 minutes, Michael Scafetta shot was pushed around the post by the alert Campbell.
But seven minutes later it was Sorrento who found the opener, Cummings’ ball over the top sent Jackson clear, and with the Balcatta defenders looking for the offside flag that never came, the striker raced into the box before finishing low past Lewis Italiano. Balcatta looked for an immediate response and Jack Leech fired over the top after being picked out by Nick Walsh, before David Perich’s glancing header drifted wide of the far post. Sorrento went close to adding to their lead on 37 minutes add details, while Walsh’s long-range shot went wide.
But five minutes into the second half it was Sorrento who doubled their lead. Cummings sent the ball long and Jackson held off his marker and finished past Italiano. The hosts weren’t finished and Corness’ shot on the turn on 71 minutes was straight at Campbell, but six minutes later they did reduce the margin. Corness was brought down on the box by Campbell and referee Josh Mannella pointed straight to the spot. Corness picked himself up to score from the resulting penalty, despite Campbell getting a hand to it.
The home side were now on top and Connell’s first time shot flashed wide, and their pressure was rewarded on 88 minutes with the equaliser. Corness’ cross from the right found Connell, and the skipper laid the ball off to Tattersall who finished from six meters to earn a valuable point. “It was a tough game for sure, both sides created chances and Sorrento took there's before us,” Corness said. “But we showed resilience to fight back and earn a point which was pretty fair in my opinion, we now look forward to Rockingham, a game which we must win no matter what.”
Balcatta: GK Lewis ITALIANO, 3 David CYRUS (14 Nicholas MESSINA 58’), 4 Calum O'CONNELL, 5 Hristijan JANKULOSKI, 6 Carmelo GIUFFRE (23 Matthew ALESSANDRINO 73’), 8 Jack LEECH, 10 Jon CORNESS, 12 David PERICH (11 Elliot TATTERSALL 43’), 13 Anthony TOPINI (2 Joe MARINO 58’), 15 Nick WALSH, 22 Michael SCAFETTA - Subs not used: RGK Sebastian MEDICA
Sorrento: GK Connor CAMPBELL, 2 David STOKOE, 6 Chris JACKSON, 7 Alex MORGAN, 10 Ollie ANNIS, 11 Tim HILL, 15 Tristan STEVENS, 16 Ryan MCLAUGHLIN, 17 Dean CUMMINGS, 19 Jaxon TEMATA20 Jordan ROBERTS (4 Shaun KILKELLY 73’) – Subs not used: RGK Matthew GIUDICATTI, 12 Joe TWEATS, 21 Ethan BANKS, 14 Jordan POKLER – Referee: Josh Mannella
7.8.2021
ROCKINGHAM STUN INGLWOOD AT SAFERAD STADIUM
Rockingham City’s NPLWA survival hopes were boosted on Saturday afternoon after a come-from-behind 2-1 win against Inglewood United at SafeRad Stadium. It started well for United with Alex Ishida-Livings scoring just before half time, but the game took a turn for the better for the hosts after the break with Hamish Van Dieken scoring a brace to seal the win. “It was a tough contest against a quality outfit in Inglewood, and we knew that we needed a good result to set up a massive game against Balcatta at home next weekend and we got it,” Van Dieken explained.
“First half we went 1-0 down but after some tactical changes at half time we were able to really put our foot on the gas in the second half and dominate the game. Once we got the first goal all the momentum went our way and we were able to capitalise on this shift in momentum by scoring the second goal six minutes later. Our Rockingham fans were quality as normal and were the 12th man that helped us get the vital three points despite some late chances from Inglewood.
The hosts were on the front foot early, and when Rockingham gave the ball away in the middle of the park, Ajak Riak sent Robert Petkov in on goal, but the striker couldn’t find the target. The hosts went close themselves on 18 minutes, Dylan Rogers’ ball into the box found Van Dieken, but he headed straight at Josiah Godfrey. Riak pace causing problems down the left and on 24 minutes he raced into the box, his shot beat Bradley Stout, but Noah Wittstrom Lea got back to clear the ball off the line. Moments later Egide Ngendakumana’s curling effort flew wide of the target, before Steve Sokol’s long-range shot was deflected wide.
Inglewood was dominating and a quick free kick from Anthony Bafobusha caught Rockingham napping, and Petkov laid it back to Riak, but his first-time shot was straight at Stout. But their pressure was rewarded five minutes from the break. Anthony Bafobusha’s cross was punched clear by Stout, but it fell to Ishida-Livings on the edge of the penalty area and his curling shot found the corner of the net. Rockingham looked for an immediate response and Wittstrom Lea cross from the right was headed wide by new signing Robbie Galvin.
Rockingham started the second half well and Rogers shot flashed wide of the target, after good work by Van Dieken on the right. But Inglewood still looked dangerous going forward and Petkov’s shot on the run flashed just wide of the post on 55 minutes. But five minutes later Rockingham found the equaliser, Inglewood failed to clear a ball in the box and substitute Christos Vaenas played the ball back to Van Dieken, whose shot was deflected past Godfrey.
It got better for the home crowd six minutes later when they hit the front. Van Dieken won possession in own half and raced clear of Thiak Kuel, before arrowing a low shot into the corner of the net, for one of the best solo goals of the season. Inglewood pressed late the best chance fell to half time substitute Roberto Soares, whose free kick late whistled inches past the post, before Riak headed wide in stoppage time, but Rockingham held firm for three vital points.
“It was a close game with both teams having periods of top and although we were disappointed to concede just before half time we started the second half really well, two quick goals just after the hour turned the game in our favour and we were excellent defensively after that to see the game out,” Rockingham coach Lee Taylor said. “We haven't had the results we have wanted the past two weeks, so it's nice to get back to winning ways before we face Balcatta on Saturday.’
Rockingham City: GK Bradley STOUT, 2 Ian NG, 6 Harry BOLAN, 8 Hamish VAN DIEKEN, 10 Luke COLLINS, 14 Robbie GALVIN, 15 Declan COLLINS (28 Harvey HANCOCK 61’), 18 Ryan KENNEDY (13 Nathan NG 73’), 19 Noah WITTSTROM LEA (9 Christos VAENAS 51’), 20 Dylan ROGERS, 21 Joseph MOSS - Subs not used: RGK Cyril SHARROCK, 7 Feisal ZAW
Inglewood United: GK Josiah GODFREY, 2 Alex ISHIDA-LIVINGS, 3 Giovanni SOARES, 4 Scott BLACKMORE (12 Roberto Del BORRELLO 71’), 5 Thiak KUEL (8 Jason BARRERA 71’), 7 Ajak RIAK, 9 Robert PETKOV (6 Andres THEODOSIADES 46’), 10 Anthony BAFOBUSHA, 11 Egide NGENDAKUMANU (15 Roberto SOARES 46’), 13 Brodie LANGAN, 14 Steve SOKOL – Sub not used: 17 Mark BARNETT – Referee: Arvin Shanmuganathan
7.8.2021
BAYSWATER PRIVAIL IN SEVEN GOAL THRILLER
Bayswater City moved clear off the relegation zone after a thrilling 4-3 win against Cockburn City at Frank Drago Reserve, and in doing so leapfrogged them on the NPLWA table. Cameron Edwards scored the own goal of the season to give Bayswater the lead early, before Jesse Lazzaro levelled on the half hour. Gordon Smith regained the lead for the hosts in first half stoppage time, but Sebastian da Silva restored parity early in the second half. Michael Zimarino and a Euen grant own goal gave Bayswater a 4-2 lead, and although Anthony Skorich pulled one back late it was the hosts taking the three points. “It was great to get back to winning ways especially after last weekend. We played some good stuff and responded well to getting pegged back a couple of times and just done enough to get the win and hopefully push on for the final four games,” Smith explained. “The boys worked extremely hard and dedicate the win to Gerry Maio and his family, who has put his heart and soul into this club for a lifetime.”
The host found the opener after only three minutes in bizarre circumstances, Zimarino ball into the box was turned into his own net by Edwards. They went close to a second moments later, Jason Mirco’s corner was headed straight at Radonich by Jack Allen. But on 27 minutes the visitors levelled, De Silva crossing to an unmarked Lazzaro who made mistake from six meters. Both sides had chances to regain the lead, but failed to take them, that was until two minutes into stoppage time when Gareth Naven’s side hit the front again. Mirco’s cross from the right was flicked on by Zimarino and Smith finished with aplomb at the back post.
But their lead didn’t last long, and two minutes into the second half Cockburn levelled. Julian Teles’ ball into the box was chested down by Skorich to Lazzaro’s shot fell kindly to de Silva who finished from close-range. But the goals continued and three minutes later Bayswater regained the lead, Lucas Cook finding Zimarino in the box and he finished clinically. It looked like the points were safe on the hour when Bayswater scored a fourth. Smith sent Zimarino down the left and his cross was headed into his own net by Grant, under pressure from Fraser Dunlop. But Cockburn found a lifeline on 86 minutes, Lazzaro’s corner was headed home at the back post by Skorich, but it was too little too late and Bayswater held firm to seal a big win.
Bayswater City: GK Liam DRISCOLL, 2 Lucas COOK, 3 Jack ALLEN, 4 Michael ZIMARINO, 8 Gordon SMITH, 10 Jason MIRCO, 12 Steven HESKETH, 13 Jordan ABRAHAMS, 18 Fraser DUNLOP, 26 Zayd FARAH (5 Albert FULLARD 90’), 28 Konstantinos SPARTA (29 Tyler GARNER 34’) (22 Luke SALMON 84’) – Subs not used: RGK Nic SPECA, 7 Ndumba MAKECHE
Cockburn City: GK Ben RADONICH, 3 Daniel DOLS (6 Ismail HAJI 66’), 4 Euen GRANT, 5 Julian TELES, 8 Cameron EDWARDS (19 Sam COOK 63’), 9 Anthony SKORICH, 12 Sebastian DA SILVA, 16 Ali GHOLAMI (18 Adam ANFUSO 66’), 21 Jesse LAZZARO, 22 Daniel ROBINSON, 25 Breckan BAKER – Subs not used: RGK Ryan BARKER, 14 David Dos SANTOS – Referee: Shane Skinner
7.8.2021
FLOREAT EDGE OUT GWELUP
Floreat Athena are back in the winner’s circle after six weeks, with a narrow 2-1 win against Gwelup Croatia at E&D Litis Stadium. They last three points in the league was in round 12 against Balcatta, that win moving them ten points clear, but injuries have taken their toll and they have lost top spot to Perth, but they were ahead in this one just before half time with Chris Saldaris on target, but Gwelup, who also have struggled in recent weeks, levelled early in the second half through Shubham Mokala. But Vas Vujacic’s side sealed the three points 19 minutes from time with former Gwelup midfielder Sean McManus grabbing the winner.
“It was good to get back to winning ways in the league. We have struggled the past five games with our first three losses and two draws, but we put it right on Saturday by working hard and finding the back of the net twice,” McManus said. “The next four games are crucial for us to win for our chances of the league too so hopefully back on track now. Obviously, it was good to get the winning goal on Saturday and hopefully a few more to come by the end of the season.”
It was a tight first half with both sides having their share of possession and chances. Declan Hargreaves free kick was caught under his bar by Jason Saldaris, while McManus fired over the top at the other end. But the deadlock was finally broken just after the half hour. A quick free kick by Phil Arnold sent Ben Steele down the right and his cross was flicked on by Robert Harding, and Saldaris volleyed home at the back post.
Saldaris went close to a second early in the second half heading just wide from Arnold’s free kick. But on 53 minutes the visitors found the equaliser. Ethan Brooks cross was only cleared as far as Mokala on the edge of the penalty area and his curling shot beat Saldaris via the post. McManus looked for a quick response for the hosts but his shot on the hour was saved low by Malek Kuc. But the hosts were gifted the winner on 72 minutes. Kuc clearance was partly intercepted by Harding, and he got to the ball and cut it back to McManus who fired home.
Gwelup went close to levelling again three minutes later, Gustavo Giron-Marulanda’s free kick caused panic at the neat post and former Floreat midfielder Jon Stynes bundled the ball just wide. Then in the first minutes of stoppage time Hargreaves corner caused problems in the box and in the goalmouth scramble the ball dropped onto of the net from Marulanda’s flick. But Floreat held on for the win and keep them in touch of Perth at the top of the table.
Floreat Athena: GK Jason SALDARIS, 4 Ben STEELE, 6 Jesse FULLER, 8 Sean MCMANUS, 9 Robert HARDING (12 Wesley CASIMIR 92’), 10 Nick AMBROGIO (13 Ludovic BOI 77’), 11 Dennis GALAN, 13 George FESTA, 15 Chris SALDARIS, 18 Phil ARNOLD 20 Andrew PALMER (21 Ethan MOM 81’) - Subs not used: RGK Theodore SARRIS, 16 Kyle MURRAY
Gwelup Croatia: GK Malek KUC, 2 Ciaran SALINGER, 3 Adam FIELDS, 5 Blair GOVAN, 6 Decaln HARGREAVES, 8 Jon STYNES, 11 Ethan BROOKS, 14 Shubham MOKALA, 18 Gustavo GIRON MARULANDA, 20 Sam MITCHINSON, 45 Sebastian HOOSHANGIAN (29 Oli LA GALIA 75’) – Subs not used: RGK Ben RATAJCZAK, 12 Hasani SINCLAIR, 24 Raphael GOMBA, 35 Dejan LEWIS – Referee: Matthew Southern
7.8.2021
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE ROUND SEVENTEEN – REVIEW
It was another tight weekend of football in the State League Division One, and in our ‘Match of the Round’ Western Knights have fought back from a goal down twice, to beat Mandurah City 4-2 at Nash Field. The visitors were ahead on 11 minutes, John Baird’s cross from the right was misjudged by Sam Stone and Rory McGrath fired home at the back post. But the Knights were level eight minutes later. Conor Devlin’s cross was mis-hit by Andrija Jukic, the ball falling kindly for Ciaran Byrne who finished from close-range. But Stone’s Day went from bad to worse in the shadows of half time, he dallied on the ball and his attempted clearance under pressure from Harry Collins went straight to Taylor Carter who fired home. The hosts were struggling to break down the Dolphins defence, but that all changed on the hour. A searching ball from Jake Sardelic sent Dean Hurley down the right and he cut inside the box and finished neatly past Dylan Wilson from the angle.
The hosts hit the front for the first time in the game on 79 minutes, when substitute James Bourne was pushed in the back by Graham Tough and referee Joshua Nixon pointed straight to the spot. Byrne stepped and sent Wilson the wrong way from the resulting penalty. The icing was put on the cake for the Knights five minutes from time. A mix up at the back saw Bryne nip in and roll the ball home into an empty net for his 23rd goal of the season and complete his hat-trick. “I thought it was a fantastic team effort where we showed an enormous amount of character to come from 2-1 down at half time,” Knights coach Ivan Zuvela said. “Mandurah made it very hard for us but we kept persisting and were patient, and we rewarded with three goals in the second half.”
League leaders Stirling Macedonia are closing in on a return to the NPLWA after a 4-1 win against Olympic Kingsway at Kingsway Reserve. The visitors made a great start and they were ahead on 17 minutes, a corner wasn’t dealt with and Alex Taneski nicked in and volleyed home. It was 2-0 when some neat build up play ended with Sam Wynne, who squared the ball to Gavin Knights who finished clinically into the roof of the net. It was 3-0 when substitute Dhuors Chol flicked the ball onto Wynne, who curled the ball home superbly past Dave Keenan, for the goal of the game. Olympic pulled one back seven minutes from time, Rene Kisesa flick sent substitute Gino Hampshire in on goal and he finished well past James Bosdet. But Stirling completed the scoring four minutes later, Richard Howles sending Hugo Snowden clear and he finished well past Keenan. “It was a great win for the boys, which makes it 14 wins in a row, and one more we will champions,” Knight said. “The team is full of confidence the way we have playing, and its showing in our results.”
Quinns lost ground at the top of the table after a 1-4 loss against Forrestfield United at Gumblossom Park. The visitors made the best possible and were ahead on 15 minutes. A long clearance was misjudged by Quinns keeper Aidan Holloway, and Moses Macauley made him pay, rolling the ball into an empty neat. But the hosts levelled five minutes into the second half, Owen Goodliffe crossing to Reece Abrams who scored from close-range. But that was as good as it got for Quinns and Forrestfield regained the lead when Mitch Crocker curled home a free kick from the edge of the box just after the hour. They made sure of the points with two late goals, Jake Melia curling one off the post, while Tarek Atta completed the scoring in stoppage time firing home after being picked out by Ryan Francis. “We held our shape very solid in the latter half of the game until the opportunity came to us to get ahead for the second time in the game,” Atta said. “All the boys worked till the last minute in which we scored two more late goals to secure the game.”
Joondalup United closed the gap on Quinns after a thrilling 5-3 win against Ashfield at the Acclaimed Catering Arena. Joondalup were ahead on 24 minutes, Joel Sollitt crossed to Jamie Gardiner who made no mistake. But Ashfield levelled two minutes later, a cross to the back post by Ali Khateri found Lawson Smith, whose first header was blocked, but he flicked the ball over his marker and volleyed home. Ashfield were ahead moments later, good work by Mohammad Rezai down the right and he found Khateri who made no mistake from six meters. But Joondalup restored parity on 38 minutes, Gardiner broke into the penalty area and his cross hit the arm of Jordan Bell and referee Adrien Liechti pointed to the spot and Anthony Taylor sent Jamie Serra the wrong way from the resulting penalty.
Then in the final minute it was 3-2 to Joondalup, Jay Lang’s free kick was parried by Serra and Sollitt was quickest to react to score. They added a fourth early in the second half Nick Maplestone’s shot on the run was saved by Serra, but Gardiner was quickest to the rebound to score. They added a fifth just after the hour, Matthew Cherrie finishing well after good work from Sollitt. Ashfield pulled one back late, a long clearance from Serra found Smith who headed home his second. “I think it shows how far we’ve progressed in the last year that as a collective, the group are disappointed with our overall performance today,” Joondalup coach Nick Jennings said. “But to score five goals away from home at any level is a great achievement, and in all honesty we should have scored more. We’ll take the three points and move onto Subiaco next week.”
Fremantle City have kept their top four hopes alive after a 2-0 win against Swan United at Hilton Reserve. The hosts were ahead ten minutes into the second half, Thomas Kinnane made space down the right and his cross was turned home by Noah Shamaki. They wrapped up the points four minutes from time, Joshua Macri was brought down in the box by Deng Mawien and referee Walter Ciotti pointed to the spot. Matt Sparrow stepped to score from the resulting penalty and seal the win. “It was a professional win with some younger players coming into the side and doing very well,” Fremantle coach Cameron Lord said. “We reacted positively to last week’s disappointing result, particularly in the manner that we conceded some poor goals, and were this time clinical in defence.”
In the final game UWA Nedlands took the bragging rights in the local derby against Subiaco, running out 3-0 winners at Rosalie Park. They were ahead on 21 minutes, Bryce Conway sent Sam Carrello down the left, his cross found Samuel Moffatt whose header crashed off the post, but he was quickest to the rebound to fire home from close-range. They added a second moments later Godfrey Asimwe corner was headed powerfully home by Joshua Marocchi. They sealed the points early in the second half Moffett crossing to Carrello who finished. “It was a top performance from the lads. We were in total control for the full 90 minutes and it’s always sweeter getting the three points in a derby,” UWA midfielder Conway said. “The pitch was difficult for both sides, but it was crucial win at an important time in the season, so hopefully now we can crack on and finish the season in fine fashion.”
7.8.2021
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO ROUND SEVENTEEN – REVIEW
The State League Division Two ‘Match of the Round’ didn’t disappoint, with Dianella White Eagles coming from behind to edge out Gosnells City 2-1 at Walter Padbury Reserve. “The game was quite a scrappy game, the weather wasn’t the best and the pitch was heavy, but Gosnells came out very hot which is what we expected from them,” Dianella’s Kristian Despotovski said. “They took the early lead but we managed to get a goal back just before half time which I believe we deserved, we didn’t take our chances and that is why we struggled. Our keeper Dejan had a fantastic game with a couple good saves and even a penalty save, to help us with the win.”
The hosts hit the front after only 14 minutes, a long shot was saved by Dejan Aleksic but Scott Pereira was quickest to the rebound and scored. But Dianella levelled on the half hour, David Heagney converting from the spot. Both sides had chances after the break but it was Dianella who hit the front on 77 minutes, some neat build up ended with Heagney, who turned his marker and finished low past Duncan Lennon-Black. Gosnells had the chance to level late when they won a penalty, but Aleksic pushed Pereira spot kick onto the bar and the follow up shot crashed off the post. “The boys answered back well in the second half, and we were unlucky on a few occasions with a goal being disallowed for a very soft foul in my opinion,” Gosnells’ skipper Pereira said. “Really proud of the boy’s efforts and they know we should have got more out of the game but congratulations to Dianella on good season.”
Kingsley Westside maintained second spot after a 3-1 win against Canning City at Chichester Park on Saturday evening. The home side were ahead early, Jayden Drummond volleying home from long-range. It was 2-0 on 18 minutes, Canning failed to clear a corner and Josh Waldock headed home. They wrapped up the points just after the hour, Joe Allsopp crossed from the right to Simone Sichel who turned his marker and fire home. Canning scored a consolation goal late with Ryan Moran scoring, but it was too little too late. “Another important three points at this part of the season, starting to pick up a bit of momentum and play some good football,” Kingsley skipper Drummond said. “Canning can frustrate you a lot, so to get an early goal against them was pleasing and to settle us in to the game.”
Wanneroo City have jumped to third after a 2-1 win against Morley Windmills at Wanneroo Reserve. The visitors were ahead in this one early, with Daragh Kavanagh scoring after 16 minutes, but Wanneroo were level on the half hour. Conor Dolan sending Nathan Scully in on goal and he finished well. The decisive second goal came ten minutes from time, after referee Sailota Phiri spotted a handball in the box and Charlie Breen converted the resulting penalty. “We got off to a slow start yesterday, moved the ball around to slow and got punished when we switched off,” Wanneroo coach Jesse Bridgeman said. “The response to get the goal before half time and push on in the second half was pleasing and to get all three points, which I felt we deserved.”
Murdoch University Melville good form has continued under new coach Taki Nicolaidis, and their 1-0 win at Grandis Park against Carramar Shamrock Rovers saw them move to fourth. The only goal of the game came in stoppage time at the end of the game. Declan Tanna broke down the left and cut into the box by beating his marker before laying it off for Kai Jones to tap into an empty net. “After a very poor first half I was pleased with the players reaction,” Nicolaidis said. “To turn things around and grind out a win against a strong Shamrock side and make it five wins in a row.”
Kelmscott Roos and Joondalup City have fought out a 2-2 draw at Frye Park. “We should have won this game, but give Joondalup credit, they didn’t lie down and were rewarded with two late goals,” Kelmscott coach Warren Smith said.” This draw hurt more than all the games this season as players knew how important it was to win this one. I feel we threw this one away by not believing in ourselves, but we move on to next week's big game against Canning City.” The home side were ahead on 24 minutes, Sasco Ramsey Tamba getting on the end of a great move. They doubled their lead on the hour, Amos Doegolia Junior was put through on goal and he made no mistake.
It looked like a win for the hosts put Joondalup pulled one back in the final minute of the game with Callum Speed playing in Liam McGurk who lobbed the oncoming keeper. Then deep into stoppage time they found the equaliser, a free kick wasn’t handled well by the keeper and Luke Doyle toe poked home from close-range. “We had a lot of missed chances and thought it was going to be one of them days,” Joondalup Harry Clisby said. “The draw wasn’t the result we were after we enjoyed majority of the ball and didn’t take are chances and they were dangerous on the counter, but we left it late and ended up coming away with a point.” In the final game Balga and Curtin University have fought out a 0-0 draw at Princess Road Reserve.
6.8.2021
NPL-WA ROUND EIGHTEEN PREVIEW
We head into week 18 of the NPLWA and our ‘Match of the Round’ sees fourth placed ECU Joondalup travel to Crazy Domains Stadium, Hartfield Park, to take on fifth placed Perth Glory. (All games kick off at 3.00pm unless otherwise stated) Kenny Lowe’s side are coming off a big win against Balcatta, while Ruben Zadkovich’s Glory were held to a draw at home by Armadale. But with only one point separating the two sides, three points will be huge on this one. Last time they met at the venue was in round four last season when Glory ran out 3-1 winners. Bryce Bafford gave Glory the lead just before the half time, and a quick second half double from Charlie Leech and another from Bafford secured the points. Ben Hinshelwood scored a late consolation for ECU goal but it was too little too late.
Glory skipper Giordano Colli said the game against Armadale was a physical one, and they were disappointed not to take all three points. “It was a tough game (against Armadale) and we knew that going into the game, and we all thought we deserved more out of the game,” he said. “Having a couple of good chances in the first half, they took the lead but we bounced well going into the break 1-1. We come out after the break looking for the winner and some very strange decisions from the officials made it tough, even still we created a great chance in the 90 plus minute that unfortunately hit the cross bar.”
Zadkovich has the young Glory side playing good football and they are pushing for a top four spot, and Colli believes they can get there, starting on Saturday against the Champions. “Ruben looks to push us each and every day and the team itself pushing each other. We know we have things to always improve in our game every week and he keeps up mentally strong and focus on our goals and that is to be in top four but also to challenge for more,” the midfielder explained. “Saturday is a massive game as we all know what is on the line and we are going to work on the training pitch and hope to produce it on Saturday and come out with the three points in which we want.”
Joondalup beat Balcatta 4-1 last week, with Danny Hodgson and Daryl Nicol both bagging doubles, and skipper Johnny Perkins said it was good to get a win at home, after some indifferent results at the Campus. “Yes, the team were solid and I thought we executed the game plan well and we had an opportunity to bring on some of the younger boys who were excellent,” he said. “The only disappointment was not keeping a clean sheet and conceding with the last kick of the game.”
The win also made it back-to-back wins, and saw them score nine goals, and Perkins said they are building some much-needed confidence after the disappointment of losing the State League Cup Final against Floreat Athena, and he hopes they take into Saturday’s game against Glory. “It’s great to be scoring goals, we know we could have been creating and scoring more in the weeks prior so it is nice to get back on track. But it is still two games we have conceded in so we have stuff to work on and aren’t getting carried away with anything,” the Jacks keeper explained. “We know games against Glory are always hard games, and they are always a technical side and tend to keep the ball well and play nice football. We beat them earlier in the season in a close game and we will be aiming to do so again this time around, but we know it will be a tough match at their place.”
In other games this weekend, league leaders Perth SC welcome Armadale to Dorrien Gardens. The hosts moved to the top of the table after a late goal saw them beat Gwelup Croatia last week, while the Reds lost ground on the top four, after a draw at Glory, so this one should be a great game. Two teams who have struggled in recent weeks meet at E&D Litis Stadium, with Gwelup Croatia, who have slipped to 10th after a loss at home to Perth, taking on Floreat Athena, who lost top spot last week after a draw against Cockburn City, so both sides need a win in this one.
Inglewood United will look to build on their big win against Bayswater when they travel to SafeRad Stadium to take on Rockingham City, who need the points at the foot of the table, while Cockburn City, who are one of the form teams in the league, will look to maintain their five-game unbeaten run, when they travel to Frank Drago Reserve to take on Bayswater City. In the final game third placed Sorrento head to Grindleford Reserve to take on Balcatta, who are sitting perilously close to the relegation spot.
Sorrento beat Rockingham last week, and are on three game winning streak, and Jamie Harnwell’s side will be full of confidence for the trip. On the other hand, Balcatta haven’t won since their round 11 win against the league leaders Perth SC, which has seen them drop down the table. They are coming off a loss at ECU last week, and skipper Calum O’Connell said early missed chances cost them on the day. “A head scratcher really, I think conceding so early in the game wasn’t the best of starts,” he said.
“But we had some clear-cut chances, and if they went in, I think the game would of change in our favour, but ECU are a quality team and punished us like they did.” O’Connell said the players are looking forward to getting back home, after only one game at Grindleford in the last five games. “Always a tough game against Sorrento, and they play a certain way and make it tough for teams,” the defender explained. “It will be another dogged game, but we refocus and go again. Balcatta is a tough place to come to, so we need to use that to our advantage.”
6.8.2021
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE ROUND SEVENTEEN – PREVIEW
It’s week 17 of the State League Division One, and our ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to Nash Field, were Western Knights host Mandurah City. (All games kick off at 3.00pm unless otherwise stated) Ivan Zuvela’s side are coming off a win at UWA last week to move back to second, while Mandurah scored late to draw in an eight-goal thriller at home against Fremantle, so there should be plenty of goals in this one. The last time the sides met at the venue was in round nine last season when Mandurah took home all three points after a 2-0 win. It was the Knights first loss of the season, and the visitors were ahead after only ten minutes with Joe O’Brien scoring and they sealed the win early in the second half Scottish striker John Baird on target.
The win at UWA made up somewhat for the draw against Swan United in their last home game, and Johnny Chalmers said if they had turned some of their seven draws this season into wins, they would be closer to the leaders. “It was a great to bounce back from last week’s poor result with a win and clean sheet in tough conditions at UWA,” he said. “We have been punished this season for not taking our chances when on top and that has left us salvaging draws instead of wins on too many occasions this season.”
Chalmers, who bagged the second goal in last week's 2-0 win, said Saturday will be another tough, but he said they have trained well this week and ready for the challenge. “Mandurah is always a tough game for the Knights and Saturday will be no different,” he explained. “We’ve trained well this week and are focused on getting another three points and finishing the season strongly.”
The 4-4 draw for Mandurah last week against Fremantle was a great game, but coach Kris Donnell said it wasn’t for the coaches of the respective sides, but it showed how tight the league has been this season. “It was definitely a great game for the neutral and not for the coaches, I think we showed great character coming back into the game and we could have snatched the win right at the end,” he explained. “It has been a tight league apart from Stirling who I think have just been on another level this season and credit to them, I think every game you go into there are no easy wins so you need to put the yards in and perform each week.”
The Dolphins are getting a few players back from injury and Donnell the squad is looking forward to another tight tussle with the Knights. “Western Knights away is always a great battle and I’m sure Ivan will have his boys right up for it,” he said. “But we need to focus on bettering ourselves each week and putting the work in to get those three points. I think it’s going to be another cracker and one we’re all looking forward too.”
In other games third placed Quinns welcome Forrestfield United to Gumblossom Park. The hosts were beaten at Joondalup last week, only their second defeat in the last 12 games, while Forrestfield were beaten at home by Olympic, so both sides will be looking to bounce back this week. Fourth placed Joondalup United make the trip to the Acclaimed Catering Arena to take on Ashfield. The hosts moved off the bottom of the table with the win at Swan last week, while Joondalup continued their good form with a win against Quinns to consolidate their top four spot.
There is a local derby at Rosalie Park where Subiaco entertain UWA Nedlands, and both sides will be look to get back into the winner’s circle after defeats last week, while Fremantle City welcome Swan United to Hilton Park. In the final game league leaders Stirling Macedonia head to Kingsway Reserve to take on Olympic Kingsway. Stirling only need a couple more wins to seal promotion to the NPLWA, and Ian Ferguson side haven’t been beaten since their round two loss at Fremantle, while David Tough’s Olympic got back to winning ways last week with a hard-fought win at Forrestfield.
Olympic assistant coach Ross Edwards said it was a big win for the club and new signings Hamza Hina and Ben Rutter had great debuts. “It was great to get the win, and it was something the boys deserved. Over the break (cup final) we had a mini preseason and the team really put everything into the sessions,” he explained. “The game itself wasn’t the greatest and both coaches agreed but it was three points away from home. We have played a lot better so many times this year and come away with nothing.
“Hamza and Ben have both settled in great and they both have excellent qualities and fitted in very well to the team and system. Hamza is someone we have been trying to sign since myself and Toughy (David Tough) got the job at Kingsway so we are more than please to have him, and Toughy knows Ben well from his time at ECU, and getting the winner on your debut is not a bad start.”
Edwards said Saturday’s game is one, the whole club are looking forward too and knows the strong history between the two clubs. “Saturday is a big game, there is a long history between the clubs and the rivalry is still strong, so it is exciting to be part of it, this is why we play and coach football,” he explained. “There will be a big crowd and some familiar faces coming to watch who have been involved in both clubs over the years. Obviously, they (Stirling) are having an impressive season and will be looking to continue this weekend, buy it’s our job to keep the league interesting. We have prepared well and we are looking forward to the challenge.”
6.8.2021
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO ROUND SEVENTEEN – PREVIEW
State League Division Two leaders Dianella White Eagles continue to dominate, and their week 17 trip to Walter Padbury Reserve, to take on the inform Gosnells City is our ‘Match of the Round’. (All games kick off at 3.00pm unless otherwise stated) Bobby Despotovski’s side are unbeaten this season and sit 14 points clear at the top, while Marc Anthony’s side are on a ten-game run without defeat, their last defeat was against the Eagles in round five, so this one should be a great game. Both sides go into the game on the back of big wins, Dianella at home against Wanneroo last week, while Gosnells beat Curtin convincingly on the road. Last time they met at the venue was in round four last season when Dianella left with the points after a 3-2 win. Asa Sippits gave the visitors the lead early, but Eddie Wynne-Willson levelled just before half time. Liam Merigan restored the visitors lead after the break, and Chris Rizidis added a third. Feisal Zaw pulled one back for Gosnells, but they couldn’t find an equaliser.
The win last week continued Dianella’s great season, but midfielder Kristian Despotovski said it was tinged with sadness on the anniversary of the passing of former coach Rod Banjac. “Last week was a massive win for us, and I felt we dominated the game besides a period of 15-20 min where we let Wanneroo back into the game, but other than that I feel like we are playing very well at the moment,” he explained. “It was a bit tough, obviously remembering Rod, one year from his passing, but the boys wanted to go out there and obviously win for ourselves, but also for Rod, who put so much into the club and we are glad we could do that for him.”
Despotovski said Saturday’s game is huge, and they come up against a side in great form, but he said the players are determined to win the league undefeated, so it should be a great contest. “We have been looking forward to this game for quite a while now, they have been the inform team from the second half of the season and we know we have to be up for it,” he said. “The boys want to go unbeaten the whole season, and I think if we can, it will be something to be proud of and something we can fondly look back on.”
Gosnells skipper Scott Pereira said the big win at Curtin was important and good to get a few goals. “It was a really good win last week, in not great conditions,” he said. “I thought the boys played really well and controlled the game right from the start, nice and solid at the back and looked like scoring every time we went forward, so a good overall team performance.”
Pereira said they are in good form at the moment, and he knows on their day they can beat anyone in the league, but he knows they need to be at their best in the next two games. “It’s another big couple of games coming up, and we start with the biggest one being Dianella,” the skipper said. “I know the boys a really up for this game and want to be the first team to beat them this year it would be a great way to continue our run coming in to the last stretch of the season, and put some distance between the rest of the teams below us. We know it won’t be easy but fancy our chances for an upset this weekend.”
In other games Wanneroo City aim to bounce back from defeat last week when they take on Morley Windmills, who are coming off a win at Canning last week, when they meet at Wanneroo Reserve. Murdoch University Melville will look to maintain their four-game winning streak when they visit Grandis Park to take on Carramar Shamrock Rovers, while Balga entertain Curtin University at Princess Road Reserve. Joondalup City head south to take on Kelmscott Roos at Frye Park, while in the final game Kingsley Westside take on Canning City to Chichester Park in the late game (5.00pm)
It’s been a tough season for Chris Finlayson’s side and they sit 11th and are coming off six straight defeats, but they have been in all of the games and lost by the odd goal in all of them, so they will hope to change that this weekend. Kingsley on the other hand is sitting second on the table and coming off a big win against Kelmscott last week, and coach Steven Dimitrovich said it was good to get back to winning ways and have six different scorers, and he expecting a tough game on Saturday.
“Last week was a bit of reward for the boys in an attacking sense as I’ve felt we’ve created a lot of chances of the previous couple of weeks without us hitting the back of the net so full credit to my boys for sticking at it and their hard work paid off in the end,” he explained. “It was great to have so many goal scores as it shows we have multiple threats all over the pitch who can pop up and score at any time was also very pleasing to keep a clean sheet as well. We know Canning haven’t had the season they were probably hoping for and will be looking to finish the season on a high, so we will need to be at our best to get the result we need and keep pushing for a top four finish.’
6.8.2021
BELT UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION - ROUND SIXTEEN PREVIEW
We have reached week 16 of the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division and all roads will lead to Nikola Tesla Reserve on Sunday for our ‘Match of the Round’ as Maddington White City and South West Phoenix meet in the top of the table clash. (All games kick off at 3.00pm unless otherwise stated) The sides are level on points on the table, with the Phoenix ahead on goal difference, so this one could be a title decider and it will certainly be a great game. Both sides are coming off narrow 1-0 wins last week, Maddington edging out Kwinana with a goal from Samir Ramos, while Lee Stewart’s goal gave Phoenix a victory against North Perth.
Last time they met at the venue was in round 15 last season when City ran out 5-2 winners. Cesar Orozco gave Maddington the lead early, but Lee Stewart replied for the Phoenix. Samir Ramos made it 2-1 for the hosts, before Orozco made it 3-1 in the shadows of half time. Orozco completed his hat-trick on the hour to all but seal the game, although Stewart did add his second to reduce the deficit. But Ramos added his second ten minutes from time to seal the 5-2 win.
Phoenix skipper Jamie Oakey said they had to work hard to earn the three points. “It was a game of two halves with a strong breeze influencing the way the game was played,” he said. “We knew we’d have to defend well in the first half to keep North Perth at bay, and going in at half time 0-0 we thought one goal might be enough to win it. We created a couple chances but finally managed to put one in the back of the net and held on for the win.”
Oakey said Sunday’s game is massive and they are ready for the challenge. “Big games like these are the sort we all thrive on, so everyone’s buzzing for Sunday,” the Phoenix custodian said. “We’ve not been at our best the last two games but have managed to grind out results. We know we can’t afford a poor performance against Maddington, and will be looking to start strongly, unlike the home fixture where we gave them a three-goal lead. They’re the best team in the league, but we know if we can work hard, stick to the game plan and with a bit of luck we can take the three points back to Bunbury.”
Maddington midfielder Alejandro Sarria said to come home from Kwinana with three points was a massive result. “We knew it would be a difficult match, Kwinana are a great team that likes to play with the ball on the ground, just like us,” he said. “We were clear that we had to win to stay close to the first place, we also knew that it would be a close match with few chances to score. It was thanks to the tactical preparation of our coach and captain César Orozco that we managed to score in the first half and from then on keep the result with good defensive work both in midfield and defense.”
Sarria said they are ready for another tough game on Sunday, but they are determined to get a positive result. “If you ask me about this weekend's game, I must tell you that we are physically and mentally prepared to win the game,” he explained. “On the part of the club's directives, they have been working very hard since the beginning of the season with the aim of moving up in the league, which is why both the coaching staff and the players, are focused on working every day to achieve it.”
In other games this weekend, North Perth United will look to bounce back from defeat last week when they welcome Joondalup United to Woodville Reserve in the early game (1.00pm), likewise Kwinana United who make the trip to Carine Open Space to take on Hamersley Rovers. Queens Park will go on search of a third straight win, when they travel to John Connell Reserve to take on Lemming Strikers, while Jaguar entertain UWA Nedlands at Herb Graham Recreation Centre.
In the final game of the round Wembley Downs host Quinns at Butlers Reserve. The hosts are coming off a win at Joondalup last week, while Quinns lost ground on the leaders after a 2-2 draw against Jaguar. Quinns coach Vinny McMillan said a late offside decision cost them the three points. “Sunday’s game was a very hard-fought game in horrible conditions,” he said. “Ryan again bagged himself a couple of goals and was denied his hat trick with five minutes to go by a poor decision from the linesman, however that is Sunday league football and we move on.”
McMillan said Sunday will be another tight affair, against a side who are starting to hit their straps in the last few weeks. “This weekend we play a very well drilled Wembley outfit, who are coming off a win last week,” he said. “The first game at Gumblossom was very close and we expect more of the same this time round, as they are coming off the back of some good form and will be hard to beat.”
5.8.2021
GLORY SECURE SOCCEROO JONES
Perth Glory have pulled off one of the signings of the A-League season with former Liverpool and Feyenoord goalkeeper Brad Jones putting pen to paper on a two-year deal. The 39-year old shot-stopper returns to his hometown following a successful career in Europe and Asia where he won three trophies apiece in each England, Holland and Saudi Arabia.
Jones, capped six-times by the Socceroos, is looking forward to representing the club he supported before embarking on a 19-season professional career abroad. "I grew up in Perth and was a Glory fan in the inaugural years of the club," said Jones, who is coming off a three-season spell with Saudi powerhouse Al-Nassr where he made 108 league and cup appearances.
"The opportunity presented itself to come home and to play in front of my family is a huge pull. I think there’s a good young group at Perth who will have learned a lot from last season which will stand them in good stead for the coming years and hopefully my experience will help with their development. I’m very ambitious and I want us to be at the top challenging."
Glory coach Richard Garcia is thrilled to have a player of Jones' calibre on board and has every confidence the veteran will be a key figure, both on and off the field. "I've known Brad a long, long time and we went to the UK at similar times," said Garcia. "He's a fantastic person and exactly the kind of character that we want to bring into the environment here at the club."
"His playing record and performances speak for themselves. He's had a fantastic career overseas and is looking to come back and do even better for his hometown club where he will not only help grow the environment, but help bring through the next generation."
Armadale-born Jones played juniors at Bayswater City prior to entering the academy system at Middlesbrough in 1999. He spent a total of nine seasons at the Riverside Stadium and was a part of the squad that claimed the 2004 League Cup. His tally of 74 senior appearances would have been greater if not for Socceroos legend Mark Schwarzer, who was the clubs' first choice 'keeper.
In 2010 Jones joined Liverpool, where he gained 27 outings over a five season stay, and was part of the Reds 2012 League Cup winning squad. More silverware followed at Dutch club Feyernood with Jones, who played 84 times for the Rotterdam club, a key figure in their 2017 Eredivisie title win and the KNVB Cup success of a year later.
Jones' switch to Al-Nassr in 2018 saw him collect a Saudi Professional League winners medal at the end of his first season and back-to-back Saudi Super Cups in 2019 and 2020. On the international stage he featured for Australia at the 2004 Olympic Games and was part of the Socceroos squad at both the 2010 and 2018 World Cup tournaments.
3.8.2021
TOBIN MOVED CANCELLED BY MUTUAL CONSENT
Perth Glory Women have confirmed Natalie Tobin will not be joining the club for the 2021/22 season. The Premiership-winning defender signed with Glory in May, but the current situation regarding COVID-19 in her hometown of Sydney has forced her to pull out of the move.
