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31.8.2023
BIRIGHITTI ‘WORKING HARD’ TO SEAL DUNDEE UNITED EXIT
Dundee United boss Jim Goodwin insists Mark Birighitti is “working hard” to find another club after slipping down the pecking order at the Scottish Championship club. The 32-year old endured a nightmare debut season in Scottish football as the Tangerines slipped to relegation from the Premiership.
Goodwin has made it clear that Birighitti is not part of his plans, with the goalkeeper not assigned a squad number and sitting behind number one Jack Walton and Scotland youth international Jack Newman. That leaves the West Australian, who has a year left on his contract, weighing up his options as transfer deadline day fast approaches.
“Mark and his representatives are still working hard and trying to get a deal done somewhere else,” said Goodwin. “Mark knows the situation and we have been very up-front and honest with him on that. Mark’s working hard to get something that will allow him to play regular football.”
31.8.2023
DENCH AND DONNELL ADDED TO OLYROOS SQUAD
Olyroos coach Tony Vidmar has called West Australian pair Matthew Dench and Chris Donnell into his squad for next month's Under-23 Asian Cup qualifiers being held in Tajikistan. The local products replace Jacob Farrell and Calem Nieuwenhof, who have withdrawn due to injury.
Dench and Donnell, currently with Charlton Athletic and Fulham respectively, have previously worked with Olyroos assistant coach Trevor Morgan in Australia's Under-20 program. Also in the squad are fellow West Australians Josh Rawlins (FC Utrecht II) and Jahce Novello (Cosenza Calcio).
Australia have been drawn into Group I and will face Laos (September 6) and Tajikistan (September 12) in a three-team group, following the recent withdrawal of the DPR Korea from qualification. The eleven group winners and the four best placed second placed teams qualify for the Under-23 Asian Cup being hosted by Qatar next year.
31.8.2023
GILSENAN FIRES UP FOR BLACKBURN
West Australian Zak Gilsenan scored a stunning free-kick in Blackburn Rovers 8-0 Carabao Cup romp over Harrogate Town. Blackburn's largest victory since 1963 and the biggest away win their 148-year history came courtesy of goals from Jake Garrett, Sam Gallagher, John Buckley (2), Dilan Markanday, Gilsenan, Thomas Bloxham and James Edmondson.
Gilsenan, a former Sorrento junior, came off the bench in the second half to fire in a wicked free-kick from the edge of the area into the roof off the net his his teams' sixth goal. The 20-year old attacker previously played for Perth Glory and spent time at Barcelona’s fabled La Masia academy prior to joining Blackburn.
30.8.2023
GLORY BRING BACK GOLDEN BOOT WINNER STONEHILL
Perth Glory have looked to the past to bring back a familiar face with the recruitment of striker Tia Stonehill for the upcoming A-League Women season. The 26-year old signed on the dotted line fresh from plundering 24 goals in 20 games for Balcatta Etna, a record that earnt her a second National Premier Leagues Golden Boot award in three years.
Stonehill was previously with Glory during the 2018/19 season and again in 2020, before going on to forge a name for herself as one of the most-feared finishers on the local scene. She helped Murdoch University Melville to a historic treble in 2021, when she claimed the Gold Medal for the competition’s top player.
A nasty spinal injury suffered in early 2022 while playing for Murdoch threatened to derail Stonehill's career. However, she bounced back with Balcatta this year and is thrilled to be returning to the A-League Women set-up where she intends to grasp the opportunity with both hands.
"It feels great to be a part of the club again and I'm honoured to be representing my home town," Stonehill said. "There has been a lot of growth at the club, in the A-League and in Women’s football across the world, so I'm really excited for the season ahead and grateful for this opportunity."
"I'm striving to become an influential, impactful and key player amongst the squad and am ready to give my all to help the team succeed. We have a great group of players who are all committed to achieving the same goal and I know we will want to show everyone what we are capable of and play finals football."
Glory coach Alex Epakis said Stonehill’s excellent form on the local stage made her hard to overlook. "Tia has had an exceptional season in our local competition," Epakis said. "From the first round of the NPLW competition onwards, she has been a standout performer with goals, effort and determination."
"In addition to her speed and directness in attack, she has the quality of scoring different types of goals which is important for us as a team and the focus on the attacking style of play we want to have this season. We need a good balance of attacking weapons and Tia certainly brings more quality to our squad."
Stonehill is the latest new face in the Glory camp alongside Sally James (Melbourne City), Isobel Dalton (Lewes), Grace Jale (Canberra United), Millie Farrow (North Carolina Courage) and Georgia Cassidy, Tanika Lala and Grace Johnstone (National Training Centre). Liz Anton, Tash Rigby, Izzy Foletta, Claudia Mihocic, Bella Wallhead, Sofia Sakalis, Sarah Cain, Sadie Lawrence, Hana Lowry, Abbey Green, Morgan Aquino and Susan Phonsongkham are also on board for the coming season.
28.8.2023
EPAKIS RELISHING OPPORTUNITY TO END FINALS DROUGHT
An out-of-the-ordinary off-season assignment on the world stage has Perth Glory’s Alex Epakis brimming with confidence as he hunts an elusive first finals appearance. After three years in charge, Epakis has signed a two-year extension which should see him join Bobby Despotovski as the club’s longest-serving women’s team coach.
Epakis will work alongside newly appointed Glory men's team coach Alen Stajcic, who is coming off the back of a historic Women’s World Cup campaign with the Philippines that Epakis had a back seat view to. The 32-year old served as an analyst and a scout for the Philippines at the tournament, witnessing history as they beat New Zealand 1-0 to secure their first-ever World Cup win.
“Seeing Staj work first-hand was fantastic for me, because I was able to cross check my work as a head coach to another head coach, which you don’t often get the chance to do,” Epakis said. “It’s great to have him in the building, because there’s not many other better resources in Australian football for me to be able to lean on when required.”
The experience has Epakis excited for the upcoming A-League Women season as he looks to steer Perth into the finals for the first time since 2019. After a tough first season in charge in which Glory finished rock bottom with just a point to their name, they surged up the table to miss out on the finals on goal difference in 2021/22, before finishing a solitary point off the top four last season.
With an extended season of 22 games and the finals extended to top six, Epakis said the team had all the tools at their disposals to end the drought. “We know where we want to go and the style of football we want to play and that environment we want to create and I think by having those three pillars in place, the vision and the things that underpin it, you give yourself a chance to to achieve things,” he said.
“I’ve always said we want to play at the highest level against the best teams in finals and we’ve just got to make sure that if that’s the vision, we need to do the day-in, day-out actions that help us get there. In terms of what do we need to do, in a simple way, it’s about winning games; you can’t really replicate what three points can give you on a table and we also need our players to fire from round one onwards.”
After winning just two of their opening 10 games last season before finally kicking into gear with six wins in their final eight games, Epakis said they had identified where they went wrong in the early stages of the previous campaign and was impressing upon the players the importance of a fast start.
“We have a short pre-season compared to all the other seasons that we’ve had together, with the extension of the season, so we just have to make sure in the 20-odd sessions we’re going to have in pre-season, we do our best to maximize the time and expose the players to a little bit of game pressure,” Epakis commented.
“That’s one factor we’ve always struggled with over the years, getting really good quality pre-season games, the east coast obviously get to play against each other - they might have three or four internal A-League games before the season kicks off. We have to find a way to put some stress into the players and put them under a bit of pressure, so that come round one, they’ve tasted that already.”
28.8.2023
GILSENAN KEEN TO BUILD ON 'DREAM' BLACKBURN ROVERS DEBUT
Even as a teenager, Zak Gilsenan's always believed that he'd have been able to have an impact at Blackburn Rovers. Despite a long-term injury which kept him out of action for almost a year, the 20-year old still took confidence from seeing his fellow youngsters train with the first team whilst he was rehabilitating from suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury on international duty with the Republic of Ireland Under-19s.
After spending a large chunk of last season getting back to where he was after his long-term setback, the only way has been up for Gilsenan. Scoring Rovers' first goal in the 4-3 win against Walsall in the Carabao Cup earlier this month saw the young attacker cap his first senior appearance in style, and another opportunity may knock away to Harrogate Town in round two of the competition this week.
"The first team feels a million miles away, but you're not as far away as you think," Gilsenan said. "You watch other youngsters make the step up. I saw a lot of them train with the first-team and I was just running around the pitch because I was injured, but I had the feeling I could do it and I wanted to as well. You learn a lot about yourself when you’re out injured, both mentally and physically."
"I was in the gym getting stronger and it might have been something I needed in a way, something that impacted me positively and obviously negatively. If you look at an injury in a bad way, it'll affect you in a bad way, that's how I see it. It’s made me even hungrier. I’d always dreamed of making my debut in front of fans. I knew the day before the Walsall game because the gaffer pulled me in to tell me I’d be starting."
“I was lost for words and so nervous, but you get into it as soon as you get your first few touches of the ball. It was the first time I'd ever seen my name on the back of a shirt! I was really nervous, but you can either get excited for it or not. Scoring that first senior goal, it was the best feeling in the world. Getting the goal and the Man of the Match, I knew my family would have been buzzing."
That goal continued a summer that's only been on the up for the Perth-born midfielder, who featured heavily in pre-season and was named in the squad that jetted out for the training camp in Austria in July. Gilsenan has gone from strength to strength and admits the belief is flowing through him after showing Jon Dahl Tomasson and his coaching staff exactly what he can do after also scoring in his pre-season auditions against Barnsley and Stockport County.
"I think I started almost every game and I was really happy with how it all went," he commented. "It's given me a lot of confidence and it's felt good. I don't really get nervous, but going into that Accrington game, in front of fans, it was a lot different to playing at Under-21s level. We played against Barnsley, I got a goal in that game and I got the confidence from that to go into the Stockport match in front of fans and scoring was a buzz I'd never had before."
27.8.2023
BELT-UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION – ROUND EIGHTEEN REVIEW
It’s as you were at the top of the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division, after another exciting week 18, and in our ‘Match of the Round’ North Perth United have bounced back from defeat against Peel last week to beat South Perth United 4-1 at Challenger Reserve, and in doing so keeping the pressure on league leaders Emerald. “We changed up our formation today to try open up some space in the middle of the park, and we were always going to create chances it was a case of would we convert them,” North Perth coach Alex Carter explained. “For me regardless of the result today it was more about seeing that hunger and desire that had gone missing for a couple of weeks. A lot of pressure will be on Emerald and East Perth in the next few weeks and it’s up to us to push them to the final hurdle.”
The visitors found the opener on 25 minutes, nice combination between Nickolas Bailey and Brian Woodall, the ball ending up with the latter, who went one on one with the keeper to score. They doubled their advantage in the shadows of half time, Dan Bulman heading home a corner. It was 3-0 just before the hour, with Patrick ‘Rattlesnake’ Montgomery scoring, but the hosts pulled one back moments later, with Gavin Walker scoring from a corner. It made it a nervy ending for North Perth, but they sealed the points late, substitute Connor Engelbrecht broke down the right, and finished clinically from the angle.
League leaders Emerald started the round on Saturday evening in Bunbury, and they came home with a hard fought 1-0 win against South West Phoenix at the Onside Sports Stadium. The only goal of the game came on the half hour mark, James Craig whipped in a corner and after a goal mouth scramble Gary Smyth finished after a good save from Phoenix keeper Kobe Lie. The hosts pressed after the break, but were reduced to ten men late when Jeremy Stevens was shown a second yellow card. Emerald held firm to take the points, and remain one point clear at the top of the table. “We knew that it wouldn’t be easy going down to Bunbury as they are fighting for survival,” Emerald’s skipper Paul Curran said. “We had a couple of good chances and couldn’t get that second goal to give us a bit of breathing space which gave them hope. They put us under a bit of pressure in the second half but we defended really well and saw out the game and are delighted with another 3 points.
East Perth maintained their third place, after a 2-1 win against Kelmscott Roos at Cabrini Park on Sunday afternoon. “It was a great performance and the lads, and they won the battle today against a good side. A lot of people were hyping this game up, but it was just another game in a very tight league,” East Perth coach Colm Costello said. “Peel next week is even bigger, and if we switch off, we’ll drop points, so we need to forget yesterday and get stuck into training this week again and prepare properly. There’s nothing won lost or achieved by any means yet, we just need to keep the pressure on above sides and have four very tough games left so need to keep at it and keep putting in big performance at training and match days. There is still 12 points to play for so we be concentrating on Peel now who have beaten teams above us and around recently.”
After a slow start, the hosts started to get on tip and Kelmscott keeper Taylor Warwick had to be alert to deny Jamie O’Connor. But on 26 minutes they hit the front, Adam McCarron was pushed in the box and the referee pointed straight to the spot, and Niall Murray sent Warwick the wrong way from the resulting penalty. East Perth doubled their lead early in the second half, Dean Wall’s cross found Ryan McGready, who rounded the keeper, but his shot crashed off the post, but Aaron Doyle was quickest to the rebound to score. They went close to a third moments later, O’Connor’s header crashed off the crossbar, before Wall’s lob hit the bar again. But Kelmscott weren’t finished and they were back int the game on 68 minutes, Ishmael Greywood’s stunning free kick giving East Perth keeper Tommy McCarron no chance. The visitors pressed for the equaliser but East Perth held firm to seal the win.
In other games a nine-man Jaguar are up to fourth after a 2-1 win against Kwinana United at Graham Herb Recreation Centre. They did open the scoring early, Ayella Joseph scoring, but they had two players sent off on 34 minutes, both Mabor Thomas and Lazarous Emil were given straight red cards. The visitors levelled in first half stoppage time with Emmanuel Kankpeyeng scoring an own goal, but Jags won it 12 minutes from time with Mathew Sesay scoring. Joondalup United moved clear of the bottom of the table after a 2-0 win against Peel United at Beldon Park. “The reserves game was forfeited by Peel, which helped us a lot as it allowed us the luxury of a full complement of players giving us for a strong squad with tactical options off the bench and they all played their part,” Joondalup’s Karl Cherrie explained.
“The last couple of weeks had seen us undo the good work of the previous 6 weeks and we found ourselves at the bottom of the table again. Fair play to the squad though as they have rallied during the week, worked hard and earned the reward of 3 points this weekend against Peel who had come to Beldon off the back of wins against Kelmscott and North Perth. The return of Head Coach Mike Ford and having the chance to get back to working with the squad during the last two weeks too has been another positive. It was a tight first half, with both sides strolling in the final third, but it was the hosts who hit the front just before half time, Niall McGurk got in behind the fullback and squared for Glen Atkinson to slot home, under pressure, from close range. The second half was like the first half and the longer it went the more Peel came into the game. However, on 77 minutes Joondalup sealed the points, McGurk was again involved when he rose above the pack at the back post, head home Morgan Taylor corner.
In the final game Wembley Downs have beaten North Beach 3-1 at Butlers Reserve. “Our first half was probably our best football of the season. The passing was exquisite and our pressing and tenacity was unmatched, and we had a very comfortable 3-0 halftime lead,” Wembley keeper Jeff Cornez said. “Second half we did our best to manage the game and outside of my penalty I gave away, we saw the game out with ease. We continue our good form and momentum into Kwinana before the big semifinal cup match next week.”
The home side were ahead on 14 minutes, Josh Chalmers picked up a ball about 20 meters out and hit an unstoppable shot past North Beach keeper Aaron Persse. They added a second on 39 minutes, good work by Ben Swinnerton down the right, who found Tom Bish in the box who turned his marker and fired home at the far post. They made it 3-0 moments later, a through ball to Dave Brownlees sent him clear, his shot on the run crashed of the cross bar, the rebound falling to Bish just inside the box, and he took a touch and delicately placed a curling shot into the corner of the net. North Beach scored a consolation goal on 68 minutes, with Keiran Moores converting from the spot, but it was too little too late.
27.8.2023
NPLWA WOMEN’S – ROUND TWENTY ONE REVIEW
Perth SC have secured the runners-up spot in the NPLWA – Women’s competition after a 5-1 win against Balcatta Atna in the final round of fixtures at Dorrien Gardens on Sunday afternoon. "It was the perfect way to end what has been a very difficult season for us, and I'm proud of the way the girls took their chances in a game that was intense from the start,” Perth Head Coach Peter Rakic explained. "Using that momentum will be key for a push in the top four finals, having players like Ella Lincoln returning to the lineup after being out for a few weeks with minor surgery and she immediately showed her impact. On the other hand, unfortunately, the win was dampened by another severe injury with Jaime Duncanson going down on the hour mark and required being stretchered off the park. We are all praying it is not as serious as it first looked."
The hosts were ahead midway through the first half, Ella Lincoln firing home a great shot, and the lively striker doubled the lead on the half hour, finishing well from Jess Flannery’s pass. The Azzurri increased their lead in the shadows of half time, Liana Cook long-range shot beating Gabby Dal Busco. Balcatta needed a good start to the second half to get back into the game, and they found it four minutes in, with Tia Stonehill curling home from distance. But that was as good as it got for the visitors, Lincoln completing her hat-trick two minutes later to seal the game. It was 5-1 late, with Cook adding her second, to secure a comprehensive win for the hosts. Perth now meet Perth RedStar in the major semi-final, while Balcatta recorded their highest NPL Women’s finish of fifth.
Perth RedStar received their league title trophy on Saturday, from Football West chairman Sherif Andrawes after the game. but Fremantle City gatecrashed their party, inflecting only the second defeat of the season for the hosts after 3-2 at the RedStar Arena. “We couldn't have finished our season off with a better result to beat top of the table Redstar,” Fremantle’s Laura Waltman said. “Our last game with Tash Rigby, Sarah Cain and of course with a handy hattrick from Abbey Green, it could have been the best game the team has played together all season and you could see it in every person on and off the pitch. Congratulations to Redstar on their fantastic season, we hope to see them again in the semi or Grand Final.”
It was the visitors who opened the brighter and RedStar keeper Maya Diederichsen had to be alert to Jaime-Lee Gale’s curling effort around the post. But on nine minutes their early pressure was rewarded with the lead, Green getting in behind RedStar’s defence to roll the ball home. The hosts pressed for the equaliser, and Annabelle Leek bravely but her body on the line to block Reina Kagami and Chiori Ikeda’s efforts. Fremantle went close to a second late on, but Diederichsen saved well at her near post to deny Olivia Trueman, but at the break Fremantle held a narrow lead.
But after the break Carlos Vega-Mena’s side showed their quality, turning the game around with two quick goals. First on 57 Olivia Wood shot flew past Indiana Antunes to level, and ten minutes later they hit the front, Sophia Neal heading home Ikeda’s corner. But Fremantle weren’t finished and restored parity on 73 minutes, Leek’s free-kick was cleared only as far as Green, who finished clinically. Both sides had chances in an end-to-end game, Wood’s effort clipped the top of the crossbar, but in the final minute it was Fremantle who won it. Green cutting in from the right and curled home superbly from 18 meters
Hyundai NTC rounded out their season with a 5-0 win over Curtin University in their final league game with a number of U21s players tasting first-team action at E&D Litis Stadium. One of those players was Emily Garnett who scored a brace on the day. Her first came seven minutes in when the striker cut in from the left before curling it home. Theo Mouithys also scored for the first time at senior NPL level, racing through to score, before Louise Tana’s fine striker made it 3-0 at the break. Garnett added a fourth on the hour, and in stoppage time Mischa Anderson made it 5-0, firing home from Mia Britton’s effort. The other game in round was on Friday night with Murdoch University Melville entertaining Subiaco AFC at Besteam Stadium, but the game was abandoned as a draw 10 minutes in after the lights went out.
27.8.2023
HYUNDAI WOMEN’S LEAGUE DIVISION ONE - ROUND NINETEEN REVIEW
Our ‘Match of the Round’ in the Hyundai Womens Division One took us to the UWA Sports Park, with UWA Nedlands and Perth AFC battling it out for second place on the table, and it was the visitors who took out the points, after a 2-0 win on Saturday evening. “It was a tough battle in the first half with both teams having chances in a very exciting game,” AFC coach Rob Caruso said. “It was an action-packed game but the hunger from my squad proved to be the difference at the end of the game, so I’m very proud of the effort put in by all.”
The visitors opened the scoring on the half hour mark, Jess Moreschini quickly closing down the UWA centre back, forcing an error under pressure, the ball spilling to Moreschini, who poked the ball home past the UWA keeper Maria Iparraguirre. AFC sealed the win on 75 minutes, a long UWA goal kick was intercepted by AFC, Moreschini perfectly timed through ball splitting the UWA defence finding Caitlyn Lewis, who finished with aplomb into the far bottom corner, the win moves Perth AFC three points clear of UWA, with two games remaining.
Champions Hamersley Rovers have continued their unbeaten season, after a hard fought 2-1 win against Port Kennedy at Carine Open Space on Sunday afternoon. “It was a competitive game, we should have had a few more within the game, but were not clinical enough,” Hamersley coach Betim Ziba said. “The first half we pressed Port well, which caused them problems, but in the second half they worked back into the game and it became very competitive. It was a fun game to be a part of as both sides had to work hard on and off the ball, well done to Port, who played a good game.”
It was Rovers who opened the scoring on four minutes, an interception by Brianna Patrick, who took a touch into the box and finished it into the bottom right corner. They doubled their lead moments late, a first-time low cross by Jessica Smith found Brianna Patrick, who cut in front of marker and finished clinically. Port Kennedy were back in the game on 67 minutes, Keira Turner cut inside the penalty area and finished well from six meters. The visitors pressed for the equaliser, but Rovers held firm to seal the win. In other games a brace from Jessica Lindquist gave Sorrento a 3-0 win against Subiaco at Rosalie Reserve, with Jodie Brough scoring the other, while in the final game Fremantle City and Mandurah City have fought out a 0-0 draw at Wauhop Park.
26.8.2023
NPL-WA ROUND TWENTY TWO - REVIEW
Perth RedStar secured the 2023 NPLWA – Men’s title after a 1-1 draw against Olympic Kingsway at Kingsway Reserve on Saturday afternoon. It has been a great season for the northern suburbs club, with their women also winning the NPLWA – Womens title, and Head coach Callum Salmon said it was a great achievement, but they aren’t finished, as they look to win the Top Four Finals Series. “It was an enjoyable game and decent football played by both sides,” he said. “Happy with the draw and our focus now turns to the Top Four Cup. We’re all excited for the new challenge, and the boys have been outstanding all year and we’ll work hard to win the cup too.”
It was the hosts who found the opener on nine minutes, Tyler Garner sent James Fanelli down the right and his low cross found Garner in the box, and his first time shot beat Liam Reddy. But the visitors levelled nine minutes later, Olympic lost the ball in the middle of the park, the ball falling to Daryl Nicol, who played in Chok Dau, who raced into the area, and scored low past former RedStar keeper Joe Pollard. It’s been a fantastic first season back in the NPL for David Tough’s side, and he said they will look to continue it in the end of season finals. “I thought it was a good game against two teams that like to pass the ball,” the Olympic coach said. “I thought a draw was a fair result over the 90 minutes, and we’ll regroup over the next couple of weeks to be prepared for the top four finals.”
It was a tense end to the season at both ends, and in our ‘Match of the Round’ Perth SC became the final team to reach the Top Four, but only just, after a hard fought 3-3 draw against Bayswater City at Frank Drago Reserve. “It was a hard-fought point, with both teams not really playing to their potential. We were disappointed with our performance but we did what we needed to and got the point that puts us into the finals so we’re happy about that,” Perth assistant coach Stuart Banks explained. “Being 3-2 down at halftime we were confident we would score again so we knew keeping a clean sheet in the second half was key and the boys did that well.” Sam Mitchinson gave the hosts the lead early, the former Perth Glory and Melbourne Heart defender firing home a stunner, but Perth hit back immediately, with Luke Collins curling home superbly from outside the box. The game began to open up and the Azzurri hit the front on 16 minutes, Alex Da Rocha firing home his first goal since rejoining the club. But Bayswater weren’t going down without a fight and restored parity six minutes later, Declan Hargreaves volleying past Luke Martino.
Then five minutes before the break Gary Williams’ side regained the lead, a ball over the top sent Gordon Smith in on goal, and he beat Martino to the ball and the ball fell to Andrew Maranta, who rolled the ball into an empty net. At the break, Armadale were in the top four, but that all changed on the hour mark, with French striker Jeremie Mba scoring, moments after coming off the bench. It was a tense finish, but Danny Hay’s side held firm to seal their spot in the top four. “Both sides contributed towards a highly entertaining game, and I would like to offer my congratulations to Perth SC for making the top four,” Bayswater coach Gary Williams said. “In all honesty there were some really disappointing decisions made by the officials today, not least a clear handball when a penalty should have been given and a straight red card for preventing a goal scoring opportunity when the Perth player was 10 yards inside his own half. All that aside I want to congratulate the players on their reaction since Stewy and I came in eight weeks ago. Apart from one blip against Floreat last week the players have been magnificent. We now look forward to a break and building for 2024.”
Armadale just missed out on fourth place, after a 5-1 win against Sorrento at Percy Doyle Reserve, but the heavy loss left the Gulls in the relegation playoff place. “We were disappointed not to sneak in the top four at the end and to miss out by one point was hard,” hat-trick hero Chris Jackson explained. “It’s been a big push from all the boys over and a lot of determination to finish as high as possible, and today was a great way to finish the season and leave us all wanting more.” Both sides knew three points would be massive in this one, and it was Armadale who opened the scoring after only five minutes. Former Sorrento striker Chris Jackson finishing well past Patrick Hughes.
It was 2-0 on 38 minutes, Pieter Jacobsz won the ball in the middle of the park and drove forward, before finding Jackson down the left, he out-muscled his marker and raced into goal and finished clinically. But the hosts were back in the game sixty seconds later, Joel Driscoll had just saved well to deny Dean Cummings, but then a long ball over the top found Gustavo Giron-Marulanda, and with the Armadale defenders looking for the offside flag, that never came, the striker fired home. But in the shadows of half time Armadale added a third, Lachlan Collins’ cross was headed down Martim Bento Galvao, and Purvishna Appadoo fired home.
Armadale went on with it after the break and Jacobsz added a fourth on the hour, getting on the end of Lachlan Collins’ ball over the top, the striker beat the offside trap and finished low past Hughes. At that stage they were in the top four with results elsewhere, but that changed moments later with the Azzurri levelling at Bayswater. But Jackson wasn’t finished and he completed his hat-trick four minutes later, spotting Hughes off his line, the striker lobbed him from distance. They had done their job, but with Perth getting a point a Bayswater, Alun Vernals sides gallant effort was in vain, but it was their best finish in NPL history, and the coach is already looking forward to next season. “A great way to end the season, and when Victor and I took over we know a real big effort was required for the last three weeks and the players have been fantastic,” Vernals said post-match. “Delighted for the club, who have been great with me since my arrival, and we’re delighted to achieve the highest NPL finish which gives us a good platform to build on for next year.”
The action at the other end of the table was even more thrilling, and it will be Cockburn City who will be playing Division One football next season, after a 3-0 loss at Balcatta Etna relegated them. Both sides were in the relegation mix heading into the game, and it was a nervy first half with both sides struggling in the final third, Anthony Skorich had the best chance for the visitors firing wide, before Trent Kay did likewise at the other end for the hosts. But on 58 minutes it was Balcatta who found the vital opener, former Perth Glory midfielder Aryn Williams picked out Japanese striker Kotarto Yamamoto, who had come off the bench, and he finished clinically across Michael Craggs, much to the delight of the home faithful.
They doubled their lead nine minutes later, Liam Hudson’s shot from the edge of the box flying past Craggs. Cockburn were then reduced to ten men on 81 minutes when skipper Euen Grant was shown a second yellow card by referee David Bruce and sent off. The host added a third in the final minute, substitute Adam Tong finding the bottom corner to seal the win and the NPL status for Glen Grostate’s side. “I thought we were excellent today, and I think three goals and a clean sheet in front of our supporters was the perfect way to finish what has been an outstanding year for us,” Balcatta assistant coach Malcom Tshuma said. “Before the season, everyone had us penciled in to finish rock bottom, so to complete the year a game and a half outside the top four and FFA cup semifinalist is one hell of an effort from everyone involved.”
Floreat Athena and Inglewood United have both retained their NPL status, after both found draws on the final day, First Inglewood United scored late to draw 1-1 with Stirling Macedonia at Inglewood Stadium. “It was a great entertaining game, with both teams trying to go for the win,” Inglewood coach Andres Oliveira said. “We know the importance of the game, and with Stirling scoring first, credit to the boys they kept pushing and we found the equaliser, I believe we deserved.” Ian Ferguson’s side had already booked their place in the Top Four Finals, and they found the opener just after the break Hristijan Jankuloski deep cross beat Alex Dunn and Gyles Davies made sure, but the ball had already crossed the line.
With results elsewhere, not going their way Inglewood were in the relegation playoff spot, but six minutes from time that all changes, Matthew Ntumenopoulos’ corner found Michael Domfeh, and the former Stirling striker rose highest to head past Liam Price to earn a crucial point which kept them up. “Again, it’s disappointing to not come away with the win, whilst some may feel content with a second-place finish we do not. We showed our quality against the top teams in the league this year but we were complacent against teams that were toward the bottom,” Stirling’s Brent Quick said. “It is the story of our season that we dominate possession and have many opportunities to score but we don’t take our chances and other teams do. Our focus now is to go and win the top four cup and rally for next season where we’ll hope to make the necessary changes.”
Last season’s Champions Floreat Athena found themselves two goals down against Perth Glory at E&D Litis Stadium, but they fought back to secure a 2-2 draw to survive. “It was a very important game Saturday of course with both teams not safe from the drop, we prepared for the game as best we could but the first 20 minutes Glory did, and we went into half time 2-0 down it wasn’t the best,” Floreat’s Seam McManus explained. “But we stayed calm and I knew if we got one, we would get another and we discussed that at half time too. I thought the boys were excellent second half and ultimately, we got the job done, meaning we avoided the drop or even the second-place drop and that was our goal. For us now, it’s time to focus on another massive game this Saturday in the cup final. Since I’ve been at Floreat, I’ve won a trophy every season so we hope we can get another for the club and the fans who have come down to watch us this season and finish the year on a high for us and most importantly them.”
The Glory youngsters were ahead on 14 minutes, Andriano Lebib bundled Laat Mathing’s free-kick into the net, before Sebastian Despotovski’s shot was saved by Joshua Hunter, but the rebound fell into the path of Aiki Tsukamoto, who made no mistake to double their lead three minutes later. But after the break the hosts found a lifeline, Robert Petkov heading in Alex Christodoulakis’ cross on 55 minutes. Then 12 minutes from time Athena levelled, Lebib’s challenge on Bayley Brown-Montgomery in the box saw the referee point to the spot, and Kye Murray made no mistake with the resulting penalty to seal the draw and keep Floreat in the NPL.
26.8.2023
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND TWENTY TWO REVIEW
Western Knights will play NPLWA – Men’s football for the first time after a dramatic final day of the State League Division One season. It looked like the chance had passed them bye, being held at Nash Field by Joondalup United, while their nearest rivals Mandurah City were leading at home, but in the final minute, a header across the box by Jack Bardsley wasn’t dealt with and Albert Luwi forced the ball home from close-range to set off wild celebrations on and off the pitch. Skipper Conor Devlin said it was a great way to finish the season, but they left it late. “It was a really hard-fought game and credit to Joondalup who were very tough to break down, but we never gave up, we kept pushing and eventually found a way right at the death. It certainly wasn’t the prettiest goal we’ve scored this year but it will definitely go down as the most memorable,” the skipper explained.
“To win the game in such dramatic circumstances, in front of our home fans after the disappointment of last week was really special and will be a moment, I'm sure none of us will ever forget “I’m very proud and grateful I had the opportunity to lift the trophy alongside Ryan (Cox) and coach Adam (Kostrencic), but it was even more special seeing just how much winning the league and gaining promotion was to the fans, committee and everyone around the club. The Knights family have been waiting 11 long years for this and the boys and I are so glad we could get the job done.”
Goalscorer Albert Luwi thought it was going to be one of those days. “It was a weird game to be honest we couldn’t seem to create much in the first but in second we did raise the tempo and created more chances but just couldn’t seem to crack the Joondalup defence, which is credit to them,” he explained. “But to score the winner, I just really can’t put it in words, and I’m still processing everything. I joined the club knowing we had a good chance to win it and to be honest at the start of season it felt we would win it by a landslide, but football is football we slipped up a couple times and the table shifted a bit but wouldn’t want it any other way, it was a story book ending and I’m glad we did it, credit to all the players and staff it was an amazing season and can’t wait for NPL next season.”
The final word was left for Head Coach Adam Kostrencic, who said he is proud of everyone at the club, and he said it capped off a great season. “It really couldn’t possibly have been scripted any better with the late winner just adding to the feeling of euphoria experienced by all involved at the club, and after coming ever so close last week against Mandurah it was real credit to our whole playing group and their character in the way they responded,” he explained. “Coming into the match we knew we were still in the best position to win the title and complete our mission of promotion to the NPL.
“As we have done all year our players prepared very well through the week, their belief was real and they just kept pushing until we made it happen. I’m sure the videos of our goal and celebrations have been replayed a few times already and I have no doubt they will be replayed many times more. It was the perfect way to cap off a remarkable season which now marks a proud historical moment for the club returning back to the top league.”
Mandurah City did all they could to seal promotion, and found the opener on the half hour, Leigh Griffiths’ cross picked out Murray Mackintosh at the back post who made no mistake. They doubled their advantage four minutes later, Brian Patterson’s cross from the left hit the arm of Mitchell Byrne, and referee Josh Nixon pointed straight to the spot, and Griffiths made no mistake from the resulting penalty. It was 3-0 at the break, Hamish van Dieken turning his marker in the box and finishing with a plomb.
The fans were nervously watching the game at Nash Field, and they were up on their feet again in the final minute, with Griffiths adding his second, outmuscling his marker after a ball over the top and he finished clinically. But with the Knights scoring late, it means Mandurah must go up via the play-offs. “It was a good performance from start to finish from us. We created a lot of chances and was happy with how the team went about the game,” Van Dieken said. “We had a lot of players out the squad for different reasons, but with the quality we have in our squad I thought a 4-0 result against a good Dianella squad was excellent, and we now concentrate on the playoffs.”
The loss meant the Eagles missed out on the playoffs, but Fremantle City did make it after a hard fought 2-1 win against Rockingham City at Lark Hill. It was goalless at half-time, but the hosts were reduced to ten men seven minutes into the second half when Dylan Urquhart was shown a red card for a last-man foul had the home side a player down. The visitors took advantage of the extra man moments later, Anthony O’Donnell scoring spectacularly with a the free-kick to give them the lead. But Rockingham hit back and levelled moments later, Ruben Joseph charged down Jordan Barbas’ clearance to score. But it was Fremantle who won it on 68 minutes, with O’Donnell adding his second. Both sides had players sent off late, O’Donnell and Rockingham’s Maxwell Worswick, but the win secured a top four spot Matthew Sparrow’s side.
“It was a massive game in more ways than one. We knew a win kept us in the play offs and anything else would put that in jeopardy, and I felt like we struggled a little bit early and full credit to Rockingham, they kept the ball well,” Fremantle skipper Hayden Stevens explained. “At times we were good and then it took a bit of individual brilliance from Anthony to get us a goal and then again to put us ahead again. Overall, it was a tough game which you’re always going to get going away to Rockingham and we’re pleased to get the result to still give us a go at promotion later on in the year.”
At the bottom of the table, UWA Nedlands survived the relegation playoff spot after a 3-2 win against Murdoch University Melville at the UWA Sports Park. The visitors, knew they needed to win and hope the result at Subiaco went their way, and they found themselves behind on eight minutes, Feisal Zaw on target, but the hosts levelled two minutes later, with Luke Salas converting from the spot. UWA hit the front nine minutes later, with William Higginson heading home, and just before the break Salas added a third. It looked like the hosts would go on with it, but the result at Subiaco was going against them, and when Christos Vaenas pulled one back late, it was a tense time on and off the pitch, but they held firm and with Subiaco losing it proved enough. “We entered the day knowing that we were not in total control of our outcome due to Subiaco’s superior goal difference, but we started brightly as we usually do and then conceded a soft goal. Credit to the boys for reacting and getting to 3-1 by the 40th minute. I thought we deserved our lead which we held onto at the break,” UWA coach Richard Abrams said. “The news filtered through that Subiaco were leading 3-0, but we told the lads just focus on our game which we all know is tough to do when you get the updates. Mum dominated the second half and we had backs to the walls for most of it, but when Gosnells starting scoring, we looking leggy, and with eight first team starters missing plus 2 long term injuries meant our patched-up team had to give every ounce of effort for 90+ mins.
“Assistant coach Simon Turner and I started to make changes to preserve players for play off finals in the second half and then all of a sudden, we heard Gosnells had levelled. Then MUMFC got a second it was an emotional roller-coaster as we hung on for dear life. When we heard Gosnells had a fourth, and we rode the last five minutes out and when the whistle went, we had achieved our season goal of staying in the division in the most remarkable (and stressful) way. Divisional play offs are great for the three teams hoping to go up and a date for the executioner for the one team hoping to stay, so not having to be part of that process is unbelievable especially considering our position at 3pm Saturday.”
That win saw Subiaco AFC take the relegation playoff spot, this after throwing away a three-goal half time lead, to lose 4-3 against Gosnells City at Rosalie Park. A first half brace from Kaleb Morrison and one from Gavin Knight had the hosts flying, but after the break Gosnells hit back. A brace from Blake Pritchard early had Subiaco on the back foot, and on 70 minutes skipper Scott Pereira levelled things up. Both sides looked for the winner, but it was Peter Allen’s team who won it two minutes from time, with Pritchard completing his hat-trick, much to the delight of the travelling supporters.
“It was a game of two halves in every sense, we weren’t at the races in the first half, probably a mix of us being safe and not playing at same intensity and Subiaco playing for their lives, and some sloppy goals and suddenly we were 3-0 down but a halftime,” Gosnells coach Peter Allen said. “The lads have been great since Alan (Dunlop), Andy (Pomfret) and I took over, so we spoke to them at the break about having some pride, and playing for the badge, especially with all the Gosnells supporters who had travelled to watch us, and it did the trick. So full credit to the lads who looked unstoppable in the second half, and it capped off a great end to the season for us.”
Forrestfield were already relegated, ended their season with a 2-1 defeat against Gwelup Croatia at the Croatian Sporting Complex, Wishart Street. The home side were ahead after only two minutes, Shane Hulgraine volleying home Jacob Williamson’s cross. They doubled their lead on 19 minutes, with Williamson scoring from close-range. Moses Macauley pulled one back for the visitors before the break, but they couldn’t find the equaliser, and they ended the game with ten men after James Bourne was sent off. “We were happy with the result but probably felt a bit disappointed with the performance, it wasn't up to the standards that we're aiming for,” Gwelup defender Cameron Yorke explained. “We've showed over the course of the season that we can beat the top teams, but have been too inconsistent against the rest of the league. It was great to finish the season with a win, but we'll be aiming to build on the foundations we laid this year and do better next season.”
26.8.2023
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND TWENTY TWO REVIEW
Kingsley Westside wrapped up the State League Division Two title last week, and it was the race for the runners-up spot that was our ‘Match of the Round’ and it was Maddington-Kalamunda White City who took it, after coming from behind to beat Curtin University 2-1 at Edinburgh Oval on Saturday evening. It was a tight opening to the game, but it was the hosts who found the opener on 17 minutes, good lead up play by Oscar Wright and Todd Nyawayi, saw the ball find Daniel Davey, who made no mistake. But the visitors were level before the break, Maiki Balbinot heading in from a corner. City won it just before the hour, Jose Zuniga’s long-range shot beat the keeper, and despite Curtin pressing late, they held on for the win.
“It was a great encounter under the lights in Edinburgh Oval, and they scoring from a counter attack, but we equalised. I thought it was an even game in the first half, but we came out the stronger side in the second half, and managed to find a second. We had plenty of chances to extend the lead, but were very happy to come out with a win. We finish runners up in our first season in state league and remain undefeated at home. The boys are buzzing for the playoffs and we know we have what it takes to get the job done.”
The league winners Kingsley Westside finished their season with a comprehensive 4-1 win against Carramar Shamrock Rovers at Chichester Park on Saturday evening. “It was a good win to end the season, and I thought we started off in a bit of a party mood after watching our reserves win the league and Carramar took the lead, but our boys finally started to play out style and finally got on too and ran out deserved winners,” Kingsley assistant coach Stuart Montgomery explained. “It was a massive day for the club and a great turn out by all supporters with our 18’s unlucky not to also win the league, but had a great season but well done to Carramar.
“Then our reserves got the job done and won their game to clinch the league title, so to have all teams up there challenging for league title’s is a massive achievement from a club who a few years ago were playing amateurs. Thanks to all the volunteers and support staff for all the behind the scenes work that just let us coach’s coach.” It was Rovers who opened the scoring on eight minutes, with Alex Connolly on target, but the hosts levelled two minutes later, Luke Salmon’s free kick from 20-meters flew into the corner, the goal giving Salmon the Division One Golden Boot. The hosts hit the front after the break, Salmon flicked on a ball to Johnny Hulme, who made no mistake. Alex Morgan added a third, his first goal for the club, after some good work down the right side by Jack Reilly. In the final minute they added a fourth, Daniel Harrison scoring a stunner, into the top corner from 20 meters.
Swan United finished fourth, but they were beaten on the final day, going down 4-3 to Wanneroo City at the Swan Italian Club, Francis Street. City were ahead after only two minutes, Dion Berman capitalised on a mix up between Swan defender and keeper to poach the ball and score. But the hosts levelled three minutes later, John Monterosso on target, and the striker then gave the host the lead on the quarter hour. But Wanneroo were level at the break, a corner was whipped in by Montee Benjamin, and he found Berman at the near post to score with flicked header. Ben Wantee then gave City the lead on the hour, driving towards the area beating two players before firing across the keeper.
But six minutes from time Swan levelled, with Rhys Loxley scoring from the spot, but two minutes later Wanneroo won it, Berman completing his hat-trick with a quick finish in crowded penalty box. “Always good to be victorious in a game to which the players deserved today. Feels like a bit of an anticlimax in what’s been an inconsistent season where we have been our own worst enemies,” Wanneroo coach Howard Tweats explained. “Exceeding last year’s stats was the target, and we achieved that and to repeat the same next season will be the minimum requirement.”
Morley Windmills are already relegated, and unfortunately their game against Joondalup City at Wotton Reserve was forfeited, giving City a 3-0 win. The relegation playoff spot was sealed on Saturday, with Canning City finishing 11th, this after a 0-0 draw against Quinns at Gumblossom Park. The point secured Quinns spot in the league next season, and coach Antony Benetti said they had to work hard, with Canning desperate for the win. “It was a pretty cagey match to be fair. Canning had a job to do and to their credit they threw everything at us. I think as a group we are slightly disappointed that we largely controlled possession but didn't have our efficiencies up,” he explained. “All in all, though it’s been a challenging season and I'm proud of how these boys got themselves into a position to control our own fate and remain in the league. The blueprint is now there for a successful 2024.”
Balga need a draw in the final game, and secured it after a 1-1 draw against Ashfield at the Ashfield Sports Club. “After the game, the team felt more a relief than celebration. It was a season with a good first half and the very hard second half in which we could not compensate the players we lost to division one and by injury,” Balga coach Gerhard Janssen explained. “Overall, the remaining players showed great character and fulfilled the promise to go through the wall for Balga.” Ashfield found the opener on ten minutes, with Ravi Singh scoring from Rob McDonald’s corner. But on the half hour Balga levelled, Nathan Scully picked out Sam Kent, whose lob beat the keeper and Amos Gama raced into goal to get the final touch. Both sides pressed after the break, but the best chance fell to Balga, but Jordan Rowe failed to score from the spot. Balga were pressing for the winner, but they almost lost it late, but Aiden Holloway produced a great save to deny Singh, and both sides shared the spoils.
25.8.2023
CATANIA PRESIDENT PELLIGRA AMONG BIDDERS FOR GLORY
A bid headed by the president of Italian Serie C outfit Catania FC is among the non-binding offers tabled for Perth Glory as the deadline for the sale of the club nears. Property developer Ross Pelligra has thrown his hat into the ring for the A-Leagues club, which has been without an owner since long-time chairman Tony Sage handed back his licence in July.
With Glory currently in the hands of receivers KordaMentha, the deadline for non-binding indicative offers ends at the close of business today. And Pelligra, the east coast-born property developer who has overseen the revival of former Serie A outfit Catania, is part of one of several bids which has been submitted to the receivers.
It is understood former Socceroo Stan Lazaridis and Football West chairman Liam Twigger would be brought into the fold in the event of a successful bid, along with Catania vice-chairman Vince Grella, another former Socceroo. The group are believed to have a strong interest in the grassroots game and would be keen to ensure Glory had a harmonious relationship with local clubs.
In addition to Catania, Pelligra also has financial links to Adelaide Giants in the Australian Baseball League, Adelaide Lightning in the Women’s National Nasketball League. He was also previously linked to fellow A-Leagues club Adelaide United, but was also involved in a mooted bid which attempted to push former National Soccer League giants South Melbourne into the A-League.
“We’re very serious about this and have put in a bid and we’ll see where it ends up, I guess,” Pelligra said. “There is a big community of football people in Perth, I believe they’ll come out and support the club and there’s an opportunity there to unite the city around this club. I see how strong the football culture is in Perth and there’s a lot to build on if we’re chosen as the preferred bidder.”
It has been a tumultuous off-season for Glory, with Sage departing after more than a decade at the helm as owner while men’s coach Ruben Zadkovich also resigned. However, with clarity to be provided in the coming weeks in regards to ownership and experienced former Matildas, Central Coast Mariners and Philippines women coach Alen Stajcic
25.8.2023
BELT-UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION – ROUND EIGHTEEN PREVIEW
We’ve reached week 18 of the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division, and the top of the table, like it has been all season, is very tight, and the top four are only separated by five points. One of them sides is North Perth United, and they featured in our ‘Match of the Round’ when they visit Challenger Reserve on Sunday to take on South Perth United. (All games on Sunday kick off at 3pm) The hosts were held by Kwinana last week, while the visitors lost top spot, after a loss at home against Peel United, so both sides will be looking to bounce back.
North Perth lost top spot last week after their 1-2 loss against Peel, and skipper Kelechi Osunwa said they have struggled for a couple of weeks, but they still find themselves in the title race. “Yes, it was a very disappointing result, but all credit to Peel they were superb. They worked so hard, defended deep, their keeper pulled off some saves and they were clinical in attack and deserved the three points,” the defender explained.
“It’s been a disappointing couple of weeks, when you add the last-minute draw against Kwinana, but honestly if you had offered us one point off top with five games to go, we would have bitten your hand off for that especially considering or last couple seasons. I think it’s terrific to have the league this close with five games to go and it’s a credit to the quality of the teams and coaches, the title should go down to the wire.”
Osunwa said Sunday’s opponents are starting to find some form, and it will be a good challenge, but one they are looking forward to. “South Perth are a top side and the job that Lee Hayward has been doing there over the few seasons is something else,” he said. “They are the reigning cup champions for a reason, and have beaten Emerald and East Perth, so there is no doubting their quality on their day. It will be tough and will need us being close to our best to get a result there, but I know the boys are up for the challenge and will try make it happen.”
The draw against Kwinana continued South Perth’s four game unbeaten run, but coach Lee Hayward said it was two points dropped, and is looking to bounce back against North Perth on Sunday. “Very disappointed with the result last week, and we knew Kwinana are not a bad side, but I think the lads rocked up thinking it was three points in the bag. You can’t write off anyone in this league, as we have seen with results this season,” Hayward explained.
“North Perth are a quality side and the only side to dominate us this season really, so we know we will be in for a tough game. We have been working on something different in training this week to counter the dominance they had in the fixture earlier in the year and we be hoping to see an improved performance, were looking forward to the game and continuing our unbeaten run.”
There is another huge game on Sunday, when fourth placed Kelmscott Roos make the trip to Cabrini Park to take on third placed East Perth. The hosts drew at league leaders Emerald last week, while the Roos broke a four-game run without a win against Joondalup. The Roos were also in action in the Amateur Cup quarter-finals in midweek, when they beat North Beach 2-1 at Frye Park. Ross Westwood gave the visitors the lead early, before substitute Alex Ekeze levelled early in the second half, and he added a second deep into stoppage time to seal the win and move them into the semi-finals along with Perth AFC, Wembley Downs and Emerald.
“The cup win in mid-week game was good, we played some of our best football of the season and got the reward for it,” Kelmscott keeper Taylor Warwick said. “North Beach came with a game plan to sit behind the ball the whole game and it suited us as we were able to play our way around them constantly. It’s nice to get a few wins back under our belt and get moving in the right direction again.”
Warwick said Sunday’s clash is huge, and they need to keep winning to keep their promotion hopes alive, and they are ready for the challenge. “East Perth FC are always a tough side to play, especially at their place, and we have had some unreal battles with them over the past year and a bit. We know how they play and are excited about the challenge. Every game is a cup final for us now and we need to do our best to win them all.”
In other games, the round starts on Saturday evening when leaders Emerald head south to Bunbury to take on South West Phoenix at the Onside Sports Stadium, while Joondalup United welcome Peel United to Beldon Park. Jaguar will look to end a four-game run without a win when they host Kwinana United at Herb Graham Recreation Centre, and in the final game Wembley Downs entertain North Beach at Butlers Reserve.
25.8.2023
NPLWA WOMEN’S – ROUND TWENTY ONE PREVIEW
The Top Four Finals teams have been decided, but the race for the second spot in the NPLWA – Women’s competition is still up for grabs, with Perth SC and Fremantle City battling it out, and Perth are in pole position, sitting two points clear, and this week they welcome Balcatta Etna to Dorrien Gardens on Sunday (All games kick off at 3pm, unless stated) Perth striker Jamie Duncanson scored in last weeks win at Curtin, to move her to 13 for the season, and she said they are looking forward to returning to their home ground, the last game at the Gardens was in round eight, due to FIFA Women’s World Cup commitments. “We are very excited to finish the season a high this weekend against Balcatta, and to finally get back on our patch, with a few players back from injury, to try and secure a final three points for the season,” Duncanson said. “To secure second spot gives us a safety net, however it’s one that we don’t want to have to use, we are looking to finishing the season as a group and in good form is our top priority.”
Fremantle will be hoping the Azzurri slip up, but will have to beat champions Perth RedStar at the RedStar Arena. Fremantle sealed their top four spot and put pressure on Perth with a 4-3 win against the NTC last week, and Jamie-Lee Gale said it was a good all-round performance, something they will need at RedStar on Sunday. “We knew it would be a hard battle as NTC have been scoring a lot of goals in their recent matches and coming off a loss last week we had a point to prove. We played with a lot more confidence in the final third and were more clinical in front of goals which is something we have been missing the last few games,” the Fremantle defender explained. “NTC did well to keep a clean sheet in the second half but we hope to take our first half energy into this week’s game against RedStar and give us the best possible opportunity to finish second if other results go our way.”
Thy Hyundai NTC secured the final spot in the Top Four Cup on Tuesday evening with a 7-0 win over Curtin University at Edinburgh Oval in their round 15 catch-up game. The big win giving Ben Anderton’s team a five-point lead over fifth-placed Balcatta with one game remaining. Maja Archibald gave the visitors the lead after only nine minutes and they increased their lead midway through the first half, with Ruby Cuthbert scoring from a corner. Ischia Brooking added another from a tight angle, to give them a 3-0 lead at the break. They found a fourth just after the hour, with Cuthbert heading home from a set piece, Nelli Johnson bagged a brace and a long-range strike from Samantha Brady completed a comprehensive win for the NTC youngsters.
The NTC can still move into third with a win in their final game, when they host Curtin University again, this time at E&D Litis Stadium, while in the final game, Murdoch University Melville and Subiaco kick off the weekend action on Friday night at Besteam Stadium. (7.30pm) Neither team can move from their respective league positions of sixth and seventh. Subi will be trying to win for a sixth time this year, while MUM FC will want to go into next Saturday’s Hyundai Women’s State Cup final against NTC in the best possible shape having won only once in their last eight league games.
25.8.2023
HYUNDAI WOMEN’S LEAGUE DIVISION ONE - ROUND NINETEEN PREVIEW
Hamersley Rovers won the title last week, and it’s the chase for the runners-up spot that is the centre of attention this week, with our ‘Match of the Round’ taking us to the UWA Sports Park on Saturday evening, when second-placed UWA Nedlands entertain third-placed Perth AFC. (5pm) The sides are level on points, and with three games to go a win in this one will give one of them a huge advantage, and both are coming off indifferent results. AFC moved level with UWA after a 3-0 win against Port Kennedy, while UWA were beaten 0-1 at Mandurah, the loss handing the title to Hamersley.
UWA boss Lawrence Lewis said last week’s result was disappointing, and they will be doing all they can turn that round on Saturday. “Last week was definitely not the result we were after, I thought we made it very hard for ourselves, only starting to play our UWA way from the second half. We did create chances but were unable to convert them. Mandurah made it very difficult for us as they usually do and deserved to win that game,” Lewis said. “Saturday will be a big game with both teams looking for that second spot. Perth AFC are a good defensive side and can hurt you on the counter. After our defeat last week, we are ready to bounce back and fight to the end to get a win this weekend. With it being a Saturday game, we are hoping for a big crowd to come and support us.”
Perth AFC coach Rob Caruso said last week’s win continued their good season, and he hopes they can continue it on Saturday in the top of the table clash. “Very pleased with the team and the results, it's great to see everyone focus on one week at a time and work hard to get to the position we are in. I have seen some great character from them all this season and bouncing back after a loss proved this, they are hungry to win,” he explained. “It's always a tough and exciting game against UWA. Lawrence and his squad have proved once again this season that they are a great team. We go into this game like any other, focus on our game plan, our strengths and do our best to come out with the result we want.”
Hamersley will be presented with the league trophy after the game against Port Kennedy at Carine Open Space on Sunday (All games kick off at 1pm) Despite winning the title the club will not take their place in the NPL, and coach Betim Ziba said it was a tough decision. “We have had multiple discussion on it, and we made the decision last week to not go up,” Ziba explained. “Going through all the requirements and what we would need to achieve in a short time was a lot. We made the decision to not force it and become another Curtin, rather wait another year and get things set up properly.” In other games on Sunday Fremantle City and Mandurah City meet at Wauhop Park, and both sides will be looking to build on wins last week, while Subiaco AFC welcome Sorrento to Rosalie Park.
25.8.2023
NPL-WA ROUND TWENTY TWO - PREVIEW
The NPLWA – Men’s competition couldn’t have been scripted any better, with every game in week 22 having a bearing in the top four, relegation and play-off positions on the ladder. (All games kick off at 3pm) Callum Salmon’s Perth Redstar will be crowned Champions, unless they lose, by a heavy margin when they travel to Kingsway Reserve to take on Olympic Kingsway, who have already wrapped up a top four spot, a great achievement for David Tough’s side in their first season back in the NPL. On another note, everyone at Footballwa would like to send our thoughts and a speedy recovery to young RedStar player Louis Hadfield was beaten up in another unprovoked attack in our suburbs.
Our ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to Frank Drago Reserve for the Italian Derby between Bayswater City and Perth SC. It’s been a crazy season, and Bayswater need three points to keep their top four hopes alive, but a heavy loss could see them in the relegation play-off spot, while the Azzurri only need a point to secure their spot in the end of season finals. City missed their opportunity last week, losing at Sorrento, and the three goals conceded hurt their goal difference, while Perth stunned Stirling to all but secure a finals berth, but a slip up here could let in Bayswater or Armadale who sit three points behind them.
Perth defender Luke Collins said the big win at Stirling was a huge boost for the side in their quest for a top four place, and he said it was a great team performance. “It was an absolutely massive win, we knew we needed to come away with a result there especially after the poor performance the week before,” he said. “The first 20 minutes we started slowly but then found our rhythm and things just clicked from there, it was a real team performance and the energy on the pitch was exceptional.”
Collins, who joined the Azzurri from Rockingham City last season, said the appointment of former Perth Glory defender Danny Hay has brought a professionalism to the club, and the players have brought into his and assistant coach Stuart Banks hard work. “Danny coming to the club has been massive for us all, he’s a great coach and great guy and always looking for his team to improve,” the defender explained. “Trainings always high intense and all the players have bought in to his and Banksy’s philosophy and we know that on the day if we can play our roles right on the pitch that Danny has asked us to do, then we can beat anyone in the league.”
The Italian Derby is huge for both sides, and Collins said their top four spot is in their own hands and they are looking forward to the game. “Saturday is another absolutely massive game for us, there’s nothing but a win on all the boys’ minds, we don’t want to have to rely on other results to secure a spot in the top four,” Collins said. “We know it will be a completely different game compared to the last time we played them and Frank Drago isn’t an easy place to go to get a result, but we’ve had a good week on the training ground to be ready to go again on Saturday.”
Bayswater City midfielder Gordon Smith said the loss at Floreat was not the result they were after, but shows how tight the league is this season, and it now means they need other results to go their way to reach the top four. “Last week was a very disappointing performance and result, especially as we were aware of how big a game it was, but we just didn’t get going at all, but it shows how tight the league is this season,” he said. “It’s another huge game on Saturday, it’s still mathematically possible for us to make top four, so we will throw everything at it and see where it gets us. We know it’s a big ask and we need a lot to go our way, but all we can do is win our game and she what happens.”
Armadale travel to Percy Doyle Reserve to take on Sorrento, needing to win by three goals more than Perth, and hope they lose to move into the top four, but Sorrento also need the points to keep out of the drop zone. The visitors have won both games under new coach Alun Vernals, while Sorrento boosted their survival hopes with a big win at Sorrento last week. Armadale skipper Nathan Costello said all they can do is take care of business against Sorrento and see what happens in the other games, but they are looking to maintain their form under the new coach. “Happy to win a close game as this season we have dropped points in some close games, saying that, I thought in the first half we should have had a couple goals which would have eased the pressure,” the defender explained.
“It seems a common practice these days that a change of coach produces results. Alun and Victor have bought a new perspective, new motivation and as the results show the players have all been on board and produced to a standard, we should have more often this season. We know that top four isn't in our hands but we know that Alun won't let us drop any level of standard, we will look to start well and put a few goals away and we can reassess through the game how the table looks and adjust from there, the boys are all motivated for a big away performance and a win.”
The relegation scrap will come to a climax on Saturday, with the bottom six teams only separated by three points, so there will be some nervous times in the rest of the games. First, Balcatta Etna have slipped down the table in recent weeks, with no wins in the last eight games, and they need to turn their form around when they host Cockburn City at Grindleford Reserve. The Cockerels sit at the bottom, and have only won once in the last seven games, so both sides need a win and hope other results go their way.
Likewise, Floreat Athena, who kept their survival hopes alive with a huge win against Bayswater last week, and they host Perth Glory at E&D Litis Stadium. The Glory are safe from automatic relegation, but could still slip into the relegation play-off spot with a defeat. In the final game, Inglewood United have found some form in recent weeks, with back-to-back wins, and they need another one on Saturday when they host Stirling Macedonia at Inglewood Stadium. The visitors have stumbled in recent weeks, three games without a win, included a loss against Perth last week, so it sets up an enthralling final day of the season, so hold on to your hats and enjoy the football.
25.8.2023
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND TWENTY TWO PREVIEW
The State League Division One title will go down to the final week of the season, with Western Knights and Mandurah City separated by just one point. The Knights are in pole position, and a win in their final game against Joondalup United, who have already sewn up at top four finish, at Nash Field will see them return to the NPL for the first time since 2012. But Mandurah will be hoping they slip up, but need to beat Dianella White Eagles at Genesiscare Stadium, to see them return to the top flight of WA football since 2017, while the Eagles need a win and hope Fremantle slip up to make the top four, so it sets up an intriguing final day of football.
Mandurah player/coach John Baird said last week’s fightback to draw at the Knights showed the resolve the players have to keep their title hopes alive, and he was proud of them. “Yes, I was delighted with the character from every player, which is never in question at our football club,” the Scotsman said. “To be facing watching our challengers, going to lift the title, and keep going when basically down to ten men with injury is outstanding, not to mention we nearly won it at the end, these boys give us everything and cannot be prouder of them.”
The Dolphins season to date has been exceptional, scoring the most goal and conceding the second least in the league, but Baird hopes they can add to those stats on Saturday and continue the club’s transformation under his tenure. “Those stats aren’t confirmed, so we’ll see how that is after the season has come to a close,” he said. “But since I’ve been at the club everyone has been outstanding and we’re all on the same page, and in them two seasons in the league we have scored 128 goals, which is more a credit to the players and along the way we’ve won two cup’s and second place last season, so we’re heading in the right direction.”
Baird knows they face a tough game on Saturday, as the Eagles have also had a stellar season, but the former St Mirren, Forfar Athletic and Raith Rovers striker said all they can do is take care of business in their game and see what happens in the other game. “We have just got to look after ourselves against Dianella, in front of home supporters, and see where it takes us,” he explained. “The question is who do Joondalup rather face in the semi-finals of the play off over two legs, with the record Joondalup have against Knights I believe they’d rather play Knights, but like I said we have to get the business done first in our game.”
The Knights know a win will secure promotion, and coach Adam Kostrencic’s side were so close last week but let the win slip against Mandurah, but he said the group have moved on and are set for a big game on Saturday. “Obviously there was degree of disappointment with the way things played out, in particular a few key moments at crucial times that didn’t go our way,” he explained. “But we have moved on from that, reset ourselves and our focus is on another opportunity at home this Saturday, which we are looking forward too.”
It's been a two-horse race all season, with the Knights in the top two for most of it, and Kostrencic said he has been delighted with the attitude and performance from his squad from the first training session. “Our playing group has been fantastic all season, a number of new players joined the club and they integrated seamlessly with our existing players who have been at the club for a number of years,” the coach said. “From day one of pre-season, our squad have applied themselves, adopted our style of play and this has shown through many very good displays and results on match day.”
Kostrencic said the league has been very tight all season, and it’s a testament to that, that the title has gone down to the wire, and they face a side in good form to seal the title on Saturday. “Joondalup are in good form and they are always a tough opponent as they showed us last time, they beat us at their home ground,” he explained. “We all know the equation, but ultimately we will need to perform at our best in order to get the required result, it should be a great game."
Fremantle City missed the chance to secure their position in the top four last week, after their loss at MUMFC, but they now need a win against Rockingham City at Lark Hill Sportsplex to confirm their spot, and coach Matthew Sparrow said the loss came out of nowhere after a couple of good performances. “Very disappointing result and performance especially coming off the back of three wins and a draw, so we were full of confidence going into the match,” Sparrow explained. “But against a team like Murdoch who can cause teams problems on their home ground, we knew we had to be at 100% to get any sort of result against them, but it wasn’t to be so full credit goes to Murdoch for the win as they were the much better team on the day and obviously as a group, we were very disappointed about the performance we put in.”
Sparrow said their top four spot is in their own hands, but they need to improve on last week if they are to achieve it. “It has been a big week of preparation going into final game of the season away to Rockingham, knowing a win will cement our place in the top four, so it’s crucial we put last Saturday’s performance to bed and move on and look ahead,” the former Scunthorpe United midfielder said. “It’s in our hands now so we will go there fully focused and we all know it will take a big effort from the boys to try and secure the three points, knowing one more win will secure us a spot in the play offs and there’s no better incentive then that in my eyes.”
At the other end of the table Forrestfield United have been relegated, and their final game of the season is away at Gwelup Croatia, while the relegation play-off spot has still not been decided, with Subiaco AFC and UWA Nedlands, who are level on 19 points, fighting it out. Subiaco did themselves no harm with a great win at Dianella last week, and win against Gosnells City at Rosalie Park will see them stay up. But if they slip up, UWA can leapfrog them, if they beat Murdoch University Melville at the UWA Sports Park.
UWA coach Richard Abrams knows they have to rely on results elsewhere going their way, but he is confident his side can get a result. “After a disappointing run where things are now not in our hands and like all games when you are in the relegation zone this is a big game,” he said. “We’re hoping for a decent performance on the day from the lads which will give us some confidence if we have to go into the playoffs. We do have a few players back this week which is big boost for us and hopefully we can get something from the game.”
Subiaco defender Christian Miraudo said last week’s win has given them great confidence going into Saturday’s crucial game. “The Dianella game put us in a good position and we know three points keep us up so that’s the goal,” he said. “We still have a job to do and don’t want to be relying on other results to keep us in the division, Gosnells are a tough side and they’ve shown that all season so we’ll have to try carry our form from last week over if we want to get the result we need.”
25.8.2023
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND TWENTY TWO PREVIEW
Kingsley Westside will receive the State League Division Two title trophy when they welcome Carramar Shamrock Rovers to Chichester Park on Saturday evening. (5pm) Steven Dimitrovich’s side will be playing Division One football for the first time, and it could be a huge day for the club with the reserves and under 18’s also in line to take out their respective titles. For Rovers their season ended last week with a loss against Swan United, but I’m sure Gerry McEwen’s side will make the hosts earn their win.
The race for runners-up spot has gone down to the wire between Curtin University and Maddington-Kalamunda White City, and the pair meet in the final game at Edinburgh Oval on Saturday evening. (7pm) Maddington are in pole position, one point clear in second spot, but they missed an opportunity last week, after dropped two points in a 2-2 draw against Quinns. Curtin closed the gap to one point after a hard-fought win at Ashfield, so they need a win on Saturday to secure the runners-up spot.
Curtin midfielder Nathan Smith said it was a tough win at Ashfield last week, but the three points were vital, especially with Maddington slipping up. “We were happy with the first half, we moved the ball well and majority of the half was played in our attacking half,” he said. “But in the second half they lifted and created enough chances to get something from the game, and we dropped and lost control of the game I feel, but managed to secure the points, which was important with Maddington being held at home.”
The Uni boys have the defence in the league, conceding only 23 goals this season, and Smith that is something they have worked on this season, and he hopes it comes in handy in the playoffs and against Maddington on Saturday evening. “We know at this level being hard to break down and well organised is going to make it difficult for teams to score against you and that's something we work a lot on and we have seen the rewards this year,” Smith explained.
“Being involved in the top four playoffs was an absolute minimum this year for our first team, so we want to be involved and make an impact in these types of games. Saturday will be a tough game, as we know they're a quality side and their ladder position shows that. But we have home ground advantage and we will be doing everything we can to take that second spot off them though, and earn a second chance in the top four.”
Maddington-Kalamunda White City missed the opportunity to wrap up runners-up spot last week after a 2-2 draw at home against Quinns, and President Petar Mrdja said it was a blow, but a fair result in the end. “It was an entertaining game against Quinns, especially in the second half,” he said. “Although we had more chances to score and should have been smarter in the final minutes to hold on to our lead, but I thought the result was probably fair in the end.”
In their first season in the state league, the club have been outstanding, and have secured their playoff place, and Mrdja hopes they can seal the runners-up spot with a result at Curtin. “Our aim this season was to finish in the top four and make the play offs and we’ve managed to achieve that in our first attempt in the Saturday competition which is great. Our next goal is to take this opportunity and achieve promotion to Division one through the play offs,” he explained.
“We will play Curtin three times in a row with the first game being a bit of a feeler, so it will be interesting to see how the coaches approach it and how it influences the next two games. It would be nice to finish the round with a win but whether we finish second or third is not important, the better team this season will be the one that wins the semifinal games.”
In other games, (All kick off at 3pm) Swan United secured their top four place last week, and they end their season at the Swan Italian Club, Francis Street against Wanneroo City, while Morley Windmills will finish bottom of the table and will be relegated to Sunday football, and they are set to play their final game of the season against Joondalup City at Wotton Reserve, but this hasn’t been confirmed. The relegation playoff spot is still up for grabs, with Balga and Canning City level on points, but Balga do have a better goal difference. Canning makes the trip to Gumblossom Park to take on Quinns, while Balga travel to Ashfield Sports Park to meet Ashfield.
Balga coach Gerhard Janssen said a win will see them stay in the league, and they will be doing all they can to do this. “Of course, on Saturday, we have a very big game at Ashfield, who can play without any pressure. It is an important situation, but the good part is, that we still have it in our own hand to stay in the league by winning the game,” he explained. “Naturally, this is a very difficult situation at the end of the season with many obstacles. The week has shown that the focus of the boys is hundred percent to manage to reach our target to stay in the state league without relegation games.”
24.8.2023
TWILIGHT GAMES CONFIRMED FOR GLORY MEN AND WOMEN
Twilight football is on the menu for Perth Glory fans this summer with the vast majority of their A-League Men’s and Women’s games set for the evening. And in an added boost, Saturday night sunsets are set to become a big part of their Glory faithful’s summer routine, with a swell of home games set for prime-time.
The A-Leagues released their full slate of fixtures for the 2023/24 season this morning and it’s good news for fans used to the baking heat of a Perth summer. As part of a league-wide initiative to avoid the heat from mid-December to the end of February, the majority of fixtures to take place after 5pm.
The opening 11 home games for the Men’s team will largely kick off at 6.45pm on Saturday nights at Perth Oval, while the Women play the bulk of their home games at Macedonia Park at 7:00pm on Saturday and Sunday nights.
Just three of the men’s opening eight games are at home, but there is better news for the women’s outfit, with four of their opening five games in Perth. An early season highlight will be the October 22 double-header at Perth Oval where both teams face Newcastle Jets.
24.8.2023
BURGESS AIMING TO IMPRESS SOCCEROOS BOSS
When Socceroos coach Graham Arnold touched down in London last week, he wasted no time in heading to Queens Park Rangers’ Loftus Road. The reason was to check on Massimo Luongo and Cameron Burgess as they vie to force their way into national team calculations.
Luongo, a one-time Socceroos regular, hasn’t featured for four years whilst Burgess, his Ipswich Town teammate, is hunting a maiden cap at the age of 27. Both are in serious contention for next month’s friendly with Mexico and the October duels with England and New Zealand.
Arnold was doubtless an appreciative onlooker in Shepherd’s Bush as the Australian pair impressed for the Tractor Boys in a 1-0 win over QPR which cemented their spot at the top of the Championship table. Burgess was thrilled to have the Socceroos boss watching on from the stands.
“We caught up with Graham Arnold before the game - he was in the area and just said to keep our heads down, work hard and how that might in turn lead to a call up,” Burgess said. “It’s nice that he came to watch and it means we must be doing something right.”
“It’s always about playing good minutes for your club and we’re both doing that. Hopefully a call up will come. It’s not something I can control but it would be pretty special to be part of what’s a great group of players who are on the up. If I can get myself involved I feel I can add something to the squad.”
Burgess knows it won’t be easy to unseat the likes of Kye Rowles, Harry Souttar, Milos Degenek and Alessandro Circati in the Socceroos back line, but welcomes the battle. “Any time you get selected it’s a huge honour and Australia has some qualify centre backs - competition is great for the team and for the country to progress," he said.
Since joining Fulham in 2014, Perth-raised Burgess has bounced around England’s lower leagues but appears to be coming to his peak under the tutorship of progressive Irish coach Kieran McKenna at Ipswich. “I think I’m at high point in my career right now and have that experience under my belt,” he added.
“I’m playing in a team and playing in a style that gets the best out of me and I’m in a good place right now. Actually the way Ipswich play isn’t that dissimilar to the Socceroos in terms of passing out from the back, and that’s the way I grew up playing and is a good part of my game.”
Ipswich were promoted in second place behind Plymouth Argyle, scoring a league high 101 goals in the process and whilst they’re flying right now, Burgess sounded a note of caution. “We’re feeling confident but we’re not under any illusions over how difficult a division this is,” Burgess commented.
“It’s always a massive fight for the points and we’ve seen that in our opening games (a 2-1 win at Sunderland, 2-0 victory over Stoke and the 1-0 win against QPR). We need to be humble enough to acknowledge the challenge we face. It’s a big step up for us but at the same time I think we’re also capable of hitting new heights.”
23.8.2023
KERR LAUNCHES FOOTBALL SCHOOL FOLLOWING WOMEN’S WORLD CUP SUCCESS
Matildas captain Samantha Kerr is looking to help the next generation of footballers succeed and “build a legacy” of her own. The 29-year old today announced the launch of her own football schools within Australia, appropriately named Sam Kerr Football.
Kerr hopes to build on her legacy as a national sporting icon and give back to the game she loves, which has been thrust into the spotlight with the success of the Matildas in the recent tournament. “I’m thrilled to announce the launch of Sam Kerr Football,” she said.
“Growing up, there weren’t opportunities for me to develop my game in a way that allowed me to perform at my best or how to manage my mental well-being. My hope is that delivery of a comprehensive program that is more than just skill development will give young players the best chance to live out their potential as a player.”
The Matildas have been universally celebrated for their inspirational Women’s World Cup campaign in which women’s sport was embraced and celebrated on an unprecedented scale. Kerr delivered one of the most incredible moments of the tournament, scoring a long-range strike that was widely-recognised as an all-time Matildas highlight.
“Being in the position I’m in today, I want to give back to the sport I love and to my young fans,” she said. “It’s an incredible privilege to be able to share what I have learned to better the sport, to build a legacy and to inspire and connect with the next generation of Australian footballers.”
“The program will be developed under my guidance with support from the best in the game both in Australia and around the world.” While possible locations are yet to be unveiled, Sam Kerr Football will launch in late 2023 with an aim to grow locally, nationally and then globally.
23.8.2023
FOOTBALL AUSTRALIA OPEN TO MOVING MATILDAS PERTH GAMES
Football bosses are open to moving Matildas’ three Olympic qualifiers in Perth to Optus Stadium, amid a surge of interest which has exhausted tickets at Perth Oval. The women’s national team are due in town in late October and early November for outings against Iran, the Philippines and Chinese Taipei.
The trio of games take place during a FIFA international window, meaning stars like Samantha Kerr, Caitlin Foord, Ellie Carpenter, Steph Catley and Mackenzie Arnold will likely form part of the squad. Ticket allocations are currently exhausted for all three matchdays, although more tickets will be released in the lead-up to the matches.
It comes as Football Australia chief executive James Johnson said while his preference was for the games to remain at Perth Oval, he was not opposed to moving them to Optus Stadium if Football Australia was confident they could sell out the 60,000-seater oval.
