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31.5.2026
ARMADALE HIT BACK TO BEAT GLORY – NPLWA-MENS WEEK TWELVE REVIEW
Armadale have come from two goals down to beat Perth Glory 3-2 in week twelve of the New Balance NPLWA – Men’s competition, to secure their second win of the season at Alfred Skeet Reserve on Saturday afternoon. “A massive three points for the group today, a win over Perth Glory shows the character, belief and mentality that’s been building within this squad. Against a talented side, the lads showed courage on the ball, worked relentlessly without it and found a way to get the result when it mattered most,” Armadale coach John Baird explained.
“We asked for intensity, aggression in the press and a team willing to go after the game – and the players delivered. There were moments where we had to suffer, but the response every time was outstanding. The togetherness, work rate and commitment to each other was there for everyone to see. Credit to every player, staff member and supporter who got behind the team. Enjoy the win, because it’s deserved, but understand it’s another step forward rather than the finish line. The challenge now is to carry the same standards, energy and hunger into next week. Proud of the group. We move forward together.”
It was perfect start for the visitors, finding the opener on two minutes. A ball forward wasn’t dealt with and Alfie Knight forced the ball forward, and Louis Sollitt finished with aplomb past Alfie Brincatt. The Glory youngsters doubled their lead on 17 minutes, Sollitt was the supplier this time, finding Knight, whose first shot on the run found the net. Armadale hit back and halved the deficit just after the half hour. A good advantage by referee Michal Jasinski saw Corey Sutherland play a great through ball to Luke Desmond, who raced into goal and finished clinically past Tomislav Petkovic.
John Baird’s side were level in the final minute, Abraham Mathet sent William Hayes down the right and his low cross was turned home by Desmond. Armadale, who had plenty of chances in the game, and they scored the winner two minutes into the second half. A ball over the top wasn’t cleared and Mathet forced the ball to Hayes, and he finished well from the angle. “We were disappointed to concede two sloppy goals in the manor we did in the opening 15 minutes, and it wasn’t and ideal start we were hoping for,” Armadale keeper Alfie Brincat said. “We composed ourselves, stuck to the game plan and got the three points, that we deserved and needed.”
Stirling Macedonia have snapped a three-game losing streak, after 3-1 win against Balcatta etna, in the local derby at Macedonia Park. “A very important three points for us after losing narrowly last three games, it was cagey first 15 minutes, and we took control after that and we were 2:0 up at half time,” he said. “We made a good start to second half getting early goal for 3:0 and probably could get another couple. Then again, a red card (2 yellows) changed the game and we were pushed back to defend and work hard last 15 minutes but the boys did so well, and we deserved three points at the end in my opinion. The boys show great character and quality today and now all eyes on Perth away next week.”
The home side were ahead on 21 minutes. Euan Cameron’s corner from the left wasn’t claimed by Balcatta keeper Seb Medica, and defender Hristijan Jankuloski hooked the ball home. They made it 2-0 eight minutes before the break, Joshua Bilaloski cross from the left was only cleared as far as Dejan Spaseski, and the skipper fired home from eight meters. The points looked secure early in the second half, win Stirling added a third. A long clearance from keeper Nic Speca wasn’t dealt with and Joshua Bilaloski won the ball and rounded the keeper to score. Stirling the hosts were reduced to ten men, nine minutes from time, with Danny Douglas receiving a second yellow card for a foul on Jared Flavel. Balcatta then found a consolation goal late, Darius Ghinea’s effort turned home by Charlie Betts, but it was too little too late.
League leaders Perth RedStar has seen their lead at the top cut to just one point, after they were held to a 2-2 draw by Fremantle City at Hilton Reserve. The visitors found the opener on 17 minutes, Nick Walsh sent Jacob Evans down the left, and his cross to the back post found Liam Murray, who beat his marker and fired past Luke Radonich via the crossbar. RedStar doubled their advantage 17 minutes later, Murray was the supplier this time, cutting in from the left and finding Evans, who swept the ball home from the edge of the box.
Fremantle, who have been in good form recently, reduced the margin seven minutes into the second half. Nick Ambrogio was bundled over by Riley Warland just outside the box, and from the resulting free kick Riley Woodcock curled the ball over the wall superbly and into the corner of the net past Liam Reddy. The hosts found the equaliser twelve minutes from time. Chad Nilson’s shot was saved by Reddy, but Ambrogio was quickest to the rebound to fire home. Both sides had chances to win it, Nilson’s header was cleared off the line by Ryan Finnie, before Woodcock’s volley flashed over the top, while at the other end Gordon Smith fired over the top, but the points were shared.
“Basic defensive errors enabled their wingers to put them two ahead at the break, but second half was a different story. It looked and felt like we ran over the top off them. A peach of a free kick from Riley and a well-deserved goal for Nic Ambrogio got us back in the game,” Fremantle assistant coach Dale Wingell explained. “Players that came on gave us further energy and our boys didn’t give up. We created plenty of opportunities to win it, so happy with our overall performance. We always have goals in us but need to be better without the ball to turn our draws into three points.’
In the final game, Perth Azzurri have also come from two goals down to beat Western Knights 4-3 in a thriller at Nash Field. The hosts were ahead on 11 minutes, a long throw from Leo Stolikas fell to Konstantinos Sparta on the edge of the box, and his volley flew past Liam Driscoll. They doubled their lead seven minutes later, a long clearance from Robert Sinclair was allowed to bounce and Aaron Pike won possession, beat his marker and finished low past Driscoll. The Azzurri were back in the game eight minutes later, Sean OConnor finding Cody Tana, whose long-range shot beat Sinclair. The visitors were level five minutes before half time. A surging run from David Ninkovich ended with a deflected shot which fell kindly for Gordon Perkins, who raced into the box and cut the ball back to Jamie McNelis at the back post to score.
Kenny Lowe’s side hit the front early in the second half, O’Connor’s corner from the right was headed home by Charlie Flemming. But Adam Kostrencic’s side restored parity seven minutes from time. Jesse Lazzaro’s free kick from the half way line was headed home by Regan Hutchinson. It looked like the points would be shared, but there was a final twist to this one, with Perth winning it four minutes later. Ninkovich’s corner from the left wasn’t dealt with and Perkins fired home. Substitute Pieter Jacobsz went close to a fifth in stoppage time, but his shot was well saved by Sinclair. The win moves the Azzurri to fourth on the table, while the Knights slip to sixth.
31.5.2026
INGLEWOOD WIN IT LATE, WHILE LEADERS BEATEN AT MANDURAH – WEEK TEN REVIEW
Our week ten State League Division One ‘Match of the Round’ has seen Inglewood United move to within two points of the top four, after a 2-1 win against Cockburn City at the proto DPS Inglewood Stadium on Saturday afternoon. James Bourne had given the Cockerels the lead at the break, but Gavin Byars levelled on the hour mark, and a goal in the final minute from Jordan Brown gave Glen Grostate’s side the three points. “It was an important win against a team that can be very difficult to play against. I thought we were poor in the first half, and Cockburn punished us for it taking a 1–0 lead into halftime,” goalscorer Byars said.
“The gaffer made a few changes at the halftime, which completely changed the dynamic of the game. We looked like a different team in the second half and managed to turn it around and get the three points which was pleasing to see. We’re only two points off the top four, which shows how competitive the league is, considering we’re currently sitting in seventh place. At this stage of the season, though, where you are in the table doesn’t mean anything. What matters is where you finish at the end of the season. We’ll stay focused on the next game and see where that takes us.”
The hosts suffered blow early, losing skipper Rostyn Griffiths. But in his first game in charge of Cockburn, it was a perfect start for Terry Nicolaou, ahead on 26 minutes. Daniel Robinson’s free kick was headed home by Bourne. Grostate made a triple change at the break, and they were level when the referee spotted a foul on Byars and pointed straight to the spot. Byars picked himself up and sent keeper Ben Radonich the wrong way from the resulting penalty. It looked like the points would be shared, but on 89 minutes Inglewood won it. Martin Coughlan finding fellow substitute Jake Nicholson, whose ball into the box was headed home by Brown.
League leaders Floreat Athena have been beaten for the first time this season, and seen their lead at the top cut to just one point, after they were beaten 2-1 by Mandurah City at the Poolmart Mandurah Stadium. “We knew going into the match that Floreat would pose a significant challenge given their position at the top of the table. The players executed the game plan exceptionally well, remaining organised defensively, disciplined in our shape, and effective in transition,” Mandurah coach Zac Headington explained. “I thought we limited their opportunities in key areas, stayed patient when out of possession, and were clinical when our chances arose.
“The group showed great concentration and maturity throughout the 90 minutes, and it was pleasing to see their efforts rewarded with an important 2–1 victory. A special mention goes to young Sam Lovell, who has been thrown into first-team football this season and finally received the reward for his hard work with two goals. We’ll continue to stick together, maintain our belief, and see where the journey takes us.” It was a tight first half, but it was the Dolphins who opened the scoring three minutes into the second half. Jordan Callaghan sending Lovell clear, and he outpaced his marker before finishing with aplomb past Devon Lindemann.
With rain pouring down, the hosts doubled their lead on 65 minutes. Hamza Hina’s corner found Lachlan Hannah at the front post, he crossed to Lovell, who headed home from close-range. Floreat found a lifeline five minutes from time. Linus Persson finding Mohammed Al-Zaidy on the right, and his superb shot from out wide flew into the top corner of the net past Josiah Godfrey. Floreat pressed for the equaliser, and Tom Wassholm header was saved by Godfrey, while at the other end Lindemann made a smart save to deny substitute Harley Brownhill in stoppage time.
UWA Nedlands are now only one point behind Floreat, after they returned from Rosalie Park with a 3-2 win against Subiaco AFC. “Subiaco was always going to be a tough game, we came for three points and that’s exactly what we got,” UWA’s Jake Sardelic said. “Credit to Subiaco they made it difficult for us, but it wasn’t our best performance but we grinded out the result and now look forward to next week to another hard fixture. We are taking it one game at a time, and it’s great to keep the pressure on Floreat, but it means nothing at this point in the season, no matter who you play in this league, it can go either way if you don’t show up.”
Kris Donnell’s side were ahead after only two minutes, a long clearance was flicked on by Dean Hurley, and Joe McInnes raced in on goal and fired past Max Winton. But on 27 minutes the hosts levelled, the referee pointing to the spot after Chris Harradine was brought down by Sardelic. Tomas Despotovski saw his penalty saved by Tadgh O’Malley, but Tomas Despotovski fired home the rebound. The visitors regained their lead on the half hour, Sebastian Hooshangian’s ball into the box found Hurley, his shot was well saved by Winton, but McInnes fired home the rebound.
Subiaco keeper Winton was carried off on a stretcher on 38 minutes, after a collision with a team mate, he was replaced by Hood Majiet. UWA increased their lead early in the second half, Hooshangian’s shot crashed off the post, and McInnes put the rebound home, to complete his hat trick. Subiaco weren’t finished, and pulled one back on 56 minutes. Despotovski’s corner was headed home by Harradine, but UWA held firm to take home the points.
Joondalup City are up to third after a 2-0 win at Green Promo Park, Edinburgh Oval. “It was good to bounce back with a win and a clean sheet,” Joondalup keeper Joey Smith said. “The lads put in a very good performance against a well organised team. It took us a while to break them down, but once we did, we dominated the game.” The home side dominated the first half, but couldn’t find a breakthrough, and it was the visitors who break the deadlock early in the second half. Taiga Kobayashi’s ball into the box fell to Reece Kral, and with the Curtin players looking for an offside flag, that never came, he finished low past Alec Radonich. They sealed the points four minutes later, Louis Hadfield saw his shot superbly saved by Radonich, but resulting Kobayashi’s corner went straight in.
Murdoch University Melville have bounced back from defeat last week at UWA, with a convincing 3-1 win against Kingsley Westside at Len Shearer Reserve. The hosts were ahead early, the referee pointing to the spot after matt Worton was brought down by Kingsley keeper Isaac Driessen. Edward Wynne-Willson stepped an sent the keeper the wrong way from the resulting penalty. They added a second on 20 minutes, Seagh Harris’ cross from the left was only cleared to Alan Carroll, who fired home. The points were made safe on the hour mark, Wynne-Willson threading a great through ball to Gustavo Giron Marulanda, who finished clinically. Kingsley secured a consolation goal in stoppage time, with Luke Doyle scoring a stunning strike from distance.
In the final game Gwelup Croatia and Quinns have played out a 1-1 draw at the Croatian Sporting Complex, Wishart Street. The hosts surprisingly changed coaches in midweek, with Toby Wright relieved of his duties, and interim coach Lucas le Marchand said it was a good performance. “The players reacted well to our first week on the park together. It was a tough and physically demanding week, but they carried that workload into the game with real intent. Physically, technically, and tactically, they were ready. The first half was quite even, with both sides competing strongly. At half time we made a few tactical adjustments, which helped us gain control and ultimately score the opening goal,” he explained.
“Credit to our goalkeeper, Rocco Liberti, whose excellent reflex save on the penalty kept us in the game at a crucial moment. Just a minute later, after a well-constructed collective move, Rob Ferrante finished with a beautiful goal to give us the lead. We created several more opportunities to extend the margin, but unfortunately couldn’t convert them, which kept Quinns alive and allowed them to work their way back into the match. Overall, it was a tough and competitive game. The players responded well to our message, and I want to thank them for their effort and attitude on the park. Based on the performance and the chances we created, I believe the group deserved more than a draw.”
Clear cut chances were few and far between in a tight first half, but the second half started with a bang, with the referee showing a straight red card to Gwelup keeper Liberti who came racing out and made contact with his own player. But after consulting with his assistant the red was rescinded and he received a yellow. Then on 67 minutes Chad Samuels was brought down by Gianluca Paiano, and the referee pointed to the spot. Samuels stepped up, but saw his penalty saved by Liberti.
Then sixty seconds later Gwelup hit the front, Callum Stocks and Nicolas Echeverria combined to send Robert Ferrante in on goal, and he finished low past James Bosdet. But five minutes from time Quinns levelled. Samuels found Sam Wynne down the right, and his cross was turned home by Cameron Briggs. “It was a very competitive game of football. I think a great game for the neutrals and everyone watching,” Quinns Elliot Ireland said. “I think we created enough and did enough to win the game, but on the other hand they probably felt the same, so a draw was probably a fair result and we’ll take the point.”
31.5.2026
ROCKINGHAM EXTEND LEAD IN DIVISION TWO – WEEK NINE REVIEW
Rockingham City have extended their lead at the top of the State League Division Two table, after a hard fought 1-0 win against Gosnells City at Walter Padbury Reserve on Saturday afternoon. “We Knew it was going to be a battle playing away at Gosnells,’ the former Gosnells midfielder Tom Kennedy said. “I thought the boys showed great character to grind out the three points and keep our good form going.” The only goal of the game came just before half time, a corner by Mitch Foley was headed home by Tom Kinnane at the back post.
Ashfield have lost ground on the leaders after they were held to a 1-1 draw by Morley Windmills at the Ashfield Arena. “It was a very even game with both teams cancelling each other out,” Ashfield skipper Dougal Kindness said. “When we conceded late on, we showed great fight and spirit to grab the equaliser, finishing strong is something we have done very well this season.” It looked like Morley would take all three points, when Brennan Borzecki scored 12 minutes from time heading home at the back post from Isaac Ntow cross. But deep into stoppage time Ashfield levelled. The hosts pushed numbers forward, and a ball into the box saw Morley keeper Luke Martino punch clear, but he caught Robert Toto in the head, and the referee pointed to the spot, and Michael Mwingira made no mistake from the penalty. “It was very scrappy to watch, and I felt we never got out of first gear,” Morley coach John O’Reilly said. “We’ve a lot to brush up on this week at training.”
East Perth is back in the winning circle, after a 2-0 win against North Beach at Charles Riley Memorial Reserve. “It was a good result, on a tough pitch,” East Perth’s Gerhard Clark said. “We scored two goals in the first half and probably should’ve scored a few more with the chances we created. We then defended solidly all game and never really looked under much pressure, so it was a comfortable 2–0 win in the end.” The visitors were ahead on 35 minutes, with Cian Tuite on target. They doubled their lead in the shadows of half time, with Clark converting. East Perth finished the game with ten men with Adam McCarron receiving a second yellow card five minutes from time.
Carramar Shamrock Rovers lost ground on Rockingham, after they were held to a 0-0 draw by Balga at Grandis Park. Balga’s best chances came on 67 minutes, when Ravi Singh’s shot was pushed onto the post by Jakeb Seppings. Then two minutes from time, Riley Chapman shot crashed off the upright. “When you play in Rovers, you always expect a battle. We managed to control the game over 90 minutes, with only one shot on goal from Rovers speaks a clear language about the game while we had 19 shots on goal but couldn’t score,” Balga coach Gerhard Janssen explained.
“Rovers are always dangerous at set pieces, but he held firm, and we hit the post multiple times. So overall, we controlled a game of high intensity but missed to take three points due to our lack of scoring.” Rovers’ coach Adam Walsh said his side felt the effect of their midweek game against East Perth. “There weren’t many chances in the game, Balga probably had the best of them hitting the post twice,” Rovers’ coach Adam Walsh said. “We had heavy legs from Wednesday night, which was expected, so the boys had to dig in and try stop Balga playing, which they did. It was a tough hard-fought draw.” In the final game Forrestfield United have beaten Canning City 1-0 at Burrendah Park. The only goal of the game came six minutes before half time, with Austin Reynolds on target. The win consolidates fifth spot for Forrestfield, while the loss leaves Canning at the bottom of the table.
31.5.2026
SOCCEROOS BEATEN IN PENULIMATE WORLD CUP WARM-UP
The Socceroos have suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat against World Cup co-hosts Mexico in the last game before coach Tony Popovic names his squad for the tournament. It wasn’t an encouraging first half, with Mexico dominating and Johan Vásquez gave Mexico the lead in front of big crowd at the Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, California. But there were some good signs after the break, with Australia creating some good chances, but their profligacy in front of goal must be a worry for Popovic.
"The players just need to believe a little bit more," Popovic said post-match. "In the first half, we were very anxious and nervous, and then after the [drinks break], I thought we saw good signs, and then the second half was good. We had the two best chances of the game. You're not going to get many chances in football. It's the World Cup you're preparing for; you don't get many chances. They didn't have a clear chance, but they scored from the corner."
Popovic’s side featured a number of long-awaited returns. Mathew Leckie appeared for the first time since June 2024, while Harry Souttar started in his first appearance since November 2024, while young striker Mohamed Toure and the experienced midfielder Jackson Irvine also returned to the starting eleven in the final hit out before the final 26-man squad is selected. Mexico started brightly, and had the Socceroos on the back foot, and Maty Ryan had to produce a smart save to deny Alexis Vega, who got on the end of Mateo Chavez’s cross, the Socceroo keeper tipping his header over the top.
But on 28 minutes the north Americans hit the front. Vega’s corner picked out Vasquez, his header going in via the post. The Socceroos were struggling to get into the game, and Mexico went close again before the break, Alvaro Fidalgo shot from distance was saved by Ryan. Australia should have equalised in the shadows of half time, a poor clearance from Chavez fell to Toure, and with the keeper out of position and the goal gapping, the Norwich City striker fired wide of the target.
It was a better start to the second half by Australia, and they went close two minutes in, Aiden O’Neill’s shot from the edge of the box was saved by Mexico’s substitute keeper Guillermo Ochoa, who had come on at the break. Souttar then headed straight at the Mexican custodian, as they pressed for the equaliser. Popovic went to the bench just after the hour, with Paul Okon-Engstler, Ajdin Hrustic, Nishan Velupillay and Kai Trewin introduced as the Socceroos chased the equaliser. Moments later two of them were involved in another opportunity, Trewin sending Hrustic into the box, but the midfielder goalbound shot was well blocked. Mexico thought they had a second on 76 minutes, the ball was in the net, but they had taken the free kick to quick, and the goal was disallowed, which saw tempers flare.
Looking at replays the Socceroos got away with one there. Despite having plenty of possession late, chances were few and far between and the Socceroos lacked quality in the final third. Mexico held firm to take the win. While a disappointing result, it was a good learning experience against a fellow world cup qualifier, and there were some good signs in a strong second-half showing. "The proof is in the second half performance," Souttar said post-match. “If [we] can't take away from that, then what is there, and Jackson (Irvine) said it as soon as we came into the dressing room, that's what we've got to be from the first whistle. We can take that forward into the Switzerland game in our final hit out.”
Mexico: GK Raul Rangel (RGK Guillermo Ochoa 46’), 2 Jorge Sanchez (15 Israel Reyes 46’), 4 Edson Alvarez (3 Cesar Montes 60’), 5 Johan Vasquez (28 Alejandro Gomez 73’), 7 Luis Romo (18 Obed Vargas 73’), 8 Alvaro Fidalgo (19 Gilberto Mora 60’), 10 Alexis Vega (16 Julian Quinones 60’), 17 Orbelin Pineda (21 Cesar Huerta 46’), 20 Mateo Chavez (23 Jesus Gallardo 60’), 22 Guillermo Martinez (11 Santiago Gimenez 46’), 24 Luis Chavez (6 Erik Lira 60’) – Subs not used: RGK Carlos Acevedo, 9 Raul Jiminez, 14 Armando Gonzalez, 26 Brian Gutierrez, 27 Kevin Castaneda
Australia: GK Mathew Ryan, 3 Alessandro Circati, 5 Jordan Bos (16 Aziz Behich 79’), 7 Mathew Leckie (10 Ajdin Hrustic 66’), 8 Connor Metcalfe (34 Nishan Velupillay 66’), 9 Mohamed Toure (11 Nestory Irankunda 79’), 13 Aiden O’Neill (20 Paul Okon-Engstler), 19 Harry Souttar, 22 Jackson Irvine (38 Awer Mabil 90’), 23 Jacob Italiano (36 Kai Trewin 66’), 26 Lucas Herrington (21 Cameron Burgess 90’) – Subs not used: RGK Paul Izzo, RGK Patrick Beach, 2 Milos Degenek, 4 Kye Rowles, 6 Martin Boyle, 17 Cameron Devlin, 25 Jason Geria – Attendance: 78,479
30.5.2026
JACKSON WINS IT LATE FOR BAYSWATER
Bayswater City have scored in stoppage time for the second week running, to beat Sorrento 2-1 at Percy Doyle Reserve, in our Week Twelve New Balance NPLWA ‘Match of the Round’. It looked like Sorrento substitute Alexander Jovanovic had won it for the hosts, but Bayswater substitute Cameroon Teece levelled nine minutes from time, and former Sorrento striker Chris Jackson won it in the first minute of stoppage time. “It was another tremendous result for us and a real credit to the character and resilience of the group. To go 1-0 down away from home again and find a way to win says a lot about the mentality the players have built this season,” Bayswater coach Matthew Sparrow said post-match.