"I was very excited to have the opportunity to move over to Perth and play for Glory," Tobin said, "But unfortunately what has happened with COVID is beyond our control and has prevented me from taking up that opportunity. Logistically it's just not the right time for myself and my partner to go, but maybe 12 months down the track it will be."
"I think it’s a case of never say never and possibly sometime in the future, we may still make the move. I'd like to thank the club for being so supportive and understanding of my decision." The recruitment process for Glory's W-League squad continues and further new signings will be announced in the not too distant future.
2.8.2021
BEADLING TO MISS TWO MONTHS WITH KNEE INJURY
Barrow AFC midfielder Tom Beadling is set for a spell on the sidelines after suffering a partial tear of his cruciate ligament. The 25-year old picked up the injury during last week’s friendly at Nottingham Forest and is set to return to a specialist early this week for further assessment.
It’s a big blow for manager Mark Cooper. “Tom has a brace on his knee because of a partial tear in his cruciate ligament,” Cooper told barrowafc.com. “I think that probably means about two months out for Tom but we’re lucky it’s not nine because he’s not fully ruptured it.”
Beadling made 29 League Two appearances for Barrow after joining his hometown club from Scottish side Dunfermline Athletic last summer. The midfielder grew up in Perth where he played for the National Training Centre and, in mid-2009, represented Australia at the Under-13 Festival of Football tournament in Malaysia.
2.8.2021
MATILDAS EDGED OUT BY SWEDEN
The Matildas Tokyo Olympic gold medal hopes have been dashed after a narrow 1-0 loss against Sweden in the Semi-Final at Nissan stadium in Yokohama on Monday evening. Tony Gustavsson’s side thought they had the lead just before half time when Sam Kerr volleyed home, but the referee spotted an infringement in the lead up, the decision looked harsh on the tv replays, and VAR didn’t intervene. Sweden, who had beaten the Matildas 4-2 in the group stage, found the winner early in the second half with Fridolina Rolfo scoring. Try as they might the Matildas couldn’t find the equaliser and things went from bad to worse in stoppage time when Ellie Carpenter was sent off. The Matildas will now face the United States, which lost to Canada 1-0 in the earlier semi-final, in Thursday’s bronze medal match.
Kerr said the team won't sit and wallow following their loss to Sweden in the Olympic semi-final, with sights set on the battle for bronze. “We believe in our team so much we know that we've got such a special team and we really thought that we could win today. Other than one jammy chance, it’s disappointing, but that's football.” Kerr told Channel 7 post-match. “We probably got one of those last game, so you’ve got to have luck on your side and we didn't tonight but I think we did ourselves proud by fighting to the very end.”
Kerr battled soreness in the lead-up but played the whole game, while Gustavsson made just one change to the starting line-up, with Chloe Logarzo replacing Aivi Luik. The Matildas defended stoutly and were patient in possession early, but they were lucky to keep it 0-0 on 23 minutes, when Rolfe’s long-range shot beat Teagan Micah, but the woodwork came to the rescue of the Matildas custodian. From there, Australia stepped it up and took control of the game and Alanna Kennedy forced a save from Hedvig Lindahl with a curling free kick five minutes from half time and two minutes later, it looked like they had found the opener.
Kerr volleying home Steph Catley’s free kick home at the near post, but her celebrations were cut short with the referee ruling Emily van Egmond had blocked the run of Swedish defenders. It left the Matildas up in arms and Sweden breathing a sigh of relief. But Australia kept pressing and shortly after Yallop whipped in a brilliant ball and Kerr saw her header flash just past the post.
But in the first minute of the second half Sweden found the opener. Logarzo had blocked Filippa Angeldal’s long-range shot, but it took a wicked deflection and a backtracking Micah was only able to tip the ball onto the crossbar, and in the resulting scramble Rolfo scored from close-range. It was a huge blow for the Matildas but they didn’t take a backwards step and Kerr headed Carpenter’s cross straight at Lindahl on the hour, while Catley forced a strong near-post save from the Swedish goalkeeper 15 minutes later.
From there, the Matildas threw everything at Sweden, with exciting teenage substitutes Mary Fowler and Kyra Cooney-Cross creating chances without reward. But with time running out and Australia pushing players forward looking for the equaliser they were caught out on a quick break and Carpenter received a straight red card for dragging down Lina Hurtig as the last defender, ruling her out of the Bronze medal game.
Sweden: GK Hedvig LINDAHI, 4 Hanna GLAS, 6 Magdalena ERIKSSON, 9 Kosovare ASLLANI, 10 Sofia JAKOBSSON (2 Jonna ANDERSSON 91’), 11 Stina BLACKSTENIUS (8 Lina HURTIG 94’), 13 Amanda ILESTEDT, 14 Nathalie BJORN, 16 Filippa ANGELDAL (5 Hanna BENNISON 73’), 17 Caroline SEGER, 18 Fridolina ROLFO – Subs not used: 3 Emma KULLBERG, 12 Jennifer FALK, 15 Olivia SCHOUGH, 7 Madelen JANOGY
Australia: GK Teagan MICAH, 2 Sam KERR, 6 Chloe LOGARZO (3 Kyra COONEY-CROSS 69’), 7 Stephanie CATLEY, 9 Caitlin FOORD (21 Laura BROCK 91’), 10 Emily VAN EGMOND, 12 Ellie CARPENTER, 13 Tameka YALLOP (4 Clare POLKINGHORNE 69’), 14 Alanna KENNEDY, 16 Hayley RASO (15 Emily GIELNIK 84’), 17 Kyah SIMON (11 Mary FOWLER 69’) - Subs not used: RGK Lydia WILLIAMS, 5 Aivi LUIK – Red Card: Carpenter 96’) - Referee: Melissa Borjas
1.8.2021
BELT UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION - ROUND FIFTEEN REVIEW
South West Phoenix have maintained their lead at the top of the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division after a hard fought 1-0 win against North Perth United in our ‘Match of the Round’ at the Onside Sports Stadium on Saturday evening. “It was definitely a game of two halves, Phoenix coach Nick Carter said. “Probably a fair result would have been a draw, but we managed to find a way through late to seal all three points.” The only goal of the game came five minutes from time. Bright Ababio won the ball on the left and threaded it through to Lee Stewart who battled with his marker, his determination managed to get him through the battle and he slotted it past Todd Ross.
North Perth coach Luke O’Neill said they had their chances to win the game, but failed to take them. “I’m sounding like a broken record,” he said. “First half we played some really good football, we had a plan and executed it very well. We created chances but the story of the season so far just not finishing them. We hit the post their keeper made some great saves and five minutes before the final whistle we make an error and they get the winner, that’s football sometimes we need to learn from it and quickly move on. “The effort and the hard work the lads put in was excellent, we are hoping we can bounce back quickly. It’s an excellent set up down in Bunbury and a very good team. Finally, I just wanted to say thank you to Nick and some of the Bunbury staff who looked after us after a little incident during the game.”
Maddington White City maintained the pressure on the Phoenix after a narrow 1-0 win against Kwinana United at Kelly Park. The only goal came on 21 minutes, a superb through ball sent Samir Ramos in on goal and he finished well past Ellis Roberts. That win set up a huge game next week when Maddington host the Phoenix in the top of the table clash. “We had to work hard to get the win, and the team all played well,” Alexander Hoareau said. “Kwinana pressed for the equaliser late, but we were able to keep the lead and secure the three points, and once again I’m very proud of the boys.”
Quinns lost ground on the leaders after being held to a 2-2 draw by Jaguar at Gumblossom Park. They were ahead when Ryan McCready found the net, but Jaguar levelled when a scramble in the box, saw the ball fall to Malek Domkoc who was able to pass the ball into the bottom right corner. Quinns hit the front again, with McCready finding the net, for his 21st goal of the season. But Jags levelled again when a fast break down the right by Magai Deng, saw his deflected cross fell to Domkoc at the near post, who was able to finish from close range. The hosts thought they had found the winner in stoppage time, with McCready finishing neatly, but the flag was raised for offside, to the disappointment of the Quinns players. “A tough hostile game and in the extremely windy conditions,” Jags keeper Michael Dudek said. “Neither team was able to play particularly attractive football, but both teams had chances to win it towards the end but couldn’t find it.”
Wembley Downs are back in the winner’s circle, after a thrilling 3-2 comeback win against Joondalup United at Beldon Park. The hosts went into this one after back-to-back wins and Gareth Davies gave the lead on the half hour, and a penalty from Adam Giannasi made it 2-0 early in the second half, and it looked like they would go on with it. But Wembley had other ideas and Kevin Punselie was vital to the fight back, earning a penalty which James Kilbee converted, he scored the second after some good play from Kilbee. Both sides pressed for the winner but it was Wembley who found it five minutes from time, David Grose capped off a great comeback with the winner.
"It was a big game for us, we knew Joondalup had built up some momentum with two wins on the trot and we were coming off two losses, so it was important we got the three points to keep ourselves in the chase for a top half finish,” Wembley coach Anthony Cochrane said. “We started poorly and Joondalup deservedly went two goals through some good football and applied pressure, but second half we changed a few things and look more positive. Huge effort and really pleased with the effort and attitude this group continues to display."
Queens Park have won back-to-back games for the first time this season after a hard fought 3-2 win against Hamersley Rovers at Coker Park. The hosts were ahead midway through the first half, Hamersley failed to clear their lines and Leigh Bridger bundled the loose ball over the line from close-range. But Rovers hit back and levelled ten minutes into the second half, Bankuei Manuer on target, but the hosts regained the lead moments later. Some net passing ended with Leigh Bridger again, and he finished low past the keeper at his near post.
Rovers restored parity fifteen minutes from time with Brandon Rector scoring, and both sides went all out for the win, and in stoppage time it was Queens Park who found it. Sustained pressure in Hamersley penalty area ended with a ball into Kenny Young, who raced into goal and slipped it past the keeper, to set off wild celebrations on and off the pitch.
“It was a good game of football, and we created a lot of chances and unlucky not to be ahead after striking the post in the opening minute,” Queens Park coach Ricardo Fynn explained. “We were in control but didn't take our chances against a honest Hamersley team that played hard and kept going. We made some mistakes as we chased the game but got a deserved winner in the dying minutes of the game. It was one of the toughest wins we had this season because Hamersley are better than the results they have been getting. I told the players before the game that Hamersley would fight for everything and not roll over and I was right, and a draw would have been a fair result, but I'm delighted to put some much-needed points on the board.”
In the final game UWA Nedlands and Leeming Strikers have fought out a 2-2 draw at the UWA Sports Park. “It's been a long time between points in the league for us, and given the three games in the week and the tired bodies, it's a good point against UWA,” Leeming player/coach David Palin explained. “The wind made it a game of two halves, we had it first half and had the better chances, but UWA had the chances second half. Both sides will think maybe they could have won it but I think overall play and conditions of the day a draw is a fair result.”
It was the visitors who opened the scoring early, Palin played a one-two with Michael Jennings who played in Cam Anderson, who raced into the box and finished low across the keeper. But UWA levelled soon after, with Timtaous Komi on target. But Leeming regained the lead before the break, Justin Onek won a header in the middle of park, and received the ball back from Kieren Witt inside the box and his half volley flew home from the angle. But the hosts found the equaliser to earn a point on 75 minutes, with Walter Torres scoring his ninth goal of the season.
31.7.2021
NPL-WA ROUND SEVENTEEN REVIEW
Perth SC are the new leaders of the NPLWA, after a 2-1 win against Gwelup Croatia at Wishart Street. They were ahead after only two minutes, Calvin Whitney sent Yagoub Mustafa, who was making a return to the starting side after injury, down the left and his cross was headed home by Jayden Gorman. Gwelup debutant Malek Kuc keeper then stood tall to deny Michael Domfeh as Perth continued to dominate. Gustavo Giron-Marulanda went close to the equaliser on the half hour, but the Columbian striker’s shot was well saved by Ryan Montgomery. But in first-half stoppage time Gwelup did find the equaliser, Declan Hargreaves corner beat everyone and hit the inside of the post and deflected in to the net of the unfortunate Lachie Byrd.
Both sides pressed for the winner after the break, Shubham Mokala's effort clipped the bar and Gorman saw a shot saved by Kuc. But it was Perth who found the winner seven minutes from time, Whitney’s long-range shot deflected off Gwelup skipper Blair Govan and wrong footed Kuc, the ball rolling into the net. Domfeh almost added a third late, but his shot drifted inches wide of the upright. Gwelup went in search of the equaliser late, but they couldn’t find it. Ramon Falzon's team are now a point clear of Floreat Athena, who dropped off top spot for the first time since Round Two.
Floreat Athena have lost top spot on the NPLWA table after being held 1-1 by Cockburn City at Dalmatinac Park. Daniel Robinson gave the hosts the lead just after the break, bringing down Jesse Lazzaro’s free kick before finishing well. But Chris Saldaris scored just after the hour to restore parity, after Ben Radonich had spilled Phil Arnold's free-kick. Both sides pushed for the winner but neither could find one, the draw means Perth SC are the new leaders. “I thought they were the better side the first half and we were the better side second half,” Robinson said. “Although the draw is a decent result the boys were disappointed not to get the three points.”
Sorrento to continue to knock on the door at the top, and are only three points off the leaders after a 3-1 win against Rockingham City at Percy Doyle Reserve. “It certainly wasn’t our most fluent performance of the season but was pleased with the attitude of the players,” Sorrento coach Jamie Harnwell said. “Credit to Rockingham, they made things difficult for us but when you have a central midfielder in Dean stepping up with a hat trick it’s always going to be a good day.” Dean Cummings opened the scoring on nine minutes, racing into the box and finishing low past Brad Stout. It was 2-0 on 35 minutes, the English midfielder finishing from close-range.
But Rockingham, who are in a scrap at the other end of the table pulled one back five minutes later, Hamish van Dieken finished clinically from long-range past Connor Campbell. But it was Sorrento who scored the decisive third goal three minutes from time. An errant header back to the keeper saw Ollie Annis nip in and Stout brought the defender down and referee Stewart Beattie pointed straight to the spot. Cumming stepped up sent the keeper the wrong way from the resulting penalty to claim the three points and complete his hat-trick. “Just delighted with the win,” Cummings said. “We are taking it game by game but hopefully we can push it all the way and challenge for the league with five games to go.”
ECU Joondalup moved back into the NPLWA top four after a comprehensive 4-1 win against Balcatta at the ECU Football Stadium on Saturday afternoon. “It was good to get a win at home, as our home record has been poor this season, but the performance today was excellent, we played as the manager wants us too and dominated the game,” ECU striker Daryl Nicol explained. “We could have scored more, and it was an open game and they had chances too, but I thought we were clinical and really happy how we performed today.” The home side were ahead on six minutes, Lewis Italiano and Carmelo Giuffre weren’t on the same wave length from a pass out, and Danny Hodgson nipped in and finished low past the keeper.
But it was the visitors who should have levelled three minutes later, Jon Corness made space down the right, and his cross to the back post found Amir Ajan who blazed over from close-range. Bu the Jacks second duly arrived on 28 minutes. Riley Woodcock was bundled down in the box by Calum O’Connell and referee David Bruce had no hesitation in pointing to the spot, and Hodgson made no mistake from the spot for his 13th goal of the NPLWA season. It was 3-0 on 70 minutes, Woodcock sent Nelson Tshongo down the left, and he cut the ball back to Nicol who finished with aplomb from the edge of the box.
It was 4-0 six minutes later, Cassidy found Woodcock in the middle of the park and his first-time ball sent Nicol racing clear and he finished clinically past Italiano for his ninth league goal of the season. Balcatta hit the bar late, Ajan’s cross finding Corness, but his header hit the woodwork, but they did find a consolation goal in the third minute of stoppage time. An errant pass out of defence was picked off by Ajan and he found the bottom corner.
Inglewood United celebrated their 70th anniversary in style, thrashing Bayswater City 5-0 at Inglewood Stadium and moving them to within two points of the top four, with a game in hand. They were ahead on 20 minutes, Ajak Riak reacting quickest after Andreas Theodosiades effort came back off the crossbar, and it was 2-0 four minutes later, Robert Petkov heading home debutant Egide Ngendakumana's cross. Bayswater weren’t without their chances in the first half with Fraser Dunlop bringing the best out of Josiah Godfrey on two occasions, but Inglewood ran away with proceedings in the second half.
Riak capitalised on an error at the back to score on 64 minutes, before Steve Sokol came off the bench to add a fourth seven minutes later. The league’s leading scorer then added another late to take his tally for the season to 14 to seal a comprehensive win for Andres Oliveira’s side. “What a great occasion for Inglewood United, celebrating their 70th anniversary,” the Coach said. “I thought we were in control of the whole game, and we created great chances and goals, but I was most impressive with our backline as it was the first clean sheet of the year and that includes our young keeper (Josiah Godfrey) who pull off two crucial saves in the first half. Also, we had debut on the wing, Egide, who it thought was fantastic and threat the whole game.”
31.7.2021
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE ROUND SIXTEEN – REVIEW
Joondalup United have won the northern derby after a 3-2 win against Quinns at Forrest Park in our ‘Match of the Round’. The hosts were ahead when Joel Ledsham scored an own goal, before Jamie Gardiner doubled their advantage. Jay Lang volleyed home just after the hour and the game looked over. But Ben Hinshelwood pulled one back for Quinns late, and Declan Hudson scored his first of the season in stoppage time to set up a nervy finish, but the hosts stood firm. “That was probably the best performance of our season,” United coach Nick Jennings said. “Glenn has assembled a great young side who have had an amazing campaign to date, but today the score line flattered them and we thoroughly deserved the three points. The disappointment was conceding the two goals in time added on which took a bit of gloss off the performance.”
Stirling Macedonia moved 12 points clear at the top of the table after and emphatic 5-1 win against Subiaco at Macedonia Park. The hosts were ahead on 17 minutes, with Asher Nelson finding the bottom corner from the edge of the penalty area. It was 2-0 on the half hour, Sam Wynne finding room and volley home from just inside the penalty area. It was 3-0 five minutes later Gavin Knight’s free kick picking out Ryan Hogan at the back post to head home. It was more of the same after the break, Ryan Malton powerfully heading home at the back post to make it 4-0, and two minutes from time substitute Gyles Davies added a fifth. “It was a great game and I think we played some of our best football this season,” Stirling defender Brent Quick explained. “We’re one step closer to what we’ve worked so hard for this season.”
Western Knights are back up to second after a gritty 2-0 win in the derby against UWA Nedlands at the UWA Sports Park. The visitors opened brightly and were ahead on nine minutes, Ciaran Byrne making no mistake from a free-kick, the strikers 20th league goal of the campaign. They sealed the points when John Chalmers intercepted a pass and curled home clinically to move them back into second spot. “It was a good hard-fought win against a tough UWA side,” Knights coach Ivan Zuvela said. “A nice free kick from Byrne helped us and then a good team goal where we pressed their defence and Chalmers was rewarded for his efforts with an excellent goal to seal the win.”
At the bottom of the table Ashfield leapfrogged above Swan United after a 1-0 win at Francis Street. The only goal of the game came two minutes into the second half, Zakir Hussain hooking the ball home after the hosts failed to clear a corner. “It was a very important and much needed win for the club, and the lads had a good week at training and were rewarded to come away with the three points,” Ashfield skipper James Sammut said. “We now have a massive couple of weeks coming up and hopefully we can build on the weekends performance.”
Mandurah City and Fremantle City have fought an eight-goal thriller after a 4-4 draw at Securitas Protect Stadium. The visitors were on the front foot early and scored twice in the first nine minutes. First Callum Stocks broke the offside trap to score past Dylan Wilson, before Adrian Ciampini struck a second, finishing well across the goalkeeper. But Mandurah weren’t finished and Rory McGrath pulled one back quickly and then headed the hosts level at half-time. Fremantle skipper Matt Sparrow saw his shot creep under Wilson for 3-2 Fremantle, but Mandurah again responded, with Taylor Carter finishing well at the near post.
The see-saw battle continued and Fremantle hit the front again, with Mandurah’s Silas Becsi putting the ball into his own net. But the Dolphins restored parity two minutes from time, with Harry Collins getting the home faithful off their seats again. They nearly nicked all three points deep into stoppage time but John Baird effort hit the post, but a draw was fair result and what a game of football the crowd witnessed. “A wildly entertaining game, showcased the good, the bad & the ugly,” Mandurah Coach Pete Taylor said. “We were pleased to see the character and spirit on display after a tough run of results. Overall, a share of the points was probably fair but we were desperately unlucky not to pinch it right at the death.”
In the final game Olympic Kingsway are back in the winner’s circle after a hard fought 2-1 win against Forrestfield United at Crazy Domains stadium, at Hartfield Park. With new signing Ben Rutter and Hamza Hina in the side Olympic snapped a four-game winless run as they went eighth on the table. All the goals were scored in the first half and it was the hosts who opened the scoring, with Tarek Atta scoring his fifth goal of the season from Moses Macauley's cut back.
But David Tough’s side hit back and Jack Lavis forced home at the second attempt from Josh Samson's cross, before Rutter capped off a great debut, completed the turnaround scoring from close range. “The last few games we’ve been playing well but with no luck in front of goal,” Tough said. “So, when we went behind it was great to see in such a high-pressure game we stuck to our principles and kept passing the ball and I feel we deserved the three points.
31.7.2021
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO ROUND SIXTEEN – REVIEW
Dianella White Eagles are closing in on the State League Division Two title after a 3-1 win against Wanneroo City at Dianella Reserve in our ‘Match of the Round’ on Saturday evening. The hosts were ahead midway through the first half, Conor McKee cutting inside on his left foot and curled it into the top corner. But Wanneroo are on a good run of form and they levelled early in the second half, Nathan Scully found in the box with a cross to tap home. But Dianella regained the lead when Sasa Njegic made a darting run and played in Stephen Musonda who finished into the bottom corner of the net.
They made sure of the points four minutes later, David Heagney’s cross from the right was headed home by Daniel Mackenzie, much to the delight of another big crowd. “Another good performance from the players, against a good and well-organised Wanneroo City side,” Dianella Coach Stewart Moses said. “It was a big night for our club as we honoured Rod Banjac, who started what Bobby and I are hoping to finish at the club, and that’s promotion. We’ve got six big games ahead of us but were up for the challenge.”
Kingsley Westside kept the pressure on the leaders after a comprehensive 7-0 win against Kelmscott Roos at Chichester Park on Saturday evening. They were ahead early with Darren O Riordan scoring from long-range, before the visitors put the ball in the back of the net from Joel Gillespie’s shot to double the host’s advantage. It was 3-0 at the break, with Simone Sichel finishing well from Bailey Salmon’s cut back to end a great build up from Steven Dimitrovich’s side. They went on with it after the break Jayden Drummond sending Cameron Bishop clear to finish well, before Gillespie scored directly from a corner to make it 5-0.
They added two more late, Lewis Flatt finishing well from long-range, before Salmon beat the keeper at his near post to complete a comprehensive win. “It was a bit of a sloppy start on our behalf we really only got the ball down in the last five minutes of the half, but second half we got it down and kept playing as we left off,” Kingsley skipper Drummond explained. “It was good to keep a clean sheet and put some goals in the back of the net. Important to score some goals at this time of the season, hopefully we can build on this result going forward.”
Gosnells City are up to third after a big 5-0 win against Curtin University at Edinburgh Oval. “It was a good performance by the boys at hard place to play at in average conditions,” Gosnells’ skipper Scott Pereira said. “I thought we were great and played the ball around nicely and made it hard for Curtin to get involved in the game.” Marc Anthony’s side were ahead early with Wade Farmer scoring, and it was 2-0 with Jordan Parfitt on target. It was 3-0 before half time with Farmer bagging another. Parfitt added another after the break, and the icing was put on the cake with Farmer Anthony said. “It’s important to stay in the play-off places as we have two vital games against Dianella and Melville in the coming weeks.”
Murdoch University Melville consolidated fifth spot after a narrow 1-0 win against Balga at Wormall Civil Stadium. The only goal of the game came on the hour, the ball was played down the right to Kai Jones, who crossed into the box and Dion Berman came diving in and headered home via the inside of the post. “We keep rolling on, after a hard-fought win,” Berman said. “That makes it four in a row, and we want to make the top four so we’re working hard to make sure that happens.”
Morley Windmills jumped to sixth after a 1-0 win against Canning City at Burrendah Reserve. The only goal of the game came midway through the second half. Ryan Treacey corner picked out Danny O'Shea, who rose above his marker to put it past the keeper. “Canning were very tough in their shape and the direct play meant we had to be engaged and composed. I felt we dominated the game creating a lot of opportunities and just felt short due to our execution and at times some great saves from the Canning keeper,” Morley coach Antony Benetti explained. “The boys deserved the victory and worked hard for it. The results haven't been great of late but that doesn't show the full picture. We'll be back to work Tuesday and look for another solid performance against Wanneroo next time out.”
The final game between Joondalup City and Carramar Shamrock Rovers was abandoned after Joondalup midfielder Warren Wadawu suffered a nasty broken leg. The club said. “Warren has only been a part of our club for a short time, but his impact has been felt. Warren has provided professionalism, experience, and standards that has been second to none. We hope to welcome Warren back to JCFC as soon as possible.”
Joondalup skipper Harry Clisby said the players are devasted with the news. “We’re all gutted about the horrible injury to Warren, it was a ball that was there to be won and Warren went in full blooded and ended up freak accident that he came away with a broken leg,” he said. “Since he has joined the club, he has been a great asset to the team and club and we all wish him a speedy recovery and hope to see him back out on the pitch soon.” From everyone at Footballwa.net and the whole WA football family we wish Warren a speedy recovery.”
30.7.2021
MATILDAS MARCH ON AFTER BEATING TEAM GB
An extra time goal from skipper Sam Kerr proved the eventual winner for the Matildas, who are just one win away from a first ever Olympic medal after clinching a dramatic 4-3 win over Great Britain at the Kashima Stadium in the quarter-final of the Tokyo Games. When Australia needer her most, the former Perth Glory striker delivered. After being well held for 89 minutes, Kerr scored a last-minute equaliser to send the match into extra time before scoring what proved to be the winning goal, while Teagan Micah pulled off a crucial penalty save in the seven-goal thriller that sealed Australia’s passage to the semi-finals where they’ll face Sweden.
“The way Sam led the team tonight. Even though she was in pain it was one of those she pushed through,” the Matildas coach Tony Gustavsson said. “The way she leads this group in the locker room, back in the hotel, on the buses, it’s a huge reason why we are winning this game.” The Matildas were on the back foot early, but keeper Micah was in fine form producing a number of fine saves, and she also had a little luck with the woodwork coming to her aid a couple of times. Australia struggled to create anything in the final third, but against the run of play they found the opener on 35 minutes. Steph Catley’s corner was met by centre-back Alanna Kennedy, who rose highest to place a powerful header past Ellie Roebuck into the corner of the net, to give them the lead at the break.
There was far more intent from the Matildas after the break, and they had team GB on the back foot as they looked for the second, but just before the hour Great Britain levelled. A glancing header from Ellen White flew past Micah into the net. It went from bad to worse four minutes later when a defensive error gifted Britain the lead. The Matildas botched a clearance from a long throw and the ball fell into the path of White, whose curled shot made it 2-1. It was a bitter blow for the Green and Gold, and with the Matildas staring down the barrel, it was superstar Kerr who came to the rescue in the final minute. The Chelsea striker pounced on indecisive marking inside the box, brought down a long ball, and calmly slotted past Roebuck to snatch an equaliser, much to the delight of the Matildas coaching staff on the sidelines.
Micah continued to thwart Great Britain at the other end, producing two superb saves to deny Keira Walsh and White in the opening minutes of extra time. However, she saved her best for when the pressure was greatest. Great Britain were gifted a chance to restore their lead when Nikita Parris went flying to the ground in the box. Despite replays showing minimal contact, the referee pointed to the spot. However, Micah saved Karoline Weir’s penalty in what proved to be a huge turning point. Minutes later, Australia snatched the lead through their own slice of luck. Substitute Mary Fowler shot from distance looped into the top corner of the net via the help of a deflection to put Australia back into the lead. Then on 106 minutes Kerr put them one step closer to the semi with a trademark header that cannoned in off the crossbar to make it 4-2. A late header from White sealed her hat-trick and ensured a nervous final five minutes for the Matildas but it was too little, too late for Great Britain.
Team GB: GK Ellie ROEBUCK, 2 Lucy BRONZE (17 Georgia STANWAY 112’), 3 Demi STOKES (14 Millie BRIGHT 58’), 4 Keira WALSH (6 Sophie INGLE 96’), 5 Stephanie HOUGHTON, 8 Kim LITTLE (18 Jill SCOTT 80’), 9 Ellen WHITE, 11 Caroline WEIR, 12 Rachel DALY (10 Fran KIRBY 58’), 15 Lauren HEMP (7 Nikita PARRIS 96’), 16 Leah WILLIAMSON – Subs not used: RGK Carly TELFORD
Australia: GK Teagan MICAH, 2 Sam KERR, 5 Aivi LUIK (15 Emily GIELNIK 80’), 7 Stephanie CATLEY, 9 Caitlin FOORD (3 Kyra COONEY-CROSS 80’) (4 Clare POLKINGHORNE 108’), 10 Emily VAN EGMOND, 12 Ellie CARPENTER, 13 Tameka YALLOP, 14 Alanna KENNEDY, 16 Hayley RASO (6 Chloe LOGARZO 88’), 17 Kyah SIMON (11 Mary FOWLER 80’) - Subs not used: RGK Lydia WILLIAMS, 21 Laura BROCK - Referee: Salima Mukansanga
30.7.2021
GLORY AND ARMADALE DRAW UNDER LIGHTS
Perth Glory and Armadale have fought out and entertaining 1-1 draw under lights at Crazy Domains Stadium, Hartfield Park on Friday evening. Nathan Costello had given John O’Reilly’s side the lead on the half hour, but Ciaran Bramwell levelled four minutes later. Both sides had chances to win it, but they had to settle for a point apiece. “I suppose it was a great game for a neutral, but Ruben and I would both be disappointed we did not nick a win,” O’Reilly said. “Both teams had clear chances to win it, but a draw over the scheme of 90 minutes was a fair result, but our lads worked incredibly hard to earn that point.”
It was a tight opening but it was the hosts who created the early chances. First on four minutes Chad Nilson’s shot well saved by Cameron Cook, and moments later Callum Mellowship’s long-range shot was pushed around the post by the alert Cook. Then from the resulting corner Angel Andres headed over the top. But Glory went close themselves, Bramwell sent Giordano Colli down the right, his cross into the box was well claimed by Michael Craggs, with Joshua Anasmo ready to pounce.
Armadale, who sat only five points behind Glory, went close again on the quarter-hour, Friday Zico outmuscled his marker on the left and raced into goal, but Cook got down well to deny him. They were in again six minutes later, Glory turned the ball over in the middle of the park and a quick ball found Andres, whose shot from the edge of the box was pushed over the top by the Glory custodian. Down the other end a quick break from Adam Zimarino saw him slip the ball into the path of Jack Painter-Andrews, but his shot was well saved by Craggs.
But on 30 minutes it was the visitors who opened the scoring. Zico’s corner was punched clear by Cook, but it only found Andres whose volley was blocked on the line, but Costello was on hand to fire home from close-range. But their lead only lasted four minutes. Joseph Ford made space out on the left and his teasing cross picked out Bramwell who headed clinically past Craggs. Armadale were lucky not to go down to ten men moments later.
A quick break saw Anasmo play in Bramwell who was in on goal, but he was pulled back by Mellowship, who was lucky only to receive a yellow card from referee Michael Jasinski. Both sides had late chances, first a long clearance caused uncertainty in the Armadale defence and Zimarino nipped in, but his shot from the angle was claimed by Craggs. Then in stoppage time Kevin Ashwood’s free kick was headed goalward by Costello, and Brian Patterson’s close-range shot was well saved by Cook.
Glory was on the front foot after the break, and when Bramwell crossed from the right, he found Zimarino, but he couldn’t keep his shot down. Bramwell’s long-range shot was then saved low by Craggs, and moments later the strikers headed flash wide of the post. But Armadale weren’t going away and Ashwood’s shot on the turn was saved low by Cook. They were then awarded an indirect free kick in the box for a foul by Cook, Adriano Jelenovic rolled the ball to Nilson whose shot crashed off the bar and Mellowship’s follow up shot flew over the top. The game took another twist on 77 minutes when Armadale were awarded a penalty. Colli sent Jack Leech into the box and he was brought down by Isaac Koomson, and the referee pointed straight to the spot.
But after consultation with his assistant the decision was reserved, much to the disappointment of the Glory players. It was end-to-end football as both sides looked of the winner, and both went close in stoppage time. First on 93 minutes, Colli found Bramwell in the box, he laid the ball back to second half substitute Andrew Maranta, whose shot hit the crossbar. Then two minutes later, with the last play of the match, a long throw by Mellowship was flicked on by Vladimir Naumovski and Jelenovic’s snap shot was wide of the target.
Perth Glory: GK Cameron COOK, 3 Jacob MUIR, 4 Aidan COYNE, 5 Joseph FORDE, 7 Charlie LEECH, 8 Chris DONNELL (12 Will FORMSTON 46’), 9 Ciaran BRAMWELL, 10 Giordano COLLI, 11 Adam ZIMARINO (6 Andrew MARANTA 75’), 17 Joshua ANASMO (18 Christian BELLADONNA 86’), 22 Jack PAINTER-ANDREWS – Subs not used: RGK Sam REILLY, 15 Daniel BENNIE
Armadale: GK Michael CRAGGS, 3 Andy REALE, 6 Nathan COSTELLO (19 Vladimir NAUMOVSKI 69’), 7 Callum MELLOWSHIP, 8 Brian PATTERSON, 9 Angel ANDRES (35 Cherno BAH 62’), 10 Isaac KOOMSON, 11 Chad NILSON, 16 Adriano JELENOVIC, 18 Kevin ASHWOOD (13 Filippo GIOFFRE 88’), 23 Friday ZICO – Subs not used: RGK Alex FISHER, 14 Blake ADAMS – Referee: Michal JASINSKI
30.7.2021
NPL-WA ROUND SEVENTEEN PREVIEW
It’s week 17 of the NPLWA and the race for the title and top four spots is heating up and our ‘Match of the Round’ sees two teams in the mix as Perth Glory host Armadale at Crazy Domains Stadium, at Hartfield Park on Friday evening. (7.30pm). Both sides are coming off wins last week, Ruben Zadkovich’s side convincingly beating Gwelup to move up to fourth, while John O’Reilly’s side beat Balcatta to consolidate seventh spot, so three points in this one will be crucial.
Armadale’s win was important, after a loss against Rockingham in round 15, and defender Callum Mellowship said it was a strong performance. “It was a great response from the lads following the previous game against Rockingham,” he said. “We had the two weeks to prepare for the Balcatta game and to rectify the result. We went in with a different mentality and deservingly got the result, and I thought defensively it was a great effort, and the win was topped off with Adriano’s stunning goal.”
Mellowship said Glory have a lot of threats, but they have prepared well and they can’t wait for Friday night football. “We’ve been training well again for the game on Friday night, and John and Mark have put in a lot of effort on the training ground to prepare us against a team who are performing really well,” he explained. “We’ll be wary of the threat that Glory offer and I’m hopeful that we can take something away from this game and continue our push to the top four.”
Glory’s big win against Gwelup, sent a message out to the rest of the league, they mean business this season, but skipper Giordano Colli said there is still six games to go. “It was a fantastic game for us winning 5-0 in what was a big game for us to continue our form after a week off heading into the last part of the season,” he said. “All the boys put in a massive shift and it paid off with the ending result but that’s just one, we have six more to go.”
The midfielder said Friday will be another challenge, but it's one they are looking forward too. “Armadale will be a tough match again, and we will need to be at our best to get the result,” he explained. “Our first game was a tight game in a 0-0 draw and we will be looking to change that on Friday night and claim all three points this time around and continue our good form.”
In other games this weekend Inglewood United will celebrate their 70th anniversary when they host Bayswater City at Inglewood Stadium. Their heritage celebrations were put on hold due to covid restrictions earlier in the season, but Saturday the club will have a big day of activities and past players returning to celebrate the day. Andres Oliveira will also be hoping his side can bounce back from last week’s heavy loss at Sorrento, while Bayswater will look to build on their draw at league leaders Floreat Athena.
Talking of Floreat, they will need to turn around their recent league form, sooner rather than later, after letting a ten-point lead slip at the top of the table. This week they travel to Dalmatinac Park to take on the inform Cockburn City. Likewise, Balcatta at the other end of the table, who are in a relegation fight and are only two points of the drop zone, and this week they travel to the ECU Football Stadium to take on ECU Joondalup. Sorrento moved to third after last week’s big win against Inglewood and this week they host Rockingham City who will be desperate for a result after a first loss in three games last week sees them on the foot of the table.
In the final game second placed Perth SC travel to Wishart Street to take on a Gwelup Croatia side who have dropped to 10th on the table, after their big loss at Perth Glory last weekend. Perth missed the chance to go top last week, while Gwelup had a day to forget against Perth Glory, but they were missing a number of players, but skipper Blair Govan said that was no excuse. “Last week was a very tough one for us to take, yes we did have a few important players out but that’s no excuse,” he said. “We were so disappointed with ourselves afterwards as we started well, we just didn’t turn that into goals and credit to Glory they matched us to start off with then after the penalty for the first goal they were quality and probably too good for us all over the pitch, but very disappointing for us.”
Govan said they have drawn to many games this season, drawing half their games, but the defender hopes they can put it right on Saturday. “We will be looking to put the last few weeks behind us and no better way to do it against one of the best in the competition,” the big defender said. “With the league being so tight three points against Perth at home would be a great result for us.”
30.7.2021
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE ROUND SIXTEEN – PREVIEW
We head into week 16 of the State League Division One and the northern derby at Forrest Park between Joondalup United and Quinns is our ‘Match of the Round’ (All games kick off at 3.00pm unless otherwise stated). Quinns were in action in midweek when they beat Olympic Kingsway 1-0 at Gumblossom Park in the round 13 catch up game. The only goal of the game came on 52 minutes with striker Ben Hinshelwood bagging his 15th goal of the season to move Quinns to second on the table. Joondalup are coming off a big win at Mandurah which consolidated fourth spot, so this one will be a tight game, as both sides look to keep the pressure on Stirling.
The win at Mandurah was even more impressive with a number of players missing for the trip south, one was Jay Lang, but he said it was a great performance from the lads. “It was a massive win for us last weekend and I thought it was fully deserved as we were the better side from start to finish,” the midfielder said. “We knew how Mandurah would play and we were able to nullify them and limit them to only a couple of half chances throughout, while being clinical ourselves at the other end.”
Lang should return for the derby, but will face a late fitness test, but he said it should be a cracking game and at home they are looking for three points. “Another tough game coming up this weekend against a Quinns side who are on a good run of form just now, but we have aspirations to finish as high up the ladder as possible,” he explained. “We know that for us to start to peg back a couple of teams above us then these types of games are must win for us. We’ll go out on Saturday with a game plan and hopefully it’ll be enough to see us come away with the three points.”
The win against Olympic made it five wins out of six, the only loss was against Stirling, and Quinns skipper Adam Buckingham said they are on a good run of from and the win in midweek was important going forward. “We were all pleased with the win on Tuesday, and as skipper I was also happy for Ben (Hinshelwood) to continue his scoring form, he has been great since joining us this season,” he explained. “To be fair it wasn’t the prettiest of wins, but we managed to find a goal and stopped Olympic from creating clear cut chances and see the game out.”
Buckingham said the derby is another big test for them, but he said they head into the game in a confident mood, and looking to keep the pressure on Stirling if they slip up. “Everyone at the club is looking forward to Saturday it’s a big game for us,” the midfielder said. “We know if we can get the win then we will start to create a good gap between us and them. We know they will be tough to play against, so the lads will have to be on it from the start.”
In other games in week 16 league leaders Stirling Macedonia host Subiaco at Macedonia Park. Ian Ferguson’s side are only a few games away from sealing promotion back to the NPLWA, but Subiaco sit sixth and are on good run form themselves, and have only been beaten twice on the road this season, so they will be up for the fight in this one. Western Knights and UWA Nedlands meet in the derby at UWA Sports Park, both looking to bounce back from last week, Swan United host Ashfield at Francis Street, while Forrestfield United welcome Olympic Kingsway to Crazy Domains Stadium.
In the final game Mandurah City, who lost ground on the top four last week after a loss against Joondalup, will look to bounce back when they host Fremantle City at Securitas Protect Stadium at Peelwood Parade. Fremantle were held at home by Forrestfield last week, but Mandurah loss was their third straight defeat, and Coach Kris Donnell said they have worked hard on the track to get out of their form slump. “We have found ourselves in a bit of a rut with no wins in our past three games and we know collectively that we have to do better,” he explained. “We’re controlling most of the games and then conceding poor goals so there has been good discussion in training and we’ve pin pointed certain areas where we must improve.”
Donnell said Saturday is a great chance to get back in the winners, being at home, but he knows the quality Fremantle have in their side. “I think every game against Fremantle is always one to relish, as a lot of the boys know each other so it’s a match where whoever wins will carry the bragging rights until the next one,” he said. “We’re up for the game and want to get points back on the board again, the team know what’s expected of them and we trust them to deliver in front of our passionate supporters.”
30.7.2021
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO ROUND SIXTEEN – PREVIEW
We also head in week 16 of the State League Division Two and our ‘Match of the Round’ is the top of the table clash between leaders Dianella White Eagles and third placed Wanneroo City at Dianella Reserve on Saturday evening (5.00pm). The Eagles moved 14 points clear at the top after a hard fought 2-1 win against Balga last week, while Wanneroo are coming off a 1-0 win at Canning on Sunday, but can anyone stop the Eagles, as they seem to be in full flight at the moment and unbeaten in the league, maybe Wanneroo are the team to do it, but whatever happens it should be another great night of football under lights.
Dianella coach Stewart Moses said last win was important and was pleased how his side fought out the game and were rewarded with the win late. “We didn’t play our best football against Balga, but that’s not taking anything away from them, they came with a game plan and we had to work hard to break them down,” he said. “Teams sit back and try and catch us on the counter attack, but we worked hard to stop that and fought the game out and got our rewards in the end with a 2-1 win.”
Most pundits believe the title race is over, but Moses said the club are not getting carried away, and taking it one game at a time. “Many are saying the title is over, but we have the lads feet firmly on the ground, we have seven games to go and we will be doing all we can to win them all,” he explained. “That starts against Wanneroo City on Saturday, who are playing well at the moment, and have players that can hurt you. But Bobby and I have done our homework and will have the lads prepared for the game, and we are back in front of our passionate supporters and we hope to send them home happy again this week.”
The win at Canning made it nine games unbeaten for Jesse Bridgman’s side, and skipper Simon Burt said they should have wrapped the game up by half time, but they did leave with the points. “It was a tough game and we didn’t take our chances in the first half which made for a close second half,” he said. “We got the penalty and had to fight with ten men late on, but most important were the three points and we took them home and move on.”