“We’d need to talk to Tourism WA, the Department of the Premier and also the Asian Football Confederation as well,” Johnson said. “But if there is a demand and if we feel that we’re going to be able to sell-out Optus Stadium, of course we’d be open to exploring that.”
“You’re weighing up a smaller audience potentially that are going to have an amazing experience because we’re in the right type of stadium (Perth Oval) for a football match, against potentially access and the ability of the community to come and watch the team live.”
22.8.2023
EPAKIS SIGNS TWO-YEAR EXTENSION WITH GLORY
Alex Epakis has inked a new two-year deal with Perth Glory ahead of the 2023/23 A-League Women’s season. The 32-year old linked up with Glory for the 2021/21 season and by the end of his tenure will join Bobby Despotovski as the club’s longest-tenured women’s coach.
Epakis led Glory to fifth and sixth-placed finishes over the past two seasons, with the team narrowly missing out on finals on both occasions. He returns to Perth after temporarily serving as a scout and analysist for the Philippines at the recent Women’s World cup under new Glory men’s coach Alen Stajcic.
“During my time at Glory to date, I have really enjoyed and valued the opportunity to be the head coach of a proud team and a great group of people,” Epakis said. “My focus continues to be set on achieving a level of success that the club, team, staff and supporters can be really proud of.”
“I am really looking forward to the responsibility of leading and working with the group now and into the future. The playing group continues to evolve and I am excited by the great hunger they have to improve and push the boundaries to build a distinct identity that competes to win football matches.”
“Finally, I am very fortunate to be well supported by (CEO) Anthony Radich, along with a strong group of staff and together we are working very hard towards building the best high-performance environment for the squad. The club is putting the right pieces in place to support our team goals.”
Chief executive Anthony Radich said he had full confidence Epakis was the right man to steer Glory back into finals football, which they last experienced in 2019. “Alex has done a fantastic job since he joined the club in 2019, often under trying circumstances and we are extremely pleased to have retained his services,” he said.
“He is one of the brightest young coaches in Australian football and the progress our women’s squad has made under him is clear to see. Since first taking up the role, he has been very clear on his vision to develop young players and provide them with a clear pathway and opportunity to play senior football with Perth Glory.”
21.8.2023
RECORD-BREAKER WILLIAMS’ EMOTIONAL WORLD CUP FAREWELL
Matildas goalkeeper Lydia Williams has bid an emotional farewell to the Women’s World Cup with a quiet moment to herself after the team’s journey came to an end in Brisbane. The 35-year old entered the tournament creating history alongside teammate Clare Polkinghorne as the first Australians to gain five World Cup selection.
And though Williams did not see a minute of action after her protege Mackenzie Arnold became a sensation, the veteran remained a crucial member of the squad. But any memories created during the World Cup itself might just pale in comparison to a goodbye that took place away from the bright lights of the television cameras.
Katanning-born Williams sat alone in the six-yard box, back leaning on the goal post and eyes trained down a World Cup pitch for the last time. The image emerged from fans who stayed back to celebrate the Matildas after the 2-0 defeat to Sweden in Saturday night’s third-place play-off.
It was none other than Arnold herself who ran over to console Williams, something that played out in pitch side photos of the goalkeepers embracing while tears streamed down their faces. But it was the sight of Williams’ solo reflection, though, that tipped Matildas supporters over the edge.
Williams debuted for the Matildas nearly 20 years ago and was part of 2007, 2011, 2015, 2019 and 2023 World Cup squads. She is expected to now bow out from international football on the back of a month that meant more than any other - even if that last game was painful to endure.
21.8.2023
AUSTRALIA LOOKING AT BOLTON DEFENDER IREDALE
Australia are reportedly keeping tabs on Bolton Wanderers’ Jack Iredale. The versatile defender who has featured in all five of his team’s games so far this season in a clear sign he has fully recovered from the knee injury which kept him sidelined for the closing stages of the 2022/23 campaign.
Socceroos assistant coach Rene Meulensteen has watched Iredale in action and head coach Graham Arnold is due to be in attendance for the Derby County fixture next month. The 27-year old also qualifies to play for New Zealand, who have apparently also taken an interest in him.
Iredale has already spoken about his ambition to one day play for the Australian national team, having previously featured at youth levels. “I would love to play for Australia.” He told the Bolton News soon after joining Bolton from Cambridge United last summer.
“I played for Australia at youth team levels but I haven’t been involved in any camps or anything like that at senior level. Playing for Australia is definitely right up there at the top of the personal goals that I’ve set myself. I think that a move to Bolton is only going to be able to help me do that and playing as well.”
Australia have several fixtures coming up over the next few months, including a friendly against England on October 13 and a clash with New Zealand four days later. Arnold is aiming to lead the Socceroos to the 2026 World Cup finals after agreeing a new three-year deal earlier this year.
20.8.2023
OXTOBY TO COACH NORTHERN IRELAND WOMEN
West Australian Tanya Oxtoby has been appointed manager of Northern Ireland women’s team. 41-year old Oxtoby, who captained Perth Glory in the Liberty A-League before also working as an assistant with the team, has signed a four-year deal to lead the European nation who’ve made qualification for their first Women’s World Cup their goal.
Born and bred in West Wickham, 200 km west of Port Hedland, Oxtoby joins Northern Ireland after enjoying success as an assistant to Emma Hayes at Women’s Super League champions Chelsea, where she has worked with Matildas superstar Sam Kerr. “I am delighted and honoured to join the Northern Ireland senior women’s team,” Oxtoby said of her latest appointment.
“I’m really excited to be part of the next stage of international women’s football in this football-loving country. I will be giving everything to help develop the Northern Ireland team and ensure women’s and girls’ football continues to grow and succeed on an international stage. I can’t wait to get started.”
Oxtoby played locally for Northern Redbacks before stepping onto the national league stage with New South Wales Pride and Western Waves. She became the first player of Indigenous descent to captain a W-League side when she led Perth Glory in 2008. Spells with English clubs Doncaster Rovers Belles and Everton followed.
It was with Nottingham Forest in 2012 that Oxtoby made the move into managerialship. She was an assistant with Glory, the Australian Under-20 team and Birmingham City before having the reigns of Bristol City between 2018 and 2021. A short stint with the Scottish national team preceded her arrival at Chelsea two years ago.
The Irish FA’s Director of Women’s Football, Angela Platt, said Oxtoby will bring “knowledge, experience and pedigree” to the role. “Tanya was the outstanding candidate from a very strong field,” commented Platt. “We are confident she can take our international programme to the next level, giving us the best possible opportunity of achieving our ambition to regularly qualify for major tournaments.”
Northern Ireland reached a major tournament for the first time when they turned out at the UEFA European Women's Championship 2022. Oxtoby’s first game in charge of Northern Ireland, currently ranked 45th in the world, will be away to the Republic of Ireland in the inaugural UEFA Nations League next month.
20.8.2023
BELT-UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION – ROUND SEVENTEEN REVIEW
The top of the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division table is getting tighter, with the top eight separated by only eight points, this after another exciting week of fixtures, and in our ‘Match of the Round’ local rivals Emerald and East Perth have fought out and entertaining 1-1 draw at Fraser Park on Sunday afternoon. “A great point against a very tough physical team in East Perth,” Emerald coach Shane O’Donovan said. “I thought we started brilliantly and could have been more than just the one goal up if we had taken our chances. Then East Perth were having a lot of the ball but we were defensively very solid. Second half it was even enough both teams had their chances, unfortunately they took one of theirs. Overall, a draw was probably the right result, so we move on to the next big game and just keep picking up the points, to keep us in the running.”
The hosts lead the table on goal difference going into the game, and Ronan O’Flaherty volley crashed off the post early, and they were ahead after only six minutes, a corner was cleared to Shane Young who crossed it to the back post for Conor Hogan to header back across the goal into the top corner. The visitors lifted after the break and levelled just after the hour, great play from Jamie’ O’Connor found Lee Kenny who turned inside and cooly slotted home the equaliser. The visitors went close to a second, but Kenny’s long-range lob hit the bar, and Nathan Harkin couldn’t score from the rebound. Both sides had spells in the last 20 minutes, with waves of corners and counter attacks, but the game ended a draw.
“The game was a very exciting encounter and a proper derby atmosphere, but it was Emerald who started the game the better and completely pinned us back and their press was frantic and we just never started at all,” East Perth coach Colm Costello said. “We took way too long to get going and took to go a goal down to wake up, and we grew into the game and stated to play nice football and created a few good chances but couldn’t score, but after the break we found the equaliser.
“Bar the first 15 minutes, Jason (Winter) and I were happy with our performance, the lads worked very hard and never stopped for the whole game. We have great depth in squad and it showed today especially in second half. There is a reason why Emerald is top of the division, and there are a class side and very fit to add, so very proud of the lads today and we need to keep on going. The title is in Emerald’s hands now, but as results show every week nothing is guaranteed in this league unless you show up every week. I’m looking forward to the run in now and hopefully we can keep producing good performances and good levels each week.”
North Perth United missed the opportunity to go back to the top of the table after they were beaten 2-1 by Peel United at Woodville Reserve. “I'm very proud of our lads in the last two games, even with the occasional injury looking about the pitch we were able to really show our ability and capacity for the football we want to play,” Peel player coach Daryl Willmott explained. “We are looking forward for the entirety of the season now with the goal to take a lot more wins, and establish ourselves as a side that's not to be stepped on. Joondalup with a fresh mindset from the beginning of the season is no easy task this week, so we look forward to the challenge they'll bring when we take the long drive up there.”
Peel started the game with ten men, with a number of players still in transit to the game, with the early kick off time missed by a few players, but the visitors defended stoutly to keep the host at bay, with the back four and keeper Jake Stewart outstanding. But with a full complement of players Peel steadied, and hit the front eight minutes from half time. Alec Smith made space down the left, and delivered a brilliant ball into the box and Scott Field’s finished clinically. North Perth looked for an early goal after the break but Peel stood firm, and on the hour, they doubled their lead. Mitch Kelman, who had been a handful all afternoon, was brought down in the box by Brett Cutting, and the referee pointed to the spot and sent the defender off. Scott Martin stepped up to take the resulting penalty, and he made no mistake past Jamie Serra. Credit to North Perth, they threw the kitchen sink at Peel late, and they found a lifeline in the final minutes, with substitute Mark Ruddy scoring, but it was too little too, Peel heading back down the freeway with a valuable three points.
In other games Kelmscott Roos are back up to fourth after a 2-0 win against Joondalup United at Frye Park, with goals either side of the break from Isaac Koomson and Ralph Mawire securing the three points. “I thought the game was controlled by us throughout the 90 minutes and I’m so happy about that,” Kelmscott keeper Taylor Warwick said. “We have had a though last few weeks and the boys really rallied together and got a result that will hopefully put us in a good position come the end of the season. Other teams above us dropped points and we have finally capitalized on that.” The hosts found the opening goal eight minutes before the break, good work in the middle of the park by Ishmael Greywood, before finding Koomson who chipped the keeper smartly. They wrapped up the points on the hour, Greywood’s cross found Amos Doegolia who smartly played the ball to the edge of the box to Ralph Mawire, who smashed a thunder bolt into the bottom corner.
They leapfrogged Jaguar, who were beaten 3-0 by North Beach at Charles Riley Memorial Reserve. “It was a massive result for us against Jags, given how tight the table has become at both ends in the league. Training during the week was the best it's looked in a while and the outcome spoke for itself with our performance,” North Beach coach Nick Di Carlo said. “It was a very satisfying result given our recent form and we hope to continue this into our cup fixture mid-week and into the rest of the season.” The host opened the scoring on 27 minutes, a low cross was turned home by Ben Reynolds. It was 2-0 moments later, good work by James Ashford out wide, his ball into the box picked out Reynolds, who headed home his second. Jags pressed after the break, but the hosts defended stoutly, and sealed the points in the final minute, Keiran Moores won possession in midfield and played a quick through ball to Kane Graves who rounded the keeper and finished calmly, moments after coming on as an attacking substitute.
The round started on Saturday evening with Wembley Downs making the long trip to Bunbury to take on South West Phoenix, and came home from the Onside Sports Stadium with a 2-1 win. “A big three points for us at this point in the season,” Wembley player/coach Jeff Cornez said. “I thought we played a great first half but only had the one goal to show for it, and Phoenix didn’t make it easy even after we went 2-0 up. Hopefully this gives us some breathing room from the bottom of the table but we still need a few more points to be safe so we can focus on the cup.” The visitors hit the front on 35 minutes, Tom Bish found Josh Chalmers in the box and he finished clinically. They added a second early in the second half, Omar Shatlia beat three defenders down the right and got into the box and found Bish at the back post to finish. The hosts pulled one back 17 minutes from time with Jeremy Stevens scoring, but they couldn’t find the equaliser.
In the final game Kwinana United and South Perth United have played out a 1-1 draw at Kelly Park. “We played pretty well I thought and being 1-0 up with less than ten minutes to go I was hoping we could have held on,” Kwinana coach Mark Purvis said. “We created some good moments to score late on and even hit the bar but overall, probably a draw was a fair result.” The hosts were ahead on the hour, a corner wasn’t dealt with, and Dean Couling scored from the resulting goalmouth scramble. But six minutes from time the visitors levelled, Andy Henson’s cross was scored by George Stephens. South Perth thought they had won it late, Gavin Walker’s shot was saved and Ben Godfrey fired home the rebound, but it was called offside. “Kwinana are on a good run at the moment but it looked like the lads underestimated them after the 5-0 home result, and we never really showed up and struggled to play our game,” South Perth coach Lee Hayward said. “Sloppy defending saw us go one nil down, and that’s been our problem all year, errors and a lack of consistency, but at the end of the day a draw was probably a fair result.”
20.8.2023
NPLWA WOMEN’S – ROUND TWENTY REVIEW
Perth SC have all but secured a two finish in the NPLWA – Women’s competition after a big 7-0 win against bottom of the table Curtin University at Edinburgh Oval on Friday evening. Peter Rakic’s team remain second and two points clear of Fremantle City after Friday’s win, and know they will sew up a top-two finish if they at least match Fremantle’s result on the final day. “Yes, it was a good game I’m glad I was able to put a few in the net and help get the result,” Azzurri striker Jess Flannery said. “It’s good we were able to get the points to help towards taking out runners up, but I think we are all still focused on hopefully finalizing that this weekend with a win.”
Flannery was the star on the night, and she opened the scoring on nine minutes, heading home Jaime Duncanson’s cross. They added a second moments later, Judy Connolly’s cross was turned home by Duncanson. The visitors added two more before the break, first Poppie Hooks burst clear and found Monique Godding who made no mistake, before Godding added the fourth in first stoppage time, finishing Gemma Craine’s ball. After half time the Azzurri continued to threaten and Flannery made it 5-0 just after the break, before Matilda Bohm headed home the six. But in the final minute the icing was put on the cake, with Flannery adding her tenth of the season, to complete her hat-trick.
Fremantle City can still make the top two, after a beating the Hyundai NTC 4-3 win a thriller at E&D Litis Stadium on Friday evening. The hosts opened the scoring after only 38 seconds, Ischia Brooking intercepted a pass across goal before finishing clinically past Fremantle keeper Indiana Antunes. The visitors levelled two minutes later, Olivia Trueman collected a stray back-pass and fired home, and amazingly they were ahead minutes later, Jamie-Lee Gale beat NTC keeper Lilly Bailey to a through ball and rolled the ball into an empty net. The game looked over on 11 minutes when Fremantle added a third, Annabelle Leek’s free-kick was turned into her own net by the unfortunate Violet Longmore. But Ben Anderton’s side weren’t going down without a fight and they reduced the margin seven minutes later, with Grace Johnstone’s long-range flying into the net, and that was five goals in the opening 18 minutes. The NTC pressed to get back in the game, but it was Fremantle who increased their lead before half time, Laura Waltman curling home from 20 yards, to end a great first half of attacking football. The NTC pushed forward looking to get back into the game, with the lively Tanika Lala a constant threat, and the new Perth Glory striker did pull one back in the last minute, but the visitors held firm to take the points.
Balcatta Etna are still in the top four mix, this after a 2-0 win against Murdoch University Melville at Grindleford Reserve. Two first half goals from the Tia Stonehill, was the difference between the two sides. Her first was a volley from Kim McCartney’s corner, before she added a second after racing through a number of MUMFC players, and finding the bottom corner for her 23rd goal of the season. Balcatta are now unbeaten in three, and coach Yash Pratap said he was proud of his young side. “The world cup caused a lot of disruption to our squad as player had to fly away to attend a few games they had planned to at the start of the season,” he explained. “That left us with 21s player to step up in the big games, but having them back now and adjusting to the style of play is a great step in our growth for the coming weeks.”
In Sunday’s final game champions Perth RedStar beat Subiaco AFC 4-0 at Rosalie Park. It took half an hour for Carlos Vega Mena’s side to open the scoring, Jayna Ridley’s finish with aplomb. Ridley added a second just before half time, pouncing on a loose ball after Subiaco failed to clear Reina Kagami’s corner. It was 3-0 early in the second half, Alkira Mogridge’s through ball sent Sarah Carroll clear, and finished well. Sophia Neal then made it four as she headed home Kagami’s corner to seal a comfortable win.
20.8.2023
HYUNDAI WOMEN’S LEAGUE DIVISION ONE - ROUND EIGHTEEN REVIEW
Hamersley Rovers are the 2023 Hyundai Women’s League Division One Champions, with two games remaining, after a 2-0 win against Sorrento at Percy Doyle Reserve. Rovers’ Head Coach Betim Ziba said they are thrilled to win the league, but Sorrento really too it to them on Sunday. “It’s a great feeling to know that our hard work has paid off. At the start of the season, I had players rejected our team as they didn’t want to play for a team that “wouldn’t win” and winning the league and not having lost a game yet has been a great feeling to add to that and prove people wrong,” he explained. “Sunday was a good win as we knew Sorrento would come out and play well which they did. It was a physical game but a very enjoyable one. We dealt with the pressure and created opportunities which we took and defended well. Winning the title has been a great feeling.
“We only got promoted to this league this year and we have made a statement. Half my team I’ve developed from metros from when I first started coaching with Hamersley. Adding in new players that would help us become better with developing my existing players has been a great experience. So overall we are all very happy with what we have achieved together. We will be celebrating our win official at home next Sunday.” It was Rovers’ top goalscorer who was the difference on the day, Christiane Astorp got on the end of a free kick to open the scoring, and the league top goalscorer added her 28th goal of a superb season, and one of her best, getting on the end of Jordy Henderson cross, and scoring with a bicycle kick.
They were confirmed as Champions after their nearest rivals UWA Nedlands were beaten 1-0 by Mandurah City at Genesiscare Stadium. “I thought the girls battled hard and really showed how far they have come this season,” Mandurah defender Melanie Loreto said. “We have excellent team spirit, great coaching staff and a club who has continuously supported us, we now look forward to finishing off our season strong.” Both sides had chances in the first half, but couldn’t convert, but five minutes into the second half the hosts found the winner. Katrina Breen back heel found Suria Priya Varatharaja, and she made no mistake to consolidate fourth place on the table.
Perth AFC remain third, but moved level with UWA after a 3-0 win against Port Kennedy at Len Packham Park. “It was a very messy first half, it was not our usual form from the last few weeks as we struggled to do the simple things right. Saying that, both teams at a few chances with either team having an opportunity to go into half time with a lead,” AFC coach Rob Caruso said. “But our second half was better, and we showed composer the ball and a higher rate of completed passes. “Port Kennedy really troubled us in the first half but once we settled into some good form in the second half it felt a bit more comfortable. Our focus now is on the clash with UWA this week as we now look to battle it out with them for second spot.”
The hosts found the opener early in the second half, Caitlyn Lewis intercepting a failed clearance to go one on one with the goalkeeper to score. It was 2-0 just after the hour, substitute Amy Ashton received a cut back from Jess Moreschini, before taking a touch and finding the bottom corner. They sealed the points late, Moreschini’s perfectly timed half volley from outside the box flew into the net. In the final game goals from Jessica Mitchell and Lauren Giovannangelo secured a 2-0 win against Subiaco AFC, their third win of the season.
19.8.2023
NPL-WA ROUND TWENTY ONE - REVIEW
Perth RedStar have all but wrapped up the NPLWA – Men’s title after a 0-0 draw against Perth Glory in our ‘Match of the Round’ at Lark Hill Sportsplex on Saturday afternoon. They sit three points clear of their nearest challenger Stirling Macedonia, who suffered a shock loss at home to Perth SC, and with a 20-goal difference advantage, only a huge turnaround on the final day can halt the charge of Callum Salmon’s side, while Glory is still looking over their shoulder in the relegation fight.
“Very difficult game against the Glory. They have some excellent players and it is a team who are very hard to play against, very organised and players like Ostler, Forde, Gorman, Bennie etc, can cause huge problems,” Salmon explained. “We weren’t at our best, and were feeling the pressure but all credit to the players they stood up, never stopped running and got our rewards. Very proud of the group, the club and everyone who worked hard towards our goal of topping the ladder. Not over yet, one more game to go and we will work hard to finish on a high before shifting focus to the top four.”
John Warmsley’s side opened brightly, and former Glory custodian Liam Reddy saved low to deny Jayden Gorman’s goalbound effort, before Laat Mathiang and the lively Daniel Bennie hit the frame of the goal, as the hosts pressed for the opener. RedStar had a great chance themselves before the break, the league’s leading scorer Daryl Nicol ghosted in behind the home sides’ defence, but the striker lifted his shot over the top. It was more open game after the break with chances at both ends, first Reddy saved from Khoa Ngo, while RedStar's Chok Dau curled wide of the post.
But both sets of defenders were solid, and at the final whistle they shared the spoils, but Glory faces a nervous game next week when they travel to Floreat Athena, who are also in the mix for relegation, or a spot in the relegation play-off spot. Glory coach Walmsley thought they deserved more from the game. “A strong, disciplined performance from us against a good RedStar side, and it was important for us to keep a clean sheet against a team with a lot of attacking talent,” he explained. “We were unlucky not to take more from the match hitting the woodwork twice and having the better of the chances on the day.”
Stirling Macedonia missed the opportunity to keep the pressure on the leaders, going down 3-0 to Perth SC at Macedonia Park, the win putting Danny Hay’s side in pole position for a top four spot. The visitors found the opener nine minutes before the break, Julain Teles’ slide rule pass sending Hasani Sinclar in goal, and he finished clinically past Liam Price. They doubled their advantage six minutes into the second half, Sinclair was brought down on the edge of the box, and David Ninkovich curled the resulting free kick over the wall and into the net. They sealed the points on 74 minutes, Archie Whitford won possession on the half way line and he found Sinclair, who played in substitute Jeremie Mba, who finished clinically from the edge of the box.
“It was definitely an excellent performance from the boys and it was not something a lot of people were expecting. We went out wanting to surprise Stirling and in the first half they struggled with our high press. The second half worked even better for us as Stirling seemed more confused with how to break down our block,” Azzurri defender Federico Achilli explained. “The best thing on the day was even seeing some of our youngsters such as Josh Cala and John Lardis get back on the field and get an opportunity. It was even great seeing Hasani Sinclair finally getting his opportunity to start and even more getting back on the scoresheet. The result has given us a big advantage going into the final game by firstly giving us a gap between Armadale and Bayswater but also bringing us to only one point behind Kingsway and the potential to finish third, further securing finals football.”
Sorrento have all but secured their NPL survival, and spoilt the birthday of Olympic Kingsway coach David Tough, after a 1-0 win at Kingsway Reserve. The only goal of the game came just before the half hour, Tim Hill’s long ball wasn’t dealt with by John Chalmers, Sorrento striker Gustavo Giron-Marulanda nipped in and finished low past David Keenan. “It was a great win, especially with a little bit of pressure on us from teams around us we knew we had to win,” Gulls midfielder Hill said. “We go into every game believing we can win, it just hasn't quite been for us at times this year, but it was well deserved on Saturday and it really should have been dead and buried by half time. Both teams battled hard and we had enough to get over the line in the end, we’re now looking forward to next weekend and hopefully finishing on a high.”
Armadale are still in the mix for a top four finish after a 1-0 win against Balcatta Etna at Grindleford Reserve, while the loss leaves the hosts still fighting to survive the drop. Armadale Head Coach Aun Vernals, who made it back-to-back wins in his tenure at the club, said it was a professional performance from his team. “Delighted to get the three points, and the resolve of the playing group,” he said post-match. “It was a real game of two halves, I thought we created plenty and should have scored more in the first, and in second we were hanging on at times under some real pressure, but to a man the players defended well, so a clean sheet is a real reward for a top effort from everyone.”
The only goal of the game came on 68 minutes, skipper Nathan Costello’s ball found George Ballah in the middle of the park, and his long-range shot bounced in front of keeper Connor Campbell and into the net, the defender racing off to celebrate his second goal of the season. “Before kickoff, we knew it’s was going to be a tough game, but most importantly we played well as a team and got the result that we wanted,” Ballah said. “Of course, I’m happy to be on the score sheet, but even happier to get the three points, and now we look forward to the last game at Sorrento.”
Floreat Athena has given their hopes of survival a huge boost, after all but ending Bayswater City’s top four hopes after a 3-0 win at E&D Litis Stadium. “It was a must win for us and we knew that they were pushing for top four too, our training this week was all about intensity and making us hard to beat which unfortunately we’ve been lacking as of this season, but I feel our performance Saturday was a taste of how Floreat used to play and how we should be playing each week,” Floreat’s Sean McManus explained. “We need to take the same mindset into next week to secure our spot in the league, we are up for it. The boys, the coaches, the staff, the fans and the club are firing for next Saturday now.”
The hosts made the early breakthrough on 11 minutes, a header back to the keeper from Declan Hargreaves was short, and Bayley Brown-Montgomery nipped in, his shot was saved by Lewis Italiano, but Nick Ambrogio pounced on the rebound to score from close-range. They added a second just after the hour mark, Sean McManus started the move racing forward and sending Robert Petkov down the right, McManus continued his run, and when Petkov pulled the ball back across the box, the midfielder finished past Italiano, and celebrated with the home faithful. They sealed the three points six minutes from time, Kyle Murray’s diagonal ball sent substitute Ethan Mom down the left, he crossed the Andrew Palmer just inside the penalty area, and his shot on the turn found the top corner.
Inglewood United have moved clear of the drop zone after a narrow 1-0 win against Cockburn City at Inglewood Stadium, the loss leaving the Cockerels at the foot of the table. The only goal of the game came on eight minutes, Anthony Bafobusha won a challenge in the middle of the park and sent Michael Domfeh racing clear, the striker unselfishly squaring the ball to Shubham Mokala, who fired low past Michael Craggs. “We knew what was at stake today, and it was a tough fought win against a very revved up Cockburn side,” Inglewood defender Ciaran Salinger said. “I thought we controlled the first half, and the second half saw some direct football from both sides, but we did enough to seal the win. The boys defended well and reduced Cockburn to minimal chances, so delighted to get the three points, and we now look forward to another big game against Stirling next week.”
19.8.2023
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND TWENTY ONE REVIEW
In the State League Division One, Western Knights had one foot in the NPL, after Alex Kretowicz gave them the lead against Mandurah City, but a late goal from City’s Joe O’Brien earned them a 1-1 draw at Nash Field. So, the title will go down to the final game of the season, the Knights hosting Joondalup United needing a win to secure their spot, while Mandurah host Dianella White Eagles, looking for a win and a slip up from the Knights.
“I thought we showed why there is so little between both of us at the top of the table this season. They started strong and didn’t allow us to really find our groove, but testament to the players for sticking with it and working our way back into the game,” Knights’ defender Callum Mellowship said. “They have some dangerous players who you have too always be aware of. But likewise - we showed in moments why we are still top of the division. The boys up front worked really well defensively and waited for their opportunities to come. The intensity always lifts in games like this, and I think it shows that both teams would comfortably compete in the NPL next year.
“As a team we’re disappointed to have not held on for the final few minutes, and the lapse in concentration hurt us, but defensively I felt that we handled the pressure for majority of the game. Mandurah pressed well but their main opportunities only really came in the last few minutes of the game. We understand that the opportunity is still in our hands to win the league this weekend, and we will put in everything to make sure that we come away with the final three points of the season. The turn out from the crowd was unreal, it’s always good to see the fans turn up at Nash Field and we hope for the same atmosphere next week.”
Mandurah player/coach John Baird flashed one wide early, before Robbie Galvin curled a free kick flew wide, as the visitors made a bright start. Knights’ keeper Devon Lindemann then had to be alert to push Gavin’s long-range shot around the post. The hosts hit back and Knights’ midfielder Jack Bardsley saw his first time shot from the edge of the box on the half hour drift just wide of the target.
The Knights thought they had the lead on 38 minutes, Alex Kretowicz was brought down in the middle of the park but he poked the ball forward for Shay Donovan who rolled the ball home, but the referee didn’t pay advantage and the goal was not allowed. But in the shadows of half time, it was the Knights who found the opener. Kretowicz sent Jay Sheridan down the left, his cross made its way to the back post, Albert Luwi’s shot was saved low by Alfie Brincat, but Kretowicz pounced on the rebound to scorer his 12th goal of the season from close-range, and they lead by that goal at the break.
The Dolphins looked for a quick response after the break, and half-time substitute Leigh Griffiths’ free kick was well saved by Lindemann down to his right early, before the Knights’ custodian got down well to deny Hamish van Dieken’s shot on the run. The Knights faithful were on their feet on 73 minutes, when Sheridan’s corner was headed inches wide by Luwi. The visitors were pressing late, and Lindemann saved low to deny O’Brien in the final minute, and the home supporters were minutes away from a return to the NPL for the first time since 2012, but there was a sting in the tail in stoppage time.
First, Mandurah’s Lydon Hodgkiss’ volley was superbly tipped around the post by Lindermann at full stretch, but from the resulting Griffiths corner the ball fell to van Dieken on the edge of the box, his volley was turned home by O’Brien much to the delight of the visiting supporters, with the home side looking for an offside flag that never came. Both sides had chances to win it, first Owen Goodliffe shot from range crashed off the foot of the post and rolled across the line to safety.
While at the other end, Griffiths’ free kick picked out Graham Tough at the back post, his header was well saved by Lindermann, and O’Brien’s header from the rebound went over the top. Then in ninth minute of stoppage time, Griffiths’ low cross was inches away from substitute Shaun Mukwevho in the penalty area, but at the final whistle the big crowd applauded a great game of State League football and both teams shared the spoils. “With all the build-up towards the potential title winning game, it was great to see so many fans in attendance and especially our away supporters which was great for the atmosphere,” Mandurah’s Murray Mackintosh said.
“The game was intense as expected and I thought we had the better of play for about 60 minutes of the game but unfortunately couldn’t bury some chances, including almost scoring a winner in the last minute. But they had good chances too and Alfie made some good saves. I feel like after they scored right on half time it would’ve been easy to let our heads go down but our fight to score right at the end from joe shows our character and takes it to an exciting last game of the season. Although it’s out of our hands, anything could happen with two tricky final games for both teams next week.”
Joondalup United all but secured their top four spot after a 2-1 win against relegated Forrestfield United at Crazy Domain Stadium, Hartfield Park. “We knew going into the game that we needed three points to extend our season, and it was a tough game,” he said. “Forrestfield’s results and position on the table probably don’t reflect how competitive they are and we needed to be at our best. On another day we probably score a few more, but we will take the three points and look to build on this momentum.” James Oldroyd gave Nick Jennings’ side the lead early, and Elliot Tattersall doubled their lead 15 minutes from time. The hosts found a lifeline late, after Jason Pottier converted from the spot three minutes later, but Joondalup held firm to seal the victory.
The other top four spot is still up for grabs, after Fremantle City and Dianella White Eagles were beaten. First in the early game at Besteam Stadium, MUMFC stunned City, with two goals in the opening four minutes. First on four minutes Seb Hooshangian’s long-range shot flew into the top corner of the net, and two minutes later they added a second. Pat Sara sent William Formston down the left, he crossed to Feisal Zaw whose first touch took him clear of his marker, and his second was low shot past Jordan Barbas. But the hosts then lost keeper Tom Allan with a nasty leg injury, he was replaced by Preston Gilling, and City reduced the margin in the shadows of half time, Ryan Hogan heading home at the back post. But the hosts weren’t to be denied, and sealed the points on 65 minutes, Zaw picking out Declan Tanna, who made no mistake. “It was our best 90-minute performance all season. Every player put in a good shift with the tone being set early by being 2-0 inside the first 4 minutes,” MUMFC coach Taki Nicolaidis said. “The only disappointment from the game was with our keeper Tom Allan breaking his leg in a challenge, we wish him the speediest recovery.”
Meanwhile Dianella, who were without defender French defender Kevin Gallo, who damaged his knee last week at UWA, and we wish him a speedy recovery, were behind early against Subiaco at Dianella Reserve. Some slack defending gave Kaleb Morrison plenty of space in the box, and he finished well. But they levelled on 24 minutes, Angel Andres found Shane Barnes how fired home through a crowded penalty area. But that was as good as it got for the Eagles, Subiaco regaining the lead early in the second half, Aaron McGuirk unselfishly squaring the ball to Gavin Knight, who found the bottom corner. Knights added a third a third on 72 minutes, finishing clinically from the edge of the box, and two minutes later Morrison fired home his second, to seal a comprehensive win for Marc Wingell’s side, and keep their survival hopes alive. “I thought the result was fully deserved, we had a game plan and stuck to it,” Subiaco striker Knight said. “Even though we conceded straight after our first goal, we carried on and played well and won our individual battles, but next week is the big one.”
Gosnells City secured their place in the league next season, after a 3-0 win against UWA Nedlands at Walter Padbury Reserve. “I thought we played a great game and we deserved the win, and we were professional in how we went about our business,” Gosnells assistant coach Alan Dunlop said. “The first 15 minutes we had to defend well as UWA were pushing hard, but once the game settled, we took control and started creating chances and we scored some great goals. I’m really happy for the players and the club it was a great nine-point day for the club.” Bryce Rae gave the hosts the lead on quarter hour, capitalizing on a wayward pass, and racing clear to score. They doubled their advantage early in the second half, Tony Chandler corner was headed home by Tom Kennedy. They sealed the points with a third on 69 minutes, Blake Pritchard playing in substitute Jack Kiama, who finished with aplomb.
The games between Gwelup Croatia and Rockingham City, was unfortunately postponed at half time after trouble started between players at the Croatian Sporting Complex, Wishart Street. Jacob Williamson had given the hosts the lead on four minutes, the Englishman shot on the turn finding the top corner from the edge of the box. But the visitors levelled nine minutes later, with Ruben Joseph racing down the right and cutting into the box before firing low past Josiah Godfrey. But ugly scenes at half time, saw referee Adrien Liechti end proceedings early. “We conceded the first goal early on, but from that point on I thought we played extremely well putting pressure all over the park, making chances and got our deserved equaliser,” Rockingham’s Ollie McGee said. “I thought we were unlucky not to be up at the break, but unfortunately due to a few incidents, the match ended there.”
19.8.2023
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND TWENTY ONE REVIEW
Kingsley Westside are the 2023 State League Division Two Champions, sealing promotion to Division One for the first time in the club’s history after a 5-0 win against Canning City at Burrendah Reserve. “I couldn’t be prouder of the group of lads myself and Stuart Montgomery had to coach this season. We set out a plan at the end of last year and the players we wanted and it all came together,” Kingsley Head Coach steven Dimitrovich said. “The lads deserve all the credit for the season as they are the ones that rock up to training after a full day’s work and then give their all on a Saturday. The commitment they’ve given to the club and the cause this year has been exceptional and now they get to enjoy the week ahead, I’m even giving them Tuesday night off. Then come Thursday we will prepare for Carramar and make sure we finish the league on a high and come final whistle look forward to lifting the trophy.”
The visitors found the opener early, Luke Salmon getting on the end of an Alex Morgan cross, the unmarked striker volleying home at the back post. It was 2-0 just before the break, Salmon added his second, his free kick from 20 meters beating Alec Radonich. They added a third early in the second half, Jonny Hulme made space down the right, before cutting across the byline and beating the keeper at his near post with a fierce drive. The celebrations had already started on the sidelines, but the goal action wasn’t over, and Paul Stewart made it 4-0 when he was found unmarked at the back post to head home, before Jack Reilly rounded out the scoring when he got on the end of a Hulme cut back to rifle the ball home.
Our Match of the Round in the State League Division Two saw Swan United all but secure a top four spot, after a 4-0 win against fifth placed Carramar Shamrock Rovers at Grandis Park on Saturday afternoon. “It was a huge result for us and our play off push. Shamrock away is one of the hardest games in the league and I don’t think we have won there in a while, so it was good to win and to win in style in such a big game. It was a performance that has been coming for a while and we’re immensely proud of all the lads,” Swan coach Niall Hughes explained.
“Defensively we did really well especially with Shamrock throwing everything at us in the second half and I felt we were able to limit them to half chances. Going forward we always feel we carry a threat and the guys up top were able to create some great chances putting nearly all of them away, bar one or two due to a great save from their keeper and the crossbar. We move on to Wanneroo now and want to keep our momentum going and finish the season on a high at home before hopefully a final three games in the playoffs.”
It was a tight first half, but it was the visitors who found the opener just before half time. John Monterosso was released in behind the Rovers’ defence, and went one on one with Daniel Holgate, the Rovers keeper brought the striker down as he took his shot, and the referee pointed straight to the spot, and Rhys Loxley fired home the resulting penalty. They doubled their lead on 70 minutes, a corner was delivered by Loxley to the back post with Chris Marshall winning the header down to Monterosso who back heeled the ball home from four meters.
They added a third eight minutes later, some great play down the left between Loxley and Brennan Borzecki, released latter, who fired across goal to find Monterosso in the box who found the top corner of the near post with a first-time finish. They sealed the points with a fourth in stoppage time, good pressure up top from Jake Fritchley caused a turnover, and Loxley took the ball and rounded the keeper and finished home in to an empty net from ten meters. “It was a dominant deserved performance from us and to be honest it should have been a lot more than four,” Swan striker John Monterosso said. “But we go into the final game, which now gives us some breathing room into the top four.”
Maddington-Kalamunda White City missed the opportunity to wrap up second place, after they were held to a 2-2 draw by Quinns on Saturday evening, the point all but securing the visitors miss out on the relegation play-offs. “Overall, we were happy with the performance. Maddington are a strong side that like to play quite direct and we felt for most part we limited their chances,” Quinns coach Antony Benetti said. “The game obviously changed with Maddington getting the two goals, but to the boys’ credit they put in an absolute shift to get the deserving equaliser. It's an important point in the general scheme of things and we'll be looking to finish the season strongly next week.”
It was Quinns who found the opener midway through the first half, a ball was floated in by George Norton and Mason Gallagher was able to shield the ball and volley on the turn flew into the bottom corner. They held that lead until 16 minutes from time, when the hosts levelled, with Maiki Balbinot scoring. City then hit the front seven minutes later, with Gaston Bazet on target. But the hosts were reduced to ten men in the final minute, when Cristian Zuluaga was sent off, and moments later Quinns restored parity, Gallagher cross picked out Tyler Holden who guided the ball into the bottom corner.
In other games, Curtin University secured third spot after a narrow 1-0 win against Ashfield at the Ashfield Sports Park. The only goal of the game came on the half hour, some good link-up play between Nathan Smith and Janno Saks ended with Kieran Witt, who scored his 13th goal of the season. “I thought we were good in the first half, controlling the game, but credit to Ashfield they come out in the second half and made it very difficult for us, and we were probably lucky to come away with the points,” Curtin coach Troy Reid said. “Competing for promotion was always the target for this group, so we're happy to have secured a place in the Top four.”
Balga are still in the relegation play-off mix, after they were beaten 2-0 by Joondalup United at Iluka District Open Space. Samuel McCracken gave the home side the lead early in the second half, and Jason Petrie secured the points from the spot in the final minute. The final game between Wanneroo City and Morley Windmills at Wanneroo Reserve, was forfeited by Windmills.
18.8.2023
BELT-UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION – ROUND SEVENTEEN PREVIEW
With six rounds remaining, the top of the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division, and promotion to State League football, is tight, with only eight points separating the top six teams, and two of them met in our ‘Match of the Round’ on Sunday, with league leaders Emerald hosting third placed East Perth at Fraser Park. (1pm) Both sides are coming off wins last week, the hosts coming home from Joondalup with a 2-0 win, while the visitors beat Wembley 5-1, so this local derby is going to be a thriller, and with three points between them, a win in this one is huge for both.
Last time they met at the venue was in round 12 last season, with Emerald running out 2-0 winners. The hosts found the opener on 12 minutes, some neat play on the edge of the box from Ryan Murray, saw him find Nathan Leamy, who finished well. It was 3-0 on the half hour, Leamy returned the favour with a great ball across the six-yard box for Murray to smash home. The visitors went down to nine men after Thierry Berard and Nicholas Carroll both received second yellow cards by referee David Bruce. The hosts sealed the points six minutes from time, Murray adding his second, and seventh goal of the season, finishing well from just inside the box.
The win at Joondalup saw Shane O’Donovan’s side move back to the top of the table on goal difference, and skipper Paul Curran said it was a tough game, but a deserved three points. “Joondalup are a very much changed side from the beginning of the season, and they’d picked up some good results the weeks leading up to our game so we knew it would be a tricky contest,” he explained. “They battled really hard in midfield and made life difficult for us but we were happy to take our chances and leave with the three points.”
Curran said their form has been good recently, only one defeat in the last six games, and he knows Sunday’s game against their local rivals is another challenge but one they are looking forward to. “We’ve been on a decent run the past six games as have most of the top four sides. All we can do is try and keep putting in good performances,” Curran said.
“There’s six massive weeks left and I don’t doubt there will be a few twists and turns to come yet, so it should be an interesting run in. East Perth this week is a massive game with those lads as it always is in a derby, and they’ve been the form side if you want to go by the last six or seven games. We played out a tough 0–0 draw up their place at the start of the season, and this weekend will be no different. We’ll have to be at our best and try and put in a strong performance. It should be a really good game with a good crowd down to watch.”
The big win against Wembley consolidated third place for Jason Winter and Colm Costello’s side, and winger Wayne Carter said it was a good win, and good to see them scoring five goals. “Yes, a good win against a well organised Wembley side, who were coming into the game after a big performance midweek in the cup, so the plan was to go at them from the start and we got the early goal to settle us,” Carter explained. “I thought we scored at good times just before and after halftime then to kill the game off. We've been good defensively all year, but we're starting to click going forward so was nice to score five and give us confidence going into a massive game this week.”
It was a new look East Perth side this season, and Carter said it took some time for them to gel, but they are starting to hit their straps, and have only lost once in the last nine games, and they hope to continued that at Emerald on Sunday. “It's close to a whole new squad this year for us so it was going to take a while for us to gel, but like you said our recent form shows we're coming good at the right time of the season,” he said. “Sunday is a huge game for us against Emerald, at their place, but one we're looking forward to. We played out a 0-0 earlier in the season and expecting another tough battle on Sunday and with the Irish connections of both clubs it should be a cracking atmosphere down there for it.”
In other games this weekend (All games kick off at 3pm unless stated), joint leaders North Perth United will look to get back to winning ways, after a draw at Kwinana last week, when they host Peel United at Woodville Reserve (1pm). Likewise for Jaguar and Kelmscott Roos, who both lost last week. Jags were beaten at home by Phoenix, and this week they travel Charles Riley Memorial Reserve to take on North Beach, while Kelmscott, who lost at Peel last week, welcome Joondalup United to Frye Park. The round starts on Saturday evening in Bunbury, when South West Phoenix host Wembley Downs at Onside Sports Stadium (5pm), while the other game on Sunday sees Kwinana United host South Perth United at Kelly Park.
18.8.2023
NPLWA WOMEN’S – ROUND TWENTY PREVIEW
Perth RedStar took out the NPLWA – Women’s title last week, Carlos Vega-Mena’s side sitting ten points clear at the top of the table, and its been another fantastic season for the northern suburbs club, and everyone at Footballwa send their congratulations on back-to-back titles. There success has been built on a consistent season, this despite a Round One loss against NTC, but an unbeaten run of 18 games has seen them continue their dominance in women’s football in WA.
Skipper Jay Coleman has been a mainstay in the clubs’ success, and she told Tommy Dolman the club are over the moon with their achievement in 2023. “The team are ecstatic with how it’s gone this season, last season was probably the most enjoyable season of football I’ve had, so it was always going to be hard to top that. But this would be a close second given we lost five or six of our regular starting XI and have come through with the league title while also playing really good football,” Coleman told the Football West website. “It was an aim from the get-go to win the league again and that’s been something we’ve been able to do, even after a rocky start. So, to come back firing was awesome and the girls should be really proud of themselves.
“The Night Series game was disappointing given we were 2-0 up but these things happen in football. We were upset with the loss in the first game of the season though, even if we had lost players and a few weren’t available. We just knew it wasn’t our best game and that we had a lot more to give. It was about working on those things which didn’t go our way, but we always knew we had the confidence that we would play much better and that we could go out and keep getting the job done, even if we were the hunted this season.
“It’s something we talk about in terms of knowing every other team is going to turn up against us every week because they want to be the team to beat us, and every week is a hard slog. But it’s been awesome to have depth in our squad to keep things fresh and all the players in our team love playing with each other which goes a really long way. Our culture definitely stands out. It’s not a normal thing to see a team just go out and continue to perform like we have, particularly after those changes.
“But the U21s have stepped up, we train a lot of them which works really well, so they know what to do when they’re called up. “Our Japanese players Reina (Kagami) and Chiori (Ikeda) have also made a huge impact. They’re both phenomenal players who know football, they just get it, and they have come in and gelled so well, and slotted into our team easily. I’m not sure we would be where we are without them.”
Coleman said they are not finished yet, which is a worry for the other finalists, and they want to finish the season well and take out the top four cup. “The motivation for us will not change now, especially heading into the Top Four Cup,” she said. “We won’t be stepping down and we are looking to improve on things because we know those games are going to be tough. Anything can happen in a finals game, so we have to keep building and keep working hard.”
The round kicks off tonight when Perth SC travel to Edinburgh Oval to take on bottom of the table Curtin University at Edinburgh Oval. Peter Rakic’s side sit second on the table, and win all of their final three games will secure a double chance in September’s end of season finals, and he hopes for a better performance tonight than the one he saw last week. “I was pretty disappointed with our team’s performance against NTC and I thought there were too many individuals on the field, which in turn let us down massively,” he said.
“It was one of those footballing days I'd rather forget and move on, and I think it puts a little more pressure on us now to ensure we win our final two games. We owe ourselves a positive response after last weekend, so the message will be clear tonight. I want nothing but no-nonsense football to be played and the girls already understand that. If we are to take this fixture lightly, then I don't believe we deserve to be second every week is a final and we will treat this game just as important as the last.”
In the other games this weekend, fourth-placed Hyundai NTC meet third-placed Fremantle City at E&D Litis Stadium on Sunday, with both teams basically locked in for the post-season finals. Freo have already qualified while NTC need one point from their final three matches to guarantee back-to-back Top Four Cup appearances, while in the final game Balcatta host Murdoch University Melville at Grindleford Reserve. The host can still mathematically make the top four, but need to win all their games and hope the NTC lose all their final three games.
18.8.2023
HYUNDAI WOMEN’S LEAGUE DIVISION ONE - ROUND EIGHTEEN PREVIEW
We head into week 18 of the Hyundai Women’s League Division One, and league leaders Hamersley Rovers are in pole position for promotion to the NPLWA – Women’s competition, sitting seven points clear at the top, and they will look to maintain their gap at the top when they visit Percy Doyle Reserve in our ‘Match of the Round’. (All games kick off at 1pm)
Rovers, who are yet to be beaten this season, head into the game after a big win against Subiaco last week, and coach Betim Ziba said it was good performance, and once again leading scorer Christiane Astorp led the way with a hat-trick, and the coach knows they are reaching the important part of the season, and he was pleased with the attitude of his players, with promotion in their grasp. “The win last week was a good one for momentum’s sake, we know we are at the final hurdle and it gives us good energy going into our next game. Having the seven-point gap is always nice but we can’t switch off,” he explained. “Christiane has been pivotal for us and you can see why with 26 goals already. She is in impeccable form, but is always there to help the team. She plays for the team and we repay her by assisting her with goals.
“Although Christiane has been impressive it really has been a team effort. Everyone in the team wants to do well and win this league. I have players who started the season on the bench that are now starting because of the determination they had to want to improve themselves and are doing well. Throughout the entire team I’ve been impressed with everyone’s determination to get better and it has shown on the field. Even in games where we are down, we find that spark and work hard to come back. In terms of going into NPL, playing MUMFC in the cup was a good indicator for us. We lost 3-0 but showed a lot of positives for a team that just got promoted into this league and played in the State Cup for the first time, and we will only continue to get better.”
Like all coaches, Ziba doesn’t like to pick out individuals for praise, but when pressed he said the team has boost by a number of players, and they have made them a better side this season. “Obviously, Christiane has been vital up front, and also Nadia Harvey has brought a great intensity into the team and helped others grow and develop,” Ziba explained. “But the player who has had a fantastic season for me is keeper Karla Edwards. She has been pivotal in so many games, she gives us calmness in the back and options to play backwards. She has made many great saves to keep us in games and has just brought that next level to our team. Having confidence in a keeper goes a long way within the team as it lets us implement more of the risky things, I want us trying.”
Ziba said Sorrento will be back home this week, after their ground was needed for the FIFA Women’s World Cup, but he has told his players, two good wins, starting on Sunday, could see them take the title, but they need to stay focused. “This game is a must win for us as we go closer to the league title, and we know a win against Sorrento then against Port Kennedy seals us the league,” he said. “But we can’t look to far ahead, Sorrento are a good team and can do well when they are switched on. We aren’t taking the game lightly despite their past results and we are prepared for a hard-fought game. Although if we win on Sunday and Mandurah beat UWA, we then win the league this Sunday as we would go 10 points ahead with 3 games left, so we have everything to play for.”
In other games this weekend, second placed UWA Nedlands will be hoping for a Rovers slip up, and they can close the gap, but they face a tough trip to Genesiscare Stadium to take on fourth placed Mandurah City. UWA kept the pressure on Rovers with a big win at Fremantle last week, while Mandurah conceded two late goals to draw at Port Kennedy. Meanwhile third placed Perth AFC welcome Port Kennedy to Len Packham Park, and a win will keep the pressure on UWA for second spot. While in the final game Fremantle City entertain Subiaco at Wauhop Park.
18.8.2023
KERR’S STUNNER IN VAIN AS ENGLAND BEAT MATILDAS
The Matildas World Cup Final dreams were ended on Wednesday evening after they were beaten 3-1 by Euro Cup winners England at a sold-out crowd of 75,784 fans at Stadium Australia in Sydney. WA star Sam Kerr equalised on the night with a stunning solo effort, but goals from Ella Toone, Lauren Hemp and a late goal from Alessia Russo secured the win for England, and they move into the final to take on Spain at the same venue on Sunday evening, while the Matildas take on Sweden in the third/fourth play off at Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane on Saturday evening.
Matildas coach Tony Gustavsson said missed opportunities cost them in the end, but he was proud of his players. “The first half… We didn’t get our transition game going,” he explained. “They were very good and efficient to take that away from us and I don’t think we were brave enough on the ball,” he said post-match. “In tournament football it takes one moment, and England were much more clinical than we were. We had three sitters to make it 2-2… then in the 86th minute, one ball behind and it’s 3-1 and almost game over. We’re very disappointed that we lost but hopefully we won something else, we won the heart and the passion for this game in this country.”
"Australia, we love you, and I hope we've made you proud," midfielder Katrina Gorry said post-match. "There's still so much to go for, so don't jump off the bandwagon now, keep on [supporting us] and we'll make you proud. "It's a semifinal, small errors can cost you, we created chances but we didn't put them in the back of the net, and that's going to cost you in a semifinal. We've got to regroup and we've got to recover — there's still a lot on the line for us.
“We want to bring home the bronze medal for Australia. Everyone is going to be hurting — the veterans probably more [than the young players in the squad]. We don't really have another World Cup in us. It's a tough one to swallow but we'll get around each other and make sure that we are ready to go for the next game because we want that bronze medal — it's dangling right in front of us. Australia has got us here and we're not going to let it down."
England showed their physicality early, with Kerr targeted twice, the second bringing a yellow card for defender Alex Greenwood. Both teams had chances in the early exchanges, Kerr racing onto a through ball and firing straight at Mary Earps, while at the other end Georgia Stanway volleyed straight at Mackenzie Arnold after a long ball over the top from Greenwood. But as the game went on England started to get on top, Steph Catley had to be alert to head behind a Rachel Daly cross as Lucy Bronze lurked, with Daly then heading over from the corner.
The Matildas eventually hit their straps, with Hayley Raso peeling off the back of the corner on the half hour, her shot deflected behind. But on 36 minutes, England found the opener, the Matildas switched off from a throw in, the ball finding Toone, who was given far too much space in the penalty area, and she made the Matildas pay, firing into the top corner to silence the green and gold crowd, and they held that lead at the break.
The Matildas needed a response in the second half, and they found one, with Kerr and Mary Fowler a constant threat, but England were still dangerous going forward, and Arnold had to make a smart save to deny the lively Hemp, while Mille Bright headed inches wide from the resulting corner. But on 63 minutes Kerr brought the stadium to life, with one of the goals of the tournament. The former Perth Glory striker picked the ball up on the half way line and raced at the England defence, and just short of the edge of the penalty area she unleashed an unstoppable shot which flew past Earps and into the top corner of the net.
The goal lifted the crowd, and Kerr went close again moments later, but her effort was straight at Earps. But eight minutes after conceding, England regained the lead. A ball into the box wasn’t dealt with by Ellie Carpenter, and Hemp pounced, the Manchester City striker finishing clinically past Arnold. But Gustavsson’s side rolled up their sleeves and went in search of the equaliser, and it looked like it had arrived after Fowler’s cross picked out Kerr, and the crowd was waiting for the net to bulge, but the Chelsea striker headed over the top.
Moments later Cortnee Vine was denied by a fine save by Earps, and with five minutes remaining Kerr went close again, this time she volleyed wide with the goal at her mercy. But with the Matildas pushing players forward looking for the equaliser England hit them on a counter attack and sealed the win with a third. Hemp finding space, and laying the ball on a plate for Russo, who finished well to finally silence Stadium Australia and put England into a first-ever World Cup final.
Australia: GK Arnold, 4 Polkinghorne (10 Van Egmond 81’), 7 Catley, 9 Foord, 11 Fowler, 15 Hunt, 16 Raso (72’), 5 Vine, 19 Gorry (8 Chidiac 88’), 20 Kerr, 21 Carpenter, 23 Cooney-Cross – Subs not used: RGK Williams, RGK Micah, 2 Nevin, 3 Luik, 6 Wheeler, 13 Yallop, 17 Simon, 22 Grant
England: GK Earps, 2 Bronze, 4 Walsh, 5 Greenwood, 6 Bright, 8 Stanway, 9 Daly, 10 Toone (90’), 3 Charles, 11 Hemp, 16 Carter, 23 Russo (18 Kelly 87’) – Subs not used: RGK Roebuck, RGK Hampton, 12 Nobbs, 13 Hampton, 14 Wubben-May, 15 Morgan, 17 Coombs, 19 England, 20 Zelem – Referee: Tori Penso (USA)
18.8.2023
NPL-WA ROUND TWENTY ONE - PREVIEW
We head into the penultimate week of the NPLWA – Men’s competition, and the fight to survive and a place in the top four is as tight as it’s ever been, with nine teams, still mathematically not safe, but can also still make the top four, and this week’s games are vital for all the teams. Our week 21 ‘Match of the Round’ involves one of those teams, Perth Glory who welcome league leaders Perth RedStar, who can win the league with a win and other results go their way, to the Lark Hill Sportsplex. (All games kick off at 3pm, unless stated)
The Glory won for the first time in four games at Cockburn City last week, while the RedStar’s moved two points clear at the top after a narrow 1-0 win against Balcatta, but with what is at state, this game should be a great game, with both sides determined to find the win. The last time Glory hosted the RedStar’s was at Crazy Domain Stadium, Hartfield Park in round 20 last season, when RedStar’s won a seven-goal thriller. Daryl Nicol who was the star in this one, the Scottish striker bagging another hat-trick, while Declan Hughes scored the other goal, while Lucas Rossi scored twice for Glory, with Joshua Anasmo scoring the other. The hosts finished the game with nine men with skipper Chris Donnell and defender Judd MacDougall both sent off.
Glory have brought in some of their young A-League players in recent games, and one of them Kaelan Majeks, who recently represented the Young Socceroos in the 2023 U20 Asian Cup in Uzbekistan, and he said the win at Cockburn was vital. “The boys all knew how important the game was as we weren’t in a comfortable position on the table,” the defender explained. “Going into the game, we knew to remain calm and play our way and our game and the goals will come. We managed to break Cockburn down and secure a strong 4-1 win, which puts us in a good place now, but know we still have two difficult games to go.”
Majeks, who played for the Joondalup based club RedStar a couple of years ago, and he knows how they play, so he is expecting an entertaining game, and the points are vital for both sides. “I think the game against RedStar will be great, we always know when we play them, we are in for a good game of football, and the boys are more than prepared to put on a show,” the 19-year-old said. “We are all looking forward to the game and know how huge a win can be for us in regards to the table.”
Glory Head Coach John Walmsley said they are looking to build on the win last week, and knows they need to be at their best against the league leaders, but his young side are relishing the challenge. “It was a good result and performance for us last week against Cockburn, but our focus has been the same all season in looking for consistency with our performance, which has been tough due to constant changes to lineup and uncertainty at the club,” Walmsley explained. “Moving forward things should become more stable which will help the group, and we are looking forward to the challenge of RedStar this weekend. They have shown this year they are one of the best teams in the league, so I’m sure it will be a good match.”
Striker Daryl Nicol, who leads the Gold Boot charts, with 25 goals this season, wasn’t on the scoresheet in last week’s 1-0 win, Chok Dau scoring the winner, but the Scotsman said they should have won the game more convincingly, but a win is a win. “I think the 1-0 score line flattered Balcatta as we were extremely dominant in the game especially in the first half,” he said. “They came at us a bit in the second half which we expected but we should’ve put the game to bed had we taken our opportunities, however a resilient 1-0 win at this stage of the season is exactly what we are looking for.”
Nicol, who is in his second spell at the Northern suburbs club, said the players are focused and knows two more wins will see them win the title, but he is expecting a tough game against a good Glory side. “We’ve been saying now for a number of weeks, that we need to focus on winning the games in front of us and we will get our hands on the trophy, regardless of scores elsewhere and that hasn’t changed,” Nicol explained. “We will be looking for a win on Saturday against a Glory side who are capable of beating anyone, and will no doubt be flooding their side with players who could quite easily play for one of the top teams in the NPL.”
Defender Ryan Lowry said last week was a battle, but after scoring early they defended well and could have added to their lead, but he knows the title is in their hands, and two wins, starting against the Glory this week, will see them lift the title for the first time under the RedStar name. “Yes, it was a great result for us as the end of season comes to a close, but we took our chance and had a few more to make it more comfortable, but we defended well to get the three points,” the former Wellington Phoenix defender said. “I think we all know we’ve got a big couple games ahead, but it’s an old cliché, we will just take it as it comes and hopefully get the three points on Saturday. The boys are firing, and on good form coming into the end of the season.”
The relegation battle is wide open, with only three points separating the bottom seven teams, and with games running out a win this week is important for all of them, and they will have a huge consequence on the drop zone. Bottom of the table Floreat Athena have been in the top flight of WA football since 1982, and they must win when they host Bayswater City at E&D Litis Stadium, while the visitors need the points for a top four finish. Armadale make the trip to Grindleford Reserve to take on Balcatta Etna, with both sides level on 26 points, Inglewood United will look to build on their win at Sorrento last week when they host Cockburn City at Inglewood Stadium, while Sorrento hosts Perth SC at Percy Doyle Reserve.
18.8.2023
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND TWENTY ONE PREVIEW
The State League Division One title could be wrapped up this weekend, and our ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to Nash Field, for the top of the table clash between league leaders Western Knights and second placed Mandurah City. (All games kick off at 3pm, unless stated) The pair have been fighting out top spot all season, and the Knights lead the way, one point clear of the Dolphins, and both are coming off wins last week. The hosts came home from Subiaco with a narrow win, while Mandurah bounced back from a loss at Gwelup, coming from behind to beat Forrestfield, so three points are massive, and this should be the game of the season.
The last time the two sides met at the venue was in round ten last season when Mandurah left with the points after a 2-1 win. It was the Knights who found the opener on nine minutes, Paul Lloyd nicked the ball from a Mandurah corner and played it forward to Dean Hurley, whose shot from the edge of the box beat Alfie Brincat via the post. Mandurah hit back on 26 minutes, Lydon Hodgkiss’ corner wasn’t dealt with and Craig Barker bundled the ball home at the back post. Mandurah won it moments later, John Baird sent Barker down the right, he cut inside his marker, his shot was saved by Stone, but Hamish Van Dieken was on hand to score from close-range.
Mandurah player/coach John Baird said he was pleased with last week’s win, and it keeps them in the title race. “Last week was a good performance, and it was good to get back to winning ways, and to bounce back convincingly as well was pleasing,” Mandurah coach John Baird explained. “They (Forrestfield) had their season on the line, and knew a loss would see them relegated, and they came out all guns blazing, and took the lead, but the lads showed great character to hit back and run out convincing winners in the end.”
Baird said Saturday could be the title decider and it’s one, the whole club has been looking forward too. “I think everybody has been waiting for this game for weeks now, and I’m sure it will be a good game for the supporters,” he said. “All the pressure is on the Knights, they have been in the top 2/3 teams in the league for years now, so to be so close puts a lot of pressure on them. We know what we’re about and we’ll give it everything, which we always do, and we’ll see how it goes.”
Defender James Paylor, has had a huge influence on the club’s push for the title, and he hopes his experience can help the club back to the NPL, and he knows last week was important to bounce back, and he thought they dominated. “We’ve agreed from day one that the best teams don’t lose two games in a row. We know the Gwelup result didn’t go our way so it was important for us that we bounced back and got back to winning ways,” the English defender explained.
“I’ve been fortunate enough to play across the world, years spent in England in professional youth set ups and in America. I’ve been in Australia for three years now and this is my third season with Mandurah City. The dressing room we have here is very special, there’s a unique bond with the team and club, and we all feel grateful to be a part of it.”
Paylor said Saturday’s game should be a great game, with both sides playing some good football, and he knows the Mandurah supporters will be there in numbers, and he is expecting a great atmosphere. “It’s been a great title race for spectators, and the Knights are a strong side, but we always look forward to the clash between us,” he said. “As players we want to play in these games, we want the battle, we want the big occasions. I’m sure the fans are in for a high intensity game.”
The Knights were made to work for the win at Subiaco, and striker Jack Bardsley said it was good to keep their lead at the top, and get a win against his former club. “We had to fight right to the end to get all three points against a tough Subiaco, a club I played all my junior football at,” he explained. “I thought we started the game well scoring early on and continued to create some chances without delivering on the score board. It made for a tense finish to the game, but we were extremely happy to get the win, before having a tough game against Mandurah this week. It was nice for me to play against my childhood club and see some familiar faces, I wish them all the best for the remaining two games and the seasons to come.”
Bardsley, who joined the Knights from Carramar Shamrock Rovers this season, said Saturday’s opponents like themselves have let leads slip at the top, but he knows they are in pole position and the title and promotion is in their own hands. “It seems like neither us, or Mandurah have enjoyed being at the top of the ladder over the past month, with the leader consistently changing, but we have worked hard across the whole season and I think we deserve to be here with two games remaining,” he said.
“There’s no hiding away from this Saturday, it simply is the biggest game of the year and we will be going for all three points to seal the title before the final game. I have been told the Knights vs Mandurah rivalry has always been exciting to be a part of and in my three games against them this season, I can certainly back this up. We play pretty different styles of football but clearly both have been getting results throughout the season. Saturday is going to be about who can play in the big game and who is up for the challenge. All the boys and coaching staff have been looking forward to this for a while now. It’s another game and three points is what we play for.”
In other games this weekend there is a real six pointer in the relegation fight, with Gosnells City hosting UWA Nedlands at Walter Padbury Reserve. Only one point separates them on the table, but three points would see one of them safe. Forrestfield United have been relegated already, and they welcome Joondalup United to Crazy Domains Stadium, Hartfield Park, the visitors needing the points to keep them in the mix for the top four. Likewise, Dianella White Eagles, who host Subiaco at Dianella Reserve, the visitors also need the points in their fight to pull away from the foot of the table. Murdoch University Melville entertain Fremantle City at Besteam Stadium (1pm), while in the final game Rockingham City head north to meet Gwelup Croatia at the Croatian Sports Complex, Wishart Street.
18.8.2023
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND TWENTY ONE PREVIEW
Kingsley Westside are on the verge of clinching the State League Division Two title for the first time, and they can achieve that this weekend with a win against Canning City at Burrendah Reserve. Head Coach Steven Dimitrovich said it’s been a team effort, but is well aware they haven’t won anything yet, and Canning will be buoyed with the result the last time the two sides met. “Yes, it’s another week, and another challenge for us against Canning who beat us earlier in the season. On the day they wanted it more than us and we’ve learnt a lot from that game,” he explained.
“We will work on a few different things this week from when we played them last and be as prepared as we can be for the game. Yes, it is a big game and we know what’s on the line if we can get the win, it’s been a great team effort. But we just have to make sure that we stay focused on Tuesday and Thursday at training and make sure we don’t get ahead of ourselves and come game day play our way for the 90 minutes and see what comes of it at the final whistle.”
Our ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to Grandis Park, where fifth placed Carramar Shamrock Rovers welcomes fourth placed Swan United, with both sides level on points, and both pushing for a top four spot. Swan won on the road at Canning last week, while Rovers were given a forfeit, after embattled Morley Windmills postponed the game, but with fourth spot up for grabs, three points will be vital in this one. Last time they met at the venue was in round 11 last season when Rovers won a tight game 1-0.
United arrived on a four-game winning streak, but it was the hosts who should have taken the lead when they were awarded a penalty after Jack Bardsley was brought down by Swan keeper Nick Stone. Bardsley picked himself up but his penalty was well saved by Stone. It looked like the points would be shared, but deep into stoppage time the hosts won it. Good work by Seamus Edwards saw him find Kieran Harrison, whose effort looped up over Stone and into the net.
Swan have only lost once in the last five games, that was against leaders Kingsley two weeks ago, and coach Colin Morgan said he was pleased to have bounced back at Canning last week, despite going down early. “I thought it was a good performance last week, despite going behind early to one of the more bizarre goals I've seen in my time coaching, where Chris Marshall has smashed a clearing header into the back of the Canning striker, and the ball has deflected into the far post and in,” Morgan explained. “We got our equalizer soon after, and remained dominant throughout the half, and went into the break with the lead. Our dominance really started to show second half, and we got our third with 15 minutes to go, and it could have been four, if we didn't miss a penalty at the death.”
Morgan said their aim all season was the play-off’s and he knows a win on Saturday is vital to keep them in the mix. “We all know it’s a massive game this weekend for both clubs, and one I’m looking forward to,” he said. “Shamrock, last year playoff finalists, are up this end of the table for a reason. They are a well drilled side that have been picking up points consistently throughout the year. It's a tough place to go to get a result, and we need to get a result if we are to control our own destiny next week. We will give it our all, we want to be playing playoff football, and to do that, these are the games that really matter.”
Rovers have claimed all three points in their last three games, including the forfeited game last week, and Rovers’ Ger Fitzgerald said it was disappointing for football and he feels sorry for the players and coaches at the club. “I think it’s embarrassing what has gone on at Morley all year, and I feel sorry for the players and the coaching staff having to deal with it all,” he said. “There is no point having a five-year plan when you can’t even fill out a match day team form.
“I along with all players in the league, respect the players that walked due to alleged racism, I think they have the support of all of us, and it shouldn’t be tolerated and it’s sad it’s still happening this day and age. I know some of the boys from the team and got the full story and how the alleged individual was still there after the first incident is beyond me. They have a new five year plan every year, but I don’t think this year it was to end up in Sunday Premier, they obviously did the wrong thing, and got caught out, so they get what they deserve in my opinion.”
Fitzgerald said Saturday’s game is a real six pointer, and he said a win will almost cement a top four spot. “Absolutely huge game on Saturday for both teams and we know what’s at stake so our season is in our own hands,” the defender explained. “We have some good momentum going into Saturday’s game and our team spirit is unbelievable at the moment. Thankfully we don’t have off the field issues like other teams so can concentrate on our end goal of making top four and push for promotion.”
In other games this weekend Maddington-Kalamunda White City can still catch the leaders, but need a win against Quinns at Maida Vale Reserve (6pm) to keep them in the mix, while Curtin University can all but lock up a top four spot with a win against Ashfield at Ashfield Reserve. At the foot of the table, after another points deduction, Morley Windmills are relegated, but it still not sure if their game against Wanneroo City at Wanneroo Reserve will go ahead, while in the final game Joondalup City entertain Balga at Ilkua District Open Space.
18.8.2023
MATILDAS ARE "WINNERS NO MATTER WHAT" SAYS KERR
The Matildas have the chance to claim a Women’s World Cup medal but regardless of the result, Samantha Kerr insists Australia are “winners no matter what”. Matildas fever has totally captivated Australia, in stadiums and at live sites around the country, as they prepare for Saturday night’s third-place play-off against Sweden.
A sell-out crowd of more than 75,000 fans packed into Stadium Australia to watch Wednesday night’s semi-final loss to England, while a record-breaking television audience of 11.15 million tuned in to watch the game. Australia’s campaign has captured the hearts and minds of the wider public and the impact of it all has not been lost on captain Kerr.
“Of course we want to win the bronze medal but I think that feeling, we’re winners no matter what is down to the fans,” Kerr said in the pre-match press conference on the eve of the Matildas’ showdown with Sweden. “They have created that. They’ve made us feel like we’ve done something amazing for them.”
“I just walked down the street just before and everyone was saying thank you, not well done that they normally do, just thank you. Me and Macca (Mackenzie Arnold) got in the cab and were laughing. It was so awkward, everyone was just coming around us in the middle of Queen Street Mall and we’ve gone, ‘wow that was amazing’.”
“We talked about this before the World Cup. We wanted to leave a legacy and have this moment talked about for 10-20 years and I think we have already done that. But to win a bronze medal, to bring a World Cup medal to this country would be amazing.”
“It really feels like we have brought the nation together over football, which some people might’ve said we were crazy if we had of said this would happen a year ago. It feels like we’ve done something amazing for the country. So many people are grateful for the way we’ve brought everyone together.”
The Matildas sold out stadiums in three major cities in Australia – Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane – during this World Cup. Tony Gustavsson’s side also resonated with the public, who have been urged to get behind the local game when the A-League Women season gets underway on October 14.
The A-League’s opening round - which will be a standalone celebration of the women’s game - is aiming to break domestic attendance records off the back of a history-making World Cup on home soil. Asked why she thought Australia had fallen so in love with this Matildas team, Kerr responded:
“I’ve grown up with these girls so I’ve always been in awe of them. I think Australia has caught onto the down-to-earth nature of the team. No one is too big for their boots. We really represent what Australia thinks of sport – hard working, never give up and that’s what all the girls show everyday no matter what.”
“Whenever I think of the great Australian athletes, that’s what I think of. I think of those nights when I used to stay up watching Lleyton Hewitt at Wimbledon. Never giving up, playing every point. That’s what Australians love and that’s what I think this team is all about.”
“You’ve seen every single girl out there giving back to the fans. We just have that Aussie spirit that you can’t really tell people about unless you see it. You know what it is. I think Lleyton Hewitt, Cathy Freeman all those athletes that you just want to get behind because of what they do and what they give to the country.”
17.8.2023
FORMER CHELSEA FORWARD FARROW SIGNS FOR GLORY
Perth Glory have further bolstered their A-League Women attacking options with English forward Millie Farrow agreeding to head down under for the coming season. The 27-year old is a former England youth international who counts Chelsea, Bristol City, Reading, Leicester City and Crystal Palace among her previous clubs.
Currently playing in the National Women’s Soccer League for North Carolina Courage, Farrow helped Chelsea win the FA Women’s Super League and Women’s FA Cup double in 2015 and collected an FA Women’s Championship winners’ medal with Leicester City in 2021.
Farrow said she was looking forward to heading down to Perth and talks with coach Alex Epakis persuaded her to give the A-League Women a try. “After talking with (coach) Alex (Epakis) and hearing the ambitions and values of the club, I felt it was the perfect fit,” Farrow said.
“It’s a very exciting opportunity and I can’t wait to meet everyone and get started. Personally, I’m determined to help the team in any way possible to reach their objectives. I’m hungry and ready to play some football in the sun!”
Epakis is looking forward to the impact Farrow and fellow new recruit New Zealand attacker Grace Jale will have in 2023/24. “Millie is another attack-minded player who has a great finishing ability and speed to run beyond lines,” Epakis said.
“She has an impressive history of being part of some great teams in Europe, with the England youth set-up and in the US. She is a mature and well-rounded individual who will add some strong football experience into the team.”
“Her partnership with our other attacking players is something that excites me a lot because we want to be an attack-focused team with different scoring options. Millie has an impressive and inspiring story away from football and she will no doubt prove to be a great mentor and leader within the group.”
17.8.2023
KERR CALLS FOR FUNDING AFTER MATILDAS WORLD CUP EXIT
An emotional Samantha Kerr has laid bare her sorrow at the Matildas’ Women’s World Cup semi-final loss - and called for further funding to ensure the teams’ appearance in the four of four is not a flash in the pan.
The Matildas’ historic semi-final appearance ended in a 3-1 defeat to England, who progress to the final. It came after Kerr had given the nation a ‘where were you’ moment to remember, her second-half sensational strike erasing England’s opener.
Not that Kerr wanted to talk about herself or her goal in the aftermath. “There was only a couple of moments in the game and I guess they took theirs and I thought it was honestly pretty even,” Kerr said.
“It ebbed and flowed each way, but after we scored I thought we were going to go and score another and then they kind of took momentum back. I guess it doesn’t really matter now. All I can think about is disappointment right now.”