“I thought we were very good in the first half and probably deserved more from the game at that stage. At half time there was no panic, just a belief that if we stuck to what we were doing we would get our rewards. I was really pleased for Cam Teece, who has spent some time on the sidelines recently. To come off the bench and make such an impact with an inch-perfect header for the equaliser was fantastic and a reward for all his hard work and patience. Then to win it late through Chris Jackson was a great moment for the group. It was another excellent delivery from a set piece and a top finish from Jacko, who continues to lead the line brilliantly for us.
“Sorrento pushed us all the way and made it a tough afternoon, but I thought we showed tremendous belief, togetherness and quality when it mattered most. It’s another important three points on the road and we’ll enjoy the win before turning our attention to the next challenge.” It was the visitors on the front foot early, and they went close on four minutes, Pat Loughrey’s corner from the right wasn’t cleared and in the goalmouth scramble, David Stokoe cleared the ball off the line. Matthew Sparrow’s side were in again three minutes later, Jon Corness’ shot from the edge of the box was well saved by the alert Ben Ratajczak. The hosts suffered a huge blow on 18 minutes, with influential midfielder Kyunghwan Kim going down with a nasty looking injury, and he was replaced by Benjamin Niles.
It was the visitors on the front foot early, and they went close on four minutes, Pat Loughrey’s corner from the right wasn’t cleared and in the goalmouth scramble, David Stokoe cleared the ball off the line. Matthew Sparrow’s side were in again three minutes later, Jon Corness’ shot from the edge of the box was well saved by the alert Ben Ratajczak. The hosts suffered a huge blow on 18 minutes, with influential midfielder Kyunghwan Kim going down with a nasty looking injury, and he was replaced by Benjamin Niles.
Sorrento were struggling in the final third, and it was Bayswater creating the chances, and the best fell to Jackson on the half hour. Daniel Stynes sent Brent Quick on the right, and his pinpoint cross picked the former Sorrento striker, but Jackson’s header was well saved by Ratajczak. They had a final effort in the final minute, when Stynes’ header was straight at the Sorrento custodian. The Gulls failed to have a shot in the first half, but despite all their possession and chances, it was all square at the break.
The Gulls were on the front foot after half time and Clay Gibbs shot was blocked, and their handball appeals were turned down by referee Stuart Beattie. But Bayswater were still creating the better chances, Jon Corness’ shot from the edge of the box was tipped over by Ratajczak, before Luke Palmateer’s header was cleared off the line by Tim Hill. Then on the hour Pat Loughrey’s shot from the edge of the box was well saved by the Sorrento custodian at his near post.
Bayswater continued to press, and when Borbor Sam made space down the left, he found Quick, who squared the ball to Loughrey, whose shot flashed inches past the post. Sorrento went close to the lead on 74 minutes, Will Richards’ inswinging corner was punched from under his bar by Lewis Italiano. But from the resulting corner Sorrento did hit the front. Jacob Prajza’ set piece was missed by Italiano, and substitute Alexander Jovanovic turned the ball home at the back post.
They almost added a second five minutes later, Palmateer’s header back to Italiano was short, and Jovanovic pounced, but he fired straight at the Bayswater custodian. It looked like Bayswater would leave empty handed, but they had other ideas, and levelled nine minutes from time. Daniel Stynes’ cross from the left was headed home powerfully by substitute Cameron Teece. The visitors went looking for the winner, but found Ratajczak in great form, pushing away Jackson Stephens’ cross shot.
Moments later Declan Hughes’ free kick from distance went through the crowded penalty area and just wide of the far post. It looked like the points would be shared, but just like last week at Stirling, Bayswater won it in stoppage time. Loughrey’s corner from the right picked out Jackson, who lost his marker, and headed home. The win keeps Bayswater in third on the table, and they host Dianella White Eagles next Friday, while Sorrento remain eighth, and they travel to Balcatta Etna next week. Footballwa – Man of the Match: Ben Ratajczak (Sorrento)
GK Ben Ratajczak, 3 David Stokoe (3 Jude Gauntlett 46’), 5 Ronan Dowling, 7 Kyunghwan Kim (8 Benjamin Niles 18’), 10 Jacub Prajza, 11 Tim Hill, 14 Rene Kisesa (21 Alexander Jovanovic 72’), 15 Will Richards, 16 Ryan McLaughlin, 17 Dean Cummings, 19 Clay Gibbs – Subs not used: RGK Santiago Henao, 6 Scott Robertson, 18 Luka Chokolich
GK Lewis Italiano, 4 Luke Palmateer, 5 Patrick Loughrey, 6 Declan Hughes, 11 Borbor Sam (9 Cameron Teece 73’), 15 Jackson Stephens, 16 Jon Corness (12 Anthony Bafobusha 73’), 18 Chris Jackson, 20 Sam Mitchinson, 22 Brent Quick, 24 Daniel Stynes - Subs: RGK Jason Saldaris, 2 Alexander Ishida-Livings, 27 Coby Sutton, 28 Alex Patrascu, 29 Castel Brandli
29.5.2026
OLYMPIC MOVE TOP AFTER BEATING TEN-MAN DIANELLA
Olympic Kingsway have moved to the top of the New Balance NPLWA – Men’s table, after beating a ten-man Dianella White Eagles 3-1 at the Madman Arena, Kingsway Reserve in the week twelve opening game on Friday evening. It was the visitors who found the opener early, with Ben Hinshelwood scoring, but the hosts levelled midway through the first half with Liam Boland scoring. But the Eagles had their winds clipped just before half time with George Ballah shown a straight red card, a controversial decision.
But Olympic sealed the points with two quick goals either side of the hour mark from Joe Hobson and Bryce Bafford, to give new coach Richard Garcia his first win at home. “I thought we were dominating the ball early, but they scored against the run of play by catching us on the counter from a goal kick, the boys didn’t panic and we carried on playing the way we were and we equalised not long after,” Olympic defender Ollie Annis explained post-match. “The same message was said at half time, we were patient and dominated the ball and put in a great first home performance under Garc.”
It was the visitors who found the opener on ten minutes. a swift counter attack down the left saw Miguel Restrepo find space, then a neat combination of passes between Kristian Despotovski, Andrew Palmer saw the ball find Hinshelwood, who drilled his shot low past Adrian Sinagra. The hosts thought they had found the equaliser seven minutes later, when Jack Clisby’s cross from the left was headed home by Boland, but his challenge on the keeper was deemed to be a foul and the goal was disallowed.
Olympic continued to press, and Boland headed wide moments later from Tyler Garner’s corner. It looked like it was going to be one of those nights for Olympic, when Aryn Williams shot on the turn beat Dianella keeper Peter Pilkadaris, but the flag was up for offside. But that all changed on 24 minutes, when Olympic levelled. A diagonal ball from midfielder Reegan Mimnaugh found Boland in space on the right, the Dianella players looked for the offside flag, that didn’t come and the big striker raced into the box and finished clinically past Pilkadaris.
They went close to the lead shortly after, Mimnaugh’s free kick was well saved by Pilkadaris. Dianella were sitting deep, and hitting on the counter, and Daniel Zivkovic saw his shot on the run saved low by Sinagra. The half ended with controversy, after a push and shove between Jonathon Leithead and Ballah. There didn’t seem much in it, but after consulting with his assistant, referee Liam Barclay sent Ballah off, but the Olympic defender was shown a yellow, much to the annoyance of the Dianella supporters.
Dianella coach Ian Ferguson made a change at the break with defender Kieran Colwell coming on for Purvish Appadoo, as they looked to fill the void after Ballah’s dismissal. The hosts were first to threaten after the break, Boland sending Bafford racing clear, but after a poor touch in the box saw keeper Pilkadaris claim the ball. Moments later Pilkadaris produced a stunning save to deny Hobson’s shot from just outside the box, as Olympic pressed. Then on the hour their pressure was rewarded with the lead, Tyler Garner’s cross from the right was only cleared to the edge of the box, and Hobson thundered his half volley into the back of the net.
The hosts added a third, three minutes later. Aryn Williams’ ball over the top wasn’t dealt with by Dianella, and Bafford nipped in brought the ball down neatly and finished low past Pilkadaris, for his first goal of the season. The Green Machine went looking for more and Noah Ieraci saw his shot flash inches wide, before Boland’s effort was ruled out for offside. Dianella did have their moments, Noah Shamaki’s cross finding fellow substitute Hugo Snowden, but he fired straight at Sinagra.
But it was Olympic creating the better chances, and moments after coming off the bench Rob Harker’s curling effort from the edge of the box crashed off the post. Restrepo was denied a late consolation goal late in the game, Sinagra making a smart save. Olympic had another goal disallowed for offside, Harker this time denied, before the lively Ieraci fired into the side netting in stoppage time, after being picked out by Harker. But it was the home fans celebrating at the final whistle, the win moving to the top of the table, on goal difference ahead of Perth RedStar who play today – Footballwa – Man of the Match: Joe Hobson (Olympic Kingsway)
Olympic Kingsway: GK Adrian Sinagra, 4 Ollie Annis, 6 Aryn Williams, 7 Tyler Garner, 9 Joe Hobson, 10 Liam Boland, 11 Bryce Bafford (45 Rob Harker 63’), 11 Noah Ieraci, 16 Jonathon Leithead (2 Samuel Kamper 61’), 18 Reegan Mimnaugh (3 Harley Orr 63’), 19 Jack Clisby - Subs not used: RGK Kaveen Waran, 12 William Ferson, 13 Ali Mohamed, 20 Luka Harvey,
Dianella White Eagles: GK Peter Pilkadaris, 2 Lachlan Collins, 4 Christopher Saldaris (19 Noah Shamaki 67’), 5 Franc Gamiz Quer, 7 George Ballah, 9 Ben Hinshelwood (12 Hugo Snowden 61’), 10 Miguel Restrepo, 11 Daniel Zivkovic, 20 Andrew Palmer, 21 Purvish Appadoo (14 Kieran Colwell 46’), 23 Kristian Despotovski (16 Jake Pullella 76’) – Subs not used: RGK Nikola Ergic, 13 Alfred Guya, 18 Event Kadenge - Red Card: Ballah 45’ – Referee: Liam Barclay
29.5.2026
KALAMUNDA DOWN WEMBLEY
Kalamunda City have moved to fifth on the State League Division Two table, after a brace from Angel Andres has given them a 2-0 win against Wembley Downs in the opening Week Nine game at Butlers Reserve on Friday evening. “Kris (Usedo) and I thought it was a really pleasing performance and an important response from the group after a couple of disappointing weeks,” Kalamunda coach Kyle Robertson said. “One of the biggest challenges for us this season has been consistency. We have shown on a number of occasions that we are capable of competing with anyone in the league, but our focus has been on producing those performances more regularly.”
“We knew tonight was going to be a challenge, and Luke (Thompson) had been keeping a close eye on our last two games. Because of that, we knew exactly what we needed to improve this week to give ourselves a real chance of picking up all three points. What was most pleasing against Wembley wasn’t just the result, it was the way the group went about it. We were disciplined, organised and worked hard for each other for the full 90 minutes. There was a real team-first mentality and a willingness to fight for one another, which has been a key focus for us this week. We’ll enjoy the win because the players have earned that, but our focus has already shifted to next weekend. The challenge now is to back this performance up and continue building the consistency that we know will be important if we want to achieve our goals this season.”
The visitors found the opening goal just after the half hour mark, Kalamunda forced a turnover out wide, allowing Kalamunda to regain possession in a dangerous area. Issac Spencer then showed great composure to pick out a switch to Lorran de Almeida, who quickly played in Thang Sangpichung, and he found Andres, who took it between two defenders before calmly finishing past Casey Robertson. They sealed the points ten minutes into the second half. great work by De Almeida, saw him drive into the box, but he was brought down by Robertson, and the referee pointed to the spot. Andres, who missed a penalty last week, stepped up and made no mistake from the resulting spot kick.
“It was also great to see Angel back to his best, scoring both goals and showing the quality, we know he possesses,” Robertson added. “Unfortunately for us, but deservedly for him, Angel heads away next week to represent Australia at the Masters Championships. He will be a big loss over the next couple of weeks, but it also creates an opportunity for others to step up and make their mark.” It was a second clean sheet of the season for Kalamunda, and the coach said it was an important defensive performance, and he was pleased for stand-in skipper Jake Marley-Orr. “A special mention must go to Jake, who wore the captain’s armband for Kalamunda’s first team for the first time. Jake is a player the club thinks very highly of,” he explained.
“He is always one of the first to put his hand up to help, whether that’s around the club or coaching our younger players. So many of our young stars look up to him, and I thought he took the responsibility in his stride and elevated his performance to another level. That said, that’s where it started. Every player out on the pitch last night was outstanding, and the players coming off the bench played an equally important role in helping the team see out the result.” It was a fourth win on the road for Kalamunda this season, while it was a second home loss for Wembley, who remain third.
29.5.2026
BELT-UP AMATEUR LEAGUE CUP – ROUND THREE PREVIEW
The Belt-Up Amateur League Cup third round will be completed on Sunday afternoon, with all games kicking off at 2:30. We have an all-Premier Division tie, with Maccabi hosting Noranda Emerald at Maccabean Memorial Oval, while the other Premier clubs take on lower opposition. First up, Division One Perth AFC, who also caused an upset in the last round, beating Jaguar 5-0, host Kelmscott Roos at Len Peckham Park. AFC coach Nathan Thorp said they are looking forward to the challenge, and look to continue their solid start to the season.
“Yes, we are reasonably happy with the start to the season in terms of our league form and standings, three wins from five is a good base and something to build on,” he said. “We were pleased with our last cup win, Jaguar were a tricky outfit, but we managed to keep them at bay and fully deserved the 5-0 win. After the loss last week against Ellenbrook, the message to the lads is clear, we will be looking for a reaction to that performance against a strong established Kelmscott side, who’ve got some real tricky players at their disposal so we will need to be on it defensively.”
Kelmscott have gone five games unbeaten in the league, and beat Bassendean Caledonian in the last round of the cup, and keeper Taylor Warwick said Sunday will be another tough challenge. “The cup fixtures always present a different challenge, and we always seem to draw Perth AFC so it’s an exciting game, one that we are looking forward to,” he said. “AFC always present a different challenge and are always hungry when they play us. We have trained well this week and the team are looking forward to the game. Hopefully the weather is kind to us and we can produce another good game and keep our confidence going.”
In the other ties, North Perth United host Swan Valley at Woodville Reserve, Kingsley Westside makes the trip to Shelvock Park to take on Westnam United. Kingsley coach Simone Sichel said they are looking to get back to winnings ways, but he knows cup football is a challenge. “We’re coming off two losses against the top two teams in the league, but there were plenty of positives to take from those games. We learned that we can compete with anyone when we’re at our best,” he said.
“Our focus now is making sure we stay switched on for the full 95 minutes. We’re still having moments where lapses in concentration and small mistakes cost us, so the goal is to keep reducing those week by week and continue improving as a group. We know Westnam will be up for it, and we’re looking forward to the challenge.” In the other games, Hamersley Rovers entertains Southern Spirit at Carine Open space, Division Three Chipolopolo FC welcome Bayswater City to Camberwell Park, while Division Two leaders East Perth host Cracovia at Cabrini Park.
29.5.2026
WANNEROO END BELMONT’S AMATEUR CUP RUN
It’s the third round of the Amateur League Cup this weekend, and it all started on Thursday evening with Premier Division leaders Wanneroo City beating Division Two joint leaders Belmont City 6-1 at the Gerry Archer Sports Complex. “It was good win, especially we conceded in the first two minutes which was a bit disappointing,” Wanneroo coach Jason Winter explained. “But the boys settled after that and started to play our way and stayed on the ball a bit more, and some of the goals were great to see, with stuff we have been working on regularly. It was also great that we had five different scores on the night which is really pleasing.”
The hosts, who produced a huge shock in the last round, beating Swan United at the same venue, made the best possible start with Luan Pereira scoring past Cian Flynn. But Wanneroo were level on 11 minutes, a great ball from Alan Reid found Ross Buckley, who made no mistake. The visitors hit the front six minutes later, Jordan Cook finding Loris Tommolini who finished past Zachary Swinton. It was 3-1 five minutes from time, with Kane Finch converting from the spot.
The hosts pressed late in the half to get back into the game, but their chances of a comeback were halted when Heitor Silva was sent off. Wanneroo made their numerical advantage count after the break and it was 4-1 five minutes in, with Robbie Sallie’s bullet header from a corner. Ollie Bradley made it five shortly after, again after good work by Reidy, and they wrapped you the scoring ten minutes from time, a great run by Ben Toms ended with Buckley added his second. The hosts ended the game with nine with Andre D’Ippolito sent off late.
Belmont coach Jordi Atienza said the sending offs definitely changed the game. “It was a challenging game, and Wanneroo are a very good side with an excellent coaching staff behind the group. The match was highly competitive and very well contested up until the 1–3 scoreline,” he explained. “But the game changed significantly after the situation with the red cards, where things became difficult to manage and the rhythm of the contest broke down. Up until that point, it had been a very competitive game between two committed teams.
“Credit to Wanneroo — they are a solid, consistent and very well-organised side. They remain focused throughout the entire match, defend their structure extremely well and are difficult to break down. I believe they will achieve very good things this season. We started strongly and managed to score first, but they responded very well, showing attacking intent, constant movement and good intensity throughout the game. For us, there are important lessons to take from the match, and we will continue working to improve and grow as a team.”
29.5.2026
SKIPPER RE-SIGNS FOR GLORY
Perth Glory skipper Adam Taggart will remain at the club next season, after he said a one-year contract extension. The 32-year-old former ECU Joondalup junior, became the club’s all-time record A-League goalscorer last season as he took his tally to 61. In his three stints at the club, he was played 113 A-League games, and is now sixth on Glory’s all-time record A-League appearances list and is a two-time Most Glorious Player Award winner.
Taggart has also played for Newcastle Jets and Brisbane Roar in the A-League, before signing for English club Fulham in 2014. But injuries curtailed his appearances for the Cravan Cottage club, and he went out on loan to Dundee United, before returning to Glory in 2026. He then headed to South Korean side Suwon Bluewings in 2019, before joining Japanese club Cerezo Osaka, before returning for a third stint at Glory in 2022. He has also played 22 times for the Socceroos, his last appearance was at HBF Park against Palestine in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier, with Taggart scoring in the 5-0 win.
Glory Football Director Stan Lazaridis believes Taggart will be a key figure once again in the upcoming A-League season. "Taggs has already firmly established himself as a true Glory great," he said. "A natural finisher who can score all kinds of goals, he is a constant threat in the final third and his career record of a goal basically every other game places him right up there with the very best. We know how much Perth Glory means to Taggs, how he went from supporting the club as a boy to becoming its captain and record A-League scorer and we know how desperate he is to see it achieve the ultimate success. It’s great to have him on board again for what is a very exciting season ahead."
29.5.2026
FOOTBALL IS MORE THAN A GAME
Last week, Bayswater City President Oriano Colli was awarded Life Membership of Football West after all his hard work in WA football was recognised by his peers, showing that football is more than a game. Colli said he was surprised by the nomination but honoured to receive it. “I’m incredibly humbled and honoured to receive Football West Life Membership. To be recognised by the game in Western Australia after so many years involved means a great deal to me,” Colli said. “Football has been a massive part of my life since I was a kid, so this recognition is something I’m very proud of — not just personally, but for my family, my club and all the people I’ve shared the journey with over the years.”
Football has been a family affair in the Colli household, and Oriano said his father introduced him to the world game after arriving in Australia, and taught him that hard work will take you a long way in football and in life. “A big influence on me was my father. As a hardworking migrant, he taught me what sacrifice truly meant. He worked incredibly hard and gave everything for the benefit of our family, always putting others before himself,” he explained. “Watching the sacrifices he made, the work ethic he carried and the values he lived by had a huge impact on the person I became. A lot of the commitment, resilience and loyalty I bring to football and leadership comes from the example he set for me growing up.”
Former Bayswater President Gerry Maio, who passed away in 2021, would have been looking down with pride after the club’s success in the NPL and Australian Championships last season, and Colli said he was a great mentor. “Gerry definitely also had a huge influence on me. Gerry was a force of nature and one of the great football people in WA, and someone I had enormous respect for,” Colli explained. “He dedicated his life to Bayswater City and taught me so much about passion, loyalty, resilience and what it truly means to serve a football club. Gerry cared deeply about people and community, and he always put the club first. I was fortunate to work alongside him for many years, and I know he would have been proud of what the club achieved last season, both in the NPL and nationally. His legacy still drives a lot of what we do at Bayswater today.”
Colli was a talented player and played in the Premier League with a number of clubs. He also represented the state and has made many friends along the way. “As mentioned before, football has always been a huge part of my life and my family. I started as a junior at Perth Azzurri before going on to play senior football at Perth SC and Bayswater City, as well as Kingsway Olympic, while also representing WA at junior and senior level and being part of the Australian Schoolboys setup,” he said. “The game has given me lifelong friendships, incredible memories and many opportunities, and it’s something that has always been deeply connected to our family and community culture.”