Burt who has been instrumental in the Roos defence this season, and said Saturday’s game is a huge, and one they are looking forward too, and he hopes they can hit the ground running, something they never did in the first meeting between the sides. “It’s a massive game and we’re all definitely looking forward to it,” he said. “In the first game at home we were poor in first half and conceded the two goals, but the second half we improved and it could have been different if we took our chances, so we are ready for the challenge on the road.”
In other games Joondalup City welcome Carramar Shamrock Rovers to Iluka Sports Complex, and the hosts will be looking to build on the draw against high flyers Kingsley Westside last week. “I thought it was a pretty even game, and we started better and got a goal, but they levelled, and both sides had chances on a muddy pitch, but we both had to settle for a point,” Joondalup’s Harry Clisby explained. “This week against Rovers will be an interesting game as we’re right next to each other on the table and drew 4-4 last time we played. Both teams need a win to push them up the ladder and put pressure on top four so it will make for a tough game.”
Murdoch University Melville welcome Balga to Wormall Civil Stadium at Murdoch Uni, Canning City host Morley Windmills to Burrendah Reserve wit hboth sides looking to get back into the winner’s circle, while Kelmscott Roos travel to Chichester Park to take on Kingsley Westside (5.00pm) In the final game the inform Gosnells City travel to Edinburgh Oval to take on Curtin University and the hosts are coming off a big win against Carramar Shamrock Rovers. “It was an important win for us, after an unfortunate run of poor results, and we had a number of injured players out for the game, myself included, so it was fantastic to see players step up and put in the work when needed,” Curtin keeper Daniel Marques said. “We have an opportunity to build on this winning momentum at home this weekend. Based on our last game with them earlier this season, we know it will be tough but if we can bring the quality and work rate from last week into this game, and I’m confident we can produce a good performance and possibly come away with valuable points.”
30.7.2021
BELT UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION - ROUND FIFTEEN PREVIEW
The race for the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division is also heating up and the week 15 ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to the Onside Sports Stadium in Bunbury on Saturday evening, when South West Phoenix welcome last season’s Champions North Perth United to town. (6.00pm) The Phoenix kept their lead at the top of the table with a hard fought 3-2 win at Wembley, while North Perth lost narrowly to Kwinana United at home.
North Perth stayed in sixth spot on the table, 11 points adrift of Saturday’s opposition after the defeat, and coach Luke O’Neill said missed chances cost them. “We had plenty of chances to score, but just couldn’t find the net, and the Kwinana keeper had a great performance and pulled off some amazing saves,” he said. “But credit to Mark and his lads they battled right to end to get the points.”.
The trip to Bunbury is one of the toughest away games in the league, but O’Neill said they are looking forward to the challenge. “All the boys are looking forward to the weekend, and it should be a good game, we know they are a very good team and will need to be at our best to cause them problems,” he explained. “Last time we played them it was an entertaining game and we hoping we can bring that same sort performance on Saturday evening.”
South West Phoenix had to battle for the three points at Wembley last week, but a couple of important saves from keeper Jamie Oakey helped them earn them, but he said it was a good performance from an undermanned team. “We were really pleased and it was a good result for us considering we had five players missing,” he said. “We ground out the result and showed great character late, and they’re a big team and will cause teams troubles with balls into the box but we defended well late to seal the win.”
Oakey said North Perth May not be having their best season but knows they are always tough to play against and knows Saturday will be no different. “This will be the fourth time we’ve played North Perth this season, we know this will be an extremely tough game,” he said. “They were the better team up at their place, but we feel at home on a decent pitch, it will suit us a bit better. We know we need a good start though, and hope the young players that have come in during the recent weeks can continue their promising form.”
In other games on Sunday kick off at 3.00pm unless otherwise stated, and Joondalup United will look for three straight wins when they host Wembley Downs at Beldon Park, while Queens Park go for back-to-back wins when they entertain Hamersley Rovers at Coker Park. Quinns welcome Jaguar to Gumblossom Park looking to keep the pressure on the top two with a win, while UWA Nedlands and Leeming Strikers will aim bounce back from defeats last week when they meet at the UWA Sports Park.
In the final game second placed Maddington White City make the trip to Kelly Park to take on fourth placed Kwinana United. City had to fight all the way to beat Hamersley last week to stay level with the Phoenix, while United beat North Perth to remain only five points adrift of the league leaders with a game in hand. Kwinana skipper Neal Beveridge said it was a huge three points for them.
“It was a great win for us, and Woodville Reserve is such a difficult place to go and take three points, especially in such tough conditions,” he explained. “We had four younger players step up and come on off the bench which would have been a massive experience for them, as games go that’s up there with one of the toughest, we’ve played this season.”
The defender said it doesn’t get any easier with Maddington on Sunday, but he said the players are ready for the challenge and hoping for a repeat of the game early in the season when they won 3-1 away. “We’re really excited for the game against Maddington they’re going to be looking to get one back on us after we took the three points at their place, but we’re up for the challenge and ready.”
29.7.2021
PAUL MCVITTIE JOINS HALL OF FAME COMMITTEE (courtesy footballhalloffamewa.com.au)
The Football Hall of Fame Western Australia is pleased to announce the addition of Paul McVittie to the Executive Committee. A former State team captain and inaugural Perth Glory player, Paul is honoured to join the not-for-profit volunteer organisation whose aim it is to promote, preserve and protect the history of the game in WA.
“I’m delighted to join the Hall of Fame executive, it really is a great honour,” said Paul, who was inducted into the Hall of Champions in 2016. “The Hall of Fame is extremely important for football as it is the recognised custodian of the history of the game in Western Australia.”
“The committee have a number of interesting and unique projects on the go which will shed new light on some of the events and individuals from the history of our game. I’m thrilled to be given the opportunity to contribute to these works and be part of the team that brings them to fruition.”
“Overall, I want to help raise public awareness of the Hall of Fame, especially with the younger generations who may not be aware of some of the greats to have played in or come from Western Australia. That’s a view shared by the entire committee and I’m excited to be involved in this chapter of the Hall of Fame.”
England-born McVittie is no stranger to the local football community. After playing in England (Consett AFC) and Malta (Rabat Ajax) he relocated to Perth and starred for Kelmscott Roos. Soon after the attacking midfielder switched to Stirling Macedonia where, between 1993 and 1996, he collected two Premier League crowns, three Top Four Cups, one D’Orsogna Cup and two Night Series titles
McVittie’s on-field creativity saw him represent the State on 21 occasions – 10 of those as team captain – over a six-year period. He was an initial member of the Perth Kangaroos squad that won the 1994 S-League and the following year stepped into the National Soccer League arena for the first time with Canberra Cosmos.
By 1996 McVittie was part of the then fledgling Perth Glory, making 42 national league appearances across two summers. He helped Western Knights lift the 1998 Premier League trophy – winning the ‘the Sunday Times’ Player of the Year that same season – and enjoyed another league title at Fremantle City in 2002 before retiring at the age of 38.
26.7.2021
ARCIA UPBEAT AFTER WEEK ONE OF PRE-SEASON
Perth Glory coach Richard Garcia has been impressed by his squad's performance during the first week of pre-season training. The player group began their preparations for the 2021/22 campaign on Monday, bolstered by new recruits Brandon O'Neill, Aaron Calver and Jack Clisby.
"The last week has been very good and very enjoyable," Garcia said. "It's been good to see the boys come back with smiles on their faces ready to go again. They've come back in really good shape physically and mentally, they have the bit between their teeth and everyone is out to improve.
"We're stepping into a new direction this year and you can tell the guys have got that in their minds. It's about us growing as a group and the processes we go through every day to become better as players, as a team and as people. That's something that is a firm focus this year."
Garcia went on to confirm that plenty of work is going on behind the scenes to secure additional new recruits. "We're very strong considering the small number (of players) that we have," he said. "We've acquired very good characters, very good players and now it's about adding to that slowly, slowly.
"We want to make sure that we get the right people in for the right positions. However long that takes, it takes. We still need a few to bolster and round off the squad nicely. We've still got visa spots, so we're looking overseas as well as domestically."
"It's a matter of getting them into the country or trying to get them into the State at this point, so they are the challenges we've got to face. I'm very confident in the group of guys that we've got and we've also got the young guys coming through, so we have that to grow and develop as well."
Garcia said having the FFA Cup match with Melbourne Victory scheduled for 8 August postponed was a taste of what may follow in another COVID-19 interrupted season. “We are going to have to deal with that all year,” he said. “We had a big slice of that pie last year where we had to adapt. We’ve got to be flexible in what we do and how we prepare.”
26.7.2021
BELT UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION - ROUND FOURTEEN REVIEW
Our week 14 Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division ‘Match of the Round’ saw Kwinana United keep in touch of the leaders after a hard fought 1-0 win against North Perth United in the early game at Woodville Reserve. The hosts dominated early and had the visitors on the back foot, but against the run of play Kwinana opened the scoring on 12 minutes, with a neat finish from Dom Sumner. North Perth looked to hit back but they found Kwinana keeper Ellis Roberts in good form, and when he was beaten the woodwork came to their rescue. The hosts ended the game with ten men after Jean-Marc D'Avray was sent off by referee Jatin Lodhia.
The win kept Mark Purvis’ side fourth on the ladder and only five points off the leader and with a game in hand, and he said they are delighted to come home from Woodville with the points. “North Perth caused us some problems they hit the post twice had one cleared off the line and our keeper made a couple of good saves, but at half time we spoke about having to win our battles and do hard work that’s required to grind out a win like this,” Purvis explained. “The boys showed tremendous character to keep them out and I couldn’t be prouder of everyone’s efforts.”
League leaders South West Phoenix maintained top spot but were made to work hard for their 3-2 win against Wembley Downs at Butlers Reserve. They were ahead on the quarter hour mark, when Kieran Quinn’s free kick from wide was glanced in by Andy Blunden. But the hosts levelled on the half hour, with Matthew Devereux on target, and he put the hosts ahead on the hour, and the leaders were looking down the barrel of defeat. But Nick Carter’s side restored parity four minutes later, Lee Stewart eased past his marker and cut into the box and found Lydon Hodgkiss who made no mistake from six meters. Both sides went for the winner, but it was the Phoenix who found it ten minutes from time, Quinn’s cross was volleyed home by Rory Binnie.
“It was a tough game, we had to make a number of changes and it was a very scrappy on the slippery pitch. Although we weren’t anywhere near our best, we were able to grind out an ugly win and keep our run going,” Stewart explained. “To comeback late on showed the great mentality and desire within this playing group to do whatever it takes to get the win. We rode our luck a little, Jamie (Oakey) came up with a couple big saves to keep us in it and that gave us the opportunity to go and win the game. The young lads who came in showed they can hold their own and that will help boost our squad for the run in.”
Maddington White City are level one goal difference with Phoenix after a 3-1 win against Hamersley Rovers at Mills Park on Saturday evening. Rovers shocked their hosts with Abdul Kamara scoring after only eight minutes, but Samir Ramos levelled on the half hour. City hit the front five minutes into the second half with Jhonatan Barbosa scoring and they made sure of the points three minutes from time with Ramos adding his second to seal the win. “Hamersley started well and put us under a lot of pressure in the first 25 minutes, but the team switched on and we came back strong,” Maddington’s central defender Alexander Hoareau explained. “The boys put 100% effort and were focused and we managed to get the job done. We scored three goals but hit the post a couple of times throughout the game, but we got the result we wanted to keep the pressure on South West Phoenix, I was proud of the team.”
Quinns continue to keep the pressure on the top two after a 2-0 win against Leeming Strikers at John Connell Reserve. They were ahead on 36 minutes, after good work down the left from Connor McCready saw him send Liam Hunt in on goal and he rounded the keeper and rolled the ball home. They doubled their lead three minutes later, Ryan McCready broke the offside trap and finished low past Jordan Jones for his 19th goal of the season. Leeming pressed after half time but Quinns held firm with keeper Frazer Imrie making a couple of good saves to keep the hosts at bay.
“We were very pleased with the way the game went and to go in 2-0 at half time was a nice little cushion. We asked the boys not to over commit in the second half and manage the game out,” Quinns coach Vinny McMillan said. “Leeming had the lion’s share of possession in the second half however never really looked like scoring albeit forcing one good save from our keeper Frazer (Imrie). I thought we could of nicked another couple on the counter, but were very happy to go home with a 2-0 victory. We knew it would be a hard game away to Leeming, they have some good players and are locked in a relegation battle. We now look forward to the game against Jags which is always a tough test.”
Queens Park moved well clear of the drop zone after a 3-1 win against UWA Nedlands at the UWA Sports Park. All the goal action came in the second half, and it was the Park who hit the front on 56 minutes, Lindon Bridger cutting in from the left and finishing with aplomb past Luke Yeates. Bridger was in again three minutes later, again cutting in from the left and finding the corner of the net. UWA found a lifeline on 76 minutes, with Walter Torres scoring. Bridger was on fire, and he was dangerous all day and hit the post twice, before he sealed the win and completing his hat-trick two minutes from time, with a well-placed shot that beat Yeates at his near post. Queens Park finished with ten men when referee Josh Mannella sent off Ali Rahmati.
“I thought it was a very even match, that could easily have gone both ways. UWA started quick and had us on the ropes for the first 20 minutes, but after our nerves settled, we started dominating possession and creating chances,” Queens Park coach Ricardo Fynn explained. “We are extremely lucky to walk away with three points against a UWA that has class from the coach down to the players. UWA are a hard team to play against but in the day the lads were competitive and deserved the spoils.”
Joondalup United made it back-to-back wins for the first time this season after a 3-1 win against Jaguar at the Herb Graham Recreation Centre. There were few chances in the opening half hour before United took the lead. Andreas Bouzinekis' corner was headed off the line and when the rebound was saved, Maxi Van Ravensteyn was on hand to finish emphatically from close range. The visitors doubled the lead ten minutes into the second half when Bouzinekis stole possession on the right wing and crossed to Adam Taylor. His effort was saved by Michael Dudek’s legs but Bouzinekis was on hand to put away the follow up shot.
Van Ravensteyn headed against the post from a corner before a third goal arrived. Substitute Henry Martinez picked up the ball outside the box on the right-hand side and found the far top corner with a brilliant strike that gave Dudek no chance. Jaguar pulled a goal back in the closing stages with an excellent free kick Magai Deng, but it was too little too late.
"Back-to-back wins gives us some momentum as we look to climb up the table. You need to be switched on for 90 minutes when you play Jaguar at their place but we have a good record at the ground and deserved the three points. We had 15 lads contribute to a really strong performance from start to finish which is very pleasing,” Joondalup coach Neil Sherwin explained. “They're all big games now heading towards the business end of the season, but we're relishing the upcoming challenges and can hopefully pick up a few more wins over the next month or so."
26.7.2021
OLYROOS STILL HOPEFUL
The Olyroos are still in the mix for an Olympic medal, but their task has become tougher after they conceded a late goal to lose 1-0 against Spain on Sunday night at the Sapporo Dome. Graham Arnold’s men had defended bravely all night and looked to be on course for the point that would have put them in pole position for a place in the last eight until Spain captain Mikel Oyarzabal struck with a header ten minutes from time. The result means that Spain now top the group with four points, while Australia are second on goal difference with three, just ahead of Argentina (who beat Egypt 1-0 earlier in the evening), also with three.
Egypt has one point and will need to beat the Olyroos in their final game to stand any chance of going through. Australia needs at least a draw to give itself a chance. Spain had plenty of possession early but they couldn’t break down resilient and desperate Australian rear-guard in which centre-back Harry Souttar and right-back Nathaniel Atkinson worked tirelessly. The Olyroos maintained concentration as Spain piled on the pressure until Oyarzabal broke their hearts with his late goal.
Spain had their chances, first 20 minutes teenager Pedri, who played for the senior team in the most recent Euros, had a shot from the edge of the area saved by Tom Glover. A minute later Oyarzabal saw his shot from the left side of the penalty area beat Glover only to crash to safety off the underside of the bar. The Olyroos lia stayed compact and looked to hit Spain sporadically on the break, with Daniel Arzani – who drew several early fouls which led to Oscar Gil receiving a yellow card – their main outlet. But as the first half wore on it became harder for Australia to find space and time to generate any sort of threat as the Spaniards pressed them high up the pitch.
Knowing their Olympics were on the line, Spain stepped up a gear in the second half as they chased the win they desperately needed. The Australians dug in and did what they did through the first half – defended deep and put their bodies on the line. It was one-way traffic after the restart as the Olyroos stood tall under the onslaught and Spain looked to play intricate passing movements to break down Australia’s massed ranks at the back.
Riley McGree, Atkinson and Mitchell Duke both picked up yellow cards, their second in as many games, meaning they will miss the final group stage match against Egypt that will determine Australia’s fate. Spain’s frustrations grew as Glover held Dani Olmo’s 70th-minute shot and kept out another from Pedri. But the Melbourne City goalkeeper could do little to prevent Oyarzabal’s header, which broke the group wide open.
Australia: GK Tom GLOVER, 2 Nathaniel ATKINSON, 5 Harry SOUTTAR, 8 Riley MCGREE (6 Keanu BACCUS 73’), 10 Denis GENREAU, 11 Daniel ARZANI (19 Marco TILIO 63’), 12 Mitchell DUKE, 14 Thomas DENG (9 Nicholas D’AGOSTINO 83’), 16 Joel KING, 17 Connor METCALFE, 20 Lachlan WALES (3 Kye ROWLES 63’) – Subs not used: RGK Ashley MAYNARD-BREWER, 13 Dylan PIERIAS, 15 Caleb WATTS
Spain: GK Unai SIMON, 3 Marc CUCURELLA, 4 Pau TORRES, 6 Martin ZAUBIMENDI, 11 Mikel OYARZABAL, 12 Eric GARCIA, 14 Carlos SOLER (7 Marco ASENSIO 68?'), 16 PEDRI, 17 Javier PUADO (21 Bryan GIL 57’)?, 18 Oscar GIL (9 Rafa MIR 76?'), 19 Dani OLMO – Subs not used: 5 Jesus VALLEJO, 13 Alvaro FERNANDEZ, 15 Jon MONCAYOLA, 20 Juan MIRANDA - Referee: Bamlak Tessema Weyesa
24.7.2021
ALL-SQUARE AT DORRIEN GARDENS
Our ‘Match of the Round’ has seen Perth SC and Cockburn City fight out an entertaining 0-0 draw at Dorrien Gardens. The hosts missed the chance to jump to the top of the NPLWA table, but Cockburn had the best chances in a tight tussle. “The boys were confident going into the game and were focused on maintaining our momentum, and it was a great team effort. Our aggressive setup allowed us be on the front foot and permitted us to have large chunks of possession in the front third,” Cockburn assistant coach Dale Wingell explained.
“Our Back four and young keeper Ben Radonich were solid throughout, the boys were fully aware of Perth’s attacking threats and seemed to be able to nullify their potency. Our midfield was superb, AIi Gholami put on a classy performance, he controlled the tempo and bossed the middle of the park, while his support network of Jesse and Robbo continued to drive us forward with great quality and intensity. All three were relentless in their work ethic. Our front three were able to operate in a lot of space and created headaches for the Perth defence all day. While we created chances to win the game, I think in the end it was a good point for both clubs. Myself and Scotty knew what to expect today and we talked to the boys about ticking off some internal goals in our order to have a positive outcome and I think we did that today.
It was the visitors who opened the brighter and Ryan Pratt’s header flashed wide of the far post early, before Jesse Lazzaro’s shot from the edge of the box flew over the top. Perth started to get into game and Kristian Santich saw his effort fly over the top before Jayden Gorman’s cross flicked off the head of Euen Grant and Michhael Domfeh poked his effort wide. Cockburn thought they had the lead on 32 minutes when Lazzaro’s shot was parried by Montgomery and Anthony Skorich fired home the rebound home, but his celebrations were cut short with the flag up for offside. Both sides had late chances first Montgomery got down well to deny Brecken Baker, before Alex Silla’s shot was well saved by Radonich.
Perth were on the front foot after the break and Calvin Whitney’s long-range shot was saved by Radonich. But Cockburn continued to create chances of their own and Daniel Robinson’s curling effort whistled wide. But on 51 minutes Cockburn had the best chance of the game. Lazzaro made space down the right and his cross picked out the unmarked Pratt, but with the goal at his mercy he fired over the top. Montgomery then saved well to thwart Lazzaro after good work down the left by Pratt. It was the home side who finished the game better and Lachlan Byrd headed just wide, but they had to settle for a point.
“It was a disappointing result for us as it was our chance to take top spot on the table,” Perth’s Jayden Gorman said. “It just shows that we need to take these chances and stay focused for the rest of the season. So on to next week, as look for three more points.” Wingell saying it was a great day to honour players from each club. “It’s just a pity we couldn’t win back the ‘Peter Cup’ for the Mirco family, the club and supporters, maybe next year,” he said. “All in all, it was a good day and a great turn out to honour two important individuals associated with both clubs. Next week we turn our attention to another tough opponent in the shape of Floreat, so we will get back on the training track and will prepare accordingly”
In the games earlier in the day, Perth SC 18s kept their top four hopes alive after a 3-0 against Cockburn, with goals from Joseph Roscoe early, before late goals from Jake Cunan and John Vince Cueva secured the win. Perth 20s kept their title hopes alive with a 5-0 win against Cockburn with goals from Sam Flores, Yacoub Mustafa 2, Daniel Zivkovic and Christian Vest, leaving them four points off top spot.
Perth SC: GK Ryan MONTGOMERY, 2 Alex SILLA, 4 Lachlan BYRD, 6 Nik MCDONALD, 10 Michael DOMFEH, 13 Calvin WHITNEY, 15 Will GORDON, 16 Kieran COLWELL, 19 Ben RADINOVIC, 21 Jayden GORMAN, 22 Kristian SANTICH – Subs not used: RGK Adrian SINAGRA, 8 David ZIVKOVIC, 12 Sam FLORES, 17 Aiden FORMSTON, 18 Federico ACHILLI
Cockburn City: GK Luke RADONICH, 3 Daniel DOLS, 4 Euen GRANT, 7 Ryan PRATT, 9 Anthony SKORICH, 12 Sebastian DA SILVA, 16 Ali GHOLAMI, 17 Fanuel DAWIT, 21 Jesse LAZZARO, 22 Daniel ROBINSON, 25 Breckan BAKER – Subs not used: RGK Ben RADONICH, 2 Callan BAKER, 14 David Dos SANTOS, 18 Adam ANFUSO, 19 Sam COOK – Referee: Tom GLAVOVIC
24.7.2021
GULLS TOO STRONG FOR INGLEWOOD
Sorrento produced a stunning first half performance against the inform Inglewood United at Percy Doyle Reserve, and raced to a 4-0 lead after only 33 minutes, eventually winning the game 4-1 to move to third on the NPLWA table. Coming off a big win in the Northern Derby last time out at Joondalup, the Gulls started where they left off and Jordan Brown gave them the lead early, before Chris Jackson bagged a hat-trick in 29 minutes, to put Jamie Harnwell’s side in control. Inglewood did pull one back late in the second half through second half substitute Roberto Soares, but it was too little too late. “Absolutely delighted with the performance on Saturday, we spoke about the need to start well and the players delivered,” Sorrento coach Jamie Harnwell said. “While Chris will rightly get credit for the hat trick, the display from all players was top class.”
Jamie Harnwell's side made the best possible start to the game and were ahead on four minutes, Jordan Roberts deep corner found Brown, who arrived late unchallenged to head in his fourth goal this season. But then Jackson took control of the game against his former club. First on nine minutes he won possession in the middle of the park and fed the overlapping Ollie Annis, who cross found Roberts, but his shot was well saved by Josiah Godfrey, but Jackson scrambled the rebounded over the line.
It was 3-0 on 28 minutes, Jackson stooping to head home Scott Witschge’s cross from the right. The visitors were shell-shocked and it got worse five minutes later when Jackson completed his hat-trick. A long ball was flicked on by Witschge, and Jackson raced in to the box and finished low past Godfrey. The visitors tightened up at the break, but second half substitute Alex Morgan rattled the crossbar as they went in search of a fifth. Inglewood did find a consolation goal in stoppage time, with substitute Roberto Soares scoring. The Gulls consolidate third spot on the table, while Inglewood drop to sixth.
“This win was massive for us, if we lost the game, it would send us out the top four and left Inglewood with a game in hand still, so collecting all three points at the weekend was needed to put distance between us and 4th position, while keeping the gap close as possible to the top two spots above,” Jackson said. “Getting two goals in quick succession early doors in the game set us up nicely to do so. Then going in at half time 4-0 up was the icing on the cake.
“Just had to managed the game correctly for the last 45 minutes to make sure all three points were ours. It’s been a slow start for me personally, as I have been out injured for a while, so I was glad to finally get amongst the scorers again and score my first goal of the season. But to end up with three was excellent. Hopefully I can kick on now and keep it up, but more importantly we keep picking up three points and challenge for that top four spot.”
In the earlier games at the venue, Inglewood United 18s, who sit top of the table, were held to a 2-2 draw by Sorrento. They raced to a two-goal lead with Arad Ghalandarmahalleh and Gordon Perkins on target, but Phoenix Lee pulled one back before the break, and Zechariah Dabbs levelled five minutes from the final whistle. Sorrento 20s kept their top four hopes alive after a 5-0 win against Inglewood, with goals from Ethan Banks 2, Jamie Swann and Joe Tweats.
Sorrento: GK Connor CAMPBELL, 2 David STOKOE, 6 Chris JACKSON (7 Alex MORGAN 61’), 8 Scott WITSCHGE (14 Jordan POKLER 70’), 10 Ollie ANNIS, 11 Tim HILL, 15 Tristan STEVENS, 17 Dean CUMMINGS, 18 Jordan BROWN (3 Daniel FAICHNEY 77’), 20 Jordan ROBERTS, 23 Neil GILLIES – Subs not used: RGK Matthew GIUDICATTI, 16 Ryan MCLAUGHLIN
Inglewood United: GK Josiah GODFREY, 2 Alex ISHIDA-LIVINGS, 3 Giovanni SOARES, 4 Scott BLACKMORE, 5 Thiak KUEL (15 Roberto SOARES 56’), 7 Ajak RIAK (6 Andres THEODOSIADES 56’), 8 Jason BARRERA, 9 Robert PETKOV (11 Egide NGENDAKUMANU 77’), 10 Anthony BAFOBUSHA, 12 Roberto Del BORRELLO (13 Brodie LANGAN 77’), 14 Steve SOKOL– Sub not used: RGK Jack LANGLEY - Referee: David BRUCE
24.7.2021
ATHENA HELD AT HOME BY BAYSWATER
Floreat Athena has seen their lead at the top of the table cut to one point after they were head to a 1-1 draw by Bayswater City at E&D Litis Stadium. It looked like the hosts would end their winless streak after Sean McManus gave them the lead early, but Bayswater, who have slipped down the table in recent weeks, earned a valuable point, with substitute Luke Salmon equalising eight minutes from time.
“It was a good point considering the early goal we conceded, and I thought we played some good stuff second half and once we got the equaliser, we could’ve pushed on for all three points,” Bayswater midfielder Gordon Smith said. “We can now take this point into a tough game against Inglewood and hopefully have a few players back from injury to help push on for our last six games and put a good run together.”
The hosts were on a high after beating ECU Joondalup 1-0 last week to win the State League Cup Final, and they made the perfect start and were ahead on seven minutes. Jesse Fuller’s header forward found Nick Ambrogio, who slipped in McManus, who finished well and celebrated in style with a back flip. Both sides had half chances, but it was Floreat who went close to a second on the half hour, Robert Harding racing clear, but Jack Allen got back with a superb last-ditch tackle.
Both sides struggled to create any clear-cut chances as the game struggled to find some quality in the final third, but on 82 minutes Bayswater found the equaliser. Second half substitute Gordon Smith chested the ball down to Zayd Farah, who sent Fraser Dunlop racing away, he squared the ball to Salmon, who shot was saved by Jason Saldaris, but the rebound looped up and Salmon was quickest to react to head home. Floreat lifted and Ambrogio’s header smacked the crossbar late, but both sides had to settle for a point a piece. “I thought the game saw both teams cancelling each other out,” goalscorer Salmon explained. “I thought in the second half we came out strong and deservedly got the draw.’
Bayswater City 18s kept the pressure on the top two after a 4-1 win against Floreat Athena, with goals from O. Boric (pen), William Gallagher, Ayok Ayok and Jethro Hass, while Shay Natalotto scored for the hosts. Bayswater 20s lost ground on leaders Perth Glory after losing 1-0 at Floreat, with Laat Mathiang scoring. Both sides finished with ten men after Floreat’s Marvin Abdipanah and Bayswater’s Igor Cvijanovic were sent off late.
Floreat Athena: GK Jason SALDARIS, 2 Marco SANTALUCIA, 4 Ben STEELE, 6 Jesse FULLER, 8 Sean MCMANUS, 9 Robert HARDING 10 Nick AMBROGIO, 12 Wesley CASIMIR (20 Andrew PALMER 66’), 15 Chris SALDARIS, 16 Kyle MURRAY (21 Ethan MOM 78’), 18 Phil ARNOLD - Subs not used: RGK Joshua HUNTER, 12 Filip MINIC, 19 Dimitrij BLAZESKI
Bayswater City: GK Nic SPECA, 3 Jack ALLEN, 4 Michael ZIMARINO (21 Leonard GAMA 86’), 5 Albert FULLARD, 7 Ndumba MAKECHE (22 Luke SALMON 75’), 12 Steven HESKETH, 13 Jordan ABRAHAMS, 18 Fraser DUNLOP 23 Daniel KATZ, 26 Zayd FARAH, 29 Tyler GARNER (8 Gordon SMITH 58’) – Subs not used: RGK Liam DRISCOLL, 2 Lucas COOK - Referee: Michal JASINSKI
24.7.2021
ECU BACK IN WINNERS CIRCLE
ECU Joondalup returned the winning ways in the NPLWA after a 5-1 win against Rockingham City at SafeRad Stadium on Saturday afternoon. They had to come from behind, after Feisal Zaw opened the scoring for the hosts early, but Riley Woodcock levelled just before half time. The Jacks dominated the second half, and goals from Jakub Prajza, his first for the club, Andy Higgins, Daryl Nicol and a late Danny Hodgson penalty sealed the comprehensive victory.
Defender Jakub Prajza was over the moon with the win, and his first goal for the club. “It was a good performance, especially the second half, we were a bit sloppy in the first, but we got the job done,” he said. “We conceded early, but we dominated for the rest of the game, and that’s how we play every game, today we scored five goals which is good. “Finally, I scored a goal, I said before the season I’m going to score three goals, but today is my first and I’m happy with that.”
The hosts had won back-to-back games under their new coach Lee Taylor, and they made the best possible start, opening the scoring after only four minutes. A ball into the box found Zaw, and the Rockingham skipper beat Johnny Perkins to the ball to head home. They went close to a second six minutes later, Dylan Rogers’ cross from the left found Zaw at the back post, but his header was saved on the line by Perkins.
The Jacks settled and started to get a foot hold in the game, and they went close on the half hour, Chris Harold found Hodgson, who turned his marker in the penalty area, his shot beat Cyril Sharrock but crashed off the post and rebounded back into the grateful arms of the Rockingham custodian. But five minutes before the break the Jacks found the equaliser. Some neat build up play ended with Woodcock, who found the bottom corner of the net from the edge of the penalty area.
ECU hit the front eight minutes into the second half, Nicol sent substitute Nelson Tshongo down the left, and the defender pulled the ball back from the bye line across the penalty area and Prajza finished clinically at the back post, his first goal since joining the club from Sorrento. Then five minutes later it was 3-1, Woodcock won possession in the middle of the park and sent Hodgson down the left, he crossed to Higgins, whose first time shot flew past Sharrock.
It was one-way traffic as the visitors looked for more, and Declan Hughes’ bullet header looked destined for the top corner of the net, but Sharrock produced a great save to deny the midfielder. Rockingham went close to a second eight minutes from time, but Harry Bolan’s header at the back post failed to hit the target. But moments later it was ECU who added to their tally.
Tshongo slipped second half substitute Jason Petrie down the left, he cut inside the box and found Nicol, whose shot on the turn found the bottom corner. Then in stoppage time they added a fifth, Tshongo was brought down by Rockingham defender Nathan Banks, and referee Adrien Liechti pointed straight to the spot. Hodgson stepped up to convert, for his eleventh goal of the season to seal a comprehensive win.
ECU Joondalup and Rockingham 18s fought out a 1-1 draw in the earlier game. Robert Duckmanton had given the hosts the lead in the first half, but six minutes from time second half substitute Hanani Ndebele gave the Jacks a point. The 20s game also ended 1-1, Ben Rutter gave the Jacks the lead, but Mustafa Mkanza levelled midway through the second half for the hosts.
Rockingham City: GK Cyril SHARROCK, 4 Dieudonne SUMAIL 6 Harry BOLAN, 7 Feisal ZAW, 8 Hamish VAN DIEKEN, 9 Christos VAENAS (12 Fraser MARR 61), 13 Nathan NG, 19 Noah WITTSTROM LEA, 20 Dylan ROGERS (34 Nathan BANKS 82’), 21 Joseph MOSS, 28 Harvey HANCOCK (14 Ryan KENNEDY 72’) - Subs not used: RGK Bradley STOUT, 18 Axel RICHARDSON
ECU Joondalup: GK Johnny PERKINS, 4 Declan HUGHES, 6 Riley WOODCOCK (7 Jason PETRIE 89’), 8 Tom HOUGH (5 Danny DOUGLAS 89’), 9 Daryl NICOL, 10 Andy HIGGINS (15 Oscar MALFIORE 85’), 11 Chris HAROLD (3 Nelson TSHONGO 36’), 12 Jakub PRAJZA, 17 Danny HODGSON, 18 Luke PALMATEER – Subs not used: RGK Joe POLLARD – Referee: Adrien LIECHTI
24.7.2021
GLORY UP TO FOURTH AFTER BIG WIN AGAINST GWELUP
Perth Glory have continued their good form to move to fourth on the NPLWA table after a 5-0 win against Gwelup Croatia at Crazy Domains Stadium, at Hartfield Park. Ruben Zadkovich’s side were three goals up after only 23 minutes, with skipper Giordano Colli scoring from the spot early, with Aiden Edwards and Jack Painter-Andrews adding the others. They sealed the comprehensive win after the break with Joshua Anasmo and Adam Zimarino adding the other, while Gwelup finished with ten men after Ben Ratajczak was sent off with 20 minutes remaining.
“I thought we started the game very sloppy after a heavier week on the training pitch, but after the first goal, we settled into the contest, and took control of the match,” Glory coach Ruben Zadkovich explained. “The boys were very professional in their approach and their mentality, and at times we played through Gwelup’s press with real quality. A positive result - but it’s important we stay focused on the process of improving, so we can keep building as a team.”
The hosts were ahead on 12 minutes, when Ciaran Bramwell who caught by Gustavo Giron-Marulanda and referee Arvin Shanmuganathan pointed straight to the spot, and Colli sent Ratajczak the wrong way from the spot. They doubled their lead five minutes later, a quick counter attack saw Zimarino send Edwards racing clear, Ratajczak got a hand to his shot, but the momentum of the ball took into the net despite the keepers’ desperate attempt to punch clear.
Things got worse for Trevor Morgan’s as Glory added a third five minutes later. Colli’s free kick was missed by all the Gwelup defenders, but the unmarked Painter-Andrews nipped in at the back post to head home. Gwelup went close early in the second half but Cameron Cook produced a smart save to deny Oli la Galia, but there was no respite for Gwelup as Glory pressed for more and they added a fourth just after the hour-mark, the lively Anasmo picked Blair Govan's pocket, rounded the 'keeper and found the net before celebrating with the Glory Shed supporters behind the goal.
It went from bad to worse for Gwelup, and on 70 minutes keeper Ratajczak saw red after handling outside the area, and Jon Stynes was sacrificed with reserve keeper Chris Cooper coming on between the sticks. But he was beaten immediately as from the free kick for the sending off, Zimarino curled home to seal a comprehensive win for Zadkovich’s side and keep their top four hopes, well and truly in their own hands.
Perth Glory 18’s maintained second place on the table after goals from Louis Hadfield, skipper Sebastian Despotovski and Daniel Adesina gave them a 3-0 win against Gwelup Croatia, while Glory 20s maintained their lead at the top of the table after a 4-0 win against Gwelup, with goals from Joseph Hobson 2, Toby Snook and an own goal from Nathan Webster.
Perth Glory: GK Cameron COOK, 3 Jacob MUIR, 4 Will FORMSTON, 5 Joseph FORDE, 7 Charlie LEECH (6 Chris DONNELL 70’), 8 Aidan EDWARDS (16 Andrew MARANTA 63’), 9 Ciaran BRAMWELL, 10 Giordano COLLI, 11 Adam ZIMARINO (15 Christian BELLADONNA 76’), 17 Joshua ANASMO (12 Daniel BENNIE 70’), 22 Jack PAINTER-ANDREWS – Subs not used: RGK Sam REILLY
Gwelup Croatia: GK Ben RATAJCZAK, 2 Ciaran SALINGER, 4 Tom SOUTHGATE, 5 Blair GOVAN, 7 Brent GRIFFITHS (3 Adam FIELDS 46’), 8 Jon STYNES (RGK Chris COOPER 70’), 11 Ethan BROOKS (34 Freeman NYATSAMBO 79’), 12 Hasani SINCLAIR (24 Raphael GOMBA 79’), 14 Shubham MOKALA, 18 Gustavo GIRON MARULANDA (45 Sebastian HOOSHANGIAN 79’), 29 Oli LA GALIA - Subs not used: Nil – Red Cards: Ratajczak 70’) - Referee: Arvin SHANMUGANATHAN
24.7.2021
ARMADALE WIN IT LATE AT BALCATTA
Armadale have bounced back from their heavy defeat against Rockingham City last week with a narrow 2-1 win against Balcatta at Grindleford Reserve. All the action came late in this one, first Adriano Jelenovic gave the visitors the lead ten minutes from time, before Balcatta’s David Cyrus was sent off. Armadale doubled their lead when Hristijan Jankuloski scored into his own net. Balcatta scored a late consolation goal with Armadale defender Isaac Koomson turning the ball into his own net, but John O’Reilly’s side held firm to take the points.
“It was a tough game for both teams, but we needed to shake off last week's loss and Balcatta trying to get out of relegation battle,” O’Reilly said. “The game played out pretty even so it was going to take a special moment to turn the tide. Adriano scored his first goal since returning to the club and what a great goal it was, surely a contender for goal of the week.”
Armadale were out of the blocks early after their last up heavy defeat against Rockingham and the had two good chances early. Chad Nilson saw his close-range effort superbly saved by Lewis Italiano, before Angel Andres shot flash wide after good work from Friday Zico. But on 20 minutes Balcatta went even closer, they won a free kick on the right and skipper Calum O’Connell’s free kick crashed off the crossbar and Nick Walsh’s follow up shot was blocked m the line by Yousri Gharsallah and cleared. Andres was denied late in the half by another good Italiano save, but at the break it was still all t o play for.
The hosts, who were looking to end a five-game run without a win, went close early in the second half, Amir Ajan’s free kick dipping inches over the top, before Ajan’s shot on the run on 78 minutes was superbly saved by Gharsallah. That save became more important, as two minutes later Armadale opened the scoring. Good lead up play from Callum Mellowship, saw him pick out Jelenovic, whose first-time volley flew into the top corner of the net giving Italiano no chance.
The home sides task was made even harder eight minutes later when David Cyrus was shown a second yellow card by referee Joshua Nixon, and Armadale made them pay almost instantly. Substitute Vladimir Naumovski’s cross into the box was turned into his own net by the unfortunate Jankuloski. Balcatta did find a consolation goal in stoppage time with Henry Durr’s ball into the penalty area was headed into his own net by Koomson, but it was too little too late and it was Armadale walking away with all three points. - Great win for us after a very, very poor result against Rockingham,” Armadale skipper Brian Patterson said. “It was great to bounce back right away and great for Adriano to get his first goal for us, and we’re now looking forward to this week’s Friday night game against Glory.”
Balcatta won the 18s clash against Armadale 2-1 earlier in the day. The hosts had Levi Naumovski sent off in the first half, but the ten men won it with Luke Hewings bagging a brace, before Jess Grese pulled one back late, while Armadale 20s have won for only the second time this season after M Mwingira goal gave them a 1-0 win
Balcatta: GK Lewis ITALIANO, 3 David CYRUS, 4 Calum O'CONNELL, 5 Hristijan JANKULOSKI, 6 Carmelo GIUFFRE, 7 Amir AJAN, 10 Jon CORNESS, 13 Anthony TOPINI (21 Matthew ALESSANDRINO 86’), 15 Nick WALSH, 16 Adam FALCONE (9 Hamza HINA 72’), 17 Henry DURR - Subs not used: RGK Sebastian MEDICA, 11 Joe MARINO, 14 Nicholas MESSINA, – Red Card: Cyrus 89’
Armadale: GK Yousri GHARSALLAH, 3 Andy REALE, 8 Brian PATTERSON, 9 Angel ANDRES, 10 Isaac KOOMSON, 11 Chad NILSON, 12 Callum MELLOWSHIP, 13 Filippo GIOFFRE (14 Blake ADAMS 60’), 16 Adriano JELENOVIC, 18 Kevin ASHWOOD, 23 Friday ZICO (19 Vladimir NAUMOVSKI 84’) – Subs not used: RGK Michael CRAGGS, 6 Joel SANDERSON, 7 Ali SINA DAULATSHAHE – Referee: Joshua NIXON
24.7.2021
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE ROUND FIFTEEN – REVIEW
It was another entertain weekend of football in the State League Division and in our week 15 ‘Match of the Round’ Fremantle City and Forrestfield United have fought out a 1-1 draw at Hilton Reserve. “I thought we started very brightly having lots of good possession, Forrestfield struggling to get any sort of rhythm of their own, and who looked to sit deep and catch us on the counter attack,” Fremantle skipper Matt Sparrow explained. “We were dealt a blow on the stroke of half time, and we needed a reaction and we got it instantly after the break as we drew level. From then on, I thought we dominated proceedings, and looked the most likely team to score but we couldn’t break down a stubborn Forrie outfit. Both teams had chances to win the game but overall a share of the spoils was probably a fair reflection of the game.”
The visitors were ahead in the shadows of half time, Moses Macauley raced down the left and found Tarek Atta, who made no mistake. But in the opening minute of the second half Fremantle found the equaliser, a long ball was flicked on by Hayden Doyle, and Adam Carlino finished clinically. Both sides had chances to win it but had to settle for a point. “Tough game that had action from the beginning to the end of the game with a few opportunities at both ends, and it was reassuring taking the lead before the break,” goalscorer Atta said. “Though a lapse of concentration in the team cost a goal early in the second half, but we had great opportunities to win the match late in the game, but didn’t take them.”