While Kerr was clear the fans’ support meant the world to her, she said more financial support was required to ensure their semi-final appearance was not just a one-off. “Hopefully we’ve got a few more fans that will stick around,” she said.
“But now it’s time for funding and all of that stuff to be invested in the game, because this is the world game for a reason,” she said. “We need funding in our development, we need funding in our grassroots, we need funding everywhere.”
“The comparison to other sports isn’t really good enough and hopefully this tournament changes that because that’s the legacy you leave, not what you do on the pitch; the legacy is what you do off the pitch.”
While their hopes of winning are over, there was a silver lining for Kerr in the way they had inspired legions of fans around the country. “The only thing that’s keeping me smiling right now is the way that we’ve kind of inspired the nation and everyone’s got behind us,” she said.
“The tournament’s been amazing, every single team, player, person that’s visited has said how beautiful our country is, so I think for us, it’s been hopefully life-changing for women’s football in Australia.”
“I think that’s all down to the fans showing that this country really will get behind football, if you bring the world game to our country.” Australia’s World Cup campaign ends with Saturday's third-place play-off against Sweden.
16.8.2023
WINDMILLS LOSE ANOTHER TEN POINTS
Morley Windmills have been dealt their second blow in a week with the club docked 10 competition points for a breach of competition rules. It comes just seven days after the club lost 21 points and were slapped with a $20,000 fine for breaching player salary rules.
Football West confirmed the latest breach after the club forfeited all three of their Round 20 fixtures against Carramar Shamrock Rovers on Saturday. With two rounds to play in Division Two, Morley are guaranteed to end the season in the relegation spot some 20 points adrift of their closest rival.
15.8.2023
GLORY SIGNS INTERNATIONAL STRIKER JALE
Perth Glory have signed New Zealand international Grace Jale in a major A-League Women’s coup. The 24-year old striker joins Glory just weeks after representing the Silver Ferns at the Women’s World Cup, where she turned out against the Philippines and Switzerland.
Jale has nine goals to her name from 27 A-League Women’s games split across two seasons with Wellington Phoenix and Canberra United. Having established herself as one of the competitions leading forwards, she is hoping to build on her strong form and has not been shy about what she hopes to achieve this season.
“I’m stoked to be signing for Glory,” Jale said. “I’m very excited to be working with a new group of coaches and players in the beautiful city of Perth. I’d like to learn and grow as a footballer and as a person for the team and I’m hoping for nothing less than a trophy at the end of the season.”
Jale will be a vital piece of coach Alex Epakis’ attacking artillery. “We want to be an attacking and aggressive team and Grace will be key to that,” Epakis said. “She is a fantastic player who has proved herself as a goal scorer and real attacking threat in the competition over the past two seasons.”
“Grace has fantastic attributes and has many different aspects and strengths that we will certainly benefit from. She comes to Perth off the back of an historic Women’s World Cup campaign with New Zealand and I know she is primed and focused to come to the club and utilise her experiences from the past few months.”
15.8.2023
GUSTAVSSON YET TO DECIDE KERR'S ROLE AGAINST ENGLAND
Matildas coach Tony Gustavsson has dropped the biggest hint yet that Samantha Kerr will again come off the bench in Wednesday’s World Cup semi-final against England. The Matildas captain missed the group stage with a calf injury before a brief cameo in the round of sixteen meeting with Denmark signalled she was on the mend.
Kerr came on 55 minutes into a pulsating quarter-final penalty shoot-out win over France and the temptation is to rush her back for the biggest game in Australian football history. But Gustavsson is likely to hold her back with the coach keen to have his best players on the pitch when the game is on the line.
It also helps that young gun Mary Fowler has been in stunning form for the Matildas, giving Gustavsson confidence that there are other players who have the talent and belief to get the job done without Kerr being the lone threat. “When it comes to Sam, she pushed through more minutes than we initially hoped for,” Gustavsson said.
“One of the reasons we kept her on the bench was that we were uncertain how many minutes she had (in her) coming back from the calf injury and the limited training she had. The way she pushed through was fantastic and impressive, both from a mental and physical aspect. She recovered well and she trained today so she’s available.”
Gustavsson won’t settle on his starting eleven against England until tomorrow night, after a final meeting with his staff. The Matildas enter the game as outsiders against the fourth-best team in the world, and while Gustavsson concedes England have plenty of strengths he says the hosts have one major advantage that can get them over the line.
“If you look at rankings, they’re the favourites,” he said. “If you look at where their players play, they have starters playing in top clubs in top leagues all over the world. Not just the starting 11 – they have 15 or 16. And you compare that to us where we have bench players in those teams, we have players in the A-League and we have players playing in mid-table teams in Sweden.”
“So if you look at all that and you look at resources financially, then they are a massive favourite going into this game. But, if you then add the belief we have and the one thing they don’t have, which is the support and the belief from the fans. That in itself is going to be massive tomorrow.”
14.8.2023
WILLIAMS WON’T BE DRAWN ON ENGLAND RIVALRY
The Matildas aren't buying into the national rivalry with England ahead of their Women's World Cup semi-final but can take heart from having beaten them. A monster four-of-four contest against the old enemy has understandably evoked memories of various Ashes triumphs, or the 2003 Rugby World Cup final.
But the Matildas are happy to leave the animosity to others. "Obviously you see it in the men's competitions, especially in cricket and rugby," goalkeeper Lydia Williams said. "But for us, we've had so many rivalries with other countries that we've played against. We've played against Brazil at every other World Cup."
"So you could say that (about Brazil), you could say that about America, you could say that about so many countries. So really, for us it's just another game. All the like extra stuff of rivalries, it doesn't really come about. If anything, it's to prove a point that we can make the final and represent Australia that way."
The Matilda's are well aware of England, who they defeated 2-0 in a friendly in April. Williams is one of several Australian players - including Tameka Yallop, Samantha Kerr, Caitlin Foord and Steph Catley - who play alongside and against England's stars in the Women's Super League.
"We play against them, we know what (their) tendencies are, versing them week in, week out and watching them," Williams commented. "So it's more of a chess match and how you get the better of each other. At the end of the day you want to do the best for your country and I think the friend part we'll probably put to put to bed for a little bit."
The Matildas have been in recovery mode since Saturday night's mentally and physically draining quarter-final triumph over France. On Saturday night, Kyra Cooney-Cross had one of her shins iced after a nasty challenge early in the game and the following day Catley had a compression bandage on her right thigh on arrival in Sydney.
14.8.2023
MATILDAS MOVE INTO THE WORLD CUP SEMI-FINALS
The Matildas have made Australian sporting history, reaching the semifinals of the FIFA Women's World Cup for the first time after edging out France 7-6 on penalties in a gripping encounter at a packed Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane on Saturday afternoon. A game full of chances came down to the dreaded penalty shootout, and it was West Ham United keeper Mackenzie Arnold who made three saves, before Sydney FC midfielder Cortnee Vine converted the winning spot-kick to seal the quarter final victory in the longest shootout ever in the tournament's history in front of 49,461 screaming fans, and many thousands watching live around the country. "I just knew where I was going to put my pen," Vine said post-match. “In those moments you just need to be confident in what you've practiced and, in that moment, I feel like Macca did the job before I had to, she's the one that saved it and I just had to put it away."
"We've shown that we thrive under pressure over and over and over again in this tournament and I think I have some unhealthy addiction to do-or-die games and these types of moments. I love it. It makes you feel alive," Gustavsson said post-match. "I brought (the staff) together before I walked in here and said 'this is what life is about creating memories with the ones you love the most'. To be able to do that tonight with this team has been amazing and I can't wait to get more moments like this with this group of amazing people."
The visitors dominated early, and the best early chance on 12 minutes, a ball into the box was initially cleared but fell to the unmarked Maelle Lakrar, but she fired just wide of the target when well placed. Gustavsson’s side settled after their early nerves, but Arnold was outstanding in goal, making a number of telling punches, as the French bombarded her with crosses. But after soaking up all the pressure it was the Matildas with the best opportunity of the half five minutes before the break.
Hayley Raso raced to the right by-line to keep an Ellie Carpenter through-ball in play, she then found Emily Van Egmond before the midfielder turned and found Mary Fowler, and with the keeper out of position, Fowler’s first-time shot seemed destined to break the deadlock, but French defender Elisa De Almeida somehow managed to get back and throw herself at the ball to block the shot on the line, and at the break it was scoreless and all to play for.
After the interval, the Matildas were on the front foot early, and the crowd got behind the green and gold, and Fowler had to guilt edge chances to open the scoring. Peyraud-Magnin’s pass from the back went straight to the Manchester City striker, whose shot was deflected behind for a corner. The whole stadium erupted on 55 minutes with the introduction of Sam Kerr, and the Chelsea striker was straight into the action, breaking down the right before squaring for Hayley Raso, whose shot from distance was tipped behind for a corner. The momentum was now with the Matildas, and five minutes later Fowler was in again, her half-volley was straight at Peyraud-Magnin, the French custodian saving with her legs. Both sides had chances in a tense encounter, but it was off to extra time.
In the first period the French started to dictate terms, but the Matildas led superbly by Alanna Kennedy and Clare Hunt, kept them at bay, but on 100 minutes the French thought they had found the opener, after Kennedy headed into her own net from a French corner, but the referee immediately ruled it out, after Les Bleues’ skipper Wendie Renard had pulled back Catlin Foord as the ball swung in. Substitute Vine almost found the net moments after coming off the bench, but she couldn’t guide her effort in at the near post from Foord’s low cross.
In the second period of extra time Arnold produced another strong save to deny Vicki Becho’s shot from the edge of the box. Moments later they went close again, Grace Geyoro burst into the box and squared the ball across the face of the goal, but Stef Catley cleared superbly, with two French players ready to pounce. It was backs to the wall stuff for the Matildas, and Arnold made another smart save to thwart Eugenie Le Sommer in the final minute, so we were off to penalties.
It was advantage Matildas after Arnold saved the opening penalty from Selma Bacha, and Foord netted. Kadidiatou levelled things up, before Catley saw her effort saved by French keeper Solene Durand, who was brought on in the final minute of extra time. French skipper Renard gave the French the lead, but Kerr levelled, before Le Sommer kept her nerve to make it 3-2 to France, likewise Fowler who evened things up. Arnold then saved Ève Périsset next penalty and it meant if the Matildas scored with the next, they would go through. It was keeper Arnold who stepped up and sent Durand the wrong way, but the ball crashed against the post and away.
It looked like the momentum was with the French as Geyoro converted, but Gorry levelled it up again, despite Durand getting a hand to it. The crowd, and the nation was on the edge of their seats, and Sakina Karchaoui put France ahead again, but Tameka Yallop restored parity. Maëlle Lakrar scored, before Elle Carpenter fired home via the post to make it 6-6. Then French midfielder Kenza Dali missed the next penalty, and it was up to Hunt to seal the tie, but Durand produced a great one-handed save to deny her.
You could cut the tension with a knife, and Becho stepped and saw her spot kick crash off the post. It meant youngster Vine had the chance to seal the tie, and the Sydney FC buried the winning penalty for Australia to emerge 7-6 winners. It sends them into a semi-final showdown with the old foe England on Wednesday night in Sydney, after the European champions beat Colombia 2-1 in the last quarter-final. Meanwhile the loss meant France have now been knocked out at the quarter-final stage of four consecutive Women’s World Cups.
Australia: GK Arnold, 7 Catley, 9 Foord, 10 Van Egmond (20 Kerr 55’), 11 Fowler, 14 Kennedy, 15 Hunt, 16 Raso (5 Vine 104’), 19 Gorry, 21 Carpenter, 23 Cooney-Cross (13 Yallop 116’) - Subs not used: RGK Teagan, RGK Williams, 2 Nevin, 3 Luik, 4 Polkinghorne, 6 Wheller, 17 Simon, 22 Grant
France: GK Peyraud-Magnin (RGK Durand 123’), 2 Lakrar, 3 Renard, 5 De Almeida (Perisset 123’), 6 Toletti (Becho 64’), 7 Karchaoui, 8 Geyoro, 9 Le Sommer, 11, Diani, 13 Bacha, 15 Dali – Subs not used: RGK Picaud, 4 Fazer, 10 Majri, 12 Mateo, 14 Tounkara, 17 Le Garrec, 18 Asseyi, 19 Feller, 20 Cascarino
13.8.2023
WA FOOTBALL WEEKEND WRAP
Perth RedStar moved two points clear at the top of the NPLWA – Men’s table after a 1-0 win against Balcatta Etna at the RedStar Arena, this after joint leaders Stirling Macedonia conceded late to draw 2-2 against Bayswater City at Frank Drago Reserve. It was Chok Dau who gave Callum Salmon’s side the points, pouncing on a back pass from Jon Corness, before rounding keeper Connor Campbell to score, and it puts them in pole position for the title. “A very competitive and close game that we couldn’t manage to find the second goal to completely kill off the competition,” Salmon said. “Pleased with our defensive unit keeping a clean sheet, happy to get the win and roll onto Glory next week. Very proud of the group, and also the U20s who have really engaged with the coaching staff expectations and the aim is to keep winning.” Calvin Whitney gave Stirling the lead just after the hour, firing home Asher Nelson’s cross, but Sam Dweh levelled for the host. Then ten minutes from time Nelson gave Ian Ferguson’s side the lead heading home a cross from Whitney at the back post. It looked like it would seal the points, but deep into stoppage time Gordon Smith levelled, to keep their top four hopes alive.
At the other end of the table Armadale has given their survival hopes alive after a 3-1 win against Floreat Athena, in new coach Alun Vernals first game in charge at Alfred Skeet Reserve. “Really pleased with the performance, we focused heavily on a strong start to the game and we got it,” Vernals said. “Victor and I were pleased with the buy in from the players, and we now focus on Balcatta next Saturday in another must win game.” The hosts took control early with Peter Jacobsz scoring, and he added a second on 34 minutes, heading home Amir Ajan’s cross. Chris Jackson converted from the spot to make it 3-0 five minutes later, and despite half time substitute Nick Ambrogio pulling one back late for Floreat, it was too little to late, the result leaving them bottom of the table.
Perth Glory also boosted their hopes of staying in the competition after a 4-1 win against Cockburn City at Dalmatinac Park, the loss leaving Cockburn one point off the foot of the table. It was the host who opened the scoring early through Anthony Skorich, but Joel Anasmo levelled. The hosts then had defender Euen Grant sent off early in the second half for a handball in the box, and Giordano Colli converted from the resulting penalty. The visitors went on with it after the break, young Socceroo Daniel Bennie made it 3-1 just before the hour, and James Overy added the fourth 17 minutes from time.
Inglewood United have moved off the bottom of the table after a 3-0 win against Sorrento at Percy Doyle Reserve. After a tough trip to Adelaide in the Australia Cup in midweek, United made the perfect start with Chris Tilson scoring on four minutes, heading in Matthew Ntoumenopoulos corner. The big defender added a second on the hour, before Benson Nsegetse wrapped up the points 15 minutes from time. In the final game Olympic Kingsway spoilt the 75th anniversary celebration of Perth SC, after a penalty from Ciaran Byrne and Tyler Garner gave them a 2-0 win at Dorrien Gardens, and the host were reduced to ten men late when Max Blackshaw was sent off.
In State League Division One league leaders Western Knights maintained their one-point advantage over Mandurah City after a hard fought 1-0 win against Subiaco at Rosalie Park, the only goal for the game came early from Alex Kretowicz. “Happy we got the win, coming into the game we knew no matter how it went we just needed to win, it was a game of two halves really, we dominated the first half and created a bunch of chances but just couldn’t seem to add to the score,” Knights’ striker Albert Luki explained. “Second half Subiaco did adjust well defensively, but we also played into that with some of our decision making and couldn’t really create as much, but overall happy with the three points.”
Meanwhile Mandurah City kept the pressure on the Knights after doubles from John Baird and Robbie Galvin gave them a comfortable 4-1 win against Forrestfield United at Genesiscare Stadium, the loss means United will be playing Division Two football next season. In other games Fremantle City are third after goals from Alex McLean, Tom Kinnane and Hamza Hina saw them beat Gosnells City 3-1 at Hilton Park, while Joondalup United consolidated fourth spot with a 3-0 win against Gwelup Croatia at Forrest Park with James Oldroyd, Joel Sollitt and Sam McKearnen on target. Dianella White Eagles scored late to draw 2-2 against a ten-man UWA Nedlands at the UWA Sports Park, while Murdoch University Melville returned to the winners’ circle after a 2-1 win against Rockingham at the Lark Hill Sportsplex.
In State League Division Two Kingsley Westside moved to within one point of promotion, after a 5-0 win against Quinns at Chichester Park on Saturday evening. Steven Dimitrovich’s side dominated with five different scorers, with Jayden Drummond, Luke Doyle, Daniel Harrison, Paul Stewart and Ilya Nebylytsya gave them a comprehensive win and put them on the verge of Division one football for the first time in their history. “Very good performance from the lads, but I felt first ten minutes or so was a scrappy game but once we got the first goal, we settled down really well and played the rest of the game on our terms,” Dimitrovich said. “Our work off the ball went up a level on Saturday and it showed with Quinn’s not have a strike on goal for the entire game. The way we finished the game was even more pleasing as we kept the pressure on Quinn’s and the pressure told in the end with two goals in the space of five minutes to round out the score and the game. We know get ready for a big game against Canning on Saturday.
Maddington-Kalamunda White City are second after a hat-trick from Gaston Bazet gave them a 3-1 win against Ashfield at Ashfield Sports Club. Curtin University remain third after a brace from Oscar Wright gave them a 4-2 win against Joondalup City at Iluka District Open Space, while Swan United remains fourth after a 3-1 win against Canning City at Burrendah Reserve. Carramar Shamrock Rovers are just outside the top four after they received a forfeit from their home game against Morley Windmills, while in the other game Wanneroo City and Balga shared the spoils in a 1-1 draw at Wanneroo Reserve.
In the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division, Emerald moved back to the top of the table after a 2-0 win against Joondalup United at Beldon Park on Sunday afternoon. A first half goal from Dean McAuliffe set Shane O’Donovan’s side on their way, before Stephen Kinsella secured the points after the break. “Very happy with the win, I felt we should have got a few more goals but happy with the clean sheet and the three points is what matters and back top of the table is great,” O’Donovan said. “Now it’s up to us to stay there, we just have to take it game by game and not worry about anyone else. Once we do our job, we know it’s in our hands but still a long way to go yet.”
North Perth United lost top spot after they were held to a 1-1 draw by Kwinana United at Kelly Park. Jason Barrera had given the visitors the lead on the hour, but the hosts levelled in the final minute with Sean Troup on target, meanwhile North Perth were reduced to ten men in stoppage time with Mehdi Gholami sent off. East Perth moved up to third after a brace from Ryan McCready helped them to a 5-1 win against Wembley Downs at Cabrini Park, while South West Phoenix boosted their survival hopes with a brace from Jeremy Stevens giving them a surprise 4-3 win against Jaguar at the Herb Graham Recreation Centre. In the other games Peel United stunned Kelmscott Roos 3-1 at Bortolo Park, Sean Semmler scoring the important third goal late, while a hat-trick from George Stephens secured a 5-1 win for South Perth United against North Beach at Challenger Reserve.
In the NPLWA – Women’s competition Perth RedStar, are the 2023 Champions after a 3-3 draw against Balcatta Etna at the RedStar Arena on Sunday afternoon. “Our objective this week was to secure the title, and it’s a well-deserved achievement for the team,” RedStar coach Carlos Vega-Mena said. “Traditionally playing Balcatta is a difficult game and they fought hard until the very end, which meant we couldn’t relax on the pitch. The players followed the game plan and I’m proud of the way they stepped up. They have worked hard this year to be two-time League Champions.” Lauran Continibali gave the visitors the lead early, but a quick double from Sophia Neal and Jayna Ridley put the hosts in control, and when Neal added a second just before half time it looked game over. But Monique Prinsloo pulled one back just after the hour, and a stoppage time goal from Tia Stonehill restored parity, but the point secured back-to-back title for the Joondalup-based club. In other games this weekend, Murdoch University Melville thrashed bottom of the table Curtin University 8-0 at Besteam Stadium on Friday evening with Kathryn Schubert scoring a ht-trick, while the Hyundai NTC ended Perth SC hopes of catching the leaders, the youngsters running out 4-1 winners at E&D Litis Stadium, with Tanika Lala also grabbing a triple. In the final game Subiaco AFC produced one of their best performances of the season, with a brace from Marianna Tabain, helping them to a 2-1 win against Fremantle City at Hilton Park.
Hyundai Women’s Division One leaders Hamersley Rovers are on the verge of securing the title after a 7-0 win against Subiaco AFC at Carine Open Space. The league’s top goal scorer Christiane Astorp was the hero, scoring a hat-trick, to make it 26 goals for the season, to leave Rovers seven points clear at the top of the table. UWA Nedlands returning to the winner’s circle after a brace from Charlotte Swan helped them to 5-1 win against Fremantle City at Wauhop Park, while Perth AFC beat Sorrento 5-1 at Len Packham Park, with doubles from Angela Cheaib and Jessica Moreschini. In the final game it was the local derby at Koorana Reserve, with Port Kennedy and Mandurah City shared the spoils in a 2-2 draw. The visitors lead 2-0 at the break, with goals from Cassidy Moyle and Katrina Breen, but the hosts hit back with two late goals in the second half from Vanessa Baker and last gasp Lucy Jones penalty to level the score. “It was a very entertaining game, but the girls were a bit slow first 20 minutes, and Mandurah scored from a corner and then defence was caught napping and they bagged a second,” Port Kennedy coach Kevin Cole explained. “But in the second half we came out well, and the girls shifted into another gear and pressured Mandurah constantly, and were rewarded with two goals. We kept the pressure on for the rest of the game, and I thought we could get the winner if we had a couple more minutes of time and I believe we would have nicked the win, but I’m happy the girls bounced back from two goals down.”
9.8.2023
WINDMILLS ISSUED A $5000 FINE AND DOCKED 21 POINTS
Morley Windmills have been docked 21 points for breaching player salary rules. The club were sitting third on the Division Two ladder but the points reduction plummets them to tenth and puts them in the mix for relegation with three games remaining.
Football West today announced the club had been issued a disciplinary infringement notice for a breach of player status rules. The breach was in relation to the payment of amateur-registered players above the permitted threshold of Football Australia’s National Registration, Status and Transfer Regulations.
The Grade 3 offence under the Player Payment System means Morley Windmills’ first team loses 21 competition points, effective immediately, and the club fined $5000. The maximum penalty in Grade 4 for a subsequent offence would see the club banned from any Football West competitions for two years and slapped with a $20,000 fine.
9.8.2023
GILSENAN MAKES DREAM DEBUT FOR BLACKBURN
Zak Gilsenan made a dream debut for Blackburn Rovers by playing the starring role in his teams 4-3 Carabao Cup win over Walsall. The 20-year old, who played juniors with Sorrento, scored his teams opening goal before turning provider for John Buckley to give Blackburn a second half lead.
Gilsenan joined Blackburn in 2019 and, after impressing in the Under-21's, signed a two-year contract extension in June which will keep him at the club through to 2025. It was a sweet reward for the youngster after spending almost a year out of the game due to an anterior cruciate ligament injury.
"This is a season where I really want to kick on and show everyone what I can do, and hopefully I can impress. I definitely want to be playing first team football this year and I think I'm capable of doing that," Gilsenan said at the time of signing the contract extention.
"Seeing the other young lads do well last season is really encouraging, especially Jake Garrett, as he's the same age as me and we went through our scholarship together, so that makes me want to push on and show that I can be up there as well. I've been here since I was an Under-16 and this club feels like home now."
Joondalup-born Gilsenan spent a year with Perth Glory’s youth team before being picked up by Barcelona, where he captained the youth team. He moved to Liverpool in 2014 and after five years on Merseyside he joined Blackburn's Under-16 team on a two-year scholarship agreement.
8.8.2023
KERR RUSTY BUT RELIEVED
For Samantha Kerr, as for Australia, last night’s 2-0 Women’s World Cup round-of-16 defeat of Denmark went exactly as planned. The Matilda’s striker came on for her first minutes of a tournament she had played a lead role in selling as her team moved through to a quarter-final.
Against Canada Kerr was not required, but even as the Matildas coasted towards another famous victory, the decision was made to get minutes in her legs. She conceded it was a relief to finally play a part in the tournament after watching on for the three group stage matches.
“It’s a big game for us so a bit nerve-wracking, I’m not the best bench player in the world - I get nervous - but the girls smashed it,” Kerr said following last night’s game. “They’ve done unbelievable this week and to put in that performance after a big game against Canada, it’s amazing.
“I was actually going to play last game, but the girls smashed it so they didn’t need me. Even today there was the opportunity that I wouldn’t play if the girls smashed it, but we thought it was best for me and the team and the girls absolutely killed it. For me coming on as well it was a big relief, it’s been a big three weeks.”
Kerr went through an extensive warm-up before coming on, including at half-time, which she revealed was also just part of the recovery process. “That was always the plan, coming out at half time for a warm up, believe it or not we actually have a plan,” she said.
“The plan was just to warm up and then once they scored it was a bit of a breather and take it slow. I feel good, I think I was a little bit rusty, but I felt great. I will sleep better tonight than I have the last two weeks.”
Kerr has been blown away by just how passionate the Australian public has been as the team prepares for an even bigger match on Saturday night. The Matilda’s are one of only eight teams left in the tournament and are set to face either France or Morocco for a place in the semi-finals. “I’m so proud of them,” Kerr said.
“I think the girls are just doing what we’ve always done and the crowd just gets us over the line. Whenever we play at home we always show up and it’s nice we’re in our own backyard, we feel comfortable and this team has so much belief and I think you can see that out on the pitch.”
“I think we’re embracing it, the Australian public has been amazing, on the street, making us coffee - whoever it is - they have all got behind us, we have felt the love and just walking down the street it has been a real buzz. I’m embracing it, we’re loving it and hopefully we can keep pushing on.”
8.8.2023
IREDALE OUT TO MAKE MOST OF HIS CHANCE
Jack Iredale needs no reminder how cruel football can be but the latest injury twist in the Bolton Wanderers camp has also left him with big opportunity. George Johnston underwent knee surgery last week and now faces several months of rehabilitation - a long road that his team-mate Iredale knows only too well.
Iredale suffered the same injury on three occasions as a teenager, threatening his football career before it had even taken off, while his 2022/23 campaign was cut short in January after damaging the meniscus in his knee, a problem which required hospital treatment and a four-month lay-off.
Iredale marked his return to action on the weekend by scoring the opening goal in Boltons’ 3-0 win against Lincoln City. His delight at scoring for the first time for the club he joined in May 2022 and contributing to such a comprehensive win on the opening day was tempered slightly by the circumstances in which his opportunity had arrived.
“I really feel for Jonno because I have done exactly what he has done,” Iredale said. “I have kept in touch with him regularly and talked to him just before the game. I love Jonno and get on with him really well – on the pitch I think we had a good relationship between the left-sided centre-half and the wing-back as well.”
“Football is a cruel game and with his injury it has opened a door for me to step into the role he played so well and make it my own this season. We have Zac Ashworth, Will Forrester and Eoin Toal who can also play there, so there is plenty of competition and I want to play as many minutes as possible, just like anyone else.”
Both Iredale and Victor Adeboyejo’s goals against Lincoln came from set pieces, an avenue which has not been especially profitable in the last few seasons. There has been a concerted effort within the camp to improve the Whites’ returns from free-kicks and corners, which have shown some positive results since the turn of the year.
“It is so important to be good on set pieces as well as being good with the ball,” said Iredale. “With due respect to Lincoln, they were probably looking to come here and catch us on the counter, so if you are playing against teams who are going to make it difficult like that then you need to find different ways to score goals.”
“One way is to be strong on set pieces. We made them have to change their gameplan, and then you saw with the third goal, it is exactly what happened. Hirdy (first team coach Sam Hird) works really hard on set pieces and before every game we go through them - we have slideshows on them, they are up on the board, everyone knows their roles and responsibilities.”
7.8.2023
GLORY SWOOP FOR YOUNG MATILDAS GOALKEEPER JAMES
Perth Glory Women have secured the services of Young Matildas goalkeeper Sally James for the 2023/24 season. The 20-year old, who was part of the Australia squad at the 2022 Under-20 World Cup in Costa Rica, began her senior career with her hometown club, Canberra United, before joining Melbourne City in 2021.
James made 12 A-League starts for Melbourne last season and is now relishing the prospect of embarking upon an exciting new stage of her football journey here in the west. “I wanted to come to Perth because of the strong sense of togetherness within the team and staff and the positive environment that the club offers,” James said.
“I came to Perth in the off-season and spoke with (coach) Alex (Epakis) and I liked his vision for the club and how he is big on supporting player development while fostering a competitive environment. My personal targets for the upcoming season revolve around continuous growth and improvement as a goalkeeper.”
“I’m excited to work closely with the coaching staff and contribute to the team’s success in the push for finals football. I believe that Perth Glory has an incredibly talented squad and a coaching staff that is dedicated to bringing out the best in each player.”
“Each year, Glory has gotten closer and closer to the top four, so with collective commitment and hard work from everyone involved, I’m confident that we’ll be able to take that next step and challenge for the top positions in the league.”
Epakis believes that with James on board to compliment Morgan Aquino, the club has one of the strongest goalkeeping departments in the league. “I am really pleased to be able to bring Sally to Perth Glory,” Epakis said. “She is a very motivated individual who is eager to come to the club and contribute to what we are trying to achieve as a team.”
“She has great qualities as a goalkeeper and has been able to showcase these across recent seasons in both the ALW and with youth national teams. We are in a very fortunate position to have great depth across the squad and I believe the signing of Sally supports this notion.”
7.8.2023
MAYNARD-BREWER CONFIDENT CHARLTON CAN HANDLE PRESSURE
Charlton Athletic have found themselves touted for promotion this season but goalkeeper Ashley Maynard-Brewer says that the squad can take that pressure in their stride. The South Londoners opened their League One campaign with a 1-0 win over Leyton Orient on the weekend, adding to speculation the Addicks will challenge for honours this time around.
“We don’t read too much into it,” admitted Maynard-Brewer when asked about the outside noise. “We’re all pretty optimistic. Going off how we finished last season, we know we’re a team that could push for promotion this season. Where we went wrong last season was our inconsistency. It’s a very long season and we need to maintain the levels we showed today.
“(The start to the campaign) was pretty perfect. Leyton Orient, coming up from League Two, it was always going to be intense. The way we went about it, especially towards the end when we saw out the game, that was great. Shoutout to Nathan (Asiimwe) and Karoy (Anderson), they were excellent coming into their first league game. They really stood up.”
“It’s so important (to start well) just to get us on our way and make sure we stay near the promotion spots. There’s nothing worse than having a slow start and having to have a reset. We can go into the next few games full of confidence and try to stay close to the top of the table.”
The West Australian shot-stopper was only called into serious action once by the O’s. “The back-five was spot on as a team,” Maynard-Brewer added. “We were perfect defensively. We took on board what we needed to from last week against Aberdeen. We went about our game plan perfectly and got a clean sheet which we didn’t get enough of last season.”
7.8.2023
FOORD DRIVES MATILDAS INTO LAST EIGHT
The Matildas have reached the last eight of the FIFA Women’s World Cup, after a Caitlin Foord inspired performance helped the host beat Denmark 2-0 at a packed Stadium Australia on Monday evening. The Arsenal striker struck the opener on the half hour, before Hayley Raso made sure of the win twenty minutes from time, and it sets up a quarter-final showdown against either France or Morocco, who play tonight, at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane on Saturday evening. “The whole country is behind us and we do feel it and we do see it,” Foord said. “You feel pressure when you’re not prepared, and we feel prepared. We feel like we’re ready for every scenario. We’re just enjoying our performances and building on that.”
Head Coach Tony Gustavsson, who had his critics after the Nigeria defeat, said tonight was a special performance from his team. “First of all, I’m very proud of the player’s maturity tonight,” he said post-match. “Denmark came out and surprised us. 4-4-2, high press, did not shy away from the occasion. We knew that Harder was going to be hard to deal with in the space between the midfield and the back-line and I think we struggled the first 15 minutes. But in tournament football, I’ve said it before, you need to play the game right in front of you and find ways to win. The maturity the players showed tonight, I’m very, very proud of.”
It was the Dane’s who were out of the blocks early, and the Matildas defence were working over time to keep the Europeans at bay. Denmark’s skipper Pernille Harder was a constant threat, and they went close to the lead on nine minutes. Winger Janni Thomsen raced past Aussie skipper Steph Catley and raced to the edge of the box, before squaring the ball to Rikke Madsen in the penalty area, but fortunate for the hosts, the winger was inches away from the ball. Denmark continued to press, and Karen Holmgaard won possession and raced forward, the Everton midfielder finding Amalie Vangsgaard, but the Paris Saint-Germain striker’s curling effort from the edge of the box was straight at Matildas’ custodian Mackinze Arnold.
They continue to press, but they couldn’t get behind a tight Matildas defence well led by Alanna Kennedy and Clare Hunt, their best chances coming from long-range which Arnold dealt with easily. Tony Gustavsson’s side settled and on 29 minutes, with their first shot at goal, they found the opener. Mary Fowler won possession on her own penalty area, and raced forward, cut back from a challenge and sending a superb through ball in the path of Foord, who didn’t have to break stride, and the striker raced clear and finished with aplomb past Danish keeper Lene Christensen, much to the delight of the majority of 75,784 crowd.
It was a real arm-wrestle after the break, both sides probing, but couldn’t find the quality in the final third. The hosts did go close on 65 minutes, Katrina Gorry and Fowler combined down the right, and Gorry diagonal ball found Foord racing down the left, she burst into the box and crossed from the bye-line, and Emily van Egmond’s back heel was saved low by Christensen. But five minutes later the Matildas’ sustained pressure was finally reward, as they doubled their advantage. Fowler was involved again, the Manchester City winger made space down the left, and played a ball into the feet of van Egmond, who controlled the ball well before laying the ball off to Raso, who drilled her shot low into the corner of the net through a crowded penalty area.
If you thought that cheer was loud, the biggest of the night came ten minutes from time when Sam Kerr made her entry onto the pitch. The Chelsea striker, who had missed the group stage games with a calf injury, replaced the goal scorer Raso. There was a scary moment when the superstar slipped in the penalty area, and the whole crowd gasped, but the former Perth Glory skipper was ok. She had the perfect opportunity to cap her return to action with a goal late on, she turned her marker and at full stride raced towards goal, and her shot on the run flashed over the top. But the damage had already been done, and the Matildas are riding a wave of national pride, as they go in search of their first-ever appearance in a World Cup semi-final.
Kerr said she was happy to be back in the green and gold, but acknowledge the team had done ok without her. "The girls have been absolutely smashing it the last few games and joining them on the pitch finally, after they've been doing all the work, it was an amazing feeling for me," Kerr said post-match. "[The reception] is obviously amazing and makes me feel really good, but Australia has really taken us on as one of their favourite teams. Personally, in the last three weeks everyone's made me feel really supported and welcomed back and I feel really lucky to be a part of this team."
6.8.2023
BURGESS EXCITED TO BE BACK IN THE CHAMPIONSHIP
Ipswich Town defender Cameron Burgess will be turning the clock back nine years when he returns to playing Championship football at Sunderland today. It was at the same level, on the opening day of the 2014/15 campaign, that an 18-year old Burgess made his professional debut for Fulham against Ipswich.
Burgess, now 27, only played four games for Fulham before embarking on a journey that took in loans to Ross County, Cheltenham Town, Oldham Athletic and Bury before a permanent move to Scunthorpe United. Further spells at Salford City and Accrington Stanley preceded a £750,000 deal which took him to Ipswich almost two years ago.
“It’s gone full circle and I’m really excited to be back in the Championship and to get going again,” Burgess said. “Looking back to that game in 2014, I don’t remember a great deal. I was a youngster making my debut and I was playing in midfield. In some ways it was a weird experience with the game passing very quickly.”
“It was all a bit of a whirlwind, to be honest, and I don’t remember a great deal. I’m coming back into the Championship with a lot more experience, obviously, and a lot more know-how. It would have been good back then to have known a few of the things I know now. I’m sure it will help me a lot in the season ahead.”
Burgess will never forget the joyous scenes at Portman Road following the 6-0 thumping of Exeter in the final home fixture that ended four years of third-tier fare. “They are great memories and there was a great bond among the lads. We’ll always remember it but there’s the other side of it, where we all came to Ipswich with the same target, to get to where we are now,” he said.
“We’ve got over that hurdle and now it’s about a new challenge in the Championship. It will be about putting our stamp on the league by doing the things we do well. It would be nice to get off to a good start and then taking the games as they come along and trying to build up our points tally.”
“We don’t know where we are going to end up but what we do know is that if we stick to our principles and what we’re good at, the way we’ve played to this point will stand us in good stead at the higher level. At the same time, however, what we did last season means nothing now, although we’re confident we can give a good account of ourselves in the season that lies ahead.”
“Who knows how things are going to work out? If you could predict where every one of the 24 Championship teams is going to finish that would be something very special. Every team in this league will fancy themselves to do quite well – that’s the nature of the league – and we’re no different.”
“But we’re going to be playing at a higher level, which means that we need to do the things that we’ve shown we are good at a bit better than previously because we’re going to be playing against better teams. We’re a very well organised team ourselves but we all know it is going to be a step up in standard and that’s something we must address if we are going to make an impact.”
“It will be a busy nine months or so... and by reputation the Championship is known to be a gruelling league. But the lads know what to expect and nobody’s put off by it. The overwhelming feeling in the squad right now is one of excitement and anticipation, with everyone keen to get going. We train with great intensity and we’re definitely ready for it.”
6.8.2023
BELT-UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION – ROUND FIFTEEN REVIEW
Our belt up Amateur Premier Division ’Match of the Round’ between league leaders North Perth United and Kelmscott Roos at Woodville Reserve turned out to be a one-sided game, with the hosts running out convincing 6-0 winners. “I thought both teams struggled in the first ten minutes to settle, and the first goal completely sparked us into life,” North Perth coach Alex Carter said. “Some of our ball movement and attacking patterns and combinations were scintillating, and everything seemed to click today in many aspects. It was easy on the eye, and we managed to use our full bench early on and hopefully keep a few boys fresh for Wednesday’s cup game.”
The hosts hit the front when Trent Myers played Nickolas Bailey down the flank, and he squared a first-time ball to Brian Woodall who finished with ease. It was 2-0 on 19 minutes, Mehidi Gholami was brought down in the box and Woodall converted the resulting penalty. The hosts then hit three more before half time to break the game wide open. First on 29 minutes, Javier Pineres Mestre won possession in the middle of the park and drove forward, before a neat give and go with Gholami, sent him in on goal and he finished well. Woodall was involved with the fourth, his shot deflecting off the unfortunate Jared Lange. They made it 5-0 at the break, when Bailey finished low past Taylor Warwick. Scott Blackmore capped off the scoring after half time, making two in two games for the new number nine.
Second placed Emerald also bagged six to keep the pressure on North Perth, after a 6-1 win against Peel United at Fraser Park. “Happy with the performance, and getting a few goals is always good for confidence,” Emerald coach Shane O’Donovan said. “We have been dominating games lately, but not turning that into goals, today we did that. So, on to the next one now in this very tight league.” The host were ahead on 12 minutes, Dean McAuliffe broke clear and finished well. It soon became 2-0, McAuliffe pressed the keeper and capitalised on the mistake to tap home. They added a third on the half hour, McAuliffe completing his hat-trick winning the ball on the edge of the box, before turning his marker and finishing with aplomb. The hosts went on with it after half time, first a great strike from Donal Shanley from the edge of the box, before James woods headed home the fifth from a corner, then Shanley made it 6-0 with another good strike. The visitors found a consolation goal late with Scott Martin scoring, but it was the hosts running out big winners
East Perth were the big movers this weekend, after 2-0 win against Jaguar took them to third on the ladder. “It was a brilliant team performance today from the lads and a huge response after a poor performance last week,” East Perth coach Colm Costello said. “Jags are a quality side and we set out to stop the balls from back four into dangerous areas to damage us. We had four lads with their first starts today in first team, and they all stepped up to a huge challenge and delighted with them, especially Craig Howie who had a brilliant debut. It’s another week ticked off, but has I said previously every week is so important so we move onto Wembley next week and prepare again on Tuesday night.” The hosts were ahead on the half hour, a Ryan Murray corner found Ryan McGready who lost his marker to head home. The hosts created a number of chances, but failed to take them, that was until five minutes from half time when they doubled their advantage. McGready headed down to Jamie O’Connor, who capped off his full debut with the club by finishing well.
The round started on Saturday evening in Bunbury, when hosts South West Phoenix came from three goals down to draw 3-3 with South Perth United at the Onside Sports Stadium. “We probably should have been two or three up in the first few minutes but couldn’t convert our chances,” United coach lee Hayward said. “We went down to Bunbury missing a few players in addition to the long-term injuries, however we still had enough quality to get the result. We know they are a tough team to play away but to go and get a 3-0 lead and then concede three goals late on is not acceptable, the guys know that. We had plenty of opportunities to put the game to bed and didn’t, so far play to Phoenix took the chances they created late on and got a point that probably looked unlikely for most of the game.”
The visitors found the opener, when Karlis Jaenes got on the end of an Alex Godfrey corner. They doubled their lead a few minutes later, another Alex Godfrey corner was headed goalward by Luke Pedley and Ben Godfrey turned the ball home. It was 3-0 early in the second half, George Stephens rolling his marker and firing home, and they had the perfect chance to make it four, but Phoenix keeper Kobe Loe saved Alex Godfrey’s spot kick. That save sparked the hosts into action and they pulled on back twenty minutes from time, Nate Wilson racing clear and sending Jeremy Stevens one-on-one with the Suth Perth keeper to score.
They added a second nine minutes later, great hold up play, from Callum Vane, who and his cross found Ryan Carrol for a tap in. Then in the final minute Phoenix found the equaliser, Corey Barclay was brought down in the box and the referee pointed to the spot and youngster Fernando Spadaccini converted the penalty. “A great comeback from the lads, but both first half goals came from set-pieces, which was disappointing,” Barclay explained. “A great save from Kobe kept us in it, but their player should have scored from the rebound with the goal at his mercy, but we should great character to fight back and claim a point, which will give us confidence moving forward.”
There was another six-goal thriller at Butlers Reserve on Sunday, with Wembley Downs scoring late to earn a 3-3 against Joondalup United. “Again, changes and injuries meant different personnel and a different formation, and it took us sometime to settle into the changes and to the lack of width at Wembley. Although we had a few good chances Wembley probably deserved their 1 goal advantage at the break,” Joondalup coach Karl Cherrie explained. “However, we improved in the second half and by mid-way through had gone 3-1 up and looked comfortable for another three points, but to Wembley credit they didn’t give up and kept the pressure on, forcing a couple of errors allowing Wembley to get a point. A good tough game played in good spirits and well refereed, and with Kwinana and Phoenix picking up points it was a handy point for us, although it felt like a loss given, we were comfortable until late.”
The hosts were ahead on 25 minutes, Dave Brownlees’ shot was fumbled by the keeper and Tom Bish was there first for the rebound and found the roof of net. But on the hour the visitors levelled with Drew Kirkpatrick converted from the spot. They were ahead moments later, with Evan Gurney scoring, and the points looked safe after Gurney added his second 18 minutes from time. But five minutes from time Wembley found a life line, Josh Chalmers got on the end of another rebound this time from Patrick Sinicki’s powerful shot. Then in the final minute, the hosts equalised, Cam Chambers cross was headed home by Sinicki. “Another entertaining game for the neutral, unfortunately for us it meant dropped points,” Wembley player/coach Jeff Cornez said. “We felt in control after the first half but then a five-minute spell where we switched off allowed them back into the game. We fought hard as we have all year to secure a point in the end. We now have to get ready for North Perth midweek for the cup. The run they’re on will be tough to stop so we’ll need to be ready.”
In the final game Kwinana United moved off the bottom of the table after a 3-0 win against North Beach at Charles Riley Reserve. “The boys were outstanding today, I’d love to say it was a tactical masterclass but it was all them,” Kwinana coach Mark Purvis said. “We lost three lads due to the flu on the Saturday and those who stepped in were terrific, I couldn’t be prouder of the group.” United were ahead on the half hour, Alex Bradshaw finishing off a great team move. They doubled their lead on 74 minutes, Brendan McCamley arriving late at the back post to score. They sealed the three points in the final minute, Mustapha Mkanza racing clear, and rounding the keeper and rolling the ball into an empty net.
6.8.2023
NPLWA WOMEN’S – ROUND EIGHTEEN REVIEW
A late double from Perth SC striker Jaime Duncanson has helped the Azzurri return to winning ways, after a 4-2 win over Murdoch University Melville at Besteam Stadium on Sunday afternoon. “Our aim was to bounce back after dropping some points last week, and we focused on maintaining our brand of football, and I thought we did really well as a team, especially in the second half, to keep the ball and move MUM around to expose space,” Duncanson explained. “We’ve been working with limited numbers so it’s been great to see everyone step up and take responsibility within the team. We were really happy to have put four away. Having range on our score sheet is something we take pride in.”
They took only two minutes to open the scoring, Duncanson stealing the ball from Charlotte Meaden on the halfway line and sending Judy Connolly clear to finish past Stacey Cavill. But the hosts hit back and Perth keeper Rebecca Bennett saved low to deny Andrea Preiato, while at the other end Cavill made a smart save palm away Duncanson’s header. But on 34 minutes MUMFC levelled, Jessica Johnson’s long-range shot beat Bennett and into the back of the net. The Azzurri regained the lead on the hour mark, Monique Godding arrived at the back post to score, following good work by Jess Flannery down the left.
Perth made the game safe with two minutes remaining as Duncanson lifted the ball over Cavill following Poppie Hooks’ nod forward. Then Perth’s top scorer made it a dozen league goals in 2023 with a simple finish after Gemma Craine’s unselfish assist. Charli Wainwright stayed onside to slip in a late consolation for Murdoch, but they are now seven points off fourth spot with only three games left. “It was a hard-fought win and I believe we deserved it,” Perth Coach Peter Rakic said. “We started the game very bright on the front foot and grabbed an early goal which set the pace for the game, and I thought we only conceded from our own mistakes which is always something to learn from. We also came out of the game unscathed with no more injuries which is a huge boost for us at this point.”
In other games Hyundai NTC beat Subiaco 3-0 at Rosalie Park. The NTC youngsters are six points clear of fifth-placed Balcatta Etna with a game in hand, and look certain for a top four spot. Georgia Cassidy gave them the lead on six minutes when she pinched the ball off Subiaco keeper Marissa Pidgeon and finished from an acute angle. They doubled their advantage on the hour, Ischia Brooking curling home from the edge of the box. The points were sealed 14 minutes from time, with another long-range effort from the impressive Brooking.
Fremantle City look to have sealed a top four spot after a 1-0 win against Balcatta Etna at Grindleford Reserve. A tight first half saw chances at both ends, the best fell to the visitors, with Tash Rigby denied by Gabby Dal Busco, who stood tall in a one-on-one, before Carys Davis cleared the rebound. Fremantle had plenty of possession after the break, and made it pay five minutes from time. Abbey Green inch-perfect through ball found top score Olivia Trueman, who finished clinically to seal the win.
The round started on Friday evening, with Perth RedStar closing in on the title, after thrashing bottom of the table Curtin University 11-0 at Edinburgh Oval. Riena Kagami and Japanese compatriot Chiori Ikeda shared the first four goals of the evening as Carlos Vega Mena’s side jumped out to a 4-0 lead before half-an-hour. Then two Ikeda corners were then headed in by skipper Jay Coleman as RedStar racked up half a dozen goals by half time. Sophia Neal scored from close range early in the second half, before Kagami’s determination saw her poke in another, to complete her hat-trick. Ikeda supplied Kagami to bring up nine, before Katie Ritchie’s deft pass found Jayna Ridley with the substitute striding in on goal and picking out the bottom corner for 10-0, before Ridley returned the favour for Ritchie to finish easily and complete the scoring.
6.8.2023
HYUNDAI WOMEN’S LEAGUE DIVISION ONE - ROUND SIXTEEN REVIEW
Hyundai Women’s Division One leaders Hamersley Rovers have extended their lead at the top of the table to seven points, after a hard fought 3-2 win against Fremantle City at Carine Open Space on Sunday afternoon. “It was an intense game, we missed multiple chances in the first half where we could have been three or four up,” Rovers’ coach Betim Ziba explained. “It was always going to be hard with some of our started away and injuries creeping in but we had a game plan and kept to it. Fremantle changed formation throughout the game and we did well to adjust when needed. It was a good game to be a part of, and was a great win especially with UWA dropping points to Port Kennedy.”
The hosts were ahead after only three minutes, a long ball over the top by Lauren Nicholson found Cass Harvey who drove forward and found the bottom left corner of the net. But Fremantle levelled seven minutes before the break, a ball over the top sent Alice Vandermeiren clear, her first shot was saved, but she fired home the rebound. But five minutes into the second half the hosts regained the lead, a back pass from a Fremantle defender was pounced upon by the leagues top goalscorer Christiane Astorp, and she diverted the ball past the keeper. The hosts added a third 17 minutes from time, a great team move ended with Brianna Patrick who’s cross was turned home by the alert Astorp, for her 23rd goal of the season. But Fremantle weren’t finished and Vandermeiren added her second six minutes later, which set up a thrilling finish, but Fremantle couldn’t find the equaliser.
UWA Nedlands lost ground on the leaders after a 3-1 loss against the improving Port Kennedy at the UWA Sports Park. Port coach Kevin Cole was delighted with his side’s performance. “The win and the performance were outstanding, and my girls were relentless we didn't let UWA play the ball around like they like to do, and we took our goals well,” he explained. “We played a very well-structured back line and UWA couldn't get close to our goal had to shoot outside the box, so the hard work definitely paid off today.”
It looked business as usual early, and UWA were ahead on six minutes with Tiahna Atkins stunning shot from distance. But on the half hour the visitors levelled. A chipped ball through found Lucy Jones, who headed over the oncoming keeper. Port hit the front on 71 minutes, a cross from the edge of the box found Keira Turner, who tapped home. Then five minutes from time the visitors sealed the points, Chloe Gross cut in from the right and powered her shot over the keeper. In other games Perth AFC bounced back from defeat last week, with a narrow 1-0 win against Subiaco at Rosalie Park. The only goal of the game came midway through the first half, with Kate Whiteside on target. Meanwhile in the final game, goals from Cassidy Moyle and Suria Priya Varatharaja gave Mandurah city a 2-0 win against Sorrento at Genesiscare Stadium, to maintain fourth place.
5.8.2023
STIRLING HIT BACK TO STUN OLYMPIC
Stirling Macedonia have move levelled with NPLWA – Men’s leaders Perth RedStar, after coming from two goals down to beat Olympic Kingsway 3-2 in the round 12 catch up game at Kingsway Reserve on Saturday evening. Liam Murray and Callum O’Connell gave the hosts a 2-0 lead, before Gyles Davies pulled on back for the visitors in the shadows of half time. Calvin Whitney levelled from the spot ten minutes into the second half, and the former Perth Glory Youth midfielder won it for Ian Ferguson’s side 11 minutes from time.
“To come back from two goals down yet again to take all three points shows the character of our squad,” Stirling skipper Dejan Spaseski said. “Credit to Kingsway, who came out firing and were very difficult to deal with in spells of dominance. In the end, our quality showed and once we flicked the switch, they weren’t able to contain us. With the number of chances we created, we thoroughly deserved the three points.” The hosts were ahead on 25 minutes, a poor clearance from former Olympic defender Luke Palmateer went straight to O’Connell, he found Tyler Garner in the middle of the park, and his slide rule pass sent Liam Murray racing in on goal, and he finished clinically past James Bosdet.
Olympic doubled their lead five minutes before half time, another defensive mistake saw Garner tip toe past two Stirling defenders before his low cross picked out the unmarked O’Connell at the back post to score. But Stirling halved the deficit two minutes later, Sam Wynne shot took a deflection off Daniel Walsh, the ball falling kindly to Davies, who finished low past David Keenan. The visitors were level ten minutes into the second half, referee Steven Gregory pointing to the spot after Alex Tanevski’s cross hit the arm of Olympic skipper Shane Cassidy, and Whitney sent Keenan the wrong way from the resulting penalty. Then 11 minutes from time Stirling completed the comeback, substitute Kade Fearnall’s corner was swept home by Whitney, much to the delight of the travelling supporters.
“It was massive for us to get the win, and it shows the character of the team as this isn’t the first time, we’ve fought back from a deficit to win against the odds this season and previous. Kingsway, to their credit played really well and were on top of us in the first half which gave them the lead. However, the goal from Gyles was crucial to keep our morale strong going in before the half,” Stirling defender Brent Quick explained.
“At halftime we talked about closing the gaps that we were being exploited in and rallied around the idea that we would score the next goal and then win the game which is what we did. Calvin stepped up massive and put the ball in the back of the net twice where it counted, I’m proud of the entire team for rallying together and contributing towards the win. The win is sweet as Kingsway is a rival game for us but even sweeter as it keeps us right next to RedStar, we will hope that they drop points and we will be looking to take all of ours in these next three games to have the chance to win this league.
Olympic Kingsway: GK David KEENAN, 3 Daniel WALSH, 5 Calum O’CONNELL (7 Jamie GARDINER 79’), 8 Ollie ANNIS, 9 Ciaran BYRNE (16 David PERICH 79’), 10 Tyler GARNER, 12 James FANELLI, 14 Liam MURRAY (2 Lebib LEBIB 79’), 15 Shane CASSIDY, 17 Joshua SAMSON, 19 Mich OXBORROW – Subs not used: RGK Joe POLLARD, 6 John CHALMERS, 19 Noah KANZI, 20 Mark WITHERS
Stirling Macedonia: GK James BOSDET, 2 Brent QUICK, 3 Ryan MALTON (12 Kai MATTHEWS 33’), 4 Hristijan JANKULOSKI, 5 Luke PALMATEER, 6 Dejan SPASESKI (9 Kade FEARNALL 71’), 7 Asher NELSON, 8 Gyles DAVIES, 10 Sam WYNNE, 11 Daniel FAICHNEY (17 Alex TANEVSKI 42’), 13 Calvin WHITNEY – Subs not used: RGK Liam PRICE, 16 Samim FATTAHI – Referee Steven GREGORY
5.8.2023
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND NINETEEN REVIEW
Our State League Division Two ‘Match of the Round’ took us to Dianella Reserve, with Dianella White Eagles and Fremantle City fighting out a 1-1 draw on Saturday evening. “It was a great fight to the end from the Dianella boys, they stuck to the game plan and it showed, with possession and opportunities which unfortunately could not convert,” Dianella assistant coach Cristian Cortes explained. “It was a fantastic game to watch for the Dianella spectators, thanks to the Fremantle players for a great match, now we concentrate on our process and strategies for next week’s game.”
Fremantle arrived into the game after a big win against leaders Western Knights last week, and they were ahead in this one, on 21 minutes. Anthony Topini’s free kick picked out Ryan Hogan, who headed home from close-range. But the hosts leveled on the half hour, a long throw from Josh Kuser into the box saw Anthony O’Donnell foul Kevin McEvoy and the referee pointed to the spot. Player/Coach Angel Andres stepped up and sent Jordan Barbas the wrong way from the resulting penalty, to give both sides a share of the spoils. “It was a tough game, away at Dianella is never an easy fixture especially with the form they’ve been in,” Fremantle’s Elliot Ireland said. “I thought we defended really well as a unit, which was pleasing. Although I thought we created enough chances to win the game, a draw is probably a fair result.”
Mandurah City has lost top spot after they were beaten 1-0 by Gwelup Croatia at the Croatian Sporting Complex, Wishart Street. Gwelup coach Trom Morgan was delighted the performance of his young side. “An exciting game for all spectators, played in great spirit by both teams. I thought we rode our luck at times but settled in the second half, Jake Williamson scoring a cracking late goal to give us the win,” he explained. “I thought that our defence was outstanding and our work rate exceptional to keep up with a very strong Mandurah side. So pleased to see how this young team has developed over the season.”
The only goal of the game came three minutes from time, Matthew Henry sent Jacob Williamson racing down the left, the English striker cut into the box and finished clinically past Alfie Brincat. “It was a great win for the lads to keep us in the mix for a top four spot,” Williamson said. “I thought we showed our class against a top opponent once again, and can take the quality into the final three games of the season.”
Western Knights moved back to the top of the table after a 3-0 win against UWA Nedlands at Nash Field. Knights coach Adam Kostrencic said it was a tight game and praised his keeper for his performance. “UWA certainly made us earn the three points and Devon (Lindemann) made some important saves in the first half for us,” he said. “We lacked the quality with our delivery and end product in the early parts of the game. But we responded well in the second half, applied the pressure and in the end were rewarded for our efforts.” It was a tight first half, with both sides having their chances, but it was the Knights who hit the front on 57 minutes, Jay Sheridan’s corner was headed home by Jack Bardsley. They added a second nine minutes later Alex Kretowicz finding Bardsley, who finished clinically past Brendon Rintoul. They rounded off the scoring in stoppage time, Sheridan beating Rintoul at his near post with a curling free kick.
Joondalup United and Rockingham City have played out a 2-2 draw at Forrest Park. “It was a good physical battle with Joondalup, and we showed great resilience to come back from 1-0 and then 2-1,” Rockingham coach Kris Donnell said. “We had a great chance right at the very end to take all three points, but it wasn't to be. That's three games unbeaten now against very good opposition, we have to keep improving now and finish as well as possible.” The hosts were ahead on 12 minutes, after Ben Campbell was brought down in the box by Maxwell Worswick, and Jay Lang found the bottom corner from the resulting penalty, despite Cyril Sharrock getting a hand to it.
Rockingham were level on 25 minutes, Ruben Joseph’s sublime through ball sent Rory McGrath clear and he finished low past Todd Hoyle. Then five minutes before the break Joondalup regained the lead, Lang’s free kick was turned into his own net by the unfortunate Dylan Urquhart. But in the shadows of half time, Rockingham restored parity, Joseph’s free kick deflecting off the wall to beat Hoyle. Both sides had chances after the break but had to settle for a point. “A disappointing team performance today from us,” Joondalup coach Nick Jennings said. “We lacked quality in all areas and a killer instinct in the final third.”
Gosnells City moved clear of the relegation zone, after a 3-1 win against a ten-man Murdoch University Melville at Walter Padbury Reserve. “I think that results been coming on the back of some really good performances and playing some really good football of late,” Gosnells assistant coach Andrew Pomfret said. “We haven't been able to notch as many results as those performances have deserved, so it was great for the lads to get some reward for their efforts against a very solid unit like MUMFC.”
It was a tight first half, with chances at both ends, but it was the visitors who opened the scoring early in the second half, former Gosnells striker Eddie Wynne-Willson curling home a free kick from the edge of the box. But on the hour the hosts levelled, Tom Kennedy’s shot was handled on the line by Godfrey Asimwe, and referee Tom Glavovic pointed to the spot and sent the defender off. Aaron Coslani stepped up and sent Tom Allan the wrong way from the resulting free kick.
Gosnells thought they had the lead 14 minutes later, after Tom Chandler fired home, but the flag was up for offside. They did take the lead ten minutes from time, substitute Blake Pritchard sent Chandler racing clear, and he squared the ball to Brice Rae, who finished low past Allan. They sealed the points moments later, Aden Hoddy’s free kick sent substitute Joshua Spencer down the right, and his cross was turned home by Rae.
“I have to admit it had the feeling of "not one of those days again" when MUMFC scored a great free kick to put them 1-0 up against the run of play and on the back of us missing some great chances,” Pomfret added. “But full credit to our boys, we kept playing and we kept creating and we got the rewards and most importantly the three points. Full credit to MUMFC as well, they never made it easy and kept attacking and coming at us, which made for a good spectacle for the crowd as well. But a great day and down at Gosnells and a really important result for us.”
In the final game Forrestfield United and Subiaco have shared the spoils after a 1-1 draw at Crazy Domain Stadium, Hartfield Park. “Playing a team like Forrestfield, who had everything to play for yesterday, we knew it wasn’t going to be an easy game. I thought we started off the game well and controlled most of it but with a few missed chances and mistakes, we let them into game,” Subiaco skipper Sean Cronin explained. “We’re very disappointed to drop the two points, but we’ve shown over the last few weeks we are more than capable of competing with the teams who are higher in the table so we have a few games to make things right.” Subiaco dominated the first half, and found the opener three minutes before the break, Brendan Griffiths cross picked out Gavin Knight, who lost his marker to head home.
Forrestfield earned a point just after the hour, Ethan Reynolds’ long-throw wasn’t dealt with and Moses Macauley headed home. “I think a draw was a fair result in the end,” Forrestfield coach Daryl Platten said. “First half we struggled to find a rhythm and everything was a bit scrappy, but second half we found our feet and played some really nice football and got a deserved equaliser. Both teams had opportunities, so a draw was probably a fair result. We are a really young squad and with a bit more belief we can pick up a few more points.”
5.8.2023
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND NINETEEN REVIEW
Our State League Division Two ‘Match of the Round’ was a thriller, with league leaders Kingsley Westside breaking a two-game losing streak, with a stoppage time winner to beat Swan United 3-2 at the Swan Italian Cub, Francis Street. “Really proud of the lads to show the character they did after the two losses during the week,” Kingsley coach Steven Dimitrovich said. “After going 1-0 down we got the game on our terms and the 2-1 lead at half time flattered Swan a bit, as I felt we probably should’ve been three or four goals to the good. Second half swan came at us early got the equaliser and I thought it wasn’t to be our day, but my lads will to win and not give up was on display and we got the deserved winner in the end to maintain our lead at the top. Now get ready for a big game against Quinn’s on Saturday night.”
It was the black and whites who opened the scoring on 23 minutes, Jake Fritchley was released down the right, and he got to the bye line and his low cross found John Monterosso, his shot was blocked and rebounded to Rhys Loxley who took a touch and found the bottom corner. But the visitors levelled on 32 minutes, Jonny Hulme finding Hayden Lowe in the penalty area, and he made no mistake. Kingsley hit the front four minutes later, a quick free kick found Hulme, who cut the ball back from the bye-line and Daniel Harrison fired home.
Swan restored parity ten minutes into the second half, Loxley found space on the edge of the penalty area, his half volley was well saved Kingsley keeper Peter Stewart, but the ball crashed off the post and rebounded off the Kingsley keeper and into the net. It looked like the points would be shared, but deep into stoppage time Kingsley won it, Josh Waldock was picked out unmarked at the back post from a corner, and he volleyed home, to set up wild celebrations on and off the park. The defeat was hard to take for the hosts, and Coach Niall Hughes said they need to bounce back to keep their top four hopes alive. “As you can imagine, it was a pretty deflating result for us conceding so deep in to injury time and losing a game, especially knowing that teams around us had favorable results this weekend,” he explained.
“Our first half was nowhere near good enough and we scored with one our only moments of real quality. I thought we were much better in the second half and got ourselves back in to the game again with the equaliser. That gave us a bit more momentum with us pushing for a third, unfortunately when you play a side of Kingsley’s quality there is always a chance you concede at the other end. And when you leave two men spare and at a corner then they will punish you and take the points with them. Now we have to get our head down and work hard on the training pitch over the remaining few weeks for a chance at the top four.”
Maddington-Kalamunda White City moved up to second after coming from behind at half time to beat Joondalup City 3-2 win at Maida Vale Reserve. Joondalup were ahead on the half hour, and they held that lead at the break, but three minutes into the second half the hosts levelled, with Nicolas Roca heading home. The home side were ahead 13 minutes from time, second half substitute Cristian Polo scoring. It looked like they had secured the points in the final minute, with Samir Ramos making it 3-1, but Jason Petrie pulled one back for Joondalup, but it was too late.
Maddington striker Farruh Mavlonov said after a poor first half in the final third, they got their game going to secure the points after the break. “We couldn't convert our chances in the first half, and Joondalup eventually took the lead. We regrouped at half time determined to win the game, and converted three to look comfortable,” he explained. “We switched off just before full time and conceded a sloppy goal, but he held firm to take the points. This win was huge for us as we moved to second place on the leader, putting pressure on Kingsley at the top. We still remain undefeated at home, with one more home game to go.”
Curtin University remained third after 2-1 win against Wanneroo City on Friday evening at Edinburgh Oval. “Proud of the grit and determination of the boys after losing Simone Sichel to a bad ankle injury in the first half, before going down to 10 men early in the second half,” Curtin coach Troy Reid said. “We rode our luck at times but happy to come up with the winner to set us up for a push on the playoff spots over the final few weeks.” Janno Saks gave the hosts the lead just before half time, getting on the end of Jai Coker’s cross from the right. But Wanneroo levelled just before the hour, and Curtin keeper Daniel Marques was sent off after he collied with the onrushing forward when a long ball bounced awkwardly, and Cosimo Figliomeni converted from the spot. But 13 minutes from time, the ten-man won it, Coker again involved down the right, before he combined to find Oscar Wright on top of the penalty area, he crossed to find Kieran Witt to head home at the back post.
In other games, Shamrock Rovers kept their top four hopes alive, after a 1-0 win against relegation threaten Balga at Princess Road Reserve. The only goal of the game came 16 minutes from time, John Kearney’s great finish securing the three points. “I thought we controlled the game and should have had a few goals,” Rovers’ Ger Fitzgerald said. “We know Balga are fighting relegation, so it would be a tough game which it was. It was a scrappy game but delighted to get the win.” The final game saw Morley Windmills play there under 18’s against Canning City at Wotton Park, after a mass walk out of players and coaches, the visitors running out 6-1 winners. Rowan Steed was the chief destroyer bagging five goals, with Darsi Mukunzi adding the other. “The game on the weekend is something you don’t prepare for, but credit to Morley for putting a team out with such short notice,” Steed said. “We got the job done though, take the three points and look forward to hosting Swan next week.”
4.8.2023
INGLEWOOD’S AUSTRALIA CUP RUN OVER
Inglewood United’s Australia Cup has ended after a 0-5 loss against South Australia NPL Champions MetroStars a TK Shutter Reserve. Despite the loss Inglewood coach Andres Oliveira was proud of his teams’ efforts against a very good team. “A disappointed result and to be out of the cup, but cannot fault the efforts the players gave,” he said. “We were up against a very good side that trains four times a week and a full-time coach. MetroStars ambition is to be in A-League second division. But tonight, was a proud moment for Inglewood United, and the efforts from everyone in the club was outstanding, and we thank all supporters who made the effort to travel and created a great atmosphere for Inglewood.”
The hosts struggled to breakdown a tight Inglewood side early, but on eight minutes it was MetroStars who found the opener. James Temelkovski made space on the right of the penalty area, he found Michael Cittadini, whose shot was blocked by Roberto del Borrello, the ball falling kindly for Temelkovski who finished low past Alex Dunn. Inglewood settled into the game and had a penalty shout turned down after Matthew Ntoumenopoulos’ corner fell to Shubham Mokala, his shot looked to hit the arm of Noah McNamara, but referee Daniel Elder waved away their protests.
Moments later Mokala found Dylan White on the edge of the penalty area, and the winger delayed his shot and the chance was gone. The home side were dangerous going forward, especially Temelkovski, who jinked his way past two United defenders before playing in Cittadini, but he fired wide of the target. But on 32 minutes MetroStars doubled their advantage, Austin Ayoubi played the ball back to Jackson Walls, who’s cross to the back stick found Temelkovski, who lost his marker to head home. Inglewood went close to halving the deficit late in the half, Mokala twisted and turned on the edge of the box, but his shot was saved by Isaac Carmody.
Domfeh headed straight at the keeper early in the second half as Inglewood looked to get back into the game, before Temelkovski curled inches wide at the other end moments later. But on 50 minutes the hosts added a third, Walls’ cross picked out Fabian Barbiero, and the former Adelaide United midfielder finished spectacularly, with an overhead kick. Inglewood still continued to press and Harry Evens won a great challenge in the middle of the park and Anthony Bafobusha sent Domfeh in on goal, but Carmody was out smartly to save his shot, the rebound fell to Mokala, whose shot was well saved by the MetroStar custodian
MetroStars looked dangerous in the final third with Ayoubi and Temelkovski a constant threat and they were involved again when the hosts added a fourth on 67 minutes. Ayoubi cheeky back heel sent Walls in down the right, his cross was miss hit by Temelkovski, but Scott Nagel powered home a shot from the edge of the box. Then in stoppage time MetroStars added a fifth, Nagel’s low cross from the left was finished well by Cittadini, to give the hosts a comprehensive win. “MetroStars were a very well drilled team, it was probably the fastest game I have played in a long time,” Inglewood skipper Alex Dunn said. “They knew the patterns of play, and they had strong players all over the park and deserved the win. Unfortunately for us we were on the receiving end, but it’s a good experience especially for the younger lads to show the level of sharpness to aspire to.”
MetroStars: GK Isaac CARMODY, 2 Scott NAGEL, 4 Noah MCNAMARA, 7 Hamish GOW, 9 James TEMELKOVSKI (26 Ren NAGAMATSU 85’), 10 Anthony SOLAGNA (5 Christian D’ANGELO 85’), 11 Cameron WOODFIN, 18 Fabian BARBIERO (6 Jackson FORTUNATOW 78’), 22 Jackson WALLS, 25 Michael CITTADINI, 42 Austin AYOUBI (33 Alessio MELISI 85’) – Subs not used: RGK Ryan VEITCH,15 Nicholas PEDICINI, 19 Mohamed BILITY
Inglewood United: GK Alex DUNN, 2 Alex ISHIDA-LIVINGS, 3 Roberto DEL BORRELLO, 4 Ciaran SALINGER (19 Chris TILSON 59’), 6 Matthew NTOUMENOPOULOS, 9 Michael DOMFEH, 10 Anthony BAFOBUSHA (14 Dhours CHOL 73’), 12 Benson NSEGETSE (8 Harry EVANS 56’), 15 Joe MARINO, 17 Dylan WHITE (7 Chad NILSON 56’), 20 Shubham MOKALA (13 Rene KISESA 73’) – Subs not used: RGK James LINDSAY, 11 Eddie NGENDAKUMANA – Referee: Daniel ELDER
4.8.2023
BELT-UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION – ROUND FIFTEEN REVIEW
North Perth United host fourth placed Kelmscott Roos at Woodville Reserve, in our Week 15 ‘Match of the Round’. (1pm) Both sides are coming off draws last week, the hosts at North Beach, while the visitors draw at home to Emerald. North Perth skipper Kelechi Osunwa said last week was a real battle, and a good point in the end, with Scott Blackmore scoring three minutes from time. “North Beach were tough and it’s no surprise, you really have to be at your best to get three points in this league and you can see that by all the results last weekend with no team in the top five getting a win,” the defender explained. “When you look at the stats of the game it does feel like two points dropped and not a point gained but with the injuries and the players missing and the other results, we are happy with a point.”
Kelechi said it doesn’t get any easier on Sunday with the visit of Kelmscott, a side they have struggled against in recent seasons, but he hopes they can change that on Sunday. “Kelmscott are another good side, and we know we will be in for another tough test, and we haven’t beaten them since they came down to Sundays last year and lost to them in the night series so we are due a result,” he said. “They keep the ball well, they don’t concede a lot of chances, they have serious match winners and a top-quality keeper. We are going to have to be at our best to get the three points and hopefully we are come Sunday.”
Kelmscott coach Greg Simmonds said last week was a battle, and to concede the equaliser late was disappointing. “Yes, it was a real battle like we expected from Emerald, and we came out the traps strong and got on top early,” he said. “But in the second half, credit to Emerald they made a few changes and really got on top, and at the end of the day it’s always rough conceding an equaliser with the last kick of the game but fair result I’d say.”
Simmonds, who took over from Alan Armstrong mid-season, said things have gone well since his appointment, and he is looking forward to the challenge of taking on the league leaders on their patch. “Taking over mid-season was daunting, I’m not going to lie, but I’ve been with the squad since day one of preseason as an assistant so it’s just been a case of getting the boys on board with a new football philosophy and they’ve taken that challenge head on and we are looking better and better each week,” he explained.
“We’re all looking forward to Sunday’s game, and the league is crazy this season, it’s the strongest I’ve seen the Amateur Premier Division in a long time and from top to bottom anyone can beat anyone. North Perth is top for a reason, they’re hard to break down and are a smart, experienced side. It’s going to be a cracker on Sunday and we’re looking forward to the challenge.”
The round begins on Saturday evening, when South Perth United will look to build on their win against East Perth, when they head south to Bunbury to take on South West Phoenix at the Onside Sports Stadium. (5pm) In the other games on Sunday (All games kick off at 3pm, unless stated), Wembley Downs welcomes Joondalup United to Butlers Reserve, North Beach host Kwinana United back at their home ground, Charles Riley Reserve, while Peel United make the trip to Fraser Park to meet second placed Emerald.
In the final game East Perth’s six game unbeaten run in the Belt Up Amateur Premier Division came to an end last week with a loss at South Perth United, and they will look to bounce back this weekend when they host Jaguar at Cabrini Park on Sunday afternoon in our week 15 ‘Match of the Round’. Jaguar also dropped points last week, after a 1-1 draw Joondalup, so both sides will look to get back into the winner’s circle in this one.
East Perth coach Colm Costello said it was disappointing result and performance from his side last week, especially after taking the lead early. “Yes, it was a really disappointing performance from us against South Perth, and when we went one up, we stopped playing football, and for some reason we started to go long, and couldn’t keep possession and got involved in a dog fight,” Costello explained. “Then conceding three goals from set plays was disappointing and the lads knew after the game the performance wasn’t good enough. No hiding from it and after grabbing the equaliser late on it was a very soft goal to give away to lose but credit to them, they deserved their win.”
Costello said Jaguar continue to be impressive this season, and is expecting a tough game, but he is looking for his side to bounce back from last week. “We have a chance at make things right this week In a huge game at our place. Before Sunday, our form had been very good and although we have lost a number of players with injuries the lads have stuck together and got some good results, but hopefully we have Ryan McGready and Chris Smith back in the squad hopefully so that will be a huge positive,” he said.
“Jags have been flying all season and not outside the top 2/3 so we know it’s going to be a difficult game as is every week. To be fair, it’s a huge game for both sides and we have to win if we are realistic about keeping in touch with the top sides. We always have close encounters with Jags and Sunday will be no different, I’m really looking forward to it.”