He was the first to admit it’s not a one-man show, and his hardworking committee at Frank Drago Reserve has been outstanding in building the club’s success during his tenure. “I’m very proud of what Bayswater City has become, but no club achieves success because of one person. We have an incredible committee, volunteers, coaches, sponsors and supporters who work tirelessly behind the scenes,” he explained. “The club has grown enormously both on and off the field, and that comes from years of hard work from many passionate people. I’m lucky to work alongside a committed group that genuinely loves the club and wants to see it continue to grow and succeed.”
Being a president is also a full-time job, alongside his other employment, and Colli said his family has been extremely supportive of his endeavours. “Yes, being a president is definitely a full-time role on top of business and family commitments, and there’s no way I could do it without the support of my beautiful wife and family,” he said. “They sacrifice a lot of time with me and have always backed my passion for football and the club. I’m also fortunate to work with great people in business who support and understand the commitment involved. Football administration at this level can be demanding, but when you love the game and the community around it, it becomes something you’re passionate about giving your time to.” From everyone at Footballwa - Congratulations to Oriano and the other three new life members - Conor O’Brien, Paul Afkos and Carl Duxbury.
29.5.2026
SON OF A GUN BACK FOR MORE GLORY
Many Perth Glory supporters remember the exploits of striker Bobby Despotovski in the NSL, with the striker scoring some memorable goals as Glory won two NSL titles during his 240-plus games across two spells at the club. Now his son, Sebastian, is following in his father’s footsteps in his professional career after signing a two-year contract with the A-League club following a stellar first full season, which will keep him at the club until June 2028. The 20-year-old, who made his debut against Wellington Phoenix in 2025, was a regular member of the side this season, making 18 appearances and bagging his first goal for the club against Western Sydney Wanderers in Round Seven. He also scored a stunner in the final game of the season to secure a 2-1 win against Brisbane Roar, taking his tally to three goals in his debut season.
Despotovski, who played for Inglewood United and Bayswater City in his junior days before going on to star for Glory in the NPL, said he is delighted to sign for the club and hopes to build on last season. “I’m very grateful the club has trusted me and given me a contract extension. It’s a proud moment for me and my family, and it shows the club has faith in me. I just can’t wait to get cracking again,” he said. “In my first season in the A-League, I was very happy with how it went and with the minutes I managed during the season. I’m grateful to the club and Adam Griffiths for giving me this opportunity. I learnt a lot in my first season and I’ll be looking to come back stronger next season.”
Glory Football Director Stan Lazaridis believes Sebastian has a very bright future ahead of him. “Seb is a naturally talented footballer who can influence the game from a number of positions,” he said. “He brings the kind of creative flair that our members and fans love to see, and it was great to see him step up and showcase his skills regularly in the A-League this season. Like all our young players, he still has plenty to learn, but there is no doubt in my mind that he has a very high ceiling and we’re really excited to watch his development continue over the next couple of years.”
29.5.2026
GULLS HOST BAYSWATER AT PERCY DOYLE – NPLWA WEEK TWELVE PREVIEW.
With half the season gone in the New Balance NPLWA - Men’s competition, Perth RedStar leads the way, Callum Salmon’s side sitting three points clear of Olympic Kingsway, while Bayswater City and Western Knights round out the top four. At the other end, Armadale sit bottom of the table, with Balcatta Etna just above them, while teams from fifth to tenth are within six points of the four, so it’s going to be a tight second half of the season. Our Week Twelve ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to Percy Doyle Reserve, where seventh placed Sorrento welcome Bayswater City. (All games kick off at 3:00pm, unless stated)
The Gulls went on a four-game winning run recently, but have lost the last three, the latest a home defeat against Olympic. Meanwhile Bayswater went on a four-game run without a win earlier in the season, but bounced back with four straight wins. That ended against Glory in week ten in Albany, but they bounced back to beat Stirling last week, so both sides will be desperate for the three points, so it sets up an enthralling encounter. The last time they meet in the league at the venue was in week twelve last season, when Bayswater returned home with all three points after a 4-2 win.
Bayswater were ahead on 16 minutes, Cameron Teece was brought down in the box by Neil Kilkenny, and Pat Loughrey converted from the spot. The visitors took control and added a second 12 minutes later, Sean McManus inch perfect lob beating David Keenan. It was 3-0 on the half hour, Thomas Southgate heading home Declan Hughes’ corner, to send Bayswater into the break with a commanding lead. It got worse for the hosts early in the second half, McManus’ cross was only cleared as far as former Gulls striker Chris Jackson, who fired home to make it 4-0. Sorrento pulled one back 18 minutes from time, joey O’Brien’s shot back-heeled home by Scott Robertson, and Phoenix Lee headed home a second from close-range, but it was too little too late for the hosts.
Bayswater coach Matthew Sparrow has been pleased with their first half of the season, but he knows there is improvement in them. “I think overall we’ve had a positive first half of the season. We’ve shown great character in a lot of games, especially the number of times we’ve come from behind to pick up results,” Sparrow explained. “We probably haven’t always been at our best performance-wise, but the mentality and belief within the group have been excellent and that’s kept us in a strong position near the top of the table. There’s still plenty we can improve on, which is exciting, but the lads have worked extremely hard and put us in a good position heading into the second half of the season.”
The loss of Sean McManus for the season is a massive blow for Bayswater, but Sparrow said it gives someone else in their squad the opportunity to impress. “Sean is a massive loss for us both on and off the pitch. His energy, pace and work rate have been outstanding and he was having a terrific season. Naturally everyone at the club is gutted for him,” he said. “But football moves quickly and injuries always create opportunities for others. We’ve got a good group and now it’s up to someone else to step in, take their chance and help the team continue moving forward. Sean will still play a big part around the group because he’s a fantastic character.”
Sparrow, who played for the Gulls in 2016, said a trip to Percy Doyle – aka ‘Windy Hill, is always difficult, and he’s expecting that again on Saturday. “Sorrento away is always a tough game regardless of form. They’ve got good players, plenty of experience and they’ll be desperate to respond after a few disappointing results, so we know we’ll need to be at our best,” he said. “I’m expecting a really competitive game and we’ll have to match their intensity from the first minute. We’re looking forward to the challenge and hopefully we can continue building momentum.”
Sorrento coach Andres Oliveira said the result last week against Olympic was disappointing, but there have seen some good signs so far this season. “My honest opinion sitting eighth at the halfway point is a big accomplish from where we were from the beginning. We had only had 9-11 players available from preseason to fifth game of the season, so we have come along way,” he explained. “We’ve had strong performances, we’ve taken points off good sides, but we’ve also let opportunities slip.
“The important thing is that the group stays connected and keeps improving. The 4 -1 defeat to Olympic, we were disappointed with the result, no question. Conceding four at home isn’t reflective of the standards we set for ourselves. Olympic were sharper in key moments, and at this level you get punished for that. What matters now is how we respond on Saturday.”.
Oliveira said they are looking forward to Saturday’s game, and hoping to bounce back, but he knows the visitors are a side in good form. “Bayswater have found form and confidence, and they're a side with quality all over the pitch, for us, it’s a great opportunity to show our character after last week,” he said. “We know what the game will demand in intensity, discipline, and a willingness to compete for 90 minutes. If we bring our best version, we can cause problems and make it a proper contest.”
The round begins on Friday evening, when Richard Garcia takes control of his first home game as coach at Olympic Kingsway, along with new assistant coach Neil Kilkenny, when they welcome Dianella White Eagles to the Madman Stadium, Kingsway Reserve. (7:00pm) in the Saturday games, league leaders Perth RedStar make the trip to Hilton Park to take on Fremantle City, who are unbeaten in their last three games, while fourth placed Western Knights entertain Perth Azzurri at Nash Field. It’s a local derby at Macedonia Park, where Stirling Macedonia host Balcatta Etna, while in the final game Perth Glory make the trip to Alfred Skeet Reserve to take in Armadale.
29.5.2026
NICOLAOU TAKES HIS COCKBURN SIDE TO INGLEWOOD – DIVISION ONE WEEK TEN PREVIEW
We head to the Proto DPS Inglewood Stadium for our Week Ten State League Division One’ Match of the Round’, as Inglewood United entertains Cockburn City. (All games kick off at 3:00pm) The visitors will have a new coach in the dugout, with Terry Nicolaou taking over from Ken Palmer, who left his role earlier in the month. The Cockerels are coming off a hard-earned point against league leaders Floreat Athena last week to sit in tenth on the ladder, while Inglewood bounced back from defeat against Quinns in week eight, with a win at Joondalup City last week, to move to eighth.
With only two points separating the two sides on the ladder, it should be a great contest, as both sides look to kick start their seasons. The last time the two sides met in the league at the venue, was in 2023 in the NPL, when United won 1-0. 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.
Nicolaou was in the stands last week, with Paulo Basto and Sam Hutchings coaching the side, who are both still involved with the first team coaching panel, and Basto said it was a good show to put on for the incoming coach. “Yes, definitely it was a hard-fought game against a strong Floreat side, he said. “But I thought the group showed great discipline and commitment defensively, and overall, we were pleased to come away with a point against the league leaders,” he said. “Inglewood will be a tough challenge, especially coming off a strong result last week. We’re expecting a competitive game and will need to be fully focused and prepared to get a positive outcome.”
For the new coach, who will have a new assistant in his coaching panel, with former Forrestfield coach Daryl Platten coming on board, and Nicolaou said he can’t wait to get started. “This is a new chapter for the Cockburn City SC, myself and our coaching staff with a clear direction, a new environment, and a young and talented squad hungry to prove themselves,’ he said. “Saturday’s fixture against an experienced Inglewood side, especially strong defensively with attacking speed means we must be creative, brave, and purposeful in our game plan, and look to build on the last two competitive games against difficult opposition.
“Our young squad has the energy and ambition, now it’s about applying it with intelligence. This match is another opportunity for players to show they belong in this new Cockburn environment. We will encourage players to be proactive, take ownership, and secure their place in the squad as we build toward the June transfer window and look to strengthen the group even further.”
Inglewood have struggled with consistency this season, but will be buoyed by the win at Joondalup last week, and defender Ciaran Salinger said the win last week had been coming, and it was a 90-minute performance from the side. “Iluka is not an easy place to go, especially with them in good form, but it was a great team performance,” he said “We were happy to get the reward with the three points, and to get a clean sheet was the icing on the cake.”
Salinger knows there is still improvements the side, but getting players back from injury is also key, and one of them Harry Evans bagged the winner at Joondalup after a lengthy layoff. “Yes, getting players back is always a huge boost for the squad, and Harry made an impact last week with his goal, and competition for places drives the standard in training and makes everyone earn their spot,” the defender explained. “We hope the win last week can kick start our season, but it’s good to gain some momentum and take it into Saturday’s game against Cockburn, and push to start winning games and scoring goals.”
In other games this round, league leaders Floreat Athena head down the freeway to the Poolmart Mandurah Stadium, to take on Mandurah City, who are coming off back-to-back wins, while second placed UWA Nedlands take on Subiaco AFC at Rosalie Park. Murdoch University Melville entertain Kingsley Westside at Len Shearer Reserve, while Joondalup City will look to bounce back from defeat last week, when they rake on Curtin University at Green Promo Park, Edinburgh Oval. Meanwhile in the final game, Gwelup Croatia and Quinns will both look to get back in the winner’s circle, when the pair meet at the Crotian Sporting Complex, Wishart Street.
29.5.2026
WEMBLEY HOST KALAMUNDA UNDER LIGHTS ON FRIDAY – DIVISION TWO WEEK NINE PREVIEW
In only their second season in state league football, it’s been a great start for Wembley Downs, and they currently sit third on the table, and they are involved in our week nine State League Division Two ‘Match of the Round’ when they host Kalamunda United at Butlers Reserve on Friday evening. (7:30pm)) it’s the first time the two sides have met in the State League, with the visitors sitting eighth on ladder, and are coming off 1-3 defeat at Ashfield last week, while the hosts came home from Canning with the points after a late goal from Rory Hannon secured a 1-0 win, so Friday night’s game, under lights should be a cracking game.
Wembley striker Toby Robertson, who leads the gold boot race with nine goals this season, said they were fortunate to come home with all three points last week, but they fought it out and were rewarded late, to continue their good start to the season. “Yes, the game against Canning was definitely not our strongest performance of the season, we had some injuries and illness throughout the week and right up until game day that meant we had quite a changed squad. But we managed to grind a win in a game which I think last year we lose,” he explained. “It’s been a positive start to the season for us, and I think that a lot of the work that we did across preseason and throughout our training sessions is paying off.
“A lot of the signings we made have come into the team and have taken us to a new level and added much needed depth. I think our team now is really able to deal with players not being available and I think our position on the ladder shows that, even though we haven’t had some of our key players available for most parts of this season. I think that everyone in the team understands what Luke (Thompson) is asking of us and we are getting results from sticking to his system, no matter what the starting side looks like.”
Robertson, who bagged four in their win against East Perth in week seven, said Kalamunda are a good side, and he is expecting a stern test on Friday. “Looking towards our game against Kalamunda, I know the team and I are really looking forward to it. We have analysed our game from Sunday in a lot of depth and we are keen to get back to the levels we know we can reach,” the striker said. “We want Butlers to be a tough place for every team to come to this season and Friday won’t be any different. These are the games where we can show the competition that we are a contender this season. We know Kalamunda are good team and have started well, but we have shown our best football can match it with anyone.”
Kalamunda keeper Jake Maley-Orr has been in fine form this season, but he was disappointed in their loss at Ashfield, but was impressed with how the hosts played on the day. “Yes, Saturday’s 3-1 loss was obviously a tough one to take, as any defeat is. We created plenty of opportunities in the first half that just didn’t fall our way, and in the second half frustration crept in and gave a well-drilled Ashfield side an opening that they capitalised on,’ he explained. “I know a few of the lads from their squad and they’re a team that works incredibly hard for each other, and they’re definitely a side to keep an eye on this season.”
They sit mid-table at the moment, not bad after playing all their games away from home, but the keeper said they don’t spend much time looking at the ladder, they all believe in the process the coaching staff have implemented. “As a group, we trust the structure and direction Kyle and Kris have put in place, and we believe the results will come,” he explained. “It’s also worth remembering that we haven’t played a home game at Kalamunda all season, so considering that, I think we’ve done well. A huge thank you also goes to our supporters who continue to travel and back us every week - Your support certainly doesn’t go unnoticed. We’re excited to finally begin a run of home fixtures and hopefully turn Maida Vale into a real fortress. I’m sure all the boys would agree when I say we back ourselves against anyone on our home patch.”
Marley-Orr said Friday is another huge test, against a good Wembley side, who have impressive this season, but he can’t wait. “Everyone loves a Friday night game and I’m sure Wembley will be just as excited for it as we are. Full credit to them, they’ve come into the league and made a real impact,” he said. “Their coaching staff clearly prepare thoroughly and have them organised every week. This will actually be my first experience playing against Wembley, so I don’t know a great deal about them personally, but they’re where they are on the table for a reason. That said, we don’t focus too much on what other teams are doing. Our focus is on ourselves, playing good football, working hard for each other, and representing Kalamunda the right way - Bring it on.”
We had a week two catch-up game in midweek, with Carramar Shamrock Rovers moving to second, and maintaining their unbeaten start to the season, after a 1-0 win against East Perth at Wanneroo Reserve. The only goal of the game came early, Wayne Guest on the score sheet again with a close-range header in a very crowded penalty area. “It was a very open game both teams went for the win and thankfully we came away with the three points,” Rovers’ coach Adam Walsh said. “We worked so hard for the whole duration of the game as we know if we let our guard down, we would be punished. They are a good strong side and dangerous at set pieces. I'm delighted for the boys they deserved it for their efforts alone.
“Saturday against Balga at Grandis Park, is another big test as is every game in the league. It's so tight and anyone slips up they get punished. Balga will be ready and have very good movement throughout so their dangerous until full time whistle.” In other games on Saturday, East Perth will look to bounced back, when they travel to Charles Riley Memorial Reserve to take on North Beach, while leaders Rockingham City head to Walter Padbury Reserve, to meet Gosnells City. Ashfield entertain Morley Windmills at the Ashfield Arena, while Canning City welcome Forrestfield United to Burrendah Park.
28.5.2026
CIRCATI RELISHING CHANCE AT WORLD CUP DREAM
Alessandro Circati says the opportunity to represent the Socceroos at next month’s FIFA World Cup would make his “younger self very proud and very content” but admits there is still work to do if he is to realise his dream. The 22-year old joined the Socceroos training camp ahead of their final warm-up match against Mexico on Sunday, before the final 26-man squad for the World Cup is picked just days later.
“(To play at a World Cup is) what I’ve been working for, to make me feel like I’ve achieved something that I’m working for a dream of mine, something which my younger self probably wasn’t even thinking of,” Circati said. “To be able to be in this position to be able to possibly go to one, I think it really makes my younger self very proud and very content. I’m not content with where I am, but I think it’s a nice objective to be able to accomplish.”
Although their opening match against Turkiye is just under two weeks away, Circati said there was still work to be done before the squad is finalised. “It is around the corner. If you start looking at dates and numbers, it is very close,” he said. “But we’ve got these two games now, and obviously the squad hasn’t been selected, so I think the boys are all doing their best to try and get in the squad.”
The Mexico bout is expected to draw a mammoth crowd, with already well over 70,000 tickets sold for the warm-up fixture. The centre-back said an opportunity to play in front of a large crowd was always exciting. “It’s great to hear there are a lot of people, it’s always good fun,” he said. “I think we played against Mexico maybe three years back, in Texas, and I think there was like 95-100,000 people there. So that’s sick, the more people the better.”
27.5.2026
CIRCATI TO REALISE HIS DREAM OF PLAYING AT THE WORLD CUP FINALS
Former Perth Azzurri and Perth Glory defender Alessandro Circati says the opportunity to represent the Socceroos at next month’s FIFA World Cup would make his “younger self very proud and very content” but admits there is still work to do if he is to realise his dream. Circati joined the Socceroos training camp ahead of the side’s final warm-up match against Mexico on Sunday, before the final 26-man squad for the World Cup is picked just days later.
But it was bad news for another former Glory youngster, with Daniel Bennie (QPR) being cut from the squad along with Raphael Borges Rodrigues (Wigan Athletic, on loan from Coventry City), Anthony Caceres (Macarthur FC), Mitch Duke (Macarthur FC), Dylan Leonard (Schalke), Alex Robertson (Cardiff City), Gianni Stensness (Viking) and Ante Suto (Hibernian) have been released from the training camp.
For Circati, the opportunity to represent his nation at soccer’s ultimate showpiece would fulfil a dream that not even his younger self thought possible. “I mean, it’s what I’ve been working for, to make me feel like I’ve achieved something that I’m working for a dream of mine, something which my younger self probably wasn’t even thinking of,” the 22-year-old defender said. ““To be able to be in this position to be able to possibly go to one, I think it really makes my younger self very proud and very content. I’m not content with where I am, but I think it’s a nice objective to be able to accomplish.”
Although their opening match against Turkiye is just under two weeks away, Circati said there was still work to be done before the squad is finalised, with their final friendly game against Mexico on Sunday at 10am (WA Time) at the Rose Bowl, Pasadena, Los Angeles. “It is around the corner. If you start looking at dates and numbers, it is very close,” he said. “But we’ve got these two games now, and obviously the squad hasn’t been selected, so I think the boys are all doing their best to try and get in the squad.”
The Mexico game is expected to draw a mammoth crowd, with already well over 70,000 tickets sold for the warm-up fixture. The Palma central defender said an opportunity to play in front of a large crowd was always exciting. “It’s great to hear there are a lot of people, it’s always good fun,” he said. “I think we played against Mexico maybe three years back, in Texas, and I think there was like 95-100,000 people there. So that’s sick, the more people the better.” The final 26-man Socceroos squad is due to be submitted to FIFA by June 1, and will be made official on June 2 AWST.
26.5.2026
GLORY RE-SIGN SEBASTIAN DESPOTOVSKI ON TWO-YEAR DEAL
Perth Glory have moved to tie-up Sebastian Despotovski by upgrading him to a senior contract after an eye-catching season. The 20-year old, the son of club legend Bobby, has moved on from his scholarship deal and re-committed to Glory on a two-year extension which concludes after the 2027/28 season.
Having made his Glory debut on the final minutes of the 2024/25 season, Despotovski established himself as a first team regular over the recently completed campaign, making 18 appearances in the forward line. Playing as a second striker and occasionally a winger, Despotovski grew in confidence throughout the season and looked more physically comfortable as the campaign progressed, coming into his own late in the year.
While the younger Despotovski has some way to go to catch his dad in terms of games played (241) and goals (a club record 113), Glory director of football Stan Lazaridis said Sebastian had a bright future ahead of him. “Seb is a naturally talented footballer who can influence the game from a number of positions,” he said.
“He brings the kind of creative flair that our members and fans love to see and it was great to see him step up and showcase his skills regularly in the A-League last season. Like all our young players, he still has plenty to learn, but there is no doubt in my mind that he has a very high ceiling and we’re really excited to watch his development continue over the next couple of years.”
26.5.2026
BENNIE RELEASED FROM SOCCEROOS’ CAMP
The World Cup hopes of Daniel Bennie have been dashed after the West Australian attacker was released from the Socceroos’ training camp ahead of the tournament. After impressing at the back-end of the English Championship season with Queens Park Rangers, the versatile 20-year old was among Tony Popovic’s first call-ups as the national side begun their preparations for the tournament in Sarasota, Florida.