Stirling Macedonia maintained their lead at the top of the table after a 4-0 win against Ashfield at Acclaimed Catering Arena Stadium, at Ashfield Reserve. “A great result for us and it maintains our lead at the top,” Stirling keeper James Bosdet said. “It was a scrappy game and not the best performance due to the pitch, but a good win and big three points.” The league leaders were ahead on 12 minutes, Brent Quick’s corner was headed into the corner of the net by Greg Pellow.
Ian Ferguson’s side had to wait till midway through the second half to doubled their advantage, Dhuors Chol, who had only been on the pitch for two minutes, firing home from the edge of the box after Ashfield failed to clear a cross. It was 3-0 seven minutes later when second half substitute Gavin Knight was brought down by Jordan Bell and referee Steven Gregory pointed to the spot. Knight picked himself up to fire home the penalty, for his 15th goal of the season. Stirling added a fourth moments later to wrap up the points, another substitute, Shay Donovan tapping in from close-range.
Western Knights lost ground on the leaders after being held to a 2-2 draw by Swan United at Nash Field. I think collectively as a team we are really disappointed with the result,” Knights coach Ivan Zuvela said. “I thought we played some good football and created a number of chances but just couldn’t convert our chances. Then credit to Swan who capitalised on two defensive mistakes of ours to score. But we never give up and we were rewarded with two goals to come away with the draw.” The Swans were ahead on 26 minutes, skipper Alex Young won possession on the right of the penalty area, slipped in John Monterosso who laid the ball to Boas Mtwale who finished clinically.
The visitors doubled their lead three minutes before half time, a long throw from Oluwasijibomi Adeniyi was flicked on and Monterosso fired home at the back post. It looked like Swan would leave with all three points but the host found a lifeline five minutes from time, Ciaran Byrne squaring to John Chalmers, whose long-range shot flew into the net. The Knights pressed for the equaliser, and they found it deep into stoppage time. Chalmers free kick into the box was dealt with and Dean Hurley was brought down by Trevor Laure and referee Sailota Phiri pointed to the spot. Ciaran Byrne stepped up and sent Nick stone the wrong way to seal the comeback.
“We dealt with a great deal of pressure from Knights in the first half. Despite this we were able to score two good goals and lead 2-0 at the break. They are a good team and we knew Knights would throw everything at us in the second half and we had to be prepared to defend for large periods, unfortunately we were unable to hold on for the three points,” a disappointed Swan Coach Dan Evans said. “I’m gutted for the boys to concede so late especially as replays will show that their last goal shouldn’t have been a penalty. It’s a game and people make mistakes but I think we deserved better from our match officials on this occasion. Despite this, we have gained a valuable point away from home against a very good team and we will take some momentum with us into the Ashfield game.”
Joondalup United maintained fourth spot on the table after a 3-1 win against Mandurah City at Securitas Protect Stadium. “Massive result for us at probably the hardest place in the league to get a win,” Joondalup coach Nick Jennings said. “The boys executed our game plan to perfection, but also showed great character and determination to go alongside the quality, and the icing on the cake was the hattrick for the Burnley Messi Tony Taylor.” The visitors were ahead early, Taylor finding the top corner with a curling effort from the left. Taylor added his and Joondalup’s second, six minutes into the second half. Joel Sollitt raced into the penalty area and the ball hit the arm of Mandurah defender James Paylor, and referee Troy Malatesta pointed straight to the spot, Taylor made no mistake with the resulting penalty.
It was 3-0 on 72 minutes, a long clearance from keeper Joe Smith sent Sollitt racing clear, and he was brought down by Mandurah keeper Dylan Wilson, who was lucky to stay on the field. But it mattered not as Taylor sent him the wrong way to seal the points and complete his hat-trick. Joondalup then had Ayden Dragun sent off after receiving a second yellow card, and Mandurah scored a consolation goal in stoppage time. Jake Shaked’s shot hit the arm of Matthew Cherrie and the referee awarded another penalty, which John Baird converted.
Quinns had to come from behind, but kept up with the leaders after a 3-1 win against UWA Nedlands at Gumblossom Park. It was a poor start for Glenn Grostate’s side a long ball was misjudged by keeper Aidan Holloway and the ball fell to Ivwananji Simbile who rolled the ball into an empty net. The visitors lead by that goal at the break, but three minutes after the break the hosts levelled. A long ball over the top sent striker Ben Hinshelwood racing clear and he finished clinically past Peter Pilkadaris. Hinshelwood then gave Quinns the lead on 55 minutes, Liam Hudson crossing to the former ECU Joondalup striker who finished with a spectacular volley. UWA pressed for the equaliser late, but it was Quinns who found a third in stoppage time.
Again, it was Hudson the supplier, his speedy run down the right ended with a cross to Hinshelwood, who sealed the win and completed his hat-trick at the second attempt. “It was a very important win for us as it will help to solidify our spot in the top four, after not our best first half,” Hinshelwood said. “But credit to the lads they all went out and put a shift in the second and with my three goals it gave us the win on the day against a well organised UWA side. The next three games will be very crucial for us to pick up the maximum points so we can stay in the top four come end of the competition, all the boys are doing well at taking every game as it comes and we’re looking forward to our midweek game against Kingsway.”
In the final game Subiaco have beaten Olympic Kingsway 1-0 at Kingsway Reserve. The only goal of the game came 15 minutes from time when Nathan Smith raced into the left-hand side of the penalty area and he crossed to the unmarked Mella Loding, who forced the ball home via the post. “We’re really happy with the win and the clean sheet. Every game is tough in this league, and Kingsway was no different,” Subiaco skipper Ben Johns said. “We created lots of good chances and could have had a couple more on another day. We’ve put ourselves right up there at this stage of the season and we’ll look to continue and build and keep getting points.”
24.7.2021
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO ROUND FIFTEEN – REVIEW
Our State League Division Two week 15 ‘Match of the Round’ was a tight affair, with the hosts Curtin University beating Carramar Shamrock Rovers 1-0 at Edinburgh Oval. The only goal of the game came one minute from half time, a throw found Antony Russo, who switched to Ryan Creighan just outside of box, and his great chip beat found the top right-hand corner of the net. The win leapfrogging Curtin over their opponents into sixth spot on the table. “It was a really well-rounded performance,” Curtin coach Troy Reid said. “It was also well-deserved after a tough run of results.”
It as you were at the top of the table with Dianella White Eagles moving 14 points clear at the summit after a hard fought 2-1 win against Balga at Dianella Reserve on Saturday evening. The hosts were ahead against the run of play eight minutes before the break, their high presssure made Balga turn the ball over and Nikola Talimdzioski raced forward and smashed it into the top corner of the net from 20 meters. But Balga, who have been on a good run of form, found the equaliser on the hour, Liam Kessel’s through ball sent Bleron Mamudi and he finished well past Dejan Aleksic. But the leaders won it on 73 minutes, Kristian Despotovski’s corner picked out Josh Kuser, who rose highest to head home, much to the delight of another big crowd.
Former Balga midfielder Despotovski said it was a hard-fought win. “The game we knew would be a harder game then the first game as we knew they had a couple of players missing,” he explained. “We came out very poor and sluggish, it was probably our worst performance all season. But when you are playing bad, we still found a way to win which is what wins seasons. We need to pick up our performance for next week, I think the bye on the weekend didn’t do us any favours.”
Gosnells City closed the gap on second placed Kingsley Westside, after a 4-0 win against Morley Windmills at Walter Padbury Reserve. They were ahead on 19 minutes, Eddie Wynne-Willson firing home from close-range. It was 2-0 on the hour after Dylan White was brought down in the box and Scott Pereira scored from the resulting penalty. It was 3-0 eight minutes later, Aaron Coslani getting on the end of another low cross to score. The icing was put on the cake eight minutes from time with a fourth, a defensive error from Morley was pounced on by Wade Farmer who raced into the box and finished clinically. “It was another great run out from the lads at Walter Padbury, not only another win at home but a very important clean sheet,” Gosnells’ defender James Sharp said. “It was a great team effort and we played some great football for most of the match. We now focus on our game against Curtain next week and hope to keep our winning streak alive.”
Kingsley Westside lost ground on the leaders after being held to a 1-1 draw against Joondalup United at the Iluka Sports Complex. Joondalup were ahead on 12 minutes, when a cross from the right was finished by Matthew Blake. Kingsley were level nine minutes later when Lewis Flatt’s cross was headed home by Simone Sichel. Both sides pressed for the winner but couldn’t find one, with both sides sharing the spoils. “It was an even game throughout, tough conditions on their pitch trying to play football,” Kingsley skipper Jayden Drummond said. “But we stuck to our task, there keeper made a couple vital saves in the second half, we were backs against the wall in the last ten minutes but we held strong.”
There was a seven-goal thriller at Wormall Civil Stadium, with Murdoch University Melville holding off a fast-finishing Kelmscott Roos to run out 4-3 winners. The home side raced to a 4-0 lead in the first half hour. Alec Robinson opened the scoring after only five minutes, and Kai Jones doubled their advantage 15 minutes later. Joshua Cortes made it 3-0 moments later, and when Robinson added his second to make it 4-0, it looked game over. But Warren Smith’s side had other ideas and Phillip Park pulled one back three minutes from half time, and Amos Doegolia Junior made it 4-2 eight minutes into the second half.
Kade Mcnamara pulled another one back for the visitors on the hour, and it was game on. The hosts then lost Thomas Speziali, who was shown a red card by referee Frank Laval. Kelmscott looking for the equaliser, but MUM held on to continue their winning run. The final game was on Sunday when a goal from Charlie Breen gave Wanneroo City a 1-0 win against Canning City at Burrendah Reserve. The visitors ended the game with ten men after Josh Booysen was shown a second yellow card by referee Ammar Timour and sent off.
The final game was on Sunday when a penalty from Charlie Breen gave Wanneroo City a 1-0 win against Canning City at Burrendah Reserve. The visitors ended the game with ten men after Josh Booysen was shown a second yellow card by referee Ammar Timour and sent off. “We deserved the three points and I’m happy for the boys to get all three,” Wanneroo coach Jesse Bridgeman said. “It was a real battle out there after failing to take advantage with the wind in the first half and hitting the post twice in the and the keeper making a few great saves. The second half was always going to be a battle going into such a strong wind and going down to 10 men with 25 minutes still to go, but the guys out there dug deep and defended really well so very pleased with the effort shows.”
24.7.2021
MATILDAS LOSE A SIX-GOAL THRILLER
The Matildas have dropped crucial points in the second match of their Olympics campaign, going down 4-2 to Sweden in a see-sawing contest at the Saitama Stadium. Both sides traded the lead late deep into the second half despite the Aussies having to defend deep to keep Sweden at bay. Fridolina Rolfo had given the Swedes the lead but Sam Kerr scored twice either side of half time to wrestle the lead back. Lina Hurtig levelled for Sweden, before Rolfo added a third.
Kerr then missed from the spot, before Sweden sealed victory with Stina Blackstenius adding a fourth. The loss means Australia will need to pick up points against the USA in their next match, setting up a blockbuster encounter to decide who will progress out of Group G. "I thought it was a really good save, probably not the best penalty. I apologised to the girls but that's football," Kerr said at full-time. "We missed one, myself. So yeah, at the end of the day we lost which is disappointing."
After an improved performance against New Zealand on Wednesday, Gustavsson changed things up, moving defender Steph Catley on to the wing with Aivi Luik dropping from midfield to defence. The change didn’t seem to work with Sweden capitalised on the vacant space and indecision between the pair, and they hit the front on 20 minutes. A counter-attack saw Sofia Jakobsson cross to Rolfo, who finished clinically to put Sweden into the lead.
Australia was struggling in the final third, however, a moment of brilliance from Kerr clawed Australia back into the contest. The former Perth Glory striker header on 33 minutes had just enough power to beat the palm of Hedvig Lindahl to level things up. Minutes later, she was brought down in the box, the referee waved away Kerr’s claim for a penalty.
Whatever the Matildas coach said at half-time sparked an immediate response, and they were soon ahead in the contest. A deep cross to the far post from Caitlin Foord found Kerr, who nodded the ball into an empty net to make it 2-1. However, Sweden restored parity on 52 minutes, Jakobsson eased past Luik and squared the ball to striker Hurtig, who made no mistake from close range. Just after the hour, it got even worse for Australia, Rolfo let fly with a powerful shot from distance that flew past the fingertips of goalkeeper Teagan Micah and into the corner of the net to restore Sweden's lead.
The Matildas’ continued to fight and on 67 minutes they were thrown a lifeline, when Foord was brought down inside the box, and referee Edina Alves Batista pointed to the spot after the intervention of the VAR, but Kerr she was denied by the feet of Lindahl. But with eight minutes to go, the result was secured for Sweden, a glancing header by Blackstenius made it 4-2, and game over.
Sweden: GK Hedvig LINDAHI, 2 Jonna ANDERSSON, 4 Hanna GLAS (14 Nathalie BJORN 46’), 6 Magdalena ERIKSSON, 8 Lina HURTIG (11 Stina BLACKSTENIUS 59’), 9 Kosovare ASLLANI, 10 Sofia JAKOBSSON (5 Hanna BENNISON 79’), 13 Amanda ILESTEDT, 16 Filippa ANGELDAL (15 Olivia SCHOUGH 79’), 17 Caroline SEGER, 18 Fridolina ROLFO (7 Madelen JANOGY 87’) – Subs not used: 3 Emma KULLBERG, 12 Jennifer FALK
Australia: GK Teagan MICAH, 2 Sam KERR, 4 Clare POLKINGHORNE, 5 Aivi LUIK (14 Alanna KENNEDY 64’), 7 Stephanie CATLEY, 9 Caitlin FOORD 10 Emily VAN EGMOND, 12 Ellie CARPENTER, 13 Tameka YALLOP (3 Kyra COONEY-CROSS 64’), 16 Hayley RASO (11 Mary FOWLER 80’), 17 Kyah SIMON (15 Emily GIELNIK 87’) - Subs not used: RGK Lydia WILLIAMS, 6 Chloe LOGARZO, 21 Laura BROCK - Referee: Edina Alves Batista
23.7.2021
NPL-WA ROUND SIXTEEN PREVIEW
After last week’s Cup Final, we’re back into NPLWA action and our Week 16 ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to Dorrien Gardens where second placed Perth SC entertain Cockburn City. (All games kick off at 3.00pm unless otherwise stated) Ramon Falzon’s side closed the gap on league leaders Floreat Athena to two points after a win against Bayswater City last time out, while Cockburn moved clear of the drop zone after back-to-back wins against Rockingham and Balcatta. Last time they met at the venue was in round three last season, when a goal from defender Breckan Baker saw the Cockerels leave with all three points.
The win against Balcatta was huge for City and assistant coach Dale Wingell said it was well-deserved. “Facing a Balcatta side midweek on a cold and rainy night is always going to be a test, but we had picked up four points in the last two games and our performances have been great, so we were keen to maintain the momentum,” he explained. “Having some key players out and losing our captain in the warm up added some unwanted distractions prior to game, so it was a real challenge and test of our mentality.
“The squad that was available all played their part and while never easy we felt comfortable and in control for the most part. Our players played with quality when the opportunity presented, work rate was relentless and we defended like Lions. We controlled the tempo, absorbed the pressure when it came, and simply went out and nailed all the one percenters. It was a decent performance, a clean sheet and a great result. As always, we enjoyed the win, and had a weekend to rest and recuperate, then we prepare for battle with Perth.”
Wingell knows Perth are on a good run of form, but said they beat them last time they played so it gives them confidence heading into the game. “Coming up against Perth is always a welcome proposition, they are always up there at the business end of the season and this year is no different, and Marc and Ramon have them in a good space at the moment, so they will be looking to continue on,” he said. “This season they have encountered some longer-term injuries to key players, but similar to us the players that have come in have stepped up to be counted.
“Scotty and I will have look at them and endeavour to expose some areas to give us the best chance of success. We have had a good rest and our boys are determined on maintaining our momentum. We have had some conclusive results in the last month, but we know we will have to be the best version of ourselves on Saturday. If we tick the boxes of mentality, work ethic and quality we should achieve a positive outcome.”
Perth Head Coach Ramon Falzon has been pleased with his squads’ performances this season, and delighted the way some of the younger players have stepped up for them, and it showed last time out against Bayswater. “Our squad depth has never been tested as hard as this year. We had numerous players sidelined long term, mainly due to injuries,” he said. “Such a monumental challenge has presented opportunities to many of our youngsters, with most of them making their first team debut this year, and I must say that the youngsters did not disappoint.
“It has been great to see that our players have maintained the same momentum that we usually hit in the second round every season. We are very pleased with the performances and the football we're playing so far this season, however there is still a long way to go. The win against Bayswater increased the confidence of the squad because we created a lot of goal scoring opportunities, we were ruthless in front of goal to score goals and we defended very well to limit the damage that Bayswater could have caused during their good spells.”
Falzon said they have had some tight games against Cockburn in the past, and is expecting the same on Saturday. “Cockburn are in good form at the moment and they have turned things around after a tough start to the season, and they look to be on track towards having an excellent end to the season,” he said. “Our encounters against Cockburn are usually great games to watch because of the football quality and the intensity injected by both teams, that is our expectation for this Saturday. Cockburn tend to be dangerous going forward and they are well organised defensively. Therefore, we are expecting a tough clash on Saturday, however we are keen to keep building our momentum as we start approaching the end of this season.”
In other games this weekend Floreat Athena will look to build on their Cup Final win last week, when they host Bayswater City at E&D Litis Stadium. Vas Vujacic’s side are on a three-league game run without a win, that has seen their ten-point lead at the top cut to two. Likewise, Bayswater, who have slipped down the table to tenth after back-to-back defeats, so both sides will be desperate for a win in this one. Balcatta are looking over their shoulders at the bottom of the table, after a poor run of form and sit only two points off the drop zone and they need to turn their form around sooner rather than later, starting when they host Armadale at Grindleford Reserve this weekend. The in-form Perth Glory will look to continue their push up the table when they host Gwelup Croatia at Crazy Domains Stadium at Hartfield Park, while Sorrento and Inglewood United meet at Percy Doyle Reserve.
In the final game Rockingham City will be looking for three straight wins when they welcome ECU Joondalup to SafeRad Stadium. The Jacks dip in form has seen them drop to sixth on table after three games without a win, and are coming off a Cup Final loss last week. On the other hand, City are coming off big wins against Armadale and Gwelup, and keeper Cyril Sharrock said last week was a great result for the club. “Last week was an enjoyable win, and well deserved after all the hard work being put in on and off the field by the Committee, Coaches, Players etc not only the past few weeks but the season to date,” he explained. “The last two wins have been testament to the work put in by all and against Gwelup the players dug extra hard to get the points to keep the pressure on Balcatta and hopefully NPL survival.
“The points where extra pleasing being we were reduced to nine players for a good part of the second half but again the players showed great character to see the game out. Gwelup are a class outfit with quality all over across the pitch, when you look over at the bench and see Gustavo Marulanda and Mitch Oxborrow, we knew we were going to be in for a fight to get the points. The coaches in Lee Taylor, Stu Newman and Bobby Ball had a game plan and players understood that patience would be key, Gwelup having large patches of possession during the game was to be expected but goals from counter attacking football and forwards finishing play was pleasing. I felt that the defence where fantastic at the weekend with all players showing resilience and determination to defend the goals and a special mention has to go to the crowd on Saturday. With a great crowd on show at the ground they really got behind the team with singing, drums etc to create a carnival like atmosphere which really gave the players the lift to get the result.”
Sharrock is expecting a tough game on Saturday, as Joondalup look to turn their season around, but he said they are ready for the fight. “It will be another tough test on the weekend against ECU, again we come up against a well organised side with quality players and good coach in Kenny Lowe,” he said. “Sure, they will want to get back on the track after the disappointing result in the cup final on the weekend so expecting a tough encounter. With us playing on Sunday last week, and having had a big couple of weeks, we’ve had few tired bodies so this week has seen a lighter training load in hope to freshen up the team. The coaching staff and team are full of confidence going into the game and being on home territory again with the Rocky supporters behind us feel we can get a positive result from the game on the weekend.”
23.7.2021
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE ROUND FIFTEEN – PREVIEW
We head into week 15 of the State League Division One and our ‘Match of the Round’ sees Fremantle City hosting Forrestfield United at Hilton Reserve. (All games kick off at 3.00pm unless otherwise stated) Forrestfield were in action last week, beating Swan United in a catch-up game, and it continued their recent good form, while Fremantle were also winners last time out, beating Joondalup United, and with only six points separating the two sides a win is vital in this one. Last time they met was in week 16 last season with Freemantle winning 2-1. Callum stocks gave the hosts the lead early, and Abias Bukuru doubled their lead. United pulled one back late with Vladimir Naumovski scoring, but it was too little too late.
Fremantle skipper Matt Sparrow said the win at Joondalup was tough, but to come home with three points was a massive result for them. “We knew it wouldn’t be an easy game at their place, as they are a direct team and play for set pieces and caused us a few problems but I thought we defended very well as a team,” he explained. “We scored the goal we needed and that gave us something to hang onto which did and came away with three vital points.”
Sparrow said Saturday’s opponents are starting to find some form, and he expecting a similar game to the last time they played away. “They’ve won a couple on the bounce which always breeds confidence and it’s normally a tough encounter against a tricky Forrestfield outfit. I can’t see there being much in the game as it was a tight affair down at their place a while ago which we won 2-1 and put in a good performance,” he said. “But we all know consistency is key in this league and if we’re being honest both teams haven’t managed that all season. It’s a chance to finish the season strongly with eight games left and try to get into the top four so I can see both teams doing what they can to claim the three points, but hopefully we’ve got enough in the locker to do the double over them.”
Forrestfield striker Dan Corbett opened the scoring last week at Swan, taking his tally to four for the season, and he said confidence is high after back-to-back wins. “I think we drew a line in the sand after the Stirling game, and just got back to basics which has served us well over the past few of weeks,” he said. “We have a few players starting to hit some form and some exciting young players coming through. But we are all in this together and the strange thing is team morale is as high as I’ve seen it since being at club.”
Corbett, who played for Newcastle United and Hartlepool United Youth sides in the UK before heading to Australia, said Saturday is massive for both sides so it should be a great game, but its business as usual for the Forrie boys. “It’s a huge game for everyone at the club but we will approach the game like we have the last few games and have a crack and enjoy it,” he explained. “We’ve really just been focusing on enjoying our football and the results have started to take care of themselves, and Saturday will be no different.”
Forrestfield coach Graham Normanton said they should be further up the league, but he knows his side will continue to fight. “We’ve been in every game and should have more points, however we can’t keep saying we ‘should’ve’ we simply ‘have to’. I always knew that we were good enough, so our last two wins will hopefully give us the confidence to kick on now. The wins against Swan and Ashfield were pretty emphatic where we dominated both games from start to finish, and were two confidence building performances,” he explained.
“We go to Fremantle with the expectation that we will give a good account of ourselves and get the three points. Every game carries huge importance for us given our league position. This game and the next three or four could change the outlook of our season. We think we are good enough to be at the pointy end of the league, we have to back that up with results now. There’s no reason why we can’t keep this mini run going.”
In other games this weekend league leaders Stirling Macedonia will look to maintain their ten-point lead when they make the trip to Acclaimed Catering Arena at Ashfield Reserve to take on Ashfield, who held them to a 3-3 draw at Macedonia Park in the reverse fixture. Second placed Western Knights will be hoping the leaders slip up, as they welcome Swan United to Nash Field, fourth placed Joondalup United make the long trip to Securitas Protect Stadium to take on sixth placed Mandurah City, while Olympic Kingsway and Subiaco will look to get back into the winner’s circle when they meet at Kingsway Reserve.
In the final game UWA Nedlands will look to build on their recent good form run when they travel to Gumblossom Park to take on third placed Quinns. The hosts were beaten for the first time in nine game last time at leaders Stirling, while were held at home by Olympic Kingsway. UWA midfielder said Luke Randazzo they are working hard to continue their good form. “It was a good tough game against Kingsway, and both sides had opportunities but were not clinical enough in the final third to take the points,” he said. “Probably a fair result in the end, but that made it five games unbeaten and having not conceded a goal, which is a credit to our backline and goalkeeper.”
Randazzo is having his best season for a number of years, after being injury free, but he knows Saturday’s trip is going to be one of their toughest games of the season. “Quinns at their place is one of the toughest fixtures on the calendar and we are under no illusion of how hard this game will be to take the points,” he said. “But we have a lot of belief within the group, that we can keep winning and playing positive football and start to push our way up the ladder.”
23.7.2021
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO ROUND FIFTEEN – PREVIEW
It’s week 15 of the State League Division Two and our ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to Edinburgh Oval were Curtin University host Carramar Shamrock Rovers. (All games kick off at 3.00pm unless otherwise stated) Rovers were well beaten by league leaders Dianella last time out, while Curtin were edged out by Murdoch in a catch-up game, so both sides will look to back into the winner’s circle in this one. The last time they played at the venue was in week four last season when they fought out a 2-2 draw. Josh Selman gave the hosts the lead early, but Pat Morrison levelled from the spot. Jacob Stubberfield regained the lead for Curtin, but Ger Fitzgerald gave both sides a share of the spoils with the equaliser for Rovers.
Rovers Rhodes Boyce said the loss against Dianella ended their run of form, but he said they deserved it on the day. “Yes, it was a disappointing result for us after we had picked up our performances a bit in the weeks prior,” he said. “Dianella were fit, well coached and were clinical with their chances, scoring some great goals and they fully deserved to win.”
Boyce said they played Saturday’s opponents a few ago in a catch-up game and had the chances to win, but had to settle for a draw and they will be looking for three points this time around. “When we last played Curtin, we overturned a two-goal deficit to draw level but failed to find a decisive winner despite having many good chances,” he explained. “If we are ruthless in putting away the chances, we will inevitably make I am confident we can record a good result for the club.”
Curtin Coach Troy Reid said there were some good signs against MUM, about from the result, and he hopes they can find that against Rovers on Saturday. “I thought we showed good signs in patches and defended well, however momentary lapses cost us, we need to focus on a complete 90-minute performance,” he explained. “Last time out against Shamrock would have been one of the games of the season for a spectator. End to end football for 90 minutes. We did well to race to a 2-0 lead before half time, and were disappointed to concede from a couple of set pieces and only come away with a point.”
Reid’s thoughts were echoed by midfielder Daniel Nocciolino, who said they are looking for three points on Saturday. “We went to MUM looking to take the three points, and it was a good performance in the first half, but in the second MUM moved the ball well, as they always do on their home ground and managed to convert their chances to come back and win 2-1, it was a tough defeat to take,” he said. “It was a great battle last time we played against Rovers, and both sides played some quality football. We defended well and took our chances when they arrived, so this week we'll be out to take three points at home and get back to winning ways.”
In other games in week 15 league leaders Dianella White Eagles will hope to maintain their twelve-point lead at the top when they host Balga in the late game at Dianella Reserve (5.00pm) Balga moved up to sixth after a third straight win, while Dianella flexed their muscled with a big win at Carramar Shamrock Rovers. Murdoch University Melville will go on search of a third straight win under new coach Taki Nicolaidis when they host Kelmscott Roos at Wormall Civil Stadium, at Murdoch Uni, Gosnells City welcome Morley Windmills to Walter Padbury Reserve hoping to continue their push up the table, while Kingsley Westside take on Joondalup City in the northern derby at Iluka Sports Complex.
The final game is on Sunday when third placed Wanneroo Coty travel to Burrendah Reserve to take on Canning City. Wanneroo are coming off a win against Kelmscott last time out, while Canning remains in eleventh spot after letting a two-goal lead slip at Joondalup City last time out speak. Canning coach Chris Finlayson said they deserved more from the game. “The lads were impressive against Joondalup for about 75 minutes we started strongly considering the pitch conditions we played really well we stuck to the game plan and really dominated them,” he explained. “And to be fair to be denied a goal in the last minutes was a bit rough we deserved more out of the game.
“In the last five games we have taken it to teams in the second half and really should have got points out of all the them, we started strongly and finished poorly the lads’ attitudes and commitment has been very good and I’ve been proud of the fighting spirit. But we need to clean up in areas at crucial times being youthful and inexperienced mixed in with injuries to some - makes it difficult and finding some consistency has been hard to find. But with eight games to go we are looking to finish the season off as strong as we can and I have no doubt we will. This week we welcome Wanneroo, who are having a good season and it will be a tough game for sure but we are up for it and look forward to it.”
Wanneroo Coach Jesse Bridgeman said it was a hard earnt point at Gosnells last week and he is hoping for three on Sunday, but knows it will be a difficult game. “Last week we left Gosnells with a point, every point being valuable from now going forward, although we were a bit disappointed not to take all three, the boys played well and battled hard all game,” he explained. “This week’s challenge is playing on the Sunday, it’ll be very difficult especially with the game changing days and knowing the other results before kick-off so very important we stay switched on and keep our focus purely on the game because if we aren't 100% focused, we know Canning are a good side and will punish us, so a very big challenge ahead this week.”
23.7.2021
BELT UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION - ROUND FOURTEEN PREVIEW
We head into week 14 of the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division and our ‘Match of the Round’ sees third placed Quinns head to John Connell Reserve to take on Leeming Strikers. (All games kick off at 3.00pm unless otherwise stated) Quinns have been ticking along nicely and Vinny McMillan’s side are only one point behind the top two, and are a three-game winning streak, including last week’s 4-0 against UWA Nedlands. Leeming sit ninth and are coming off back-to-back defeats and coach David Palin while be hoping they can bounce back in this one. Last time they met at the venue in the league was in round four in 2019, when Quinns left with all three points. Wayne Carter put them ahead from the penalty spot early, and Ellis Browne added a second. Leeming pulled one back from a penalty from Tom Grant but it was too little too late.
Quinns coach Vinny McMillan said their current form is pleasing, and last week’s win, against an in-form UWA was great, but he knows they need to keep performed well to keep tabs with the leaders. “Jeff (Imrie) and I are very happy with the current run of form and the win against UWA was a pretty dominant one all bar a sticky ten-minute period after half time, but we know we need to keep winning now and keep pressure on the leaders,” he explained.
“Leeming is a game we always look forward too and has become a good rivalry for us since winning promotion a few years ago. We know all too well they can be dangerous on their day after they defeated us earlier in the season. However, as you mentioned we are coming off the back of three straight wins and full of confidence, so I feel this one has all the ingredients needed for a great game.”
Leeming player/coach David Palin said his side need to be better, and consistency was their downfall last week at Joondalup. “The performance over 90 minutes wasn't consistent enough for us to deserve to walk away with anything on Sunday. First half we had a lot of good chances that we wasted and we made mistakes at the other end that became costly. Joondalup grew into the game from their goal and we didn't adapt well enough to that, the longer the game went on there was only going to be one winner, so credit to them and we have to learn and move on,” he explained.
“This season the team has shown when our performances are at a good level, we can be a handful for any side in the league, when they haven't been, we have struggled to get into games. We're not a side that can have 2-3 players not playing to their full ability, and we've had a few games like that this year but it's been a good learning curve for the squad and I'm confident we will get a good response against Quinns tough game as always. There a side that will do anything to win, they don't hold back, and there is no surprise their closer to the top than bottom this season. Beating them away at start of year, was a really good win for us and we would like to do it again this week at home.”
In other games this weekend league leaders South West Phoenix make the trip to Butlers Reserve to take on Wembley Downs. The hosts are coming off a loss at Kwinana last week, while the Phoenix made it seven wins on the trot, after a big win against Jaguar on Saturday. Maddington White City are also on a good run of form, and like Phoenix have only lost twice this season, and this week they host bottom of the table Hamersley Rovers at Mills Park on Saturday evening (7.00pm). UWA Nedlands will look to bounce back from defeat last week when they host Queens Park at the UWA Sports Park, while Jaguar entertain Joondalup United at Herb Graham Recreation Centre, the visitors looking to build on last week’s first win of the season.
In the final game fourth placed Kwinana United travel to Woodville Reserve to take on sixth placed North Perth United (1.00pm). Both sides are coming off big wins last week, North Perth beating Hamersley 5-0, to make it eight games without defeat, while the visitors beat Wembley 3-0. Kwinana coach Mark Purvis said it was good to bounce back from their loss at Jaguar in the last round, and will be looking for a similar performance on Sunday against a strong North Perth side.
“Really pleased with the response last week, especially our first half performance, the character we showed to withstand some Wembley pressure was also a real plus point,” he said. “It’s a fantastic league to be involved in, and every week is a big game, but that’s what we are in football for. We want those challenges and they won’t come much bigger than North Perth away. They are a top side and have been for many years, the players are looking forward to it and hopefully we can come away with the three points.”
22.7.2021
OLYROOS STUN ARGENTINA IN TOKYO
A first-half goal from Lachlan Wales and a second ten minutes from time, from substitute Marco Tilio stunned a 10-man Argentina as Australia seized top spot in Group C in the Tokyo Olympics at the Sapporo Dome. Wales finished off a neat move from down the left on 14 minutes, before Tilio’s first touch after coming off the bench sealed the well-deserved win. Head Coach Graham Arnold said he hoped the result put smiles on the faces of Australians in lockdown back home.
"It was probably the last thing I mentioned before the boys went on the pitch," he said post-match. “Australia — New South Wales especially — is going through a tough time at the moment with COVID-19. I said to the boys there's a lot of families at home in lockdown, let's put a smile on a lot of Australian faces and give them something they will remember. There were probably a lot of people back home who didn't give us a chance of winning the game before but really enjoyed that tonight.
"Sometimes when you mention the name of a nation like Argentina everyone starts thinking of Diego Maradona, Lionel Messi and them being Copa America champions. But it was more about focusing on ourselves for the last week and making sure that all their players knew their roles and jobs. We had to have the belief that we could win the game."
Australia’s best performance at the Olympics came at Barcelona 1992 where they finished fourth. Argentina are the current South American Under-23 champions and are two-times Olympic champions having won in Athens in 2004 and in Beijing four years later. But Arnold – an Olympian at Seoul in 1988 – had promised that his team would “shock the world” and his charges delivered.
The lively Daniel Arzani was giving the Argentine defence problems early, and Mitch Duke saw a shot flash wide, before Adolfo Gaiich did likewise down the other end. But on 14 minutes Arnold’s side hit the front, Sydney Fc defender Joel King raced down the left, and his low cross was dummied by Duke and Wales fired home at the back post. Argentina lifted and went close to the equaliser on 27 minutes, but Fausto Vera shot flashed inches past the post. McGree went close to doubling the lead in style but his overhead kick was well saved by the alert Jeremías Ledesma.
Argentina, were starting to get on top, and went even closer to levelling on 34 minutes, Ezequiel Barco shot beat keeper Tom Glover, but the crossbar came to the rescue of the Melbourne City custodian. But the game took a massive twist in first half stoppage time, when a push and shove between McGree and Francisco Ortega saw both players receive a yellow card, but it was Ortega’s second and he was sent off.
In the second half Australia picked up where they had left off, with Mitch Duke clipping the bar with an artistic chip 20 seconds after the restart. Argentina was not without chances, with the Atlético Madrid defender Nehuén Pérez stinging the palms of Glover with a shot from distance. But despite having more of the ball, they struggled in the final third with Australian skipper Thomas Deng and Stoke City’s Harry Souttar outstanding at the heart of the defence.
McGree, looking for a second goal to kill the game, spotting Ledesma off his line, but his effort from halfway flew narrowly over. But it was Australia who looked the more likely to add a second and it came on 80 minutes. Tilio was picked out by Duke, and his shot flew into the corner of the net and set off wild celebrations in the stadium and no doubt in every household in Australia, to seal a superb win.
Argentina: GK Jeremias LEDESMA, 2 Nehuan PEREZ, 4 Hernan DA LA FUENTE (13 Marcelo HERRERA 62’), 5 Fausto VERA, 8 Santiago COLOMBATTO (17 Tomas BELMONTE 78’), 9 Adolfo GAICH, 10 Alexis MACALLISTER (16 Martin PAYERO 78’), 11 Ezequiel BARCO (15 Pedro DE LA VEGA 82’), 14 Facundo MEDINA, 19 Francisco ORTEGA, 21 Fernando VALENZUELA (18 Ezequiel PONCE 46’) – Subs not used: 6 Leonel MOSEVICH, 12 Lautro MORALES – Red Card: Ortega 45+3’
Australia: GK Tom GLOVER, 2 Nathaniel ATKINSON, 5 Harry SOUTTAR, 8 Riley MCGREE (9 Nicholas D’AGOSTINO 79’), 10 Denis GENREAU (6 Keanu BACCUS 89’), 11 Daniel ARZANI (19 Marco TILIO 79’), 12 Mitchell DUKE, 14 Thomas DENG, 16 Joel KING, 17 Connor METCALFE, 20 Lachlan WALES (15 Caleb WATTS 72’) – Subs not used: RGK Ashley MAYNARD-BREWER, 3 Kye ROWLES, 13 Dylan PIERIAS - Referee: Srdjan Jovanovic
21.7.2021
MATIDAS OFF TO A WINNING START IN TOKYO
The Matildas have started their Olympic campaign with a 2-1 win against New Zealand at Tokyo Stadium on Wednesday night. Tameka Yallop gave them the lead on 20 minutes, before skipper Sam Kerr added the second just after the half hour. The Football Ferns pulled one back late in the game through second half substitute Gabrielle Rennie, but it was too little too late, the win was the first for new Matildas’ coach Tony Gustavsson.
"We feel good. First win in the tournament, just our first step in this journey, so to get the win was the most important thing today. It's a confidence booster," Kerr said. "I would have obviously liked to score more and put the game to bed a lot sooner but we controlled the game. We let them in at times but the most important thing was the win. When you score as a striker, you're always happy. If we win the next game, we almost guarantee ourselves to go through. So, the most important game is the next game, and we always knew that if we won today, we'd put ourselves in a good position to get a confidence boost and win the next game."
It was Green and Gold with all the early pressure, and they forced a number of corners, before Kyah Simon’s headed wide on 16 minutes, and moments later Stephanie Catley fired over the top from the edge of the box. But on 20 minutes they found the opener, Kerr playing in Yallop who made no mistake. Both sides had chances blocked as the tempo lifted, but on 33 minutes it was the Matildas who doubled their advantage. Catley’s corner picked out Kerr, and the former Perth Glory skipper saw her glancing header beat Erin Nayler. They looked for a third before the break and Caitlin Foord saw her shot well saved by Nayler, before the New Zealand keeper produced a smart save to deny Simon. Kerr went close to a second in the shadows of half time, losing her marker from a Foord cross, but her header flashed over the top.
The Football Ferns went close early in the second half, Hannah Wilkinson firing wide, but down the other end Simon’s effort was saved by the busy Kiwi keeper Nayler. Catherine Bolt then saw her shot saved by Matildas' custodian Lydia Williams after good work from Betsy Hassett. But it was the Matildas who were creating the better chances, and Kerr was again denied by Nayler on 56 minutes and she also saved Foord’s header moments later. New Zealand were almost handed a lifeline just after the hour, keeper Williams lost her footing to leave the goal wide open, but Carpenter was alert to clear the danger.
Nayler was keeping her side in the game, producing another great save to thwart Simon again on 73 minutes, but would these missed chances come back to haunt Gustavsson’s side. It did in the first minute of stoppage time, Reenie who had only been on the pitch for three minutes heading home, to set up a nervy finish, but the Matildas held firm to claim an opening win at the Olympics for the first time. "One of the headlines we had in the attacking game today was movements off the ball," the Matildas coach Gustavsson explained. "We knew playing New Zealand is very physical if you play static and they like to get into those duels. You need to move a lot off the ball and play fast, and I think we did that today."
Australia: GK Lydia WILLIAMS, 2 Sam KERR, 4 Clare POLKINGHORNE, 5 Aivi LUIK, 7 Stephanie CATLEY, 9 Caitlin FOORD (15 Emily GIELNIK 91’), 10 Emily VAN EGMOND, 12 Ellie CARPENTER, 13 Tameka YALLOP (3 Kyra COONEY-CROSS 75’), 16 Hayley RASO (14 Alanna KENNEDY 83’), 17 Kyah SIMON (11 Mary FOWLER 75’) - Subs not used: 6 Chloe LOGARZO, 18 Teagan MICAH, 21 Laura BROCK
New Zealand: GK Erin NAYLER, 2 Ria PERCIVAL, 3 Anna GREEN (13 Paige SATCHELL 69’), 4 Catherine BOTT (9 Gabrielle RENNIE 88’), 5 Meikayla MOORE, 7 Ali RILEY, 8 Abby ERCEG, 11 Olivia CHANCE (15 Daisy CLEVERLEY 69’), 12 Betsy HASSETT, 14 Katie BOWEN, 17 Hannah WILKINSON – Subs not used: 6 Claudia BUNGE, 10 Annalie LONGO, 18 Anna LEAT, 20 Marisa VAN DER MEER – Referee: Lucila Venegas Montes
21.7.2021
KERR PLANS TO CHANNEL CATHY FREEMAN AT OLYMPICS
Samantha Kerr will draw inspiration from an iconic moment in Australian sport when she leads out the Matildas for their opening game of the Olympics against New Zealand at Tokyo Stadium. The former Perth Glory superstar - and now the world’s most talked-about footballer - was a 7-year old in East Fremantle when Cathy Freeman won gold at the Sydney Games. “I remember Cathy Freeman still to this day,” Kerr said. “I’m still inspired by Cathy Freeman. I hope that we can be. ... what Cathy Freeman was to kids like us.”
Now 27, Kerr has played in three World Cups and won domestic titles but admits the Olympics is something special. “Any time I pull on the jumper I feel really proud, but to call yourself an Olympian is something special,” Kerr said. “Not many people get to do it so I’m really proud to be an Olympian and to represent Australia. It’s different to say a World Cup just for the fact that it is the Olympics. It’s a little bit prestigious, it’s just overwhelming.”
Kerr is unconcerned that she will be centre of plenty of attention in Tokyo. “My job is to worry about performance and the most important game is the first game against New Zealand and that’s all I’ve really thought about and all I’ve really worried about,” she said. “What better way to start the Olympics than against our rivals, New Zealand. That first game for us is like the final at this point.”
The Matildas will need to get out of their recent form slump and forget an Olympic history that has seen them twice bow out in the quarter-finals. They must find form after conceding 13 goals in four games, including heavy defeats to Germany and the Netherlands and dropping to ninth on the FIFA rankings.
The Matildas are in a tough group which includes the United States of America, Sweden and New Zealand. The top two finishers from each group progress to the next stage as do the top two third-ranked teams across the group stage. “I think it’s a tough group, obviously, but when you go to an Olympic Games and a World Cup, you want to play the best and beat the best so it’s a good challenge for us.” Kerr said.
