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30.4.2022
NPL-WA ROUND SIX - REVIEW
Bayswater City have moved up to fourth on the NPLWA Men’s table after a 2-1 win against Inglewood United in our ‘Match of the Round’ at Inglewood Stadium on Saturday afternoon. “This win against Inglewood was very important as it puts us in touch with the league leaders as we have now crept into a top four position,” Bayswater’s Kosta Sparta said. “In the first half we started off with great intensity and put Inglewood on the back foot with two first half goals. In the second half, it turned into a bit of a scrappy game however our work rate saw us through to the final whistle despite conceding a late goal. Overall, we are very happy with the result and look forward to next week’s game.”
Bayswater were ahead on 26 minutes, former Perth Glory youth striker Ndumba Makeche showed his strength, to roll his marker and fire into the bottom corner past Josiah Godfrey. The visitors doubled their advantage six minutes before half-time, a mistake at the back let in Gordon Smith, who rolled the ball into an empty net. Inglewood struggled in the final third, but did pull one back deep into second half stoppage time, Harry Evans scoring, but it was a just a consolation. “I was a very good win on the road against a tough opposition,” Bayswater’s Gordon Smith said. “It keeps our run going to five games unbeaten which is good for team morale. We now go into a touch schedule with two mid-week games in a row full of confidence.”
Perth Redstar snapped a three-game losing streak, after beating Armadale 4-1 at Alfred Skeet Reserve. “The team played extremely well and it was a top response off the back of some disappointing results in the cup and last two league games,” RedStar coach Callum Salmon said. “Armadale is a difficult place to play, John O Reilly is a great coach and they have some very good players. Johnny Perkins was excellent, Chok Dau and Ryan Finnie also stood out in a fantastic team performance, all the coaching staff are really pleased and looking forward to Perth SC next weekend.”
The home side were on a high after scoring 13 goals in the last two games, but they found themselves behind after only eight minutes. Tom Hough’s pass sent Dau racing down the right, and the winger cut into the box and found the bottom corner. They doubled their lead on 19 minutes, Healing’s shot was well saved by Gharsallah, but Tom Hough was quickest to the rebound, and crossed to Dau who made no mistake from close-range. It wasn’t the start the hosts were looking for, but three minutes later they were back in the game. Abdul Osman ball into the box wasn’t dealt with and Jelenovic beat Perkins to the ball to roll the ball home.
Armadale ended the half the better, and the returning Johnny Perkins produced a stunning double save to deny them. First the RedStar custodian saved well from Gordon Perkins, Jelenovic’s follow up shot was blocked, and Perkins fired the rebound goalward, but Perkins produced a stunning reaction save to thwart the Armadale striker. Perkins was at it again after half time, this time saving Osman’s first time shot, after good work on the right by Luqman Sayyed. But eight minutes into the second half the visitors added a third. Another ball over the top sent Nicol racing clear, and the Scottish striker finished clinically past Gharsallah.
The visitors made sure of the points just after the hour, Dau racing clear, and calmly finishing past Gharsallah to complete his hat-trick. “It was a good win at Armadale on the weekend, we haven’t been in great form and nobody likes to play Armadale away, the pitch is terrible down there and there really good at battling so always is a difficult game,” RedStar skipper Ellis Healing said. “The lads turned up though, took our chance and got the three points to get back on track.”
Sorrento remains third, after returning from Grindleford Reserve with a 5-2 win. “Coming off the back of a good win in the cup against RedStar isn’t always easy, and sometimes to go from beating a team top end of the table, to then go play someone at the bottom can be a potential banana skin, you can’t get complacent and expect to just beat teams,” Gulls striker Chris Jackson explained. “The 5-2 was a great result for us in the end, we were disappointed to concede two sloppy goals from our own mistakes but we’ll learn from that. We worked hard all over the field and got the three points we deserved in a solid team performance. We have a big couple of weeks coming up and hopefully we can continue the run we’ve started.”
The Gulls were ahead on the half hour mark, Ollie Annis corner was headed home by Mark Barnett nodded into the back of the net. They doubled their lead on the stroke of half time, Byungatae Ahn's powerful header from another Annis corner. The result looked over on 56 minutes when Sorrento added a third, with Jackson sweeping home a cross. But Balcatta hit back and found two goals in ten minutes. First Ryan McLaughlin turned into his own net after Patrick Hughes had saved Michael Scafetta's shot, before Amir Ajan's penalty against his former side reduced the arrears further on 70 minutes.
The home faithful could sense a comeback, but that was snuffed after the Gulls scored two late goals. First Gustavo Giron-Marulanda finished well, before Jackson added his second four minutes from time. “A great performance from the boys, we absolutely dominated the game from start to finish,” Sorrento defender Mark Barnett said. “We conceded two silly goals from our own mistakes, but that really was all they had in the game. We came off the back off a good cup win against RedStar and we have continued our good form against Balcatta. Chris and Gustavo were clinical in front of goal, but it was a real team performance all round and the confidence is high heading into Inglewood next week.”
Floreat Athena remained top of the table after a 4-2 win against Gwelup Croatia at E&D Litis Stadium. “After losing two games in a row this was a must win for us. Despite the youthful squad and league position Gwelup have been quite competitive in all of their games so far this season and that continued against us,” Floreat coach Vas Vujacic said. “In the first half we had good control and created numerous opportunities, deservingly going in at half time 2-0 up. They came back at us in the second half but we were smart and took out opportunities to be comfortable at 4-0 with 20 to go. To Gwelup’s credit they didn’t give up and threw everything at us to score two goals and make it quite uncomfortable for us in the final minutes of the game.”
The hosts found the net twice in the first 21 minutes, first Jawad Rezai fired in Riley Woodcock's cross from the left for the opener before providing the assist for Ludovic Boi to finish clinically. After the break Ben Steele rose highest to head in Nick Ambrogio's corner for his first senior NPL goal and Rezai tapped in Bayley Brown-Montgomery's pull-back to make it 4-0 midway through the second half. it looked game over, but Gwelup fought until the end, and struck twice within as many minutes to temporarily scare Athena. Rene Kisesa curled home from outside the area before Samuel Dweh added a second moments later. It was game on, but they couldn’t find a third goal to set up a nervous finish as Floreat took the points.
In the final game Perth Glory and Perth SC have fought out an entertaining 0-0 draw at Crazy Domain Stadium, Hartfield Park on Friday evening. “For me the game was greatly frustrating as personally it would have been great to get a win and a clean sheet against my former club,” Perth SC keeper Sam Reilly explained. “We simply lacked quality in the final third and that cost us three points against a Glory side that barely threatened.” Both teams had their chances to win it on the night. Lucas Rossi collected Andrew Maranta's diagonal ball but was denied by Reilly as Glory extended their unbeaten run to three despite chasing a first home win. Defending champions Perth, meanwhile, are still seeking their first win and league goal of the campaign despite having the better chances. They could have won it themselves had Hasani Sinclair been able to steer an effort past former Azzurri stopper Adrian Sinagra. The game between Stirling Macedonia and Cockburn City was called off due to covid.
30.4.2022
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND FIVE – REVIEW
Western Knights has kept the pressure on State League Division One leaders, Olympic Kingsway, after a narrow 1-0 win against Dianella White Eagles in our ‘Match of the Round’ at Dianella Reserve on Saturday evening. “We are absolutely buzzing with the win. It was a tough battle but everyone put a shift in and dug deep,” Knights’ Ben Coulter explained. “We were under pressure at times but battled well. We played well in patches but certainly weren’t at our best and a few of our mistakes gave them a few chances and Sammy made a couple of solid saves. It’s a tough place to go given the history of two clubs but we’re just happy with another three points and clean sheet and keep taking it game by game. Were also starting to get a full squad together as well which is great and will help us keep moving forward.”
The only goal of the game came on 76 minutes, with Dean Hurley scoring his second goal of the season, a shot from 25 meters out, and despite the hosts pressing late, the Knights held firm to take home the points. “We knew this was one of the games of the season for both clubs, with a big rivalry, and both teams wanted to win,” Dianella’s Kristian Despotovski said. “We came out in the first half and played some good football and I believe we deserved to be two or three goals up at half time, but we just couldn’t find the back of the net. The second was very even with both clubs keeping the ball and having some chances, but the Knights eventually scored the winner and they just held on for a 1-0 win.”
Olympic Kingsway maintained their three-point lead at the top after beating Forrestfield United 5-1 at Kingsway Reserve. The visitors found the opener via an own goal after only 25 minutes, but the hosts levelled with an own goal of their own just before half time. But after the break, Olympic kicked on and Ciaran Byrne put them ahead on the hour, before Forrestfield had Jake Melia sent off on 72 minutes, with Byrne converting the resulting penalty. Then late goals to Tyler Garner and Richard Howles secured a comprehensive win for David Tough’s side.
“I thought we controlled the game well first half having a few half chances and a goal disallowed but a mistake at the back letting a man run free cost us a goal. We got one back not long after which was probably unfortunate for Forrestfield but we continued to press and we got rewarded for that,” Olympic striker Ciaran Byrne explained. “Second half was pretty much the same, controlled the play well and got an early second half goal. The game opened up a bit more after that and once we got the third the game was pretty much done. It was good to be back out on the pitch for myself after been out injured for a few weeks, so hopefully I can make a habit of scoring over the next few weeks with the big games ahead.”
Subiaco are up to third after a narrow 2-1 win against UWA Nedlands at the UWA Sports Park. “It was a classic derby game if you ask me, probably not too enjoyable for the spectators to watch,” Subiaco skipper Elliot Ireland said. “We definitely had some good moments, but it was more of a scrap in which we showed great heart and fight, and thankfully that got us over the line to get us the three points.” It was UWA who hit the front on 28 minutes, Jordan Kelly heading home Boas Mtwale.
But Subiaco restored parity ten minutes later, Emmanuel Langoya on target, and they won it on the hour, when Jordan Allen-Rana scored. The hosts were reduced to me four minutes from time when Oscar Heaney was shown a second yellow card by referee Walter Ciotti. “Very disappointing result for us, we battled hard going up 1-0 but they levelled before the break,” UWA Nedlands skipper Luke Randazzo said. “We were able to find a goal in the second half, and they won it, but we continue to battle on in hope of more points come round six.”
Fremantle City are fourth after being held to a 2-2 draw by Joondalup United at Hilton Reserve. “It was a tight game against a very talented Fremantle side, and we had chances to win it and on another day those chances would have gone in,” Joondalup defender Ben Johns explained. “A step in the right direction for us after a poor start to the season, so we’ll take the point and look forward to next week’s game.” Todd Howarth gave the home side the lead on 11 minutes, but Matthew Corrigan levelled for Nick Jennings’ side five minutes later.
Hamza Hina restored Cameron Lord’s side the lead in the shadows of half time, and Joondalup were reduced to ten men when skipper Scott Hoyle was given a second yellow card and sent off. But the ten men levelled ten minutes from time, with Jay Lang converting from the spot. The hosts were also reduced to ten men late, after Joshua Macri was shown a second yellow card by referee Stephen Knight, and both sides had to settle for a point a piece. “We are all very disappointed in this result,” Fremantle midfielder Brian Patterson said. “We never took our chances early on and Joondalup did what Joondalup do best and disrupted the game with the stoppages, we just never got going.”
Mandurah City continued their good form, with a 4-2 win against Murdoch University Melville at Besteam Stadium on Saturday evening. “The performance was excellent from the boys tonight, we showed character going a goal down early and to get level then taking the lead before 20 minutes,” Mandurah player/coach John Baird explained. “To lose a second like we did was unfortunate, but again we regrouped and kept plugging away then getting the goals which I felt we deserved in the end. At 2-2 it could’ve gone either way, but we produced the quality at the right time.” MUMFC were ahead after only three minutes, with Christos Vaenas scoring, but Craig Barker levelled for the Dolphins four minutes later heading home. Joey O’Brien made it 2-1 to the visitors ten minutes later, dinking the ball over the keeper.
But the home side found a lifeline in first half stoppage time, with Pat Sara levelling with an indirect free kick in the penalty area. Hamish van Dieken restored John Baird’s sides lead midway through the second half and six minutes from time van Dieken added his second to seal the points. “Coming up against MUMFC we knew it was going to be a difficult game but we were fully focused on bringing the three points home. Going behind early due to a mistake, we showed good character by responding immediately,” Van Dieken explained. “Second half we completely took control of the game and really started to dominate, and we eventually got rewarded. So, all round it was a great performance by us and a result that makes it three straight wins.”
In the final game Quinns won for the first time this season, after a 2-0 win against Rockingham City at SafeRad Stadium. “Pleased to get our first win of the season and move up the table a bit,” Quinns skipper Adam Buckingham said. “Hopefully now we can string some results together as the confidence in the group is high after some strong performances.” The visitors found the opener on six minutes, a long throw from Jackson Dongray that went through the box and Harley Curran finished at the back post. They sealed the points on the hour, some neat play ended with Michael Currie, who whipped the ball into the back post and Ben Hinshelwood made no mistake.
30.4.2022
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND FIVE – REVIEW
Morley-Windmills stop and start season continued after they were well beaten by Gosnells City 5-2 in our State League Division Two ‘Match of the Round’ at Walter Padbury Reserve. “It was a good win, especially after backing up from the midweek game. We emphasised to the boys the importance of getting the win, so we were really happy with the weeks work and the performances, which puts us in third place on the table,” Gosnells Coach Marc Anthony explained. “We scored some great goals, but we also created a lot more which is pleasing, the only downside was giving away a couple of goals, but it had been a tough week for the lads, and they did tire a little. But we managed it well and gave a few boys a run out, and hopefully we can kick on put a few wins together.”
The hosts were ahead after only five minutes, Jamie Burns sent clear by Conor Kavanagh and he made no mistake. It was 2-0 on 26 minutes, Aaron Coslani finding Blake Pritchard, who’s good first touch gave him time to finish past Luke Hutcheson. They added a third ten minutes later, Kavanagh’s cross turned home by Tony Chandler at the back post. It was 4-0 early in the second half, Eddie Wynne-Willson cross was finished by Burns, before Wynne-Willson added a fifth on the hour, easing his way past two defenders before chipping the on-coming Hutcheson. The game was over as a contest, but Morley bagging two late consolation goals, with Otto Van Der Poel and Ismail Atak on target.
The round began on Friday evening with Curtin University and Kingsley Westside fighting out a 1-1 draw at Edinburgh Oval. “Again, for us it was a game of two halves. First half had curtain in control possession wise without really putting us under pressure, but in the second half was all us as we controlled the game and were unlucky not to take all three points as their keeper made several great saves to keep them in the game,” Kingsley coach Steven Dimitrovich explained. “Overall pleased with the second half and the way the lads are responding to half time team talk just need to start putting it together over the 90 mins of the game which I believe will come soon.”
The visitors had coach Dimitrovich back in the dugout after Covid protocols saw him miss the cup win against Curtin, and they opened the scoring on 57 minutes. Joel Gillespie’s corner was headed home by Kieron Salmon. But the home side found the equaliser 13 minutes later. Daniel Nocciolino found space with defenders around him on the right, and he cut the ball back to the top of the penalty area, where Angus Christie found the top right-hand corner of the net. “It felt like two points dropped, but on the balance of play, a draw was a fair result,” Curtin Coach Troy Reid said. “We had missed a one-on-one with the keeper and they smashed the underside of the crossbar, so a point apiece it is.”
League leaders Carramar Shamrock Rovers maintain their perfect start to the season beating Ashfield 4-1 at the Acclaimed Catering Arena. “Great win yesterday and very happy with the result. They went 1-0 up and we never panicked, and we scored two quick goals to make it 2-1 before half time,” Rovers’ Ger Fitzgerald said. “We had a few injuries yesterday and the boys that came in did absolutely brilliant, a great team performance from the boys and delighted with the three points.”
The hosts were ahead after only 16 minutes, with Gabriel Riquelme scoring, but Rovers were level 11 minutes later, Jack Bardsley intercepted a pass and ran through on goal and finished clinically. They then hit front moments later, Bardsley again with some great work, pulling the ball back to Daniel Pearce who scored from close range. Rovers added a third on 77 minutes, Peter Smith free kick was headed on by Fitzgerald, finding Alan Reidy who timed his run brilliantly and scored from inside the box. The icing was put on the cake five minutes later, Pearce bagging his second to secure a 4-1 win.
Balga won for the first time this season after seeing off Swan United 3-1 at Princess Road Reserve. “After only one point out off the last three games with nine goals scored, we had to be a little bit more careful. We controlled the game at all time. After the 2-0 lead we faced 15 minutes of pressure from Swan. But in all phases of the game, we could have scored more goals, and we really finished the game off well,” Balga coach Gerhard Janssen explained. “It was crucial for the young team to get the first victory of the season, and after going through the next round of the cup, we now constantly built a better structure of confidence.”
Balga were ahead on 24 minutes, Ben Wantee won the ball on the edge of the box, his powerful shot was parried by Swan keeper Jordan Jones, but Bleron Mamudi was quickest to the rebound to tap the ball home. They doubled their lead two minutes later, Dieudonne Said shot was saved by Jones, but again Mamudi there for the easy tap in again. Swan got one back nine minutes later, with Jake Fritchley scoring. But in the final minute of the half William Franklin was given two quick yellow cards from referee Sailota Phiri and was sent off. It went from bad to worse for Swan when they were reduced to nine men after Faustin Machochi was also sent off, and Balga wrapped up the points ten minutes from time. Martin Gorong’s pass sent Taban Lado clear, and he finished well. “The game against Swan was hard fought, we came out the blocks well putting lots of pressure on in their final third getting two tap-ins after being saved by the keeper,” Balga’s Liam Kessel said. “Swan going to ten men in the first half changed the game for us tactically, as we tried to manage the game and secure our first three points. We controlled the second half and another rash challenge led them down to nine players leaving them quite vulnerable, but they kept pushing.”
Wanneroo City were again involved in a 3-3 draw, their fourth of the season after South West Phoenix scored late to secure a point at Hay Park. - “We’re very disappointed and it does feel like a loss. Conceding in the last minute, is extremely frustrating, especially when it’s happened a few times this season already,” Wanneroo’s Dion Berman said. “We’re still chasing our first win of the season and I am positive that it’s just around the corner.” The visitors were ahead on seven minutes, a one-two between William Woodhall and Berman, saw the striker race into goal and finish into the bottom corner. But the hosts levelled four minutes later, Lee Stewart’s first shot was blocked by Wanneroo keeper Danijel Markovic, but Stewart fired home the rebound.
Berman regained the lead for Wanneroo on 22 minutes, his first time shot from 18 meters gave Jamie Oakey no chance. But again, the hosts hit back immediately, Ollie McGee flicking home Stewart’s corner. Wanneroo regained the lead 12 minutes from time, Berman found Keylun Pollard, whose cross picked out Lucas White at the back post to score. It looked like the visitors would leave with the points, but in stoppage time the Phoenix found the equaliser. Jordan McGee’s free kick was headed goalward by Bright Ababio, it was blocked but the striker volleyed home the rebound. “I think both teams will feel they had enough chances to win the game but a draw was probably a fair result in the end,” Phoenix’s Lee Stewart explained. “It’s been a tough month but we are slowly starting to see players back from injury and isolation and that’s adding depth and quality to our squad. Hopefully we can keep building some fitness and momentum with a run of games and start to get some results.” In the final game Canning City opened their account for the season after beating Joondalup City 1-0 at the Iluka Sports Complex. The only goal of the game came 17 minutes from time, with Cameron Hewitt scoring.
29.4.2022
AUSTRALIA CUP ROUND FIVE DRAWN
The draw for the fifth round of the Australia Cup was made live on the Football West Facebook page on Wednesday afternoon, and Belt Up Amateur Premier Division side Emerald FC’s reward for knocking out NPLWA Men’s Balcatta Etna in the previous round, is another home tie against NPL side at Fraser Park Reserve, this time Sorrento will face the giant-killers. A brace from Andrew Wood gave Shane O’Donovan’s side a stunning 2-1 win, and they are the only amateur side left in the competition.
The draw has given us some mouth-watering ties, with the all-Croatian clash between Division One side Western Knights and NPL side Gwelup Croatia at Nash Field a standout. The only all NPL clash is at Dorrien Gardens where the 2005 cup winners Perth SC, host 2018 winners Armadale, while 2014 cup winners Bayswater City welcome in-form Division Two side Kingsley Westside to Frank Drago Reserve.
The other NPL sides face tricky ties, Division Two side Balga will look to cause a surprise when they host Stirling Macedonia at Princess Road Reserve, Inglewood United head south to the Genesiscare Stadium to take on Mandurah City, while Cockburn City hit the road, to take on either Forrestfield United or Joondalup United, whose fourth-round tie was postponed. In the final tie Division One side Murdoch University Melville welcome Division Two side Ashfield to the Besteam Stadium. The WA Round Four games are scheduled for the midweek of 17-19 May.
The Full Draw is as follows: Balga v Stirling Macedonia, Murdoch University Melville v Ashfield, Western Knights v Gwelup Croatia, Forrestfield United OR Joondalup United v Cockburn City, Perth v Armadale, Bayswater City v Kingsley Westside, Emerald FC v Sorrento, Mandurah City v Inglewood United
29.4.2022
NPL-WA ROUND SIX - PREVIEW
We head into Week Six of the NPLWA Men’s competition, and our ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to the Inglewood Stadium, where Inglewood United entertain Bayswater City. (All games kick off at 3.00pm, unless stated) Both sides are coming off away wins, City beating Sorrento 2-1, while United beat Gwelup 2-0, and with both sides level on seven points, two off the leaders, so this one should be a cracker. Last time they met at the venue was in round 17 last season, when the hosts ran out 5-0 winners.
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. Inglewood sealed the win with three second half goals, first Riak capitalised on an error at the back to score on the hour, 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.
Bayswater sit fifth on the table, with only one defeat, and are coming off a big win at Sorrento in the last round, which was the Gulls first defeat of the season, and winger Kosta Sparta said it was good to get back to winning ways after the draw against Gwelup in round four. “It was a great result from the boys against Sorrento, and we know it’s always hard going to their ground and getting the three points, so it showed great determination from the team,” he explained. “I thought we played very well and we deserved to walk away with the win.
“We are gelling well, and we were very unfortunate with the one loss against the RedStar’s this season but every game we keep improving as a team and I’m very excited to see how far we can go. We as team believe in ourselves and we know we can make this season a very successful one. Sparta, scored the winner at Percy Doyle Reserve, and he said Saturday is huge, as they look to keep in touch with the leaders. “It’s a very important game this weekend against Inglewood, and it’s even more important for us to get the win in order to keep the winning streak and momentum moving forward. A potential three points this weekend, would place us in a great position on the table.”
Inglewood also bounced back last week, from a disappointing result against Cockburn in the last league game, and defender Callum Mellowship said their hard work has been rewarded. “It was a good feeling to get the win in our last round against Gwelup, I felt that we lost our concentration at the end of the Cockburn game and paid dearly for it, so the response from the boys against Gwelup was pleasing to be a part of,” he said. “It’s always a different challenge when playing away at Gwelup, but a clean sheet and two goals against an energetic side helped to keep us on track for our targets this season. I felt that the hard work we put into training after the Cockburn game paid off and we were able to come away with the three points as a result of this.”
The defender headed to Inglewood from Armadale this season, and he has settled in well at the club. “It’s been great so far. It’s always challenging moving to a new club, but the support from the players and the coaches have made the transition a lot easier,” Mellowship explained. “The culture around Inglewood is really good and there is a real sense of family within the club, which has definitely helped myself and the other new players in the squad. I’ve really enjoyed working with Andres and Jason so far this season, I definitely feel that I’ve improved as a player in this short space of time and I give them credit for that. I enjoyed my time at Armadale, I’m very thankful to both clubs for giving me the opportunities and I hope to build upon them this year.”
Mellowship knows the game against Bayswater is huge, and he is expecting a tough game, but they will be up for it. “We’re excited to come up against a strong Bayswater team this coming weekend and we plan to build on our results against both Gwelup and Joondalup City in the cup,” he said. “We’ve been working hard this week in training and will want to keep our momentum going - I feel that there’s a good atmosphere around the team at the moment, we’re moving from strength to strength as a team and we’re beginning to see results because of it. Bayswater have a few key players who we will need to be weary of, but I believe if we keep our concentration and stick to our game plan for the whole 90 minutes then we will be able to come away with the three points.”
It's been a tough start for Balcatta Etna, not only winless in the league, they were bundled out of the Australia Cup by amateur club Emerald FC, and they will be looking to bounce back on Saturday when they host Sorrento at Grindleford Reserve. Sorrento were also beaten in round five, losing at home to Bayswater, and striker Gustavo Giron-Marulanda said it was a disappointing result. “It wasn’t a good gem for us, I think we gave Bayswater to much respect,” he said. “We could have done better had we gone for the game a bit earlier.” They did bounce back in the cup, beating local rivals Perth RedStar, and Marulanda said they need a similar performance against Balcatta on Saturday, who will be desperate for a win.
“We went in to RedStar game with a different mindset, we knew we had to get a result, cup games are there to be won, and there are no second chances, so we set up a bit different and more positive going forward. It’s a good win against perhaps the league favourites we know we have quality in the team to hurt opponents, and it’s good that we did it against a top club, it’s definitely a good thing and shows us that we can compete with the top teams,” the Columbian striker explained. “We know that Balcatta are struggling at the moments, which makes them more competitive and eager to win. It won’t be an easy game and we know we have to approach them with caution however we are in it for the three points, as we need to keep going up the ladder.”
In other games this weekend, Armadale host Perth RedStar at Alfred Skeet Reserve, the hosts on a three-game run without defeat, while the visitors have lost their last three. League leagues Floreat Athena will look to bounce back when they host Gwelup Croatia at E&D Litis Stadium, while third place Stirling Macedonia welcome a rejuvenated Cockburn City to Macedonia Park. The round begins on Friday evening, with Perth Glory hosting Perth SC at Crazy Domains Stadium at Hartfield Park (7.30pm).
The visitors are still searching for their first win of the season, but they have only played the two games, due to Covid. Meanwhile Glory sits in seventh place, which is a great performance from the young side, as they have had a number of their players called into the clubs A-League side. It will be huge game for Glory keeper Adrian Sinagra, who has come through the ranks at Dorrien Gardens, and he told the Perth Glory website he is looking forward to the game. “It was my boyhood club, they brought me up and stuck by me and it’s going to be hard controlling the emotions on Friday,” he said. “But obviously I’m here now and we have a goal and I want to do the very best I possibly can for the club. It’s going to be a tough game as they [Perth SC] always put up a good fight, so it’s going to be a busy night.”
The 19-year-old, who has started each of Glory’s games this season, conceding only five goals, but he was quick to praise the way the young squad has gone about its business since he joined in pre-season. “The team performance has been good considering the player movement and where everyone else has gone,” he explained. “The boys that have come up have done exceptionally well. You can’t fault them at all, especially playing in the environment against men when some of them are 15 or 16. In terms of my own performances, they’ve not been too bad.”
29.4.2022
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND FIVE – PREVIEW
It’s another huge week of football in the State League Division One, and it doesn’t get any bigger than traditional rivals Dianella White Eagles and Western Knights meeting at Dianella Reserve on Saturday evening, in our ‘Match of the Round’ (5.00pm) The clubs have had quite opposite tarts to the season, the Knights unbeaten, the latest a big win against MUMFC last week, while Dianella are still searching for their first win since promotion, and they are coming off a 3-0 defeat at Forrestfield. The last time they met at the venue was in Round One 2018, when the hosts ran out 6-0 winners, with Angel Andres bagging four with Friday Zico grabbing two.
Dianella went into the season with high expectations, but have found it tough, and last week’s loss at Forrestfield left them at the foot of the table, but defender Josh Kuser, said it was another frustration game. “I thought we had the better chances in the first half but didn’t convert like we should of, and in the second half Forrestfield took their chances accordingly, we need to better in front of goals and as a unit defensively,” he explained. “All the Lads are working hard each week and once we get that first win, I’m sure that’ll kick start us back up the table.”
Kuser, who joined Dianella from AFL last season, said Saturday is a huge game for both clubs, and one he is looking forward too. “From what I’ve heard this week’s game will be a blockbuster,” he said. “Western Knights are playing well, so we will have to be on the top of our game not only for ourselves but for our fans and committee and repay the faith they show week in week out. I’m personally keen to get our first win for the season and show what we are made of, and there is no better fixture to do it in.”
The Knights made it three wins from three after a 5-3 win against MUMFC, and Reece Abrams said it was tough game against a good side. “It was a good win against the inform team, and it turned into an eight-goal thriller,” he explained. “We knew they hadn’t lost a game in the Night Series, and in their first couple of league games, so we had to turn up and apart from a couple of defensive blips we put in a pretty good all-round performance and were unlucky not to get a couple more goals.”
The Nash Field outfit, have been there or there about in recent seasons, and Abrams said the club will be hoping this is the year they can get back to the NPL. “I think a club with the history and the stature of Knights, definitely should be playing top level football,” he explained “Obviously the last couple of seasons have been close to promotion but there’s a real buzz about the place this season and the ambition is definitely there to clinch that promotion spot.”
Abrams said Saturday’s game is huge, and one both clubs look for when the fixtures are released, and he said it will be a great game. “It’s almost like a cup game when these two teams meet, I think form goes out the window and you really have to be at the races if you want to win especially playing away from home like we will be this week,” he said. “Even though they haven’t had the best start to the season we know they have some dangerous players and will have the backing of the home crowd. But if we stick to our game plan and back ourselves, we know we can walk away with the three points and fill us with confidence ahead of a tough upcoming schedule.”
In other games this week (All games kick off at 3.00pm, unless stated) Fremantle City welcome Joondalup United to Hilton Reserve, while Quinns make the trip to SafeRad Stadium to take on Rockingham City. UWA Nedlands entertain Subiaco at the UWA Sports Park, while Murdoch University Melville will look to bounce back from defeat at the Knights when they host Mandurah City at Besteam Stadium. (6.00pm) The final game sees Forrestfield United head to Kingsway Reserve to take on league leaders Olympic Kingsway. David Tough’s side have won their four games, while Richard Abrams sits fourth after a win against Dianella last time in the league, and he said it was vital they bounced back, but was disappointed they missed out on the cup game last week.
“Pressing the reset button after the defeat at Knights was very important to us. We got a lot of things right in the game against Dianella, and deserved the points. We played some entertaining football too which is important, something we need to maintain moving forward into this weekend’s game,” he said. “Last week’s cup postponement was disappointing, but up until now we have been fortunate with Covid. It’s going to disturb the season that’s a given, so it was a shame to have to rearrange the cup game, but that’s a sign of the times now.”
Abrams said it’s a huge task on Saturday at the league leaders, but it’s one they are relishing. “We are rightly massive underdogs for this weekend. We are not expected to come away with anything, however the chance to break Olympics 100% record is something we will certainly have a go at,” he explained. “To be involved in the match of the round shows how far we have come in such a short time which is a credit to the players. We will give this game a good crack and with some luck you never know.”
29.4.2022
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND FIVE – PREVIEW
After last week’s cup round, we head into Week Five of the state League Division Two, and our ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to Walter Padbury Reserve as Gosnells City welcome Morley-Windmills. (All game kick off at 3.00pm, unless stated) Both sides are coming off wins in the last round, Gosnells winning the local derby against Canning City, while Morley returned to the winner’s circle after a win against South West Phoenix. The last time the two sides met at the venue, was in round 15 last season, when Gosnells ran out 4-0 winners. 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.
Gosnells are looking to go one better this season, after missing out in the play-offs for the last two seasons, and skipper Scott Pereira said the win last week, although not their best, they managed to get the job done. “The 1-0 win against Canning wasn’t our best display but could have easily been 2 or 3, they are a young side with lots of energy and they played well,” he explained. “The last few seasons have been disappointing with missing out on promotion by the small margins but we always had one team in the league who were miles above the rest this season it is hard to tell if there is a team like that yet but we hope this year is a great opportunity for us to final get the job done.”
Pereira said Morley will be tough, but they have a midweek catch up game against Swan and will need to be on their toes in both games. “Morley will be a hard game, and after playing Swan in the mid-week catch up game on Wednesday our boys hope to gain more points on the board to keep up with other teams after missing a few,” he said. “We know they will be a good team and a new coach always seems to fire the players up and after some tough results they will be wanting to turn it around. I think we will both be at the top half of the table so should make for an interesting game.”
Morley hit back last time out, after back-to-back defeats in the league, to beat the Phoenix in coach Darran Quinncroft’s first game in charge, and Callum Speed said it was a good start to the new coach’s tenure at the club. “It was a good win especially with the new coaches, it makes us go into the next game with confidence and also back to winning ways and that’s what we’re here to do this year,” he explained. “Darran and Burts (Steve Burton) have been really good to us so far, a different style of coaching which is always good and a little different style of play which I think we’re adapting to well. The standard we have in the squad is very good which makes it easy for everyone.
Speed said any game in this league is tough, but he is confident they can get the job done on Saturday. “Personally, I believe we’ve got the strongest squad in the league, and that’s why our expectations are so high,” he said. “I don’t really know Gosnells at all, but I’m sure with the squad we’ve got we can beat anyone in our league and have been unlucky a couple games, but we know what we’re capable of and it’s dangerous.”
The round starts on Friday evening, when third placed Curtin University hosts second placed Kingsley Westside at Edinburgh Oval (8.30pm). Meanwhile on Saturday Ashfield welcome league leaders Carramar Shamrock Rovers to the Acclaimed Catering Arena, while Joondalup City entertain Canning City, who are still searching for their first point of the season, at the Iluka Sports Complex. South West Phoenix will also be looking for their first points of the season when they host Wanneroo City at Hay Park in Bunbury, while in the final game Swan United head to Princess Road Reserve to take on Balga.
Swan won for the first time this season in round four beating Joondalup City, while Balga came home from Kingsley empty-handed after a nine-goal thriller, and Liam Kessel said they deserved more from the game, and are looking to bounce back on Saturday. “It was definitely a game of two halves, I thought we were in a deserved lead going into half time, and could've had more than four goals,” he said.
“But after the break Kingsley showed their class and experience to get on top of us early in the second half, it was certainly a match for the neutrals, but we take away many positives from the match. We are eager to get our first three points on the board, and the boys have really worked hard the last couple weeks, we know we have four home games on the trot and are aiming for four wins, starting with Swan United.”
29.4.2022
BELT UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION - ROUND THREE PREVIEW
We head into week three of the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division, this after last week’s Cup break. There were two shocks in the first round of the Amateur Cup, with Peel United’s 3-1 loss against Westnam United, while Queens Park lost 4-2 at home against Hamersley Rovers. The only other Premier Division side to go out was Wembley Downs, who were beaten 3-2 by Jaguar, the next round takes place on Sunday June 5. Back to league action, and this weeks ‘Match of the Round’ sees early league leaders Jaguar, who welcome North Perth United to the Herb Graham Recreation Centre. (All games kick off at 3.00pm, unless stated)
Last time the two sides met at the venue was in round nine last season, with both sides sharing the spoils in a 1-1 draw. Jags were ahead on 11 minutes, skipper Juma Wade picked the ball up in the centre of the field and played a well weighted through ball to Magai Deng, out on the right, who cut inside the box, rounded the keeper and slotted home. But the hosts levelled three minutes into the second half, a corner from the right was whipped in and it was only cleared to the edge of the box and Robert Faulkner fired home through a crowded penalty area.
Jaguar moved to the top of the table in midweek, after beating Kwinana United 2-1 at Kelly Park. Wayne Carter gave the hosts the lead early, but Magai Deng levelled just before half time for the Jags. Both sides had players sent off early in the second half, Dean Couling for the hosts, and Jags skipper Juma Wade, but it was the visitors who won it 13 minutes from time, with Deng bagging his second. Jaguar coach Josam Muwowo said it was a great result for the club. “It was a huge win for us on Wednesday night against a very good Kwinana United side,” he said. “Both teams exhibited good football, well organised with high intensity, but Magai (Deng) scored a brace to seal it for us.”
Muwowo said it’s been a good start to the season, but it is early days, and they will be in for another stern test on Sunday against North Perth. “The win against Kwinana gave us a bit of motivation and a step up especially playing with a very difficult side with so much experience in all departments. I can say it is still early for now in the season so we are just focusing on taking one game at a time,” he explained. “This weekend we welcome North Perth for another tough test for us at our home ground, and we are doing our best to recover as quickly as possible from the midweek's game in order to be ready for Sunday's big encounter.”
North Perth is still to win this season, but have only played one game, a draw in the last round at Kelmscott, and were given a forfeit in the cup against La Fiamma. Skipper Kelechi Osunwa missed the league game, but said it wasn’t the result they were looking for, but Covid has made it difficult. “The draw was a little disappointing especially after taking the lead and having the chances that we had, but it's super early in the season and we know there won't be any easy games,” he said.
“Between covid and forfeits it has been difficult getting a rhythm and a run of games but that's affected everyone too. We're grateful for another season of footy in all honesty and it will be great getting a good run of fixtures.” Osunwa returns to the side this week for the trip to Jaguar, and he knows it will be a battle. “Jags away is always tough and will be even tougher on the back of their win against Kwinana and us only playing once so far,” the skipper explained. “Our lads will be energised and keen to get stuck in and hopefully we come out with a result.”
Second placed East Perth, host Wembley Downs on Sunday, and they were also in action in midweek, beating Emerald 2-1 in a cracking game at Inglewood Stadium. It was a tight first half, but the hosts started to take control after the break, and Kevin Taylor hit the post from a long-range free kick, which was pushed onto the woodwork by Emerald keeper Johnny Meehan. But the hosts took the lead seven minutes from time, a flick on from Adam Gianassi found Liam McManus who beat two defenders and finding the net from 18 meters. They doubled their lead three minutes, McManus picked up a pass from Joe Dooley and ran from inside his own half played a brilliant give and go with new signing Nicky Carrol and volleyed into the net. Dermot Rryng then scored a screamer for Emerald in the last few minutes to make it a nervy finish for the hosts, but they held firm to take the points.
“Firstly, huge congratulations to Emerald on an incredible result last Sunday in cup against Balcatta, for a club formed in 2013 to not just mix it but beat an NPL team is a remarkable achievement. It’s evident they haven’t just good players on the pitch but also good people off it driving the club, they deserve all the plaudits,” East Perth coach Colm Costello explained. “Overall, Jason (Winter) and I are delighted with the win, I thought we deserved our victory against a very good side. Our back four were brilliant and I thought Liam McManus was outstanding and caused them all sorts of trouble all evening.”
Costello, who coached Wembley for five seasons, and won the title at the club in 2017, said they need to switch on again on Sunday, against a good Wembley side. “After losing another coach Just as the season kicked off, Jeff and the leadership group have done well with a great win against Quinn’s and from all reports should have got something from last week’s game so we know we’ll have to be at our best,” he said. “Obviously with myself and a few others that used to be Wembley, we all know the thoughts of East Perth doing well won’t sit well them, so we know we are in for a tough task on Sunday, which we are look forward to.”
The round kicks off on Saturday evening, with Quinns hosting Joondalup United at Gumblossom Park (6.00pm, while on Sunday Maddington White City welcomes Peel United at Bortolo Reserve, while Kwinana United make the trip to Coker Park to take on Queens Park. In the final game of the round, Emerald travels to Frye Park to take on Kelmscott Roos. It’s been a huge week for the visitors, beating Maddington in the league and Balcatta in the Cup, and keeper Johnathon Meehan said it has given their confidence a huge boost. “Yes, two great wins for our first two games of the season, and Maddington as we know from the past and looking on last year are the real deal and will be there or there abouts at the end, they were unlucky not to win last year's league so we knew it would be a tough battle,” the keeper explained.
"Across the park I think we bossed most of the game and another unfortunate own goal was their highlight in our 2-1 win. A great performance all round set us up nicely for the Balcatta game. Coming off our first win we had our tails up and were confident of causing an upset, but make no mistake Balcatta was no easy game, big heart shown by our boys to kick on after they equalised. Many thought they would hit us for two or three goals but we stuck to our game plan and ultimately got the win. It was a great result for our young club and we look forward to our next cup game against another very strong NPL team in Sorrento.”
The loss at East Perth brought them back down to earth, but he said they need to bounce back on Sunday. “We felt like we let ourselves down against East Perth, and we gave up too much territory and allowed them too much of the ball at times, in what is always a very tough game,” Meehan said. “We are now looking forward to the next game and hoping to bounce back to winning ways with a good performance away to Kelmscott. We know it will be another tough day out and expect it to be a tight game, we know they have quality around the pitch so we will have to be on our game. I think if we stick to our gameplan and work hard for each other there's no reason we can't pick up the three points.”
29.4.2022
NPL-WA WOMEN'S ROUND FIVE - PREVIEW
It’s Week Five of the NPLWA Women’s competition, and our ‘Match of the Week’ takes us to Grindleford Reserve as Balcatta Etna host Curtin University on Sunday. (All games kick off at 3.00pm, unless otherwise stated) Both sides missed out last week due to Covid, after their games against MUMFC and NTC were postponed, and both will be looking to get their season started, and collect their first points. Balcatta coach Steve Atkins said it’s been frustrating not playing for the last two weeks, but he said the girls have been working hard on at training. “We postponed the Subiaco game which was mutual as both teams knew that Easter Sunday was an important time for families particularly in our world today. A good idea at the time but to then have our game postponed due to a covid outbreak in the NTC squad was not ideal, we too had some cases but in the interest of all it was probably the right decision,” the coach explained. “It’s tough every week with this situation and we are hoping that we don’t have to postpone any more games as it will only impact on scheduling later in the season. Every team is in the same boat so certainly brings another factor into every game. The girls as a result have only played two games so far and are extremely excited to take the field this Sunday.”
They head into the game full of confidence, and Atkins hopes their can kick start their season on Sunday. “It’s an old cliche but there is no easy game and Curtin this Sunday will certainly be no different. Dom is working hard with the Curtin girls and they are extremely competitive and motivated so we know that we will need to be on our game and working collectively for the ninety minutes,” he said. “We were disappointed against MUMFC as we know that we didn’t execute the game plan we wanted and are keen to put things right again this weekend. We have had a good couple of weeks on the training track and the girls are super excited for the next challenge, it promises to be a great game.”
Atkins said the league in 2022 is the most competitive, and he said it helps his team improve, with each game bringing challenges. “The league is certainly seeing some great contests already this season and some very good talent within all of the squads. Redstar are obviously the pick of the bunch at the moment and are a very organised and experienced team as we found out in the night series Grand Final. Behind them though are other capable teams and I truly believe that on any given day any team can give others a shake,” he explained.
“Player movements in my opinion has also somewhat evened the league out and is producing good quality, tight and entertaining games. At Balcatta Etna we have a relatively young squad coupled with a handful of experienced players and combined with developing U21’s that is certainly creating a good foundation for years to come and we are excited with regards to the challenges before us each week on game day. We know that this is a tough league and given the current uncertainties of covid in particular we understand the need to adapt, believe and be at our very best each week in what will continue to be an exciting season.”
Curtin keeper Stacey Cavill said last week’s postponement was disappointing, especially after a solid game against Perth SC in round three. “It was unfortunate that the game was postponed, but COVID is an uncontrollable factor that all teams need to roll with and adjust,” she explained. “I agree that we played well against the Azzurri (Perth Soccer Club), but we still had issues with focus and concentration. The gap between games have given us the opportunity to work on our possession and keeping calm under pressure, as well as getting some fitness in. Hopefully we can keep the same momentum and vibes from our game in Round Four against Balcatta.”
The Curtin custodian said the league is growing, and the quality of the football is getting a lot stronger, which bodes well for the future. “The NPLW WA has gone from strength and strength since the inaugural season in 2020, and the improved professionalism of the clubs and Football West is obvious to anyone who has watched a game,” she explained, “Most clubs have brought in strength and conditioning coaches and physiotherapists, which has only benefited teams. Before 2020, the Women’s Premier League reminded me of the professional league in Spain (La Liga), where there was basically a two-team race.
“Now I see the NPLW WA league more like an English Premier League, where there is still a clear top four but there is plenty of upsets and tight games throughout the season.” Cavill is looking forward to the game on Sunday, and hopefully getting their season started. “No matter how the ladder looks and our previous results, the game against Balcatta will be a battle,” she said. “Balcatta are well organised and have a lot of experience on their side, but hopefully we can overcome this by focusing on our own team goals and objectives. “
The round starts on Friday evening when fourth placed Murdoch University Melville entertain second placed Fremantle City at Besteam Stadium. (7.30pm) The hosts also missed out due to Covid last week, but sit fourth, and are unbeaten this season, while Fremantle City were held at home by Perth SC last week. MUMFC coach Luke Thompson said Covid is something everyone has to get used to, but it is hard for coaches to sort out training sessions. “It’s always hard when you have smaller numbers to implement sessions especially when you need to focus on your structures for upcoming games but the players have been great with their communication and that all you can ask for,” he explained. “They are great at driving intensity at training no matter the size of squad for the sessions which is pleasing too”
Thompson said Friday’s opponents will be tough, but it’s an exciting challenge for his side. “Fremantle for me, with a full squad, will be one of the teams to beat this season, they are well coached and have many talented players,” he said. “But like ourselves they have a few players missing so it will be interesting to see how all the young players go out there, but we are looking forward to the challenge. We have been pretty good defensively so far this season, but we will need to be more ruthless in front of goal if we want to start getting more points on the board.” The final game of the round between league leaders Perth Redstar and Perth Sc at the RedStar Arena has been postponed due to Covid.
24.4.2022
ITALY 'THE BEST THING FOR MY DEVELOPMENT': CIRCATI
Dual nationality defender Alessandro Circati believes opting for Italy over Australia was the “best thing” for his future after making his debut last month for the Azzurri’s Under-20s. The Perth-raised teenager has already made four senior appearances for Serie B Parma this season, and was courted by interim boss Trevor Morgan to join an Olyroos camp in Holland before debuting for Italy in a 5-0 win over Norway.
Circati, the son of former Perth Glory player Gianfranco Circati, can still revert back to Australia as his career unfolds. But for now, surrounded by hordes of relatives in the country of his birth, he’s revelling in la dolce vita. “It was a difficult decision picking between Italy and Australia,” 18-year old Circati said.
“It took a lot of thinking about. It wasn’t just made in a day. At the time I picked what was best for me and my development. That’s what seemed most important. I spoke with Trevor Morgan a few times and was invited to the camp in Holland. But I decided that Italy was a big opportunity for me and a better option.”
Asked whether his heart belonged to either nation, Circati replied: “I feel like I’m both. It’s a question I can’t really answer. It’s tricky - it’s like picking who’s your favourite: you’re mum or your dad. Anybody able to play the two nations, it’s a very difficult decision. It’s a good dilemma to have.”
Circati lined up as against Norway alongside Aussie compatriot Cristian Volpato - the Roma prodigy who faced a similar conundrum. “He’s a good young player with lots of potential and it’s all in his hands what he makes of his career," Circati said of his roommate. "We were the two English speakers, so it was ideal to put us together. We’re good mates.”
Circati paraded his potential in an impressive debut for Parma - once home to former Socceroos Vince Grella and Mark Bresciano - in the 4-0 win over Spal last month, playing in front of legendary gloveman Gianluigi Buffon. Quick-thinking, Slick in possession and imperious in the air, he has been an almost ever present with Giuseppe Iachini’s first team squad since his arrival.
“I’ve probably been a bit surprised to find myself where I am now compared to the start of the season,” he comented. “There’s always improvement to be made of course - but it was my dream and goal to break through straight away. I was lucky enough to win the trust of the coaching staff to get that debut. The fans are great, especially with me being the youngest they’re always pumping me up.”
Parma have overcome bankruptcy with new American owner Kyle Krause promising to return the cub to their natural Serie A habitat. “There have been a couple of bumpy years but there is a great future for this club,” added Circati. “I remember them when Gianfranco Zola was there and obviously the period when Grella and Bresciano were at the club - both of them are often still spoken about.”
Having signed his first pro contract in January - two and a half years with an option for two more - Circati is clearly viewed as part off that future by the Parma hierarchy. “I’d say I’m a modern day defender who is good on the ball and can also tackle,” he said. “My dad has been a big influence and is the reason I am the player I am today. He taught me so much growing up and it was always my dream to play professionally.”
24.4.2022
AUSTRALIA CUP (WA) - ROUND FOUR REVIEW
It was a busy weekend of Australia Cup action, and last season’s winners Floreat Athena have bowed out after losing 3-2 against Stirling Macedonia at Macedonia Park on Saturday evening. “The team showed character and resilience that is unmatched, and having 7/8 first team players out due to injury, sickness and getting rested, we were forced to play a very young and inexperienced team,” Stirling skipper Dejan Spaseski explained. “But as always this team found a way to get the job done and knocking our biggest rivals out of the cup made it even more special.”
It was the visitors who opened the scoring on 37 minutes, skipper Ludovic Boi finding the net with a stunning long-range shot. The hosts soon found an equaliser, Gavin Gillies latched onto a loose ball and raced past his marker, and laid it off to Asher Nelson, who took one touch and placed it into the bottom corner from just outside the box. But three minutes into the second half Floreat regained the lead, Ethan Mom was found in the box and he finish into an empty net. The hosts lost defender Ryan Malton with a red card on 75 minutes, the former Floreat defender sent off after receiving a second yellow card in the space of three minutes from referee Josh Mannella.
But the ten men restored parity three minutes later, Alex Tanevski got on the end of a great ball into the box, but was brought down by Alexander Christodoulakis, and the referee pointed straight to the spot, and booked the defender, Calvin Whitney stepped up and smashed the resulting penalty into the top right corner. No team could find the winner in normal time, so it was off to extra time, and eight minutes in it was Stirling who found the winner. Luke Garas picked up the ball on the right and covered some ground before cutting inside his defender and slotting it in the bottom corner past Thomas Chudy.
Last season’s runners-up Perth RedStar, were also knocked out, after a 3-1 defeat against local rivals Sorrento at the Redstar Arena. The visitors were ahead on the quarter hour, Gustavo Giron-Marulanda firing home, before they doubled their lead before the break. A free kick from Tim Hill was headed home by Chris Jackson. The hosts pulled one back just after half time, with Ellis Healing on target, but it was Sorrento who sealed the tie eight minutes from time. Dean Cummings won possession and sent Marulanda down the flank, and squared the ball to Jackson who tapped into an open goal.
“We put in a very hard-working disciplined defensive performance that enabled us to win the game,” Sorrento coach Trevor Morgan said. “RedStar came at us after half time and got themselves back in game at 2-1 but our lads dug in with everyone sticking to their individual jobs within the team and our third goal, set up with some really unselfish play from Gustavo, led to Jacko getting a tap in and us a two goal advantage which we held to see us get through to the next round.”
Armadale had to come from behind to progress in a ten-goal thriller against Gosnells City, eventually running out 7-3 winners at Walter Padbury Reserve. “The lads played well enough today to secure a comfortable win, but there is a couple of areas we need to brush up on next week at training in preparation for our next NPLWA Men’s game against Perth RedStar,” Reds Head Coach John O’Reilly explained post-match. “Gosnells came out fighting and deserved their opening goal, but after that we settled, and we found opportunities to exploit and eventually found the break through. We now look forward to the next round.”
Gosnells were ahead after only three minutes, with Juan Cabrera giving the hosts, and State League Division Two side, a surprise lead. But Armadale hit back and were level nine minutes later. Jacobsz found space out wide, and cut inside his marker before finishing neatly past Duncan Lennon-Black in the Gosnells goal. Then 12 minutes later the Reds hit the front, Perkins raced down the left and outpaced his marker, before delivering an inch-perfect cross to Jelenovic who made mistake from close-range.
It was 3-1 on the half hour, Perkins pace was causing Gosnells defence all sorts of problems, and he eased past two Gosnells defenders before finding the net from the edge of the penalty area. It was four moments later, Jacobsz turning his marker in the box and calmly firing past Lennon-Black. It was a perfect start to the second half for Jacobsz, who completed his hat-trick on 52 minutes, the striker getting on the end of Atta corner to head home. But Gosnells weren’t finished and James Burns pulled one back for the hosts three minutes later.
Armadale added a sixth on the hour, Jelenovic sending Atta clear and he finished through the legs of the advantage Lennon-Black. Still Gosnells kept coming, and added a third on 63 minutes, with Aaron Coslani scoring past Yousri Gharsallah, but the Reds had the final say in stoppage time with a seventh goal. Second half substitute Andres beating his marker on the top of the box, and finishing clinically to seal a comprehensive 7-3 win.
Inglewood United had to fight hard, before eventually beating Joondalup City 2-0 at the Iluka Sports Complex. The visitor found the opener on 25 minutes, Harry Evans header from a corner was turned home at the back post by Ryan Hogan. Inglewood made sure of the win early in the second half, Manase Abandelwa crossing to Egide Ngendakumana, who made no mistake from 10 meters. “We’re delighted to be through to the next round of the cup, these fixtures are always tough, especially away from home, but we got the job done and progressed into the next round which was the main thing,” Inglewood midfielder Harry Evans said. “Credit to Joondalup City, they tried to play the right way and they battled hard. For us, we carry on and look forward to getting back into league action next week.”
In other Saturday games, Balga ended the run of amateur club Ballajura, with a 2-0 win at Princess Road Reserve. The hosts opened the scoring on 25 minutes, Dieudonne Said getting on the end of a cross from Ben Wantee. Bleron Mamudi made it 2-0 just after the half hour, firing home from close-range after a goalmouth scramble. Doubles from Paul Zimarino and Ethan Banks, and others to Jeles Teles, Hasani Sinclair and Fanuel Dawit secured Perth SC a 7-0 win against Rockingham City at Dorrien Gardens.
Gwelup Croatia were made to work hard in the Swan Valley, before winning 2-0 against Swan United at Francis Street, with goals from Jordan Pokler and Jason Petrie, while a brace from Christos Vaenas and another to Feisal Zaw saw Murdoch University Melville beat South West Phoenix 3-0 at Besteam Stadium. Mandurah City made it back-to-back wins against UWA Nedlands, after a 4-0 win at Genesiscare Stadium. They opened the scoring on 34 minutes, Alex Grayson slipped through James Paylor who squared it to Joe O’Brien for an easy finish. After the break Mandurah went on with it, Hamish van Dieken won a 50/50 with the keeper and laid it off to Paylor who crossed to the back post for Andy Murray to volley it home.
Paylor lashed home a third on the hour, finishing well from an O’Brien cross. It 4-0 late, John Baird intercepted the ball in the middle of the park, and found Enes Baser, who smashed it into the top corner. “The game went really well for us considering injuries and illness but the squad coped really well, especially the young boys stepping up from reserves did an excellent job, couple of 16-year-old’s which bodes well for the future of the club,” Mandurah player/coach John Baird explained. “Big bonus is back-to-back wins and you can see the confidence from last week to this week which is really pleasing, all the credit goes to the players and the group, we’ll look forward to the draw seeing who we get.”
The final game on Saturday we saw a seven-goal thriller, with Kingsley Westside edging out Curtin University 4-3 at Edinburgh Oval. “We are very happy to progress to the next round and very proud of the players tonight,” Kingsley assistant coach Stuart Montgomery said. “It was a tough game and we responded well to going behind a few times. Considering we were missing our Head Coach and five first team players due to covid, I was really happy with the win. It gave opportunities to others to show what they can do and I was really happy for the young kid Paul Stewart to come off the bench and score the winner.”
The visitors were ahead early, Adam O’Neil’s shot was parried by Daniel Marques, but Connor Lynch was quickest to react to score from close-range. But Curtin hit back and Angus Christie levelled, and they were ahead just after half time, Maninderjeet Singh scoring. But the game changed on 62 minutes when Singh was sent off by referee Niall Gillmor when he brought down Jonny Hulme, and Joel Gillespie scored from the resulting penalty. But the ten men hit back and regained the lead three minutes later, Theodore Chapota scoring. Kingsley restored parity moments later, Gillespie scoring his second spot kick after Lynch was collected by Curtin keeper Marques. The game could have gone either way, but it was the visitors that won it two minutes from time. Lynch crossed from the bye-line and Paul Stewart volleyed home from five metres.
On Sunday, we saw one of the biggest upsets in WA football for a number of years, with Amateur Premier Division side Emerald FC beating NPLWA Men’s side Balcatta 2-1 at Fraser Park. “The club are delighted to move through to the next round. It’s a great achievement for the club, and every player on the squad played their part,” Emerald coach Shane O'Donovan explained. “We were solid at the back and took are chances when they came, and as I have said we go into every game thinking we can win it. There’s a great togetherness in the club which I think everyone sees when we play, and we look forward to the next round and hopefully cause another upset.
The hosts, who are unbeaten in the league this season, opened the scoring on 16 minutes. A throw in from Cathal Quinn found Dean Creevy, who knocked it on and Andrew Wood headed it home. Balcatta levelled five minutes into the second half, with Michael Scafetta scoring, and many thought they would go on and win it, but the hosts had other ideas and won it on 67 minutes, with Woods scoring his second. Odhran McColgan broke from midfield and played the ball through to Shane Power who let it run for Wood who slotted it home. Balcatta pressed late looking for the equaliser, but keeper and skipper Johnathan Meehan and his team held firm to secure a memorable win.
“I thought it was a great game from start to finish, we knew going into the game that Balcatta would be a quality side and that we would have to work hard and contest every ball, but on the day, we took our chances when they came along and that was enough on the day for the win,” Emerald skipper Johnathon Meehan said. “The day as whole was massive for the club which was only formed by a group of mates back in 2013.The club has gone from strength to strength over the years and it’s mixing it with the best teams in WA. We are looking forward now to the draw for the next round and we will go into that game fearing nobody. A quick word about the officials for the game too, which I thought they were all excellent, so thanks to them.”
In other games on Sunday Cockburn City beat amateur side Perth AFC 5-0 at Len Packham Reserve. On target for the Cockerels were, Igor Cvijanovic, Harry O’Brien, Milan Ognjenovic, Kenel Mouithys and Luka Caceres, although the last three goals came in the last five minutes. Ashfield had to work hard to beat amateur side South Perth United 1-0 at the Acclaimed Catering Arena, with Israel Tan scoring the only goal six minutes from time. A ten-man Bayswater City moved into the next round with a 6-0 win against Wanneroo City at Wanneroo Reserve.
Skipper Steven Hesketh gave the them the lead early, but they had Thomas Southgate sent off on the half hour. But second half doubles from Ndumba Makeche and Fraser Dunlop, and a Declan Hargreaves penalty sealed the win. In the final game Western Knights beat Quinns 2-1 at Gumblossom Park. Ben Shamaki gave the visitors the lead, before Liam Hudson levelled just after the break, but the Knights won it with Ben Campbell on target. The game between Forrestfield United and Joondalup United was called off due to Covid.
24.4.2022
REDSTAR CONTINUE UPBEATEN START TO THE SEASON
Perth RedStar have continued their unbeaten start to the NPLWA Women’s competition after a comprehensive 9-0 win against Subiaco at the RedStar Arena on Sunday afternoon. “We are really happy that we have managed to maintain the 100% start to the season. Strong teamwork created a lot of opportunities, and resulted in four good goals in the first 20 minutes,” RedStar coach Carlos Vega Mena explained. “This carried over into the second half with the girls maintaining their intensity and playing style. We went out there to play football and there was some great passing and moving the ball around. There are several players on the team capable of scoring great goals, and we got to see some of them on Sunday. Result aside, the girls played some great football, playing with spirit and heart. I'm extremely proud of them and all their hard work. It was good to see Subiaco showing some real spirit and I'm looking forward to seeing how they progress under the guidance of Greg Farrell.”
The hosts were ahead after only three minutes, Subiaco failed to clear a corner and the ball fell to Grace Monteiro on the edge of the penalty area, and her shot flew into the net. It was 2-0 seven minutes later, a neat give and go between Jacinta Colman and Larissa Walsh, ended with the latter firing into the corner of the net. The home side took complete control bagging two more quick goals, first Andreia Teixeira long-range shot flew into the top of the net, before Sarah Carroll finished after being picked out by Walsh. It was 5-0 at half time, after Shawn Billam sent Colman down the right, and she cut the ball back to Carroll, who made no mistake.
There was no let up after half time and it was 6-0 in the first minute, half time substitute Renee Leota sending Walsh in on goal, and she rounded the keeper and rolled the ball into an empty net. It was 7-0 ten minutes later, Leota the supplier again, crossing from the bye-line to Olivia Wood to score from close range. Carroll completed her hat-trick on the hour, converting from the spot after she was brought down by Keziah Burgis, before Leota rounded off the scoring eight minutes from time, sent in goal by Walsh, and she found the bottom corner of the net.
“Yesterday’s game was great win for us. Although Subiaco haven't won a game yet they have started the season a lot stronger than last year, however yesterday I think we also showed that RedStar's won't be taking any games lightly,” Walsh explained. “These types of games you often seen the stronger team’s intensity drop a little as they become complacent, yet yesterday we stepped up, everyone was on top of their game, we had some great combination plays which resulted in a few goals and our defence was solid and controlled the speed of the game well. We showed the level of standard we want to play at, no matter what team it is.”
In the other game on Saturday Fremantle City drew 0-0 with Perth SC at Hilton Park. Jamie-Lee Gale early effort wide of the post for City, but the closest either team came to scoring in the first half was when Perth’s Ella Lincoln shot from outside the box and Fremantle keeper Dayle Schroeder tipped over the bar. After the interval, Abbey Meakins' free-kick was straight at the Schroeder, then Lincoln’s strike was fumbled by the Fremantle custodian, who gratefully gathered amid a goalmouth scramble. Gale's late solo run almost saw City win it, but neither side did quite enough and shared the spoils.