But on Tuesday, Bennie was announced among a group of players who had been released from the camp, alongside Mitch Duke, Alex Robertson, Raphael Borges Rodrigues, Anthony Caceres, Dylan Leonard, Gianni Stensness and Ante Suto. Another Perth product in defender Alessandro Circati has linked up with the Socceroos after concluding his domestic season with Parma in Serie A, joining fellow local junior Jacob Italiano.
25.5.2026
DENCH DEPARTS BRISBANE ROAR
Brisbane Roar have confirmed defender Matthew Dench will leave the club at the end of his current contract. The 22-year old joined the A-League club ahead of the 2025/26 season following a successful trial period and made 12 appearances for Brisbane Roar, scoring one goal in that time.
Dench played juniors for ECU Joondalup and spent time with the Perth Glory Academy before joined English club Charlton Athletic, where he continued his development with the Under-21s and gained his first team debut in a 3-0 win against Gillingham in 2022.
24.5.2026
CIRCATI REFLECTS ON FINAL DAY SUCCESS AND A “VERY POSITIVE SEASON”
Australia defender Alessandro Circati has finished his club commitments by helping Parma score a 1-0 win over Sassuolo on the final day of the Serie A season. The three points gained secured Parma 13th position on the table with Circati departing after the game to join the Socceroos pre-World Cup training camp in Sarasota, Florida.
“In the first half, we created several chances in quick succession. Mateo (Pellegrino) then did really well to score in the second half. You don’t necessarily play better with less pressure - on the one hand you’ve got nothing to lose, but on the other you can sometimes lack motivation. From my point of view, every game has to be approached with the desire to win,” Circati said.
“It was lovely to see the fans at the final whistle - a great way to finish in front of them. I’ll go to the World Cup with an even bigger smile thanks to this match. The coach has had a great season and done really well, especially in his first experience as a head coach. He deserves a lot of credit. We went into every game looking to win, knowing every team plays differently, and we always gave everything.”
“Overall, it’s been a very positive season. Our aim was to stay up and we achieved that with four games to spare. I really like the energy in this team - we’ve got plenty of drive and we push ourselves every day. Personally, I’m proud of my season and I’m happy I was able to play consistently after last year’s difficulties.”
24.5.2026
NPL WA – MEN’S WEEK ELEVEN REVIEW
Perth RedStar’s lead at the top of the New Balance NPLWA Men’s table has been reduced to just three points after the Week Eleven games. RedStar were held to a 1-1 draw by Perth Azzurri on Friday evening, and their nearest challengers Olympic Kingsway and Bayswater City closed the gap after wins on Saturday afternoon. Bayswater City are close on the heels of the top two, after a dramatic last-minute win against a ten-man Stirling Macedonia at Macedonia Park.
“Tremendous win for us and I thought it was fully deserved in the end. Even coming in 1-0 down at half time there was a real belief amongst the group and we felt if we continued to perform the way we know we can, the chances would come,” Bayswater coach Matthew Sparrow said. “I thought the response in the second half was excellent. We showed real character, intensity and quality at important moments and scored two very good goals to turn the game around.”
The hosts found the opener four minutes from the break, a long clearance from Nick Speca wasn’t dealt with and Callum McKenzie found Pacifique Dufitimukiza, who’s through sent Alex Tanevski racing into the box and he finished low past Lewis Italiano. Stirling led at the break, but things took a twist for them on 57 minutes when McKenzie was shown a second yellow card after push on Luke Palmateer. It went from bad to worse for Stirling, and 19 minutes later Bayswater substitute Borbor Sam was brought down by Danny Douglas, and referee Shane Skinner pointed straight to the spot.
Declan Hughes stepped up and sent Speca the wrong way from the resulting penalty. It looked like the points would be shared, but deep into stoppage time Matthew Sparrow’s side won it. Hughes’ cross to the back post was nodded back by Palmateer to Jackson Stephens, who played the ball back to the skipper, and his side flew into the corner of the net, to set off wild celebrations on and off the pitch. “Having played three games in seven days, to come away to Stirling and pick up three vital points is a huge credit to the group. The effort, mentality and togetherness they’re showing at the moment has been outstanding,” Sparrow added. “Stirling away is always a difficult place to come so to show that resilience and find a way to win says a lot about this squad. I’m delighted for the players because I felt their attitude and work rate deserved the reward.”
Olympic Kingsway are second, after a 4-1 win against Sorrento at Percy Doyle Reserve. The Gulls went into this one on the back of back-to-back defeats, but they went close to the lead early, Clay Gibbs’ free kick picked out Ryan McLaughlin, but he couldn’t keep his header down. The visitors hit back, Bryce Bafford’s shot flashed across the face of goal, before Scottish midfielder Reegan Mimnaugh effort was pushed around the post by the alert Ben Ratajczak. But the deadlock was broken seven minutes from half time, Mimnaugh was brought down by Will Richards and Liam Boland made no mistake from the spot. The Green Machine doubled their advantage five minutes into the second half, Mitch Oxborrow’s corner finding Aryn Williams, whose glancing header at the near post beat Ratajczak.
The visitors were now in control, and it was 3-0 on 64 minutes, some neat one touch football in the middle of the park ended with Oxborrow who raced into goal and finishing neatly. It looked game over, but the hosts pulled one back 19 minutes from time, Olympic keepers poor touch was pounced on by Gibbs, who won possession and fired home from the angle. But that’s as good as it got for Sorrento, Olympic sealing the points in the final minute, Daniel de Silva’s ball forward, bouncing backwards on the edge of the box, and as Ratajczak came out to head clear, but Boland beat him to the ball to head home.
Fremantle City have moved five points clear of the bottom two, after a thrilling 4-3 win against Perth Glory at Hilton Park, with former Glory Josh Risdon scoring his first goal for Fremantle since his retirement from professional football. “Those were three really crucial points for us. We’ve been playing some really good football this season and it hasn’t always translated into results, but we’re happy with the way we’re playing and we’ll keep sticking to our identity. If we can be a little more ruthless in front of goal, I think we can make a real push towards the top four,” Fremantle’s Chad Nilson explained.
“Josh (Risdon) has also been fantastic since coming in, and he’s one of the humblest blokes I’ve met. He’s been training the house down and putting in strong performances every week. He’s had a huge impact on the squad, so it was great to see him get his first goal for the club.” The hosts hit the front on 11 minutes, former Glory midfielder Cameron Edwards forced the ball forward, and it fell to Nilson on the edge of the box and his shot flew past Jhett Warner. They doubled their lead on the half hour, Charlie Chechlacz’s free kick from out on the left was flicked home by Risdon. But hit back four minutes from half time, Santiago Flores’ cross from the right found Shaun Mutyavaviri, who cleverly hooked the ball over Luke Radonich.
Then in stoppage time, Glory were level. Louis Sollitt sent Mutyavaviri racing clear, and he finished with aplomb over Radonich. Fremantle regained the lead early in the second half, Nick Ambrogio’s cross from the right was headed home by Iljas Ahmedov, despite Warner getting a hand to it. The visitors weren’t finished and restored parity again 15 minutes from time, Fremantle failed to clear their lines, and the ball ended up with Oliver Evans who fired home from the edge of the box. But six minutes later it was Fremantle who won it, Chechlacz/s corner found the unmarked Nilson at the back post, who headed home.
In the final game, the points were shared at Dianella Reserve, after a 2-2 draw between Dianella White Eagles and Armadale. “I thought first half we did everything the coaches asked and limited Dianella to hardly any chances,” Armadale keeper Alfie Brincat said. “But a lack of concentration cost us the first goal inside a few minutes to the start of the second half, but we defended well to hold on to a valuable point.” Armadale opened the scoring on 20 minutes, Lucas Cook finding Leigh Griffiths on the edge of the box, and the Scottish striker sent Will Hayes into the box and he finished low past Joel Driscoll.
But in the first minute of the second half the Eagles were levelled. Miguel Restrepo made space down the right, and his cross was flicked on by Ben Hinshelwood and Asher Nelson headed home at the back post. But on 56 minutes Armadale regained the lead, Abraham Mathet sent Griffiths racing clear, with the Dianella players looking for the offside flag, that never came, and he raced into the box and dinked the ball over the on-coming Driscoll. The home side were back level 12 minutes later, Restrepo winning the ball in the middle of the park and sending substitute Daniel Zivovic clear and he finished clinically past Brincat. “It was a poor start and first half from us, which allowed Armadale into the game,” Dianella keeper Joel Driscoll said. “But second half we turned it around lifted the tempo, dominating large periods, but unfortunately couldn’t find the winner.”
24.5.2026
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE – WEEK NINE REVIEW
Mandurah City have moved up to sixth on the State League Division One table, after a dominant 4-0 win against Quinns at Stylish Park, in our Week Nine ‘Match of the Round’ on Saturday afternoon. “It was a great win away from home from the lads,” Mandurah’s Harry Collins said. “I thought we started the game well and looked promising every time we went forward, also delighted to come home with a clean sheet.” The hosts went into this one after back-to-back wins on the road, and looking for a first win at home for the season, but they found themselves behind after only nine minutes, Lachlan Hannah converting a cross from the left from Sam Lovell.
Quinns looked to hit back, but couldn’t find away through a tight Mandurah defence, and on 63 minutes it was the Dolphins who doubled their advantage. Kristers Zaluzinskis cutting the ball back for Jordan Callaghan, who made no mistake. They made it 3-0 five minutes later, Daniel O’Donovan was caught in possession by Callaghan, who fed Gian Zupanov and he raced into goal and finished low past James Bosdet. They sealed the points two minutes later, with the goal of the game, Charlie Breen finding Callaghan on the edge of the box, he cut around his marker before firing home superbly.
In other games, league leaders Floreat Athena were held to a 0-0 draw by Cockburn City at Dalmatinac Park. With new coach Terry Nicolaou watching from the stands, it was a solid point for the Cockerels, while Athena had their lead at the top cut to five points. “With the new coach starting on Tuesday, it was a good performance, and it was a tight game,” Cockburn skipper Euen Grant said. “Floreat maybe had more possession but I thought we dealt well with all that they had to offer and had a few chances for ourselves on the transition. They had a chance right at the end, but luck was on our side and I think a draw was fair result at the end of the day.”
Second placed Kingsley Westside have come from behind to beat Gwelup Croatia 2-1 at the Croatian Sporting Complex, Wishart Street. “Very pleased to get back to winning ways,” Kingsley coach Ben Andrews said. “There wasn’t much in the first half with a silly penalty the difference between the two teams. Getting to half time allowed us to adjust a couple of things which the players responded to well and the lads showed their intent right from the start. We had 11 really good opportunities to kill the game off, which is something we’ll look to improve on. But overall, we are comfortable with the performance and happy with the points.”
It was the hosts who were ahead at the break, after Jeremie Mba was brought down in the box by Raeez Pandor, and the referee pointed straight to the spot. Mba picked himself up and sent Mason Stickels the wrong way from the resulting penalty. But four minutes into the second half Gwelup were reduced to ten men, with Jack Overy deemed to be the last man after bringing down Max Adamson on the edge of the box. Kingsley made their numerical advantage count and drew level on 74 minutes, Adamson firing home from the edge of the box. Then seven minutes from time they won it, Jamie Gardiner’s corner from the left was flicked on at the front post and Jack Roberts turned the ball home at the back post.
Inglewood United have secured their third win of the season, after a 1-0 win against third placed Joondalup City at Iluka Park. “Yesterday was a great result for us, Joondalup City away is one of the toughest away games in the league and they play their pitch well and have a decent side. I thought we were solid for the whole 90 minutes, and everyone played their part from start to finish to get the job done,” the returning Harry Evans explained. “Personally, it’s been a frustrating 12 months watching from the sidelines through injury, so to start the game and score the winner made it even better.” The only goal of the game came on six minutes, Jordan Brown finding Evans in the middle of the park, and no one closed him down, and the midfielder drove forward before finding the bottom corner from distance, before celebrating with his teammates.”
UWA Nedlands have kept the pressure on the leaders, after a 3-0 win against Murdoch University Melville at the UWA Sports Park. “A great response from the boys this week, with a strong 3-0 win against a well-structured and talented Murdoch side,” UWA’s Seb Hooshangian said. “After the tough result against Mandurah last week, the boys showed great character to bounce back, with a solid performance and clean sheet. We’ll continue to take it one game at a time, with full attention now turning to Subiaco next week.”
Nicholas Falco opened the scoring for the hosts just after the half hour, his effort from the edge of the area took a deflection and looped up and over Duncan Lennon-Black and into the net. They doubled their lead early in the second half, Lewis Nohar’s cross was headed home by Joe McInnes, his eleventh goal of the season. They sealed the points in stoppage time with a third, Luke Salas beating the offside trap, before finishing clinically across Lennon-Black.
In the final game, Curtin University have moved off the bottom of the table after a 2-0 win against Subiaco AFC at Rosalie Park. “It was a good result for us, especially after a big week, and playing midweek,” Curtin coach Troy Reid said. “I thought we controlled the game, and a fantastic strike from Dane Meerally set us up for a deserved three points.” The visitors made a strong start and were ahead on 19 minutes, Meerally’s long-range strike flew into the net. They scored the second to take the points just past the hour, Jude Baillie’s free-kick was saved by Max Winton, and Declan Tanna was quickest to the rebound to score.
24.5.2026
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO – WEEK EIGHT REVIEW
Our Week Eight State League Division Two ‘Match of the Round’ was a tight affair, with Morley Windmills beating Balga AFC 2-1 and in doing so claiming the ‘John Aufdemkampe Trophy in the local derby at Wotton Reserve. “It was a typical derby, and the game was a feisty affair, with the majority of the game being contested in the middle third,” Morley coach John O’Reilly said. “But overall, I was happy with how the lads defended today, and we were clinical with our two main chances.”
Morley found the opener on 14 minutes, Gabriel Vasques playing a neat through ball to Amir Ajan, and the former Armadale and Perth Azzurri midfielder raced into goal and lob the oncoming Balga keeper Noah Boulaye. It was 2-0 early in the second half, the lively Ajan finding space on the left, before cutting into the box and finishing low past Boulaye. Balga found a lifeline 18 minutes from time, a corner wasn’t dealt with, and in the goalmouth scramble substitute Martin Torres turned the ball home. The visitors pressed for the equaliser, but Morley stood firm to take out the points.
League leaders Rockingham City were too strong for North Beach, running out 4-0 winners at The Endeavor Homes Stadium, Larkhill Sportsplex. “I thought it was a professional performance today, and we got the job done,” Rockingham’s Graham Tough said. “We were made to work for our goals in the first half, while we controlled the most part and defended well as a team when they had their moments in the game. “We wanted to bounce back after last week's defeat and our narrow loss midweek in the cup and we done that this weekend. Big week on the training pitch and get ready for another tough game away from home to Gosnells.”
Rockingham were ahead on 22 minutes, with Mitch Fooley finishing neatly, and the striker was in again in the shadows of half time, to send the hosts into the sheds two too the good. Coach Matthew Brook made a couple of changes in the second half, and they finished well, adding two more late. One of the substitutes Tom Kinnane added a third eight minutes from time, before he completed the scoring two minutes later.
Carramar Shamrock Rovers have lost ground on the leaders, after they were held to a 1-1 draw by Gosnells City at Grandis Park. The visitors have struggled this season, and found themselves behind early, with Wayne Guest scoring. But Gosnells hit back and levelled just before the hour mark, with skipper Aaron Coslini on target. Both sides had chances to win, with Gosnells probably left disappointed they didn’t leave with all three points.
“Full credit to the lads today, we knew going away to the unbeaten Rovers was going to be tough, and going 1-0 down made it even harder,” Gosnells coach Peter Allan said. “But our second half performance was brilliant, the lads put in one hell of a shift and threw everything at it, the skipper really ignited us and lads can feel hard done by not to get all three points after dominating the last half hour.”
It was a special day at Luxwin Stadium, Hartfield Park when they held the Scarlett’s Memorial Day, in memory of young Scarlett Oliver who sadly passed away last year with cancer. All money raised will go to the WA not for profit charity Kids Cancer Support Group with proceeds going towards supporting kids and families affected by cancer. On the day Forrestfield United turned on the style, beating East Perth 4-2.
“It was a big game for the club with it being the Scarlett Memorial game/supporting kids with Cancer event, and our coach Eddie ensured everyone was up for it. It was always going to be a challenging game against a strong opposition in East Perth FC, but I thought the boys stuck to the game plan well, and all went in knowing that anything short of three points is not acceptable,” Forrestfield’s Luqman Sayyed explained. “It felt good to get the back-to-back wins, with a more consistent defensive performance and even better attacking performance as we actually took more of our chances this time.
“We will look to keep on building momentum while still taking it one game at a time. However, there is still a lot of room for improvements, despite playing some attractive football in patches, still need to build on doing it for longer periods.” Forrestfield started well, and hit the front on ten minutes, a long throw was only cleared to the edge of the box, and Noah Appleby volleyed home. It was 2-0 on the half hour, their high press caused a turn over and Austin Reynolds raced clear, one-on-one with Azarl Tanveer, and finishing neatly.
It was 3-0 on 42 minutes, a quick transition by Emerson Dimattina, saw him find skipper Matt Evan’s on the right, who squared the ball first time to Lucas Reid who finished well. East Perth was back in the game with the last kick of half, with Ryan Murray scoring after a mistake at the back. Forrestfield regained they three goal advantage early in the second half, when a free kick from out wide by Dimattina, was headed back across goal by Nathan Costello, and Shaydon Passalacqua bicycle kick went into the net, despite the efforts of Adam McCarron on the line, before Gerard Clark scored a late consolation for East Perth.
In the final Saturday game, Ashfield have moved up to third after a 3-1 against Kalamunda in the local derby at the Ashfield Arena. “It was a tough game against an experienced and talented side in Kalamunda. We didn’t play well in the first half, but the way we came out in the second half was exceptional,” Ashfield coach Malcom Tshuma explained. “I thought we deserved the win on the balance of play, but as a group we know we have to tidy up a few areas especially with the run of fixtures ahead of us.” It was all-square at the break, but Ashfield burst the game wide open with two early goals in the second half.
First on 51 minutes, Jake Melia whipped in a free kick that was flicked on by Blake Pritchard and Ben Entwistle tucked home from close-range. They added another three minutes later, winning the ball in midfield, and Entwistle released Pritchard through the middle before he calmly slotted past the keeper. Kalamunda halved the deficit 17 minutes from time, with Angel Andres on target. But the hosts sealed the points three minutes from time, a swift counter attack with Jack Kiama in his first game back from injury, found the run of Kian Durant who found the bottom corner. Kalamunda finished the game with ten men, after skipper Nicolas Roca was shown a second yellow card.
The final game was on Sunday, with Wembley Downs beating Canning City 1-0 at Burrendah Park. Wembley coach Luke Thompson said they were very fortunate to come home with the points. “If I’m honest, it was daylight robbery that we won the game, and I feel for Lee and his lads as they played well and stopped us doing what we want to do,” he explained. “But grinding out results when you’re not playing well is sometimes what it’s about, if you want to compete at the top of the league.” The visitors nicked the points in the second minute of stoppage time, a corner from Lachie Chamberlain to the back post, picked out Rory Hannon, who headed it back across the goal and into the net.”
24.5.2026
BELT-UP AMATEUR PREMIER DIVISION – WEEK SEVEN REVIEW
Swan United have kept the pressure on Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division leaders Wanneroo City, after a 3-1 win against Kingsley Westside, in our week seven ‘Match of the Round’ at Chichester Park on Sunday afternoon. A first half goal from John Monterosso set them in their way, before second half goals from Thomas Eddie and skipper Liam Merigan sealed the points, with Craig Richards scoring a late consolation goal for the hosts. “Really pleasing result away against Kingsley, we were well aware how challenging a game it was going to be and their results showing to be a very difficult side to beat,” Merigan said. “It was great for us to show such a disciplined performance, and get the three points and continue the momentum of winning games.”
The visitors were ahead on four minutes, a through ball behind the defence by Merigan sent Monterosso clear, and he finished with aplomb over the on-coming keeper. They doubled their advantage on the hour, a corner was only cleared to the edge of the box, and it fell to Eddie, finished clinically into the top corner of the net. The points were sealed with a third ten minutes from time, a mistake by the keeper, playing out from the back that was cut out by Merigan, who made no mistake. “I thought we started well and scored early which was the perfect start for us, Kingsley gave us some problems and grew as the half went on but our second half performance was much better and we were a lot more threatening so it was good to add more goals,” Swan coach Lee Taylor explained. “A little disappointing to concede late on, but the most important thing was to come away with three points especially with the other sides around us continuing to win each week.”
The round started on Saturday evening, with league leaders Wanneroo City consolidated their lead at the top, after a 4-1 win against Maccabi at Players Place, Wanneroo Reserve. “It was a professional performance from the boys against good Maccabi side, an early goal is always nice and helped us get into our rhythm,” Wanneroo’s Alan Reidy said. “It could have been more, but Maccabi’s keeper Steven Kaye made some really good saves during the match, one from Ross Buckley in the first half and one from myself in the second.” Wanneroo made the breakthrough early, some nice link up play between Jordan cook and Loris Tommolini from a corner, which was only cleared to Sam Gammack on the edge of box who took it on his chest and volleyed home.
It was 2-0 on 34 minutes, a ball over the top by Zak Thomas to Reidy, who cut inside his marker, but Kaye made a good save, but Buckley was first to it and squared it back to Reidy who finished from close-range. They added a third before the break, a good run through the middle by Tommolini who squared it to Thierry Berard to finish. It was 4-0 midway through the second half, Ollie Bradley who was pulled down in the box, and Kane Fitch made no mistake from the resulting penalty. Maccabi scored a consolation goal seven minutes from time, with Dion Berman lobbing keeper Cian Flynn from distance.