21.7.2021
GLORY WOMEN ADD TO MIDFIELD OPTIONS
Perth Glory have confirmed the recruitment of midfielders Sofia Sakalis and Sarah Cain for the 2021/22 W-League season. Both players join Glory fresh from playing for Melbourne City, Australia youth international Sakalis being secured on a long-term deal whereas Cain has signed on for just the single summer.
Sakalis is looking forward to the move west. "I'm super-excited to be joining Perth Glory and working with (coach) Alex (Epakis)," the 19-year old said. "His vision and the style of football he wants to play really excited me and I'm eager and ready for a new challenge and a new environment that will allow me to grow into the player I want to become."
Those setiments were echoed by 21-year old Cain. "Alex has such strong plans and aspirations for the team; that’s something I can’t wait to be a part of, Cain explained. "I want to keep developing as a footballer, be in an environment where I can get the most out of myself as a player and help the team to achieve our goals."
Epakis is confident Sakalis and Cain will make a major impact next season. "Sofia has committed for the next few seasons to our project and is really looking forward to playing a big part in helping the team work towards our goals," the coach said. "Those who have tracked the women’s game over recent years will be very familiar with her attacking talents."
"Sarah has stood out as someone with great energy and with a strong understanding of her position. She is a very intelligent player with excellent positioning and passing skills which are important attributes in terms of the way we want to play this season ... I am expecting her to be a real asset for the team this season."
20.7.2021
GLORY SECURE HIGHLY-RATED GOALKEEPER NEWBON
Perth Glory has confirmed goalkeeper Courtney Newbon has signed on for the 2021/22 W-League season. Considered one of the best young shot-stoppers in Australia, the 20-year old arrives in the west having spent the last two seasons with Western Sydney Wanderers where she made a total of eight W-League appearances.
"It’s a new challenge for myself," said Newbon, who twice claimed the W-League Save of the Week Award last season. "I want to work hard for the club and hopefully help them build another Premiership-winning team. (Coach) Alex Epakis is very much in the mindset of getting the club back up towards the top of the table not just next season, but in the years to come as well. So I’m very excited to be joining Glory and can’t wait to get started."
Epakis is relishing the prospect of re-linking with Newbon having previously worked with her at Sydney University. "We are happy to have Court at Perth Glory for next season," he said. "She is joining us after spending two seasons at Western Sydney where she was able to showcase her ability and potential."
"Her shot-stopping and distribution skills are very strong and she is a focused and committed character. Despite her age, Courtney has experienced strong levels of success at various levels of the game and is a fantastic addition to our ‘keeper options. I look forward to seeing her progress and develop while working very hard to compete and add value to the squad."
19.7.2021
RHYS WILLIAMS HEADS TO WANDERLAND
Former Socceroos defender Rhys Williams has returned to Australia and signed for Western Sydney Wanderers for the next two seasons. The Perth-born centre back has signed from Saudi Pro League Al Qadisiyah FC, and the former ECU Joondalup product left WA to play in the UK with Middlesbrough, and has also had stints at Perth Glory and won an A-League Championship with Melbourne Victory in 2018 before departing for Saudi Arabia where he has played 58 games over three seasons.
Williams said he was excited to return to Australia and play for the Wanderers. “It’s a big club, one that I’ve always been an admirer of and I am looking forward to a big challenge,” he said. “I feel I have good leadership qualities. I learned a lot from when I was made captain at Middlesbrough at such a young age, being a leader is not about talking the loudest, it’s about leading by example, putting your body on the line and doing your best every time you set foot on the pitch. I can’t wait to get settled in Western Sydney and look forward to joining the club in the coming weeks.”
Wanderers head coach Carl Robinson said Williams brings experience, leadership and a strong mentality to the Red and Black. “Rhys is an experienced player, vocal on the pitch and has a good understanding of the way we want to play,” he said. “He has displayed a strong mentality and leadership qualities at every club he has played for, from a young age he has been a strong presence on and off the pitch and that is something we are looking for in our players. “Rhys is someone that both understands the A-League and demands respect on the pitch.” Williams will link up with the club when it is suitable for him to travel from WA under current government restrictions.
18.7.2021
GLORY CONFIRM DEPARTURE OF IKONOMIDIS
Perth Glory have been hit by a pre-season recruiting blow with Socceroos attacker Chris Ikonomidis turning down an offer to re-sign with the club. Ikonomidis made 41 appearances and scored 16 goals for Glory during his three seasons at the club while also re-establishing himself in the Socceroos squad.
Glory chief executive Tony Pignata said every effort had been made to retain Ikonomidis. “We made an excellent offer to Chris in order to try and keep him at Glory,” Pignata said. “Unfortunately he has declined the opportunity to re-sign for the club and instead opted to take up an offer elsewhere.”
“While we are naturally disappointed that we won’t see Chris in purple again next season, it is very much an amicable parting of the ways. On behalf of everyone associated with the club I would like to thank him for the significant contribution he made on and off the field during his three years here in the west.”
Glory are reportedly chasing former Sydney FC and Adelaide United striker George Blackwood, who has left English Division Two club Oldham Athletic. An Australia youth international, he made 15 appearances and scored three goals in an injury-plagued season with the Owls.
18.7.2021
BELT UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION - ROUND THIRTEEN REVIEW
South West Phoenix have maintained their lead at the top of the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division after a 4-0 win against Jaguar, in our ‘Match of the Round’ at Onside Sports Stadium on Saturday evening. “It was a very well-structured win, from the keeper to the strikers we stuck to our game plan,” Phoenix coach Nick Carter explained. “We wanted to stop the counter early and we did, the lads played excellent, and deserved the win.” The hosts were ahead when Corey Barclay broke into the box and cut it back to the penalty spot and Lee Stewart finished well. It was 2-0 when Andy Blunden crossed to the back post and Stewart headed it back across goal and Barclay volley home. It was 3-0 before the break Barclay cross was headed back across Michael Dudek by Stewart from five meters.
They wrapped up the points late when Stewart was brought down in the box and referee Nathan Hankin pointed straight to the spot and Kieran Quinn made no mistake from the resulting penalty. “We had a number of guys out so it was pleasing to get the three points and another clean sheet,” Stewart said. “The guys who came in did well and that’s a very promising sign going into the second half of the season. You are never quite sure what you are going to get from Jaguars but they struggled with our intensity first half and we scored some great team goals. Credit to them as they came out in the second half and threw everything at us but we were able to stand firm and see the game out.”
Maddington White City kept in touch with the Phoenix after a big win against Queens Park at Nikola Tesla Reserve. Jose Zuniga was the hero, scoring all five goals. He opened the scoring just before half time, and doubled the lead eight minutes into the second half. Queens Park pulled one back five minutes later with Leigh Bridger scoring. But that was as good a it got for the visitors with Zuniga completing his hat-trick moments later, before he grabbed two more late in the game, keeping City level on points with the leaders.
Quinns have also kept the pressure on the leaders after a solid 4-0 win against UWA Nedlands at Gumblossom Park. They hit the front early, after some neat build up play and Liam McManus sent Ryan McCready in on goal and he dinked the ball over the on-coming keeper. Vinny McMillan’s side doubled their lead on the stroke of half time, a looping corner from McManus found McCready who rose above everyone to head home. The striker completed his hat-trick on the hour, a deep free kick from Callum-Wells Murphy was headed home powerfully by McCready.
McCready completed the scoring three minutes from time, his eighteenth goal of the season, Tom Ashworth picking him out with a neat cut back and he finished with aplomb from the edge of the penalty area. “It was a fantastic result for us at home to good UWA side that has been creeping up the table recently and after a narrow 4-3 win in the reverse fixture we knew we had to perform at a top level to take a much needed three points,” McCready explained. “The most pleasing thing was that it was our best team performance for 90 minutes this season and personally it was nice to top it off with four goals to add to the tally this season.”
North Perth United are also starting to hit their straps, after a solid 4-0 win against Hamersley Rovers at Carine Open Space. It was a tight first half and it was scoreless at the break, but United had to ride their luck with a number of goal line clearances. Rovers then hit the post early in the second half, but it was Luke O’Neill’s side who took the lead, Javier Pineres Mestre free kick found Scott Wrightson who headed home. It was soon 2-0, some neat link up play, between Steve Kantor, Wrightson and Simon El Chami who picked out Mestre in the box who made no mistake.
El Chami added the third after being sent in on goal and finishing clinically, Davey Byrne made it 4-0, holding off his marker to fire home, before Alex Corner scored from close-range to complete the scoring. “First half Hamersley set up well and were the better team, they were causing us a couple of problems, and at half time it was assistant Kevin Mulgrew who gave the bollocking this week to the lads,” United coach Luke O’Neill explained. “We changed a few things 10 minutes into the second half and started the get the ball on the floor and moving it around with a bit more purpose, the boys took their chances well and it’s a clean sheet something we have been working on to achieve.”
Kwinana United bounced from defeat last week with a 3-0 win against Wembley Downs at Kelly Park. The hosts hit the front early in the second half with a long-range shot from Aiman Kamarmohter. They made it 2-0 six minutes from time, Jake Daley arrived late in the box to finish a good cross from Finley Murray. The points were made safe in stoppage time, with Glenn Smith heading home. “We were good in the first half it was a good response from the week before,” Kwinana coach Mark Purvis said. “After we scored Wembley put us under pressure and we had to stand firm. We needed Ellis Roberts in goal to make a couple of very good saves to keep the clean sheet, but we got our blocks in and defended well. It was very pleasing to get the three points.”
Joondalup United have won their first game of the season after a 3-1 win against Leeming Strikers at Beldon Park. The hosts fell behind on 12 minutes when a cross from the right was turned into his own net by Curtis Wreglesworth. The home side responded well in difficult conditions and were rewarded with an equaliser before half time. Adam Rogers' cross from the left evaded everybody and found the far corner of the net. It was a strong start to the second half with Louis Cheetham getting free inside the Leeming penalty area. He rounded the goalkeeper but his shot came back off the post. But on 55 minutes, Cheetham got his goal when he raced onto a through ball from Gareth Davies and finished superbly with the outside of his right foot. United had good chances to extend the lead with efforts on target from Cheetham and Adam Taylor, while Rogers had a free kick well saved. In the closing stages, substitute Henry Martinez's corner dropped to the feet of Taylor and he tapped in from six yards to seal the 3-1 win.
"This win has been coming for a while, and we should have taken at least a point from UWA last weekend. Our problem has been scoring goals but we found the net three times against Leeming and got the result we deserved,” Joondalup coach Neil Sherwin said. “We were also excellent defensively, restricting Leeming to half chances for most of the game, even though it was the first time Curtis Wreglesworth and Jack Walsh played together in the middle. The spirit in the squad is fantastic with great numbers at every training session and the expectation is to kick on by putting more points on the board over the coming weeks. We've been competitive in all but one game up to now so we know we can have a strong second half of the season."
17.7.2021
MURRAY SEALS CUP FINAL WIN FOR FLOREAT
Floreat Athena are the 2021 Belt-Up State League Cup winners after a narrow 1-0 win against ECU Joondalup at Inglewood Stadium on Saturday evening. The only goal of the game came on 56 minutes from Floreat midfielder Kyle Murray, but despite creating a number chances the Jacks couldn’t find a way back into the game. “We were probably on the back foot in the first 20 minutes, but I’m lost for words really, scoring the winner in a cup final,” Murray told Football West post-match. “We frustrated them in the second half, and didn’t let them play their normal game by blocking the lanes and made them go out wide, and after the goal we just dug in and I thought the young lads were great tonight. We’ll celebrate tonight but its back in training as we look to turn our league form around.”
Both sides went into the game with a number of first team players missing, Joondalup were without the injured Chris Harold, Sami Riak and Ryan Lowry and were also missing the cup-tied Riley Woodcock and Luke Palmateer. Floreat were missing influential skipper Dean Evans and Ludovic Boi both out injured, Jawad Rezai was cup-tied, while Denis Galan and Andrew Palmer missed the game due to suspension. There was a good crowd at kick off and both sides had early chances on a damp Perth afternoon. Floreat were in after only 47 seconds, Chris Saldaris’ long ball into the penalty area was met by Robert Harding, whose header drifted wide of the far post. Joondalup thought they had the lead on five minutes, Daryl Nicol’s in-swinging corner was met by Declan Hughes who headed home, but referee Shane Skinner spotted a push by the midfielder on Jason Saldaris, but on replay, it looked a little harsh.
It was end-to-end football as both sides pushed for the opener. Jakub Prajza cut in from the right on eight minutes, but his shot on the run was saved low by Jason Saldaris, while at the other end Phil Arnold was found on the right, his diagonal pass picked out Sean McManus, who cut into the box, but Johnny Perkins saved his low shot. Floreat keeper Jason Saldaris then produced a smart save to deny Danny Hodgson after the striker pounced on Nicol’s free kick, which wasn’t dealt with by the Floreat defence. Joondalup were on the front foot and on the half hour mark Nelson Tshongo raced into the box, but Floreat defender Jesse Fuller got back with a superb last-ditch tackle. Kenny Lowe’s side suffered a huge blow on 35 minutes after Jeremy Tshongo was injured after a challenge on Wesley Casimir, whose long-range shot was saved low Perkins. The defender tried to walk it off but buckled again and was carried off the field by two of his team mates, and he was replaced by youngster Oscar Malfiore.
Malfiore was soon in the action, his deep cross from the right wasn’t deal with the ball finding its way to Amphlett, whose shot was well saved by Jason Saldaris at his near post. Floreat ended the half well and Ben Steele found Harding on the edge of the box and his shot flashed inches wide of the post. Then in stoppage time they went close again, Ambrogio’s curling effort drifting wide of the far post, but it was all to play for after the break. Joondalup opened brightly after the break and went close four minutes in. Declan Hughes’ superb ball sent Nicol racing down the left, his cross on the run found Hodgson, who shot was tipped over the top by the alert Jason Saldaris. Moments later Floreat failed to clear a corner and Nicol’s snap shot whistled just wide of the post. But it was Floreat who opened the scoring on 56 minutes. Arnold won possession in the middle of the park and after a give and go with Ambrogio, he squaring the ball to Murray, who finished well past Perkins from the edge of the box.
Joondalup weren’t finished and seven minutes later a quick free kick from Andy Higgins found Nicol in the penalty area, and his goalbound shot was cleared away by the alert Steele. Floreat looked dangerous on the counter-attack and they went close to second on 69 minutes. Arnold made space down the right, his cross picked out Ambrogio, whose header smacked off the post and away to safety. Joondalup broke from that and went close themselves, Hodgson’s shot on the run flew over the top. Both sides had chances late, first Chris Saldaris headed over the top from Murray’s free kick, before Hough headed over the top from Nicol’s deep corner. Joondalup were pressing late, but couldn’t break a solid Floreat defence well led by Chris Saldaris and Fuller. Floreat had the last chance of the game in stoppage time, substitute Filip Minic squared the ball to McManus whose low shot was saved by Perkins, but at the final whistle it was Floreat celebrating the win. Athena's defender Ben Steele received the Player of the Match award, he received his medal from former Socceroos great Stan Lazaridis.
“Really good game, and first thoughts are to congratulate Floreat their staff players and supporters, well done and well played,” Joondalup’s coach Kenny Lowe said post-match. “They lost out on the Premiership last year to us, and this year we lose cup to them. It’s turning into a nice little rivalry. Maybe we can meet again in Grand Final at end of year, and we are hopefully due a win against them. Really proud of the players tonight, we had our backs to the wall with a serious injury to Jeremy (Tshongo) and hamstring to Tommy (Amphlett) in the first half. But they were all superb tonight and the club should be proud of them, and more importantly they should be proud of themselves. We have come a hell of a long way in the last year or so.”
ECU Joondalup 0 Floreat Athena 1 (Murray 56’)
Saturday July 17, 2021
Inglewood Stadium
Referee: Shane Skinner
Assistants: Simon Hicks, Arvin Shanmuganathan
Fourth Official: David Bruce
ECU Joondalup: GK Johnny PERKINS, 2 Jeremy TSHONGO (14 Oscar MALFIORE 38’) (11 Ben RUTTER 85’), 3 Nelson TSHONGO (5 Danny DOUGLAS 68’), 4 Declan HUGHES, 8 Tom HOUGH, 9 Daryl NICOL, 10 Andy HIGGINS, 12 Jakub PRAJZA, 13 Tommy AMPHLETT (7 Jason PETRIE 46’), 16 Shane CASSIDY, 17 Danny HODGSON – Subs not used: RGK Joe POLLARD – Yellow Cards: Hough 27’, Hughes 61’
Floreat Athena: GK Jason SALDARIS, 2 Marco SANTALUCIA, 4 Ben STEELE, 6 Jesse FULLER, 8 Sean MCMANUS, 9 Robert HARDING (3 Filip MINIC 85’), 10 Nick AMBROGIO, 12 Wesley CASIMIR, 15 Chris SALDARIS, 16 Kyle MURRAY, 18 Phil ARNOLD- Subs not used: RGK Joshua HUNTER, 5 Elijah HAAS, 19 Laat MATHIANG, 21 Mou MARIAL – Yellow Cards: Nil
Floreat Athena celebrate winning the 2021 State Cup
17.7.2021
BAYSWATER TOO STRONG FOR SORRENTO IN RESERVES CUP FINAL
After watching the clubs under 18’s, win the Cup Final, Bayswater City have made it a double by beating Sorrento 2-0 to win the Belt-Up Reserves State League Cup Final at Inglewood Stadium on Saturday afternoon. A goal early from Alex Mclean settled the nerves for City, and a second from Alex Pietroniro eight minutes from time sealed the win. “Happy with the result and another clean sheet is always nice,” Bayswater coach Alun Vernals said. “I thought we started well in the first ten minutes and then started being a bit sloppy and gave the ball away too easy. Second half we asked the lads to keep moving the ball around and maintain possession and I think it was a pretty professional performance, and the late goal was the icing on the cake.”
Bayswater made the best possible and were ahead after only three minutes. Daniel Harrison free kick headed home by McLean at the back post. Sorrento were shell-shocked and we’re struggling on the final third, but they steadied and created a number of chances midway through. First Jamie Swan fired over after Bayswater failed to clear a corner, before Ethan Banks’ free kick was straight at George Jackson in the Bayswater goal.
City had a great chance to double their lead on the half hour, Shaun Mukwevho raced clear but his shot was saved by Matthew Giudicatti, and the Sorrento keeper was up quickly to deny Gomo Dukuly from the rebound. Both sides had late chances in an entertaining game, first Igor Cvijanovic’s curling free kick was punched clear by Giudicatti, before a quick break from Swan saw him send Banks down the right, his cross into the box found Swan, who had continued his run, but his header flew over the top. It was Bayswater who started the second half the better and went close early, Raeez Pandor’s shot was pushed away by the alert Giudicatti.
They were in again on the hour, Pietroniro finding space on the left and his shot was well saved by Giudicatti, before Logan Rindel’s goalbound shot was deflected over the top. Sorrento weren’t going away and hitting well on the counter attack, they went close on 81 minutes, Swan’s free kick was headed back across goal by Theo Gilsenan but Bayswater cleared the danger. But Bayswater secured the win when they added a second seven minutes from time. Harrison found Pandor, who slipped Mukwevho into the box, his shot was saved low by Giudicatti, but the rebound fell to Pietroniro who side-footed home into an empty net to seal it.
“Happy to win the cup, and I thought we thoroughly deserved it,” Bayswater midfielder McLean said. “On the day two it was two evenly matched teams, but the early goal was a great start for us, but Sorrento settled down and kept us on our toes for the duration of the match, with them being unlucky with a couple of good chances. Credit to them for making it to the final and obviously unlucky on the day, but it was a good day for Bayswater bringing home both the 18s and 20s cup, credit to Av, Ian for preparing us for the day.”
Sorrento 0 Bayswater City 2 (McLean 3’, Pietroniro 82’)
Saturday July 17, 2021
Inglewood Stadium
Referee: Niall Gillmor
Assistants: Lawson Rimmer, Liam Barclay
Fourth Official: Jatin Lodhia
Sorrento: GK Matthew GIUDICATTI, 15 Tristan STEVENS, 21 Ethan BANKS, 22 Tristan COLLI (26 Cody BINGHAM 83’), 27 Jamie SWAN (34 Nathan FRITH 72’), 28 Jude GAUNTLETT, 30 Theo GILSENAN, 31 Laurits CHRISTOPHERSEN, 32 Thomas ABRAHAM, 35 Thomas HUNT, 49 Frank KINNEN – Subs not used: 24 William FRANKLIN, 25 George BURKE, 61 Patrick HUGHES
Bayswater City: GK George JACKSON, 4 Dean KEZURER, 5 Jacob TURNER, 6 Alex MCLEAN (20 Jacob FORSYTH 54’), 7 Raeez PANDOR (18 Cristian SAYERS 91’), 8 Dan HARRISON, 9 Shaun MUKWEVHO, 10 Gomo DUKULY (2 Logan RINDEL 54’) 13 Igor CVIJANOVIC, 14 Gio SPORTIELLO, 16 Alex PIETRONIRO – Subs not used: 12 Callum PIPER, 17 Andrew MOYO
Bayswater City are the 2021 Reserves Cup Winners. (photo courtesy of Football West)
17.7.2021
BAYSWATER TAKE OUT 18S CUP FINAL HAT-TRICK
“Extremely happy to win the game and although we did not play with the potential, we have in the team the players ability to hold on was outstanding,” assistant coach Paul Lincoln explained. “Preston (Gilling) was the hero, his performance was top shelf, but proud of all the players. Credit to Subiaco who came with a game plan and enthusiasm to nearly cause an upset. I thought the penalty awarded at the end wasn’t a penalty according to the laws of the game, so we were not the only ones relieved when it was saved. For the club to win the Under 18 State Cup for three years in row is a great achievement, and it shows our junior development is amongst the best in the state.”
It was Bayswater who opened the brighter and they went close early. Orhan Boric was given to much room on the edge of the penalty area, but the strikers shot was well saved by Subiaco keeper Samuel Assumption, low to his left. But on 19 minutes their good opening was rewarded with the opener. A corner from Kelly beat everyone and curled into the top corner of the net. Subiaco, who had beaten NPLWA sides Rockingham and Sorrento on the way to the final, looked for an immediate response, and Jacob Carbone raced onto a ball over the top, but Gilling was out bravely to save.
Bayswater’s corners were causing all sorts of problems, but Assumption learnt his lesson moments later punching clear another curling effort from Kelly. Subiaco’s best chance came six minutes before half time, Rhys Kapur’s corner was met by Jonah Froman, but his close-range header was superbly saved by Gilling, as save from the top draw from the Bayswater custodian, but at the break it was Bayswater holding a slender lead.
Both sides had chances early in the second half, Kapur firing into the side netting for Subiaco, before Samuel Badiashile free kick flashed wide for Bayswater. But Subiaco went closer on 64 minutes, Gaspar Becerra sending Mark Bauersachs in on goal, his lob beat Gilling, but the crossbar came to his rescue. It was end-to-end football with both sides creating chances but failing to take them. But in the second minute of stoppage time Subiaco had the perfect opportunity to level when they were awarded a penalty, when a ball into the penalty area hit the arm of Bayswater’s Jack Roberts and referee Kai Bartusch pointed straight to the spot. Bojan Sobot stepped up to take the spot kick but Gilling guessed the right way to save and was mobbed by his team mates at the final whistle.
Subiaco 0 Bayswater City 1 (Kelly 20’)
Saturday July 17, 2021
Inglewood Stadium
Referee: Kai Bartusch
Assistants: Ryan Morris, James Webb
Fourth Official: Alexander Wright
Subiaco: GK Samuel ASSUMPTION, 2 Lazar SPASOJEVIC, 3 Jonah FROMAN, 4 Rhys KAPUR (12 Fedy NAIM 82’), 5 Jacob CARBONE (7 Bojan SOBOT 65’), 6 Harrison TAY, 8 Mark BAUERSACHS, 10 Jamie KEMPSON (11 Matt BARTON 65’), 13 Joel GARCES, 14 Gasper BECERRA, 16 Brock BINDEL – Subs not used: 15 Nayan BROWN, 17 Hugh SWANN
Bayswater City: GK Preston GILLING, 2 Euan BLAIR, 4 Abdul MBANO (3 Jack ROBERTS 88’), 5 Julian KELLY, 6 Cory MCNELIS, 9 Orhan BORIC, 10 Jerome WEST, 11 William GALLAGHER, 13 Moeletsi SEFALI (7 Sameer HOURANI 49’), 16 Samuel BADIASSHILE (17 Kai TORODE 76’), 21 Jethro HAAS (12 Ayok AYOK 46’) – Subs not used: 25 Darius ANDRES
Bayswater City celebrate winning the 2021 State Under 18's Cup. (photo courtesy of Football West)
17.7.2021
STONEHILL BRACE GIVES MUM THE CUP (Report by Beyond 90)
A brace from Murdoch University Melville striker Tia Stonehill, has given them their first silverware of the season, after a 2-0 win against Balcatta FC 2-0 in the WA State Cup Final at Inglewood Stadium. Mark Jones’ side were hot favourites to win the cup, but they were wary about their opponents, who had already beaten them in a cup final this season, when Balcatta took out the Night Series Final. “It was a scrappy game, a really scrappy game,” Jones told Beyond 90, post-match. “We’ve played much better [before]. But it is a cup final, so people were nervous. “To give Balcatta some credit, they worked hard, busted, and put themselves about. That’s the toughest game they’ve given us.”
It was a great start for Jones’ side and they were ahead in the first sixty seconds. Stonehill’s speculative cross was misjudged by Balcatta’s keeper Gabby Dal Busco, the ball sailing into the net. What was always going to be a difficult task for Balcatta had just become even harder. They struggled to get the shock of conceding such an early goal out for their system, as MUM pressed to seal the game as early as possible. Dal Busco was the busier of the two goalkeepers in the opening half, but Balcatta was slowly getting back into the game before Stonehill doubled the score on the half hour.
A through ball from Jaymee Gibbons released her, and she had the strength to fight off Balcatta defender Ella Manso-Vukovich before tucking the ball past Dal Busco to score her second of the game. Balcatta now had a mountain to climb but showed they were still in the game when Ashleigh Panaia had a shot turned onto the bar by Danelle Cornish late in the first half. The second half saw MUM sit back and let Balcatta try to break them down and hit them on the break. Balcatta gave it their all and forced Cornish into making a number of saves, with Kim McCartney coming the closest when her low shot was scrambled away.
Charli Wainwright had a chance to seal the win 14 minutes from time, but her shot was just too high after being fed in by Stonehill. MUM had one final chance to add a flourish to their win, but Dal Busco turned Grace Betti’s injury-time effort onto the post, but referee Stephen Knight blew the full-time whistle shortly after and they celebrated winning their first silverware of the season. There were individual awards for the winners as well, with Tia Stonehill named player of the match. FA Hall of Fame inductee and former Matilda’s striker Sandra Brentnall awarded Stonehill her medal.
Murdoch University Melville: GK Danelle CORNISH, 2 Rosie LEHANE, 5 Thalia ORGAN, 7 Sadie LAWRENCE, 8 Baxter THEW, 9 Tia STONEHILL, 12 Kathryn SCHUBERT, 17 Ellie LA MONTE, 22 Jaymee GIBBONS, 23 Katarina JUKIC – Subs: 10 Charli WAINWRIGHT, 15 Abbey GREEN, 16 Clara HOARAU, 19 Marianna TABAIN, 21 Zara BOARD
Balcatta: GK Gabby DAL BUSCO, 4 Cassandra HARVEY, 5 Ella MANSO-VUKOVICH, 7 Catys DAVIS, 8 Christiane ASTORP, 9 Chelsie WINCHCOMBE, 10 Elizabeth DOUST, 12 Alanah VERONI, 14 Ashleigh PANAIA, 15 Epril NOSSENT, 16 Kimberly MCCARTNEY – Subs: 2 Monique D’OPERA, 3 Emily ROACH, 6 Bolton YANGI, 11 Amelia ANDREW, 13 Janelle ST PIERRE – Referee: Stephen Knight
17.7.2021
NINE MEN ROCKINGHAM BEAT GWELUP
A nine-man Rockingham City have given their NPLWA survival hopes a huge boost after a 2-1 win against Gwelup Croatia at SafeRad Stadium on Sunday afternoon, in the week 14 catch up game. The hosts raced to a two-goal lead in the first half, through Feisal Zaw and Luke Collins, but Oli la Galia pulled one back before the break. City then had Collins sent off on the hour, before Ian Ng got his marching orders four minutes from time, but the nine men held on for the three points.
“Heading into the game on Sunday the boys where full of optimism and confidence after last week’s win away to Armadale, we had full belief in ourselves that we could get maximum points from the game,” City skipper Ryan Kennedy said. “We started the game well and controlled the majority of the first half and converting our chances to go in at half time in the lead. Unfortunately, we went down to ten men early in the first half, but the last half hour of the game we stuck in and put our bodies on the line to get the points. These types of games are the games that can turn your season around and the boys are absolutely on a high at the moment.”
City opened brightly and went close after only two minutes, Kennedy sending Jethro Yumange in on goal, but the striker couldn’t find the target. Gwelup hit back and Sam Mitchinson fired inches wide moments later, before Ethan Brooks cross shot flashed just wide of the far post. Jon Stynes then saw a curling effort saved by Cyril Sharrock, before Hasani Sinclair’s long-range shot was saved low by the Rockingham custodian. But against the run of play it was the hosts who opened the scoring on 28 minutes. Yumange sent Zaw down the right, and he raced into the penalty area and fired past Ben Ratajczak at his near post.
Brooks fired straight at Sharrock down the other end as Gwelup looked to get back on equal terms, but on 35 minutes Rockingham doubled their lead. Kennedy’s slide-rule pass sent Yumange in again, his shot was blocked by Ratajczak, but the striker played the ball back to Collins whose long-range shot deflected off a Gwelup defender and giving Ratajczak no chance. But Gwelup pulled one back three minutes later, Shubham Mokala cross into the box found Galia, who beat Sharrock to the ball to head home. The visitors then had a goal disallowed before the break, Sinclair touching home Stynes’s shot but the referee had blown up for a foul in the build-up.
Rockingham went close to a third early in the second half Zaw’s cross headed inches over the top by Noah Wittstrom Lea. Gwelup were still creating chances of their own, but they couldn’t finish them, but on the hour, Rockingham were reduced to ten men, after Collins received a second yellow card by referee Josh Mannella for a late challenge on Blair Govan. Gwelup pressed for the equaliser and Stynes headed against the bar three minutes later, before second half substitute Gustavo Giron-Marulanda then saw a header flash wide.
Try as they might Gwelup couldn’t break down the Rockingham defence, but on 85 minutes Ng took out Brooks in full flight and was also shown a second yellow card and sent off. Gwelup throw everything at the hosts but it just wasn’t their day and Rockingham hung on for a vital three points. “Another massive performance from our boys, the heart they showed was incredible especially when we were down to nine men,” Rockingham Coach Lee Taylor explained. “We had to hang on a little near the end but we got the job done and got a well-deserved three points.”
Rockingham City: GK Cyril SHARROCK, 2 Ian NG, 6 Harry BOLAN, 7 Feisal ZAW, 8 Hamish VAN DIEKEN, 11 Luke COLLINS, 14 Jethro YUMANGE, 19 Noah WITTSTROM LEA, 20 Ryan KENNEDY, 21 Joseph MOSS, 28 Harvey HANCOCK - Subs not used: RGK Bradley STOUT, 4 Dieudonne SUMAIL, 9 Christos VAENAS, 12 Fraser MARR, 15 Declan COLLINS – Red Cards: Luke Collins 60’, Ng 86’
Gwelup Croatia: GK Ben RATAJCZAK, 2 Ciaran SALINGER, 4 Tom SOUTHGATE, 5 Blair GOVAN, 6 Declan HARGREAVES (18 Gustavo GIRON MARULANDA 56’), 8 Jon STYNES, 11 Ethan BROOKS, 12 Hasani SINCLAIR (10 Mitch OXBORROW 56’) (3 Adam FIELDS 91’), 14 Shubham MOKALA, 20 Sam MITCHINSON, 29 Oli LA GALIA - Subs not used: 35 Dejan LEWIS, 63 Caelan COOPER – Referee: Josh Mannella
17.7.2021
STATE LEAGUE WRAP
Forrestfield United moved three points clear of the Division One relegation zone after a comfortable 3-0 win against Swan United, in their round 13 catch up game at Francis Street on Saturday afternoon. “It feels like we've come in to a bit of form at the moment which is nice,” Forrestfield midfielder Mitch Crocker said. “But we have big games coming up that we have to get results from.” Graham Normanton’s side were coming off a big win against Ashfield last week and they were ahead in this one, on 26 minutes. The visitors broke down the left, and Tarek Atta picked out Dan Corbett, with a neat one-two, who made no mistake from a tight angle.
They doubled their lead on the hour, Crocker’s corner picked out Tyron Pottier, who lost his marker to power home a header. The points were wrapped up 12 minutes from time, neat build up down the left saw Atta cross to the back post and Moses Macauley finished from close-range. “Another good performance and result which gives us confidence to kick on and build on the momentum for the second half of the season,” club skipper Rhys Loxley explained. “We have dragged ourselves from the foot of the table and we have confidence within the group, and we will look at the match against Fremantle next week as a win-able game.”
In Division Two Gosnells City continued their unbeaten run after a 5-0 win against Morley Windmills at Wotton Reserve. “A great performance and a good result and nice to get back to winning ways,” Gosnells Coach Marc Anthony said. “We aiming to keep our winning run going against a Morley side who will be looking to bounce back from today's result.” Alan Carroll gave them the lead on 18 minutes, before goals from Jacob Da Silva and Edward Wynne-Willson gave them a 3-0 lead at the break. Further goals from Dylan White and Wade Farmer sealed the comprehensive win.
“It was a great performance from the lads on a rainy afternoon. Even with the pitch in very average condition we still managed to play some great football and score some fantastic goals,” Gosnells defender James Sharp said. “While scoring five goals it was also really good to keep a clean sheet at the other end. This will help greatly as we get towards the pointy end of the season. We now work hard in training and prepare for the return fixture against Morley at home next week.”
16.7.2021
STATE LEAGUE CUP FINAL PREVIEW
The Belt-Up State League Cup Final takes centre stage this week, with Floreat Athena taking on ECU Joondalup at Inglewood Stadium on Saturday afternoon (5.00pm) Both sides go into the game on the back of three indifferent results in the NPLWA, but this is a Cup Final and both sides will want to take home the silverware.
Floreat have had a relatively easy passage to the final, and their campaign stated in round four at Ashfield and doubles from Robert Harding and Nick Ambrogio helped them to a 6-1 win, before they came home from Gwelup Croatia with a 3-0 win with Harding gabbing a hat-trick. In the quarter final they beat Gosnells City 3-0, before Harding bagged another two and Dean Evans the other as they beat Cockburn City 3-0 in the semi-finals.
Floreat last won the State Cup in 2019 beating Bayswater City 2-1, with Dennis Galan and Phil Arnold scoring the winner nine minutes from time. Floreat will be without influential skipper Dean Evans for the game, the former Perth Glory midfielder injured his knee in the recent league game against Perth Glory, but they have a side that can beat anyone on the day.
Floreat skipper Jason Saldaris said they had to work hard to beat Cockburn in the semi-final, but they got the job done, and could have had a few more on the night. “I thought it was a hard-fought win, but a tale of two halves again,” he explained. “We conceding a lot of pressure in the first 45 minutes, but we managed to break through and playing some free-flowing football in the second half, and we could have had a few more on the night.”
The win against the Cockerels also saw Floreat qualify for the FFA Cup round of 32 again, where they will take on A-League side Adelaide United at Dorrien Gardens on Tuesday August 24, and Saldaris said it’s going to be a huge occasion. “A big thank you from everyone at the club, it’s a massive achievement representing WA for the third time on the national stage,” he said. “Adelaide United wasn’t our first pick, but if you’re going to draw an A-League side it may as well be on your home soil. So, the club is excited and we hope WA football will support FAFC in this do or die clash.”
Floreat go into Saturday’s game on the back of three league defeats, but Saldaris said it matters little in a cup final and he is expecting a great contest. “It’s a funny one both teams being probably the two 'worst form' teams of the competition right now, which you wouldn’t have said earlier in the season,” he explained. “But in saying that cup finals are one off games, it’s hard not to get exited especially playing for some silverware, so I’m sure it will be a great contest.”
ECU Joondalup beat Fremantle City 3-0 at home in the fourth round, Daryl Nicol scoring a brace, with Danny Hodgson’s long-range strike sealing the tie, before Hodgson bagged a hat-trick as they beat Olympic Kingsway 8-0 win at in the fifth round. In the quarter final they travelled to Bayswater City and came home with a 2-0 win, before Hodgson scored the only goal as they beat local rivals Sorrento 1-0 at Percy Doyle Reserve in the semi-final to set up Saturday’s showpiece.
The Jacks will go on search of the first State Cup Success since 2002 when they edged out Future Glory. Scott Bulloch gave them the lead just after half time, and it looked all over when Dale McCulloch headed home a second. Glory defender Shaun Kilkelly pulled one back late, but ECU held on to win. Like their opponents, ECU have influential players missing for Saturday’s final, with Sami Riak and Ryan Lowry both missing with injury, but last season's Champions will be doing all they can to add the Cup to their trophy cabinet.
Skipper Johnny Perkins said the win in the local derby semi-final against Sorrento was a tense affair but they defended stoutly late to win it. “It was a tough game away at Sorrento, but I thought the mentality and the work rate of the lads was excellent,” he explained. “Sorrento threw everything at us in the last 15 minutes and made us work really hard for the win, which was expected being a derby. But the lads stood strong and we felt we deserved to go through with our performance and tempo.”
That win saw Kenny Lowe’s said qualify for the FFA Cup round of 32 for the first time, and they will take on Adelaide Olympic at Dorrien Gardens on Tuesday August 11, and Perkins said it will be an honour to represent the state on a national stage. “We’re delighted to be into the next phase of the cup and it’s a privilege to be part of a small group that get to represent the club and WA on a national scale,” he said. “It’s an exciting draw and one we are looking forward to, and being a home tie, we know that the WA community will get behind us and Floreat for these games. With that all said we are only focusing on the cup final for the meantime.”
Perkins said although the league results in recent weeks haven’t gone their way they have been playing well and they are all buzzing for Saturday’s final. “I don’t think league form is a factor on Saturday for either side,” he said. “We will go in with our game plan confident that if we execute it, we can beat anybody on our day, regardless of form, and I’m sure Floreat feel the same. The squad is buzzing and everyone is excited to step out on the pitch Saturday, and hopefully bring the cup back to the Campus.”
16.7.2021
RESERVES CUP PREVIEW
It’s an all NPLWA State League Reserves Cup Final on Saturday afternoon when Bayswater City take on Sorrento at Inglewood Stadium. (12.30pm) City started their run to the final in the first round with a 3-1 win against Armadale at Alfred Skeet Reserve. They had a scare in the second round before beating Ashfield in a penalty shootout, after the game had ended 1-1 with Daniel Harrison scoring late to send it to penalties, eventually winning 8-7. In the quarter final goals from Luke Salmon, Albert Fullard and Jacob Turner saw them beat Wanneroo City, before they beat Mandurah City 5-0 in the semi-final with Harrison and Noah Kanzi scoring doubles.
Bayswater coach Alan Vernals said he had been pleased with the cup run, but they were made to work against Ashfield in the second round. “Yes, that round two tie was probably our toughest test, and they played very well and caused us lots of problems, but we managed to get to penalties and luck fell our way,” he explained. “The Mandurah game was very different, as they brought up a very noisy bunch of supporters. We had to deal with the game and the crowd, which was something new to a lot of the players, but we were pleased with not only the result but the performance.”
City beat Sorrento 4-1 in their only league meeting this season, but Vernals said it was a tight game and he is expecting more of the same Saturday. “They’ll be looking for revenge for that score line and we know we’ll have to be better than we were that day to secure a win,” he said. “In all honesty the score line doesn’t reflect how close the game was in the first half, but Saturday is a cup final, and we have prepared well and will be doing all we can to win the game.”
Sorrento beat Kingsley Westside 4-2 in the first round with goals from Jamie Swan, Ethan Banks, Frankie Kinnen and Cody Bingham, before beating Carramar Shamrock Rovers 5-1 In the second round with Banks and Bingham scoring doubles. In the quarter final they beat Perth Glory 3-1 on penalties after the game ended 0-0. They needed penalties again in the semi-final against Swan United. Swan scored in normal time in the 1-1 score line, but the Gulls held their nerves again on the shootout winning it 7-6.
Sorrento coach Dean Pickering said his players were outstanding in both of their penalty shoot-out wins, and showed great character. “Cup games no matter what round or who you play are always an exciting fixture and can prove to be very difficult at times with both sides fighting for the next round with nothing to lose, and this was the case against both Perth Glory and Swan United, respectively,” he said. “Against Glory the boys fought hard the whole game and we were unlucky not to win it in normal time, but in the shootout the boys showed great composure and some big saves we got through.
“Likewise, against Swan on a cold rainy evening at Percy Doyle, the conditions played a major part for both sides, but once again in the shootout we spoke about picking your spot and make a clean connection and some great goalkeeping and some nervy penalties saw us take the shootout in sudden death. We are extremely excited and as a group very deserving of our place and looking forward to a great game.
Pickering said his players are relishing the final, and hopes it’s a good game. “As a player and coach playing in a cup final is something you always want to be involved in, and for me it is my first cup final as a coach and I'm really looking forward to the occasion and the battle on Saturday,” he said. “They are a very good side and have been for many years now, they will go into the match as the favourites after a convincing semi-final win and having a very good season thus far. But my boys are up for the fight and know that the cup is up for grabs and anything can happen in a cup final. We hope to have a good crowd down to watch the match and cheering on the gulls come Saturday afternoon.”
16.7.2021
UNDER 18'S CUP PREVIEW
In the first game on ‘Cup Final Saturday’ Subiaco will be flying the flag for the State League sides when they take on Bayswater City in the State League Under 18s Cup Final at Inglewood Stadium on Saturday morning. (10.00am) Subiaco travelled to Canning City in the first round and goals from Mark Bauersachs, Matt Barton, Gasper Becerra and Bojan Sobot, saw them come home with a 4-0 win. They beat NPLWA side Rockingham City 4-2 in the second round, with Lazar Spasojevic, Sobot, Rhys Kaut and Bauersachs all scoring. They then travelled to Morley Windmills in the quarter-final and won 3-1, before beating Sorrento 6-5 on penalties in a penalty shootout, after the game ended 1-1 at normal time.
Subiaco coach Michael Carbone said the players have been outstanding in the cup run, especially against the NPLWA sides. “Very proud of the players, the way they held themselves firstly against Rockingham a tough away game and then Sorrento in difficult conditions against a very well organised team,” he explained. “The boys stuck to the game plan put in place during the training week, and then held their own with the extreme pressure of a penalty shootout. The great support by our Subiaco supporters in particular our reserves team, cheering the boys on until the end helped them get over the line, and the same 12th Man will be needed this week in the final.”