“It was a physical game with both sides fighting hard for the three points. We have been working hard at training on a few different plays which we implemented on the day and created a few chances however were unable to find the back of the net,” Fremantle’s Jamie-Lee Gale explained. “Perth’s attacking style of play continued to press our defence but Dayle played an amazing game in goals and ensured we kept a clean sheet. The girls fought hard for the whole 90 minutes but we need to continue to work on our consistency and being clinical with our passes. It’s tough for teams at the moment being impacted by covid but our young girls stepped up and it will be a good experience for them this season being relied on a lot more.”
The Friday night fixture between Curtin University and Murdoch University Melville and Sunday's clash between Hyundai NTC and Balcatta Etna were postponed due to Covid.
24.4.2022
YOUNG GLORY BEATEN BY REDS
A youthful Perth Glory side have given a great account of themselves at Coopers Stadium on Sunday afternoon before eventually succumbing to a 2-0 defeat against top-four hopefuls Adelaide United. Bernardo Oliveira gave the hosts the lead midway through the opening period, but Glory improved significantly as the game wore on and substitute Joel Anasmo had the ball in the net late left only to be denied by a controversial offside decision and Antonee Burke-Gilroy then came within inches of levelling it up in stoppage-time. Moments later, substitute Nestory Irankunda fired home a spectacular second goal for the Reds to seal the win.
Head Coach Ruben Zadkovich handed starting debuts to two more teenagers, Tyler Vecchio and Joseph Forde, and saw another, Aidan Edwards, come off the bench and saw his inexperienced charges go toe-to-toe with an in-form Reds side, particularly in the second half, and he was delighted the way his young chargers played on the day. “I’m extremely proud of their effort and the way they went about their business tonight,” he said.
“I definitely think the week [of preparation] helped us [as] we were able to work on some defensive principles and our shape. I thought the young guys applied it really well, so I was super-proud, but obviously disappointed we didn’t get the win. The positives far outweighed that result. I saw enough to know we are on the right track. We could have got something out of that game with a little bit more quality and composure. It comes down to quality, especially in the front third, where we are lacking a little bit. I’m not going to accept the loss but I’ll wear it proudly.”
The hosts began brightly and Lachlan Brook struck the top of the crossbar early, but Oliveira went one better on 24 minutes. Ryan Kitto was the supplier, weaving his way into the box down the left, before squaring for Oliveira to sweep home. Glory custodian Liam Reddy then made two superb saves to foil Hiroshi Ibusuki either side of the break, but from the hour-mark onwards, it was Glory who looked the more threatening.
On 73 minutes, the officials ruled out what would have been a well-taken maiden A-League goal from Anasmo, the official and VAR ruling that Edwards was offside in the build-up. Then as the clock ticked past the 90-minute-mark, the substitute turned provider, cutting an inviting ball back for the onrushing Burke-Gilroy who was just unable to apply the finish. To rub salt into the wound, United would go on to enjoy the final word, doubling their lead courtesy of a blistering strike from Irankunda which flew into the top corner of Reddy’s net from just inside the box.
Adelaide United: GK Joe GAUCI, 7 Ryan KITTO, 10 ISAIAS, 11 Craig GOODWIN, 15 Hiroshi IBUSUKI (16 Nathan KONSTANDOPOULOS 76'), 21 Javi LOPEZ, 25 Lachlan BARR, 27 Josh CAVALLO (14 George BLACKWOOD 76'), 31 Bernardo OLIVEIRA (66 Nestory IRANKUNDA 68'), 41 Alexandar POPOVIC, 77 Lachlan BROOK (28 JUANDE 46') - Subs not used: RGK Steven HALL, 18 Joe CALETTI, 23 Jacob TRATT
Perth Glory: GK Liam REDDY, 11 Nick FITZGERALD (24 Pacifique NIYONGABIRE 65'), 19 Callum TIMMINS, 21 Antonee BURKE-GILROY, 22 Josh RAWLINS, 23 Mitch OXBORROW (41 Chris DONNELL 83'), 26 Giordano COLLI (45 Aidan EDWARDS 65'), 29 Darryl LACHMAN, 36 Joseph FORDE, 37 Jacob MUIR (32 Aidan COYNE 83'), 47 Tyler VECCHIO (42 Josh ANASMO 55') – Subs not used: RGK Cameron COOK, 25 Jacob YOUNG - Referee: Jack Morgan
22.4.2022
KEOGH CALLS IT A DAY
It’s the end of the road for Perth Glory’s all-time A-League record goalscorer and appearances-holder, Andy Keogh, after he announced his intention to retire at the end of the current season. The 35-year-old former Republic of Ireland international arrived in the west in 2014 and went on to play 155 A-League games in purple and score a remarkable 59 goals. His best season came in 2018-19 when he found the net on 15 occasions as Glory clinched the club’s first ever A-League Premiership. He also had a season as Head Coach at NPLWA club Inglewood United
The Irish-born forward, who signed his first professional contract with English Premier League club Leeds United and subsequently played for Wolverhampton Wanderers and Millwall, before loan stints at Scunthorpe United, Bury, Cardiff City, Bristol City, Blackpool. He had one season in Perth, before heading to Thai club Ratchaburi Mitr Phol, before heading back to the Glory in 2016. After not being wanted in the squad in 2019, he had his contract terminated, and he moved again, joining Saudi Arabian club Al-Qadsiah, and on to Indian Super League club North East United, before returning Glory in 2020.
Keogh admits that the decision to bring his 19-year playing career to an end was not an easy one. “It’s with a heavy but full heart that I am announcing my retirement from professional football at the end of this season,” he said. “The decision has been a difficult one, but the reality is my body has told me that it’s time. Football has been my life ever since I was a child and without the help and support of my mum, dad and brother, I would not have been able to achieve what I did in my career. People say you have to sacrifice a lot in football, but I don’t believe that, it’s the best job in the world.
“But without the sacrifice of my wife and children in supporting me throughout my journey, it wouldn’t have been possible and I cannot thank them enough. They made the real sacrifice. Thank you to all the people in my footballing journey who taught me what to do and what not to do. It’s these experiences that will allow me to help the younger generation coming through. The highlight of my career was playing for my country. It was all I ever dreamed of when I was growing up and to achieve it leaves me very content inside.
“A special mention must go to two of my first coaches when I was growing up in Ireland; Chris Davenport from Cabinteely FC and Liam Brown from St. Joseph’s Boys. They dedicated their free time to help develop and nurture me as a player while I was growing up. It’s been a privilege to work with and under so many great players and coaches, too many to mention and it really was what dreams are made of. It was also a privilege to play for so many great clubs with amazing fans, like Scunthorpe United, Wolves, Leeds United and Millwall.
“To the Glory Members and fans, thank you for your support since I arrived. I’ve loved every minute of playing for this club and living in this city which is now my home. I’ll never forget scoring goals at The Shed end and jumping into the crowd. Thank you to Tony and Lucy Sage for their support during my time here and for allowing me to retire in Perth at this special club. My focus now will be on helping this great club achieve sustained success as I transition into a new role within it. “Certa bonum certamen”. (Fight the Good Fight)
Glory Owner and Chairman Tony Sage was quick to pay tribute to the retiring Irish striker. “Andy’s contribution to this club has been extraordinary and his place among the pantheon of Glory greats is well and truly assured,” he said. “In addition to his record-breaking goalscoring feats, his link-up play, work rate and commitment to the cause have been second to none. We have been extremely fortunate to have a player of his outstanding quality at this club for such a long period of time. On behalf of all our members and fans, I would like to congratulate Andy on a magnificent career and sincerely thank him for everything he has done for our beloved club over the last eight years.”
Current Glory Head Coach, Ruben Zadkovich, was similarly full of praise for a man he was teammates with during his own stint in purple. “I was lucky enough to play with Andy six or seven years ago and he’s just a winner,” he said. “He gives everything of himself to the team and is definitely one of the best strikers I ever played with. He’s got a real care and passion for his teammates, he’s a really selfless kind of character and his love for Perth Glory has been huge. He’s been an awesome servant for the club and to be Perth Glory’s record goalscorer in the A-League is a big achievement given the quality of some of the players that have played for the club. Andy’s a really loyal person who is a good friend to a lot of people at the club and he’ll be sorely missed on the pitch.”
Glory CEO Tony Pignata also added his congratulations to Keogh. “Andy has enjoyed a stellar career both in the UK and here in Australia,” he said, “and is undoubtedly one of the greatest strikers ever to play for Perth Glory in any era. His track record in the A-League places him firmly amongst the very best the competition has seen and he has provided our members and fans with so many fantastic memories over the years. I would like to thank him for his huge contribution to the Glory cause and wish him all the very best for the future.” From everyone at Footballwa.net – Thanks for the memories, Andy.
22.4.2022
SAGE REVEALS BIG NAMES CHASING TOP GLORY JOB
Perth Glory owner Tony Sage has revealed former England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson and Manchester United legend Dwight Yorke are in the mix to spearhead the club's rebuild. Sage claimed several high-profile coaches are chasing the job, which is currently being filled by Ruben Zadkovich.
“There’s a lot of high profile coaches that have applied, Sven-Goran Eriksson, Dwight Yorke,” Sage said. “They have all shown an expression of interest with some Australian one’s that I can’t mention. It’s a highly sought after position.”
Perth’s climate might suit the well-travelled 74-year old Eriksson who became England’s first foreign manager in 2001. Amongst his club coaching appointments are Benfica, Roma, Manchester City, Leicester City and the Philippines. Yorke, 50, has not coached at senior level and does not get his FIFA Pro Licence until June.
The news about Eriksson and Yorke may not please caretaker coach Zadkovich, installed after Richard Garcia was booted mid-season, who has said he can “fix” Glory’s problems. Sage said he expected to announce the new coach at next month’s Most Glorious Player awards night.
In another move Sage said local businessman and former Inglewood United striker Kenny Keogh - brother of Andy Keogh - was interested in taking a small stake in the club. “It’s a very small investment, very minor, way less than 10 per cent, that I can accept or reject,” Sage said.
22.4.2022
AUSTRALIA CUP (WA) - ROUND FOUR PREVIEW
The league takes a break this weekend, with the Australia Cup WA fourth round taking centre stage. There will be 16 ties across the weekend, with some intriguing games as NPLWA sides take on lower opposition, and our ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to Francis Street on Saturday, as Division Two side Swan United welcome Gwelup Croatia. (All games kick off at 3.00pm, unless stated) Gwelup are still searching for their first win in the NPLWA, and are coming off a loss at home against Inglewood United, while the Swans won for the first time this season, with a comprehensive 3-0 win against Joondalup City. The two sides met at the same stage, and venue in last season’s FFA Cup, with Gwelup running out 3-0 winners. Hasani Sinclair headed home the opener for the visitors from a corner on the half hour, before Jon Stynes converted from the spot seven minutes later to double their lead. Stynes added the third early in the second half to seal the tie.
Gwelup skipper Ciaran Salinger missed the game against Inglewood, but will be back for the trip to the Swan Valley, and he said it will be a tricky game. “Everyone knows what the Cup is about. Whoever shows up on the day will continue to the next round,” the defender explained. “We are preparing for Saturday against Swan as though we would any normal league game. Swan away is never an easy game, like last season, and I’m certain our boys will be up for it. We will be up and about to get our first win of the season and aim to start a good run of results, that we are definitely overdue.”
Swan striker John Monterosso was on target last week, and he said the win against Joondalup has given them a lift, as they look to cause an upset. “It was a solid win after a few weeks off due to Covid, and we started shaky but finished strong which puts us into good stead going into the cup game against Gwelup,” he said. “Gwelup will always be a tough game and we will by no means take it lightly. The cup is made for upsets and we will be looking to continue our form into the weekend.”
There is a number of NPLWA teams who will face tough away games, as we all know in cup games, anything can happen. Armadale take the short trip to Walter Padbury Reserve, to take on Gosnells City. The Reds won for the first time in midweek against Balcatta, while Gosnells beat Canning, their first win of the season. Marc Anthony’s side caused an upset in the last round, with Scott Pereira’s goal giving them a 1-0 win at Olympic Kingsway, and skipper Pereira said they are looking forward to the local derby.
“The game against Kingsway in the last round was a great win and performance from us and probably what we needed at that time having a slow start to the year,” he said. “It’s a massive game this Saturday think it’s been a while since we’ve played a proper game against Armadale and one which we will hope to enjoy. Should be a good crowd from both teams and we hope to replicate the performance in the last round and build some momentum for some big games coming up for us in the league.”
Inglewood United head north to take on Joondalup City at the Iluka Sports Complex. Andres Oliveira’s side have picked up in recent weeks, and are coming off a strong win at Gwelup, but the coach is well aware the cup is a great leveller. “Saturday will be interesting tough game against Joondalup City, both teams have had similar start to their season,” he said. “From previous experience no matter what team it is in cup games, you don’t take it lightly, we will approach this like any other game.”
Joondalup coach Brad Haywood said they are looking forward to the challenge, and hopefully they can cause another cup upset on Saturday. “Inglewood are going to be very tough opponents this weekend, however they have been on the receiving end of a shock upset recently,” he explained. “They were beaten by Division Two side Balga 3-1 in round 5 of the 2019 FFA Cup, so while a considerable task not an impossible one if we stick to our game plan, back each other and grind. Anything can happen over 90 minutes, we just need a little magic of the cup.”
In other game on Saturday, Perth SC host Rockingham City at Dorrien Gardens, while there are two all NPLWA ties, with Perth RedStar taking on Sorrento in a local derby at the RedStar Arena and Stirling Macedonia host traditional rivals Floreat Athena at Macedonia Park (7.00pm). Murdoch University Melville entertain South West Phoenix at Besteam Stadium, while Kingsley Westside travel to Edinburgh Oval to meet Curtin University, Forrestfield United welcome Joondalup United to Hartfield Park. (5.00pm) while Mandurah City host UWA Nedlands, who they beat in the league on Saturday at the same venue, in all Division One ties, while Balga host Amateur League side Ballajura at Princess Road Reserve. (2.45pm)
On Sunday, Bayswater City also play Division Two opposition, when they head north to Wanneroo Reserve to take on Wanneroo City. City returned back to the winners’ circle last week against Sorrento, but Wanneroo drew their third consecutive 3-3 draw, so there should be plenty of goals in this one. Wanneroo coach Jesse Bridgeman said they are looking forward to taking on NPLWA opposition. “We are looking forward to the challenge of a NPL team in the cup this week, it’s always good to test yourself against the best possible sides and the cup has given us the chance do so,” the coach explained. “The group is excited by the challenge and have been working hard, the season hasn't reflected the way we have been playing so pushing ourselves this week will hopefully give the boys a lot of confidence and we will be going into the game looking for a result.”
Balcatta face the trickiest tie, when they take on newly-promoted Amateur Premier Division side Emerald FC at Fraser Park. (1.00pm) Balcatta are coming off a big loss at Armadale in midweek, while the hosts are undefeated in the league, and are coming off a win against Maddington White City last week, and coach Shane O’Donovan said they are relishing playing Premier League opposition. “We are looking forward to it. It will be a big test playing a team from the NPL but we go into every game with the belief that we can win,” he explained. “We know it will be a tough task but we are ready for that. It will be a great day for everyone involved with the club, even more so if we cause an upset and keep this cup run going.” In the other games on Sunday, Quinns entertain Western Knights at Gumblossom Park (5.00pm), while Perth AFC welcome NPLWA side Cockburn City to Len Packham Reserve on Sunday. In the final game of the round, Amateur side South Perth United host Ashfield at Challenger Reserve on Monday afternoon (3.00pm)
22.4.2022
NPL-WA WOMEN'S ROUND FOUR – PREVIEW
We head into Week Four of the NPLWA Women’s competition, and our ‘Match of the Round’ sees Fremantle City hosting Perth SC at Hilton Park on Sunday afternoon. (3.00pm) The visitors are coming off a hard-fought win against Curtin, while Fremantle were beaten in the top of the table clash at Perth RedStar. The last time the two sides met at the venue, Fremantle ran out 2-1 winners. A brace from Mikayla Lyons had the hosts in control, but Sophia Neal pulled one back for Perth before the break. Both sides had chances after the break, but it was Fremantle taking the points.
Perth skipper Alyssa Van Heurck, said it was good to get back into the winners’ circle, after their loss against the NTC in round two, with two quality goals from Ella Lincoln and Abbey Meakins. “After a disappointing loss last week, it was good to see the team bounce back and we were really keen to make amends,” she said. “We created some really good opportunities up front and could have been a couple more up. Abbey coming really close a handful of times, and her goal was first class. It was very promising to see the way we moved the ball around.”
Fremantle Coach Garry Church said they gave RedStar to much room last week and paid the price, and he is looking for a response from his players against Perth. “It was always going to be a tough game and I think with the current climate we are in each game will come with its challenges. RedStar were the better team as they took control of the midfield and we sat back and gave them too much time on the ball,” he explained. “The sending just added to the pressure we were already under but to be fair I think the girls battled throughout in all areas. With some adjustments in the second half, we still chased the game and never gave up but unfortunately, we couldn’t match the extra player Redstar had. Despite the lost the girls will bounce back, we will learn from that game and hopefully bring that into the game against Perth.”
Van Heurck said Sunday’s opponents are experienced, and they have had some games recently, and they hope to get the points this weekend. “Fremantle are a good team of course and we lost a close hard-fought game with them in the night series. We will need to take every chance up front against them and can’t afford to make small mistakes,” the skipper explained. “Our backs are going to have to withstand some big pressure, which I believe we are up to it. We will have to bring our best game to win and we’re looking forward to it.”
Also, on Sunday Subiaco head north to take on league leaders Perth RedStar at the RedStar Arena. (3.00pm) The RedStar’s continued their winning start to the season, with a 3-2 win against Fremantle last week, while Subiaco weren’t in action, as their game against Balcatta has been put back until July 24. It will be a return of sorts for Subiaco striker Frankie Murray, who played for ECU Joondalup in the State League last season, and was their top goalscorer. Murray said it’s been a tough opening to the season for the side, but they getting better each training session.
A game against the league leaders is a daunting test for Subiaco, who are still searching for their first win of the season, but Murray said coach Greg Farrell has been great and they head into the game looking to find their first three points. “It’s definitely going to be weird playing on the old pitch, but I’m very excited for this week’s game, it’s going to be a challenge but hopefully with the hard work we have been putting in we will see a good result,” the striker said.
RedStar coach Carlos Vega Mena said Sunday’s visitors are improving each week, and head north determined to continue that, but they equally determined to take the three points. “Subiaco has been working hard and you can already see the changes in the team under new coach Greg Farrell, I’m sure they will bring their best game to the pitch on Sunday,” he explained. “We are determined to get the three points and we will do our best to keep our position on top of the ladder this week.” The other two games of the round, Hyundai NTC Womens against Balcatta Etna at E&D Litis Stadium and Curtin University against Murdoch University at Edinburgh Oval has been postponed due to Covid.
20.4.2022
GLORY RULE STURRIDGE EXPERIMENT A FAILURE
Perth Glory’s gamble on Daniel Sturridge has been labelled a failure by chief executive Tony Pignata, who admits it’s unlikely the English striker will be offered a new deal with the A-League club. The 32-year old former England international was the highest-profile signing heading into the 2021/22 season but has featured for just 93 minutes across five substitute appearances.
Sturridge’s last game was against Macarthur in late February, coming on at half-time before limping off with a groin injury just 15 minutes later. While Pignata believes Sturridge could yet feature before bottom-placed Glory’s miserable campaign ends, he doesn’t expect his time at the club to extend beyond this season. “It has been disappointing. We had high hopes when we signed Daniel. It hasn’t worked,” Pignata said.
“From a marketing point of view, the first game, we had 18,000 on the back of him arriving and the hype. Then unfortunately he got injured ... and he hasn’t been seen since. He’s training and there’s potential that he could play some minutes this week and then finish off the season. Next year? Look, I doubt that we’ll offer him another contract.”
Sturridge’s underwhelming stint in Australia has been one of several disappointments in a Glory campaign ravaged by COVID-19 border restrictions, injuries and fixture disruptions. Pignata said the decision to part ways with coach Richard Garcia last month hasn’t had the expected effect on the squad, with interim boss Ruben Zadkovich launching into an extraordinary attack on underperforming players in the wake of a 6-0 hammering by Western United last weekend.
With financial difficulties mounting and a long injury list, Pignata said he doesn’t expect the team to snap their long winless run - now at 14 games - to avoid the first wooden spoon in the Glory’s history. “We won’t win another game,” he said. “The last three games, I don’t think we win. I know Ruben and Coyney (assistant Chris Coyne) are doing the best they can with what they’ve got and it’s been tough on them but we’ll be out there every week regardless trying to pick up points.”
“It is going to be hard but the rumours about the club being in disarray, the players’ discontent, that’s incorrect to be honest. That’s totally false.” Pignata said Glory were aiming to have a permanent coach appointed by the end of May and Zadkovich remains “in the mix”, despite the team picking up just one point from his seven matches at the helm.
19.4.2022
ARMADALE HIT BALCATTA FOR SIX
Armadale produced their best performance of the season to register their first win, after thrashing Balcatta Etna 6-0 in the Round Four NPLWA Men’s catch-up game at Alfred Skeet Reserve on Tuesday evening. The host lead 3-0 at the break, with Adriano Jelenovic, Joel Sanderson and Gordon Perkins on target. Perkins added a fourth, with one of the goals of the season, before Jelenovic and Peter Jacobsz rounded out the scoring.
“Really pleased with the performance tonight, we put in great 90-minute shift, and took our chances when they arrived,” a delighted Reds Head Coach John O’Reilly said post-match. “We saw glimpses against the Glory last week, but tonight we took another step forward, and we are starting to get players back into the squad which gives us depth, which bodes well going forward. We now move in to Australia Cup mode, with our trip to neighbours Gosnells City in the Fourth Round on Saturday.”
It was a tight opening with both sides having early chances, but it was the hosts who opened the scoring on 17 minutes. Good work by Tarek Atta and Perkins, saw the ball fall to Jelenovic on the edge of the box, and his shot flew past Riley Stephenson. Things got better for O’Reilly’s side, and they doubled their advantage 12 minutes later. Isaac Koomson found Sanderson who wasn’t closed down and the midfielder drove to the edge of the box before finishing low past Stephenson.
Balcatta looked for a response and former Armadale striker Billy Quinncroft saw his shot go wide, before Yousri Gharsallah produced a smart save to deny Michael Scafetta. But the hosts ended the half well, and Stephenson did well to block Angel Andres’ shot on 40 minutes, but three minutes later they found a third. A superb diagonal pass by Koomson sent Perkins racing down the left, he cut inside his marker before firing past Stephenson at his near post, so at the break the Reds led 3-0.
Balcatta were on the front foot early in the second half, and they should have pulled one back six minutes in. Anthony Topini’s cross picked out the unmarked Carmelo Giuffre, but he couldn’t keep his header down. Both sides had good chances, as the game opened up. First Sanderson’s long-range shot was saved by Stephenson, before half time substitute Amir Ajan’s snap shot from the edge of the box flashed wide.
But just before the hour mark, Armadale added a fourth. Perkins was bundled over on the right, and Sanderson’s resulting free kick picked him out in the box, and his superb scorpion kick flew past Stephenson, a stunning strike from the youngster. Armadale looked for more, and after a great run by Luqman Sayyed, his cross was headed inches over the top by Atta. Gharsallah then got down well to deny Amir, before Amir’s cross shot clipped the crossbar, as Balcatta looked for a consolation goal. But four minutes from time it was Armadale who added a fifth.
Substitute Cherno Bah, who was back in the squad after an injury in the opening game against Stirling, sent Atta down the left, and his cross to the back post picked out the unmarked Jelenovic, who made no mistake from five meters. Sanderson then saw his volley saved by Stephenson, but there was little the keeper could do in stoppage time, as the home side added a sixth. A defence splitting pass by Bah sent Jacobsz clear, and the striker finished clinically, to give the Reds a 6-0 win and move them up to ninth on the NPLWA Men’s table.
Armadale: GK Yousri GHARSALLAH, 3 Isaac KOOMSON, 4 Nathan COSTELLO, 5 Kevin GALLO, 6 Joel SANDERSON, 9 Angel ANDRES (14 Cherno BAH 76’), 10 Gordon PERKINS (12 Eddie GARRIDO 76’), 11 Adriano JELENOVIC, 18 Kevin ASHWOOD (17 Peter JACOBSZ 55’), 20 Shaydon PASSALACQUA (15 Luqman SAYYED 61’), 23 Tarak ATTA – Subs not used: RGK James WRATTEN
Balcatta Etna: GK Riley STEPHENSON, 4 L ALESSANDRINO, 6 Carmelo GIUFFRE, 8 Jack LEECH, 10 Jon CORNESS, 11 Elliot TATTERSALL, 13 Anthony TOPINI, 18 Billy QUINNCROFT, 19 Coby SUTTON 22 Michael SCAFETTA, 23 Luke PASSERETTO – Subs: RGK Domenic SAVOLDELLI, 3 Jonathan BOUHLAS, 7 Amir AJAN, 14 Nicholas MESSINA, 15 Matthew ALESSANDRINO, 16 Adam FALCONE
18.4.2022
BELT UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION - ROUND TWO REVIEW
It’s week two of the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division over the Easter long weekend, and in our ‘Match of the Round’ North Perth United and Kelmscott Roos have fought out a 1-1 draw at Woodville Reserve on Sunday afternoon. “The first half was very close with not a lot of chances, but after the break we were much better and dominated most of the half, unfortunately we didn’t take our chances and let Kelmscott back into the game,” North Perth coach Kevin Flavin said. “But I was very happy with our second half performance now we just need to work on doing that for longer spells of the game. The lads were disappointed to not get the three points but round one is always tough now we concentrate on playing Jags in two weeks’ time, as we have been given a forfeit this week in the cup.” It was the hosts who opened the scoring on the hour, a free kick from the edge of the box by James Rushton-Woods which took a deflection off Jordan Armstrong and beat Thomas Livingstone.
But Kelmscott, with assistant coaches Lee Lewis and Martin Smith in charge, hit back late, and earned a share of the spoils seven minutes from time. The ball was whipped into the penalty and was spilled by Ashley Cooper, the ball falling to Nathan Otte, who fired home. “I thought we dominated the first half but just couldn’t find the back of the net. North Perth came out well in the second half, but and we gave away a sloppy goal, “Livingstone said. “The second half was more of an evenly fought battle, with chances were created on both ends. I felt like we deserved more from the game, but that’s what happens when you’re not clinical on the final third. Overall happy with the performance from the lads and we will be back at training preparing for next week’s cup game.”
On Monday afternoon Queens Park and Joondalup United played out a ten-goal thriller, with both sides sharing the spoils in a 5-5 draw at Coker Park. “I’m very disappointed to score five goals and only take a point from the game,” United coach Neil Sherwin explained. “We held two goal leads across the contest but some naive defending and poor game management cost us badly and we were punished by a side who were very dangerous on the counter attack. It goes without saying that any team wanting to compete in this league can’t be conceding five in a game, so we have a lot of work to do defensively ahead of Sunday’s cup fixture.” The visitors took the lead on seven minutes when Adam Taylor converted Nader Khayet’s cross. It was 2-0 soon afterwards as Taylor was fouled in the penalty area and Adam Buckley converted from the spot.
Queens Park pulled one back on the half hour, with Alexander Fazekas on target, to leave it 2-1 at half time. Buckley scored a second penalty five minutes into the second half, when the home side were penalised for handball. But the home side weren’t finished and Gershom Rowland made it 3-2 on 57 minutes, but two minutes later Khayat’s in-swinging free kick deceived everyone and found the net, to regain the visitors two-goal advantage. But once again the hosts hit back, with Justine Kaupa scoring. But it looked like United had sealed the points on 73 minutes, when Buckley completed his hattrick with a fantastic chip over Queens Park keeper Ross Brown from 20 meters. But the action wasn’t over, and Rowland made 4-5 ten minutes from time, and eight minutes later Ebat Ayubi levelled for the hosts to claim a point.
The points were also shared at Bortolo Reserve, as newly-promoted pair Peel United and East Perth played out a 1-1 draw. “It’s a tricky place to come, and Peel are a very good side,” East Perth coach Colm Costello said. “They (Peel) were good early, and took a deserved lead, but we slowly got to grips with the game and levelled. The goal settled us and the second half I thought we played well created enough chances to win the game but that’s football, but overall, Jason and I were happy with how we reacted after their goal.” The hosts came out of the blocks early and we’re the better side in the opening exchanges, and they took a deserved lead on 23 minutes, with Faris Noor Rani finding the net. But East Perth began to get a foot hold on in the game and found the equaliser 14 minutes later, with a brilliant long-range strike from Adam Gianassi.
Both sides pressed for the winner, but they couldn’t find it, and both sides had to settle for a point. “Sunday's game was entertaining and had all the parts which make football enjoyable. Colm and Jason are experienced coaches and came prepared with a structured side and game plan and were ready to move on the counter,” Peel coach Clint Brown explained. “I thought we managed that pretty well in the first and after we scored, we made some positional changes and had a bit more mobility throughout the field. They scored a cracker before closing out the break, and they had dominant spells in the second half with several opportunities to convert. But we worked hard and the game started to become tense with end-to-end action, concluding with a draw.”
New Wembley Downs coach Jeffrey Cornez began his coaching tenure in style, with a 4-2 win against Quinns at Butlers Reserve. “I couldn't be prouder of the effort the team put in on the day. We stuck to our game plan and played some good football and capitalised on Quinns' mistakes,” Cornez said. “They did give us troubles on some balls in the air so we will work on that this week at training. In the end, even when they equalised or brought it within one goal, we didn't panic and managed the game well till the final whistle, so it was a great way to start our campaign.” The home side opened the scoring on the half hour, Matt Devereux was played down the right and took it to the bye-line and played the ball to the near post where Tom Bish finished first time.
But Ryan McCready soon levelled for the visitors, but Wembley did take the lead into the break, just before half, Bish returned the favour as he was played down the left and hit a well-timed cross to the back post wear Devereux finished with a clinical header. The hosts added a third early in the second half, some nice possession led to a Harry Brown shot on goal which was not taken cleanly by the Quinns keeper Frazer Imrie, and Ryan Morris pounced on the loose ball to extend the lead. Quinns weren’t finished an pulled another one back on the hour, with Guy Armstrong scoring. But the points were made save for Wembley six minutes later, Quinns were searching for the equaliser, but a throw in, back to Imrie was short and Devereux was able to nick it off the keeper to finish in an open net, to seal a hard-fought win.
Finally on Monday, Emerald won their first game of the season, and their first since promotion, after a 2-1 win against Maddington White City at Fraser Park Reserve. “It’s great to start off with a win in our first game of the season. Especially against a very good team in Maddington, we played some great football going forward while being hard to break down at the back,” a delighted coach Shane O’Donovan explained. “Everyone played their part, the lads that came off the bench got up to the pace straight away and were brilliant. We know there is still room for improvement, but very pleased with the win.”
The hosts made the best possible start, and were ahead on two minutes, Shane Power put in a great cross into the penalty area, which Andrew Wood headed home. But in the shadows of half time Maddington levelled, with the unfortunate Paul Curran scoring in his own net. But the home side won it on the hour, when Wood was pulled down in the box and Power slotted home the resulting penalty. The final game of the round is to played on Wednesday evening, with Jaguar taking on Kwinana United at Kelly Park.
17.4.2022
GLORY HIT FOR SIX BY WESTERN UNITED
Perth Glory remains firmly rooted to the bottom of the Isuzu Ute Men’s A-League ladder after being hit for six by Western United on Saturday afternoon at UTAS Stadium in Tasmania. Once again coach Ruben Zadkovich had to play the kids, with the clubs’ injury list growing all the time, this week Jack Clisby and Osama Malik we’re missing. The youthful side gave it their all, but they were never on the game and United raced to a 4-0 lead at the break with a hat-trick to Lachlan Wales and another to Dylan Pierias. They added two more after the break, with Aleksandar Prijovic and Dylan Wenzel-Halls, to leave Glory a distance bottom on the table, and the wooden spoon looks destined for the club, their first ever in the competition.
Glory coach Ruben Zadkovich was disappointed after the game, and he didn’t hold back in his post-match press conference. “It was poor, extremely poor,” he said. “Some individuals didn’t want to go about the game the way they need to at this level and it cost the team, especially in the first half. Basic fundamentals. I’m not talking about the young, inexperienced players; I’m talking about some of our seasoned professionals. Players will get exposed, players will be a part of what we’re building next year and players won’t.
“We don’t have the time and the luxury at the moment to train and go through the details we need to, so there are some circumstances around why you get a performance like that. It was our third game in six days and we had less than 70 hours to turnaround and travel after playing Wellington when the boys put in a big shift. So, there are some reasons, but we had some difficulties and people didn’t want to fight when the chips were down and things were difficult. You’ve got to want to fight and compete and some players didn’t and like I say, when the first goal went in, you saw some people lose their heads and you saw other people try and wrangle it back in.
“Watching that unfold was really interesting for me. I’m bitterly disappointed, I’m fuming to be honest and there will be repercussions for some people. The two heavy defeats we’ve had have happened when we’ve had to back up three days later and travel on the road with the youth team, pretty much. So, it is what it is and my message to the fans is to hang in there by the club through tough times, which I know they will. Long before this tough time, there were other tough periods at the club and the fans stayed true because like I said last week, they’re passionate fans, they’re good people and they understand the difficulties that we’re facing at the moment.
“The games that we’ve actually had a chance to prepare for, even with a young team, they’ve performed quite well, so those two homes games [the final two games of the season] become massive for us in terms of actually giving ourselves the chance to give the fans something to get behind. They deserve better than what they’ve got this year, they deserve better than what they’ve got in the last two years and if I’ve got anything to do with it, we’ll make sure we fix these problems.”
Glory began brightly and looked the better side during the opening exchanges, enjoying more possession and putting United on the back foot. But United hit back, and should have hit the front when they were awarded a penalty after Josh Rawlins was adjudged to have handled Prijovic flick. Prijovic took responsibility himself, only for Reddy to pull off a superb save, diving low to his left to block the Serbian striker’s effort. But the Glory custodian was helpless to prevent United hitting the front moments later, Wales’ deflected shot and the Olyroos forward almost immediately doubled his side’s lead with a thumping volley from the edge of the box.
Pierias then swept home a Connor Pain cross to make it 3-0 and in first-half stoppage-time, before Wales completed his hat-trick having been picked out by Ben Garuccio. Seven minutes into the second half, a shirt tug on Wales by Antonee Burke-Gilroy handed Prijovic the chance to make amends from the spot, which he duly did despite Reddy’s best efforts. Glory came close to grabbing a late consolation via Josh Anasmo’s header from a cross delivered by fellow-substitute Tyler Vecchio, but the Victorians were to have the last word as Wenzel-Halls capitalised upon some hesitant defending to fire home in a crowded box.
Western United: GK Jamie YOUNG, 4 Leo LACROIX, 5 Dylan PIERIAS (26 Nicolas MILANOVIC 68'), 6 Tomoki IMAI, 8 Lachlan WALES (31 Adisu BAYEW 68'), 10 Ateven LUSTICA, 11 Connor PAIN (27 Jerry SKOTADIS 80'), 17 Ben GARUCCIO, 44 Nikolai TOPOR-STANLEY, 88 Neil KILKENNY (16 Rene KRHIN 61'), 99 Aleksandar PRIJOVIC (9 Dylan WENZEL-HALLS 61') - Subs not used: RGK Ryan SCOTT, 33 Benjamin COLLINS
Perth Glory: GK Liam REDDY, 18 Daniel STYNES (36 Joseph FORDE 46'), 19 Callum TIMMINS, 21 Antonee BURKE-GILROY (25 Jacob YOUNG 53'), 22 Josh RAWLINS, 24 Pacifique NIYONGABIRE (47 Tyler VECCHIO 46'), 26 Giordano COLLI (42 Josh ANASMO 64'), 29 Darryl LACHMAN, 32 Aidan COYNE, 37 Jacob MUIR, 38 Ciaran BRAMWELL (41 Chris DONNELL 64') - Subs not used: RGK Cameron COOK, 23 Mitch OXBORROW - Referee: Ben ABRAHAM
17.4.2022
ZADKOVICK UNLOADS ON UNDERPERFORMING GLORY PLAYERS
Perth Glory caretaker coach Ruben Zadkovich unleashed on his players following the 6-0 drubbing by Western United, their worst defeat in six years. The former Glory midfielder, who made it quite clear he will chase the full-time role next season, was quick to light the blowtorch on underperforming players after Saturday’s humiliating loss.
“I wont tolerate it,” Zadkovich stormed. “There will be repercussions. Players that don’t want to compete, don’t want to do the basics, will not play for me and will not play for this club. People didn’t want to fight even when the chips were down. It cost the team. You’ve got to want to fight, you’ve got to compete. I’m not talking about the young and inexperienced players. I’m talking about some of our seasoned professionals.”
Zadkovich said he was ready to wield the axe but could be forced to select the same players for Sunday’s away clash against Adelaide United with no other options in the injury-ravaged side. Zadkovich, who was appointed part-time coach when Richard Garcia was sacked, said he was happy to wear the label but would chase the full-time role.
“I’m firmly fixed on doing what’s best for the club, right now that’s the interim manager,” he said. “I have to get the team through to the end of the season then I’ll look to build a team that will compete at this level and get us off the bottom of the table. I have my own ambitions and aspirations as to what this club needs and I will definitely be pitching that to the club.”
Zadkovich said COVID, injuries and the harsh fixture schedule had created a perfect storm but there were internal problems that produced the club’s “darkest period”. “If I’ve got anything to do with it we’ll make sure that we fix these problems,” said the Glory boss.
“I’ve got a lot of things that have to stay in house and I will pitch them towards the club as to why we’re in this position and why the injury list is so big. The position the team finds itself in is the culmination of a lot of mistakes. When you put it all together you get the perfect storm. Sometimes you have to hit rock bottom before you can start laying foundations.”
16.4.2022
NPL-WA ROUND FIVE - REVIEW
Our ‘Match of the Round’ NPLWA Men’s clash between Perth RedStar and Stirling Macedonia at the RedStar Arena was a classic, with the visitors coming from 0-3 down at half time to runout 4-3 winners. “It was a fantastic comeback from the lads, we gave them too much room in the first half and they opened us up down the left, and they got their goals from there, but we fixed a couple of things up at half time, it was a big gamble, but it came off for us,” Stirling coach Ian Ferguson explained. “Our chat at half time was constructive, no voices raised, although we were disappointed, we were a bit off the pace, but second half it was end-to-end, and both keepers made some big saves. But we kept pressing and got our just rewards at the end, and our big striker Gavin (Gillies) came on and got the winner for us.”
It was the hosts who made the best possible start, and they were ahead on seven minutes. Sam Pollard raced down the right and picked Daryl Nicol out at the back post and the Scottish striker continued his feat of scoring in each game this season. It was nearly two moments later, Pollard again the supplier, crossing to Chok Dau, whose shot crashed off the underside of the crossbar and away to safety. The second duly arrived on 22 minutes, Stirling tun the ball over in their defence and Andy Higgins and Ellis Healing combined down the left, the latter feeding Nicol who made no mistake from 10 meters.
Then in first half stoppage time Nicol completed his hat-trick, Nicol slipping in Pollard, who raced into the box and was brought down by Shay Donovan and referee Julian Serra, who was well placed, pointed to the spot. Nicol stepped up and clinically dispatched the resulting penalty to complete his hat-trick and send the RedStar’s into the break three to the good. They went close to a fourth early in the second half, but Healing couldn’t keep his shot down. But Stirling weren’t finished and were given a helping hand on 57 minutes, a mistake at the back saw the Redstar’s turn the ball over and the ball was picked off by Hugo Snowdon, who finished low past Joe Pollard.
The game was on, and Stirling keeper James Bosdet made a couple of good saves to keep his side in the game, and on 69 minutes the visitors reduced the margin, Alex Tanevski wasn’t closed down and he raced to the edge of the penalty area before finding the bottom corner. Then four minutes later they were level, Ryan Malton’s shot hit the arm of Sam Pollard and the referee pointed to the spot, and Calvin Whitney scored, despite Joe Pollard getting a hand to it. The comeback was complete in the final minute, Hristijan Jankuloski’s cross was headed home by substitute Gavin Gillies, to set off wild celebrations from the visiting supporters.
“We started off very poorly, but the RedStar’s first half dominance was helped by a few questionable decisions that went against us and we found ourselves 3-0 down at half-time. We knew we had a mountain to climb, but we have been in the position before and come out on the other side,” Stirling skipper Dejan Spaseski explained. “The belief was there from everyone, and getting one goal back was always going to put them on the back foot, which it did. We displayed great character and complete dominance in that second half that was more than worthy of the three points. Big Gavin has come on in his first game for the club and bagged the winner, and I couldn’t be more pleased for him and the rest of the boys.”
That loss gave Floreat Athena the opportunity to increase their lead at the top, but they fell to their first defeat of the season, after a 3-0 loss against Cockburn City at Dalmatinac Park. “A great result for the club considering the adversities over the last couple of months, but you can draw a lot of strength from adversity and that is what the boys did yesterday,” Cockburn coach Mirko Jelicic said. “Consistency is still an issue for us, but having missed five weeks of competitive football that was always going to challenge us. I don't think we let Floreat settle into their style of football and created a lot of scoring opportunities ourselves. Player numbers continue to burden us and we are hoping to get some players returning soon to give us some depth. Floreat have the quality to bounce back from the loss and we have enough quality to build on that win.” Cockburn, who were chasing their first win of the season, hit the front on 18 minutes, Justin Tang’s curling cross bounced in front of Floreat keeper Jason Saldaris and into the net.
Floreat pressed for the equaliser but found the Cockburn defence in good form, and the visitors hopes took another dent in first half stoppage time when Bayley Brown-Montgomery clipped the ankle of Tang, and referee Joshua Nixon showed him a second yellow card and sent him off. Cockburn added a second on 74 minutes, Alessandro Basto’s cross wasn’t dealt with and Daniel Robinson was on hand to fire home from close range. They wrapped up the points in stoppage time, Daniel Dols ball over the top was brought down well by Robinson, and he raced into the box and finished low past Saldaris. “It was a very good team performance, and I think the boys are really starting to gel together and play the way Mirks wants us to,” Cockburn defender Jeff Bright said. “We took the lead and then they had the player sent off just before the half time break so we tried to control the second half and not make any silly mistakes and I thought Robbo was outstanding with two great finishes to give us the deserved win.
The round started on Friday evening, with Perth Glory and Armadale share the points after a 1-1 draw at Hartfield Park. “It’s nice to get back on the pitch after almost three weeks away due to covid, and the lads put in a great shift against a good Glory side,” Reds coach John O’Reilly explained. “We had the best possible start, scoring early and dictated terms from the outset, and could have had a another. They scored against the run of play and that lifted them, but we fought the game out well and could have nicked all three points in the final minute, but it was a good 90 plus minutes from the lads.”
The Reds opened brightly and they hit the front on five minutes. Great work down the right by Gordon Perkins, saw him get to the bye-line and cut the ball back to Adriano Jelenovic, who picked out Tarek Atta, who played on this ground for Forrestfield last season, and the winger finished clinically, giving Adrian Sinagra no chance. Glory levelled and on 25 minutes, Joseph Hobson found Leader down the left, he cut inside his marker and fired low past Yousri Gharsallah at his near post. Both sides had chances to win it late, Glory’s Hobson was in on goal, but the young striker couldn’t keep his shot down. But in the final action of the night Armadale should have won it, Atta’s corner wasn’t dealt with and the ball fell to Abdul Osman in the penalty area, but the midfielders shot flashed inches over the top.
Inglewood United bounced back from conceding two goals in stoppage time last week to draw with Cockburn, with a 2-0 win against Gwelup Croatia at Wishart Street. “It was great result after the result last week. The team put that game behind them and showed when we concentrate for the whole game the result will take of itself,” United assistant coach Jason Colli said. “Gwelup came with a lot of energy to their credit but our boys stuck to our game plan and executed it well.” The visitors were ahead on 14 minutes, Thiak Kuel playing in Manase Abandelwa who low across Cyril Sharrock and into the corner of the net. They sealed the points on 79 minutes, a long ball from Ryan Hogan sent Abandelwa racing down the left, his shot was saved by Sharrock, and the keeper seemed to get kicked by Harry Evans on the goal line, leaving the keeper strewn on the floor, the rebound falling to Egide Ngendakumana who made no mistake from close-range, the goal stood despite the protests from the Gwelup players. “A great disciplined away performance at Gwelup as it’s always a hard place to go and pick up three points,” United’s Harry Evans said. “Everyone played their part in the win and there could have been more goals on the day, the only downside was seeing Alex Dunn come off injured, hopefully it’s not too serious and he will be back fit soon.”
In the final game Bayswater City are unbeaten in their last three games after a 2-1 win against Sorrento at Percy Doyle Reserve. “Very good win at a tough venue,” Bayswater midfielder Gordon Smith said. “I thought we dominated the opening period of the game but then found ourselves behind, but the lads showed good character to come from behind and get the important three points.” The hosts were ahead after only eight minutes, Dean Cummings’ corner was headed home at the back post by Byungatae Ahn. But City were level 12 minutes later, Gordon Smith found Fraser Dunlop on the right, and his cross was turned home by Jon Stynes, just in front of Sorrento defender Jordan Brown. Both sides had opportunities after the break, but it was Bayswater who won it on the hour. Smith was bundled over by Ollie Annis on the edge of the penalty area, and Kosta Sparta curled the resulting free kick past Patrick Hughes. The game between Perth SC and Balcatta Etna was postponed late, due to Covid.
16.4.2022
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND FOUR – REVIEW
It was a thriller in our State League Division One ‘Match of the Round’, with Western Knights and Murdoch University Melville playing out an eight-goal thriller at Nash Field, with the hosts running out 5-3 winners. “It was certainly an interesting game and MUMFC were a tough opponent. They’re very organized, energetic and certainly going to be up there this season and will cause problems for a number of teams,” Knights skipper Ben Coulter explained. “For us, we’re buzzing to get another win under our belt which is the main thing as we don’t feel we were at our best today and really disappointed with the goals we conceded, especially the first two, however going behind in the first half was probably the wakeup call we needed.
“Second half we came out stronger, worked harder, put on a more aggressive press and dug deep and put some pressure on their back line. Fair play to Sherwin for filling as a number nine spot today and taking his chance and grabbing two goals. That’s another thing, we had a couple of lads carrying a few knocks and we were missing a handful of key players today so it feels even better to get the win when we know we still got players to come back. It’s going to be a tough league this year and seems like everyone will be taking points off each other throughout the season but we just need to keep making ourselves hard to beat and take it game by game.”
It was the Knights who opened the scoring on six minutes, there looked little danger when a long diagonal ball from Adam Harris ended on the edge of the MUMFC box, but Tom Allen’s attempted clearance ricocheted of Ben Campbell, and he raced into an open goal to score. But the visitors were level two minutes later, Feisal Zaw’s corner was only cleared back him, and he picked out Dan Tait, who swept the ball home from eight meters. Then ten minutes later MUMFC hit the front, Joshua Gardner’s cross was headed home by Tait at the back post.
But five minutes before the break the Knights restored parity. Dean Hurley’s powerful header from a John Chalmers corner was pushed onto the post by Allen, but Harris fired home the rebound at the back post. The home side made the best possible start to the second half, and hit the front in the first minute, a long clearance from Cameron Yorke was misguided by Thomas Pellizzari and Sherwin Tucker nipped in and lobbed Allen. But Taki Nicolaidis’ side weren’t going down without a fight, and just after the hour they levelled. Tim Robertson sent Pat Sara down the left, his deep cross picked out Godfrey Asimwe who found Zaw, whose shot on the turn beat Sam Stone.
It was end-to-end football, with chances at both ends, but it was Adam Kostrencic’s side who edged ahead again on 73 minutes, and under hit back pass by Thomas Williams, was pounced upon by Sherwin Tucker, who finished low past Allen. The Knights made sure of the three points five minutes from time, MUMFC were pressing looking for the equaliser and they were caught on a quick break, Hurley sending James Bourne clear, and the substitute raced into the penalty area and finished clinically low pat Allen. “It was satisfying to come out on top in what turned out to be a high scoring contest,” Knights coach Adam Kostrencic said. “MUM FC certainly showed us why they had been in good winning form coming into this match, but we took our chances really well with some composed finishing in front of goal and that really made the difference.”
League leaders Olympic Kingsway came from behind to beat Joondalup United 3-1 at Forrest Park. “Joondalup away is always a tough place to go, but I thought we controlled the majority of the game and battled hard in tough conditions,” Olympic coach David Tough said. “We’re delighted to get the three points, and prepare for our next game against Forrestfield in a fortnight.” The league leaders found themselves behind on 28 minutes, Jay Lang’s in swinging corner going straight into the net. But they levelled five minutes later, good battling from David Perich, saw his ball find James Fanelli, and while on the ground he scooped the ball home.
The game could have gone either way, with both sides having chances, but the turning point came ten minutes from time when Olympic won a penalty. Nick Koefler’s ball sent Richard Howles in on goal, and he was brought down by Joe Smith, and referee Lawson Rimmer pointed straight to the spot. Skipper Shane Cassidy stepped up and sent Smith the wrong way from the resulting penalty. The points were wrapped up in the final minute, Tyler Garner won the ball in his own half, and sent Howles racing down the right, his low cross was missed by Ayden Dragun and new signing Ewan Fawcett slid the ball home to seal the win.
Forrestfield United are up to fourth after a 3-0 win against Dianella White Eagles at Hartfield Park on Saturday evening. “Delighted with the application and the performance in general. Football is about fine margins and we could have been two down at the break,” Forrestfield coach Richard Abrams said. “Jack (Lavis) bagged his first for the club after good work from Alex McLean and Oli La Galia back from a knee injury helped himself to a brace to give us a tidy win.” It was a tight tussle in this one, with both sides creating chances in the first half, but all the goals came after the break.
The visitors lost keeper Peter Pilkadaris on 64 minutes, he was replaced by Nemanja Jankovic, and three minutes later the hosts found the opener. Alex Mclean’s pass found Jack Lavis in the middle of the park, and his shot from distance went in via the post. They doubled their advantage two minutes later, a ball over the top by McLean sent substitute Oliver La Galia in on goal, and he finished low past Jankovic. They sealed the win nine minutes from time, a poor pass from a Dianella defender was picked off by La Galia, who finished with aplomb from the edge of the box.
Mandurah City have come from behind at half time, to beat a ten-man UWA Nedlands 4-0 at Genesiscare Stadium. “It was a really great reaction from us in the second half after going a goal down,” Mandurah striker Joe O’Brien said. “Finally got the win we’ve deserved and it should really kickstart our season.” The visitors hit the front on 25 minutes, Boas Mtwale found Dhamon Kalamaras on the right of the penalty area, and his shot from the edge of the penalty area went under the body of Mandurah keeper Dylan Wilson. The game took a massive twist five minutes into the second half, when UWA were reduced to ten men.
A long ball sent Craig Barker in on goal, but UWA keeper Jakeb Seppings brought the striker down, and referee Albert Muyembe had no other choice to but to send him off. He was replaced by Jacob Carey, and the first thing he had to do was pick the ball out of the net, Mandurah player/coach John Baird curling the resulting free kick in to the net. The hosts then took control and went ahead on 69 minutes, James Paylor cross to the back post found Barker, who headed home from close-range. It was 3-0 six minutes later, a quickly taken free kick caught UWA napping, and Baird through ball sent Joe O’Brien clear, and he finished clinically. The icing was put on the cake late, as the Dolphins added a fourth, Baird’s corner picking out the unmarked Silas Becsi, who powered his header home.
In the final game Subiaco have bounced back from their loss at Fremantle City last week, recording a 2-0 win against Rockingham City at Rosalie Park. “We knew it would be tough after last time we played them in the cup,” Subiaco skipper Elliot Ireland said. “I think we showed great character and resilience in the game, and we could have made it three or four, we were just unlucky they didn’t go in, and we’re very happy with the clean sheet too.”
A goal in each half secured the three points, and the hosts were ahead eight minutes before half time. Bayram Prufer’s corner wasn’t dealt with, and Matej Centrih header fell to Gaspar Becerra, who first time shot deflected off a Rockingham defender and into the net. But they sealed victory on 70 minutes, moments after Adrian Manno had been denied by a great save by Phillip Herschell, he could do little as Higor Marcal Vitali curled home superbly from the edge the penalty area. The final game of the round between Quinns and Fremantle City at Gumblossom Park was postponed due to Covid.
16.4.2022
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND FOUR – REVIEW
State League Division Two leaders Carramar Shamrock Rovers have continued their perfect start to the season, after a hard fought 1-0 against Curtin University at Edinburgh Oval on Thursday evening. “It was an evenly matched game although I believe we looked slightly more dangerous in the final third,” Rovers’ skipper Callum Trayner said. “We were able to capitalise on a set piece reasonably early in the second half and hold Curtin out for the remainder of the match.” The only goal of the game came nine minutes into the second half, a set-piece from Jack Bardsley into the box, wasn’t cleared, and in the goalmouth scramble Trayner’s close-range shot beat Daniel Marques, to seal the points.
Kingsley Westside are still in second, after a nine-goal thriller against Balga at Flinders Park. “Talk about a game of two halves,” Kingsley coach Steven Dimitrovich said. “The first half was all Balga and a missed penalty by them at halftime proved to be the difference in the end had they scored that 5-2 at half time, it would’ve been hard to come back from. A tactical change at the break made the difference as we scored three goals in eight minutes to win the game really proud of the lads’ character, they showed second half to get the points but not so good on my nerves.” Balga were ahead on 12 minutes with Jack Valentine scoring, but the hosts levelled sixty seconds later, Darren O’Riordan side footing home after good build up play.
But a quick-fire brace from Ben Wantee made it 3-1, but a penalty from Joseph Allsopp, after Camron Bishop was brought, made it 3-2. Wantee completed his hat-trick six minutes from time, and they had a perfect opportunity to make it five on the stroke of half time but Craig Hollingsworth missed from the spot. But Kingsley were back in the game early in the second half, Darren O’Riordan chased down a ball, cut inside and played it back to Bishop, who finished neatly. It was 4-4 moments later, O’Riordan lobbing the Balga keeper after they failed to clear their lines. Then on 53 minutes the hosts won it, Jonny Hulme’s corner was turned home by Kieron Salmon.
Gosnells City have won for the first time this season after a 1-0 win against Canning City in the ‘Frank Longstaff Trophy’ at Burrendah Reserve. “After having only played one game in the last three weeks the boys were eager to get back into it,” Gosnells skipper Scott Pereira said. “The game started slowly but we created a couple of good chances one leading to a penalty which was well saved by the keeper. We kept the pressure on Juan took his opportunity to put us 1-0 up against his old club. It wasn’t our best display but the 3 points was a must at the end of the day.” The only goal of the game came on the half hour with Juan Cabrera scoring, after some neat build up play. “We made hard work of it in the end,” Alan Carroll said. “First half we dominated and should have scored two or three up but we didn’t take are chances. They should have had a man sent off for saving a goal with his hand, and it’s ridiculous that he didn’t go. Second half they came at us and were putting us under pressure but we defended well. We probably should of sneaked another one before the game ended, we found it hard to get going which is understandable considering we didn’t play since the first round.”
Swan United have won for the first time this season, after a 3-0 win against Joondalup City at Francis Street. “It was good to be able to play after a two-week layoff due to cancellations. In that time, we’ve worked hard on the training ground and it was good to see us get the rewards against Joondalup City,” United coach Dan Evans explained. “We probably started a bit slower than I’d like, but after the very early stages I felt we controlled the game. We were a bit wasteful in the final third but the boys all worked hard and deserved the points.” The hosts, who have been hit hard by Covid this season, were ahead on 35 minutes. A ball over the top found John Monterosso, who met it on the volley from long-range lobbed the Joondalup keeper Ben Seivwright. They doubled their lead midway through the second half, Jake Fritchley finding Monterosso who added his second of the game, with another neat chip over Seivwright. They sealed the pints five minutes from time, Fritchley racing into goal, rounding the keeper and rolling the ball home into an empty net.
For the third week running Wanneroo City have drawn 3-3, the latest against Ashfield at Wanneroo Reserve. “It was a disappointing start to the game with an error ridden first 15 being punished,” Wanneroo assistant coach Howard Tweats said. “Collectively from that point the players steadied, worked issues out and played their way into the game. In the end we were extremely disappointed not to win the game after events in the second half despite coming from three down, good to see character building in this new group, but defensively we need to improve, scoring three for a third week in a row and not taking the points isn’t acceptable.” The visitors made the best possible start, opening the scoring after only four minutes. Lucas Munoz’s cross was turned into his own net by defender Aron Louttit.
They doubled their advantage moments later, Lewis Robinson was given far too much space in the middle of the park, and he rolled the ball behind the Wanneroo defence, and Munoz raced clear and finished clinically past D Markovic. Amazingly it was 3-0 on 12 minutes, Robinson’s free kick was parried by Markovic, but Dougal Kindness was quickest to the rebound and drilled the ball home. A shell-shocked Wanneroo found a lifeline just after the half hour, Louttit cut into the box and was brought down and referee Jack Maraldo pointed to the spot, and Nathan Scully stepped up to score from the resulting penalty. They added another before half time, a free kick to the back post found Scully, who lost his market and finished well past J Bell from four meters.
The comeback was completed on the hour, the Ashfield defence failed to deal with a cross from the right, and Dion Berman was quickest to react and headed home. Both sides pressed for the winner, but neither could find one, and both ended the game with ten men, with Ashfield’s Robinson and Wanneroo keeper Markovic both receiving red cards in different incidents. “Overall, we're obviously pretty disappointed to drop a three-goal lead after two consecutive clean sheets,” Ashfield assistant coach Kurtis Rae said. “To score three against any side is fantastic and we can build on that, but you can't give a team with that much attacking ability any chances. We did exactly that and we suffered the consequences. Our next league game comes against league leaders, Carramar, so we're going to have to make sure we're ready for another tough challenge.”
New Morley-Windmills coach Darran Quinncroft has got off to a great start, after beating South West Phoenix 4-0 at Wotton Reserve on Saturday evening. “Happy to get my first win the boys responded very well we went in at half time 1-0 up but we should have had the game put to bed with the number of chances we had,” Quinncroft explained. “In the second half we came into the game understanding they were just playing long ball every time so we knocked the ball around nicely and extended the lead to 4-0.” It was slow start from the hosts, as they came to terms with the new system, but they settled and found the opener on 27 minutes, Asa Sippits, losing his marker at a corner, to head home. They added a second five minutes into the second half, Callum Speed neat chip found Sippits, who controlled the ball on his chest and volleyed home. It was 3-0 just after the hour, Josh Reid heading home a corner. They added a fourth to seal the points, five minutes from time, neat build up play ended with Speed, who finished clinically.
16.4.2022
NPL-WA WOMEN'S ROUND THREE - REVIEW
Perth RedStar have won the top of the table clash against Fremantle City, running out 3-2 winners in our ‘Match of the Round’ at the RedStar Arena on Saturday evening. “It’s great to get another win, but credit to Fremantle for putting up a great fight,” RedStar skipper Shawn Billam said. “We learnt a lot as a team kept the ball well, but need to capitalize and finish our chances better.” The hosts opened brightly and hit the front after only seven minutes. A poor back pass went straight to Larissa Walsh, who shot on the run went into the net via the crossbar. But Fremantle levelled on 25 minutes, Siobhan Longmore crossfield pass found Jessica Darmago, who raced into the right side of the penalty area, and her cross shot went over Shivani Battaglia. But the visitors were then reduced to ten, after Longmore received a second yellow card from referee Peter Kaiser for a challenge on Olivia Wood.
The visitors had their backs to the wall, but held firm with RedStar pressing. But on 67 minutes the RedStar’s pressure was rewarded with a second. Half time substitute Renee Leota, sent Wood down the right, she pulled the ball back to Walsh, who spun away from her marker and fired low past Dayle Schroeder. They added third to seal the points four minutes later. Leota was the provider again, slipping Jacinta Coleman in on goal, and she finished clinically. To Fremantle’s credit they continued to push forward and they pulled one back five minutes from time. Natasha Rigby found space down the right, and her deep cross to the back post was headed home by Kate Nolan. It set up a frantic finale, but the RedStar’s held firm to take the points.
“The girls went into the match expecting a tough top of the table clash but were determined to get the three points. Both sides were pretty much equal in the first half, but the game changed when Fremantle went down to 10 players, but this didn’t seem to affect Fremantle’s fighting spirit,” RedStar coach Carlos Vega Mena explained. “Second half we came out strong and created a lot of opportunities. There was some great teamwork which saw Larry and Jay scoring two good goals. The girls worked hard to seal the win, which wasn’t easy against a determined Fremantle team which never gave up.”
The round started on Friday evening, with Hyundai NTC drawing 1-1 with Murdoch University Melville at the E&D Litis Stadium. “Given the players unavailable over the Easter weekend, it gave a lot of our young players an opportunity to step up,” MUMFC Coach Luke Thompson said. “I thought they handled themselves well and battled for a full 90 minutes. We had to adjust our brand of football given our squad to try and achieve a result and we managed to walk away with a point.” The NTC youngsters found the opener on the half hour mark, after Tanika Lala was bundled over in the box by Molly Bolton, and referee Peter Kaiser pointed to the spot. Lala picked herself up and sent MUMFC keeper Samantha Mathers the wrong way from the resulting penalty. But MUMFC found the equaliser 16 minutes from time, 12M shot was deflected into the path of Nikita Strickling, whose first time shot found the bottom corner of the net.