North Perth United sit third, this after a hard fought 2-0 win against Kwinana United at Woodville Reserve. Coach Chris Batten said it was a good all-round performance. “We knew Kwinana were going to be a well organised side and they set up exactly how we thought,” he said. “We had a very strong squad to pick from and started the game very well on the front foot, we created numerous chances from free kicks and corners but were frustrated with some great defending and goalkeeping. Eventually the pressure paid off, and we scored a couple of good goals, and I thought from then on, we dominated most of the play and saw out which was in the end, a comfortable win.”
After being denied by a hard-working Kwinana for most of the first half, the hosts found the opener in the shadows of half time. A corner from Connor Hartley set up Tom Flowler, who dropped the shoulder and placed the ball into the corner of the net, to send North Perth into the sheds with the lead. Then early in the second half they doubled their lead, with one of the goals of the season. Barry Boggan battled for the ball in the middle of the park who then knocked it into the direction of Micky Brennan, the winger looked up and fired a thunderous volley from way out, which flew into the top right corner of the net, and the large crowd behind the goals were in total disbelief of the finish.
Hamersley Rovers have returned from the Noranda Sporting Complex with all three points after a 2-0 win against Noranda Emerald and in doing so handed the hosts first defeat on home soil this season. “Getting three points is always very pleasing, especially away from home,” Rovers’ coach Antony Benetti said. “They are a very good side, that is well drilled and have genuine qualities. We were disappointed with the second half last week, so we were looking for a far better account of ourselves and we got it today.
“I thought the game was very even so it was great to see we took our chances and at the same time were resolute defensively. All in all, an important win and something we want to continue building on.” Rovers were ahead just before the break, Toby Kynaston’s perfectly weighted cross from the right and across the box to Callum Duguid, who rounded the goalkeeper, but his shot was well blocked on the line, but the rebound fell to Ryan Charles who hammered it home. They sealed the victory ten minutes from time, a cross from the left from Ian McCullagh found the unmarked Aidan Sack, who volleyed into the roof of the net from a tight angle
Kelmscott Roos are up to fourth after a 3-1 win against Jaguar at the Herb Graham Recreation Centre. “It was a tricky game for us, we knew we had to expect a difficult game because Jags are a different side from when we played them in night series,” Kelmscott keeper Taylor Warwick explained. “We had a lot of good opportunities in the first half, but their keeper made some great saves, in the second half we took control early and made our chances count. It was a tough game and Jags didn’t give up, but we got the important win and kept our good momentum going. Onto AFC in the cup next week.”
The visitors made the breakthrough just before the hour, Isaac Koomson picked the ball up on the left, beat his defender and cut the ball back to Ben Bolt who made no mistake, finishing first time. They added a second on 69 minutes, Solomon Finch caught the Jags keeper unaware and blocked his pass out, which rebounded into the net. Jaga were back in the game two minutes later, with Paul Sopp scoring, but that’s as good as it got for the hosts. They were reduced to ten men when John Guya was sent off, and Kelmscott sealed the points in stoppage time, good work by Wellington Muvunduke down the right, ended with a cross to the back post and Amos Doegolia made no mistake.
In the final game Olympic Kingsway have moved five points clear of the bottom two, this after a hard fought 2-1 win against Ballajura AFC at Kingsway Reserve. “It was a nervous first half as both sides didn’t want to concede first. We started well and had a great 15 minutes, but Ballajura finished the half stronger of the two playing some good counter attacking football,” Olympic coach Richard Turvill explained. “After a half time reset and identifying what we needed we went out and had a much stronger second half. The lads were persistent and resilient with what we needed to do to win. It looked like it was going to be a draw but I’m wrapped for Robbie (Butterworth) scoring a last-minute winner and he thoroughly deserved a goal after having a few earlier chances but he didn’t drop his head. The win meant a lot to our group and the hard work we put in this week. everyone played their part in the group on and off the pitch.”
Both sides had chances in an even first half, with both keeper making some good saves, and the hosts had a goal disallowed. But on the hour, it was Olympic who scored the opener. Ben Rooney heading home at the back stick from a short corner that Cole Jones whipped in. But five minutes later Ballajura levelled, after Olympic failed to clear a corner, Lawrence Steel finished. It looked like the points would be shared but in the final minute it was the hosts who won it. Josh Pasco stepped in and cut off a Ballajura pass in the middle of the park, before sending a cross-field ball out to Butterworth, who took on his marker, before finding the bottom corner.
23.5.2026
NPL-WA WOMEN’S WEEK NINE REVIEW - By Tommy Doleman (Football West)
Perth Azzurri are the new leaders of the New Balance NPL WA Women’s competition after a 5-0 win against Subiaco at Rosalie Park. The defending champions are three points clear at the summit after previous pacesetters Balcatta Etna suffered their first loss of the season on Sunday. Tom Glavovic’s side are also the division’s only undefeated team after nine rounds, while Subi stays sixth and are five points off fourth spot. Subiaco had a good chance on the quarter-hour mark when a corner ran to Ana Denona, who forced Dayle Schroeder to help over her own crossbar. Then, with half-time nearing, Jess Flannery beat the offside trap and put Perth in front with a one-on-one finish.
Azzurri put the pedal to the metal in the second period with four more goals seeing them run away convincing winners by the end. Flannery latched onto another Ruby Marshall pass through the middle six minutes after the restart to double her and Perth’s tally. Subiaco were unable to deal with simple straight balls and they paid the price again as Daisy McAllister opened her account for the campaign after breaking beyond the home defence. Then it was Charli Wainwright’s turn to bag her first of the season after rolling in when a high ball into the box broke her way. Matilda Bohm headed in Tegan Attree’s corner late on to wrap up the victory and make it back-to-back away wins for the holders.
Perth RedStar have secured a 2-0 win at the Home Group Stadium, Grindleford Reserve, to knock league leaders Balcatta Etna off the top of the table. A goal in each half got the job done as Conrad McKelvie remained unbeaten since replacing Chris Atturo as head coach earlier this month. The opener came on 27 minutes when Etna failed to clear a corner and Jay Coleman arrived on the edge of the box to fire home.
Caitlin Doeglas had a great chance to level against her former team late in the half, charging through the home defence and rounded keeper Gabby Dal Busco but was unable to finish into a vacant net. Instead, the Azzurri nearly extended their lead with the last kick of the first half when Nelli Johnson’s free-kick was beaten away by Rebecca Bennett. Johnson did find the net on 72 minutes when her cross-cum-shot beat Bennett at her near post and that proved enough to secure all three points. Another boost for RedStar, who are now three games unbeaten, was the return of Sarah Carroll as a second-half substitute after nine weeks out.
Sorrento have secured a hard fought 1-1 draw with Hyundai Football West Academy at Percy Doyle Reserve. “I thought the group showed a lot of resilience, hard work and grit throughout the match against the academy, especially with a few niggles and flu going through the group. We’ve been working hard on building connections and understanding within the team, and it was pleasing to see more of that come through during the game. The players stayed disciplined defensively, continued to compete for every moment, and showed great character across the 90 minutes,” Gulls coach Annie Farrell explained."
“Coming away with a point against a strong side is another positive step forward and reflects the progress the players are continuing to make each week. I was really proud of the work rate and commitment shown across the park. It was also fantastic to see Nikayla Hughes find the back of the net again. She has continued to grow in confidence throughout the season and is becoming a real attacking threat for us, so it was great to see her rewarded with another goal.”
It was a great start for the hosts, and they hit the front early, Hughes latched onto Jenna Harnwell’s long ball and rolled her marker to find the bottom corner. Mya Andrews fired a shot just wide on 20 minutes from the edge of the area as the Academy had plenty of chances to level, but it was Sorrento who held a slender lead at the break. A brilliant long-range strike from Ella Lange gave the Academy an equaliser on 52 minutes. But despite 11 shots on target in the game, they could not find a winner and sit four points behind fourth-placed RedStar.
Fremantle City have gone level on points with Balcatta following their 5-0 victory at UWA Nedlands. Tanika Lala wasted no time in marking her second spell at Freo with a goal, collecting Abbey Green’s pass and running in to finish after only 70 seconds. Leyna Wood then hit the bar for Freo, before Sam Geddes’ side went two up on 35 minutes with Lala again involved. The Goldfields forward crossed for Wood to poke home from six yards.
Lala struck again as she put away Lacey Heys’ cross early in the second half for Freo's third, before Janice Kiama nudged Erin Siah’s cross over the line to put the visitors in a commanding position. Another Siah corner led to a fifth and final goal with skipper Annabelle Leek bundling in on the line. The win keeps Fremantle three points behind Perth, while UWA are six points adrift at the foot of the table with just one point from nine games.
23.5.2026
ETNA AND KNIGHTS SHARE THE SPOILS
Balcatta Etna and Western Knights have shared the spoils, after a 0-0 draw in our Week 11 ‘Match of the Round’ at the Home Group Stadium, Grindleford Reserve on Saturday afternoon. Both sides hit the woodwork, but clear-cut chances were few and far between, and it ended in a stalemate. Both sides went into this on the back of big wins last week, and both had early chances. First on two minutes Jon Stynes’ free kick was straight at Robert Sinclair, and moments later down the other end, Justin Tang’s shot flashed wide of the post. Both sides were struggling to create chances in the final third, although a curling effort from Charlie Betts drifted just over the top, while Woonsub Sim’s in swinging corner was tipped over the top by Seb Medica.
The hosts started to take control in the middle of the park midway through, and Betts shot on the run was straight at the keeper, before Darius Ghinea’s free kick was straight at the keeper. They went close again on half hour, Joshua Cole’s curling free kick on the left drifted inches wide of the far post. The Knights hit back, and Regan Hutchinson combined with Sammy Barry down the right, and Hutchinson raced across the face of the box, but his shot lacked the power to beat Medica.
Both sides had late chances to take the lead into the break, a jinking run from Jared Flavel saw him race into the box, but his shot was over the top. Moments later a corner was flicked on to Daniel Walsh, and his effort was deflected wide. The Knights were lucky not be down to ten men in stoppage time, after a tackle by Sim on Flavel, and with the midfielder already on a yellow card, was given the benefit of the doubt by referee David Bruce, after a chat with his assistant.
The Knights made a triple change at the break, with Konstantinos Sparta, Kristian Santich and Asher Hwight coming on, but it was the host who went within inches of the lead three minutes in. Jared Flavel playing in David Ghinea, whose shot from distance crashed off the bar. The Knights went close themselves shortly after Tang’s shot from the edge of the box flashed wide of the post, before Santich’s shot on the run flew over the top. It was end-to-end football, as both sides looked for the opener, Walsh’s header back across goal on the hour, found Tang, who volleyed over the top, while down the other end Jon Stynes volley was deflected over the top.
The Knights pressed late, and Sammy Barry raced clear down the left, and his shot on the run whistled inches past the far post. Barry went closer six minutes from time, finding space on the left, and his shot beat Medica, but the post came to the rescue of the Balcatta custodian. Both sides had late chances to take all three points, substitute Edward Wilcock’s shot was saved low by Robert Sinclair, and in stoppage time Sparta cut inside the box, but his shot hit the side netting. Both sides had to settle for a share of the spoils, and with results elsewhere the Knights stay fourth, while Balcatta remain 11th
Balcatta Etna: GK Sebastian Medica, 3 Matthew Tomassone, 4 Luke Alessandrino, 5 Phillip Radeski, 8 Jesse Fuller, 9 Darius Ghinea, 10 Jon Stynes, 11 Charlie Betts (36 Rory Betts 87’), 15 Christopher Tilson, 16 Joshua Cala, 17 Jared Flavel (12 Edward Wilcock 82’) – Subs not used: RGK Riley Stephenson, , 21 Stephen Christopher, 31 Ben Ognenis, 32 Joshua Baiardo, 38 Luca Morelli
Western Knights: GK Robert Sinclair, 2 Regan Hutchinson (17 Asher Hwight 46’), 4 Daniel Walsh, 6 Noah Lummert, 8 Woonsub Sim (22 Kristian Santich 46’), 10 Jack Sprigg (15 Konstantinos Sparta 46’0, 14 Aaron Pike, 16 Justin Tang (11 Harry O'Brien 82’), 18 Sammy Barry, 21 Jesse Lazzaro, 23 Leo Stolikas – Subs not used: RGK Travis Cook, 5 Max Blackshaw, 7 Dylan White – Referee: David Bruce
22.5.2026
POINTS SHARED AT THE REDSTAR ARENA
The points were shared in Friday’s New Balance NPLWA – Men’s opening Week Eleven clash at the RedStar Arena, with league leaders Perth RedStar drawing 1-1 with Perth Azzurri in a tight clash. Gordon Smith gave the hosts the lead early, but Sean O’Connor leveled for the visitors on the half hour. Both sides had chances to win it, but they had to settle for a share of the spoils. “Huge effort from the team tonight, it was our third game in six days, and it has taken a toll in the squad with a lot of injuries but once again the work rate and attitude were spot on,” RedStar skipper Blair Govan explained.
“I thought we defended well, and made it hard for Perth to break us down. Unlucky not to take the three points at the end, I thought their keeper made some great saves. All in all, a very positive week for us. We get a chance to recover now and get ready for a tough away game at Fremantle.” It was the visitors who started the brighter, and they went close to the opener on two minutes, Jamie McNelis’ made space down the right, and he cut the ball back to Michael Scafetta, whose first time shot was well saved by Liam Reddy. They were in again moments later, McNelis’ glancing header flashed wide, before Gordon Perkins fired over the top. But against the run of play, and in their first attack, RedStar opened the scoring on seven minutes. Govan’s ball over the top sent Jack Baker, who was making his starting senior league debut, racing clear, his shot was saved by Liam Driscoll, but the rebound fell to Smith, and the Scotsman made no mistake.
Smith went close to a second eight minutes later, picked out by Sonny O’Shea, his good first touch took into the box, but he couldn’t find the target. RedStar keeper was then out quickly to save at the feet of the lively McNelis, as the Azzurri pressed for the equaliser. Perkins then headed straight at Reddy, after being picked out by Pollard, but the Azzurri’s pressure was rewarded with the equaliser on the half hour. Zayd ‘s cross to the back post picked out Pollard, his header hit the raised arm of O’Shea, and referee Stuart Beattie pointed straight to the spot. Sean O’Connor stepped up sent Reddy the wrong way from the resulting penalty.
It was a quiet start to the second half compared with the first, with chances few and far between, but on the hour Smith’s looping header was saved by Driscoll. Moments later a neat move out of defence from the Azzurri ended with Scafetta on the right, and his low cross was inches away from the sliding Perkins in the box. Both sides had their chances as the game ebbed and flowed, David Ninkovic’s curling effort from the edge of the box drifted wide, while at the other end Seth McGillivray found fellow substitute Liam Murray, who snap shot was a saved by Driscoll.
McGillivray was involved a gain moments later, battling for the ball in the box, and pulling the ball back to Jacob Evans, but he fired straight at Driscoll. The hosts had a penalty shout waved away by the referee after Evans was brought down in the box by O’Connor, as both sides continued to push for the winner. The points were there to be won, and both sides had late chances to win it. First on 88 minutes, Evans found space on the edge of the box, and his shot was arrowing for the top corner of the net, but Driscoll produced a great save at full stretch to deny him. Then on stoppage time McNelis’ cross shot had to tipped over by the alert Reddy. The draw moves RedStar six points clear at the top of the table, while the Azzurri move up to third. Footballwa – Man of the Match: Liam Driscoll (Perth Azzurri)
GK Liam Reddy, 2 Nick Walsh, 3 Riley Warland, 4 Blair Govan, 10 Matthew George (20 Liam Murray 46’), 14 Gordon Smith, 17 Sonny O’Shea, 18 Tom Hough, 19 Ryan Finnie, 23 Jacob Evans, 38 Jack Baker (22 Seth McGillivray 75’) – Subs not used: RGK Luca Iovene, 5 Oskar Patterson, 6 Matthew Ntoumenopoulos, 16 George Losondo, 24 Teddie Curran
GK Liam Driscoll, 3 Sam Pollard, 4 Charlie Fleming (21 Kurtis Mogg 46’), 8 Cody Tana, 9 Gordon Perkins, 10 David Ninkovich, 11 Zayd Farah, 14 Sean OConnor, 15 Jamie McNelis, 17 Michael Scafetta (6 Abdul Osman 75’), 19 Aiden Formston – Subs not used: RGK Marino Gojak, 2 Alex Silla, , 13 Alfie Hewings, 18 Evan Moorhouse, 22 Olivio Fazzari – Referee: Stewart Beattie
22.5.2026
FOOTBALL WEST NAMES FOUR NEW LIFE MEMBERS
We have four new Football West Life Members, Conor O’Brien, Oriano Colli, Paul Afkos and Carl Duxbury were honoured at Wednesday night’s Annual General Meeting, held at the Sam Kerr Football Centre. All four of them have given so much to the game in our state, and everyone at Footballwa congratulates them on their honour. Football West Chair Sherif Andrawes said: “Congratulations to our new Life Members. All four have made telling contributions to the game in Western Australia over many years and are richly deserving recipients of this honour.”
Paul Afkos - Has been a driving force in the development of football in Western Australia and nationally for over five decades, beginning his involvement in 1973 as a club administrator and progressing to senior leadership roles across state and national football bodies. He played a pivotal role in unifying football governance in WA, lobbying successfully for the State’s inclusion in the National Soccer League, and was a founding co-owner of Perth Glory FC. His influence extended to securing major infrastructure outcomes, including government funding for the redevelopment of East Perth Oval into today’s HBF Park, as well as long-term sponsorship and governance of Perth Glory and its academy. Paul has received the Order of Australia Medal and the Centenary of Federation Medal.
Oriano Colli – Has devoted his life to football in WA across nearly five decades as an elite player, coach, administrator and long-term supporter of the game. Beginning as a standout junior and senior player from 1975 to 2000 with state and national representation, he transitioned into 15 years of junior coaching before assuming senior leadership roles at Bayswater City Soccer Club, including as President, guiding the club through its most successful era on and off the field. Oriano has been instrumental in expanding participation, establishing women’s and academy pathways, securing major government funding for facilities and serving for 14 years on Football West’s NPL Standing Committee.
Carl Duxbury – Has dedicated almost five decades to football in the Peel region, serving as a player, coach, administrator, founder and lifelong volunteer. Arriving from England in 1978, he has been instrumental in establishing clubs, junior pathways, and major facilities, including Pinjarra United, the Peel Junior Soccer Association and Murray District Rangers SC. His leadership, vision and hands-on service, continuing well into his 80s, have left a legacy recognised through multiple awards and life memberships, making him one of the most influential contributors to regional football.
Conor O’Brien – Has provided more than a decade of outstanding voluntary service to football in the Pilbara region, contributing across coaching, administration, governance, development, and inclusion. Since 2015, he has played a pivotal role at club and association levels with Dampier Junior Soccer Club and the Karratha Soccer Association, holding senior leadership positions while maintaining a strong on-ground presence at competitions and events. Conor has been instrumental in referee development, representative pathways, academy coaching, girls’ football growth and the establishment of all-abilities competitions. He has also led major governance reforms through the rewriting of the Karratha SA constitution.
22.5.2026
DE ABREU EXTENDS GLORY CONTRACT
After a stellar first season in the A-League, Perth Glory midfielder Gio De Abreu has signed a new deal which extends his contract with the club until June 2028. The 19-year-old penned a scholarship deal last year having played his junior football with Sorrento FC, Perth RedStar, the Glory Academy, and played in the Bayern Munich World Academy in 2024-25. He went on to make his A-League debut in December’s Round Nine clash with Adelaide United at HBF Park, and he’s never looked back, showing grit, determination and a great deal of skill.
The former Australia Under-17 and current Under-20 representative went on to become a regular starter in Coach Adam Griffiths’ side, making 17 appearances over the course of an outstanding campaign which culminated in him taking out the club’s DT38 Young Player of the Season Award. He said it wasn’t the end to the season they were after, but he’s determined to make emends next season after signing a new contract.
“I’m very happy to be staying at Perth Glory for the foreseeable future and extremely grateful for the opportunity to continue with the club under Griff and alongside my teammates, and I thank God for his guidance and strength throughout this journey,” the midfielder said. “Although we didn’t meet the targets we had set for ourselves this past season. I really enjoyed my first season at Glory and loved playing every minute of every game, and I’m very excited for what’s ahead this next season.”
Glory Football Director Stan Lazaridis has been hugely impressed by the way De Abreu has adapted to the demands of senior football. “Gio has looked very comfortable at ALM level ever since making his debut,” he said. “He has been a standout performer in what is a vital role which carries a lot of responsibility, showing great maturity and a fantastic attitude and work ethic. We have already seen glimpses of Gio’s huge potential and are really looking forward to watching him continue to develop as a player over the next two seasons. As a club, we are committed to providing a clear pathway for young WA players to represent their home-state club and Gio is yet another example of that commitment being fulfilled.”
22.5.2026
BALCATTA HOST KNIGHT IN NPLWA WEEK ELEVEN - PREVIEW
After the midweek cup ties we are back in league action this weekend, and our Week Eleven New Balance NPLWA - Men’s ’Match of the Round’ takes us to the Home Group Stadium, Grindleford Reserve, where Balcatta Etna entertain Western Knights. (All games kick off at 3:00pm, unless stated) Both teams are coming off wins last week, the hosts coming home from Dianella with a 3-2 win, which moved them off the bottom of the table, while the Knights came from behind to beat Stirling Macedonia at Nash Field, to consolidate fourth place, so with both looking to continue their winning run going, this should be a cracker.
The last time the two sides met at the venue was in Week 13 last season, when the visitors secured a 2-0 win. In the final game Western Knights have won for the second time on the road this season, coming home from Home Group Stadium, Grindleford Reserve with all three points after a 2-0 win. It was a great start for the visitors, opening the scoring in the first minute. Jessie Lazzaro found a pocket of space just outside the penalty area, and his deft chip found Harry O’Brien and he finished past Riley Stephenson. They sealed the points on 69 minutes. Konstantinos Sparta picked out Dylan White, his through ball released Kristian Santich, who raced clear of his defender and finished with aplomb.