4.8.2023
NPLWA WOMEN’S – ROUND EIGHTEEN PREVIEW
We head into week 18 of the NPLWA – Women’s competition and it’s been a busy week for the Hyundai NTC side, who reached the Women’s State League Cup Final on Wednesday evening with a 3-2 win against Perth SC at E&D Litis Stadium. It was their departing Perth Glory signings, Tanika Lala, Grace Johnston and Georgia Cassidy who were on the scoreboard for Ben Anderton’s side, who now take on Murdoch University Melville at the State Football Centre on Saturday 2 September.
Lala put the NTC in front when her shot on the turn beat goalkeeper Rebecca Bennett after only four minutes. But the Azzurri hit back on the half hour, Gemma Craine capitalized on a slip from Cassidy in the middle park, sending Ella Lincoln through on goal to level. Then in the shadows of half time Perth hit the front, Jaime Duncanson stayed onside before judging the wind to perfection as she curled a terrific effort over NTC keeper Lilly Bailey from wide on the left. The hosts restored parity early in the second half, Johnston on target, before Cassidy won it from the penalty spot with five minutes remaining after Ischia Brooking was brought down in the area.
NTC central defender Mischa Anderson said it was difficult contest in wet and windy weather at E&D Litis Stadium, but was pleased with the fight they showed. “The quick turnaround from the weekend wasn’t ideal with a lot of injuries and some sickness, but I’m very proud of the team’s hard work on the night. We all had to give 100% throughout the 90 minutes in challenging conditions for both sides,” she told the Football West website. “Conceding on the stroke of half-time is never easy, but we knew we were still very much in the game given the chances we created in the first half. Ben and the coaching staff asked us to continue playing our game, keep the ball on the floor and keep everything simple, and we are pleased to have come out on top.”
Perth coach Peter Rakic said his side gave it their all, but it wasn’t to be. “I thought we gave it our best on the night, and that's all I could ask for from this group of girls,” he said. “We've had a really good run, and we've contested every competition and I think now you're starting to see the repercussions of all the injuries we've faced. There's only so long you can play at this level until tired legs become evident and we unfortunately felt that on Wednesday, but congratulations to NTC for always giving us a proper game of football.”
Both sides are hopefully back in league action this weekend, but the Perth SC v Murdoch University Melville is in doubt with Dorrien Gardens still needed for the FIFA Women’s World Cup, while the NTC make the trip to Rosalie Park to meet Subiaco. Anderson told Football West, that while the games were coming in thick and fast, it was a chance to build on recent progress and reach September’s final in good form. “Having so many games in a short period, we will have to recover well to make sure we are all set for each game. But it gives us an opportunity to build momentum at an important time of the season,” she said. “We will take it one game at a time but continue to do what we do best. I believe when we play with confidence, we are capable of causing damage to any team in the league.”
Subiaco Head Coach Greg Farrell said he will be looking for a response from his players this week, after errors cost them at Balcatta last time around. “Against Balcatta we made too many simple mistakes against a very experienced side. They (Balcatta) have the quality to beat anyone in the league on their day, and when you add in Tia Stonehill in ridiculous form, that’s a tough squad. But the number of mistakes that were our own fault was what really cost us,” he explained. “This weekend we want to aim to be much better defensively than we were against Balcatta, and if we can finish a couple of chances then we’re in with a chance of getting a good result.”
The round begins on Friday evening, with league leaders Perth RedStar travelling to Edinburgh Oval to take on bottom of the table Curtin University. (6.30pm) If the game goes ahead on Sunday Perth SC will look to keep the pressure on RedStar against Murdoch University Melville (4pm), but MUMFC coach David Biancuzzo said it’s an opportunity for his side to push for a top four finish. “The draw last week against NTC wasn’t ideal for our Top Four ambitions, and we know we have to win our next four games to achieve that and hope other results go our way,” he said. “Even though Perth have a number of injuries to key players they still have a number of quality players and we know we have to be at our best to defeat them this Sunday.”
In the final game Balcatta Etna welcome Fremantle City to Grindleford Reserve. (3pm) The visitors are third with an eight-point buffer on Sunday’s opponents and victory at Grindleford Reserve will all but secure a top-four berth. For Balcatta they need to keep winning if they are to reach the end of season finals for the first time, and coach Yash Pratap said they are ready for the challenge. “We are looking to take this game to our opponents who have had a fairly similar way of playing like we do,” he explained. “We have had some games now where we’ve had our players out, but since this week we have had our players back and training. Every game is crucial for us and we will be looking to give it everything as a team.”
4.8.2023
HYUNDAI WOMEN’S LEAGUE DIVISION ONE - ROUND SIXTEEN PREVIEW
It's week 16 in the Hyundai Women’s State Division One, and it’s Hamersley Rovers who leads the way, four points clear of UWA Nedlands, with Perth AFC sitting third, and there are three sides, Mandurah City, Sorrento and Port Kennedy, who are pushing for a top four spot. Perth AFC are involved in our ‘Match of the Round’ when they make the trip Rosalie Park to take on Subiaco AFC. (All games kick off at 1.00pm)
Subiaco were edged out at Mandurah last week, and coach Judd Bogust said it was a good game, and he felt they deserved something from it. “Although the teams traded scoring opportunities throughout the first half the score stuck at 0-0 going into the break,” he explained. “The home team found their goal on the hour, with a deflected shot, we had the possession advantage for much of the remainder of the match, but was unable to find the equaliser.”
Bogust said Perth AFC will be another tough test for his young side, but they are looking forward to the game. “We will once again step into the fray against third-placed and well-coached, Perth AFC team,” he said. “The Subi “Teenagers” as they have been dubbed by the opposition, have an average age of 15 years. Despite the obvious age/experience gap results for us have steadily improved. The ladies are looking to further narrow the divide this weekend.”
Perth AFC were beaten by leaders Hamersley last week, and coach Rob Caruso said they are looking to back to winning ways, but knows Subiaco will be ready for them. “Yes, we are looking to bounce back to winning ways on Sunday, but we know Subiaco have a young and talented squad with improving results each week so we won't be going into the game over confident,” he explained. “Last week we made very few mistakes and got punished, we will be looking to minimise those mistakes and find the back of the net more. Our main focus now is to aim for second spot and continue to take each week as it comes.”
In other games on Sunday, league leaders Hamersley Rovers host Fremantle City at Carine Open Space, Sorrento make the trip south to Genesiscare Stadium to take on Mandurah City, while in the final game UWA Nedlands welcome Port Kennedy to the UWA Sports Park. UWA beat Sorrento 3-1 last week to keep second spot, while Port Kennedy were edged out at Fremantle, and coach Kevin Cole said they had their chances on the day but didn’t take them. “I thought the girls were so unlucky last week we came back from 2 nil down to 2-2, then a few seconds we switched off and got punished,” he explained. “But we absolutely dominated second half and played really good football, the only thing I told the girls, the scoreline would've been different if we had been more clinical in finishing in first half.”
Cole said Sunday is a tough trip for his young side, but they go there looking for a result. “Sunday’s trip to UWA will be a very tough game for us, but we will go there fighting for the win,” he said. “We just have to stay completely switched on for whole 90 minutes as they can punish you very quickly. We look forward to the challenge but know they will have advantage on their wider pitch.”
4.8.2023
AUSTRALIA CUP ROUND OF 32 PREVIEW – METROSTARS V INGLEWOOD UNITED
Inglewood United and Floreat Athena are both fighting to stay in the NPLWA Men’s competition, but this week the league campaign will take a back seat as they both represent WA in the Australia Cup round of 32. First up its Inglewood, who make the trip to South Australia to take on MetroStars at TK Shutter Reserve on Friday evening. (7.00pm, ACST)
United faced three tricky ties against lower opposition in the early rounds, and goals from Alex Ishida-Livings, Anthony Bafobusha, Dhurs Chol, Rene Kisesa and Harry Evans gave them a 5-0 win against Amateur Division two side Perth AFC in round four. Then they hosted Division One side Gosnells City, and they prevailed 3-0, with Chad Nilson, Chris Tilson and Shubham Mokala scoring.
In the quarter-final they travel to high flying Division One side Fremantle City, who had knocked two NPL sides out already, but goals from Kisesa, Dyaln White and a last minute Mokala goal gave them a 3-2 win and a home semi-Final against Sorrento. With a spot in the national draw on the line, Inglewood ran out 3-0 winners, with Tilson giving them the lead early, before second half brace from Michael Domfeh secured the win, and a first ever appearance in the round of 32.
Inglewood assistant coach Jason Colli said the cup run showed the desire the squad has for a fight, especially against lower opposition, but he knows that sort of fight is needed to stay in the NPL with only three games remaining. “The run in the cup has definitely been different to that in the league, the boys in every game have showed when we play the way we know we can we can games, so full credit as they deserve to be in the final,” he explained, “In the league for us, it’s been one of those years, we have played well but have not got results we were after. There are three games left and there is no margin for error, the team know what is at stake and I’m sure they are up to the task.”
But first Colli, who has played 375 games for the club, in 14 year playing career, and has been coaching for the last five, said they will be doing all they can to get a result against a good MetroStar side. “It’s probably a good thing it is a trip away, for the team, it is a good circuit breaker. We get to focus the cup which the boys are looking forward to playing,” he said. “They (MetroStar) are at the top of the league in SA and have some players that have played in the A League, so we know it will be a tough game, but if we play to our strengths, I’m sure we can come away with a good result.”
MetroStar Head Coach Danny Graystone said making the round of 32 is huge for the club, and they head into the game in good form after qualifying with a big win in the semi-final, and then going on to win the State League Cup 3-2 against Campbelltown City, and sitting top of the table. “We reached the round of 32 through the semifinal victory against West Torrens Birkalla 5-0, which saw us qualify for the cup final,” he said. “The cup final was a great night for everyone at the club, the way we played, the atmosphere at the ground and the manner in which we won the game with the goal in the last minute of the extra time was a really special moment for everyone. It was also good to see the two top teams in South Australia progress into the round of 32.”
They warmed up for Friday’s Cup game with a big win in the league against Sturt Lions, to keep them top of the table, a pleasing performance but the sending off of Lochlan Czapla took the gloss off the result, but Graystone said it hasn’t changed their preparation for Friday’s game. “It is always difficult when you play against teams that are fighting against relegation at this time of the year, particularly coming off the break for the Womens World Cup,” he explained
“However, as the game progressed, we showed why we are where we are and we dominated the last hour of the game and got that sharpness and intensity back into our play which was missing in the first 10 minutes and we ran out comfortable 4-1 winners. The red card was unfortunate however Lochlan is one of our up-and-coming young players at the club and he will have learnt from that experience and managing those moments of the game. He will be a better player for the experience going forward. Lochlan was also cup tied for the upcoming game, so it hasn’t changed our preparations going into Friday’s game.”
Graystone said they have done their homework on Inglewood United, a team who have struggled in the league this season, but have been outstanding in the cup. He is expecting a hard-fought game and he is looking forward to playing in front of their loyal supporters. “It will be a really exciting night of football for everyone in South Australia. The supporters here really get behind their teams in the FFA Cup and Friday will be no different as we are expecting a big crowd,” the coach explained.
“We have done our homework on Inglewood, ever since we were drawn against them and we go into the game like we do every game, well prepared and with a good understanding of how we think they are likely to line up against us. We know they have their threats and they have some game changers within their team and we have worked hard all week on a game plan to nullify those threats. We look forward to welcoming everyone from Inglewood to TK Shutter Reserve on what should be a great game of football for all those watching.”
Inglewood midfielder Dylan White, said the win against Sorrento was hard fought, but deserved, and he knows they will have to play the same on Friday if they are to come home with a win. “I thought it was a strong performance against Sorrento, and it wasn’t just one player, it was throughout the team. We were able to hold down a clean sheet and were clinical with our chances in front of goal, and to reach the round of 32 in the national competition for the first time as a club, made it a special night for everyone involved at the club,” he explained. “It’s not very often at NPL level do you get to travel interstate to represent your club in the national stage, so It’s going to be a good experience for the squad and the club. MetroStar look to be a quality side, but I believe we have the quality to go over there and come back with a result.”
4.8.2023
GLORY GET THEIR MAN
Perth Glory today announced that Alen Stajcic is the club’s new Head Coach, replacing Ruben Zadkovich who left the club at the end of last season. The 49-year-old, who led Central Coast Mariners to the A-League Finals in 2020/21, in his last stint in the A-League, but most recently took charge of the Philippines national team at the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
He has guided the Matildas to two Asian Cup Finals, the Quarter-Finals of the 2015 World Cup, the Quarter-Finals of the 2016 Rio Olympics and a highest-ever position of fourth in the FIFA World Rankings, before his controversial axing, while in the W-League he won two Premierships and two Championships as Head Coach of Sydney FC Women. and helped the Philippines qualify for the FIFA Women’s World Cup Finals for the first time in the nation’s history.
Stajic will arrive in Perth next week after the Philippines’ involvement at the FIFA Women’s World Cup came to an end and is set to be joined at the club by his long-standing Assistant Head Coach, Nahuel Arrarte and Analyst Stevan Antonic. He said he can’t wait to get start in his new role, and reviving the club to their former ‘Glory’ days. “It’s a new period for the club and a sense of renewal for the club,” he said, “so I’m really looking forward to getting over there… refreshed and ready to go and take on this huge responsibility and honour. It’s like any new environment you go to; it’s going to be a big job.
“The players having been living with a little bit of uncertainty during this pre-season and there’s nothing worse for players or staff than uncertainty, so hopefully today clarifies a lot of that and we can move forward together, unified, in one direction. It’s a period of transition for the club, but a lot of clubs have gone through that in the history of the A-League and even before. For me, it’s just a sense of renewal for the club and a point from which we can start to grow and be unified. It’s an exciting challenge and an honour to go to such a prestigious club. My first memories of the club are the 90s and 2000s and that made a big impression on me.
“Glory changed the landscape of Australian football at the time… Perth became the biggest club in the league and that’s the vision that I have in my head; a club that is massive and an important part of the Australian football eco-system. I want us to get back to those heights and be up there regularly. I vividly recall the late 90s and early 2000s when Perth Glory revolutionised the National League with its connection to the city, its level of support and a team that was leading the way on the pitch.
“I believe an incredible opportunity now exists to re-establish Glory as one of the giants of Australian football and that vision is one shared by everyone at the club. I take great confidence from the groundwork which has been put in over the last year to set the club back on the path to success and am excited to help continue that process. Perth has a such a rich history in football and a rich history in developing players. It is our vision to once again give the Perth football community a team and a club which they can be truly proud of.”
Glory CEO Anthony Radich believes that the appointment of Stajcic represents a huge coup for the club. “I am highly delighted and proud on behalf of our members and supporters that we have been able to secure Alen as the new Head Coach of Perth Glory Football Club,” he said. “He is someone who possesses all the attributes required to take this club forward both on and off the field and is the high-calibre appointment that Perth Glory needs and deserves. Alen is highly respected, not only as a coach, but very importantly, as a person of the highest character and integrity. He is someone who is renowned for being able to build strong cultures and positive, high-performing environments.
“He also possesses an in-depth understanding of the Australian football landscape, has experience in operating in austere and challenging environments and in developing youth and has consistently achieved success. Most importantly, Alen is a winner and he loves a challenge. His enthusiasm and desire to take on this role was inspiring, as was his deep love for the game and desire to make a meaningful difference. He clearly understands that the club needs to mean more than merely its on-field performance and that together, we need to grow the brand and integrate it as an important and respected part of the WA football and wider community to ensure its ongoing sustainability.”
4.8.2023
OLYMPIC VS MACEDONIA - NPL CATCH UP GAME
The NPLWA – Men’s competition goes into hiatus for a week, as our sides take part in the Australia Cup round of 32, but there is a round 12 catch-up game on Saturday evening, and it has a huge bearing at the top of the table, when second placed Stirling Macedonia travels to Kingsway Reserve to take on third placed Olympic Kingsway. (5pm) Both sides are coming off draws last week, the hosts being held to a scoreless draw at Cockburn, while Stirling had to come from behind earn a 1-1 draw at home to Sorrento. Those dropped points left Perth RedStar three points clear, and with a superior goal difference at the top of the table, and with only three games to go after this game, its vital for each team to get the points in this one to keep their title hopes alive.
The last time the sides met at the venue was in State League Division One in 2021, the season Stirling won promotion back to the NPL, the visitors running out 4-1 winners. They made a great start and they were ahead on 17 minutes, a corner wasn’t dealt with and Alex Taneski nicked in and volleyed home. It was 2-0 when some neat build up play ended with Sam Wynne, who squared the ball to Gavin Knights who finished clinically into the roof of the net. It was 3-0 when substitute Dhuors Chol flicked the ball onto Wynne, who curled the ball home superbly past Dave Keenan, for the goal of the game. Olympic pulled one back seven minutes from time, Rene Kisesa flick sent substitute Gino Hampshire in on goal and he finished well past James Bosdet. But Stirling completed the scoring four minutes later, Richard Howles sending Hugo Snowden clear and he finished well past Keenan.
Stirling were in pole position three weeks ago, but a loss against Cockburn, and last week’s draw, has given RedStar the advantage, and assistant coach John Lavery said injuries have hit them hard, but good performances haven’t been rewarded, like last week’s draw. “I thought we played well enough against Sorrento to get the three points, we certainly created enough chances and we can’t fault the player’s attitude and work ethic, we pushed right to the end,” he said. “Ian (Ferguson) always maintains you can’t win a league with 11 or 12 players it takes the full squad. It’s been good to get key players back fit as it creates better depth and options and drives completion for places which can only help going into the last few games.”
Stirling hope to get a few players back for the big game, and keeper James Bosdet is available after missing last week. Lavery said Saturday is huge for both sides, and it’s one they are all looking forward to. “Saturday is our biggest game of the season, and we need to win to try and keep pressure on RedStar,” he said. “That’s easier said than done as Kingsway are one of the form teams in the league and they’ve gone on a good run. They also have ambitions about the league, so it’s a real six pointer, and we are looking forward to the challenge.”
Olympic Kingsway’s form is one of the best in the league at present, the only defeat in the last nine games was at RedStar in round 11, and assistant coach Ross Edwards said it’s been a good run, but if they had turned draws into wins during that run, they would have them sitting higher in the league, but he knows they are heading in the right direction. “It was good to keep a clean sheet again and a good penalty save from Davie, but on the day, I thought we played well and with a little bit more luck we could have won the game,” he explained. “We set up this year to cement the team as an NPL club, so winning the night series was a good start and to be sitting where we are now is a good outcome. As coaches we are ambitions, as are the club, we regularly sit down and talk about one – two and five-year plans, and we are going about our work and heading in the right direction.”
Olympic return to home on Saturday, after the Danish Women’s World Cup squad used their facilities while in Perth, and Edwards said Saturday they are looking forward to a big crowd for their home coming. “What more can you want, a massive game, with both clubs will be looking for three points,” he said. “There is rivalry between the clubs and it’s the only NPLM game of the weekend, and to top it off it will be our first game back at Kingsway since ‘lending it to the women’s Denmark National team’. The pitch looks fantastic and there are additional improvements all around the stadium that adds extra quality and just makes you want to play there every week. We invite people to come down and take a look to see all the hard work the club has done behind the scenes and hopefully enjoy an entertaining game.”
4.8.2023
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND NINETEEN PREVIEW
It will be a huge night at Dianella Reserve on Saturday evening when Fremantle City travel to take on Dianella White Eagles in our week 19 ‘Match of the Round’ (5pm) The Eagles have won the last three games to move to third on the table, the latest a big win at MUMFC, while Fremantle beat the league leaders Western Knights last week, so with both sides in good form, and the top of the table so tight, this one should be a great game.
Last time they met at the venue was in round eight last season, when they visitors ran out 2-0 winners. Fremantle were ahead on the half hour, Hamza Hina cut inside from the right, and found Corey Towle, whose long-range shot flew past Peter Pilkadaris. The hosts created some good chances after the break, but couldn’t find the equaliser and seven minutes from time Fremantle found the second to seal the win. Hina did well down the left to wriggle away from Joshua Kuser and he cut the ball back to Dimitrij Blazeski who drilled it home from the edge of the box.
Fremantle produced one of their best performances of the season to beat the league leading Knights, and did the double over them after a win at Nash Field, and assistant coach Matt Lenzo said it showed on their day they can beat anyone. “Last week was a massive result for us, and despite the challenging run we have been on to be able to turn our fortunes around against Forrestfield, and to then show everyone that we haven’t gone anywhere and knock of knights for a second time this season was huge,” he explained, “The game was top notch quality and we didn’t have a single player not give everything they had, and we got the result we deserved.”
Lenzo said they have been hit hard by injuries this season, but with the majority getting back to full fitness, they will be aiming to end the season well and book a top four finish, starting at Dianella on Saturday evening. “Yes, it isn’t a secret that we have had our fair share of injuries this season, but now everyone is slowly getting back we are hoping to continue our good turn in form and finish the season strong, doing that will ensure a top four finish that we feel like we will have earned,” he said.
“We know Saturday evening is another massive game, they (Dianella) are on a good run of form and we know it will be a difficult game. Last time we played them it was a crazy 3-3 draw with opportunities to swing the result both ways. It will be a terrific match but as said before we know on our day, we can beat anyone and the belief in the group is definitely there especially post the Knights result, we’re really looking forward to it.”
The Eagles have only lost once in the last seven games, and midfielder Kian McGuigan said last weeks win at MUMFC was a great all-round team performance. “It was good to get a win against an in-form Murdoch side, and I thought first half the boys were playing some unreal football and sticking to the game plan set out by the coaching staff,” he explained. “But second half (They) Murdoch came out flying having a few dangerous attacks early getting a goal and testing our keeper Peter (Pilkadaris) who had to pull off some cracking saves. Luckily, we found our feet and the game was put to bed with two unreal finishes from Shane (Barnes) and Kevin (Gallo) to seal the three points.”
Their last defeat was at the Knights, and McGuigan said they have worked hard to turn things around, but he is expecting a tough test against an improving Fremantle side on Saturday. “It was a tough loss at Nash Field, but a great reaction from the boys winning the last three, and with the season coming to end trainings been more intense than ever making sure we’re in the top four by the end,” the midfielder explained. “It will be a great game against a good side who have just beaten league leaders. We know how important this game is to both teams only being one point between us and both fighting got a playoff. But with a good week on the training ground and sticking to game plan I’m confident with the team we’ve got we can get the three points.”
In other games on Saturday, league leaders Mandurah City head north to take on Gwelup Croatia at the Croatian Sporting Complex, Wishart Street. City jumped back to the top after a 3-0 win against Joondalup, while Gwelup will look to bounce back after losing at Subiaco last week. Western Knights will look to get back into the winner’s circle when they host UWA Nedlands at Nash Field, while Joondalup United will also look to bounce back from defeat, when host Rockingham City at Forrest Park. Gosnells City entertain Murdoch University Melville at Walter Padbury Reserve, and in the final game Subiaco travels to Crazy Domain Stadium, Hartfield Park to take on bottom of the table Forrestfield United, who conceded late last week at UWA to draw.
4.8.2023
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND NINETEEN PREVIEW
State League Division Two leaders Kingsley Westside have lost back-to-back games for the first time this season, after a 2-3 defeat against Wanneroo City in the round 12 catch up game at Chichester Park on Tuesday evening. It started well for the hosts with Jon Hulme giving them the lead early, but Greg Greenwood levelled for the visitors on 21 minutes. Kingsley regained the lead six minutes later with Luke Salmon on target, but in the shadows of half time Samson Araya restored parity for the visitors. The winner for Howard Tweets side came five minutes into the second half, with Cosimo Figliomeni converting from the spot.
Figliomeni said it was a good win, after a poor run of results, and he hopes to build on that when they travel to Edinburgh Oval on Friday evening to take on Curtin University. (8.30pm) “It was a really good and unexpected win against the top of the leader especially because we were coming from three negative results,” he said. “The pitch wasn’t in the best conditions, but we faced the game as really good team and all of us played their role and followed the instructions the coach has given us. We know on Friday it will be another good and tough match to face, but we try to keep the same performance had on Tuesday and hopefully taking a positive result from the game.”
Meanwhile Kingsley turn their attention to Saturday’s trip to the Swan Italian Club, Francis Street, where they take on Swan United in our ‘Match of the Round’. (All games kick off at 3pm, unless stated) The loss on Tuesday left Kingsley only four points clear at the top, while Swan beat Quinns last week to keep their top four hopes alive. So, with both sides needing three points in this one, it should be a great game.
The last time the two sides met at the venue was in round one last season, when the hosts fought back from two-goals down at half time, to draw 2-2. The visitors were ahead when Josh Waldock finished past Nick Stone, and it got better for the visitors when Jonny Hulme added a second. 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 to give both sides a share of the spoils.
Kingsley coach Steven Dimitrovich said they are not dwelling on the two defeats, and he is focused on bouncing back at Swan. “Yes, it’s not been a great week for us with two losses in three days, but after going back over both games and seeing where we need to improve, and I’ve identified a couple areas which we will go over at training on Thursday night and hopefully get them right for Saturday game against Swan,” the coach explained.
“We’ve worked very hard to have the lead we do at the top, and know going to Swan on Saturday is going to be a very tough game and probably the hardest ground to go to and get a result, so we are under no illusion the task that we face. They have quality players that can impact a game for the full 90 minutes so we will need to be at our best for the entire game to end up on the right side of the result.”
Swan coach Colin Morgan said the win against Quinns was pleasing, but he knows it will be a different game against the league leaders, and they will need to play better. “I thoughts is was a well-deserved three points for us against Quinns, although it wasn't our finest performance that's for sure but we created countless chances and were the better side for the majority of the match,” he explained.
“It's really tight for those play-off places, Shamrock are only three points behind us and Curtin, so every week is do or die at the moment. Saturday will be a huge test, Kingsley-Westside have been the standout this year there's no doubts out that. They will be hurt after suffering back-to-back defeats and I'm sure they will be out for blood, but we will have to be at our best to get anything out of the game that's for sure.”
In other games Maddington-Kalamunda White City will look to keep the pressure on the top two when they host Joondalup City at Maida Vale Reserve, likewise Morley Windmills who entertain Canning City at Wotton Reserve. Ashfield will look for a fourth straight win when they visit Gumblossom Park to take on Quinns, while Balga will hope to get back into the winners’ circle when they meet Carramar Shamrock Rovers at Princess Road Reserve.
3.8.2023
NEW GLORY COACH STAJCIC LOOKING TO THE PAST
Back in the late 90s and early 2000s, Alen Stajcic watched the then-newly formed Perth Glory take the old National Soccer League by storm. Now, the incoming coach has set his sights on restoring the glory days of old and returning Perth to the top of the A-League ladder - the place he believes the club belongs.
Stajcic, the former Matildas, Central Coast Mariners and Philippines women’s coach, was officially unveiled as Glory’s new men’s coach this morning. The 49-year old stepped away from the Philippines national team earlier this week, just days after leading them to a first-ever World Cup win.
Glory have won just one trophy in the A-League era - the 2018/19 Premier’s Plate - after winning back-to-back NSL titles to close out the old league, while crowds have dropped significantly in recent years. Stajcic said the challenge of returning Glory to the pointy end of the table was a big reason why he took the job.
“My first memories of the club are the 90s and the 2000s and that was a big impression on me. It really changed the landscape of Australian football,” Stajcic said. “Perth was so late to come to the party in terms of the national league, but when it came, it became the biggest club in the league and that’s the vision I have in my head.”
“A club that’s massive and an important part of the Australian football ecosystem, and I want it to get back to those heights. Over the last few years, there’s been a few highs but the club has sort of been lingering in the middle and I don’t believe it belongs in the middle; it belongs at the top of the league and there’s no reason why it shouldn’t be there.”
After his controversial departure from the Matildas in 2019, Stajcic took over the Mariners in the 2020/21 season and took them from the wooden spoon to third-place in just one season. It is a situation he sees parallels with in his new job. “They’re both one-team towns, both teams that prided themselves on connecting to the community and being popular within their community,” Stajcic said.
“Sydney and Melbourne clubs are really important for the A-Leagues, but I think the regional clubs are even more important and even more important they’re successful both on and off the pitch. We really want to return to those days and and it’s essential not only for Perth, but for the A-Leagues, to have a strong Perth as well.”
With Glory currently in receivership after long-term owner Tony Sage lost his A-Leagues licence, contracted pair Ryan Williams and Jordan Elsey parted company with the club last week. Stajcic said while he was glad his arrival would provide some clarity to the playing group, he only wanted players who were fully invested in the club.
“For us to move forward, it needs to be a positive environment, a united environment and anyone who wants to leave, that’ll be their prerogative, but I want people who want to be there,” he said. “I want people who want to fight for the shirt, they want to fight for the club, they want to fight for the city and show that they’re proud of where they’re at and that’s essential. That’s a non-negotiable for me.”
Stajcic’s goal for Glory is straight forward - to be playing in the end of season finals. “If you’re playing in any elite competition and not aiming for finals, you probably shouldn’t be there either,” he said. “We want the community to be proud of our club and you want to be in finals contention, you want to play attractive and entertaining football and the fans want to see a club they want to be proud of.”
2.8.2023
EXCITEMENT GROWS AS ALW SQUAD TAKES SHAPE
The start of the 2023/24 A-League Women’s Season may still be over two months away but Alex Epakis has been busy. The Perth Glory coach has secured a host re-signings and new recruits as he looks to assemble an exciting and dynamic squad ready to deliver finals football.
Fresh from Women’s World Cup duty with New Zealand, defender Liz Anton is the latest key figure to be locked in as the core of last year’s squad prepares to go again. Natasha Rigby will again wear the captain’s armband while Izzy Foletta is also back in the fold having been a standout performer after returning to her hometown club last term.
Highly-rated teenager Claudia Mihocic provides another defensive option and Bella Wallhead will also continue as part of the squad as she battles her way back from long-term injury. Sofia Sakalis, Sarah Cain and Sadie Lawrence, who made 38 starts between them last year, are all on board once more.
Hana Lowry, an ever-presented last season, will be joined in the middle of the park by new recruit Izzy Dalton, who brings a wealth of European experience. Up-and-coming young locals Georgia Cassidy and Grace Johnstone have also joined after impressing for the National Training Centre.
Three more West Australians, forward Tanika Lala, the versatile Abbey Green and goalkeeper Morgan Aquino will again be out to impress, as will livewire forward Susan Phonsongkham who is back for what will be her third season with the club. Glory expect to complete their squad in coming weeks.
1.8.2023
MATILDAS BUY KERR AN EXTRA WEEK
Samantha Kerr has another seven days to prove her fitness for the Women's World Cup knockout stages but can take heart from how her teammates dominated without her. The Matildas striker was medically cleared to play a role off the bench and prepared to risk further damage to her troublesome left calf if Australia needed her on Monday night.
But Kerr's teammates heeded their captain's request to get the job done without her, thrashing Canada 4-0 to advance at the Olympic champions' expense. It set up a round-of-16 clash between Australia and the second-placed team from Group D - likely Denmark or China, but possibly England - on Monday.
"The only words Sam said to the team was, 'make sure you win without me so I can get another week to try and recover and get healthy'," Matildas coach Tony Gustavsson said. "The team responded and said, 'yes, we will, you sit on the bench tonight and we'll win for you'. You could see that commitment from the players, 'let's do it so Sam gets another week'."
"Having that belief as a team (to be without) in my opinion the best striker in the world, which I think Sam is, and still go out and play the fluid football we did against the Olympic champions and score four goals, I think is very impressive."
There were early signs Kerr was not going to feature against Canada. The 29-year old was a bystander during the pre-game warm-up and did not take part in their halftime drills. But Kerr gave the entire Matildas squad their final pitchside rev-up before the match and nothing was going to stop her taking part in the raucous post-match celebrations.
"Just because Sam wasn't on the park doesn't mean she wasn't in the team tonight," Gustavsson added. "The way she leads the team and what she gives to the team off the field as well, not just in the locker room and on the buses, but in the hotel and in the meetings ... that is massive leadership."
30.7.2023
BELT-UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION – ROUND FOURTEEN REVIEW
Our Belt-Up Premier Division ‘Match of the Round’ between Kelmscott Roos and Emerald was a tight affair, with the points shared after a late goal from Emerald’s Gary Smyth secured a 1-1 draw at Frye Park. “I was delighted with our performance, and I thought we played very well. At the back we were solid and they were not a threat really, midfield we dominated and kept the ball moving and up top we were dangerous with every attack,” Emerald coach Shane O’Donovan explained. “We were unlucky to go down 1-0 from an own goal early but we reacted fantastically, had the majority of the ball but just couldn’t find the net until the final minutes. We will take the point from where is a hard place to get anything and move onto the next big game against Peel.”
The hosts were ahead on five minutes, Callum Husain made space down the right, he crossed into the box and the unfortunate Jarred McConnell headed into his own net. It looked like the hosts would leapfrog their opponents with the win, but in the final minute Emerald levelled. A blocked shot fell to Gary Smyth, who picked his spot and fired low into the net through a packed penalty area. “Heartbreak isn’t enough to explain how we felt on Sunday,” Kelmscott keeper Taylor Warwick said. “We had grinded and defended well for the whole game but one second of lapsed concentration right at the end let us down. A draw is a better result than a loss but we had a great chance at moving way up the ladder and only let ourselves down. But we have another massive game this weekend and we will pick ourselves back up and prepare for it this week. We have every bit of confidence that we can finish where we want to and with lots of football left, we have every chance to.”
Leaders North Perth United missed the opportunity to go further ahead at the top of the table, after being held to a 2-2 draw by North Beach at Vasto Reserve. “We were looking to see how we responded mentally after a good result last week, but credit to the squad the boy’s energy was up and we continued to play some nice football and move the ball quickly,” North Perth coach Alex Carter. “Our starting front three were all sidelined this week so we asked a couple of lads to step up into an attacking roll and I think they were brilliant, so I thought 2-2 was probably a fair result in what I found a really enjoyable game to watch.”
It was the visitors we made the breakthrough on the half hour, a Diagonal ball from Jason Barrera found Mark Ruddy, who beat his marker before lobbing the keeper. But in the shadows of half time North Beach levelled, Daniel Yelland-Hunter finishing neatly just inside the penalty area. The hosts then hit the front on the hour, Ben Reynolds was fouled in the box on a quick break, and Brodie Martin converted the resulting penalty. It looked like a loss for the leaders, but three minutes from time they restored parity. Nickolas Bailey cross found Scott Blackmore at the back post who headed home bravely.
“The contest against North Perth was a great game with high intensity and physicality, and we were personally very happy with the intensity we brought from kick off and created good early opportunities. After conceding, we kept the pressure on and equalised before the break,” North Beach coach Nick Di Carlo explained. “We sustained our pressure in the second half and hit the front, and North Perth pushed players up and applied pressure for 30 minutes and unfortunately for us they snuck an equaliser five minutes from time. The final moments were end to end and either team could have taken the three points. But we reminded ourselves that we can match it on any day with the best teams and look to have moved past an inconsistent patch in the season.”
Jaguar also missed the opportunity to close the gap on the leaders after being held to a 1-1 draw by Joondalup United at Beldon Park. “It was a game that could have gone our way, but we missed a lot of chances in both halves of the game,” Jags coach Josam Muwowo said. “Hence, Joondalup United were solid and compact in their shape and we knew they had nothing to lose but ensuring that they dictate at their home ground. Overall, it was a fair game in terms of display as both teams were organised. Moving forward as Jags we still trust our process and we have seen some positive signs of improvement so we are just taking one game at a time and see how the season ends.”
Jags began brightly, and had a number of chances, but failed to take them, and on 21 minutes it was the hosts who opened the scoring, a good move ending in Niall McGurk being brought down in the box and Ryan Pellow stepped up and slotted it home for his first of the season. The visitors should have levelled after the break, but Kuol Riak saw his penalty saved by Patrick Lawless. But they did find the equaliser on the hour, Magai Deng headed home. Both sides looked for the winner, but had to settle for a point.
“We were fully aware of the challenge Jaguar would bring and although our numbers forced us to play a few players out of position and with injuries we were quietly confident of getting another result,” Joondalup coach Karl Cherrie said. “But we stuck to our plan and held on for our 5th match in a row where we have picked up valuable points. This week wasn’t pretty, and I have to admit that Jaguar will be wondering how they didn’t get three points, but the whole Joondalup squad has been superb over recent weeks and they have earned some of the good fortune they received Sunday.”
South Perth United and East Perth have fought out an entertaining encounter at Challenger Reserve, with the hosts running out 3-2 winners. “It was a good hard battle, East Perth dominated the first 30 minutes or as we struggled to stop them playing out from the back and playing long into overloaded channels,” South Perth coach Lee hayward explained. “We switched up the formation and I thought that’s where we took control of the game. Andrew Henson came back into the squad after six weeks in Europe and did really well and Dean Sinno our Masters captain came in to help me out due to injuries and turned his five-minute cameo into getting the match winner. I said previously that on our day I feel we can compete with anyone, and we just need to be consistent now.”
East Perth was ahead early, with Lee Kenny capitalizing on a defensive mix-up to score, and they held that lead at the break. But on 56 minutes the hosts levelled, Andrew Henson heading home from a corner. Then ten minutes later East Perth’s Niall Murray was sent off, and the hosts took advantage 11 minutes from time, with Alex Godfrey converting from the spot. But on 98 minutes, it looked like the visitors had salvaged a point, after Conor Convery levelled. But the drama wasn’t over there, and with the last action of the game David Hardy’s corner was headed home by Dean Sinno.
Wembley Downs continued their recent good performances, after a 5-2 win against Peel United at Bortolo Park. “A great win and big three points for us. After a long drive and a fairly even first half we knew things were going to be tough in the second half but we came out firing with two quick goals,” Wembley’s Jeff Cornez said. “Peel didn’t let up, which we knew would be the case but, in the end, I think it was a great performance that was coming. As I’ve said before we have been playing really well with nothing to show for so it was great to see the boys get a result.”
It was the hosts who found the opener on the half hour, with J Perry on target. But on the stroke of half time Wembley levelled, some good work in the middle of the park by Tim Bish saw the ball break free, and a neat one-two between Bish and Kyle Thistlethwaite, set Bish free and he cut the ball back for Omar Shatila who finished first time. The visitors broke the game open with two quick goals after the break, first Dave Brownlees beat his marker for pace down the wing, and his teasing cross to the back post picked out second half substitute Patrick Sinicki who volleyed home. Moments later a quick break sent Shatila through and after turning the defender inside out finished brilliantly. But the hosts pulled one back on the hour, with T Sullivan scoring, but Wembley went on with it. It was 4-2 when David Marshall found space down the left his deflected cross found Sinicki at the back post for an easy headed finish. Then on 79 minutes it was 5-2, a defence-splitting through ball from Bish found Sinicki all by himself one on one with the keeper and he calmly found the net for his hat trick.
In the final game bottom of the table Kwinana United have won for the second time this season, thrashing South West Phoenix 6-0 at Kelly Park. “Obviously, a great result for us and it keeps us in touch with the rest of the teams above us,” United coach Mark Purvis said. “The game was scrappy at times but we scored some really good goals and at crucial times. The effort and attitude from the lads have been terrific recently which can be hard to bring each week when you are where we are at the moment. Really proud of all the boys.”
It was a perfect start for the hosts, with Alex Bradshaw smart finish after good work down the left after only six minutes. It was 2-0 moments later, Hama Kamal with good finish from a great delivery from the right. It soon became three, Bradshaw lobbing the onrushing keeper, and Michael Lawson made it 4-0 before the break. Bradshaw completed his hat-trick just after the hour to make it 5-0, and two minutes from time Lawson produced a terrific finish from outside the box to seal the 6-0 win.
30.7.2023
NPLWA WOMEN’S – ROUND SEVENTEEN REVIEW
Perth RedStar has one hand on the NPLWA – Women’s title, after a 4-2 win in the top of the table clash against Perth SC at the RedStar Arena on Sunday afternoon. “Both teams started strong and it took a few minutes for us to settle down and get a foothold in the game. The girls looked comfortable and stayed calm, managing to get control of the game in the first half,” RedStar coach Carlos Vega Mena explained. “We had the cushion going into the second half and created several strong opportunities. The players know that they can’t relax against a good team and were determined to stay composed and keep playing our game. It was a vital win for the team and I’m very happy with their performance.”
The hosts made a perfect start, and were ahead on five minutes, Rebecca Bennett’s clearance went straight to Renee Leota, and the striker lifted her shot over the keeper. But the Azzurri were level midway through, Poppie Hooks’ cross-field pass found Jaime Duncanson, who crossed to Ella Lincoln, and the striker made no mistake. But the hosts pressed late and Bennett saved well to deny Reina Kagami, but son they blew the game wide open with two late goals. First in the final minute, Sarah Carroll found the top corner of the net with a superb free kick, and in stoppage time Bronwyn Studman’s free-kick found Jay Coleman, and her looping headed found the net.
Perth was back in the game early in the second half, Jess Flannery’s cross found Lincoln who finished well past debutant keeper Jayde Odonohoe. But RedStar weren’t finished, and ten minutes from time they secured the points, Woolley’s first-time cross was swept home by Kagami. “Super proud of the girls, was good to get the three points - we’ve not managed to get that win against them this year so we were pleased,” RedStar striker Renee Leota explained. “We had our 21s keeper step up and I thought she done a fantastic job. It’s always a well fought match against Perth and they’re a team that just keeps going so we knew we just needed to continue that lead and not let their strong individuals get on the ball too much. It was great to get that early goal - always puts us in a good position. And to score from set plays - we’ve been working on trying to be more clinical from set plays, utilizing our strengths. We were unfortunate to not hit the back of the net a few more times - but, that’s football.”
The Hyundai NTC remains fourth, but had to settle for a 1-1 draw against Murdoch University Melville at E&D Litis Stadium. “I thought for long periods we controlled the game. Our build up play and getting into wide areas and delivery into the box was pleasing, but just our finishing needed to be more clinical, and as with most football matches if you don’t make it count more than likely you get punished,” NTC assistant coach Fernando Barreiro explained.
“So disappointing to concede from a set piece/corner, as we’ve worked ever so hard to defend those set pieces. The most difficult pill to swallow is a loss to another player in Klaudia Khoulis. We’re not sure of the extent of the injury but early signs don’t look good, so fingers crossed as we await the results. All in all, we’ve got a tough schedule ahead and the teams going to have to show their durability and fitness over the next few weeks. Ben Anderton and I are working closely with our sport’s science team to make sure the girls are on top of their recovery and giving themselves every chance of performing every game.”
It was an even start, with MUM FC keeper Stacey Cavill getting down well to deny Grace Johnston’s snapshot, while at the other end Sophie Meaden long-range shot was comfortably saved by Megan Phillips. But it was the NTC youngsters who found the opener six minutes before the break, Louise Tana releasing Tanika Lala down the right, the new Perth Glory recruit advanced on goal, but her shot was saved by Cavill, but Tana followed in to score. But two minutes into the second half the visitors drew level, Charli Wainwright’s corner hit the unfortunate Nelli Johnson, the ball going into her own net.
Clearcut chances were few and far between in the second half, Lala shot drifted wide of the post, while at the other end Rosie Lehane’s long-range shot was straight at Phillips. MUMFC coach David Biancuzzo said he thought they deserve more from the game. “Another draw for us is two more points lost. Recent games we have been there or thereabouts but cannot seem to bank the wins,” he said. “Whether it’s lack of depth in the squad or just needing that experience to secure the win. Our goal is still Top Four and we will continue to strive to achieve that, with the remaining games we have left in the season.”
Balcatta Etna are three points off the top four after a convincing 6-1 win against Subiaco at Grindleford Reserve. “We had our squad back this week and that reflected as we could execute the game at, we were want to play to get the result,” Balcatta coach Yash Pratap said. “As a team we will be going for five wins out of five games irrespective of where we finish on the ladder so yesterday was a good stepping stone.” The host took control in the first half, and were ahead on 12 minutes, Tia Stonehill skipped down the right and crossed for Monique D’Opera who made no mistake. It was 2-0 on the half hour, Stonehill being sent clear by Elizabeth Doust’s pass and finishing low past Subiaco goalkeeper Annie Leyland. Stonehill wasn’t finished and she added the third on the stroke of half time, finishing with aplomb after the ball broke to her in the box. But Subiaco pulled on back in stoppage time, Marianna Tabain producing a fine solo goal, but at the break the hosts led 3-1.
But Balcatta put the foot down and added three more after the restart, which could prove important for their goal difference come season’s end. Kim McCartney swept in a fourth and fifth goal in similar fashion when clearances from Subiaco’s defence fell to her on the edge of the area. Stonehill then eased her way through a couple of Subiaco defenders to complete her hat-trick in the final minute. “It was a strong win over Subiaco, which we desperately needed to keep our top four hopes alive. It was a strong team performance and really helped us gain confidence going into the final run of games,” midfielder Lauren Conti said. “We look forward to Fremantle next weekend at home, knowing we need the three points and a top performance. It’s always a tough battle against them, and we are up for the challenge.”
In the final game Fremantle City eased to a 5-0 win against Curtin University at Hilton Park. Fremantle made a perfect start, when Olivia Trueman met Carys Hawkins’ cross with a first-time volley to net the opener, before Catherine Adams free kick doubled their advantage, her first goal of the season. Alex Poad added a third on the half hour, her shot trickled into the back of the net, and just before the break Laura Waltman finished Trueman’s cross from close range to make it four at the break. Waltman added the only goal of the second half late on from another Hawkins cross, as Freo bounced back from successive defeats, while Curtin continue in search of their first win of the season.
30.7.2023
HYUNDAI WOMEN’S LEAGUE DIVISION ONE - ROUND FIFTEEN REVIEW
Hamersley Rovers maintained their four-point lead at the top of the Women’s Division One table after a hard-fought 3-1 win against Perth AFC Len Packham Park on Sunday afternoon. “Overall, it was a fun and intense game, as both teams needed the win so it made for a good game,” Rovers’ coach Betim Ziba said. “We created our chances well and finished some of them off. Perth AFC had chances, but we did well to hold them off, especially from a great save from Karla Edwards. It was a great game against a great team and I wish them luck for the rest of the season. Right now, it’s about getting the wins and hoping UWA manage to slip up.”
The visitors were ahead on eight minutes, a corner was whipped in by Jordy Henderson and was finished near post by Rebecca Dudek. They doubled their advantage in the shadows of half time, Christiane Astorp laid the ball off for Jordy Dudek, whose long range flew over the Perth keeper. They sealed the points on the hour mark, a long throw into the box by Lauren Nicholson found Astorp, and the leagues top goalscorer fired home at the second attempt. The hosts scored a consolation goal 13 minutes from time, a cross to the back post found Aaliyah Jorquera for a calm finish into the bottom corner.
“It was a great game of football from both teams and the scoreline doesn't do it justice with plenty of opportunities from both sides,” Perth AFC coach Rob Caruso said. “It was a little disappointing not coming out with more from the game, but full credit to Hamersley who punished us for our very few mistakes.”
UWA Nedlands continue to put the pressure on the leaders after a 3-1 win against Sorrento at Hillary’s Park. “We were glad to start the third round of games with a win against a tough and resilient Sorrento side that we have battled with for the past few seasons,” UWA coach Lawrence Lewis said. “I thought we controlled the game well and dealt with their counter attacks nicely, shame to not get a clean sheet but really happy that we got the win.”
The visitors were ahead on the half hour mark, a ball over the top for Seeley to run onto, she cut the ball back to Rhianna Burgess on the edge of the box, who shot found the net via the post. But the Gulls leveled five minutes before the break, with B Yangi on target. But UWA hit back moments later, some neat build up in the middle of the park allowed Tiahna Atkins to run past Sorrento's midfield line, and she sent Burgess clear, who calmy finished for her second on the day. They secured the points three minutes from time, when Erin Armstrong received the ball from a clearance from the Sorrento keeper and her long-range shot flew into the net.
In the other games Mandurah City edged out Subiaco 1-0 at Genesiscare Stadium. The only goal of the game was a beautiful passage of play with Sam Viney winning the ball at the back and driving it through the centre to play in Katrina Breen who slotted the goal in nicely. “I thought we had an excellent attacking game and deserved the win,” Mandurah’s Melanie Loreto said. “It could have been more goals, but Subiaco’s young keeper made some great saves.” In the final game Fremantle City beat Port Kennedy 3-2 at Hilton Park. Goals from Jessica Mitchell and Alice Vandermeiren gave the hosts a 2-0 lead before the hour, but Port Kennedy hit back with a brace from Keira Turner levelled things up. But ten minutes from time the hosts won it, with Vandermeiren scoring her second.
30.7.2023
GLORY TO BE ADVERTISED FOR SALE
The sale of Perth Glory is about to officially kick off amid increasing interest from potential buyers. The A-League club will be advertised for sale this week by receivers from KordaMentha, who were put in charge of Glory a week ago by the league’s management body, Australian Professional Leagues, after owner Tony Sage’s licence was revoked.
APL was already fielding interest before the appointment, but that has since been augmented with enquiries from other potential buyers. “It’s always good having an asset like this that is saleable,” joint receiver John Bumbak said. “Glory has a good name in Perth, and we’re confident of getting it (a sale) away. The big unknowns are the buyer and the price tag. But that’s the exciting thing about these jobs.”
Former fast-food entrepreneur and one-time Glory owner Nick Tana is considering a return to the club, having surrendered his licence nearly 20 years ago. There has also been speculation that Mr Sage could seek to regain control in partnership with a new investor.
KordaMentha wants to complete a sale of the licence before the new A-League season gets under way in mid-October. While the cost of an A-League licence has been estimated at $12.5m, it is believed that APL is more concerned about ensuring the next owner has the money to put the anchor WA club back on a sustainable financial footing.
29.7.2023
NPL-WA ROUND NINETEEN - REVIEW
Our week 19 Match of the Round in the NPLWA – Men’s competition didn’t disappoint, producing a seven-goal thriller, it was a great game, and a brace from midfielder Gordon Smith helped Bayswater City to a 4-3 win against Balcatta Etna in a see-sawing Italian derby at Frank Drago Reserve. “It was a very entertaining game, and I thought we played some great stuff in the first half especially and were worthy of our 3-1 lead,” Smith explained. “Disappointing to let them back in the game second half but again great character to go on and get the winner. It’s always good to get amongst the goals, I feel we’ve got goals all over the team and we just need to keep being clinical in those moments.”
It was the visitors who opened the scoring on 17 minutes, Jack Leech’s ball sent Liam Hudson racing clear and he was brought down by City keeper Lewis Italiano, and referee Shane Skinner pointed straight to the spot, and the former Perth Glory keeper was lucky not to be sent off, only showed a yellow card. Japanese striker stepped up and scored the resulting penalty, despite Italiano getting a hand to it. But the hosts hit back on 33 minutes, Kosta Sparta’s corner from the left was headed back across goal by Jackson Stephens at the back post and Smith was on hand to fire home from close-range. Bayswater hit the front two minutes later, Sparta’s corner from the right picked out Stephen’s who lost his marker to head home. It was a dominant period for the hosts and they added a third moments later, good work from Joshua Anasmo saw him burst clear and play in Smith, and the Scotsman made no mistake.
Balcatta need a good start to the second half and they did, reducing the margin ten minutes in. Adam Tong’s cross from the right picked out half time substitute Brent Griffiths, who headed home. It was a typical derby fast tempo, with chances at both ends, but on 64 minutes it was Balcatta who levelled. Tong’s ball found Ben Hinshelwood in the box, and his shot on the turn found the bottom corner of the net. Both sides pressed for the winner, but it was the hosts who found it nine minutes from time. City won possession in the middle of the park and substitute Andrew Maranta played in Samuel Dweh, who rounded Connor Campbell and fired home.
“We started slowly which resulted in us losing a poor goal, but after that for the remainder of the half the players played some great football, created numerous chances and could have gone in at half time with more than a 3-1 lead,” Bayswater coach Gary Williams said. “To be fair to Balcatta they came at us second half and our levels dropped. Once the momentum swung in their favour it was hard to get a foot hold back in the game. To their credit the players continued to work hard and got their reward when great work by Teeboy Kamara and Andrew Maranta to turn the ball over and feed Sam Dweh to score the winner. The boys have been magnificent since the change, and deserve a top four finish.”
League leaders Perth RedStar have moved three points clear at the top of the table after a comfortable 4-1 win against Armadale at RedStar Arena. It was the first game since coach John O’Reilly’s contract at Armadale was terminated, and the visitors had no answers to a Daryl Nicol led RedStar, the striker bagging a brace to take his total to 25 for the season, the loss leaving them four points off the drop zone. “Very pleased with the group and the overall performance. The players have been first class and we are so proud of their character, work ethic and attitude,” RedStar coach Callum Salmon explained. “Armadale fought hard, had moments of real quality and have some great players that were very competitive. Always hard to single players out for us but I thought the centre backs were excellent and our front three all scored showing great quality all day.”
The host hit the front after only two minutes, Declan Hughes’ free kick was dealt with and Gomo Dukuly fired home from close-range. It had been a tough week for the hosts with a change of coach, but they levelled seven minutes before the break. Amir Ajan’s free kick picked out Nathan Costello, the Armadale skipper rising highest to head past Liam Reddy. But RedStar hit back with two quick goals before the break. First on 42 minutes Hughes’ corner into the box saw Blair Govan and Billy Quinncroft tangle in the box, and after consulting with his assistant referee Michal Jasinski awarded a penalty, and Nicol found the net via the post. Then in stoppage time it was 3-1, a short corner caught Armadale napping, and Hughes’ ball into the box was headed home by Nicol. The points were made safe just after the hour mark, Andy Higgins’ cross from the left was headed down by Armadale substitute Purvishna Appadoo, but only to Chok Dau, who made no mistake. The win taking the hosts back to the top, but Armadale have slipped into relegation trouble, this defeat making it six games without a win.
Stirling Macedonia lost ground on the leaders after being held to a 1-1 draw by Sorrento at Macedonia Park. The hosts found themselves behind early with Sorrento skipper Dean Cummings converting from the spot, but salvaged a point late with Daniel Faichney scoring 15 minutes from time. Stirling skipper Dejan Spaseski said it was two points lost in the end. “We are very disappointed to not take all three points, I thought the score line does not reflect our performance with many missed chances,” he explained. “Unfortunately, it is out of our hands now, but we still have it all to play for in our final four games and we will do everything we can to pick up 12 points. All we can do is worry about what’s in front of us, and I’m sure it will be a very intense finish to the season.”
The visitors made the best possible start, finding the opener after only six minutes. Jaxon Temata’s ball sent former Stirling midfielder Cummings racing into the box, and he was brought down by Stirling keeper Liam Price, and referee Josh Mannella pointed straight to the spot. Cummings stepped up to take the resulting penalty, and he found the bottom corner to give the visitors the lead. The hosts lifted and pressed for the equaliser, but they couldn’t find a way past a resolute Sorrento defence, that was until the 75 minutes, when the hosts levelled. Alex Tanevski found Brenk Quick out on the right, and his pinpoint cross was headed home by Daniel Faichney. Despite ten shots on target in the second half the hosts couldn’t find the winner, both sides leaving with a point. “We knew Stirling would throw everything at us as they can still win the league, but I thought we were resilient, a great defensive performance for us especially second half,” Sorrento skipper Cumming said. “But at the same time, we had chances on the counter to win the game, but it was a good watch for the crowd.”
Olympic Kingsway also lost ground at the top, after being held to a scoreless draw by Cockburn City at Dalmatinac Park. The visitors dominated the game, but the performance of Cockburn keeper Michael Craggs proved the difference, although Cockburn did miss a first half penalty. “I thought we dominated the ball, confusion in the box saw Cockburn get a penalty, which Davie saved down to his right, but it just wasn’t our day, and we couldn’t get the ball in the net,” Olympics’ Ollie Annis explained. “In the second half the second half they cleared off the line, and I thought we should have had a penalty when Mitch Oxborrow was brought down but referee didn’t give it. It sets up a massive week for us, with a huge game against Stirling.”
The hosts had the opportunity to take the lead when referee Josh Nixon pointed to the spot after Ciaran Byrne swinging boot caught a Cockburn player, but David Keenan guessed the right way to save David Araya’s penalty. But Olympic were creating the better chances, but found the Cockburn custodian in outstanding form. He made a great to deny Daniel Walsh, before Craggs thwarted the lively Tyler Garner twice. After the break the visitors continued to press and Oxborrow was the next to be denied by Craggs, the keeper saving well from the former Perth Glory midfielder’s free kick. Olympic had one last chance, but a clearance off the line and another good save by Craggs to thwart Walsh, and at the final whistle it was points shared. “They (Olympic) were very good in possession, but I think we dealt with the threat very well for the duration of the game, I think the penalty missed was the big moment of the game for us, had we score it would of changed the complexity of the game and open it up a bit more but at this stage any points we can collect will help us come end of the season.
Inglewood United remain at the foot of the table after a thrilling 3-3 draw against Perth Glory at Lark Hill Sportsplex. United’s defender Ciaran Salinger said it was a very strange game of football, and it could have gone either way in the end. “Glory dropped 7 A-League players down, but we went 2-0 up early on, and I thought we controlled them defensively not allowing them to create to many chances,” he said. “Second half was much the same but a poor decision from the official for handball, which wasn’t there, and even the Glory players were baffled by the decision. That lifted them and Colli’s mis-cue levelled and they went in front with a goal which looked miles offside. We’ve had some poor decisions go against this season, and it looked like it was to continue, but we earned a point deep into stoppage time, and it was a deserved point in the end.”
The hosts brought in some A-League stars for the clash with Luke Bodnar, Stefan Colakovski, Luke Ivanovic, Adam Zimarino Joseph Forde, Trent Ostler and Giordano Colli all starting, but it was Inglewood who found the opener on 22 minutes. A poor clearance was picked up by Shubham Mokala, whose shot on the run flew past Glory keeper Robert Cook. They doubled their advantage three minutes later, and it was an even better goal. Michael Domfeh’s shot pass gave Mokala a pocket of space and his long-range flew into the top corner of the net, giving Cook no chance. It looked like United would take home three valuable points, but Glory had other ideas, and 15 minutes from time they found a lifeline. A cross from the right went to Dylan White who slipped on the wet surface, and referee David Bruce deemed he had handled the ball and pointed to the spot, much to the amazement of the Inglewood players.
Colli stepped up and drilled the resulting penalty down the middle to half the deficit. Then two minutes from time the hosts levelled, David Bennie found Colli on the left of the penalty area, and his sliced cross shot found the top corner. Amazingly, in the final minute, Glory hit the front, Laat Mathiang’s cross from the right wasn’t dealt with and Joel Anasmo’s shot crashed off the bar but Jayden Gorman was on hand to fire home the rebound from close-range, with Inglewood looking for the offside flag that never came. It looked all over for Inglewood, but deep into stoppage time they found an equaliser, substitute Harry Evans was bundled over in the box by Trent Ostler, and the referee pointed to the spot again, and Mokala kept his nerve, sending Cook the wrong way to give both sides a share of the spoils.
Glory defender Kaelan Majeks said it was a tight game, and they did well to bounce back from two goals down. “I thought it was a very end to end game, Inglewood started off scoring two early goals which the boys knew to remain calm and focused in order to get back in the game. Through our abilities on the ball, we were able to break Inglewood down and come back to make it 3-2, with them equalising in the last minutes of the game to end equal,” he explained. “Both teams showed a lot of resilience and the scoreline reflected how the game could’ve gone either way. We know what we must do going into the last few games of the season and the boys are confident and more than prepared to get good results.”
Floreat Athena remain in the relegation fight, while Perth SC held on to their fourth spot on the table, after a ten-man Azzurri prevailed 1-0 in the City of Vincent Cup at E&D Litis Stadium. “We’re so proud of the boys after that performance, their strength of character, determination and discipline was outstanding especially in the second half after going down to 10 men,” Perth SC assistant Coach Stuart Banks explained. “Then for young Sam to be thrown into goal in that situation on his 16th birthday and to put in a mature performance like he did, just summed us up, superb.”
It was a tight first half with chances few and far between, but it was scoreless going into stoppage time, then visitors were reduced to ten men. A ball over the top from Phil Arnold sent Bayley Brown-Montgomery racing in on goal, but Perth keeper Luke Radonich raced out and with both players committed to the ball clashed heads just outside the penalty area, and after a long delay for both players to receive treatment, referee ?? showed a straight red card to Radonich, who was replaced by youngster Samuel Hocking.
Brown-Montgomery was also unable to continue, and he was replaced by Ludovic Boi, but ten minutes into the second half it was the ten-men who found the opener. Sam Cook sent Zayd Farah down the right, and his low cross was dummied by David Ninkovich, and Abdul Osman finished clinically past Jason Saldaris. Floreat pressed for the equaliser put they couldn’t find a way past Hocking, and a tight Perth defence, and there day got worse late when Dennis Galan received a second yellow card and was sent off.
29.7.2023
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND EIGHTEEN REVIEW
Western Knights stay at the top of the State League Division One table was a short one, after they were beaten 3-1 by Fremantle City in our week 18 ‘Match of the Round’ at Hilton Park on Saturday afternoon. The Knights leapfrogged Mandurah last week, but they found a Fremantle side hungry to kick start their season, and early goals from Hamza Hina and Anthony O’Donnel gave the hosts a perfect start. The Knights did reduce the margin after the break, but a second from Hina secured the points for Matthew Sparrow’s side and closed the gap to nine points on the Knights.
“It was a huge result and performance from the boys, I thought we was very good value for the win,” Sparrow said. “I thought we controlled the game with and without the ball, our shape was spot on and I thought we executed our game plan we spoke about before the game and the boys did everything, we asked of them so I’m delighted. We’ve got another big game coming up next week as we face an inform Dianella side but the boys will be going there full of confidence now so we should be in for a great match where both teams play attacking football so it should be a good one for the spectators.”
The hosts made the best possible start, hitting the front on seven minutes. A long clearance from Jordan Barbas was flicked on by Enzo Marangoni, and Hina took a neat first touch before finishing clinically past Devon Lindemann. They added a second eight minutes later, a cross by Pat Loughrey was brought down by Ryan Hogan and his shot, was blocked on the line, and Anthony O’Donnell headed home from close-range. The hosts chances of a comeback were quashed on 63 minutes when Lucas Triglavcanin was sent off. But six minutes later the ten-man Knights found a lifeline, Jay Sheridan’s free kick flashed past Barbas. The Knights pressed for the equaliser, but it was Fremantle who wrapped up the points five minutes from time, Hina bagging his second to give the hosts the three points.
“There's no denying we have been going through a bit of a slump in the last couple weeks, so to come back from that slump with a good win against a stubborn Forrestfield followed by a huge 3-1 win against the top of the league team shows the kind of character this team has as we could've easily thrown the white towel and allowed our season to end,” Hina explained, “The game against Knights was and always will be a high quality football contest, we have managed to start off firing and scored early which we haven't done for a while, and that clinical start has proven huge for us in grabbing all six points against Knights this season.”
The Knights slip saw Mandurah City jump two points clear at the top, after a 3-0 win against Joondalup United at Genesiscare Stadium. “It was another hard-fought win and another clean sheet, and we knew they (Joondalup) would be a tough test and we struggled to get the breakthrough in the first half,” Mandurah’s Graham Tough explained. “But in the second half we came out strong and finished the game off really well. We're utilizing our squad and the boys that came off the bench on Saturday gave us a big push going forward.”
The Dolphins struggled to break down a compact Joondalup defence in the first half, but on the hour, it was their former Celtic striker Leigh Griffiths who broke the deadlock. Joe O’Brien raced into goal, his shot crashed off the post, the rebound falling to Harry Collins who was brought down by Joondalup defender Gary Hill and the referee pointed to the spot after talking to his assistant. Griffiths stepped up and found the bottom corner to give the host the lead.
The former Scotland International added a second 18 minutes from time, finishing at the back post from Craig Barker’s low cross. The points were wrapped ten minutes later, Murray Mackintosh sent Griffiths down the left, and he crossed to Barker who finished low past Todd Hoyle. “This result is very pleasing against a team that I believe is one of the best in the league, so three goals and a clean sheet is excellent,” Mandurah player/coach John Baird explained. “Our club, our people are everything and our dressing room show week in week out what it’s like to play for this club.”
Dianella White Eagles good form has continued, after a 5-2 win against Murdoch University Melville at Besteam Stadium, to move up to third on the table. “It was a great win from the boys, and we had to dig deep for it with how tight and competitive the race for the play offs is becoming,” Eagles striker Shane Barnes explained. “We scored some great goals, and we made a great start and scored three goals in the first half, but we had our keeper Peter Pikadaris to thank who made a couple of unbelievable saves. We now look forward to our next match against Fremantle, which should be good game.”
Dianella Player/coach Angel Andres got the scoring started on six minutes, racing onto Barnes’ pass ahead of MUM FC goalkeeper Tom Allan to nod in the opener. The pair combined again on 24 minutes, as the hosts doubled their advantage, Andres flicked on a set piece for Barnes to score from close range. The points looked save on the half hour, when the Eagles added a third, Andres adding his second. The hosts reduced the margin early in the second half, with Taj Bingwa scoring, but their hopes of a comeback were dented when Christos Vaenas was sent off on the hour. The Eagles went on with it, and Barnes added his second with a solo effort, and although Brodie Langan pulled another one back for the host, Eagles French defender Kevin Gallo wrapped up the scoring 15 minutes from time, with a stunning curling strike via the post.
Subiaco AFC have come from behind to beat Gwelup Croatia 2-1 at Rosalie Park. “It was a tough game, but we had a game plan and we stuck to it,” Subiaco striker Gavin Knight said. “Gwelup got their goal in the first half but we knew was going to create chances all the time, and we gave everything we had and got the two goals we wanted. This was a result that Subiaco needed, we now have four cup finals leftover and we hope we can get the results to keep Subiaco up in the Division One.” It was the hosts who found the opener nine minutes before the break, John Lahai was sent clear by Jacob Williamson, and he finished clinically. Bur Marc Wingell’s side hit back after the break, first on 56 minutes the unmarked Agustin Ventre headed home an Aaron McGurk cross. Then 12 minutes later they won it, McGurk capitalizing on a defensive mix-up to score the winner, and gave Wingell his first win as coach at the club.
The points were shared at Walter Padbury Reserve, with Gosnells City scoring six minutes from time to salvage a 2-2 draw against Rockingham City. “It was a tough game on a terrible pitch, but we did start well and could have been two or three up but didn’t take our chances,” Gosnells coach Peter Allan explained. “In the second half Rockingham got themselves into the game, taking the lead, but credit to my lads for digging deep and getting the point at the death, which I felt we deserved.” Gosnells were ahead after only two minutes, Tom Kennedy ball sent Brice Rae racing into the box, and shrugged off his marker to fire past Cyril Sharrock. But missed chances cost them, and on the half hour the visitors levelled Fraser Marr’s long-range shot found the bottom corner past Jack Adams.
Rockingham then took the lead early in the second half, Ruben Joseph firing home a free-kick from the edge of the box. It looked like they would leave with the points but Gosnells restored parity on 84 minutes. Tony Chandlers’ cross from the right hit the arm of Marr, and the referee pointed to the spot, and Aaron Coslani made no mistake from the resulting penalty. “We never started well and got punished for it with an early goal, second half we came out the traps a lot stronger and performed really well on a poor surface,” Rockingham coach Kris Donnell said. “Very disappointing to have a penalty given against us in the last ten minutes for what was apparently hand ball.”
In the final game UWA Nedlands have fought back from two goals down to draw 2-2 against Forrestfield United at the UWA Sports Park. “Our first half was poor and we conceded from two set pieces,” UWA coach Richard Abrams said. “But credit to Forry for an excellent first half, however in the second half we shuffled and created enough chances to win the game outright. Whilst not the result we wanted, with seven first eleven starting players missing, we will take it.”
The bottom of the table Forrestfield was ahead on nine minutes, Emerson Di Mattina firing home a free-kick. They doubled their lead 12 minutes before the break, with James Bourne’s heading in from a corner. But the hosts hit back after the break, Luke Salas’ cross went in off Oliver Naughton for an own goal, but it looked like the visitors would win on the road for the first time this season, but deep into stoppage time the hosts levelled, Toby Robertson’s effort came down off the crossbar and was adjudged to have crossed the line.
29.7.2023
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND EIGHTEEN REVIEW
Morley Windmills have closed the gap on State League Division Two leaders Kingsley Westside after beating them 3-1 in our week 18 ‘Match of the Round’ at Chichester Park on Saturday afternoon. “It was a great performance from start to finish, even after going 1-0 down,” Morley coach Marc Anthony explained. “I thought we dominated for large parts of the game and could have scored more, but delighted to win against a good Kingsley side.” The hosts started the game well clear at the top of the table, and they were ahead on 11 minutes John Hulme on target. But two late goals saw the visitors take a lead into the break. First on 39 minutes, a good move down the flank by Asa Sippits, ended with a pull back for Charlie Breen to finish from close range.
Then three minutes later they hit the front, Conor Kavanagh’s shot was well blocked, but he was quickest to the rebound and found the net with a composed finish. The hosts were on the front foot after the break, but they couldn’t find a way back into the game, and 17 minutes from time Morley secured the points. A swift counter attack down the left and Callum Speed played in Breen who made no mistake. “It was a very difficult game, and we started sloppy and conceded off a long ball right at the beginning,” Morley’s midfielder Stephen Musonda said. “The boys worked really hard and didn’t drop our heads and finally our hard work paid off with two good goals. The game got tight second half as we knew they would come out second half pushing but we had better chances during the second half and we scored on a counter. The boys have worked really hard to play how we want to play and I am happy to be part of this team.”
In other games Maddington-Kalamunda White City have continued their good form after a 2-1 win against Wanneroo City at Wanneroo Reserve. Greg Greenwood had put the hosts ahead, but Nicolas Roca and Gaston Bazet netted to make it four wins in a row for last year’s Belt Up Amateur Premier Division Champions. Meanwhile Carramar Shamrock Rovers have boosted their top four hopes after a 2-1 win against Curtin University at Grandis Park. “It was a must win game for us on Saturday so we knew we had to win to keep us in the race for top four,” Rovers’ Ger Fitzgerald explained. “It’s a very tight league so you need to turn up with a good attitude and ready for a battle each week. Delighted to get the win and look towards next week’s game.” The hosts were ahead on the half hour mark, John Kearney corner was headed back across goal by Fitzgerald and Drew Johnstone smashed it into the top corner. They made it 2-0 six minutes into the second half, Dean Cowbrough heading in from a Kearney corner. They were then reduced to ten men seven minutes later, but Curtin couldn’t take advantage, but they did score a consolation goal two minutes from time, with Janno saks on target.
Swan United also remain in the hunt for a top four spot, after a 2-0 win against Quinns at the Swan Italian Club, Francis Street. “I thought we deserved the win, although it wasn’t our most polished performance overall, but we were able to show moments of quality in key moments which was enough in the end,” Swan’s Rhys Loxley explained. “Whilst we weren’t clinical in the attacking third, I thought we defended well to only limit Quinns to half chances. The win should give us the confidence and motivation to get a something out of next weekend’s game against league leaders Kingsley.” The Swans were ahead on 27 minutes, in truly bizarre fashion. Quinn’s defender Danny O’Shea over hit a 40-yard back pass, and it flew over the keeper’s head and into the net. It was 2-0 12 minutes from time, Jordan Lyall has played a through ball to Loxley, who raced through one on one with the keeper and defender and scored into the far bottom corner.
Ashfield have continued their recent good form after a 4-2 win against Joondalup City at Iluka District Open Space. “Another important win for our season against a really competitive Joondalup side,” Ashfield player/coach James Sammut said. “The lads have done well towards the goals we set for this half of the season and we look forward another tough game next week against Quinns.” Ashfield were two goals to the good after only 21 minutes. First on 11 minutes, Hanani Ndebele was bought down in the penalty area, and Gareth Hamilton converted from the spot, before a ball into the box was flick on and Debaba Mtwale was at the back post to put the ball into the back of the net. Josh Petrie pulled one back for the hosts seven minutes later, and it was 2-1 at half time. But Ashfield took control again on the hour, Jared Flavel beat his defender to get inside the box with just keeper to beat, before sliding the ball across goal for Ben Entwistle to pass into an open net. The visitors added a fourth 19 minutes from time, Ndebele won the ball high up the pitch, beat two players and slid through Flavel who passed to Debaba to tap in for his second of the game. Joondalup scored a second late, with Petrie added his second, but it was too little too late. In the final game bottom of the table Canning City have won for the second time this season, and boosted their survival hopes after Rowan Steed scored the only goal early, as they beat Balga 1-0 at Burrendah Park. “It was a good win for us and much needed, closes the gap and gives us confidence going into the next few weeks,” Canning keeper Alec Radonich said. “The boys have been working hard over the last weeks and this win is result of the hard work we have put in.”
29.7.2023
O’REILLY LEAVES ARMADALE
After seven years at Armadale Soccer Club, John O’Reilly’s tenure at the club has come to an end, after the club announced the termination of his contract at Alfred Skeet Reserve. The club statement said: “John has been an integral part of the team’s journey during his tenure. His dedication, hard work and expertise have contributed significantly to the team’s success and growth. The club extends its sincere gratitude for John’s valuable contributions and wishes him the very best for his future endeavours.”
O’Reilly was disappointed with the decision, but he knows the job is a result driven business, and their recent form, despite a number of injuries, has not been up to the standards he has set. “The last five games we have been playing well, considering injuries and suspensions but we just couldn’t get the results we needed, and that puts pressure on the club to make decisions,” O’Reilly explained.
“The team are only three points off the play-offs but also four points off the bottom, and I felt like we could have kept ourselves out of trouble and still pushed for top four, and I still believe the team can, so I wish the club all the best for the remainder of the season. “I had decided recently that this year would be my final year at the club, after seven memorable seasons, I felt I needed to step away and recharge. When I spoke with the club, they felt it was best to step down now, and I accepted their decision and reasoning.
“The only regret I have is not being able to say farewell to the faithful fans, at what would have been my last home game against Floreat. I thank the fans whole heartedly for the years of vocal support and the Presidents for giving me the opportunity to be at the club. Also, a massive thank you to the players, coaches, background staff and volunteers, that have worked with me, giving their all, for the club, over the seasons, creating club history along the way. I’ll always have fond memories of the club that I called home for so many years."