In Sunday’s game Perth SC have bounced back from their defeat against NTC last week, after a 2-0 win against Curtin University at Dorrien Gardens. “After coming away last week with the defeat against NTC it was promising to see a better performance and result from the girls,” Perth striker Ella Lincoln explained. “I thought we created a number of goal scoring opportunities and didn’t concede which is pleasing. We are still a relatively new team so it’s good to have two wins from three games.” It was a tight first half, but five minutes from the break it was the hosts who made the breakthrough, Abbey Meakins sending Ella Lincoln in on goal, and the striker finished clinically, just like her father used to do in the WA Premier League. The result was still in doubt, with Curtin holding firm, and looking to hit on the counter attack, but ten minutes from time Perth added a second to seal the win. A searching ball from Jaymee Gibbons sent Jaime Duncanson down the left, her cross found Meakins, who skipped past her marker before firing into the corner of the net. "It was the response we needed. The desire to fight for silverware this year is evident in the change room, but we need to see the results on the pitch to back it up," Perth coach Peter Rakic explained. "I was pleased with the way the girls moved the ball around and patiently waited to attack but I still believe we have much more to give, our focus now is to take things one game at a time, improving from one week to the next. Credit to the coaching staff and players at Curtin who are evidently pushing to play a better brand of football, it's refreshing to see that teams are constantly evolving. Stacey was also a big presence between the posts as she pulled off some brilliant saves to keep them in the match." The game between Subiaco and Balcatta at Rosalie Park is scheduled to be played on Sunday 24 July 3.45pm kick off.
15.4.2022
NPL-WA ROUND FIVE - PREVIEW
We head into the Easter long weekend, and week five of the NPLWA Men’s competition, and our ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to the RedStar Arena where Perth RedStar entertain Stirling Macedonia. (All games kick off at 3.00pm, unless stated) Both sides are coming off their first defeats of the season, the RedStar’s losing at Floreat, while Stirling lost at home against Glory, so both will be looking to bounce back this weekend. The last time the two sides meet at the ground was in round 15 in 2019, when ECU Joondalup hosted Stirling Lions, and a ten-man home side scored a late equaliser to draw 1-1. Michael Wantee gave the visitors the lead just after the hour, and the home side were then reduced to ten-men when Billy Quinncroft was sent off. It liked the points were heading back to Macedonia Park but second half substitute Charlie Kenna levelled in stoppage time to give both sides a share of the spoils.
The RedStar’s loss at E&D Litis Stadium was disappointing, as they were in game for large periods, but assistant coach Callum Salmon said they need to defend better. “It was a highly competitive game that we felt a draw would’ve been a fair result, and I thought we played some outstanding football, scored two excellent goals but we didn’t defend to NPL standard and gave the ball away cheaply too often which we were punished for,” he explained. “Floreat are a strong team, very physical and are highly likely to set the standard at the top of the table.”
Salmon said they go again on Saturday and could get some players back for the Stirling clash, and he is expecting another tough game. “We are excited, well prepared and are aiming for nothing less than three points and a great team performance on Saturday,” he said. “Stirling are strong, organised, coached extremely well and will be a challenge. We are aiming to win all our home games and believe we are capable to get back to winning ways this weekend.”
Stirling’s loss against Glory was made worse with striker Sam Wynne limping off with what looked like a serious injury, but skipper Dejan Spaseski said covid hurt them prior to the game, but that is no excuse. “We knew that the Glory game would be tough with majority of our squad returning from covid sickness on the Thursday night before the game. In saying this, losing by three goals at home is unacceptable under any circumstances,” the skipper explained. “We know what went wrong and will rectify these small details going in our next game. Losing our danger man, Sam Wynne early on did not help our cause but it is a team effort and we have match winners all over the park.”
Spaseski said the RedStar’s were on a good run of form, but the loss at Floreat will have them desperate to get back to winning ways, like themselves, and he is expecting a tight contest, but he has been pleased how the squad has performed so far this season. “We have a young squad that work very well under the best coaching staff in the state. Fergie, John and Davie fuel us with confidence and has us playing a brand of football that our supporters love to watch. We believe we can beat each and every team in this league,” he said. “RedStar for us, are one of the strongest and most organised sides in the league. Both teams will be up for it and we can’t wait to head into battle, and three points is our only target on Saturday.”
The round begins on Friday evening when Perth Glory host Armadale at Hartfield Park. (7.30pm) Glory produced their best performance of the season to beat Stirling last week, while Armadale haven’t played for two weeks now due to covid, and they need the win to kick start their season. Meanwhile on Saturday, Perth SC travel to Grindleford Reserve to take on Balcatta, with both sides still looking for their first wins, while league leaders Floreat Athena make the trip to Dalmatinac Park to meet Cockburn City. Sorrento dropped points for the first time this season after a draw at Perth last week, and will be looking to bounce back when they welcome Bayswater City to Percy Doyle Reserve, while in the final game Gwelup Croatia entertain Inglewood United at Wishart Street
Both sides conceded late goals to draw last week, which would have been disappointing, Gwelup at Bayswater, while Inglewood let a two-goal lead slip in stoppage time at home against Cockburn. Gwelup coach Mitchell Prentice was left disappointed with the late penalty last week, but he had nothing but praise for his players. “Although it feels like we haven’t got the rub of the green with some decisions lately, the boys have been excellent in all three games so far,” he explained. “Last week should have been our first win, but a late, late penalty decision went against us. But we have regrouped this week and hope to put on another show with some exciting, entertaining and attacking football. Inglewood is a good side who will be looking to bounce back from their own late 2-2 draw last week, against Cockburn.”
15.4.2022
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND FOUR – PREVIEW
It’s week four of the State League Division One, and it tight at the top with only three points separating the top four, with three teams winning all their opening games. Our ‘Match of the Round’ involves two of them, with Western Knights entertaining Murdoch University Melville at Mash Field (All games kick off at 3.00pm, unless stated) The hosts beat Forrestfield last week, while a Dan Tait header in stoppage time gave MUM FC a narrow win against UWA Nedlands, so this one will be a close encounter, on their first ever clash in the State League.
MUMFC goalscorer last week said they had to work hard for the three points last week, and it continued their magnificent start to the season, after the club won the State League Night Series, and the defender said it showed the character they have in their squad. “The boys had a fantastic night series which was a credit to everyone at the club who put in so much hard work on the off season and the additional players that Taki has brought in to squad who have gelled really well with the boys from last year,” Tait explained.
“Our first two league games have shown us that every week is going to be a real challenge but we were all delighted to get off to a good start. Last week the boys showed a bit of character to get over the line against a well-structured UWA. They really made it difficult for us to try and break them down which was frustrating at times. Full credit to lads who kept pushing for that winner right till the final whistle and managing to come away with an important three points.”
Tait is well aware a trip to Nash Field to take on the Knights, who are also unbeaten this season, is a challenge, but they head their full of confidence. “The Knights are always a tough side to face, especially at home, and they have some quality players,” he said. “All the boys are really looking forward to the challenge this week, and every week as there are no easy games in this division. We are expecting a really tough game with two quality sides capable of playing good football.”
Knights coach Adam Kostrencic was unavailable for the win at Joondalup in week two due to covid, but he was back onboard for the win against Forrestfield last week, in the clubs first home game of the season, and he was pleased with the way his players went about their business. “After a fairly even first half contest, we came out the stronger team in the second half and were rewarded for our efforts with some well-constructed goals,” he said. “It was a good result for us, especially with it being our first home league match of the season.”
Kostrencic will come up against a mate of his on Saturday, having worked at Gwelup with MUMFC coach Taki Nicolaidis, and he knows it will be a tough game, but they will be looking to make it back-to-back home wins. “MUMFC are the night series champions and they have continued the winning form in the league, and having known Taki for a long time and worked with him in the coaching environment I know they will be well prepared for this encounter,” he explained. “We look forward to a tough challenge and know we will need to be at our best to achieve a favourable result.”
In other games this weekend league leader’s Olympic Kingsway travel to Forrest Park to take on Joondalup United, who recorded their first win of the season at Dianella last week, while second placed Fremantle City Head to Gumblossom Park to meet Quinns. Forrestfield United welcome Dianella White Eagles to Hartfield Park on Saturday evening (5.00pm) while Subiaco coach Goran Stajic welcomes his former club Rockingham City to Rosalie Park. In the final game UWA Nedlands travel to the Gensiscare Stadium on Peelwood Parade to take on Mandurah City.
The hosts drew at Rockingham last week, while UWA conceded a late goal to lose 0-1 at MUMFC. UWA skipper Luke Randazzo said it was gut wrenching to lose the game so late, and he hopes they can get back to winning ways at Mandurah, but is expecting a tough game. “Yes, the team was incredibly flat to have given up the late goal. We battled so hard and felt we had earnt a draw but football can be cruel sometimes,” he explained. “It’s a big game this weekend against Mandurah, certainly one of the harder fixtures to come away with points from but we will enter confident in what we are building. We have a great group of guys who are all ready to work so we’ll look to push Mandurah big time this weekend, I’m looking forward to the clash.”
15.4.2022
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND FOUR – PREVIEW
The State League Division Two week four kicks off tonight when Curtin University host league leaders Carramar Shamrock Rovers at Edinburgh. (8.30pm) Gerry McEwan’s Rovers side have made a perfect start to the season with three straight wins, while Troy Reid’s Curtin are still unbeaten, so this one is top of the table clash. Rovers came home from Balga, with a 4-2 victory last week, while Curtin dropped their first points of the season, after being held to a 3-3 draw by Wanneroo, so tonight should be a great game. Last time they met at the venue was in Round 15 last season when Curtin won 1-0. 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 found the top right-hand corner of the net.
Three wins from three is a great reward for Gerry McEwan’s side, but the coach knows there is still room for improvement. “We're obviously happy to win our first three games, but we're also unhappy at being eliminated from the FFA Cup, so not an ideal start to the season. We are looking to improve on each performance and we've definitely improved since the cup defeat to Wanneroo,” he explained. “Last week we knew Balga is never an easy place to get three points, so we're happy to come away with the win, although we could have made life a lot easier on ourselves if we had stayed on the front foot after going 2-0 ahead.
“But credit to Balga for exploiting our mistakes, but it's a good sign when you can come through a change of momentum in the game to regain the ascendency and see the game out.” McEwan has bad memories of the trip to Curtin last season, and with both sides in good form this time around he is expecting a good game and he is optimistic they can get a result. “We lost 1-0 to Curtin last season in a poor game of football,” he said. “But it’s a new season and with both teams starting this season well, it should be a cracker and we'll do all we can to win the game.”
Curtin midfielder Nathan Smith bagged a hat-trick last week against Wanneroo, but it wasn’t enough to take the points, the game ended 3-3, but Smith said it continued their good start to the season, where they reached the knock-out stage of the recent night series competition. “I think our start has been promising but we know there is so much more to do and its early days in the season and we have to take it game by game,” he explained. “Last week’s draw was disappointing from our view and I'm sure Wanneroo feel the same.
“As a team if you score three goals you hope you can grab the same number of points to take home. We were good in patches but that's not enough to win a football game these days so we need to improve in that regard.” Smith said both teams head into Thursday’s game full of confidence, and knows Rovers are scoring at will, so they need to prevent that if they are to take the points. “It will be a good test to see where we are as a squad in these early days of the season,” the midfielder said. “They have some great players like Ger Fitzgerald who scored a brace last week, so they have no trouble scoring, so we'll be looking to stop that and get a positive result.”
The other games in the round are on Saturday, with all games kicking off at 3.00pm unless otherwise stated. Second placed Kingsley Westside welcome Balga to Flinders Park, while there is a local derby at Burrendah Reserve with Canning City hosting Gosnells City in the ‘Frank Longstaff Trophy’. Swan United and Joondalup City meet at Francis Street and Wanneroo City host Ashfield at Wanneroo Reserve. The final game of the round is on Saturday evening, where Morley-Windmills host South West Phoenix at Wotton Reserve. (6.00pm)
The Phoenix have struggled so far back in the State League, with covid hitting the club hard, but they will look to kick start their season on Saturday. Meanwhile Morley have also struggled, and parted company with coach Antony Benetti after their loss against Ashfield, the coach standing down. Footballwa would like to thank Antony for all his help during his time at the club. The club have acted quickly to find a replacement with Darran Quinncroft coming in with Steve Burton to take the reins at the club.
Quinncroft said it’s a challenge he is looking forward too. “We are lucky to come in at round four, it’s still very early days still lots to play for. We have had no time to settle in we spoke to Vesco and Darko on Sunday and they told us where they want to go and what the future ambitions was and I’m excited to be at a club that has so much drive,” he explained. “I firmly believe we will be up there for promotion come end of the season, we had a quick introduction to the squad on Tuesday and straight into hard work the lads responded great ahead of the game on Saturday.”
Quinncroft heads to Wotton Reserve with a good CV, having worked at Wanneroo, Dianella and most recently at NPLWA side Perth RedStar, working with the Under 20’s, and he is looking forward to Saturday evenings game the Phoenix, and hopes to make a winning start. “I really enjoyed my time at the clubs, but at the RedStar’s I helped Mark Scanlan with the 20’s, and I was around the first team with Kenny Lowe, Callum Salmon and David Butterfield, and have been learning of them and took it all on board and know I’m ready to be a head coach so took the jump,” he explained. “Yes, definitely looking for a win on Saturday, I have no doubt in the squad’s ability, it’s a great group of lads I’ve gained,” he said. “I’ve watched the last three games Morley have played and in training last night they were a different team, the boys are raring to go on Saturday and put the poor start behind them.”
15.4.2022
BELT UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION - ROUND TWO PREVIEW
After last weeks shortened Belt Up Amateur Premier Division fixtures due to covid, we hopefully have a full list of games over the Easter long weekend, and it kicks off on Sunday afternoon when North Perth United host Kelmscott Roos at Woodville Reserve in our ‘Match of the Round’ (1.00pm) Kelmscott were beaten 0-3 by Kwinana in their first game back in the league, after relegation from the State League, while North Perth’s game at Maddington was one of the games postponed, so both teams will be looking to kick start their season on Sunday.
The Roos had a positive Night Series, reaching the final, before losing to East Perth, and keeper Tom Livingstone said they were pleased with the pre-season but let themselves down in the opening league game. “A great start to the season for the lads, we didn’t expect to get as far as we did in the night series. But a good accomplishment for guys who haven’t been together for too long,” the keeper explained. “It was a disappointing loss against Kwinana and I felt the team hadn’t learned anything from the loss against East Perth the week previous. We know if we want to be successful in this year’s campaign, we need to take care of the ball in possession and not give away the ball recklessly in our own half. We also need to create more opportunities moving forward and having back-to-back games where we have barely challenged the other keeper is very frustrating.”
Livingstone said the quality on the league is strong, and Sunday’s clash against North Perth, who have been at the top of the table for a number of seasons, will be another challenge, but one they are relishing. “The team is back training hard and the coaches have made a few changes moving forward which we are excited with,” he said. “We know every match is tough in the Amateur Premier League, and we will need to bring our A game to get points against a strong North Perth side. But we look forward to the challenge and definitely be looking to take three points away from the game.”
New North Perth United coach Kevin Flavin said it was disappointing to miss out last week, but he is well aware covid is in and around the community, and they ready to hit the ground running in the season opener, especially after missing out on the Night Series semi-finals. “Yes, it was disappointing to not have the game Sunday but with covid happening in WA I think this will happen a lot this year and we will have to deal with those obstacles,” he explained. “The lads were disappointed but we did an intra club game on Sunday and it gave us a bit of extra time to work on some things and you could see during the game that the lads are just ready to start the season now. I was happy with our performance in the night series in a tough group we tried out a lot of new players and just that one poor performance against Joondalup stopped us from making the semi-final.”
Flavin, who has taken over from Luke O’Neill this season, said Kelmscott were impressive in the Night Series, so it will be a good test first up for his side. “Sunday is going to be a tough game as Kelmscott looked impressive in the off season but our lads are ready for the test,” he said. “With a lot of new players in our squad we are just focusing on ourselves and see what happens from there. They have worked hard in pre-season so hopefully that shows on Sunday at Woodville, we are looking forward to it.”
All the other games are on Monday afternoon (All games kick off at 3.00pm), and Wembley Downs player/coach Jeffrey Cornez takes control of his first game when they welcome Quinns to Butlers Reserve. He takes over from Salv Todaro, who stood down last week, and Cornez said he’s looking forward to challenge of playing and coaching the side. “Having our new manager step down one week prior to the season starting was never going to be easy. That being said, credit is owed to him getting us to the position we are in now as far as the team wanting to play good football and our fitness has never been better,” Cornez explained.
“Fortunately, I got some valuable experience last season learning from last year's managers how to run a proper side while I sat out the first half of the season with a knee injury. We are embracing this new adversity and I have loads of help from the club and other players who have all stepped up. It will truly be a team effort this season and with some new additions to the team, I think we will surprise some people despite our inexperienced side.”
A tough first up game for the new coach, and he said Quinns are a good side and will be a tough challenge. “We know with Quinns it will always be a fierce battle so a lot of our new players will get immediate feedback of what it is like playing Sunday Premier football. We have about five new players into the starting XI and training can only prepare you so much for the intensity of this league - at the end of the day you need to get on the pitch and get the reps in,” the coach said. “Due to the first week postponement, the boys are eager to get the season under way. We played a friendly earlier this year against Quinns and I thought we gave them some problems with our speed and fitness. If we can clean up the mistakes at the back and go at them for 90 minutes, I don't see any reason we can't be confident to grab the three points.”
In other games Joondalup United make the trip to Coker Park to take on Queens Park, Emerald begin life in the Premier Division when they entertain Maddington White City at Fraser Park Reserve, while the two teams who opened the season with a win meet, with Jaguar hosting Kwinana United at the Herb Graham Recreation Centre. In the final game Night Series winners East Perth also start their first Premier Division game, when they travel to Bortolo Reserve to take on Peel United. The hosts, who also newly promoted this season, began life in the league with a hard fought 1-1 draw at Quinns last week, while East Perth’s game against Emerald was a victim of covid.
East Perth Coach Colm Costello said the squad is fitting fit for Monday, but knows the virus hit them hard. “Yes, the lads are buzzing to get going now, unfortunately we had to take a week out due to Covid but Wednesday night we had a very good session and we can’t wait to get going in what I feel will be a very tricky tie away at Peel, “he said. “Although we had a good night series it’s gone now and the league games are going to come thick and fast now so we’ll need to try keep improving our performances.”
Costello said Peel were impressive in the recent Night Series and their draw at Quinns showed what a good side they are, so he knows Monday will be a tight encounter. “I know their coach Clint (Brown) well and his achievements for himself and the team over the last few years have been brilliant and they have grown as club, credit to them,” he explained. “We expect a high tempo game against a very fit side and will need a big performance to get something out of the game. They had a good result up at Quinn’s last week and will be confident coming into a home game so we’ll need to be ready for the challenge. Every week we are making slight improvements, so it should be a decent game that we are looking forward to.”
15.4.2022
NPL-WA WOMEN'S ROUND THREE - PREVIEW
It’s a shortened NPLWA Women’s week three fixture list, with only three games this weekend, and our ‘Match of the Round’ sees Perth RedStar hosting a Fremantle City in a top of the table clash at the RedStar Arena on Saturday evening. (5.00pm) It’s been a fantastic start for both sides, winning their opening two games, the RedStar’s beating Curtin convincingly, while Fremantle did likewise against Subiaco, so with top spot up for grabs, this one should be a cracker.
RedStar’s Hannah Insch was on target in the clubs first two games, and she said the transition in their new home has gone well, and she is enjoying the atmosphere in an around the club. “To be fair, it hasn’t been much of a drastic change since it’s all the same girls, same philosophy and same supporters that have come with us from Redbacks,” she explained. “It was strange playing our first game under the RedStar name but we are getting used to it now. It is great that we have Super Saturdays, where all the NPL teams are down at RedStar arena, so it gives us a great opportunity to watch all of our teams play and come together as a club. We now have teams all the way from Under 12’s to NPL and it has been great to watch the young talent we have coming through.”
The win at Curtin last week, nearly never happened after a floodlight failure, but Insch said it was a professional second half performance. “Due to a light malfunction before the game, the referees decided to shorten the halves to 40 minutes instead of 45. The match started off strong where in the first 15 minutes we scored a goal and it was a great feeling to get on the score sheet again, but we had a few sloppy passes and missed chances which ultimately lead us too conceding a goal just before half time,” she said. “However, in the second half the girls put their heads down and knew what needed to be done and despite the weather, scored another spectacular five goals, so in the end we were happy with the result which I think we deserved.”
It's a huge game on Saturday, with both sides with two wins to start the season, and Insch said it should be an entertaining game. “I think the game will be very close and very entertaining, and it will be interesting to see who comes out on top as both teams have been doing very well after winning both of our first two games comfortably,” Insch said. “It will be a very tough game for both of us, obviously Fremantle have got some new experienced players who have joined the team, as well as players who have been there for multiple years and have been a part of their previous victories. We also have very experienced players who have played professionally as well so I know that the game will be on very equal playing grounds, so we will have to put our heads down and play our best.”
Perth Glory A-League Women’s captain Natasha Rigby has returned to Fremantle City this season, and has been a steadying influence on the young players coming through the club, and she has been delighted with their start to the season. “The signs are really positive at the club, the team has started well despite being hit pretty hard with injuries and COVID issues,” she explained. “It has been awesome to see some of the younger players step up, and I’m really looking forward to seeing how we grow together as a team.”
New Fremantle coach Garry Church has been a great addition to the club. He is a development coach at Football West and has had a stint as an assistant at Perth Glory Women’s team in 2012-13, and Rigby said he has been great, and they are now concentrating on the top of the table clash at RedStar on Saturday evening. “Yes, Gaz has been excellent, and we are really excited to see how we come up against RedStar on Saturday,” she said. “They are a really experienced team with some great talent and leadership, so I think it will be a really quality game, I’m really looking forward to it.”
The games begin on Friday evening when the Hyundai NTC host Murdoch University Melville at E&D Litis Stadium. (8.00pm) Both sides are coming off big wins last week, and will want to keep the pressure on the early leaders. In the final game Curtin University heads to Dorrien Gardens on Monday to take on Perth SC. (1.00pm) Perth were beaten by NTC last week while Curtin went down to the RedStar’s. Curtin Head coach Dom Gangemi said the club are giving their youngsters ago this season, and he’s been happy the way they are going.
“Curtin has only four senior players within the whole squad of 32 players, including the U21’s, we are focusing on rebuilding an environment where everyone left,” he explained. “We played our games with both teams trying their best, but when you play against A-League players or experienced players it’s hard to make results. We need time, a lot of work and patience from all of us staff, club and players. It will be same against Perth SC, we will approach the game with the same philosophy, I won’t predict what will happen but my hope is to see my team improve compared to the previous game.” The game between Subiaco and Balcatta will not be played until July 24.
14.4.2022
GLORY’S HORROR INJURY RUN CLAIMS TWO MORE
Perth Glory are running out of players after Jack Clisby and Trent Ostler joined their massive injury list in Wednesday’s away loss at Wellington Phoenix. Caretaker coach Ruben Zadkovich had flown in teenagers Jacob Muir and Chris Donnell, captain and vice-captain of the Glory academy side respectively, for their A-League debuts.
Clisby was one of just four players with any real A-League experience in a squad that contained ten National Premier Leagues players coached by Zadkovich before he took over the A-League side. Some, including Muir and Donnell, were not even born when 40-year old goalkeeper Liam Reddy, who played his 400th senior game, started his career.
A couple of senior players may be ready to return from injury to boost the squad or more youngsters will be fast-tracked for Saturday’s game against Western United in Launceston. Glory have now used three dozen players and Zadkovich said he was concerned for their welfare amid a heavy fixture load.
“I’ve never seen an injury toll like it,” Zadkovich said. “But then again seven games in 21 days, five away from home, travelling around the country. I haven’t seen a fixture list anything like that. That plays a huge part. There maybe one or two that can bounce back off the injury table, there might be one or two young players, circumstances dictate we may have to throw them in.”
13.4.2022
GLORY EDGED OUT BY WELLINGTON
Perth Glory continued their A-League Men’s losing streak on Wednesday evening, after a narrow 0-1 defeat against Wellington Phoenix in the long-distance derby at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium. The only goal of the game came early in the second half from Mexican striker Gael Sandoval, but a Glory side that containing two teenage starters on their A-League debuts, Chris Donnell, Jacob Muir, they battled bravely but were ultimately edged out 1-0.
It was big day for Glory keeper Liam Reddy, who was playing hid 400th national league game, but he could do little when Sandoval’s deflected shot secured the win for the Kiwi’s. Glory pressed for the equaliser late, but they were unable to find it. Taking into consideration the club’s long injury list and gruelling fixture schedule, it was little wonder that Zadkovich was pleased with the way his side competed against a Phoenix side which had thumped title contenders Western United 4-1 last time out. Zadkovich was proud of the effort of what he thought was probably one of the youngest teams ever fielded in the competition, a number of Perth's younger players, including debutants Muir and Donnell, weren't even born at the time 40-year-old Reddy started his senior career.
“I’m obviously very frustrated because we didn’t get anything out of the game,” he said, “but it’s a very proud group at the moment… they can’t really give any more in terms of effort and mentality. It’s disappointing to lose, but I’m extremely proud of my players tonight. It’s got to be one of, if not the youngest team in A-League history and they stuck to the gameplan phenomenally well.
“We had to be economical tonight with a three or four-day turnaround and then another three-day turnaround [to come]. We had to set up economically in the first half and try and at least compete and get ourselves in the game and give ourselves a chance to go and win it in the second half. “The young kids stuck to that gameplan really, really well and I was proud.”
In front of only 89 supporters, it was the Phoenix who began brightly and were on the front foot for much of the first half, but for all their possession, they only forced Reddy into two meaningful saves. First on 17 minutes the ex-Phoenix ‘keeper tipped a Sandoval strike over the bar and the second came on the stroke of half-time as this time Rene Piscopo was foiled at close-range.
Sandoval was not to be denied shortly after the restart, however, pouncing upon a loose ball on the edge of the box and claiming his fifth goal of the season with a shot which cannoned off a cluster of defenders on its way into the net. Glory’s response was immediate, as Josh Anasmo and substitute Jayden Gorman both tried their luck from range and Burke-Rawlins then fizzed a fierce shot narrowly over the bar after a Josh Rawlins cross had only been half-cleared.
The best chances for an equaliser fell two minutes from time, second half substitute Callum Timmins curling effort flashed narrowly wide of the target with Phoenix ‘keeper Oliver Sail beaten. Glory is set to return to action on Saturday when they take on Western United in Launceston, but Zadkovich’s threadbare squad is set to be even more depleted for that Round 24 clash after Trent Ostler and Jack Clisby succumbed to respective shoulder and knee injuries either side of half-time.
Glory may have to fly over more players for Saturday's clash with Western United in Tasmania. That will be Glory's seventh match in three weeks, with five of those on the road and just two or three rest days between each of those games. "For me it’s just not good enough to have these short turnarounds especially on the road," Zadkovich added. "Player safety is at jeopardy and the injury total goes to somewhere near 15 now for us."
The Nix are now four points clear of seventh-placed Macarthur FC and just a point behind fourth-placed Adelaide United, who have played two more matches. “The three points is massive for us moving forward to the back end of the season,” Phoenix coach Ufuk Talay said. “We’ve played a lot of games back-to-back. It wasn’t a complete performance, but I think it was a good enough performance to get the job done and get the three points. I think we’ve put ourselves in a great position going back to New Zealand. Having the fans there supporting the group I think the boys that are injured will probably even put their hands up to play.”
Perth Glory: GK Liam REDDY, 14 Jack CLISBY (22 Josh RAWLINS 57'), 21 Antonee BURKE-GILROY (24 Pacifique NIYONGABIRE 71'), 23 Mich OXBORROW (19 Callum TIMMINS 72'), 26 Giordano COLLI, 28 Trent OSTLER (88 Jayden GORMAN 35'), 29 Darryl LACHMAN, 32 Aidan COYNE, 37 Jacob MUIR, 41 Chris DONNELL, 42 Josh ANASMO (47 Tyler VECCHIO 71') - Subs not used: RGK Cameron COOK, 18 Daniel STYNES
Wellington Phoenix: GK Oliver SAIL, 4 Scott WOOTTON, 5 James MCGARRY, 6 Tim PAYNE, 7 Gael SANDOVAL, 9 David BALL (18 Ben WAINE 63'), 10 Rene PISCOPO (8 Ben OLD 63'), 11 Jaushua SOTIRIO (36 Riley BIDOIS 90+5'), 13 Nicholas PENNINGTON, 17 Callan ELLIOT (16 Louis FENTON 79'), 33 Finn SURMAN - Subs not used: RGK Alex PAULSEN, 3 Matthew BOZINOVSKI, 34 Jackson MANUEL - Referee: Lachlan Keevers
12.4.2022
MATILDAS FIRST HALF BLITZ DOWNS KIWIS
The Matildas have beaten New Zealand 3-1 in an international friendly in Canberra, in front of an enthusiastic 13,077 supporters on Tuesday evening. A first half brace from former Perth Glory skipper Sam Kerr and another to Hayley Raso had the host 3-0 up after only 32 minutes. However, New Zealand pegged a goal back with Hannah Wilkinson scoring on the stoke of half-time. Neither side were able to find the net in the second half, despite the Matildas creating a multitude of chances and, although New Zealand improved in the final 10 minutes, the visitors never really challenged Lydia Williams's goal.
“We always want to get on the front foot and score early goals in the first 15 minutes," Matildas coach Tony Gustavsson explained. “Tonight, from the fifth minute until our third goal, we were playing phenomenal football and I liked the variation of how we scored goals: We're good at transition, we're good at breaking down organised teams who park the bus, and we’re good at set plays.
“The second half was a great opportunity for us to practice game management. You could say that New Zealand took over the game but it was us letting them have the ball because we feel that now we need to prepare for a World Cup scenario where we may need to protect the lead, or change the shape. We need to be flexible, and we need to train for these things as well. Our drop-off in possession was a tactical game management change from our end.”
The coach made just one change from Friday's first game in Townsville, with Caitlin Foord starting in place of Kyah Simon, and they were on the front foot from the start, however, New Zealand did have the first chance of the game, Wilkinson got in behind the Matildas defence and sent a shot just wide of goal. But the Matilidas steadied and hit the front on 15 minutes, Steph Catley’s corner picked out Kerr, and the Chelsea striker lost her marker and headed home.
They doubled their advantage two minutes later, Raso pouncing on a rebound to finish off the far post. It was 3-0 just after the half hour mark, racing on to a perfectly-weighted through ball by Emily van Egmond and into the penalty area before calmly slipping the ball past Erin Naylor. The scoreline could have been greater at the break, with Meikayla Moore making a stunning block from Kerr and Erin Naylor saving from Ellie Carpenter. But the visitors pulled one back in first half stoppage time, Olivia Chance was the provider with a superb pass that caught Australia’s defence square, Wilkinson whose first shot was saved by Lydia Williams, pounced on the rebound to end Australia’s hopes of a clean sheet.
Foord hit the bar shortly after the restart and Kerr headed over from a Catley cross as the Matildas sought to follow Gustavsson’s instructions to play with pace and power. Kerr had another excellent opportunity to notch her hat trick in 67 minutes when substitute Tameka Yallop’s cross found her close to goal only for Kerr to power her header wide. It was good performance from the Matildas, put it could and should have been more and their profligacy in front of goal are a concern. After the game Matilda Aivi Luik had her head shaved pitch-side to honour a pledge she had made if she raised more than $30,000 in an appeal for the Mark Hughes Foundation, which helps people with brain cancer. Her brother, Noa, is battling the illness. "I just wanted to do something," Luik said. "It's just so heart-warming to get so much support."
Matildas: GK Lydia Williams, 4 Clare Polkinghorne (3 Aivi Luik 60’), 7 Stephanie Catley 9 Caitlin Foord (13 Tameka Yallop 59’), 10 Emily van Egmond (6 Clare Wheeler 60’), 11 Mary Fowler (22 Alexandra Chidiac 60’), 14 Alanna Kennedy (8 Charlotte Grant 74’), 16 Hayley Raso (17 Kyah Simon 60’), 19 Katrina Gorry, 20 Sam Kerr, 21 Ellie Carpenter – Subs not used: RGK Mackenzie Arnold, RGK Teagan Micah, 15 Emily Gielnik, 23 Remy Siemsen
New Zealand: GK Erin Nayler, 3 Anna Green (22 Ashleigh Ward 46’), 5 Meikayla Moore, 7 Ali Riley, 11 Olivia Chance, 12 Betsy Hassett (25 Grace Jale 46’), 13 Paige Satchell (9 Gabrielle Rennie 21’) (16 Emma Rolston 79’) 14 Katie Bowen, 15 Daisy Cleverley (20 Malia Steinmetz 46’), 17 Hannah Wilkinson (6 Rebekah Stott 69’), 24 Claudia Bunge – Subs not used: RGK Lily Alfeld, RGK Victoria Esson, 18 Ava Collins, 19 Elizabeth Anton – Referee: Haruna Kanematsu
11.4.2022
IREDALE SCOUTED BY BOLTON
English club Bolton Wanderers are interested in signing Cambridge United defender Jack Iredale in the summer. The 25-year old has impressed in League One this season and has been an almost ever-present figure for Oxford.
Iredale, who can play at left back of full back, is out of contract with his club at the end of the season. Preston North End and Wigan Athletic have also been linked with the former ECU Joondalup and Perth Glory player but its Bolton who have emerged as frontrunners for his signature.
10.4.2022
NEWCASTLE "A BRIDGE TOO FAR" FOR GLORY YOUNGSTERS
Perth Glory's crushing 6-1 loss to Newcastle Jets on Sunday set plenty of unwanted records for the A-League club. It stretched the Glory's winless streak to 12 games, their longest run without a victory in 15 years.
The drubbing was Glory's worst loss to Newcastle and the clubs' second biggest loss in the A-League era. And with just five games remaining Glory are heading inevitably for their first ever wooden spoon.
It was not the return to Newcastle that Glory caretaker coach Ruben Zadkovich, who played 97 games over four seasons with Newcastle, was hoping for. "It hurts a lot," Zadkovich said. "It was a bridge too far for a lot of those young players."
"Some of those young guys learnt a lot of hard lessons, about what football is like at this level and travelling away from home. That one caught up with us a little bit after what we’ve been though in the last few weeks."
"I'm proud of a lot of guys efforts but I'm also bitterly disappointed with the decision making. Even though it is a young and inexperienced squad I expect a better standard of decision making under pressure."
Zadkovich admitted the next five games would be tough given the teams lengthy injury list. On the weekend the squad featured ten National Premier Leagues players and eleven under the age of 23.
"The position on the ladder makes it difficult to take anything out of the season," he said. "It's about looking at the squad we have. It's about building for the future. It's about growing through adversity. They'll learn a lot of hard lessons really quickly."
10.4.2022
GLORY HAMMERED BY JETS
Perth Glory’s season went from bad to worse on Sunday after they were trashed 6-1 by Newcastle Jets at McDonald Jones Stadium. With a host of senior players unavailable through injury, including Bruno Fornaroli, Andy Keogh, Daniel Sturridge, Brandon O’Neill, Kosuke Ota, Adrian Sardinero, Nick Fitzgerald and Brad Jones, the visitors were no match for Arthur Papas’ side. Beka Mikeltadze grabbed two first-half goals and duly completed his hat-trick from the spot late on, while fellow-import Daniel Penha helped himself to a brace either side of the break and Kuach Yuel also got on the scoresheet. Glory’s consolation goal, came from substitute Ciaran Bramwell, the loss leaving them well adrift at the foot of the table.
Head Coach Ruben Zadkovich described the game as being a bridge too far for his young charges, he backed them to learn from it and come back stronger. “That one caught up with us a little bit,” he said. “It was our third game in six days, two of those away from home and we had 10 or 11 NPL players in the squad. It was a product of circumstance, it was disappointing and it hurt a lot, but there’ll be positives to take, especially for those younger guys. They’ll have learned a lot of hard lessons tonight about what football is like at this level, the travelling away from home and having to back up.
“The inconsistency of youth shone through tonight, but let’s not take anything away from Newcastle. They’re a very good team and at home this year, they’ve been on the front foot, very attacking and aggressive. It was a difficult night for the young boys. There’s a lot to take out of tonight… there were a lot of negatives in the way we defended and our bad decision-making under fatigue, but they are lessons and things to grow from and that will be my focus for the rest of the season.”
Newcastle’s first goal arrived just before the midway point of the first half, Savvas Siatravanis linking up with Yuel who cut the ball back to the top of the box was clinically despatched by Penha. Glory debutant Jayden Gorman was lucky to stay on the park after a nasty tackle on Penha, he only received a yellow card after the referee viewed the VAR screen. It was 2-0 ten minutes later, Mikeltadze capitalising upon some hesitant defending to drive towards goal and beat Liam Reddy with a low shot. Then the Georgian then took his tally for the season to 11 when he clipped home an inviting cross delivered into the box by former Glory man, Dane Ingham.
Any hope of Zadkovich’s side claiming a foothold in the contest all but disappeared five minutes into the second half when Penha followed up to drill home after Reddy had done well to block an initial close-range effort from Angus Thurgate. Glory’s response was a well-worked goal from Bramwell, the striker getting in front of his marker to meet a cross from Clisby who, in turn, had been picked out by a raking, cross-field ball from Mitch Oxborrow. But the Jets were to have the final say with two further goals in the last 12 minutes, Mikeltadze firing home from the spot after substitute Joseph Forde had tripped Ingham and Yuel adding number six with an opportunistic finish.
Newcastle Jets: GK Jack DUNCAN, 2 Dane INGHAM, 3 Jason HOFFMAN (16 Konstandinos GROZOS 59'), 4 Jordan ELSEY, 6 Matt JURMAN (26 Archie GOODWIN 79'), 9 Beka MIKELTADZE (44 Riley WARLAND 79'), 11 Daniel PENHA (15 Dylan MURNANE 59'), 13 Brandon WILSON, 17 Kuach YUEL, 21 Savvas SIATRAVANIS (28 Blake ARCHBOLD 83'), 32 Angus THURGATE - Subs not used: 7 Jordan O’DOHERTY, 20 Michael WEIER
Perth Glory: GK Liam REDDY, 14 Jack CLISBY, 18 Daniel STYNES (19 Callum TIMMINS 46'), 21 Antonee BURKE-GILROY, 22 Josh RAWLINS, 23 Mitch OXBORROW (6 Osama MALIK 79'), 24 Pacifique NIYONGABIRE (47 Tyler VECCHIO 46'), 26 Giordano COLLI, 28 Trent OSTLER (38 Ciaran BRAMWELL 46’), 29 Darryl LACHMAN, 88 Jayden GORMAN (36 Joseph FORDE 59') - Subs not used: RGK Cameron COOK, 32 Aidan COYNE - Referee: Stephen Lucas
10.4.2022
NPL-WA WOMEN'S ROUND TWO - REVIEW
It was week two of the NPLWA Women’s competition, and in our ‘Match of the Round’ Hyundai NTC fought back to beat Perth SC 3-2 in a thriller at E&D Litis Stadium. A delighted NTC coach Ben Anderton spoke to Kelechi Chinaemerem on the Perth Football Podcast after the game and he was happy with his players. “I thought the performance was really good, but our first 15 minutes we weren’t disciplined in positioning, but we redirected the girls throughout the match to be a little braver on the ball and trust each other,” the coach explained. “We sent a strong message to the girls to control the ball and control the rhythm, and doing that sometimes you can control the outcome of the game, and the girls did just that.”
The visitors made the best possible start and hit the front when Faye Phillips' cross was volleyed home superbly by Jaime Duncanson. But the NTC youngsters hit back and levelled on the half hour, Rebecca Bennett's clearance was charged down by Olivia Trueman, who made no mistake. Perth regained the lead on the hour, Lily Bailey misjudged a free kick from deep, and Duncanson was on hand to score her second. But the NTC weren’t going down without a fight and they netted twice in the final 13 minutes to seal their first win of the season. First Louise Tana came off the bench and fired home from outside the area before Georgia Cassidy scored directly from a corner to give NTC the points.
In the other game on Friday evening, Perth RedStar remains top of the table after an emphatic 6-1 win against Curtin University at a wet Edinburgh Oval. “It was a good win in tough conditions. The weather played havoc with our game, the first half was delayed when the lights went out, and this disrupted play,” RedStar’s coach Carlos Vega Mena explained. “The girls came back fighting in the second half, and I’m really proud of their effort. They played some good football and brought home the three points.” After the delay for the floodlight failure, it was the visitors opened the scoring on 12 minutes, Hannah Insch finishing clinically, but Curtin found an equaliser just before half time, with Darcy Van-Vugt scoring from a tight angle. But after half time the RedStar’s took control, with Larissa Walsh scoring a quick brace, before Renee Leota volleyed past Stacey Cavill to make it 4-1. The icing was put on the cake late, Jacinta Coleman's superb pass found Alkira Mogridge, who scored her first senior goal, before Coleman tapped from close range to seal the big win.
Murdoch University Melville are up to second after a narrow 1-0 win against Balcatta at Grindleford Reserve on Sunday afternoon. “It was a hard fought and thoroughly deserved win for the girls. We put in a solid 90-minute performance with disciplined structure and composure on the ball being the defining attributes in the win,” MUMFC keeper Monique Todd explained. “Everyone played their part excellently which allowed us to take the three points against a dangerous Balcatta side. A great outcome from a quality game of football, but now we focus on round three against a strong NTC side on Friday night.” It was a tight opening to the game, the visitors went close early, Poppie Hooks heading Rachel Gillies' free-kick straight at Balcatta keeper Gabby Dal Busco, while Tayna Campos had a shot blocked for the hosts at the other end.
But the only goal of the game came four minutes from half time, Samantha Mathers burst down the right and crossed for Hooks to head past Dal Busco and into the bottom corner. Both sides had good chances after the break, Mathers went close again this time she cut inside and shot straight at Dal Busco, while Balcatta went close to leveling late on. Monique Prinsloo broke clear, but Monique Todd stood tall to deny her and give a first win of the season for Luke Thompson's side. “Very pleased with the result. The girls worked really hard in some difficult conditions,” the coach said. “Hopefully we can use the confidence gained going forward.’
In the final game Fremantle City have come home from Rosalie Park with a 4-1 win against Subiaco to maintain their perfect start to the season. They were ahead early when Mikayla Lyons’ teasing free kick was headed home by Matilda Boyle. But Subiaco levelled on the half hour, Frankie Murray’s free kick was fumbled in the wet and windy conditions by keeper Dayle Schroeder, and Subiaco skipper Chelsie Winchcombe stabbed the ball home. But the visitors broke the game open with two quick goals from Lyons after the break. First, she found the bottom corner from the edge of the box, before she reacted quickest after Kayla McCulloch’s shot crashed back off the crossbar. McCulloch rounded off the scoring four minutes from time, racing clear and finishing well past Zara Board. “Despite displaying some periods of good football, Subiaco made us work hard in the first half,” Fremantle coach Garry Church said. “In the second half things started to turn around, and work out better for us and we got on top of the game and broke down Subiaco, creating more chances. Credit must go to Subiaco keeper she was outstanding and made some fantastic saves, the score could have been a bit different if it wasn’t for the great game she had.”
10.4.2022
BELT UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION - ROUND ONE REVIEW
Only three fixtures were played in the first week of the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division due to covid, but our ‘Match of the Round’ did go ahead, with Kwinana United travelling to Frye Park to take on Kelmscott Roos, and coming home with all three points after a 3-0 win. “Overall, pretty happy with the performance,” Kwinana coach Mark Purvis said, “First game of the season is always a bit of an unknown and going to Kelmscott is certainly a very tough place to get anything from, so to score three and not concede we were very happy with that.”
The visitors made the break through on 25 minutes, Michael Lawson through ball sent Levi Burns one-on-one with Kelmscott keeper Tom Livingstone, and he finished well. They added a second just before half time, Morgan Smith’s corner deflected off a Kelmscott defender before nestling in the net. The points were wrapped up ten minutes from time, Jake Fallows created a turnover and Gordon Smith made no mistake. “Great way to start the season by picking up three points and a clean sheet, I thought we dominated the first half and we should have scored a couple more but for a mix of poor finishing and their keeper making some good stops,” Kwinana’s Michael Lawson explained. “The second half was a bit scrappy but we did enough to see out the game. I’m sure Kelmscott will be a hard place to go and pick points up during the season, so to come here and get a win is really pleasing.”
Newly-promoted Peel United travelled to Gumblossom Park for their first Premier League game, and they returned with a hard fought 1-1 draw. “It was a tough game against the newly promoted team and very windy conditions,” Quinns coach Lee Garnish said. “We probably didn’t play our best, but battled for 90 minutes against a team who were up for a challenge in the first game in league.” The home side found the opener early, a ball over the top by Sam Vencat sent Ryan McCready in on goal and he lobbed Jack Eldred in the Peel goal. The home side had chances to double their lead but Guy Armstrong and McCready couldn’t take them. But the visitors found the equaliser early in the second half, with Jacob Dean finishing past Frazer Imrie. Both sides pressed for the winner, but had to settle for a share of the spoils.
“Yesterday was a decent start to are campaign in the premiership, obviously would’ve been nice to come home with the three points but the away point at Quinn’s was rewarding to start the season,” Peel skipper Scott Bradley explained. “There were probably a few pre-match nerves at the start and we were complacent at times, unfortunately leading to us conceding an easy goal, but we made some tactical changes to chase the points and we found it. Weather conditions made it challenging at Quinn’s but it was an enjoyable day.”
In the final game Jaguar have beaten Queens Park 5-2 at Herb Graham Recreation Centre. The hosts raced to two goal lead early, with Conor O’Driscoll bagging a brace. Alexander Fazekas pulled one back for the visitors, but the hosts added two more before the break, Magai Deng and Joseph Santa scoring, to give the hosts a 4-1 half time lead. David Musa came off the bench in the second half to add the fifth for the hosts, before Felipe Verdugo Morgado scored Queens Park second consolation goal.
“The game against Queens Park SC was a fair game as both teams were disciplined in their display only that we took advantage in the early stages of first half by utilising our chances,” Jags coach Josam Muwowo explained. “We were all impressed with the team's performance especially being the first game of the season, which is always tricky. I believe there is still more room to improve as a team and at this stage it’s still early in the season, we will take one step at a time.” The games between Maddington White City v North Perth United, East Perth v Emerald and Joondalup United v Wembley Downs were all postponed due to covid.
9.4.2022
STALEMATE AT DORRIEN GARDENS
Perth SC are still searching for their first win of the new season, after being held to a 0-0 draw by Sorrento in our ‘Match of the Round’ at Dorrien Gardens on Saturday afternoon. The reigning champions had their chances, but Sorrento did too, and it would be Sorrento coach Trevor Morgan who would have been more pleased with a point. “I thought it was a very good defensive display by us, Perth are a good footballing side and very difficult opposition,” Morgan said. “Our organisation was good and we had several opportunities to have won the game in the last 15 minutes. The players can be really pleased with the efforts they all put in to help us remain undefeated.”
It was slow burner in the opening ten minutes, the first opportunity fell to the hosts, with Will Gordon seeing his shot curl just wide of the post. They went close again moments later, Luke Collins curling cross was headed over the top of his own bar by Mark Barnett, who had climbed all over Daniel Zivkovic, and the home side were looking for a penalty, but after a chat to his assistant referee Michal Jasinski waved that away. They went close again six minutes before the break, Ethan Banks sent into goal, his shot on the run was deflected over the top. Skipper Alex Silla then saw his shot flicked inches wide by Julian Teles, as Perth pressed before the break Sorrento’s best opportunity came in stoppage time, Alex Morgan sent Jordan Brown down the right, and his low cross missed everyone in the box, and a disappointing half ended with no shots for the Gulls.
Sorrento had a penalty shout early in the second half, after Gustavo Giron-Marulanda was bundled down in the box, but the referee was well placed to wave away their protests. Paul Zimarino then blazed over the top on 53 minutes, before second half substitute Shubham Mokala saw a shot flash wide of the upright. Sorrento went close on 70 minutes, Chris Jackson’s deep cross found Dean Cummings at the back post, but he couldn’t keep his header down. The visitors went search of the winner and when substitute Scott Witschge cut in from the right, his shot flashed inches wide of the far post seven minutes later.
The chances were now coming, and Zimarino long-range shot went wide, and moments later Mokala found Zimarino in the box, but he couldn’t keep his shot down. Sorrento should have won it five minutes from time, Witschge sending Jackson clear, who squared the ball to Witschge, who had continued his run, but his first touch was poor and Julian Teles got back with a last-ditch tackle to save the day. Moments later Jackson saw a shot whistle just past the far post. Then deep into stoppage time Ollie Annis cross from the left was knocked down by Witschge, but Jackson blazed over the top from four meters.
“It has been a stop/start preparation to begin our season and while COVID-19 will challenge everyone during the course of the year, it significantly affected us this week, but as they say ‘out of adversity come opportunity’ and this provided other players the chance to enter the fold and stake their claim,” Perth assistant coach Dale Wingell explained. “We faced a Sorrento side that have had the luxury of having a run of three games, so we knew we were in for a tough afternoon. We started well and throughout maintained a high percentage of possession. In the final third we let ourselves down and were not clinical. We defended well and had to be weary of Sorrento’s attacking threats throughout the game. A little bit disappointed we couldn’t come away with the three points, but it’s a good starting point and there were so many positives to come out of the game. Our ball movement and interplay were great, but we must be ruthless in front of goal and this is something we need to take into next week and beyond.”
Perth SC: GK Luke RADONICH, 2 Alex SILLA, 4 Jules TELES, 5 Will GORDON (9 Hasani SINCLAIR 61’), 6 Fanuel DAWIT, 7 Ethan BANKS, 10 Daniel ZIVKOVIC (10 Shubham MOKALA 61’), 14 Luke COLLINS, 16 Federico ACHILLI, 18 Joshua CALA, 20 Paul ZIMARINO (8 Ali GHOLAMI 92’) – Subs note used: RGK Sam REILLY, 21 Sam COOK
Sorrento: GK Patrick HUGHES, 2 B AHN, 5 Mark BARNETT, 7 Alex MORGAN (9 Chris JACKSON 67’), 10 Ollie ANNIS, 11 Tim HILL, 14 Joe TWEATS, 16 Ryan MCLAUGHLIN, 17 Dean CUMMINGS, 18 Jordan BROWN, 21 Gustavo GIRON-MARULANDA (8 Scott WITSCHGE 67’) – Subs not used: RGK Nathan DOBRA, 3 Steve PURTON, 4 Shaun KILKELLY, 6 Jaxon TEMATA, 20 Zach DABBS – Referee: Michal JASINSKI
9.4.2022
FLOREAT EDGE OUT REDSTAR’S IN TOP OF THE TABLE CLASH
The top of the table clash between Floreat Athena and Perth Redstar didn’t disappoint, with a five-goal thriller at E&D Litis Stadium, the hosts running out 3-2 winners. The visitors were ahead early with Chok Dau scoring, but Floreat went into the break 2-1 up, after goals from Nick Ambrogio and Bayley Brown-Montgomery. Daryl Nicol levelled early in the second half, but Robert Petkov won it, but Jesse Fuller came to the rescue late of Floreat deep into stoppage time clearing off the line.
“As we expected it was a tough encounter against a very good Perth RedStar side. They made it difficult for us in the opening periods and were able to take the lead,” Floreat coach vas Vujicic said. “I was proud of the way the boys responded and were able to wrestle back control and score two good goals to take the lead into half time. They pushed back hard in the second half and got their equaliser but we showed our quality and what competitors we are to regain the lead and hold on for a very important three points.”
It was bright opening from the RedStar’s and Ellis Healing had two long-range strikes early, which failed to test Jason Saldaris. But on 11 minutes Healing was involved with the opener, his ball found Dau, who controlled the ball well and finished superbly past Saldaris. Floreat almost found an immediate response, Riley Woodcock’s cross was flicked goalward by Ethan Mom, but Sam Pollard was well placed to clear the ball off the line. But on 23 minutes the home side did level things up, RedStar’s lost possession in the middle of the park and Brown-Montgomery sent Ambrogio clear and he finished clinically past Joe Pollard.
The hosts were now on top and Brown-Montgomery saw a shot on the run fly over the top, but on 33 minutes the striker added a second, against his former club. Again, the RedStar’s turned the ball over in the middle of the park and Petkov slid him in, and he finished low into corner of the net and celebrated with his teammates. They had the ball in the net again moments later, Woodcock’s cross turned home by Phil Arnold, but the flag was up for offside. The RedStar’s had two big chances to level before half time, first Healing’s free kick picked out the unmarked Blair Govan, but the former Floreat defender headed over the top, before Sami Riak burst into the box, but Woodcock got back to clear the danger, but at the break it was Floreat in control.
Kenny Lowe’s side made the perfect start to the second half are where level on 56 minutes. Nick Walsh fed Sam Pollard, who drove down the left, before crossing to Nicol, who lost his marker to head home. Nicol went close to a second on the hour, Riak sending Nicol in on goal, but his shot slide inches past the far post. But it was Floreat who hit back and regained their lead ten minutes later. A great advantage from referee David Bruce, after Petkov had his shirt pulled earlier in the move, then Arnold found Ambrogio on the right and his cross was headed home by Petkov.
The visitors pressed looking for the equaliser, and they thought they had found it deep into stoppage time. Riak found Nicol, who’s shot beat Saldaris, but Jesse Fuller got back, his attempted clearance went goalwards, but he reacted quick to clear the ball off the line. “I thought it was a very entertaining game for the neutral, and the RedStar’s kept the ball well and were trying to move us around,” Brown-Montgomery said. “But we stuck to our game plan and we were ruthless in front of goal which helped us get the three points.”
Floreat Athena: GK Jason SALDARIS, 3 Riley WOODCOCK, 5 Ethan MOM, 6 Jesse FULLER, 9 Robert PETKOV, 10 Nick AMBROGIO (4 Ben STEELE 92’), 11 Dennis GALAN, 15 Chris SALDARIS, 16 Bayley BROWN-MONTGOMERY (13 Alexander CHRISTODOULAKIS 72’), 18 Phil ARNOLD (8 Mohammed AL-ZAIDY 94’), 22 Andrew PALMER – Subs not used: RGK Thomas CHUDY, 2 Marco SANTALUCIA, 12 Jawad REZAI, 17 Filip MINIC
Perth RedStar: GK Joe POLLARD, 2 Oscar MALFIORE (4 Ryan FINNIE 68’), 3 Blair GOVAN, 6 Sami RIAK, 8 Tom HOUGH (19 Nelson TSHONGO 84’), 9 Daryl NICOL, 10 Andy HIGGINS, 11 Sam POLLARD, 12 Nick WALSH, 15 Ellis HEALING, 14 Chok DAU – Subs not used: RGK Marino GOJAK, 25 Sean O’CONNOR 27 Louis HADFIELD, 30 Nyle WEALE – Referee: David BRUCE
9.4.2022
GWELUP PAY THE PENALTY LATE
Bayswater City have scored a penalty in stoppage time to salvage a 2-2 draw against Gwelup Croatia at Frank Drago Reserve on Saturday afternoon. Daniel Faichney gave the visitors the lead early, but a stunning strike from Kosta Sparta levelled things up at the break. Samuel Dweh regained the lead for Gwelup on the hour, and it looked like it would be enough to take the points, but former Gwelup striker Jon Stynes broke their hearts, converting a penalty deep into stoppage time. “It was a disappointing performance if we’re honest,” Stynes said. “We need to improve next week and get back to playing our way.”
It was a tight opening in this one, with clear cut chances few and far between, but it was Gwelup who found the opener on 19 minutes. Rena Kisesa slipped Dweh down the right, and his cross on the run picked out Faichney, and the former Sorrento striker made no mistake firing past Nic Speca. City, who were coming off a big win at Cockburn last week, almost equalised three minutes later, Sparta burst into the box, and pulled the ball back to Stynes, who shot was superbly blocked by Lachlan Collins.
They went close again five minutes later, Sparta’s cross from the right was flicked on by Ndumba Makeche, and Stynes’ volley was superbly saved by the alert Cyril Sharrock, before Gordon Smith saw his shot on the turn saved low by Sharrock. But on 39 minutes the host found the opener. A quick throw from keeper Speca sent Sparta racing down the right, he raced past his marker before firing into the top corner of the net, giving Sharrock no chance.
Gwelup went close to restoring their lead early in the second half, Friday Zico’s cross shot was heading for the top corner, but Speca got back to tip the ball over the top, and seven minutes later Zico’s shot from six meters curled wide of the target. Then Zico turned provider, finding Faichney on the edge of the box, but he fired wide of the target. But their good start to the half was rewarded with the lead on the hour. Kisesa won possession in the middle of the park and his ball sent Dweh down the right, and his shot from the edge of the box found the bottom corner of the net. City were struggled to breakdown a tight Gwelup defence, well-marshalled by skipper Ciaran Salinger and Aiden Formston, and it went from bad to worse for them when Jason Mirco was sent off after a lung at Formston.
It looked like Gwelup would take the points, but there was a final twist in this, and in the third minute of stoppage time, Sparta’s free kick was parried by Sharrock, and in his attempt to claim the rebound he bundled over Jack Allen and referee Arvin Shanmuganathan pointed straight to the spot. Stynes stepped up and sent Sharrock the wrong way from the resulting penalty. But Gwelup had one last chance to take home the points, when a long ball was flicked on by Dweh, sending Jason Petrie in on goal, but his shot on the run was superbly saved by Speca, and both sides had to settle for a share of the spoils.
“I thought without a doubt it was our best performance of the season so far, we controlled the football, dictated the tempo of the game and created some decent chances. Our lack of conversion and small mistakes kept Bayswater in the game,” Gwelup skipper Ciaran Salinger said. “I was very proud of the fight, character and work rate of the boys yesterday. Not many teams will get points away to Bayswater this year and we were very unfortunate not to come away with the three points. A big thanks to the Lucas, Tony and Sonny for stepping up and leading the team yesterday in the absence of Mitch. We’re a strong group with some top lads and to get the ball rolling with our first point of the season is definitely an encouraging sign for the season ahead.”
Bayswater City: GK Nik SPECA, 6 Declan HARGREAVES, 7 Jon STYNES, 8 Gordon SMITH (4 Michael ZIMARINO 80’), 9 Ndumba MAKECHE (18 Fraser DUNLOP 64’), 11 Ryan PEARSON (10 Jason MIRCO 52’), 12 Steven HESKETH (3 Jack ALLEN 64’), 26 Zayd FARAH, 28 Kosta SPARTA, 30 Tom SOUTHGATE – Subs not used: RGK Ben RATAJCZAK, 13 Jordan ABRAHAMS
Gwelup Croatia: GK Cyril SHARROCK, 2 Ciaran SALINGER, 3 Daniel FAICHNEY, 4 Lachlan COLLINS, 5 Friday ZICO (8 Mohammad REZAI 69’), 6 Kane FEARNALL, 11 Gomo DUKULY (41 Jason PETRIE 69’), 17 Aiden FORMSTON, 18 Kaelan MAJEKS (16 Oscar BARRY 86’), 22 Rene KISESA – Subs not used: RGK George JACKSON, 10 Seb HOOSHANGIAN, 12 Debaba MTWALE, 13 Josh KOTIO – Referee: Arvin SHANMUGANATHAN
9.4.2022
COCKBURN HIT BACK LATE TO SHARE THE SPOILS AT INGLEWOOD
Cockburn City have scored twice in stoppage time to score a dramatic 2-2 draw with Inglewood United at Inglewood Stadium on Saturday afternoon. Manase Abandelwa had given the hosts the lead early in the first half, and it looked the points were wrapped up in the second minute of stoppage time when substitute Anthony Bafobusha added a second. But Cockburn had other ideas and sixty seconds later Daniel Robinson pulled one back for Cockburn, and amazingly there was still time for Jesse Lazzaro to bring his side level, and grab their first point of the season. “Very frustrating to concede two sloppy late goals in stoppage time when we were 2-0 up and only come away with a draw,” Inglewood midfielder Harry Evans said. “We can’t afford to switch off against anyone in this league as you will get punished no matter the opposition. We will learn as a team from this, not dwell on the negatives and move on to next week.”
Inglewood went close in the opening two minutes, Harry Evans’ free kick almost sneaking in at the near post, but keeper Ben Radonich got down well to save. Down the other end, early substitute Igor Cvijanovic then saw a long-range shot drift wide, after Josiah Godfrey’s punch went straight to him. But on 20 minutes it was the hosts who found the opening goal, Thiak Kuel played the ball into Egide Ngendakumana, his great first touch, took him clear of his marker, and his shot was going in the net but Abandelwa made sure, tapping the ball home on the line. Cockburn’s best chance came four minutes before half time, Robinson raced down the right, he cut the ball back to Cvijanovic, but his first-time shot was deflected wide, and moments later Lazzaro saw his free kick drift just wide, but at the break it was the hosts with the lead.
The visitors were out of the blocks after half time, and half-time substitute Justin Tang cut in from the left, his shot was well blocked by Callum Mellowship. Moments later Cvijanovic shot was saved low by Godfrey, before the Inglewood custodian got down well to save Tang’s effort. Cockburn were growing into the game, but they had keeper Radonich to thank on the hour for keeping them in the game, getting down well at his near post to deny Evans’ curling free kick from the edge of the box. But Cockburn were still pushing for the equaliser and Daniel Santich saw his shot from the edge of the box fly just over the top, the home supporters were getting restless.