Last week’s win at Dianella, moved Balcatta off the bottom of the table and defender James Fanelli said it was a huge boost, especially after the disappointing result the week before at Armadale. “Yes, a huge win, especially after a poor result at Armadale,” he said. “I thought we showed a lot of character to bounce back and get the win away from home, at a difficult ground to get a result. It was a tough game against a good Dianella side, and we will look to build on it.”
It's been difficult for the Balcatta players, with a change of coach mid-season. Fanelli said it wasn’t ideal, but the players have responded well, and they will look for back-to-back wins for the first time this season on Saturday. “Basil (Lenzo) has got us playing some really good football, and I think we potentially could have had a couple more good results with some of the performances we’ve put in against strong teams,” the former Olympic Kingsway defender explained. “The feeling around the team is really good at the moment and we’re absolutely going to try and build on last week’s performance and gain more confidence and momentum this weekend against Knights. But we know they’re a quality team, so we need to make sure we’re ready to match them in all areas.”
After back-to-back defeats, Western Knights returned to the winner’s circle against Stirling, and coach Adam Kostrencic was pleased with the response of his players. “Last week was a very good performance against a good Stirling side, and defensively we were outstanding to really limit their opportunities,” the coach explained. “If anything, we probably should have killed the game off sooner with good chances we created, but it was a well-deserved and important win after a few disappointing results in recent weeks.”
The win consolidated fourth place for the Nash Field club, but Kostrencic knows this the NPL is so tight this season, and they will have to be at their best to get a result at Balcatta. “It is a very tight league and it’s important for us to stay in touch with the leading group. As we experienced a few weeks ago you can slide down very quickly when things don’t go your way,” he said. “Balcatta have been playing very well and are coming off a good win away against Dianella, and I know Basil will have them well prepared, so we will need to be at our very best to take something away from this game.”
In other games this weekend, league leaders Perth RedStar welcome Perth Azzurri to the RedStar Arena on Friday evening (7:00pm) The hosts will be looking to keep their five-game unbeaten run going, while the Azzurri will hope to build on their win at Sorrento last time out. Olympic Kingsway head to Percy Doyle Reserve to take on Sorrento, while Perth Glory travel to Hilton Park to meet Fremantle City. Stirling Macedonia will lo0ok to get back in the winner’s circle, after two defeats, when they welcome third placed Bayswater City to Macedonia Park. The visitors will be without winger Sean McManus, who is out for the season with a knee injury. Everyone at Footballwa wishes him a speedy recovery, while in the final game Dianella White Eagles entertain Armadale at Dianella Reserve.
22.5.2026
QUINNS AND MANDURAH LOOK TO BUILD ON BIG WINS LAST WEEK
Quinns and Mandurah City are coming off big wins last week, and they meet in our State League Division One Week Nine ‘Match of the Round’ at Stylish Park, Grindleford Reserve on Saturday afternoon. (All games kick off at 3:00pm) Quinns win at Inglewood moved them to fifth on the ladder, a good start after promotion last season, while Mandurah snapped a seven-game run without a win with a victory against second placed UWA Nedlands, so both sides will look to build on the wins in this one. The last time they met at the venue in the league, was back in Week 18 in 2022, and it’s a game the hosts will want to forget, the Dolphins winning 8-1. The visitors were ahead on seven minutes, skipper Harry Collins’ ball sent Hamish van Dieken clear, and he finished clinically.
They doubled their lead 14 minutes later, a great ball over the top by John Baird found Joe O’Brien, who chested it down and finished with aplomb. But Quinns found a lifeline in stoppage time, with Jackson Dongray firing home from eight meters. Mandurah regained their two-goal advantage early in the second half, Baird firing home superbly from long-range, and it was 4-1 shortly after, Murray Mackintosh finding O’Brien who finished well. It was 5-1 when Quinns failed to clear a free kick, and Afian Giyanto crossed to Charlie Breento score. They added another on 76 minutes, Graham Tough crossing to O’Brien who completed his hat-trick. It was 7-1 moments later, Mackintosh cross from the right was turned home again by O’Brien. The striker added his fifth late, firing home on the turn, to seal a comfortable win.
Quinns have been impressive since their return to Division One, and the never say die attitude was clear to see at Inglewood last week, with two late goals securing the win, and assistant coach Steven Flint said the players have worked really hard and it was good to see them rewarded last week. “This group we have had for a few years now, and they just don’t know how to give up. We have had so many late wins and it’s a testament to the players belief and hard work,” Flint explained. “Inglewood set up to be very hard to break down and to get into their final third. They managed to sneak a goal, but a couple of red cards opened the game up and the lads took their chances when they came along. I thought it was a well-deserved result in the end.”
Flint said it still early in the season, but a fifth-place position is a good reward, but there is a long way to go, and Saturday’s visitors will be a tough opponent. “Yes, were sitting fifth in a very tight league, and that is pleasing to be in this position especially as newcomers to the division, but Nick (Jennings) and I are under no illusions how difficult and unstable this season will be with results. We will focus game by game, work hard and keep having the ambition and expectation of a high finish,” he said. “We welcome Mandurah to Stylish, and the challenge they will bring. It will be physical and high tempo for sure, and it will be a good game to get down and watch.”
After a blistering start to the season for Mandurah, winning their opening two games, but they went on to lose the next five. They hit back last week with the huge win against UWA, and defender Harry Collins, said they took the chances on the day. “To be honest, we didn’t start the game as well as we would have liked and were fortunate enough to only go in at 1-0 down at the break,” Collins said. “We changed a few things and came out in the second half on the front foot and created a lot of chances and took them which we’ve been struggling to do in the previous couple of weeks.”
Collins said they are looking forward to the game on Saturday at Quinns, and he has been pleased how the players have stuck together during their lean spell. “It was a great start to the season, but were unlucky with a couple of red cards and injuries, and just not sticking the ball in the back of the net. But the team stuck together and eventually we secured the win against a well organised UWA side,” he explained. “We’re looking forward to building on our win, and a strong second half performance last week, and hopefully going on another winning streak. With a few key players coming back into the squad, we can’t wait for the long journey up there.”
In other games, league leaders Floreat Athena, who sit six points clear, hit the road to visit Dalmatinac Park to take on Cockburn City, the hosts will be buoyed after their big win against Joondalup last week, while UWA Nedlands will look to bounce back from their defeat at Mandurah, when they welcome Murdoch University Melville to the UWA Sports Park. Joondalup City, who moved to third with a win at MUMFC in midweek, entertain Inglewood United at Iluka Park, Gwelup Croatia and Kingsley Westside will both look to bounce back after defeats last week, when they meet at the Croatian Sporting Complex, Wishart Street. In the final game it’s a real six pointer when the bottom two teams, Subiaco AFC and Curtin University meet at Rosalie Park.
22.5.2026
MORLEY HOST BALGA IN THE ‘JOHN AUFDEMKAMPE TROPHY’
After their Hahn Australia Cup tie against NPL side Olympic Kingsway, Morley Windmills are back in league action on Saturday, when they welcome Balga AFC to Wotton Reserve, in our Week Eight State League Division Two ‘Match of the Round’ as the teams play for the ‘John Aufdemkampe Trophy’. (All games kick off at 3:00pm) Balga hit back late to draw against the in-form Kalamunda last week, while Morley were big winners at Gosnells, and with only one point separating the two teams on the table, three points will be massive in this one. The last time these teams met in the league at the venue was back in Week Four in 2023, the year Morley were relegated to the Amateur league, but on the day the hosts won 6-2.
Morley hit the front ten minutes before the break, Christian Vest’s long-range shot giving Balga keeper Peter Pilkadaris no chance. But five minutes later the visitors levelled, a corner was only cleared to the edge of the box, and Kevin Gallo made no mistake. Morley regained the lead 11 minutes into the second half, when Connor Kavanagh’s long-range shot flew into the top corner. From then on it was the hosts who took control, first on the hour Ismael Dawson headed home from close-range, before Dawson added his second eight minutes later. Dawson completed his hat-trick from the spot 15 minutes from time, before Taban Lado pulled one back for Balga. Then in the final minute Morley made it 6-2, a ball over the top sent substitute Cedric Mezieres on goal, and he rounded the keeper and rolled the ball into an empty net.
The draw against Kalamunda, made it only one defeat in their last five games for Balga, and midfielder Karl Maluga said it was hard fought point, but another game that they had the chances to win. “Yes, I thought the draw was a fair result, they had the better of the first half, but we had the better of the second, so it was a game of two halves,” he explained. “At the end of the day, both teams didn’t take their clear-cut chances, but it was a well contested, good game of football.”
Maluga said it’s a huge game on Saturday, and they have created a good rivalry with Morley, and he knows if they can take their chances, they can come home with the points. “Like I said if you take your chances, it will go a long way to winning the game, and when looking at the games this season, you can see that we have created and continue to create more chances than the other team in every game we have played. We believe in the system and results will follow,” he said. “We are very excited to take on Morley, and have missed them in the league, it is a good club that deserves to be playing state league football. It’s a shame in the manner they went down last time, but even though there’s a strong rivalry between the clubs, we’re excited to play for the John Aufdemkampe Trophy, it should be a good one.”
Morley bounced back from the heavy defeat against Wembley in Week Six, with the big win at Gosnells, and they pushed Olympic in the cup, and assistant coach Jesse Bridgeman said they are getting stronger. “Yes, Friday night was very important that we came away with the three points, and we knew not to look past that game before the cup, because we have dropped too many points in the league already,” he said. “The performance against Kingsway showed the ability of the squad and the fact we were still in the game until the 88-minute mark, hopefully drives the group on now.”
The club have added a couple of new faces to their squad, and Bridgeman said it’s given the squad a boost, and they are looking forward to clash against their local rivals. “Last week’s win took us to eighth, so we need to keep working hard now and focus on climbing the table to achieve our goals that John (O’Reilly) and I have set for the group, we have a few new faces now and the energy and standard has lifted already,” he explained. “Balga are always well organised and always put in 100%, so we know that it will be a very tough game on Saturday, and one the players and coaches are looking forward too.”
In other games on Saturday, league leaders Rockingham City, who were also in cup action in midweek, will look to bounce back from their first defeat of the season, when they welcome North Beach to the Endeavour Homes Stadium, Larkhill Sportsplex, while third placed Carramar Shamrock Rovers host Gosnells City at Grandis Park. It’s fourth v fifth at the Ashfield Arena, as Kalamunda City take on Ashfield, while on Sunday, second placed Wembley Downs make the trip to Burrendah Park to take on Canning City.
In the final game, Forrestfield United will look to maintain their three-game unbeaten run, when they host East Perth at Luxwin Stadium, Hartfield Park. It’s a special day at the club – ‘Scarlett’s Memorial Day’. They will be raising funds for the WA not for profit charity Kids Cancer Support Group with proceeds going towards supporting kids and families affected by cancer. They would love everyone to wear something pink to show support and help fill the stand with Scarlett’s favourite colour.
22.5.2026
BELT-UP AMATEUR PREMIER DIVISION – WEEK SEVEN PREVIEW
Swan United have started life in the Belt-Up Amateur Division well, sitting second on the table and they are the only unbeaten team in the competition. On Sunday they are involved in our Week Seven ‘Match of the Round’ when they make the trip to Chichester Park to take on Kingsley Westside. (All games kick off at 3:00pm, unless stated) It will be first time the clubs have played in the Amateur competition, and last time out Kingsley pushed league leaders Wanneroo all the way, narrowly beaten 1-2 at the same time venue, and with home ground advantage they will fancy their chances in this one. The Black and Whites are coming off their fourth straight win, with a brace from John Monterosso helping them to a 4-0 win against Olympic, which kept them only one point behind Wanneroo.
Kingsley coach Simone Sichel said they deserved something from the game last week, and they took a great deal of encouragement from the performance going into Sunday’s clash. “Obviously we were disappointed, because we felt we deserved something from the game, but at the same time we were very proud of the performance against a very strong Wanneroo City side. The boys showed great character, intensity and discipline for the full 90 minutes and pushed the league leaders all the way. Small details decided the match, but overall, it gave us confidence that we can compete with the top teams in the league,” the coach explained.
“At the same time, we also understand that we are on a journey and these things are not built in one day. Since taking over this year, one of our biggest focuses has been re-establishing a strong Kingsley culture throughout the squad. We want to build an environment with high standards, commitment and a real connection to the club. We’re also very focused on developing young players and giving them opportunities to grow within senior football. We see this as a long-term project and hopefully something that can continue strengthening the amateur side of the club and its reputation within the WA football community.
“Don’t get me wrong, our goal is always to win every game we play, but after being involved in football for close to 35 years, I also understand that strong culture, winning mentality, hard work and commitment are what really build success in the long term. This week against Swan United will be another massive challenge for us. They’re a very well organised side with quality all over the pitch and their position on the ladder reflects that. For our players, these are the games you want to be involved in, big matches against top opposition. We’re looking forward to testing ourselves again at home and hopefully putting in another strong performance.”
Swan coach Lee Taylor said last week’s second half performance was good, but they need to put a 90 minutes performance in each week, as you can come unstuck in this league, and they need to be on their game on Sunday. “I was pleased to come away with the win in the end after a slow first half, we adjusted some aspects of our game at half time and we created a lot more opportunities in the second half and it ended up being a good professional performance, another clean sheet was also pleasing,” he explained.
“Our early cup exit showed us we have to make sure we approach each game with the right mindset as it’s very easy to be on the end of a bad defeat, and credit to the players since then they have been excellent each week. We need to make sure we perform at our highest level to win this weekend. It’s going to be a tough game, when you look at the majority of their results, they have been close games, usually only a single goal in it and we know how good Kingsley are, so they will be very competitive.”
The round kicks off on Saturday night, with Wanneroo City looking to maintain their lead on the ladder, when they entertain Maccabi at Wanneroo Reserve. (7:00pm) in the other games on Sunday, third placed North Perth United host Kwinana United at Woodville Reserve, Noranda Emerald welcome Hamersley Rovers to the Noranda Sporting Complex, while Jaguar will look to build on their first points of the of the season, when they host Kelmscott Roos at the Herb Graham Recreation Centre. In final game, Olympic Kingsway and Ballajura AFC will both look to bounce back from big defeats last week, when they meet at the Madman Arena, Kingsway Reserve.
Olympic coach Richard Turvill said it’s been a good week on track, as they look to bounce back on home soil. “We’ve been working really hard this week at training on certain things we think will help us this weekend. It’s a big game for us to try get our season back on track and we need to put it altogether for 90 minutes,” he explained. “You can see from the results in this league every week you have to constantly adapt and change to give yourself the best chance of winning. We’ve had some real battles with Ballajura over the years, and I’m sure Sunday won’t be any different.”
Ballajura coach Shane Fitzpatrick said young team are learning on the job, but he is confident they can turn things around. “I give credit to our boys, we have a young team that's gathering the experience as we go and they haven't dropped their heads once, I feel if we can be more clinical in front of goal our season will turn around quick,” he said. “We know Sunday is going to be a tough battle, as it always is with Kingsway over the years. Both of us need nothing less than three points, so it should be a great game – I can’t wait for Sunday.”
22.5.2026
COLAKOVSKI SIGNS ON FOR MORE GLORY
Stefan Colakovski has signed a new one-year contract at Perth Glory, and the striker will hope to put an injury plagued season behind him, after only playing 13 games in 2025-26. The 26-year-old, who is in his second season at the club has become a fan favourite, and after first joining the club in 2022, where he played 24 games, scoring six goals, one of them taking out the club’s 2023-24 Goal of the Season Award.
Colakovski joined Glory from Melbourne City, and was part of the side that won two Premierships and one Championship and he also represented Wellington Phoenix after parting company with Glory in 2024, after his move to Europe didn't come into fruition, and he will be an important part of the squad. Glory Football Director Stan Lazaridis believes that Colakovski can be a major contributor to Glory’s attack once again in the upcoming season.
“Cola proved just how dangerous he can be on a regular basis last season and we’re excited to see more of that from him again next year,” he said. “He’s a player whose level of output is outstanding and someone that our supporters relate to and love watching, plus his own passion for the club is there for all to see. Cola’s style of play really fits with the approach Head Coach Adam Griffiths is looking to take in terms of playing high-tempo, attacking football and we’re delighted that he’ll be a Perth Glory player once again next season.”
22.5.2026
GLORY HAMPERED BY SALARY CAP
Many believe Perth Glory have turned a corner, and the appointment of coach Adam Griffiths, and some good performances late in the season, there is a great deal of optimism they can challenge for finals football next season. Glory Director of Football Stan Lazaridis spoke to Ben Smith from the West Australian, and told him they are targeting a foreign winger among a handful of off-season transfer targets, but their planning for next season has been hindered with no salary cap yet set in stone by the A-League governing body, Australian Professional Leagues.
Lazaridis said the bulk of the squad would return, and reports Welshman Tom Lawrence will be extending his stay at the club is great news, and they had a rough idea of the cap parameters. While negotiations are ongoing, is yet to finalise the specifics and finer details of next season’s salary cap. The governing body’s current broadcast deal with Paramount+ will expire after this season, while the players’ collective bargaining agreement is also being re-negotiated with union Professional Footballers Australia. Both have an impact on the salary cap.
Last May, APL executive chairman Stephen Conroy announced they would introduce a ‘trial’ $3.5m soft cap for the 2025-26 season, which would then drop to a $3m hard cap for the looming 2026-27 season, although the latter is yet to be officially confirmed. Lazaridis said there were some off-contract players they wanted to retain, but were waiting to understand the details of cap. “We’ve got an idea of where the cap is, and we have worked to that model. Where it’s tricky is they’re stipulating rules around scholarships, players under the age of 23,” Lazaridis said. “Whilst we’ve earmarked certain players in that area, until they say this is a deal, we cannot prep one or two players, because if they don’t grant that, then it means that those players go in the cap, which then means that we’re over and we get fined.”
Lazaridis said he and re-signed coach Adam Griffiths were eager to target two attackers who could play out wide, with one of them a foreigner to fill one of Perth’s available international spots. “A winger, a 10, a dribbler. I want to bring pace, I want a combination of that and so does Griff. In fact, to be honest, that’s been Griff’s main request,” he said. “He wants to bring flair. He wants to bring excitement. We need to bring in those profiles. We’re looking at two, but the other one has to be an Aussie.”
Lazaridis added they were targeting depth in the form of two players per position and the squad would likely be limited to 26-28 players. “We’ve got to refine the squad down. Griff doesn’t want more than 26-28 players. That’ll be capped, including academy players,” he said. “You’ve got a few goalkeepers in there and probably four or five scholars, so that would that would leave you around 20 players: two in each spot. One thing we’re aligning moving forward is, what do we have in our academy waiting in the wings. The under-20s, the under-18s, who are the best players, who do we think is going to come through - If we don’t see anyone in those areas, then we’ve got to go out and get them.”
20.5.2026
STATE RESERVES AND 18’S CUP REVIEW
We had two surprises in the State League Reserves Cup quarter-finals this week, with Quinns beating Fremantle City 5-0 at Stylish Park, Grindleford Reserve, while Joondalup City beat Stirling Macedonia on penalties at Macedonia Park. Quinns coach Brian Flanigan said all their hard work at training paid off. “We had a nervy first few minutes, but soon settled and went on to control the game from start to finish,” he said. “It was a very strong result, and I couldn’t be prouder of the group for getting the win over Fremantle. All the hard work and commitment in training really paid off.”
Gavin Walker opened the scoring with a looping header over the keeper, before Enoch Mbafumoja won the ball and rifled a low shot into the corner. Andrew Flint then stepped up to convert a penalty to extend the lead just before half time. They carried that momentum into the second half, and Enoch Mbafumoja added his second of the game with a brilliant run, skipping past three defenders before finishing into the top corner, before Bevan Latham rounded off the scoring with a well-worked corner, heading past the keeper.
In the other games, Finley Paterson gave Stirling the lead early, but they had Zak Efthymiou sent off before the break. Joondalup levelled late with Edward Amor scoring, and they went on to win the shootout 4-2. Olympic Kingsway beat Perth Glory 2-0 at Sam Kerr Football Centre, with goals from Luka Harvey and Roberto Salas, while in the other game, a brace from Teddy Curran has helped Perth RedStar a 4-1 win against Forrestfield United at the RedStar Arena. In the semi-final Quinns will play Olympic Kingsway, while Joondalup City take on Perth RedStar.
In the 18’s Cup, we had a six-goal thriller at the Sam Kerr Football Centre, with Perth Glory drawing 3-3 with Perth Azzurri, with Glory winning the tie 4-2 on penalties. Glory coach Gianluca Murray said it was a great game. “It was a great game, and a great result from our lads to bounce back from going 2-1 down,” he explained. “It was a performance of real character and quality against a well drilled and physical side in Azzurri.”
Glory hit the front on the half hour, with a brilliant solo effort from Rian Harris, but moments later Marcel Piotroski levelled from the spot. The Azzurri took the lead early in the second half, Jaydon Boyes on target, but Glory dug in, reset and began to create chances throughout the second half. They restored parity on the hour, Leandro Jesus’ initially penalty was saved, but he was first to the rebound to score. Leandro continued his goal scoring form, firing home into the top corner from the edge of the box to put Glory 3-2 up. But Azzurri hit back and levelled, with Boyes added his second, but late on Azzurri keeper Anthony Donatelli was sent off after bringing down Gideon Ndambira just outside the box. In the penalty shootout Glory keeper Aaron Black was the hero, saving two, and Ndambira fired home the final penalty to seal the win.