Carbone said Saturday’s game will be tough, but he knows the players are up for the challenge. “The boys are very excited to the challenge against Bayswater City on Saturday, I have told them to enjoy this moment as moments like these don’t come along too many times in your life, regardless the competition and they have worked hard and its well-deserved,” he said. “We always go into our games with a game plan and this week will be no different if we execute and they give 100% I have confidence in them getting a result, although it will be tough against a very good opposition.”
Bayswater beat Armadale 3-1 in the first round at Alfred Skeet Reserve, before they edge out Balcatta in the second round at Frank Drago Reserve. In the quarter final they beat Joondalup United 5-4 on penalties after the game ended 1-1 at full time with William Gallagher scoring late to send it to the shootout. It was a tight semi-final win against Perth SC, but City moved through with goals from Gallagher and Samuel Badiashile giving them a come-from-behind 2-1 victory, to set up Saturday’s final.
Bayswater assistant coach Paul Lincoln said it’s been a tough trip to the final, but he said their young side were outstanding. “The road to the cup final has been tough with hard games against Balcatta, Joondalup United getting through on penalties and coming from behind at half time to beat Perth,” he said. “The Perth game was a real contest and I thought that was the performance of the season for us. The players were exceptional that night and Willie (Herd) and I are extremely proud of them.”
Lincoln said Saturday’s opponents are doing really well in Division One and have only lost once this season, but he knows cup competitions are great levellers, so his players need to be switched on. “We don’t know a lot about our opponents Subiaco, but they have had a good season to date and have beaten some good teams to make the final so we know the game will be hard fought,” he said. “The players realise that they will need to play at their best to win and as I have said to them it is very hard to make any final and even harder to win them so they are well aware of what needs to be done. The players and all involved at the club are looking forward to Saturday as our Under 20s are involved as well.”
16.7.2021
BELT UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION - ROUND THIRTEEN PREVIEW
It’s week 13 of the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division, and our ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to Bunbury on Saturday evening, where league leaders South West Phoenix entertain Jaguar at the Onside Sports Stadium. (6.00pm) Both sides are coming off 3-0 wins last week, Jaguar beating Kwinana United to move to sixth, while Phoenix beat Leeming Strikers, the win moving them to the top of the table on goal difference, so this one should be another entertaining encounter.
Jag’s keeper Michael Dudek said the win against Kwinana was a great boost for the side, as they improve after an indifferent start to the season. “Very happy with our win last week, and we've always had the confidence to match it with any team, unfortunately the consistency of results has been a major problem for us this year,” he explained. “We'll continue pushing as long as there is a chance for us to challenge for promotion. We made it difficult for ourselves by not capitalising on our games with Maddington and Hamersley in recent weeks, but we have a great spirit within the team and hopefully we can maintain a winning run going forward.”
The trip to Bunbury is the hardest in the competition, but Dudek said they go there looking for three points, like they did when they met in round two at Herb Graham. “We're all excited for the game this Saturday, and we'll take confidence from the fact that we beat them at home earlier this year and hope to do the same down south,” he said. “While we're missing a couple of players, it shouldn't stop us pushing them all the way and hopefully edging a result, we’re looking forward to it.”
South West Phoenix coach Nick Carter said it was a good win at Leeming last week to take them to the top of the table, but he is well aware there is still a long way to go. “It was a very big win last week, and Leeming we’re a physical side, but we just played our game and they couldn’t match us, very happy with the clean sheet too,” he said. “Yes, we’re top of the table, but in any league it’s a marathon not a sprint, we have put ourselves in a good position now, the players deserve to be there. I don’t think they get enough credit for their dedication and commitment and they reaping the rewards, we’ve just got to stay there now.”
Carter said the old adage is your only as good as your last game, and he knows Jags beat them in the first meeting this season, but he hopes they can turn it around on Saturday. “Jaguar beat us 2-0 last time, they were the better team on the day,” he explained. “They are very attack focused so it’s important we’re solid and we can punish them when we have chances, otherwise they’ll do what they are best at and that’s punishing others, it should be a great game.”
In other games this weekend third placed Quinns will look to build on back-to-back when they welcome fourth placed UWA Nedlands to Gumblossom Park. Vinny McMillan’s side are one of the form teams in the league and are only three points behind the leaders, while UWA are only one point behind them so this one should be a cracker. Second placed Maddington White City will look to keep the pressure on Phoenix, when they host Queens Park at Nikola Tesla Reserve, Leeming Strikers make the trip to Beldon Park to take on Joondalup United, while Hamersley Rovers take on North Perth United at the Carine Open Space.
In the final game Kwinana United will look to bounce back from last week’s loss at Jaguar when they host Wembley Downs at Kelly Park. Wembley are coming off a big win against Hamersley last weekend and head south in a confident mood, while Kwinana lost ground on the leaders with their loss. “It certainly not what we wanted last week, but as I said to the boys afterwards it’s now about how we bounce back this week,” Kwinana coach Mark Purvis explained. “Wembley beat us last time and they are a good team and well coached so it’s going to be a challenge, but we’ve worked well this week and we are ready to go out and try to secure the three points.”
15.7.2021
COCKBURN BEAT BALCATTA IN A RELEGATION SIX POINTER
Cockburn City moved ten points clear of the NPLWA relegation zone after a 2-0 win against Balcatta at Dalmatinac Park on Thursday evening. This was a real six pointer in the round 14 catch up game, and David Dos Santos gave the hosts the lead early before Ali Gholami doubled their advantage and sealed the three points twenty minutes from time. “It was a great win against a strong Balcatta side, which has pushed us clear of the relegation zone,” goalscorer Gholami said. “I thought we deserved the win and on a personal note, I was happy to get on the scoresheet.”
Only two points separated the sides at kick off and both sides had early chances. First on three minutes Sebastian da Silva made space down the right, his low cross was met by Anthony Skorich, but Balcatta keeper Lewis Italiano got down well to save. Moments later down the other end Elliot Tattersall sent Amir Ajan in on goal, but Luke Radonich was out quick to deal with the danger. But on seven minutes the hosts hit the front. Da Silva raced down the right again, this time his low cross was turned home by Dos Santos at the back post.
The visitors looked for an immediate response and Jon Corness’ shot from the edge of the penalty area flashed wide, before Calum O’Connell’s curling effort flew over the top. Balcatta were pressing, but some desperate defending from the home side kept them at bay. Balcatta did have the last chance of the half on 41 minutes, after Cockburn failed to deal with a corner, but once again Corness had his goal bound shot blocked by Cockburn.
The visitors were on the front foot again after the break, and O’Connell’s free kick was pushed away by the alert Radonich on the hour, then five minutes later Cockburn should have doubled their lead. Jess Lazzaro’s ball into the box was headed back across goal by Skorich, and Sam Cook shot was cleared off the line by Corness. But on 70 minutes, Cockburn did double their lead.
Skorich’s ball into the box was only cleared as far as Gholami, who took a touch and fired home from 20 meters, giving Italiano no chance, and racing off to celebrate with the Cockburn coaching staff. Balcatta weren’t finished and Ajan brought the best out of Radonich moments later, but they couldn’t find away back into the game and it was Cockburn celebrating only their second win on home soil at the final whistle.
Skipper Jesse Lazzaro was delighted with the side’s performance, especially after an injury in the warm up. “We lost our captain Euen in the warm up due to illness but we’re able to get our heads right and put Balcatta on the back foot very early with the goal,” he said. “We defended exceptionally well and Balcatta tried but couldn’t break us down. We added a second after half time and after that we just controlled the tempo and killed the game and we were too solid all round. Fair play to Balcatta they never stopped and always tried to play which was good, but great to get the three points and start climbing up the table to where we probably should be.”
Cockburn City: GK Luke RADONICH, 3 Daniel DOLS (2 Callan BAKER 90’), 7 Ryan PRATT (19 Sam COOK 58’), 9 Anthony SKORICH (6 Dane MEERALLY 84’), 11 Harry O’BRIEN, 12 Sebastian DA SILVA, 14 David Dos SANTOS (18 Adam ANFUSO 46’), 16 Ali GHOLAMI, 21 Jesse LAZZARO, 22 Daniel ROBINSON, 25 Breckan BAKER – Subs not used: RGK Ben RADONICH
Balcatta: GK Lewis ITALIANO, 4 Calum O'CONNELL, 5 Hristijan JANKULOSKI, 6 Carmelo GIUFFRE, 7 Amir AJAN, 8 Jack LEECH, 10 Jon CORNESS, 11 Elliott TATTERSALL (21 Matthew ALESSANDRINO 75’), 12 David PERICH, 13 Anthony TOPINI, 17 Henry DURR - Subs not used: RGK Sebastian MEDICA, 3 David CYRUS, 15 Nick WALSH, 16 Adam FALCONE– Referee: Jatin LODHIA
15.7.2021
MURDOCH WIN THE ‘UNIVERSITY CHALLENGE’ AGAINST CURTIN
Murdoch University Melville have moved to fourth on the State League Division Two table after a 2-1 win in the ‘University Challenge’ against Curtin University at Wormall Civil Stadium at Murdoch Uni on Thursday evening. “I was very pleased with the result, but more so with the attitude of our playing group,” MUM coach Taki Nicolaidis said. “We had to find that little bit extra after going in at halftime 1-0 down, and the lads found it.”
They had to come from behind to seal the win, when Curtin opened the scoring on the half hour, against the run of play, after a good run and finish from the edge of the penalty area from Daniel Nocciolino. But the hosts levelled six minutes into the second half, Ben Pellizzari raced into the box and squared the ball to Alec Robinson, who finished well past Daniel Marques.
Both sides looked for the winner but it was the hosts that found it on 63 minutes. Joshua Cortez was fouled on the edge of the penalty area, and Mark Lucas’ free kick was deflected into his own net by Curtin’s Maninderjeet Singh. “A great win for us, but Curtin pressed late for the equaliser but we shut the game down well in the closing minutes,” Ben Howe said. “That’s two wins from two under Taki so the morale is lifting, we just need to keep winning to keep our playoff hopes alive.”
Murdoch University Melville: GK Tom ALLAN, 4 Mark LUCAS, 5 Ben HOWE, 7 Kai JONES, 8 Pat SARA, 9 Ben PELLIZZARI, 10 Joshua CORTES (13 Jacob FLORES 90’), 12 Thomas SPEZIALI, 14 Dylan URQUHART, 18 Daniel TAIT, 19 Alec ROBINSON (6 Mitchell NORMAN 80’) – Subs not used: 17 Tom STRICKLAND
Curtin University: GK Daniel MARQUES, 2 Jeffrey LEDWITH, 5 Chris SUTTON, 7 Tiago DE SOUZA (4 Liam GOERKE 80’), 8 Antony RUSSO (3 Marc ZAGAMI 68’), 9 Daniel NOCCIOLINO, 10 Daniel DAVEY, 11 Angus CHRISTIE, 12 Craig KAMOCHA, 13 Matthew PASTEGA, 14 Maninderjeet SINGH – Subs not used: 6 Allister GOMES, 16 Todd NYAWAYI, 99 Jake MAUGHAN – Referee: Andre FERREIRA
14.7.2021
KINGSLEY BACK IN THE WINNERS CIRCLE
Kingsley Westside are back in the winner’s circle after a 3- 1 win in the round 13 catch up game against Morley Windmills at Wotton Reserve on Wednesday evening. “Very proud of the boys tonight in very trying conditions,” Kingsley coach Steven Dimitrovich said. “We dominated the game from start to finish and if I’m being honest the score flattered Morley as I felt we could’ve won by more. The most pleasing part about last night is that the boys played lots of belief and positivity last night and that’s been missing the last few weeks so hopefully now that the little kicker that gets us going for rest of season.”
The visitors, who were coming off three straight defeats, took the lead on this one, on 70 minutes. Some good build up play added with a ball into the box which saw Ollie Valentine cut inside his marker and finish into the bottom corner. But Morley, who were coming off a loss at Balga on Saturday, hit back and levelled five minutes later, skipper Leigh Morgan racing clear and finishing low past Peter Stewart. The game was now up for grabs and both sides chased the winner, but it was Kingsley who regained the lead on 83 minutes, Jayden Drummond’s cross from the right picking out second half substitute Simone Sichel who headed home.
Morley pressed for the equaliser, but it was the visitors who wrapped up the points four minutes later. A ball over top from Joel Gillespie was misjudged by the Morley keeper, the ball bouncing over him, and Sichel made no mistake, for his second for the evening. “We started really well and played some good football, all on our terms, and we had a few good chances in the first half just couldn’t put them away,” skipper Drummond said. “Similar into the second half, a couple clear chances we didn’t put away, but credit to the boys we kept the ball on the deck and continued to play and we got rewarded for it.”
Morley Windmills: GK Luke ZIMARINO, 3 Reuden THEW, 4 Danny O’SHEA, 6 Daragh KAVANAGH, 7 Leigh MORGAN, 8 Matteo ROSSI (17 Albert MOMBO 54’), 10 Abu DULLEH, 11 Otto VAN DER POEL, 12 Ryan TREACEY, 13 Gabriele COLLI (2 Marko SAVIC 73’), 20 Evan DEACY - Subs not used: RGK Nathaniel DOWLING, 9 Kuol RIAK, 18 Gianni MAMMONE
Kingsley Westside: GK Peter STEWART, 3 Bailey SALMON, 4 Kieron SALMON (14 Owain THOMAS 63’), 5 Adam O’NEILL, 6 Darren O’RIODAN (12 Nick LOWE 84’), 7 Lewis FLATT, 8 Joel GILLESPIE, 9 Cameron BISHOP, 10 Jayden DRUMMOND, 13 Ollie VALENTINE (2 Simone SICHEL 81’), 16 Jesse HIGGINS – Subs not used: RGK Ben PARTRIDGE, 11 Paul STEWART – Referee: Sailota PHIRI
14.7.2021
JAPAN EDGE MATILDAS 1-0
The Matildas have been defeated 1-9 by Japan in a pre-Olympic Games friendly in Kyoto. The games' solitary game came via the penalty spot, from where Mana Iwabuchi converted following a handball decision against Alanna Kennedy. West Australian trio Lydia Williams, Aivi Luik and Samantha Kerr were all introduced into the action at half-time
14.7.2021
RUKAVYTSYA SET FOR A-LEAGUE RETURN?
Socceroos striker Nikita Rukavytsya is reportedly set to return to the A-League with Melbourne Victory, Western Sydney Wanderers and Perth Glory vying for his signature. The 34-year old is a free agent after leaving Maccabi Haifa where he won back-to-back Israeli Premier League Golden Boots by scoring 41 goals in 64 games across the past two seasons.
Rukavytsya played locally for Inglewood United and Perth SC before heading off on a somewhat nomadic professional career that has seen him play in Australia (Glory, Western Sydney), the Netherlands (FC Twente), Belgium (Roeselare), Germany (Hertha Berlin, Mainz 05, FSV Frankfurt) and Israel (Beitar Jerusalem, Maccabi Haifa).
11.7.2021
BELT UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION - ROUND TWELVE REVIEW
We have a new leader in the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division, with South West Phoenix jumping to the top on goal difference after a 3-0 win at Leeming Strikers, they replaced Maddington White City who could only manage a 2-2 draw at North Perth United. But first to our ‘Match of the Round’ where Quinns kept the pressure on the top two after a hard fought 2-1 win against Queens Park at Coker Park. “Very happy with this result, and our boys played football for 90 minutes and showed great resolve after going a goal down,” Quinns Coach Vinny McMillan said. “Queens Park came to play and were very physical from the off, but I thought our boys controlled the game for the most part and maybe could have had a couple more.”
The hosts were coming off a win at Joondalup last time out, and they hit the front in this one on the half hour, Leigh Bridger finding the net. But Quinns hit back three minutes later, Ryan McCready finding the net after some neat build up, for his 13th goal of the season. Both sides looked for the winner after the break, but it was Quinns who found it, McCready scoring another to seal the three points to maintain third spot on the ladder. Both sides had players sent off late in the game with Queens’ pair Justine Kaupa and Gershom Rowland both received a second yellow card by referee Ammar Timour, likewise Quinns’ Jack Knowles. “The game was spoilt by off the ball challenges and late challenges that the ref failed to control,” Queens Park Coach Ricardo Fynn said. “This resulted in the game being abandoned, and it spoilt a good contest.”
South West Phoenix continued their good form with a solid 3-0 win against Leeming Strikers at John Connell Reserve. They were ahead on 14 minutes, Lee Stewart made space down the left, beat his marker, before rolling the ball across the penalty area for Bright Ababio to score at the back post. They doubled their lead in the final minute of the half, Jarrad Mort feeding Stewart down the left, and he crossed again to Ababio, who made no mistake. They made sure of the points four minutes from time, they broke quickly from a Leeming corner and Kieran Quinn raced forward and played in Stewart, who raced into goal, held off his marker and finished low past the keeper.
“Leeming definitely have a certain playing style and it’s never an easy place to go and get three points so we are pleased to leave with the win on the back of a very solid performance,” Stewart said. “As a team I thought we managed the game very well and scored at the right moments. The boys were brilliant at the back didn’t give them anything which gave us the platform to go and win the game. We have got ourselves into a good position, but with so many teams only separated by a few points we are just focusing on taking it a week at a time and keeping everyone fit and ready for the next game. We’ll recover and then focus on welcoming Jaguars at home on Saturday night.”
Maddington White City let a two-goal lead slip, as well as their lead at the top of the table, after a 2-2 draw with North Perth United at Woodville Reserve. “A fair result in the end, the crowd enjoyed the energy and effort by the players. Maddington needed to win to maintain first place on the ladder and North Perth were determined to take points off us and to reduce our lead. It was a proper battle between two teams with something to play for but in the end, we are probably a little more disappointed given the two nil lead we held at the break,” Maddington’s Petar Mrdja explained.
“Not looking for excuses but that pitch is awful and needs to be improved before someone is seriously injured. The referee managed the game well but some of the challenges were dangerous due to the nature of the pitch. The City of Vincent should be embarrassed with the facilities it provides to its community, it’s not a good look. North Perth deserves more support from the Council with respect to that pitch, especially given how successful they have been over the last few years in representing the area.”
City opened brightly, but United keeper Todd Ross produced some great saves to deny them. But on 39 minutes the visitors did find the opener, Jose Zuniga 20-meter strike was pushed onto the bar by Ross, but the ball cannoned back into the net off the unfortunate keeper. It was 2-0 just before half time, a free kick wasn’t deal with by United, and Pablo Bedin reacted quickest to the loose ball to fire home.
Whatever United coach Luke O’Neill said at half time worked, as United were on the front foot after the break, and they reduced the margin on the hour. David Byrne was brought down in the box, and referee Stewart Beattie pointed straight to the spot. Simon El Chami stepped up, and the former Armadale striker made no mistake. They levelled ten minutes from time, Alex Corner shot crashed off the post, but El Chami was on hand and he volleyed home.
The flag was up for offside but after a chat to his assistant the referee awarded the goal. Both sides had chances to win it late. First Corner eased past a couple City defenders, but his shot was well saved by Ezequiel Vivas Greiner. Then in stoppage time Cesar Ozorco's header flashed inches wide from Gaston Bazet’s free kick. “Our first half was shocking, we couldn’t get anything going and looked like we weren’t up for the fight, at half time the lads got a bit of a bollocking,” North Perth Coach Luke O’Neill explained. “We changed a few things and the boys responded with a great second half performance, the work rate was amazing again.”
Jaguar are up to sixth after a 3-0 win against Kwinana United at Herb Graham Recreation Centre. The hosts hit the front after only 11 minutes, Juma Wade played a lofted ball through to Malek Domkoc, who took a touch to control before placing it past the keeper from close-range. It was 2-0 midway through the half, Deng Akol played a perfectly weighted pass from the left, and Domkoc controlled and took it around the keeper, before finishing low from a tight angle. Kwinana pressed in the second half but they couldn’t find a way past a tight Jags defence and it was the hosts who added a third in stoppage time.
Domkoc made space down the left, eased past his marker and he picked out Mabor Thomas with an inch perfect pass, and he made no mistake. “It was a great game from our point of view, especially after last week’s disappointing performance,” Jaguar keeper Michael Dudek said. “Kwinana have some quality players and luckily we stopped them from being able to play their game. Hopefully we can bring this confidence into next week against the league leaders in Bunbury.”
UWA Nedlands moved to fourth after a hard fought 1-0 win against Joondalup United at the UWA Sports Park. The only goal of the game came in the third minute of stoppage time at the end of the game. The hosts won a corner, which was initially cleared by Joondalup back out to the corner taker, the ball was then played back into the penalty area and Manu Dominguez controlled the ball on his chest, before finding the bottom corner, much to the delight of his teammates. "Joondalup gave us a really tough game today and we were lucky to come away with the three points, UWA skipper Langdon Heath said. “They pushed really hard in the second half and had plenty of chances but we held firm and snatched the win at the end."
In the final game Wembley Downs put a difficult week behind them to beat Hamersley Rovers 4-1 at Len Shearer Reserve. Their clubroom and facilities were flooded after the downpour last week, and they were grateful to MUM FC for letting them use their ground for this one. James Kilbee gave them the lead from the spot after 20 minutes, but Rovers were level before half time with Abdul Kamara scoring. But Wembley took control after the break with Kilbee adding another, before David Marshall added a brace late to seal a comprehensive win.
10.7.2021
BALCATTA PAY THE PENALTY AT GWELUP
Gwelup Croatia have reignited their top four hopes and ended a four-game run without a win, after a 3-1 win against Balcatta in our 'Match of the Round' at Wishart Street. The hosts raced to a two-goal lead with Jon Stynes scoring from the spot early, and Gustavo Giron-Marulanda added another penalty just before the half hour. Stynes added his second early in the second half, and although Balcatta substitute Hamza Hina pulled one back for the visitors, Trevor Morgan’s side were worthy winners. “It’s great to get a win after a long run of draws,” Gwelup striker Jon Stynes said. “We need to use this momentum and carry it into the upcoming games.”
Balcatta had new keeper Lewis Italiano in goal, the keeper on loan from Newcastle Jets, but he was beaten after only five minutes after Antony Topini bundled down Oli La Galia, and referee Tom Glavovic pointed straight to the spot, and Stynes stepped up and found the bottom corner. It was 2-0 on the half hour, when Italiano brought down Giron-Marulanda and Glavovic pointed to the spot again. This time the Colombian striker picked himself up to score the resulting penalty.
It looked the points were safe on 56 minutes when Gwelup added a third. Declan Hargreaves corner was cleared straight back to him, and his ball into the box picked out Stynes, who headed home. Balcatta scored a consolation goal ten minutes from time, Calum O’Connell’s corner was headed back across goal by David Cyrus to Jon Corness, who shot was turned home by substitute Hina, but it wasn’t enough.
“It was one of our better team performances of the season with no real stand out displays just a very gritty determined performance,” Gwelup coach Trevor Morgan said. “We defended set plays well as Balcatta had good quality and movement on their free kicks and corners and we had to concentrate and work hard against those qualities. We deserved the win and now have to take that forward into our next game at Rockingham and try to get ourselves up towards the top four.”
In other games on the day, Balcatta won the under 18s game 3-1, with Liam Ellison scoring twice, and another to Emmanuel Brando, while Seb Ivanoski scored for the hosts. Balcatta also won the 20s game with Matthew Alessandrino bagging a brace.
Gwelup Croatia: GK Ben RATAJCZAK, 2 Ciaran SALINGER, 4 Tom SOUTHGATE, 5 Blair GOVAN, 6 Declan HARGREAVES, 8 Jon STYNES, 11 Ethan BROOKS, 14 Shubham MOKALA, 18 Gustavo GIRON MARULANDA, 20 Sam MITCHINSON, 29 Oli LA GALIA - Subs not used: RGK Malek KUC, 3 Adam FIELDS, 12 Hasani SINLAIR, 23 Ethan QUARTERMAINE, 45 Sebastian HOOSHANGIAN
Balcatta: GK Lewis ITALIANO, 3 David CYRUS, 4 Calum O'CONNELL, 5 Hristijan JANKULOSKI, 7 Amir AJAN, 8 Jack LEECH, 10 Jon CORNESS, 12 David PERICH, 13 Anthony TOPINI, 16 Adam FALCONE, 17 Henry DURR - Subs not used: RGK Sebastian MEDICA, 9 Hamza HINA 11 Elliott TATTERSALL, 14 Nicholas MESSINA, 15 Nick WALSH – Referee: Tom GLAVOVIC
10.7.2021
GULLS WIN THE DERBY LATE
A goal two minutes into stoppage time from Sorrento substitute Jordan Pokler has seen Sorrento beat ECU Joondalup 3-2 in the City of Joondalup Derby at the ECU Football Stadium. Danny Hodgson had given the hosts the lead early, but Scott Witschge levelled before the break. Witschge put Jamie Harnwell’s side in front early in the second half but Hodgson restored parity for Kenny Lowe’s side, before Pokler had the final word, leaving last season’s champions out of the top four for the first time this season.
“Delight to get the three points, and it’s been a while since we won here,” Sorrento coach Jamie Harnwell said post-match. “The boys put a great shift today, they knew they would have to work hard, and we had a number of players missing today. ECU had a fair amount of the ball, but we defended well and looked dangerous on the counter attack, and I’m really proud of the boys today.”
It was the visitors who were on the front foot early, with Witschge having an early sighter firing just wide after only two minutes, and moments later they went even closer. Former ECU midfielder Ollie Annis whipped in a teasing free kick which flicked off the head of defender Luke Palmateer and hit the base of the far post and away to safety.
But in their first real attack it was the Jacks who opened the scoring on 15 minutes. It came from a Sorrento corner, and a quick break from Andy Higgins saw him feed Daryl Nicol down the left, who raced into the box and unselfishly crossed to Hodgson at the back post, who scored from close range. But Sorrento hit back and were level ten minutes later. A long ball from Neil Gillies was flicked on by Chris Jackson, and Witschge raced into goal, his first effort was blocked by Johnny Perkins, but the striker got to the rebound to roll the ball into an empty net.
The game was end-to-end, but the pitch wasn’t the best to play football on, with the rain earlier in the week leaving it in a poor condition. But the chances still kept coming, Jackson saw a shot saved low at his near post by Perkins, before Chris Harold curled over the top from the edge of the box. The hosts thought they had a penalty four minutes before half time, Tom Hough sending Hodgson clear, he raced into the area and seemed to be pushed in the back by David Stokoe, but referee Shane Skinner was well placed to wave away their protests.
It was Sorrento who hit the front for the first time, ten minutes into the second half. Jacks’ defender Jeremy Tshongo saw his clearance go straight to Witschge just outside the penalty area, and he made him pay, finishing low past Perkins. But ECU restored parity on 66 minutes, Harold slipped Riley Woodcock into the left side of the penalty area, his shot was saved low by Connor Campbell, but the Hodgson was in the right place to fire home the rebound for his tenth goal of the season. Perkins then had to be alert, making a smart save to deny Witschge a hat-trick moments later, before Campbell was out quickly to save at the feet of Hodgson, as the game opened up.
The Gulls had the ball in the net on 83 minutes, Jordan Roberts turning the ball home, but the flag was up for offside. Sorrento were ending the game the better and when Annis picked out second half substitute Daniel Faichney, who first shot was blocked by Perkins, and the keeper pounced on the his second. But it was Sorrento who won it two minutes into stoppage time. Dean Cummings sent Roberts down the right, and his low cross was turned home by the unmarked Pokler at the back post.
In the other games on the day, Sorrento won the under 18s 5-3. Phoenix Lee bagged a brace and others to Kai Matthews, Zech Dabbs and Brodie Roberts, while for ECU Brayden Tierney, Prince Magombedze and Reg Saungweme were on target. Sorrento also won the 20s game 3-2, with goals from Ethan Banks, Thomas Abraham and Joe Tweats, while Ben Rutter and Oliver Makin scored for the hosts.
ECU Joondalup: GK Johnny PERKINS, 2 Jeremy TSHONGO, 4 Declan HUGHES, 6 Riley WOODCOCK, 8 Tom HOUGH, 9 Daryl NICOL, 10 Andy HIGGINS, 11 Chris HAROLD (3 Nelson TSHONGO 72’), 12 Jakub PRAJZA, 17 Danny HODGSON, 18 Luke PALMATEER – Subs not used: RGK Joe POLLARD, 5 Kaelan MAJEKS, 7 Jason PETRIE, 13 Ben RUTTER
Sorrento: GK Connor CAMPBELL, 2 David STOKOE, 6 Chris JACKSON (14 Jordan POKLER 55’), 8 Scott WITSCHGE (3 Daniel FAICHNEY 77’), 10 Ollie ANNIS, 11 Tim HILL, 15 Tristan STEVENS, 17 Dean CUMMINGS, 18 Jordan BROWN, 20 Jordan ROBERTS (12 Joe TWEATS 90+2’), 23 Neil GILLIES – Subs not used: RGK Patrick HUGHES, 19 Jaxon TEMATA - Referee: Shane SKINNER
10.7.2021
INGLEWOOD UP TO FOURTH AFTER BEATING LEAGUE LEADERS
Inglewood United climbed to fourth on the NPL WA ladder, and extended league leaders Floreat Athena’s losing streak to three games, after a 4-2 win at the Inglewood Stadium on Saturday. The hosts raced to a three-goal lead at the break, with goals from Steve Sokol, Robert Petkov and Jason Barrera. Half time substitute Manase Abandelwa pulled one back for the visitors early in the second half, but Petkov made sure of the win netting on the hour, before Floreat pulled another back fifteen minutes from time with Mark Barnett turning the ball into his own net.
“Good win that was needed to stay in touch with the top four,” Inglewood coach Andres Oliveira said. “Floreat are excellent team, that’s why they are on top of the league, but I know what Inglewood are capable of doing and the players show it. We deserved the win from the way we played and our goalkeeper JJ had made some excellent saves to keep us on top.”
Inglewood made the best possible start, opening the scoring after only four minutes. Ajak Riak won a couple of tough tackles in the middle of the park before finding Petkov, who slipped Sokol in on goal, and the leading goalscorer made no mistake past Jason Saldaris. Floreat looked for an immediate response but Sean McManus was denied by Josiah Godfrey, before Rob Harding hit the post, but their profligacy came back to haunt them with Inglewood doubling their lead on 39 minutes.
It looked like little danger, when Petkov won possession on the half way line, but he spotted the Floreat keeper of his line and his lob found the net, despite Saldaris getting a hand to it. It became 3-0 moments later, Sokol bursting into the box after eluding two Floreat defenders and cutting the ball back to Barrera who finished low past Saldaris.
Floreat needed a lift and they pulled one back early in the second half, substitute Abandelwa scoring from a free kick from the edge of the box, his first goal for the club after his move from Armadale. But on the hour Inglewood made sure of the points when they added a fourth. Anthony Bafobusha’s corner was met by Barnett, his header well saved by Saldaris, but Petkov was quickest to the rebound to stab the ball home. Floreat scored a consolation goal late, Phil Arnold’s corner was headed back across goal by Nick Ambrogio, the ball deflecting into the net off the unfortunate Barnett, but it was too little too late.
“A brilliant result for us, and it’s been a long time coming, to find our feet this season but in traditional style it always comes towards the back end of the season for us when it really matters. I felt we really capitalised on Floreat’s poor run of form and showed that in the first half,” Inglewood defender Mark Barnett explained. “It still wasn’t our best performance and we still have so much more to give. We are a top two team and that’s where we need to be to be satisfied for this season. Full credit to our forwards and midfield who put in a huge effort in to press their defence for the 90 minutes and never gave up. We deserved to win and the score line showed it, although still conceding two goals, I felt floreat didn’t really pressure us that much and they had one great free kick and an own goal.”
In other games on the day Inglewood United won the 18s 4-2, with Zhan Jankulovski, Luke Radis, Gordon Perkins and Joshua Baiardo scoring, with Shay Natalotto bagging a brace for Floreat. The hosts also won the 20s game, with goals from Darko Ristoskim, Toby Robertson and Adrian Manno giving them a 3-1 win, with M Abdipanah scoring for Floreat.
Inglewood United: GK Josiah GODFREY, 2 Alex ISHIDA-LIVINGS, 3 Giovanni SOARES, 5 Thiak KUEL (4 Scott BLACKMORE 79’), 7 Ajak RIAK (11 Egide NGENDAKUMANU 85’), 8 Jason BARRERA (6 Andres THEODOSIADES 65’), 9 Robert PETKOV (15 Roberto SOARES 85’), 10 Anthony BAFOBUSHA, 12 Roberto Del BORRELLO, 14 Steve SOKOL, 17 Mark BARNETT – Sub not used: 13 Brodie LANGAN
Floreat Athena: GK Jason SALDARIS, 2 Marco SANTALUCIA, 8 Sean MCMANUS, 9 Robert HARDING 10 Nick AMBROGIO, 11 Dennis GALAN, 12 Jawad REZAI, 13 George FESTA, 15 Chris SALDARIS, 18 Phil ARNOLD, 20 Andrew PALMER (74’) - Subs not used: RGK Joshua HUNTER, 4 Ben STEELE, 6 Jesse FULLER, 16 Kyle MURRAY 19 Manase ABANDELWA - Referee: Stewart BEATTIE
10.7.2021
ROCKINGHAM PUT ON A FIVE STAR SHOW AT ARMADALE
Rockingham City new coach Lee Taylor has got off to the best possible start to his tenure, beating the inform Armadale 5-0 at Alfred Skeet Reserve. The hosts had beaten top four sides Sorrento and ECU Joondalup in their last two games, and City were eight points adrift at the bottom of the table, but it was Rockingham who dominated on the scoreboard. Feisal Zaw gave them the lead at the break, and an own goal from Friday Zico doubled their lead on the hour. The hosts then had Cherno Bah sent off two minutes later, and the visitors took over with Hamish van Dieken scoring from the spot, Zaw added his second and Harry Bolan rounded off the scoring five minutes from time.
“We were excellent from the first minute, we were able to adapt to the difficult pitch well and dominated the game,” a delighted Rockingham coach Lee Taylor said. “It was good to see us score some goals and if I'm honest it could have been more than five. We’re taking it one game at a time and look forward to going up against a very good Gwelup side next Sunday.”
It was a tight opening with both sides having half chances, but on the half hour it was Rockingham who opened the scoring, skipper Ryan Kennedy crossing to Zaw who made no mistake. City, who had only one win so far this season doubled their advantage 13 minutes into the second half. Van Dieken’s corner was headed back across goal by Bolan and the unfortunate Zico’s attempted clearance went into his own net. Rockingham kept the pressure on and added a third four minutes later.
Bah lost possession on the edge of the box, and he raced back to tackle Zaw, but he dragged him down and referee Julian Serra pointed straight to the spot, and after a chat to his assistant deemed him to be the last man and sent the striker off. Van Dieken stepped up and buried the spot kick into the bottom corner of the net. Rockingham then added a fourth, fifteen minutes from time, Kennedy’s quick free kick caught Armadale napping and zaw raced into the box and finished clinically past Yousri Gharsallah.
The visitors completed the scoring four minutes from time, Bolan losing his marker to head home to seal a comprehensive win. ‘I think it all just seemed to click for us on Saturday,” Zaw said. “It's always hard facing Armadale at home, and they've been in some great form as of late so we knew it was going to be difficult but we were able to execute the game plan perfectly. Hopefully we can string together some strong performances in the remaining games.”
In other games on the day Armadale won the under 18’s game 5-1, Jess Grese scored a brace, with Seagh Harris, Alex Fisher and own goal, with Josh Bartler scoring for City. It was Rockingham who won the 20s game 2-1, with Jesse Roberts and Cody Heslop scoring, while Juan Manolo Barrera scored for the hosts.
Armadale: GK Yousri GHARSALLAH, 3 Andy REALE, 4 Nathan COSTELLO (13 Filippo GIOFFRE 76’), 9 Angel ANDRES, 10 Isaac KOOMSON (7 Angel DIAZ 87’), 11 Chad NILSON (14 Blake ADAMS 87’), 12 Callum MELLOWSHIP, 15 Cherno BAH, 18 Kevin ASHWOOD, 19 Vladimir NAUMOVSKI (20 Adriano JELENOVIC 57’), 23 Friday ZICO – Subs not used: RGK Michael CRAGGS – Red Card: Bah 62’
Rockingham City: GK Cyril SHARROCK, 2 Ian NG, 6 Harry BOLAN, 7 Feisal ZAW (12 Fraser MARR 86’), 8 Hamish VAN DIEKEN, 11 Luke COLLINS, 14 Jethro YUMANGE, 19 Noah WITTSTROM LEA, 20 Dylan ROGERS (28 Harvey HANCOCK 79’), 21 Joseph MOSS, 26 Ryan KENNEDY (9 Christos VAENAS 83’) - Subs not used: RGK Bradley STOUT, 4 Dieudonne SUMAIL – Referee: Julian SERRA
10.7.2021
ALL-SQUARE AT DALMATINAC PARK
Perth Glory extended their unbeaten run to four games, but had to settle for a 1-1 draw against Cockburn City at Dalmatinac Park. The hosts, who were coming off a win at Rockingham City last time out, opened the scoring early through Jesse Lazzaro, but Glory levelled midway through the second half, with Ciaran Bramwell bagging his first goal of the season. Cockburn ended the game with ten men after Julian Teles was sent off, but they held on for the point. The result extends Glory’s unbeaten run to five games and leaves them level on points with fourth-placed Inglewood United.
Glory headed into the game buoyed by impressive back-to-back wins over Floreat Athena and Bayswater City, but found themselves trailing inside the opening six minutes when an indirect free-kick was awarded to City on the six-yard line following a double touch on a goal-kick and having had the ball nudged into his path, Lazzaro rifled it into the net. Chances then came and went at either end before the visitors restored parity after the break.
Aidan Edwards slipped the ball into the box where Bramwell turned his marker neatly with his first touch and picked out the back of the net with his second. Referee Matthew Southern, meanwhile, had been kept busy dealing with a number of flashpoints during a decidedly fractious contest and he eventually produced a red card deep into stoppage-time as City's Julian Teles received his marching orders.
“I thought we played really well, defended superbly for the whole 90 minutes,” Cockburn striker Anthony Skorich said. “They had more possession but didn’t really create too much which is credit to all the boys the way we pressed over the game. It was a good turn around after the first game we played against them earlier in the season and I thought we were quite dangerous on the counter. This will give us a good boost in confidence and I think we’re in a good position to pick up quite a lot of points for the remainder of the season.”
In the other games on the day goals from skipper John Lardis, Corey Sutherland and Royie Rahamim gave Perth Glory 18s a 3-0 win. Glory also won the 20s 3-1, with goals from Matthew George, Joe Hobson and Lucas Rossi, while Milan Bulatovic scored for the hosts.
Cockburn City: GK Luke RADONICH, 3 Daniel DOLS (14 David Dos SANTOS 73’), 4 Euen GRANT, 5 Julian TELES, 9 Anthony SKORICH (7 Ryan PRATT 56’), 11 Harry O’BRIEN, 12 Sebastian DOS SANTOS, 16 Ali GHOLAMI, 21 Jesse LAZZARO, 22 Daniel ROBINSON, 25 Breckan BAKER – Subs not used: RGK Ben RADONICH, 6 Sam COOK, 20 Alessandro BASTO – Red Card: Teles 90+3’
Perth Glory: GK Cameron COOK, 2 Will FORMSTON, 3 Aiden COYNE, 4 Jacob MUIR, 5 Joseph FORDE, 6 Chris DONNELL (16 Andrew MARANTA 56’), 7 Charlie LEECH (14 Joshua ANASMO 59’), 8 Aidan EDWARDS (15 Mason TATAFU 82’), 9 Ciaran BRAMWELL, 10 Giordano COLLI, 11 Adam ZIMARINO – Subs not used: RGK Casey ROBERTSON, 17 Daniel BENNIE - Referee: Matthew SOUTHERN
10.7.2021
PERTH CLOSE IN ON LEAGUE LEADERS
Perth SC moved within one point of NPL WA leaders Floreat Athena, after a comfortable 4-1 win against Bayswater City, in the Italian derby at Frank Drago Reserve. Calvin Whiney opened the scoring from the spot early, before former City midfielder Jayden Gorman doubled their lead at the break. Michael Zimarino pulled one back for the hosts, but that’s as good as it got, with Whitney added a third, and Alex Silla wrapped up the points in stoppage time. “We were very pleased with the intensity we injected into the Bayswater game, and we were looking for a strong start and it paid off when we got an early lead,” Head Coach Ramon Falzon said.
“Maintaining that type of tempo for the entire game is hard to achieve, however our players did their best to keep the pressure on our opposition. Credit to Bayswater who did not give up when they were 2-0 down and they kept persisting to sneak a goal to get them back in the game. With the 2-1 score-line early in the second half, our players handled the situation very well because we made sure to limit the damage during their good spells, and more importantly we showed our ruthlessness in front of goal to finish off the game 4-1.”
Perth made the perfect start and were ahead on six minutes, Michael Domfeh was brought down by Nic Speca, and referee Steven Gregory pointed straight to the spot, Whitney stepped up and sent Speca the wrong way from the resulting penalty. It was 2-0 on the half hour, Kristian Santich’s free kick was headed back across goal by Domfeh and Gorman scored from close-range. The hosts lost influential midfielder Gordon Smith just before half time, but at the break they were two goals down and had it all to do.
But Gareth Naven’s side found a lifeline ten minutes into the second half, Ndumba Makeche sent Tyler Garner down the right, he crossed to Zimarino who made no mistake. But Perth regained their two-goal advantage on 68 minutes, Whitney outmuscled Steven Hesketh, raced into the penalty area and finished low past Speca at his near post for his seventh goal of the season for the former Perth Glory Youth midfielder. They wrapped the points in stoppage time, Gorman crossing to Silla who finished from close-range.
In other games on the day Perth SC won the 18s 2-1, with skipper Alex Da Rocha and Rory Betts scoring, with William Gallagher scoring for the hosts. The under 20s game ended in a 0-0 draw.