Tang fired wide again on 68 minutes, but with Cockburn pushing men forward they were almost caught out again on 75 minutes. A quick break from Abandelwa, saw him square the ball to Bafobusha, and with just the keeper to beat he failed to hit the target. Hermon Michaele was then thwarted by Radonich as chances came at both ends, as skipper Harry O’Brien headed wide at the other end. But in the second minute of stoppage time, it looked like Inglewood had won it, when they added a second. Evans found Bafobusha and his low shot beat Radonich, low to his right.
But moments later Cockburn found a lifeline, Jeff Bright did superbly to keep the ball in play and cross from the bye-line, the ball finding its way to Robinson who found the bottom corner. Was there time for an equaliser, the answer to that was yes. Anton Guarino cross was superbly flicked home by Lazzaro to give his side a share of the spoils. “Obviously it wasn’t the result we wanted and I felt like we might have deserved three points but Inglewood did very well to keep us out until the final three minutes of the game, was a great response and reaction from last week’s game,” Lazzaro explained. “We still have a lot of things to improve on though so now we put our focus onto next week work hard Tuesday Thursday and perform Saturday.”
Inglewood United: GK Josiah GODFREY, 3 Roberto DEL BORRELLO, 5 Thiak KUEL, 7 Chad NILSON, 8 Harry EVANS, 9 Manase ABANDELWA, 11Egide NGENDAKUMANA, 12 Callum MELLOWSHIP, 14 Dhours CHOL, 19 Christopher TILSON, 21 Ryan HOGAN – Subs not used: RGK Anthony LANCE, 6 Hermon MICHAELE, 13 Brodie LANGAN, 15 Ibere KASUKULU, 16 Jamie MURPHY, 17 Hamza BELHASSAN
Cockburn City: GK Ben RADONICH, 3 Daniel DOLS, 5 Milan OGNJENOVIC, 7 Slobodan VULIN, 11 Harry O’BRIEN, 13 Jeff BRIGHT, 15 Daniel SANTICH, 16 Daniel ROBINSON, 19 Ivan SKORICH, 20 Alessandro BASTO, 21 Jessie LAZZARO – Subs not used:
9.4.2022
GLORY BOUNCE BACK TO BEAT STIRLING
Perth Glory have turned the form books around, defeating the unbeaten Stirling Macedonia 3-0 at Macedonia Park. First half goals from Lucas Cook and Joshua Anasmo put Alex Epakis’ side in control, and Lucas Rossi added a third after the break to seal the win, and saw the Glory youngsters bounce back from defeat last week against Floreat Athena, which pleased the coach. “The young boys did very well to compete and stick to the game plan against a good Stirling team,” Epakis said. “I am proud of the players and how they created and took their attacking chances, as well how they defended and managed the phases without the ball. Some players really stood up especially with the physical aspect which was certainly needed, so overall, it was a great rebound from the result last week.”
Stirling, coached by former Perth Glory coach Ian Ferguson, started brightly but lost influential striker Sam Wynne with a leg injury, he was replaced by Jack Rycroft. But they went close to the opener on 11 minutes, Calvin Whitney’s cross picked out Shay Donovan, whose header flicked off the crossbar on its way over. But Glory hit back and found the opener on 25 minutes, Matt George sent Will Formston down the right, his low cross into the box found Cook, who ghosted in at the back post to finish past James Bosdet. It was 2-0 three minutes later, Daniel Walsh found Formston again down the right, he played the ball in to Joshua Anasmo, who turned his marker and raced into goal and finished low past Bosdet, before celebrating with an acrobatic flip.
The hosts looked for a quick response, and when Whitney’s free kick was only cleared to 9S, his low shot was well saved by Adrian Sinagra at his near post. Anasmo went close again just after the hour mark, racing at the Stirling defence, but his shot on the run flashed over the top. The hosts should have pulled on back on five minutes before the break, a teasing cross from Asher Nelson picked out the unmarked 9S, but his header went over the top with the goal at his mercy, and at half time the home side needed a big second half.
Stirling went close in the opening sixty seconds of the second half, 9S cross from the left, but Alex Tanevski couldn’t keep his shot down. But four minutes later Gory added a third. Anasmo won the ball in own half and sent Rossi in on goal, he was forced wide by Bosdet, but he fired home from a tight angle, with the Stirling players looking for the offside flag, that never came. The hosts were stunned, but went close themselves moments later, a short corner caught Glory napping, and Brent Quick’s ball into the box was head just wide by Nelson. It was an entertaining game as the chances flowed at both ends, George fired wide for the Glory, Whitney’s effort was saved low by Sinagra, before Chris Donnell tried his luck from long-range, which whistled inches wide.
Stirling were fighting till the end and Sinagra got a strong hand to deny Whitney’s free kick in stoppage time, but it was Glory leaving with the points. “It was a great reaction from the loss against Floreat last week, but we knew heading into the game we would be up for a good physical game and Stirling came out the traps early with a few good chances,” Glory midfielder Chris Donnell said. “However, when we got the ball down and got into our rhythm, we looked good and played some good football. Hopefully now that win can kick start the season and we can push on from here.”
Stirling Macedonia: GK James BOSDET, 2 Ryan MALTON (8 Nathan DIAZ 74'), 3 Brent QUICK, 4 Hristijan JANKULOSKI, 5 Luke PALMATEER, 6 Dejan SPASESKI, 7 Asher NELSON, 9 Hugo SNOWDEN 10 Samuel WYNNE (11 Jack RYCROFT 13'), 13 Calvin WHITNEY, 17 Alex TANEVSKI - Subs not used: 15 Luke GARAS, 20 Liam PRICE
Perth Glory: GK Adrian SINAGRA, 3 Daniel WALSH, 4 Jacob YOUNG, 5 Lucas COOK, 6 Chris DONNELL, 7 Lucas ROSSI, 8 Andrew MARANTA (18 Joe HOBSON 74'), 9 Josh ANASMO (15 Danny DOUGLAS 74'), 10 Aidan EDWARDS (17 Christian BELLADONNA 67'), 11 Matt GEORGE (14 Jayden LEADER 74'), 12 Will FORMSTON (2 .Taiga MATOBA 83') - Subs not used: RGK Keegan GRANT - Referee: Shane SKINNER
9.4.2022
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND THREE – REVIEW
Olympic Kingsway remain top of the table, and maintained their perfect start to the State League Division One season, after a late goal from substitute Raeez Pandor gave them a hard fought 2-1 win against Quinns, in our ‘Match of the Round’ at Kingsway Reserve. “I was very happy with the overall performance, especially the first half where we should have killed the game off,” Olympic Coach David Tough explained. “Quinn’s put us under so much pressure from set pieces but I thought we dealt with it. We kept pushing for the win and scored late but we deserved the three points.” The host found the opener in the final minute of the first half, skipper Shane Cassidy found Tommy Amphlett in the middle of the park, he cut inside two Quinns players, before his long-range shot went through the hands of the unfortunate Quinns keeper Patrick Stephenson.
But the visitors were level 19 minutes from time, a deep cross into the box from the left picked out the unmarked Kieron Craig, whose header was deflected into his own net by keeper David Keenan. It looked like the points would be shared but on 90 minutes the home side won it. Nick Koefler’s long-range shot was saved low by Stephenson, but Pandor fired home the rebound, much to the delight of the home supporters. “I thought we dominated the game especially in the first half, then Quinns got the equaliser,” Pander said. “When I came on a moment later, I scored the late winner, which was a great feeling, as we push for our ultimate goal of winning the league and we are heading in the right direction with the team building form.”
Fremantle City are sitting in second place after a 3-1 win against Subiaco at Hilton Reserve. City were ahead on 22 minutes, Matthew Sparrow’s corner from the right, headed home by Todd Howarth at the back post. But Subiaco levelled on the hour, Ben Davis’ through ball sent Mark Bauersachs down the left, he was brought down by Hayden Stevens, and referee Joshua Nixon pointed straight the spot. Elliot Ireland stepped up to take the resulting penalty, but Jordan Barbas guessed the right way to save, but Ireland was quickest to the rebound to fire home.
Fremantle regained the lead six minutes later, Brian Patterson surged into the penalty area, and his clever back heel picked out Hamza Hina, who superbly chipped Subiaco keeper Teophile Brown to score. Subiaco hopes of a comeback took a hit on 73 minutes after Ethan Johnson was given a straight red card and sent off. The home side sealed the three points in stoppage time, Patterson won possession in the middle of the park, the ball finding Hina who raced in on goal, and finished clinically past Brown to seal the points. “It was important for us to get a positive result against Subiaco after a disappointing result last week against Mandurah in the context of the game,” Fremantle coach Cameron Lord said. “I thought we stayed engaged in the contest for the duration this week and it was a professional performance against a well-structured Subiaco.”
Western Knights made it two wins from as many games after a 3-0 win against Forrestfield United at Nash Field. It was a tight first half, but it burst into life after the break, and it was the hosts who opened the scoring eight minutes in. Ben Campbell’s cross to the back post was knocked back across goal by Dean Hurley and Paul Lloyd finished past Luke Martino from close-range. It was 2-0 seven minutes later, Dylan White played the ball to Hurley, who sent Noah Shamaki in on goal, and the striker lobbed the on-coming keeper to double their lead. They sealed the points nine minutes later, Shamaki sent Campbell down the right, he cut into the box and was brought down by Jake Melia and referee Adrien Liechti pointed to the spot. Hurley stepped up and buried the resulting penalty past Martino to seal the win. “I thought we were in full control of the game from the start to finish. We knew we needed to be more clinical around the box after the first half and the manager told us that,” Knights winger Paul Lloyd said. “Second half we played some great stuff and could have got more than three. It was nice for me to get a goal and I probably should have had another, but also good to get a clean sheet.’
Murdoch University Melville also made it back-to-back wins to start the season, but they were made to work for it, scoring the winner in stoppage time to beat UWA Nedlands 1-0 at Besteam Stadium on Saturday evening. UWA made it very tough for us today and we’re very difficult to break down,” MUMFC coach Taki Nicolaidis said. “However, I was very proud of playing group who never gave up looking for a winner.” The hosts had the chance to take the lead ten minutes into the second half, but Christos Vaenas missed from the spot. The only goal came on 93 minutes, Pat Sara’s free kick from the left found Dan Tait, who rose highest to head home at the near post to win it. MUMFC skipper Tom Allan said he was pleased with the performance. “It was a frustrating game as UWA made it hard to break them down by sitting deep and trying to counter. We limited them to one chance which is pleasing and we created a lot of opportunities especially in the first half but couldn’t put the game to bed,” the skipper explained. “We even missed a penalty, but credit to the squad as they never gave up and it paid off with a late goal. Pleased with the overall performance as we were in control majority of the game but a few things to work on as a collective as the games in this league will only get tougher.”
Joondalup United won their first game of the season, coming from two goals down to beat Dianella White Eagles at Dianella Reserve on Saturday evening. The hosts were ahead after only 13 minutes, with Loic Anga Lopandza scoring, and they held that lead at the break. But they were reduced to ten men when Kristian Despotovski was shown a second yellow card by referee Stephen Knight, for taking a shot at goal after the whistle had been blown. But the ten men added a second just after the hour, skipper Sasa Njegic sending Nikola Talimdzioski, and he finished clinically across Joe Smith. Joondalup found a lifeline on 71 minutes, Jay Lang found Joel Prout down the left, his cross on the run picked out substitute James Oldroyd who swept the ball home at the near post. They were level six minutes later, Andrew Flint’s cross from the right was turned home at the back post by Tony Taylor. Then two minutes later the comeback was complete, a free kick out wide on the left by James Harmer, sneaked in at the near post, after taking a slight deflection off Dianella’s Lewis Tucker.
But the action wasn’t over there, Dianella were reduced to nine men when Njegic was given a straight red card by referee Stephen Knight after a late challenge on Ayden Dragun. Still Dianella pushed forward looking for the equaliser and in the fifth minute of stoppage time Luke Salmon’s long-range free kick was tipped over the bar by the alert Smith. The win was soured a little in the final minute of stoppage time, when Harmer was shown a second yellow card and sent off. “We weren’t at our fluid best today, but the character and determination the whole playing group showed was outstanding,” Joondalup coach Nick Jennings explained. “The challenge now for the players is to build on this victory and string together a sequence of wins to move us up the table.”
In the final game it was the Peel Derby at SafeRad Stadium, where Rockingham City and Mandurah City fought out an entertaining 2-2 draw. “After watching the game back, I have to say I felt we were the better side, always looking to play forward and taking the game to them at their own ground so really pleased with that,” Mandurah player/coach John Baird explained. “The football we played at times was exciting and good to watch, although we possibly should’ve created more chances with the possession we had, but I felt we were in control of the game. I think Rockingham will be happy with the draw and we’re disappointed that’s all we got, think that tells its own story.” In front of a big crowd, it was the hosts who found the opener on 32 minutes, Mandurah didn’t clear their lines and Jack Murray scored. But Mandurah, who like Rockingham were chasing their first win of the season, levelled two minutes later, with Joe O’Brien heading home.
It looked like Mandurah would leave with all three points after O’Brien bagged his second just after the hour, a great team move ended with a cross to the striker who planted his header past Phillip Herschell. But Rockingham restored parity and salvaged a point in the second minute of stoppage time, when former Mandurah striker Jordan Rhodes found the net. “I thought we had the best of the first half and created some good chances, and we probably should have gone in at the break leading the game,” Rockingham coach Lee Taylor said. “We struggled to get going in the second half but made some changes and were able to get a goal at the end to pick up a point which I thought was the least we deserved, and both goals were great finishes from Jack and Jordan. It's important for us to build on this performance next week at Subiaco and get our season started.”
9.4.2022
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND THREE – REVIEW
Ashfield as continued Morley-Windmills poor start to the State League Division Two season, after recording a 1-0 win against them at the Acclaimed Catering arena, in our ‘Match of the Round’ on Saturday afternoon. The only goal of the game came on the half hour mark, James Sammut’s corner was turned home by Sebastian Munoz. Ashfield assistant coach Kurtis Rae said it was a great result for the club. “The whole group is really pleased to get the result against such a well-respected team. We rode a bit of luck at times, but we can't fault the effort of the lads from start to finish,” he said. “The game was typical of a local derby and it made for an exciting 90 minutes. The goal was a great set piece and at the end of the day, as long as it goes in the back of the net, we'll take it. We know that we will continue to go in as underdogs for a majority of games this season, so it's nice to pick up points early on.”
It was a shortened fixture list this weekend, with games between Swan United v Canning City and Gosnells City v South West Phoenix was called off due to covid. In the other games played, Carramar Shamrock Rovers are the only team with a perfect start to the season, and their 4-2 win against Balga at Princess Road Reserve, took them to the top of the table. “Balga is a tough place to go and it was a tough game so we were delighted to win,” Rovers’ Ger Fitzgerald said. “We missed some easy chances and gave away a stupid penalty in the first half but we played well as a team. Balga kept going to the end which we knew they would, but very happy to come away with the three points.”
The visitors were ahead on the half hour, Jack Bardsley’s shot was deflected out to Fitzgerald, who finished from close range. It was 2-0 nine minutes later, a quick counter attack saw Alan Reidy play the ball through early to Daniel Pierce and he calmly finished past the keeper. Balga found a lifeline two minutes later, with Bleron Mamudi converting from the spot. The hosts were level early in the second half, Craig Hollingsworth finding the net from outside the box. Balga were then on top, and nearly went in front after Mamudi's powerful shot his the cross bar. However, Fitzgerald added his second to regain the lead for Rovers, volleying home from just inside the box. With fifteen minutes to go, Balga keeper Tim Rossi was injured in a head clash and due to Balga using all their substitutions they were forced to play with ten men. The visitors then had keeper Daniel Holgate sent off in stoppage time, but with Balga pushing for the equaliser they were caught out at the back and Rovers added a fourth to seal the win with the last kick of the game, Bardsley firing home to seal the points.
Kingsley Westside moved into second on the table after a 4-2 win against Joondalup City at the Iluka Sports Complex. The hosts made a great start and were ahead on 11 minutes, with former ECU Joondalup defender Ewan Fawcett scoring. But Kingsley levelled six minutes later, Josh Waldock cutting in front of the defender, and finished clinically. They added a second when former City striker Johnny Hulme rose highest to head Darren O’Riordan’s cross past Andrew Williamson. It was 3-1 when Joe Allsopp converted from the spot, but Fawcett added a second just before half time to keeper Joondalup in the game. But an early goal in the second half secured the points for Steven Dimitrovich’s side, skipper Adam O’Neill heading home Hulme’s corner. “All in all, it was the right result and probably should’ve been a bigger margin, as from the tenth minute mark Joondalup were never in the game,” the Kingsley coach said. “Really proud of the boys and how they responded to going 1-0 down and how we worked to come away with the win.”
In the final game we had a six-goal thriller with Curtin University and Wanneroo City battling out a 3-3 draw at Edinburgh Oval. “Pretty frustrated with the performance, I thought we didn't really get going until the final 10 minutes when we were chasing the game and conceded some silly goals,” Curtin coach Troy Reid said. “I thought the result was fair in the end but we will need to improve sharply with Shamrock coming to Curtin this Thursday.” The visitors were ahead early, Aaron Louttit finding Nathan Scully, who cut inside and finished nicely. But the hosts hit back with Nathan Scully bagged a quick-fire brace. First, he finished well from inside the box, before he raced clear from Anthony Russo through ball to score, to see Curtin go into the break with the lead.
But in the first minute of the second half City levelled, Keylun Pollard easing past two defenders, and the keeper to score. Wanneroo regained the lead on the hour, Scully grabbing his second after racing clear. It looked like Wanneroo would leave with the points, but six minutes from time Curtin restored parity, Smith completing his hat-trick, after being picked out by Russo’s cut-back, to give both sides a share of the spoils. “The draw was a disappointing result, but to score three goals again and not come away with the three points hurts,” Wanneroo coach Jesse Bridgeman said. “But there were a lot of positives and we will continue to work on that.”
8.4.2022
MATILDAS WIN IT LATE
The Matildas have maintained their unbeaten streak over Trans-Tasman rivals New Zealand with a dramatic 2-1 victory at QCB Stadium, Townsville on Friday night. An Emily van Egmond strike and Sam Kerr header in second half additional time saw Australia overturn the Kiwi’s stunning first half strike from Anna Green. Australia started the match how they would continue, with early dominance as rebel Player of the Match Katrina Gorry pulled the strings in her first match for Australia in 788 days. The Matildas had their first look at goal on four minutes, when Hayley Raso was played into space only to be denied by Kiwi goalkeeper Victoria Esson, the keeper would prove to be a thorn all night for the home side. A minute later Kyah Simon latched onto the end of an Ellie Carpenter cross only to head just inches wide. Australia kept peppering the New Zealand goal with attempts from Gorry and Kerr all narrowly missing.
Then defender Clare Polkinghorne almost add to her tally as the Queenslander forced a fingertip save from Esson from a well weighted Steph Catley cross. Australia continued to pour on the pressure as the half continued forcing the Kiwis to concede numerous corners only for Esson and A-League Women’s Championship winning defender, Claudia Bunge, to make crucial saves and blocks. But against the run of play, defender Anna Green put the visitors ahead on 32 minutes. Hunting down a cross field pass from Meikayla Moore, Green rifled the ball on the angle into the far corner of the net. The Aussies were back on the attack not long after with Carpenter and Kerr combining for a sight at goal. Van Egmond and Kennedy also created half chances heading into the break, but Esson proved a hard obstacle to overcome.
At the half, forward Caitlin Foord entered the fray to make her 100th appearance for Australia, becoming the 14th Australian woman to achieve the feat. The winger instantly made her presence felt as she had a sight of Esson’s goal early in the second stanza. The Matildas once again pinned New Zealand in their own half with a shot count that would end 38 shots to 3. On the hour a Catley corner fell to Foord at the back post, but the 27-year-old’s strike ricocheting off the crossbar to give New Zealand a reprieve. Moments later Kerr and Fowler combine with the latter’s effort from the top of the 18-yard box tipped over the bar by the busy Esson. Somehow the Kiwis retained their lead in the 69th minute when Bunge produced a goal-line clearance to deny a goalward Raso effort.
Kennedy was next to go close as the centre back latched onto the end of a square ball from Kerr but the pressure from the Kiwis was enough to see her send the effort wide. The enormous waves of attack finally saw the New Zealand defence break in the third minute of injury time as Carpenter’s streaming run ended in a cut back to a clear Van Egmond. This time the Football Ferns were unable to deny Australia as they tied up the scoreline. Not content with the draw, the home side continue to push for a winner, and it came in the two minutes later. Another well-positioned Catley corner fell to Kerr on the edge of the 6-yard box with the captain heading her 57th goal for the national team. Australia and New Zealand will conclude their two-match international series this Tuesday, 12 April at GIO Stadium, Canberra in the 50th meeting between the two nations.
8.4.2022
NPL-WA ROUND FOUR - PREVIEW
It may only be Week Four of the NPLWA Men’s competition, but Champions Perth SC are playing catch-up with the leading pack, and will look to turn their fortunes around on Saturday, when they host Sorrento at Dorrien Gardens in our ‘Match of the Round’. (All games kick off at 3.00pm) The Gulls are flying at the moment under Trevor Morgan, winning their opening two games, while Perth have had two of their three opening games called off due to covid, and a loss against Stirling Macedonia last time out, means the Azzurri are still chasing their first points of the season. All games between the two-sides are always competitive, and last time they met at the venue was in Round 20 last season when the hosts took the points.
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. 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.
New Sorrento defender Mark Barnett has settled into live at Percy Doyle, and after recovering from injury in the Night Series, he has formed a great partnership with skipper Ryan McLaughlin at the back, and he said their excellent start has been an all-round team performance. “We could’ve have asked for a better start to the season. We’ve worked hard in the pre-season and did well through night series so it’s good to carry that onto the season proper,” the defender explained. “We have a tough run of fixtures coming up now so we need to carry the good form and consistency over the next month to put us in a good position to achieve top four this year.”
Barnett, who joined Sorrento from Inglewood United this season, said Perth have a different squad this season, but have players that can hurt you, so they need to be at their best to get the points. “The move from Inglewood to Sorrento was an easy one. I wanted a change of scene and a challenge and I haven’t looked back since moving. Inglewood is a great club and the lads are brilliant but my time simply came to an end after four seasons there, and I made the decision a few weeks after the season ended to move,” he said.
“As for Saturday, Perth is never an easy game. I’ve never experienced an easy ride against them and they never give up until the final whistle. There’s a reason why Perth win trophies, so we cannot get complacent because they’ve started slow. We need to concentrate on our game plan and do what we’ve been doing and it will give us lads every opportunity for another three points. We have Ryan McLaughlin back from covid and Chris Jackson back from suspension to strengthen our squad also.”
Perth skipper Alex Silla said it’s been a tough start to the season with covid, but in their only game against Stirling it was a tight contest, and they had chances to take something from the game, but left empty-handed. “Unfortunately, that’s just how life is at the moment with COVID. It’s frustrating and not ideal to have games postponed but everyone is in the same boat. We will continue to prepare and work hard throughout the week as we normally would and are hopeful, we will be able to get onto the park on Saturday,” he explained.
“It was disappointing to walk away from the Stirling game with nothing. Although Stirling created more chances and were a bit more dominant in the first half, I feel as though we deserved at least a point considering we were probably the better team later in the game. We will learn from it, and we’ve got to make sure that we take our chances when they come and can’t afford to switch off even for a second.”
It’s a new look side this season for the Azzurri, but Silla said it is a great bunch, and there is a great atmosphere around the group, and he said Saturday will be a perfect time to send out a statement to the rest of the league with a positive result. “We’ve got almost an entirely new squad this season but we are determined to carry over the same values, culture and winning mentality that we’ve had for last 4-5 years,” the skipper explained. “We will be well ready to go on Saturday against Sorrento and we will be expecting to take three points from the game especially on our home turf. We are ready to compete and kick start our season.”
In other games this weekend, Armadale and Balcatta has been called off due to COVID, while Cockburn City who travel to Inglewood Stadium to take on Inglewood United. Bayswater City will be looking for back-to-back wins when they host Gwelup Croatia at Frank Drago Reserve, while the unbeaten Stirling Macedonia welcome Perth Glory to Macedonia Park. In the final game we have the top of the table clash, as Floreat Athena welcome Perth RedStar to E&D Litis Stadium. Both sides are unbeaten this season, but it’s the RedStar’s who sit on top of the table, after playing one more game.
Floreat beat Glory last week, while RedStar saw off Inglewood United. RedStar defender Blair Govan said it’s been a great start for the new club, and last week’s performance was probably their best of the season. “We’re really happy with the three points last weekend and even happier with the performance,” he said. “I thought we controlled the game really well from start to finish, and we had to be patient to break Inglewood down, but we stuck with it and capitalised in the second half when more chances came our way.”
Govan, who headed north from Gwelup Croatia this season, said Floreat away is a tough game, but they head there full of confidence. “It’s a different challenge for me this year at Redstar, but one I’m really enjoying. A new way of playing for me but I’m loving working with coaches, Kenny Dave and Cal. It’s exciting to be a part of this new club and there’s a lot of talent in the squad and there all good people so I’m enjoying myself,” the defender explained. “It’s always a tough game against Floreat. They have been up the top of the league for quite a few years now, and they are probably the bench mark, so for us it’s a big test. We want to be the top team at the end of the season so these are the big games you have to turn up for so I think it will be a good entertaining game and hopefully we can keep our good start to the season going.”
8.4.2022
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND THREE – PREVIEW
Olympic Kingsway are one of the favourites for promotion to the NPL this season, and David Tough’s side flexed their muscles last week, beating Subiaco 4-0, and in week three they welcome Quinns to Kingsway Reserve in our State League Division One ‘Match of the Round’ (All games kick off at 3.00pm, unless otherwise stated) Quinns are still searching for their first win of the season, after a letting the lead slip twice in a 2-2 draw at Dianella White Eagles last week, while striker Ben Hinshelwood continues to impress, bagging both goals, so it should be a great game. The last time the two sides met at the venue was in round one last season when Quinns left with a 4-1 win.
The visitors made the perfect start with Cian Hirrell scoring after only nine minutes. Quinns doubled their lead on the half hour, with Reece Abrams scoring to send them into the break with a handy lead. It got better for Glen Grostate’s side on 52 minutes when striker Ben Hinshelwood converted the resulting penalty. The home side hit back sixty seconds later when Quinns skipper Adam Buckingham turned the ball into his own net. But Quinns sealed the win 13 minutes from time and what a goal it was. A cross into the box found Hinshelwood, and the former ECU Joondalup striker produced a spectacular overhead kick, that flew past Dave Keenan to seal a comprehensive win for the visitors.
Quinns defender Jackson Dongray said they should have put the game to bed early, but never and let Dianella back in the game, but he said it was probably a fair result. “We’re happy to secure the point and start the season with a good contest. It’s always disappointing to give up a lead, however I’m proud of the character the boys showed to keep battling,” he said. “I can’t take anything away from Dianella, they forced themselves back into the game (twice) and kept us honest, but we move on.”
Dongray, who spent part of last season at Balcatta, said he’s settled in well at Gumblossom Park, and he’s looking forward to taking on one of the title favourites, Olympic on Saturday. “We have a great bunch of lads and quality coaching and support team who have made the transition very easy, I’m really looking forward to helping the club push for silverware this season,” he explained. “The boys are raring to go for Saturday, and it will be good to catch up with the players that left us to join Olympic this season. The best thing about this squad we have at the moment is names/status of other players mean nothing, which I’m confident the boys will prove on Saturday when we cross over the line.”
Olympic striker David Perich, who has played for Inglewood United, Swan IC, Subiaco, Balcatta and a stint in Victoria with Richmond, said the win last week against Subiaco was good for the players, but the scoreline probably didn’t reflect the game. ‘I thought 4-0 probably flattered us as the last two goals came in injury time,” he said. “But it’s great to get another win, but we are still a long way from playing well, which bodes well for the season when we do hit our straps.”
Perich said Olympic are a very ambitious club, and coach David Tough has added some quality to the squad this season, and he said they are getting better each week. But he knows Quinns will be a difficult game for them on Saturday, after finishing in the top four last season, but at home the striker is hoping they can make it three wins to start the season. “Toughy has said from day one that there is one goal - to get promoted. I think the whole squad is pushing in that same direction. We saw this on the weekend when we made a several subs when Subiaco started to get on top and the subs changed the game completely,” he explained. “As for Saturday’s game, we've seen their goals from night series and last week and we know they've got Jackson "Longest throw in WA" Dongray which makes them dangerous on set pieces. If we play with the right intensity, then we back ourselves against every team.’
In other games this weekend, Western Knights and Forrestfield United meet at Nash Field. The Knights returned from Joondalup with the win, and Forrestfield’s game against MUMFC was called off due to covid, so three points are important in this one, while Fremantle City host Subiaco at Hilton Park. The last three games kick off late, first Dianella White Eagles welcome Joondalup United to Dianella Reserve at 5.00pm, while Rockingham City and Mandurah City meet in the local derby at SafeRad Stadium at Larkhill at 7.00pm.
The final game is at Besteam Stadium where Murdoch University Melville take on UWA Nedlands at 6.00pm. The hosts game at Forrestfield was a victim of covid last week, while UWA won for the first time, with a 3-1 win at home against Rockingham City. UWA coach Ale Carciotto said it was good to bounce back the disappointing result at Fremantle in round one. “After the Fremantle game we were left frustrated at missed chances in that game to get a better result, so we took that frustration and harnessed it to set against a strong Rockingham side who always give you a big contest,” the coach said. “Overall, we dealt with the game according to our pre-game strategy and found ourselves up 2-0 before a Rockingham send off before half time. I made a few substations in the second half at 3-0 but they failed to make the impact desired to really kill of the game and Rockingham being such a resilient side pulled one back, but overall satisfaction for first three points.”
Carciotto knows MUM FC have started life well in Division One, but he said they are looking forward to the challenge on Saturday evening on the artificial pitch. “Looking forward to this fixture as it will be a great game, and I’m looking forward to coaching for the first-time vs Taki who I think is one WA's best,” he said. “We’ve also got a few former UWA players like Tim Robbo, Godfrey and Rhys Williams which should make the game a bit more interesting as it always is when ex-team mates confront each other. It should be a great game to watch for the spectators on a fast pitch.”
8.4.2022
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND THREE – PREVIEW
Ashfield were relegated from Division One last season, but they are determined to bounce straight back this season, but it’s been a tough start to Greg Hart’s sides campaign, with covid hitting last week’s game against South West Phoenix. But they return home on Saturday as they host Morley-Windmills at the acclaimed Catering Arena, in our ‘Match of the Round’. Morley were beaten at home by Curtin University last week, their first defeat of the season, so both sides need points in this one. The last time they met at the venue was on round 14 in 2018, with the host winning 4-2.
Ashfield skipper James Sammut said the draw in the opening round against Gosnells City was well-deserved, but to miss out last week was disappointing. “The game against Gosnells was a tough game and they’re a good side, but I thought after 90 minutes a draw was a fair result and a good round one hit out,” he said. “Disappointing not to be able to play round two, the lads just want to play competitive football after a long preseason, although it’s the times we are in at the moment and it has and will interrupt a number of games this season. We need to move on from that pretty quickly and look towards a tough game against Morley this week.”
The club have kept most of their squad from last season, and Sammut said the youngsters are performing well, and they are looking forward to the challenge of playing a good Morley side. “We have a good young bunch of lads who enjoy playing together which is a positive. I think we need to just look at it one week at a time, all leagues will be very competitive this season and have to try pick up as many points as possible each week,” he explained. “I have no doubt Morley will have a strong side and be as competitive as they have always been. We have just been concentrating on us as a club and team and personally am really starting to enjoy my football again.”
Morley have been busy in the transfer market and Antony Benetti has a talented squad, so the loss last week against Curtin was disappointing, but skipper Danny O’Shea said they had their chances to win it. “Obviously the result wasn’t the one we were after on the weekend and it was a tough pill to swallow,” he said. “As a group we showed great fight to get the game back level after conceding three avoidable goals and I felt we were the better team for the best part of the 90 minutes, but unfortunately it wasn’t to be on the day. There’s a lot to take from a game like that and as a group I have no doubt we’ll bounce back from it.”
O’Shea said the club are looking for promotion this season, but they need to put in a 90-minute performance each week, and that starts against Ashfield this week. “I think Antony and Cam have done a great job of bringing in the right players and strengthening the squad so massive credit to them for making that happen,” the skipper explained. “As a collective we have high standards for ourself and promotion is absolutely what we’re aiming for. With the culture within the group and the talent and depth available, I think it’s a very achievable goal. I’m not going to make any bold predictions about Saturday’s game, but I think it should be an exciting game against Ashfield. We’re obviously looking to bounce back from last week’s result so I think this will be a great test for us a squad.”
In other games this weekend, Curtin University entertain Wanneroo City at Edinburgh Oval, while the unbeaten Carramar Shamrock Rovers travel to Princess Park Reserve to take on Balga. The Swan United and Canning City fixture has been called off due to COVID, as has the Gosnells City vs South West Phoenix match.
Joondalup City take on Kingsley Westside at the Iluka Sports Complex. These sides had very different results last weekend, Kingsley maintaining their unbeaten start to the season, while Joondalup were beaten at Shamrock, so Brad Haywood’s side will be looking to turn things around this week. Kingsley scored five against Canning last week and kept a clean sheet which pleased keeper Paul Rainford, but he said it was a good all-round team performance. “Yes, it was great to get our first win of the season at our temporary home Flinders Park, and we took a 2-0 lead going in at half time,” he said. “But knew we had to kill the game off early in the second half to avoid a repeat of the Swan game. Canning had their chances but we managed to hold firm and see the game out.”
Rainford is well aware Joondalup will be disappointed in last week’s result and is expecting them to be desperate on Saturday, but he’s keen to keep their good form going. “I am looking forward to playing Joondalup City, we had two tough games against them last year and I expect the same this weekend,” the keeper said. “They had some decent results in pre-season so we will need to be defensively strong again and take our chances when they come.”
8.4.2022
NPL-WA WOMEN'S ROUND TWO - PREVIEW
The NPLWA Women’s competition started with a bang last week, with all games entertaining, and we head into week two and our ‘Match of the Round sees Perth SC make the trip to E&D Litis Stadium to take on the Hyundai NTC on Friday evening. (8.00pm) It wasn’t the best of starts for the NTC, losing 5-0 at Perth RedStar, but their cause wasn’t helped with Mischa Anderson sent off. Meanwhile Perth won their opening game, with goals from Abbey Meakins and Taneeshaa Baker seeing the Azzurri beat Balcatta 2-0.
Goalscorer Meakins, said it was a good way to start the season, and the new look side are starting to gel, and she is looking forward to the game on Friday against a talented NTC side. “It was a promising start for us, most importantly, good to kick off the season with a win after having a disappointing run, in night series. We were really pleased with the way we moved the ball, utilising our midfield and playing through the lines. With quite a few new faces in our team, and not much playing time together, we were happy with our overall performance, and look to build for next weekend,” she explained.
“We definitely want to be pushing for the league title this year. It’s going to be a tough season, with a few teams looking quite strong, but we think we have recruited well and have a game style that will really stand up against the top teams. We are looking forward to getting more games under our belt as a whole squad, and continuing to click even more. NTC are always a tough match up, they are a well drilled side and all have great technical ability. I think it’s going to be a really good test for us to continue to implement our new game style, playing possession football and breaking through the lines. Hopefully we have more success in the final third, and continue to put the ball in the back of the net.”
Perth coach Peter Rakic secured his first league win at the club, and he was delighted the way his side played on the night. “It was definitely our best performance so far when you look at the brand of football compared to our night series campaign. Certainly, I was pleased with how the squad has come together in the time we've shared on the training ground, allowing that chemistry to build each week,” he said. “I feel as though the girls are hungrier than ever, with a top 4 finish seeming like a bare minimum achievement, we all desire a firm fight for the title and to challenge the heavier hitters of the league.”
Rakic said Ben Anderton’s NTC side are very talented, and he is expecting a tough game, especially after their opening loss. “NTC are always a tough test, they bring such a high energy and intensity to the pitch that it forces you to be switched on for the full 90,” the coach explained. “They love to knock the ball around and maintain possession quite comfortably so we just have to be patient with our own plan. With key players Zoee Spadano and Jaymee Gibbons both absent in our first meeting with them in night series, it gives me greater confidence heading into this match knowing I have the added quality in the engine room.”
The other Friday night game is at Edinburgh Oval, as Curtin University host Perth RedStar (8.00pm), while on Sunday Balcatta entertain Murdoch University Melville at Grindleford Reserve (3.00pm) and Fremantle City will look for back-to-back wins, when they travel to Rosalie Park to take on Subiaco. (3.45pm) Fremantle beat Curtin last week, with a brace from Jamie-Lee Gale, and skipper Mikayla Lyons said her performance was outstanding, along with the rest of her teammates. “Jamie-Lee is an absolute weapon, and in my opinion, she’s been one of the best players in WA for a number of years now, and I have no doubt that she’s only just getting started. We’re extremely lucky to have her in our squad,” she said.
“Building on that, I think we showed some promising signs as a team on Sunday. There are certainly areas that we need to work on, but considering the circumstances with quite a few players being unavailable, and the fact that we’re only one game in, I’m happy with where we’re at. Of course, it’s always great to get the three points too, particularly against a team like Curtin who are very organised and show a lot of heart, and I think they’ll surprise a few teams this year.”
Lyons said the club are growing, and under new coach Garry Church, they are hoping to finish in the finals, but have top spot in their sights. “We’re always looking to build and progress, whether that be season to season or game to game. Under the guidance of Garry this year, and with a few key additions to our squad, I think we can beat any team in the league,” she explained. “There’s no denying we’re looking to finish on top this year. We’re certainly not going out there each week to put on a mediocre performance.
“We’d like to get to the point where every game is enjoyable to play and enjoyable to watch. I think success will come as a biproduct of that. As for Sunday’s game, we’re excited to play against an undoubtedly strong side in Subiaco. Our mentality this year, largely driven by Garry, is to go out and play every game as if it’s a final, leaving the pitch with no regrets. With that, as mentioned previously, I’m confident that we can beat any team in the league when we’re on, and this week will be no different. We’re really looking forward to the challenge.”
7.4.2022
PLAYER WELFARE A BIG ISSUE FOR ZADKOVICH
The toll on players due to the A-League Men's gruelling schedule is creating a legitimate player welfare issue, Perth Glory interim coach Ruben Zadkovich says. Already being forced to field a team of inexperienced youngsters thanks to a massive injury list, Zadkovich fears he's lost two more players following a 1-0 loss to Melbourne Victory.
Spanish attacker Adrian Sardinero lasted only eight minutes of Wednesday's game while youngster Adam Zimarino battled through the closing stages with an ankle complaint. They now join a dozen players on an injury list that includes Bruno Fornaroli (ankle), Daniel Sturridge (groin), Brad Jones (knee) and Brandon O'Neill (shoulder).
Zadkovich says the scramble to clear the backlog of games created by COVID-19 disruptions earlier in the season is taking its toll. "I'm sure everyone's doing the best they can but I think we've had the rough end of the stick a little bit worse than other teams," Zadkovich said.
"We've travelled away to Sydney to play Wellington. Back here to play midweek against Newcastle. Away to play Macarthur. Back here to play midweek against Victory. Away to Newcastle on the weekend. Back down and play Wellington in Sydney midweek. Away to Launceston against Western United."
"We're getting one training session, which is recovery plus tactical for me, so I'm cramming everything I can into these boys because I'm a firm believer of what I want to achieve and what the boys are capable of. Bit by bit, we lose more and more players and the task at hand grows and gets even harder."
Zadkovich will again have to draw on the club's youth for Sunday's trip to Newcastle Jets. The mid-week loss to Melbourne extends Glory's winless run to 11 games and has them rooted to the bottom of the ladder, six points behind second last Western Sydney Wanderers with six matches to play in their season.
Despite the challenges, Zadkovich says he's still fighting to try and avoid the club picking up the first wooden spoon in their history. "We'll keep building and we'll just look for room to improve," he said. "There's still so much that these young boys can learn in these last few weeks and we're going to squeeze as much out of them as we can."
6.4.2022
BOLTON’S JONES GRATEFUL FOR SUPPORT
“ONE big family” is how Gethin Jones described the environment at Bolton Wanderers after the support he has received following the death of his mother, Karen Jones. The Welshman returned to action against Wigan Athletic over the weekend following a spell of compassionate leave.
Jones insists he never felt any pressure to return to the pitch but is now ready to play a part as Bolton aim to finish strongly and climb the League One table. “It was quite difficult to begin with, but I think the main bit for me was to stay at home with the family,” he told The Bolton News.
“I can’t thank Sharon (Brittan), the board, the gaffer, the players and the fans for the support that myself and the family have had. I had no pressure whatsoever to come back and it was good to be back home with the family with everything that happened with my mum, but I’m ready to come back now and it was good to be back on Saturday.”
The Bolton squad attended the funeral in support of their teammate, and Jones says it highlights the togetherness at the club. “It’s something that obviously touched us as a family but this is what our squad is all about, this is what the club’s all about. We’re a big family and if one’s hurting, like we’ve always said, we all hurt.”
Jones is now keen to make an impact on the pitch and is aiming to win as many games as possible before the end of the season. The defender admits the squad were not happy with their performance in the opening half an hour against Wigan, but he feels there are lots of positives to take from their response after the break.
“We were quite disappointed with the first 30 minutes on Saturday,” added Jones. “We weren’t playing our normal game plan and how we play at all and we reflected on that. We’ve had some words in a meeting on how we want to progress to be up there more often and be more consistent.”
“But obviously second half we showed what we can do and we got back into the game, and I feel like if the game had gone on another five minutes even, we would have got all three points. We’ve got a never say die attitude and that’s what we’ll do from now until the end of the season.”
5.4.2022
EUROPE BECKONS FOR GLORY ROOKIE RAWLINS
Perth Glory youngster Joshua Rawlins looks set to head to Europe next season with a Dutch club making a lucrative offer. Glory owner Tony Sage confirmed that a deal is in the works for the gifted defender, who is considered one of the A-League’s most gifted young prospects.
Rawlins’ continued evolution in a struggling Glory side, in which he’s filled a number of defensive roles this season, has opened the door to Europe. “You don’t stop anybody going ... it’s a call that he’s likely to make but hasn’t made quite yet,” said Sage in confirming the Rawkins is on the brink of departing.
“No contracts have been signed but it’s a good offer and the club gets decently compensated. But there are still lots of things that need to be done. We’ve put up an enticing offer (for him to stay) ... one of the best in the country for a 17-year-old.”
“But we won’t stop him. Your dreams are your dreams and he has a decision to make and we wish him if he decides to go and it would be fantastic if he decides to stay. It’s all in his head at the moment - he’s got to sit down with his parents. He’s a very good family guy. He might want to stay another year, who knows?”
A right-back by trade, Rawlins is renowned for his versatility, composure and a maturity beyond his years. He’s made 14 A-League appearances this season and was the youngest player to start in Australia’s top flight in 2020/2021, debuting at just 16 years and 272 days.
3.4.2022
EAST PERTH TAKE OUT AMATEUR NIGHT SERIES FINAL
East Perth are the 2022 Belt Up Amateur Night Series winners after a 2-0 win against Kelmscott Roos in the final at E&D Litis Stadium on Sunday afternoon. A first half strike from Niall Murray had East Perth up at the break, before stunning long-range strike from Mehdi Rabei sealed the win, their first Cup Final success in the club’s history. “It was a great day to play, our team worked hard together and we achieved our aim of winning the night series,” Rabei said. “Our team created several opportunities and used them to our advantage, our opponent Kelmscott were a good team to play against, they had strong players, but overall, we were determined to win.”
East Perth coach Colm Costello said it was a great performance and a great day for the club. “A fantastic performance from the lads, I thought defensively we were rock solid, and we won the midfield battle which was very important and to seal it with a goal like Mehdi scored was brilliant,” he said. “Anyone that was there would agree you wouldn’t see many goals better than that at any level. Mehdi is adhering to Ramadan at the minute, and we were Just about to take him off when he produced a moment of magic. The game was excellent, and Kelmscott are a really good side, so Jason (Winter) and I are very pleased with the way our night series campaign has ran. I genuinely think it will a brilliant amateur premier league this year, and with sides I have watched and teams we have played against there be no easy games. We’ll Enjoy the win tonight, but its straight back to it on Wednesday as we prepare for Emerald who are a quality side.”
East Perth opened brightly and Oscar Kelly went close early, he was picked out by Rabei’s cross from the right, stepped inside his marker, but his shot flashed narrowly wide. Kelmscott striker Joshua Tumde was a constant threat, and his long-range shot was well held by Arron McKenna as the game opened up. But it burst into life on 20 minutes, when East Perth opened the scoring. Kelmscott were caught in possession at the back, and Lyon Varney brought down Liam McManus 20 meters from goal, and Murray’s low free kick went through the hands of Kelmscott keeper Tom Livingstone and into the net. Tumde was again thwarted by McKenna before half time, and late on his long-range shot, after cutting in from the left sailed over the top.
But five minutes into the second half East Perth doubled their advantage, Benn Lewis’ poor clearance from the back was picked off by Rabei, who played a give and go with Liam Hunt, and he spotting Livingstone off his line, and he chipped him superbly from long-range, and was swamped by his team mates to celebrate. Kelmscott pressed looking to get back into the game, but East Perth defence of skipper Juri Galba, Dave Long, Thierry Berard and Murray were outstanding to keep them at bay.
With Kelmscott pushing men forward late East Perth should have added a few more, but Livingstone saved well to deny Long and substitute Deane McFeeley. Moments later substitute James McDaid shot flashed just wide, but the damage had been done and it was East Perth celebrating with their supporters at the final whistle. “Obviously not the result we wanted, but it's always going to be tough with the amount of turnover we gave,” a disappointed Kelmscott coach serge Tucci said. “Simply we were poor, but congratulations to East Perth they got the job done and clearly were the better team. We'll go back to the training track, review the game, and move on and focus on the season opener against Kwinana this weekend.”
3.4.2022
NO SOCCEROOS LOOK IN FOR BIRIGHITTI
Mark Birighitti says he’s in the form of his life with Central Coast Mariners which makes it all the more “disappointing” his career-best output hasn’t translated into opportunities with the Socceroos throughout head coach Graham Arnold’s tenure.
Birighitti joined the Mariners ahead of the 2019/20 A-League campaign. His first season on the Central Coast coincided with the club’s third consecutive wooden spoon, but it’s been all uphill ever since, with the rejuvenated Mariners having a season and a half to remember, coinciding with Birighitti’s brilliant individual form.
The Mariners gloveman is eyeing a second consecutive tilt at finals football. But beyond the A-Leagues, the 30-year old looks at the current Socceroos squad and can’t help but question why Arnold hasn’t called on his services over the past two years throughout Australia’s sub-par World Cup qualifying campaign.
Birighitti represented Australia 38 times at Under-17, U20 and U23 level, making one appearance for the Socceroos against China in 2013. “It’s disappointing. I feel like personally I’ve been the best goalkeeper in the league the last couple of seasons, and to not get a look in, it is what it is,” Birighitti said.
“I’m a professional, I know what I have to do and I’ll keep improving week in, week out, and there’s not much else I can do really. Just keep performing and hopefully in the future I get that call-up. I do want to get back in the system, it’s every player’s dream to represent their country. I’ve been lucky enough to do it once already, and I feel like I deservedly should get a call-up sometime soon.”
Sydney FC shot-stopper Andrew Redmayne has long been the A-Leagues representative in the Socceroos goalkeeping union. In the lead-up to Australia’s two recent qualifiers Birighitti received a call from Socceroos goalkeeping coach John Crawley which gave him a firm understanding of his place in the pecking order.
“We had a good conversation... I know where I stand,” Birighitti said. “Like I said, I respect him, I respect everyone involved in the national team and what they’re doing. Even though I’m not in the national team I’ll be supporting them from afar; hopefully they can do the nation proud and qualify for the World Cup.”
In 2016, at 25 years of age, Birighitti made the enormous leap from Newcastle Jets to English Premier League outfit Swansea City. In hindsight it was a leap too far for Birighitti, who made six appearances for Swansea’s Under-23 side, before moving to Eredivisie outfit NAC Breda in the Netherlands, where he made a further 17 appearances.
“Going to the Premier League from the A-League was a massive jump and a massive step,” Birighitti said. “Looking back at it now, I’m a bit older now and a bit more experienced, it probably wasn’t the best move for my career. Going over there I had a fantastic experience, learning off one of the top goalkeepers in the Premier League in Lukasz Fabianski who I’m (still) very close with.”
“But just being in and amongst it around top quality players day in, day out, just to see the facilities, the resources, how it is at the top level was a real experience and one I will cherish for a very long time. I knew that I was never going to play, I was young at the time and all I wanted to do was play football.”
“I had the opportunity to experience Dutch football... it was a massive opportunity and a great experience, and it was a tough one. Younger boys don’t realise how lucky we’ve got it here. It’s tough, I was 25 years of age and that was my first real crack at European football. It was challenging, fighting relegation battles, and it was tough not being able to leave your apartment and getting threats.”
Those experiences haven’t stopped Birighitti dreaming of another overseas move. “I’m still young as a goalkeeper,” he said. “I’m only 30, I’m very ambitious. Obviously now it’s different: I have a young family, I need to take them into consideration. But most definitely, I definitely want to give it a crack overseas whether it’s Europe, Asia, the Middle East, I’m open to it.”
Birighitti has been immense for the Mariners in 2021/22, the season after being crowned joint-Goalkeeper of the Year alongside Redmayne. This season Birighitti has made 63 saves, enjoying a save percentage of 73.3% and keeping four clean sheets in 16 games. He’s conceded 23 goals, with Stats Perform’s xG model suggesting he should have conceded 28.3 goals throughout the season to date.
Birighitti knows an overseas move and/or a Socceroos recall are dependant on his form at the Mariners continuing in the same vein. “It’s been a very successful year and a half at the club,” he said. “Before coming here the club was in a bit of a rough path, in previous seasons and results and coming last.
“Coming back from overseas I knew how important it was for me to get that regular game time. My first season at the club was a disappointing one, finishing second last. It was like ‘here we go again, what have I gotten myself into?’ But the second season we managed to turn it around, finishing third. It was a fantastic experience for the club.”
“On a personal note, I’m very happy with the way I’ve been performing. I’ve still got a lot of improvement to go, and I’m just really looking forward to what the future brings. The year before going overseas I had a really good season at Newcastle, but yeah this past year and a half has definitely been the highlight in my career so far.”
“Last season I think we had one of the best defensive units in the league, I think we were second or third with goals conceded. I think that helps a lot, when you have a good team in front of you with a lot of experienced players, that can help you a lot. You go through those phases as a goalkeeper, the same as with any position on the field, (like) a striker when you’re banging them in week in, week out, you just get that confidence.”
“I feel I’m at that stage now in my career, especially this season where I’m playing my part for the team and providing those key moments for the group when they need me. To try and win the team as many points as possible, it’s a good feeling to have. But in saying that, life is great, I’ve got a young family and they’re happy here on the coast, I’ve got two young kids, and yeah everything is falling into place at the moment.”
2.4.2022
FLOREAT TOO STRONG FOR TEN MAN GLORY
Floreat Athena continued their winning start to the NPLWA Men’s competition, after beating a ten-man Perth Glory 3-1 at Hartfield Park on Friday evening. The hosts were reduced to ten, when skipper Jacob Muir was sent off after only six minutes, and Chris Saldaris gave Floreat the lead from the spot 13 minutes later. Glory levelled before the break with Aidan Edwards finding the net, but after half time Bayley Brown-Montgomery regained the lead for Vas Vujacic’s side, before the unfortunate Daniel Walsh scored an own goal to seal the win. “I thought we were unfortunate to not be ahead at half time,” Brown-Montgomery said. “But after the break we really started to build up play more and be more patient which ultimately resulted in creating more clear-cut chances which we put away. I thought it was a well-deserved win in the end.”
Both these sides won their opening games of the season, but it was Floreat who opened the brighter and Robert Petkov was denied early by Adrian Sinagra. But on six minutes the hosts were reduced to ten men, after Jacob Muir was adjudged to have brought down Brown-Montgomery as he raced goalwards, and referee Steven Gregory agreed and sent the Glory skipper off, although it looked a little harsh. Then 12 minutes later Floreat hit the front, again in controversial circumstances.
A ball into the box from Phil Arnold was cleared by Chris Donnell, but the referee decided it came off his arm and pointed to the spot, despite the protests of the Glory players. Chris Saldaris held his nerve and sent Sinagra the wrong way from the resulting penalty. They thought they had a second moments later, Riley Woodcock’s free kick was turned home by Nick Ambrogio, but the flag was up for offside. Floreat were now on top and Sinagra was keeping his side in the game, the former Perth SC youngster producing a stunning save to thwart Ambrogio at full stretch, while Brown-Montgomery saw an effort flash wide.
Sinagra then got down well to deny Arnold, before Ethan Mom shot crashed off the post. But against the run of play, Glory levelled on 37 minutes. Lucas Rossi made space down the flank, his cross to the back post found Edwards, who made mistake from four meters. The goal gave Glory a fresh boost and went close to the lead three minutes later, Edwards sending Andrew Maranta in on goal, but his shot flashed just wide. Floreat steadied and went close to the lead themselves before the break, Ambrogio’s corner was headed over the top by Robert Petkov.
Edwards saw a free kick flash wide early in the second half, but it was Floreat who hit the front on 51 minutes. Glory failed to clear a corner, the ball fell to Brown-Montgomery, who fired home. They went close again four minutes later, Woodcock’s short corner found Ambrogio, his cross was grabbed by Sinagra, but the keeper lost the ball on his landing, and in a goalmouth scramble he was able to reclaim. Then Petkov tried his luck on the hour, but his shot was straight at Sinagra. But on 79 minutes Floreat sealed the points, Arnold sent Saldaris down the right, he found Petkov, who burst into the area, and his cross was turned into his own net by the unfortunate Walsh.
Floreat coach Vas Vujacic said it is good to start the season with two wins. “I’m happy with the three points but it was far from a great performance by us,” he explained. “I thought it took us some time to really get into the game with the Glory’s energy and enthusiasm causing us some problems. The red card for Glory complicated things as we may have felt too comfortable, which probably contributed to conceding a sloppy goal. The second half we had more control and our experience helped us secure the victory with two goals, but we need to be a lot better next week as we face a very good RedStar side.”
Floreat Athena: GK Jason SALDARIS, 3 Riley WOODCOCK, 5 Ethan MOM, 6 Jesse FULLER, 9 Robert PETKOV, 10 Nick AMBROGIO, 11 Dennis GALAN, 15 Chris SALDARIS (2 Marco SANTALUCIA 87’), 16 Bayley BROWN-MONTGOMERY, 8 Phil ARNOLD (8 Mohammed AL-ZAIDY 80’), 22 Andrew PALMER – Subs not used: RGK Thomas CHUDY, 62 Gianluca DE FELICE, 13 Jesse ROBERTS, 17 Filip MINIC – Red Card: Muir 7’
Perth Glory: GK Adrian SINAGRA, 3 Jacob MUIR, 4 Jacob YOUNG, 5 Lucas COOK, 6 Chris DONNELL, 7 Lucas ROSSI (2 Alex DA ROCHA 74’), 8 Andrew MARANTA (18 Danny DOUGLAS 65’), 9 Joseph HOBSON (15 Joel ANASMO 74’), 10 Aidan EDWARDS, 11 Jayden LEADER (13 Daniel WALSH 37’), 12 Will FORMSTON – Subs: RGK Keegan GRANT, 12 Christian BELLADONNA, 14 Matthew GEORGE – Referee: Steven GREGORY
2.4.2022
REDSTAR MOVE CLEAR AT TOP AFTER WIN AGAINST INGLEWOOD
Perth RedStar maintained their perfect start to the NPLWA Men’s season, after a 2-0 win against Inglewood United at the RedStar Arena on Saturday afternoon. The hosts dominated the first half but couldn’t find a way past the busy Alex Dunn, but former Inglewood striker Chok Dau did find the opener early in the second half. The points were sealed with Daryl Nicol bagging his fourth of the season on the hour, sending Kenny Lowe’s side three points clear at the top of the table. “Overall, I think it was a good performance from the whole team, and I think it was quite comfortable for the most part,” RedStar defender Nick Walsh explained. “We should’ve probably been more than 2-0, but we’re happy with the win and especially with the clean sheet.”
It was a bright opening to the game, with both sides having early chances. First on 18 minutes Ellis Healing picked out Nicol, whose shot on the turn was saved by Dunn. Moments later Scott Blackmore sent the speedy Chad Nilson down the left, his low cross was claimed well by Joe Pollard. But it was the hosts who took control of the game, and Dunn saved well to deny Dau, before Healing and Nicol fired wide, as RedStar pushed for the opener.
It was one-way traffic as the hosts had Inglewood on the back foot, and Dunn got down well to save Dau’s shot from the angle on the half hour, before Healing’s free kick was deflected just wide of the upright. Then it was the turn of Sam Pollard to try his luck, cutting in from the left, but his shot drifted wide of the far post. Then in the shadows of half time Dau went close again, his snap shot from the edge of the penalty area flashed inches wide, but it was scoreless at the break.
After dominating the first half without reward, it only took five minutes for the hosts to find the opener. Sam Pollard cut in from the left, and his shot crashed off the crossbar, Nicol was quickest to the rebound and found Dau, whose first shot was well saved by Dunn, but the winger fired home the rebound. Inglewood looked for a quick response and three minutes later quick feet from Manase Abandelwa saw him drive to the edge of the box, and his shot stung the palms of Pollard, who saved at the second attempt.
But RedStar continued to find openings in the Inglewood defence and when Tom Hough sent Nicol in on goal, it looked like being two, but Dunn spread himself well to deny the Scottish striker. But on 58 minutes Nicol did double the host’s advantage, Dau and Healing combined in the middle of the park, the latter sending him clear, and he finished clinically past Dunn. The home side weren’t finished, and Nicol’s long-range shot was tipped over the top by the alert Dunn six minutes later.
The Inglewood custodian was keeping his side in the game and he tipped Sam Pollard’s bullet-like shot on to the crossbar moments later, before he got down well to thwart Nicol again on 72 minutes. Somehow, Inglewood was still in the game, and coach Andres Oliveira changed his formation to get back into it, and Anthony Bafobusha almost found a goal eight minutes later. RedStar failed to clear the ball, and it fell to the midfielder on the edge of the box, but Joe Pollard saved low to deny him. But it was RedStar who took the points, to move them clear at the top of the table.
RedStar assistant coach Callum Salmon said it was a great win and a great day for the club. “I thought the players were superb and it was a first-class performance,” he said. “Inglewood has some great players, are well coached and have shown over many seasons how hard they are to beat. Very difficult to pick out individual performances from our players as everyone was first class and the players off the bench were also very impressive. A great day for the club, with every team winning and capped off by Carlos leading the Women’s team to a huge result also in their first game after the merger following on from their Night Series success. We are looking forward to Floreat and we’re aiming to continue our winning run, and nothing is better than waking up on Sunday morning with three points.”
Perth RedStar: GK Joe POLLARD, 2 Oscar MALFIORE (6 Sami RIAK 58’) 74’), 3 Blair GOVAN, 4 Declan HUGHES, 8 Tom HOUGH (19 Nelson TSHONGO 67’), 9 Daryl NICOL, 10 Andy HIGGINS (25 Sean O’CONNOR 82’), 11 Sam POLLARD, 12 Nick WALSH, 15 Ellis HEALING (13 Liam MURRAY 67’), 14 Chok DAU – Subs not used: RGK Marino GOJAK, 27 Louis HADFIELD, 30 Nyle WEALE
Inglewood United: GK Alex DUNN, 3 Roberto DEL BORRELLO, 4 Scott BLACKMORE (6 Hermon MICHAELE 71’), 5 Thiak KUEL (21 Ryan HOGAN 71’), 7 Chad NILSON (14 Dhuors CHOL 57’), 8 Harry EVANS (15 Ibere KASUKULU 80’), 9 Manase ABANDELWA, 10 Anthony BAFOBUSHA, 11 Egide NGENDAKUMANA (16 Jamie MURPHY 57’), 12 Callum MELLOWSHIP, 19 Christopher TILSON – Subs: RGK Josiah GODFREY, 17 Hamza BELHASSAN – Referee: Steven GREGORY
2.4.2022
SMITH AND MAKECHE AT THE DOUBLE FOR BAYSWATER
Bayswater City bounced back from last week's loss against Perth RedStar, with a 4-1 win against Cockburn City at Dalmatinac Park. A first half brace from Gordon Smith put the visitors in control, before Ndumba Makeche added two more after the break. Jesse Lazzaro scored the consolation goal for the hosts, but it too little too late for Cockburn. “I feel like Saturday’s game against Cockburn the boys really went all in and we played the way we wanted to play from the beginning of the match which is a big thing for us because we tend to lack intensity within the first 15 minutes,” Bayswater keeper Nic Speca explained. “But we definitely didn’t against Cockburn as we put away some early goals which set us up nicely going into the second half where we manage to bag another couple goals. We really needed the win because it gives our squad the confidence to go into next week game against Gwelup.”