In the other games, goals from James Franey and Louie Martin, gave Carramar Shamrock Rovers a 2-1 win against Quinns at Stylish Park, Grindleford Reserve. A brace from Cruz Willson has helped Stirling Macedonia a 6-1 win against Joondalup City at Macedonia Park, while Munaf Alrumayid bagged a double to help Perth RedStar to a 3-1 win against Forrestfield United at the RedStar Arena. In the semi-finals, Carramar Shamrock Rovers will meet Perth Glory, while Stirling Macedonia will take on Perth RedStar.
20.5.2026
ITALIANO NAMED IN SOCCEROOS’ TOURNAMENT PRE-CAMP
Jacob Italiano is one step closer to realising a World Cup dream which looked like a long shot just nine months ago after joining the Socceroos’ pre-tournament training camp. Italiano joins a swathe of big-name Australians in arriving in Sarasota, Florida, joining a 12-strong group of fresh additions which includes veteran Jackson Irvine and star wing-back Jordan Bos.
The dozen of arrivals compliment the 18 players who have already assembled in the United States, with preparations for the Socceroos’ opening game of the tournament against Turkiye already well underway under the watchful eye of coach Tony Popovic.
Italiano only made his national team debut last October against Canada but, after a strong season in Austria with Grazer AK, he has begun to firm as Australia’s first choice right wing-back. An Achilles injury has ruled out Lewis Miller and after three steady performances against Canada, the United States and Cameroon, Italiano appears the favourite for the role.
Italiano, who made his Perth Glory debut at 16 years old and within a year was signed by German Bundesliga side Borussia Monchengladbach, is the third West Australian in camp alongside Cameron Burgess and Daniel Bennie. They will be joined by another in Parma centre-back Alessandro Circati upon the conclusion of the Serie A season next week.
19.5.2026
BENNIE VOWS TO TO WORK IN PURSUIT OF SOCCEROOS DREAMS
Socceroos hopeful Daniel Bennie is determined to put his best foot forward as the 20-year old seeks a surprise FIFA World Cup call-up. The uncapped Bennie was one of two yet-to-debut youngsters, alongside Raphael Borges Rodrigues, called into Australia coach Tony Popovic’s pre-tournament camp in Sarasota, Florida.
In his second year in England with Championship side Queens Park Rangers, Bennie cemented himself as a key rotational piece and scored a superb maiden league goal in a win over promotion contenders Hull City. And while he may face an uphill battle to make Popovic’s final 26-man squad when it is announced on May 31, the attacker is up for the challenge.
“It’s been a really good first couple of days, everyone’s made me feel really welcome. I’ve really enjoyed it, we’ve had a few training sessions in the heat, so that’s helped adapt to what it’s going to be like in the tournament,” he said. “Every step up you go, the intensity steps up and the quality steps up, it’s just about working hard and getting to match that.”
“We want to work hard and get practising on the game style, so that we’re ready for the upcoming tournament — in the heat as well, you want to prepare and get ready. It’s been really tough, but it’s worth it in the end. I’ve just got to do my best and work as hard as possible. I back myself, but it’s just all about working as hard as I can, and proving myself.”
Bennie scored his first Rangers goal in their League Cup early in the season, but otherwise struggled to get a look in during the first half of the campaign. However, he scored twice in three games for Australia at the Under-20 World Cup last year and, upon his return to England, cemented his place in Rangers’ squad.
Bennie played 17 league games in the back-half of the season and started five of those games as a forward. “The first half of the season was tough; I wasn’t playing as much as I wanted to. I just had to keep working hard, and I knew my chance would come,” Bennie said. “Second half of the season, I got my chance, and really enjoyed it.”
19.5.2026
HAHN AUSTRALIA CUP QUARTER-FINAL REVIEW
The Hahn Australia Cup semi-finalists have been decided after four exciting quarter final ties on Tuesday evening. All the state league teams bowed out, but all gave good account of themselves, pushing their NPL opponents all the way. In the first game, Olympic Kingsway needed two late goals to beat Division Two side Morley Windmills 3-1 at Wotton Reserve. “It was a difficult game, credit to Morley as they came to play and gave us issues in the first half,” Olympic striker Liam Boland said. “I managed to score early, but our lead didn’t last long with Morley equalising. It took longer than we would have liked to regain the lead after half time, but we started to play some good football and managed to get the goals to see us through.”
The visitors were ahead after only four minutes, Robert Harker’s header crashed off the crossbar, and Boland fired home the rebound. But Morley levelled twenty minutes later, Amir Ajan pouncing on an error at the back, and finishing clinically past Adrian Sinagra from the edge of the box. It looked like the tie would head to extra time, but two minutes from time Olympic hit the front with a great strike from skipper Mitch Oxborrow. It was a huge blow for Morley, and they pressed for an equaliser, but let in a third in stoppage time, Harker with a nice finish. “We set up to stifle Olympic in the midfield, keep it congested and aggressive on counter, and this is how we got our equaliser,” Morley coach John O’Reilly said. “Overall, the performance was outstanding, every player gave it their all and the fans really got behind us. Good luck to Olympic in the next round.”
NPL leaders Perth RedStar were also made to work hard to beat Division One side Curtin University, running out 3-1 winners at the RedStar Arena. “Great to get the win and progress into the semifinals,” RedStar’s Gordon Smith said. “We are on a solid run of form and continued that with a professional performance, and it was also great to see Jack Baker make his starting debut and get a couple of goals.” The home side found the opener on 24 minutes, a neat through ball from Matthew Goerge sent Baker in behind, and he cut across the top of the box to finish through the legs of Jeffrey Ledwith and past keeper Alec Radonich. But Curtin hit back, and equalised in the shadows of half time. A quick counter through Declan Tanna down the right, before playing Jude Baillie through into the box to finish past the Liam Reddy from the angle.
RedStar hit the front again on the hour, and it was Baker again on target. Jacob Evans Got in behind down the left, before crossing into the box, where Baker got across his marker to score from close range. Curtin looked for the equaliser late, but it was RedStar who make sure of the win, with Riley Warland scoring from distance in stoppage time. “I'm proud of the boys of how they pushed a very good team and I don't think the scoreline reflects how close the game was,” Curtin coach Troy Reid said. “But credit to RedStar, they took their chances and we didn't. I wish Callum and the boys all the best in the next round.”
Fremantle City also moved through after a hard fought 2-1 win against Division Two side Rockingham City at the Endeavor Home Stadium, Larkhill Sportsplex. “The cup is really just about getting through to the next round, so pleased to get the win at Rockingham,” Fremantle’s Nick Ambrogio said. “We had some good moments during the game, but the goal is to produce that level consistently for the full 90 minutes in our next match.” The port side were ahead 37 minutes, Shubham Mokala heading home Riley Woodcock’s inch perfect cross. They doubled their advantage just before half time, Rockingham keeper Kurtis Goodwin made two good saves to deny Woodcock’s lob and Iljas Ahmedov’s shot, but he couldn’t keep Mokala low shot out. Rockingham pulled one back two minutes from time, with a cross from the right finding Shaun Mukwevho, who headed against the keeper and followed in and put the rebound away. It set up a frantic finish, but Scott Miller’s side held firm.
“Very proud of the performance from the team, to stand up against a side two divisions above and push them all the way is a credit to the group of players,” Rockingham coach Matthew Brook explained. “I thought for large parts of the game we had considerable control which is something we have been working on so that was particularly pleasing. To concede the goals early and in the manner, we did was frustrating as it meant we were playing catch up. In the second half we pushed and put a lot of pressure on, hit the bar, pulled one back and pushed Fremantle all the way. A credit to Freo, they were clinical in taking their early chances and we wish them well for the rest of the competition.”
The all NPL game was also a tight affair, with Bayswater City running out 2-1 winners against Dianella White Eagles at Dianella Reserve. “Dianella away is always a tough fixture, they are a physical side that play with a lot of intensity,” Bayswater defender Brent Quick said. “So, it’s really pleasing to be in the semi-finals and to be putting some form together at a crucial part of our season. The team is building momentum and we are hoping to carry that into the remaining competitions.”
It was a typical cup tie in the first half with both sides creating chances. But it was Bayswater who hit the front on 56 minutes, Pat Loughrey finishing neatly with a free kick from the edge of the box. Dianella levelled just after the hour, Bayswater failed to clear a corner and Franc Gamiz Quer headed home at the back post. It looked like going to extra time, but it was Bayswater who won it 18 minutes from time. Declan Hughes’ free kick picked out Luke Palmateer at the back post, who headed back across goal to Quick, who volleyed it home. The semi-finals are now set – Fremantle City will host Olympic Kingsway, while Bayswater City welcome Perth RedStar – both ties will be played next month.
19.5.2026
JOONDALUP BEAT MUMFC IN A SEVEN GOAL THRILLER
We had a State League Division One week six catch up game on Tuesday evening, with Joondalup City moving to third on the table after beating Murdoch University Melville 4-3 in a thriller at Len Shearer Reserve. “The game felt like a proper cup tie, absolute chaos from start to finish,” Joondalup coach Guy McDonald said. “It was a strange night where it genuinely had everything. I still don’t know whether to be happy or frustrated with the boys because we went through every emotion possible. What I do know is this group are fighters. To come back and win after being 3-2 down and then playing with ten men for the last half hour says everything about the character in that dressing room.
“Six away games from our first eight and sitting third is a brilliant little achievement so far. Plenty to improve, but massive credit to the lads for the spirit they showed last night.” The visitors made the perfect start and were ahead in the first minute, Louis Hadfield’s cross from the right found Luke Steer at the back post, his shot was saved by Duncan Lennon-Black but Harry Edwards was quickest to the rebound to head home. They doubled their lead eight minutes later, when Taiga Kobayashi’s corner was headed back across goal by Liam Peacock and Phoenix Lee headed home from close range.
The hosts were back in the game on 19 minutes, with Gustavo Giron- Marulanda superbly curling home a free kick from the edge of the box. Marc Anthony’s side drew level four minutes later, Daniel Delic’s cross from the left was headed home by Seagh Harris, and it was all square at the break. It was the hosts who started the second half the better and hit the front four minutes in, Marulanda slipping in Harris who raced into the box and finished nearly past Joe Smith. It was a cracking game, and Joondalup hit back and restored parity on 63 minutes, Jaxon Temata shot from the edge of the box, going in via the post.
Joondalup were then reduced to ten men three minutes later, when Reece Kral was shown a straight red card for a lunging tackle on Takayuki Some. But the drama wasn’t over there, and two minutes from time Joondalup won it. Temata made space down the left and his cross found the unmarked Hadfield who fired home, to seal the points in a seven-goal thriller. “I thought we controlled large parts of the game, but didn’t make it easy for ourselves at times,” Joondalup skipper Liam Peacock explained. “The lads showed great character and fight to get the win in the end, especially going down to ten men. Plenty of positives to take out of it and proud of the effort from the boys.”
MUMFC: GK Duncan Lennon-Black, 2 Daniel Delic, 3 Matt Worton, 6 Godfrey Asimwe (8 Laine Bathgate 77’), 7 Adrian Ciampini (20 Jack Rycroft 68’), 9 Gustavo Giron Marulanda, 10 Eddie Wynne-Willson, 11 Seagh Harris, 15 Sam Gallagher (14 Sam Hannah 60’), 16 Joshua Macri (12 Charlie Neil 77’), 18 Takayuki Sone - Subs not used: RGK Austin Cooper, 17 Brodie Langan
Joondalup City: GK Joe Smith, 2 Cameron Stratton, 3 Alfie Wheeler, 6 Liam Peacock, 7 Louis Hadfield, 9 Phoenix Lee (4 Theo Gilsenan 57’), 10 Harry Edwards (5 Jaxon Temata 57’), 11 Luke Steer (8 Reece Kral 57’), 13 Taiga Kobayashi (15 Miklos Imre 90’), 14 Sam McKearnen, 20 Brad McDonald – Subs not used: RGK Brett Corey, 18 Jordan Baker, 27 Leonard Gama – Red Card: Kral 65’
19.5.2026
JOEY’S MISS OUT ON AFC 17S ASIAN CUP FINAL
The Australian Joey’s AFC U17 Asian Cup has come to an end, after China PR turned on the power in the second half to seal a 2-0 in their semi-final at the King Abdullah Sports City Hall Stadium Legends on Tuesday. China PR, are through to the final for the first time since 2004, will face Japan in the decider on Friday. Australia head coach Carl Veart was left to rue the missed chances after seeing his side hold China PR for the opening period before conceding twice in the second half. “It is a very disappointed group of boys in the dressing room. They have worked extremely hard tonight, given their best effort and unfortunately, we just weren’t good enough to get the win,” said Veart.
“But I’m very proud of the effort they have shown throughout the tournament. We have learned a lot from it and we will go away and review how the players have performed and what we need to improve. We now have a World Cup to prepare for and the boys have earned the right to be there. I’m really looking forward to the next six months to get them ready for a strong World Cup campaign.” China PR started brightly with Zhao Songyuan forcing Australia goalkeeper Charlie Wilson-Papps to turn his glancing header across the face of goal, and Besian Kutleshi to clear the danger in the opening minute.
The East Asian side continued to apply pressure with Kuang Zhaolei shot from distance on nine minute was saved by the busy Wilson-Papps, before Shuai Weihao headed over the bar following Wan Xiang’s cross ten minutes later. Weihao was a constant threat, he fired over the top from outside the box, before forcing Wilson-Papps into an acrobatic save from a tight angle shortly after. Australia’s first look at goal came on 37 minutes, when Oliver O'Carroll set up Georgio Hassarati, whose shot from distance was easily saved by China PR custodian Qin Ziniu.
With their fans cheering them on, China PR broke the deadlock five minutes into the second half. Zhou Yunuo won possession off Oliver O'Carroll and threaded the ball to Weihao, who made no mistake. Australia tried to respond with Miles Milliner shot from an acute angle on 53 minutes flashing wide, before Hassarati saw his effort from inside the box drift just wide of the left post. Akeem Gerald saw another chance go to waste on 74 minutes, his shot from just inside the box was saved by Qin Ziniu. While at the other end, Shuai Weihao was denied his second five minutes later from close range. But in stoppage time China PR added a second to seal the tie. Substitute Xie Jin, sent the China PR fans into raptures after he pounced on a loose ball inside the box before slotting past Wilson-Papps
China PR: GK Qin Ziniu, 2 Jin Yucheng (22 Liu Zhicheng 85?'), 3 Nan Zixun, 4 Li Junpeng, 5 Zhang Xuyao, 6 Zhou Yunuo, 7 He Sifan, 8 Kuang Zhaolei (?13 Wang Heyi 71?'), 10 Wan Xiang (17 Xu Zhengpeng 85?'), 11 Shuai Weihao (?9 Xie Jin 85?'), 14 Zhao Songyuan (20 Zhang Bolin 62?'?) – Subs not used: RGK Jiang Cheng'en, RGK Zhu Yuxuan, 16 Wang Xiuhao, 18 Bian Weihao, 19 Peng Xianchen, 21 Kong Xinuo
Joeys: GK Charlie Wilson-Papps, 3 Besian Kutleshi, 5 Miles Milliner, 6 Sajjad Nasiri, 8 Oliver O'Carroll (7 Aston Reid 85’), 11 Max Court, 13 Arnie Mitchell (4 Marcus Savic 77’), 15 Emile Katrib, 17 Henrique Oliveira (10 Paul Lombardi 77’), 20 Georgio Hassarati (9 Luke Becvinovski 85’), 23 Corey Da Cruz (16 Akeem Gerald 69’) – Subs not used: RGK Lachlan Allen, RGK H. Yien-Li Ng, 2 Winston Ashburner, 14 Fraser Brown, 18 Stevan Rujak, 21 Luka Demuth, 22 Harrison Bond
19.5.2026
HAHN AUSTRALIA CUP WA - QUARTER FINAL PREVIEW
We have the Hahn Australia Cup (WA) quarter finals on Tuesday evening, with three State League and five NPL sides looking to reach the Semifinals and hopefully reach the national stage of the competition. (All games kick off at 7:00am unless stated) All the state league sides face NPL opponents and first up Division One side Curtin University, who knocked out NPL side Western Knights in the last round, face a tough trip to NPL leaders Perth RedStar at the RedStar Arena. The hosts have progressed with comprehensive wins against Armadale and Inglewood United, and will look to add to their two cup final successes, while Curtin beat Forrestfield United before the big win at the Knights. Curtin coach Troy Reid said it’s a game the group are looking forward too. “These are the cup games you want to be involved in playing against the NPL leaders,” he said. “They are a quality side who play some very good football - but opportunities will be there for us if we get things right.”
Division Two side Morley Windmills will host Olympic Kingsway at Wotton Reserve. Morley beat Canning City before upsetting Gwelup Croatia and Cockburn City, while Olympic, who won the cup for the first time in 2024, and were runners up last season, have beaten Perth Azzurri and Balcatta Etna. The host, who have won the cup twice, returned to the state league last season, and coach John O’Reilly said they have probably been written off already, but the players are ready for the challenge. “Two years ago, this club was relegated to the Amateurs, and this is our first season back in state league football, after a two-year absence, but here we are in the quarter-finals of the cup against Olympic, a top NPL side, who would have thought that a couple of seasons ago,” he explained. “Olympic have built a squad that many clubs would envy. They host a glut of ex A-League talent, including the new coach. I’m sure we have been written off already and that’s fine with me. But my lads are excited for this game, they will give it their best efforts and maybe, with a bit of luck, we can cause an upset today. Fingers crossed.”
Division Two side Rockingham City also have home ground advantage, when they entertain Fremantle City at Endeavour Home Stadium, Lark Hill Sportsplex. (7:15pm) Fremantle have won the cup on eight occasions, the last in 1979, and they moved into this tie after wins against Carramar Shamrock Rovers and Wembley Downs, while Rockingham have been runners up in the cup on two occasions, beat Spearwood Dalmatinac, Ellenbrook United and Ashfield to progress. “It’s great for the club to reach this stage of the competition and a fantastic opportunity for our group to test ourselves against a strong Fremantle City side from two leagues above,” Rockingham coach Matthew Brooks said. “We’re looking forward to what should be a great night at the club and another exciting challenge for the players and supporters alike.”
The only all NPL tie takes us to Dianella Reserve, where Bayswater City make the trip to take on Dianella White Eagles, with both sides looking to bounce back from defeats in the league on Saturday. The hosts, who are searching for a first cup win, beat UWA Nedlands and giant killers East Perth, who knocked out defending cup winners Stirling Macedonia in round four, and skipper Sasa Njegic said it will be a tough game, but they will be looking to bounce back from Saturday’s defeat. “I think tonight will be a tough game against a very good side. We are well aware of what to expect and what we need to work on in regards to a few select things from the weekend gone,” the midfielder explained. “We will go out onto the pitch and put the Balcatta result behind us knowing we are capable of pulling out a result here if we played to our strengths.”
Bayswater, who were beaten by Perth Glory in Albany on Saturday, have won the cup on two occasions, the last in 2014. They have beaten Murdoch University Melville, before a tight win in the last round at Joondalup City. Coach Matthew Sparrow said it’s a big game, and these are the sort of games you want to be involved in. “We’re really looking forward to tonight’s quarter final. Cup football always brings a different type of pressure and excitement, and we know we’re coming up against a Dianella side that will be desperate to make their mark as well,” he said. “For us it’s about responding the right way after the weekend, sticking to the standards we’ve set ourselves and embracing the challenge of a big night game away from home. The group has prepared well, the players are focused and there’s a real determination within the squad to put in a strong performance and give ourselves an opportunity to move one step closer to a final. We know it won’t be easy, but these are the occasions you want to be involved in.”
17.5.2026
BELT-UP AMATEUR PREMIER DIVISION – WEEK SIX REVIEW
Our Week Six Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division ’Match of the Round’ didn’t disappoint, with North Perth United securing a hard fought 3-1 win against Hamersley Rovers at Carine Open Space on Sunday afternoon. “I felt we started well, but were dealt a big blow when Mickey Brennan was injured in the warm up and we had to start Connor Butler in at left back. Credit to Connor though as we felt he was outstanding during the game,” North Perth coach Chris Batten said. “Luke O’Brien our keeper made some outstanding saves at big moments of the game and he was awarded man of the match for his performance. Another win for us which we are happy about as we are slowly improving every week.”
The visitors started well and on the front foot, and they went ahead on nine minutes, a defence splitting pass from Tom Fowler found the feet of Connor Hartley who held off two defenders to score past the on-rushing keeper from the edge of the box. But the hosts leveled ten minutes before half time, with Ryan Charles on target. Both sides had chances after the break, but it was North Perth who regained the lead nine minutes into the second half. Some good play across the middle from the midfielder, and the ball fell to Shayne Wyse who drilled the ball across the box for Yanich Jordan to finish from a tight angle. Hamersley pressed for the equaliser but found keeper O’Brien in fine form. Then 14 minutes from time North Perth sealed the points. A clumsy challenge from a defender resulting in the award of a penalty, and skipper Niall Kennedy stepped up and made no mistake from the spot, his sixth goal in six games.
League leaders Wanneroo City have bounced back from their first defeat of the season last weekend, with an entertaining 2-1 win against Kingsley Westside at Chichester Park. “It was a great performance by the lads especially after the loss last week we wanted to respond with a win, Wanneroo coach Kevin Flavin explained. “It’s always a tough place to come to against Kingsley and it was the typical tough close game that happens at Chichester but we played some great football and deserved the win. The lads stuck to the plan and got a well-deserved three points.” A goal in the shadow of half time from striker Alan Reidy, finishing powerfully past Thomas Bull. The hosts were level early in the second half, with Jacob Lambert scoring, but the points were sealed on 68 minutes, Jack Wilson’s free kick from outside eluded everyone and nestled in the net.