O’Reilly took over at the club in 2017, replacing Paul Price at the helm, and in over 200 games in charge, he has led the club to two State League Cup Finals, beating Gwelup Croatia 2-0 to win the competition in 2018, before losing narrowly in the 2022 final to Cockburn City. They have made two appearances in the FFA / Australia Cup round of 32, away to Cairns in 2018 Modbury Jets at home, last season, in front of a packed house at the Skeet.
Club President Chris Bates said O’Reilly has left a huge legacy at Alfred Skeet Reserve, and wished the best. “We would like to express our heartfelt appreciation to John for his unwavering commitment to the team during his time with us,” Bates said. “This decision was made after careful discussions, considering the best interests of both parties. We part ways amicably and wish John continued success in his coaching career.” Assistant Coach Sam Hutchings and Under 20’s coach Lee Taylor will coach the team in Saturday’s trip to league leaders Perth RedStar.
29.7.2023
KERR AVAILABLE FOR CANADA CLASH
Matilda's captain Samantha Kerr has declared herself available for the do-or-die Women's World Cup match against Canada in a massive boost to Australia's precariously placed campaign. The 29-year old trained this morning for the first time since injuring her left calf the day before the Matildas' opening game against Ireland.
But just how many minutes Kerr, Australia's all-time leading scorer with 63 goals in 121 games, will or can manage remains a mystery. Australia's campaign is on a knife's edge after Thursday's 3-2 loss to Nigeria. The Matilda's must beat Canada to guarantee progression to the round of 16, without relying on Ireland to beat Nigeria.
"I feel good. The plan has always been the same, miss the first two games and then reassess," Kerr said. "I'm feeling good. I was out on the pitch today. As good as I can be. I would love to tell you guys everything but ... that's a massive thing that the opposition wants to know."
"I'm definitely going to be available but how we decide to use that is not to be given to the opposition ... I've done everything I can and no matter what happens, I know that I've given everything, not just in the last 10 days, in the last four years, I've given everything to be here."
Kerr joked she'd been stunned by the injury as she had "the biggest calves in the world" but had quickly moved on. "I've never had an injury like this in my career," she said. "Normally when I've been injured it's been really a big one where I've been out for months on end, so it's an easy pill to swallow, but with these ones it's a bit more annoying."
"It was obviously disappointing and then I had to kind of suck it up. I'm part of a team. I'm not a part of an individual sport. It's not about me, and that's what I've done over the last however many days it's been - I've had to put the team first."
Fellow Attacker Mary Fowler, who missed the Nigeria loss with concussion, should also return. The Matildas (three points, goal difference 0) sit third in Group B behind Nigeria (four points, +1) and Canada (four points, +1).
28.7.2023
WILLIAMS AND ELSEY DEPART GLORY
Perth Glory have been rocked by two more departures with attacker Ryan Williams and defender Jordan Elsey leaving the club to pursue opportunities in India. Williams and Elsey were both under contract, having only joined the club last year, but have had their contracts terminated by mutual consent to try their luck on the sub-continent.
It comes as the club reckons with being placed into receivership after long-term owner Tony Sage handed back his licence to the Australian Professional Leagues, the governing body that controls the A-Leagues. In addition to their unclear ownership situation, the club remains without a coach after Ruben Zadkovich resigned in the off-season.
The departure of Williams and Elsey is a blow to the club’s squad-building attempts ahead of next season, with approximately 20 players on contract for next season. But despite the continued presence of Adam Taggart, Mustafa Amini, Salim Khelifi, Aaron McEneff, Mark Beevers and Darryl Lachman, no new signings having been announced.
Winger Williams, who has been linked to Indian teams Kerala Blasters and Bengaluru, played 24 games and scored four goals for Glory last season after signing a three-year deal. Elsey arrived mid-season from Newcastle Jets and played 10 games in the back-half of last season in defence, but had been linked with a move to East Bengal.
28.7.2023
MATILDAS WORLD CUP HOPES HANGING IN THE BALANCE
The Matildas suffered defeat in their second group stage game at the FIFA Women’s World Cup, falling to Nigeria 3-2 at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane, and their World Cup hopes now hang in the balance. Emily van Egmond gave the hosts the lead in first half stoppage time, but Nigeria hit back moments later with Uchenna Kanu on target. The Super Falcons hit the front just after the hour with Osinachi Ohale scoring, and they added a third Oshoala scoring within minutes of entering the pitch. Alanna Kennedy pulled one back late, but it was too little too late.
“I’m actually not that disappointed about the performance, but I’m disappointed by the result,” Matildas Head coach Tony Gustavsson said post-match. “They came out and played well, they’re brave and they gave it their all, all the way through, and almost got the tie today. Physical recovery is one thing, but the mental recovery as well to bounce back [is important]. But the one thing we know with this team, and we saw it the last 10 to 12 minutes of this game, is that never say die attitude when we’re up against the wall. It’s definitely one of the biggest and most important things we have to do right now is to bounce back and just see the truth right in front of us – it’s a must-win game against the Olympic champions in the last round of the group stage to get out.”
There was one change to the side that secured victory over the Republic of Ireland in Sydney, as Van Egmond came into the squad in place of the injured Mary Fowler. Van Egmond was utilised in the same second-striker role as Fowler, sitting in between the defensive and midfield lines of Nigeria. Meanwhile, there was one notable omission from the Nigerian teamsheet. Barcelona’s Asisat Oshoala was left on the bench after coming into this game under a slight injury cloud.
The Matildas started on the front foot, taking advantage of some nervy-looking Nigerian errors. Both sides settled into the game as the minutes ticked on. Gustavsson’s side accumulated eight corners in the first half, and crosses from deep that came after long diagonal balls from midfield were a theme of Australia’s attack. However, the Nigerian defence stood firm against the aerial bombardment. The best chance from a corner in the first half came in the 31st minute, when a Steph Catley delivery hit an open Hayley Raso at the back post. Raso was unable to steer the ball on target.
A breakthrough for the Matildas finally came in the first minute of stoppage time. Caitlin Foord did well to win the ball after a poor goal kick and calmly laid off a pass to Van Egmond, who slid the ball past Chiamaka Nnadozie for the game's opening goal. But the Super Falcons hit back immediately. A deflected cross fell in the path of Uchenna Kanu, whose scuffed shot found its way beyond Mackenzie Arnold, and with the last kick of the half, Nigeria had parity.
The second half saw a slight tactical tweak for the Matildas, with Cortnee Vine moving into a central position and pushing Caitlin Foord wide to the left. This gave space for Foord more space to run at the Nigerian defence. Despite the chances, it was the Super Falcons who took the lead in the 65th minute, Osinachi Ohale getting the final touch after Australia was unable to clear their lines from a corner. Less than ten minutes later, they extended their lead to two.
A miscommunication between Alanna Kennedy and Mackenzie Arnold put the ball on a plate for Barcelona superstar Asisat Oshoala to score within minutes of entering the pitch. Alanna Kennedy managed a goal from the corner in the tenth minute of stoppage time, briefly giving the home crowd hope, but it wasn’t to be. Nigeria deservedly claimed the three points and the Matildas must now defeat Canada to guarantee passage into the Round of 16.
28.7.2023
BELT-UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION – ROUND FOURTEEN PREVIEW
North Perth United moved two points clear at the top of the Belt Up Amateur Premier Division last week with a win against Emerald, but it’s still tight at the top, like it has been all season, with only ten points separating the top six. In week 14, Emerald will look to bounce back when they head to Frye Park to take on fourth-placed Kelmscott Roos in our ‘Match of the Round’. The hosts also lost ground on the leaders after being held to a 3-3 draw at Wembley, so both sides need three points to keep tabs on North Perth, so this one should be a cracker.
Last time they played at the venue was in round three last season when they hosts ran out 4-2 winners. Alexander Ekeze gave the hosts the lead on 12 minutes, getting on the end of a Nathaniel Otte cross. But Emarald levelled eight minutes later, with Diarmaid Ryng on target, but in the shadows of half time Kelmscott regained the lead, with Otte scoring. The hosts added a third just before the hour, skipper Callum Husain scoring, but Emerald weren’t finished and Andrew Wood pulled one back moments later. But it was Kelmscott who won the game with Ishmael Greywood adding a fourth.
Emerald’s coach Shane O’Donovan said they played well last week, but failed to take their chances. “Last week, we didn’t take advantage when we were on top. We had all the ball but needed to put our chances away but that happens, but we move on,” he explained. “That loss makes Sundays game more important obviously but we are prepared. The lads have really knuckled down this week in training, they know we need a reaction and we are capable of doing that.”
O’Donovan said they are looking forward to the challenge on Sunday, but he knows they need to be more consistent. “Kelmscott are a strong team, hard to break down but we understand we have to be patient and take our chances when they come, but like I’ve said before it’s a tight league and consistency is crucial and every point is important,” the coach said. “We’re really looking forward to what will be a good game with a great atmosphere no doubt.”
Kelmscott keeper Taylor Warwick said last week’s six goal thriller was a great game to be involved in, but he thought they deserved the points. “It was a great game played with high intensity the whole way through, and Wembley came to play from the first minute and put us under a lot of pressure with their “long throw” technique,” he explained. “I thought we weathered the storm and took the lead, but allowed them back in. I feel like the second half we dominated and probably deserved a win, but some decisions didn’t go our way in the end, is what cost us.”
Midfielder Benn Lewis said Sunday is a huge game for both sides, and three points are massive as they press for promotion. “This week against Emerald is a massive game for us in our battle in the top four, and we know after a loss last week they’ll be raring to go, and we will be ready to match that,” he explained. “We are aware that every game from now must be treated like a final for us, and we are prepared for an intense second half of the season.”
The leaders head to Vasto Reserve to take on North Beach, who were held to a 2-2 draw at South West Phoenix last week, but coach Nick Di Carlo said there were positives to come out of last week’s game, and he hopes to continue their improvement. “Tough test for us this week against the current league leaders in North Perth. We know full well how well drilled and cohesive they are as a unit having played them away earlier in the season in which they took the points in a commanding manner,” he said. “We've been working hard on the track and trying to build on the positives we see each week and finally have some players returning to the frame, so we are motivated to have a red-hot crack this weekend against North Perth and hopefully snatch a result.”
It’s fifth v sixth at Challenger Reserve, with South Perth United hosting East Perth. The hosts were beaten at Joondalup last week, and coach Lee Hayward said injuries and illness hurt them last week, and he said that’s no excuse, and he will be looking for a response this week. “We were struggling with injuries and sickness last week, and we were not at the races at all against Joondalup, and they fully deserved the points,” he explained. “We’ve lost a couple of first choice defenders for this week, so we will need to improvise a little. But we do welcome back Ben Greaves who will add something to our midfield. It’s been a weird season for us, as I’ve not once been able to name my strongest 11, we have lost to teams I thought we should have beaten and then beaten teams like Emerald away, so it really depends which Souths turn up, training has been a little better this week and the boys will be bang up for it.”
East Perth beat Kwinana last week, making it six games with defeat, and coach Colm Costello has been pleased with the recent performances, but knows they will need to be at their best against a good South Perth side. “Last few weeks have been a lot better and the squad is a lot more settled now and results are showing and training is slowly starting to be seen now on match days. We need to keep on going now and buzzing for Sunday now, we need to keep picking up the points to keep in the mix,” he explained. “Sunday is another big game on the road, and it was a very close game in round three when we played them at our place, and we expect an even tougher test on Sunday. They (South Perth’s) home form is excellent and like North Beach they have been a huge addition to the division with the quality they have so it’s a really tough game for us.”
In other games on Sunday, Kwinana United welcome South West Phoenix to Kelly Park, looking to close the gap on the visitors at the foot of the table, Joondalup United will look to build on last weeks win against South Perth when they host Jaguar at Beldon Park, while in the final game Wembley Downs make the trip to Bortolo Park to take on Peel United, both sides aiming for the three points to move clear of the foot of the table.
28.7.2023
NPLWA WOMEN’S – ROUND SEVENTEEN PREVIEW
We have reached week 17 of the NPLWA – Women’s competition and Perth RedStar sit three points clear at the top of the table from Perth SC, who will be looking to close that gap when they meet in our ‘Match of the Round’ at the RedStar Arena. (All games kick off at 3pm, unless stated) The hosts had their lead cut last week, after being held to a draw at MUMFC, while Perth came home from Fremantle with all three points after a 2-0 win, so this one should be a great contest, especially win only five games remaining.
Last time they met at the venue was in round ten this season, when the pair fought out a 1-1 draw. Carlos Vega Mena’s team opened the scoring on 28 minutes, Chiori Ikeda curling past Rebecca Bennett from the edge of the penalty area. The hosts should have doubled their lead after the break, but Kim Carroll’s penalty crashed off the crossbar and away to safety. It was thrilling game with chances at both ends, but two minutes into stoppage time Perth levelled. Jessica Flannery’s cross was met by Gemma Craine, who squared to the unmarked Monique Godding who made no mistake.
A brace from Gemma Craine gave the Azzurri the points at Fremantle, and striker Ella Lincoln said it was a vital win, and they hope to build on it against the leaders on Sunday. “Yes, it was a massive win for us as it now bridges the gap with RedStar. Going into this game we knew it was going to be a challenge, and how vital the three points were,” Lincoln said. “We are on good run of form and considering the number of injuries we have had to deal with this season we are still managing to win games. We have a strong team belief and the confidence of the team is high. This week is going to be another challenge and each time we play RedStar the games are generally even so we have to be at our best to win. We will continue to work hard and hopefully we can continue our good form.”
Perth Head Coach Peter Rakic said he has been proud of how his side after performed, especially with the injuries they have had. “Lately, I’ve been able to reflect and see that because of what’s happened with the squad, what we’ve achieved so far in terms of (winning) the Night Series and being in all three comps is an accomplishment,” Rakic told the Football West website. “Whatever happens between now and the end of the season, I can be proud of how the girls have dealt with the adversity they’ve faced, and how they’ve managed to keep pushing. I can’t really ask for much more.
“The girls on the pitch who have wanted these opportunities and fought for their spot in the team have now got it. The 11 players on the pitch are the ones who have had to get the job done every week, and they know they’ve had to work really hard and fight for each other. To launch into such a run of consistency has been great for us, and we’ll certainly try to continue on that wave of confidence until something else is thrown at us.”
RedStar Head Coach Carlos Vega-Mena said Sunday is a pivotal game, with Perth breathing down their necks, but it’s one he is looking forward too. “We are expecting a tough game on Sunday, as always when we play Perth,” he said. “They have some strong individual players who have been putting out solid performances throughout the season. We have been training hard in preparation and are looking forward to the challenge. The team who makes the least mistakes on the day, will have the three points.”
The Azzurri are one of the two teams to beat Carlos Vega-Mena’s side this season, winning 3-1 in the Hyundai Women’s State Cup quarter-final tie, and he is hoping for a repeat on Sunday. “The huge thing for us this week is that when we overcame them in the State Cup, it bled a line of confidence into the girls because they know it’s achievable and beating them is possible,” he told the Football west website. “We understand it’s going to take a gutsy performance and it’s always going to take a huge effort to get over the line against them. But we will approach the game with nothing to lose and hopefully the girls can go out there and cause an upset.”
In other games on Sunday, fourth plays fifth at E&D Litis Stadium, when Hyundai NTC entertain Murdoch University Melville, and with only four points separate the sides, so three points are vital for both. Balcatta Etna host Subiaco AFC at Grindleford Reserve, the visitors will be buoyed by back-to-back wins over MUM FC and Curtin University, while in the final game Fremantle City take on Curtin University at Hilton Park.
28.7.2023
HYUNDAI WOMEN’S LEAGUE DIVISION ONE - ROUND FIFTEEN PREVIEW
Hamersley Rovers sit four points clear at the top of the Hyundai Women’s Division One table, and in week 15 they make the trip to Len Packham Park to meet third placed Perth AFC in our ‘Match of the Round’. (All games kick off at 1pm) Rovers continued their unbeaten start to the season last week against Mandurah, with Christiane Astorp on target in the 1-0 win, but were made to earn the three points, while Perth AFC kept in touch of the top two after a brace from Daisy Spill gave them a win against Fremantle, so will the host becoming the first side to beat Rovers in the league, only time will tell, but it should be a great game.
Perth AFC coach Rob Caruso said they will be looking to continue their good form on Sunday, but knows Rovers have been the benchmark this season, but he is looking forward to the game and the challenge. “It’s a big game this weekend, winning will keep the pressure on Betim and his team. We are going into this game as if it's a Final for us, because if we don't get maximum points, it will all but end our push for a league win,” Caruso explained. “Betim has done a great job this season and the results show that. We have been focusing on getting our form back from early in the season and the squad is hungry for more wins. It should be a great game this weekend and we are looking forward to it.”
Rovers’ coach Betim Ziba said Sunday will be a great test, against a side who have improved this season. “The game against Perth AFC will be a big one, as they have been in good form and will be looking to try and gain the points on the weekend,” Ziba said. “They are a good team who have improved massively over the season and if we aren’t careful and switched on, could be punished by them. We know we need the win to keep the distance on UWA so we have been working hard to ensure we gain the points on Sunday.”
UWA Nedlands will be hoping the leaders slip up, but they will need to be at their best when they make the trip Hillary’s Park to take on the inform Sorrento. The Gulls beat Port Kennedy last week to move them to fourth, and UWA coach Lawrence Lewis said they have some good games over the years, and Sunday will be no different. “UWA and Sorrento have been battling it out against each other for the last four seasons I have been here, with only a few other clubs being constant in this league,” he said.
“They have an abundance of experienced players with a new injection of young players coming through, so while have come off better in our last couple of games, we knew the game against Sorrento will be a tough one. They will be confident after their big win against PK last week, so we need to control the game from early to set our rhythm into the game, it should be a cracking game.” In the other games on Sunday, Fremantle City entertain Port Kennedy at Hilton Park, with both sides looking to bounce back from defeats last week, likewise Mandurah City and Subiaco AFC, who meet at Genesiscare Stadium.
28.7.2023
NPL-WA ROUND NINETEEN - PREVIEW
We head into week 19 of the NPLWA – Men’s competition and with only four rounds to go, the league couldn’t be any tighter, with Perth RedStar sitting in pole position at the moments, but hot on their heels are Stirling Macedonia and Olympic Kingsway, who meet each other in a few weeks in their game in hand. There is a number of clubs still in the mix, and two of them meet in our ‘Match of the Round’ as Bayswater City host Balcatta Etna in the Italian Derby at Frank Drago Reserve. (All games kick off at 3pm, unless stated)
Both sides go into this one after defeats last week, the hosts losing at RedStar, while Balcatta conceded a stoppage time goal to lose at home to Sorrento, and with only one point separating the two, this one should be a great game and three points will be vital. The last time they played at the venue was in round 17 last season when the hosts won convincingly 5-1. Ellis Healing gave the hosts the lead, and Daryl Nicol doubled it just after the half hour, before Sami Riak made it three just before half time. Gordon Perkins pulled one back for the hosts earlier in the second half, but Nicol grabbed two more to complete his hat-trick and seal a comfortable win.
Bayswater midfielder Gordon Smith said the loss at his former club was disappointing, especially after their recent good form under the new coaching duo. “Yes, it was disappointing to lose to RedStar, considering how confident we were going into the game after a good run of results since Gary (Williams)and Stewy (Moses) came in,” the Scotsman said. “I thought it was a pretty even game, but we just lacked that cutting edge in the final third on the day and they punished us by taking their only two chances in the second half.
Changing coaches in midseason is always difficult, but Smith said the transition has been smooth and they will look to bounce back against Balcatta on Saturday. “It’s always difficult when a new coach comes into a club, but the transition has been great. Both Gary and Sewy have come in and given us a lift which is evident in the results,” the former Heart of Midlothian midfielder explained. “Training has been fast and furious and the boys have all worked hard and really enjoyed it. We have moved on from last weeks loss, and we all know Saturday will be a tough game again. Balcatta have had a good season and are full of experience, so it should be a great contest. We’ve had another good week’s training and are prepare for a big three points.”
Balcatta thought they had salvaged a point last week scoring late against Sorrento, but they let the points slip with the last kick of the game, and assistant coach Malcom Tshuma said the performance of the ten men was exceptional, but to loss it late hurt. “We had a great opportunity to solidify our position in the top four and unfortunately came up short,” he said. “But the resilience and character shown by the players to come back from 2-0 down with 10 men was beyond exceptional. Hopefully we can get just reward for our efforts this weekend.”
The visitors could have been higher on the ladder, but have drawn to many games recently, and Tshuma said that needs to change. “Yes, three draws in our last four games are not ideal, but we have played some really good opposition too. What’s been disappointing is we haven’t had decisions go in our favour during crucial moments of those matches,” the coach explained. “We’ve had a number of clear-cut penalties denied which I’m sure would’ve changed the context of those games but ultimately, it’s our responsibility to capitalise on our other opportunities during the match.”
Balcatta head into Saturday’s Derby having only lost once on the road this season, and Tshuma said they will be looking to continue that against a good Bayswater side. “They (Bayswater) are a top side, and Gary and Stewy seem to have stabilized the ship and they look to be in a good dynamic with their transitional play between the thirds,” Tshuma explained. “However, this is a derby, so previous records count for nothing. It will be a tough match but we have a few ideas on how to expose their frailties so I’m confident of a positive result if we stick to our game plan.”
In other games, Stirling Macedonia welcome Sorrento to Macedonia Park, looking to keep the pressure on the league leaders, while it’s the City of Vincent Derby at E&D Litis Stadium, with Floreat Athena entertaining Perth SC, with both sides coming off big wins last week. Olympic Kingsway make the trip to Dalmatinac Park to take on Cockburn City, while it’s a real six pointer at Lark Hill Sportsplex, when the bottom two side meet, as Perth Glory host Inglewood United. Inglewood slipped three points from safety after losing to Olympic last week, while the Glory conceded two goals in stoppage time to lose to Stirling.
In the final game Perth RedStar welcome Armadale to the RedStar Arena. The visitors sacked Head Coach John O’Reilly this week, which seemed pretty harsh after seven years’ service he has given the club, but last week’s big loss against Perth SC saw the club make the decision, and striker Chris Jackson, who missed the game due to suspension, said it was poor performance from the group, and they hope to make emends on Saturday.
“Yes, Perth was a disappointing result and we’re aware we didn’t quite get out the blocks and made it an uphill battle, but we did play well in passages, but we need to improve,” he explained. “We’ve trained well this week with Lee (Taylor) and Sam (Hutchings) and are looking forward to Saturday’s challenge against the league leaders, and they are top for a reason, but are beatable as we’ve seen this season. We will be giving it 100% for the club to take all three points and push to get back into that top four.”
28.7.2023
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND EIGHTEEN PREVIEW
Western Knights moved back to the top of the State League Division One table last week, and they are involved in our week 18 ‘Match of the Round’ when they make the trip to Hilton Reserve to take on Fremantle City. (All games kick off at 3pm, unless stated) Both sides were winners last week, the Knights beating MUMFC at home, while Fremantle broke a three-game losing streak, after a 2-1 win at Forrestfield, and they need to get back to winning form if they are to challenge for the title.
The last time they met at the venue was in round seven last season, when the hosts won narrowly 2-1. The home side found the opener on 24 minutes. Chris Thackrey found space in the middle of the park, and his shot flew past Sam Stone from long-range. But the Knights hit back and found the equaliser eight minutes after half time. Paul Lloyd found Dylan White on the right of the penalty area, and his shot went through the hands of Fremantle keeper Jordan Barbas. But just after the hour, the hosts found the winners. Brian Patterson found Charles Parry on the right, and his curling shot from the edge of the box flew into the top corner of the net giving Stone no chance.
Knights’ winger Owen Goodliffe opened the scoring against MUMFC, and he said it was strong performance. “I thought last week was a really solid performance, we started the game with great intensity and the quick start allowed us to get on top early,” he explained. “Murdoch are an energetic side who are well coached, so we expected to be under the pump for patches, but in the end, we had enough opportunities over the 90 minutes to justify the three points.”
That win moved Adam Kostrencic back to the top of the table, and Goodliffe knows consistency is the key with the league so tight, as the club press for a return to the NPL. “We haven’t changed what we’ve been aiming to achieve since the first day of pre-season and the final five games are no different,” he said. “We have just got to keep doing what we’re doing, sticking to our values as a side and grafting and the results should follow.”
Goodliffe said Saturday will be another tough test, and he knows they have quality players, and they will be looking to make emends after Fremantle beat them 1-5 in round seven at Nash Field. “Fremantle are a side with great quality and we know that this little slump they’ve been through doesn’t account for that quality,” he said. “We’ve got a point to prove because they are one of only two sides to beat us in the league this year and the way in which we lost wasn’t anywhere near the standards we set as a club, so it should be a great game.”
The win at Forrestfield was vital for Fremantle, having lost ground on the top sides, with three straight defeats, and midfielder Elliot Ireland said they were made to work for the three points, but deserved them. “Yes, it was a tough game, I thought we had a really good first half, controlled the game but we just couldn’t get the ball in the net,” he said. “We created a lot of chances but didn’t quite get the rub of the green, but a great start in the second half was enough for us to get the important three points, thought the lads showed great determination to close the game out.”
Ireland has been out injured recently, and the club have had a bad run of injuries to senior players, but he said they are starting to get players back, and want to finish the season well, starting on Saturday against the Knights. “Yes, your right, injuries haven’t helped us recently, we’ve had quite a few lads out recently myself included,” the midfielder explained.
“This has really tested the squad, but I think after the weekends result, we’re starting to find our feet again to really push for a good end to the season. Saturday is a big game for both sides this weekend, and of course we’re all looking forward to it. I thought we were brilliant last time we played them at their ground, not just a win but a big win. So, it’s not something we haven’t done before, it’ll be a big challenge for us of course but one we most certainly will not shy away from.”
In other games Mandurah City will look to bounce back from their draw last week when they host Joondalup United at Genesiscare Stadium. The dropped points saw the Dolphins lose top spot, while Joondalup also lost ground, being held at home by Subiaco, while fourth placed Dianella White Eagles hit the road to take on Murdoch University Melville at Besteam Stadium. Subiaco AFC will look to build on their draw at Joondalup last week when they host the inform Gwelup Croatia at Rosalie Park. Gosnells City welcome Rockingham City to Walter Padbury Reserve, while in the final game bottom of the table Forrestfield United need to start picking up points as they sit six points adrift, when they take on UWA Nedlands at the UWA Sports Park.
28.7.2023
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND EIGHTEEN PREVIEW
It’s been a tough couple of weeks off the pitch for Morley Windmills, but Marc Anthony has rolled up his sleeves and got them fighting on the pitch, and they will look to close the gap on the State League Division Two leaders Kingsley Westside on Saturday, when they meet in the top of the table clash in our ‘Match of the Round’ at Chichester Park. (All games kick off at 3pm, unless stated) Kingsley moved seven points clear at the top last week after a big win at Balga, while Morley scored late to earn a point against Swan United, which left them in second spot, and both sides know the importance of three points in this one.
The last time the two sides met at the venue was in round 19 last season, when Morley left with the points after a 2-1 win. The home side hit the front early in the second half, with Ilya Nebylytsya finding the target. But substitutes Yared Nadew and Bojan Ninkovic were involved in the equaliser, Nadew beat two men down the left, and his cross across the penalty area picked out Ninkovic who finished at the back post. It looked like the points would be shared but late on Morley found the winner, Nadew’s eased past his marker and crossed to Otto Van Der Poel, who headed home at the front post.
Despite being clear at the top, Kingsley assistant coach Stuart Montgomery wasn’t happy with the first half performance last week, but he said they rallied after the break to come home with a convincing win. “Yes, it was a good win last week in the end, but first half we were a little disappointing,” he explained. “But at half time we made a few tactical changes and credit to the boys they responded to what we asked them to do and scored a few goals which is pleasing to come home with the points.”
Kingsley were beaten by Maddington in round 15, but Montgomery and Head coach Steven Dimitrovich have been pleased how the side bounced back to move you seven points clear, and with a game in hand. “They (Maddington) are a really good side and deserved their win against us, we knew from the first game against them it was going to be tough and so it proved,” he said. “We told the boys, after that game, we can’t let the loss define our season and all the hard work we have done can’t be undone by one loss so it is how we react to it. Dima and myself worked on a few things at training and again to the boy’s credit they took on board what we have been doing and to bounce back like we have is really pleasing.”
Montgomery knows Morley will be another tough challenge, but the former Western Knights and ECU Joondalup striker said they are looking forward to it. “Morley this week is a massive game, we know it will be a tough game they have some really quality players and Marc Anthony and Lenny are two really good coaches who set their teams up really well and we have had some really good battles over the years with them,” Montgomery explained. “The whole club is looking forward to this game and I know the boys can’t wait till Saturday. I know it’s a cliché, but we aren’t really looking too far ahead we have a massive game this week and then we will see where we are after that.”
Morley remain in touching distance of Kingsley after a 1-1 draw against Swan, and midfielder Conor Kavanagh said the result was about right, but thought their second half performance deserved more. “I thought it was a pretty even game throughout, we knew what Swan were going to come with on Saturday, they are a well drilled side and have a never say die attitude it was always going to be a really tough game,” he explained. “First half I felt Swan were the better team, and deserved their half-time lead, but second half we regrouped and I feel like we were the aggressors in the second half. Overall, I think a draw was a fair result for a game that was played in a good sporting manor.”
They might have dropped two points in the draw, but Kavanagh said the point could be important at the end of the season, but they now need to get three points at Kingsley on Saturday. “I thought the draw against Swan was a massive point for us in our title challenge, although we will rely on other teams doing us a favour. It’s just keeps us clinging on in there, and who knows what might happen,” he said. “As regards Saturday, it’s a must win game, plain and simple. Kingsley have been the standard bearers all year, and it will be a great test for us. It will be a tight affair, but we are hopeful that we can come out on the right side of the result and just keep that pressure on them.”
In other games on Saturday third-placed Curtin University head to Grandis Park to take on Carramar Shamrock Rovers, who sit seven points behind them in sixth, while Swan United host Quinns at the Swan Italian Club, Francis Street. Fourth-placed Maddington-Kalamunda White City head north to take on Wanneroo City at Wanneroo Reserve, Ashfield will also head up the Mitchell Freeway to take on Joondalup City at Iluka District Open Space, while bottom of the table Canning City welcome Balga to Burrendah Park.
25.7.2023
TANA TO RESUME OWNERSHIP OF GLORY?
Former Perth Glory owner Nick Tana has been linked to a potential purchase of the A-League club by stalwarts of the local game. Tana is said to be considering a multi million-dollar cornerstone investment in the club, which was put into receivership on Friday after its licence was pulled from mining promoter Tony Sage.
Speculation is mounting that Tana will be a key figure in a group of West Australian football identities looking at a syndicate bid for Glory. The group is sounding out local - and potentially overseas - investors and is known to have expressed its interest to A-League governing body Australian Professional Leagues.
Tana made his first fortune from the Red Rooster and Chicken Treat fast food chains before becoming WA’s biggest horticulturist through Sumich Group. In 1995, he parlayed part of his wealth into his passion by setting up Glory in partnership with Paul Afkos. The duo transformed the domestic scene by entering the club in the 1996/97 national league.
Severing his ties with Glory in 2006 when the licence was surrendered, Tana largely kept a low profile in football matters before accepting the chairmanship of the Football Futures Foundation two years ago. At the time, he admitted he got “peace of mind” when he sold Glory, but “passion is passion, (and) I’m round-ball through and through”.
It is estimated that Glory’s new owner will need at least $20 million “just to turn up”. However, there have also been suggestions that APL, which was owed up to $6m by Glory after helping pay players’ wages, would be willing to compromise on the purchase price if it could be assured the club was going into safe hands.
25.7.2023
MRCELA SPLITS WITH WESTERN SYDNEY
Western Sydney Wanderers have parted ways with defender Tomislav Mrcela, who is set to pursue opportunities overseas. The towering 32-year old joined Western Sydney in February 2022 as an injury-replacement player and made 12 appearances in his first season at the club.
Mrcela became an integral part of Western Sydney's surge up the A-League standings last campaign after signing with the club on a permanent deal. He forged a brilliant centre-back partnership with Marcelo en route to a fourth-placed finish, making 26 appearances and scoring one goal.
Mrcela enjoyed a previous A-League spell with hometown club Perth Glory between 2018 and 2020 after close to a decade plying his trade in Croatia and South Korea, most notably for Lokomotiva and Jeonnam Dragons. Prior to joining Western Sydney he spent a season with Indian club East Bengal.
24.7.2023
NEW GLORY OWNER MAY NEED UP TO $25 MILLION
Prospective owners of the embattled Perth Glory could be asked to stump up an initial investment of $25 million, according to a former chief executive. Tony Sage's 17-year tenure at the club ended at the weekend when the Australian Professional Leagues announced the club had gone into receivership.
APL chief executive Danny Townsend said the focus was finding a safe pair of hands to take the club forward. "There are a lot of people in Perth we are talking to at the moment, who are interested in taking that club forward," Townsend told ABC Perth Breakfast.
Townsend did not rule out the prospect of foreign investment and guaranteed it would be business as usual at the club until a new owner is found. "We've already got the City Football Group, Manchester City owning the Melbourne City Club, [the] 777 Partners who own a bunch of clubs around the world investing in Melbourne Victory," he added.
"So, we see the international investor market as being pretty buoyant right now. The enterprise value growth of A-League franchises is all ahead of us – so it will probably be a mixture of local investment and international investment."
Scott Gooch, a former Glory chief executive and sports industry consultant, said the new owner could be asked for an initial investment of $25 million. "My understanding is the A-League is keen on growth, and there's going to be two new licences coming into the competition in the next few years and another two in the years following," Gooch told ABC Perth Mornings.
"With the private investment in the APL right now from the American company Silverlake they're looking at each of those licences to be an outright $25 million each. Now for someone to invest in Perth Glory, it's only worth what someone is willing to pay for it, but if a new licence is on the table ... for $25 million each then you would think ... they might be looking for a similar amount."
23.7.2023
BELT-UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION – ROUND THIRTEEN REVIEW
The top of the table clash between North Perth United and Emerald in Week 13 of the Belt up Amateur Premier League didn’t disappoint, with the hosts prevailing 2-0 in our ‘Match of the Round at Woodville Reserve on Sunday afternoon. The win moved United two points clear at the top and coach Alex Carter said it was a great game to be involved in. “It was played like a top of the table clash should be, fast tempo, quick ball movement and very physical,” he explained. “Credit to our squad we shaded Emerald on all theses and come away with the fully deserved three points.” It was a tight opened to the game, but the hosts started to take control and found the opener on 23 minutes, Nickolas Bailey was brought down inside the box, and Brian Woodall converted from the spot, firing straight down the middle.
They sealed the points 11 minutes from time, some great team pressing turned the ball over and Kyle Jackson broke clear, and finished superbly, much to the delight of the home supporters. “It was an important win and an even more important performance. To a man everyone battled and can say they stood up to a challenge from a very good side and tactically I think we nailed the game plan,” North Perth skipper Kelechi Osunwa explained. “It was important for us to get a win against the teams around us as we haven’t done that so far in the league but we know that the job's not done. We will have an even bigger target on our backs moving forward and will have to stay at this level each and every week. That's the challenge over the next block of games. It's to stay consistent, continue to compete and embrace the pressure.”
Jaguar moved back into third place after a 3-2 win against Peel United at the Herb Graham Recreation Centre. “It wasn’t an easy game as we expected, I thought Peel were dominant in most parts of the game and missed a lot of chances hitting the bar three times,” Jags coach Josam Muwowo explained. “But we made some few adjustments in the plan and things looked better as we applied pressure on their backline. We managed to create three opportunities and used them efficiently. Overall, we played against a decent team full of endurance and pace. It was a tough game but fair in terms of quality.” A brace in the first 25 minutes from Magai Deng had the hosts in control, and the game looked over when substitute Kuol Riak added a third just after the hour. Peel found a consolation goal with Scott Martin scoring, but it was too little too late.
There was a six-goal thriller at Butlers Reserve, with Wembley Downs and Kelmscott Roos playing out an entertaining 3-3 draw. “It was a great game, and I thought we played some good football but just couldn’t find the result. Wembley came to play in the first half and we started slow which killed us,” Kelmscott keeper Taylor Warwick explained. “All in all, still an important point which keeps us in touching distance from top and with two huge games in the next two weeks against Emerald and North Perth we have our destiny in our own hands still. We are still unbeaten since the first game of the season and as long as we keep getting results, we will be there abouts come the end of the season.”
The visitors opened the scoring on 14 minutes, Ishmael Greywood who took on two Wembley players down the right, then played a pin point through ball to Isaac Koomson, who took on his man and finished well past the keeper. But Wembley levelled three minutes later, a long throw from Ryan Morris was mishandled by Warwick, the ball falling to Niall Thomas who slotted home. Wembley hit the front on 36 minutes, good work from Omar Shatila, saw him weave through several defenders and then found Dave Brownlees who scored from close-range. But the game took another twist early in the second half, Miguel Oliviera made space down the left, and he cut the ball back to the edge of the box, and a deflection took the ball into the path of Benn Lewis, and his long-range volley found the bottom corner.
The Roos hit the front again on 63 minutes, a long clearance from Warwick sent Oliveira clear, and he lobbed the on-coming keeper. But 18 minutes from time Wembley levelled, Tom Bish won the ball back through some great tackling and played through Omar Shatila, who finished calmly to seal the 3-3 draw. “Hopefully this point puts us back on track. We’ve had a tough run of games where we’ve been so close but not getting anything out of it,” Wembley keeper Jeff Cornez explained. “We took it to Kelmscott, who’s keeper kept them in the game despite his mistake so credit to him. Some could say we dropped points given our many chances we didn’t finish, but in the end the neutral fan would have found this to be a very entertaining game with a couple of great goals from Kelmscott.”
East Perth have continued their recent good form, after a 3-0 win against Kwinana United at Cabrini Park. “Delighted to get another three points and another clean sheet, and we were pleased with the lads, who played very well in the second half,” East Perth coach Colm Costello explained. “We knew it would be a tough game, Mark (Purvis) is a great coach and Kwinana never stopped and played with an injury to the keeper too. For us we need to keep the pressure on above teams with every week being as important as the next one now.”
The hosts were slow out of the blocks, and Kwinana had them on the back foot, but on 25 minutes East Perth opened the scoring. A free kick by Niall Murray found Ryan Murray who headed home. They doubled their lead three minutes later, on 34 minutes, Adam McCarron’s shot was well saved, but Ryan Murray was quickest to the rebound to score. East Perth was on top in the second half but couldn’t find a way past Kwinana keeper Luke Higgins, who made a number of great saves. But he was beaten on the hour, when East Perth sealed the points, Wayne Carter’s long-range free kick finding the top corner.
The round started on Saturday evening, with South West Phoenix and North Beach drawing 2-2 at the Onside Sports Stadium. “Overall, we’re frustrated that our performances aren’t producing the results we have been hoping for,” North Beach coach Nick Di Carlo said. “We’re trying to keep improving and are looking to become more clinical.” It was North Beach who hit the front early, Daniel Yelland stole the ball off a Phoenix defender and the ball bounce up and he volleyed over the keeper. But the Phoenix levelled twenty minutes later, with Corey Barclay’s free kick was headed home by Jeremy Stevens. Brodie Martin regained the lead for North Beach just before half time, but the hosts restored parity 15 minutes from time, with Fernando Spadaccini curling home a free kick from the edge of the box, and both sides shared the spoils. “Both teams had chances to win it towards the end,” Phoenix midfielder Barclay said. “I thought it was a great game by both teams played in good spirits.” in the final game Joondalup United have won for the third time this season, after a 2-0 win against South Perth United at Beldon Park. “We knew South Perth were going to cause problems, 28 goals scored in their 12 previous games, but we also knew that defensively they were going to give us chances,” Joondalup coach Karl Cherrie said. “We stuck to the game plan and were in control for large parts of the game. We lost a key midfielder (Matt Cherrie) very early through injury, and key defender in Jack Harris by Half-time – but collectively continued with a very positive and disciplined performance.
“The break came when we changed the formation and introduced Evan Gurney into the back line, and we got our rewards with two goals.” The hosts were ahead on 65 minutes, when Gurney’s clearance wasn’t dealt with, and Dom-Brearo Elliott reacting quickest and lobbing the advancing goalkeeper. Then five minutes later it was 2-0, good work from Drew Kirkpatrick and Glen Atkinson closing down the South Perth defence attempting to play out from the back and Glen Atkinson stole possession attacked the near post and cut the ball back for Elliott who ghosted in for his second to seal the points.
23.7.2023
NPLWA WOMEN’S – ROUND SIXTEEN REVIEW
Our 'Match of the Round' in the NPLWA Women's competition saw the Hyundai NTC secure a narrow 2-1 win against Balcatta Etna at E&D Litis Stadium. It was the first league game for Paul Anderton’s side, after their participation in the NTC Challenge in Victoria, and it was tight first half with clear cut chances few far between, the best falling to the hosts. First Georgia Cassidy’s shot flashed wide, before new Perth Glory recruit Tanika Lala’s header was saved by Balcatta custodian Gabby Dal Busco. But ten minutes into the second half it was the NTC youngsters who found the opener, Cassidy gain possession in the middle of the park, and saw Dal Busco off her line, and her long-range shot found the top of the net.
They doubled their advantage two minutes later, Lala found space out wide, and her cross picked out Klaudia Houlis, and the NTC top goalscorer made no mistake from close-range. The hosts went in search of a third, and Violet Longmore’s cross was headed over the top by the lively Lala. Balcatta went close themselves moments later substitute Dareskadar Tamru made a good break, and her shot on the run drifted wide of the target. Balcatta found a lifeline 11 minutes from time, Lauren Continibali’s corner was headed back across goal by Baxter Thew, and Tamru header looped over an NTC defender on the line. Balcatta pressed late looking forward the equaliser, but the NTC held firm to take the points, and with two games in hand they are in a strong position to make the top four.
In the other Sunday game, Perth SC have closed the gap in league leaders Perth RedStar, after a hard fought 2-0 win against Fremantle City at Hilton Park. “This win was certainly a statement of our intentions moving forward, and it shows our desire for finals football,” Perth SC coach Peter Rakic explained. “The girls haven't given up on anything and it's a huge credit to their efforts and fight for each other in the past few weeks. We have a huge challenge ahead of us if we want to push RedStar to the final day but we'll throw in everything we have to make sure it's a contest no matter the final outcome.”
The visitors found the opener early, neat build-up play involving Gemma Craine, Judy Connolly and Ella Lincoln, ended with Jess Flannery, and her cross found Craine, who headed home from six yards. Fremantle had their chances, and Perth keeper Rebecca Bennett made an important one-on-one save to deny Tash Rigby. That was Fremantle’s best chance, and they were struggling to break down a tight Azzurri defence, but on 71 minutes the visitors secured the points with a second goal. Craine this time linked up with Jaime Duncanson and continued her run before rifling a strike into the bottom corner from just outside the area.
The round started on Friday evening, when Murdoch University Melville and Perth RedStar played out an entertaining 2-2 draw in week 16 of the NPLWA – Women’s competition at Besteam Stadium on Friday evening. “We wanted to improve on the performance against Subiaco, and we started well, scored early with a corner from Charli Wainwright and we kept possession for the first 20-25 minutes. Redstar started to get control of the game and scored before half time,” MUMFC coach David Biancuzzo explained. “The half time talk was to not allow the opposition to overpower us in the second half and we scored again through Sam Mathers by winning the ball high up the pitch. We conceded the equaliser from a set piece and both teams looked to score the winner however couldn’t find the back of the net. Proud how the team fought for every possession, however the win was what we wanted, just wasn’t able to get it in the end.”
It was the hosts who found the opener on 16 minutes, skipper Charli Wainwright’s in-swinging corner caught out Redstar keeper Maya Diederichsen, the ball finding the net. But the league leaders hit back just after the half hour mark, Chiori Ikeda’s cross from the right found its way to Reina Kagami on the edge of the penalty area and she finished low past Stacey Cavill. But MUMFC regained the lead six minutes into the second half, the RedStar’s gave away possession in their half, and were made to pay, with Sam Mathers firing home from long-range, despite Diederichsen getting a hand to it.
But their lead only lasted two minutes, RedStar restoring parity in controversial circumstances. The referee and his assistant had pointed for a goal kick after Kagami was tackled by Clara Hoarau, but the referee changed his mind, awarding a corner, much to the displeasure of the home supporters. Then from the resulting corner from Kagami, no one picked up the run of Jacinta Coleman in the penalty area, and she swept the ball low past Cavill. Both sides had chances to win it, but they had to settle for a share of the spoils.
“We expected MUMFC to come out fighting after their loss to Subiaco. The games at their ground are always fast paced with a lot of movement of the ball, and Friday night’s game was energetic and very physical,” RedStar coach Carlos Vega Mena said. “It took us a little while to settle into our game, but after we went down 1-0, we knew we had to step up. Second half saw us playing the football we like. I’m very proud of the girl’s determination and never say die attitude, coming back twice from behind to make sure we had the equaliser.”
In Friday’s other game Subiaco have come away from Edinburgh Oval with a 7-3 win against Curtin University. “The first half we moved the ball around and were patient, but we forced passes in moments when we didn’t have to. We then scored inside two minutes of the second half, which led to a period of about 20 minutes where we were making silly decisions and playing without thinking far too often,” Subiaco coach Greg Farrell explained. “That period finished 3-3, and credit to the Curtin players they worked very hard and scored a couple of good goals, the third one was an absolute worldie of a volley. We gave two of our younger 21s players their debut during the second half, Jas Gray and Cat Oud, so that’s a positive to come out of the game.”
The visitors opened the scoring after only three minutes, Danielle Suckling finding Marianna Tabain on the edge of the box who found the bottom corner of the net. They doubled their advantage 14 minutes later, with former Perth Glory striker Tabain the provider this time, her through ball sending Frankie Murray in on goal, and the striker got a foot to it before keeper Sharon Loader, the ball rolling into the net. It was 3-0 before the break, Tabain was the architect, her defence splitting pass sending Dakota Van-Vugt clear, and she finished clinically past Loader.
It was 4-0 early in the second half, with Suckling’s long-range strike, looking to have settled the result, but the hosts had other ideas and pulled one back moments later. Tiana Botha won possession in the middle of the park and her pass sent Hannah Stoney in on goal, and she finished neatly low past Annie Leyland. Then just before the hour mark the hosts added another, Emma Ylias racing clear, the ball falling to Brianna Corbett at the back post to score. It was game on, but Subiaco steadied and added a fifth 12 minutes from time, Suckling racing into the box and squaring the ball to Taylor Reid, who made no mistake.
But two minutes later Curtin added a their third, Corbett’s long-range shot giving Leyland no chance. But Subiaco sealed the points with two late goals. First on 81 minutes, Van-Vugt firing home from distance after a keeper error, before Tabain rounded off a ‘Player of the Match’ performance added the seventh, tapping in from close-range after being sent clear by Ingrid Gomez Basallo. “There were good and bad parts to our game, there were instances we moved the ball well and dominated possession and there were times where we let things slipped, tried to force the ball and got caught on the counter and gave away some goals,” Subiaco striker Frankie Murray explained. “It wasn’t our best game but we are always improving and onto the next one.”
23.7.2023
HYUNDAI WOMEN’S LEAGUE DIVISION ONE - ROUND FOURTEEN REVIEW
Women’s Division One league leaders Hamersley Rovers have continued their unbeaten start to the season, but were made to work hard to gain a 1-0 win against Mandurah City at Carine Open Space on Sunday afternoon. Rovers’ coach Betim Ziba said it was a tough game, but he was really pleased with the fight his side showed. “The game was quite physical, with Mandurah adding a lot of pressure and a few fouls. We knew it would be a hard game, especially since we had quite a few players away and injured. Was a great chance to bring up one of our young players to give them game time at this level though,” he explained.
“Throughout the game opportunities occurred on both sides but we had the more threatening chances. Their keeper had a great game to ensure the score line stayed at 1-0. In games like this where our squad isn’t at 100%, and where we can get these wins is important if we want to win this league. We showed great fight and we got the three points we deserved.” The only goal of the game came on 69 minutes, a short pass from Ella Kerman found Christiane Astorp at the top of the penalty area, and the league’s leading goalscorer took a touch and found the bottom corner of the net, via the post.
UWA Nedlands have bounced back from defeat against Rovers last week, after a 2-0 win against Subiaco at the UWA Sports Park. “As mentioned before, we knew Subiaco would come with high intensity and work rate to try and put us off our game, which we had to adapt to,” UWA coach Lawrence Lewis said. “Some great individual performances from Chloe Rodrigo and Alyssa Kinkaid helped us maintain control of the game and put Subiaco on the back foot. After last week's defeat, it was important to set the tone early again, which is exactly what we did.”
The home side were ahead early, Chloe Rodrigo raced down the right, beat her marker and cut inside, then beat another player before firing home a shot into the far corner of the net from 18 meters. They wrapped up the points with a second, a ball from Rodrigo was played through the Subiaco defence, and with the Subiaco keeper racing out, the ball was rolled to Rhianna Burgess who scored into an empty net.
A brace from Daisy Spill and another to Amanda Smith saw third placed Perth AFC beat Fremantle City 3-1 at Len Packham Reserve, with Lauren Giovannangelo scoring for the goal for the visitors. AFC coach Rob Caruso said it was an improved performance from his side, but is looking for more. “Another tough game, the lead up was to focus on getting back into our rhythm of place as it had been lacking the last few weeks,” he explained. “It was an improved first half but still not quite where we should be at, an unfortunate own goal at the end of the first half gave us the lead at the break and some much-needed confidence for the second half.
“The second half was a lot better from us, and with Fremantle keeping the pressure on we created a lot more chance knocking the ball around well but was frustrating not converting them. Their keeper pulled off some great saves to keep the score at 1-0, but a great finish from Daisy from outside the 18-yard box put us two ahead, before Fremantle caught us napping on a corner with a solid headed finish. But we bounced back shortly after with another outside of the box hit from Amanda giving us a 3-1 win.”
In the final game Sorrento moved up to fourth, after a 4-1 win against Port Kennedy at Koorana Reserve. Jodie Brough was the hero for the Gulls bagging a hat-trick, with Jessica Lindquist scoring the other, while Vanessa Baker scored Port’s consolation goal. Sorrento coach Grant O’Connell said it was a pleasing performance. “It was a very pleasing result and performance, Port Kennedy is a really tough place to come too, but at times we played some good football and got the goals our play deserved,” O’Connell said. “Then when we needed to, we showed a lot of determination and resilience defensively and limited them to only a couple of chances.”
The visitors were ahead on 17 minutes, Lindquist getting on the end of a Jodie Brough flick on, before lifting the ball over the keeper. It was soon 2-0, Brough turning her marker before finishing one on one with the keeper. They added a third on the half hour, Jess Santich put Brough in on goal before finishing clinically. The hosts pulled one back just before half time, with Vanessa Baker on target. But the Gulls flew off with the points three minutes from time, Alex Parker’s corner was headed home by Brough to complete her hat-trick.
23.7.2023
TOWNSEND GUARANTEES GLORY’S A-LEAGUE FUTURE
A-League outfit Perth Glory’s future has been guaranteed despite being placed in receivership and long-time owner Tony Sage having relinquished the club’s licence. The Australian Professional Leagues – which runs the A-League – announced yesterday that it had appointed advisory firm KordaMentha to manage the receivership process, which is expected to conclude within the next 10 weeks.
“We are pleased to close off this period of uncertainty for players, staff, members and fans as they continue their preparations for next season,” APL chief executive officer Danny Townsend said. “Here we have a process which allows for the club’s operations to continue … while the technical adjustments are made to the club’s ownership structure. Under this league structure, the continuity of our clubs is now guaranteed by the league.”
23.7.2023
MATILDAS CONFIDENT THEY CAN ADJUST WITHOUT KERR
Injured captain Sam Kerr has watched on from the sidelines as the Matildas started their preparations to face Nigeria, confident they can adapt and claim a second straight Women's World Cup win without their biggest star. Kerr, a shock late omission from Australia's opening game against Ireland with a calf strain suffered the day before, is already ruled out of Thursday night's clash at Suncorp Stadium.
Mary Fowler and Caitlin Foord led the attack in Kerr's absence and had some dynamic moments against Ireland, albeit without scoring in the 1-0 win. "The message is we've just got to adapt and Cait and Mary played a really important role against Ireland," young defender Charli Grant said.
"We're doing really well and we've just gotta stay positive. These things happen in big tournaments, so we've just got to adapt. We've still got top-class players as our forwards. Yeah, Sam's one of the best players in the world. But that just gives the opportunity to Cait and Mary to shine and they took that on really well against Ireland."
Kerr walking normally, and without a compression bandage on her left calf as she took part in a meet and greet today with junior players from local club Mt Gravatt Hawks before watching on as her teammates warmed up for training. The 29-year old was in good spirits as she chatted away and sat on an esky to watch the session.
Kerr is racing the clock to be involved in the Matildas campaign. Australia can seal progression to the round of 16 by defeating Nigeria on Thursday. Kerr will be reassessed ahead of the July 31 clash with Canada. But as there is only four days between group games, it appears likely she won't be risked if progression is already sealed.
22.7.2023
NPL-WA ROUND EIGHTEEN - REVIEW
With four rounds to go in the NPLWA – Men’s competition it looks like the title and relegation will go down to the wire after another tense week 18 fixtures. In our ‘Match of the Round’ Inglewood United remain at the foot of the table and Olympic Kingsway kept the pressure on the leaders after a 1-0 win at Inglewood Stadium. Olympic keeper David Keenan said it was a good three points, and good to get another clean sheet. “It was a tight game, in this league anyone can beat anyone so table position doesn’t matter but we were able to grind out another result,” Keenan explained. “As for the clean sheets it’s not just myself but the whole defence, Shane and Walshy were brilliant yesterday and have been the last few weeks.”
It was a fast opening from both sides with chances at both ends. The hosts went close early, after Dylan White run and shot was pushed around the post by the alert Keenan. The winger was denied again moments later, his shot well saved by Keenan. At the other end Daniel Walsh headed wide from a Liam Murray corner, before Ciaran Byrne volleyed inches over the bar late on. But in stoppage time the visitors found the opener, Tyler Garner finding Byrne, and the big striker curled home superbly past Alex Dunn.
They went close to a second early in the second half, James Fanelli made space down the right, his cross found Calum O’Connell, whose first-time shot was well saved by Dunn. Inglewood defender Ciaran Salinger headed inches wide at the other end, before Keenan was out bravely to save at the feet of White moments later. Murray was then denied by a smart save from Dunn, as the game went from end-to-end.
Inglewood pressed for the equaliser and Michael Domfeh’s header was saved by Keenan, and they had a penalty shoot turned down by referee Josh Mannella in stoppage time, but Olympic held firm to take home the points. “I thought we showed a different side to our game and we are really happy to get the three points. In such a competitive league, every game is tough and we know that to keep putting pressure on the leaders, we must win our games,” Olympic midfielder Joshua Samson explained.
“Inglewood is a great side who have so much power, strength and quality in the final third. They turn defence into attack so quickly and we knew we would have to be on top of our game defensively to get a result. We have defended as a team really well recently and have built confidence that we can grind out a result if needed. Coming to the tail end of the season we know every game is important, and the ability to sometimes grind out results becomes imperative when competing in this league. We will continue focus on ourselves and take every game as they come.”
Perth RedStar have maintained their lead at the top of the table after a 2-0 win against Bayswater City at the RedStar Arena. “Very happy with the win yesterday. We knew going into the game that it was going to be tough, Bayswater have been in good form lately and were coming off a big win at Armadale,” RedStar’s Sonny O’Shea explained. “They made it difficult for us and defended well but we stayed patient and eventually we broke them down. It was a great team performance and an important clean sheet for the defenders. As for myself, I’m delighted to get my first senior goal as I feel I’ve had the chances in recent weeks but I hadn’t taken them. It was a huge 3 points and we will look to do the same against Armadale next week.”
Bayswater went into this game unbeaten under new coach Gary Williams, and it was a tight first half, and it was all-square at the break, but it was the hosts who made the breakthrough on 66 minutes. Andy Higgins’ ball found substitute Sonny O’Shea, whose shot from the angle beat City keeper Lewis Italiano. The visitors went in search of the equaliser, but they couldn’t find a way past Liam Reddy, and seven minutes from time the hosts sealed the points. O’Shea found Chok Dau, who raced across the top of the penalty area, before finishing with aplomb past Italiano.
Stirling Macedonia have bounced back defeat last week at Cockburn, after scoring two stoppage time goals to beat Perth Glory 3-2 at Lark Hill Sportsplex, and keeper James Bosdet said it was a great game, and fantastic fight back from them. “Incredible to be honest, it was a game with many chances for both teams in both halves,” he explained. “We were caught on the counter for both goals which credit to them they took really well, and with ten minutes to go we took a gamble and sent the skipper up top and he was just a beast and gave us something different. The boys just kept fighting for everything and somehow, we managed to get the three points which is huge for us with the league still in our hands. Each game just gets bigger now but we take it one game at a time with another huge game this weekend.”
Stirling should have taken the lead just before half time, after they were awarded a penalty, but Glory keeper Robert Cook saved well to deny Calvin Whitney’s spot kick. But six minutes into the second half it was the Glory who hit the front. Daniel Bennie raced down the right and crossed to Khoa Ngo, who made no mistake. The hosts doubled their advantage 12 minutes from time, Bennie turning the ball home at the front post. It looked game over, but three minutes later Stirling found a lifeline, Dejan Spaseski heading home a free kick. Then in the first minutes of stoppage time Stirling levelled, James Bosdet’s free kick wasn’t dealt with, and Kingsley Eshun fired home.
It looked like the points would be shared, but in the sixth minute of added time, Stirling won it. Kade Fearnall was brought down in the box, and Samim Fattahi converted from the spot, to set off wild celebrations on and off the pitch. “It was a tough game, we thought we’d deserved more throughout the game as we missed a penalty and some good chances,” Fearnall explained. “We did go down 2-0 but the boys showed real heart and we never gave up all the way to the end in which we got back those goals and managed to win the game. The team is really happy, but we must stay focused as we need to keep winning to keep up with RedStar for the league.”
Perth SC have moved to fourth on the table after a comprehensive 4-1 win against Armadale at Alfred Skeet Reserve. “It was a fantastic performance from the boys, and a much needed three points,” Perth defender Federico Achilli said. “The players have been working so hard over the last couple weeks, and we took a step forward last week against Balcatta with a good defensive performance and took another one this week with not only the defence but also our attacking quality. It gives us a lot of confidence going into the final four games and also a lot to play for, now that with have broken into the top four and we look forward to the battle ahead.”
The visitors made the best possible start, and were ahead after only six minutes, Sam Cook’s long-range shot giving Joel Driscoll no chance in the Armadale goal. They added a second six minutes later, a ball over the top found David Ninkovich and he raced into goal and fired past Driscoll. The hosts were shell-shocked, but they had their chances, but failed to take them. It got worse for them on the hour, when Perth added a third, Julian Teles heading home unmarked from a corner. Then 11 minutes from time the Azzurri added a fourth, substitute Alex Da Rocha was given far too much room and his shot found the net, despite Driscoll getting a hand to it. Armadale’s day went from bad to worse late, when Perth keeper Rocco Liberti saved a penalty from Peter Jacobsz, but Jacobsz made amends moments later scoring a late consolation goal in the final minute.
Sorrento have moved up to eighth after a 3-2 win against a ten men Balcatta Etna at Grindleford Reserve. Sorrento skipper Dean Cumming said it was a great relief to get the points so late. “We’re just delighted and relived in the end to get the three points although we made hard work of it second half with Balcatta having ten men,” he explained. “We now know there's four cup finals coming up with the league table being so tight at both ends, and were looking forward to it.” Sorrento found the opener on 13 minutes, Tim Hill’s cross picked out Dean Cummings, who headed home.
They added a second on 43 minutes, after Gustavo Giron-Marulanda was pushed by Adam Buckingham as he raced into goal, and referee John Nixon pointed to the spot and sent the defender off. Cumming stepped up and found the bottom corner, despite Domenic Savoldelli going the right way. The hosts were back in the game twenty minutes from time, Luke Hudson racing away and scoring a great individual goal. Then four minutes from time the hosts levelled, Jack Frew’s free kick wasn’t clear and it fell to Carmelo Giuffre who volleyed home from six meters. It looked like the hosts had secured a hard-earned point, but in stoppage time the Gulls flew away with the points. Joe Tweats long-range shot was turned around the post by substitute keeper Connor Campbell, but from the resulting corner Jordan Brown headed home the winner.
Floreat Athena have moved out of the relegation zone, after a 3-1 win against a ten-man Cockburn City at Dalmatinac Park. “It was a massive game for both teams going into the game Saturday, every game for everyone has been super important this season but now it’s going down to crunch time, all we care about is ourselves and how many wins we can get until the seasons over and not worry too much what’s going on around us,” Floreat winger Sean McManus explained. “I felt that’s the best we had started the game in a while we were on the front foot and attacking, after 15 minutes they went down to 10 men which came from our pressure. When it went to 1-1, we stuck together like we did last week too, Phil Arnold’s goal made it 2-1 and was nice to seal it at 3-1 at the end too. Now we want to keep the momentum going into the last 4 games and stick together.’
The hosts were reduced to ten men after only 16 minutes, Bayley Brown-Montgomery’s shot was blocked on the line with his arm by Cockburn skipper Jesse Lazzaro, and referee Arvin Shanmuganathan sent him off and awarded a penalty. Noah Shamaki stepped up and scored the resulting penalty via the post. But the hosts hit back and levelled on the half hour, Ivan Skorich’s free kick was saved by Jason Saldaris, but Jordan Dane was hand to bundled the ball home. But after the break Floreat regained the lead just after the hour mark, Andrew Palmer’s ball to the back post was knocked back across goal by Sean McManus, and Phil Arnold firing home from close-range. They sealed the points in stoppage time with a third, a quick break saw McManus race clear and finish low past Michael Craggs.
22.7.2023
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND SEVENTEEN REVIEW
Mandurah City have lost top spot on the State League Division One ladder after being held to a 0-0 draw in our ‘Match of the Round’ at Genesiscare Stadium on Saturday afternoon. The hosts dominated possession but couldn’t convert their chances, and coach John Baird said Rockingham came for a point and defended stoutly all game. “There was only one team trying to win the game from the start, we created plenty of chances just wasn’t our day at the top of the pitch,” the player/coach said. “I thought we defended well when asked to on the few occasions we had to. Overall, it was a frustrating day, but we go again, and I believe we will, I’ve got so much belief in my players.”
In front of another big crowd, the local derby was lively from the start, and it was the visitors who had the first opportunity on nine minutes, Ruben Joseph’s snap shot on the edge of the box flashed wide. Moments later the hosts went close, John Baird’s free kick picked out Brian Patterson, whose header crashed off the crossbar. The midfielder went close again on 21 minutes, his long-range shot whistled over the top as the Dolphins pressed for the opener. Then in stoppage time, Joe O’Brien’s snap shot was straight at Cyril Sharrock, and at the break it was all to play for both teams.
Rockingham almost made a perfect start to the second half, a great turn on the half way line by Joseph saw him drive at the Mandurah defence, before unleashing a powerful shot from the edge of the box, but Alfie Brincat produced a great one handed save to deny him. Moments later Sharrock got down well at his post to save Baird’s shot, as the game opened up. The hosts went close again on 64 minutes, O’Brien shot on the run drifting just wide of the far post. Sharrock then punched O’Brien’s header clear as Mandurah started to dominate, and Sharrock got down well to deny Craig Barker’s shot moments later.
The visitors were defending desperately, as Mandurah throw everything at them, Hamish van Dieken saw his shot flash over the top late, and the hosts had one last chance in stoppage time Murray Mackintosh’s cross from the left was inches away from the diving O’Brien at the back post, but Kris Donnell’s side held firm to leave with a point. “We are extremely happy with the performance of the team, every player did their job and they did it very well including the substitutes,” Donnell explained. “We went into the game with several key players missing and we knew it was going to be a task against one of the best teams in the league, but we worked on a few key traits of Mandurah mid-week and the boys got it bang on. Delighted again with the squad and how they conducted themselves on the park, hopefully we can now go on and finish as strong as possible.”
Western Knights jumped above Mandurah on the table, after a 3-1 win against Murdoch University Melville at Nash Field. “It was another good overall performance against a well organised side. We set our intent from the start and were rewarded with the early break through,” Knights coach Adam Kostrencic said. “I felt we probably should have added a few more before the half time break. Even though we conceded the equaliser early in the second our persistence earned another three points at home.”
The hosts found the opener on three minutes, MUMFC were caught in possession, the ball played out to Albert Luwi out on the right, and his low cross was turned home by Owen Goodliffe at the back post. But Taki Nicolaidis’ side, who were on a two-game winning run, levelled early in the second half. Declan Tanna was brought down by Devon Lindemann and referee Shane Skinner pointed to the spot, and Feisal Zaw finished with aplomb from the resulting penalty. But the Knights won it with two late goals, first on 71 minutes Luwi volleyed home Jack Bardsley’s corner, and seven minutes later Alex Kretowicz fired home from close range to seal the win.
Fremantle City are back in the winner’s circle after a 2-1 win against Forrestfield United at Crazy Domain Stadium, Hartfield Park, and coach Matthew Sparrow was happy with the response of his players after three straight defeats. “The boys knew a win and nothing less would do and I thought we started the game brightly creating a few chances early on,” he said. “I told my players at half time they are getting in the right areas and now it’s all about being clinical in front of goal that’s the difference for us at the moment, we’re not taking our chances and we’re getting punished at the other end. Credit to us we kicked on second half and got our rewards. They threw everything at us but we defended brilliantly and could have increased it by more but overall, it was a massive three points for us that keeps us in the play-off hunt.”
Both sides struggled in the final third in the first half, and they both ended it with ten men after an incident between Forrestfield keeper Sam Chaplin and Fremantle’s Joshua Macri in stoppage time, and referee Peter Kaiser sent both players off. But sixty seconds into the second half the visitors found the opener, Charles Parry cross from the right was turned home by Enzo Marangoni. They doubled their lead on 54 minutes, Anthony Topini’s ball over the top found Marangoni, who finished past substitute keeper Thomas Livingstone. Forrestfield grabbed one back two minutes later, Mohammad Rezai’s free kick deflecting off the wall and beating Jordan Barbas. The hosts pressed late looking for the equaliser, but they couldn’t find it, and they ended the game with nine men after Jiddan Muhafidin was sent off in stoppage time.
Joondalup United have lost ground on the top two after they were held to a 1-1 draw by Marc Wingell’s Subiaco at Pentanet Stadium. United coach Steven Flint said it was two points lost, but he gave credit to the visitors. “We’re all very disappointing not taking the three points, and we really couldn't get into our stride,” he explained. “But fair play to Subiaco though, they defended in numbers and kept organised.” It was Subiaco who made the breakthrough on 11 minutes, Oscar Barry’s free kick wasn’t dealt with and Matthew Allen fired home from close-range. But nine minutes later Joondalup levelled, Elliot Tattersall’s free kick was only cleared out to Sam McKearnen, who cross back into the box found Ben Campbell, whose diving header beat Conor Hogan.
Gwelup Croatia are sixth after a comprehensive 4-0 win against UWA Nedlands at the Croatian Sporting Complex, Wishart Street. “The team played a dominating performance taking our chances and controlled the game,” Gwelup new signing Raeez Pandor said. “As recently joining Gwelup the team is settling finding a winning rhythm and delighted to score my first goal for the new club with more to come, we keep pushing with the momentum to aim for that top four spot
The hosts raced to two-goal lead early, first on 21 minutes Robert Ferrante and Charles Chechlacz combining, the later rolling the ball into the net. Then three minutes later the two were involved as they doubled their advantage. Ferrante’s racking ball sent Chechlacz down the right, and he played in Raeez Pandor, who finished from the angle. The visitors should have reduced the margin early in the second half, but Luke Salas’ penalty was well saved by Josiah Godfrey. Then on the hour Gwelup added a third, Jacob Williamson heading home Chechlacz’s free kick. The icing was put on the cake late with a fourth, Chechlacz again involved, his through ball sent John Lahai, who finished with aplomb.
In the late game Dianella White Eagles have beaten Gosnells City 3-1 at Dianella Reserve on Saturday evening to remain in fourth spot. “I thought we were flat to begin the game, and Gosnells had some chances early doors but failed to convert,” Dianella defender Joshua Kuser said. “We flicked the switch half way through the first half and never looked back, scoring three goals in a matter of minutes. Disappointed we didn’t score more and keep a clean sheet, but it was a good win building momentum pushing for the top four finals”
The hosts struggled early, but made up for it with three goals in a six-minute spell before the break. First on 36 minutes, Jonty Pearson’s lob found Joshua Cortes who found the bottom corner from the angle. They doubled their lead from the kick off, Gosnells lost possession in the middle of the park and Pearson’s through ball found player/coach Angel Andres, who finished clinically past Jack Adams. It was 3-0 moments later, Uniss Kargbo’s long throw wasn’t dealt with and Cortes pounced to fire home at the back post. Gosnells scored a consolation goal nine minutes from time, with Blake Pritchard scoring from Tony Chandlers corner, but it was too little too late.
22.7.2023
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND SEVENTEEN REVIEW
It was another exciting week in the State League Division Two, and in our ‘Match of the Round’ Morley Windmills and Swan United have played out an entertaining 1-1 draw at SFM Ground, Wotton Reserve on Saturday afternoon. United led from just before half time, but a goal six minutes from time secured a point for the hosts, and United striker John Monterosso said it felt like a loss. “It was a disappointing result after taking the lead and then having a few good chances to extend the lead, the draw felt like a loss to us,” he explained. “Everyone worked extremely hard, and I think overall it is a good base to build from going into the last part of the season to cement a spot in top four.”
United found the opener four minutes before the break, Jordan Lyall picked up the ball outside the box and picked his spot and it rocketed it into top corner. It looked like the visitors would leave with all three points, but on 84 minutes Marc Anthony’s side levelled. A corner was recycled down the left, and the ball was cut back to Conor Kavanagh on the edge of the box, and he fired into the bottom corner. Morley defender Kevin Ashwood said they were poor in the game, and lucky to get a point in the end. “Personally, I don’t think we were at the races. We seemed to lack any urgency and connection through our team during the game, which to be fair hasn’t been the case of late,” he explained.
“But you have to give credit to Swan, they made it hard for us and probably should’ve won the game after missing a golden chance to make it 2 nil, so taking the positives we kept going and didn’t get beat while being average at best. We will have to be much better next week when we go away Kingsley, who have all but wrapped up the league now but we go there with a point to prove to ourselves and to build some momentum that will hopefully take us into the playoffs, where anything can happen.”
Kingsley Westside moved seven points clear at the top of the table after a 5-1 win against Balga at Princess Road Reserve. “It was a really tight game for the first 55/60 minutes, but we went up a gear or two after we scored our first goal and Balga were unable to stay with us,” Kingsley coach steven Dimitrovich said. “Really pleased with the whole squad’s attitude, and with us now finally getting our full complement of players back after 6/8 weeks of players been away, competition for players is going to be high this week as we prepare for a massive game against Morley on Saturday.”
Balga really took it the leaders in the first half, but it was scoreless at the break. But after half time Kingsley took control and found the opener when Jonny Hulme cross was fumbled by the Balga keeper, and Jayden Drummond was on hand to poke the ball home. It was some 2-0, when Jonny Hulme was brought down in the box and Luke Salmon converting the resulting penalty. Liam McGurk added the third, firing home from close-range after Hulme’s shot had been blocked on the line, before Daniel Harrison scored the fourth, quickest to react after Hulme’s shot crashed off the woodwork. Balga reduced the margin, with Nathan Scully scoring, but Kingsley finished the scoring when Salmon beat his marker and raced into goal, but unselfishly cut the ball back to McGurk, to score his second, and wrap up a comprehensive win.
Maddington-Kalamunda White City remain fourth, after 3-2 win against a ten-man Carramar Shamrock Rovers at Maida Vale Reserve. “It was a tough game against Rovers as we expected, and after we conceded an early goal from a penalty, we bounced back to take the lead by half time,” Farruh Mavlonov explained. “They were reduced to 10 men and used that to our advantage by taking complete control of the game and seal the win.” Rovers’ striker Phil O’Callaghan gave them the lead on 21 minutes, but the hosts levelled seven minutes later, with Jose Zuniga scoring. Rovers lost Nathan Diaz to a red card on 35 minutes, and Maddington hit the front two minutes later, with Mavlonov on target. The ten men restored parity on the hour, with Callum Trayner finding the target, but twenty minutes from time the hosts won it, with half time substitute Cristian Polo scoring.
Ashfield are up to seventh after a narrow 1-0 win against Wanneroo City at the Ashfield Sports Park. Ashfield player/coach James Sammut said it was a tight contest, but was pleased to take the points. “Great performance from the lads and a much needed three points,” he explained. “It was a pretty even contest for the 90 minutes, but pleased to not concede and come away with the win.” The only goal of the game came on 22 minutes, Sammut played the ball through to Rob McDonald who beat his marker and cut the ball back to Isak Hakeem, who made no mistake from 10 meters.
Curtin University remain third after a 4-0 win against Canning City at Edinburgh Oval. “I thought we controlled the game and took our chances well,” Curtin coach Troy Reid said. “Really pleased with Oscar (Wright) and Nathan (Smith) performances, with both involved in all of our four goals.” The home side made it 1-0 early, a neat one-two combination between Oscar Wright and Nathan Smith on the top of the box saw Wright fire the ball into the bottom right past the keeper. They doubled their lead early in the second half, Daniel Davey stripped the defender before 3-4 quick passes found Wright free on the opposite side to send the keeper the wrong way, for his second of the game. It was 3-0 on the hour, Wright turned provider for Smith, a good cross picked him out on the right-hand side of the box, and he cut the ball back to the advancing Smith who finish into the top corner. They added a fourth late, Smith beat his defender to get to the byline inside the box before picking out Kieran Witt at the back post who headed home.