It was the first game of the season for Cockburn, their first two games called off due to covid, and they started like they hadn’t played football for a few weeks, with Bayswater taking an early lead. Makeche and Jon Stynes combined on the edge of the box, they found Smith who finished low past Ben Radonich after only three minutes. It was nearly two on 16 minutes, a neat back-heel from Makeche sent Jack Allen racing in on goal, but a good last-ditch tackle from Igor Cvijanovic saved the day for the hosts. It was one-way traffic as Bayswater pushed for a second, and when another neat back heel from Stynes, sent Sam Mitchinson in on goal, but his shot from the angle was well saved by Radonich, before Konstantinos Sparta then dragged his shot wide
Cockburn best chance came on 36 minutes, a free kick wasn’t dealt with by Bayswater, and Milan Ognjenovic volley from the edge of the box flew over the top. Cockburn keeper Radonich was keeping his side in the game, his best save came four minutes before half time, Makeche raced down the left, his shot on the run deflected off Ognjenovic, but Radonich produced a stunning reaction save to keep his side in the game. But there was little he could do sixty seconds later as Bayswater doubled their lead, Makeche sent Sparta down the right, he cut the ball inside to Smith who finished clinically.
Cockburn started the second half better, and should have pulled one back on 56 minutes, Daniel Robinson raced down the left, and sent Igor Cvijanovic in on goal, but he blazed over the top. Moments later Lazzaro’s free kick was tipped over by Speca at full stretch, it was the best period of the game for the hosts. But they could find a way past Speca, and on 65 minutes it was Bayswater who added a third. Smith sent substitute Fraser Dunlop down the left, he found Makeche, who made no mistake from six meters.
But the home supporters had something to cheer on 76 minutes, when Cockburn reduced the deficit. Lazzaro’s free kick from out wide beat everyone and nestled in the corner of the net. But sixty seconds later Bayswater restored their three-goal advantage. Smith found Makeche on the edge of the box, and eased past his marker before drilling the ball home. Speca denied substitute Jack Langley twice near the end, first saving his shot, before tipping his header over the top. Jason Mirco went close to a fifth late for the visitors, but the substitute’s shot was pushed onto the post by Radovich. “It’s great to get three points on the road at Cockburn,” Smith said. “We started the game really well again and got ahead, and on another day, it probably couldn’t have been more considering the chances we created, but all in all great to get our first win on the board.”
Cockburn City: GK Ben RADONICH, 2 Milan OGNJENOVIC, 3 Daniel DOLS (19 Ivan SKORICH 59’) 6 Luka CACERES (), 7 Slobodan VULIN (12 Ben HENLEY 88’), 8 Igor CVIJANOVIC, 11 Harry O’BRIEN (32 Jack LANGLEY 68’), 13 Jeff BRIGHT (20 Alessandro DE ANDRADE BASTO 59’), 15 Daniel SANTICH, 16 Daniel ROBINSON, 21 Jesse LAZZARO – Subs not used: Nil
Bayswater City: GK Nic SPECA, 3 Jack ALLEN (10 Jason MIRCO 71’), 7 Jon STYNES (18 Fraser DUNLOP 62’)), 8 Gordon SMITH, 9 Ndumba MAKECHE, 11 Ryan PEARSON, 12 Steven HESKETH, 20 Sam MITCHINSON, 26 Zayd FARAH, 28 Konstantinos SPARTA, 30 Tom SOUTHGATE – Subs not used: RGK Preston GILLING, 4 Michael ZIMARINO, 13 Jordan ABRAHAMS - Referee: Stewart BEATTIE
2.4.2022
GULLS FLYING HIGH
Sorrento have made it back-to-back wins to start the NPLWA Men’s season, after a 2-0 win against Gwelup Croatia at Percy Doyle Reserve on Saturday afternoon. It was a tight first half, with clear-cut chances few and far between, but just before the hour Joe Tweats gave the hosts the lead. Then with Gwelup pushing men forward looking for the equaliser late in the game, second half substitute Zechariah Dabbs wrapped up the points scoring in stoppage time.
“We gave Gwelup far too much space in the first half through our inability to get to grips with how they played,” Sorrento coach Trevor Morgan said. “We had a chat as a team at half time and changed not our system, but the individual responsibilities of the players within that system and had a far better second half where we looked a lot more comfortable in and out of possession. I was very pleased for our two 17-year-olds in the team as Paddy (Hughes) kept a clean sheet and Zech (Dabbs) got the second goal after coming off the bench. We still have a lot of room for improvement and look forward to our game against Perth SC next week as they will be difficult opposition.”
It was a good start by the Gulls, who were coming off a big win against Armadale last week, and on 11 minutes, Tim Hill’s shot from the edge of the box was deflected just wide of the far post, and from the resulting Ollie Annis corner, Mark Barnett headed inches over the top. Barnett was causing problems at set-pieces, and he headed over the top again seven minutes later. But Gwelup had the best early opportunity, they broke down the left and Sebastian Da Silva raced clear of Shaun Kilkelly, into the penalty area, but his low shot was well saved by Patrick Hughes.
Sorrento lost striker Scott Witschge with injury just after the half hour, he was replaced by former Gwelup striker Gustavo Giron Marulanda. But it was Gwelup ending the half the better, and after great work by Samuel Dweh, he burst into the penalty area, but his low cross was cleared over his own bar by the alert Kilkelly. Then in stoppage time Rene Kisesa cut in from the right, and his shot on the run was saved low by Hughes at his near post, but at the break it was scoreless.
Sorrento opened brightly and when Annis picked out Joe Tweats early, his shot from the edge of the penalty area flew over the top. They were in again moments later, Marulanda long-range shot drifting wide of the target. But Gwelup looked dangerous going forward, and they went close to the opener on 55 minutes, Ciaran Salinger’s ball over the top sent De Silva clear down the right, but his shot was saved low by Hughes. But two minutes later it was Sorrento who found the opening goal. Annis and Alex Morgan combined down the left, Morgan’s deep cross found Tweats who ghosted in at the back post, and he made no mistake from close-range.
They went close to a second sixty seconds later, Morgan’s header sent Marulanda racing clear, but Gwelup keeper George Jackson stood tall to save. Gwelup were on the back foot and the Gulls went close again on 78 minutes, Annis found Marulanda in the middle of the park, he squared the ball to Tweats, whose shot flashed inches past the post. Sixty seconds later, a short corner almost caught Gwelup napping, and Barnett’s cross into the box found Marulanda, whose glancing header failed to find the target. Gwelup had a penalty shout on 82 minutes, after Annis looked to have brought down Dweh, but after a chat to his assistant David Bruce waved away their penalty claims.
They had another penalty claim five minutes later, substitute Sebastian Hooshangian shot looked to hit the arm of Kilkelly, but the referee was well placed to wave away the Gwelup protests. But with Gwelup pushing players forward looking for the equaliser, they conceded a second in stoppage time, Marulanda shot on the run was well saved by Jackson, and Dabbs was quickest to the rebound to score from close-range. “It was a tough game, they're young and fit and all work very hard so they didn't make it easy for us at time,” Sorrento skipper Tim Hill said. “But I thought we had more experience and our quality shone through in the important parts of the game and we were able to come away a comfortable win in the end.”
Sorrento: GK Patrick HUGHES, 2 Byungatae AHN, 4 Shaun KILKELLY, 5 Mark BARNETT, 7 Alex MORGAN (15 Zechariah DABBS 84’), 8 Scott WITSCHGE (21 Gustavo GIRON MARULANDA 31’), 10 Ollie ANNIS, 11 Tim HILL, 14 Joe TWEATS, 17 Dean CUMMINGS, 18 Jordan BROWN - Subs not used: RGK Liam HATTERSLEY,3 Steve PURTON, 6 Jaxon TEMATA, 30 Theo GILSENAN
Gwelup Croatia: GK George JACKSON, 2 Ciaran SALINGER, 3 Daniel FAICHNEY, 4 Lachlan COLLINS, 6 Kade FEARNALL, 7 George BALLAH, 8 Mohammad REZAI (12 Debaba MTWALE 70’), 11 Gomo DUKULY, 14 Samuel DWEH, 20 Sebastian DA SILVA (16 Oscar BARRY 70’), 22 Rene KISESA – Subs not used: 5 Friday ZICO, 10 Sebastian HOOSHANGIAN, 23 Darko RISTOSKI, 27 Danyel SANTOS DE SOUZA, 31 Roy MCKAIN - Referee: David BRUCE
2.4.2022
NPL-WA WOMEN'S ROUND ONE - REVIEW
The 2022 NPLWA Women’s competition kicked off this weekend, and in our opening ‘Match of the Round’ Murdoch University Melville and Subiaco have fought out and entertaining 0-0 draw at Besteam Stadium on Friday evening. Both sides went into the game with players missing and both had chances to win it, but they couldn’t find the net. Charlie Wainwright forced a smart save from Subiaco custodian Zara Board, while Frankie Murray clipped the bar with a free-kick and forced stand-in stopper Sam Mathers into a save. Mathers usually plays on the wing for MUM FC, but she stood firm to deny Murray again from Keziah Burgis' cutback.
Then with two minutes to play Phoenix Brownlie found herself through on goal with Mathers saving and earning her side a share of the points. “It was a great start to the season, having only a few sessions with Greg he has implemented so much already and has done well to bring the team together so quickly,” former ECU Joondalup striker Murray explained. “I think nerves got the best of some of us, but I cannot wait to see what the season has in store for us”
Subiaco coach Greg Farrell said it was a good first up performance from his side. “We are very happy with the performance given the short lead in time that we’ve had as a group,” he said. “All the cliches are true, the players worked hard for 90 minutes, gave 100% etc. But they also listened and adapted to new messages quickly, and for me, that’s the most promising thing. MUM are a very young and talented team who will surely get better each week, and either of us could have walked away with three points with better finishing, so the draw was probably a fair result.”
New MUMFC coach Luke Thompson said covid and injuries hurt them this week, but knows he has a lot of work ahead of him. “I was pleased with the effort of the girls, and a lot of players have stepped up to play their first game of first team football and having to play out of position, but they will be much better for the experience,” he explained. “It’s obvious we still have a lot of work to do but I’m confident the girls will be up to the challenge.”
At the RedStar Arena it was a huge day for Perth RedStar, in their first game as a club, and they celebrated in style beating the Hyundai NTC 5-0 on Saturday evening. They were ahead on 12 minutes, Carla Bennett’s corner picking out Jacinta Coleman, who headed home, to become the first goalscorer for the new club. It was 2-0 seven minutes later, Shawm Billam’s ball was flicked on by Bennett, sending Larissa Walsh in on goal, and she rounded the keeper and rolled the ball into the net. The NTC lost Mischa Anderson after receiving a second yellow card from referee David Avison just after the hour mark, and the home side took advantage.
First on 73 minutes Walsh’s corner was swept home at the front post by Coleman, who was duly subbed by the coach. It was 4-0 on 84 minutes, Olivia Wood slipping Jayna Ridley in on goal, and she finished low past the keeper. They added a fifth moments later, the impressive Billam’s searching ball sent Ridley down the right, and her first time cross was finished at the back post by substitute Hannah Insch. “It was a good win against a talented young team,” RedStar coach Carlos Vega Mena said. “I thought the NTC fought well, especially after they received a red card in the second half. It’s really hard on a team when you’re down to 10 players, but I think they battled valiantly. Great for us to come away with the three points for the first game of the season. It was a very successful day for Perth RedStar and I’m really happy with the club atmosphere and team spirit.”
“It was good to get a win for us, especially as the men’s won their game before ours, so it was a great day for the club,” RedStar’s Larissa Walsh said. “We were going into the first game on a high after last week’s night series game, which can impact the game positively or negatively. The start of the first half we weren’t playing at a level that we should have been, but this is why I love this team so much it is because we didn’t get mad or frustrated at each other. We all realised the level wasn’t as high and picked each other up. We finished the second part of the first half on a good playing level and took that into the second half. Credit to the NTC though, this season the players are younger and still learning and developing however they didn’t make it easy for us, even with 10 players near the end you could tell that they wanted to challenge us.
“However, although our name has changed our team and the squad hasn’t. There is a core group of us who have been playing together for 3-plus years now and I think that is showing. We created plenty of opportunities up front this weekend, with four different goal scorers which is a positive sign, especially as in the past we haven’t been as strong in front of goals as other clubs. Our defence is looking solid, they communicate well between each other and dealt with NTCs fast pace well. We also have a solid bench with plenty of u21s looking to gain that experience on the field. It makes trainings fun and challenging as you know you always have a younger player trying to challenge you for your spot, something which I think every player needs to experience if they want to play at their best, bring on the next game.”
In Saturday’s other game Perth SC have beaten Balcatta Etna 2-0 in the Italian Derby at Dorrien Gardens. It was supposed to be a ‘Super Saturday’ playing after the Men’s NPL game against Armadale, but the game was called off due to covid. It was a tight game in the first half, with both sides having chances, but it was on the hour that the hosts found the opener, Abbey Meakins converting from the spot. They had to wait until stoppage time to seal the points, with substitute Taneeshaa Baker scoring. “More than happy with the three points as we know it’s crucial to hit the ground running with a win in what I'm expecting to be a very tight race for top four and the title,” Perth Coach Peter Rakic explained. “It's imperative to carry that momentum into next week's fixture, especially off the back of a very frustrating night series campaign. I thought the girls were exceptional for most parts of the game, protecting the ball in possession and frustrating Balcatta throughout. It was a slightly different approach with a few gambles on players in new positions and seeing a lot of potential moving forward which gives not only myself but the girls a lot of confidence in knowing we have versatility and depth. We've been working tirelessly together and overall, I’m very pleased at their progress in a new system and can't wait to see their performances when we put every piece of the puzzle together.”
In Sunday’s game Fremantle City have begun the season with a 2-0 win against Curtin University. They found the opener on 22 minutes, Kayla McCulloch sent Natasha Rigby down the right, her cross found its way to Jamie-Lee Gale, who finished low past Sam Cavill. They doubled their lead on 54 minutes, McCulloch found Alex Poad in the middle of the park and her surging run ended with a through ball to Gale, who raced into goal and found the net to double her tally. “It’s great to start off with a win especially with five under 21 players in the squad due to injuries,” a delighted Fremantle Coach Garry Church said. “But pleased with the overall performance and the intensity that the girls played at.” Goalscorer Jamie-Lee Gale said they stuck to the game plan and got the rewards. “I thought our girls did really well at controlling the game today and being patient when we were in possession,” she said. “We had quite a few players missing today unfortunately but we stuck to our game plan and did well in the hot conditions at keeping the ball. We still need to work on being more clinical in the final third, but will keep working on this at training this week ready for Subiaco on Sunday.”
2.4.2022
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND TWO – REVIEW
In our State League Division One ‘Match of the Round’ a ten-man Mandurah City have fought out a 1-1 draw and Fremantle City at Genesiscare Stadium. “Looking back at the game we feel we should have got the win,” Mandurah midfielder Lydon Hodgkiss said. “We didn’t start the game to the standards we have been playing to lately but always felt we was fully in control of the game. We created a number of chances, but wasn’t able to put them anyway and ended up finding ourselves 1-0 down at half time which we were disappointed with. Second half we were once again in control of the game and pushing for the equaliser but then we got a sending off. As a team this didn’t set us back and we pushed on and shown great character to make it 1-1. After that we had loads of chances to win the game but was unable to put them away. Next week we kick on and we will be making sure we get three points in the derby against Rockingham.”
A tight first half came to life in stoppage time as the visitors hit the front, Matty Sparrow’s corner picked out Hayden Stevens at the back post, and the former Perth Glory Youth defender headed home. The hosts were then reduced to ten men eight minutes into the second half when Joshua Macri was brought down by Silas Becsi, he thought he had won the ball but referee Michael Nguyen thought different and sent him off as he was the last man. But Mandurah weren’t finished and levelled 13 minutes from time, a great diagonal ball from John Baird sent James Paylor down the left, his low cross was turned home clinically by Craig Barker.
“If you’d said to us before the game, we’d walk away from Mandurah with a point we probably would have taken it, however, heading in at half time 1-0 up and then to have an extra man for 30-plus minutes in the second half, to only walk away with a draw feels like two points dropped,” Fremantle defender Stevens explained. “In saying that, fair play to Mandurah, they’re a tough side and never threw in the towel, and I think they deserved a point based on the balance of the game. We move on to next week and look to gain three points at home against Subiaco.”
Olympic Kingsway moved to the top of the table after a 4-0 win against Subiaco at Olympic Kingsway. “I thought we controlled the majority of the game against an energetic Subiaco side,” Olympic coach David Tough explained. “Overall, it was a really good professional performance from the players.” The hosts made the best possible start, hitting the front after only six minutes. Calum O’Connell’s cross from the left found Tommy Amphlett, who raced into the box and his flick took a slight deflection off Matej Centrih before hitting the back of the net. They doubled their lead on 19 minutes, O’Connell was again involved, bursting down the left and in to the penalty area, his low cross was turned home by the unmarked David Perich, at the second attempt. Subiaco, who were coming off a big win at Dianella in the opening game continued to look for the goal to get them back into the game, but they were caught short at the back on 95 minutes, as Olympic added a third.
A superb tackle in the middle of the park by Taylor Garner started the move, he found Daniel Harrison, who sent James Fanelli, down the right, his low cross found Nick Koefler, and his shot on the turn beat Subiaco keeper Teophile Brown. The icing was put on the cake sixty seconds later as the hosts added a fourth. Skipper Shane Cassidy played the ball out of the back to Harrison, whose searching ball sent Fanelli racing clear and he held off his marker before finding the bottom corner. “A good positive win for the team, and I thought we took control of most of the game,” Olympic defender O’Connell said. “Scoring two quick goals burst the bubble for Subiaco, but to their credit they still made it difficult for us and we got a bit complacent at times, but overall, for us it was a clinical performance and another clean sheet.”
UWA Nedlands bounced back from their first-round loss at Fremantle, beating Rockingham City 3-1 at the UWA Sports Park. The hosts were ahead on 14 minutes, Luke Trower through-ball sent Jason Rule in on goal, and he lobbed the oncoming City keeper Phillip Herschell. The visitors were reduced to ten men on 40 minutes, after Mitch Firth was sent off for a second yellow card, and UWA capitalized immediately, making it 2-0 minutes later. The impressive Rule was involved again, this time he combined with Boas Mwtale, before crossing into the box, and the ball was turned home by Sam Moffat. They wrapped up the points on the hour after skipper Luke Randazzo was bought down in the box and referee Andre Ferreira pointed to the spot.
Substitute Charlie Breen stepped up to take the resulting penalty, but Herschell guessed the right way to save, but Breen was quickest to the rebound and fired home the rebound. Rockingham scored a consolation goal late, with Taylor Carter scoring, but it was too little too late. “Really pleased to get our first win and three points for the season, but will certainly need to produce stronger performances moving forward,” Randazzo said. “Rockingham’s red card in the first half changed the complexion of the game but unfortunately, we were able to further capitalise with a bigger win. Lots to work on this week as we prepare for MUMFC who are red hot at the moment.”
Western Knights began their season with a hard fought 2-1 win against Joondalup United at Forrest Park. With Head Coach Adam Kostrencic unavailable assistant coach Wayne Thorpe said they need to be better going forward. “We certainly made hard work of the win the performance was below our standards we set at the club having the extra man for 85 minutes,” he said. “We didn’t take advantage of the game with the extra player we should have had been able to have more ball retention, but credit to Joondalup they worked there socks off. We’re glad to get the three points but as a group we will have to put in better performances than we showed on the weekend.” The visitors’ first game was called off due to covid, while the hosts lost their opener at Forrestfield last week, and it didn’t start well for United with Matthew Corrigan sent off by referee Albert Muyembe after only four minutes. The Knights made their numerical advantage count 16 minutes later, with Dylan White scoring.
They doubled their advantage just after the half hour mark, Noah Shamaki on target, and it looked like they would cruise to the points. But on 72 minutes Adam Harris was also sent off and the hosts looked to find a foot hold on the game. They did score a consolation goal late, substitute Andrew Flint setting up a frantic couple of minutes but the Knights held firm to leave with the points. “It was a strange game with Joondalup going down to 10 men early on but we took advantage straight away by going two up in the first half,” Knights Paul Lloyd said. “We took our foot off the pedal early in the second half and allowed them back into the game but then showed grit and spirit to grind out the win after going down to 10 men as well with Adam Harris sending off, but we’re delighted to be off the mark with three points after our first game.”
In the final game Dianella White Eagles and Quinns have shared the spoils after a 2-2 draw at Dianella Reserve on Saturday evening. “A bit disappointed with the result as we conceded some poor goals and had some great chances to get the winner,” Quinns sipper Adam Buckingham said. “But overall, a point away from home after a week off is not a bad result.” It was the visitors who opened the scoring on 35 minutes, Jackson Dongray’s long-throw was flicked on by Buckingham, and Ben Hinshelwood poked the ball home at the back post. But I’m first half stoppage time Dianella found the equaliser. Harry Blunt slid Kristian Despotovski in on goal, and the striker lobbed the oncoming keeper. The game was up for grabs and both teams went for it after the break, and it was Quinns who regained the lead on the hour.
Dongray’s free kick from his own half found Hinshelwood on the edge of the box, who lopped his header over Peter Pilkadaris. But moments later Dianella restored parity, a throw in was controlled by Daniel Mackenzie, who laid the ball back to Despotovski who fired the ball home from the edge of the box, to give both sides a share of the spoils. “The game was a tough game as we expected, but the boys were up for it and were ready to prove that last week’s result was just a one off,” Despotovski explained. “We know Quinn’s are a quality side as they have proved that over the last couple of years. Both teams created chances and it was a really open game, I believe we played better especially in the second half and I believe we deserved the win but we just couldn’t find the winning goal which was frustrating, but all in all we are pleased with the performance as it is a step in the right direction and we look forward to improving one better with a win.” The game between Forrestfield United and Murdoch University Melville was called off due to covid.
2.4.2022
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND TWO – REVIEW
Carramar Shamrock Rovers made it two wins on the bounce to start the season after a 4-0 win against a ten-man Joondalup City, in our ‘Match of the Round’ at Grandis Park. Jack Bardsley was the hero bagging a hat-trick, but he said it was a good all-round team performance. “We were really in the right mindset going into this game, we know Joondalup are a good side and they just beat the team that knocked us out of the cup so it was always going to be tough,” Bardsley explained. “We started the game the stronger side, and we continued to have most of the play and kept creating chances. Overall, we were stoked with this performance and it really makes last week’s performance better too, and we hope to continue this output against Balga next week.”
It was a good start for the hosts, ahead after only six minutes, Callum Traynor’s through ball sent Jamie Gibson clear, and he finished neatly. The visitors then lost Daniel Dyson, who was sent off by referee Liviu Katona, after a tackle on Alan Reidy, and Bardsley made them pay more, firing home the resulting free kick from the edge of the box. It was 3-0 just before half time, Bardsley was brought down on the edge of the penalty area, and he dispatched the free kick past the keeper. They added a fourth just after the hour, Reidy sending Bardsley in on goal, and he completed his hat-trick clinically.
Kingsley Westside secures their first win of the season, after a 5-0 win against Canning City at Flinders Park. The hosts were ahead after only five minutes, Darren Oroidan won the ball at top of the box, eased past his marker, before finishing across Canning keeper Alec Radonich. They doubled their advantage in the shadows of half time, Canning failed to clear a corner and Kieron Salmon rose highest to head home. They sealed the points with a third goal after the break, on 65 minutes, Cameron Bishop sent clear, and he found the bottom corner. The icing was put on the cake ten minutes from time when they added a fifth. Luke Coltman getting on the end of a neat build up down the left, before finding the far corner of the net. “I felt the result was the right one by the end of the game we dominated in all areas of the pitch,” Kingsley coach Steven Dimitrovich said. “I was most pleased with the attitude of the boys this week and the way we put last week’s result behind us and got the win, but now we move onto a big game this week in Joondalup City.”
Curtin University have come home from Wotton Reserve with all three points after a seven-goal thriller against Morley-Windmills. The visitors raced to a 2-0 lead in the opening eight minutes, first Daniel Nocciolino heading home at the back post from a corner, and moments later Theo Chapota was brought down in the box and referee Walter Ciotti pointed straight to the spot. He picked himself up and calmly slotted the penalty past Luke Hutcheson. It was 3-0 to Curtin ten minutes into the second half, Kieran Witt effort was bundled into his own net by the Morley keeper. But Morley hit back with two quick goals, Tyler Holden making it 1-3 on 65 minutes, and Stephen Musonda added another two minutes later. The home crowd were on their feet again on 75 minutes, when Nikola Zmukic levelled. But Curtin won it two minutes later Oscar Wright firing home from long-range, to make it 4-3 and end an entertaining game.
Both Wanneroo City and Balga had the settle for a point, after a 3-3 draw at Wanneroo Reserve. “After our team went down twice the boys showed a great team spirit and came back playing good football,” Balga coach Gerhard Janssen explained. “When we scored to make it 3-2, we could have extended the lead but Wanneroo never gave up and equalised. At the end we could thank our excellent goalie that we could take one point home to Princess Road.” The hosts were ahead on five minutes, Nathan Scully sent clear and lobbed the on-coming keeper. But after half time Balga levelled, with John Lahai scoring from a tight angle five minutes in. But Wanneroo regained the lead four minutes later, Scully volleying home.
But Balga weren’t finished, and Bleron Mamudi fired home a free kick from the edge of the box just after the hour to restore parity, and hit the front moments later, new signing Ben Wantee scoring. But Wanneroo lifted and levelled things up again on 70 minutes, a cross into the box found Scully who headed home to complete his hat-trick. The hosts pressed late but Balga keeper Timothy Rossi made a couple of great saves, so both sides shared the spoils. “Overall, the game was quite comfortable, but to score three goals and not come away with the three points is very disappointing,” Wanneroo coach Jesse Bridgeman said. The games between South West Phoenix and Ashfield, and Swan United and Gosnells City were both called off due to covid.
2.4.2022
THERE'S NO STOPPING GLORY TEEN OSTLER
Perth Glory teenage rising star Tent Ostler has overcome huge adversity to make his A-League dream come true. The attacking midfielder battled back-to-back knee reconstructions to debut from the bench against Newcastle Jets on Wednesday and is expected to make his second appearance in Sunday’s clash against Macarthur.
Ostler admits having doubts about his future in two frustrating years after representing Australia at the 2019 Under-17 World Cup in Brazil. The Glory academy graduate was 17 when he wrecked his left knee in a match and 10 months later did the same damage while training. Now 19, Ostler returned to the National Premier League in January and this week made his A-League debut.
“It was a tough two years . I had doubts, especially after the second knee,” Ostler said. “I didn’t know If I would be able to come back to be honest. “The club obviously backed me, gave me support. I put in the work and it’s worked out all right. It was unreal to go on, especially at home in front of my family who have been with me all the way, the ups and downs. I was more excited than nervous.”
During his rehab Ostler, who spent his junior days playing for ECU Joondalup, worked with interim A-League coach Ruben Zadkovich who was then head of the Glory academy. “He was always there giving me support, telling me when I got back he would be there.”
Zadkovich knows all about fighting back from injury. He tore his groin tackling superstar Lionel Messi at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, an injury that almost ended his career at Derby County before it started. “I got to work with Trent one-on-one for long periods of his rehab,” Zadkovich said.
“The one thing that really resonates when I think back to those sessions, he was always willing to give his best, he was always open to be coached, he was always listening. He’s a consummate professional. A humble young man. If he can stay really focused, continue to improve and build, I think he’s got a massive future in the game.
“He has the type of resolve it takes to be a professional footballer. It’s the best job in the world but it comes with pressures. It comes with a weight of expectation and some people deal with that better than others. I think Trent is really well equipped, given what he’s been through, to deal with the adversity that football will throw at him in the next few years.”
“I spent nearly 18 months without playing a competitive game and had doubts, whether my career was over. I’m sure Trent’s gone through those demons. The fact that he’s shaken them off and the fact that he’s worked so hard to get back to where he is, is a massive indication of his potential.”
1.4.2022
NPL-WA ROUND THREE - PREVIEW
This week’s NPLWA Men’s ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to Hartfield Park on Friday evening, where Perth Glory host Floreat Athena. (7.30pm) Both sides opened their season with wins last week, a Ciaran Bramwell brace giving Glory three points at Inglewood United, while Floreat won comfortably against Balcatta, so this one will be a great contest. The last time the two sides met at the venue, was in round two last season when Floreat left with a 4-0 win, with current Perth Glory A-League striker Joshua Anasmo grabbing a hat-trick, the other from Nick Ambrogio.
Glory midfielder Chris Donnell said it was a good opening win, and this week they will have Alex Epakis in the dugout, the Glory Women’s coach stepping up to coach the youngsters along with Ago Mujic, who led the side to victory last week. “I thought the boys did extremely well to come away with the three points on Saturday, as Inglewood are always a tough side to play against and really put the pressure on in the last 20 minutes, so it was definitely a big win,” he explained.
“It has been a bit different this week whilst everything was getting sorted, however we are always focused on the next game no matter the circumstances and Ago did a brilliant job to get us over the line last week.” Donnell said Friday is a huge task, against a very good Floreat side, but he said they are ready for the challenge. “Floreat have always given us tough games and Friday night will be no different,” the midfielder said. “With the experience and quality, they have we need to be at our best to get a result, but we’re looking forward to it.”
New Floreat defender Riley Woodcock was on target against Balcatta, and he said it was a good opening win and he’s enjoying his football at the moment. “It was great to get off the mark with such a dominant win. We were a little bit rusty first 20 minutes, this after not playing for a couple weeks, but once we found our feet we grew into the game and put them to bed which was nice, and always great to keep a clean sheet,” he explained. “Everyone’s been very welcoming and it’s a good group of guys here. Obviously, it’s a really experienced group that’s been together for quite some time so I’m really enjoying it.”
Woodcock, who played A-League football for the Glory between 2013 -2015, said Friday will be another tough game, but they go in to it in a confident mood. “Glory are always tough to play against, and you can usually expect they’ll dominate most of the ball and they have good players all across the park so we need to make sure we’re up to it and match their intensity,” he explained. “We played them in the recent night series and won 3-2, so we’re confident we can a result, but it should be a good game.”
In other games on Saturday, it’s a local derby at Grindleford Reserve, where Balcatta host Stirling Macedonia. The sides have had a completely different start to the season, Stirling winning both games, while Balcatta are still searching for their first point, but it’s a derby and anything can happen. Early league leaders Perth RedStar will also be looking for three straight wins when they host Inglewood United at the ECU Football Stadium, Cockburn City will hopefully kick start their season, after both their opening games were called off due to covid, when they host Bayswater City at Dalmatinac Park, while Armadale travel to Dorrien Gardens to take on Perth SC.
In the final game Sorrento welcome Gwelup Croatia to Percy Doyle Reserve. The visitors game at Cockburn was called off last week due to covid in the camp, they hope things have cleared up this week. The hosts bagged five last week against Armadale, and skipper Ryan McLaughlin said the game was a lot closer. “I thought the game was closer than the 5-1 scoreline suggests. We did well to put away the chances we created in the first half and that gave us a nice cushion going into half time,” he explained. “After half time it was all about defending as a team and seeing the game out and I thought we did that well. A goal at the start of the second half really put us in a good position and we were able to seal the three points late on. A good performance to start the season but plenty to work on”
McLaughlin was outstanding last season, and was rewarded by being named captain, and he is looking forward to the Gwelup game on Saturday as they look to maintain their winning start. “I thought myself and the team had a great year last year, we weren’t tipped to be in the running for the league last year but we knew we had the quality to challenge the top teams,” he said. “Yes, it’s always nice to be given the captains armband, but there’s a handful of guys in the squad that could have been given it. We’ve got the quality to challenge for the league again this year and we’ll need everyone to play their part. “As for Saturday, I think Gwelup will be a tough test. They had a tough opening game away at a good Perth Redstar team, who I think will be challenging for the league this year. Gwelup are a changed outfit this year but I still expect them to give us a difficult game on Saturday at Percy Doyle.”
1.4.2022
NPL-WA WOMEN'S ROUND ONE - PREVIEW
The 2022 NPLWA Women’s competition begins this weekend and we are looking forward to bringing you a comprehensive preview and review of each round during the season. In our first ‘Match of the Round’ we make the trip to Besteam Stadium as Murdoch University Melville entertain Subiaco on Friday evening. (7.30pm) Both sides go into the new season with new Head Coaches, with Luke Thompson hoping to guide MUM FC to back-to-back league titles, while Greg Farrell, who was only appointed last week, will look to improve the side after finishing bottom of the table last term.
MUMFC are a club on the rise, and after taking out the title last season, the men’s senior team winning promotion and the juniors improving each year. Thompson said there has been a lot of hard work put in to get the club to where they are today. “The club has put a lot of hard work and effort to get to this point, it wasn’t just over night, it’s been a long process overseen by the committee and the club’s technical director,” he explained. “It’s rewards for everyone’s hard work and planning and we hope to keep moving forward, developing players to help us achieve the goals we set for us.”
They missed out on a semi-final spot in the Night Series, but Thompson said they played well and they are ready for the new season. “The team has undergone a lot of changes during preseason, with many players taking up the opportunity to play in the NPL in the eastern states to help them with their dreams of A-League which has meant a lot of opportunity for our younger players to step up. We had a good result against Subiaco and were only one minute away from beating the Redbacks who won the whole competition. Our only really disappointing performance was against Balcatta where I felt we were too sloppy with the ball but with a squad of really young players you are going to have games where things don’t go to plan, but overall, I was happy with the night series.”
Thompson, who has been involved at Trinity College for 15 years as a sports teacher, and coached North Perth United and in the State League with Kingsley Westside, said Friday’s opening game of the season is one he is looking forward to, and with Subiaco only appointing their coach recently he’s not sure what to expect from them. “Subiaco have only just got a new coach in the last week or so, so I have very little idea what to expect from them as Greg (Farrell) will have different ideas to what he wants his team to do compared to what we played against in the Night Series,” he said. “We just need to focus on what we want to do and how we want to play and hopefully if we can do that consistently enough, we can get the points.”
Greg Farrell has hit the ground running after his appointment last week, and he said it’s been hectic but the players have been fantastic. “Yes, it’s a big challenge going into the first game of the season with only a handful of sessions, but we’ll do the best that we can on Friday night, but it will be about building up over the next month,” he said. “The players and coaches have been terrific at adjusting and have been welcoming, so we’ll move forward together regardless of results, and the aim will be for performances to improve week to week.”
Farrell, who has coached at Northern Redbacks and Beckenham over the years, before heading to Rosalie Park, said Friday will be tough, but they head their looking for a positive performance. “MUM FC is a very tough first up match to have, and judging by the team they had in night series, they’ve lost some senior players, but they’ve also got some of the best young players in the league, so it will be tough,” he explained. “They’ll be hungry to prove themselves and start off the season making a statement, we will be as prepared as possible and do our best to get the best out of everyone for 90 minutes. If we can be organised and disciplined defensively then we’ll have a platform to build from for future weeks.”
In other games in the opening round, Perth SC welcome Italian rivals Balcatta Etna to Dorrien Gardens on Saturday afternoon at 5.00pm, as part of the clubs Super Saturday with the men’s side also playing prior, while Fremantle City host Curtin University at Hilton Park on Sunday afternoon. (3.00pm) In the final game it’s a new era at the RedStar Arena, with the first game for Perth RedStar, after their merger with ECU Joondalup, as they entertain the Hyundai NTC, also in a double header with the Men’s team (5.00pm)
It’s been a busy week for Shawn Billam, who got married to Joondalup United striker Dan Corbett last Saturday, before helping the club to the Night series title on Sunday, and now the club play their first game as Perth RedStar, and she said it will be a big day against the NTC. “The first RedStar game will be great everyone is excited to start our new chapter. We’re all looking forward to playing at RedStar arena, it’s a great pitch so will be good to play there this year,” she said. “The NTC are always challenging, they have a plethora of young talented players full of energy so they are always a challenge to play. We haven’t played them yet so will be excited to see what they have up their sleeve.”
RedStar coach Carlos Vega Mena said everyone at the club is looking forward to the clubs debut, and is expecting a tough first up game. “We are all looking forward to starting a new chapter at Perth RedStar this weekend. Everyone at the club has been working hard to ensure a smooth transition. We are looking forward to playing at RedStar Arena and trying out the new pitch,” he said “Round One for us is very special as it will be the first ‘Super Saturday’ at the club where the women’s NPL play straight after the men’s NPL. This will help create a sense of unity and community within the club and we are all excited to be a part of Perth RedStar.
“I always believe NTC has the best young talent in Perth. They have skill, youth and fitness on their side and are always well coached. This combination makes them dangerous and we will need to perform to get the three points. These girls play some quality football and I think it will be an entertaining game to watch.”
1.4.2022
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND TWO – PREVIEW
We head into week two of the State League Division One, and in our ‘Match of the Round’ we visit the Genesiscare Stadium, as Mandurah City host Fremantle City. (All games kick off at 3.00pm, unless stated) Fremantle took out the local derby against UWA Nedlands to start the season last week, while the hosts were narrowly beaten at Olympic Kingsway, conceding the only goal of the game three minutes from time. Last time they met at the venue was in round 16 last season, when they fought out an eight-goal thriller. The visitors raced to a two-goal lead early with Callum Stocks and Adrian Ciampini on target, but a Rory McGrath braced levelled at the break. It was end to end and Matthew Sparrow and Taylor Carter scoring to make it 3-3, but it looked like Fremantle had won it when Silas Becsi scored and own goal. But the Dolphins weren’t finished and two minutes from time Harry Collins restored parity giving both sides a share of the spoils.
Mandurah skipper Harry Collins said it was disappointing to come away empty handed after a good performance against Olympic, but they took a lot from the game moving forward. “There were plenty of positives to take away from it,” he said. “I thought we were unlucky with the final score line, and it could have gone either way at the end but that’s football.” The league is tight his season, and the Dolphins are one of many sides who could challenge for the title, and Collins said having the experience of Head Coach on the Park is a huge plus, and after strengthening their squad in the off season, they are all looking forward to returning home and playing in front of their supporters. “We added a few quality players to strengthen our side from last season’s team, and the way pre-season went and the experience and back ground John brings, I don’t see why we can’t be challenging for the title,” the skipper said. “We will be looking to bounce back after last week in front of a big home crowd in Mandurah. Which we all look forward too.”
New Fremantle winger Hamza Hina was on target in last week’s win against UWA, and he said it was a great way to start the season as they push for a spot on the NPLWA. “I really enjoyed the first game of the season felt like finally all of our pre-season efforts started to pay off in that game, and I was also buzzing to score and have two assists to start off the season with a bang,” he said. “I genuine believe we have a proper shot at promotion this year as we've prepared well for the long run, it's a marathon not a sprint and we've prepared accordingly.” Hina, who joined the port side from Olympic Kingsway this season, said a trip to Mandurah is always tough, but they are ready for the challenge. ‘Mandurah especially away from home is always an entertaining game,” he said. “Add to that the crowd and atmosphere, so we will definitely be up for it.”
In other games on Saturday, the winners from last week meet, with Subiaco travelling to Kingsway Reserve to take on Olympic Kingsway, (5.00pm), Joondalup United welcome Western Knights to Forrest Park, while UWA Nedlands entertain Rockingham City at the UWA Sports Park. The game between Forrestfield United and Murdoch University Melville has been called off due to covid. In the final game Dianella White Eagles will look to bounce back from last week’s heavy loss against Subiaco, when they host Quinns at Dianella Reserve. (5.00pm) Dianella striker Kristian Despotovski said last week was disappointing start to the season, but they have moved on. “The game was one we want to forget about, we went out there with a game plan and we didn’t execute,” he explained. “Subiaco we’re first to every ball and just wanted it more than us and they got the reward for their hard work.”
The club have added a number of NPL experienced players to their squad this season, and Despotovski believes they can reach the NPL, but all they are focused on at the moment is Saturday against Quinns. “I have no doubt that this squad is capable of getting into the NPL, but our focus is Division One and taking it one game at a time and just working hard to get the results we want and know we can get,” he said. “Quinn’s have always been a tough team to play against. They have a quality side which can hurt any team but I have no doubt that we will be up to the challenge, so it should be a good game.”
1.4.2022
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND TWO – PREVIEW
It’s week two of State League Division Two, and in our ‘Match of the Round’ sees two teams who got their season of off to a winning start meet, with Carramar Shamrock Rovers entertaining Joondalup City at Grandis Park. (All games kick off at 3.00pm, unless stated) The hosts ran out big winners against Canning City last week, with Jamie Gibson bagging a hat-Trick, while a goal from Ewan Fawcett saw Joondalup return home from Wanneroo City with all three points. Last time they met at the venue was in round 20 last season, with Joondalup running out 3-0 winners. Joondalup were ahead just before the hour mark, with defender Nick Koefler heading home a set-piece. They doubled their lead on 72 minutes, Matt Blake finding the net and the points were wrapped up with Sam McCracken scoring from the spot.
Joondalup’s Gareth Lloyd said it was a good win to start the season, and he said they are determined to improve on last season’s disappointing ninth place finish. “It took us a while to get going last Saturday and we need to sort that out moving forward. I thought after the first 10 minutes we controlled the game and it should have been a few more at the end of the game to be honest,’ he explained. “With the squad that Brad (Haywood) has assembled we are aiming for a Top Four finish and there is no reason why we can’t achieve that. There are some really good young lads in this squad (Ewan Fawcett, Jack Reilly and Joshua Pasco to name a few) and with the right guidance from the coaches and the more experienced lads we are confident as a squad we can achieve our goals this season.”
Lloyd, who has played for Morley-Windmills, Ashfield and last Saturday’s opponents Wanneroo City, said Saturday will be another tight contest, but they head there looking for three points. “There’s no doubt about it, Saturday will be a battle, they also had a positive result last week so they will be up for it,” he said “There is never an easy game when you play Shamrock especially at their ground, they have always been a physical team and play a very direct brand of football. We have to be switched on from the get go, and I’m confident after a good week on the track if we all rock up and be accountable, there is no reason why we can’t come away with all three points.”
Rovers’ Ger Fitzgerald said three points to start the season was important. “Yes, it was great win and start to the season and we scored some good goals,” he said. “Everyone played very well and Jamie (Gibson) was outstanding with three well taken goals. The only downside was we gave away two soft penalties, so have to make sure that doesn’t happen again.” Fitzgerald said the league is tight this season, and you will need to be at your best each week. “It’s an extremely tight league this year which will make it exciting,” he explained.
“With it being so close everyone will have to make sure they turn up prepared every week as they will be punished if they don’t. There won’t be much between the top six teams whoever they are come the end of the season. We know Joondalup City are a very good team, and have signed some good players, so it should be a good game. Every time we play them it’s always a close game, so we will prepare the same as usual and look forward to it and hopefully get a good result.”
In other games on Saturday, Gosnells City head to the Swan Valley to take on Swan United at Francis Street, while Wanneroo City and Balga meet at Wanneroo Reserve, with both sides looking to bounce back from defeats last week. Morley-Windmills and Curtin University both won their opener, and will be looking for back-to-back wins when they meet at Wotton Reserve, meanwhile the game between South West Phoenix and Ashfield at Hay Park in Bunbury has been postponed due to covid cases in the Phoenix side.
In the final game Kingsley Westside entertain Canning City at Flinders Park. Canning went down 5-2 at Shamrock last week, while Kingsley let a two-goal lead slip at Swan to draw 2-2. Striker Johnny Hulme said it was two-points dropped last week and they will be looking to make emends on Saturday. “It was disappointing to come away with a draw after playing so well in the first half. I thought we didn’t do much wrong in the game but they scored one wonder goal which you can do nothing about and then an unlucky late goal from a weak free kick, but it was a good runout for the first game of the season,” he explained. “On Saturday it’ll be good for us to play our first home game of the season at our new ground, but Canning are always a tough opponent to play so should be an interesting game but it would be great to get our first win after a disappointing draw last week.”
1.4.2022
BELT-UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION NIGHT SERIES – FINAL PREVIEW
The 2022 Belt-Up Amateur Premier League Night Series concludes on Sunday, with Kelmscott Roos taking on East Perth in the final at E&D Litis stadium on Sunday afternoon. (3.00pm) Both clubs are new to the league, East Perth promoted from Division One, while Kelmscott were relegated from the State League. Both had hard fought wins in the semi-finals to make Sunday’s showdown, East Perth travelled to Kwinana and came home with a 2-1 win, while Kelmscott came home from Joondalup with a 4-3 win, coming from 2-1 down at the break.
Kelmscott coach Serge Tucci said the performance of his team in the semi-final was outstanding, and their never say die attitude got them over the line. “Travelling to Joondalup was always going to have its challenges, and it was. I believe a great team effort to show fight and belief in a game that was really evenly balanced throughout,” he explained. “For a team to go from 2-1 down early in the second half and then respond with three team-built goals in 20 minutes is character, and some entertaining football.”
Sunday will be the first cup final the club have been involved in since winning the State League Cup in 1986, and Tucci said there has been a great deal of work behind the scenes to prepare for this season after relegation, and they are ready for a tough final. “Coming into the pre-season I was introduced to Martin Smith and then Lee Lewis and as assistant and team manager and Dennis Warwick as reserves coach, and senior representative at the club, we looked at building a team and game that we think can be competitive in this league,” he explained
“Some players never returned, but that is football and good luck to them at their new clubs, but we just build on what we have, trust the new players that come to see what Kelmscott is about. So far, we've started well to the preseason campaign and winning games is pleasing for all especially after the last few horror years this club has endured. We’re all looking forward to this weekend’s Grand Final against East Perth. Colm, Jason and their team have also built a squad that’s going to be strong though out this year's campaign and all we hope that we lift and bring on our game this weekend and play some good football.”
Kelmscott’s Vaughan Audrain said the win at Joondalup was a great team effort, and they are working hard to bounce back after relegation last year. “It was a great win indeed, Joondalup came at us hard from the get go. They had numerous opportunities early on before we woke up. Personally, I think, if we were more clinical, we should have been 2 or 3 up before conceding the penalty, and our heads were down at the break,” he explained. “But we bounced back, which I feel was very important as momentum was shifted in our favour. We were left pretty shaky after the sending off as they piled on the pressure, creating chance after chance, but we managed to hang on to the final whistle.
“Last year was a tough year for the Roos. Relegation is hard any club, but there is a core group of players that have been in and around the club for a while now. We’ve started building from there and adding to our squad depth. In Serge, the coaching staff, President and committee there is a sense belief and hunger, and our main goal for season 2022 is to gain promotion into state league once more.”
Audrain said Sunday’s final will be a great occasion for the club, but on the pitch, they are ready to bring home the silverware. “Congratulations to East Perth for making the Grand Final. We played them in a friendly, not too long before the night series began, and they are a well drilled and experienced side which saw them victorious on the day,” he said. “It will be another close encounter between two new teams in this Amateur Premier Division, both hungry for some silverware. We know what we’re up against and vice versa. There’s a certain buzz amongst the lads and we are all ready for the challenge that lies ahead.”
Only formed in 2013, East Perth will go into its first Night Series Final, on the back of some good form which saw them go unbeaten in the group stage, and coach Jason Winter said the win at Kwinana was a disciplined performance. “I thought the Kwinana game was a tough competitive game as expected, with two teams looking to reach a semi-final,” he said. “But myself and Colm were very happy with the result against a very good side. “
Winter said their life in the Premier League has been good, but he isn’t getting carried away, and knows the league is very competitive, like Sunday’s final against Kelmscott will be. “I’d have to agree our start has been very pleasing, but we know it’s still early days for this group and we have lots to work on moving forward,” the coach explained. “We’ve actually played Kelmscott already in an early a pre-season friendly. The game itself was a very close game and they have a lot of good players throughout their squad so it should make for a great final.”
East Perth skipper Juraj Galba said the going to Kwinana is never easy, and the semi-final was a tough game, but they did enough on the day to get the win. “I thought it was a great win against a strong Kwinana side, and it's never easy to play down there. I thought we had a good game although in some parts of the game we lost the possession too easily,’ he said. “We had few chances to score in the first half which we should have converted and the game would be different. But at the end of the day, a win is a win and we're in the cup final.”
Galba echoed the coaches’ comments about their start to life in the Premier League, and said Sunday would be a great way to start things off. “Yes, we’ve had some good results but we're staying grounded. We know that if we take the foot of the gas, such as against Bassendean a couple of weeks ago, we will be punished,” he said. “We're still getting to know each other and developing as a team, and there is still plenty of hard work needed to be where we want to be.
“We beat Kelmscott already in the preseason at their ground but this time is likely to be a different. At that time, I think it was their first game of the season and they run out of steam towards the end of the game. They had some good individuals and I expect a tough game. we will have to be at our best to win. That being said, we know we're capable to beat them and are all looking forward to taking Kelmscott on.”
31.3.2022
GLORY QUINTET NAMED IN YOUNG MATILDAS
Five Perth Glory players have been named in the Young Matildas squad to play New Zealand. Called up for the two-game Trans Tasman series in Canberra are Hana Lowry, Abbey Green, Aideen Keane, Sofia Sakalis and Claudia Mihocic along with former Football West representatives Leticia McKenna (Melbourne City) and Miranda Templeman (Adelaide United) have been selected.
Glory Women’s coach Alex Epakis is thrilled by the quintet’s selection in the 28-player squad. “We have the highest representation of any club within that camp,” Epakis said. “I think that speaks volumes in terms of the players’ progress that was made this season. “The fact that those players now get an opportunity to be in front of national team staff is something that we should all celebrate.”
The Young Matildas coach Leah Blayney will use the games, on 6 and 10 April, to prepare for the under-20 Women’s World Cup in Costa Rica in August. “This two-match international series against New Zealand is the first phase in ensuring the Young Matildas are best prepared for the exciting moment ahead of them in August,” Blayney said.
“We have been building together as a group for almost two years without the opportunity to test ourselves in international standard match conditions. It makes this series crucial in bringing together the players and fostering familiarity with our coaching staff and each other. We have an array of talent in our country and these home matches are an excellent platform to showcase the next generation of Australian footballers.”
31.3.2022
FUTURE IS BRIGHT WITH NEXT GENERATION OF HOMEGROWN TALENT, SAYS ZADKOVICH
By necessity, and a fair chunk of design, Perth Glory interim coach Ruben Zadkovich is pushing ahead with the club’s need to breed its own local talent. With finances stretched, it was previous coach Richard Garcia’s brief to bring the next generation into the A-League.
What Garcia started Zadkovich, Glory’s former academy coach, continued in Wednesday’s goalless home draw against Newcastle Jets. With a dozen key senior players unavailable Zadkovich had a match day squad, average age under 23, with five teenagers in the line-up.
Aidan Coyne, 17, was on his starting debut, Joseph Forde, 18, and Trent Ostler, 19, made their first appearance from the bench, Josh Rawlins, 17, continued to impress and Joshua Anasmo, 19, was in just his second game. Eight players were the core of last year’s NPL side.
Zadkovich said it showed there was a bright future for the club. “It’s actually huge for our club, the quality cattle that we’ve got coming through,” Zadkovich said. “I know them well because I’ve spent hours on the grass in my previous role mentoring and shaping those guys.”
“I’ve been in the dressing rooms with them, the early morning starts, working really hard. It’s clear that there’s a bright future for those guys. I’m not fearful to play young and inexperienced players. If they’re ready, they’re ready.”
But Zadkovich was also quick to praise senior players that saw the bottom placed club close the gap on Brisbane Roar to three points. “They (the young players) know my process, they know the style of football I want to play,” Zadkovich said.
“They understand some of the details some of the other boys haven’t seen yet. Some of the senior guys really stood up. They give the younger guys a platform to be successful. It was nice to mix the two together.”
Zadkovich, a no-nonsense midfielder in his days in England, the A-League and with the Socceroos, was proud to see players take no backward step when a scuffle broke out after Giordano Colli was floored with an elbow to the face by Daniel Penha in extra time.
Penha was shown a red card while Colli was shown a yellow for the initial tackle on Penha and goalkeeper Liam Reddy was also yellow-carded for racing out of his goal and getting heavily involved in the melee.
“I think most of our team was in there, showing that real unity, that real togetherness, and that’s something I’m real big on,” Zadkovich said. Glory now prepare for fifth-placed Macarthur on Sunday at Campbelltown Sports Stadium.
27.3.2022
REDBACKS TURN INTO STARS WITH EXTRA TIME WIN AGAINST BALCATTA
Northern Redbacks have secured the 2022 NPLWA Women’s Night Series title, after coming from two goals down to beat Balcatta 4-2 in extra time in Sunday’s Final at E&D Litis Stadium. The club, who will become Perth RedStar now, after a merger with NPLWA Men’s club ECU Joondalup, found themselves two-goals down early, with Kimberley McCartney and an own goal from Andreia Teixeira. But a goal just before half time from Shawn Billam put life back into the game, and Quyen Doan goal after half time sent it to extra time, where Laura Walsh and Tracey Wheeler Gold Medal Winner, Carla Bennett, sealed the win in extra time. “I’m proud of the girls for digging deep after going down 2-0 early. We all knew this game meant so much to the team and the club so we knew there was no other option but to win it,” Bennett said. “Being able to pull on the Redbacks jersey one last time and win the game through a real team effort was a dream come true.”
A delighted coach Carlos Vega Mena said it was a perfect way to end things. “The girls had to dig deep after being down 2-0 in the first half of the match to finish 2-2 at full-time. I feel like we dominated the second half and went into extra time with the girls mentally and physically ready to fight for the win, and their determination was clear, but Balcatta still remained dangerous,” he explained. “We kept the momentum of the second half as we entered extra time with Larry's early goal giving the girls the boost, they needed to continue to create opportunities.
“Balcatta didn't make it easy and fought back hard, but our defenders and goalkeeper were superb in shutting down their counter attacks and long balls. There were some nervous moments in the second half of extra time, but Carla's goal gave us the security we needed. We have been working hard on our strength and conditioning, I think this showed in the second half of extra time with the girls keeping up the intensity and pace for a full two hours of play.
“I think what is working for us at the moment is the team's excellent combination, of youth and energy with age and experience. We saw some great football and the ability of the girls to work cohesively as a team shines through. I couldn't prouder of these girls, they leave their heart out on the pitch in every game and I think the desire of the players to end Redbacks on a win made the difference in the end. Northern Redbacks Womens Soccer Club NPLW Night Series Champions, what an awesome way to end an era.”
Balcatta went into the game looking for back-to-back wins in the Night Series Final, and they made a perfect start in this one and ahead on four minutes, with McCartney’s cross shot finding the net. It got even better for Steve Atkins said, when the unfortunate Teixeira played a back-pass beyond Battaglia and into her own net. Things weren’t going to plan for the Redbacks’, but they found a way back into the game before the break, Billam’s lob from 20-meters beat Gabby Dal Busso, the skipper handing them a lifeline.
The Redbacks pressed for the equaliser after half time, but time and time again Balcatta keeper Dal Busco kept them at bay, but that all changed on 77 minutes, with Doan getting the final touch, much to the delight of her teammates. They went in for the kill and Olivia Wood blazed over from eight meters, before Dal Busco produced a smart save to deny Renee Leota. So, it was off to extra time, and two minutes in the Redbacks hit the front for the first time in the game, Leota sending Walsh in on goal and she fired past the on-coming Dal Busco.
Balcatta were unable to build any momentum, despite the best efforts of Mia Yeo, and chasing the game they left gaps at the back, and ‘Player of the Match’ Bennett cashed in with a curled effort beyond the exposed Dal Busco to set off wild celebrations. “It was a great team effort. Everyone was determined to get the win knowing it would be our last game as the Northern Redbacks,” keeper Shivani Battaglia said. “It wasn’t the start we had hoped for, being down two goals in the early stages of the game but the team stepped up and fought back. We created a lot of scoring opportunities so it was nice that they were able to turn some of those chances into goals. It was a fantastic win which meant a lot to all the girls, especially the ones who had been at the club for so many years. So, to be able to win one last trophy under the Redbacks name is almost the perfect fairy-tale ending and I am very happy that I was able to be a part of that.”
In other games on Sunday the Hyundai NTC U15s beat UWA Nedlands 5-2 after extra time in the Hyundai Women's State League Night Series final at E&D Litis Stadium. Sophia Brooks, Mia Britton, Emily Garnett, Harper Collinson and Ruby Cuthbert were on target for NTC, while Emily Dinsdale scored a brace for UWA. Meanwhile, Hamersley Rovers won the Hyundai Women's Amateur Night Series Final with Jamie Jenkins and Jordanna Henderson scoring to beat Subiaco 2-1 in the final.
27.3.2022
BELT-UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION NIGHT SERIES – SEMI FINAL REVIEW
Newly-promoted East Perth will take on Kelmscott Roos in next weekend’s 2022 Amateur Night Series Grand Final, after both secured tight wins in Sunday’s semi-finals. First at Forrest Park, Kelmscott, who were relegated from the State League last season, secured a hard fought 4-3 win against hosts Joondalup United. “It was a great win from the boys, and we knew it was going to be tough and credit to all for getting to our first Grand Final,” Kelmscott Coach Serge Tucci said. “We’ll get back to the training track this week, and keep it real, and who knows what the football gods will bring this weekend.”
It was Kelmscott who opened the scoring, Nat Otte created a turnover and found Josh Tumde, who made no mistake. But Joondalup levelled just before half time, Adam Taylor was bundled over in the box and Adam Buckley converted the penalty. Joondalup hit the front after the break, Nayder Khayat’s low cross was converted by Taylor at the back post. But Kelmscott hit back with three quick goals to take control of the game. First great play down the left by Vaughan Audrain, he cut the ball back Tumde, who finished clinically
The Roos then took control, and goals from Otte and substitute Michael Tucci saw them go 4-2 up. But they were then reduced to ten men, with Tucci sent off on 75 minutes, and Joondalup pulled one back soon after with substitute Pete Kenny heading home from close-range. The hosts almost found the equaliser deep into stoppage time, but Andreas Bouzinekis’ header came back off the crossbar. “We’re very disappointed to lose that game. To go from 2-1 up to 4-2 down very quickly is unacceptable and defensively we need to be a lot more commanding,” Joondalup coach Neil Sherwin explained. “I was happy with the fight shown towards the end of the game and we almost forced extra time but it should never have come to that. We’ll pick ourselves up for games this coming weekend and hopefully get a couple of wins to take into the league season.”
In the second game, East Perth ran out 2-1 winners against Kwinana United at Kelly Park. “Overall, a great win a very difficult place to go,” East Perth coach Colm Costello said. “It was a very competitive game against a very good Kwinana side and Mark has a very good side and we had to be at our best to get the win. Jason (Winter) and I are extremely happy with the whole squad and we look forward to another challenge next week.” It was a tight game and all the goal action came late. First on 75 minutes, Liam McManus beat the full back and put in a perfect cross to Deane McFeeley to score from six yards, his first touch after coming off the bench.
They added a second six minutes later, Oscar Kelly picked the ball up in the middle of the park, beat two men before chipping the keeper, with an absolutely brilliant finish. The hosts pulled one back in the final minute, Michael Lawson getting on the end of a Lewis McGowen pass, but it was too little too late. “I thought it was a great game really, it was a real tussle,” Kwinana coach Mark Purvis said. “Even though the strike for their second goal was really good I really thought we should have defended both moments for their goals a lot better. All in all, happy to get a workout like that before the season starts next week.”
26.3.2022
REDSTAR GO TOP AFTER NICOL DOUBLE AT BAYSWATER
Perth RedStar moved to the top of the NPLWA Men’s table after a come from behind 3-2 win against Bayswater City in our ‘Match of the Round’ at Frank Drago Reserve on Saturday afternoon. Ryan Pearson gave the hosts the lead early, before RedStar skipper Ryan Lowry levelled on the half hour. Former ECU striker Jon Stynes regained the lead for Bayswater just after the hour, but former Bayswater striker Daryl Nicol restored parity from the spot, and he found the winner three minutes from time, to make it back-to-back wins to start the season for Kenny Lowe’s side.
“I thought the boys were excellent in humid conditions, but we need to tighten up defensively as a team, and improve our shape without the ball but overall, some of our attacking play was different class and very proud of the players,” First Team Coach Callum Salmon explained. “Daryl was unplayable at times, Higgy excellent, Hough made a huge difference and everyone contributed to a great win away from home against a tough team. We are improving as a team every week and excited for next week against Inglewood. Not many will get points at Frank Drago this season, so we are very satisfied we managed to get three today.”
With Head Coach Kenny Lowe absent due to covid, Salmon and David Butterfield took control for the visitors and it was a lively opening, with Declan Hughes’ free kick saved low by Nicholas Speca early, before Stynes found Gordon Smith, but against his former team, the striker was denied by Joe Pollard. But on 14 minutes it was the hosts who found the opener. A neat give-and-go between Ndumba Makeche and Pearson, saw the latter race into the penalty area and finish low past Pollard.
The visitors’ looked for a quick response and Nicol’s shot on the run beat Speca, but the crossbar came to the rescue of the Bayswater custodian. But on 29 minutes they did find the equaliser, Andy Higgins corner was headed back across goal by Blair Govan, and Lowry hooked the ball home. Both sides had chances late in the half, Smith’s shot from the angle saved was well by Pollard, before Stynes’ shot was deflected just over the top. Bayswater almost gave the visitors a gift just before half time, when a misguided back pass from Tom Southgate rolled agonizingly past the post with Speca watching on.
It was another bright opening after half time, and Makeche was sent in on goal he got to the bye-line and crossed to Stynes, but his shot was blocked. Moments later Nicol’s lob from the edge of the box drifted inches wide. But on 63 minutes it was Bayswater who regained the lead, a quick free kick from Declan Hargreaves sent second half substitute Jason Mirco down the right, his cross to the back post found Stynes, who looped his header over Pollard. They went close to a third moments later Konstantinos Sparta’s shot from the edge of the box well saved by Pollard. But on 72 minutes it was the visitors who regained parity.