Bayswater City: GK Nic SPECA, 2 Lucas COOK, 3 Jack ALLEN, 4 Michael ZIMARINO (23 Daniel KATZ 76’), 7 Ndumba MAKECHE, 8 Gordon SMITH (18 Fraser DUNLOP 42’), 11 Ryan PEARSON, 12 Steven HESKETH (5 Albert FULLARD 80’), 13 Jordan ABRAHAMS, 28 Konstantinos SPARTA, 29 Tyler GARNER – Subs not used: RGK George JACKSON, 21 Leonard GAMA
Perth SC: GK Ryan MONTGOMERY, 2 Alex SILLA, 4 Lachlan BYRD, 6 Nik MCDONALD, 10 Michael DOMFEH, 13 Calvin WHITNEY, 15 Will GORDON, 16 Kieran COLWELL, 19 Ben RADINOVIC, 20 Kristian SANTICH, 21 Jayden GORMAN – Subs not used: RGK Adrian SINAGRA, 8 David ZIVKOVIC, 12 Sam FLORES, 14 Emerson ALEXIS 17 Aiden FORMSTON – Referee: Steven GREGORY
10.7.2021
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE ROUND FOURTEEN – REVIEW
Stirling Macedonia continue to lead the State League Division One, after a huge 6-2 win against second placed Quinns in our ‘Match of the Round’ at Macedonia Park on Saturday afternoon. “It was a massive win,” Stirling keeper James Bosdet said. “We knew going into the game it was a six pointer but to win so convincingly sends a big statement to the league. It was a great performance from the boys and great support from the fans as always.” The home side were ahead after only two minutes, former Perth Glory Youth striker Alex Tanevski on target, following Gavin Knights’ free kick had hit the bar. He was in again on 14 minutes, after being picked out by Knight’s cut back.
The visitors suffered a huge blow just before half time when Adam Tong was sent off by referee Walter Ciotti. But the ten-men hit back and Kade Fearnall reduced the margin on the hour mark, for his fifth goal of the season. But Stirling weren’t finished and they regained their two-goal lead with Hugo Snowden scoring from the spot to make it 3-1 on 76 minutes. Quinns never took a backward step and Glen Grostate’s side pulled another one back when Reece Abrams scored, but it would be the home side that would end the game the better, and moments later substitute Dhuors Chols added a fourth.
Before late goals from Shay Donovan and Asher Nelson, sealed a comprehensive win for Ian Ferguson’s side. “We were very pleased to get a convincing win against our close competitors and although we weren’t happy to have conceded our subs came off the beach and made a difference in crunch time as they have done time and time again,” Stirling defender Brent Quick said. “It was also a relief to stay in front and not have to chase the game for a change.’
Western Knights are up to second after a narrow 1-0 win against Subiaco at Rosalie Park. The only goal of the game on 24 minutes and against the run of play. A throw in by Ryan Cox into the box, and then Ciaran Byrne controlled the ball and took the defender on and scored clinically. Knights coach Ivan Zuvela was delighted with his side’s performance. “I thought it was our toughest game all year, and I thought it was our best win all year,” he explained. “We ground through a very tough Subiaco side, defended very well as a team. We certainly didn’t play the best, but really pleased to get the three points in the end.”
Fremantle City are up to fifth after a hard-fought 1-0 win against Joondalup United at Forrest Park. The only goal of the game came on 67 minutes, a misplaced back pass from Joondalup midfielder Brad McDonald sent Adrian Ciampini in on goal and he lobbed over the oncoming Joe Smith to seal the win. “It was a battling performance, one that we had to grind and fight until the very end,” Fremantle coach Cameron Lord said. “We need more of this type of performance and desire for the remainder of the season if we are to finish in the Top Four cup.”
UWA Nedlands and Olympic Kingsway have fought out a 0-0 draw at the UWA Sports Park. Olympic Coach David Tough said it continues their recent good form. “It was tough conditions, and the pitch was really cut up, after the two games before, but it was the same for both sides, and to be fair neither team created much,” Tough explained. “They (UWA) sat back and played on the counter attack, but I thought we coped really well. We came away with a point, and that’s only one defeat in the last seven games, but we need to be more ruthless in the final third.”
UWA’s Bryce Conway said he thought they deserved more, but had to settle for a point. “Disappointed with the result considering the chances we had to grab all three points. But that’s now five unbeaten, so we’ll take that momentum into the break and be ready for a strong second half to the season,” he explained. “Huge credit to our young keeper Peter Pilkadaris who hasn’t conceded in the last five matches, he’s been massive for us in this recent run.”
Swan United have given their season a huge boost after beating Mandurah City 1-0 at Francis Street. The only goal in this one came on ten minutes, Brennan Borzecki found John Monterosso on the right of the penalty area and he made no mistake firing across Mandurah keeper Dylan Wilson. “Delighted with the boy’s performance and obviously very pleased to get the much needed three points. It’s no secret that we have been through a tough run but to the boys’ credit they haven’t stopped working at training and finally we were rewarded with a good result at home,” Swan coach Dan Evans said.
“It was a tight game, but I thought we deserved our lead at the break. To Mandurah’s credit they had us on the back foot for large parts of the second half and our boys defended well and were able to absorb a lot of pressure. I was happy with our game management and our one first half goal ended up to be enough on the day. I have a lot of respect for the Mandurah set up, they play competitive football and we enjoyed the contest throughout.”
Forrestfield United have also given their season a lift with a 3-0 win against Ashfield at Crazy Domains Stadium, at Hartfield Park. They were ahead after only eight minutes, Moses Macauley making space down the right and his cross to the back post was turned home Dan Corbett, who went on to do a ‘Gazza’ impression from Euro 96’. Corbett added his second from the spot on 34 minutes, Luqman Sayyed throw found the striker in the box and fell under a tackle from Lewis Robinson and the referee pointed the spot, and Corbett picked himself up and sent Jamie Serra the wrong way from the resulting penalty.
They wrapped up the points on 68 minutes, Oliver Parry sent Macauley down the right and his pinpoint cross was headed home superbly by Corbett to complete his hat trick. “Great result for us in what was probably our most important game of the season to date, and we played really well and got the rewards for a good performance,” skipper Rhys Loxley explained. “Despite our ladder position, the team are in good spirits and have confidence that this result will enable us to kick on with our season and start picking up a few more points to finish off the season in a positive fashion.”
10.7.2021
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO ROUND FOURTEEN – REVIEW
Our State League Division Two ‘Match of the Round’ didn’t disappoint, with Gosnells City and Wanneroo City fighting out an entertaining 2-2 draw at Walter Padbury Reserve. “The game started well for us getting an early goal but a lapse in concentration let them back into the game,” Wanneroo coach Jesse Bridgeman said. “We then got off to a bad start in the second half conceding early on, but I thought we took control of the game after that got the equaliser but just failed to get the winner in the dying stages of the game so disappointed to drop two points but still a valuable one, and the boys showed good character to keep going after going a goal down early after the break.” Wanneroo were ahead after only four minutes, Kye Douglas getting on the end of James Spurry free kick to head home. But Gosnells hit back 13 minutes later, skipper Scott Pereira intercepted a back pass and rounded the Wanneroo keeper Jakeb Seppings and fired home from a tight angle.
The hosts hit the front eight minutes into the second half, Jordan Parfitt rising highest to head home from a corner. But on the hour Wanneroo restored parity, Spurry’s set piece finished off well by Simon Burt. Both sides pressed for the winner but could find it, the best chance falling to the host two minutes from time. A quick break from Edward Wynne-Willson saw him upended by Lucas White, but the ball rolled to Parfitt in on goal, but the referee didn’t play advantage, blowing for a free kick and booking the defender, much to the displeasure of the Gosnells coach Marc Anthony. “A hard-fought game somewhat spoiled by the referee who was only too happy to hand out yellow cards,” Anthony said. “And blatantly should have allowed play to run especially in the dying minutes of the game where he got a major call, in my opinion, wrong.”
League leaders Dianella White Eagles continue to take all before them, the latest was a 5-0 win against Carramar Shamrock Rovers at Grandis Park, to move them 14 points clear. They were ahead in this one early Sasa Njegic cross from the right picked out Nikola Talimdzioski who finished from close-range. Moments later it was 2-0, Rovers only cleared the ball to Kristian Despotovski 20 meters from goal and he took a touch before volleying into the top corner of the net giving keeper Daniel Holgate no chance. They added a third on the half hour, Despotovski’s corner was headed back across goal by Bobby Wilson and David Heagney was hand finish well.
It was 4-0 ten minutes into the second half, Njegic and Heagney combined to find Despotovski, who clearly chipped the keeper for his second for the game. The icing was put on the cake just after the hour with a fifth, Despotovski sending Heagney clear and the striker rounded the keeper to score his 15th goal of the season. “We knew that coming into this game that we owed Shamrock from the first time we played them as they took points of us,” Despotovski said. “We wanted to start the game bright and energetic which we were successful in doing, we shut them down in almost every area and we enjoyed a lot of the ball. I’d say it’s one of our best performances we have had as a team, we just wanted to keep winning games and thankfully we did this week.”
Taki Nicolaidis made a winning start as coach at Murdoch University Melville, when his side beat third placed Kingsley Westside 2-0 at Chichester Park on Saturday evening. They were ahead six minutes before the break, with former Armadale winger Joshua Cortes scoring. They wrapped all three points on the hour, with Dion Berman scoring the win consolidating fifth spot on the ladder. “I thought the playing group was very determined to turn our season around and thoroughly deserved the win,” Nicolaidis said. “We need to make sure we back it up on Thursday evening against Curtin.”
Kelmscott Roos have won their first game at home for the season, after a 1-0 win against Curtin University at Frye Park. The only goal of the game came on 32 minutes, high pressure saw Curtin under hit a back pass to the keeper and Phillip Park nipped in, and the attempted clearance from the keeper hit the striker and rolled into the net. Curtin had the chance to level but Kelmscott keeper Jack Adams saved a penalty, and coach Warren Smith was delighted for his side. “Finally, we got the win at home and it has been a long time coming, we have been so close for a number of weeks,” he said. “This is what we needed as a club it was getting hard week in week out not getting the results we deserve. Now we can believe and continue to get ourselves out of trouble. Delighted for the lads who have been great this season and special mention to Jack (Adams) for his penalty save.”
Balga are up to sixth after a 2-0 win against Morley Windmills in the "John Aufdemkampe Trophy" at Princess Road Reserve. The hosts were ahead just before half time, Bleron Mamudi curing home superbly into the top corner of the net from the edge of the box. Morley were reduced to ten men when referee Albert Muyembe sent Alex Galipo off nine minutes into the second half and Balga won it five minutes from time. Meng Chroek racing clear and finished clinically into the bottom corner. Morley ended the game with nine players after keeper Luke Hutcheson was given his marching orders just after the final whistle.
“It was good to see that after two consecutive wins our team gained confidence and therefore, we controlled the game over 90 minutes. Despite the high individual quality of Morley-Windmills players our keeper had only to make one save in the entire game,” Balga coach Gerhard Janssen explained. “We showed a solid defensive performance after we conceded three goals the week before against Canning. Of course, our boys want more now and can’t wait to play against the best team of the league in Dianella, so it’s good for us to have the little break and our injured players can recover and return to action.”
Joondalup City have fought back from two goals down to beat Canning City 3-2 at the Iluka Sports Complex. The visitors hit the front early with Ryan Moran converting from the spot, and it looked like the points were safe when Sabin Shrestha added a second, twenty minutes from time. But Joondalup pulled one back three minutes later, Jonny Hulme sent a great ball into the box and Nick Koefler headed unchallenged into an open net. That goal turned the game and one minute from time the hosts levelled, Hulme’s cross was punched clear by Alec Radonich, but the ball was sent back into the area and was poked over the line by the alert Koefler.
It looked like the points would be shared but two minutes into stoppage time Joondalup won it. Radonich produced a great save from a shot from outside the box, but the rebound fell kindly to Hulme, who finished from close-range to set off wild celebrations on and off the pitch. “It was an absolute must win game for us against Canning our season has struggled to recover from a harsh forfeit against them in round three,” coach Brad Haywood said. “It was great to have Luke Wilson back in the team after missing out last season due to an injury sustained in the Night Series. His experience is valuable to us going into a fight for points in the last 7-8 games of the season. Nigel (Smith) and the boys didn’t give up on the day and settle for a draw and we got our just desserts from a heart stopping game of football.”
9.7.2021
MACARTHUR LOCK IN DE SILVA FOR TWO YEARS
A-League club Macarthur FC have bolstered their attacking stocks with the signing of playmaker Daniel De Silva for the next two seasons. Widely regarded as one of Australia’s best young attackers, the 24-year old midfielder joins Central Coast following stints with Perth Glory, Roda JC (the Netherlands) and, most recently, Central Coast Mariners. He also was a junior product at Inglewood United, Kingsway Olympic and Stirling Macedonia prior to joining the Glory youth system.
De Silva will bring plenty of attacking prowess to the Bulls after putting away 4 goals and contributing 3 assists across 21 appearances for Central Coast last season. He has represented Australia on 33 occasions in the Under-17s, 20s and 23s and was included in the initial 43-man Socceroo squad for the 2015 AFC Asian Cup under Ange Postecoglou.
"I was really attracted to the exciting brand of football the team plays. Ante's (coach Ante Milicic) style was really appealing for me, and I’m excited for the season," commented De Silva. "Coming into the team, I'm hoping to add further polish to the final product in the front third."
"It was quite daunting as an away player coming to Campbelltown with so many cowbells ringing, so it'll be nice to be on the other side of that. Hopefully, I can provide the members and fans with plenty of moments to ring the bells this season. The more support we get, the louder the stadium is, the more daunting it will become for travelling teams."
De Silva's signature is a sign of Milicic's desire to build on the strong foundations laid in the clubs' inaugural season, when they were just one game away from a Grand Final appearance. "Both (assistant coach) Ivan Jolic and I have worked with Daniel previously, and we know the type of professional he is and what he will bring to our football club," said Milicic.
"He is a player with plenty of ambition and provides us good mobility in the attacking third. Now at a good age, Daniel is starting to fulfil his potential, and in our environment, we believe he can take it to the next level." De Silva's recruitment comes just a few days after Macarthur secured 2020/21 Johnny Warren Medal winner Ulises Dávila on a three-season deal.
9.7.2021
MAYNARD-BREWER OLYMPICS BOUND
It’s been a huge six years for Olyroos keeper Ashley Maynard-Brewer, the 22-year-old left Perth in 2015 to try his luck in the UK, and he hasn’t looked back and his reward was selection in Graham Arnold's 22-player squad for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games Men's Football Tournament. The UK-born keeper has signed a new deal at his English Championship club Charlton Athletic, after impressing on loan at a number of clubs, and some stellar performances for the Addicks under 23’s.
But the youngster was met with challenges in the early days, with isolation from friends and family, but emerged from those too shine at the Valley, and he spoke to socceroos.com.au about his move to the English Capital. “I went from the western suburbs of Floreat, to Bexleyheath in South-East London," he said.
"It was tough to get used to, but I think it was good in a way that I was away from friends and family and I could just focus on football, which was really tough but it created a perfect environment for me to progress.
"Luckily, I had relatives living in St Albans which is just outside North London, which gave me a place to go on the weekend and still be around family. The first few years, especially when I was 15, 16 when I first moved over to Charlton in the UK, I had a very negative approach to when I was playing. Whenever I went out (to play) I was just trying to get by and not make a mistake, not make a fool of myself, I guess. I think as I got older, I realised mistakes are part of the game, but you’ve got to focus on every situation itself. Just go out and try and do the right things, not try and avoid making mistakes because mistakes are always going to happen."
All his hard work and dedication has been rewarded, and his father Jason Brewer, said he is delighted to see Ashley’s selection in the Olyroos squad. “It's amazing to see him representing Australia at the Olympics and really is a testament to the hard work and effort and the drive that he has. He has sacrificed a lot by leaving his family and friends days before his 16th birthday to move to the UK and go to Charlton, and the work he has done there with the coaches has really developed him into a fine mature and level headed young man,” he explained.
“All of us as a family are very proud of him and what he's achieving - not just family here in Perth but also back in the UK too. It's also very pleasing to see the results of the efforts put in by so many of the coaches and committee at ECU Joondalup who supported him in his early part of his footballing career and the well wishes he has received from them means so much to him, I'm sure. We brought Ashley to Australia when he was three months old, and it was when the Olympics were in Sydney, before we moved to Australia permanently months later, so for him to be now selected for the Olympics this year is unreal.”
The keeper remembers fondly the call he got from Head Coach Graham Arnold, on his selection, even if he can’t remember what he actually said. "The moment I found out was the first day of pre-season at Charlton," he said. "I was doing pre-season testing, came into the change room, looked at my phone and I had a missed call from a +61 number. Obviously knowing that the squad had been announced, so I rang it straight back. A few beeps, (and) it was Graham Arnold, the first team coach. He’s gone congratulations, you’re an Olympian, I thought bloody hell, wow. Next few minutes I didn’t even realise what he said to be honest, I was buzzing.”
After getting off the phone to Arnold Maynard-Brewer collected his thoughts, before getting in contact with family and friends. "I think they were more excited than I was," he said. "I think as well because I’d been away from home for quite a long time, it was a really nice feeling I guess having achieved something in a way, being selected for the Olympics. It was nice for my parents and friends knowing that I’m away doing something and doing well, which was a really nice feeling.”
He has had a chance to impress the coach in the recent friendlies in Marbella, Spain, and he said he said it’s a huge honour. "It was my first camp in quite a while so I was eager to make an impression. It was two weeks, we had three games so lots of training opportunities and games, so it was perfect,” he said. “It’s representing the place where you grew up, the friends and family you’re missing back home. Just from the friendlies back in Spain I played, you can just tell it’s something completely different to represent your club team, it means so much more.
"If I get the opportunity to do that here, I’ll be very proud, buzzing. Being a part of an Olympic setup is something in itself, but you don’t want to get drawn into that. You want to focus on today’s training, and just making sure you’re prepared and putting yourself in the best position to be ready for those games if you’re selected." From everyone at Footballwa.net all the best Ashley.
9.7.2021
IREDALE RELISHING LEAGUE ONE FOOTBALL IN THE UK
Football may be ‘Coming Home’ in the UK at the moment, but for former Perth Glory and ECU Joondalup defender Jack Iredale, he couldn’t return home with the covid restrictions in WA, but he has starting pre-season at his League One club Cambridge United, as he prepares for a first season in the third-tier of English football, following their promotion last season. Mark Bonner’s side weren’t fancied for promotion last season, with the U's having finished 16th and 21st in the two years prior, but they defied the odds to achieve the feat.
Iredale made 38 appearances in United’s promotion-winning campaign, his first season with the U’s, with the defender now aiming to build on a successful campaign. “I loved it, playing a lot of games and winning games. We would’ve loved it if the fans were there with us, so we’re super excited for them to hopefully be involved as much as possible this year,” he told the clubs website. “I’ve got the promotion medal hung up at home, and that’s a constant reminder of just how good last season went. We want to continue and build on the progress made last year. The number of games that I was involved in, and obviously just the promotion and successful season we had, with such a good group of lads, it was really enjoyable.
“You look at some of the teams that are in League One, and some of the stadiums that we get to experience, it’s a challenge that we’re excited to attack. As a group, we’ll go through with the gaffer and Gary (Waddock) on our goals, tactics and principles, but it’s still early days in the pre-season. That’s something we’ll build on, and as soon as August 7 is around, the amount of work we’re going to be doing in pre-season, we’ll be ready to attack it.”
The U’s haven’t played in the third tier since the 2001/02 season, but with their promotion coming against the odds, the defender is upbeat about their chances in League One, and he believes the squad can head into the new campaign feeling confident. “Last season can just show that anything can happen. I think we were tipped to be relegated, and then you never know what’s going to happen in football,” he explained. “We won’t set ourselves an end goal, we’ll set ourselves up in blocks, and attack them like that.
“We’ll be going into the season confident, and we’ve got a good group of lads. The boys that have come in have slotted in really well, good players, and hopefully we can surprise a few people. I don’t know if we’ll stray too much from what we were trying to do last year. Maybe a few tactical tweaks, but that’s up to the gaffer to go through with us. We just want to be competitive, and we’re all really excited to prove ourselves.”
Like a number of United’s promotion-winning squad, Iredale will play League One football for the first time in his career to date. The left-back made 22 appearances for Carlisle United in League Two in the 2019/20 season before making the switch to join United. “This is the highest level I’ve played in, I was in the Scottish Championship for a couple of years, League Two for a few years and now League One, so I really can’t wait to get started,” Iredale said. “Hopefully again I’ll get as many games as possible. There’s obviously some competition in the positions that I can play, so I’ve got to work hard in this off-season, and prove that I’m the one to be relied on.” Cambridge United start their new season with a home game against Oxford United on August 7.
9.7.2021
NPL-WA ROUND FIFTEEN PREVIEW
The lockdown is over and we are set for a full fixture list in week 15 of the NPLWA, and our ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to Wishart Street where Gwelup Croatia entertain Balcatta. (All games kick off at 3.00pm unless otherwise stated) Both sides have a game on hand after their games last week were postponed, and for both a win is vital to keep their top four hopes alive.
Last week’s postponement came at the right time for Balcatta striker David Perich, after injury in the game against Bayswater in round 13 would have seen him miss the game. “Yes, the postponed game was great for me as I needed nine stitches to my head after the against Basie and would have been touch and go to play against Cockburn,” he explained. “For the team I hope the break can act as a bit of a circuit breaker and give us a chance to forget about the past three games.”
After the big win against Perth SC in round 11, they have suffered three defeats and Perich said they are working hard to turn things around. “I thought we played well against ECU, but on the day, they were just excellent,” he said. “The Floreat and Basie games were really disappointing because we just collapsed. We need to learn as a team to be more resilient after we make mistakes, and we’ve worked hard to get that side of our game right.”
Perich said Saturday is a must win game for both sides, and he hopes for a performance like the last time they met at Grindleford Reserve in round four. “We got a great last-minute point against them last time at our place, and a similar performance would be nice,” he said. “They've got a bunch of great players, but it hasn't been working for them this year, so we both badly need the points, so it should be a good game.”
Gwelup’s game at Rockingham was also called off, and defender Ciaran Salinger said it was a good opportunity for them to recharge the batteries. “I mean it’s the world we’re living in at the moment. Things get changed, cancelled and postponed, it’s out of our control,” he said. “I’m sure a few of us enjoyed the week off, but we adapt and move forward as we look to kick start our season.”
Trevor Morgan’s side would be further up the table if they had turned some of their eight draws into wins, but although disappointing, Salinger said they have taken points off some of the top four sides. “Disappointing yes, however, we’ve taken some points off some top-quality opposition away from home, which is promising,” he explained. “It’s also given us really good idea of where we are at as a team and how close we are to stringing some good results together and putting on solid performances.”
Like Perich, the defender knows this is a big game for both clubs and he said they owe them one from their last meeting. “It’s a big game for us on Saturday, they stole points from us last time we played them at their ground, and to be honest that last minute equaliser still stings a few of the boys,” Salinger said. “So, it’s all been about preparing correctly this week to ensure we get the three points this time around and keep in touch with the top four.”
In other games this weekend, league leaders Floreat Athena will aim to bounce back from two straight defeats when they make the trip to the Inglewood Stadium to take on Inglewood United, who lost for the first time in seven games last time out against Perth. Second placed Perth SC, who closed the gap on Floreat to four points last week, head to Frank Drago Reserve to take on Bayswater City in the Italian Derby, while its third v fourth as ECU Joondalup entertain Sorrento at the ECU Football Stadium in the City of Joondalup Derby. Perth Glory are unbeaten in their last four games, and they will look to continue that when they visit Dalmatinac Park to take on Cockburn City, while in the final game Armadale welcome Rockingham City to Alfred Skeet Reserve.
John O’Reilly’s side have won back-to-back games against teams in top four (ECU and Sorrento) and they will look to continue their push for a top four spot. On the other hand, Rockingham sit bottom of the table and they will have a new coach on the dugout this week, with Lee Taylor taking over the reins from Goran Stajic who stepped down last week. Taylor said the transition has been good, as he was assistant under the former coach.
“I’ve worked with the players all year under Goran so I have the advantage of knowing them well and we don’t have to start again from the beginning,” he explained. “This COVID lockdown break has helped us all be able to reset physically and mentally and get ready for the remaining games. I suppose you could say we are looking at these last nine games as a start of a new season and we will be approaching them with a clear view of what we need to do climb out of the position are currently in.”
Rockingham have performed well this season, although their results don’t show that, but missed chances has cost them and that comes with lack of confidence and Taylor hopes that changes on Saturday at Armadale as they play catch up at the foot of the ladder. “It’s that old saying that goals win games and we know as a squad we need to be better in the final third to convert the chances that we have created, it’s only natural that there will be some adjustments in how we play but I have confidence in the players we have to help improve our conversion of chances,” he explained.
“It’s clear for everyone to see that we will need to start being more effective in front of goal for us to climb up the ladder. Armadale are on a good run at the moment, and it’s always a tough game at Alfred Skeet and I am sure there will be a vocal crowd there to but we will arrive with no fear and look to perform at our maximum to get the three points. It’s a derby game and everyone loves to be involved in these types of games, the players have been top class on the pitch this week in training so I am looking forward to seeing how we perform on Saturday.”
9.7.2021
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE ROUND FOURTEEN – PREVIEW
We head into week 14 of the State League Division One and our ‘Match of the Round’ is the top of the table clash between leaders Stirling Macedonia and third placed Quinns at Macedonia Park. (All games kick off at 3.00pm unless otherwise stated) Ian Ferguson’s side moves ten points at the top of the table after a win at Mandurah last week, while Quinns game against Olympic Kingsway was a victim of the covid lockdown, so they need three points in this one to close the gap.
Quinns skipper Adam Buckingham, who has been a rock in the middle of the park, said the postponement of their game last week came at a good time, to refresh for the second part of the season. “Yes, it was unfortunate that we couldn’t train and play on Saturday and keep our good momentum going,” he said. “But on the other hand, I think it was good to have a break halfway through the season to regain a bit of freshness as we head into the second half of the season.”
The Gumblossom Park club have been a great run of form, with only one defeat in their last nine games, and Buckingham said that’s all they can do to keep the pressure on the league leaders. “The undefeated run has been great, and we’ve managed to develop a really strong winning mentality and the team is full of confidence,” the skipper explained. “All we can do is continue the run and apply the pressure on Stirling and wait for them to slip up, hopefully starting Saturday.”
Buckingham knows the importance of Saturday’s top of the table clash, and he said the players are looking forward to the challenge. “Stirling is a cup final for us,” he said. “It’s a must win game if we want to start closing the gap on them, and put some big pressure on them as it’s their title to lose. Being away from home, I’m confident we can go there and get three points, I can’t wait!”
Stirling skipper Dejan Spaseski was instrumental in the big win at Mandurah City last week, and the midfielder said they took their chances and defended well, against a side that had been in good form. “We are pleased with the result and performance against Mandurah,” he said. “I thought we controlled the game from start to finish and were unlucky to concede at the end, but it was a good three points for us to keep our winning streak going.”
They sit ten points clear at the top of the table, but Spaseski brought out the old saying – ‘One game at a time’, but he knows Quinns are on a good run themselves, so it sets up a great game at Macedonia Park. “As cliche as it sounds, we haven’t looked too much into the point gap and have only ever focussed on the game ahead, as we know how quickly things can change in football,” he explained. “Quinns will always be tough, regardless of position in the league, so know we need to be up for it just like every other game. In saying this, nothing changes for us and we are not settling for anything less than three points.”
In other games in week 14, second placed Western Knights travel to Rosalie Park to take on Subiaco looking to build on their win against Joondalup last week, likewise UWA Nedlands, who are unbeaten on their last four Games, who welcome David Tough’s Olympic Kingsway to the UWA Sports Park. Joondalup United return to Forrest Park to take on Fremantle City, with hoping to bounce back from big defeats last week, while at the bottom of the table Forrestfield United and Ashfield will both be desperate for three points when they meet at Crazy Domains Stadium, at Hartfield Park.
In the final game of the round Mandurah City make the trip to the Swan Valley to take on Swan United at Francis Street. City lost ground on the top four after their loss against Stirling last week, while United’s game against Forrestfield was postponed due to the covid lockdown. The Swans are on a six-game losing streak which has seen them slide down the table and striker John Monterosso said they need to lift and it starts Saturday against Mandurah.
“It was a strange week with football being paused due to the lockdown, but the positive we can take out of it is it gives us a chance to reset and break this run of bad form we have hit,” he said. “We played Mandurah not long ago in the catch-up game and felt we could’ve taken more from the game, so after the week off it gives us a chance to regroup and reset and take our points back at home.”
9.7.2021
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO ROUND FOURTEEN – PREVIEW
The State League Division Two has reached week 14 and our ‘Match of the Round’ sees fourth placed Gosnells City host third placed Wanneroo City at Walter Padbury Reserve. (All games kick off at 3.00pm unless otherwise stated) Both these sides are in good form, Gosnells, whose game was called off last week, are on a five-game winning streak, while Wanneroo, who had to fight all the way to beat Kelmscott last week, are on a seven-game unbeaten run so this one should be a cracker.
Gosnells City skipper Scott Pereira said last week's postponement came at the wrong time for them, as they are one of the form teams in the league. “Yes, you’re right, the week off hasn’t come at the best time as we are in some good form lately,” he said. “But the boys are just that more eager to get out there and play this weekend, I don’t think it will affect us too much.”
Marc Anthony’s side are on a five-game winning run, which has seen them shoot up the table, but Pereira said past results mean nothing. “The boys haven’t really reflected on the past results and just take each game as it comes and we are getting stronger and stronger as weeks go on,” he explained. “I think we were very unlucky in the first few games of the season and just couldn’t take our chances and you can see know once the goals start coming the confidence flows through out the team and there a good energy in the change room and the determination to play for each other is great.”
Pereira said Saturday will be another tough test, but they are ready for the challenge and reversing the result from the last time they met. “It’s another big game this week, as they have been getting some good results as well,” he said. “I thought we were unlucky not to get anything from the game last time around going one nil up and then conceding two second half goals in quick succession, but we hope to get one back on them this time around as they travel to us for Saturday.”
Wanneroo’s Luke Serra said the win against Kelmscott last week continued their good form, and it could have been more. “The scoreline probably didn’t do us any justice, and to be fair we made it hard on ourselves, missing five or six one on one chances, something you can’t do in this league,” he explained. “Had we put those away and it’s game over, but we didn’t and it invited the pressure, but we came away with the W.”
The Roos are on a seven-game unbeaten run, and Serra said they are starting to hit their straps and are ready for the challenge at Gosnells. “We just need to focus on each game as it comes and go out with a positive mindset on gaining the three points, that’s all that matters to us, everything else is out of our control,” he said. “Saturday is another test for us, but one we’re looking forward too, we’ve beaten them once this season, we can do it again with the right attitude.’
In other games on Saturday, second placed Kingsley Westside will be looking to bounce back from a heavy defeat against Gosnells last time out, which saw them slip 12 Points behind leaders Dianella, when they host Murdoch University Melville on the late game at Chichester Park - Kick off 5.00. Balga will go in search of a third straight win when they host Morley Windmills at Princess Road Reserve, both clubs will also be playing for the "John Aufdemkampe Trophy". Joondalup City return to the Iluka Sports Complex as they look to get back in the winner’s circle, when they entertain Canning City, whose indifferent form continued at Balga last week. Kelmscott Roos take their improved form into Saturday’s game against Curtin University at Frye Park, but they are still searching for their first win of the season.
In the final game league leaders Dianella White Eagles make the trip to Grandis Park to take on last season’s champions Carramar Shamrock Rovers. Gerry McEwan’s side sit sixth on the ladder and weren’t in action last week due to the lockdown, but have struggled for consistency this season and they face a tough test on Saturday against the table toppers. Dianella moved 12 points clear after their big win against Joondalup last week and coach Bobby Despotovski said it was a good three points. “Even though we played a good game we lost control of the game midway through the second half for about 15 minutes when Joondalup took full advantage and scored two goals,” he said. “We did adjust a few things and we did resume control of the game straight after that second goal and we scored further two goals to make game safe for us, but we need to learn not to take our foot off the pedal.”
Despotovski said they travel to Grandis Park on Saturday, and is expecting a tough game against the only side that has taken points away from them this season. “They are current champions and deserve full respect in saying that we have to be at our absolute best in all parts of the field to be able to get anything out of this hard away game,” he explained. “We will do our absolutely best to try keeping our 100% winning record going away from home.”
9.7.2021
BELT UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION - ROUND TWELVE PREVIEW
The Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division was decimated due to the heavy rain in the metro-area on Sunday, with only two games surviving. Our ‘Match of the Round’ between Leeming strikers and Kwinana United was one of the games called off, along with Wembley Downs v Maddington White City, Queens Park v North Perth United and UWA Nedlands v South West Phoenix.
After last week’s Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division was decimated by the poor weather, so we are hoping the sun shines this weekend as we go into week 12 and our ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to Coker Park where the improved Queens Park entertain third placed Quinns. (All games kick off at 3.00pm unless otherwise stated) Both sides beat Joondalup United in their last games, Quinns winning 6-0 last weekend, while Queens Park came from behind to win 2-1 on the road in round 10, for their second win this season, so this one should be a great contest.
The win in the local derby against Joondalup moved Quinns within four points of the leaders and Ryan McCready was the hero bagging a hat-trick and he hopes it puts them back on track. “Getting a win in any derby game is always a great feeling, however the way we did it with six goals without reply and a dominant performance made it even sweeter,” he explained. “We’ve been unlucky the last few weeks and always felt a big result was coming, so hopefully this puts us back on track.”
His hat-trick put him on top of the league’s leading goalscorer chart, and the striker said it’s been good to help his side out with a few goals. “Yes, it’s been nice being amongst the goals recently and playing in my normal position. We are a team that will always create chances but it’s just been a matter of taking them at the right moments this season,” McCready said. “Unfortunately, it’s been a few lapses in concentration that has led us to concede at important stages in games but after a good clean sheet hopefully we can put it right.”
McCready said Sunday will be another tough test, like all games have been this season, and he knows Queens Park have improved in recent weeks. “Any away game is never easy in this league, so we hope to take a team full of confidence down there from a good win last week,” he said. “It will be a tough game down at Queens Park, as they look to be much improved from the first game where we had a comfortable 2-0 win.”
Queens Park go into the game in good form themselves, after goals from Justine Kaupa and a late winner from Yohanna Obour gave them a big win at Joondalup, and keeper Tom Livingstone said it was a fantastic come-from-behind win. “It was an important three points against Joondalup, especially after the close loss against Wembley, where we didn’t take our chances well,” he said. “But at Joondalup it was a tough game in wet conditions and the game could have gone either way. It showed good character from the boys to come back from 1-0 down and get the win.”
Livingstone, who joined the Park after things didn’t work out for him at Dianella White Eagles, said the club are ticking along nicely and the spirit is great. “We have a strong side and, on our day, can give any team in this league a run for their money,” he explained. “We have been a bit unlucky with losing a lot of players due to injury but we’ve managed to pick up a few throughout the season. Ricardo (Fynn) is a great coach and has got the boys in a good place to push up the ladder heading into the second half of the season.”
A visit of the high-flying Quinns is another challenge, but it’s one Livingstone and the Park side are relishing. “It’s another tough on Sunday against Quinns at home, and we are aware they have a strong side and will be looking to come to give us a battle,” the keeper said. “Ricardo and the boys are aware of the challenge and we look to make Coker Park a fortress in the second part of the season. We don’t want any team coming to our home and thinking they can take points.”
In other games this weekend, Hamersley Rovers will look to build on their first points of the season last week at Jags when they travel to Butlers Reserve to take on Wembley Downs, while Jaguar and Kwinana United will look to get back to winning ways when they meet at Herb Graham Recreation Centre. Second placed South West Phoenix will look to keep the pressure on the league leaders when they make the trip to John Connell Reserve to take on the improved Leeming Strikers, while UWA Nedlands welcome Joondalup United to the UWA Sports Park.
In the final game last season’s champions North Perth United welcome current league leaders Maddington White City to Woodville Reserve in the early game. (1.00pm) Both sides saw their games postponed last week, but City hold a two-point lead at the top of the ladder while United are six points behind them, so a win is vital for Luke O’Neill’s team to keep tabs on City. North Perth was in action in midweek in the Amateur Cup quarter final and a brace from Scott Wrightson and others to David Byrne and Mark Donnelly saw them beat Division One side Ellenbrook United 4-1, and O’Neill said they were made to earn the win.
“In those conditions it was never going to be easy, but we managed to get into half time 3-0 up and then scoring the fourth early in the second half,” he said. “But credit goes to Ellenbrook who kept going, they have some very good young players coming through the team.” In other games in the quarter finals Maccabi moved through after a 2-1 win against Perth Hills United at the Harry Riseborough Ground, but the games between Wembley Downs v Forrestfield United and South Perth United v Leeming Strikers were both called off due to a waterlogged pitch.
O’Neill said the win last time out against Wembley was important, with Byrne and Wrightson on target again, and it makes Sunday’s game vital and a win is a must to keep tabs on the teams above them. “It was important to the win last time out in league against Wembley, we played some good football and could have scored more with the chances we created, but the Wembley keeper produced some amazing saves,” he explained. “This week’s game is another big one for the club against the top team Maddington, and we know we will need to be ready for a battle and I’m sure the boys will be up for it.’
6.7.2021
NEWCASTLE SECURE DEFENDER WARLAND
Newcastle Jets are pleased to announce centre-back Riley Warland has joined the A-League club on a two-year-deal. A product of the Perth Glory academy, the 19-year old defender made his national league debut last season with Glory and is looking forward to furthering his experience under new Newcastle coach Arthur Papas.
“I have watched Arthur’s games in recent teams and know how he likes to play which suits me – energetic, high-press suits me,” said Warland, who has 5 A-League outings under his belt. “The move to Newcastle will be a good opportunity for me to get out of my comfort zone. The support the Jets fans deliver is amazing and I cannot wait to start this journey.”
Papas is delighted to have Warland on board for the 2021/22 campaign. “We identified Riley as player who aligns with the way we want to play, a versatile defender who can play anywhere across the back four, composed on the ball and an outstanding athlete,” said Papas. “We are excited Riley will be part of the Newcastle Jets.”
Warland joined Glory at the age of 10 and progressed up through the youth ranks to turn out in the National Premier Leagues in 2018. He spent a season at English club Fulham, making nine appearances for the Under-18s, before re-joining Glory in 2020. Warland made his A-League debut in January against Adelaide United.
4.7.2021
BELT UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION - ROUND ELEVEN REVIEW
The Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division was decimated due to the heavy rain in the metro-area on Sunday, with only two games surviving. Our ‘Match of the Round’ between Leeming strikers and Kwinana United was one of the games called off, along with Wembley Downs v Maddington White City, Queens Park v North Perth United and UWA Nedlands v South West Phoenix.
The only game to survive on Sunday was an eight-goal thriller at the Heb Graham Recreation Centre, where hosts Jaguar fought back from three goals down to secure a 4-4 draw against Hamersley Rovers. “Really disappointing game from our perspective, the only positive being able to come back from 4-1 down to take a point,” Jag’s keeper Michael Dudek explained. “Apart from a few five-minute patches, Hamersley dominated the game and will rightfully feel hard done by not getting the win. We are now looking forward to next week where we can hopefully turn things around.”
It started so well for the Jags, with Mawien Deng opening the scoring in the first minute. But Rovers, who sit bottom of the table, without a point this season, hit back and levelled on 22 minutes, with Abdul Kamara on target. Howard Tweets side hit the front three minutes before half time with Cameron Wright scoring. It was 3-1 early in the second half, when Jakub Vychytil scored, and the points looked safe on the hour when Mathias Assou added a fourth.
But Jags had other ideas and Deng pulled one back moments later, and Lok Mamal made it 3-4 two minutes later. The comeback was complete on 67 minutes, with Conor O'Driscoll scoring, and both sides pressed for the winner but they couldn’t find it. “Despite the treacherous conditions both teams played to best of their abilities and tried to get the ball down, play and express themselves. In a game of many chances at both ends the group were disappointed to only come away with a point,” Rovers’ coach Howard Tweats said.
“Apart from a ten-minute period where we failed to deal with circumstances and let Jaguar back into the game, the performance is the new platform that the players need to build from, true to our philosophy we will continue to develop ourselves to which we are sure results will follow. Credit to ‘Jags’ for the entertaining game but for the effort they showed to get the game on, being made to switch pitches.”
Quinns and Joondalup United missed the rain with their game on Saturday evening, but it rained goals at Gumblossom Park with the hosts running out 6-0 winners. Ryan McCready was the hero, bagging a hat-trick, with Liam hunt scoring a brace, with Danny Head adding the other. The win lifted Quinns to third on the table, three points behind league leaders Maddington White City, but the loss leaves Joondalup in a relegation battle, only one point ahead of Hamersley.
“This was our most complete 90 minutes of the season. The boys have been working really hard at training and on Saturday that paid off,” Quinns coach Vinny McMillan said. “No disrespect to Joondalup however, that result has been coming for a few weeks, and we now look forward to a tough test against Queens Park in the next round.”
3.7.2021
PERTH CLOSE THE GAP ON LEADERS
Perth SC moved to within four points of NPLWA league leaders Floreat Athena after a 1-0 win against them at Dorrien Gardens on Saturday afternoon. The stands were empty for this one, with the covid-restrictions meaning no supporters were allowed in the venue, and the only goal of the game came from Will Gordon, his first this season, his header past an onrushing Jason Saldaris, who momentarily lost his footing attempting to gather Nic McDonald’s cross, and it was enough for Ramon Falzon’s side to take the points.
“A huge win today, as Floreat were getting away from us, but they lost last week and we wanted to exploit that and they also had a few important players missing, so good to get the three points,” midfielder Calvin Whitney explained to Footballwa.net reporter Kelechi Osunwa post-match. “We switched it around a little today, and I enjoyed playing the number ten role, and I had a bit more space, which I enjoyed. We had a few players out as well, so it’s a good win, and we’ve closed the gap on them.”
The hosts had the better of the opening moments with Kristian Santich and Whitney finding plenty of joy in a new 3-4-3 system that allowed them acres of space between the Floreat defence and midfield. Floreat looked content to hit the hosts on the counter and almost took the lead when Sean McManus latched onto to a ball over the top and forced a fine low save from Ryan Montgomery. Perth took the lead after the first real moment of sustained pressure saw Floreat fail to clear their lines off the Perth corner and offered McDonald enough time to swing in cross that would have been a routine collection for Saldaris but the fraction of a second saw him lose his footing and Gordon headed home.
The second half proved to be more enthralling than the first with Floreat pushing more men forward in search for an equaliser. Whitney flashed an effort narrowly wide for the hosts and Phil Arnold powered a header directly at Montgomery in response. Perth had a chance to kill the game as a contest when Michael Domfeh went through on goal and found himself with the just the keeper to beat and the goal at his mercy but fired a tame effort wide.
Floreat had two chances late to claim a draw but Montgomery was in imperious form stopping Robert Harding at the top of his box and a clinical double save to deny McManus late to secure all three points for Perth, inflict two losses on the spin for the visitors and breath some life back into the title race. “It was an enjoyable game, because we won, but it was a tight contest, and we had a couple of good chances, so we could have won by two or three,” Perth assistant Coach Marc Wingell said post-match. “But what we’ve done since the start of the season is great, losing about ten players, and bringing in a lot of young players to the first team, were chipping away and the good result today shows that.”