In the late game, Quinns have moved clear of the relegation zone after a 2-0 win against Joondalup City at Gumblossom Park. “I couldn't be prouder of the boys. We did it tough tonight with a few senior players out and the boys dug deep. I thought the first half we got the ball into good areas but we're just missing that final product and got caught in the transition to often,” Quinns coach Antony Benetti explained. “With a few tweaks and a discussion at half time the lads dominated large portions and could have got a few more.
“We're a tight group and we want to ensure we approach every game with intent and I think we're starting to show a lot more consistency in games. That's helped by some new additions that have brought confidence to the group.” The hosts hit the front early in the second half, a corner from Mason Gallagher picked out Lucas Reid, who beat his marker to nod it down for Brayden Tierney to score. They sealed the points ten minutes from time, a stunning long-range effort by Gallagher which dipped perfectly over the keeper.
22.7.2023
SAGE HEARTBROKEN AFTER HANDING BACK GLORY LICENCE
An emotional Tony Sage has laid bare the reasons why he had to hand back Perth Glory's A-League licence, saying he deeply regrets not being able to pay players and staff on time this month. Sage's 15-year reign as Glory's sole owner was officially brought to an end yesterday when the club was placed into receivership amid ongoing financial troubles.
The Australian Professional Leagues – which runs the A-League – released a statement confirming that advisory firm KordaMentha had been appointed to manage the receivership process. Glory isn't bankrupt and won't be placed into administration, with the APL optimistic a new owner can be found soon. The club's operations will continue as normal in the meantime.
Sage, speaking from Austria, fought back tears as he detailed the personal battle he faced to keep the club afloat during the COVID-19 pandemic and the disruption caused by the recent upgrade of Perth Oval. The mining magnate estimates he has poured about $50 million into Glory during his tenure, which includes about $14m of losses over the past three years.
"I've run out of funds," Sage said. "Everything I've got at the moment is poured into my business. I can't take it out of my business. I want the players to be paid on time, which they weren't this month, which I greatly regret. It's the first time in 18 years they haven't been paid on time, but they've been paid now."
"When something like that happens, you've got to step back and make sure the sustainability of the club is the most important thing. I just want to make it clear, the licence wasn't stripped off me. It was a decision made with the APL to put it in a position to find a really good owner. I couldn't do it by myself."
The COVID-19 pandemic robbed Glory of the ability to play home games in front of crowds for the best part of two years. And the upgrade of Perth Oval for the Women's World Cup, which forced Glory to play most home games at Macedonia Park last season, was also a huge financial hit to the club.
Sage was expecting the WA State Government to hand Glory significant compensation for losing the ability to play at Perth Oval during the renovations, but the sum received wasn't close to the $3m-$4m he was expecting. The situation forced Sage to seek a loan from the APL to be able to pay players and staff last season.
"The players need to be paid, the staff need to be paid, and unfortunately every avenue that I've had to use, we've used," Sage said. "All of my personal money is tied up in my business, and I can't use any of it to fund the club. I sold a house in City Beach. I sold an apartment just to keep the club running, because I thought the compensation was coming."
Sage, who has been trying to sell Glory for several years, is confident a buyer will sign on the dotted line in the near future. Any funds received from the sale of Glory will be used to pay back loans and other outstanding expenses, with the rest going to Sage.
22.7.2023
GLORY IN TURMOIL AS SAGE LEAVES
With only months to go to the start of the new A-League season, Perth Glory’s future has been thrown into jeopardy after their owner Tony Sage handed back his A-Leagues licence effective immediately to the league’s governing body, and the club is on the verge of going into voluntary receivership. The rumour mill has been working overtime regarding the club in recent weeks, with players and staff believed to have not been paid.
But that was put to bed this week, when it was revealed that their wages had been paid for the past five months by loans secured from Australian Professional Leagues, the governing body for the A-League competition. It is understood the sum of these wage payments is around $5 million, but recently APL issued Sage with a breach notice and the club is about to be put into the hands of receivers KordaMentha.
APL is of the belief Sage, who has but his heart and soul, and a lot of money into the club, cannot continue as owner of the Perth club and receivership may be the first step in a process to seek new owners. It is understood APL has been in talks with other parties, exploring whether a syndicate could be put together to buy the club out of administration. Sage released a statement stating it was with “profound sadness” that he had decided to step down.
“As owner of the club for the past 17 years, I can say in all honesty that it has taken a huge emotional, financial and time commitment on my family’s part to sustain it and ensure that Perth and Western Australia continues to be represented at the elite level of Australian football,” he said. “In total, my family has invested millions into the club ... This investment was increased greatly and unsustainably by the impact of COVID-19 which decimated the club’s income streams and then further compounded by our forced relocation from HBF Park last season for 10 of 13 home games.
“The culmination of these events and the damage they caused has made it all but impossible for us to continue financing the club and led directly to the position we find ourselves in today. “It is with profound sadness that I can confirm my decision to step down as owner of this wonderful football club which is so close to my heart and will always remain so.”
The state government was informed of developments this week by APL chief-executive-officer Danny Townsend, and told the governing body it believed it was essential that Perth retain a team in the national league. Glory’s last season was interrupted by renovations to its home stadium, HBF Park in East Perth, for the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
"Perth Glory have faced incredibly difficult circumstances over the last five years and we are pleased to close off this period of uncertainty for players, staff, members and fans as they continue their preparations for next season," Townsend said. "Here we have a process which allows for the Club's operations to continue 'business-as-usual', whilst the technical adjustments are made to the club's ownership structure. Under this league structure, the continuity of our Clubs is now guaranteed by the league." The receivers also said its business as usual. "An orderly sale process for the Perth Glory Football Club [will] commence immediately," said KordaMentha's Andrew Knight. "While this process is being undertaken, the receivers and managers will continue to operate the Club in a 'business as usual' manner"
The club played most of its home games at 4000-capacity Macedonia Park in Balcatta. Budget papers reveal the state government gifted Glory $500,000 to compensate it for playing at the temporary venue. It is understood a further $500,000 payment was made, subject to an independent audit of the financial impact of the venue switch. While Sage wanted more compensation, the government did not believe the venue switch caused further losses than the $1 million it compensated the club for.
The state government has told APL that it would consider assistance for a new owner of Perth Glory at the new State Football Centre at Queens Park, including a possible headquarters development with a rent-free period. A state government spokeswoman said it was a major supporter of the world game, the grassroots football community and the A-League team. “We have had a long history of supporting Perth Glory, both as promoters of the team and through direct financial support,” she said. “The state government has an obligation to manage taxpayers’ money responsibly, and therefore cannot provide further funds without clear evidence it is in the public interest.”
She also said the state government had invested more than $3 million during the 2022 to 2023 season to provide a temporary home ground for the team and financial support to assist with the impact of the relocation. “The direct financial support paid was $1,080,752 – based on an independent financial audit. Payments were paid to the Club in advance of the final audit report, as requested by the Club. The final report determined the state overpaid the Club to the value of $66,000 – this amount is not being recouped.”
It is an end of an era for the club, and love him or hate him, Sage has put his heart and soul into the club, and all supporters thank him for that. We now watch with interest to see how it pans out, because we have no owner or a coach and have a very small squad, and after a disappointing result in the Australia Cup qualifier, things can only get better, can’t they?
21.7.2023
BELT-UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION – ROUND THIRTEEN PREVIEW
Our ‘Match of the Round’ in week 13 of the Belt-Up Premier Division takes us to Woodville Reserve, for the top of the table clash between North Perth United and Emerald. (1pm) Both sides are coming off hard fought wins last week, the hosts coming home from Bunbury with a 2-0 win against the Phoenix, to maintain their one-point lead at the top, while the visitors edged out Wembley 1-0 at home, to keep in contact with them. Last time they met at the venue was in round 17 last season, when Emerald left with all three points after a 1-0 win. The only goal of the game came late in the game, Nathan Leamy defence splitting pass sent Andrew Wood in on goal, and he finished with aplomb.
North Perth skipper Kelechi Osunwa said a trip to Bunbury is always tough, and after a good start they had their backs to the wall after the break. “Pleased with the result away in Bunbury, the performance could have been better but a lot of teams will come undone down there against South West Phoenix,’ he explained. “We were the walking wounded with a few guys playing out of position, but we did the basics well, got a good lead and managed to seal the game late.”
The win kept their narrow lead at the top, and Kelechi said the league continues to improve, and it’s a logjam, with only five points separating the top five teams, so the game on Sunday is vital. “It absolutely is and it’s great for the league. Last year it came down to three teams in it, with two games to go and think that it will be the same again this year and hopefully we are in the mix. What’s really telling is that it isn’t simply the top five too, as South Perth and North Beach have come up from Division One, and added so much to the league and there’s about three clubs with strong ambitions of going to the state league while Kwinana, Joondalup and SWP are fighting for their lives it’s such a great league this year,” the defender explained.
“Emerald is a tough side with a strong spine of (Paul) Curran, (Ronan) Flaherty and (Andrew) Wood, they fight for every ball and are quality on the ball and we know we will have to be close to our best to get the result. We had a cracking session with more players becoming available and as a group we owe ourselves a performance against the top side in the league and know that we need to be ready to compete. It should be one for the ages and a great advertisement of the amateur leagues.”
Emerald was made to fight all the way to beat a determined Wembley side last week, and defender Paul Curran said it was real battle, but he was delighted to come away with the points. “Yes, it was a very tough game, as always when playing Wembley,” he said. “They made it difficult for us but we never panicked and kept playing our game and eventually we managed to make the breakthrough, so we were all happy to come away with the three points.”
Curran said North Perth is another tough place to go, but like his North Perth counterpart Osunwa said, every game this season is very competitive, and he is expecting more of the same on Sunday. “It’s a really tight league this year, and I expect it to be like that till the very end. Every team seems to be taking points off each other, so it makes the games against the top sides really crucial,” the defender explained. “This weekend’s game against North Perth is going to be a real test. They’re flying at the moment and Woodville Reserve is a tough place to go and get points. We know we’ll have to be on our game from the start, and it should be a cracker of a match.”
In other games this weekend, third placed Kelmscott Roos travel to Butlers Reserve to take on Wembley Downs (3pm), while fourth placed Jaguar entertain Peel United at the Herb Graham Recreation Centre (3pm). East Perth moved to fifth last week, and they will look to keep tabs on the teams above them when they host Kwinana United at Cabrini Park (1pm), South Perth United make the trip to Beldon Park to take on Joondalup United (3pm), while the final game South West Phoenix and North Beach kicks off the round, when they meet at the Onside Sports Complex in Bunbury.
Phoenix was beaten by the league leaders last week, while North Beach were beaten at home by East Perth, and coach Nick Di Carlo said mistakes cost them. “Last week's loss to East Perth was a frustrating one that was ultimately decided by some mistakes that they took advantage of with some calm finishing,” he said. “After going down with grew into the game with solid possession and forward play, but East Perth held strong for the result.
“The boys felt positive about the second half performance despite the result, and we'll use this moving into our road trip fixture to Phoenix this Saturday. We only played them a few weeks ago in a make-up fixture, which was a tight game, so we can expect another strong performance from them. We look forward to heading to Bunbury and continuing to work hard as a team and get back in the winner's circle.”
21.7.2023
NPLWA WOMEN’S – ROUND SIXTEEN PREVIEW
The Hyundai NTC side return to NPL-WA Womens action this weekend, when they host Balcatta Etna in our ‘Match of the Round’ at E&D Litis Stadium on Sunday afternoon. (3pm) The youngsters have been away for two weeks, playing in the in the NTC Challenge in Clyde, Victoria, while Balcatta lost for the first time in three weeks, going down 4-1 to Perth SC, so with only two weeks separating the two sides this one should be a tight contest.
The NTC side were the big improvers in the NTC challenge, the last time they played in it they were unable to win again, but this season was a different story, and assistant coach Fernando Barreiro said it was a great tournament. “First and foremost, Ben (Anderton) and I are very pleased to see how far we’ve come over the last 10 months or so. Considering we never won a game last year at challenge,” he said.
“This time around we ended up with two wins three draws and two losses, so on the whole a very successful tournament for us as a group. Again, for us to see how we fare against the other states shows we’re not that far off with our quality of players and our structure and also developing players. So very happy with the performance levels of the girls as the tournament was very demanding.”
Barreiro said Balcatta will be up for this game, after last week’s loss, but he hopes the players have a had short turn around, but are ready for the challenge. “We’re looking to kick on and try and get into a rhythm of playing games and more importantly try and push for a top four spot and play finals. I know that’s the hunger of the team and for myself and Ben as well,” he said.
“Again, we know the danger they will possess in their team with players like Teah Stonehill and Monique Prinsloo, and they’ve got electric pace and love to get in behind defences. But for us it’s a short turn around in terms of our preparations as we’ve only got one training session to get the team ready. But I feel that how the tournament was structured at challenge it should already set the girls up for the next few weeks.”
The loss against Perth was disappointing, and winger Laruen Continibali said they will look to put things right on Sunday. “Yes, it was a disappointing performance against Perth last week in a game where we really needed the win. We Switched off in the first half resulting in us going down 3-0, and even though we pulled one back, Perth sealed the win with a fourth,” she explained. “So, we know, it is essential that this weekend against NTC we don’t drop our heads and work to keep possession of the ball. We must play together as a team and get the three points to keep our top 4 hopes alive.”
In other games this weekend, third placed Fremantle City welcome second placed Perth SC, to Hilton Park on Sunday (1pm), and with both sides only separated by two points, a win in this one is vital for both sides, and City defender Tash Rigby told the Football West website this game is huge for their season. “We’ve had a strong season and it’s been exciting to play in this young team. We’ve spoken about that sense of belief at training, having that in one another, knowing what we are capable of, and that we can do it,” she explained.
“We have it in us. It just comes down to consistency, keeping our heads up and maintaining that control within games. We’ve let it get away from us a little bit recently in terms of the composure on the ball, but we’re 100% still in it. It’s going to be a really good game against Perth, it always is. They have a strong attacking group, so we definitely need to be on our game. We’re focused on moving on from that last result and the gravity of how important this game is has really sunk in, so we will be on our A-game.”
The round starts on Friday evening with two games. First up Curtin University will look for their first win of the season when they host Subiaco at Edinburgh Oval (7.30pm), while in the other, league leaders Perth Redstar make the trip to the Besteam Stadium to take on Murdoch University Melville. (7.30pm)
MUMFC are coming off a disappointing loss at Subiaco last week, and coach David Biancuzzo said they will need to be better against the league leaders this week. “We were disappointed with our performance against Subiaco last weekend. We didn’t adapt to the conditions well enough and we weren’t able to create enough scoring opportunities,” he explained.
“This week against RedStar will be a big challenge as they are top of the table for a reason. We are starting to get some injuries and illness which is testing our squad depth and now lost Danielle Brown likely for the rest of the season. However, it gives an opportunity for another one of our young players to start against quality opposition. We know to get the result we have to improve our performance to get back into the battle for the Top Four.”
21.7.2023
HYUNDAI WOMEN’S LEAGUE DIVISION ONE - ROUND FOURTEEN PREVIEW
It’s week 14 of the Women’s League Division One, our ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to Koorana Reserve where Port Kennedy host Sorrento. (All games kick off at 1pm) Sorrento let a lead slip last week at Fremantle, giving Robin Chilcott’s side their first win of the season, while Port Kennedy were edged out last week against Subiaco, and coach Kevin Cole said missed opportunities hurt them, and he is looking to reverse that at home on Sunday.
“The girls were unlucky in second half, and really piled the pressure on, and the ball was in Subiaco half most of the time in the half,” he said. “But we weren’t critical enough with taking our chances, and one mistake led to Subiaco getting the winner. But credit to Subiaco, the team is very young and made it hard for us. We’re looking forward to playing at home this week, but we know Sorrento will be a tough game. But hopefully with the home crowd behind us, and the girls have the desire to want to get out of our slump in results and turn things around.”
In other games Perth AFC welcome Fremantle City to Len Packham Park, the visitors buoyed by their first win of the season against Sorrento last week. League leaders Hamersley Rovers will look to maintain their four-point lead at the top when they host Mandurah City at Carine Open Space, while UWA Nedlands will look to bounce back from defeat last week, when they welcome Subiaco AFC to the UWA Sports Park. UWA coach Lawrence Lewis said to concede to late goals last week was disappointing, but he was pleased with the performance and is looking to bounce back against Subiaco.
“I thought we started well and controlled most of the first half and was able to get a goal via Terry Waller's long shot, but unfortunately in the second half we started to slip in terms of momentum, which fell Hamersley's way and they have players that can damage you when left free,” he explained. “Which is exactly what happened, with 15 minutes left to go after being 1-0 up to losing 2-1 was a hard way to go out.
“We can only keep pushing in our other games and hope that the next time we come up against Hamersley we play well throughout the whole game. While our first outing against Subiaco was a 4-0 win, I know their results recently have been good and with a win last week, they are definitely on the up. They have a young, energetic squad that can catch you off guard if sleeping, so we will have to be on the ball from the first whistle and control the game throughout.”
21.7.2023
MATILDAS OFF TO A WINNING START IN FIFA WOMEN’S WORLD CUP
The Matildas have opened their FIFA World Cup campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 win over the Republic of Ireland in front of a record crowd of 75,784 at Stadium Australia on Thursday evening. Steph Catley scored the only goal of the game, converting from the spot early in the second half, and the win made up for the announcement before kick-off that former Perth Glory striker Sam Kerr would miss at least the first two matches of the tournament with a calf strain suffered in the team’s final training session on Tuesday.
Stand-in skipper Steph Catley said it was a good start to the tournament and they did it for Sam tonight. “Heartbreak to be honest. It is one of the most difficult things you can go through as a team, one day out from the biggest tournament in our lives, probably the best player in the tournament going down. Other teams are probably frothing – it is great for them. We got a lot of relief from the way she reacted and we put ourselves out there tonight and made sure we got the win for her,” Catley explained.
“I think it’s been a long build up to this game and there has obviously been a lot of anticipation, a lot of anxiety. That’s natural. I think you could see that in moments,” she said post-match. “We were nervy and probably didn’t play as calmly as we normally do and Ireland were fantastic. They put us under pressure, played their corners really well and fair play to them. There were nervy moments we will look to clean up further in the tournament.
“I think it’s been the longest four years in my life building up to that game. The fact we got the win, got a clean sheet and battled hard in situations that are really difficult. I think they are one of the best teams in they are one of the best teams in the world at set pieces. They have fantastic aerial threats and deliveries. If we handle threats like that well throughout the tournament, we stand in good stead. Scoring the penalty, yeah, it was a big moment. I’ve been practising a lot, and I do like taking set pieces, so I take it like a set piece, take a breath, hit it where I want to hit it and luckily it went in.”
It was a determined if not clinical performance from the Matildas, who struggled to create chances in the first half despite the weight of possession in their favour, and the Irish made them work extremely hard defensively in the dying stages of the game as the Girls in Green poured forward in waves of attack.
World Cup debutants Ireland sat deep in their own half to restrict Australia’s quick counter attack from getting behind the lines, with the Matildas failing to find a path through. Tony Gustavsson’s side-controlled possession for the first half and were rarely threatened in defence, conceding just one off-target shot in the opening 45 minutes. But the Matildas failed to find a with the best of their slim opportunities coming from corners.
But just five minutes into the second half the hosts found the opener. As a speculative long ball from Kyra Cooney-Cross floated into the penalty area, and defender Marissa Sheva shoved Matildas winger Hayley Raso in the back, and the referee immediately pointed to the penalty spot and VAR upheld the seemingly straightforward decision, with left-back Catley firing home the resulting spot kick into the top corner.
The once-cagey affair immediately opened up from that point, with the world number 22 visitors desperate to find an equaliser. The Green and Gold had their backs to the walls for much of the remainder of the match, with Ireland playing lots of balls into the box, forcing the Matildas defence to repeatedly scramble the ball to safety. Keeper Mackenzie Arnold punched clear to deny Ireland captain and Arsenal star Katie McCabe a goal direct from a corner with 20 minutes to play.
But the Matildas weathered the storm and continued to attack on the counter, creating a number of chances of their own in the closing stages. Gustavsson turned to his substitutes bench to shore up the defence as the match wore on. Veteran midfielder Emily van Egmond was the first to enter the fray, before Australia’s most-capped player, centre-back Clare Polkinghorne, shored up the defence in the final ten minutes.
But the Australians were in for one final scare in the 90th minute when inexperienced but extremely impressive centre-back Clare Hunt conceded a free kick on the edge of the area for a push in the back. The wall did its job to deflect the shot just over the bar, before Arnold again played the hero to bat away the following corner. Ireland got a header to the corner that immediately followed but Australia escaped and held firm until the final whistle sounded.
21.7.2023
JUFC HEAD TO NEW SURROUNDINGS THIS WEEKEND
It’s been a tough couple of seasons for northern suburbs club Joondalup United, with the on again, off again saga of their home ground with the council making headlines, but in a season, they are starting to make headlines on the pitch, there is a light at the end of the tunnel, after their State League Division One game against Subiaco this Saturday was moved to Pentanet Stadium.
The club has been operational for 24 years with no place to call home, and they cater to all demographics of the community and have junior and senior teams, with consistent success throughout their existence. However, they have had minimal support from the City of Joondalup and have regularly been let down by empty promises. The club administrators have tried to maintain a professional front in the hope that things would change, and the fixture at Pentanet Stadium, could be that light at the end of the tunnel.
Club President Ghaz Ramli said the work of everyone behind the scenes to get this game on has been overwhelming, and he would like it to be a permanent move, but that is in the future. “Joondalup United Football Club is excited for a simple opportunity coming our way. With consistent growth from where we started to a full set up from juniors to seniors, we have been unfortunate to secure a home,” he explained.
“It has been a struggle, but lady luck has been kind to us and with the help of the wider sporting community through West Perth Football Club, and we are about to play at one of the best venues in Perth. Although, it's only one match this season, we are hoping for this to be a start of something. We would like to thank WPFC and Venues West for the opportunity but also the media and the Football community for their support along with Subiaco AFC who we will play at Pentanet Stadium on Saturday.”
JUFC Coach Steven Flint and skipper Ben Johns, echoed the thoughts of their President, and they both hope they can get a result in their new home. “It’s been well documented the struggle the club has had over the years in securing a base, and we’ve had to deal with last minute changes in venues, playing and training on sub-par grounds and sharing facilities with many other teams and people. So, this has been a long time coming for the club and is a credit to the resilience, determination and ambition that the club has,” Johns explained.
“A tremendous amount of work has gone on behind the scenes at the club to make this happen and it’s really exciting to see the club moving in such a positive direction. All the boys are buzzing for Saturday and looking forward to making Pentanet a more permanent home for the club next season, only time will tell.” Flint added, “The fixture is a boost for us to find a suitable permanent venue for our state league teams. The facilities there are brilliant, and for us to have access and use of them can only improve our chances of not only success but retaining and attracting plyers as we strive towards being in the NPL.”
21.7.2023
NPL-WA ROUND EIGHTEEN - PREVIEW
With five games remaining in the 2023 NPLWA – Men’s season the race for the title and relegation is still up for grabs, with only 11 points separating all the teams, and wins are vital, and more than ever for bottom of the table Inglewood United, who feature in our week 18 ‘Match of the Round’ when they entertain third placed Olympic Kingsway at Inglewood Stadium on Saturday afternoon. (All games kick off at 3pm, unless stated)
Andres Oliveira’s side were in control last week against RedStar, leading 3-0, but the hosts hit back with top goalscorer Daryl Nicol nicking a point for the league leaders deep into stoppage time, while David Tough’s Olympic moved to third after a hard fought 1-0 win against Perth Glory, making it five games unbeaten, a good season for the Green Machine’ on their return to NPL football. The last time the sides played at the venue in the league was in 1999, when the hosts, Inglewood Falcons, beat Olympic 2-0, in the last season Olympic played in the top flight of football in WA.
Olympics’ David Perich said last week wasn’t their best performance, but they still managed to get the three points, which is what it is all about in the run in to the end of the season. “Yes, you are right, it wasn't our best performance last week against Glory,” he said. “They probably had better overall chances in the game, so it's good to steal the win. It makes up for all the times we've played well and not come away with the points this season.”
That win moved the Green Machine up to third on the table, and with a game in hand. It’s been a great return to the Premier League for the club, and Perich said it’s a great achievement to be the mix for the title in their first season back, but knows there is a long way to go. “I think it’s amazing to be in the mix considering we lost four out of the first five, but it is the strangest season I've been a part of in the NPL,” he explained.
“I think every team would think they can still make the top four and 10 teams wouldn't feel confident yet about relegation. Toughy and all the coaches have done a great job building the squad over a couple of years. With the squad we had at the start of the year I thought we'd push for top four and be a dark horse for the title. If anything, we are disappointed to have lost and drawn games where we were the better team.”
Perich said Inglewood’s position on the table doesn’t reflect the quality they have in their squad, and he knows they gave them a touch-up in the first game this season in round nine. “They smashed us last time we played them, and they were good that day and we were very poor,” he explained. “The results on the weekend, like the rest of the season, reinforce the fact that any team in this league can beat any other, so hopefully another win for us and losses for RedStar and Stirling would be nice.”
The 3-3 draw at RedStar last week felt like a loss for Inglewood, especially after leading 3-0, and conceding the equaliser deep into stoppage time, and winger Dylan White said the lads were devastated after dominating for long periods of the game, but it could be a good point at the end of the season. “Yes, it was a tough one to take, after being the better team for the best part of the game,” he said. “It was disappointing to lose a 3-0 lead, at this stage in the season where every point counts, but it might be a good one come season end.”
Inglewood have been in good form this month, a spot in the Australia Cup round of 32 and a place in the State League Cup Final, and in the league, they are starting to get momentum and were coming off a big win against Perth, and White said the signs are good, and with the table so tight they just need to keep it going. “Not many times do you get to play in a cup final, so I think it’s a good opportunity and experience for the lads,” White explained. “Being able to head interstate for the round of 32 and play a strong South Australian side, it’s a good experience for the club, and recent performances in the league show that we have what it takes to be a strong team in this league, but inconsistency is what has let us down thus far.”
White, who started in the NTC program, then stints at Perth Glory Youth and Armadale before taking four years away from the game, before joining Western Knights last season, before heading to the Inglewood Stadium, said Olympic are in good form, but it’s a vital game for his side, as the look to move away from the foot of the table. “Saturday is another big game for us, with not many games left, it is important for us to get results,” the 26-year-old said. “But the lads are confident that we can get a positive result, and hopefully move us away from the foot of the ladder.”
In other games league leaders Perth RedStar, who fought back from 0-3 down to draw with Inglewood, welcome the inform Bayswater City to the RedStar Arena. The visitors kick started their season last week, thrashing Armadale 6-1, which moved Gary Williams’ side into fifth place on the table, only five points behind Saturday’s opponents. Stirling Macedonia missed the chance to jump to the top last week, losing at Cockburn, and they will look to bounce back on Saturday when they visit Lark Hill Sportsplex to take on Perth Glory.
Armadale have stumbled in recent weeks, and haven’t won in four games slipping to sixth and they will look to get back to winning ways when they welcome Danny Hay’s Perth SC to Alfred Skeet Reserve. Likewise, Balcatta Etna, who have drawn three of the last four games to slip to fourth, and they host Sorrento at Grindleford Reserve. In the final game Cockburn City and Floreat Athena will both look to build on their wins last week, when they meet at Dalmatinac Park.
21.7.2023
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND SEVENTEEN PREVIEW
Mandurah City lead the way in State League Division One, one point clear of Western Knights, and in week 17 they host Rockingham City in the local derby at Genesiscare Stadium on Saturday afternoon, in our ‘Match of the Round’. (All games kick off at 3pm, unless stated) Mandurah came from behind last week to beat Subiaco on the road, while Rockingham scored first, but went down narrowly to Dianella, and with a number of players having played for both clubs, this one should be a cracker. The last time they met at the venue was in round 14 last season, when Rockingham left with the three points after a 2-1 win.
The deadlock was broken by the visitors nine minutes into the second half, Robbie Galvin and Taylor Carter combined on the edge of the box, the latter finding Shaun Mukwevho, who raced into goal and finished low past Alfie Brincat. But their lead only lasted five minutes, Mandurah player/coach John Baird’s well-flighted free kick was glanced home by Craig Barker. It was game on, but the visitors hit back two minutes later to retake the lead. Galvin won possession on the half way line, and raced into goal before finishing clinically. The hosts ended the game with nine men after Alex Grayson and Harry Collins were sent off.
The Dolphins had to come from behind to beat Subiaco last week, with a brace from Hamish van Dieken, keeping them one point ahead of the chasing pack, and Harry Collins said it was good keep their good run going. “Rosalie Park is a hard place to go, and for us to go there and get the three points is the main thing,” he said. “It’s great for Hamish, scoring a brace, and he also scored the week before, so he is flying with confidence. We have been playing well, working hard but we are just taking it one game at a time making sure we get the three points and not looking behind us.”
Collins said the atmosphere in the first game at their place was amazing, and he is expecting the same on Saturday, and he said they have worked hard this week and determined to keep their form going. “It will definitely be a good game as they always are in these derbies, these are the game you want to play in,” he explained. “I’m sure there will be a big crowd as usual down at Mandurah and a good atmosphere, which we are all looking forward to.”
Rockingham keeper Cyril Sharrock said their 2-3 defeat against Dianella was disappointing, and the first half performance was way below standard. “I felt last week that the game was lost in the first half, Dianella certainly came into the game with intent to score goals and showed that in the first half scoring three and creating a number of chances which was expected being their quality in the final third,” he explained. “The pleasing part from a team perspective was that we responded after the break and put real pressure on Dianella in the second half creating a number of good chances to nearly snatch the draw which felt would have been the fair result.”
The loss left Rockingham in eighth place, but Sharrock knows how tight the league is and if they can get on a good run, they can push themselves up the table. “You are right, with the league this year being so tight, a win or loss now finds you up or down the ladder a few places so vital we keep pushing to finish as high up the league as possible,” he said. “But confidence within the group of players and coaches is that we can take points in every game we have left to play so taking each game as a cup final until the end of the season starting Saturday.”
Sharrock said the whole club is looking forward to the local derby, and any game against their neighbours is always exciting, and he knows both sets of supporters will make it a great atmosphere. “Certainly, Saturday is a game we as players/coaches and sure the fans are looking forward too, credit to Mandurah for their consistency throughout the season and now being top of the league,” Sharrock explained. “It’s a game where the pressure sits with the Dolphins to keep the Knights off their tails and potentially get promotion into the NPL.
“We go into the game with confidence that we can get a result a believe that with the young squad assembled this year that games like this especially being the local derby give them players valuable experience and exposure to the big game atmosphere which can only be a positive on their football journey. Football is first this weekend and wish all three teams the best of luck on Saturday in what should be an entertaining day of football at Genesiscare Stadium.”
In the other games this weekend, Western Knights will look to keep the pressure on Mandurah, when they host the improving Murdoch University Melville at Nash Field, the visitors have won back-to-back games. Joondalup United continue to keep the pressure on the top two, and are unbeaten in the last four games, and they welcome Subiaco to Pentanet Stadium. Gwelup Croatia entertain UWA Nedlands to the Croatian Sporting Complex, Wishart Street, bottom of the table Forrestfield United welcome Fremantle City to Crazy Domain Stadium, Hartfield Park, while in the late game Dianella White Eagles host Gosnells City at Dianella Reserve. (5pm)
21.7.2023
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND SEVENTEEN PREVIEW
The State League Division Two table is becoming a logjam as teams press for the play off spot, but Kingsley Westside and Morley Windmills have got some breathing space at the top, the next five spots are separated by only ten points. Our ‘Match of the Round’ involves two teams up the top end of the table, with Swan United making the trip to SFM Ground, Wotton Reserve to take on Morley Windmills. (All games kick off at 3pm, unless stated) Both sides came from behind at home last week to pick up wins, Morley beating Quinns, to maintain second spot, while Swan overcame Balga to jump to fifth.
The last time the two sides met was in round nine last season, when United left with a 3-2 win. The hosts were ahead on 12 minutes, with Callum Speed scoring, and he added a second on 23 minutes. But on the half hour Swan pulled one back, Chris Marshall was fouled in the box and Ismael Bangura scored the resulting penalty. They levelled five minutes later, John Monterosso’s ball found Jake Fritchley, who held off his marker and lobbed the on-coming Joey Smith. Amazingly it was 3-2 to Swan on 39 minutes, Fritchley returning the favour to Monterosso, crossing to the back post and the striker finished from a tight angle. Morley pressed after the break seeking the equaliser but it wasn’t to be.
Last week’s win for Swan against Balga, was an emotional one for the club, as the club farewelled long-time supporter and club stalwart Ennio Paolone, and coach Colin Morgan said it was a hard day for everyone, and the win was hard fought. “It was a tough battle last weekend against Balga, but it was an emotional day for long standing members of the club remembering Ennio,” he explained.
“I've been at Swan on and off for six years now, and he was an ever present and will be greatly missed. The game itself, I would say we were the better side for the majority of the match. A very well taken free-kick and swift counter gave Balga the lead going into half time, but I wasn't too worried. I knew we had the class to run over the top of them, and that shone through in the second half.”
Morgan said their season target was the play-offs, and that hasn’t changed, and he knows Saturday’s game is vital, as they look to climb the ladder. “Yes, play-offs were always the target at Swan, and we believe we have a group good enough to be in Division One, but Division Two is so hard to get out of. Anyone can and has beaten anyone on their day, which makes the league exciting as well as challenging,” he explained.
“Niall and I are after that magic word consistency and putting in consistent performances in the run in to the end of the season. It is a massive game this weekend, almost a play-off six pointer if you ask me. A win for either side will go a long way to securing a play-off position, we expect them to be up for it, and we are up for the challenge as well. I would imagine we will leave everything we have got out there this Saturday to bring the point's home.”
In other games this weekend, league leaders Kingsley Westside will look to maintain their five-point lead at the top of the table, when they make the trip to Princess Road Reserve to take on Balga, while Curtin University will look to keep tabs on the top two when they welcome bottom of the table Canning City to Edinburgh Oval. Ashfield will look to build on their win at Shamrock last week, when they host Wanneroo City at Ashfield Sport Club, while the visitors are aiming to end a three-game losing streak. Maddington-Kalamunda White City entertain Carramar Shamrock Rovers at Maida Vale Reserve, while in the late game, Joondalup City visit Gumblossom Park to take on Quinns. (6pm)
20.7.2023
YOUNG ATTACKER LALA ADDED TO GLORY WOMEN SQUAD
Perth Glory have confirmed the recruitment of exciting young forward Tanika Lala for the 2023/24 A-League Women season. The 19-year old, who hails originally from Kalgoorlie, is regarded as one of the state's brightest young talents having scored six National Pemier Leagues goals so far this season for the National Training Centre.
Coach Alex Epakis is thrilled to have a player of Lala's potential on board. "Tanika is a player that I have been monitoring for over 12 months," Epakis said. "She had a training block with us last season and her quality was there to be seen. I was confident that with a bit more time she would be ready to be part of our squad this upcoming season and I'm happy that the time has now come for her."
"Tanika has a remarkable story as a young West Australian from Kalgoorlie who has made some big moves in her life to give herself the best chance of becoming a professional football player for her hometown club. She made the move to Perth and has been one of the standout performers across recent seasons in the local NPLW and is now primed for the next stage in her career."
"Her attacking qualities and finishing are at a good level and excitingly, she still has a lot of untapped quality. My work will be focused around helping her further progress and develop. I believe she can have a positive impact upon the ALW competition and is an addition to the squad that I am very excited about."
18.7.2023
WEST HAM BEAT SPURS IN THE FESTIVAL OF FOOTBALL
West Ham United have taken out bragging rights in the London Derby against Tottenham Hotspur in the final Festival of Football game at Optus Stadium on Tuesday evening, and spoilt the opening game in charge of new Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou, the former Socceroos coach saw his side go down 2-3, in front of 46,266 supporters on a wet night in Perth. The Hammers raced to a two-goal lead inside the first 23 minutes, with Danny Ings and Divin Mubama scoring. But Spurs hit back after the break with Giovani Lo Celso and Destiny Udogie to bring scores level, but it was David Moyes’ side who sealed the win 12 minutes from time with Italian striker Gianluca Scamacca racing clear to score.
Spurs, captained by star striker Harry Kane, dominated long periods of the game and created a whole host of chances but ultimately came up short defensively. They almost took the lead early, Oliver Skipp latched onto a pass from Sergio Reguilon but Lukas Fabianski got down quickly to save. The Polish goalkeeper had to be alert again moments later as new Spurs signing Manor Solomon fed Dejan Kulusevski and his angled shot was parried to safety.
However, it was the Hammers who took the lead on 18 minutes when a corner was only half cleared, and Jarrod Bowen’s cross was headed in at the back post by Danny Ings. That lead was doubled soon afterwards from another set piece and some poor marking allowed Divin Mubama to head past Guglielmo Vicario. As the half wore on, Solomon continued to look lively and he tested Fabianski again with a curling effort that had to be helped behind for a corner.
From the next phase of play, Maddison headed straight at the goalkeeper from Pedro Porro’s delivery. It was wave-after-wave of attack and brilliant link up play involving Bissouma and Skipp led to a clever Kane dummy, but Bissouma couldn’t squirm an effort past Fabianski. At the other end, Bowen almost made it 3-0 just before half time, however Vicario got down superbly to save low to his left.
Postecoglou made wholesale changes at the break, bringing in a fresh eleven to try find a way back into the contest. They almost scored instantly when Brazilian striker Richarlison got free down the right and his cross was met by Perisic whose shot was blocked to safety. Just before the hour, Richarlison had a great opportunity to pull one back but his shot hit the outside of the post and went wide. Youngster Alfie Devine tried his look from a tight angle with Fabianski saving well at his near post. They finally made a breakthrough on 69 minutes, Davinson Sanchez rose highest to nod the ball down to Giovani Lo Celso and he fired home from close range.
It was 2-2 minutes later as Perisic’s in-swinging corner was flicked home by Destiny Udogie and it looked like there would only be one winner from that point onwards. However, West Ham had other ideas when Pablo Fornals released Scamacca and the Italian raced clear of the Spurs defence before rolling the ball calmly past Brandon Austin. Richarlison headed tamely at Fabianski in the closing stages as West Ham held on to make it two wins from two games in Perth.
Tottenham Hotspur: GK Guglielmo VICARIO, 3 Sergio REGUILON, 4 Oliver SKIPP, 10 Harry Kane, 17 Christian ROMERO, 21 Dejan KULUSEVSKI, 23 Pedro PORRO, 25 Japhet TANGANGA, 38 Yves BISSOUMA, 71 James MADDISON, 72 Manor SOLOMON - Substitutes: 5. Pierre-Emile HOJBJERG, 6. Davinson SANCHEZ, 9. RICHARLISON, 12. Emerson ROYAL, 14. Ivan PERISIC, 18. Giovani LO CELSO, 29. Papa Matar SARR, 33. Ben DAVIES, 40. Brandon AUSTIN, 41. Alfie WHITEMAN, 42. Harvey WHITE, 45. Alfie DEVINE, 73. Destiny UDOGIE
West Ham United: GK Lukas FABIANSKI, 4 Kurt ZOUMA, 8 Pablo FORNALS, 12 Flynn DOWNES, 18 Danny INGS, 20 Jarrod BOWEN, 21 Angelo OGBONNA, 33 Emerson PALMIERI, 45 Divin MUBAMA, 53 Levi LAING, 62 Freddie POTTS. - Substitutes: 3. Aaron CRESSWELL, 11. Gianluca SCAMACCA, 32. Conor COVENTRY, 37. LUIZAO, 49. Joseph ANANG, 51. Daniel CHESTERS, 55. Jacob KNIGHTBRIDGE, 58. Kamarai SWYER
18.7.2023
BIRIGHITTI ON THE LOOK OUT FOR A NEW CLUB
Dundee United have told goalkeeper Mark Birighitti he is free to find new clubs, despite having a year left on his deal at Tannadice. Manager Jim Goodwin advised Perth-born Birighitti and former Scotland defender and Charlie Mulgrew their opportunities will be limited this coming season as the Terrors look to bounce back to the Premiership.
Neither player was assigned a squad number for the 2022/23 season and the loan signing of Jack Walton from Luton Town signals the end of a miserable 12 months for Birighitti. "Mark Birighitti had a disappointing campaign, by his own standards," said Goodwin. "He was one of the top, top goalkeepers in Australia (but) for whatever reason, last season didn't work out for him."
"It wasn't just on Mark Birighitti, it has to be said. It is very much a collective effort and there were a lot of below-par performances throughout the campaign. We have had honest discussions. We are not going to stand in his way if he finds somewhere that can offer him regular football. There's been no fall-out. It is just a case of this is the direction we are going in."
17.7.2023
STATE PREMIER OFFICIALLY OPENS FOOTBALL CENTRE
West Australian Premier Roger Cook has unveiled the newly constructed State Football Centre in Queens Park ahead of it taking centre stage as one of the training facilities in Perth for the Women's World Cup 2023. With only six days to go before Perth hosts the first of five World Cup games, the centre was officially opened today ahead of it serving as a training venue for Denmark, Canada, Panama, Haiti and Morocco.
"Opening this facility in time for the first match ensures it will leave a lasting legacy for football in Western Australia," said Premier Cook. "My Government is proud to have jointly funded and delivered a world-class facility that will not only help players train and perform at their peak during the upcoming World Cup, but provide the same opportunities to local teams and young players working towards scoring their own taste of international football glory."
The 16-hectare site includes a two-storey building with a grandstand, two competition and training pitches, on-site parking and three five-a-side playing pitches. After the Women's World Cup is over, the State Football Centre will become the administrative home of Football West. VenuesWest with Football West will co-manage the day-to-day running of the $46 million facility.
Football West chief executive Jamie Harnwell declared today a red letter day for West Australian football. "It is a special day for our sport in Western Australia to finally have a place to call home after more than 120 years and the facilities at the State Football Centre are state of the art," commented Harnwell.
"This will be a place where our elite youngsters will train but it will also serve as a base for our grassroots game including coaches and referees, as well as Football West's charitable partner the Football Futures Foundation, which serves the needs of diverse and priority communities through football here in WA."
"It will also be a place where overseas teams can come to train, as we have seen this week with Denmark and as will continue during the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023. Football West would like to thank both the Federal and State governments for their support and we look forward to working closely with them in the future as we develop the centre."
17.7.2023
KNOWLES JOINS INDIAN OUTFIT HYDERABAD
Hyderabad FC have completed the signing of West Australian attacker Joe Knowles. The 27-year old turned out for Brisbane Roar League last season and joins the Indian Super League side just a week after the club annoucned the recruitment of Costa Rican attacker Jonathan Moya.
"It is a great honor to sign for this club," said Knowles, who played locally for ECU Joondalup and Perth Glory, where he signed his first professional deal 2017. "Hyderabad FC have done unbelievably well in the four years as a club and I look forward to being a part of the history here, going forward."
Knowles has had something of a chequered career. After making 15 appearances for Glory, he headed to Scotland for a spell with Largs Thistle and on returning to Perth he turned out for Joondalup. Across two seasons with Victorian side Oakleigh Cannons he scored 24 goals in 48 games, helping the club to their maiden National Premier League Championship in 2022.
16.7.2023
GAME CHANGERS CELEBRATES TRAILBLAZING WOMENSOCCER
With the Women's World Cup the hottest ticket in Perth this winter, a new outdoor exhibition is giving the football community the chance to learn more about the beautiful game. Game Changers: Trailblazing Stories from WA Women in Soccer is being held at the State Library of Western Australia from 14 July to 28 August, with a quarter-sized astroturf pitch and ten soccer goals providing an all-ages interactive experience.
Visitors will see and hear a selection of stories about WA women in football that feature some of the sport's pioneering women and a timeline of the development of the sport in the State. Personal photos and other memorabilia have been generously shared by the women and digitised by the State Library.
The ground-breaking stories of Perth Glory captain Natasha Rigby and Matilda's striker Sandra Brentnall are also featured in the Game Changers' ten-part podcast series available on the State Library website. Other stories highlighted in the series include Matildas' stalwarts Tracey Wheeler and Lydia Williams along with Marilyn Learmont, the national leagues' first female referee.
16.7.2023
BELT-UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION – ROUND TWELVE REVIEW
Our ‘Match of the Round’ in the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division didn’t disappoint, with Kelmscott Roos edging out Jaguar 2-1 at Frye Park on Sunday afternoon. It was tough few weeks for both clubs, having a player lose their life, and a minute’s silence was held prior to the game in a mark of respect to both. The game started at a fast pace, and it was Jags who opened the scoring on 12 minutes, with M Deng scoring, and they held that lead at the break. The Roos levelled just after the hour, Ishmael Greywood’s free kick found half time substitute Brodie McCrae at the back post, who headed home clinically. The visitors were reduced to ten men late after Emmanuel Kankpeyeng receiving a second yellow card and sent off.
It still looked like the points would be shared, but in stoppage time Kelmscott won it. Isaac Koomson’s free kick found McCrae again, and his header hit the net, much to the delight of the home faithful. “What a win honestly, it was such a special day and a fitting game took place,” Kelmscott keeper Taylor Warwick said. “Jags came to play in the first half, they pinned us back into our half and caused us all sorts of problems. But second half was a different story, we played some great football and caused them all sorts of issues, and Brodie (McCrae) made a huge difference coming on in the second half. It was the best way to send off our good friend Sinclair and we are super proud of the efforts of everyone.”
Emarald continues to lead the league by one point, after a narrow 1-0 win against Wembley Downs in the early game at Fraser Park. The only goal of the game came 11 minutes from time, when Ronan Flaherty was pulled down in the box, and the referee pointed straight to the spot. James Craig stepped up and scored the resulting penalty, to seal the points. “Today was a tough game, we dominated the majority of the game but didn’t create much chances,” Emerald coach Shane O’Donovan said. “Wembley were very tough to breakdown, and it was going to take a set piece to settle it. Thankfully we got the penalty and got the points our overall play deserved. We just have to keep doing our job week by week, dropping any points can put you right down the table, consistency is key.”
North Perth United are still hot on their heels, this after a 2-0 win against South West Phoenix at the Onside Sports Stadium in Bunbury on Saturday evening, and coach Alex Carter it was a battle, but happy to come home with the three points. “I thought the first 15 minutes we really looked on our game, fast passing tempo really good movement off the ball at the correct times, and we managed to take the lead,” he explained. “After this we started playing really narrow which made it too easy for Phoenix to set up defensively. This was taken care of at half time and credit to the boys they executed it well second where we completely controlled possession. I’m sure the fellas would agree we haven’t been at our peak the last few weeks, but we are still grinding out results which is pleasing.” The visitors found the opener on five minutes, some neat link up lay out wide ended with Mehdi Gholami at the back post, and he made no mistake. United sealed the points 15 minutes from time, Brain Woodall finding space at the back post to score.
East Perth remains fifth, after a 2-0 win against North Beach at Vasto Reserve. It was a bright opening to the game with both sides creating chances, but it was the visitors who hit the front on 20 minutes. A great interception from Dean Wall, saw him find Ryan Murray who turned inside his marker, and buried a low shot into the net from 18 meters. They doubled their lead just after the half hour, a great tackle by debutant Nathan Horgan found Wayne Carter, who steadied himself and beat the keeper. North Beach came right back into the game after the break, but East Perth defended well, especially keeper Tommy McCarron, who made some important saves, and they stood firm to grab a vital away win and an important clean sheet. “It was a brilliant win on the road, they (North Beach) beat us early on and we knew that would be a very good side so overall happy with the points in a great game,” East Perth coach Colm Costello said. “I thought our middle three we’re excellent today and all the subs made a great impact, we know all the games are huge now and we are aware we can’t drop many points to keep the pressure on teams above us.”
South Perth United are up to sixth after a 3-2 win against Peel United at Bortolo Park. “It was a tough game, we had to make more changes due to injury and holidays and sickness and we probably didn’t get started until the five minutes before half time when we scored,” South Perth coach Lee Hayward said. “The whole week was tough and we only had a handful of players down for training this week due to various reasons, I’ve always said the way you finish training on a Thursday is the way you start the game on a Sunday and to not be able to train properly showed today. Hopefully we have a better week and start from the first whistle next week.”
A tight first half burst into life on 40 minutes, when the visitors found the opener. Good work from George Stephens, who rolled his defender and delivered a cross into the box, Gavin Walker’s shot was blocked and Sheldon Mulholland followed up well to fire home. The visitors doubled their lead on the hour, half time substitute Ben Godfrey, who had caused the Peel defence all sorts of problems, finishing well. Peel pulled one back six minutes later, after Josh Mayo headed into his own net on his first team debut. But Godfrey regained their two-goal advantage nine minutes from time, and enough though Peel added a second late, a brilliant free kick from Evan Richard, which made the last few minutes interesting. South Perth held firm for the victory.
In the final game Joondalup United moved off the bottom of the table after a 3-1 win against Kwinana United at Kelly Park. The visitors started the game strong and had a few early chances that went begging, however, Dom Brearo-Elliot picked up a short back pass and lobbed it over the keeper to put Joondalup 1-0 up at the break. Early in the second half Joondalup doubled their advantage, Adam Rogers put in a long free kick that found the head of Niall McGurk at the back post, who made no mistake. Kwinana hit back moments later, a well-placed header from Hama Kamal made it 2-1, and it was game on. But it was the visitors who won it, after a handball in the box, and Brearo-Elliot sent the keeper the wrong way from the resulting penalty. Kwinana piled on the pressure for the final 15 minutes with some dangerous balls into the box, but the Joondalup defence held firm and saw out the 3-1 win. “We’ve been playing some good football the past couple weeks, playing out two draws in a row but we were still hungry for a win,” Joondalup’s Niall McGurk said. “Getting that win today will hopefully be exactly what we needed to keep going forward on a good run of form and move up the table.”
16.7.2023
NPLWA WOMEN’S – ROUND FIFTEEN REVIEW
Perth SC have moved up to second place on the MPLWA – Women’s table, after a 4-1 win against Balcatta Etan, in our ‘Match of the Round’ at Grindleford Reserve on Sunday afternoon. Perth coach Peter Rakic said it was a strong performance from his side against an inform Balcatta side. "This was a really good result for us, I think it showed that we are still well in the hunt for silverware this year and we'll continue to push for it until the very last whistle,” he explained. “The girls have been great despite recent struggles with squad depth, but they continue to build on each performance and I can ask for nothing more in these circumstances."
All the goals came in a thrilling first half, and it was Rakic’s side who opened the scoring on 20 minutes, defender Poppie Hooks heading home Jaime Duncanson’s corner. They doubled their lead 13 minutes later in similar circumstances, with Hooks getting on the end of Ella Lincoln’s corner. It was 3-0 moments later, the inform Jess Flannery was given far too much space on the edge of the box, and she made Balcatta pay, firing low past Gabby Dal Busco. The hosts pulled one back three minutes before half time, with Kim McCartney firing home from the spot.
But in stoppage time Perth made it 4-1, Gemma Craine’s squared the ball to Duncanson, who made no mistake, to give the Azzurri three valuable points. In her first start since injury, Duncanson said it was a fantastic team performance. “Very happy for us to secure the three points, and it was a real team effort and solid performance,” she said. “We knew it would be tough against Balcatta as they had a bit of momentum, and we have been very unfortunate with injuries. However, we really came together to display our brand and put in a strong performance. I’m very proud of the girls, and feel confident moving forward into the second half of the season.”
Perth RedStar have extended their lead at the top of the table after a hard fought 2-1 win against Fremantle City at Hilton Park. “I thought the game was very close, and there were strong momentum’s going forward for both teams, but it came down to who could finish them,” RedStar’s Olivia Wood explained. “It was also a very physical game across the park, Fremantle had a high intensity when pressing in which we returned through Leota’s goal. The match was definitely a showcase of the standards both teams try to drive in the league and was an exciting game to watch. Fortunately for us the time ran out as Fremantle was gaining strong momentum in their final third as they had a half a dozen corners in the last seven minutes of the game.”
The home side were on the front foot early, Andreia Teixera clearing Carys Hawkins’ header off the line, before Laura Waltman effort flashed wide. Moments later Tash Rigby’s shot hit the base of the post as Fremantle, but RedStar held firm and went close themselves, Chiori Ikeda curling over the top, before Olivia Wood hit the side netting, and moments later saw her effort flash wide of the target. But on the half hour, it was RedStar who found the opening goal, a ball over the top wasn’t claimed by Fremantle keeper Danelle Cornish, and the lively Renee Leota nipped into win the ball and roll it into an empty net.
The visitors almost added a second before the break, Ikeda looping header from Reina Kagami’s corner hit the post, the winger was quickest to the rebound to score, but the flag was up for offside. The woodwork came to the rescue of both sides, Leota’s curling shot crashed back off the post, while after the restart Waltman’s long-range effort struck the crossbar. But with ten minutes to play, Carlos Vega Mena’s side doubled their lead. Jay Coleman played in Wood down the right, and her cross-shot went over the Cornish and into the net.
Fremantle weren’t going away, and forced a number of corners, but they couldn’t find a way past Shivani Battaglia. They did score a late consolation goal in stoppage time, Kim Carroll turning the ball into her own net after a scramble in the penalty area. RedStar coach Carlos Vega-Mena said it was a great game of football, and he was pleased to come out on top. “Top of the ladder matches are always an intense affair, and Fremantle came out fighting, which we expected and prepared for during the week,” he said. “Both teams played an attacking style of football which made for a very entertaining match. It took us a little while to settle into the game, but once we did, we managed to dominate on the pitch and get on the scoreboard.”
With the Curtin v NTC game called off, the other game on the day saw Subiaco AFC score late to beat Murdoch University Melville 3-2 at Rosalie Park. “I thought we moved the ball around well during the game and through a combination of good defensive work, a futsal goal-keeper doing a job outdoors and a bit of luck we kept Murdoch at bay and we created some very good chances of our own,” Subiaco coach Greg Farrell explained. “It was important after two poor performances and results, for there to be a marked improvement and the players stepped up, including Annie Leyland who put her hand up to go in goals as we have Ash Riddle, Marissa Pidgeon and Jemma Skinner out with injuries. She made a couple of important saves, and it was a big effort, and the players showed belief in themselves to go and get a winner after the equaliser was scored nearly four minutes into injury time. Lots of positives to move into the final third of the season.”
The visitors went into this game after a big win in the cup in midweek, and they hit the front on 27 minutes, Clara Hoarau’s shot from distance flew into the net giving Leyland no chance. The hosts levelled five minutes later, Savannah Oolsthorn through ball found Marianna Tabain, who finished clinically past Stacey Cavill. Then seven minutes into the second half Subiaco went ahead, Oolsthorn’s cross was met by Dakota Van Vugt who finished high into the net. It looked like a first win for Subiaco since week eight, but in the third minute of stoppage time, MUMFC restored parity. Charli Wainwright’s free-kick wasn’t dealt with, and Nicola Ierino looped a volley over everyone and in to the net.
It was a bitter blow for Farrell’s side, but there was still another twist in the tail, and six minutes into stoppage time Subiaco found the winner. Danielle Suckling’s corner was controlled and turned home by substitute Ingrid Gomez-Basallo. “I thought we showed really good resilience yesterday, to go 1-0 down, we knew we had to work hard to not let the game slip away, and we moved the ball well and was patient in defence,” Subiaco striker Frankie Murray said. “To bounce back again after a late equaliser from Murdoch it was amazing to seal the win. As a team we have been progressing each game, improving every week and to go to a game like that against MUM who are a good side, it was important we were confident and composed as we played.”
16.7.2023
HYUNDAI WOMEN’S LEAGUE DIVISION ONE - ROUND THIRTEEN REVIEW
The top of the table clash in the Women’s Division One was a great contest, and it was league leaders Hamersley Rovers who kept their unbeaten start to the season, after scoring two late goals to beat second placed UWA Nedlands 2-1 at the UWA Sports Park. “We’ve had a great season so far, from playing amateurs to be undefeated half way through the state league season is amazing,” Rovers’ striker Christiane Astorp explained. “The vibe in the team is like no other and the comeback we had in the last two games shows the positive attitude and support for each other. We were 1-0 down for majority of the game from an unfortunate goal, but I don’t believe that reflected the game. We had so many chances and was finally able to score two quick goals. UWA have a good team this year and is definitely a team to fight for the title, so it obviously feels extra good to beat them and get the three points.”
Only one point separated the sides at kick off, but it was the hosts hit the front on 23 minutes, a long-range shot from Felicity Waller slipped through the hands of Karla Edwards. Both sides had chances, but it looked like a first defeat of the season for Betim Ziba’s side, but 15 minutes from time they levelled. A free kick was whipped into the box by Ella Kerman found Christiane Astorp who took a great touch to bring the ball down and slotted it into the bottom corner of the net. Then three minutes from time Rovers won it. A long ball played by Monique Jelaska sent Astorp through on goal, the keeper rushed out, but the striker chipped the ball over her from just outside the box, much to the delight of her teammates and the travelling supporters. .
“Overall, it was an intense game, I thought the first half was very even and UWA scored an unfortunate goal due to our mistake, “Rovers’ coach Betim Ziba said. “In the second half we took control and created numerous chances and ended up scoring two important goals. We knew the importance of this game and I am proud of the ladies for not giving up being a goal down. We wanted the win, and took control in the second half and got the result we deserved.”
Perth AFC consolidated third spot, after a narrow 1-0 win against Mandurah City at Genesiscare Stadium. The only goal of the game came four minutes from time, with Jessica Moreschini finding space on the edge of the box, and her shot flew into the top corner of the net. “They (Mandurah) were a very physical team who were very difficult to break down,” Moreschini said. “The lead up to the goal had really good build up play, where we were able to hold Mandurah in their half for long periods. Delighted to have scored the winner, and it felt really good off the boot and I was happy to see it hit the back of the net.”
Perth AFC coach Rob Caruso said they had to work hard for the win, and rode their luck in the first half. “It was a game of two halves, Mandurah came out in the first half firing, we were all over the place, not being able to string a consistent amount of passes together. Mandurah hit the post and cross bar as well as forcing a very good save from Danielle Caruso and they were very unlucky not to have the lead going into half time,” Perth AFC coach Rob Caruso explained. “The second half we came out a different side, with the help of the wind we were able to put the pressure on Mandurah and create opportunities. Mandurah were a very solid unit but our drive and want to win finally broke the dead lock in the final minutes of the game to win it.”
Subiaco AFC have won for the second time this season, after 2-1 win against Port Kennedy at Rosalie Park. Both sides had opportunities to score in the first half, but it was Subiaco striker Tamzyn Aisbett who gave the home side the lead on 23 minutes, with a well-placed shot past Anita Abel. But Port levelled early in the second half, a well-taken goal from Keira Turner. Both sides pressed for the winner, and five minutes from time it was the hosts that found it. Midfielder Phoebe Withers pounced on a defensive mistake and scored what would be the winning goal. “Delighted with the performance and the win,” Subiaco coach Judd Bogust said. “Also delighted for Phoebe Withers and Lindsay Thompson, who both made their league debut for us.” In the other game, Fremantle City have won for the first time this season after a 3-2 win against Sorrento at Hilton Park. The visitors hit the front on 25 minutes with Alexandra Parker scoring, but Isia Dunne levelled five minutes later. Parker regained the lead for Sorrento on the hour, but two minutes later Alice Vandermeiren restored parity again for the hosts. They sealed the points moments later, with Maria Garcia on target.
15.7.2023
NPL-WA ROUND SEVENTEEN - REVIEW
Bayswater City have continued their good form under new coach Gary Williams and moved them up to fifth on the NPLWA – Men’s ladder, after thrashing Armadale 6-1 in our ‘Match of the Round’ at Alfred Skeet Reserve. “Armadale is always a difficult place to get points, however after our recent performances the players approached the game with confidence, and after scoring an early goal I was disappointed to concede a poor goal soon after,” Williams explained. “We went in 3-1 up at half time after some good play and continued that into the second half with three more goals. We looked dangerous and had real intent when going forward and could have had more in all honesty. In stages we played some really good football, but we now move on and have a big game next week against Perth RedStar, but we’ll the approach the match with great confidence.”
It was the visitors who opened the scoring on 11 minutes, a ball over the top from Samuel Dweh sent Joshua Anasmo racing clear, he held off his marker and finished low past Joel Driscoll. But the hosts were level seven minutes later, a long clearance from Matt Worton was headed on by Chris Jackson to Peter Jacobsz, his shot was saved low by Lewis Italiano, but Jackson fired home the rebound at the back post. The hosts suffered a double blow with skipper Nathan Costello and import Tim Berger both being replaced with Quad and calf injuries respectively, and it was City who took advantage. They restored their lead on 32 minutes, Jon Stynes sent Anasmo down the left, his cross wasn’t dealt with and Dweh swept the ball home. It was 3-1 seven minutes later, Sam Mitchinson’s cross picked out the unmarked Gordon Smith who headed home.
It was 4-1 just before the hour mark, Declan Hargreaves diagonal ball found Dweh down the right, and his cross was turned into his own net by Worton. The visitors added to their lead five minutes later, Dweh was brought down by Conor Walsh, and referee Josh Mannella pointed to the spot, and Jon Stynes stepped up and sent Driscoll the wrong way from the spot. The visitors made it 6-1 three minutes later, Smith sending Anasmo in on goal, and he held off Worton, before finish low past Driscoll to give City a comprehensive win. Bayswater leapfrogging Armadale into fifth place, while the loss dropped Armadale to sixth. “It was a brilliant team performance, that we dominated for 90 minutes,” assistant coach Stewart Moses said. “The players have set the standard now, and Gary and I will look for them to maintain it, and we head into next week’s game full of confidence
Perth RedStar have moved one point clear at the top of the table, this despite drawing 3-3 at home to Inglewood United at the RedStar Arena, but they had to come from 0-3 down to earn the point. “It was an excellent come back from 3-0 down, although were very disappointed with the goals we conceded. We just weren’t at the races to start the game and I thought Inglewood played well, they really wanted it,” RedStar defender Blair Govan explained, “But we still created some good chances first half and we said at half time just keep going because if we do get one then we felt like we could get more. To get a goal back a few minutes after their third goal was huge it just gave us confidence, and from then on it was chance after chance, some great defending from Inglewood probably saved them two points. We’re happy with the comeback it could prove to be a big point for us but we know we weren’t at our best.”
The visitors, who beat Perth SC 4-2 last week, made the best possible start in this one, finding the opener on six minutes. A long clearance from Dylan White caused confusion in the Redstar defence, and Michael Domfeh nipped in and finished low past Liam Reddy. Inglewood doubled their lead six minutes later, the hosts lost possession in the middle of the park, and Shubham Mokala picked the ball up 20 meters from goal, and his curling effort beat Ready via the crossbar. It looked bad for the hosts on 58 minutes, when Inglewood added a third, a back pass from Nick Walsh was missed by Reddy, the ball rolling into an empty net. But the hosts found a lifeline three minutes later, Daryl Nicol’s shot was blocked, but Chok Dau turned the ball home at the back post.
It still looked like Inglewood would take home the points, but two minutes from time RedStar added a second. Andy Higgins’ cross was cleared and Sonny O’Shea’s overhead kick hit the post, the rebound fell to Nicol, who headed home at the back post. Then three minutes into stoppage time RedStar found a dramatic equaliser. A long ball from Ryan Finnie wasn’t dealt with on the edge of the box, and Nicol pounced, volleying home, to send the hosts one point clear at the top, while Inglewood drops to the bottom, one point adrift.
“I think it would have been pretty good viewing for the neutrals - 6 goals and plenty of late drama, so kudos to RedStar, they showed why they are where they are in the ladder and kept composed enough to get a result,” Inglewood’s Roberto Del Borrello said. “Unfortunately for us it's a missed opportunity rather than a point won. We really wanted to keep the momentum going from last week with a win but naturally it's very frustrating to concede twice in the last five minutes or so. Consistency has let us down in the league this year and we are taking each Saturday as a final and everyone in the club is wanting to improve out standings. It's been the closest league table from top to bottom I've experienced here and the final "run-in" will be crucial for many teams.”
Stirling Macedonia have lost ground on the leaders, after they were beaten 1-0 by Cockburn City at Dalmatinac Park, and Cockburn coach Steven McDonald said it was a great win for the club, against one of the title favourites. “A great hard-fought win against Stirling, and we knew what we were up against with Stirling being a very organised and physical side, and that it was going to be a battle from the first whistle,” he explained. “It was a must win game for us, with the goals that we have set ourselves for this season, and was really important for us to stay in touch with the leading pack, this victory keeps us in the hunt for finals football.
“It wasn’t a game of many chances for both sides, but I felt we started to get the upper hand as the first half wore on, and we went in with the lead going into the break. The second half was much of the same, being an absolute arm wrestle, and sometimes we were very wasteful in possession when breaking forward, when I felt we could have hurt Stirling more on the break as they pushed more and more players forward to find an equaliser. Credit has to go to our defence and Michael (Craggs) as they were absolutely outstanding in denying the constant threats from Stirling and not allowing them to break us down, and in the end, it was a very deserving win against a side that will look to go all the way this year.”
The only goal of the game came seven minutes before the break, Cherno Bah finding Friday Zico to drive low past James Bosdet, into the bottom corner and make it five goals for the season. Ian Ferguson’s side almost levelled twice deep in second-half stoppage time, as Hristijan Jankuloski header beat Michael Craggs, but the crossbar came to the rescue of the Cockburn custodian, before substitute Samim Fattahi effort whistled over the top. Cockerels’ keeper Craggs said it was an important win for the side. “The team were happy with the performance we put out against Redstar, but obviously unhappy with the end result, and we really took that into Saturday's game against another team at the top of the ladder,” the keeper explained.
“They tested us a few times in the first half but we really didn't allow them to create too many solid chances. The second half was a decently equal affair with the ball staying in the middle of the park for the majority of it. Our substitutes came on and played a massive role in disrupting their build up. I thought it was a massive effort from the boys, going on from last week's disappointing result. Every point is incredibly crucial with a league this close, top to bottom. It is always good to grab points of what is considered one of the very top teams, and deservedly so as well, and this energy will carry us onto the run in and top four should be in sight.”
Olympic Kingsway were the big movers, jumping up to third, after a 1-0 win against a very young Perth Glory side in the early game at Lark Hill Sportsplex. “It’s certainly wasn’t our best performance of the season, and we were up against a young, talented and hungry Glory side,” Olympic coach David Tough said. “I thought they were excellent on the day and could have easily taken something from the game. Although the performance was way below our recent games, we’re happy to come through a tricky fixture with the win.”
It was a young Glory side, with many first team players in the senior squad for the game against West Ham United later in the evening, and it was the visitors were on the front foot early, and Liam Coyne saved well to deny Mitch Oxborrow and Calum O’Connell. But Olympic found the opener on 35 minutes, Liam Murray found space down the right and finished across Coyne. Both keepers made important saves after the break, first Laat Mathiang fired straight at Olympic keeper David Keenan, while Coyne got down well to thwart Tyler Garner’s shot at the other end. But Olympics’ win puts them four points behind leaders RedStar, and with a game in hand, while Glory dropped to ninth.
Floreat Athena moved off the bottom of the table, after winning for the first time in five games, after a 2-1 win against Sorrento at E&D Litis Stadium. “I thought it was a gutsy performance by the squad, coming back from 1-0 down from a very well organised Steven McGarry side is never going to be an easy task,” Bayley Brown-Montgomery said. “But we stuck to our game plan and gave maximum effort throughout the 90 minutes and were finally rewarded with a hard earned three points.”
Floreat had the best chance early, when Sean McManus’ cross found Noah Shamaki, but the striker couldn’t keep his effort down. But it was Sorrento who opened the scoring on 13 minutes after Alex Christodoulakis error let in Shay Natalotto, who ran in on goal and finished low past Jason Saldaris. The hosts hit back and levelled four minutes before the break, Bayley Brown-Montgomery’s shot took a deflection and looped over Patrick Hughes in the Gulls goal. The game was up for grabs after the break, with both sides having good chances. First Gustavo Giron-Marulanda’s free-kick was palmed away by Saldaris, while at the other end Robert Petkov fired over the top from inside the box. But ten minutes from time Floreat won it, Brown-Montgomery capitalise on a mistake as Sorrento played out from the back, lifting a shot over Hughes to seal a 2-1 win.
In the final game, the points were shared in the Italian Derby at Grindleford Reserve, with Balcatta Etna coming from behind to draw 1-1 with Perth SC. “I thought the boys played very well against Perth, I felt we controlled the game for the majority of the 90 minutes but we struggled to just finish off the chances that we created,” Balcatta midfielder Jack Leech explained. “It’s disappointing that we didn’t take all three points, but important that we did the next best thing and didn’t lose the game. We want to pick up points every single game and we did that. We are now looking to next week and will hopefully go one better and take the points, to remain right up near the top end of the table.”
The hosts have stumbled in recent weeks, having drawn their last three games, and they found themselves behind in this one on the half hour, Abdul Osman was given too much room and his low strike from just outside the penalty area beat Domenic Savoldelli. The hosts levelled deep into first half stoppage time, with a first goal of the season for Carmelo Giuffre, finishing well pat Luke Radonich. Both sides had chances after the break but couldn’t find the winner, and the host’s new signing Aryn Williams was sent off late, so both sides had to settle for a share of the spoils.
15.7.2023
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND SIXTEEN REVIEW
Joondalup United have continued their good form in the State League Division One, after beating UWA Nedlands 5-1 in our ‘Match of the Round’ at the UWA Sports Park. “As we expected UWA came out firing and immediately put us under pressure, but the boys took a little bit of time to pick themselves up after the euphoria of the previous weeks win and went to work,” United coach Steven Flint explained. “The resilience of this squad is absolutely amazing, and the win is a good springboard into what is a massive week for the club.” It was the hosts who found the opener on four minutes, Daniel Iuliano’s corner was flicked on and Jacob Tuner fired home at the back post.
Joondalup levelled five minutes before the break, Jay Lang found Andrew Flint on the right, and his cross shot found the top corner, and at the break it was all square. But three minutes into the second half United hit the front, Ben Campbell’s cross to the back post found the unmarked Flint, who made no mistake. They added a third on 85 minutes, Joshua Allum finding Elliot Tattersall’s long-range shot slipped through the hands of keeper Brendon Rintoul. It was 4-1 in stoppage time, Sam McKearnen finding substitute Joel Sollitt who finished well. There was still time for a fifth, substitute Adam Buckley heading home, after a great counter attack. “We knew going into the game that this could be a potential banana skin for us,” Joondalup midfielder Jay Lang said. “But I thought the boys put in a great shift and to come away with a 5-1 win was extremely pleasing.”
League leaders Mandurah City maintained their narrow lead at the top of the table, after a hard fought 2-1 win against Subiaco AFC at Rosalie Park. “It was good to continue our winning run and get another three points on the board,” Mandurah’s Hamish van Dieken said. “It wasn’t our best performance on the day, but I still thought we dominated the game and could have scored a lot more goals. Sometimes in the game we made it hard for ourselves, but Subiaco never gave up, so credit to them, but all in all just happy with the result and ready to get another important win next week.” It was Subiaco who opened the scoring on 21 minutes, 14S finding 17S at the back post, his cross into the box was headed home by 3S. But the Dolphins were level moments later, Joe O’Brien crossing the Hamish van Dieken, who fired home from close-range.
Mandurah sealed the win five minutes into the second half, Robbie Galvin made space down the left, and his cross to the back post found Van Dieken who fired home from six meters. Mandurah coach John Baird said the players deserve all the credit, and they keep going forward. “It was a win and three points, but I was delighted the way the lads responded from a goal down,” he said. “Since taking over our win record is unbelievable, lately we’ve won 11 out of 12 which is outstanding and these boys are outstanding, professional players, attitude, leadership and awareness of where we are at and what is ahead of us. These boys have opportunity to win three trophies in 11 months with two already in the bag, but we aware there is still a long way to go, and we will be back in training this week ahead of the local derby against Rockingham.”
Western Knights kept in touch with the leaders after a 3-1 win against Gosnells City at Nash Field. “We owed Gosnells one for our last meeting where we drew the game, we started the game very shaky and showed a bit of complacency but after they scored the early goal, we responded well and ended up leaving the half 3-1 up,” Knights striker Albert Luwi explained. “Second half was a bit all over the place from both teams, we still created a lot of chances still, but definitely didn’t match out first half performance.” Gosnells hit the front early, with Brice Rae corner finding its way into the net. But the hosts hit back and levelled on the half hour, with Albert Luwi getting on the end of a Jack Bardsley cross to score at the near post. scoring.
The Knights hit the front two minutes later, a cross into the box found Luwi, whose cut back picked out Denzel Tshuma, who made no mistake. The points were secured in the shadows of half time, when a cross from the left found Fionn O’Tighearnaigh and he headed home at the back post. The visitors ended the game with ten men after Joshua Spencer was sent off late. “I thought the boys showed good character to respond from conceding an early goal, a lot of positives but always areas to improve,” Knights keeper Devon Lindemann said. “The coaching staff have drilled us on a way we want to play football, so we need to stay focused on us and apply ourselves to each fixture leading to the end of season.”
Fremantle City’s recent poor run of results continued, after they were beaten 3-1 by Gwelup Croatia at Hilton Park. “The win was a really important one for us, it’s the time of the season we’re injuries and suspension were starting to affect us in the last month, but we were back to full strength yesterday and it showed what we are capable of when everyone is fit and firing,” Gwelup striker James Burns. “I thought we defended as a unit and kept Fremantle to set pieces and defended them very well.
The win puts a top four finish back on the cards for us and that’s our aim, our next two games are massive it’s important to get momentum going and stringing a few wins can see you rocket up this league as it’s so tight.” Gwelup found the opener after only three minutes Tyron Pottier turning in corner from close-range. The visitors doubled their advantage in the shadows of half time, a sweeping counter attack ended with John Lahai, who made no mistake. Alex McLean gave the hosts a lifeline in the second half, but Gwelup weren’t to be denied, and nine minutes from time they added a third substitute Ryan Johnson sliding home at the back post.
Dianella White Eagles are up to fourth after a 3-2 win against Rockingham City at Lark Hill Sportsplex. “Our side stuck to the game plan and it paid off, the score board showed it in the first half,” Dianella coach Cristian Cortes said. “Rockingham came out with everything they have in the second half and got a second goal which made the game exciting for the spectators and stressful for the coaches, but our lads stood up, showed character stuck to the process and we got the three points we wanted. We are very proud of the boys they are developing and understanding the game plan and the results are showing. We now look towards next week’s game, and keep working towards our goals as a team, we are excited to be back at home with our spectators behind us. Thank you to Rockingham for the great game and the hospitality shown afterwards.”