Ellis Healing played a ball into the penalty area to Nicol, who was brought down by Steven Hesketh, and referee Joshua Nixon pointed straight to the spot. Nicol stepped up and made no mistake from the resulting penalty. The three points were up for grabs, and Nicol’s shot on the run was well saved by Speca, before Sam Pollard’s chip from the edge of the box almost caught Speca out at his near post, but the keeper saved well. Still the chances came, Hargreaves curling shot from edge of the box was inches over the top, before Liam Murray’s snap shot flashed inches over the top. The visitors then found the winner three minutes from time. Healing’s long-range shot was parried by Speca, and Nicol was quickest to react to the rebound to fire home, much to the delight of the travelling supporters.
They went close to a fourth two minutes later, Chok Dau slipped Nicol in on goal, but the striker dragged his shot wide of the target. The hosts weren’t finished and in the third minute of stoppage time Makeche raced into the box, but his shot was blocked by Pollard, but referee blow up for a foul in the build-up on the edge of the box. Hargreaves free kick was straight into the wall, and he was then sent off for a second yellow card, after kicking the ball at Murray while he was on the floor. “A great result and good start to the season for us. In the past it’s been hard to get a result at Bayswater, but I thought we showed what were about today,” RedStar skipper Ryan Lowry explained. “To come from behind and win the game at their ground is very pleasing. It’s good to see our whole squad putting in, as we saw the impact of our players that came off the bench can make the difference in the crunch time in games.”
Bayswater City: GK Nic SPECA, 6 Declan HARGREAVES, 7 Jon STYNES (4 Michael ZIMARINO 84’), 8 Gordon SMITH, 9 N MAKECHE, 11 Ryan PEARSON, 12 Steven HESKETH, 23 Cameron EDWARDS (10 Jason MIRCO 59’), 26 Zayd FARAH (13 Jordan ABRAHAMS 77’), 28 Konstantinos SPARTA, 30 Tom SOUTHGATE – Subs not used: RGK Ben RATAJCZAK, 3 Jack ALLEN – Red Cards: Hargreaves 90+6’
Perth RedStar: GK Joe POLLARD, 2 Oscar MALFIORE (19 Nelson TSHONGO 74’), 3 Blair GOVAN, 4 Declan HUGHES (13 Liam MURRAY 74’), 5 Ryan LOWRY (27 Louis HADFIELD 92’), 6 Sami RIAK (8 Tom HOUGH 46’), 9 Daryl NICOL, 10 Andy HIGGINS, 11 Sam POLLARD, 12 Nick WALSH (15 Ellis HEALING 62’), 14 Chok DAU – Subs not used: RGK Marino GOJAK, 30 Nyle WEALE – Referee: Joshua Nixon
26.3.2022
MACEDONIA WYNNE IT LATE AGAINST PERTH
Stirling Macedonia continued their winning start to the season, after a hard fought 1-0 win against Perth SC at Macedonia Park on Saturday evening. Coming off a win at Armadale in the opening round, Ian Ferguson’s side grabbed a late winner, Sam Wynne’s strike sealing the three points in the clubs first home NPL game since 2019. “It was a very tight contest in terms of the scoreline sitting at 0-0 for 87 minutes, for those who watched the game knew that the goal was coming and it did, scored by the magical Sam Wynne,” explained Stirling defender Hristijan Jankuloski.
“We knew eventually Perth would crack since majority of the game and our football was played in their defensive half. The atmosphere at Macedonia Park was electrifying after the goal even though Perth threw everything forward for the remaining couple minutes, we were tight and compact defensively and held on strong and saw out the game to earn another massive three points at home early on the season.”
It was the first game of the season for Perth, the Champions game last week fell victim to covid, but this one started brightly with chances at both ends. First former Perth midfielder Calvin Whitney’s snap shot was deflected over the top, while at the other end Alex Silla’s shot was straight at Stirling keeper James Bosdet. The best early chance came for the hosts on 20 minutes, Luke Palmateer’s powerful header was superbly saved by Luke Radonich. Moments later Whitney’s long-range shot dipped just over the top.
The hosts were creating the better chances, and former Perth striker Michael Domfeh sent the lively Alex Tanevski in down the left, but his shot was superbly blocked by Federico Achilli. Palmateer was denied again moments later, his header was heading for the top corner but Radonich pushed it over the top. Then from the resulting corner a goalmouth scramble ensued, but some desperate Perth defending cleared the danger. On 38 minutes the whole grandstand began a minute’s applause for Dylan Tombides, whose name was on the trophy, both teams were playing for on the night.
Perth started brightly after the break and Shubham Mokala’s free kick was pushed over the top by the alert Bosdet. The Stirling custodian then produced the save of the match on the hour, Ali Gholami’s free kick picked out Achilli, whose header was heading for the bottom corner of the net, but Bosdet got down superbly to touch the ball around the post. It was the best spell of the game for the visitors, and after a neat give and go between Joshua Cala and Mokala, sent the latter clear, and his curling effort was inches over the top.
The Stirling supporters thought they had scored on 75 minutes, Whitney’s free kick was flicked on by Tanevski, but Radonich produced a strong one-handed save on the line to deny him. It looked like the points would be shared, but Stirling had other ideas and found the winner three minutes from time. Wynne picked a Perth clearance up in the middle of the park and run at them, no one got a tackle in and his surging run ended with a low shot which found the bottom corner of the net, to send players and supporters into raptures.
Perth pushed late looking for the equaliser, but with Palmateer and Jankuloski outstanding in a tight Stirling backline they couldn’t find one, and at the final whistle the big crowd were celebrating a successful return to the NPL on home soil. “Saturday was a great win for us, and it was important three points,” Stirling keeper James Bosdet said. “I thought over the 90 minutes the boys deserved the win, and thankfully a bit of magic from Sam got us just that. The supporters again were in fine voice which always helps.”
Stirling Macedonia: GK James BOSDET, 2 Ryan MALTON, 3 Kai MATTHEWS, 4 Hristijan JANKULOSKI, 6 Dejan SPASESKI, 7 Asher NELSON (14 Shay DONOVAN 77’), 9 Michael DOMFEH (12 Hugo SNOWDEN 77’), 10 Sam WYNNE, 13 Calvin WHITNEY, 16 Luke PALMATEER, 17 Alex TANEVSKI – Subs not used: RGK Liam PRICE, 8 Nathan DIAZ, 11 Jack RYCROFT, 15 Alex KRUSAROSKI
Perth SC: GK Luke RADONICH, 2 Alex SILLA, 6 Fanuel DAWIT, 7 Ethan BANKS (5 Will GORDON 86’), 8 Ali GHOLAMI, 10 Shubham MOKALA, 11 Daniel ZIVKOVIC (9 Hasani SINCLAIR 74’), 14 Luke COLLINS, 16 Federico ACHILLI, 18 Joshua CALA, 20 Paul ZIMARINO (15 Frank KINNEN 74’) – Subs not used: RGK Sam REILLY, 12 Christophe YAO - Referee: Arvin SHANMUGANTHAN
26.3.2022
GULLS PUT ON A FIVE-STAR SHOW TO BEAT ARMADALE
In the game of the two clubs celebrating their 50th anniversaries this season, it was Sorrento taking the points after easily beating Armadale 5-1 at Percy Doyle Reserve. Early goals from Byungatae Ahn and Scott Witschge had the hosts in control, and even though Adriano Jelenovic pulled one back, Sorrento went away with it, with Dean Cummings converting from the spot, before Witschge added another early in the second half, with an own goal from Yousri Gharsallah wrapping up the scoring late on. “I thought the 5-1 scoreline just flattered us a bit as the game was a lot tighter than the scoreline suggests, we had to defend well as Armadale get the ball forward very quickly and the try to pick up the knock downs from that,” Sorrento Coach Trevor Morgan said. “We did create some good opportunities apart from the goals we scored and both Ross and I were pleased with the teams’ attitude and work rate. Still, lots we can improve on to become better and we will be working on that continuously at training.”
It was bright opening to the game and Armadale’s Gordon Perkins fired over the top early, before Pieter Jacobsz fired straight at Sorrento keeper Patrick Hughes. But Sorrento lifted and on 16 minutes they found the opener. Armadale failed to clear their lines, and the ball fell to Ahn outside the penalty area, and his shot flew into the net giving Gharsallah no chance. The visitors hit back and Abdul Osman’s header on 20 minutes was cleared off the line by Annis, but the hosts went down the other end and doubled their advantage. Cummings raced down the left and crossed to Witschge, whose first shot was well saved by Gharsallah, but he finished well from the rebound.
It looked being a long-day for John O’Reilly’s side, but they found a lifeline six minutes later. Jelenovic pounced on a defensive mistake from Mark Barnett, the striker rolling the ball home, and it was game on. Armadale went close to the equaliser seven minutes from half time, Angel Andres sent Perkins down the right, he cut inside his marker, but his shot flashed just over the top. The game was evenly balanced but four minutes before half time Sorrento added a third.
Joe Tweats raced into the penalty area and was brought down by Shaydon Passalacque, and referee Niall Gillmor pointed straight to the spot. Cummings stepped up and sent Gharsallah the wrong way from the resulting penalty. Armadale keeper kept his side in the game before the break, making good saves to thwart Cummings and Witschge, but at half time the Gulls were in control.
Armadale needed a good start after half time to get back into the game, but three minutes in it was Sorrento who added a fourth. Cummings sent Witschge down the left, and he cut inside Passalacque before superbly curling the ball home via the far post. To Armadale’s credit they continued to press and Hughes saved Andres’ free kick, before Jacobsz shot was saved by Hughes, and Tarek Atta’s follow up header was claimed by the keeper.
Both sides had chances late, first Kevin Gallo curling shot was saved by Hughes, before Witschge shot was superbly saved by Gharsallah. But it was Sorrento who rounded off the scoring three minutes from time, Cummings cross from the right found Annis at the back post, his shot beat Gharsallah, the ball hitting the far post and rolling into the net off the unfortunate keeper. “I thought the boys worked hard and won the ball in good areas which made it nice going into the break with a two-goal lead,” Sorrento defender Ollie Annis said post-match. “The second half was scrappy, but we saw the game out well and got off to a great start for the season.”
Sorrento: GK Patrick HUGHES, 2 Byungatae AHN, 5 Mark BARNETT, 7 Alex MORGAN, 8 Scott WITSCHGE (4 Shaun KILKELLY 84’), 10 Ollie ANNIS, 11 Tim HILL (15 Zechariah DABBS 84’), 14 Joe TWEATS (6 Jaxon TEMATA 90’), 16 Ryan MCLAUGHLIN, 17 Dean CUMMINGS, 18 Jordan BROWN - Subs not used: 3 Steve PURTON, 12 Tristan COLLI, 32 Thomas ABRAHAMS, 62 Nathan DOBRA
Armadale: GK Yousri GHARSALLAH, 2 Andy REALE (14 Eddie GARRIDO 88’), 3 Isaac KOOMSON, 5 Kevin GALLO, 8 Gordon PERKINS, 9 Angel ANDRES (23 Tarek ATTA 62’), 11 Adriano JELENOVIC (7 Paul De La CHANELIERE 62’), 12 Abdul OSMAN, 15 Luqman SAYYED, 17 Pieter JACOBSZ, 20 Shaydon PASSALACQUE - Subs not used: RGK Sam HUTCHINGS, 6 Jess GRESE, 10 Henri MULWILA – Referee: Niall GILLMOR
26.3.2022
FLOREAT TOO STRONG FOR ETNA
Floreat Athena flexed their muscles in their opening NPLWA Men’s game of the season, beating Balcatta 5-0 at E&D Litis Stadium. Their opening game of the season was covid hit, but they made up for lost time in this one. Ludovic Boi opened the scoring early, before Nick Ambrogio and Robert Petkov made it 3-0 at the break. There was no let up from the hosts after the break, with Riley Woodcock and Ethan Mom completed the scoring.
“Great to get off the mark with three points and a clean sheet at home after not playing over the first weekend due to Covid,” Woodcock explained. “Not playing for a couple of weeks since the night series final, you can sometimes feel a little bit off the pace initially, but I think we have an experienced group who know how to manage games and build our way into it so it was good to get that one under the belt and looking forward to Glory this week.” Balcatta arrived after an opening loss against Inglewood, and they were on the back foot early in this one. First on four minutes Sean McManus made space down the left, and his ball into the box was bravely dealt with by Riley Stephenson, at the feet of Petkov.
The hosts went close again 12 minutes later, Petkov’s shot on turn was deflected over the top. Then from the resulting corner they found the opener, Balcatta didn’t clear their lines and Boi fired low through a crowded penalty area to open the scoring. It was 2-0 just after the half hour, McManus raced down the right, and his cross into the penalty area found Ambrogio who scored. The visitors were struggling in the final third, the best fell to Billy Quinncroft, whose header was saved by Jason Saldaris.
Balcatta need a good start to the second half to get back in the game, but only sixty seconds in Floreat added a third. Ambrogio darted down the right, and his cross found Petkov, and the former Inglewood United striker made no mistake. Balcatta went close moments later, but Amir Ajan’s long-range shot was saved low by Saldaris. The game had opened up and there were good chances at both ends. First Petkov’s volley flashed inches past the post, before Henry Durr’s header was well saved by Saldaris.
But it was Floreat who found a fourth on 75 minutes, Woodcock firing low past Stephenson after Balcatta failed to clear a free kick. It soon became five, Filip Minic shot was well saved by Stephenson, but Minic got to the rebound before it went out of play and crossed to Mom who swept the ball home to seal a comfortable win. "Another solid performance from the players, and we took our chances well, which is pleasing, and also important in this league," Floreat coach Vas Vujacic said. "It's really good to start the season with a win and also a clean sheet, and it sets up nicely for Friday's game against Perth Glory."
Floreat Athena: GK Jason SALDARIS, 5 Ethan MOM (13 Jesse ROBERTS 82’), 6 Jesse FULLER, 8 Sean MCMANUS (16 Bayley BROWN-MONTGOMERY 51’), 9 Robert PETKOV, 10 Nick AMBROGIO, 11 Dennis GALAN, 12 Ludovic BOI (2 Marco SANTALUCIA 64’), 19 Riley WOODCOCK, 12 Andrew PALMER (21 Mohammed AL-ZAIDY 82’), 25 Filip MINIC – Subs not used: RGK Thomas CHUDY, 17 Kieran ROSS, 62 Gianluca DE FELICE
Balcatta Etna: GK Riley STEPHENSON, 4 Luke ALESSANDRINO, 5 Logan RINDEL, 7 Amir AJAN, 10 Jonathan CORNESS, 11 Elliot TATTERSALL (12 Giordano SPORTIELLO 53’), 13 Anthony TOPINI (23 Luke HEWINGS 72’), 17 Henry DURR, 18 Billy QUINNCROFT (8 Jack LEECH 53’), 19 Coby SUTTON, 22 Michael SCAFETTA (3 Jonathan BOUHLAS 72’) – Subs not used:15 Matthew ALESSANDRINO, 16 Adam FALCONE, 20 Domenic SAVOLDELLI – Referee: Michal JASINSKI
26.3.2022
BRAMWELL AT THE DOUBLE FOR GLORY
Perth Glory began their NPLWA Men’s season with a 2-1 win against Inglewood United at Inglewood Stadium. After last week’s game was called off for covid, and the coaching merry-go-round within the club, Ago Mujic took control of the youngsters and they produced a good all-round team performance to seal the win. Ciaran Bramwell, put the disappointment of being omitted from the A-League squad to bag a first half double, and despite a late goal from Thiak Kuel, Glory held firm to seal the three points.
“We prepared very well during the week and all my instructions and plan the boys executed on top level,” Glory coach Ago Mujic said. “They stuck to the plan, and the effort and mentality from team was great and we dominated possession for most of the game and controlled it. We scored a couple of great of goals (Bramwell) and probably should have another 2-3 more. In the last 10 minutes we were under lots of pressure when Inglewood pushed numbers forward and started pumping the balls into our box, but the boys dug deep and defend very well, with 10 men as Lebib got injured, it was a great result for us against very quality opponent in Inglewood.”
The hosts began well and two early chances, in fact in the opening minute Anthony Bafobusha’s shot on the run was straight at Glory keeper Adrian Sinagra. The former Perth SC custodian then had to be alert to tip over Egide Ngendakumana shot, after good work from Dhuors Chol. But on 18 minutes it was Glory who opened the scoring, a great diagonal ball from skipper Jacob Muir found Bramwell, who finished clinically past Alex Dunn. The visitors were in again moments later, Joseph Forde and Aiden Edwards combining to find Bramwell, but his shot on the turn was straight at Dunn.
Inglewood continued to press and Chad Nilson fired over the top, after Glory failed to clear a free kick, and moments later Hamza Belhassan’s curling effort drifted wide. Glory looked dangerous going forward and Bramwell was a handful, and on the half hour the striker bagged the second. A great through ball from Tyler Vecchio sent Bramwell in on goal, the striker timing his run to perfection before finishing with aplomb past Dunn. Vecchio went close himself before half time, cutting in from the left his shot well saved Dunn. Harry Evans and Nilson had half chances late for the hosts, but at the break the Glory were in control
Inglewood started on the front foot after half time and Scott Blackmore headed over the top early, before Evans sent Ngendakumana in on goal, his shot rolling inches past the post. Glory looked to put the game to bed and went close to a third on the hour, Chris Donnell’s shot was well saved by Dunn, and the keeper was up quick to deny Bramwell his hat-trick, before Lebib Lebib shot wide moments later. Dunn then had to be alert to deny Matthew George, as Inglewood pushed men forward looking to get back into the game.
But Inglewood wasn’t finished, and Evans’ free kick crashed off the crossbar on 84 minutes, and three minutes later they found a lifeline. Nilson’s cross from the left found half time substitute Kuel, who sidefooted home via the post. The hosts pressed for the equaliser and almost found it deep into stoppage time, with Glory down to ten men after Lebib limped off, but Evans free kick whistled over the top. “It was a great start to the season for us, and you can tell that the match fitness isn’t quite there yet, but the mentality and togetherness the boys showed was fantastic,” Glory’s Jacob Young explained. “The aim now is to keep the same mentality and build on the performance from yesterday against Floreat.”
Inglewood United: GK Alex DUNN, 3 Roberto DEL BORRELLO, 4 Scott BLACKMORE, 7 Chad NILSON, 8 Harry EVANS, 10 Anthony BAFOBUSHA, 11 Egide NGENDAKUMANA, 12 Callum MELLOWSHIP, 14 Dhuors CHOL, 17 Hamza BELHASSAN, 19 Christopher TILSON – Subs: RGK Josiah GODFREY, 5 Thiak KUEL, 6 Hermon MICHAELE, 13 Brodie LANGAN, 15 Ibere KASUKULU, 16 Jamie MURPHY
Perth Glory: GK A SINAGRA, 2 Will FORMSTON, 3 Jacob MUIR, 4 Jacob YOUNG, 6 Chris DONNELL, 7 Joseph FORDE, 8 Andrew MARANTA, 9 Ciaran BRAMWELL, 10 Aidan EDWARDS, 11 Tyler VECCHIO – Subs: 5 Lucas COOK, 12 Jayden LEADER, 13 Daniel WALSH, 14 Joel ANASMO, 15 Lebib LEBIB, 16 Keegan GRANT, 17 Matthew GEORGE, 18 Danny DOUGLAS – Referee: Stewart Beattie
26.3.2022
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND ONE – REVIEW
The 2022 State League Division One season kicked off with a bang over the weekend, with plenty of goals, upsets and great football. First in our ‘Match of the Round’ last season’s Top Four Cup winners Joondalup United travelled to Hartfield Park to take on Forrestfield United and it was the hosts who ran out 2-0 winners. New coach Richard Abrams, who is recovering from knee surgery, said it was a pleasing performance from his side. “Delighted with the win and performance in general especially considering we had eight players out with covid/injury/wedding commitments,” he explained. “The depth of the squad was tested and we came out on top on the day. To start the season off with three points is very pleasing and we hope to push on again this Saturday in round two.”
Both sides had players missing for this game, but it was the hosts who opened the scoring on 28 minutes. Alex McLean made space down the left, his deep cross found Axel Richardson, who ghosted in at the back post to fire past Joe Smith. It was a tight game with both sides creating chances, but it was in stoppage time at the end of the game that the next goal action came. First on 94 minutes Jay Lang’s corner was met by Robert Irving, but Forrestfield custodian Ben Parry saved well at full stretch. But three minutes later it was Forrestfield who sealed the points. With Nick Jennings’ side pushing men forward looking for the equaliser they were caught out again, Richardson raced down the right, before cutting into the penalty area and picking out skipper Denzel Tshuma who found the bottom corner to seal the points.
Subiaco have begun the tenure of new coach Goran Stajic in style, beating newly-promoted Dianella White Eagles 5-1 at Dianella Reserve on Saturday evening. “It was a tough game, we had to bring high intensity to set the tone, and I think we did that,” Subiaco skipper Elliot Ireland said. “We started really well scoring early and because of this and it enabled us to control the game, and thankfully we were able to put the ball in the back of the net.” The visitors hit the front after only six minutes, Higor Marcal Vitali’s corner beat everyone and found the top corner of the net.
It was 2-0 on 21 minutes, when Ben Davis’ cross found the unmarked Matej Centrih to score from close-range. Things got worse for the hosts in first half stoppage time, with Davis making it 3-0 at the break. The hosts pulled one back early in the second half, Harry Blunt’s cross from the left was turned home by Nikola Talimdzioski. But that didn’t deter Subiaco and they regained their three-goal lead 13 minutes from time. Good feet by Emmanuel Langoya on the edge of the penalty area, saw him feed Jordan Allen-Rana, who beat his marker and fire past Peter Pilkadaris, the keeper had only just replaced Nemanja Jankovic between the sticks for the hosts. The icing was put on the cake three minutes later Bayram Prufer was brought down by Kieran Colwell, and referee Liviu Katona pointed straight to the spot. Ireland stepped up and sent Pilkadaris the wrong way from the resulting penalty, to seal a stunning win.
Fremantle City also hit five, after beating UWA Nedlands 5-2 in the local derby at Hilton Reserve. “It was a very entertaining game in humid conditions, we gradually got better as the game went on,” skipper Matthew Sparrow explained. “We let them back into the game, but we fought back to go in at half time with the lead. We started the brighter in second half and scored two quick goals to kill the game off, so it was a good afternoon for us and a solid start to the new season.” The hosts were ahead on 23 minutes, when Hamza Hina was brought down by Oscar Heaney, and Sparrow sent Jakeb Seppings the wrong way from the spot. But UWA hit back ten minutes later, Luke Randazzo sent Sam Moffatt in on goal, and he finished well.
Then five minutes before half time the hosts regained the lead, a superb through ball from Chris Thackray sent Hina clear and he finished clinically. The home side added a third on the hour, Todd Howarth sent Francisco Caballero down the left, and he crossed to Roberto Soares who finished well. It was soon 4-1, Joshua Macri and Hina combining to send Soares in goal, and he added his second, and seven minutes from time they added a fifth, substitute Ayouba Kanneh racing clear to score. Ivwananji Simbile scored a consolation goal for UWA in stoppage time, but it was too little too late.
Newly-promoted Murdoch University Melville started their first ever game in Division One with a hard fought 3-2 win against Rockingham City at the Besteam Stadium. MUM FC made the perfect start with a cracking goal on ten minutes. Pat Sara sent Feisal Zaw down the left, and the former Rockingham winger cut inside his marker and curled home superbly from the edge of the box. City, who were relegated from the NPL last season, found the equaliser ten minutes later. Shaun Mukwevho outmuscled his marker on the left, before racing into the box and finishing low past Tom Allan from the angle.
MUM FC regained their lead on the half hour, Kai Jones picked the ball 18 meters from goal, and his shot found the bottom corner of the net. It was 3-1 five minutes into the second half, Zaw’s corner headed home by Taj Bingwa. Rockingham weren’t finished and pulled one back two minutes later, Ryan Kennedy and Jordan Rhodes combined to send Mukwevho in on goal, he held off his marker and finished low past Allan. City pressed for the equaliser late but the hosts held firm to take the points. “It’s never easy backing up after a successful Night Series with a win in round one, but I couldn’t be happier to come away with the three points,” MUM FC coach Taki Nicolaidis said. “Rockingham definitely made us earn the points and was proud of our playing group to be so resilient when they kept pushing forward to get an equaliser.”
Olympic Kingsway started the season with a narrow 1-0 win against Mandurah City at Kingsway Reserve. “It was a hard-fought game and we’re delighted to come away with the three points,” Olympic coach David Tough said. “Mandurah are a strong side, who I’m sure will be up there challenging for promotion at the end of the season.” With former player Danny Hodgson in the crowd watching with his family, it was a tight game with both sides having chances, but failing to score them, something Danny never had trouble with. But it was the hosts who won it three minutes from time, Calum O’Connell played the ball to Joshua Samson, who ball over the top sent Tommy Amphlett racing clear, and with Mandurah defenders looking for the offside flag, that never came, the former Perth Glory midfielder raced clear and finished low past Alfie Brincat to seal the win, and all the players went and celebrated with their friend #DH7. The final game between Western Knights and Quinns was postponed due to covid protocols.
26.3.2022
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND ONE – REVIEW
It wasn’t the return to State League football that South West Phoenix was looking for on Saturday, when they were beaten 5-1 by Curtin University at Edinburgh Oval on Saturday evening, in our ‘Match of the Round’. “It was frustrating to go behind so early, but proud of the response and the control we showed after the opening half an hour,” Curtin coach Troy Reid explained. “It was far from a complete performance, but happy to kick off the season with three points.” The Bunbury-based club, who were promoted as Champions of the Belt-Up Amateur Premier League last season, did make a good start, and on ten minutes Nathan Hartmann gave them the lead capitalising on a defensive mix up.
But that was as good as it got, with Kieran Witt leveling three minutes later, racing clear and rounding the keeper to score. They hit the front on the half hour, Witt was brought down in the box and new signing Simone Sichel dispatched the resulting penalty. It was soon 3-1, Nathan Smith finding the top corner, and before the break it was four. Debutant Oscar Wright saw his first effort well saved by Jamie Oakey, but he finished the rebound. The scoring was finished late in the second half, Witt again the provider, playing in substitute Theo Chapota who finished well.
Morley-Windmills have kicked off the season with a bang, with a 5-0 win against Balga at Wotton Reserve. With both clubs having a number of key players out, it was Windmills who controlled possesion in the opening stages of the game, but it was Balga that nearly went 1-0 up after Jack Valentine was put through but failed to score. The last twenty of minutes of the half saw Balga on top, but it was the hosts that found the opener five minutes from half time, a cross into the box from Danny O’Shea, but Balga’s Bleron Mamudi headed the ball into his own net. The game took another twist early in the second half when Joaquin Connelly was sent off by referee Peter Kaiser. Morley with the extra man then took control and Callum Speed found the top corner from long-range to double their lead, and it was 3-0 when Marko Savic’s free kick was headed powerfully home by Nikola Zmukic. It was 4-0 late, after a controversial penalty was awarded and Speed made no mistake from the spot, before Speed’s low cross was deflected past the Balga keeper by a defender in stoppage time to seal a comprehensive win
“We were missing five players this week, but we were still disappointed that we couldn't find our rhythm in the first half. We felt we were in control of the game but lacked that cutting edge and gave the ball away too easy,” Morley coach Antony Benetti explained. “We addressed some things at half time and the second 45 was a dominant display from the boys and we were unlucky not to get a couple more. I'm pleased with the response from the lads in the game and its testament to our depth and integrity in the group. Getting off to a good start is vital but we'll look for improvements going into next week.”
Carramar Shamrock Rovers also hit five, after a Jamie Gibson hat-trick inspired a 5-2 win against Canning City at Grandis Park. The hosts were ahead when Ger Fitzgearld’s header was handled in the penalty area and Gibson scored the resulting penalty. Gibson added the second five minutes later, finding the corner of the net from the edge of the box. Canning pulled one back from the spot midway through the first half, but Callum Traynor restored their two-goal advantage, heading home Jack Bardsley’s free kick just before half time. Gibson completed his hat-trick after the break, firing home from close-range. Canning added their second from another penalty, but the hosts had the final say, Bardsley scoring a stunning free kick around the wall to seal the win. Comments
Joondalup City have won the northern derby, beating Wanneroo City 2-1 at Wanneroo Reserve. The hosts opened the scoring when new signing Dion Berman scored, but a tight first half came to life late, with the visitors levelling in the last minute. Some neat link up play, and one touch football, saw Jack Reilly race in on goal and finish into the bottom corner of the net. Both sides looked for the winner after half time, but it was Brad Haywood’s side that found it just after the hour. Ewan Fawcett’s cross into the box was misjudged by Danijel Markovic, under pressure from Liam McGurk, the ball sneaking in at the back post.
“I’m proud of the boys and their ability to not only come from behind and claim another victory but by doing so in the manner in which we want to play football,” Joondalup coach Brad Haywood said. “We didn’t panic when we conceded against the run of play, and I thought we controlled and dominated the ball and played some really good football throughout. Special mention goes to Gareth Lloyd who was superb at full back claiming our MOTM today in a game that meant a lot to all of us. A great day for the club in a local derby getting three big wins to start off our season.”
Swan United have fought back from two-goals down at half time, to draw 2-2 with Kingsley Westside at Francis Street. The hosts were ahead when Cameron Bishop played a neat ball into Josh Waldock who finished past Nick Stone. It got better for the visitors when Jonny Hulme beat the offside trap, and go one on one with Stone, before coolly slotting ball under the on-coming keeper. Swan hit back after half time with a great free kick from Nick Burmej, but it looked like the visitors would take the points, but late a free kick found Lucas Allender who finished into the bottom corner.
“We struggled to match their direct play first half and they played at a higher tempo than we did and we found ourself 2-0 down at the half,” Swan coach Dan Evans said. “We managed to match their intensity second half and earning a point after a poor start showed some character for our lads. I felt Kingsley Westside came out with a clear game plan and executed it well so credit to them and I want to thank the referees for allowing a physical and robust contest that was enjoyable to be a part of. Kingsley Westside coach Steven Dimitrovich was disappointed to leave with only a point. “I feel like it is two points dropped by us on Saturday,” he said. “I thought we were the better team for most of the game and with Swan not really threatening us at all.”
In the final game Ashfield and Gosnells City fought out a 0-0 draw at the Acclaimed Catering Arena. “A fair opening round in my opinion, with a lot of positives from our end in regards to ‘playing our way’ - we had a lot of possession and built-up through the thirds well for a division more renowned for being direct,” Ashfield coach Greg Hart said. “I thought we nullified their target man Jamie Burns well to prevent much from them. We could have created more clear-cut chances but that will come.” Gosnells City coach Marc Anthony said it wasn’t their best performance. “Disappointing result, but probably fair,” he said. “Hopefully we can put in a better performance next week.”
26.3.2022
GLORY GO DOWN AS WELLINGTON FIND LATE WINNER
New Perth Glory boss Ruben Zadkovich had a heartbreaking A-League debut as the side went down 2-1 to a last-gasp winner against Wellington Phoenix yesterday. Glory fought back from a goal down and battled with ten men for most of the second half after Osama Malik was controversially sent off for a second bookable offence.
New Zealand international Waine had opened the scoring after 37 minutes with Nick Fitzgerald equalising soon after half-time. Malik recieved his marching orders on 52 minutes but it took until the last kick of the game - seven minutes into stoppage time - for Nicholas Pennington nick the winner.
“I was gutted for the boys,” said Zadkovich of conceding so late in the piece. “I’m super-proud of my players tonight. Their effort and their mentality, which was my first port of call this week, that was there on show and I was extremely proud of that. “Their understanding is lacking a little bit at the moment ... but I can’t stress enough how extremely proud I am of their effort.
“There’s a difference between what I want and my philosophy and playing style and what we’ve got, so there is an element of inheriting a certain style because the players have been signed to play one style and I’ve got a different picture in my head of what that should look like. These things are going to take time; my style and philosophy are going to take time.”
Zadkovich admitted he was concerned about some players’ fitness. “Midweek, a 6km session they should have been able to complete easily and struggled,” the interim Glory coach added. “That highlighted where they are at physically.” Glory’s next game is at home this Wednesday, 30th March, against Newcastle Jets.
25.3.2022
INTO THE LOOKING GLASS: STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE AND TWO PREVIEW
The State League Divison One and Two season preview is now updated with a full run down on the teams, see how season 2022 will pan out.... Our team also predict the coming Amateur League Premier Division Season.
25.3.2022
NPL-WA ROUND TWO - PREVIEW
We head into week two of the NPLWA Men’s fixtures, and hopefully we get a full round of games, after three fell victim the Covid outbreak in Perth last weekend. Our ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to Frank Drago Reserve, where Bayswater City host Perth RedStar. (All games kick off at 3.00pm, unless stated) Bayswater’s game against Perth Glory was one of the games called off last week, while Kenny Lowe’s RedStar’s side won their first ever NPL game, beating Gwelup Croatia 2-1.
RedStar skipper Ryan Lowry was pleased with the performance last week, and although he thought they weren’t threatened by Gwelup, there is still room for improvement. “It was a good start for us, to come away with the three points is the main thing,” he said. “I thought we played well in stages and then sometimes we dropped our levels. To be honest I never felt in danger during the game, and their goal came from nothing really and that out more pressure on us, but we still felt confident we would get the result.”
Lowry, who re-joined the club last season, after 19 games for Wellington Phoenix in the A-League, said Bayswater will be another tough test, and he knows they have players that can hurt you, but he said his side has them as well. “Away at Bayswater, we’ve played a lot there this year already in the Night Series so we are ready,” he said “They have quality in their team, but were confident we can come away with a result. Were only starting to gel as a team through interruptions with covid, new players etc. As the rounds progress were only going to get better.”
Bayswater City striker Gordon Smith said they were all prepared for a big test against Glory last week, and was disappointing the game was called off, but he said it was no rest, with the coaches putting them through their paces. “It was really disappointing to see our first game cancelled as we have worked hard and we’re ready and prepared for a tough match against Glory,” the former Hearts striker explained. “But we had another good week on the training field and ready for a big game against RedStar this week.”
Smith, who played three seasons for ECU Joondalup, as they were called then, said they have recruited well, and it will be a huge first up test, but they are determined to open their home games with a win. “It’s always a fixture I look forward to playing against my former team and they have strengthened against this season and will be up there again,” he said. “We also have a strong squad and have prepared really well and look forward to the match. hopefully we can start the season with a good performance and three points.”
In other games in week two, Stirling Macedonia will look to build on last week's win at Armadale, when they host current NPLWA Champions Perth SC at Macedonia Park. (5.00pm) Goals from Sam Wynne and former Perth striker Michael Domfeh gave Ian Ferguson’s side the points, while Perth will look to start the defence of their title with a win, after their game against Sorrento was called off last week. Sorrento meanwhile welcome Armadale to Percy Doyle Reserve, the Reds were unfortunate to leave empty handed in their game last week, while the Gwelup Croatia and Cockburn City game has been switched from Wishart Street to Dalmatinac Park, due to covid protocols at Gwelup.
Balcatta make the trip to E&D Litis Stadium to take on Night Series winners Floreat Athena. Michael Johnson’s side were beaten in their opener, so he will be looking for his players to bounce back, against a Floreat side that will still be on a high after their big Night Series Final win against Perth SC. In the final game, Inglewood United will look for back-to-back wins to start the season, when they host Perth Glory at Inglewood Stadium. It’s been a turbulent week at Glory, with NPL coaches Ruben Zadkovich and Chris Coyne being appointed A-League coaches for the rest of the season, so it will be Ago Mujic who takes charge in the dugout this weekend, if the Covid outbreak in their ranks has improved.
Andres Oliveira’s side began with a convincing 3-0 win at Balcatta, and winger Chad Nilson, who made his NPL debut for the club in the win, said it was a good all-round team performance. “It was a nice start to the regular season, and also good to get a win in my first game of course,” Nilson said. “We know Balcatta are a high energy side and we had to hold them off in short spurts which we did very well and, were able to control the majority of the game and came home with the three points.”.
Nilson, who joined the club from Armadale in the summer, knows Glory will be well-drilled and tough, but they head into the game in confident mood, with nothing more than three points on their minds. “We’ve had a great pre-season, the whole team has bought into the system, everyone understands their role, so we definitely know how good we are,” he explained. “After the win last weekend, we are just carrying on as per usual, Glory are a strong side as they always are, but it’s a game we head into expecting three points.”
25.3.2022
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND ONE – PREVIEW
The new State League Division One season kicks off this weekend, and it looks like being one of the most competitive seasons for many a year. (All games kick off at 3.00pm, unless otherwise stated) Our ‘Match of the Round’ sees last season's Top Four Finals winners Joondalup United travel to Hartfield Park to take on Forrestfield United. (5.00pm) Both sides go into the new season with high hopes, and both warmed up for the season with penalty shoot-out victories in the Australia Cup last weekend, and with the firepower both clubs have this season, this one should be a goal feast.
Joondalup will be hoping to continue where they left off last season, beating Quinns in the Top Four Cup, but despite missing out on the knockout stage of the Night Series skipper Scott Hoyle said their pre-season is going well. “Everyone is looking forward to the season, we are looking to start the season how we ended last,” he said. “We’ve brought in some new players with good experience, getting through next round of cup gives us good confidence for round one and tough trip to Forrestfield.”
Hoyle said Forrestfield have a new look squad and are hard to beat at home, but they will go there looking for the three points to start the season. “It will be a good battle this weekend and one I’m looking forward too,” he said. “They’ve bought in new coaching staff and it will be a much-changed squad from last year, so it’s going to be a good game to look forward to the challenge.”
Forrestfield will be looking for an improvement from last season’s sixth place finish, and skipper Rhys Loxley said the win against Dianella White Eagles in the cup was a great boost and gives them confidence going into the new season. “The game against Dianella was a dress rehearsal for the season just as much as it was a cup game, and whilst the result was pleasing, it was promising to see us finish the game on top which is a testament to our energy levels and playing style,” he explained. “The squad is getting stronger by the week and if we can get the right blend on the park each week, we will cause many teams problems this season.”
Loxley, who has been top scorer for the club for the last two seasons, is well aware of the quality Joondalup have in their squad, including former Forrie striker Dan Corbett, but he said they will look to start the season with a positive result in front of their supporters. “I will be expecting more of the same from Joondalup United, they are a well-drilled outfit with a clear playing style,” he said. “They have recruited well in the off season bringing in match winners so it should be a great game.”
In other games this week newly-promoted Dianella White Eagles welcome Subiaco AFC to Dianella Reserve (5.00pm). The Eagles have recruited well as they look to a return to the top flight of WA football for the first time since 1998, while. Subiaco will be hoping to give new coach Goran Stajic a winning start. There is a local derby at Hilton Reserve, as Fremantle City meet UWA Nedlands, Western Knights host Quinns at Nash Field, while Mandurah City make the trip to Kingsway Reserve to take on Olympic Kingsway.
The final game is at the Besteam Stadium, where promoted Murdoch University Melville host Rockingham City. Taki Nicolaidis’ side were promoted from Division Two last season in the play-offs, and have started their first season in Division One well, winning the Night Series title, and progressing to the next round of the Australia Cup. They face a Rockingham side who were relegated from the NPLWA last season, but Lee Taylor’s side are determined to bounce straight back, and their form looks good, after a big win in the cup last week. Skipper Ryan Kennedy said the win in the cup against Subiaco was a performance they can build on. “It’s always good to start the competitive season with a win, the game itself was a strange game as we feel we weren’t at our best for large parts of the game,” he said.
“But when we had spells of dominance in the game we capitalised and took our chances against a fit and young Subiaco side who will take points off some good sides this season. Now we start our league campaign away to night series champs MUM FC, all the lads are eager to get in the 11 for Saturday which makes the intensity of training during the week very high. Taki isn’t a stranger from success and winning so MUM will be there or there about this season so we look forward to the challenge ahead. But no matter the opposition we have played this pre-season the main focus has always been about us and how we can impose our style of play on the game and how we can be a successful team this season.”
25.3.2022
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND ONE – PREVIEW
The 2022 State League Division Two starts this weekend, and our ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to Edinburgh Oval, as Curtin University host newly-promoted South West Phoenix. (All games kick off at 3.00pm, unless otherwise stated) The Phoenix was promoted from the Belt Up Amateur Premier League last season, while Curtin are coming off a good night series, which saw them top Group C, so it should be a great season opener. In the group Curtin ran out 3-2 winners against the Phoenix in the opening round, with a brace from Simone Sichel, and they will be looking for a repeat on Saturday.
Phoenix’s season preparation was given a boost last week, with a hard-fought win against Football Margaret River in the Australia Cup, and skipper Jamie Oakey said they had to work for the win, but were worthy winners on the day. “It was a tough game, credit to Margaret River they came with a game plan and they stuck to it, making it very hard for us to play,” Oakey said. “We made some changes at half time to the formation and personal and got on top in the second half, so all in all it was a good game and good preparation for this week.”
Nick Carter’s side travel to Curtin looking for revenge from their last meeting, but Oakey said they (Curtin) played really well that day, and he is expecting Saturday to be the same, but with a different result this time. “Yes, we will be looking for some revenge against Curtin, after they got the late winner against us last time out.” he said. “We’ve managed to get more minutes under our belts and work on our style of play since then so we will be hoping all the hard work during preseason can translate to three points come Saturday. It’s good to be back in Saturday football, so we need to prove that’s where we belong now.”
Curtin also moved into the next round of the Australia Cup with a win against Greyhounds Christian SC and skipper Jeffrey Ledwith said it was a great workout ahead of the new season, and capped a good pre-season for them. “You can say we have started off really well this year, and that’s pleasing,” he said. “The night series games displayed that we can match up with the teams above us, and still put in a performance, plus winning games gives everyone a boost of confidence heading into the new season.”
Ledwith said South West Phoenix will be tough opponents, as they look to turn the result in the night series around, but he believes they can make winning start. “First game of the season is always a big one, the lads are excited,” he said. “They (Phoenix) are a good club, and newly promoted to the State League. We know this game won't be easy and a lot can change in a few months, we're just going to play our style of soccer, work hard and hopefully get the three points.”
In other games Carramar Shamrock Rovers entertain Canning City at Grandis Park, while Swan United welcome Kingsley Westside to Francis Street. There is a local derby at Wanneroo Reserve, with Wanneroo City taking on Joondalup City, while in the late game Morley Windmills host Balga at Wotton Reserve (6.00pm). The final game sees Gosnells City travel to Acclaimed Catering Arena to take on Ashfield. The hosts were relegated last season, while Gosnells missed out on promotion in the play-offs.
Gosnells’ preparation was given a huge boost last week with a win in the Australia Cup against Olympic Kingsway, and skipper Scott Pereira said it was a great performance from the whole squad. “It was a really good result last week and exactly what we needed after underperforming in the night series,” he said. “We knew we had the quality in the team just weren’t quite showing it out on the pitch. Kingsway were a good team and I thought we matched them all over the park which shows us that’s where we need to be at this year.”
Pereira said Saturday is an important game, as they look to start the season with a win. “We are looking forward to this Saturday it’s been a while since we’ve been to Ashfield,” the skipper said. “The boys are really looking forward to the task and making sure we get the three points to start this season off strong.”
25.3.2022
NPL-WA WOMEN’S NIGHT SERIES FINAL - PREVIEW
Northern Redbacks will look to end their time as a club in style on Sunday, when they take on Balcatta Etna in be NPLWA Women’s Night Series at E&D Litis Stadium on Sunday evening. (6.30pm) The club has merged with NPLWA Men’s club ECU Joondalup to become Perth RedStar, the name they will play under in the 2022 league season. It’s also a big day for Balcatta and new coach Steve Atkins, as the club look for back-to back Night Series titles, so it sets up an intriguing game.
The Redbacks topped Group A, with a win in the opening game against Balcatta, and a drew against MUMFC, before their final game was called off with covid cases in the Subiaco team. That set up a semi-final against Perth SC, and goals from Larissa Walsh Jayna Ridley saw them runout 2-1 winners to seal a spot in the decider. Redbacks coach Carlos Vega Mena said he has been able to give some younger players the opportunity in the Night Series, which bodes well for the season ahead.
“The teams look different this year, there has been some movement of not only players, but coaches also. A lot of younger players were given the opportunity to play in the night series across the group stages, this includes my team. It's good to see the younger players getting the exposure and experience that NPLW offers during the night series,” he explained. “I have been impressed with the competition so far. From what I have seen most of the teams look relatively equal. There will be some very competitive matches during the league competition and it looks like several teams could be fighting for a spot in the Top Four, and I’m looking forward to seeing how the season pans out.”
The new coach said the squad are determined to end the Redbacks name with a title, but he knows it will be tough game. “This will be the end of an era for an iconic club, I think it's only fitting for the club's last match to be a Grand Final. I'm very proud of all the hard work that the players have put in over the years. The team and club spirit has always been strong and they are an awesome bunch of ladies,” Vega Mena explained. “Balcatta is always a strong team and I'm sure they will bring their best game to the pitch on Sunday. They have been able to use the group stages to adjust to the coaching style of a new coach and have gotten stronger with every game. I am expecting it to be a competitive match between two very determined teams. This match is important for both teams - Balcatta as they go back-to-back and Redbacks as it is the last opportunity to bring a trophy home in the Redbacks name. We are committed to wrapping up Redbacks with a great performance and we will do our best to make the club proud.”
Balcatta finished runners up in Group A, this despite a loss against Sunday’s opponents in the opening game. They bounced back to beat Subiaco 3-0, before beating MUMFC in the semi-final in another tight game, and goals from Angelique Albert and stunner from Georgia Cowley, who is ex Redback, gave them a 2-1 win and a spot in the final. New Balcatta coach Steve Atkins said the Night Series has been good for him to have a look at the squad, and he has been pleased. “The Night Series competition is a great opportunity for all clubs to work with their respective squads, experiment with players, tactics and generally prepare for the upcoming season. Whilst it is labelled as a pre-season tournament, it has always been extremely competitive and teams are generally in it to win it and is a good buffer for round one,” he explained. “At Balcatta, we have taken advantage of the weekly games against very good oppositions to work with our existing and new players to formulate our game style, introduce new ideas and tactics but more importantly to also enable our U21's to participate in the squad which is great for their development. Supported by a great club, a pursuit of excellence and dedicated coaches has been a very positive approach for Balcatta for the Night Series and upcoming season.
“Throughout the group stages we worked and persisted with our game style, learnt and developed and really gained some momentum against very good teams, it didn't all go our way and each game was an extremely tough challenge and required us to be on our toes at all times. We were fortunate to achieve a couple of good results enabling us to progress into the semi-final against Fremantle. Having been at Fremantle personally for the past two seasons, I knew that this would be a massive challenge for the girls, given the calibre of their players and a very good and experienced coach and well supported by a good coaching team.
“The game itself was a tough battle, and at one nil down with fifteen minutes or so to go, we had to dig deep, not panic, continue to try and execute our game plan and luckily two really great goals saw us progress to the Final. Fremantle will no doubt have a great season and there will be many more great battles between us. The two groups consisted of quality teams and there was no easy game in either group which is a testament to the competition, the strength of the squads building for the new season and the enthusiasm and positive nature of the entire tournament. General consensus of our girls and indeed girls of other clubs is how much they enjoy the Night Series every year and I truly believe that this will continue to be a highlight and gain great support over the coming years.”
Atkins said Sunday will be a great game with two good teams taking part, as they showcase the best of WA Women’s football in the state. “Redbacks at any level of the game through juniors, amateurs and the NPLW are always an extremely competitive club and a proud club that boasts many fine players over many years. Their recent formation with ECU Joondalup has galvanized them as a team to watch for season 2022,” he said. “It will certainly be a tough game pitching two very committed, free flowing and exciting teams meeting for the second time in the Night Series. It will no doubt be a fantastic game, with end-to-end action and a great spectacle for the supporters of both clubs.
“Our first encounter we unfortunately gave away a couple of set piece goals and a third goal well worked by Redbacks which left us with a not so good start to our campaign. We learnt from this game, evaluated our performance and know where we need to do better. Our team has since settled into good momentum, are playing with confidence and have belief in each other that we can do well. We know that Redbacks are well coached, have a good strong squad with some danger players and we will need to bring our best performance to the game. We have proven over the past couple of weeks that we are up for the challenge.
“Back-to-back titles in any sport at any level is an extremely difficult challenge, but is also an amazing achievement. The girls are excited for the challenge, believe that they can do well and are relishing the opportunity on Sunday. Whatever the result, as a new first team coach at Balcatta Etna this season I am super proud of the girls, their progress not only in the Night Series but the attitude and commitment throughout our pre-season and have the utmost belief in them for Sunday and the season ahead.” It’s a busy day of Womens on the day, and first up at 1.30pm Hamersley Rovers meet Subiaco in the Women’s Amateur League Night Series Final, and that is followed by the Women’s State League Night Series Final between Hyundai NTC and UWA Nedlands at 4.00pm, before the big one.
25.3.2022
BELT-UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION NIGHT SERIES – SEMI FINAL PREVIEW
The Belt-Up Amateur Premier League Night Series has reached the semi-finals stage, and both games will be played on Sunday. First up newly promoted East Perth make the trip to Kelly Park to take on Kwinana United. (3.00pm) Kwinana topped Group A, winning all three of their games, while East Perth sealed their spot and topped Group C with a win in the final game against Maddington White City.
East Perth, in their first season in the top flight, have surprised many in the group stage, but coach Jason Winter said they have gone about their business well, and he knows Sunday will be their toughest game of the season. “The semi-final is going to be a huge challenge for as we are a new group only together eight weeks, up against Kwinana who are one of the best in the Premier League for years now,” he explained. “They topped their group with nine points and will have home advantage for the semi-final, and unfortunately, we are missing a few with covid and injury but myself and Colm are confident the lads we have will give a good account of themselves on Sunday.”
Kwinana United coach Mark Purvis said Sunday will be a tight game, and he has been impressed with how East Perth have played in the Night Series. “So excited for the game this weekend, East Perth have put together a great coaching team and a top squad, which isn’t easy to do,” he said. “They have quality right through the team so will be another really good test. We’ve been happy overall with the boys, the attitude has been really good and what’s pleasing is we have given first team minutes to loads of the squad which good be important this year with COVID being in the mix along with injury, suspensions and holidays. We can’t wait for the kick off, going to be another exciting season.”
In the other semi-Final Joondalup United host Kelmscott Roos at Forrest Park on Sunday. (1.00pm) Joondalup topped Group B, and coach Neil Sherwin said the lads have performed well after being given a lifeline after relegation last season. “There are a lot of new faces this year and freshening things up was a priority given our showing last season. We got lucky to keep our Premier Division status so it's about doing all we can to make the most of that opportunity,” he explained.
“The atmosphere around the squad is great even though we're still in the early stages of playing together. We used 24 players in the group games and put in two good performances to get the six points need to progress. It was pleasing to score 11 goals but we leaked a few too many for my liking so we'll look to address that in the remaining friendlies before the proper stuff starts. We're looking forward to Sunday's game. I don't know much about Kelmscott but their results have been good so it'll be another welcome test to see where we're at.”
Kelmscott were runners up in Group A, and qualified for the semi-final as the best second placed side, and coach Serge Tucci said he has been really pleased with his side’s pre-season, and is looking forward to Sunday’s game. “It's nice to have reached this point of the preseason cup with all the challenges that we've faced at the club leaded to this point,” he said. “We’re really looking forward to travelling to face off against Joondalup in a semi that is going to be a tough contest. All we can do is put our best foot forward and who knows what can happen on gameday. Again, it will give all involved a look at the competition we shall face up to during this season.”
24.3.2022
I'M READY FOR THE A-LEAGUE SAYS ZADKOVICH
He's may be coaching former teammates but Perth Glory interim boss Ruben Zadkovich is confident he's ready to be an A-League Men's head coach. The 35-year old has stepped into the breach after the sacking of Richard Garcia following last weekend's home loss to Brisbane Roar and will have his first game at the helm against Wellington Phoenix on Saturday.
It's clearly a big moment for Zadkovich, who played for Glory in 2014/15 season alongside Garcia as well as current players Andy Keogh and Brandon O'Neill. Having been handed the opportunity, Zadkovich is hopeful of making an immediate impact on the last-placed Glory against Wellington.
"I'm only 35 and I'm a head coach of an A-League club so most of the players in the league I either played against or I know on a personal level which makes it interesting," he said. "That dynamic for me has always been there because I've been coaching for six or seven years now and coaching guys that are older than me and have a lot of experience in the game."
"That's something that I've found the right balance between friendship and mateship and pushing that aside and making sure business is business. In terms of Andy and the other guys, I'm good friends with a lot of these players and I care deeply about them, I think they know that and I think that's why we're going to lift."
Zadkovich has refused to set any targets for the Glory under his tenure, saying the goalposts have already been shifted too many times this season for the club. What he would like to see, however, is an indication the players are willing to fight for their own futures. "I want to see a shift in belief in the playing group and I want to see a performance that reflects the position that we're in," he said.
"The fans and the members are hurting. The club's hurting, and whilst we can't implement all the key principles and the changes from a philosophy point of view or playing style point of view straight away, what we can do is show a real lift in our mentality and in our effort. That's probably the first thing. We start with Wellington away and look to get a win there and then build."
21.3.2022
GARCIA KNEW THE WRITING WAS ON THE WALL
Sacked Perth Glory coach Ricard Garcia says he knew the writing was on the wall when he heard voices in the background with agendas. Glory sit bottom of the A-League after just three wins and Garcia concedes results were not acceptable.
He said it was difficult working on a tight budget, although chief executive Tony Pignata said the club had spent the full salary cap. The controversial signing of former England striker Daniel Sturridge has haunted Garcia.
“I was aware there were voices in the background that had agendas, but that’s part and parcel of football and being a coach,” Garcia said. “I don’t think many people realised we were working on a budget. People go on about Sturridge but when you ask for money, you’re told there is none, and that (Sturridge signing) happens ... that’s another issue. The less said about Sturridge the better.”
Garcia said he knew the club’s financial situation when he took charge 18 months ago and that he had to build a long-term player base from young talent. But he said some experienced players had not pulled their weight. “I did my best to help the club, make sure we tried to get in budget,” Garcia said.
“I stand by the fact that there are some guys that punched above their weight. The plan was never just to build on youth alone. You need experience. Our experience wasn’t enough this year. The guys that were experienced under-performed or weren’t available. We probably didn’t have enough leaders and enough that were firing on all cylinders.”
Garcia said Glory needed to plan for a long-term future. “Not just spend as much as you can and win for one year,” he said. “The model is to sustain for success and build for the future. The people who spend the most win the league. When we won the Premiers’ Plate (under Tony Popovic) we were the top-spending team in the league. That’s no coincidence..”
Glory have little hope of making finals and Garcia accepts the buck stops with the coach. “The results haven’t been good but the past two seasons have been the two hardest in the club’s history,” he said.
“I understand that people don’t like to see losers. We haven’t blown down the houses. It’s been an honour to coach my hometown club and I want to see them doing well. They should be flying in the A-League. They can be a massive club if they build it right.”
Glory chief executive Tony Pignata and owner Tony Sage made the decision to sack Garcia and assistant Steve McGarry this morning after the last night’s 4-1 flogging by Brisbane Roar. Current academy coach Ruben Zadkovich and under-20s coach Chris Coyne will take charge until the end of the season.
20.3.2022
AUSTRALIA CUP (WA) - ROUND THREE REVIEW
The Australia Cup was short on surprises, but the biggest was at Kingsway Reserve where Division Two side Gosnells City beat Division One Olympic Kingsway 1-0. The only goal of the game came on 20 minutes, a well worked move ended with Edward Wynne Wilson in between the lines, and he played a through ball to Scott Pereira who calmly flicked the ball around the advancing keeper. “Really pleased with the result but more so the performance of the lads,” Gosnells Coach Marc Anthony said. “Hopefully this gives us a lot of belief going onto the opening league game against Ashfield game this weekend.”
There was a tight game at Wotton Reserve on Saturday evening, with Joondalup United prevailing in a penalty shoot-out, after the game ended 2-2 after extra time. “Going into the game we knew it would be a difficult evening against a young talented Morley team, and it was a highly competitive game, played in great spirit by both sides,” Joondalup coach Nick Jennings said. “I felt on the night the better side won, even if it was only on penalties. We are happy to progress into the next round which what tonight was all about.” Gavin Knight gave the visitors the lead early, but Morley hit back before the break, with Callum Speed and Asa Sippits scoring to give the hosts the lead at the break.
Knight added his second from the spot on the hour, and after extra time the teams couldn’t be separated, but it was Joey Smith who was the hero saving the final penalty to see them 6-5 winners in the shoot-out. “As you'd expect we are disappointed with a loss and that further illustrates the integrity and commitment of this team given our opposition,” Morley coach Antony Benetti said. “I really thought we were largely in control of game and created the better opportunities and just maybe let ourselves down at times in our execution. A couple of big decisions went against us on the night but we know that if we are better in all aspects those moments have little impact. Now our focus is on the league and continued improvement.”
In other games a goal from Ben Campbell secured Western Knights a 1-0 win against Fremantle City at Nash Field, while Balga had to came from behind to beat Riverside Christian 8-2 at Princess Road Reserve, with Bleron Mamudi grabbing a brace. Meanwhile goals from Dion Berman and Nathan Scully saw Wanneroo City beat Carramar Shamrock Rovers 2-0 at Grandis Park. “Very happy with the win and a clean sheet, the boys were patient at the start and dealt with the physical direct style that shamrock play and deserved to go into the break with a lead,” Wanneroo coach Jesse Bridgeman said. “Simple instructions at half time which the boys followed and we saw out the second half comfortably.” Quinns beat Canning City 4-1 at Riverlink Reserve, with goals from Ben Hinshelwood, Liam Hudson, Hayden Doyle and youngster Harrison Wells
Curtin University ended the run of Greyhounds Christian, after a 3-1 win at Edinburgh Oval, while doubles from Ismael Bangura and Faustinho Machochi and singles to John Monterosso, Marco Trimboli and David Foster saw Swan United beat Albany Caledonian 7-0 at Francis Street. The return of Goran Stajic to the SafeRad Stadium didn’t go to plan, with Subiaco losing 5-1 against Rockingham City, with Shaun Mukwevho scoring a hat-trick, with others from Jack Murray and Broden Brown. Mandurah City eased into the next round with 13-0 win against Yanchep United at Coote Reserve, while Murdoch University Melville beat Kwinana United 3-0 at the Besteam Stadium.
In the local derby at Hay Park in Bunbury, hosts South West Phoenix beat Football Margaret River 4-2 in a tight contest. The visitors went ahead early with a stunning strike, but Dan Clarkson pegged them back just before half time. But the hosts started the second half the better and goals from Noah Sykes and Lee Stewart put them control. Margaret River pulled one back, but defender Ollie McGee sealed the win from the spot. “It was a great game, and they (FMR) really give it to us,” Phoenix coach Nick Carter explained. “We weren’t at our best and the score line doesn’t reflect the result, they are going to do great things this season.” The game between UWA Nedlands and Northern City was postponed.
On Sunday the big clash was at Hartfield Park, where Forrestfield United beat Dianella White Eagles 4-2 on penalties after the game ended 2-2 after extra time. The hosts found the opener on 38 minutes with Denzel Tshuma on target, but sixty seconds later Nikola Talimdzioski levelled. The hosts hit the front again on the hour mark, with a second from Tshuma, but three minutes later Talimdzioski levelled again. With no further score in extra time, it was off to penalties and Forrestfield keeper Luke Martino was the hero, saving two, and Tshuma fired home the fourth for the hosts to see them progress, much to the joy of the home crowd. “I thought it was a decent encounter and to match Dianella just as we did against Knights three weeks ago is extremely pleasing,” Forrestfield coach Richard Abrams said. “Both Dianella and Knights are top quality sides who will no doubt compete for top spot in the Stage league, so to give them both a game and match them over 90 minutes means we are on the right track.”
Joondalup City made the long trip to Churchill Park in Busselton to take on hosts Busselton City, and came home with a 3-2 win in a thriller. The host were ahead from the spot at half time, but the visitors hit back with substitute Kealey Farrant volleying home. Busselton regained the lead, but once again Farrant responded, heading home his second to level. Both sides went for the win and in a tense finish it was Joondalup who prevailed, Jack Reilly converting from the spot with only minutes left. “We had a big scare today against Busselton and absolute credit to them with only one pre-season game under their belt they certainly came prepared to fight for this today,” Joondalup Coach Brad Haywood said. “We found ourselves behind at the break, and we e changed things up strengthened from the bench which is a testament to our great depth this season and got the win in the end. In cup games it’s not how you win it’s that you find a way to win and we did just that today. Huge thank you to Busselton for the great hospitality and for a nail-biting game of football.”
In other Sunday games, a brace from Jake Cosenza, and others Davor Pavic and Scott Urquhart has given Ballajura a shock penalty-shoot out win against Maddington White City at Kingfisher Park. The game was locked at 4-4 after extra time, but the hosts held their nerve to seal the win 4-3 on penalties. South Perth United have beaten North Beach 2-1 at Charles Riley Reserve, while Perth AFC beat Chipolopolo 4-2 at the Ted Cross Memorial Oval. Kingsley Westside beat Hamersley Rovers 3-0 at Beldon Park, with Darren Oroidan bagging a brace, with Cameron Bishop getting the other. The games between Joondanna Blues and Ashfield and Emarald and Jaguar were both called off due to covid cases. The draw for the next round, which includes all the NPLWA Men’s team, will be made later in the week.