In the under 18s game on the day Perth ran out 3-1 winners. Hasan Asadi scored a first half brace to give the Azzurri the advantage, but Floreat skipper Matthew Holmes pulled one back on the hour. Then in the final minute Perth found the third to win it with Lachlan Byrne on target. In the under 20s Perth leapfrogged over Floreat after a 3-2 win. Jayden Gorman gave the hosts the lead early, but Mou Marial levelled for the visitors. Gorman added his second and Sam Flores made it 3-1 at the break. Ayouba Kanneh reduced the margin ten minutes into the second half and Perth were then reduced to ten men on the hour with Lachlan Collins given a red card, but they held on to take all three points.
Perth SC: GK Ryan MONTGOMERY, 4 Lachlan BYRD, 6 Nik MCDONALD, 10 Michael DOMFEH, 13 Calvin WHITNEY, 14 Emerson ALEXIS (21 Jayden GORMAN 88’), 15 Will GORDON, 16 Kieran COLWELL, 18 Federico ACHILLI, 19 Ben RADINOVIC, 22 Kristian SANTICH – Subs not used: RGK Adrian SINAGRA, 5 Jonathan BOUHLAS, 12 Sam FLORES, 17 Aiden FORMSTON,
Floreat Athena: GK Jason SALDARIS, 2 Marco SANTALUCIA, 4 Ben STEELE, 8 Sean MCMANUS (19 Manase ABANDELWA 58’), 9 Robert HARDING 10 Nick AMBROGIO, 11 Dennis GALAN, 13 George FESTA, 16 Kyle MURRAY, 18 Phil ARNOLD (40 Wesley CASIMIR 88’0, 20 Andrew PALMER (6 Jesse FULLER 74’) - Subs not used: RGK Joshua HUNTER, 5 Elijah HAAS - Referee: Matthew SOUTHERN
3.7.2021
GLORY SHOW THEY MEAN BUSINESS
Perth Glory jumped to fifth on the NPLWA ladder after a 3-0 win against Bayswater City at Hartfield Park on Saturday evening. They also showed the rest of the league they mean business this season, with one defeat in their last seven games. Adam Zimarino opened the scoring for Ruben Zadkovich’s side on the hour, before late goals from Joshua Anasmo and skipper Giordano Colli, against his former club, wrapped up the points.
“I said last week coming off a great win against Floreat this became an even more important win and I thought it was a pretty even game, with both teams attacking,” Colli explained. “It was only when we opened the scoring that I felt we grabbed hold of the game and started to dominate more, and were rewarded late on in the game scoring two goals in quick succession to cap off another good win.”
It was the hosts who went close early, Adam Zimarino’s free kick saved low by former Glory Youth keeper Nic Speca. The visitors lifted and Smith slipped a through ball to Michael Zimarino but his crashed off the far post and away to safety, before former Glory striker Ndumba Makeche was then unable to force home Gordon Smith's shot. It was end-to-end football and Glory went close themselves with top goalscorer Anasmo denied by Speca, and Colli’s follow up shot was blocked on the line by Ryan Pearson, before Kosta Sparta’s long-range effort was saved low by Cameron Cook, but at the break it was 0-0
Smith went close again after half time, his shot flashing wide, before Ciaran Bramwell did likewise down the other end. But it was Glory who hit the front on 63 minutes. Charlie Leech had only been on the pitch for 60 seconds, and his cross from the right was brought down superbly by Adam Zimarino, and he finished clinically from 12 meters. City pressed for the equaliser and Smith had a goalbound header cleared by some desperate Glory defending. The host weren’t without their chances and Speca did well to deny Adam Zimarino again as the game opened up. But it was Glory who took control of the game with a second six minutes from time.
Adam Zimarino played in Leech, whose back heel found Anasmo, and the big striker made no mistake, for his ninth goal of the season, his fourth for Glory. They wrapped up the points four minutes later, Adam Zimarino found Anasmo, whose shot was well saved by Speca, but the rebound fell to Colli, who made no mistake to seal the three points. “We knew Bayswater were in good form coming from a 5-1 win the previous week, and we know we had to be at our best,” Glory’s Aidan Edwards said. “It was an end-to-end battle, but the boys put in a big shift to get the win in the second half.”
In the under 18s game third placed Perth Glory closed the gap on second placed Bayswater City after a 1-0 win, the only goal of the game came from skipper John Lardis on 14 minutes. The under 20s top of the table clash didn’t disappoint, with both sides sharing the spoils in a 2-2 draw. Daniel Harrison gave Bayswater the lead on the half hour, but Daniel Bennie levelled for Glory before the break. It looked like Bayswater would win it when Gomo Dukuly converted a penalty seven minutes from time, but Glory salvaged a point with a penalty of their own in the final minute, Christian Belladonna converted to give both sides a point.
Perth Glory: GK Cameron COOK, 4 Jacob MUIR, 3 Aiden COYNE, 5 Joseph FORDE, 6 Chris DONNELL, 7 Joshua ANASMO, 8 Aidan EDWARDS (15 Andrew MARANTA 81’), 9 Ciaran BRAMWELL (18 Charlie LEECH 62’), 10 Giordano COLLI, 11 Adam ZIMARINO (12 Will FORMSTON 90’), 20 Jack PAINTER-ANDREWS (17 Daniel BENNIE 90’) – Subs not used: RGK Casey ROBERTSON
Bayswater City: GK Nic SPECA, 2 Lucas COOK, 3 Jack ALLEN, 4 Michael ZIMARINO, 7 Ndumba MAKECHE, 8 Gordon SMITH, 11 Ryan PEARSON, 12 Steven HESKETH (5 Albert FULLARD 87’), 13 Jordan ABRAHAMS, 28 Konstantinos SPARTA, 29 Tyler GARNER (18 Fraser DUNLOP 62’) (23 Daniel KATZ 80’) – Subs not used: RGK George JACKSON, 21 Leonard GAMA - Referee: Stewart BEATTIE
3.7.2021
ANGEL BRACE HELPS ARMADALE BRINGS DOWN THE GULLS
A brace from Armadale’s Spanish striker Angel Andres has given them a 2-1 win against Sorrento at Percy Doyle Reserve in week 14 of the NPLWA. Andres opened the scoring from the spot after only six minutes, and on 38 minutes Sorrento midfielder Alex Morgan was sent off. But the ten men levelled early in the second half with Reds’ skipper Brian Patterson scoring into his own net. But Andres regained the lead for the visitors on the hour, and they managed to hold firm for the three points, the hosts reduced to nine-men late when keeper Matthew Giudicatti was sent off.
“This was the fourth time we have played them this season, NS, Cup and League, so there were no surprises the game was a scrap, but a clean one at that, and one goal was likely to decide a winner,” a delighted Armadale coach John O’Reilly said. “It was important to carry on from our good result against ECU last week and we did, the lads work so hard today to earn the points and a special mention for our keeper Yousri Gharsallah, who pulled of three vital saves to deny his old team, when the score was 1-1.”
This was a must win game for both sides, but it was the Reds who opened the scoring after only six minutes. Chad Nilson did well to win a fifty-fifty ball in the middle of the park and drive into the box, and he was brought down by a David Stokoe, who seemed to time his tackle well, but referee Arvin Shanmuganathan was well-placed and had no doubt, pointing straight to the spot. Andres, who scored the winner against ECU last week from the spot, stepped up and sent Giudicatti the wrong way from the resulting penalty. Sorrento went in search for the equaliser, and midfielder Dean Cummings fired over the top moments later, after Armadale failed to clear a long-throw in.
Armadale were in again on 18 minutes, Nilson sending Adriano Jelenovic racing clear, but Giudicatti was out quick to save on the edge of the box, before Kevin Ashwood’s long-range fizzed past the post. The hosts were struggling in the final third, but the Reds were creating some good chances and Giudicatti got down well to thwart Ashwood on the half hour. Cherno Bar, who was also on the scoreline last week went close to a second three minutes later, a good advantage from the referee saw the lively striker race clear and his shot from distance flashed inches wide. Then six minutes before half time the hosts were reduced to ten-men after Alex Morgan was shown a straight red card for a high challenge on Armadale defender Nathan Costello, much to the displeasure of Sorrento Head coach Jamie Harnwell. Nilson had a late chance for the Reds, but he went for goal with better options in the box, but at the break Armadale led by the only goal.
Sorrento need a good start after the break, but it was Nilson who was in again early in the second half, sent clear by a slide-rule pass from Andres, but his shot was saved low by the alert Giudicatti. But three minutes later it was the ten-men Sorrento who levelled. A quick throw-in from former Reds’ striker Chris Jackson, caught them napping and Jordan Roberts’ cross into the box from the right was turned into his own net by the unfortunate Armadale skipper Patterson, under pressure from Daniel Faichney.
It was the start Sorrento were after but Armadale were still a threat on the break and Giudicatti got down well to save Jelenovic’s low shot, before Friday Zico’s half volley flew over the top. Sorrento were now finding holes in the tight Armadale defence and Tim Hill’s diagonal ball picked out Brown, whose close-range header was well saved by Gharsallah just before the hour, and moments later the former Sorrento custodian did even better to deny Roberts, one-on-one, before Jackson fired the rebound over the top.
Those two saves proved to be crucial for O’Reilly’s side as minutes later they regained the lead. Ashwood’s free kick from the left picked out Andres, who lost his marker and headed home his eleventh goal of the season. Sorrento went close to a leveller three minutes later, but Cummings couldn’t keep his effort down, before Brown fired straight at Gharsallah. Ashwood then saw a free kick well saved by Giudicatti on 77 minutes, as Sorrento cleared their bench as they pressed for the equaliser.
But Armadale should have sealed the game on 87 minutes, a quick break saw the ball find Bah in the penalty area, but his snap shot hit the base of the post and back into the grateful arms of Giudicatti. In stoppage time Sorrento had one final chance when they had a corner, and even the keeper came up for it. But the corner was cleared and Zico raced clear, hotly in pursuit by Giudicatti and the keeper brought him down with a crude challenge, and the referee had no other option but to send him off. With Sorrento having no more substitutes Ollie Annis took the gloves for the final couple of minutes, but after eight minutes of stoppage time the referee blew for full time, with Armadale winning for the second time this season in the City of Joondalup.
“It was a strange situation we found ourselves in, we all didn’t prepare for the match during the week due to Covid-19 lockdown but we’ve played Sorrento a few times this season already to know what we were up against,” Armadale defender Friday Zico said. “We knew what type of game we were going to get from Sorrento, and it’ll take 100 % concentration to get a win over the line, and we did just that. We are starting to pick up some points against the bigger teams which is good momentum heading toward the second half of the season. It was a hard-fought match, even when Sorrento had a man sent off in the first half, they finished the half really strong. Second half break John O’Reilly just encourage the boys to keep their head and stay calm, stick to the game plan and we did enough to get it over the line, we are happy to take the 3 points from an important away game, we will go back to training and prepare for another tough match against Rockingham.”
In the under 18s game Sorrento held out a fast-finishing Armadale 3-2. The hosts raced to a three-goal lead in the first half, with Phoenix Lee grabbing a brace, with Jayden Rowles scoring the other. But after half time Jess Grese pulled one back, before skipper Angel Andres Diaz, son of Reds first team striker, added a second, but they couldn’t find the equaliser. In the under 20s Sorrento ran out 2-0 winners, with Tristan Stevens scoring in the first half, with Thomas Hunt wrapping up the win just after the hour.
Sorrento: GK Matthew GIUDICATTI, 2 David STOKOE, 3 Daniel FAICHNEY (8 Scott WITSCHGE 72’), 6 Chris JACKSON, 7 Alex MORGAN, 11 Tim HILL (14 Jordan POKLER 78’), 16 Ryan MCLAUGHLIN (15 Tristan STEVENS 12’), 17 Dean CUMMINGS, 18 Jordan BROWN, 20 Jordan ROBERTS, 23 Neil GILLIES (10 Ollie ANNIS 72’) – Subs not used: RGK Patrick HUGHES - Red Cards: Morgan 38’, Giudicatti 93’
Armadale: GK Yousri GHARSALLAH, 4 Nathan COSTELLO, 8 Brian PATTERSON, 9 Angel ANDRES, 11 Chad NILSON, 15 Cherno BAH, 17 Pieter JACOBSZ, 18 Kevin ASHWOOD, 20 Adriano JELENOVIC, 22 Ryan MCEVOY, 23 Friday ZICO – Subs not used: RGK Michael CRAGGS, 6 Joel SANDERSON, 10 Isaac KOOMSON, 13 Filippo GIOFFRE 19 Vladimir NAUMOVSKI - Referee: Arvin SHANMUGANATHAN
3.7.2021
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE ROUND THIRTEEN – REVIEW
The covid-restrictions meant our ‘Match of the Round’ between Quinns and Olympic Kingsway was postponed, as well as the game between Swan United and Forrestfield. But the restrictions didn’t stop league leaders Stirling Macedonia who travelled to Securitas Protect Stadium and came away with a 4-1 win against Mandurah City. The visitors were ahead after only five minutes, Brent Quick’s corner picked out an unmarked Alex Tanevski who headed home. The hosts, who were on a good run of form, and only lost once on home soil, looked to get back into the game but they struggled in the final third, and it was Stirling who doubled their advantage just after the hour mark.
A ball over the top from Greg Pellow found Hugo Snowden, who got in behind his marker and finished clinically past Dylan Wilson. Mandurah pushed men forward looking to get back into the game and seven minutes from time they were caught out at the back again with Stirling adding a third. Asher Nelson made space down the right and crossed into the penalty area and Gavin Knight, who had only been on the pitch for eight minutes, took a superb first touch to give himself room before burying his shot into the corner of the net. The striker wasn’t finished their and he added a fourth, Sam Wynne played Shay Donovan into goal, and he unselfishly squared the ball to Knight who made no mistake from six meters, for his 14th goal of the season. The hosts found a late consolation goal three minutes from time, skipper Graham Tough heading home Harry Collins corner, but it was too little too late.
“Due to covid our usual weekly preparation very much took a different look, and we knew being the top of the league, Mandurah would turn up and look to put us under pressure right from the outset. We were very aware we needed to start quickly and we managed to get the perfect start scoring within the first five minutes,” Stirling’s Gyles Davies explained. “We largely dictated the first half and were unlucky to not be two or three up at half time after creating numerous really good chances. In the second half we maintained our composure and following our second goal we were able to start to manage the game. Late in the game the substitutes made a positive impact contributing to a really solid team performance. The only frustrating part was failing to keep a clean sheet after such a dominant performance however we take the three points away from home and start to focus on our preparation for Quinn’s next week at home.”
Western Knights moved up to second on the table after a 3-0 win against Joondalup United at Nash Field. The hosts went into this game on the back of three consecutive draws, but hit the front in this one after only seven minutes. Ciaran Bryne was sent into goal, but his effort was blocked by keeper Joey Smith, but the ball fell to Alexander Kretowicz who raced past the keeper and to the bye line, and his cross shot seemed to deflect off Joondalup’s Brad McDonald and roll into the net.
They doubled their advantage just after the half hour, a long throw from Andrija Jukic sent Jack Rycroft down the right and his deep cross picked out Byrne at the back post to fire home his 16th goal of the season. They added a third late, a neat give and go between Kretowicz and Tommy Mills saw the former race to the bye-line and pull the ball back to second half substitute Daniel Olton to fire home. “It was nice to get the win after three disappointing draws in a row,” Knights coach Ivan Zuvela said. “We came out focused on what we needed to do and it was a disciplined team performance where everyone contributed.”
UWA Nedlands have continued their recent good form with a 3-0 win in the local derby against Fremantle City at Hilton Reserve. “It was another quality 90-minute performance from the lads and we fully deserved all three points,” UWA midfielder Bryce Conway said. “We’ve kept the momentum going and it’s a huge credit to the group who have shown great character to keep fighting despite our start to the season. We’re showing consistency now and with four wins on the bounce without conceding, the confidence is growing.”
It was a tight first half which saw chances at both ends, but in the first minute of first half stoppage time it was the visitors who opened the scoring. Skipper Godfrey Asimwe’s corner picked out Conway, whose header was saved on the line by keeper Jordan Barbas, but Sam Carrello was hand to scoop the rebound home. They added a second on 71 minutes, Luke Randazzo sent Alex Moffatt down the right and his low cross was turned home by his older brother Sam. They wrapped up all three points five minutes late, Sam Kent saw his effort blocked on the line by Charles Parry and substitute Pascal Sedgwick was on hand to ram home the rebound, the result moving UWA to eighth, level on points with Fremantle.
“A huge win for our club,” Luke Randazzo said. “Fremantle smashed us 4-0 in the opening round of the season and this set a tone for the first half of our year so to bounce back and have a strong 3-0 win and play the brand of football we are at the moment it is so pleasing. We have now won four in a row and not conceded in this period of time. The group’s belief when it has been tough has been the difference as we knew we are not a bottom four side but had to put the results on the board. On a personal note, having missed half seasons for the past two years, I’m having a consistent season, and I’m very happy to be back at UWA and contributing to our rise.”
In the final game Ashfield recorded their first away win of the season and moved off the bottom of the table after a 2-0 win against Subiaco at Rosalie Park. “It was always going to be interesting to see how both teams approached the game. With no contact sessions for the week, we tried to leave it with the playing group to push the ideas we have been working on over the last few weeks,” Ashfield assistant coach Alex Carter explained. “The way we came out of the blocks was outstanding. The boys pressed high up the park, and I thought we played some really exciting football, and fully deserved to go into half time with the lead. In the second half we knew they would need to push and we tended to play on the counter attack, and we created some great chances including hitting the post, and scored the second to seal the points.”
The visitors made the best possible start and were ahead on 10 minutes. Mohammad Rezai made space down the left and cut inside the box, his first shot was blocked, but he regained possession and fed skipper James Sammut on the edge of the box, and the midfielder curled the ball up and over keeper Teophile Brown and into the top corner. Subiaco pressed for the equaliser but couldn’t break down a solid Ashfield defence and the visitors wrapped up the points fifteen minutes from time. A corner was only cleared to second half substitute Ali Khateri, whose first time shot found the bottom corner of the net.
Sammut said it was a great win for the club. “Subiaco are a good side and we knew that it was going to be a tough game, but the boys showed a lot of character and worked hard for each other to come away with a much needed three points,” he explained. “I thought last week there were a lot of positives to come from the game against UWA and we looked to build on that. It wasn’t an ideal week in terms of preparation, but all clubs were in the same position and we had to move on from that pretty quick to ensure we gave ourselves the best chance to get the win. We have another big game against Forrestfield next week and hopefully we can build on this weekend’s performance.”
3.7.2021
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO ROUND THIRTEEN – REVIEW
Like Division One, our State League Division Two ‘Match of the Round’ between Gosnells City and Carramar Shamrock Rovers also fell victim to the covid-19 lockdown, along with games between Murdoch University Melville and Curtin University and Morley Windmills and Kingsley Westside. But league leaders Dianella White Eagles march on, after a 6-2 win against Joondalup City at Dianella Reserve on Saturday evening, extending their lead at the top of the table to 12 points.
“I thought it was another solid performance from the side, and Bobby and I were delighted with the attitude of the players, especially after a difficult week with the lockdown,” Dianella Coach Stewart Moses explained. “We were out of the blocks quickly and had two goals on the board early, and it set the tone of the game. The only disappointing expect was to let them back in to it at 4-2 and they had a sniff of a comeback, but we put the foot down late and added two goals.
“We have to learn from that, you can’t let your game slip for ten minutes like we did, because in this league or you will get punished, but we steadied and won convincingly, and it could have been more but their keeper pulled of a string of fine saves. Really pleased with the performance of the whole team, but special praise for Bobby Wilson who was outstanding, and to David Heagney for his clinical finishing. We spoke about it before the game and these three points are dedicated to our loyal supporters who couldn’t attend this week. We hope they are back next week as we look forward to a trip to last season’s champions Carramar Shamrock Rovers.”
Dianella made the perfect start and were ahead on ten minutes, David Heagney sending Stephen Musonda clear and he finished well past Joondalup keeper Ben Seivwright. It was 2-0 seven minutes later, Heagney racing from the half-way line, before cutting into the penalty area and finished clinically. Joondalup keeper Seivwright made a number of fine saves to keep his side in the game, but there was little he could do in the shadows of half time, when Dianella added a third, Sasa Njegic racing clear and scoring. The game looked over six minutes into the second half when the hosts added a fourth, a ball across the box found Daniel Mackenzie, who volleyed home.
But Joondalup found a lifeline on 64 minutes, Liam McGurk converting from the spot, and on 77 minutes they added a second, Nick Koefler scoring from a corner. But Dianella regained control and made it 5-2, nine minutes from time, when second half substitute Nikola Talimdzioski picked out Heagney, who finished well, and they added a sixth in the final minute, Heagney the provider, crossing to Njegic, who made no mistake.
“In the end it was a decent win for us although we were definitely a bit rusty at times it was good to get the game out of the way and go 12 points clear,” Jason Stepanovski said. “I thought we lost focus for about 25 minutes in the second half and gave them half a sniff, and we are disappointed to concede the two goals but the boys did well in the last 15 minutes to wrap the game up for us. Overall a good result and puts us in a great position going into the last nine games of the season.”
Wanneroo City have maintained third spot on the ladder, but they were made to work hard to beat bottom of the table Kelmscott Roos 2-1 at Wanneroo Reserve. The home side were ahead on 28 minutes, Josh Booysen found space on the edge of the penalty area, and he curled it into the top corner giving Kelmscott keeper Jack Adams no chance. They doubled their lead on the hour, Jack Reilly picked the ball up on the half way line dribbled past a few defenders and buried it past the keeper, for a fine solo goal. Kelmscott scored a consolation goal in the first minute of stoppage time with Robert Justo scoring, but it was too little too late. “It was a good win, and we had chances to put the game away early in the second half, but we didn’t and had to make sure we saw out the game and get the three points,” Wanneroo coach Jesse Bridgeman said. “Now the boys are looking forward to get back into training this week and prepare for next week’s game at Gosnells.”
In the final game Balga went on to beat Canning City 4-3 in a seven-goal thriller at Princess Road Reserve. Balga went into this one after a win at Kelmscott, while Canning was edged out a Carramar Shamrock Rovers, and with only one point separating them on the table it was a huge game for both. But it was the hosts who opened the scoring after only four minutes. Bleron Mamudi getting on the end of a neat move and going one-on-one with Canning keeper Alex Radonich, and finishing clinically. It was 2-0 minutes later, Farruh Mavlonov making no mistake. It looked game over on 20 minutes when the hosts added a third, Mamudi with his back to goal produced a great back heel to beat Radonich, to make it 3-0.
But whatever Canning coach Chris Finlayson said to his side worked as they hit back, with Ryan Moran finding the net from the edge of the box via the post. They added a second before half time, with Moran curling home a superb free-kick and it was game on. But Gerhard Janssen’s side settled after the break and Mamudi completed his hat-trick to give the hosts some breathing space. But Canning wasn’t finished and pulled one back on the hour, Jack Murray picking out Moran, who eased past the defender and crossed to Juan Cabrera, who poked the ball past the keeper. They pushed for the equaliser, but Balga held firm to secure the win.
“Our first back-to-back win of the season was the result of a great start into the game, with the boys playing excellent football and a deserved 3-0 lead,” Balga Head Coach Gerhard Janssen said. “The 3-2 scoreline at halftime was the result which mirrored the quality of the game. In the second half, we missed multiple chances and even the 4-2 did not put the game to bed. Afterwards, Chris Finlayson’s Canning showed that they are a very good team with good morale. Overall, both teams showed nonstop attacking football - how we all want to see it - and our boys can’t wait to host Morley Windmills next week.”
2.7.2021
HE’S COMING HOME O’NEILL RE-JOINS GLORY
Perth Glory have welcomed former midfielder Brandon O’Neill back to the club, the 27-year-old signing a three-year contract with the club. O’Neill rose through the ranks at NLPWA club ECU Joondalup, before signing for the Glory in 2012. He struggled for game time, and was snapped up by Graham Arnold at Sydney FC, and the rest is history as they say. He made over 100 A-League appearances and helped the Sky Blues secure an array of silverware in the form of two Championships, two Premierships and one FFA Cup, the last one a win against Glory in the 2019 Grand Final at Optus Stadium.
O’Neill debuted for the Socceroos in 2019 and a year later joined Korean top-flight club Pohang Steelers, before heading to Thai League 1 side Buriram United late last year, but the midfielder spoke of his delight to be returning to Australia to once again represent the club he watched from the stands as a boy. "I’d like to thank [Head Coach] Richard Garcia and [CEO] Tony Pignata and the club as a whole for welcoming me back so professionally and so well," he said. "I’ve been training with the youth team for the last couple of weeks, so I’d also like to thank PGFC Academy Coaches Ruben Zadkovich and Chris Coyne for allowing me into the inner sanctum of the club and enabling me to experience what I needed to experience to come to a decision.”
It was a sombre return to WA for the talented midfielder, with his father gravely ill, but he spent a couple of special months by Myles’ side, until he passed away last month. O’Neil said he is looking forward to the next chapter of life and football. "I can’t wait to play for and in front of you all but even more so I can’t wait to honour my dad and play for my hometown club again in front of family and friends. Milo, I know you’ll kicking every ball with me. I know you’ll be looking down cheering on the Glory every week. Love you mate. Miss you every day,” O’Neill wrote on his Face Book page.
“The last two years in my own journey and my wife’s journey to become better people have led us back home and this decision was always going to be based not only on football, but on everything outside football as well,” he explained. “To be the best athlete I can be, I need to be the best person I can be and to be that best person, at 27 years of age, it felt like the right decision to come home after eight years away.
"Now I’m feeling pure excitement about the journey that we’re about to embark upon. Being home and understanding Perth football and the way everyone sees football in this wonderful State, I’m excited to help bring back a level of relatability not only to the club, but to everyone from the Members and fans to the coaching and admin staff. I’m so excited to hopefully in one, two, or three years, experience success at this club following a process-driven rather than an outcome-driven template."
Glory Head Coach Richard Garcia, believes that O’Neill is a key signing who will have a vital role to play in driving the club forward over the next three years. "Brandon is a Perth boy who is a fantastic professional," he said. "He’s represented the Socceroos, understands the intricacies of the A-League, knows what it takes to be a winner and will be an integral part of our building process. In addition, he has fantastic leadership skills on and off the park. We are trying to build a playing group made of up of good people who want to work hard for the club and Brandon is exactly that type of person."
Garcia’s sentiments were echoed by Glory CEO Tony Pignata. “Bringing a player of Brandon’s quality back represents a huge coup for the club," he said. "I know our members and fans will be thrilled not only because he’s such a proven performer on the field, but also because he’s a proud Western Australian who truly understands Glory and what it represents. We are committed to building a squad capable of bringing sustained success to the club and Brandon’s hugely-impressive track record in the A-League shows that he is a player who knows exactly what is required to do just that." Welcome back Brandon from everyone at Footballwa.net
2.7.2021
NPL-WA ROUND FOURTEEN PREVIEW
It’s been a tough week for everyone in the Perth and Peel regions after a four-day covid-19 lockdown, but we hope to get back into football action on Saturday in week of the NPLWA, and our ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to Hartfield Park as Perth Glory host Bayswater City. (All games kick off at 3.00pm, unless otherwise stated) Glory stunned league leaders Floreat Athena last week, while Bayswater bounced back to winning ways after a big win against Balcatta, so both will be looking to continue their winning form this week.
The win against Floreat saw Glory move to fifth on the table, and skipper Giordano Colli said it was a deserved win. “It was a big win for us knowing they were unbeaten up until this point, but we all know what we are capable of and we knew we could go out there and get the result we want if we all worked for each other,” he explained. “We’ve got a lot of confidence from this result, but we know it means absolutely nothing if we don’t go out on the weekend and put the same performance in.”
Colli will come up against former club on Saturday, and his father is vice-president at the club, but he said when they whistle goes, he will be doing all he can to get three points for Glory. “It’s always good playing them and seeing old faces but me and the rest of the boys will only be going into the game with one thing on our minds and that’s to get the three points,” he said. “They are coming off a strong performance on the weekend so we know we need to bring the same energy and effort into this game or last week’s result counts for nothing.”
Bayswater found the winning formula last week, and Scottish striker Gordon Smith said that result had been coming for a while, and he hopes it can kick start their season. “Last week was a very convincing win at home, but it was tight first half with both teams having chances, and to in behind was disappointing,” the former Hearts striker said. “We had a chat at the break and Gareth (Naven) was demanding we increase the intensity which we did and it showed in the first ten minutes of the second half, when we blew Balcatta away and converted our chances while on top.”
Smith said Glory are always very competitive, and he said Saturday will be no different. “Since I’ve been in Australia, I’ve always found Glory a tough match, as they look after the ball well and are full of energy but we also go into the game off the back of a good win and look forward to the match,” he said. “We know how important this game is in terms of league position and if we can put a run together, we can find ourselves back pushing for top four spot, but we need to be more consistent from now to round 22 to achieve that.”
In other games
this weekend, league leaders Floreat Athena will look to bounce back from their first defeat of the season when they travel to Dorrien Gardens to take on second placed Perth SC, Likewise ECU Joondalup and Inglewood United who meet at the ECU Football Stadium. It’s getting desperate for Rockingham City who sit eight points adrift at the foot of the table, and they will have a new coach on the dugout after Goran Stajic left the club in midweek, and three points are a must when they host Gwelup Croatia at SafeRad Stadium, the visitors hoping to stop a run of four draws. Cockburn City will look to build on last week’s win at Rockingham when they host Balcatta at Dalmatinac Park, while I’m the final game Sorrento host Armadale at Percy Doyle Reserve.
Sorrento drew at Gwelup last week and sit third on the ladder, while Armadale will be buoyed by last week’s win against ECU Joondalup, and Chad Nilson said it was a great win for the club, and they hope to build on it at Sorrento. “This season we’ve had some big results at home and we can now add ECU to that list. It’s a different game playing at Alfred Skeet, teams hate playing there thanks to the crowd that turns up every week backing us in and making life difficult for opposition,” he said. “Saturday is another test and Sorrento have certainly surprised a lot of people this season, so we have to turn up from the first whistle, and we owe them after the cup loss as well.”
2.7.2021
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE ROUND THIRTEEN – PREVIEW
We head into week 13 of the State League Division One, subject to covid restrictions being lifted, and our ‘Match of the Round’ sees second placed Quinns hosting Olympic Kingsway at Gumblossom Park. (All games kick off at 3.00pm, unless otherwise stated) Quinns travelled to Subiaco last week and came home with the points to keep the pressure on league leaders Stirling, while Olympic fought back from two goals down to draw 2-2 with the Knights.
Quinns continued their eight-game unbeaten run going at Subiaco, and skipper Adam Buckingham was again influential, said it was another good performance, and they had some players missing for the game. “Delighted with another good win, we went their knowing that they are a good side, who will take points off a lot of teams, and we had key players missing,” he said. “But I’m very happy with the result, we didn’t play our best game but with three quick goals we managed to get the job done.”
Buckingham said Saturday will be another tough game, against a side that have picked up in recent weeks, but he is looking forward to returning to Gumblossom Park. “I’m looking forward to the game, Kingsway have a new coach and acquired new good young players, who I’ve played with before so no doubts it will be a test for us,” he explained. “But we are looking forward to playing at home and are in great form right now, and I’m confident we can keep it going.
Olympic Head coach David Tough said last week was a great fight back and was pleased the players were rewarded for their effort. “I thought we played well last week and to be two goals down at half time was so disappointing for the players,” he said. “We spoke at half time about continuing to play our game and we were rewarded with two goals and I thought we deserved it.”
Tough said Quinns have been outstanding this season, and deserve to be where they are, and he is expecting a tight tussle on Saturday, if the lockdown is lifted. “Glen has done a great job at Quinns, and they have been great this season, but we head there confident we can get a positive result,” he explained. “The lads have been great since Ross (Edwards) and I have been at the club, but it has been tough this week with the lockdown but we are looking forward to getting back into it on Saturday.”
In other games this round, third placed Western Knights will be hoping to get back to winning ways when they host fourth placed Joondalup United, who are coming off a big win against Swan. There is a local derby at Hilton Reserve where Fremantle United welcome the infirm UWA Nedlands, while Ashfield make the trip to Rosalie Park to meet Subiaco. Swan United host Forrestfield United at Francis Street with both sides desperate for points at the foot of the table, while in the final game league leaders Stirling Macedonia travel south to take on Mandurah City at Securitas Protect Stadium.
Stirling sit seven points clear at the top of the table, and have scored in stoppage time in the last two games to win them, while Mandurah came home from Forrestfield with three points last week, with James Burns scoring the winner in his final game for the club. Defender Jeff Bright said it was an important win, especially after the disappointing result at Subiaco. “I thought it was a pretty tight affair between us and Forrestfield, and good to get back to winning ways,” he said. “I thought we controlled the midfield just that little bit more which was probably the reason we won it as well as Jamie’s good finish.”
Bright said they are looking forward to Saturday, and keep up their push up the table. “I think it will be another good game, and we have the home ground and hopefully be able to have supporters,” he said. “If we can keep the same intensity, we have shown the last few weeks we will be able to give them a good game, and it’s important for us, we can’t afford to drop anymore points, so it’s a must win game to stay in touch with them.”
2.7.2021
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO ROUND THIRTEEN – PREVIEW
We head into week 13 of the State League Division Two, subject to covid restrictions being lifted, and our ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to Walter Padbury Reserve, where the inform Gosnells City host last season’s Champions Carramar Shamrock Rovers. (All games kick off at 3.00pm unless otherwise stated) Gosnells are on a seven-game unbeaten run and coming off a big win at Kingsley Westside last week to see them move up to fourth, while Rovers moved to sixth after a hard-fought win against Canning last week, so this one should be a great game.
Goals from Darren Francis, Eddie Wynne-Willson, Aaron Coslani and skipper Scott Pereira gave City a 4-1 win, and Gosnells Head Coach Marc Anthony said the win was one of their best performances of the season. “They (Kingsley) have had a great start to the season, so to go there and get a result was a great win for us, against a very good side as well,” he said. “I thought it was most definitely our most complete performance this season, so we were happy to get the points.”
Anthony said Saturday’s game against last season’s champions will be just as tough, and he will be looking for his side to repeat last week’s big win. “We are playing well at the moment, but we need to find consistency, and Saturday is another tough game, against another well organised side,” he said. “We probably put a marker down last week with the performance at Kingsley, and hopefully we can build on that as it is crucial, we keep up with the teams ahead of us.”
Rovers win against Canning saw them win two games on the bounce, something they have struggled to do this season, and Rhodes Boyce, who was on target in the 3-2 win said they need to build on it. “All season we have struggled to put together back-to-back performances, so to follow up a strong midweek showing against Curtin with three points against Canning was pleasing,” he said. “Hopefully we can sustain our momentum into the coming week and beyond. It’s going to be a good challenge to do so against in-form Gosnells and Dianella.”
Boyce said the last time they played Gosnells it was a tight game and he said it will be the same on Saturday as they look for three straight wins. “When we played them (Gosnells) at the start of June it was a very messy but evenly matched game which we unfortunately lost 2-1 after a very late goal,” he explained. “They had a couple of outstanding players, especially their captain in the holding midfield role so hopefully we can keep him quiet, stay resolute at the back then go out and play with the attacking freedom we showed in last week’s double header. We are aiming to be more clinical with the chances we are creating and if we are I am confident we can give them a good game.”
In other games this weekend league leaders Dianella White Eagles will look to keep their nine-point lead at the top when they welcome Joondalup City to Dianella Reserve (5.00pm), while Balga go in search of back-to-back wins when they welcome Canning City to Princess Road Reserve. It’s the ‘University Challenge’ part two when Murdoch University Melville entertain Curtin University at Wormall Civil Stadium, while Wanneroo City host Kelmscott Roos at Wanneroo Reserve. In the final game Kingsley Westside will look to bounce back from last week’s loss against Gosnells when they visit Wotton Reserve to take on Morley Windmills.
Morley won for the first time in three games last week against MUM, and coach Antony Benetti said it was a huge three points. “It was definitely important to get a win especially against a good side like Murdoch and away from home. I thought we got our set up right and were able to really dictate the tempo of the game,” he said. “It was fantastic to see the lads really execute in the final third and when required we were strong in our defensive block. For the club it's important our young players really stepped up with having five first team players out.”
Benetti said Saturday’s visitors will be hungry to get back to winning ways, but he said they are ready for the challenge. “We know the qualities that Kingsley Westside have and we know they'll be looking to bounce back from the last few weeks,” he said. “In our first encounter we feel we were unlucky to not have got more out of the game so we'll be looking to execute better in this second fixture. It's obviously been an odd week with the lockdown but we've been active in our preparations via other platforms so that's been good.”
2.7.2021
BELT UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION - ROUND ELEVEN PREVIEW
We go into week 11 of the Belt Up Amateur Premier Division, subject to covid-19 restrictions being lifted, and our ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to Jon Connell Reserve where Leeming Strikers entertain Kwinana United. (All games kick off at 3.00pm unless otherwise stated) The Strikers continued their winning streak last week with a 4-1 win at Hamersley, while Kwinana fought back to draw 1-1 with UWA Nedlands to keep their unbeaten run at home.
Kwinana midfielder Sean Troup scored the equaliser last week from the spot, his eighth goal of the season, and he said it was a tight game, but said they had chances to win it in the end. “I thought it was a good game against UWA, who fought through to the very end and were a well organised outfit,’ he said. “But I feel that we created enough chances to go on and win the game, but credit to UWA, who threw men behind the ball and managed to stop us doing so.”
Troup, who is celebrating his birthday today, said Sunday’s trip to Lemming will be another tough test, but they are ready for the challenge. “Yes, another tough game at Leeming, who we recently played and got knocked out of the cup by, so we know this is a big game for us to get back in to the title race,” he explained. “We know they are going to be a physical team and very well organised, we tried to implement a game plan last game against them but they did well to stop us. So overall it's a massive game for us and after having this lock down and not being able to go to training makes it that little bit harder, but hopefully the lock down gets lifted and we can all get back out on the pitch.”
Leeming striker Ben Greaves bagged a hat-trick last week at Hamersley, with Dean Couling grabbing the other, and Greaves said it was vital to get the win at Rovers after beating the league leaders Maddington the week before. “Last week was an important win for us, as this season we've struggled with consistency so to back up the Maddington win was great boost in confidence,” he explained. “The game itself I thought we were always in control and took our chances in second half.”
Greaves said they played well against Kwinana in the cup and he is hoping for a similar performance and result on Sunday. “I’m looking forward to the game on Sunday, and I know games against Kwinana are always a tough game and this will be no different,” he said. “Coming off a win against them in the cup a few weeks ago, we go into the fixture confident we can take three points again.”
In other games on Sunday league leaders Maddington White City make the trip to Butlers Reserve to take on Wembley Downs, looking to maintain their three-point lead at the top of the table, while Queens Park host North Perth United at Coker Park. Jaguar welcome Hamersley Rovers to Herb Graham Recreation Centre, while the round starts on Saturday evening with Quinns hosting Joondalup United at Gumblossom Park – kick off 7.00pm. The final game sees second placed South West Phoenix travel to the UWA Sports Park to take on fourth-placed UWA Nedlands.
UWA came home from Kwinana with a point last week, while the Phoenix fought back late to beat Quinns 5-4 in a thriller. Phoenix skipper Jamie Oakley said it was a great win and showed the character they have in their side. “It was a great game for the neutrals, but we were quite disappointed to concede four goals, but showed real character and belief to never give up and get a result,” he said. “Quinns were a strong team and will be up there come the end of the season, so for us to fight back to win it was a vital three points.”
Oakley said Sunday is a vital game for both sides, and he I looking forward to it. “I’ve said before, but I don’t think there’s any easy games in this league. We played UWA in the night series, but it looks like they’ve recruited well since then, so we will need to be on top of our game to get a result,” the keeper explained. “It’s an important game for both teams to keep the pressure on Maddington, who have been the best team in the first half of the season.”
1.7.2021
WA SIDES AWAIT FFA CUP DRAW
ECU Joondalup and Floreat Athena will find out their opponents in the FFA Cup Round of 32 on Thursday July 8 at 5.30pm WA time after Football Australia announced the date and time of the national draw today. The draw will be conducted live and will be streamed live via the official FFA Cup Facebook and My Football YouTube accounts.
The Jacks, who beat Sorrento to qualify for the stage for the first time, along with Floreat Athena who beat Cockburn City to qualify again, will both be in Zone 4 (West) along with Adelaide City, Adelaide Olympic and A League side's Adelaide United and either Perth Glory or Melbourne Victory, who will play off for the final spot on the weekend of 7-8 August.
The draw process and principles for FFA Cup have been revamped in 2021, with clubs being placed into four (4) zones for the Round of 32 – East (12 clubs), North (6 clubs), South (8 clubs) and West (6 clubs). From the Round of 16 onwards the draw will be completely open, adding more unpredictability and excitement to the competition.
The new draw process and principles are one of a number of enhancements to the 2021 edition of the FFA Cup. Other enhancements will see the Winner awarded one of Australia’s preliminary round slots in the AFC Champions League (subject to meeting AFC Club Licensing requirements), as well as the introduction of Play-offs between the bottom four A-League clubs for the remaining two spots in the Round of 32. These Play-off matches are scheduled for the weekend of 7-8 August and will see Western United FC and Perth Glory FC play host to Newcastle Jets FC and Melbourne Victory FC, respectively.
In 2021 the Round of 32 is made up of 10 A-League clubs, the 2019 National Premier Leagues Champion (Wollongong Wolves from New South Wales), as well as 21 Member Federation clubs from the 731 that have entered from across Australia in the Preliminary Rounds. In total, the FFA Cup 2021 will feature 744 clubs nationally.
1.7.2021
BURTON CONFIRM EDWARDS’ DEPARTURE
Ryan Edwards will leave English League One club Burton Albion at the end of his contract to join an unnamed K-League side. The 27-year old midfielder, the son of former Socceroos striker Alistair Edwards, signed for the Brewers in the summer of 2019 from Scottish side Hearts on a two-year contract.
In his two seasons at Burton Edwards made 90 appearances, scoring nine goals. He was voted Player of the Season by the fans and his teammates last season, was named Burton’s PFA Community Champion for 2019/20 and was regularly involved with Burton Albion Community Trust events.
Burton coach Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink was hoping to remain Edwards for 2021/22 but it wasn’t to be. "We made Ryan an offer to stay with us and tried everything we could to keep hold of him, but he has chosen to continue his career overseas,” said manager Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink.
"He is making a decision for his family and we have to respect that. He has been a fantastic player, professional and teammate, and I know everyone at the club wishes him all the best for the future.” Edwards, who has also played at Reading and Partick Thistle, is expected to announce his new club shortly.
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This page was last updated on the 22nd June, 2021