It was Kris Donnell’s side that scored first, Ruben Joseph’s penalty kick squeezed past keeper Peter Pilkadaris after 14 minutes, but Dianella player/coach Angel Andres Rivera fired home his 12th goal of the season to level things five minutes later. The Eagles were soaring again on 24 minutes, Igor Cvijanovic’s strike Rockingham keeper Cyril Sharrock, and in the final minute of the half they added third, thanks to Darko Ristoski’s finish from a tight angle. Rockingham found a lifeline 13 minutes from time with Josh Mackinder scoring, but try as they might they couldn’t find the equaliser.
In the final game, Murdoch University Melville have made it back-to-back wins and moved up to sixth, after a 3-0 win against bottom of the table Forrestfield United at Besteam Stadium. “Very proud of the boys to keep a clean sheet as it's something we've struggled with this year, and back-to-back wins has us heading in the right direction,” MUMFC’s Declan Tanna said. “We're starting to click in the attacking phases and it’s very exciting to be a part of, and we look forward to next week’s challenge at the Knights.” It was a tight first half, with chances for both sides, but all the goals were scored after the break.
The visitors went close in the opening minute, with Ethan Reynolds shot at the back post well saved by Tom Allan, and two minutes later MUMFC found the opener. Feisal Zaw found Christos Vaenas, whose shot hit the post, Zaw was quickest to the rebound crossing from the bye-line to Declan Tanna who nipped in between two Forrestfield defenders and fired home from five meters. They added a second five minutes later, Vaenas sending Jack Steele in on goal, and he rounded the keeper to score. The points were secured nine minutes from time, Brodie Langan crossing to fellow substitute Taj Bingwa, who waltzed past a number of Forrestfield defenders to score.
15.7.2023
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND SIXTEEN REVIEW
After a week when they lost three points on the State League Division Two table, due to administration issues, Morley Windmills have jumped back up to second on the table after a hard fought 3-2 win against Quinns in our “Match of the Round’ at Wotton Reserve. “I thought it was the right result on the day - we missed an absolute hatful of clear-cut chances and had the majority of the play, while their keeper also pulled of some great saves,” Morley’s Kevin Ashwood said. “They will probably look to the two dubious referring calls that went against them, and a missed chance at the end that could've nicked them a point but overall, I think we were good value for the three. At this stage of the season, it's all about picking up points and getting over the line each Saturday, so we move onto a tough game next week against Swan.”
The hosts hit the front on four minutes, Conor Kavanagh’s corner picked out Ashwood at the back post, and he headed home via the crossbar. But Quinns levelled on 25 minutes, Danny O’Shea tapping home after a corner wasn’t dealt with. Morley regained the lead three minutes into the second half, Cedric Mezieres got to the byline, and cut the ball back to Callum Speed to score. It was 3-1 twenty minutes from time, a dubious penalty call for handball, with Mezieres converting from the spot. The visitors were reduced to ten men two minutes later, with Liam Hunt sent off, but the ten men pulled one back nine minutes from time, with Harry Edwards finishing clinically, but the hosts held firm to take the points. “A good win, but it should have been more comfortably,” Morley coach Marc Anthony said. “But Quinns pushed till the end, and we managed to see the game out to take the three points.”
League leaders Kingsley Westside extended their lead at the top to seven points, after coming from behind to beat Curtin University 3-1 at Chichester Park. “It was a good game to be a part of, Curtin came to win and played some good football early and after scoring inside the first minute, I thought we may have been in for a long day,” Kingsley coach Steven Dimitrovich explained “I thought that even more so when their keeper made a class save from an Alex Morgan header that was going into the bottom corner. But second half felt it was on our terms and our want and desire to win showed as the game went on and proud of the lad’s response to last week’s defeat and going down early today, we now get ready for Balga on Saturday.”
Curtin made the perfect start and were ahead early, with Janno Saks scoring, and they held that lead at the break. But three minutes into the second half Kingsley levelled, Luke Doyle’s corner was headed home by Adam O’Neill. It looked like the points would be shared, but one minute from time Kingsley hit the front in similar circumstances, O’Neill powering home a header from a Doyle cross. They wrapped up the points in stoppage time, Jack Reilly raced away and was brought down by Chris Sutton, and the referee pointed to the spot and sent the defender off. Luke Salmon stepped up and scored the resulting penalty to seal the three points.
Swan United jumped up to fifth after coming from behind at half time to beat Balga 4-2 at Swan Italian Club, Francis Street. “It was a tale of two halves, with our first half performance lacking energy and half time we got the rev up we needed from the coaches,” Swan striker John Monterosso said. “But second half we came out to finish off Balga, like we knew we could, and kept a clean sheet which sets us up well for a huge game next week against Morley.” United hit the front on 23 minutes, Liam Merigan turned he’s marker inside the box and was brought down, and Rhys Loxley stepped up and put away the penalty.
But Balga where level five minutes later Henri Mulwila curling home superbly from a free kick from distance. Then five minutes before the break the visitors hit the front, Sam Kent was sent clear on the left, and he finished clinically. Swan restored parity four minutes into the second half, Jordan Lyall played Monterosso in at the back post, and he cut back for Jake Fritchley to finish neatly. The hosts hit the front 12 minutes from time, Chris Marshall rising highest at the back post to head home. The points were wrapped up five minutes later, Loxley crossed in from wide and Fritchley made no mistake.
Maddington-Kalamunda White City slipped to sixth on goal difference, despite a 2-1 win against bottom of the table Canning City at Burrendah Park. “I thought we played alright in the game, and could, and probably should have scored more and finish the game early,” Maddington keeper Rain Blauberg explained. “I think we made it tougher game than it should’ve have been, but got the three points, which is the most important thing, and move on to the next game against Carramar Shamrock Rovers.” Maddington, fresh of the win against league leaders Kingsley last week, opened the scoring on 14 minutes, with Jose Zuniga scoring. They added a second six minutes before the break, Samuel Del Aguila on target. Canning halved the deficit 15 minutes from time, with Rowan Steed scoring, but the Eagles held firm to take home the points.
In the other games, Ashfield have boosted their play-off hopes, after a 2-1 win against Carramar Shamrock Rovers at the Ashfield Arena. “I felt we thoroughly deserved the three points, it’s never an easy place to go and was an all-round team performance for 90 minutes,” Gareth Hamilton said. “But we go into next weekend’s match against Wanneroo with huge confidence.” Rovers were ahead on 23 minutes, with A Reidy converting from the spot, but five minutes before half time Hamilton firing home a free kick. James Sammut’s side won it just after the hour, Dean Kezurer scoring from close-range. In the final game Joondalup City have won the northern derby, after a 5-2 win against Wanneroo City at Wanneroo Reserve. First half goals from Simon Burt, Jason Petrie and Tim Higgins, had the visitors in control. Ben Wantee pulled one back for the hosts after the break, but Joondalup hit back with further goals to Cameron Stratton, and substitute Luigi Lancaster, while Cosimo Figliomeni scored a consolation goal late for Wanneroo.
15.7.2023
WEST HAM PROVE TOO STRONG FOR GLORY
Perth Glory’s opening game of their pre-season has ended in defeat, going down 6-2 to English Premier League side West Ham United at Optus Stadium on Saturday evening. In front of nearly 25,000 the Hammers scored in the opening minute, with an own goal by Glory defender Darryl Lachman, before Gianluca Scamacca converted from the spot. Glory pulled one back just before half time with an own goal from Luizão, and at the break both sides made mass changes. But it was the visitors who took control with Jarrod Bowen’s double, Emerson’s header and Divin Mubama’s finish added to the Hammers’ tally, while Daniel Bennie added a second for the hosts.
Glory coach Kenny Lowe was full of praise for his young group against the English Premier League outfit. “I thought we did really well,” he said. “Their keeper [Fabianski] had a super game, made some good saves. The pleasing thing for us is that we controlled the ball and tempo at times, and it was really entertaining. They [West Ham] showed great respect in the second half as they pressed us and really came after us. The young boys enjoyed the experience. Everybody did well and there were plenty of positives all over the park.”
The Hammers hit the ground running, and took the lead early. The ball was played to Dan Chesters on the right, following neat interplay between Danny Ings and Pablo Fornals, he crossed into the box and the unfortunate Lachman diverted the ball into his own net, past new keeper Oli Sail. It was one-way traffic and Fornals fired over the bar from outside the box, but the Spaniard was central to the move which led to the second goal on 20 minutes.
He was sent clear and raced into the box, and was brought down by John Koutroumbis, and referee Alireza Faghani pointed straight to the spot, and Scamacca sent Sail the wrong way from the resulting penalty. But Glory hit back and two minutes later Adam Taggart raced into the box after a neat through ball from Trent Ostler, but his shot flashed inches past the far post. Taggart went close again on 40 minutes, after being picked out by Ostler’s cross from the right, but the striker was denied by a great save from Polish keeper Lukasz Fabianski.
David Moyes’ side were almost handed a third moments later, after a poor clearance from Sail went straight to Scamacca, but the Italian blazed over the top. But in the final minute the Glory found a lifeline, Stefan Colakovski raced clear down the right and his cross was turned into his own net by Brazilian defender.
United went close to a third early in the second half, but Cameron Cook spread himself well to deny Fornals, but the Glory should have levelled moments later. The lively Bennie was sent down the right by James Overy, and he crossed to the back post to Joel Anasmo, whose shot on the run was saved well by Fabianski. But it was the Hammers who regained their two-goal lead on 56 minutes, Emerson sent a searching low ball into the box Bowen darted to the near post to net finish clinically.
The duo combined again to devastating effect 14 minutes later as Bowen turned provider this time, crossing to the unmarked Emerson to nod into the roof of the net. Glory did not let their heads drop and scored their second of the evening shortly afterwards, Bennie was sent clear by Anasmo, and showed real composure to finish beyond Joseph Anang’s dive.
Fornals saw his effort hit the post as the Hammers searched for a fifth, and that goal came nine minutes from time. Chesters played a lovely one-two with Kamarai Swyer to reach the by-line and stand-up a cross for Mubama to slam a header home. The scoring was completed four minutes from time, with Bowen added his second, sweeping home Aaron Cresswell’s cross.
Perth Glory First-Half Line-Up: GK Oli SAIL, 2 John KOUTROUMBIS, 6 Aaron MCENEFF, 10 Salim KHELIFI (43 Adam ZIMARINO 29’), 15 Jordan ELSEY, 20 Giordano COLLI, 22 Adam TAGGART, 28 Trent OSTLER, 29 Darryl LACHMAN, 36 Joseph FORDE, 77 Stefan COLAKOVSKI
Perth Glory Second-Half Line-Up: GK Cameron COOK, 4 Luke BODNAR (35 Aiki TSUKAMOTO 90’), 5 Mark BEEVERS, 12 Luke IVANOVIC (18 David WILLIAMS 74’), 31 Daniel BENNIE, 32 Kaelan MAJEKODUNMI, 39 Andriano LEBIB, 41 James OVERY, 43 Adam ZIMARINO (38 Corey SUTHERLAND 64’), 44 Jaylan PEARMAN, 48. Joel ANASMO
West Ham: GK Lukasz FABIANSKI, (RGK Joseph ANANG 71’), 4 Kurt ZOUMA (3 Aaron CRESSWELL 46’), 8 Pablo FORNALS, 11 Gianluca SCAMACCA (45 Divin MUBAMA 46’), 12 Flynn DOWNES (40 George EARTHY 71’), 18 Danny INGS (20 Jarrod BOWEN 46’), 33 EMERSON (58 Kamari SWYER 71’), 37 LUIZAO (21 Angelo OGBONNA 45’), 51 Daniel CHESTERS, 53 Levi LAING, 62 Freddie POTTS - Subs not used: RGK Jacob KNIGHTBRIDGE, 32 Conor COVENTRY - Referee: Alireza Faghani - Attendance: 24,723
15.7.2023
FOWLER WINS IT FOR MATILDAS
The Matildas have completed their final preparations before next week’s World Cup, after Mary Fowler’s second half goal gave them a 1-0 victory over world number five ranked France in front of a record-breaking crowd of 50,629 at Marvel Stadium on Friday evening. It’s the second big scalp that Tony Gustavsson’s side has taken recently, this after ending England’s 30-game winning streak in April with a 2-0 victory. “Tonight, I think represent the final step of that process and in that journey in preparing for the World Cup,” Gustavsson said post-match.
“If we look at tonight, we had 16 players on the park. It was nil-nil when our captain Sam steps off, Caitlin steps off, our vice-captain Steph Catley steps off and we can still compete with the top European opposition. And it’s thanks to the patience and to belief in the process from everyone. We know we can score against anyone, but that doesn’t mean anything on the 20th when we play Ireland because that’s tournament mode. That’s something different, this was preparation.”
The game started off at a frenetic pace, and the visitors were immediately on the back foot in the face of the onslaught, with Sam Kerr, Caitlin Foord, Cortnee Vine and Hayley Raso a constant threat. Foord in particular had a lot of joy in the space between France’s defence and attack, exploiting a midfield missing the experienced Amandine Henry through injury. But France had the best early chance on 17 minutes, Kenza Dali’s shot was well saved by Mackenzie Arnold, and the rebound was cleared.
Australia’s best opportunity in the first half came in on 25 minutes. Kerr finding Katrina Gorry, who played it on to Foord, who raced away from her marker, but her shot was blocked at the last by France’s goalkeeper Pauline Peyraud-Magnin. Despite the Australians having most of the running in the first half, shots were hard to come by, and marshalled by the experienced Wendie Renard, Kerr and co were kept to only two shots in the first half, compared to France’s eight.
Fowler came off the bench at half time, but it was European’s who looked more threatening after the break and went close five minutes in. They forced a turnover after Kyra Cooney-Cross was caught in possession, creating an opportunity for Kadidiatou Diani, but she sliced wide of the target. But the Matildas also created opportunities of their own. Katrina Gorry found a way to slice through the defence, but her shot was deflected wide.
Gustavsson made a huge call on the hour, with Kerr, who straight away added an ice pack to her hamstring, and Foord were both substituted to the frustration of the sell-out crowd, but six minutes later they were on their feet celebrating. Raso found a way in behind the French defence after a neat one-two with Kyra Cooney-Cross and squared it to the unmarked Fowler, whose first touch was excellent, and her second fired home beyond Peyraud-Magnin, for her tenth goal for the Matildas.
France pressed looking for the equaliser, and their best chance came five minutes from half time. Geyoro found herself free in the box after receiving a cutback from a teammate, fortunately for the hosts, she was unable to connect with the pass, and the Matildas held firm to keep the clean sheet. The bumper crowd surpassed the biggest attendance for a standalone women’s soccer match in Australia, previously held by the Matildas when they played the United States in 2021 in front of 36,109 people at Sydney’s Olympic Stadium.
Matildas captain Sam Kerr was happy with the hit out. “It was always going to be an important game, they’re a great team and I thought we put in a great performance,” she said post-match. “But this is all about the journey and all about building confidence for next week. We’ve been waiting for this moment for a very long time and it’s a dream come true bringing the World Cup to Oz and this crowd’s been amazing and this is why we do it — for the fans, it’s been an unbelievable week and hopefully an unbelievable month to come.”
Match winner Mary Fowler said to score the winner was a great moment in her young career. “It all just happened so fast," she said post-match. "I actually can't remember what I was thinking about. I saw [Raso] running, and I was like, 'I'm in so much space.' And then she took a touch, and I was like: 'oh no'. But then she still played it. I don't know, you don't really think in those moments, you just kind of do it. So, I just took a touch, and then was like, 'you better score', and I did.”
Matildas: GK Mackenzie ARNOLD, 5 Cortnee VINE (11 Mary FOWLER 46’), 7 Stephanie CATLEY (2 Courtney NEVIN 79’), 9 Caitlin FOORD (13 Tameka YALLOP 62’) (3 Aivi LUIK 82’) 14 Alanna KENNEDY (4 Clare POLKINGHORNE 79’), 15 Clare HUNT, 16 Hayley RASO, 19 Katrina GORRY, 20 Sam KERR (10 Emily VAN EGMOND 62’), 21 Ellie CARPENTER – Subs not used: RGK Lydia WILLIAMS, RGK Teagan MICAH, 6 Clare WHEELER, 8 Alex CHIDIAC, 17 Kyah SIMON, 22 Charlotte GRANT
France: GK Pauline PEYRAUD-MAGNIN, 2 Maelle LAKRAR, 3 Wendie RENARD, 5 Elisa DE ALMEIDA (20 Estelle CASCARINO 46’), 7 Sakina KARCHAOUI (23 Vicki BECHO 80’), 8 Grace GEYORO, 9 Eugenie LE SOMMER, 11 Kadidiatou DIANI (12 Clara MATEO 72’), 13 Seima BACHA, 14 Sandie TOLETTI (19 Naomie FELLER 89’), 15 Kenza DALI (17 Lea LE GARREC 80’) – Subs not used: RGK Solene DURAND, RGK Constance PICAUD, 4 Laurina FAZER, 6 Aissatou TOUNKARA, 10 Amel MAJRI, 18 Viviane ASSEYI, 22 Eve PERISSET
14.7.2023
TOMBIDES TIES WEST HAM UNITED AND STIRLING MACEDONIA TOGETHER
The English Premier League could not be further removed from Macedonia Park, home of National Premier Leagues outfit Stirling Macedonia. But there is a direct link, a solemn and heartfelt connection between Stirling and West Ham United, who will call their ground home during their stay in Perth.
Stirling was the club where Dylan Tombides began to show his potential on his journey to West Ham’s famed and prestigious academy, which counts Frank Lampard, Rio Ferdinand, Declan Rice, Mark Noble, Joe Cole and Michael Carrick amongst its graduates.
Long-time Stirling president Don Evans - a long-time West Ham fan - said it was evident in Tombides’ short stint at the club he was bound for stardom. “The short spell he was here was defining. He was here for about a year and a half and in that period, we could see Dylan’s ability was on another level and he had to go upward and onward,” he said.
“It was almost like a dream come true for a local boy that we loved and he was a family friend and family member. To see him go all the way to the UK was like an honor - not just for the club, but more for Dylan’s persistence and also the family who just wanted to see fly as high as he possibly could.”
Tombides was seemingly headed for the big time, an exciting young prospect who scored for Australia at an Under-17 World Cup. But tragedy struck in 2011, when was diagnosed with testicular cancer; he fought bravely against the disease and even made his debut for West Ham in a cup game while undergoing chemotherapy.
But in 2014, Tombides sadly passed away, sending shockwaves through the club and the sport. He was just 20 years-old. Since that day, West Ham have ensured the bond between them and his family has remained strong, and they still support the DT38 Foundation - the testicular cancer awareness charity started in Tombides’ honour.
At Thursday’s open training session, the players wore shirts with Tombides’ name and number 38 on the back in tribute to their former player. “It’s emotionally touching, because you know the battle that he went through and the battle that (his family) Tracylee, Jimmy and Taylor went through and you saw that pain, everyone did their best to support and love and care,” Evans said.
“The reason he’s got the respect he has from all the West Ham people and the football community in general is he never gave up in his battle and he fought so hard. Our club song is all about bubbles and your dreams going as high as you can and Dylan was one of those boys that always said he was aiming beyond the stars to be as great as he could. He showed the world how great he was.”
Evans’ daughter Natasha wrote the children’s book Didge, inspired by Tombides’ battle, while Evans was part of the campaign which saw a statue erected outside Perth Oval. “Diagnosis is the most important thing and for us, DIDGE, the acronym - delay is deadly, get educated,” Evans said. “When you’re not sure, go see your doctor, get the right advice and demand an ultrasound test.”
For Evans, seeing his beloved West Ham at Stirling, the club he was president of for 14 years, was a beautiful moment. “I have to pinch myself that this is really happening because in my wildest dreams I would never have thought the club that I love and care for and would actually come to the club that I served as long-running president for,” he said.
14.7.2023
GLORY LOOKING TO BLOW OUT THE HAMMERS BUBBLES
It’s an uncertain future for Perth Glory at present, with owner Tony Sage looking to sell the club, and they are still searching for a new coach after the departure of Ruben Zadkovich. But that will be the furthest from the players' minds this weekend when they take on English Premier League side West Ham United in a pre-season friendly at Optus Stadium on Saturday evening.
The Hammers, fresh of winning the 2023 Europa Conference League, have brought out a strong squad as David Moyes side prepare for the new EPL season, while the Glory will have a youthful squad, with the club just two weeks into their preparations for the 2023/24 season and also face an Australia Cup Playoff clash with Macarthur FC in Darwin on Tuesday. There will be a familiar face in the Glory dugout on Saturday, with former coach Kenny Lowe coaching the side. The former ECU Joondalup Head Coach, said he is looking forward to the challenge, and seeing how the young side go against EPL opposition.
“We’ve got a very good Academy here and we’ve got some very good young players, and they they’ll be pinching themselves, and there could be some shocks and surprises on Saturday and people might see them and it could be a life-changing game for them,” he explained. “We’ve got a lot of U17, U20 and U23 internationals and they’re going to get some game time. Those guys are in the first two or three for the national team in their age groups and that means they’re decent. So, if they can come and play with a little bit of a free spirit, enjoy themselves and don’t get overawed by playing against a Premier League team in front of 60,000 people, I’m sure they’ll enjoy it and show people what they can do.
“I want our lads to come and play and express themselves and be free, to put their Batman outfit on, come as a four-year-old and run around and have a ball. West Ham have come all this way and they don’t want to have a game where they just dominate, so we’ve got to be respectful of that and give them a game. We’ve got to come out and play on the front foot, be adventurous and enjoy ourselves. We’ve got a remit to our fans to entertain… we’re looking to play our way and really focus on ourselves and enjoy the occasion.”
Glory’s English defender Mark Beevers, who played for West Ham’s bitter rivals Millwall, said the players are excited to take on the EPL giants, and are looking to put in a strong performance, as they prepare for the Football Australia Cup qualifier against Macarthur FC on Tuesday in evening Darwin, and he’s not expecting a hostile reception from the West Ham fans at Optus Stadium on Saturday – but he can’t rule it out.
“I’m hoping it doesn’t come into play in a pre-season game to be honest, but you never know. If this was played back in England, I can guarantee you I’d receive a few boos, and maybe more,” he said. “But I’m sure we’ve got die-hard West Ham fans over here in Perth. Whether they’ll be chucking any abuse on the pitch I’m not sure. I don’t know, we’ll see.” Match details - Perth Glory v West Ham United - Saturday, 15 July 2023 - Optus Stadium - Kick-Off: 8.00pm AEST/ 6.00pm (local) - Broadcast: 10 Bold, 10 Play and Paramount+
14.7.2023
BELT-UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION – ROUND TWELVE PREVIEW
It's week 12 of the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division, and our ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to Frye Park where Kelmscott Roos welcome Jaguar for a top of the table clash. (All games kick off at 3pm, unless stated) Both sides slipped up last week, Jaguar beaten at home by league leaders Emerald, while the Roos were held to a draw at South Perth, so both will look to get back into the winner’s circle in this one.
Kelmscott’s Benn Lewis said the draw at South Perth was a fair result, but knows they are still in the promotion race. “Last week’s game saw us put out one of our better footballing performances as a team this season, unfortunate to concede two goals and ultimately end in a draw, but South Perth are a decent outfit and are always tough to play against,” he explained. “We will look to build on that performance and get stronger for the rest of the season. Promotion has been our only goal for the season, so it is good to be up there amongst the top of the ladder. We will continue pushing for that top spot and have some big games coming up that, with some good performances, will put us in a good place for the second half of the season.”
They will also have a new coach in the dugout, after Alan Armstrong left the club on Monday, and he will be replaced by Greg Simmonds, and Lewis said it is unfortunate that he has left the club. “We thank Alan for his work during the season,” he said. “The lads are confident and eager to keep building throughout the season with assistant coach Greg taking over, and the vibe around training the past week has been high.”
It will be a sombre day for both sides on Sunday, as the clubs pay their respect to former players Sinclair Ngaba and Zacharia Madol Makeny, who passed away in midweek, we send our condolences to their family and friend. The midfielder knows they face a tough task against a good Jags side, but the league is so tight a win would be massive. “The game against Jaguar this week will be massive for our season and it is crucial that we put up a solid performance, and we are confident we can come out with the three points if we stick to our game plan,” Lewis explained. “This week will be an emotional outing for both teams due to the unfortunate passing of a player from each club, this week also sees the 12-month anniversary of the loss of Serge Tucci who was a lifelong member of our club.”
Jags keeper Michael Dudek said it was one that got away last week against Emerald, but they are still in the promotion mix and are looking forward to the trip to Kelmscott on Sunday. “Disappointing loss last week, especially as we had quite a few chances to put it away. But Emerald is a good side so we'll just have to try get them back next time,” he explained. “Promotion is obviously the goal but you have to take each game as they come. It's been a fairly positive first half of the season, against some quality teams.
“We're getting better each game so we'll take it to every team in the second half, and we’re looking forward to playing Kelmscott on Sunday. It's been a tough couple of weeks for both clubs, but I know there will be a lot of supporters there for the game. We'll prepare as we always do and work hard from the whistle, and hopefully we come out on top.”
North Perth United sit second and start the round on Saturday evening when they visit the Onside Sports Stadium in Bunbury to take on South West Phoenix. (5pm) Skipper Kelechi Osunwa said they had to work hard to beat Wembley last week, and is expecting the same on Saturday. “Delighted with the result, especially after our performance last week against East Perth, a lot of the boys, myself included, felt we let each other down and to beat a Wembley side who beat us in the night series was great,” the defender explained.
“I thought we controlled the first half very well and limited them to pot shots out the box and the second half was tighter but we managed to grind out the win. Saturday’s game will also be tough, we know how good they are in Bunbury and our game with them in the first round needed a last-minute goal to settle the result so we are under no illusions about how difficult the fixture will be. We are still the walking wounded right now and are going to be relying on the entire squad but we will be ready to compete hard on Saturday.”
In other games this weekend, North Beach entertain East Perth at Vasto Reserve, Kwinana United welcome Joondalup United to Kelly Park in a real six-pointer, South Perth United make the trip to Bortolo Park to meet Peel United, while Wembley Downs make the trip to Fraser Park to take on league leaders Emerald (1pm) Wembley keeper Jeff Cornez said they will be encouraged by the good performance at North Perth last week. “From the start it was clear why North Perth were having a good season so far. They have a very strong midfield who dictated play but we were happy to let them have it in their half,” he said.
“I thought we limited their chances, unfortunately giving up a poor goal by myself. However, we didn't create enough opportunities to deserve any points. But we are looking forward to the second half of the season. We have had absolutely nothing go our way this season losing several key starting players, multiple games where the ball just wouldn't bounce our way and referee decisions that have left us stunned. But we can't dwell on the past and need to be ready for Emerald. We will be light on players again so need a full squad effort to get a result. Our form has been decent so I expect us to make a game of it.”
14.7.2023
NPLWA WOMEN’S – ROUND FIFTEEN PREVIEW
We have another shortened week in the NPLWA – Women’s competition, with the Hyundai NTC game against Curtin University at Edinburgh Oval postponed with the NTC youngsters away in the NTC challenge, but our ‘Match of the Round’ is at Grindleford Reserve on Sunday, when Balcatta Etna welcome Perth SC in the Italian Derby. (All games kick off at 3pm, unless stated) Both sides are coming off big wins, Perth beating Subiaco on the road, while Balcatta beat Curtin, and with top four spots still in sight for both, three points will be massive in this one.
Balcatta coach Yash Pratap said they are ticking along nicely, and are looking forward to the challenge against a very good Perth outfit, but at the end of the day it’s just another game, playing for three points. “We are treating it just like another game, and we will be looking to play good football and punish them in the areas they are weak,” he explained. “We will be playing the game with the best of our abilities and make the most of our chances.”
Perth coach Peter Rakic said games against Balcatta are always tough, and he is expecting more of the same on Sunday in the derby. “I think this fixture holds huge importance for us particularly if we want to cement ourselves in the top four heading into the back end of the season,” the coach explained. “Balcatta got the better of us in round one, so this may play a part in the determination that the girls will have to turn things around this time. But we are wary of their current spike in confidence and this could certainly be one of our toughest games yet.”
Murdoch University Melville will look to build on their Cup semi-final win in midweek against Fremantle, when they travel to Rosalie Park to take on Subiaco (3.45pm). “The team were happy to win the semifinal against a quality Fremantle team, especially after being written off at the start of the season, the players have given their heart and soul each week and deserve to experience the Cup Final and everything that goes with it,” MUMFC coach David Biancuzzo explained. “The Top Four is now our focus and we know that with seven rounds left, every game matters. It starts with Subiaco this weekend, which will be a tough game, if we can give our best performance, hopefully we can get the result.”
In the final game it’s the top of the table clash, as league leaders Perth RedStar travel to Hilton Park to meet second placed Fremantle City. City edged out MUMFC in the league least week, but were beaten by them in cup in midweek, and Jamie-Lee Gale said they are really looking forward to the game against the leaders. “Yes, we have been looking forward to this rematch since we last played RedStar,” Gale said. “We know how important this game means to keep us as contenders to win the league so we won’t be holding back. We are preparing for nothing less in return.”
RedStar’s game against the NTC was postponed last week, and striker Renee Leota said they can’t wait to get back into it, and what a way to do it, against their nearest rivals. “‘We’re up for it this weekend after our postponed match last week. We know Fremantle will be very physical, and probably hurting a bit after that cup loss, so we’re expecting a tough match,” Leota explained. “We’ve been focusing on us, our movement, quick play, and combinations, so I think it’ll be a good game to watch.”
14.7.2023
HYUNDAI WOMEN’S LEAGUE DIVISION ONE - ROUND THIRTEEN PREVIEW
It’s the top of the clash in the Women’s Division One this weekend, as league leaders Hamersley Rovers entertain second placed UWA Nedlands at UWA Sports Park on Sunday afternoon. (All games kick off at 1pm, unless stated) Both sides were made to work hard for wins last week, Erin Armstrong’s goal gave UWA a narrow 1-0 win at Perth AFC, while a hat-trick from Christiane Astorp secured Rovers a 4-3 win at Port Kennedy, and with only one point separating the two sides, three points for either side is vital in the title race.
The host have only lost once this season, which was against Rovers in their first meeting, and coach Lawrence Lewis said he is delighted with how his young side have performed this season. “We have a new and improved squad this season and it has been great to see what they can do, especially with bringing in some younger players this season. They have been getting good result in tough games against experienced/physical teams which is only a credit to the players,” he explained.
“As I mentioned before, it’s the tightest the league has been since I’ve been at UWA. Which is only more beneficial for those younger players coming through in all the teams in the division, especially ours. We want to provide tough opposition and higher quality opposition for our junior girls that make it through to our first team, and that seems to be happening this year. With the promotion/ relegation happening this season, the league should only grow more competitive.”
Lewis said his players are looking forward to the game on Sunday, and hoping to reverse the result from the first game. “It is a really big game for us, as we know you can’t take Hamersley lightly as our previous result has shown,” he said. “However, I feel we are in a good spot at the moment and we will be putting in the work on Sunday trying to get a result. We know Hamersley will be looking for a result also, so it will be a great game to be involved in.”
Hamersley are the only team in the league not to have lost this season, and coach Betim Ziba said their squad has been tested in recent weeks, but he has been delighted the way they have responded. “Yes, still being unbeaten is pleasing but we have had some close calls. Having injuries to important players and people being away has made some games more difficult than they have needed to be,” he explained. “The fact we have come back from games and haven’t lost yet is a great testament to us, especially since this is our first season in this league, it’s just better than we initially expected to do.
“But we are well aware every team has got better, and that was always going to happen. Teams have changed tactics and formations and so have we. I did not expect constant blow out results, as this time of the year there are always injuries, people away and such. This league is more competitive than it used to be which makes every game that much more fun to be a part of.”
Ziba said Sunday’s game against UWA could decide the title, and it’s a game he is looking forward to, but he knows with nine rounds to go, things can change. “This game on Sunday may determine who will win this league, as there is one point between us, but we are working towards playing a way that can put as ahead but it always depends on how we perform on the day,” he said. “The game won’t be as easy as it was last time, as UWA have improved since we last faced them, so we all know how important this game is and we are excited to play on Sunday.”
In other games this weekend Fremantle City host Sorrento at Hilton Park, and Subiaco entertain Port Kennedy at Rosalie Park (1.15pm), while in the final game fourth placed Mandurah City, host third placed Perth AFC at Genesiscare Stadium. Perth AFC coach Rob Caruso, said last week’s loss against UWA was frustrating, as they had their chances, but he said they now focused on Sunday’s trip to Mandurah. “Very disappointed with the result, not being clinical in front of goal ended off costing us. Having nine opportunities missed in the first half alone including a penalty is a tough one to take,” he explained. “Not taking anything away from UWA who also had a few very good chances which Danielle Caruso did an amazing job in keeping all but one out. It was a very good game and the intensity was immense with neither team wanting to give in. But our focus is now on Mandurah this week who are coming off a very good win last week. Their quality of football has really stepped up and they are a danger side who can't be taken lightly. It will be a tough game but I am looking forward to seeing how our team bounce back after last week's loss.”
New Mandurah Coach Langley Britchford said last weeks win against Fremantle was a good result moving them up to fourth on the table, and playing after the State League side was a real thrill for the players. “Yes, Saturday night was a fabulous experience for the ladies, with a large vocal crowd staying after the men’s state game. The ladies did not disappoint, with a fabulous performance that they have been building towards for weeks,” he said. “It was very pleasing to see the hard work from training paying dividends in the game, and the clear progress that this group of remarkable ladies have made in such a short time.
“There remain many things to work on and improve, but it is wonderful to see the ladies improving and enjoying the games. The win moved us up to fourth place in the ladder, which is pleasing for the ladies, but Jack and I remain very focused on performances rather than results as we all strive to improve sufficiently to compete with the top teams. We believe that the progression is clear to be seen, but that this is only the beginning of a long (and enjoyable) journey.”
Sunday’s visit of Perth AFC is another huge challenge, and he is looking to see how much they have improved. “We welcome third placed Perth AFC on Sunday, who are nine points above us, and against who we enjoyed an almighty arm wrestle of a match at their ground on a Friday night in round six,” he explained. “We are looking for another excellent performance that will help us gauge our progress and improvement, and aspire to take all three points. But win, lose, or draw, we will return there very welcoming (and delicious) hospitality after the game.”
14.7.2023
NPL-WA ROUND SEVENTEEN - PREVIEW
We head into week 17 of the NPLWA – Men’s competition, and with six rounds to go the league is as tight as it’s been for many seasons, and the title, top four and relegation spots are still in the balance. Stirling Macedonia and Perth RedStar lead the way at the top, four points clear, but the chasing pack is a logjam with only eight points separating the other ten sides, and this week there is some big games involving both ends of the table, and our ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to Alfred Skeet Reserve, where Bayswater City take on Armadale. (All games kick off at 3pm) The hosts were beaten at Stirling last week, which saw them lose ground on the leaders, while Bayswater were held to a scoreless draw by Olympic, so three points will be huge in this one.
Last time the sides met at the venue was in round nine in 2021 when the hosts prevailed 2-0. Last season, Armadale’s home game was played at Bayswater, but in 2021 goals from Chad Nilson and Peter Jacobsz saw Armadale win 2-0. The hosts found the opener just before half time, Kevin Ashwood’s corner was flicked on by Angel Andres and Nilson fired home from close-range. Then nine minutes into the second half Bayswater defender Zayd Farah was sent off, and ten minutes later Armadale sealed the win, a superb diagonal ball from Ryan McEvoy sent Jacobsz racing down the left, he held off his marker and finished low past Riccardo Mazzoleni.
It’s been a return to NPL football for Gary Williams, who took over at Bayswater late last month after the dismissal of Gareth Naven, and the former Stirling Lions coach said he’s glad to be back involved in football and it was an easy decision to head back to Frank Drago. “Delighted to be back in football, and when I received the call from the club, we arranged to meet,” he said. “I know the club and the people at the club very well due to my three years here between 2016 and 2018 so it was a relatively easy decision to make.
“It is always hard to join a club mid-way through the season, as it is rare to join a club doing well after two thirds of the season are complete. Stewy (Moses) and I are very pleased with the attitude of the players, they have worked exceptionally hard and have bought in to our ideas which is always important. Given the recent run of games it was important to stop the flow of goals being conceded which we have managed during the two games against Inglewood and Kingsway. Both matches were tough games but the players performed admirably and I would always have taken four points from two games had you have asked a few weeks back.”
Away from local football, Williams is a loyal Luton Town supporter, and he is delighted to see his team back in the English Premier League, and he will be cheering them on in the up-coming EPL season. “I am delighted for everybody involved with Luton Town to see them back in the Premier League. It’s my hometown club and my dad first took me on the terraces at Kenilworth Road when I was about seven years of age,” The Hatters supporter explained. “I played for them as a teenager and they are my team, and I hope they acquit themselves well and I will be watching out for their results.”
Williams said Saturday’s clash with fourth placed Armadale is a tough assignment, but with a top four spot still up for grabs, he is looking for another strong performance from his side. “Playing against Armadale is always difficult, and John has done a great job and they have improved this year,” he said. “We will need to be focussed, determined and resilient to come away with the three points. The league is wide open and if results go our way a win will push us right up the table, and finishing as high up the table as we can is our objective this year. We have a fully fit squad so go there full of confidence.”
Armadale have surprised many this season, and coach John O’Reilly’s side are pushing for their first ever top four finish in the NPL, and the coach said he has been pleased with his chargers, but knows there is still more to come. “I’m really happy how we have navigated our season so far, and to be in the position we are in, is testament to the player group, but I want us to be more consistent,” he said. “If we can do that it will guarantee us to be top four after round 22, which would be a great effort, and something to build on.”
The loss last week at Stirling was a missed opportunity to gain on the leaders, but the coach said they had their chances, but didn’t take them, but he has been delighted with the firepower they have they sit second on the top scorer’s chart with 40 goals. “We were all disappointed to get nothing at Stirling, as we actually played the game in a very competitive manner, but we are delighted the game plan we’ve gone into every game this season,” O’Reilly explained. “Our strength is in the front line and it's great that the team has many players to share the work load of scoring goals.”
O’Reilly has been busy this season away from the pitch, with him being the WA Sales Manager of Italian sports clothing company Macron, and he said it’s a challenge, and he even missed two games early in the season as he attended the company’s world sales meeting in Europe, but he wouldn’t change a thing. “I love working for Macron, the brand is innovative and likes to stay ahead of the curve,” he explained. “We look to improve our systems and methods every year to keep up with the demands of the game, locally and globally, so it keeps me on my toes.”
This week Bayswater visit Alfred Skeet, and O’Reilly said their position on the table isn’t a true reflection on how good their squad is, and he is expecting a tough game on Saturday. “Under new coach Gary Williams, they are unbeaten in the two games, and you can never underestimate a Bayswater team,” the coach explained. “Individually the have very good players, so we know it will be a Stern test to get a result, but that's part of the challenge to be top of the pile.”
In other games on Saturday, league leaders Perth RedStar welcome Inglewood United to the Redstar Arena, while joint leaders Stirling Macedonia make the trip to Dalmatinac Park to meet Cockburn City. At the other end of the table, Floreat Athena sit bottom and will be desperate for the three points when they host Sorrento at E&D Litis Stadium, Balcatta Etna entertain Perth SC in the ‘Italian Derby’ at Grindleford Reserve, while in the final game Perth Glory will look to build on their win last week, when they host Olympic Kingsway at Lark Hill Sportsplex in the early game at 1pm.
14.7.2023
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND SIXTEEN PREVIEW
Joondalup United head into week 16 of the State League Division One third on the table, and they are one of the form teams, as the club press for a return to the NPL for the first time since 2018, and this week they are involved in our ‘Match of the Round’ when they head to the UWA Sports Park to take on UWA Nedlands. (All games kick off at 3pm, unless stated) United are coming off a big win against Fremantle, while UWA Nedlands sit ninth, and lost for the first time in six games, after being beaten by league leaders Mandurah.
Last time the sides met at the venue was in round seven last season when the visitors left with all three points after a 2-1 win. UWA found the opener just after the hour mark, Ivwananji Simbile finding Simon Burt who made no mistake. It looked like that goal would be the winner, but two minutes from time Joondalup found the equaliser. A long throw by Ayden Dragun wasn’t dealt with, and Gavin Knights headed back across goal and Ben Johns fired home. It set up a frantic finish, Burt’s shot was pushed around the post by Todd Hoyle in the first minute of stoppage time, but it was Joondalup who found the winner in the second. Hoyle’s clearance found Knight, whose ball over the top sent James Harmer clear, his first touch was superb, and his second he fired low past Jakeb Seppings to seal the comeback win.
Joondalup have been on a good run recently, only one defeat in their last eight games, and assistant coach Steven Flint said the win against Fremantle last week showed the fighting spirit thy have in the playing group. “Our players to a man rose to the challenge, that we knew Fremantle would present,” he said. “Our second half defending was top shelf and it was one of those games where one moment of quality would bring a goal for either side, we took that opportunity when it came our way. We’ve been very pleased with the season to date, we had a slow start, but slowly we started to believe as a collective what could achieve if we worked hard. There are seven games to go, it’s a tight, competitive league so we need to be at our best if we want to remain in the mix at the top of the league.”
Flint said Saturday will be a difficult game, with UWA improving each week, but the club are fighting on and off the pitch to bring success back, and he knows they are heading in the right direction. “We have slowly rebuilt since we dropped out of the NPL and we are getting closer to achieving that goal to be an NPL club again,” Flint explained. “Playing against UWA teams always presents a challenge, and we know they will be hard working for 90 minutes and Richie’s sides always want to play good football, so we know it will be a big challenge for us.”
Under the tutelage of coach Richard Abrams, UWA Nedlands have been on the improve, and last week’s loss at league leaders Mandurah was their first in six games, but Abrams said they came up against a good Mandurah side. “For me Mandurah are the stand outs in this league, and the way John Baird has them playing and how they are mentally is first class,” Abrams said. “Even though we went a goal up they stuck to their guns and got the job done. Our young lads did their best and despite the scoreline kept fighting against an outstanding opponent.”
Abrams said his young side have shown a great attitude, and he believes they are heading in the right direction. “Our June was very good, especially only conceding one goal in five games. The clear objective at the start of the season was to avoid relegation whilst having a very limited playing budget so June was massive for us. After our five-game run ended on Saturday the lads are determined to start another and I cannot fault the attitude in the camp,” the coach explained. “Survival in this division is without doubt the first step for the club. It’s a tough, tough league and we are happy to have achieved last year’s seasonal points in 14 games. There is still a long way to go and as long as we play with the right attitude and desire each week, and I’m confident we can get the job done and remain in the division.”
The visit of Joondalup is one Abrams is looking forward to, and he said it should be a great game. “Joondalup are one of the most organised teams of the competition and it’s always a tough game against them. If we are lucky enough to get some of the lads back who missed the Mandurah game last weekend we are hoping to compete,” he said. “We are defiantly looking forward to this one as it’s a game both sides have a lot to play for. They showed last week where they are at by beating Fremantle, and we want to start another run for ourselves so this game should be a cracker.”
In other games on Saturday leaders Mandurah City head north to take on Subiaco at Rosalie Park, looking to maintain their narrow one-point lead at the top, while second placed Western Knights welcome Gosnells City to Nash Field. Forrestfield United are on the road to meet Murdoch University Melville. Fremantle City will look to bounce back from their defeat at Joondalup, when they host Gwelup Croatia at Hilton Park, while in the final game Rockingham City welcome Dianella White Eagles to Lark Hill Sportsplex on Saturday evening.
14.7.2023
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND SIXTEEN PREVIEW
There has been a great resolve at Gumblossom Park in recent weeks, as Quinns have kick started their season with back-to-back wins, and they also figure in our ‘Match of the Round’ when they travel to Wotton Reserve to take on third-placed Morley Windmills. (All games kick off at 3pm, unless stated) Quinns win at home against Wanneroo last week, came on the back of a win against Balga, and those two wins moved them four points clear of the automatic relegation spot. Meanwhile Morley bounced back from their disappoint points reversal against Curtin in round 14, to beat Balga to keep the pressure on the top two.
The last time the two teams met at the venue was in round six in 2017, with Morley running out 3-1 winners. Gareth Hamilton gave the home side the lead on 13 minutes, a snap shot looping up and over Morley keeper Yousri Gharsallah. David Houston equalised for Morley on 38 minutes, heading home from a corner. The visitors hit the front on 52 minutes with Dion Berman on target, and it was 3-1 on the hour, Boas Mtwale scoring from close-range. They had the opportunity to make it 4-1 late in the game but Ben Wantee missed from the penalty spot.
It's been a mixed week for Morley, their win against Curtin was overturned for an administration error, which the club are appealing, but they bounced back last week at Balga, and coach Marc Anthony said it was good to get back to winning ways. “Yes, it was good result last week, but we had to fight all the way as Balga pushed us to the last minute, but happy to get the three points after the decision the week before,” Anthony explained. “We were all disappointed in the decision of course, as this was clearly a cheap shot by those involved and it's something we will be taken further action against.”
Anthony, who joined the club from Gosnells City this season after getting the club promoted to Division One, said Quinns on Saturday is another game they need to be switched on from the first whistle, which has been the case all season. “The league is very close this season, and it's vital we keep our momentum going into the last six or seven rounds, but if there's one thing, I know it's not easy to get over the finish line, so we will keep fighting till the last game,” he explained. “It’s a big game against Quinns, whose results leading in have been excellent, so we need to be ready and prepared as best we can in order to get the three points.”
Quinns coach Antony Benetti returns to his former club on Saturday, but he said they are focused on themselves, and last week’s big win against Wanneroo showed they can match it with the best teams in this league. “The win against Wanneroo was obviously important when you look at the table and how we've now put ourselves in the mix and bridged the gap,” he said. “It's always pleasing to take points from a very good opposition and give us a shot of confidence into the back end of the season.”
Benetti said Morley have a quality side, and he is looking to see the same consistency from his side, but he knows they will be up for this one. “The boys and the coaching staff have been very much aligned all season. We are a young group which sometimes means we have moments of naivety but I've never questioned the commitment of these boys,” he said. “We are starting to see more consistency in the direction set out and continue to lift our standards. This fact alone shows there is a lot of belief across the group. Our trip to Morley will be a tough game. They've made their intentions clear in their objectives this year and there is much to like about that. Our focus however will be on ourselves and the opportunity that is in front of us. Myself and the boys are very much looking forward to the challenge and setting our own standards.”
In other games this weekend, Kingsley Westside will be looking to bounce back from their second defeat of the season at Maddington last week, when they host second-placed Curtin University at Chichester Park, while Maddington-Kalamunda White City will look to build on their win against the league leaders, when travel to Burrendah Park, to meet bottom of the table Canning City. Fifth placed Carramar Shamrock Rovers welcome Ashfield to Grandis Park, while Wanneroo City host Joondalup City in the local derby at Wanneroo Reserve. In the final game it will be a sombre day for Swan United when they host Balga at the Swan Italian Club, Francis Street, after the passing of lifelong supporter and committee member Ennio Paolone, who passed away in midweek. The players will be wearing black armbands and holding a minute silence as a mark of respect and appreciation prior to Saturday’s games. We send our sincerest condolences to his family and friends in this difficult time.
13.7.2023
LOWE RULES HIMSELF OUT OF GLORY COACHING ROLE
Kenny Lowe has no interest in signing up for a second stint as Perth Glory's full-time coach despite being handed the reins for the club's clash with English club West Ham United. Glory have been without a coach since parting ways with Ruben Zadkovich in early June.
Lowe, who coached Glory between 2013-2018, recently stepped in to fill the void to help the club prepare for two upcoming games. Glory take on West Ham at Optus Stadium on Saturday night before facing off with Macarthur in an Australia Cup play-off next Tuesday in Darwin.
Lowe was a respected figure during his four-and-a-half year tenure as Glory coach and was appointed club Academy Director after his sacking. But the 61-year-old has no interest in becoming Glory's head coach again. "No, the itch has been totally scratched," Lowe said. "I'm enjoying what I'm doing. I'm just here to help as best as I can."
Glory will field a weakened squad against West Ham with regulars Mustafa Amini and Ryan Williams unavailable. But Lowe is confident the club's up-and-coming players from the youth academy will be able to put on a good show. "We've got some great young kids, so there could be a few shocks and surprises tomorrow," Lowe said.
"People might see them and it could be a life-changing game for them. (My message to them is) just to come with some love, come and play and enjoy the game. Express yourselves and be free. Put your best Batman outfit on and come as a four-year-old running around having a ball."
West Ham finished 14th in the Premier League last season and Lowe is desperate for Glory to give them a good challenge. "West Ham have come all this way. They don't want to come here and have a game where they just dominate," Lowe said. "We've got to come out and play on the front foot and be adventurous... We're looking to play our way and enjoy the occasion."
13.7.2023
WEST HAM PAY TRIBUTE TO TOMBIDES
There are numerous connections to Perth for West Ham United - two of WA’s most decorated exports in Stan Lazaridis and Richard Garcia both played for them - but also a personal one which still tethers the club to the State in Dylan Tombides.
A promising academy prospect who made one senior appearance for West Ham, the Perth-born-and-raised Tombides died after a battle with testicular cancer in 2014, aged just 20. But his memory has lived in through the DT38 Foundation, a charity West Ham support to this day.
Roughly 1000 fans, most of them decked out in Hammers’ claret and blue, flocked to Macedonia Park on Thursday for a chance to watch the English Premier League side train ahead of their two Perth games. The Irons play Perth Glory on Saturday at Optus Stadium, before taking on London rivals Tottenham on Tuesday night at the same venue.
Having touched down in Perth on Wednesday, the players were put through their paces in front of an adoring crowd, under the watchful eye of veteran manager David Moyes. After training was complete, the players made their way around the pitch and spent more than half an hour signing autographs for fans and posing for photos.
Garcia himself was in attendance, as was club great Carlton Cole, who said he was blown away by how many fans had turned up. “I saw the queue when I first came in, this was totally different to when I was here a couple of months back,” Cole said. “The players are going to be taken back by how well they’re supported here.”
Cole, who played more than 250 games for West Ham, said he sensed a good buzz around the club after their European trophy. “Some players have not come with the team, but we’ve got a great under-21 squad that’s in the mix with the first team. David Moyes wants to get those guys experience as well and it’s good for them to be in and around with the first team players,” he said.
“Coming off the back of a great Europa Conference League win and winning the trophy, I think the players are now buzzing to be getting back together to start a new campaign. It is great time to be around and be a West Ham fan and anybody that’s connected to the club, you will understand how much it means when you have the good times.”
12.7.2023
GLORY CHIEF EXECUTIVE RADICH URGES FANS TO ‘KEEP THE FAITH’
Perth Glory chief executive Anthony Radich has urged fans to “keep the faith” amid uncertainty over the coaching position and a potential change of ownership. Ahead of their marquee match-up with English Premier League outfit and current Europa Conference League champions West Ham United this weekend, Radich said they were close to announcing a new coach.
Academy director Kenny Lowe will have the reins for Saturday’s friendly with West Ham United and next weeks Australia Cup play-off fixture with Macarthur FC in Darwin. The club are understood to have interviewed a shortlist of coaching candidates last week, amongst them former Matildas boss Alen Stajcic.
Radich said the playing staff were enjoying their time with Lowe, but confirmed they were getting closer to finalising a permanent replacement for Ruben Zadkovich. “We’ve spoken to a number of coaches over a number of weeks and we look to be getting at the pointy end now,” Radich said.
Owner Tony Sage met with an overseas-based party last month as he looks to sell a significant stake of the club, while the Australian Professional Leagues - the governing body of the A-Leagues - have met with at least two local interested parties in Perth.
While Sage had previously hoped a deal could be done by the end of the financial year, June has come and gone with no change in ownership. Radich said negotiations were ongoing and it was a complex situation, but he and his staff were concentrating on the running of the club in the interim.
“It’s a work in progress and there’s been dialogue with numerous parties in and around that. Sometimes it feels like it’s closer than what you think and then other times it feels a lot further away,” he said. “It’s very difficult to really get a sense of where it sits at the moment.”
“We hope for the best result for the club and that’s an owner with the best interest in terms of wanting to invest in the club, that’s paramount - someone who’s actually willing to do it for the right reasons and put the necessary capital in to take the club forward.”
In the meantime, Radich said he completely understood supporters’ frustrations over the lack of clarity but pleaded for them to keep the faith. “My message to them would be to thank them for their patience. It is not easy, particularly what they’ve had to endure over the last few years,” he said.
“Keep the faith; it’s not going to be an instant process, I wish it was quicker. Glory’s had to endure a lot and I’ve been one of them, and it can be frustrating and tight at times, but please keep the faith. We will get the right people on board. We’ll make some of the right decisions we need for this club going forward.”
11.7.2023
FREE AGENT DE SILVA RETURNS TO MACARTHUR
Macarthur FC have signed creative midfielder Daniel De Silva, who returns for his third consecutive season in Campbelltown after a brief period of free agency. The 26-year old had explored opportunities abroad but after speaking with coach Mile Sterjovski he opted to stay with Macarthur.
“I am very excited to be back at the Bulls and looking forward to playing again in Campbelltown in front of our incredible fans,” said De Silva. “I am looking forward to working with Mile, the project he is building at the Bulls and the role he wants me to play. I believe the club will have great success and I am very happy to be a part of that.”
De Silva has 145 A-League Men appearances to his name through spells with Perth Glory, Central Coast Mariners, Sydney FC and Macarthur. A significant contributor to his clubs’s 2022 Australia Cup triumph, he returns to help Macarthur in its first foray into Asia, having secured a spot in the AFC Cup after sealing the Australia Cup title.
“We know he had opportunities overseas but we are happy to have convinced him to come back to the Bulls,” Sterjovski said. “While he was free to explore other opportunities abroad, having Danny on board for next season was always a priority for us and we never gave up hope of signing him.”
“We want to keep quality players at our club who are driven to succeed. That he’s decided to come back to the Bulls speaks volumes of what we are trying to do here.” Macarthur’s first competitive game of the 2023/24 season is the Australia Cup play-off fictire with Perth Glory on Tuesday, July 18 in Darwin.
11.7.2023
LOWRY AND SAKALIS EXTEND GLORY DAYS
Perth Glory continued to strengthen their A-League Women’s side with confirmation Hana Lowry and Sofia Sakalis will return for the 2023/24 season. This comes hot on the heels of the club announcing yesterday that captain Tash Rigby would captain Glory into another season as she approaches the 100 games milestone.
Despite being just 20-years old, Lowry is set to enter her fifth season with the Glory and the attacking midfielder is coming off a career-best year. She played 18 games for the Glory last season, scoring four goals and nabbing five assists along the way while also clocking 50 games for the club.
Sakalis - who turned 21 on Tuesday - enjoyed a strong second half of the season with Glory after initially turning out for Melbourne City. The defender caught the eye with a number of impressive performances and started 15 of 18 games for Glory, scoring once.
Former Australian under-17 midfielder Isobel Dalton was announced as the club’s first signing of the A-League Women off-season last month. The club also signed National Training Centre products and Junior Matildas Georgia Cassidy and Grace Johnston.
10.7.2023
GLORY SECURE RISING STARS BENNIE AND PEARMAN
Perth Glory have confirmed talented youngsters Daniel Bennie and Jaylan Pearman have signed scholarship contracts with the club. Both players have progressed through Glory’s youth ranks to their National Premier League side and Australia youth international honours.
Bennie, 17, began the National Premier Leagues season strongly before turning out for Australia at the recent AFC Under-17 Asian Cup, where he scored in the Joeys run to the knockout stages. Pearman, 17, is an attacking midfielder who has also turned out for the Australian Under-17 side.
Glory Head of Recruitment, Andy Keogh, believes that the duo have bright futures ahead of them. “Both players have massive potential,” he said, “And we have very high hopes that they can play A-League minutes this season. We are delighted to integrate them into full-time roles.”
10.7.2023
VETERAN WILLIAMS CONFIDENT MATILDAS CAN HANDLE THE HYPE
Veteran goalkeeper Lydia Williams is adamant the Matildas will not be overawed by the pressure to perform in a home Women's World Cup. More than 80,000 people are expected to attend Australia's opening game against Ireland in Sydney on July 20.
That figure will dwarf the previous largest crowd Williams has played in front of - about 50,000 in the Matildas' semi-final against Brazil at the Rio Olympics. Not only do Australia have hosting rights for the first time, a golden generation of players has the ability to go deep in the tournament.
Williams said having numerous members of the squad with big club experience overseas would be crucial. "We've been pretty lucky because we're all quite transient," Williams said. "We haven't really had like a home base before. We're playing in Europe, we come home for a little bit, we're playing in the US, come back for the (A-League women's).
"We're pretty used to making everywhere not too overwhelming. You walk out and hear the anthem (but) as soon as a whistle blows for the game, I think everyone's pretty good at making sure it's just the game that you're focusing on."
Williams is hoping the World Cup being in Australia and New Zealand will mean bumper crowds will not be the exception. "You see all the big crowds the EPL gets, the men's teams get and you're just like, 'Oh, I wish Australia (had that)'," she said.
"It's actually happening in Australia that you're getting sellout crowds, you're getting people travelling from overseas supporting you. I think it's really amazing to see what the sport has done over a number of years."
Australia are preparing for the historic World Cup campaign at their new headquarters in Bundoora, in Melbourne's north. The Matildas will take on France in Melbourne on Friday night in a tantalising warm-up game six days out from facing Ireland.
9.7.2023
BELT-UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION – ROUND ELEVEN REVIEW
In our ‘Match of the Round’ in the Belt Up Amateur Premier Division, South Perth United and Kelmscott Roos have fought out a 2-2 draw at Challenger Oval. It was a good battle, I thought we dominated the first half but backed off a bit in the second and Ishmael Greywood made the most of it with two good finishes,” South Perth coach Lee Hayward explained. “With players like Greywood and Koomson you have to be on it for the full 90 minutes or they will punish you but both teams had chances to pick up three points but never could capitalise.”
The hosts found the opener early, with Gavin Walker, who started up top in the absence of George Stephens, headed them ahead. They lead by that goal at the break, but Kelmscott levelled four minutes after the break. Good work down the left from Isaac Koomson, who found Ishmael Greywood on the edge of the box, his first touch was good, and he curled the ball into the top corner. They hit the front four minutes later, more good work down the right ended with a scramble in the box, and Greywood finished clinically. But South Perth restored parity on 67 minutes, a long clearance from keeper Brian Burke found Ben Godfrey, who made no mistake. Both pressed for the winner, but neither could find one, and had to share the spoils. “The draw was probably the right result at the end of the day,” Kelmscott keeper Taylor Warwick said. “I thought we controlled a large amount of the game and created some great chances, but it’s our story of the season so far, that we just can’t put our chances away. Onto a massive game against Jags next week, every game for us now is must win and it starts on Sunday at home where we remain unbeaten.”
In the top of the table clash Emerald moved to the top of the table after a 2-1 win against Jaguar at Herb Graham Recreation Centre. “Absolutely the response we were looking for after last week, the lads should great character and grit today against a strong Jaguars side,” Emerald coach Shane O’Donovan said. “We were way off it in the first half and we’re lucky to go in at halftime only 1-0 down but in the second half we made a few tactical adjustments and made sure the lads knew what was at stake. The lads played out of their skin in the second half and the bench made a massive difference again today.
“We were solid at the back and when the chances came, we took them. Never easy coming here and getting a result, so to take the win was fantastic.” It was the hosts who opened the brighter, and they found the opener on the stroke of half time with Mathew Sesay on target, but four minutes after the break Emerald found the equaliser. A corner to the back post from James Craig found Dan Wentworth, who climbed highest to head home. They won it just after the hour, a great ball though from Conor Hogan sent Dean Mcauliffe clear, and he chipped it over the keeper.
North Perth United are up to second after a narrow 1-0 win against Wembley Downs at Woodville Reserve. The only goal of the game came midway through the first half, Brian Woodall’s defence splitting through ball found Medhi Gholami, who beat the keeper low at the near post. “I thought we controlled the tempo of the game well in the first half in particular, and had a few chances to get on the scoreboard early,” United coach Alex Carter said. “The second half was a game of few chances to either team, but I was really pleased with the pace and style we played in the first half especially after the disappointing week prior. It’s a great league to be part of this year and there is no hiding week in week out.”
East Perth started the round on Saturday evening, with a 3-0 win against South West Phoenix at Cabrini Park. “Another good performance especially going a man down, and although we missed a first half penalty, and had some great chances to kill the game, yet at half time we went in one nil up and a man down,” East Perth coach Colm Costello said. “I thought half time came at a good time for us and we approached the second half in a calm manner to go on and win the game. Very pleased with the lads today, we just need to keep consistent in our performances. It’s a very tight league at halfway point with plenty of points left to play for, and we have another tough fixture next week at North Beach, but we have a few lads injured now so it’s important to get two good sessions in before then.”
The hosts took the lead on six minutes, a ball by Lee Kenny was headed down by Ryan Murray to Ryan Coombes who neatly finished into the bottom corner. But right on half time they were reduced to ten men after Thierry Bernard was issued a red card. But on the hour, the ten men doubled their lead, a cross field ball by Carter was headed on by Ryan Murray again to Dean Wall who caught a beautiful half volley into the top of the net. The Phoenix had a perfect opportunity to reduce the margin moments later when they were awarded a penalty, but Corey Barclay saw his spot kick saved by Tommy McCarron.
The visitors were also reduced to ten men when Jeremy Stevens was sent off. But the points were secured ten minutes from time, a great ball by Lee Kenny on the left found Murray who turned the defender and finished clinically. In other games, goals from Zac Lee and Mitchell Kelman gave Peel United a 2-1 win against Kwinana United at Bortolo Park. Brendan McCamley scored for the visitors, while the hosts ended with ten men after Daniel Fenton was sent off. Meanwhile in the final game Joondalup United earned a hard fought 0-0 draw with North Beach at Beldon Park.
9.7.2023
NPLWA WOMEN’S – ROUND FOURTEEN REVIEW (Thanks to Tommy Doleman – Football West)
Olivia Trueman scored the only goal as Fremantle City closed the gap on leaders Perth RedStar to four points with a 1-0 win over Murdoch University Melville at Hilton Park. The victory, in Round 14 of the NPLWA – Women’s competition, sets up an enticing top-of-the-table clash next Sunday at the same venue, while defeat for MUM FC saw them miss an opportunity to move into the top four. Instead, they stay two points behind Hyundai NTC.
In the opening quarter of an hour, both teams had long-range opportunities. Sophie Meaden forced Freo’s Danelle Cornish to tip beyond her crossbar before Jamie-Lee Gale’s curler cannoned back off the Melville post. Freo began to threaten further and Janice Kiama fed Maya Spatafore who put wide of the post, while Gale’s volley from Trueman’s cross sailed over. It was goalless at the interval, but the hosts broke through on the hour with a free-flowing team move involving Kiama, Laura Waltman and Trueman.
Substitute Kate Nolan eventually burst down the left and squared for Trueman, who took a touch then finished high into the net. MUM FC nearly equalised straight away when Cornish fumbled Samantha Mathers’ long-range effort. Gale broke the offside trap to run in and slide beyond the post with 20 minutes left as Freo set about sealing the win, before Nolan planted wide of the mark from another Gale cross. One goal proved to be enough, though, as Fremantle returned to winning ways ahead of next weekend’s headline clash at Hilton Park.
Perth SC maintained their pursuit of the league’s top two as Ella Lincoln scored a hat-trick in a 7-0 win over Subiaco. “Pleased with the result and the clean sheet which I always hold a high value of, I thought the girls moved the ball around with real confidence and it showed in the scoreline,” Perth coach Peter Rakic said. “I've been particularly happy with Ella Lincoln and Jess Flannery as of late, they are beginning to form a solid partnership in the front line and their goal scoring form has come at a very good time for our team given we faced another setback through player absences.”
The visitors are unbeaten in six games to stay a point behind Freo and now five points of defending champions RedStar having played a game more. Subiaco, meanwhile, are six games without victory, a run that includes five losses. The Azzurri led inside 12 minutes at Rosalie Park when Lincoln nudged through for Judy Connolly to break from midfield and poke past an onrushing Louise Gishubl. Gemma Craine went on a marauding run through midfield and fed Jess Flannery, who fired in at the near post for 2-0 to net for a third successive game. Lincoln then lashed in the first of her treble with a low left-footed strike 25 minutes in, and the goals would keep coming for the Azzurri after the restart.
Subi substitute Rachel Larsen, who almost pulled one back following a fine solo run, then gave away a penalty when she fouled Connolly, who took the chance to notch her third goal of the season. Top scorer Jaime Duncanson bent a stunning curling strike past Gishubl to bring up a handful for the away side, before Lincoln’s powerful drive went through the goalkeeper for number six. Lincoln went solo down the byline and crashed in a hat-trick goal to complete an excellent performance and the scoring for Perth, as their unbeaten away record stayed intact prior to next weekend’s visit to Balcatta Etna.
Finally, Tia Stonehill’s hat-trick helped Etna win 5-1 against Curtin University at Grindleford Reserve. Yash Pratap’s team moved level on points with MUM FC and put themselves right back in the finals reckoning, while Curtin suffered defeat number 14 of a challenging campaign. Stonehill opened her account on 16 minutes when running onto Baxter Thew’s long pass before rounding the goalkeeper and slotting in. Successive league wins were in sight when Monique Prinsloo made it 2-0 at half-time with her curler flying straight over visitor’s goalkeeper Emmanuella Boaduo.
A third arrived midway through the second period when Lucy Bricklebank got to Kimberly McCartney’s perfectly weighted through ball to poke in her first NPLW goal in Balcatta colours. Curtin kept challenging and pulled one back in spectacular fashion as Tiana Botha arrowed a brilliant strike into the top corner from over 30 yards. She has three of Curtin’s five goals in 2023 but the final say would go to Stonehill. First, she headed home McCartney’s corner for Balcatta’s fourth of the day. Then the 2021 Gold Medal winner, who had earlier missed a penalty, wrapped it up late on for a second hat-trick in as many weeks and the lead in the Golden Boot race with her 15th goal of 2023. “We played the way we wanted to and created chances to score,” Pratap said. “It was a good game as it allowed us to try a few things and prepare for the coming weeks.” The other scheduled game for this weekend between Perth RedStar and Hyundai NTC was postponed, with NTC this week taking part in the NTC Challenge in Clyde, Victoria.
9.7.2023
HYUNDAI WOMEN’S LEAGUE DIVISION ONE - ROUND TWELVE REVIEW
The Women’s Division One leaders Hamersley Rovers are back in the winner’s circle after a seven-goal thriller against Port Kennedy at Koorana Reserve on Sunday afternoon. It was the hosts on fire in the first half, with Keira Turner, Paris Baxter and Rebecca Fall scoring, while Brianna Patrick scored for the visitors. But three goals in four second half minutes from Christiane Astorp secured the win, and coach Betim Ziba said they were made to work for the three points. “Overall, we played well as a team but our own mistakes cost us goals. Port Kennedy added good pressure and pounced on our mistakes, but we never gave up,” he explained. “Being able to come back from being 3-1 down to win 4-3 shows great mentality and gets us ready for our clash against UWA next week.”
UWA Nedlands kept the pressure on Rovers after a hard fought 1-0 win against Perth AFC at Len Packham Park on Friday evening. “Playing at Len Packham has always been tough for us throughout the years and Friday was no exception,” UWA coach Lawrence Lewis said. “Perth plays with really good pressure and intensity in second balls, so we had to make sure we matched that to compete, while trying to find a way of getting our game style in. Luckily, they ended up missing a penalty, which gave us a bit more belief to go on and find a goal. Their keeper was fantastic in goal and kept out a number of really good goal scoring opportunities for us. This gives us a good bit of breathing space in front of them in the table plus keeping up the fight with Hamersley at the top.” The only goal of the game came just after the hour, a free kick wasn’t cleared and it fell to Erin Armstrong who fired into the bottom corner of the net.
The other game took us to Genesiscare Stadium, with Mandurah City running out 5-2 winners against Fremantle City. The host raced to a three-goal lead, with Laura Billingsley bagging a brace, after Katrina Breen had opened the scoring early. Rachael Oliver pulled one back for Fremantle just before half time, but Breen added two more after half time to complete her hat-trick and seal the win, while Isla Dunne scored a consolation goal for the visitors. The game between Sorrento and Subiaco at Percy Doyle Reserve was postponed.
8.7.2023
NPL-WA ROUND SIXTEEN - REVIEW
Inglewood United have moved off the bottom of the NPLWA – Men’s table after a 4-2 win against Perth SC in our ‘Match of the Round’ at Inglewood Stadium on Saturday afternoon. “As always against Perth SC, it was an entertaining game with lots of goals,” Inglewood coach Andres Oliveira explained. “We felt we needed to put pressure from the start, and we did it very well, and they seemed they couldn't adapt to it. The boys worked for 90 minutes, and this shows our desire to win and get four great goals. It was a great game from Benson as his first start of the season was a menace all game along with the other two forwards and got a couple of assists plus a goal.”
The hosts hit the front on 16 minutes, Dylan White finding Benson Nsegetse, who made mistake finding the bottom corner. But Danny Hay’s side had the perfect opportunity to level when they were awarded a penalty, but Alex Dunn guessed the right way to save Sam Cook’s penalty. The skipper’s save was crucial and became more important on 23 minutes, when the hosts doubled their advantage, Dylan White pounced on a defensive mix up to score.
They should have made it three just before half time, but Michael Domfeh saw his spot kick saved by Luke Radonich. Then in the final minute, the Azzurri found a lifeline, Max Blackshaw’s cross found Cook, whose looping header found the net. The visitors needed a good start to the second half, but they found themselves 3-1 down four minutes in, with Domfeh, making up for his penalty miss to score against his former club.
The striker added his second 12 minutes from time, finishing well from Nsegetse’s cross to seal the win, but Cook did score a late consolation goal two minutes from time, the young striker’s 11th goal of the season, but it proved to be just a consolation goal. “The team is very pleased with the three points and it shows that when we were work hard for each other we are a very dangerous team,” Inglewood’s Shubham Mokala said. “We don’t want to get carried away however, as we are in a position where we have to just keep taking each game as it comes.”
Perth RedStar maintained their place at the top of the table after a 3-2 win against Cockburn City at Dalmatinac Park. “Very pleased to come away with three points at a ground we’ve generally struggled to play to your potential,” RedStar coach Callum Salmon said. “Cockburn made the game very scrappy, and that is no surprise given they are one of the teams in the relegation battle. I thought Chok, Daryl and Gomo were excellent. The fact that last season Glory signed three or four interstate players so far below Chok’s level doesn’t make any sense when you consider how good Chok is, how consistent he is and we believe would be far better value than the guys from the east coast, not to mention Daryl Nicol.”
The visitors hit the front on 21 minutes, Gomo Dukuly’s in-swinging corner found Chok Dau, who controlled well before finishing well past Michael Craggs. But Cockburn levelled early in the second half, Anthony Skorich finding Ivan Skorich, who made no mistake. But it was Nicol, the league top goalscorer, who sealed the points late. First on 80 minutes, he raced clear, and rounded Crags and rolled the ball home. Then three minutes later he added a third, his 21st goal of the season, getting on the end of Andy Higgins’ pass to score. Jesse Lazzaro pulled one back for the Cockerels in the final minute from the spot, but it was too little too late.
Stirling Macedonia stayed level with RedStar after a 2-0 win against Armadale at Macedonia Park. “It was a tough game, and it felt like a battle for the full 90 minutes, but thankfully the boys stood up to the challenge and got the three points,” Stirling keeper James Bosdet said. “We should have been out of a sight and made the game more comfortable, but at 1-0 they were always in the game and had a number of chances themselves, thankfully we kept another clean sheet which keeps us in the hunt.” The host hit the front midway through the first half, Asher Nelson firing low past Joel Driscoll. It was a tight second half, with both sides pressing, but in the third minute of stoppage time the hosts wrapped up the points. Armadale were pushing players forward looking for the equaliser and a quick break ended with Daniel Faichney, and the substitute sealed the points.
Perth Glory returned to the winner’s circle, after a 4-3 win against Sorrento at Lark Hill Sportsplex. “Another strong performance from us against Sorrento. The team has been great at remaining consistent with their approach over the last few weeks under difficult circumstances,” Glory coach John Walmsley said. “We’ve had six players missing over the last six weeks with the U17 National Team for the Asian Cup, and the majority of our NPL side has recently moved into the A League training environment in preparation for the upcoming games against West Ham and then Macarthur in the FA Cup. The scheduling of the MacArthur game by Football Australia so close to the West Ham match means that the majority of the team will be involved in those matches, and therefore unavailable for our next game against Kingsway. Regardless, it will be a great opportunity for some of our U20s squad to make the step up and show they can perform at first team level.”
It was the visitors who found the opener on the half hour, Dean Cummings pouncing on a defensive error to finish past Robert Cook. But Glory levelled three minutes before the break, Daniel Bennie, continuing his good form from the Australia under 17’s, seeing his shot deflected past Patrick Hughes. Then in stoppage time they hit the front, good work by Joel Anasmo, ended with Matthew George who scored from close-range. John Walmsley’s side increased their lead eight minutes into the second half, Bennie finished well across Hughes. The Gulls reduced the margin on 71 minutes, Gustavo Catarcione playing in Shay Natalotto, who scored his first senior goal for the club. But Bennie completed his hat trick seven minutes from time to make it 4-2, and although Natalotto scored his second to reduce the margin, the hosts took out the points, and added a fifth in stoppage time, with substitute Khoa Ngo on target.
Floreat Athena has slipped to the bottom of the table after they were held to a 1-1 draw by Balcatta at E&D Litis Stadium. “I thought the boys played well and we were in control of the game and unfortunate own goal was the difference between three points and one,” Floreat skipper Jason Saldaris explained. “But none the less Balcatta are third on the standings so we will roll onto next week with that momentum.” Vas Vujacic’s side opened the scoring in the shadows of half time, new signing Clark Keltie’s glancing header from Nick Ambrogio’s corner beat Domenic Savoldelli. But ten minutes from time the visitors levelled, the unfortunate Keltie heading into his own net from Kotaro Yamamoto’s cross.