20.3.2022
BELT-UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION NIGHT SERIES – WEEK THREE REVIEW
The Belt-Up Amateur Night Series group stage came to an end, with games spread over the week due Australia Cup commitments. It started in Group C on Wednesday evening when newly-promoted East Perth beat hosts Maddington White City 3-1 at Nikola Tesla Reserve to qualify for the Semi-Finals. The visitors were ahead on 12 minutes, when a short corner from Liam Hunt found Niall Murray whose cross hit the post, but skipper Juri Galba was on hand to volley the ball home. They doubled their lead just before the hour mark, some neat build up from Murray down the right, before Adam Gianassi and Kyle Loftus combined to find Mehdi Rabei, who got the last touch after a fumble from the home keeper.
They sealed the win 19 minutes from time, with Murray completing a standout performance blasting a free kick from long-range to make it 3-0. The hosts did pull one back late, with a great strike from Jose Zuniga, but it was too little too late. “A really good hard-working performance from us tonight after a pretty poor display on Sunday against Emerald,” East Perth coach Colm Costello said. “Maddington are a top side and we had to dig deep to get the result, they never stopped working and probing so our back four were solid and kept busy. We have still plenty to improve on but overall, Jason and I were very happy with the performance and effort from the whole squad.” The other game in the group between Jaguar and Emarald was called off due to covid.
In Group A Kwinana United secured top spot with a hard fought 1-0 win against Peel United at Kelly Park on Thursday evening. The only goal of the game came from Dean Couling, directly from a corner, and Kwinana coach Mark Purvis said they were lucky on the night. “To be honest we scored somewhat against the run of play, and they (Peel) were very good. They forced plenty of turnover of possession and when they got on it, they exploited the spaces we left behind,” he explained. “We were far from happy with our standards in the first half and we made some changes at half time, including a change of tactics and thankfully we were able to see out the game.”
In the other game in the Group Kelmscott Roos beat Queens Park 7-1, to also qualify as the highest runners-up team. Lachlan Cameron gave them the best of starts, reacting quickest after the Queens Park saved. Josh Tumde doubled their lead with a free kick, before adding two more to complete his hat-trick. Nat Otte added a brace and Brad Kizich finished off a great team move for the seventh. “It was a great result today, the boys dominated the contest but there are still certain aspects of the game we need to work on,” Kelmscott coach Sergi Tucci said. “It’s been a testing week as a number of players and coaches have fallen to covid so overall pleased with those who have stepped up and follow what the coaching staff is out to achieve.”
Finally in Group B Joondalup United topped the group after a 5-2 win against North Perth United at Price Regent Park on Friday evening. Joondalup went close early, but Adam Buckley’s header crashed off the crossbar, but they did open the scoring on 15 minutes, Nayder Khayat’s corner headed home by Andreas Bouzinekis. North Perth was back on level terms moments later, a cross into the box was spilled and Damien Philips fired home from close-range. But just before the break Joondalup regained the lead, referee Liam Barclay spotting a handball and Buckley converted from the spot. North Perth had a perfect opportunity to level just after half time, but Joondalup keeper Patrick Lawless got down well to right to save Lucas Correa’s spot kick.
To make matters worse for them, Joondalup went straight up the pitch and Buckley scored from a tight angle to make it 3-1. The goal of the night came from Khayat who received the ball 30 meters out and rolled his marker, and despite being tugged back he was able fire off a shot that flew into the top corner to make it 4-1. North Perth pulled one back, before Buckley and Bouzinekis combined and the latter scored his second of the game. to seal a comprehensive win. “It was important for us to bounce back after a flat performance against Quinns. It’s still only preseason but we’re looking to set high standards this year and Friday’s result was down to a full team effort,” Joondalup Coach Neil Sherwin explained.
“We had ten players out and lost our two starting centre backs in the lead up to the game but Andy Nicholson and Sean Kalaher filled in superbly. None of our backline were with the club last year so we’re still figuring things out but the signs are good. It’s pleasing to score eleven goals in the three group fixtures. Nayder Khayat and Adam Buckley are linking up very well, and Andreas Bouzinekis had an excellent game alongside them.”
In the other game in the group Quinns beat Wembley Downs 5-3, with Ryan McCready scoring a first half hat-trick, with others to Sam Vencat and Connor McCready. “Happy with the win and scoring five goals and could have had a few more,” Quinns coach Lee Garnish said. “We knew we had to win by a big margin today to get into semi-finals, and the boys pushed themselves to get to a 4-1 lead, but Credit to Wembley for continuing to fight. Delighted with Ryan McCready finding the back of the net again, and the Boys have played well this night series and will take good momentum into the season.”
The draw for the Semi-Finals was made today at Football West headquarters, and Group A winners Kwinana United will play Group C winners East Perth, while in the other Semi-Final Group B winners Joondalup United take on the highest runner-up from all three groups, Kelmscott Roos. A date, time and venue for the games is still to be confirmed.
20.3.2022
GLORY BRING THE AXE DOWN ON GARCIA
Perth Glory have sacked coach Richard Garcia and assistant Steven McGarry following last nights loss to Brisbane Roar, a result which extended the sides winless run to seven games. Former Socceroos midfielder Ruben Zadkovich will take over as coach for the remainder of the season, with Chris Coyne appointed as his assistant.
Garcia had big shoes to fill after taking over as coach from Tony Popovic in September 2020. Glory missed out on finals action by five points in Garcia’s first season in charge but the wheels fell off this year as injuries and hub life took its toll on the young squad.
The recent run of poor results upon the team finally returning home proved to be the final blow, with Glory snaring just one point from their string of four consecutive home matches. It left them 10 points adrift of sixth spot, and the 4-1 loss to Brisbane was simply too hard to stomach.
Owner Tony Sage and chief executive Tony Pignata met on Sunday morning to make the decision, and they phoned Garcia to tell him the bad news. “We just haven’t been happy with the results over the last few weeks,” Pignata said.
“I know we’ve had COVID thrown in and travel, but at the end of the day it is about results and getting results, and we’re on the bottom of the table. And our performance last night was not great, it was hard to watch, we just felt we needed a change and we decided this morning to change the coach and assistant coach.
“It was a tough call to make and ring someone and tell them their employment has been terminated. But he was professional, he understood. He was very philosophical about it. Richie’s a great person, as Steve is.”
Pignata said Zadkovich and Coyne now have the perfect chance to audition for the full-time gig. “As I said to Ruben and Coyney this morning, they’ve got 10 games to show us they want the job, and then we’ll reassess at the end of the (season),” Pignata said.
“And if we have to open it up, we’ll open it up and go through a proper process. But at the moment they’ve got the role and they’ve got an opportunity to show the club they want to continue on next year and beyond.”
19.3.2022
MACEDONIA START SEASON WITH A HARD-FOUGHT WIN AT ARMADALE
Stirling Macedonia began their return to NPLWA Men’s football, with a hard-fought 2-1 win against Armadale in our ‘Match of the Round’ at Alfred Skeet Reserve. In front of big crowd, it was Stirling who opened the scoring early, with Sam Wynne firing home from long-range. The hosts levelled just before half time with Peter Jacobsz chipping in from the edge of the box. But the visitors regained the lead early in the second, with former Armadale striker Michael Domfeh on target. The hosts pressed late, and had a clear penalty waved away, but Ian Ferguson’s side held firm to take the points.
“We delighted to come away with three points, especially with it being our first game back in the NPL,” Stirling assistant coach John Lavery said post-match. “We made it harder than we should at times, but Armadale battled hard, and have some quality in their side. It was a great goal from Sam to get us on our way, he has that in his locker, and he’ll do that week in week out, but I thought we were fortunate to go in at half time level, as they hit the bar and James (Bosdet) pulled off some great saves, but we got them in at half time and regrouped and came out and fought out the three points in the second half.”
Stirling, who won the Division One title last season, made a perfect start and were ahead on eight minutes. Domfeh and Calvin Whitney combined on the edge of the box, the ball laid back to Wynne who found the bottom corner from 18-meters. The hosts looked for an immediate response and Abdul Osman stung the palms of Stirling keeper James Bosdet with a long-range shot. Then on 21 minutes, Gordon Perkins’ lob crashed off the crossbar, and Angel Andres’ follow up shot was cleared off the line by Hristijan Jankuloski. Moments later Andres’ shot was superbly saved by Bosdet, before the Spanish striker’s overhead kick flashed inches wide of the post.
Armadale went close again on 38 minutes, Adrian Jelenovic header flashed wide from Kevin Gallo’s corner, but Stirling were dangerous going forward, and soon have doubled their lead sixty seconds later. Domfeh raced down the right, and his cross found Alex Taneski unmarked in the penalty area, but with the goal at his mercy the striker fired over the top. But in first half injury time it was Armadale who found the equaliser. A long clearance from Yousri Gharsallah was flicked on by Andres, and Jacobsz superbly controlled the ball on his chest before lobbing the keeper from the edge of the penalty, much to the delight of the home faithful.
Stirling started the second half the better, and six minutes in they regained the lead. Whitney’s ball into the box wasn’t dealt with and Domfeh, rounded Gharsallah and rolled the ball home. They went close to a third moments later, Wynne’s snap shot was well saved by Gharsallah, and the Armadale custodian saved low from Asher Nelson’s follow up shot. The game had a great tempo, but it was the hosts pressing for the equaliser and Andres’ goalbound shot was deflected wide on the hour mark, before he was denied by a fingertip save from the alert Bosdet. But on 72 minutes Armadale were convinced they had a penalty after Jankuloski brought down Andres as he was about to shoot, but referee Michal Jasinski waved away their protests.
Still the hosts pressed forward and five minutes later, Perkins made space down the left, and his teasing cross was superbly cleared by Luke Garas, with Jelenovic ready to pounce at the back post. With the home side pushing forward they were almost caught out late, but Gharsallah saved well to deny substitute Hugo Snowden’s shot. It was one-way traffic late, as Armadale went in search of the equaliser, and in stoppage time the home fans were on their feet as Andres raced in on goal, but the flag was up for offside.
“I’m really disappointed today, the boys played fantastic, but we were up against 12 men today,” Armadale coach John O’Reilly said post-match. “From a fan perspective they would have been thoroughly entertained, and we kept fighting to the end, but unfortunately we couldn’t get over the line.” In the earlier game Armadale under 20s beat Stirling Macedonia 4-1. Cole Hadfield gave the visitors the lead midway through the first half, but a brace from Michael Adams scored a brace, and others to Ali Sina and Angel Andres Jnr, gave Armadale the win. The under 18s game was called off due to covid.
Armadale: GK Yousri GHARSALLAH, 4 Nathan COSTELLO (3 Isaac KOOMSON 46’), 5 Kevin GALLO, 6 Joel SANDERSON (7 Paul de la CHANELIERE 81’), 8 Gordon PERKINS, 9 Angel ANDRES, 11 Adrian JELENOVIC, 12 Abdul OSMAN, 15 Luqman SAYYED, 17 Peter JACOBSZ, 20 Shaydon PASSALACQUE (10 Henri MULWILA 89’) - Subs not used: RGK Alex FISHER, 14 Eddie GARRIDO
Stirling Macedonia: GK James BOSDET, 2 Ryan MALTON, 4 Hristijan JANKULOSKI (11 Jack RYCROFT 76’), 5 Luke PALMATEER, 6 Dejan SPASESKI, 7 Asher NELSON (14 Shay DONOVAN 67’), 9 Michael DOMFEH (12 Hugo SNOWDEN 81, 10 Sam WYNNE, 13 Calvin WHITNEY, 15 Luke GARAS, 17 Alex TANESKI - Subs not used: RGK Liam PRICE, 3 Brent QUICK, 8 Adrian KOIOS, 16 Kai MATTHEWS - Referee: Michal Jasinski
19.3.2022
REDSTARS DO IT FOR DANNY
Perth RedStar first game as a new club started with a 2-1 win against Gwelup Croatia at the ECU Football Stadium, and they dedicated the win to Danny Hodgson, who was in the stands after his release from hospital after his unprovoked assault in the Perth last year. Daryl Nicol gave Kenny Lowe’s side the lead on the half hour, but Gwelup hit back with Rene Kisesa on target early in the second half. But Mitchell Prentice’s side then had Aiden Formston sent off on 63 minutes, and three minutes later Tom Hough fired home the winner, and celebrated with his former team mate Hodgson, on the clubhouse balcony.
“It was really important that we managed to get the three points as we haven’t played in a number of weeks and we probably weren’t quite as sharp as we can be so just getting over the line was important on the first game,” Nicol explained. “The most important part of the day was seeing Danny out of hospital and there to cheer on the lads. It was very emotional to see him before the game and just having him there to watch was something really special. We are all right behind him as he continues to power on with his recovery.”
There were chances at both ends in a bright opening to this one. First new signing Chok Dau made space down the left, his cross picked out Nicol, but the striker couldn’t keep his volley down. Moments later Sam Dweh sent Kisesa in on goal, but he could only find the side netting. Still the chances came, and when Sam Pollard cut in from the right, his curling effort flashed wide. Then on the half hour new Gwelup striker Gomo Dukuly raced into the box, but his shot rolled agonizingly beyond the far post.
But on 34 minutes it was the RedStar’s who found the opener, their first goal in the competition. Sami Riak sent Pollard down the left, his inch perfect cross picked out Nicol, who lost his marker to head home. Gwelup almost levelled in stoppage time, when Dukuly’s free kick was pushed around the post by the alert Joe Pollard. Then from the resulting corner the RedStar custodian got down well to block Dukuly’s close-range effort, but at the break hosts held a narrow advantage.
Gwelup opened brightly after the break and were rewarded with the equaliser on 51 minutes. Kisesa’s curling free kick from 18 meters dropped in front of Pollard, who was looking at the defence to clear it, but the ball nestled in the back of his net. But all their hard work was undone 12 minutes later, when Formston fouled Declan Hughes, right in front of referee Stewart Beattie, and he was shown a second yellow card and sent off.
Then three minutes later, it went from bad to worse for Gwelup, as the hosts regained the lead. Pollard’s ball into the box was headed back across goal by Nicol, but Ryan Lowry’s shot was well saved by Sharrock. But from the resulting corner Gwelup failed to clear their lines and substitute Tom Hough shot on the turn flew past Sharrock, although Gwelup thought there was a foul in the box before the shot. RedStar’s looked for a third and a neat give and go with Hughes sent Nicol into the box, but his shot on the run was wide of the target.
RedStar were on top and Higgins’ curling effort went just over the top, before Hough’s shot was cleared off the line by Salinger. Gwelup substitute Sebastian Hooshangian long-range shot whistled inches past the post as the hosts looked for the equaliser, but time ran out, and it was #DH7 who was celebrating a win for his beloved side at the final whistle. In other games on the day Perth RedStar won the under 18s game 3-2 with Theodore Leeming grabbing a brace for the hosts, while Noah Kanzi scored twice as Gwelup ran out 4-1 winners in the under 20s.
Perth RedStar: GK Joe POLLARD, 2 Oscar MALFIORE (19 Nelson TSHONGO 68’), 3 Blair GOVAN, 4 Declan HUGHES, 5 Ryan LOWRY, 6 Sami RIAK (8 Tom HOUGH 59’, 9 Daryl NICOL, 10 Andy HIGGINS, 11 Sam POLLARD, 12 Nick WALSH (13 Liam MURRAY 59’), 14 Chok DAU – Subs not used: RGK Louis HADFIELD, 16 Sean O’CONNOR, 20 Marino GOJAK
Gwelup Croatia: GK Cyril SHARROCK, 3 Daniel FAICHNEY, 4 Lachlan COLLINS, 6 Kade FEARNALL, 8 Mohammad REZAI (10 Sebastian HOOSHANGIAN 70’), 11 Gomo DUKULY (38 Noah KANZI 80’), 14 Sam DWEH (41 Jason PETRIE 80’), 16 Oscar BARRY (20 Sebastian DA SILVA 46’), 17 Aiden FORMSTON, 18 Kaelan MAJEKS, 22 Rene KISESA – Subs not Used: RGK George JACKSON, 34 Alfie WHEELER – Referee: Stewart Beattie
19.3.2022
INGLEWOOD START WITH A BANG AT BALCATTA
Inglewood United began the 2022 NPLWA Men’s season with a bang, after a 3-0 win against Balcatta Etna at Grindleford Reserve. The visitors opened the scoring early, with Egide Ngendakumana on target, before second half goals from Harry Evans and Manase Abandelwa, sealed a comprehensive win for Andres Oliveira’s side. “It was a clinical away performance from us to start the season against an energetic Balcatta side,” midfielder Harry Evans said. “We’ve carried on what we have been working on in pre- season which was pleasing, and it’s a testament to our squad and the coaching staff for all sticking together even with the Covid disruptions and everyone in the squad playing their part in winning the three points to get off to a good start.”
It was a first game for the squad, since their Night Series Semi-Final was called off due to covid in the Inglewood camp, but they made up for last time early, opening the scoring after only five minutes. An under-hit back pass by Luke Alessandrino saw Ngendakumana pounce, and round Balcatta keeper Riley Stephenson to fire home from the angle, to give them the lead and went off to celebrate with some acrobatics.
The hosts went in search of a quick reply, but Elliot Tattersal’s goalbound shot was blocked, before Jon Corness’ long-range shot flew over the top. Both sides had chances in a tight first half, first former Armadale and Floreat Athena striker Abandelwa saw an effort block by a retreating Inglewood defence, before Amir Ajan's free kick was saved by Inglewood custodian Alex Dunn, but at the break it was the visitors holding a narrow lead.
It was more of the same after the break, both sides having plenty of possession, but clear-cut chances were few and far between, but that all changed on 66 minutes when Inglewood doubled their advantage. Evans started the move picking out Chad Nilson down the left, then a neat give and go with Anthony Bafobusha, sent the former Armadale winger into the box, and he crossed to Evans, who had continued his run, to side foot home.
The hosts needed a quick response, but they couldn’t find a way past Dunn, and a resolute Inglewood defence, but they went close on 73 minutes. A ball into the box by Luke Alessandrino was flicked on substitute Matthew Alessandrino, and new signing Billy Quinncroft couldn’t turn the ball home from the angle. But the points were sealed 13 minutes from time, when Inglewood added a third. A surging run from defence from Chris Tilson, ended with a pass to Abandelwa who found the top corner from the edge of the box.
“It’s great starting the season with a win against a good team like Balcatta,” Inglewood coach Andres Oliveira said. “Scoring three goals and a clean sheet is very pleasing, as the guys have been working hard since the Covid situation.” In the other games on the day, Balcatta beat Inglewood 5-1 in the under 18s game, with goals from Xavier Medica, Luke Meakins, Diego Silva Pizza, Anthony Nedelkos and an own goal, while Dylan Di Toro scored Inglewood’s consolation goal, while Matthew Alessandrino scored twice, including the winner two minutes from time, as Balcatta beat Inglewood 2-1 in the under20s.
Balcatta Etna: GK Riley STEPHENSON, 4 Luke ALESSANDRINO, 5 Logan RINDEL, 7 Amir AJAN, 8 Jack LEECH, 10 Jonathan CORNESS, 11 Elliot TATTERSALL, 13 Anthony TOPINI, 17 Henry DURR, 18 Billy QUINNCROFT, 19 Coby SUTTON – Subs not used: RGK Domenic SAVOLDELLI, 3 Jonathan BOUHLAS, 12 Giordano SPORTIELLO, 14 Nicholas MESSINA, 15 Matthew ALESANDRINO
Inglewood United: GK Alex DUNN, 2 Alex ISHIDA-LIVINGS, 3 Roberto DEL BORRELLO, 7 Chad NILSON, 8 Harry EVANS, 9 Manse ABANDELWA, 10 Anthony BAFOBUSHA, 11 Egide NGENDAKUMANA, 12 Callum MELLOWSHIP, 15 Dhurs CHOL, 19 Chris TILSON – Subs not used: RGK Joshua GODFREY, 5 Thiak KUEL, 6 Hermon MICHAELE, 13 Brodie LANGAN, 15 Ibere KASUKULU, 17 Hamza BELHASSAN – Referee: Joshua Nixon
18.3.2022
CENTRAL COAST BOSS DISAPPOINTED FOR BIRIGHITTI
Central Coast Mariners coach Nick Montgomery says it's disappointing goalkeeper Mark Birighitti's A-League form hasn't earned him a Socceroos call-up. The former Perth SC junior has been a constant performer for Central Coast this season and saved a penalty from Bruno Fornaroli in Tuesday's 0-0 draw against Perth Glory.
That was the third penalty 30-year old Birighitti has stopped this campaign but he was overlooked by coach Graham Arnold for Australia's upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Japan and Saudi Arabia. "Everyone can see Birra's form. Not only this season but last year," Montgomery said.
"He's deserving of being in that Socceroos (team) but he doesn't pick himself in the team. All he's got to do is keep performing consistently and, if he does that, it's only a matter of time. Disappointed for him but he'll keep his head down, keep performing and wait for his opportunity."
Birighitti has one Socceroos cap to his name, a 4-3 loss to China in the East Asian Cup in 2013. He has close to 200 senior appearances at club level to his name through spells with A-League sides Adelaide United, Newcastle Jets, and Central Coast, Italian outfit Varese and Dutch club NEC Breda.
18.3.2022
INTO THE LOOKING GLASS: THE NATIONAL PREMIER LEAGUE SEASON-WA PREVIEW
The NPL-WA season kicks off this weekend, and all eyes will be on reigning State champions Perth, who are looking to win their 25th league title since the professional era began in 1960. However, they will be strongly challenged by the likes of Floreat Athena, Perth Redstar and newly promoted Stirling Macedonia. Inglewood United, Sorrento and Bayswater City will also be knocking on the door for honours, and hope to make it into the Top Four Cup finals.
It's difficult to predict who will finish in the drop zone, but pre-season form shows Gwelup Croatia and Cockburn City might be in a fight to avoid relegation.
The team which finishes top of the regular season table will once again be champions and represent Western Australia in the national NPL play-off series. This week the footballwa.net team takes a look at the twelve clubs, and are joined by "The Insider", Eamon Duffy, from "Let's talk Football", Richard Kreider (Author of "Paddocks to Pitches" - a history of football in WA, and footballwa.net founder Jacob Aufdemkampe, in offering their thoughts on how season 2022 will pan out...
18.3.2022
NPL-WA ROUND ONE - PREVIEW
The 2022 NPLWA Men’s season kicks off this weekend, and our ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to Alfred Skeet Reserve, as Armadale host the promoted Stirling Macedonia. (All games kick off at 3.00pm unless stated) Ian Ferguson’s side eased to the Division One title last season, winning by 15 points, and they have started life in the NPL well after a two-year exodus, reaching the Night Series Semi-Final. Armadale begin their 18th season in the NPL and John O’Reilly has assembled a new look side, and confidence is high as they look to celebrate their 50th anniversary, so this one should be a great game.
Stirling skipper Dejan Spaseski said the title winning side has been strengthened in certain areas this season, and he’s been pleased with their pre-season. “We are happy with our preseason, but it was unfortunate to not go on and win the night series after our excellent performances in the group stage, however, we got we needed out of it,” he explained. “Keeping the core of our squad from last season has been key for us in having a strong preseason, but Ian (Ferguson) has strengthened in certain areas and the boys that have come in have integrated seamlessly.”
Spaseski said a trip to Armadale is always tough, but they head there in a confident mood and will be looking to start on the front foot. “Armadale away is always a tough fixture and something we are not taking lightly,” the skipper said. “We know we have to bring our A game and concentration for the entire 90 minutes if we are to take the points, but we are just buzzing to finally start after a long preseason and will be looking nothing less than three points to kickstart our season.”
The hosts finished seventh last season, and skipper Nathan Costello said they are looking to build on that, and finals football is what they are chasing this season. “We’ve been happy with preseason, and I thought we were playing a good style and competitive for the majority of night series games, but didn't hold it all together for 90 minutes, which have to learn from,” the former Perth Glory Youth defender explained. “Anything below seventh this year for us has to be a failure, we are looking at forcing ourselves into that Top Four and staying competitive throughout the season.”
It's a new look Reds squad this season, and Costello said the squad has depth, and competition for places is fierce, and they are looking forward to the season opener against a good Stirling side. “They (Stirling) have recruited very well in the off-season so I expect them to be another side looking to be Top Four, so it will be a good start to the season to see where we are at,” he said. “But we have had solid progression, from game to game all preseason, and the majority of the squad it fit and healthy so there's no better way to start the season than at home in front of our supporters, against a good side.”
In other games this weekend, Champions Perth SC begin their defence of the title and look for some revenge from their loss in last week's Night Series Final against Floreat Athena, when the pair meet again at Dorrien Gardens. (3.30pm) These two teams have been the benchmark over the last few seasons, and games between them are never dull, and I don’t think this one will be any different. New club Perth RedStar begin life with a home game against Gwelup Croatia at the ECU Football Stadium. The RedStar’s, a merger between ECU Joondalup and Northern Redbacks, will be hoping to start the new era with a win, while Gwelup, who never won any away games last season, will be looking to start the tenure of new coach Mitchell Prentice with a win.
Cockburn City struggled in the Night Series, but will be looking to kick start their season under new coach Mirko Jelicic when they host Sorrento at Dalmatinac Park. Meanwhile Sorrento, who celebrate their 50th anniversary this season have Trevor Morgan back in the dug-out, and they will be looking to continue where they left off last season.
In the final game Balcatta Etna entertain Inglewood United at Grindleford Reserve. United were hampered by covid in the Night Series, and coach Andres Oliveira will be hoping it’s cleared up for the opening game. Balcatta, who missed out on a Night Series semi-final in the final group game, go into the season with a new look squad, and midfielder Jonathan Corness said they are heading in the right direction. “Overall we had quite a good pre season, we came up a bit short to get to the semi's but we played some decent football at times and we proven to ourselves that if we go in with the right mindset we can achieve good things,” he explained. “That's what Michael and Carl have instilled in us and something we want to continue to improve.”
Corness said Saturday will be another tight game, but they are determined to start the season with three points. “Inglewood knocked us out of the night series so theres a bit of motivation there and obviously the first game of the season were all buzzing for it to kick off,” he said. “We know were we finished last year and we absolutely need to improve on that. Were at our best when we move the ball quickly and work hard for each other and that's exactly the goal on Saturday.”
The first game to be hit by the WA covid outbreak has come in week one, with Perth Glory’s games against Bayswater City at Hartfield Park being called off, after a number of Glory players came down with the virus – all three games were called off.
18.3.2022
AUSTRALIA CUP (WA) - ROUND THREE PREVIEW
It’s Australia Cup (WA) round three this weekend, with the State League sides entering the competition. We still have a number of the regional sides in the competition, and all face tough games this weekend. Albany Caledonian has the longest trip this weekend, when they head to the Swan Valley to take on Swan United at Francis Street. (All games kick off at 3.00pm unless stated) Albany coach Ben Harris aid they have prepared well, and the club are happy to be involved in the national competition. (Our preseason has been going well for us this year with a few new faces around the squad and a high level of commitment being shown from our relatively young group,” he explained.
“Generally, we start our preseason a bit later than most metro teams but the lads stayed in pretty good shape in the off season so I am happy with the state we are in. I really like the opportunities (Australia Cup) presents for us both as a playing group and as a club. We have some young talented players who are eager to test themselves and a couple who may find themselves moving to Perth in the coming years so this will give them a sense of the standard. As a club the logistics of getting a squad together, organised and to Perth to play is a good challenge for our processes so we can take some learnings away from the experience in that sense as well.”
Harris said they will be underdogs on Saturday, but they will be up for the challenge. “We definitely won't be going into the game as favourites and we don't mind that but we do believe we can be competitive for large parts of the match,” he said. “We are setting ourselves some realistic targets but my biggest desire for the lads is that they enjoy the experience and play with some freedom. We are a proud club with 46 years of history so I am sure the boys will represent the club well.”
Swan United had covid go through the squad, and Coach Dan Evans, who will also miss the game this weekend, said they still have some players missing, but are ready for the game. “Unfortunately, after our pre-season trip to Geraldton we have a number of players in isolation this week either as Covid positive or close contact, so out pre-season has been interrupted but considering I’m fairly happy and I think we will be competitive,” he explained. “It will be my assistant Eddie Dabrowski and Colin Morgan in the technical area on the weekend, and we’re not overestimating Albany Caledonians, but I believe we have a strong enough squad to get the job done.”
South West Phoenix don’t have many local derbies in Bunbury, but they do on Saturday when they host neighbours Football Margaret River at Hay Park. Margaret River coach Ross Reid believes the competition is great for the regional clubs to have a crack against State League sides, and he said they are ready for the challenge. As a club we really enjoy the challenge of the Australia cup, the chance to travel and play different teams early in the season is great for team building and challenging ourselves against good opposition,” he said. “The club got to the last eight in the state a few years ago before going out to Balga which was a great achievement for all those involved and brought with it a really positive atmosphere around the club.
“Our pre-season has been going well so far, we had to relocate some early sessions as our pitch had been used during the bushfires down here for emergency services and needed to recover. We tend to have a few new players at the start of each season with so many backpackers coming to the area so there's a few fresh faces to try and fit into our system. Unfortunately, the carnival we run every year as the kick-off to the season down here had to be cancelled due to covid restrictions so there has been a bit of a lack of competitive games to get the fitness up.”
Reid knows it will be a tough game in Bunbury, but he said they are looking forward to it. “We do expect the game to be a challenge but the boys are pretty confident going into this game, we know a few of their players from playing against them in our league and we've played on the pitch up in Bunbury a couple of times in the last few years,” he explained. “We're expecting a physical contest and as it's our first competitive game of the year there are a few unknowns, but we believe we have the talent in our squad to make it a really close contest.”
Phoenix coach Nick Carter, who guided the club back to the State League Division Two this season, said after losing a few players this season, he is pleased how some of the youngsters have stepped up, but he knows Saturday is a cup game and anything can happen. “We’ve had a few lads retire and a few lads decide the travel effects their health too much so we have lost some quality but I’m proud of the players that stepped up. We’ve uncovered some rough gems in the squad and I’m excited to see what they can do,” he said. “Margs are always one of the strongest teams in the south west league, they produce so many top players, I go after 2-3 of their players every year. Luke Johnston is an ex-Glory and Dundee player, he is phenomenal, so we know what to expect, but I believe we have the quality to overcome them but it’s not going to be easy.”
The other games on Saturday are: Mandurah City v Yanchep United at Coote Reserve, Carramar Shamrock Rovers v Wanneroo City at Grandis Park, Western Knights v Fremantle City at Nash Field, Olympic Kingsway v Gosnells City at Princess Road Reserve, Quinns v Canning City at Riverlink Reserve, UWA Nedlands v Northern City at the UWA Sports Park, Rockingham City v Subiaco at Lark Hill (6.00pm), Morley Windmills v Joondalup United at Wotton Reserve (6.00pm) and Curtin University v Greyhounds Christian at Edinburgh Oval (7.00pm)
The final game on Saturday sees Kwinana United visit Besteam Stadium to take on Night Series winners Murdoch University Melville. Kwinana have been in good form in the Amateur Night Series, but coach Mark Purvis is well aware they face a huge challenge on Saturday. “It’s been really positive for us in the last few games, the new boys coming in have really made a good impression on the group. We know it’s a preseason competition but winning is a nice habit to get into, he said. “Our club game doesn’t come much tougher than the night series champions. It’s definitely going to be a huge test, against a very good side with a great coach, but who wouldn’t want a chance to test ourselves. We can’t wait for it.”
On Sunday we have six more fixtures, with the Emarald v Jaguar game at Fraser Park Reserve called off as Emerald players have covid. The games to go ahead are: Joondanna Blues v Ashfield (Venue TBC), North Beach v South Perth at Charles Riley Reserve (1.00pm), Hamersley Rovers v Kingsley Westside at Beldon Park, Ballajura v Maddington White City at Kingfisher Park, Chipolopol v Perth AFC at Ted Cross Memorial Oval and Forrestfield United v Dianella White Eagles at Hartfield Park (5.00pm) In the final game on Sunday Joondalup City head south to take on Busselton City at Churchill Park. Busselton coach Anthony Mills said they can’t wait for the game, and hope to celebrate their 100th anniversary this season.
“Pre-season has been encouraging, as the club celebrate its century, so there is a bit of a buzz about the club amongst not only our men, but ladies and junior sides too,” he explained. “Unfortunately, the Senior Men’s Pre-Season has been disrupted for various reasons meaning we have only played one friendly, but the squad has gelled nicely and we are optimistic about doing well in 2022. Shane Russell (as Joint Head Coach) and Bobby Winn (as Reserves Coach) have joined the coaching team and bring with them plenty of experience and local knowledge which is proving invaluable.
“We love the Australia Cup at Busselton. Its gives us an opportunity to test ourselves against opposition we would not normally face and if the draw is kind the chance to have a good night out in Perth together. We enjoyed a little run in the competition last season before bowing out to Kwinana and so we have fond fresh memories of the competition. I’m really looking forward to a great day on Sunday and seeing how we go against a team who are a few rungs ahead of us on the Football ladder. We expect a tough game but are excited too, just a shame that we cannot welcome spectators to Churchill Park to see how we go.”
17.3.2022
FORNAROLI HEADLINES SOCCEROOS SQUAD SHOCKS
Veteran striker Bruno Fornaroli's win-at-all-costs mentality is exactly what Socceroos coach Graham Arnold wants in his players for the crucial World Cup qualifiers against Japan and Saudi Arabia. The 34-year old Uruguay-born forward is one of five uncapped players named in Arnold's extended 27-man squad after recently being granted Australian citizenship.
Arnold has opted for the Perth Glory forward with Adam Taggart (injured) and Jamie Maclaren (wedding) unavailable. "If you look at what Bruno Fornaroli's done for Australian football as a foreigner over the last seven-eight years, he's always been consistently one of the best strikers in the league," Arnold said.
"With his goalscoring ratio of a goal every two games, he brings great quality but on top of that, he brings a South American mentality and that is fight 'til you drop. He brings experience that because of that, these two games will not affect him at all."
Third-placed Australia have to win both matches against second-placed Japan and group leaders Saudi Arabia to have any real hope of qualifying automatically for this year's World Cup in Qatar. Anything less is likely to send Australia into a treacherous play-off route to the finals, against nations from Asia and South America.
Australia's squad to play Japan (24 March) and Saudi Arabia (30 March) is Nathaniel Atkinson, Aziz Behich, Martin Boyle, Nicholas D'Agostino, Milos Degenek, Mitchell Duke, Bruno Fornaroli, Denis Genreau, Craig Goodwin, Rhyan Grant, Ajdin Hrustic, Jackson Irvine, James Jeggo, Fran Karacic, Joel King, Mathew Leckie, Awer Mabil, Jamie Maclaren, Connor Metcalfe, Andrew Redmayne, Tom Rogic, Kye Rowles, Mat Ryan, Trent Sainsbury, Gianni Stensness, Marco Tilio and Danny Vukovic.
15.3.2022
GLORY SQUAD STRETCHED WITH DEPARTURE OF CALVER
Perth Glory have received another blow to their torrid season with the loss of central defender Aaron Calver. The 26-year old, who made made 10 A-League appearances since joining Glory last year, is understood to have moved to a Korea club for an undisclosed fee.
Calver said there was always a chance he would return and thanked fans their support. “It’s been a very tough year for the club but you guys have stuck with us and I’m very grateful for my time here,” he said. “You never know, in the future I may come back, so thanks for everything.”
Coach Richard Garcia wished Calver well on his next career step. “Aaron has been excellent for us on and off the pitch since arriving at the club,” Garcia said. “We are obviously disappointed to be losing him, particularly at this stage of the season, but it was an offer the club could not refuse at this time.”
“The opportunity has come up for Aaron to fulfil his ambition to play overseas and he has decided to take it. On behalf of the club, I would like to thank him for the contribution he has made here and wish him good luck for the future.”
Calver signed a two-year contract with Glory last year after playing more than 80 A-League games for Sydney FC and Western United. A former Australia Under-17 international, he won two premierships and one championship during his seven-year spell with the Sky Blues, where he debuted as a 16-year old in 2012.
14.3.2022
AMAZING TO BE BACK: BURGESS
Cameron Burgess says that he always felt a part of the team after making his first start under Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKenna at the weekend. The centre-back played the full 90 minutes after appearing off the bench in the mid-week win over Lincoln Town.
Burgess was the last member of the senior squad not to have featured under McKenna, who stepped into the role in December. But the 26-year old says that he has enjoyed being part of a 'special' environment with Kieran and the coaching staff.
"It felt amazing. It kind of felt like making my debut again because I’d not played in a while! It felt really good to get back out there," Burgess said of the weekend game. "With the environment that the staff have come in and created, it’s not nice not playing but you still feel part of it.
"It’s strange because you’re frustrated with not playing but you’re still really happy with being involved and training hard. The training is good so you know that when your chance does come, you’ll be ready for it. The environment is a special one and probably one of the best I’ve been involved in."
"It’s about the characters we’ve got throughout the staff and throughout the players at the training ground, day in, day out. You keep your frustrations at bay, you train hard and work hard and you know you’ll get your chance."
14.3.2022
RUKAVYTSYA MAKES HISTORY IN ISRAEL
Nikita Rukavytsya stands alone as the king of Israeli foreigners. The red-hot Australian finisher bagged a brace in a historic performance for Hapoel Be’er Sheva, who beat Hapoel Haifa 3-1. The 34-year old is now the Israeli Premier League’s all-time leading foreign goalscorer with 88 goals in the domestic competition.
“Another great chapter was written,” the wrote Rukavytsya via Instagram. “I’m very happy to break another amazing record in my career. “Israel’s highest-scoring foreign striker of all time. Thank you so much to my family for all the support, love and strength they give me everyday, to the fans for showing me love and to the haters for motivating me. The story continues.”
Rukavytsya, who played locally for Inglewood United and Perth SC, ventured to Israel in 2015 by signing with Beitar Jerusalem. He switched to Maccabi Haifa the following season and was the league's top goalscorer in 2019/20 and 2020/21. In June 2021 he moved again, this time to Hapoel Be'er Sheva.
Unfortunately, Rukavytsya will be absent from the Socceroos upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Japan and Saudi Arabia as he is unable to travel due to not COVID-19 restrictions. Having previously contracted COVID-19, he only received the one dose of the vaccination but two doses are required to be part of the Socceroos set-up.
14.3.2022
SEASON LOOKS OVER FOR GLORY CAPTAIN O’NEILL
Perth Glory’s season has taken another turn for the worse with captain Brandon O’Neill set to miss the rest of the campaign and an emergency replacement is unlikely. The midfielder damaged his left shoulder AC joint when he was felled in a second half tackle in Glory’s 2-0 weekend to loss Sydney FC.
O’Neill expects scan results today but even without surgery the chance of returning before the season ends in seven weeks is slim. In that time Glory have to squeeze in 12 games, starting with tomorrow’s home date against Central Coast Mariners.
“It (O’Neill’s injury) looks like a fairly nasty one and could be the rest of the season,” coach Richard Garcia said. “The question is who is available at this point. It is something that we would have to look into but the issue is where do we find that player.”
In brighter news, former England international Daniel Sturridge is expected to start on the bench against Brisbane Roar next weekend. All indications are the striker has recovered from the groin strain suffered in last month’s loss to Macarthur.
13.3.2022
GARCIA SEEKS FOR PROTECTION FOR FORNAROLI
Angry Perth Glory coach Richard Garcia has hit out at referees, claiming the team is not getting fair go after a miserable night saw them drop to rock bottom of the A-League ladder in Saturday’s 2-0 loss to Sydney FC. And he is demanding more protection for star striker Bruno Fornaroli.
Garcia was furious at Fornaroli’s late booking for showing frustration after being “manhandled” all game and that a foul was not awarded when Callum Timmins went down before Sydney raced clear for their second goal. And team captain Brandon O’Neill will be sidelined for several weeks with an AC shoulder injury after being felled by a heavy tackle from Alex Wilkinson.
Garcia said he had tried to talk with referees, in particular about the treatment of Fornaroli who draws plenty of contact when he holds the ball. “We’ve tried talking to the referees but they’ve got to see it the way they see it,” he said. “That’s down to the referee coaches and their assessors.”
“What can we do? You’ve got someone trying to take his (Fornaroli) shirt off him. He’s got his arms all around him, he’s got to hold him off, and the guy in the front kicks him. I don’t understand how that isn’t a foul. You can understand his frustration because it happens every game. Then you go down the opposite end and it’s a little nudge and it’s a foul.”
Garcia said before Sydney’s second goal Timmins was pushed away from the ball. “I don’t know how that’s not interfering with play,” he said. “They are the ones that aren’t going for us. Those little ones aren’t falling for us. That’s something that’s continually happening to us at the moment.”
13.3.2022
ATHENA TOO STRONG FOR PERTH IN NPLMWA NIGHT SERIES FINAL
Floreat Athena are the 2022 NPLMWA Night Series winners after a dominating 4-0 win against Perth SC at Frank Drago Reserve on Saturday evening. After being thrashed in their opening group game against Stirling Macedonia, Vas Vujacic’s side went from strength to strength and were outstanding in the final. First half goals from Robert Petkov and Phil Arnold put Athena in control, and on the hour, Petkov added his second to increase the lead. Hasani Sinclair had a chance to give Perth some hope ten minutes later, but his penalty was saved by Jason Saldaris. The scoring was wrapped 13 minutes from time, with substitute Bayley Brown-Montgomery adding a fourth, which made up for the 2020 Night Series Final loss, and last season’s Top Four Final defeat against the Azzurri.
“Obviously very happy, the night series holds a special place in our hearts and it was nice to win the trophy, and particularly pleased with the way we approached the game,” Floreat Head Coach Vas Vujacic explained. “The boys were very disciplined, organised as a unit and played some nice football. The first goal was testament to that with a great team move finished by Petkov. We controlled the game from start to finish and the 4-0 was reward for that, and we’re looking forward to the start of the season next week against Perth again.”
The first silverware of the season was up for grabs in this one and it was Floreat who opened the scoring on 14 minutes, Sean McManus played Riley Woodcock down the left and his cross found the unmarked Petkov who powered home a header past Luke Radonich. It was a perfect start for Floreat, and it got better just before the half hour mark, when they doubled their advantage.
A poor clearance from Julian Teles saw the ball go to the feet of Phil Arnold on the edge of the box, and the Floreat striker made him pay, finding the bottom corner of the net with a low strike to make it 2-0. Perth needed a lift and youngster Josh Cala almost provided it moments later, but his shot from the edge of the box flew wide. Floreat were still searching for more and they went close to a third on 35 minutes, but Radonich stood tall to deny McManus, but at half time it was Floreat in charge, and Perth with it all to do after the break.
Perth did start well, and should have pulled one back seven minutes in, Luke Collins’ deep cross found the unmarked Shubham Mokala at the back post, but the strikers first touch let him down and Jesse Fuller got back to block, and the chance was gone. Floreat were finding holes in the Perth back line, and when Andrew Palmer sent Woodcock down the left, his curling cross found Ambrogio, who lost his marker, but couldn’t keep his header down. Perth was creating more chances than the first half and when Mokala slipped in Cala his shot was well blocked by Arnold, who had tracked back superbly to deny him.
But on 61 minutes it was Floreat who added a third. Another poor clearance was punished, Ambrogio finding Petkov, and the big striker raced forward and finished low past Radonich from the edge of the box. To Perth’s credit they continued to press, and Mokala used his pace to race clear six minutes later, but his shot on the run flashed over the top. They did have the opportunity to cut the margin moments later when referee Steven Gregory pointed straight to the spot when Woodcock bundled over Jordan De Leo in the box. American striker Hasani Sinclair stepped up to take the resulting penalty, but Jason Saldaris guessed the right way, saving low to his left.
But it was Floreat who had the final word with a fourth on 76 minutes, Perth failed to clear their lines and substitute Brown-Montgomery, who had just come off the bench, fired home from close-range. “It was a fantastic performance from the boys last night, after suffering a defeat to Stirling in the opening game of the night series to winning the final 4-0 against Perth SC, it’s been a ride,” Floreat keeper Jason Saldaris explained. “After what happened last season in the Top Four Final, we knew as a group we owed it to ourselves. “In saying that everyone played their role with signings Robert Petkov and Bayley Montgomery getting on the score sheet with Riley Woodcock complementing the back line it was fantastic. It was a great team performance and great for momentum coming into the season opener against them on Saturday.”
Floreat Athena: GK Jason SALDARIS, 5 Ethan MOM (12 Ludovic BOI 64’), 6 Jesse FULLER, 8 Sean MCMANUS (17 Alex CHRISTODOULAKIS 86’), 9 Robert PETKOV, 10 Nick AMBROGIO (16 Bayley BROWN-MONTGOMERY 76’), 11 Dennis GALAN, 15 Chris SALDARIS (4 Ben STEELE 76’), 18 Phil ARNOLD, 20 Andrew PALMER, 22 Riley WOODCOCK (21 Filip MINIC 86’) – Subs not used: RGK Thomas CHUDY,19 Mohamad AL-ZAIDY,
Perth SC: GK Luke RADONICH, 3 Jordan DE LEO (8 Ali GHOLAMI 73’), 4 Julian TELES, 6 Fanuel DAWIT, 7 Ethan BANKS (5 Will GORDON 86’), 9 Hasani SINCLAIR, 10 Shubham MOKALA, 13 George FESTA, 14 Luke COLLINS, 18 Josh CALA, 20 Paul ZIMARINO (11 Daniel ZIVKOVIC 62’) – Subs not used: RGK Sam REILLY, 12 Sam COOK, 15 Laat MATHIANG, 16 Robert GALVIN – Referee: Steven Gregory
Floreat Athena - 2022 NPL-WA Night Series winners
13.3.2022
MUM STUN OLYMPIC TO TAKE OUT STATE LEAGUE NIGHT SERIES
Murdoch University Melville have won the 2022 State League Night Series Final after a 3-1 win against Olympic Kingsway at Frank Drago Reserve on Saturday afternoon. It was the first ever cup win for the club, who were promoted to Division One for the first time in the club’s history last season, and continued their excellent form since appointing Head Coach Taki Nicolaidis last season. MUM FC were ahead just before the break through Christos Vaenas, but Olympic were level on the hour with Calum O’Connell on target. The game was up for grabs, but it was MUM FC who took control late, and Kai Jones and another to the impressive Vaenas, that secured the win, and handed Olympic their third straight loss in the Night Series decider.
“Well, I certainly didn’t expect this at the start of pre-season, but I couldn’t be prouder for the playing group who have bought in to our playing style and team culture,” Nicolaidis said. “We worked our socks off in the final and Toughy’s team made it very hard for us but I guess the biggest difference is that we took the chances when it mattered most. It’s also a huge achievement for the club who have come a long way in the last 3-4 years under Mark Jones’s guidance with the WNPL and the NPL juniors leading the way and to see four players from last year’s under 16 team now in our first team and winning their first ever senior trophy. Is fantastic.”
It was a great match up, with the best two teams in the tournament meeting in the decider, MUM in their first ever Cup Final, while Olympic, who had been beaten in the last two pre-season competitions, looking to give Coach David tough his first silverware at the club. It was cagey first half with both sides having their opportunities, and a couple of penalty shouts turned down by referee Niall Gilmor, but in the shadows of half time, it was MUM FC who hit the front. A ball forward from Feisal Zaw caused confusion in the Olympic defence and a mix-up between keeper David Keenan and skipper Shane Cassidy, which saw Vaenas rounded the standard keeper and walk the ball into an empty net, much to the delight of the MUM FC supporters.
Olympic were on the front foot after the break and lifted the tempo and were rewarded on the hour with the equaliser. Tyler Gardener and David Perich combined in the middle of the park, before Tim Robertson got in a tackle, but the ball fell to O’Connell and his superb firs time lob from 20 meters flew over the standard Tom Allan. The game was now end-to-end football, but both sides failed to take their chances, that was until nine minutes from time when MUM FC regained the lead. Pat Sara pounced on a loose ball in the middle of the park and found Vaenas, who laid the ball back to Jones who drilled a low shot past Keenan.
David Tough’s side throw caution to the wind as they went in search of the equaliser, pushing men forward, and they were caught out again five minutes later as MUM FC wrapped up the tie. A long clearance from Allan sent Zaw racing down the right, he cut inside his marker and rolled the ball into Vaenas, who made no mistake from three meters, to set off wild celebrations on and off the park. “We knew it was going to be out biggest test yet, but we believed in our game plan, and executed it well,” MUM FC midfielder Pat Sara said. “All the boys have really bought into the team, and Taki's philosophy, and its showing with results. It's all positive signs, as we still have players to come back from isolation.”
The final word went to skipper Tom Allan, who was outstanding on the night, and he said the win went to the whole squad, after a number missed games in the group and knock-out stages. “Coming into the Night Series we have been short a couple of players, but with having such great depth and players knowing their roles even when not in the starting 11 gives us options to make quality changes later in games which will be huge this season,” he explained. “I think we have had a positive competition and not just to win it, but unbeaten with such a good goal difference, but also in the way we have controlled games by not going behind throughout the tournament and pushed each other to get the result. This will give us momentum and confidence coming into a new league this season where we know the real hard work starts. The lads have proved we are not the underdogs with coming up from Division Two but are actually here to compete with the top sides and get results. The club have been more than supportive and know the importance of what we are trying to accomplish here with a long-term vision in mind.”
Murdoch University Melville: GK Tom ALLAN, 3 Tom PELLIZZARI, 5 Joshua GARDNER, 6 Mitchell NORMAN, 7 Kai JONES, 8 Pat SARA, 10 Taj BINGWA (12 Adam FIELDS 58’), 11 Feisal ZAW, 15 Declan TANNA, 16 Tim ROBERTSON (14 Abimifoluwa ONAMADE 86’), 17 Christos VAENAS – SUBS: Sean MCCRACKEN, 4 Ben HOWE, 13 Tom WHITE, 20 Ryan WHICHO, 20 Stanley BROWN
Olympic Kingsway: GK David KEENAN, 4 Andrew SCALDAFERRO, 9 Ciaran BYRNE, 10 Tyler GARNER, 11 Richard HOWLES (6 Charlie KENNA 61’), 13 Tommy AMPHLETT (20 Raeez PANDOR 71’), 14 Shane CASSIDY, 16 David PERICH (8 Daniel HARRISON 81’), 17 Joshua SAMSON, 18 Nick KOEFLER, 19 Calum O’CONNELL – SUBS: 2 Hayden LOWE, 5 Dinel BABIC, 12 Naiem MURAD, 22 Anthony JACKSON – Referee: Niall Gillmor
Murdoch University Melville - 2022 State League Night Series winners
13.3.2022
BELT-UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION NIGHT SERIES – WEEK TWO REVIEW
It was week two of the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division Night Series, and in Group A, Kwinana United secured their second win of the competition edging out Kelmscott Roos 2-1 at Frye Park. The hosts hit the front five minutes before half time, Brodie McRae rising highest to head home. But Kwinana hit back and levelled after good work from Jake Marshall, Dean Couling finished well. The visitors won it when Jake Fellow’s lobbed the Kelmscott keeper from long-range to give them the 2-1 win. “We found ourselves 1-0 down at the break to a good energetic Kelmscott side, and I thought the drinks break knocked us out of our rhythm but we regrouped at half time made a couple of tweaks and got ourselves right back in it and thankfully went on to get the win,” Kwinana Coach Mark Purvis explained.
“I was really happy with the attitude from the group to dig deep when we needed to, and come home with the win.” Despite the loss Kelmscott Coach Serge Tucci was pleased with his side’s performance. “I thought the game was entertaining, with both sides looking to continue their unbeaten run in the competition,” he said. “After the break the level of intensity rose and Kwinana persistent showed with two goals, but all in all great hit out against an experienced Kwinana side. We’re a new squad and the coaching staff are looking forward, and were proud of the 16, and we are looking forward to more challenges ahead.”
In the other game in the group Peel United bounced back from their first-round defeat to beat Queens Park 2-1 at Frye Park. “I thought we started off well with plenty of opportunities but did not convert in the first half,” Peel coach Clint Brown explained. “Queens Park played themselves into the game late in the second half and rebounded well after last week's result, but Alec popped up with the winner late to seal a hard-fought win.” Jack Richardson gave Peel the lead just before half time, but Queens Park, who were coming off that heavy loss last week against Kwinana, levelled on the hour mark, with Justin Kaupa scoring. It looked like being a draw, but ten minutes from time Peel scored the winner, with Alec Smith on target. “I was very happy with the performance after last week heavy loss,” Queens Park coach Fredo Coron said. “We had a fresh eleven this week, the first time out together, and I felt they held their ground well, against a good Peel side.”
In Group B, North Perth United made it back-to-back wins after a hard fought 3-2 win against Wembley Downs at Woodville Reserve. The hosts were ahead when some neat build up play saw Ben James race down the left and cut in before finishing superbly into the top corner. James turned provider with the second, his cross found Damien Philip, who had run half the pitch to get into the box, but the Wembley keeper produced a stunning save to deny him, but Ryan Baxter was quickest to the rebound to head home. But Wembley weren’t finished and Matt Devereux pulled one back before the break, and Salv Todaro’s side levelled after half time, with Devereux adding his second. Both sides went for the win but it was United who found it, a great build up ended with Dalitso Mwale, who’s cross found Raido Reinsalu who made a late run into the box and scored at the back post.
“A good win for us against a very fit and young Wembley team. Our first half performance is what stood out the most where our intensity to win the ball back was brilliant from the first minute,” United coach Kevin Flavin. “I thought we dominated the opening half where we could have easily had four goals having a couple of disallowed goals which on another day would have counted. It was disappointing giving away a sloppy goal from a corner after a great first half, and second half we didn’t start well and Wembley came back into the game and played some good football and a mistake costed us a goal for it to go 2-2. But I’m proud of my lads after making five changes early in the second half they battled and picked up the intensity again in the last 15 for us to get the winner.”
In the other game in the group, it was a tight Northern Derby, with Quinns edging out Joondalup United 2-1 at Riverlink Reserve. It was a tight first half, but Joondalup keeper Luke Green was in great form making a number of fine saves to keep his side in the game. The game burst into life after the break, and Quinns had the chance to open the scoring, but Ryan McCready saw his penalty crash off the crossbar. It went from bad to worse for Quinns when Adam Buckley opened the scoring for United when he pounced on a short back pass, rounded the keeper and found the empty net. Quinns levelled when Nick Hopkins found the bottom corner, and three minutes from time Connor McCready sealed the win with his striker across Green. “Vinny and I were very happy with our performance, we created plenty of chances,” Quinns coach Lee Garnish said. “On another day we could have had a few more, but their keeper made some fantastic saves to keep them in the game.”
In Group C, Maddington White City and Jaguar have fought out an entertaining 1-1 draw at Nikola Tesla Reserve. Luckily the game went ahead, after Jaguar were informed late, that the time of the game had been changed. Javier Pineres Mestre opened the scoring for Maddington early in the match with a long-range effort, but Jags levelled after the break with striker Thomas Mabor on target, as both sides shared the spoils. “I thought it was a fair result by looking at the component of the game, but we had challenges before the game as we received the message from Football West only three hours prior to kick off that the game was scheduled for 1pm kick instead of 3pm,” Jaguar new coach Josam Muwowo explained.
“However, we adjusted quickly as a team and travelled to Maddington psychologically prepared knowing that it wasn't going to be an easy afternoon. The boys responded well on the pitch under those difficult circumstances beyond our control and played well with determination. We created and missed a lot of chances in the first and second half respectively. Overall, there is a lot of positives we picked from yesterday's game despite not getting maximum three points, but we know there is more room for improvement in our squad and I believe we will be ready to compete when the season starts.”
In the other game in the group the two newly-promoted sides Emarald FC and East Perth have fought out a 1-1 draw at Fraser Park Reserve. “Very happy with the performance from our lads, East Perth are a very good team,” Emarald coach Shane O’Donovan said. “The match could have gone either way in the end, and we look forward to our next battle with them.” It was Emerald who opened the scoring midway through the first half, great work from Shane Power to keep the ball in play, and brilliant awareness from Andrew Wood to find Gerry Gaughan who finished clinically. But East Perth levelled before the break, a great tackle in the middle of the park from Juri Galba saw the ball fall to Mehdi Rabei, who sent Liam Hunt into goal and he finished well. “I thought it was a good game, and the second half was a very even game, with not too many clear-cut chances for either side,” East Perth Coach Jason Winter said. “It wasn’t the result we wanted, but we didn’t deserve to win the game either, so we move on and it’s going to be a tough game against Maddington on Wednesday to try and qualify for semi-final now.”
12.3.2022
GLORY HIT ROCK BOTTOM AFTER LOSS TO SKY BLUES
Perth Glory dropped to the bottom of the Isuzu Ute Men’s A-League table after a 2-0 loss against Sydney FC at HBF Park on Saturday afternoon. The game had been moved from Sunday, and unfortunately the kick off time made it impossible for players from most NPL and State League clubs to attend, as their pre-season is hotting up with the new season just around the corner, which probably was the reason only 4,708 supporters turned up. The Sky Blues scored a goal in each half, with Kosta Barbarouses scoring early, with Patrick Yakbek sealing the win 20 minutes from time. Glory had their chances hitting the woodwork and finding Sydney keeper Andrew Redmayne in outstanding form, and the loss made it back-to-back home defeats for Richard Garcia’s side.
Garcia said missed chances, and a slow start, cost his side on the day. “We had enough chances to win the game, but at the same time, we can’t start in the manner that we did and give away a goal,” he said post-match. “We’ve been talking about behaviours and what we want out of the players and again it’s about inconsistent performance. We can’t start for the first 20 minutes and go off-plan and expect to win the game.
“That being said, I thought they did fantastic to get back into the game, to find their feet and create chances, but we didn’t take them. That’s the difference at the end of the day, you have to take those chances as they change the game and the outlook of the game. We had a couple at the back end of that first half which we should have taken and if go in at 1-1, the mentality changes, you get a lift and they [Sydney FC] have to come out again and it changes the whole game.”
Garcia made five changes to the side that were beaten by Adelaide United last week, with Brad Jones coming in for the injured Liam Reddy, while Adrian Sardinero, Andy Keogh, Josh Rawlins and Pacifique Niyongabire also came into the starting side. Daniel Stynes, Nick Fitzgerald and Jonathan Aspropotamitis dropped to the bench, while Kosuke Ota was rested. The Sky Blues have a good record in the west, losing only once in their last ten visits, and they were ahead in this one after only seven minutes. Callum Talbot made space down the left, and his low cross picked out Barbarouses, and the Kiwi made no mistake from close-range.
To their credit, Glory looked to responded immediately and Niyongabire went close twice in as many minutes. First Redmayne got down well at his near post to save a deflected cross from creeping in, before his header flashed narrowly wide. The Glory were now on top and Fornaroli and Keogh combined moments later, the Uruguayan cutting inside his marker, but Redmayne produced a smart save to deny him. But the Sky Blues should have added a second late, Barbarouses picking out Luciano Narsingh and somehow, he failed to find the target.
Glory had chances early in the second half, first Antonee Burke-Gilroy lob went just over the top before Rhyan Grant cleared the danger, after Redmayne had spilled a Niyongabire cross into the path of Fornaroli. Glory was pressing for the equaliser and many in the ground thought it had come on the hour mark. Keogh and skipper Brandon O’Neill combined to create a shooting opportunity for Fornaroli whose curling effort looking destined for the net, but it struck the inside of the post and bounced back out.
Moments later, a shoulder injury forced O’Neill from the game, he was replaced by the birthday boy Giordano Colli. But the hosts were caught out at the other end on 70 minutes, Max Burgess sent second half substitute clear, and his cross picked out Yazbek, who made no mistake. Substitutes Nick Fitzgerald and Ciaran Bramwell both went close with half-chances late on, but Garcia’s side were ultimately unable to find a way past the inspired Redmayne.
“Andrew Redmayne made his first appearance and clean sheet for Sydney FC at HBF Park, so it is fitting that he breaks our record tonight, he is a wonderful goalkeeper,” Sydney FC Coach Steve Corica said post-match. “Perth is not an easy place to come to keep clean sheets and the win was very good, it feels very nice, we needed the three points. We had a good win in mid-week in the Champions League and that gave us confidence, and the goals were well taken in transition moments. We’ve missed Kosta for a long part of the start of the season and to see him back and scoring was great. Yazbek has been injured and good to have him back. He’s good on the ball and gets forward as well. We have a lot of games coming up so it’s good to have the ability for rotation.”
Perth Glory: GK Brad JONES, 7 Adrian SARDINERO (18 Daniel STYNES 57'), 9 Bruno FORNAROLI, 10 Andy KEOGH (11 Nick FITZGERALD 85'), 13 Brandon O’NEILL (26 Giordano COLLI 65'), 14 Jack CLISBY, 19 Callum TIMMINS, 21 Antonee BURKE-GILROY, 22 Josh RAWLINS, 24 Pacifique NIYONGABIRE (38 Ciaran BRAMWELL 85'), 29 Darryl LACHMAN - Subst not used: RGK Cameron COOK, 5 Jonathan ASPROPOTAMITIS, 16 Darko STANOJEVIC
Sydney FC: GK Andrew REDMAYNE, 2 James DONACHIE, 4 Alex WILKINSON, 8 Paulo RETRE (12 Trent BUHAGIAR 58'), 11 Kosta BARBAROUSES (21 Harry VAN DE SAAG 77'), 14 Adam LE FONDRE (9.BOBO 77'), 16 Luciano NARSINGH (6 Mustafa AMINI 58'), 22 Max BURGESS, 23 Rhyan GRANT, 25 Callum TALBOT (5 Connor O’TOOLE 87'), 32 Patrick YAZBEK - Subs not used: RGK Thomas HEWARD-BELLE, 3 Ben WARLAND - Referee: Jack Morgan
12.3.2022
GLORY GET 'KEEPER JONES BACK FOR SYDNEY CLASH
Former Socceroos custodian Brad Jones is finally ready to return for Perth Glory, and he faces a tough first-up assignment against a Sydney FC outfit gunning for redemption. The 39-year old shot-stopper played the first two rounds before picking up a serious calf injury that has sidelined him since November.