In the final game Bayswater City and Olympic Kingsway have played out a 0-0 draw. “I thought we played very well in the first half and could have, and probably should have nicked a few goals to give us the lead, but the second half was a bit different Bayswater sat back and a bit deeper and made it difficult for us,” Olympic assistant coach Ross Edwards said. “Overall disappointed as the game was winnable and the three points would have taken us away from danger and in the same token put in the top four.”
“With the new managers in, you know they were going to set up to be hard to beat, and Gary and Stuart have got the team drilled and the players did their jobs. I think they were the happier team with the point. From a Kingsway perspective it shows the journey we have been on and continue to build, that as a club, the coaches and more importantly the players were disappointed with a point away at Bayswater.” The visitors had the better chances in the first half, Liam Murray’s curling effort curled inches wide, before top goalscorer Ciaran Byrne volleyed over the top.
Former Perth Glory midfielder Mitch Oxborrow then saw a free-kick flash over the top early in the second half, the best chance for the hosts fell to substitute Scotlan Morrison, whose shot hit the side netting. “I think overall a draw was a fair result,” City coach Gary Williams said. “I thought they (Kingsway) were by far the better team in the first half and created a couple of chances. We changed things at half time, looked a lot more solid and got better as the half went on. It was our first clean sheet for a number of weeks and the team collectively defended very well. We have become a lot more difficult to beat in the last couple of weeks and there are many positives to take from this game.”
8.7.2023
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND FIFTEEN REVIEW
Western Knights has kept the pressure on State League Division One leaders Mandurah City after a 5-1 win against Dianella White Eagles, in our ‘Match of the Round’ at Nash Field on Saturday afternoon. “A very pleasing result in a lively derby encounter. We were clinical, scored some great goals and the fast start was exactly what was needed,” Knights coach Adam Kostrencic said. “Dianella had their moments in the first half but Devon (Lindemann) ensured we maintained our lead with a couple top quality saves. After the break we stepped up a level, extending our lead early and I felt we were in control. When they were reduced to ten players, we used this to our advantage well and added a couple more goals to finish off another good win in front of our passionate home supporters.”
Alex Kretowicz turned home Albert Luwi’s cross from the right for the opener on five minutes, and Owen Goodliffe put the hosts two up after 26 minutes with a shot on the turn. Dianella player/coach Angel Andres pulled it back to 2-1 almost immediately when he shot went in via the underside of the crossbar, but it was all Knights from that point. Conor Devlin’s powerful shot provided a two-goal buffer early in the second half before Eagles Shane Barnes was shown a straight red card on the hour. Jack Bardsley completed the scoring with two close-range efforts in the final 20 minutes to keep Knights in the leader’s tail.
Mandurah City maintained their lead at the top after a 5-2 win against UWA Nedlands at Genesiscare Stadium. The visitors went into this one unbeaten in five matches, and they found the opener on 15 minutes, with Harvey Carew scoring. But six minutes later Craig Barker headed home Robbie Galvin’s cross to level, before the midfielder gave the hosts the lead with a shot from outside the penalty area. Barker completed a hat-trick when he finished from six yards following a set-piece, and John Baird’s team were on course for a fifth successive win when James Paylor headed in another Galvin corner. Hamish Van Dieken made it five before the hour when he found by Baird to secure a comprehensive win for the Dolphins. The visitors did score a late consolation goal with David Molinari on target. “Very pleasing result, I thought we worked hard and delighted Barks got his hat-trick,” Mandurah coach John Baird explained. “I’m really pleased with the squad, and is getting strong and definitely improving every week.”
Joondalup United moved to third, after a 1-0 win against Fremantle City at Forrest Park. The only goal of the game came five minutes after the break, James Harmer beating the offside trap after a through ball from Andrew Flint, and went one on one with Jordan Barbas and finished clinically. “Obviously a super pleasing result for us, and a massive three points in the context of our season. We know if we want to be in the top four and be knocking on the door of the top, we have to beat these big teams,” Joondalup defender Ben Johns explained. “Both teams created chances throughout the game, but I think we just wanted it that little bit more, we got ahead early in the second half and defended superbly to see the game out.”
Rockingham City are up to sixth after a 3-1 win against Subiaco at Rosalie Park to spoils Marc Wingell’s first game in charge of the hosts. “Delighted to get the three points away from home after having to reshuffle the pack with injuries and suspensions.” Rockingham coach Kris Donnell said. “The players who came in stepped up and we never really looked like losing the game at any stage. Our away form has been excellent this season were very happy with the squad’s progress.” The visitors led after two minutes when Ryan Kennedy scored from the penalty spot and they doubled their advantage when Rory McGrath was in the right place when Harry Geeves’ header crashed off the post. The hosts were back in the game when Agustin Ventre curled home, but McGrath set up the winner in a quick break in the second half, with Josh Mackinder getting on the end of it to seal the game.
Gosnells City has won the local derby against Forrestfield United, after a 2-0 win at Crazy Domain Stadium. “It was a big game for us and a chance to put some more points on the board,” Gosnells skipper Scott Pereira said. “We started off slow but worked our way into the game and young Brice Rae scoring both goals, is great for us as we look to the run end of the season.” Rae opened the scoring on 32 minutes, with a shot from 18 yards which made it goals in back-to-back matches, and he then secured victory for Gosnells midway through the second half when he fired home after a corner wasn’t cleared.
In the final game Murdoch University Melville have returned to the winner’s circle after a 5-3 win against Gwelup Croatia at the Croatian Sporting Complex, Wishart Street. “Super proud of the playing group with their attitude and discipline to dig in when it mattered and come away with the three points,” MUMFC coach Taki Nicolaidis said. “It’s been a tough past couple of week’s conceding in the 88th minute one game and 90th in the next and come away with nothing. This week we put things right with a strong second half performance. Special mention to Jack Steele making his senior starting debut and 18-year-old Taj Bingwa for his first ever senior hat trick.” All the goals were in the second half with Feisal Zaw curling in brilliantly and Bingwa scoring via the crossbar to put the visitors two up. The hosts hit back with Tyron Pottier headed home, but Murdoch surged clear with Bingwa’s near post finish and Kaito Imada’s free kick which slipped past the goalkeeper’s grasp. Bingwa’s turn and strike capped a fine day for the youngster before James Burns’ penalty and Jacob Williamson’s pinpoint finish added late respect to the scoreline.
8.7.2023
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND FIFTEEN REVIEW
State League Division Two leaders Kingsley Westside has suffered their second defeat of the season, after Samir Ramos scored the only goal as Maddington-Kalamunda White City won 1-0, in our ‘Match of the Round’ at Maida Vale Reserve. “The match against Kingsley was really a must-see game for the spectators of both teams, it lived up to it with a great atmosphere and fans around,” Maddington skipper Nicolas Pardo said. “It was a difficult 90 minutes where we had to play with some major casualties in our main squad but the players who performed were up to the mark, our reserve and even a player from our 18s were on the field giving their best to get the three points.
“Now we are in a good mood with a lot of desire and eager to win the games that lie ahead, we will work hard to live up to this league that little by little is coming to an end, thanks to Kingsley for the football show that was experienced and also for staying to share dinner with us, all the best to them.” Kingsley still hold a five-point lead at the top with a game in hand, even though Curtin University and Morley Windmills closed the gap in second and third.
Curtin University consolidated second place after a 4-2 win against Swan United at Edinburgh Oval. “Really happy with the performance, in particular the first half. After going down early, we could have easily gone into half time with a few more goals,” Curtin coach Troy Reid explained. “The second half was a bit flatter than I would have liked, but all in all a valuable three points.” The visitors hit the front early with Cameron Anderson on target but the hosts hit back Janno Saks firing past the keeper on 25 minutes, before Daniel Davey gave them the lead three minutes later, cutting in from the left to finish low into the corner of the net. Kieran Witt add a third just before half time, but Swan hit back on the hour, with Jake Fritchley on target. But Curtin secured the points two minutes from time, Davey found space on the edge of the box to score.
Morley Windmills have put last week’s disappointment behind them, and returned to winning ways after a 2-0 win against Balga at Princess Road Reserve. “Within any league there’s normally one or two places where you know you’re probably just going to have to roll your sleeves up, battle and hopefully get out unscathed, and Balga away is probably one of them in this league,” Morley’s Kevin Ashwood explained. “Even more so after their last min penalty miss at 1-0, so we are really happy to escape with the three points, let’s just hope Football West let us keep them this week.” The visitors opened the scoring early in the second half, with Cedric Mezieres scoring, but Balga should have levelled in the last few minutes, but Karl Maluga missed from the spot. Then Morley went straight down the other end and Charlie Breen grabbed the sealer.
Carramar Shamrock Rovers have scored deep into stoppage time to salvage a 2-2 draw against Joondalup City at Grandis Park. “Carramar is a tough place to go, so disappointing to not come away with three points,” Joondalup’s Liam Peacock said. “But the boys showed great heart to go in front with 10 men.” The hosts hit the front on the hour, Alex Connolly was fouled in the box and Phil O’Callaghan scored from the spot. Joondalup levelled, also from the spot with Peacock scoring, but they then had Luke Wilson sent off. But Peacock scored a second penalty eight minutes from time, and it looked like the visitors would leave with the points, but deep into stoppage time Rovers restored parity. Teenager’s Zac Dixon and Sam Lawless combined, the latter headed home. “Very disappointed with the result we had enough chances to score and should have won,” Ger Fitzgerald said. “It’s a very tight league this year, so all we can do is move on look forward to Ashfield game next week.’
Quinns moved clear of the foot of the table after a 3-2 win against Wanneroo City in the local derby at Gumblossom Park. “Big win for the boys against a tough opposition and an important one. I thought we controlled large portions of the game but were just a little careless in our final decision,” Quinns coach Antony Benetti explained. “It was a little disappointing to have let Wanneroo back in the game but credit to the boys for going out and getting the winner. There will be a lot of preparation going into next weekend’s game and the boys will be keen to test themselves again.” The hosts were ahead early, Mason Gallagher who was able to beat his man and strike on goal from outside the box, the keeper made a save but the ball fell to the path of Tyler Holden who finished from an angle. It was 2-0 when Harry Edwards headed home, but the visitors hit back on the hour with Seb Munoz scoring. Wanneroo levelled on 71 minutes, Dion Berman on target, but five minutes later Quinns found the winner. Holden raced away from the Wanneroo defence his shot was saved but Gallagher to fire home from the rebound.
In the final game Canning City and Ashfield have fought out a 1-1 draw at Coker Park. James Sammut – “Disappointing not to come away with more as I thought we controlled majority of the game and created the better chances,” Ashfield coach James Sammut said. “In saying that I’m sure Canning would also be disappointed conceding a late equaliser. Credit to Canning when they went ahead for how they defended. I thought their keeper was outstanding again and man of the match for me.” Rowan Steed put Canning in front on 27 minutes, but they could not hold on for all three points with Gareth Hamilton scoring a late equaliser, after a goalmouth scramble, to earn both a share of the spoils.
7.7.2023
DONNELL SIGNS FOR FULHAM
It’s been a busy couple of year for former Rockingham City youngster Chris Donnell, after staring in the Perth Glory NPL side, he earned his Isuzu Ute A-League debut for the club, and then selected in the Young Socceroos, and played in the 2023 U20 Asian Cup in Uzbekistan. But the icing on the cake for the midfielder came recently, after he was signed by English Premier League club Fulham. The 19-year-old impressed in a recent trial, and the club have signed him for 2023, and he flew out to Portugal in midweek to join the clubs pre-season camp, and he can’t wait to get started.
“I’m just buzzing to get started to be honest, as soon as I heard about the opportunity to go on the trial, I just wanted to take the opportunity with both hands and make sure I made the most of it,” Donnell explained. “Now that it’s happened, I just feel so humbled and privileged that I get to go work on my craft every day at a massive club like Fulham. What they have done in the past couple seasons has been outstanding as a club and I’m sure with the coaches at the academy it will help my game tenfold. I’m really looking forward to meeting all the lads and using the preseason to get my head down and try to get in sync with the other boys and just build my way into the team.”
Donnell said when he first went over to the club, it was hard to leave family and friends, and he thanked Glory for their help and Fulham for making him feel welcome. “I’m so grateful to Perth Glory, and for Andy Keogh and Joe Galen, who used their contacts to help me and put me on the shop window. They organised for me to fly over and have a few teams lined up which in the end I only went to Fulham,” the youngster explained. “Since day one the club have been brilliant with me, from sorting out my accommodation whilst on trial to the boys making me feel welcome, I couldn’t be more thankful. I really enjoyed the trial and as soon as I heard of the interest, I knew it was where I wanted to be.”
It's been a meteoric rise for Donnell, but he has an old head on those young shoulders, and he said he has to pinch himself some days, how his football journey has gone, but he wouldn’t change a thing. “Yes, it’s been a big year for me. Making my professional debut was an unbelievable feeling and it’s what you work day in day out for as a kid,” he explained. “Then to also play for Australia was one of the proudest moments of my life, although we never reached our goal of getting to the World Cup Final, it was surreal to play in the Asian cup and I hope there is plenty more opportunities to come.”
The youngster said his time at Perth Glory was unreal, and he thanked the club for making him a better player and a better person. “My time at Perth Glory was unbelievable, and I have been there since I was 13 and to go from playing in the academy to making me debut is something I will cherish forever,” Donnell explained. “Every coach I had helped me along the way, from Richard Garcia, Steve McGarry and Terry McFlynn for pushing me up into the NPL team, then having Ruben Zadkovich and Chris Coyne hand me my debut and eventually Andy Keogh helping my get my next step in football. I owe them a great deal, and I have nothing but gratitude for everyone there, and I’m sure they’ll be back to their best this coming season.”
7.7.2023
BELT-UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION – ROUND ELEVEN PREVIEW
We head into week 11 of the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division, and our ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to Challenger Reserve where South Perth United host Kelmscott Roos (All games kick off at 3pm, unless stated) The hosts are coming off a huge win against league leaders Emerald last week, while Kelmscott lost ground on the top two, after being held at home by Kwinana United, so both will be looking for the three points in this one, and it should be a cracker.
The Roos dropped points for the first time at home this season against Kwinana, and keeper Taylor Warwick said they deserved more from the game, but that’s how close the league is this season. “Yes, a draw was not the result we were looking for 100%, but our performance in the game was still good,” he explained. “We just need to work on our end product, and our home form is what’s keeping us going and as long as we stay unbeaten at home, we will always be where we need to be.”
Warwick, who has been in outstanding form, and has conceded the least goals in the league this season, said the league continues to be challenging, and every game is hard fought and great to be involved in, and that won't change at South Perth this weekend. “The league is very tight and it makes it exciting, and we are still near the top and any slip up from teams around us means we need to capitalise, but you can’t take teams for granted each week, that is so important,” he explained. “South Perth will be tough anywhere you play them, and they got a great result on the weekend which could make them favourites for the game on Sunday. Our away form needs to improve and it’s a perfect opportunity on Sunday for us to do just that. We are raring to go, and with a few changes in our tactical approach we are confident that we can get a result.”
South Perth coach Lee Hayward said they played well last week to inflict Emerald’s first defeat of the season, and he knows they can complete with all teams in the league, but they have to fine more consistency going forward. “We showed last year beating Premier League teams in every round of the cup, that on our day we can beat anyone, but you have to be consistent and that’s where we have come short this year, but we are working on it,” he explained. “The league is so tight though and that seems to be the case throughout the league, so we need to put a few wins on the board and that should get us back in the mix.”
Hayward said they will go into Sunday’s game undermanned, but is confident they can get the job done, and build on last week's win. “Kelmscott are a solid team, we have played them several times over the past couple of years, it’s another game where we will need to be at our best and after losing our last home game against Wembley, I’ll be looking at the lads to step up,” the coach explained. “Unfortunately, Jack Dalla Via and Brayden Burton are still out and they are likely to be joined by George Stephens who I think is the league’s top scorer, but Cohen Aitken is likely to make his first appearance of the season, so that gives us another attacking threat.’
In other games this week the top two face off at Graham Herb Recreation Centre, with Jaguar taking on Emerald. Only two points separate the two sides on the ladder, so Jags will look to build on their come from behind win at Wembley, while Emarald look to bounce back after their loss against South Perth. South West Phoenix head north to Cabrini Park to take on East Perth on Saturday, while North Perth United host Wembley Downs at Woodville Reserve (1pm). Meanwhile Peel United host Kwinana United in a local derby at Bortolo Park, while in the final game Joondalup United welcome North Beach to Beldon Park.
7.7.2023
NPL-WA WOMEN’S - ROUND FOURTEEN PREVIEW
We have a shortened NPLWA – Womens’ round 14, with the Hyundai NTC away in the NTC challenge in Sydney for the next two weeks, so games against Perth RedStar this week, and Curtin University next week have been rearranged to later in the season. Our ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to Rosalie Park on Sunday, where Subiaco AFC welcome Perth SC. (All games kick off at 1pm, unless stated) The hosts were beaten at RedStar last week, while Perth SC beat Curtin to move them to within one point of second placed Fremantle.
Perth coach Peter Rakic said they took a lot from the win at Curtin and he was delighted to see youngsters Jess Flannery, Ella Lincon and Stella Zampogna all getting on the scoresheet. That made it back-to-back wins, but he knows they need to be more consistent, and start turning draws into wins, starting at Subiaco on Sunday. “It's always good to see the younger players hitting the back of the net and hopefully that gives them the confidence to continue that against some of the sterner opponents we face,” he explained.
“It can be frustrating when we drop points with those draws especially considering how tight the race for top four is this year. So, we need to try tighten things up at the back, and hopefully get that feeling again of some clean sheets that we experienced earlier on in the season and this will only help our case to pinch more wins. Subiaco will still be tough to beat, it's important to disregard the previous fixture as I feel as though it's never an accurate representation on a week-to-week basis, and teams will often bounce back after heavy defeats so we have to be in top form to ensure the three points is ours on Sunday.”
Subiaco coach Greg Farrell is away in Europe at the moment, but has kept an eye on last week's game, and has been happy how his young side is competing this season, and he said the side is looking forward to Sunday’s game against Perth. “I was watching the game from afar and within the first two minutes both sides had a chance. We also had a one v one go begging while 1-0 down, and unfortunately, we are being punished in situations that we aren’t punishing opponents.
“We are happy with how we are progressing. Against teams like RedStar where you’re competing against 1500 games of premier league/NPL level experience with 300-400 it’s going to be tough. But the players are making improvements and that’s our main aim, continue to get better. Last time out against Perth we went down 1-0, they have a terrific squad and Peter has again got his team playing good football, hopefully we can take some points off clubs in this third round of fixtures to at least effect the top four structure.”
In other games this week, Balcatta Etna welcome Curtin University to Grindleford Reserve, in Yash Pratap’s first home game in charge of the club, and he was excited the way his sides performed last week at MUMFC, and will look to continue their improvement. “I’m delighted to be part of team working really hard and preparing for the weekend against Curtin, we are looking to be a dominant fast paced team,” Pratap explained. “The weekend would have seen us as a team now dominating possession, we are looking to build and keep growing in that aspect of our game.”
In the final game, both Fremantle City and Murdoch University Melville will look to bounce back from defeats last week, when they meet at Hilton Park. MUMFC coach David Biancuzzo said they hope to bounce back after a disappointing loss to Balcatta. “We were disappointed with our performance against Balcatta last weekend. It wasn’t indicative of the hard work and effort the players have put it this season so far. We know Sunday’s game against Fremantle is going to be equally as tough and we have to be at our best to get the result.
Fremantle’s Jamie-Lee Gale said last week the NTC took their chances and they never, so they will be looking to change that on Sunday. “NTC played really well and were clinical in front of goals which unfortunately we weren’t and that made the difference,” she said. “Although we were missing a few key players, we need to be more consistent for 90 minutes if we want to get the result against Murdoch, who are another well-structured side in defence. We have had close results with them so far this season and I expect this weekend won’t be anything different with both sides wanting to prove a point coming off tough loses.”
7.7.2023
HYUNDAI WOMEN’S LEAGUE DIVISION ONE - ROUND TWELVE PREVIEW
We head into week 12 of the Women’s Division One, and in our ‘Match of the Round’ second placed UWA Nedlands make the trip to Len Packham Park on Friday evening, to take on third placed Perth AFC. (7pm) UWA coach Lawrence Lewis said they had to work hard in last week’s win against Mandurah, and he believes the league is improving each round. “I have been coaching in this league for four seasons now and I would say this is the most competitive it has been. Past few years there have been some teams that probably should have been playing amateurs or lower, who would end up getting whacked each week, which is not good for both sides,” Lewis explained.
“However, this season it doesn't seem like that. I thought the withdrawal of South West Phoenix would bring the league standard down but the teams that have come in (Hamersley, Port Kennedy, and now Fremantle), have shown that the league can be competitive. This only helps us support the growth of our young players coming through into our Division One teams, trying to be the best they can be by playing against stronger opposition.”
Lewis said Sunday’s game will be another huge test, but he knows it will be an entertaining game. “Perth AFC have always been a tough team to come up against with their smart pressing and great defensive record, it really is tough to create good opportunities against them,” he explained. “Playing at their ground also can be tricky also as they are close to the pavilion and they get good support from their other sides on a Friday night, so will be an exciting game. Rob has done a great job at AFC over the last couple of years and his teams always battle super hard, but either way, it will be a good game.”
Perth AFC coach Rob Caruso said Friday will be another difficult game, like they all are this season. “I'm very impressed with the league this season, not only is it very tight every game but there is some very good quality football being played by everyone, it's fantastic to see,” he said. “It's a must win game for us to stay in touch with the top two but will be no easy task. It's always a good game between us and UWA, Lawrence has done a great job with his team. We are going into the game like we do every other week, with a set game plan and looking to go out there and get the three points.”
In other games this weekend, Mandurah City host Fremantle City at Genesiscare Stadium on Saturday evening. (5pm) Mandurah were edged out at UWA last week, while Fremantle’s game at Subiaco was postponed, and coach Robin Chilcott said they are determined to get their season started. “We're looking forward to it, playing under lights on a Saturday night will be a good experience,” she explained. “Hopefully we can recreate our night series form and get our first win on the board, but we know Mandurah will be a tough opposition though after going close to taking points off UWA last week.”
In the final game Port Kennedy welcome league leaders Hamersley Rovers to Koorana Reserve on Sunday afternoon (1pm) Port coach Kevin Cole said it will be a huge challenge for his side, but they are looking forward to it. “The girls are looking forward to the game against Hamersley, and they will definitely do not want to take this game lightly after last time,” he said. “The girls will not be able to take the foot off the gas in this game and hopefully we can make it a very good game and prove that PK belongs in this division.”
Rovers are coming off a draw against Sorrento last week, and coach Betim Ziba said they are looking to get back to winning ways this weekend. “Last week we unfortunately had our keeper and a few starting players unavailable but we are looking to come full force to Port Kennedy,” he explained. “They are a team that play nice football and if we aren’t switched on, they can punish us. It will be a very entertaining game against a great side.”
7.7.2023
NPL-WA ROUND SIXTEEN - PREVIEW
The NPLWA – Men’s table is still close, with only four points separating the top six teams, while only six points separate the rest, and as we’ve seen in recent week, if teams can get a winning run going, they can jump up the ladder. That is what Inglewood United will hope to do, when they host Perth SC in our week 16 ‘Match of the Round’ at Inglewood Stadium. (All games kick off at 3pm) The hosts are languishing at the foot of the table, and although they are not that far away, they need to turn good performance in to wins, and are coming off a narrow defeat at Bayswater last week. Meanwhile, Perth moved up to sixth after coming from three goals down to beat Glory, which was only their second win on the road this season, so they will be searching to add to that in this one.
Last time the sides met at the venue in the league was in the final round last season, when the hosts won 1-0. The only goal of the game came on seven minutes, Ibere Kasukulu though ball sent Manase Abandelwa clear, as Perth looked for the offside flag, that never came, and the striker held off his marker and finished low past the keeper.
Perth keeper Luke Radonich said the win against Glory, was a fantastic team effort, and they are working hard under new coach Danny Hay, which he knows if never easy in mid-season, and he hopes they can bring the same intensity at Inglewood on Saturday. “Yes, a big win for the team on Saturday considering we were down 3-0, but we started the game slow and gave away three easy goals, however, after this the boys showed great fight and character and did ever so well to come away with the win,” he explained.
“Agree, a change in coach is never easy and we have had a few changes this season. The boys are working hard every session and this is now showing in our performances. Danny has his style of play he wants us playing and as a group we are doing our best to implement this and I feel it’s now showing in our performances. Saturday, will be another tough game, and by the way, no game in this league is easy. We just have to continue to do our thing and hopefully we can build on last week’s good performance.”
Inglewood United coach Andres Oliveira said the result at Bayswater was disappointing, but things aren’t going their way at the moments, and after a hectic cup run his side were fatigued, but knows they are still fighting. “Last week was not the result we were looking for and hurts more when you're the better team with enough chances that would have won the game, but that's football. Decisions go against you, but we are heading in the right direction,” he explained. “It has been a very tough season trying to challenge every trophy that's available but it’s just not feasible with the NPL system that Football West has put in place for us in WA.”
Oliveira, who had a stellar spell as a player at Dorrien Gardens, said Saturday’s game against the Azzurri is huge, and every game is until the end of the season. “Playing against Perth is always a pleasure, because they are the benchmark in WA football, and we look forward to this challenge every time,” he said. “For us now, we know that every game will be a cup final as we need to generate points. But we are calm because we know we have the talent, and the wins are just around the corner.”
In other games this weekend, league leaders Perth RedStar head to Dalmatinac Park to take on Cockburn City, while new Bayswater City coach Gary Williams will look for back-to-back wins to start his tenure, when they host Olympic Kingsway at Frank Drago Reserve, while second placed Stirling Macedonia welcome fourth placed Armadale to Macedonia Park. Floreat Athena will hope to break a three-game losing streak, when they entertain Balcatta Etna at E&D Litis Stadium, while in the final game Sorrento coach Steven McGarry comes up against his former employer, when the Gulls meet Perth Glory at their home away from home RedStar Arena.
7.7.2023
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND FIFTEEN PREVIEW
The top five teams are starting to break away from the pack in the State League Division One, and two of them are involved in our ‘Match of the Round’ as Western Knights welcome Dianella White Eagles to Nash Field. (All games kick off at 3pm, unless stated) The Knights sit one point behind Mandurah, and are coming off a hard fought 1-0 win against Rockingham City, while Dianella, who are eight points off the pace, bounced back from their midweek loss to the leaders, to beat Forrestfield, so three points will be massive for these traditional rivals.
Last time the sides met at the venue in the league was in round 16 last season, when the Eagles flew home with all three points after a 3-2 win. Josh Kuser turning the ball into his own net to give the hosts the lead, but they were reduced to ten men on the half hour with Ben Coulter sent off. But the ten-men doubled their lead on 38 minutes, with Dylan White making no mistake from the edge of the box. Dianella were back in the game on the hour, Daniel Mackenzie scoring, and they levelled nine minutes later, Lewis Tucker on target. The comeback was completed seven minutes from time, Sebastian Stenqvist was brought down by Chris Michael, and Michael McDougall kept his nerve to find the bottom corner of the net to seal the win.
The Knights were made to earn their win last week against Rockingham, but striker Albert Luwi said Rockingham keeper Cyril Sharrock had a great game. “We were pretty comfortable most of the game, we played some nice football and created loads of chances, but their keeper had a very good game,” he said. “He pulled off some really nice saves, but we definitely need to be more clinical in front goal as we all know 1-0 is a dangerous score line in football and Rocky did start to put a little pressure on us towards the end.”
The win kept the pressure on Mandurah at the top of the table, but Luwi knows Saturday’s opponents have improved in recent weeks, and they will need to be at their best to get the win. “It’s definitely going to be a battle every game as either team knows they can’t slip up, we just have to keep winning and get back to playing how we started the season, focus on what we can control and I’m confident we will claim top spot again,” the striker explained. “They (Dianella) definitely have improved since the last time we played them, based on their results so we know it won’t be an easy game. But once again it is down to us and we will approach the game the same, because on our best day we can better any team in this league comfortably.”
Dianella got back in the winner’s circle against Forrestfield, and Allen Patarov said it was good to get the win in front of their loyal supporters. “Last week's victory against spirited and youthful Forrestfield side was hard fought, and we knew it wasn’t going to be an easy game for us but, we remained focused and managed to secure the victory and it feels fantastic to be back in the winner's circle,” he explained. “After our loss to Mandurah, this win brought confidence and satisfaction to our team, and thanks to our amazing fans who gave us a lot of support till the end.”
Patarov said their form, apart from the loss against Mandurah, has been excellent, and he gave a lot of credit to the new coaches at the club. “The loss against Mandurah was indeed and setback, and our first loss in nine games and I'm proud of our team's performance during this remarkable run. Under the guidance of Angel and Cristian, our lads have shown tremendous growth and improvement, and credit must go to our new coaches,” he explained. “The loss was a reminder that we are not invincible, but it has strengthened our resolve to keep pushing forward. With Angel and Cristian, I have no doubt that our team will keep performing at a high level and bring more success to the club.”
The trip to Nash Field is one Patarov and the players are looking forward to, and they will be doing all they can to get a positive result. “The Knights have been performing well this season and they sit just behind the leaders Mandurah, and it will be a derby match for both teams,” the defender explained. “Our team has been working tirelessly on and off the field to ensure we are fully prepared for this game. We understand how important this match is for us, and we will approach the game with a winning mindset and give our best.”
In other games Mandurah City welcome UWA Nedlands to Genesiscare Stadium, looking to hold on to top spot, while third placed Fremantle City head north to take on fourth placed Joondalup United at Forrest Park. There is a local derby at Crazy Domains Stadium, Hartfield Park, with Forrestfield United entertaining Gosnells City, Gwelup Croatia host Murdoch University Melville at Croatian Sporting Complex, Wishart Street, while in the final game Subiaco AFC take on Rockingham City at Rosalie Park.
7.7.2023
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND FIFTEEN PREVIEW
Kingsley Westside sits eight points clear at the top of the State League Division Two, and they feature in our ‘Match of the Round’ when they visit Maida Vale Reserve to take on fifth placed Maddington-Kalamunda White City. (3pm) This will be the first meeting between the two sides in the State League at Maida Vale, and Steven Dimitrovich’s side are coming off a narrow win against Ashfield last week to remain clear, while Maddington suffered their first defeat in nine games, going down away to Swan, so they will be looking to bounce back this week on home soil.
Kingsley striker Luke Salmon said the win against Ashfield was hard fought, and it kept their lead at the top at eight points, and he knows they can get better, starting against Maddington this week. “Yes, it was a tough game against Ashfield, but I thought we deserved the win played and some very good football,” he explained. “The lead is nice at the top but we are focusing more on the games that we play each week and getting better each week but the gap at the top is nice.
“Dima and Monty have got us playing some very nice football getting forward quickly defending from the front and back. The lads are enjoying playing every week with the coaches who can have a laugh with us, but will be hard when need to which is good. The game against Maddington should be a good one, they will be looking to bounce back, but if we keep playing the way the coaches want us to play, our football will do the talking.”
Maddington skipper Nicolas Pardo said they have been on a good run of from, so the loss at Swan was disappointing, but they have been playing well. “It was a bitter defeat on Saturday, we had so many scoring chances we couldn't even count them, I think Swan did a fair job but I thought we deserved to win,” he said. “Our coach German, is doing a memorable job for the club and each one of us, he has given nothing more than just playing good football, shares his passion, ambition and love for what we do and through that philosophy we have been showing character in each of our presentations, so we are proud of our coach and all the staff.”
Pardo said the visit of the league leaders is a tough test, but they are looking to bounce back after a good start to their first season back in State League football since 2013. “Maddington has surprised all the fans of good football and the teams that have been fighting for promotion for a number of years. We are a humble, strong team with a lot of ambition,” he explained.
“So, if we want to move up, the only way is to beat not only the leader, but all the remaining teams. There are eight crucial dates for all of us, where we definitely have to show what we are capable. Kingsley has had a good campaign, but we have achieved their objectives, for all our good work, so there is nothing left but to congratulate us for what we have done so far. We will continue doing our job and we will see the end of this interesting league.”
In other games this weekend, Curtin University welcome Swan United to Edinburgh Oval, while Morley Windmills, whose win against Curtin was overturned in midweek, make the trip to Princess Road Reserve to meet Balga. Carramar Shamrock Rovers entertain Joondalup City at Grandis Park, Canning City and Ashfield meet at Coker Park, while in the final game Quinns host Wanneroo City, under lights at Gumblossom Park on Saturday evening. (6pm)
4.7.2023
KERR READY TO HANDLE THE HEAT AT HOME
Samantha Kerr knows the heat will come in her fourth World Cup. The Matildas enter their home tournament with high expectations and huge crowds at their backs that will only magnify the spotlight. But team captain Kerr has never been more ready to handle it.
"There's always going to be pressure in sport," Kerr said at today's squad announcement. "Whenever there's a big game, a big moment, if the pressure's not there, it probably means it's not that big of a game to be honest. So I think pressure is a privilege and I love pressure."
"I love being in a moment where one or two moments can change the path, your career really, and I think this World Cup is one of those moments… It's not all going to be roses and butterflies during this World Cup. There's going to be tough times and it's how we stick together, stick to our principles, stick to what we believe in and we'll come out on the other side."
Kerr is a far more relaxed character heading into her fourth World Cup. "For me, it's about staying in the moment and enjoying it," said Australia's star striker. "The biggest regret for me out of the last few World Cups I've been to is getting caught up in things, getting caught up in a bad pass, bad touch."
Kerr is bound to be heavily targeted throughout the home tournament, with defences attempting to isolate her and limit opportunities. But with Caitlin Foord, Hayley Raso and Cortnee Vine around her, Kerr will welcome extra attention around goal. "That's the great thing about being a striker," she said.
"They can isolate me for 90 minutes but I really only need one opportunity, and I think over the past year playing with Chelsea I've really focused in on that. I've been really, really isolated but being able to work on being alive for that one moment, and I feel like at Chelsea I've really succeeded."
"I was the kid 12 years ago now going into my first World Cup and knew they were looking at other players - Lisa De Vanna, Sarah Walsh, and I was like, 'Oh, this is my opportunity to do something'. If two people are marking me that means someone else is free, so it might be someone else's tournament to shine and that's all part of being in the team."
"Whatever it takes to win, honestly, and if I take away two players then we've got electric speed everywhere else and good luck to them."
3.7.2023
KERR AND WILLIAMS SELECTED FOR WORLD CUP
West Australian pair Samantha Kerr and Lydia Williams have made the cut for the Matilda's 2023 Women's World Cup squad. With the start of the tournament little more than a month away, coach Tony Gustavsson announced his 23-player squad this morning.
Williams and Claire Polkinghorne will appear at their fifth World Cup, while Kerr, Caitlin Foord, Emily van Egmond and Tameka Yallop are set to appear at their fourth. Both Kyah Simon and Alanna Kennedy won their race with injury to be included in the squad.
Kerr said the historic World Cup - co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand - was starting to feel real. “Everyone’s so excited. The buzz is there and it kind of feels like now’s the time. We’ve kind of been all fighting for a spot and now we can really knuckle down and you know, put into this team and get ready for the first game,” Kerr said.
“Whereas before we’ve kind of been at clubs been doing our own thing, so it’s been hard to think about the World Cup and not get too far ahead of ourselves, but now we’re just excited.” Seven players - Alex Chidiac, Kyra Cooney-Cross, Charlotte Grant, Clare Hunt, Courtney Nevin, Cortnee Vine and Clare Wheeler - are in line for their World Cup debuts.
The Matildas face France in a warm-up game in Melbourne on July 14, before opening their World Cup campaign against the Republic of Ireland on July 20. They will then take on Nigeria on July 27 then face Olympic champions Canada on July 31 in what shapes as a crucial game in determining top spot in Group B.
Australia’s Women’s World Cup squad is Mackenzie Arnold, Teagan Micah, Lydia Williams, Ellie Carpenter, Steph Catley, Charlotte Grant, Clare Hunt, Alanna Kennedy, Aivi Luik, Courtney Nevin, Clare Polkinghorne, Alex Chidiac, Kyra Cooney-Cross, Katrina Gorry, Chloe Logarzo, Emily Van Egmond, Clare Wheeler, Caitlin Foord, Mary Fowler, Samantha Kerr, Hayley Raso, Kyah Simon and Courtnee Vine.
2.7.2023
IREDALE EAGER TO COME BACK STRONGER
Jack Iredale is determined to hit the ground running next season after a frustrating spell out of action with Bolton Wanderers. The versatile defender joined the Trotters on a free transfer from Cambridge United twelve months ago and was a regular starter during the first half of the campaign.
But Iredale’s season was cut short in January by an injury which forced him to miss the EFL Trophy Final at Wembley. With that injury now behind him, the 27-year old is currently attending a pre-season training camp in Portugal and is eager to launch the second stage of his Bolton career
“I can’t believe it’s been a year! But now we’re back over here and I’m back full training with the boys, and it’s nice to be back,” Iredale said. “In terms of the year, it was a pretty mixed one personally. I was really happy with the way it was going at the start.”
“I was loving playing week in, week out – especially at home, playing in front of that crowd. It was almost something I dreamed of - coming from where I came from, playing football over there (in Australia). I was getting lots of game time and playing at such a big club. Then the injury came and it was a pretty tough six months.”
Iredale admits having to watch from the sidelines was tough but insists it have him a hunger to come back stronger. “It was tough to sit and watch,” he continued. “I was desperate to get out there and help the boys, especially with the way they were going, and I missed out on Wembley as well.”
“That was really tough and I think that made me want to get back and get back even stronger, to be honest. I feel really good. I worked quite hard in the off-season and I feel like I’ve come back in good shape. This week’s only going to help us, so I’m really looking forward to that first game of the season.”
Bolton kick-off the new season against Lincoln on Saturday, August 5 and Iredale is determined to make up for lost time. “I think they year we had and the way we finished the season, everyone is looking forward to getting started,” he added. “I am hoping to be able to hit the ground running and I’m looking forward to.
“Everyone in this team wants to play, myself included. I’m desperate to get hold of that shirt and keep it. We’re got a really strong squad, but that’s only a positive because everyone knows if they take their foot off the pedal, there’s someone right there waiting to take the shirt off them.”
“It’s a really tough league. Big teams went up last year but a couple of really big teams have come down as well. We know it’s a challenging season, but we know what our targets are and everyone is pushing in the same direction.”
2.7.2023
GLORY DEFENDER ANTON NAMED IN NEW ZEALAND WORLD CUP SQUAD
Perth Glory will have a playing presence at the Women’s World Cup after centre-back Liz Anton was named in New Zealand’s squad. The 24-year old defender, who was a rock at the heart of defence for Glory this A-League Women’s season, was named in the Football Ferns’ 23-woman squad late last week.
Anton joined Glory in 2020 and played all 18 games for the club this season, establishing a strong partnership in defence with Kim Carroll. She made her debut for New Zealand back in 2017 and has gone on to appear 18 times for the national team and is one of 10 players in the squad making their first appearance at a World Cup.
Anton was a last-minute signing by the Glory on the eve of the 2020/21 A-League Women’s season, but ended up winning the club’s Most Glorious Player award that year. Her fine A-League Women’s form snowballed into Anton earning a call-up to New Zealand’s team for the Tokyo Olympics, as well as a new contract with the Glory.
2.7.2023
BELT-UP AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION – ROUND TEN REVIEW
We have a new leader at the top of the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division, with Jaguar jumping to the top after coming from two goals down to beat Wembley Downs 3-2 in week ten at Butlers Reserve. “It was an unbelievable come back in yesterday's game, credit again to the boys who stepped up in the second half and showed the real character of overcoming challenges in difficult moments,” Jaguar coach Josam Muwowo said. “Wembley Downs were organised, tight and compact in the first half and came with full force to score two beautiful goals which gave us pressure on finding a way out of the situation. At half time we made some few tactical changes and took some risks to find better options.
“However, the boys re-energized themselves through their strong mental strength and courage to endure and conquer the situation we were in at that particular moment. What an interesting game it was for the spectators especially towards the end of the second half as it was full of vibes when Wembley had to give it all through attacking with the whole team and came close to equalising. Overall, we endured to come out victorious because frankly speaking Wembley were a good side full of young energetic and enthusiastic players. On our side we will continue the process of working hard to improve in every game as we still have a lot to work on as a team. Massive thanks to Wembley Downs for their warm welcome and great hospitality.” The hosts raced to a 2-0 lead at the break with a brace from Natale Morabito, but after the break Juma Walubumba gave Jags a lifeline, scoring his first goal for the club to make it 2-1. They levelled through Mathew Sesay, and sealed the win when Deng Mawien fired home a penalty past Jeff Cornez to complete the comeback.
In our ‘Match of the Round’ East Perth and North Perth United have played out an entertaining 1-1 draw at Cabrini Park. “A brilliant performance from the lads, I thought we were excellent today and, on another day, could had lot more goals. Wayne Carter hit the post twice and had a shot cleared off the line too but it wasn’t to be,” East Perth coach Colm Costello explained. “So, disappointing not to get the three points but we showed today if we all show up and play the way with did today, we can mix it with any side and compete which is pleasing for coaches to see. We worked hard to nullify North Perth, especially after their previous results where they were hammering most in front of them. Very proud performance and I reckon we can push on even more now and keep the levels up and hopefully get more wins on the board.”
The hosts found the opener on the hour, on the hour, great work by Chris Smith in the middle, found Wayne Carter, who played a great ball in behind to Adam McCarron who controlled well and fired the ball into the net. But North Perth levelled 15 minutes later, a ball into the box was flicked to the back post and Dan Bulman volleyed home. North Perth was reduced to ten men four minutes from time, when Ben James received a second yellow card, and the hosts went close to the winner late. A great threw ball by Ryan Coombes played In Aaron Doyle who timed his run perfectly and his shot flashed inches wide. “I thought the first half was a complete stalemate, it was congested in the middle of the park and neither side really got into any Rhythm,” North Perth coach Alex Carter said. “East Perth came out in the second half with a lot more intent and bought a physical presence that we uncharacteristically didn’t match. We were well and truly not at the races today, so to come away with a point with ten men is lucky.”
Emerald went into the round top, but they suffered their first defeat of the season, going down 3-2 to South Perth United at Fraser Park. South Perth coach Lee Hayward said it was a great win, in difficult circumstances. “The plan changed in warm up with both Jack Dalla Via and David Hardy pulling out but I just told the team to go out there and show some character,” he said. “It was always going to be a tough game and you have to match Emerald’s commitment and desire and the boys did that for 90 minutes.” The visitors hit the front early, with Ben Godfrey’s long-range shot on six minutes. But the hosts hit back to take the lead into the break, with goals from Dean McAuliffe and Shane Young scoring. But South Perth rallied after the break and levelled on 52 minutes, a header from George Stephens hit the post, and Luke Pedley was quickest to the rebound to head home. Then four minutes later they found the winner, Stephens rolled his marker to go one-on-on with the keeper to score.
The round started on Saturday evening, with Joondalup United coming home from Bunbury with a point, after a 1-1 draw against South West Phoenix at Onside Sports Stadium. “Always a difficult game travelling down to Phoenix, even more so after their current results,” Joondalup coach Mike Ford said. “They came out strongly and only some good saves by Pat Lawless kept it scoreless, but as the game progressed, we took control and was unlucky not to receive two penalties, one for a lunging tackle and one for handball which the ref waved away because he was unsighted. The second half Phoenix again started the better team and scored, but again we took the ascendancy and was rewarded with a goal created by Niall McGurk, who worked tirelessly all game creating many opportunities. Although disappointed not to get a win going home with a result made the trip back somewhat satisfying.”
Phoenix found the opener six minutes into the second half, Callum Vane dancing through a couple of defenders before looping in a cross to Jeremy Stevens who looped his header over the keeper into an empty net. But 16 minutes from time Joondalup levelled, good work by McGurk ended with Simon Rushton who made no mistake. “We didn’t play our best football on Saturday, all the chances they created were more from our mistakes,” Phoenix’s Corey Barclay explained. “I feel like we were the better team and deserved the win more, but we were our own worst enemy on Saturday.’
Kwinana United has continued their recent good form, securing a 1-1 draw against Kelmscott Roos at Frye Park. “I could be prouder of the boys the effort was brilliant. The game was a tough battle and we didn’t shy away from the work,” Kwinana coach Mark Purvis explained. “We had to withstand some pressure especially after going down to 10 men, but I felt we were good value for the point.” United hit the front early in the second half, Hama Kamal heading home from a corner. But 16 minutes from time the hosts levelled, Kade McNamara found Miguel Oliveria out wide.
He took his man down the line before swinging in a pin point cross to find Callum Husain, who volleyed home. The visitors ended the game with ten men after Dean Couling was shown a second yellow card five minutes from time, but they held firm late to take home a point. “A tough draw to take, and I thought we probably deserved more out of the game, but credit to Kwinana whose willingness to battle got the better of us today,” Kelmscott’s Taylor Warwick said. “We are lucky that teams around us dropped points otherwise our fight for the title could have been gone already. We have a lot of improving to do over the next few weeks but lots of football to play.”
In the final game North Beach returned to the winning circle after a 4-2 win against Peel United at Vasto Reserve. “It was great to get back in the winner’s circle this weekend after a tough couple of weeks,” North Beach coach Nick Di Carlo said. “We felt we deserved something against Kelmscott and went in with the same attitude against Peel which paid off and it was nice to see the goals flowing again. Football is a funny game and we always expected ups and downs this season. Confidence is back within the changeroom heading into the final round of the first half of this tough, long season.”
The hosts started the game well with Keiran Moores driving into the edge of the 18-yard box and sending one across the keeper into the bottom corner. This was shortly followed by a smart through ball which Ben Reynolds latched onto and finished calmly, giving them a 2-0 lead into the break. Peel came out on the front foot in the second half and pulled one back on the hour with Mitchell Kelman scoring, and 16 minutes later it was 2-2, with Bradley Mallinder restoring parity. But the host hit back and regained the lead six minutes from time, Dan Yelland-Hunter was sent clear and he calmly converted. Then two minutes later they sealed the win with a fourth. Yelland-Hunter’s beautifully weight ball found Reynolds, who rounded off a man of the match performance finishing into the bottom corner.
2.7.2023
NPL-WA WOMEN’S - ROUND THIRTEEN REVIEW
Perth RedStar have increased their lead at the top of NPLWA Women’s table, after a 7-0 win against Subiaco at the RedStar Arena on Sunday afternoon. “Subiaco has been improving under Greg Farrell and we always expect a tough game against them. He has worked hard to ensure they are well organised and well coached,” RedStar coach Carlos Vega-Mena explained. “We went out onto the pitch determined to get the three points this week, and the girls played good football, using strong combination plays. It was pleasing to see them moving the ball around and taking their chances in front of goal, which saw a number of them on the scoreboard this week. We are very happy with the win and where we are sitting on the ladder at this stage of the competition.”
It was a stunning start to the game for the hosts racing to a four-goal lead inside 38 minutes. Renee Leota turned her opponent and slotted into the bottom corner after only nine minutes, before Olivia Wood slid across for Chiori Ikeda to make it 2-0. Kagami curled home to make 3-0, and she added a fourth, finishing Wood’s ball across goal. Kagami completed her hat-trick on the hour, before Leota got her second. Abbey Woolley completed the scoring 12 minutes from time, to seal a comprehensive win as their unbeaten run was extended to 12 games. “Big Thanks to Subi, they put up a massive fight and made us work extra hard,” Leota explained. “It was a great game for us, we controlled it well and maintained possession, played it around and created a number of chances for ourselves in the attacking third. We’re building that cohesion weekly and the team is getting stronger and stronger I believe.”
Fremantle City lost ground on the leaders after they were beaten 5-3 by Hyundai NTC in an eight-goal thriller at E&D Litis Stadium. The hosts went close early with Tanika Lala hitting the post, but the striker was involved in the opener on 33 minutes when she got to the byline and pulled the ball back for Ischia Brooking to tap in. The visitors hit back moments later, Olivia Trueman finding Kayla McCulloch, who curled home via the crossbar. But in the shadows of half time the NTC regained the lead, Lala was first denied by Danelle Cornish, but the striker fired home the rebound.
Fremantle were out of the blocks early in the second half, with Jamie-Lee Gale effort crashing off the bar, but it was the hosts who extended their lead on 68 minutes, Violet Longmore’s shot was blocked, and it broke for Grace Johnston who found the bottom corner from distance. The goals kept coming, Fremantle made it 3-2 when substitute Mikayla Lyons scored, but the hosts restored their two-goal advantage when Violet Longmore’s cross was turned home by Louise Tana, but Lyons answered moments later with a back-post volley from Gale’s cross to make it 4-3, and it was game on. But four minutes from time Ben Anderton’s side sealed the points, Georgia Cassidy free-kick from long-range gave the NTC a huge three points.
New Balcatta Etna coach Yash Pratap celebrated his first game in charge with a big win against Murdoch University Melville at Besteam Stadium on Saturday evening. “MUMFC has been a great side and we prepared for the game considering a tough game, we have changed our style of play and looking to play an attractive brand of football,” Pratap explained. “The message to the team was to be calm, composed and consistent to execute what we have trained and the girls executed to the best way possible. We have many areas to work in before be become the best versions of ourselves but we will be getting better by the weeks coming up.” The hosts were on the front foot early and Sam Mathers was denied by Balcatta keeper Gabby Dal Busco, but it was the visitors who hit the front on 17 minutes, Monique Prinsloo crossing to Tia Stonehill who made no mistake.
It was 2-0 on the half hour, Kim McCartney’s corner was headed home by Baxter Thew. They increased their lead three minutes after the break, Prinsloo’s shot was saved but it hit defender Rosie Lehane and went into her own net. It was 4-0 when Epril Nossent slipped Stonehill through to score, before McCartney fired a long-range effort past the goalkeeper for five, and Stonehill rounded off the scoring late, to seal a comprehensive win for Balcatta. “A great win for us against MUMFC on Saturday night, it was an excellent performance with a great number of team and individual goals,” Balcatta’s Lauren Continibali said. “The girls really worked together on playing quick one-two touch football and pressing the ball hard. We will be taking this momentum into next weekend against Curtin.”
The round started on Friday evening, with Perth SC moving to within one point of second placed Fremantle, after a 6-2 win against bottom of the table Curtin University at Edinburgh Oval. "It was important for us to get the three points and focus on building some consistency in our form which has recently let us down,” Perth coach Peter Rakic explained. “With back-to-back wins under our belt now we can turn our attention to our next fixture and hope to continue putting pressure on the top four.” The visitors raced to a four-goal lead, with Jess Flannery opening the scoring early, heading home Ella Lincoln’s cross.
Lincoln got on the scoresheet herself on 26 minutes, Stella Zampogna added a third, after a neat one-two with Abbey Meakins, before Flannery added a fourth. Curtin pulled one back just before the break, Tiana Botha’s cross found Olivia Tangney to score from close-range. But eight minutes into the second half Zampogna added a fifth for the Azzurri, but the hosts weren’t finished and Botha fired home from the edge of the box to make it 5-2. But deep into stoppage time Lincon added her second, to seal a comfortable win. “I thought we had control of the game for long periods but credit to Curtain who had their moments,” Lincoln said. “It wasn’t our best team performance but we were able to get the win and get a few on the score sheet.”
2.7.2023
HYUNDAI WOMEN’S LEAGUE DIVISION ONE - ROUND ELEVEN PREVIEW
Hyundai Women’s Division One league leaders Hamersley Rovers have had their lead at the top of the table cut to just one points after they were held to a 2-2 draw by Sorrento at Carine Open Space on Sunday afternoon. “It was probably a game where both teams felt like they could have won, we didn't start well and allowed Hamersley to control the game and they established a 2-0 lead pretty quickly,” Sorrento coach Grant O’Connell explained. “However, we started to fight back and showed a lot of determination to get ourselves back into the game, we carved out some good chances for ourselves towards the end of the first before finally getting a couple of deserved goals in the second half.
“The last five minutes we rode our luck a bit, our keeper Georgia made an outstanding save to tip the ball on to the post, and they hit the crossbar again. Overall, it was an entertaining game and a draw was probably a fair result. It's been a tough couple of days for our group but I'm proud of how we've handled it, and I was proud of the spirit and determination we showed to get something out of this game.” It looked business as usual for the hosts and goals from Rebecca Dudek and Nadia Harvey gave them a two-goal lead after only 14 minutes, but Sorrento hit back on the hour. Jodie Brough got in behind her marker inside the box before firing across the keeper. Then 16 minutes from time Sorrento levelled, Jayde Keogh got on the end of a Chelsea Russell long ball before finishing one-on-one with the keeper. Rovers pressed late looking for the winner, but they couldn’t find it.
UWA Nedlands have closed the gap in Rovers, but they were had to earn it after a hard fought 1-0 win against Mandurah City at UWA Sports Park. “Mandurah were really solid in their defensive setup today, it was a real struggle to get through but their centre backs, Mel and Georgia just got rid of everything, even though we were throwing everything at them,” UWA coach Lawrence Lewis said. “But we persevered and finally got the goal after a bit of a scramble in their box. But another win for us, and we look ahead to Friday night down at Perth AFC now.” The only goal of the game came on the hour, a cross by Hannah Seeley wasn’t dealt with and in the goalmouth scramble Cassidy Quantrill was on hand to poke it home from four meters. Mandurah pressed for the equaliser, but with Alexandra Lyons outstanding, UWA held firm to take the points,
The game between Subiaco and Fremantle City was postponed, and in the final game Perth AFC continued their good form after a 2-1 win against Port Kennedy at Koorana Reserve. “It was a tough game against a good team who were on top of us for most of the first half,” AFC coach Rob Caruso said. “We had a couple of early chances and a missed penalty but from then on Port Kennedy wouldn't let us settle into the game. A couple of changes with 20 minutes to go swung the game in our favour, I'm happy with the never give up attitude my team showed and grinding out another three points.” It was the hosts who found the opener just before half time with a long-range shot from Laura Paeaekkoenen. But fifteen minutes from time, the visitors found the equaliser, Jessica Moreschini cross from the right found Aaliyah Jorquera to tap in at the back post. They found the winner a few minutes later when Moreschini whipped in another ball only for it to bounce around off a few players in the penalty area, before finally falling to Angela Cheaib to slot home.
1.7.2023
NPL-WA ROUND FIFTEEN - REVIEW
Stirling Macedonia have lost top spot on the NPLWA – Men’s competition after being held to a 0-0 draw in our ‘Match of the Round’ by Balcatta Etna in the local derby at Grindleford Reserve on Saturday afternoon. “On the whole disappointing,” Stirling keeper James Bosdet said. “We knew it was going to be tough to break them down, but we wasted a number of opportunities in good areas and although we dominated 90% of the game, they probably had the clearest chance to score. The positives are we played really well and kept the ball for long periods and another clean sheet, but it definitely feels like three points dropped rather than a point gained.
In a tight first half, it was the visitors who had the best early chance, Asher Nelson’s shot cleared off the line by Adam Tong. Then at the other end, Japanese striker Kotaro Yamamoto fired over the top when through on goal. After the break, Gyles Davies forced Etna keeper Dom Savoldelli into a fingertip save, while Tong had a looping header cleared off the line for the hosts. Stirling carved out the best chances to win it at the end but Calvin Whitney’s effort flashed wide of the post and substitute Samim Fattahi poked straight at Savoldelli when clear on goal, with both sides settling for the draw.
Balcatta defender Adam Tong said it was a hard-fought game, and a draw was probably a fair result. “Obviously going into the game, we knew Stirling were on a good run of form, and not conceding many goals and with us conceding three last week we knew we had to work hard to stop a good team,” he explained. “In the first half we couldn’t really get out of our half, but I thought we created the best chances. We defended exceptionally well as a unit which frustrated them, I think, and second half both teams went in the search for the win I think we had good chances and so did Stirling, so I feel overall a draw was a fair result and we will take that against a well drilled and talented side.”
Perth RedStar are the new leaders, after a 3-1 win against Floreat Athena at E&D Litis Stadium. RedStar Head Coach Callum Salmon said it was a good performance from his side. “The best feeling to get back to the winner’s circle after two weeks, when we felt as a group our standards weren’t at our usual level,” he said. “Very proud of the players, especially the young boys and some massive performances with ten men, and Chok’s second goal was sensational. Floreat have set the standard recently, and are coached in my opinion by one of the best coaches in the league, and also have many of the best players in the league. It’s one of the toughest games on the calendar, so that is one monkey off the back so to speak, and we’ll fight hard to do the same to Cockburn next week.”
The visitors made the better start and found the opener on 11 minutes. Gomo Dukuly’s pass sent Daryl Nicol racing clear, and the league’s top goalscorer made no mistake, finding the bottom corner past Jason Saldaris. They doubled their advantage seven minutes before the break, Nicol was the provider this time, racing clear down the right, he cut inside the box and unselfishly cut the ball back to Chok Dau who made no mistake. But just before half time the RedStar’s were reduced to ten men after Riley Warland was shown a second yellow card after a foul on Bayley Brown-Montgomery and sent off. To make matter worse, the hosts reduced the margin from the resulting free kick. Nick Ambrogio’s free kick was headed home powerfully by Jesse Roberts.
Floreat pressed after half time, but RedStar were solid at the back with Ryan Lowry and Blair Govan outstanding, while Liam Reddy also stood tall to keep the hosts at bay. But in the final minute Floreat were also reduced to ten men after Dennis Galan was sent off for a foul on Nicol, and four minutes into injury time RedStar wrapped up the points with a third add goal. Blair Govan ball found Dau on the left, and he brought the ball down well and raced past his marker, before cutting into the box and finishing low past Saldaris to seal the win, and move them back to the top of the table. “Fantastic win away from home going down to ten men in the first half we had to show some real character to get the three points,” RedStar striker Nicol said. “Even with having a man less, we never looked in any danger of conceding another goal and Floreat didn’t look like they had any idea how to break us down.”
A penalty six minutes from time from striker Ciaran Byrne, has given Olympic Kingsway a come-from-behind 2-2 draw against Armadale at Alfred Skeet Reserve. Armadale coach John O’Reilly said after a flying start Olympic hit back, to share the spoils. “First half we were flying, and got ourselves into a two-goal lead, but they (Olympic) fought well to get back into it,” he explained. “We felt hard done by third goal disallowed and penalty call turned down, which could have turned the game in our favour. In the second half we had to absorb the pressure, and work on the counter, and both sides had chances, so at the end of the day 2-2 was a fair result, after a well fought game by both teams.”
The hosts made the breakthrough on seven minutes, Tim Berger’s corner was headed home by the unmarked Nathan Costello. Armadale added a second on 31 minutes, George Ballah sent Chris Jackson down the left, his crossfield ball found Amir Ajan, who raced into the box and beat David Keenan at his near post. But the visitors reduced the margin two minutes later, Liam Murray cutting the back to Byrne on the edge of the box, and the striker made no mistake.
It was the visitors who dominated after the break, with Murray a constant threat down the left. Bryne was denied by a smart save from Joel Driscoll, although the flag was up for offside, before Murray’s curling effort flashed inches wide of the upright. At the other end Keenan produced a fingertip save to thwart Berger, but five minutes from time Olympic found the equaliser. Murray dribbled into the box and he was brought down by Costello, and the referee pointed straight to the spot. Byrne stepped up and sent Driscoll the wrong way to restore parity.
Olympic Head Coach David Tough said after convincing two sloppy goals, they dominated and were unlucky not to take all three points. “I thought the boys showed some great character to come back from being two goals down, and we are extremely disappointed with the manner of the goals we conceded,” he explained. “You can’t give a team like Armadale an easy two goal lead, but to the boy’s credit they didn’t panic and kept passing the ball. We were in Armadale’s half for the majority of the second half chasing the equaliser which we thankfully got. We gave ourselves a mountain to climb against a very resolute Armadale side so we’ll take the point and move on. We’ll hopefully have three or four players back next week for another big game against Bayswater.”
Bayswater City have put a difficult week behind them, after the sacking of coach Gareth Naven, to give new coach Gary Williams a 2-1 win against Inglewood United, in his first game in charge at Frank Drago Reserve. “A great start for Stewy and I with a win against Inglewood,” Williams said. “Given recent results this win will bring some confidence and momentum to the side. The physical effort given by the players was first class and could not be faulted in any area. We look forward to next week’s visit of Kingsway.” The hosts hit the front three minutes before the break, new signing Joshua Anasmo, who joined the club from Perth Glory, finding Gordon Smith who made no mistake.
Smith added his, and Bayswater’s second just after the hour, getting on the end of Kosta Sparta’s corner, that had been flicked on by John Stynes, the Scottish striker heading home from close-range. The visitors found a lifeline ten minutes from time, with Michael Domfeh converting from the spot, but try as they might Andres Oliveira’s side couldn’t find the equaliser. “Great to get a win after a poor run of results, and it was a battle out there and we showed a lot of fight, determination and quality at times to come out with three points,” Smith explained. “We are now ready for another good week’s training and prepare for another tough game against Olympic.”
Perth SC are up to sixth, after coming from three goals behind after only half an hour to beat Perth Glory 4-3, with a last gasp winner from substitute Toby Snook at Lark Hill Sportsplex. “I thought the boys showed great character to win the game, every player played their part, those who started and the boys that came off the bench,” Perth striker Sam Cook said. “We are looking to bring more consistency to our game, that the club and supporters can be proud of.”
The Glory youngsters made a perfect start and were ahead on eight minutes, with Jaylan Pearman’s curling effort giving Luke Radonich no chance. They doubled their lead 16 minutes later, Jayden Gorman curling a free kick into the corner of the net. The game looked over eight minutes later, when Glory added a third, Matthew George run and shot flew high into the net. But the visitors found a lifeline before the break, defender Julian Teles pouncing after Glory failed to clear a corner.
It was 3-2 on the hour mark, Jordan De Leo’s pass found Cook, and the striker made no mistake, and it was game on. The visitors were now on top and it wasn’t a surprise when Cook levelled for the Azzurri on 74 minutes, converting from the spot. It looked like the points were to be shared, but there was another twist in the tail, with Perth winning it deep into stoppage time, substitute Snook’s shot from the edge of the box beat Robert Cook, and the striker raced off to celebrate a vital three points for Danny Hay’s side.
In the final game, after a bad week in the press off the pitch, Sorrento have showed great character on the pitch to fought back late to earn a 1-1 draw against Cockburn City at RedStar Arena. Sorrento defender Mark Barnett said it was a battling performance. “I felt going into this game we knew it was going to be a bit of a dog fight and an ugly game, Cockburn have proven lately they can beat top teams and they always fight to the end and they did yesterday with their late goal,” he said. “In the end though we definitely had enough chances to win the game and in the end a point was probably a fair result. Generally speaking, it was a poor performance from us by our standards, and we need to get back together and prepare for Glory away next week.”
It was a tight game, and all the goal action came late in this one. First six minutes from time the Cockerels hit the front, Cherno Bah found skipper Jesse Lazzaro in the middle of the park, and his curling effort from 18-meters found the bottom corner of the net, past the outstretched arm of Patrick Hughes. It looked like that would be the winner, but Steven McGarry’s side hit back and levelled, Callum Dobbs cross to the back post found Clay Gibbs, who headed past Michael Craggs to give both sides a share of the spoils. “I thought we had a lot of chances to put the game to bed, so it was disappointing to concede late on and come away with the draw,” Cockburn defender Daniel Dols explained. “But there were a lot of positives in the way that we moved the ball and defended well, so we will take that into next week.”
1.7.2023
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND FOURTEEN REVIEW
Mandurah City consolidated top spot in the State League Division One table after a 3-0 win against Fremantle City in our ‘Match of the Round’ at Hilton Park. “I thought the boys were outstanding today, the full squad,” Mandurah player/coach John Baird said. “I changed it up for the three games in a week and everyone produced, which I was really pleased with. So, away from home, three goals and a clean sheet, and the three points against a good Fremantle side is an excellent result for us, and we now move onto UWA next weekend.”
The Dolphins opened the scoring on 11 minutes, Craig Barker’s shot was blocked, the ball falling to Joe O’Brien, who headed down to Murray Mackintosh, and the Scottish winger bundled the ball home from close-range. Mandurah added to their lead 16 minutes later, former Fremantle midfielder Brian Patterson found O’Brien on the left, and the striker finished with aplomb past Jordan Barbas. Things went from bad to worse for the hosts, and four minutes before the break they were reduced to ten men, after Giovanni Soares was sent off by referee Josh Mannella, after a stray elbow on Robbie Galvin.
The visitors sealed the three points on 71 minutes, Galvin’s corner from the left was headed home by Graham Tough. “It's been a massive week for the club and we knew we had to be at our best again today to stay top of the league against a dangerous Fremantle side,” Mandurah defender Tough said. “I thought we were in control of the game throughout and that's down to the hard work everyone involved puts in on and off the field. Three games in a week isn't easy, but credit to the group for looking after themselves and doing the right things away from the club and that showed today.”
Western Knights remain one point behind Mandurah, after a 1-0 win against Rockingham city at Nash Field. “It was a good solid win at home against a resilient Rockingham side,” Knights’ coach Adam Kostrencic said. “I thought we played well, created good chances and probably should have had more to show for it. We just couldn’t find that second goal to extend our lead and were unlucky to have a couple goals ruled out for offside which would have been close calls. Not conceding is a testament to our defensive unit who dealt with any pressure moments applied by them.”
The hosts were made to work for the points, the only goal coming on the half hour. A long clearance out of defence sent Alex Kretowicz racing clear, and he lobbed over the on-coming Cyril Sharrock, and told him all about it after. Rockingham chased an equaliser late, but couldn’t find it, and they ended the game with ten men after Maxwell Worswick was sent off for a foul on Jay Sheridan, which caused a melee on the pitch, but the Knights held firm to take the points.
Joondalup United maintained fourth place after a 3-2 win against Murdoch University Melville at Besteam Stadium. “A massive win yesterday, especially after a couple of poor results we knew we had the be at our best,” Joondalup defender Shaun Kilkelly said. “It was good team performance against a good team, and hopefully we can kick on now and stay in the top four.” It was the hosts for opened the scoring on 27 minutes, Pat Sara finding Eddie Wynne-Willson, whose shot on the turn from the edge of the box crashed off the bar and down on the line, but after consultation with his assistant referee Julian Serra awarded the goal.
But United equalised three minutes later, Jude Baillie’s corner was headed home by Kilkelly, who celebrated his birthday with a goal. Nick Jennings’ side turned it all-around, and hit the front moments later, Ayden Dragun’s long throw slipped through the hands of MUMFC keeper Preston Gilling, and despite a clearance off the line, once again the assistant said the ball had crossed the line. MUMFC restored parity just after the hour mark, Sara’s superb long-range curling free kick finding the top corner, and it looked like the points would be shared, but in the final minute Joondalup won it. They won possession in the middle of the park, and Jay Lang’s inch-perfect through ball sent James Harmer clear, and he finished clinically past Gilling from a tight angle, much to the delight of his team mates and travelling supporters.
In other games UWA Nedlands moved up to seventh after a 1-0 win against Subiaco at Rosalie Reserve. “It was a tough pitch to play on as the two games before 3pm carved it up, so we happily take the three points but we were disappointed we didn’t make more of our chances today,” UWA coach Richard Abrams said. “Toby Robertson, Luke Salas and Ollie Ford all had second half golden opportunities, but saying that, credit to our back four who defended superbly, redistricting Subiaco to long range efforts and showing why we have conceded only one goal in the last five.”
Gosnells City and Gwelup Croatia have played out an entertaining 3-3 draw at Walter Padbury Reserve. “Yes, it was end to end stuff in first half, and we went in 3-2 up,” Gosnells coach Peter Allen said. “In the second half they came out and to be fair we’re on top making it 3-3, but to the lad’s credit we ended the stronger and but for a goal line clearance we could have grabbed all three points. A draw was a fair result we will take the point and move onto next week.”
Scott Pereira headed the hosts into the lead on ten minutes, but John Lahai levelled moments later, before Josh Williamson gave the visitors the lead on the half hour. But the hosts weren’t finished, and Aden Hoody and Brice Rae gave them the lead in an end-to-end game. Paul Grant restored parity for Trim Morgan’s side early in the second half, and both sides had chances to win it, but they had to settle for a point apiece. In the final game on Saturday evening Dianella White Eagles bounced back from defeat on Tuesday against Mandurah, beating Forrestfield United 2-1 at Dianella Reserve. Lawrence Shuruma gave Angel Andres’ side the lead early, but Mohammad Rezai levelled for United six minutes before the break. But just before the hour the Eagles won it, with Kevin McEvoy on target.
1.7.2023
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND FOURTEEN REVIEW
Carramar Shamrock Rovers have jumped to fourth on the State League Division Two table, after a hard fought 1-0 win against Wanneroo City in our ‘Match of the Round’ at Wanneroo Reserve on Saturday afternoon. “We didn't play well on Saturday, but still made enough chances to have won the game more comfortably than we did,” Rovers’ coach Gerry McEwan said. “We had already missed two glaring opportunities before Wanneroo had a man sent off around the 30-minute mark, an incident that injured our striker, Drew Johnston, so Drew had to be substituted and that didn't help our goal scoring threat. They understandably retreated into a 4-4-1 formation, which meant we were on the offensive for most of the game, but yet again our inability to take chances looked like it was going to haunt us, until late.” The red card for Juma Awaka on 35 minutes changed the game for the hosts, but they held firm, that was until the visitors won it deep into stoppage time, Callum Trayner played a diagonal ball out to the left, and Alan Reidy ran on to the loose ball and played a great first time cross towards the back post, where young Sam Lawless had peeled away from his marker and bulleted his header home from close range, much to the delight of the travelling supporters.
Kingsley Westside maintained their five-point lead at the top of the after a hard fought 2-1 win against Ashfield at Chichester Park. “A solid shift put in by the lads against a very good well drilled side in Ashfield. We rode our luck early when they should’ve gone 1-0 up early, but some quality finishing by us had us up 2-0 inside first 15 minutes,” Kingsley coach Steven Dimitrovich explained. “We seemed to go a bit flat from there and Ashfield came at us hard especially final 10 minutes, but the team we were solid and dealt with everything thrown at them and was very pleasing when the final whistle went. We now get ready for a tough game against Maddington away next week.” The hosts hit the front after only six minutes, Bailey Salmon cross from the left found an unmarked Ilya Nebylytsya, who headed home. It was 2-0 13 minutes later, Jonny Hulme was played through on goal and forced onto his right foot and shooting across the keeper, and found the bottom corner. Ashfield pulled one back six minutes later, with Gareth Hamilton converting from the spot, but they couldn’t find the equaliser.
Morley Windmills remain second after a 4-0 win against Curtin University at Edinburgh Oval. “I thought it was our most professional performance of the year and it’s good to see the new lads having the desired impact,” Morley’s Kevin Ashwood said. “The loss at home to Curtin earlier in the year hurt us and although we have four or five new players, we spoke about righting the wrongs from that game and I thought we did that. First half was a bit of an arm wrestle but we got ahead and then came out second half and showed our quality. We were able to get 3 quick fire goals and effectively end the contest.
“We have nothing to lose heading into the run in, but the new lads have brought a breath of fresh air and good energy to the squad. So hopefully this result can kick start a solid run to the end of the season and we can be there or there abouts if others slip up.” The visitors found the opener after a quick breakaway from a Curtin corner and a ball over the top sent Charlie Breen one-on-one with the keeper to score. They added a second early in the second half, with Cedric Mezieres being found unmarked to score. It was 3-0 when a corner found Morgan Walters at the back post to sweep home, before Breen added his second late from the edge of the box to seal a comprehensive win for Marc Antony’s side.
Swan United moved up to third, after a 2-1 win against the inform Maddington-Kalamunda White City at the Swan Italian Club, Francis Street. “Look, we knew we were in for a battle, they (Maddington) have been a surprise package this season, picking up results consistently and trying to play a really good style of football,” Swan coach Colin Morgan said. “I thought the first 20 minutes was a bit of an arm wrestle, both sides creating chances but nothing clear cut, but we found the opener. The second half was much the same, but Maddington came out with a lot of gusto and intent, creating a number of really good chances, and we also had three or four, so to get the second was important. They scored late to give them a sniff, but we held firm to take the points.”
The hosts hit the front on 26 minutes, a well worked corner found O Adeniyi, whose glancing header found the net. They doubled their advantage on the hour, Rhys Loxley cross into the box found John Monterosso at the back post to head home. Maddington throw everything at the hosts looking to hit back, but Swan keeper Ben Parry made some great saves to deny them. The visitors did score late, after a great strike from N Pardo, but it was too little too late, the Swans taking the points.
Quinns moved two points clear of bottom spot, after a 3-2 win against an injury plagued Balga at Gumblossom Park. “It was definitely a tough game with both sides recognising the importance of the three points. Our first half felt a bit rushed and we weren't as productive as we'd like to be. We addressed elements at half time and I felt we dominated large periods and probably should have put the game away sooner,” Quinns coach Antony Benetti explained. “These boys showed huge character though to ensure we took the maximum points, and as a group we've felt like we've deserved more over the last few weeks so of course it's pleasing to get the result. As a collective we'll get back on the track this week and look to go into next week positive.”
It was the visitors who hit the front on 20 minutes, with Jimmy Taban scoring, and they deservedly held that lead at the break. But early in the second half, Quinns levelled, with Brayden Tierney firing home from just inside the penalty area. The host hit the front on the hour, Mason Gallagher neatly beat his man and slipped a ball through to Liam Hunt who made no mistake. Balga restored parity ten minutes from time, with substitute Julius Leineweber scoring with a fine header. Even though a draw would have been a fair result, both teams looked for a winner and in the first minute of stoppage time the hosts won it, Tyler Holden whipped in a corner and Balga failed to clear their lines and David Sallis scored the winner from close range. In the final game bottom of the table Canning City earnt a 1-1 draw against Joondalup City at the Iluka District Open Space. Killan Piriou gave Canning the lead on five minutes, but the hosts levelled. three minutes later, through Charlie Lacey scoring.
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This page was last updated on the 29th June, 2023