Jones will make his return against the Sky Blues tonight, with his availability coming at a perfect time given that fellow goalkeeper Liam Reddy sustained a hip flexor injury last week. Glory coach Richard Garcia is preparing his team for a tough fight against a Sky Blues outfit that is on a five-match winless run.
"They (Sydney) will be looking to bounce back after a series of results that have gone against them," Garcia said. "They've always got a dangerous squad of players, so we're going to have to be at our best. It's very much in our hands on what we do. We're at home, we want to be on the front foot."
Glory are languishing in 11th spot with just 12 points from 13 games after Western Australia's border restrictions forced them to relocate interstate for a prolonged period. But with matches in hand on rival sides and a string of home games to come, Jones is confident the team can start producing results.
"Now it's about getting the consistency that we missed so much in the first half of the season," Jones said. "Don't underestimate the difficulty of moving from hotel to hotel, and trying to still be involved with our families. All that stuff is not normal, and it doesn't help with the consistency of the team on the pitch."
"Now it's about re-setting and becoming more familiar and confident with our surroundings again, because it was a long time away." Glory's homecoming was dampened last weekend by a 2-1 loss to Adelaide United, however, they have the chance to make amends with home games against Sydney, Central Coast Mariners and Brisbane Roar over the next eight days.
11.3.2022
NPL-WA NIGHT SERIES - FINAL PREVIEW
It’s the NPLMWA Night Series Final on Saturday evening, with Perth SC taking on Floreat Athena at Frank Drago Reserve on Saturday evening. (Kick off 7.15pm) Please note the following advice from the WA Government and Football West - Venues with liquor licences are capped at 150 patrons per dividable room with seated service only. Seated service means service to seated patrons or service where patrons may order at a counter or bar but must consume any food or beverage whilst seated - The 2 square metre rule applies to all of the above - All other State Government Level 2 restrictions apply, including the wearing of masks and showing proof of vaccination or proof of medical exemption.
It will be a repeat of the 2020 Final, when Perth ran out 5-0 winners with goals from Yacoub Mustafa 2, with others to Jordan De Leo, Thomas Southgate and Alex Silla. Perth moved through to Saturday’s game, ending Stirling Macedonia’s winning run in the competition, with a brace from Daniel Zivkovic and another to Ethan Banks, that gave Marc Wingell’s side a 3-1 win, while Floreat game against Inglewood United was called off after a number of United players contracted covid.
Floreat, who were runners-up in Group B, lost their first game to Stirling, but have been improving each game, and skipper Nick Ambrogio said although they would have liked to play the semi-final, that was out of their hands, but they are in a good place at the moment. “For sure we would have rather made the final in normal circumstances but unfortunately things aren’t normal at the moment,” he explained. “We just have to focus on what’s in front of us and that’s the cup final this weekend. Our form has definitely improved after our first group game. Our fitness has grown game by game and it’s shown in our performances as the night series has progressed.”
Ambrogio said Perth have been the benchmark in the league for a number of years, but he knows they have had some tight games against them recently, and is expecting the same on Saturday. “Floreat and Perth have arguably been the two best sides in WA over recent years, and it’s starting to feel like a mini ‘El Classico’,” he said. “Every game in recent memory has been exciting for fans and neutrals, with plenty of goals and drama and I’m sure this weekend will be no different. Both teams will be going into the cup final wanting to win, it’ll come down to who wants it more.”
Floreat midfielder Sean McManus was outstanding last season, helping the club to the top four play offs, before losing to Saturday’s opponents in the final. He has continued that form this season, and although their game was called off last week, they are ready for the final, and he is hoping to get the better of them on Saturday. “The boys wanted to play the game Friday, we were ready to go and felt confident from the form we have been in. It’s very unfortunate for Inglewood as they have done well in the competition to,” he said. “We are hoping to bring the trophy back to Litis again this season. It would be a perfect start for us to the season, it will definitely be a great game on Saturday night and Vas and the boys are ready to go.”
Perth were the runners-up in Group A, their only loss was against Inglewood, but they produced a great team performance in the Semi-Finals to beat Stirling, and skipper Jordan De Leo said it was well-deserved. “Yes, I was very pleased with the performance of the boys on Saturday night against a team who had been unbeaten and in red hot form. It is no easy feat playing Stirling at Macedonia Park but I thought our young side stood up to the challenge and displayed their quality in the win,” he explained. “We started off the game a bit frantically, but after that, were able to move the ball around and get in behind Stirling’s defence. We were creating several chances but unfortunately not able to convert on any of them. However once Stirling went down to 10 men, we were able to capitalize and go 1-0 up.
“Despite conceding only a few minutes after that, I believe we were able to control the remainder of the game and execute our game plan quite comfortably. The intensity and physicality of both teams picked up in the second half, but we were able to withstand Stirling’s pressure and punish them on the counter. The most pleasing part of the game was that we had strong contributions from every player on the pitch, including our substitutes who came on and made an immediate impact. Daniel Zivkovic was one of these substitutes who made his presence known, coming on and scoring the final two goals of the match. Overall, it was a hard-fought win for our young side who now have our sights set on this week’s Grand Final against Floreat.”
Perth will be looking for their 22nd Night Series crown on Saturday, and their skipper was outstanding in the win in the Semi-Final, and he said the new look side are gelling well and can’t wait for Saturday’s game. “Floreat have proven in the past they can go all the way in this competition and this Saturday will be another big final between the two clubs. Unlike us, they are a relatively unchanged squad from last year but have bolstered their playing group with a few quality additions,” De Leo said. “They are in good form this night series campaign, having won four of their last five games and we are expecting they will be eager to avenge last year’s Top Four Finals loss.
“Despite all of this, I know our young playing group will be ready for Saturday’s final and are looking forward to the challenge. Our coaching staff have done a great job in assembling this team, and we have worked hard this pre-season to adopt a new playing style. The progress we have made thus far has been promising, but we all know there is still plenty of room for improvement. We have lots of young players who are itching to play in their first big final, and we are looking forward to the test. Hopefully we can bring home the first trophy of the season.”
New Perth keeper Luke Radonich, who joined from Cockburn City in the summer, said the win at Stirling showed how far the group has come on, and they are ready for the final. “It was a good win and performance by the boys on Saturday to get us into the night series final,” he said. “We know Floreat is always a tough game, but all the boys are looking forward to the final on Saturday. Both teams have been playing well throughout the night series, so should be a cracker.”
11.3.2022
STATE LEAGUE NIGHT SERIES – FINAL PREVIEW
The 2022 State League Night Series will be concluded Saturday evening, with the final between Olympic Kingsway and newly promoted Murdoch University Melville at Frank Drago Reserve. (Kick off 5.00pm) Please note the following advice from the WA Government and Football West - Venues with liquor licences are capped at 150 patrons per dividable room with seated service only. Seated service means service to seated patrons or service where patrons may order at a counter or bar but must consume any food or beverage whilst seated - The 2 square metre rule applies to all of the above - All other State Government Level 2 restrictions apply, including the wearing of masks and showing proof of vaccination or proof of medical exemption.
Both sides were unbeaten in the group stage, and in the semi-finals, both secured 3-0 wins to move to Saturday’s final. MUM topped Group A and overcame Quinns in their semi-final, with goals from Tim Robertson, Taj Bingwa and Ben Pellizzari. New signing Feisal Zaw said it was a good all-round team performance, against a strong Quinns side. “I thought it was a great performance from the team, we kept our nerve despite the pressure and were able to finish our chances,” he said. “The most pleasing thing was the clean sheet which is something we need to continue to keep up.”
Zaw, who joined the club from NPL side Rockingham City in pre-season, said Saturday is huge for the club, as they go in search of their first cup final win, but he knows it will be a tough challenge, against an improved Olympic side. “We believe we deserve to be there, as do Kingsway and the results show that,” he said. “I think we’ve proven a lot of people wrong with the performances we've strung together and hopefully we can go one more step to lift the trophy on Saturday. We’re really looking forward to it.”
MUM Head Coach Taki Nicolaidis, who helped Floreat Athena and Gwelup to Night Series Finals while at those clubs, said it’s a huge occasion for the club, in their first ever cup final. “The whole club and the playing group are really looking forward to the final against Kingsway. They are definitely the benchmark side this year and whilst we will be massive underdogs, we will be tackling this like every other game and make it as competitive as we can,” he explained. “From a club point of view, it’s another massive step forward to be a complete club where we had the best performing NPL juniors last year, best performing WNPL side, its State League Men’s side to get promoted into Division One, and now a Night Series Final indicates that the club is heading in the right direction.”
Olympic Kingsway topped Group E, and beat Western Knights in the Semi-Final, with a brace from former Knights striker Ciaran Byrne. Skipper Shane Cassidy, who joined the club from NPL side ECU Joondalup this season, said it was a solid performance, against a good Knights side, and it continued their unbeaten run, but he knows there is still room for improvement. “Yes, a good result on the weekend against the Knights, but not a complete performance, they caused us a few problems in the first half,” he said. “It was mainly our own fault for not playing to our strength, but once we got in at half time the manager and coaches sorted it out, we came out and knocked the ball around quicker which gave us the edge to get the win.”
Cassidy said the club are very ambitious, and a win on Saturday will hopefully kick start their promotion campaign, but MUM have been good in the competition, and he knows it will be another tight game. “MUM seem to be the surprise team, I don’t know much about them but from what I heard they are a young energetic team that will press hard and try to force mistakes from us,” he said. “If we stick to our game plan, I’m confident we can win, but it will not be an easy game as they have shown that they are capable of beating some good teams in the league, after getting promoted. If we go in with the right attitude, I’m confident we can bring the night series cup back with us.”
Olympic Head Coach David Tough said the club is buzzing at the moment, and has been grateful to the them for backing him with transfers, and he hopes to repay some of the faith they have shown in him on Saturday by bringing the cup home, after two years of being runners-up. “To win the final will be a great reward for the players and club members who have all worked incredible hard this preseason,” he said. “We rebuilt nearly the whole squad in the off season, so with every match the understanding and partnerships are improving. We’re really looking forward to the game and I’m sure we’ll put in a good performance.”
11.3.2022
BELT-UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION NIGHT SERIES – WEEK TWO PREVIEW
It’s Week Two of the Belt Up Amateur Premier League Night Series, and in Group C the first round was completed on Thursday evening when Maddington White City edged out newly-promoted Emarald FC 1-0 at Nikola Tesla Reserve. The only goal of the game came early, with Jhonatan Barbosa scoring. David Sarria’s long-range free kick flashed over the top in the first half, before Farruh Mavlonov was denied by the Emarald keeper after the break. Maddington keeper Ezequiel Vivas Greiner made sure of the win late, making a good save to thwart a good Emarald side. “It was a high intensity game and we are happy to come away with three points,” Maddington’s Farruh Mavlonov said. “We had a few chances to extend our lead but credit to the Emerald keeper for keeping them in the game.”
In the next games in the group Maddington host Jaguar at Nikola Tesla Reserve on Sunday. (1.00pm) Mavlonov said it will be another tough test. “Even though we recently beat Jaguar in a preseason friendly, they are an athletic and skilful side, so we will have to focus and play well to get the three points,” he explained. “But I'm confident in the team to get another win this weekend.” In the other game in the group the two new Premier League sides Emarald and East Perth meet at Fraser Park Reserve.
In Group A the two winning teams from the first round, Kelmscott Roos and Kwinana United meet in the early game at Frye Park on Sunday (3.00pm) Kwinana go into the game on the back of a big win against Queens Park last week, while the Roos beat Peel United. In the late game at the venue Queens Park will look to bounce back from a disappointing loss at Kwinana last week when they take on Peel United. United were edged out by Kelmscott, but the 10-1 defeat at Kwinana wasn’t the start the Park were looking for, and coach Fredo Colon said they came up against a strong Kwinana side. “No, not the result someone would like as an opener, but it served to see where some of my players are physically, few things we need to improve on but early days,” he said.
“They (Kwinana) were the stronger side, played their football very well and put away their chances they’ll be a strong side to beat in the upcoming season.” Colon said they will be looking for an improvement this weekend and newcomers Peel, who played well last week. “Definitely hoping to bounce back this week against Peel, which won’t be easy going up against last year’s Division One Champions,” he explained. “But I feel the boys are up for challenge, so it’ll be interesting to see how we respond as team and hopefully we see some good football on Sunday.”
Finally in Group B North Perth United host Wembley Downs at Woodville Reserve at 1.00pm, looking to make it back-to-back wins to start the competition, and Wembley needing to bounce back from a first up defeat. In the other game it’s a ‘Northern Derby’ as Quinns take on Joondalup United at Riverlink Reserve at 3.00pm. Joondalup beat Wembley to start the group with a win, while Quinns were edged out by North Perth. Quinns coach Lee Garnish thought they deserved something from the game.
“Vinny (McMillan) and I thought we were the better team last week but didn’t finish our chances before North Perth scored,” he said. “We move on and it’s always good to play a locate derby whether in preseason or during season. We’ve had some good games against JUFC over the years, and we are looking to bounce back from last weekend. We have a couple of players back this weekend and again looking forward to testing ourselves again.”
9.3.2022
SAGE CONFIDENT GLORY OF FINALS FOOTBALL
Perth Glory owner Tony Sage is confident the side can drag themselves out of the depths of the A-League ladder and push for a finals spot. While “not happy” they are second from bottom with just three wins and three draws from 13 games, Sage says he has confidence in second-year coach Richard Garcia.
“I’m not happy being in this position but I understand why we are,” Sage said. “We are where we are given that we have not been able to train effectively. Given that we are now home and can train properly as a group, I’m quite happy where Richie is going to take the team over the next 10 weeks.
“This is the very first week we’ve had a full training week without any interruption, COVID isolation or anything, since the first week of January. Give Richie two weeks with the squad like this and we’ll see a change. The way other teams are going fifth and six should be easy to take.”
Sage admitted it was frustrating seeing the side languishing one spot off the bottom but said he understood what players had gone through while marooned in the eastern states. “I was in the middle of it. I saw what the players went through,” he said.
“I saw the anguish on their faces, especially when I got the phone call to say they couldn’t come back on February 5 because the borders weren’t opening. You’ve got to understand where they were mentally. Now they are home. We beat Sydney in Sydney (2-1 in January) I think they can do it again and that’s going to be the start of a good run I reckon.”
Sage was angry that the 20,000 capacity HBF Park was cut to 50 per cent and The Shed was closed under COVID restrictions - although the 2-1 loss to Adelaide United attracted only 6,657 fans. “It doesn’t help when the government takes the crowd away,” he said. “Not being able to stand in The Shed is absolutely ridiculous.”
9.3.2022
EPAKIS PLOTTING FOR NEXT SEASON
Perth Glory women’s season may have ended in heartache less than a week ago but coach Alex Epakis has already begun scheming for sesaon 2022/23. Glory were the feel good story of the A-League season. They played just one game at home and only missed the finals on goal difference after finishing winless and with the wooden spoon the previous year.
But Epakis has given himself little time to reflect on what might have been, already plotting for next season. He has nine players signed and is confident more will be ready to ink new contracts on the back of last season. “There’s a core group committed to next year,” Epakis said. “As much as possible we wanted to keep the core group together and give us a platform to build on.”
“We did a big recruit last off-season and signed a number of players to longer term commitment. That obviously means we ‘ve got some stability and we’re already working towards re-signing players. A lot of the players are invested in what we are doing. We’re heading in the right direction. I hope to have a really clear picture on the whole squad within the next two or three weeks.”
Epakis has opened talks with the side’s three international stars, Liz Anton (New Zealand) and Mie Leth Jans (Denmark) and Cyera Hintzen (United States). “Because they are heading back overseas we have to wait and ensure that wherever they are playing, the competition schedule aligns with ours and makes them available,” he said. “But I know they really enjoyed the experience and we would welcome them back with open arms.”
There is talk of an extended campaign next season, possibly with more teams, and while Epakis welcomes more games he will have to move to secure players now on the market. “If there are new teams coming into the competition they will move very quickly in terms of securing players,” he said. “We have to do that. We got ahead of the pack last year in terms of recruitment and hopefully we can do the same this year.”
“I’m proud of everyone, what we achieved this year. You cant underestimate or undervalue the issues we had to face. We took on the adversity head-on and we’re aware of the trajectory were heading in. Obviously there’s that little bit of emptiness where I would liked to have seen how we would have gone in the finals. That’s for next year now.”
6.3.2022
NPL-WA NIGHT SERIES - SEMI FINAL REVIEW
The 2022 NPLMWA Night Series Final will see Floreat Athena take on Perth SC at Frank Drago Reserve next weekend. Floreat moved into the final after their game against Inglewood United on Friday evening was forfeited after seven United players contracted covid. Floreat coach Vas Vujacic said it wasn’t the way they wanted to reach the final. “No, it’s not the way we want to win any game of football, but unfortunately that’s the world we live in at the moment, and we wish the Inglewood players and staff a speedy recovery,” he said. “Our lads have worked extremely hard to get this far in the pre-season competition and we’re all looking forward to next Saturday when we take on Perth SC, in a repeat of the 2020 final, and we’ll be looking to reverse that result this time around.”
Inglewood said it was a hard decision to make, but the safety of their players is their major concern. “Due to seven positive COVID-19 cases, and possibly more to come after testing is done, we are unfortunately going to have to forfeit tonight’s Semi Final against Floreat Athena,” they said on their Facebook page. “Players and Officials health and safety needs to be our primary concern. It is not a decision we have taken lightly as our players and coaches have worked very hard in the preseason which has placed us in a position to possibly defend our Night Series Title. In these circumstances it is the sensible thing to do. Thank You for your support and understanding.”
In the other Semi-Final on Saturday evening Perth SC defeated hosts Stirling Macedonia 3-1 at Macedonia Park. “It was a great win, the boys showed real maturity to play good football when Stirling went a man down,” Perth youngster Josh Cala said. “We scored three great goals, and the whole team performed well which I was pleased with and hopefully we can keep that form going into the final next week.” Both sides were in great form going into the game, but the hosts suffered a blow on 21 minutes when Christian Yankuloski was sent off by referee David Bruce.
It went from bad to worse twelve minutes later, when Perth hit the front. After getting in dangerous positions and threatening to score, some great interplay allowed Ethan Banks to waltz through the Stirling defence and nestle one in to the bottom corner. But the hosts weren’t going down without a fight and Ian Ferguson’s side levelled two minutes later, with Shay Donovan scoring. Perth made their numerical advantage count after the break, and regained the lead on 74 minutes. The lively Banks was involved again, his pinpoint cross found Daniel Zivkovic who head past the keeper.
Stirling pressed looking for the equaliser, but they couldn’t get past a tight Perth defence, and two minutes into stoppage time Marc Wingell’s side wrapped up the game with a third. A quick release upfield saw Banks link up again and square the ball to Zivkovic, who raced one-on-one with the keeper to score. “A great performance by all our boys tonight, everyone played their part and this group have earned the right to play in the final next weekend,” Perth assistant coach Dale Wingell explained.
“Everything we asked of the boys they delivered tactically, physically and mentally, and there were so many outstanding performances that set the ground work for us to be successful on the night, but it was Ethan and Daniel that were both directly influential in affecting the final result and this was underpinned by the effort, determination and leadership in a selfless performance of our captain Jordan De Leo (he was magnificent).
“The boys are engaged and have bought into the new way forward. The culture and comradery that has been created in a short space of time is at a high level, so it’s a great environment to be in. We will plan and prepare this week for Athena and we know what we are capable of and if our lads deliver that we envisage a positive outcome.” The Night series Final will be played at Frank Drago Reserve, the home of Bayswater City on Saturday evening (March 12) kick-off 7.15pm
6.3.2022
BELT-UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION NIGHT SERIES – WEEK ONE REVIEW
It was week one of the Belt Up Premier League Amateur Night Series, and it kicked off on Thursday evening with Joondalup United beating Wembley Downs 5-3 in Group B at Prince Regent Park. Joondalup were on top in the early stages, taking the lead when Matt Cherrie pounced on a loose ball and fed Louis Cheetham who hammered the ball into the net. Adam Taylor got on the end of a low cross at the back post to tap in a second before Adam Buckley made it 3-0 with a front post header from James Green’s free kick.
Wembley were dangerous on the counter attack and some hesitancy at the back allowed them to pull a goal back before the break with Jordan Del Dosso on target. In the second half, Taylor got his second, when Jack Walsh’s free kick was knocked down by Gareth Davies and Taylor finished from close range. Wembley again threatened on the counter attack and scored two goals from turnovers with Cameron Chambers and Kevin Punselie scoring, to make the score 4-3. However, brilliant work on the left wing from Nader Khayat saw him beat the full back and deliver a pinpoint cross to Buckley who finished first time. Andreas Bouzinekis almost put the icing on the cake late on but his header struck the crossbar.
Joondalup coach Neil Sherwin was happy with their first up win. “It was our first proper hit out as a first team this preseason due to injuries and holidays so we’re very happy to get a win. Out of the 16 players involved against Wembley, seven are new to the squad this year so it’ll take some time for everything to come together but scoring five goals is very pleasing,” he explained. “Adam Taylor has taken on the captaincy this year and led by example immediately with his goals, and Adam Buckley’s contribution will surprise no one. We lost Louis Cheetham to a broken finger unfortunately but he was looking sharp and took his goal very well. As I said to the lads afterwards, plenty to work with and plenty to work on but overall, we’re happy.”
In the other Group B game on Sunday afternoon North Perth United edged out Quinns 2-0 at Woodville Reserve. Quinns, with new coaching due Lee Garnish and Vinny McMillan in charge started brightly, but failed to convert their chances, and they were made to pay in the second half, with North Perth taking the lead on 70 minutes. A quick counter attack saw Nicolas Papa, who had only been on the pitch for five minutes, make no mistake. Quinns pushed forward looking for the equaliser, but they were caught out again five minutes from time. A long goal kick from Luke Yeates was flicked on by Dalitso Mwale, who raced after the ball and got there before the Quinns keeper, and found the net.
“This was a great result for us in my first game in charge,” new North Perth United Coach Kevin Flavin said. “We were missing 7-8 of our first team players, because of the late fixture change on a long weekend but the Reserves players we brought in stepped up and every one of them played a massive part in the game. With a new system the lads took a little bit to settle but when we settled, we played some great football at times in a really tight game of football against a good Quinn’s team. So overall a great performance from our lads, but plenty of work to be done in the next month to get us ready for round one of the Premier League.”
In Group A on Saturday afternoon Kwinana United thrashed Queens Park 10-1 at Bortolo Reserve. A hat-trick from Levi Burns, doubles from Glen Smith, Alex Bradshaw, with others to Wayne Carter, Steven Dunn and Dean Couling, saw Mark Purvis’ side run out convincing winners. “Happy with the win, but more importantly happy with the attitude of the lads,” Purvis explained. “Players were trying to put in place things that we had asked them to, and we had a few new faces in the squad and we were very happy how they fitted into the team.” In the late game at the venue Kelmscott Roos ran out 4-2 winners against hosts Peel United. A brace from Brodie McRae, including a 25-metre screamer, and others to Benn Lewis and Joseph Tomlin saw Serge Tucci’s side run out winners, while Alec Smith and Douglas Meyer were on target for Peel. Goalscorer Brodie McRae said it was a great start to the competition. “it was a great start with our first game and a win,” he said “I was happy to have scored two, and very pleased with the first one, volley from outside the box and the second a great ball into the box that just needed a tap in. Hopefully there are more wins to come.”
In Group C on Sunday East Perth began their Premier League life with an impressive 3-1 win against Jaguar at Wanneroo Reserve. It was a tight game early, but it was East Perth who opened the scoring, when Liam McManus was sent clear by Niall Murray, and he found the bottom corner. But Jags levelled before the break, with Deng Mawien scoring. But East Perth regained the lead on the hour, when Juri Galba won possession in his own half and found McManus whose defence splitting pass sent Liam Hunt clear and he rounded the keeper to score from a tight angle.
They sealed the win seven minutes from time, when Joe Dooley sent Mehdi Rabei clear, and he cut inside his marker and fired low past the keeper. “The Jags game was really tough, and they play some great football and, in the heat, it’s was a tough game,” Coach Jason Winter said. “Colm (Costello) and I had a chat after and we both thought that 3-:1 flattered us, but from our perspective we gave 16 lads a run out and lots of even minutes on the pitch for lads, which is what pre-season is all about.” The final game of the group between Maddington White City and Emerald FC will take place at Nikola Tesla Reserve on Thursday, kick off 7.00pm.
6.3.2022
LACKLUSTRE GLORY BEATEN IN HOME-COMING BY ADELAIDE
Perth Glory’s first Isuzu Ute Men’s A-League home game for nearly four months saw them lose 1-2 to Adelaide United in front of a small crowd at HBF Park on Sunday afternoon. The WA covid restrictions affected the crowd, but a lacklustre performance from the home side was more concerning. The visitors opened the scoring in first half stoppage time with Japanese striker Hiroshi Ibusuki heading home, and they doubled their lead on the hour through substitute Mo Toure. Bruno Fornaroli pulled on back late from the spot, which set-up a frantic ending, but they couldn’t find the equaliser.
Glory Head Coach Richard Garcia didn’t hold back in his thoughts of the disappointing performance from his side, which sees them in 11th position on the ladder. “I’m very disappointed,” he said. “[We’re] making the same mistakes we made a few weeks ago, individual errors. We conceded a late corner and then conceded from it with not fantastic defending.
“We keep talking about trying to eliminate these individual errors because as a team, I think we’re actually progressing pretty well and playing some pretty good stuff. We’re defending as a team, but at both ends of the park, we aren’t clinical. In and around the box we have chances and we don’t put them away and then on the back end, we concede easy, easy goals. The simplicity of what they [Adelaide] did to score goals was not good enough.”
Garcia kept the same side that drew with league leaders Melbourne City in midweek, and they started brightly with Daniel Stynes a constant threat. They went close on ten minutes, Fornaroli sent in on goal by Nick Fitzgerald, but Adelaide’s keeper Joe Gauci was out quickly to deny him. The visitors went close themselves five minutes later Brazilian-born Bernardo Oliveira shot was saved low by Liam Reddy, before the Glory custodian got down well to save Ibusuki’s shot.
Then on 35 minutes Glory went close to the opener. Stynes, who was everywhere, found Fornaroli, who spun off his marker but his curling effort was pushed around the past by the alert Gauci. It was end-to-end football, and Reddy saved well to thwart Bernardo again moments later, before Callum Timmins shot from the edge of the penalty area flashed inches wide. But in the shadows of half time, it was Adelaide who found the opener. Reddy, who had just denied Ibusuki, but from the following corner by Craig Goodwin, the big Japanese striker headed home at the back post.
Glory made a change at the break with Reddy replaced by youngster Cameron Cook, the veteran keeper injuring a hip flexor. It was a quieter start to the second half, with Glory struggling to create any clear-cut chances, but three minutes after coming off the bench Adelaide substitute Mo Toure doubled their lead. He was sent down the right, and cut inside his marker, before racing into the box and finishing low past Cook at his near post. The young striker celebrated in front of the Glory active supporters, which didn’t go down well.
The hosts responded by creating two half chances in as many minutes. Jonathan Aspropotamitis just failing to nod home a Kosuke Ota corner, before Timmins fired over the top. The home faithful were getting restless as Glory continued to struggled to break down a solid Reds defence. But they did find a lifeline on 89 minutes, after referee Alireza Faghani spotted a push by second half substitute Michael Jakobsen on Glory substitute Pacifique Niyongabire and pointed directly to the spot. Fornaroli stepped up and sent Gauci the wrong way from the resulting penalty, to give them hope. With five minutes of stoppage time, the Glory fans were hoping for a grandstand finish, but it wasn’t to be.
Perth Glory: GK Liam REDDY, (12 Cameron COOK 46'), 5 Jonathan ASPROPOTAMITIS, 8 Kosuke OTA, 9 Bruno FORNAROLI, 11 Nick FITZGERALD (10 Andy KEOGH 56'), 13 Brandon O’NEILL, 14 Jack CLISBY (7 Adrian SARDINERO 69'), 18 Daniel STYNES (24 Pacifique NIYONGABIRE 56'), 19 Callum TIMMINS, 21 Antonee BURKE-GILROY (22 Josh RAWLINS 82'), 29 Darryl LACHMAN - Subs not used: 16 Darko STANOJEVIC, 26 Giordano COLLI
Adelaide United: GK Joe GAUCI, 7 Ryan KITTO, 10 ISAIAS (18 Joe CALETTI 81'), 11 Craig GOODWIN, 14 George BLACKWOOD (17 Mohamed TOURE 56'), 15 Hiroshi IBUSUKI (6 Louis D’ARRIGO 81'), 21 Javi LOPEZ, 23 Jacob TRATT, 25 Lachlan BARR (22 Michael JAKOBSEN 46'), 28 JUANDE, 31 Bernardo OLIVEIRA (66 Nestory IRANKUNDA 76') - Subs not used: RGK Steven HALL, 16 Nathan KONSTANDOPOULOS - Referee: Alireza Faghani
5.3.2022
GLORY BEAT PHOENIX BUT MISS OUT ON FINALS
Perth Glory went into Friday’s Liberty Women’s A-League game still in the mix for a finals finish, and they kept their side of the bargain, securing a 3-1 win against Wellington Phoenix at WIN Stadium in Wollongong. An Isabel Gomez own-goal and second-half goals from Cyera Hintzen and Aideen Keane saw Alex Epaskis’ side run out convincing winners, despite a late penalty from Phoenix’s Grace Jale. But the news filtered through that Melbourne Victory had drawn 0-0 with Canberra United, meaning Glory missed out on goal difference. It was a fitting end to what has been a superb season for Epakis’ young side, who failed to win a game last season.
While being disappointed being pipped for a finals berth by such a fine margin, Epakis praised his players performance, both on the day and over the course of the season, which saw them play all but one of their games away from Perth. “First and foremost, I think we need to look at the broader context and where we were 12 months ago, the hurdles we’ve had to overcome in the last couple of months,” he said post-match. “We’ve achieved so much by overcoming those hurdles and that’s even before we talk about the success we had on the field. I think it’s important to highlight that.
“The fact is that we were able to overcome those challenges and perform on the field and have the success we did. Despite not making Finals, we won something today and it’s more of a group win, and the performance today was a reflection of that. We said that if today was to be our last game that we would go out with a bang and we certainly did that. I thought we had a fairly solid performance today. I was aware of the scenario in the other fixture, but we tried to block that out and make sure we wrapped up the job we had to do. It’s unfortunate… and it might be disappointing, but we’re going to continue to take stock of the success we have had this year.”
After a cagey start from both sides, the game burst into life on 24 minutes, when Natasha Rigby flicked on a Deborah-Anne de la Harpe corner and in her attempt to clear the ball, the unfortunate Gomez sliced it into her own net. The goal saw Glory take control and they deservedly doubled their advantage just after the hour mark. Liz Anton delivering a cross to the near post and Hintzen claiming her fifth goal of her maiden A-League campaign by crashing a shot past former Glory custodian Lily Alfeld.
With Victory still drawing with Canberra Glory were still out of the finals, but they were now in complete control and two minutes later they added a third. Keane marked her starting debut by capitalising upon a defensive error, racing in on goal and finishing clinically, for her second goal in as many games. Still no change in the other game, with all Glory supporters hoping Canberra could do them a favour.
The tension seemed to put the Glory off their game and the Phoenix pulled one back four minutes from time. De la Harpe brought substitute Cushla Rue down in the box and referee Rachel Mitchenson pointed to the spot, and Grace Jale scored from the spot despite the best efforts of Morgan Aquino, but it was just a consolation for them. With news filtering through that that the other game ended 0-0, the point enough to send Victory in the finals and end a vastly improved season for Epakis and his players.
Wellington Phoenix: GK Lily ALFELD, 2 Saskia VOSPER (5 Jordan JASNOS 90+2'), 3 Kate LOWRY, 4 Mackenzie BARRY, 6 Isabel GOMEZ (11 Kelli BROWN 67'), 7 Chloe KNOTT, 9 Ava PRITCHARD (14 Cushla RUE 79'), 10 Grace JALE, 13 Te Reremoana WALKER (19 Charlotte LANCASTER 90+2'), 16 Hannah JONES, 20 Alyssa WHINHAM - Subs not used: RGK Brianna EDWARDS
Perth Glory: GK Morgan AQUINO, 3 Kim CARROLL, 4 Natasha RIGBY, 5 Deborah-Anne DE LA HARPE, 7 Liz ANTON, 8 Hana LOWRY, 10 Susan PHONSONGKHAM (17 Abbey GREEN 76'), 13 Sarah CAIN (9 Demi KOULIZAKIS 73'), 15 Cyera HINTZEN (11 Lisa DE VANNA 83'), 18 Sadie LAWRENCE, 21 Aideen KEANE (29 Leena KHAMIS 63') - Subs not used: RGK Courtney NEWBON - Referee: Rachel Mitchenson
5.3.2022
GLORY TARGETING NINE FROM NINE AT HOME
Perth Glory have set the bar high by looking to win all their nine home games in the push to the A-League finals according to captain Brandon O’Neill. It is a lofty target for the side entrenched in the lower reaches of the ladder and the challenge starts at home on Sunday against Adelaide United.
But O’Neill said being home after seven weeks and moving into a routine had given the side a huge boost. “We’ve been juggling too many balls,” O’Neill said. “We were in limbo. We were well on our way to being mentally affected but we still fronted up. We did the best with what we were given.”
“To rock up and have 11 healthy boys ready to rip in was an achievement in itself. We are still here and we’ve got probably our best chance heading into a finals series ahead of us. We’ve set a little bit of a standard for ourselves, how we want to play. Every single home game, we expect to win.”
Having a set routine and knowing what the future looked like was important to the squad according to O’Neill. “It’s the little things that add up,” he said. “Now players can get into their routine. We are able to prepare a hell of a lot better. Now, to the end of the season, you know where you’re going.”
“There are a hell of a lot of home games to come and the behaviour we take into the game has to be of a high standard. We have a bit more structure, there are things in place and we can build and can execute off that.” Glory welcomes Adelaide to HBF Park on Sunday, kick-off 4pm.
4.3.2022
OLYROOS CALL-UP THE REWARD FOR HOT PARMA PROSPECT CIRCATI
Australia have moved swiftly to reward Parma starlet Alessandro Circati for his Serie B breakthrough, handing the defender an Olyroos call-up ahead of June’s AFC Under-23 Asian Cup in Uzbekistan.
Eligible for both Australia and Italy - his birthplace - Circati’s peerless Parma debut in the 4-0 weekend thrashing of Spal grabbed the attention of interim Olyroos boss Trevor Morgan, who was immediately on the phone to the rookie and his family.
With AS Roma’s Cristian Volpato also likely to commit to Australia, the Football Australia hierarchy are making some pre-emptive strikes to ward off possible defections to the Azzurri. Hence Circati's invitation to join the Olyroos Netherlands training camp later this month.
Former Perth Glory junior Circati, 18, has spent all but a year of his life in Australia, with father Gianfranco also on Parma’s books as a youngster before moving to Australia where he too appeared on Glory’s roster at the back end of a 20-year professional career.
“If the club allow him to go I think he will at the camp,” Gianfranco said. “The plan is for him to be a part of the Olyroos team which is trying to qualify for Paris (2024). Trevor Morgan spoke to him yesterday and Alessandro was very happy about this privilege because when the national team is calling you it’s something to be proud of.”
Alessandro followed Parma - once home to Golden Generation midfielders Mark Bresciano and Vince Grella - from afar as a kid growing up in Western Australia. In a show of faith from coach Giuseppe Iachini he was handed his debut ahead of established internationals Yordan Osorio (Venezuela) and Botond Ballogh (Hungary), playing in front of goalkeeping legend Gianluigi Buffon.
“It was a pretty big call by the coach to play him ... it took some guts,” added Gianfranco. “But it went well. I always tell him ‘if you play good it’s bonus. If not be ready for the next call up’, which I’m sure will happen again before the end of the season. He needs to keep working hard and learn from the players around him. He needs to be like a sponge.”
Confident, combative and powerful in the air, Circati fits the age-old Italian sharp-tacking stereotype. Adept on either foot, the young gun is more a hard-edged old school destroyer than a flashy or flamboyant modern day stopper.
“He’s best attribute is his calmness,” added Gianfranco. “He never panics - I’m more agitated than him when I watch games. He looks like a man with no emotion. He’s never high and he’s never low. He’s a different sort of player than me - and I think he can do much better in his career than I did (spent mainly in Italy’s lower tiers).”
4.3.2022
STATE LEAGUE NIGHT SERIES – SEMI FINAL REVIEW
The 2022 State Night Series Final will see Olympic Kingsway take on Murdoch University Melville next weekend at Frank Drago Reserve, after both sides won through in their semi-finals. First on Thursday evening MUM hosted Quinns at the Besteam Stadium at Murdoch University and ran out 3-0 winners. Head Coach Taki Nicolaidis, was delighted with his side’s performance. “I couldn’t be prouder of our squad’s performance last night against last season’s Top Four finalists,” he explained. “I thought we worked our socks off and controlled the bulk of the game but more importantly were clinical at the right times. We now have to bring ourselves back to earth and prepare for the club’s very first final next weekend.” The hosts were ahead on 15 minutes, a corner was only cleared to the edge of the box and Tim Robertson fired home via the post.
The newly-promoted side doubled their advantage just before half time, Declan Tanna made space down the right, and cut the ball back to Taj Bingwa, who finished low past the keeper. They sealed the win, and a place in the clubs first ever final on 71 minutes. Kaj Jones won possession and picked out Ben Pellizzari, who curled home from the edge of the penalty area. “It was a really strong performance from the whole side, with everyone contributing. I thought we controlled the pace of the game from start to finish and deserve our spot in the final,” Robertson said. “Taki has put together a really strong squad of players who have gelled together extremely well, with it showing on the pitch.”
In the other semi-final Olympic Kingsway beat Western Knights 3-0 at Kingsway Reserve. “I thought it was a pretty even game in the first half, but I was disappointed we never passed the ball like I know we can,” Olympic Head Coach David Tough explained. “Second half we were much improved and dominated the game, and we could have and should have won by more. We are now looking forward to the final against a young energetic and free scoring Murdoch University Melville side.” The hosts were ahead on the half hour, Calum O’Connell sent Daniel Harrison down the left, his cross was headed into own net by Ryan Cox. It was even for the rest of the half, with both sides having their chances.
The second half was also tight, but it was Olympic who were creating the better chances, and on 75 minutes they added a second. Charlie Kenna’s cross field ball found O’Connell, who sent Tommy Amphlett racing into the box and he was brought down by the Knights keeper. Referee Lawson Rimmer pointed straight to the spot, and former Knights striker Ciaran Byrne stepped up and converted the resulting penalty. The game was wrapped up ten minutes later, a poor back pass was pounced upon by Byrne, and the striker made no mistake.
Byrne had the perfect opportunity to complete his hat trick late after he was brought down by Cox, but his penalty crashed off the crossbar. “It was a tough battle with a strong team, but we got the result in the end,” Byrne said. “We didn’t really get out of second gear for most of the first half and got some luck for our first goal. Second half we came out stronger with more fluid passing and started to give them problems going forward. Knights didn’t help themselves with a couple of mistakes, and we took advantage of that. But as a group, we know we can play better, and we look forward now to the final next week and hopefully get this team it’s fist trophy together.”
4.3.2022
BELT-UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION NIGHT SERIES – WEEK ONE PREVIEW
The 2022 Amateur Premier League Night Series kicks of this weekend with three groups of four. In Group A, newly promoted Peel United host Kelmscott Roos on Saturday afternoon in the late game at Bortolo Reserve in Mandurah (5.00pm). The Roos were relegated from State League Division Two last season, and will be looking to bounce back, but for Peel it’s a new challenge and one coach Clint Brown is looking forward too. ‘Last year was very rewarding for us, especially after winning Division Two in 2019, and Division One in 2020, but we missed out on promotion because of the Covid protocols, so it’s been three years of hard work,” Brown explained. “We are looking forward to playing Kelmscott, they have had plenty of State League experience and will present plenty of challenges on Saturday night.”
In the late game at the venue Kwinana United take on Queens Park. The Park have a new coach this season with Fred Coron taking over from Ricardo Fynn, as they look to continue their improvement, while United finished third last season and coach Mark Purvis said they are looking forward to getting back to action. “We are certainly looking forward to the new season. The league last year was terrific and the new teams that have come in will certainly raise the levels again. There are some good players and coaches in this league and we are excited for the challenge,” he explained. “We are looking forward to tonight’s game as for us this is our first game of preseason. We have a few new faces in the squad so it’s a good chance for them to understand how we play and to build those relationships that will be so important for the season ahead.”
The Group B games commenced on Friday evening with Joondalup United taking on Wembley Downs at Prince Regent Park. Salv Todaro is the new coach at Wembley, but it was Neil Sherwin’s side that won this one, running out 5-3 winners. The other game in the group sees North Perth United take on Quinns at Woodville Reserve on Sunday (12.00pm) North Perth will be looking to bounce back from a disappointing Australia Cup game against North Beach, and defender Kelechi Osunwa said it was a wake-up call for them. “Losing is never great and losing 5-1 where one person scores five isn't any better, but it's February and no one wins trophies in February. Credit to North Beach, they are a strong side with plenty of energy and youth and with their two up front they will cause a lot of team’s problems. “For us, it's clearly a wake-up call for a lot of the new players who were making their first appearance for the club or the first team and hopefully with about six players coming back we can all learn from last week and put in a performance we're all proud of and see how we go in the Night Series. Quinns are never an easy game and after last year where we played each other four times we're both probably sick of each other to be honest! We know they've lost and gained players just like ourselves so I'm sure it will be a case of seeing how players gel, gaining some fitness and hopefully getting a positive result, it's just a shame we won't have a crowd present because it's usually a cracker.”
In Group C, East Perth begin their Premier League tenure with a game against Jaguar at Wanneroo Reserve on Sunday. (12.00pm) Former WA Amateur State Coach Colm Costello and Jason Winters are the coaches at East Perth this season, and Costello said it was a pleasant surprise when they were told of their Premier League place for this season. “We were very surprised with the news and although we had a full pre-season program locked in, promotion and the Night Series came about very quickly so the club as a whole is really excited to get going and we are looking forward to the challenge,” he explained. “You never get an easy game against Jags, definitely be a tough opening encounter. They have been a very consistent premier side since they were promoted, so we are expecting a very tough battle.” The final game in the group is on Thursday evening when newly promoted Emerald FC begin their campaign with a trip to Nikola Tesla Reserve to take on Maddington White City. (7.00pm)
Emerald coach Shane O’Donovan said the club are buzzing at promotion and are working hard to get ready for their debut season in the competition. “Yes, very happy with last season, promotion was the minimum which we were aiming for so we were very pleased to achieve that. Getting to the premier league is massive for the club considering the club was only established in 2013,” he explained. “As I say to the lads, we don’t start a season to make up the numbers, we go out there to win and next year will be no different. I’m really looking forward to the game against Maddington, they are a very good team and will be thereabouts at the top come the end of the season. I believe we will be up there as well, and that’s what we will be aiming for.”
4.3.2022
NPL-WA NIGHT SERIES - SEMI FINAL PREVIEW
The NPLMWA Night Series Semi-Finals take place this weekend, but with new covid restrictions kicking in and the state moving to Level 2 public health measures from Thursday, unfortunately no spectators will be allowed in to watch them, which is really disappointing, when down the road 10,000 fans can watch Perth Glory and Western Force over the weekend. The games were originally set for Inglewood Stadium, but they have been changed at the last minute and in the first semi-final Group B runners up Floreat Athena take on Group A winners Inglewood United at E&D Litis Stadium. (7.00pm)
United are the current holders of the competition and went through the group stage undefeated, and booked their spot in the last four with a hard-fought win against Balcatta. Midfielder Harry Evans said they had a number of players out for the game for various reasons, and they had to work hard to get the result. “It was another great win last week against a lively Balcatta side, which made it five unbeaten in the group for us,” he explained. “It was made even better, with having so many players out and to see some of our younger lads come in and do well, which bodes well for the future ahead.”
Evans, who returned to United after stints at ECU Joondalup and Olympic Kingsway, said Saturday will be another stern test, but one they are looking forward too. “Floreat are always a tough team to play and especially at their home ground, “he said. “They have some very experienced players and are well organised, but we will be determined to carry on our form and what we’ve been working on at training with the coaching staff and keep building on an enjoyable pre-season so far.”
Floreat Athena moved into the knockout stage with a tough 3-2 win against Perth Glory, and defender Dennis Galan said it was typical game against a well-drilled Glory side, but he thought said they deserved the win. “It was a great result for the lads to cement a spot in the semi-final, and I believe we played some really good stuff in the first half with very neat passages of play,” the defender explained. “Glory were always going to be well drilled and fitter than a lot of teams in the night series but we managed to hold them off and get the result we needed.”
Vas Vujacic’s side have made the night series their own in recent seasons, having won it three times in the last six years, and Galan said taking on the holders is a challenge, but he knows the whole squad want to play in the game and training this week has been intense. “Inglewood are always a tough team to play as they’re very hard to break down and enjoy playing on the counter, so we have to prepare for this,” he said. “Regardless if it’s a preseason tournament, everyone at Floreat always wants to win. All the boys will be putting it in at training to earn a spot for the game. Bit of a shame with the restrictions that there will no crowd there, but nonetheless it should be an entertaining game.”
On Saturday evening, newly promoted Stirling Macedonia will look to continue their winning run in the competition when they take on Group A runners up Perth SC at Macedonia Park. (7.00pm) Ian Ferguson’s side finished three points clear at the top of Group B, scoring 17 goals, and in the final game they came from two goals down to beat ECU Joondalup, and skipper Dejan Spaseski said it showed great character from the players. “I thought we displayed great character against ECU and throughout the group stage, coming back from 2-0 down on two occasions,” he said. “Although, we have a had a great start to the night series, we aren’t getting carried away, as we know it means nothing if we don’t continue this form heading into the season. We have an extremely resilient bunch of players, who relish every challenge thrown our way.”
The last time the Macedonia Park club won the night series was in 1995, which was also the last time they won the Premier League. Spaseski said the club and everyone involved are looking to bring back success to the club, but he knows Perth has been the benchmark in the league for a number of seasons and they will need to be at their best in this one. “Yes, Perth are the benchmark for a reason and their success in recent years has to be applauded,” he said. “We know that it’s always a big game against them and are looking to make our mark against last year’s league champions. There are a few former Perth players in our squad who are very eager to make a statement against their old club, but as a squad, we look to win every game and this weekend being a semi-final, everyone is up for it.”
Perth SC have also been successful in the Night Series, winning the trophy 21 times, and after a win against Sorrento in the final group game they are still looking for a 22nd title. New striker Shubham Mokala said they all knew a win would see them progress and it was a good team performance. “It was a very tough game against Sorrento in which I thought we showed one of our best defensive performances as a team so far,” he said. “Sorrento posed a big threat in ways we haven’t faced thus far through set pieces and crosses into the box which I thought we dealt with really well in what was a must win game for us. We managed to stay composed despite conceding late on, and it was great to see us find the back of the net 3 times in a well-deserved win.”
Mokala, who joined the Azzurri from Gwelup Croatia this season, said Stirling are the form team in the competition, and Saturday will be tough game, but he is looking forward to it. “They (Stirling) have looked great so far in the tournament but so have we,” he said. “They’ve managed to sign some really good players in the league who seem to be finding form but our team is only getting better and we are definitely looking forward to the challenge and opportunity to show it against a strong side. You always look forward to taking on the best teams and what better time than now.”
4.3.2022
STATE LEAGUE NIGHT SERIES – SEMI FINAL PREVIEW
We’re down to the last four in the State League Night Series, and the two semi- Finals will be held this weekend, but with new covid restrictions kicking in and the state moving to Level 2 public health measures from Thursday, unfortunately no spectators will be allowed in to watch them. The first semi-Final is tonight (Thursday) at Wormall Civil Stadium the home of Murdoch University Melville, who welcome Quinns. (7.30pm) Taki Nicolaidis’ side beat Subiaco 3-1 in the Quarterfinals, which maintained the newly-promoted sides unbeaten run in the competition. They were made to work hard for the win, but new signing Tim Robertson thought they deserved the win. “It was a very hard-fought win against a well organised and energetic Subiaco team,” he said. “I thought we started off strongly and kept them in the game by not finishing our chances, but we showed great resilience to close the game out the way we did, and. Pat Sara’s free kick was special.”
The win saw MUM, reach this stage of the competition for the first time, and Robertson said they haven’t finished yet, but he knows Quinns are a very good side, and like themselves are unbeaten, and he believes a Friday will be a tight game. “Quinns will be a great challenge for us that we’re looking forward too,” he said. “They proved themselves last year in Division One and had a good Top Four series, but we’ve developed a really strong self-belief in the team that we can knock off anyone. It’s a shame that there won’t be any spectators because it should be a really good game.”
Quinns will also be looking to make their first ever Night Series Final, and Glen Grostate’s side beat surprise packet Curtin University in the Quarterfinals, and had to come from 0-1 down at half time to win it 3-1. Midfielder Adam Buckingham said they had to work hard to get the result, but they got the job done. “Overall, it was very pleasing to beat Curtin and reach the Semi-Finals,” he said. “We knew it was going to be a tough game and they made us work hard for the win but in the end, I think our fitness and quality shone through.”
Buckingham said MUM have looked very good in the competition so far and Friday will be a tight game, but they are determined to reach their first Night Series final. “They (Murdoch) look good this year, and it should be a tough game,” he said. “We just need to make sure we get off to a better start in the game, compared to previous matches. As we know it will be much harder to chase a lead against Murdoch who we know are going to be organised and tough to break down.”
The second Semi-Final is on Friday evening, when Olympic Kingsway host Western Knights at Kingsway Reserve. (7.00pm) The Knights made it through after a tense 4-3 penalty shoot-out win against Forrestfield United, and Paul Lloyd said they should have put the game to bed in the first half, but eventually held their nerve in the shoot-out. “I thought we dominated the first half and we were a bit disappointed to only be up by one,” he said. “But Forrestfield came back at us second half, they’re a lively young side, and we felt we could have kept the ball better second half and saw the game out in normal time. The lads held their nerve with some top penalties and we were buzzing to get through.”
The Englishman said Olympic have been busy in the transfer market and brought some quality players in, and he knows Friday will be a tight contest. “Friday will be tough semi and a good game to see where both teams are at, they have signed quite a few players and we have brought some in too so we’re both still gelling,” Lloyd explained. “We’re feeling fit and stronger with each game though and we’re looking forward to the challenge.’
Olympic Kingsway, who were beaten in last season’s Night series Final by Mandurah, beat Dianella White Eagles 2-1 in the quarter-final, and midfielder Josh Samson, who won the clubs Player of the Year in 2021, said it was a professional performance from the side and they took their chances and were worthy winners. “I thought we executed the game plan perfectly, and were on top for majority of the game and earned our 2-0 lead,” he explained. “Conceding a goal towards the end of the match put us under a bit of pressure, but we showed character and determination to hold onto our lead and progress to the next round.”
David Tough’s side will be looking to make the final again on Friday, and Samson said the Knights have been outstanding in the competition so far, and knows Friday will be a tough game, but they are all looking forward to the challenge. “It will certainly be a tough game, as all the teams at this stage of the competition will be,” the midfielder said. “None more so than Western Knights who are always one of the top teams. They are very consistent and this is evident over the years, as they have continually finished towards the top of the table. We know it will be a battle but we are up for any challenge, particularly when the prize is a spot in a final.”
3.3.2022
EVATT: WE'LL GIVE GETHIN TIME
Bolton Wanderers defender Gethin Jones will be given as much time as he needs away from football following the tragic loss of his mother. Karen Jones passed away last Sunday following a brave battle against Motor Neurone Disease.
Gethin will not feature in Bolton’s game at Gillingham on Saturday with manager Ian Evatt confirming the 26-year old will be allowed to spend extended time with father Gareth and younger siblings Dylan and Ela before returning to the club when he’s ready.
“It’s heart-breaking for us all. I’ve used this quote a few times now and when one of us hurts, we’re all hurting,” said Evatt. “We’ve all built a relationship with Gethin, obviously, but with Karen, Gareth and the rest of the family.”
“He’s under no pressure when to return to work. He needs that time to mourn. His mother was a huge part of the family – the heartbeat of that family. There are some things that are more important and bigger than football and that’s certainly one of them.”
Gethin - a key part of Bolton’s recent revival following his return from injury in January - was made vice-captain by Evatt in October. And the following month the club hosted a special game between a Legends XI and the current squad to raise funds for the treatment and care of Karen and MND research through the Darby Rimmer Foundation.
“That sent a message to everybody that this club is on its way back and we’re in it together,” added Evatt. “It was a great event – magical – and it’s a huge shock to everybody what has happened this week. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Gethin and his family.”
3.3.2022
CIRCATI HAS SERIE B ‘MOMENT’ WITH BUFFON’S BACKING
At just 18, it was the biggest challenge possible for a Perth-born defender thrown into the deep end of Italian football. But with the peerless voice of Gigi Buffon behind him to quell any nerves on his debut for Parma, Alessandro Circati took to Serie B flawlessly – and celebrated a 4-0 win over Spal.
Remarkably it was the former Perth Glory youth player’s first appearance in senior football, a statement of faith from Parma boss Beppe Iachini that was repaid in spades. “It was my moment and I couldn’t be any more grateful,” Circati told keepup.com.au
With the Crociati’s fading hopes for promotion hanging in the balance, Iachini entrusted Circati to lead the defence in front of Buffon – a decade and a half after former Socceroos greats Mark Bresciano and Vince Grella graced the same stadium for the same club.
“Being named in the squad is such a positive for me and today the (manager) believed in me,” Circati said. “He decided it was my moment and I couldn’t be more grateful. I’m through the roof, very happy and also very hungry for more.”
With Parma looking for options at the back, Circati formed part of a three-man backline that combined to keep successive clean sheets for just the first time this season. Tasked with facing Giuseppe Rossi, he impressively shut down the former Manchester United striker.
“Marking a player like Rossi, I knew what sort of player he was and what his strengths and weaknesses were,” Circati said. “He is an absolutely fantastic player who has had an exceptional football career all over the world.”
“When I play it’s all about enjoying it at the end of the day. It’s a game of football obviously, there is some pressure at the moment, knowing the circumstances. But you must be mentally strong enough to surpass these obstacles and perform to your best.”
“Whether he (Rossi) was playing or not it doesn’t change so much. The preparation is the same, the only thing that you may have to take into consideration is that he is a very experienced player who has been around for some time, who, technically, with the ball is outstanding.”
Circati learned his trade from his father, Gianfranco, who also debuted as a defender in the Italian second division 30 years ago. Later he teamed up with current Melbourne Victory assistant coach, Fabrizio Cammarata, at Cagliari and also made a handful of appearances for Perth Glory.
No doubt paternal pride would have been strong at Alessandro’s debut. Tenacious in the defensive half and adept in decision making, the teenager belied his years by suppressing the threat of Rossi, Marco Mancosu and second-half substitute Lorenzo Colombo.
And it certainly helped having one of Italy’s most decorated stars close by in Buffon. “Yeah, Gigi is a world-class footballer and also a top man,” Circati said. “He is a very good teacher and is always helping me whenever needed, and is also very positive.”
2.3.2022
GUTSY FIGHT BACK FROM GLORY AGAINST LEADERS
Perth Glory produced a gutsy fight back to secure a 2-2 draw against Isuzu Ute Men’s A-League leaders Melbourne City at AAMI Park on Wednesday evening. In front of a sparce crowd of only 2,584, which included the Victorian Branch of the Glory supporters Club, Richard Garcia’s side found themselves two goals down after only 29 minutes, with goals from French import Florin Berenguer and Socceroos striker Matthew Leckie. It didn’t look good for the Glory, but they fought back with Bruno Fornaroli reducing the margin before the break, before former ECU Joondalup midfielder Callum Timmins levelled just before the hour. Both sides had chances to win it, but they had to settle for a share of the spoils.
In their final game before heading home to family and friends, Garcia said post-match he was proud of his players resilience. “I’m very proud of a group that has gone through a lot and which could easily, after the last couple of results, have gone under with those two goals,” he said. “But they showed the resilience that we keep talking about to come back and I think they’ve shown resilience throughout the last four months. It’s been a tiresome four months of travelling and I think they’ve dealt with it very well.
“We started a little bit slow, but I thought our football was good and the players kept trying to play the way we want to play. I felt we had the better of the chances in the first half and sometimes that’s the difference. Sometimes, when you’ve got a side full of internationals, they put those chances away. That’s something we’ve got to improve on, but the fact that we keep creating chances and doing very well with the ball is very encouraging.”
Garcia made three changes to the side that lost against Western United on Sunday, with skipper Brandon O’Neill, Daniel Stynes and Nick Fitzgerald coming into the side, with Mitch Oxborrow, Giordano Colli and Josh Rawlins all rested. It was Glory who had the first opportunity on seven minutes, Fitzgerald and Stynes combining after an error from Curtis Good, to send Jack Clisby overlapping on the right, his shot from the angle beat Thomas Glover, but the woodwork came to the rescue of the City keeper.
But sixty seconds later it was City who hit the front. Former Glory defender Scott Jamieson sent Leckie down the left, he played the ball into Berenguer, who finished clinically past Liam Reddy. Glory hit back and the lively Stynes sent Timmins in on goal on 18 minutes, but Glover stood tall to save the midfielders low shot. It was a tight game with both sides pressing forward, but on 29 minutes it was City who doubled their advantage. Leckie found space in the right side of the penalty area, and he finished low past Reddy, finding the bottom corner with a powerful strike.
It looked like being a long night for Glory, but they showed the home crowd they weren’t finished and reduced the margin two minutes later. Kosuke Ota raced down the left, and cut inside his marker and dinked the ball to the back post, Glover mistimed it and Fornaroli pounced to head home from close-range, for his sixth goal of the season. City looked dangerous going forward late in the half and Andrew Nabbout saw his effort flash inches wide of the target, but at the break it was the hosts holding a narrow lead.
City were on the front foot early in the second half but Glory held firm and duly restored parity on 56 minutes. Some patient build-up saw Glory probing, and Ota ad Stynes combined down the left, and the ball found Jack Clisby in the box, who laid it back to Timmins on the edge of the box, and the Birmingham-born midfielder drilled his shot past Glover. Glory went close to the lead eight minutes later, Glover getting down well to deny Clisby, before saving Fornaroli’s header. The hosts were also pressing for the winner and Reddy produced a strong save to thwart Carl Jenkinson moments later, but it stayed 2-2 with both sides taking a point, the well-deserved point lifting Glory to ninth in the table.
Melbourne City: GK Thomas GLOVER, 3 Scott JAMIESON, 4 Nuno Pereira REIS, 5 Rostyn GRIFFITHS (17 Stefan COLAKOVSKI 62'), 6 Carl JENKINSON, 7 Matthew LECKIE (23 Marco TILIO 43'), 9 Jamie MACLAREN, 10 Florin BERENGUER-BOHRER, 15 Andrew NABBOUT (16 Taras GOMULKA 80'), 18 Connor METCALFE, 22 Curtis GOOD - Subs not used: RGK Matthew SUTTON, 14 Tsubasa ENDO, 20 Manuel PUCCIARELLI, 36 Kerrin STOKES
Perth Glory: GK Liam REDDY, 5 Jonathan ASPROPOTAMITIS, 8 Kosuke OTA, 9 Bruno FORNAROLI, 11 Nick FITZGERALD (38 Ciaran BRAMWELL 75'), 13 Brandon O’NEILL, 14 Jack CLISBY (43 Adam ZIMARINO 75'), 18 Daniel STYNES (7 Adrian SARDINERO 62'), 19 Callum TIMMINS (26 Giordano COLLI 66'), 21 Antonee BURKE-GILROY, 29 Darryl LACHMAN - Subs not used: RGK Cameron COOK, 6 Osama MALIK, 16 Darko STANOJEVIC - Referee: Alex King
1.3.2022
STATE FOOTBALL CENTRE CONSTRUCTION TO KICK OFF
Construction is set to start this month on the new State Football Centre in Queens Park. has been awarded and that works are scheduled to begin this month. Broad Construction has been awarded the main construction contract, which follows the completion of forward works on the project which commenced last year.
The joint investment from the Australian and State governments will revitalise the land at Queens Park Open Space and provide a world-class sporting facility for football in Western Australia.
“There has been great anticipation from the WA football community for the start of construction of the State Football Centre, and that excitement will increase as we watch it being built in the coming year,” said Football West chief executive James Curtis.
“Football West has worked closely with all levels of Government on securing a home for football in Western Australia and we are now little more than a year away from its completion prior to the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.”
The State Football Centre will be used as a training venue for the nine international teams travelling to Perth for their Women's World Cup group stage games. The venue will include two floodlit pitches and supporting infrastructure such as change rooms and a gymnasium, as well as administration facilities for Football West.
It will also host Football West finals, community programs, and be key to the long-term development of female football as well as a hub for visiting overseas clubs. Permanent seating will accomodate up to 700 spectators with the capacity expanded to 2,000 spectators through temporary seating for special events.
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This page was last updated on the 26th February, 2022