Swan United backed up their win at the leaders last weekend, with a 4-0 win against Olympic Kingsway at the Swan Italian Club, Francis Street. It was tight first half, but the hosts made the breakthrough six minutes into the second half. A deep cross from the right picked out Mehrab Rahimi and his first time shot went in off the post. They added a second on 70 minutes, Liam Merrigan through ball played John Monterosso through and he finished at the near post. They secured the points with a third three minutes from time, Merrigan’s free kick was fumbled by Kingsway goal keeper, but he recovered to save Monterosso’s effort, but Cameron Anderson finished the follow up. The icing was added to the cake sixty seconds later with a fourth, Jed Romeril cut in from the right and long-range shot was parried by the keeper and Monterosso was quickest to the rebound and finished followed for his second. “It was a slow start from us with Kingsway defending quite well,” Monterosso said. “But we felt in control the whole game and once the first went in we knew the rest would follow.”
Jaguar have secured their first points of the season after a 2-2 draw against Maccabi at Maccabean Memorial Oval. “It’s been a tough couple weeks for us, but it was great having most of the squad available and to fight at the ground that we haven't had much luck with over five years or so was pleasing,” Jaguar manager Lam Gai said. “We take the draw and hopefully build on it for the comings weeks.” It was the home team who started well and took the lead on 13 minutes, Dion Berman was played in behind after a clever flick from Langdon Heath, and he rounded the keeper to score. But Jags pushed and were rewarded with the equaliser five minutes later, Andrew Kirr raced past two defenders and finished well.
Jaguar were ahead before the break, Paul Sopp won the ball in the middle of the park and sent winger Tharbok Nienkel through on goal, he rounded the keeper, before slotting the ball home. After the break Jags keeper Michael Dudek pulled off a couple off great saves to maintain their lead, but he was beaten on 71 minutes when Maccabi leveled. Heath’s first time shot from just outside the box found the bottom corner. Both teams pushed for the winner, with Maccabi looking likely to score, but Dudek refused to be beaten. Jags almost won it late, Sopp intercept the ball and made a great solo run into the box, cutting the ball to the back post, and with the goal at his mercy Nienkel skyed the ball over the top from close-range. e crossbar.
“I’m disappointed we didn’t come away with the three points today, they’ve clearly picked up some players as they had a lot of quality around the pitch, which is great for Jags as a club but unfortunate not for us today,” Maccabi coach Ricky Berelowitz said. “I don’t think we were good enough first half but we were much better in the second half, we had a few boys make their return from injury and they made an impact from the bench which was pleasing. It’s a shame we couldn’t get the winner in what was a cracking second half, very entertaining. I thought we were unfortunate with a goal being ruled for offside when their own Lino didn’t flag, but also got lucky with them missing a great chance to win it at the end so have to take the point and move onto next week.”
We had a five-goal thriller at Kelly Park, with Kelmscott Roos taking the points after a 3-2 win against Kwinana United. “It was a fantastic game to be a part of, Kwinana brought a lot of energy from the kick off and they were rewarded early with a goal that caught us sleeping, but we responded well and got back level quickly,” Kelmscott keeper Taylor Warwick explained. “The game was real back and forth after that, and we constantly matched their energy which was pleasing. Second half we were under a lot of pressure for most of it, but found an important goal at a good time and managed to hold on. Fair play to Kwinana as they made us work for every ball and every tackle, but happy to have come out on top.”
It was end-to-end in the first half, and it was the hosts who found the opener early with Thomas Walsh on target. But Kelmscott levelled shortly after, a ball from Callum Husain out wide to Kingsley Nteng, who took one touch and smashed it home. Kwinana regained the lead on 36 minutes, with Madison Holman scoring, but five minutes later, Kelmscott restored parity. Husain played a defence splitting ball through to Nteng who beat the onrushing goalkeeper to the ball and finished in an open net. Both sides pressed for the winner after the break, and it was Kelmscott who found it. Isaac Koomson picked the ball up on the left wing, beating his defender and shooting from the touch line, his shot hit both posts before going into the net.
In the final game, Noranda Emerald remain in fourth, after a comprehensive 5-0 win against Ballajura AFC at Kingfisher Park. “Yes, it was a strong away performance from our lads. Delighted to come away with another win and clean sheet against a spirited Ballajura side,” Noranda Emerald coach Ger Gaughan said. “Ballajura showed they had some very tidy footballers, but the lads matched them with intensity all day and were clinical when the chances came. Credit to them, they never dropped their heads despite the scoreline and kept competing right until the final whistle.” The visitors made a perfect start, and were ahead after just 90 seconds, Andrew Wood capitalised on a poor header back towards the Ballajura keeper and calmly finished.
They doubled their lead eight minutes later, excellent work down the left from Connor Jordon, who cut the ball back for Connor Gormley, who finished neatly from the edge of the box, before Wood grabbed his second just before the break to put Noranda firmly in control at half-time. The second half continued in the same fashion. A long ball from Gormley forced the keeper off his line, and Jack McClelland bravely challenged before tapping into an empty net. The goal of the day belonged to Jordon two minutes from time, dancing through the heart of the Ballajura defence with a brilliant jinking run before calmly slotting home.
17.5.2026
SIX GOAL THRILLER HIGHLIGHTS NPLWA – WOMEN’S WEEK EIGHT - REVIEW
It was top against third in round eight of the New Balance NPLWA – Women’s competition on Friday evening at the Home Group Stadium, Grindleford Reserve, and Balcatta Etna and Fremantle City played out an entertaining 3-3 draw. “It’s always a challenging game against Balcatta. I felt we were clinical in front of goal and did very well to get ourselves ahead during the first half. Having said that, we struggled to get our foot on the ball and control possession, gifting them too many shots around our box,” Fremantle defender Annabelle Leek explained. “We have a few things to refine but to take points off the league leaders in what was a very open and transitional game is a big positive we can carry into this week.
It was the visitors who opened the scoring on ten minutes, a misplaced pass out of defence went straight to Leyna Wood, and she took one touch before firing over Rebecca Bennett from distance. They added a second four minutes later, the ball fell to Wood on the edge of the box, and her shot found the net, despite Bennett getting a hand to it. Balcatta were back in the game eight minutes later, Jamie-Lee Gale found Jaime Duncanson, whose first time ball sent Caitlin Doeglas into the box, who got to the byline and pulled it back to Duncanson, who fired home.
But Fremantle hit back, and added a third shortly after, Annabelle Leek’s ball sent Abbey Green clear, with the Balcatta defenders looking for the offside flag, that never came, the striker rounded Bennett and finished well. The hosts weren’t finished and reduced the margin four minutes before the break. A poor clearance from Catherine Adams went straight to Doeglas, who played a neat give and go with skipper Abbey Meakins, and the former Perth Glory striker finished low past Cassia Souza. But despite having plenty of chances in the first half, the host trailed at the break.
Balcatta were level just after the hour, Lacey Heys back pass to Souza, but the keeper was quickly closed down by Doeglas, who stole the ball and fired into an empty net. Both sides had chances to win it. Hey’s sending substitute Erin Siah in on goal on 72 minutes, but Bennett stood tall to her, and two minutes later Doeglas’ free kick flew wide of the post. It was end to end, and nine minutes from time Green found Wood at the back post, but the Fremantle striker couldn’t find the target, before Doeglas’ shot from the edge of the box beat Souza, but hit the post and away to safety, so both sides had to settle for a point.
"Disappointed to not get the three points despite going down by two early in the first half. The girls did well to keep their heads and stay in the contest, and continued to pile on the pressure throughout the entirety of the game,” Balcatta coach Peter Rakic explained. “A lot of missed chances that we may regret later in the season, but it was a good indication of how aggressive we're able to play on the front foot, sometimes football can be a frustrating game, we just need to ensure we convert more of our shots in future."
In the other games Perth Azzurri have beaten the Hyundai FW Academy 1-0 in the annual Belt Up Regional Festival of Football fixture on Saturday afternoon at the Retravision Stadium in Albany. Perth had the majority of possession and territory in the first half, but were largely restricted to long-range efforts and set pieces thanks to a solid defensive display from the Academy youngsters. In fact, it was Andy Ord’s side who had the best chance of the half when Ella Lange released Cate McAuliffe, who was denied one-on-one by Dayle Schroeder.
The Academy lifted after the break, and McAuliffe saw her long-range effort hit the post, while Savanna Glavovic forced a save from Schroeder as the Academy looked for the opener. The Azzurri were always dangerous, and on the hour, Charli Wainwright released Maja Archibald, whose shot was turned around the post by the alert Daisy McGreadie-Cole. But on 66 minutes it was the Azzurri who broke the deadlock, Ruby Marshall ghosted behind the opposition defence to head home Kim McCartney’s free-kick.
On Sunday, Perth RedStar returned to the top four after a 1-0 victory over Subiaco at RedStar Arena. The only goal of the game came just after the hour, Toko Satsuma releasing Abbey Woolley, who finished clinically past Briana O'Dell into the bottom corner. Ana Denona came close to levelling for the visitors, when she forced Gabby Dal Busco into a smart save from range, but it was RedStar taking the points. “Really proud of the girls after that one. Coming in as interim coach, you're conscious of not disrupting too much, and you're asking players to make adjustments without turning everything on its head, and that's a fine line to walk. But the response from the group has been really positive,” RedStar Interim coach Conrad McKelvie explained. “They've been focused, bought into what we're working on, and that's shown in the performances and results in the last two games
“We went into the Subiaco game with injuries and illness through the squad, so to come away with a clean sheet and a strong performance says a lot about the character in this group. What stood out most was how well we connected — the shape, the movement, the combinations. The adjustments we've been working on really came through on the day. On top of that, some of our U21s came in, played significant minutes and made a real positive impact. That's a great sign for the depth we're building and gives everyone something to be pleased about.”
In the final game, Sorrento have won for the second time this season, after a 3-1 win against UWA Nedlands at the UWA Sports Park. “We’re really happy to come away with a good result against UWA Nedlands. I thought the group performed well across the game and showed a lot of maturity in the way we managed key moments. We transitioned well, stayed organised defensively, and didn’t give away too many clear-cut chances,” Sorrento coach Annie Leyland said. “It’s pleasing to see the continued hard work from the group paying off as we continue to build through our first season as an NPLW club.
“There’s still plenty for us to improve on, but the players should be proud of the performance and the way they approached the game.” The Gulls found the opener on 14 minutes, Daisy Snowden nicked the ball off UWA goalkeeper Janina Sauer, and rolled it into an empty net. Farrell’s side were given a chance to double their lead from the penalty spot just before half-time, after Sophia Papalia was brought down in the box. Elllie-Jay Silver made no mistake from the resulting spot kick. Lucy Hope’s hand-ball gave UWA a lifeline just after the hour, and Samara Riches made no mistake with her spot kick. But Sorrento sealed the points with a third late, when Ruby Walsh’s cross picked out Nikayla Hughes who finished neatly.
17.5.2026
CHINA PR NEXT UP FOR JOEYS IN AFC U17 ASIAN CUP SEMI-FINAL
Australia have produced a dominant performance to defeat Vietnam 3-0 in their AFC U17 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia quarter-final, and know Carl Veart’s side will aim for a first final appearance when they take on China PR on Tuesday. The Joey’s went in search of an early goal as Max Court’s header from Sajjad Nasiri’s corner on four minutes grazed the top of the crossbar, before Georgio Hassarati’s shot from inside the box was well saved by Vietnam keeper Ly Xuan Hoa.
Vietnam gradually grew into the game with the dangerous Nguyen Van Duong creating an opportunity on 23 minutes, picking out Le Sy Bach, only for Miles Milliner to make a great recovery challenge to block the attempt. Ly then pulled off a stunning save on the half hour mark, diving full stretch to his left to palm away a fierce Hassarati strike from the edge of the box.
The deadlock was finally broken with four first half minutes to play, Vietnam failed to clear an Australia long throw, allowing Henrique Oliveira to head the ball to Oliver O’Carroll, who just couldn’t miss from close range. Vietnam probed for the equaliser after the interval with Nguyen Minh Thuy stinging the palms of Australian custodian Charlie Wilson-Papps, before Le’s mazy run into the box was thwarted by another fantastic Milliner block.
Those misses came back to haunt the Southeast Asian side on the hour mark when Court’s long ball forward was expertly controlled by Hassarati, before squeezing home past Ly from an acute angle. Australia confirmed the win in the 75th minute when substitute Akeem Gerald cut in from the right flank, exchanged passes with Court before slotting home to seal a first semi-final appearance since 2018.
Vietnam: GK Lý Xuân Hòa, 3 Nguy?n M?nh Cu?ng, 4 Nguy?n Hu?nh Ðang Khoa, 5 Tr?n Hoàng Vi?t, 6 Ðào Quý Vuong (17 Truong Nguy?n Duy Khang 68’), 8 Nguy?n Minh Th?y, 9 Lê Tr?ng Ð?i Nhân (19 Tr?n M?nh Quân 46?'), 10 Chu Ng?c Nguy?n L?c, 11 Nguy?n Van Duong (18 Tri?u Ðình V? 68?')?, 13 Nguy?n Ng?c Anh Hào, 20 Lê S? Bách (22 Ð?u Quang Hung 60?')?- Subs not used: RGK Chu Bá Hu?n, RGK Nguy?n Tu?n Vu, 2 Ph?m Minh Cuong, 7 Nguy?n Hi?p Ð?i Vi?t Nam, 14 Quán Thành Công, 15 Nguy?n Kh?c Minh Ð?c, 16 Tr?n Ng?c Son, , 21 Tr?n Trí Dung, 22 Ð?u Quang Hung
Australia Joeys: GK Charlie Wilson-Papps, 3 Besian Kutleshi, 5 Miles Milliner (4 Marcus Savic 80’), 6 Sajjad Nasiri (21 Luka Demuth 80’), 8 Oliver O'Carroll, 11 Max Court, 13 Arnie Mitchell (18 Stevan Rujak 87’), 15 Emile Katrib, 17 Henrique Oliveira, 20 Georgio Hassarati (9 Luke Becvinovski 80’), 23 Corey Da Cruz (16 Akeem Gerald 63’) - Subs not used: RGK Lachlan Allen, RGK H. Yien-Li Ng, 2 Winston Ashburner, , 7 Aston Reid, , 10 Paul Lombardi, 14 Fraser Brown, 22 Harrison Bond
16.5.2026
CHELSEA RENAME HOME GROUND IN HONOUR OF KERR
Samantha Kerr is determined to end her glittering reign at Chelsea with the goals that would enable her to leave, fittingly, as the Blues’ all-time top scorer. It'll be an emotional farewell at Stamford Bridge - or Samford Bridge as it will be known as today - when the 32-year old plays her 158th and final game against Manchester United, before embarking on what's expected to be her next adventure in the United States.
Yet to cap a record-breaking career at the London giants, where she’s won 11 trophies and twice been fitted with the Golden Boot as the Women's Super League's top scorer, Kerr has her eyes set on one final crowning landmark. With 115 goals under her belt, she's just one short of matching Chelsea's all-time record scorer Fran Kirby - and that milestone is definitely in her sights.
"That's what I love doing - breaking records and scoring goals," Kerr told the club's website on the eve of the match. "So of course, I have my eye on the record. To be a part of Chelsea's history is something that I'll be forever proud of and it means a lot. It's kind of fitting playing Man United too. They're a team that we've had so many great memories together against, and hopefully we can continue to do that and have a win at the weekend to send me off."
"For me, it’s just about having fun one last time. I don’t want to make it sad. We’ve shared so many great memories together, and I just want to remember the good times ... I've worked tirelessly during my whole career for things like this and sacrificed so much, given up so much to achieve as much as I can in my life and my career. I think it's pretty special, especially to do it at a club I love so much."
16.5.2026
SOLLITT GIVES GLORY THE POINTS IN ALBANY
Perth Glory have moved up to eighth place on the New Balance NPLWA – Men’s table, after a hard fought 1-0 win in our Week ten ‘Match of the Week’ against the in-form Bayswater City in the Belt Up Regional Festival of Football at the Retravision Stadium in Albany on Saturday afternoon. A late Louis Sollitt goal secured the points for Joe Heath’s side, on a day Football West spread the NPL to the country, and football was the winner, with a good crowd on hand to watch it. “I have to give our lads credit this week. They put in a disciplined performance against a strong Bayswater side, and I thought they matched them toe to toe and competed physically,” Glory coach Joe Heath explained post-match.
“We were under pressure for a good 20 minutes in the second half but the lads dug in and produced a moment of quality in the last ten minutes, with another Louis Sollitt goal. (His seventh of season) Difficult this week as the whole team put in some top performances, even the lads who came off the bench, I thought Max Uvarov and Ollie Evans were outstanding, and are forming a nice partnership in the middle of the pitch and cover some distance between them in games.”
It was Bayswater who started the brighter, on the back of three straight wins, and Chris Jackson went close early, getting on the end of a Sam Mitchinson cross, but he headed wide of the target. Moments later Luke Palmateer’s shot was well blocked by the alert Riley Foxe, but Glory settled, and went close themselves on 12 minutes. A ball over the top saw Lewis Italiano come racing out to head clear, but it only fell to Louis Sollitt, whose shot was cleared off the line by Brent Quick.
The best chance of the game went Glory’s way moments later, the lively Oliver Evans’ snap shot from the edge of the box stung the palms of Italiano, then on 17 minutes Jackson’s glancing header was saved by Ryan Warner. Bayswater suffered a blow three minutes later, with Sean McManus, who was playing his 50th game for the club, injured his knee and was replaced by Ollie La Galia. The quick start to the game slowed down for the rest of the half, the best opportunity fell to Jackson Syephens, whose header was cleared off the line by Glory skipper Daniel Jankuloski, and at half time it was 0-0.
It was a typical day in Albany, wind, rain and sunshine, but it was Bayswater looking for find the opener early in the second half, La Galia headed wide, and on 56 minutes he went even closer. Mitchinson’s ball into the box was headed on by Stephens, and La Galia’s flick beat Warner, but the post came to the rescue of the Glory custodian. Glory hit back after that let off, and Santiago Flores’ shot from distance was saved low by Italiano, before Evans’ shot from the edge of the box flashed just wide.
The chances kept coming, and Bayswater should have taken the lead on 66 minutes, Quick’s cross from the right found the unmarked Daniel Stynes at the back post, but with the goal at his mercy he didn’t time his shot and it was easily saved by Warner. Jackson header was deflected wide moments later, and from the resulting corner Palmateer’s header was cleared off the line, as they searched for the opener. It’s liked being one of those days, with chances coming and not being taken.
Anthony Didulica was next to go close, after a quick counter attack by Glory, but Hughes got back to block his shot, before Pat Loughrey was sent in on goal by Jackson, but he couldn’t keep his shot down. But the deadlock was finally broken eight minutes from time, Tadiwanashe Kuzamba’s cross to the back post found Sollitt, and clubs top goalscorer finished clinically past Italiano. Bayswater pushed players forward looking for the equaliser, Mitchinson fired straight at the keeper, before Warner got down smartly to deny Jackson, Glory holding firm to seal the three points. Footballwa – Man of the Match – Oliver Evans (Perth Glory)
In the other week ten games on Saturday, Perth RedStar have moved five points clear at the top of the table, after a 1-0 win against Armadale at the RedStar Arena. “We’re really happy to get all three points in that one, it was a really tough game, and Armadale where better than us most of the game to be honest,” RedStar skipper Blair Govan explained. “But the work rate from everyone was brilliant we soaked up a lot pressure and defended really well. It wasn’t a pretty win but three points is all that matters.” The only goal of the game came on 14 minutes, after Riley Warland sent Gordon Smith into the box, and he was brought down by Craig Barker, the referee pointing straight to the spot. Smith picked himself up, and the Scottish striker beat Alfie Brincat from the resulting penalty.
A ten-man Fremantle City have scored a late equaliser to earn a 2-2 draw with Olympic Kingsway at Hilton Park. It’s been a tough week for the visitors, after the departure of coach David Tough, and defender Ollie Annis said it was a tough blow to concede so late. “I thought we dominated the first half and could have been very comfortable at half time but didn’t take our chances. I thought they had the better of the ball in the second half and created some dangerous opportunities,” Annis said. “Them going to ten men actually worked in their favour which led to the goal. Always tough to take a stoppage time goal as it feels like a loss but we need to bounce back with a win on Tuesday night in the Cup quarter final.”
The visitors were ahead on six minutes, Annis’ free kick from the left was headed back across goal by Aryn Wilolimas, and Liam Boland turned the ball home from close-range. But Fremantle were level on 23 minutes, Chad Nilson was bundled over in the box by Williams, and the referee had no hesitation in awarding a penalty. Olympic were convinced the ball had gone out before the challenge, but their protests fell on deaf ears, and Fremantle skipper Charlie Chechlacz sent Adrian Sinagra the wrong way from the spot.
Olympic regained the lead seven minutes later. Fremantle lost possession in the middle of the park, and Noah Ieraci raced into the box, and his cross found Rob Hawker, the ball falling to Joe Hobson on the edge of the box and his shot deflected past Luke Radonich. Fremantle hopes of comeback were dented when John Chalmers was shown a straight red card for a high tackle on Reegan Mimnaugh. It looked like interim coach Richard Garcia was heading for his first win, but Fremantle had other ideas and levelled in the second minute of stoppage time. Josh Risdon burst into the box on the right, his cross deflected to Nick Ambrogio, who dinked a cross to the back post and Nilson was unmarked at the back post to head home. “It was always going to be a tough game going up against Kingsway who are always a top side,” Fremantle skipper Chechlacz said. “They definitely had chances but second half we grew in confidence and did well to pick up a point after going down to ten men.”
Western Knights are up to fourth, after coming from behind to beat Stirling Macedonia 2-1 at Nash Field. The visitors found the opener on 22 minutes, Callum McKenzie was given far too much space, and the league top scorer fired home from distance. But the home side were level 12 minutes later, Jack Sprigg finding Lazzaro, whose first shot was well saved by Liam Hattersley, but the skipper made no mistake with the rebound. It would be hosts who sealed the points seven minutes into the second half. Woonsub Sim’s corner was only cleared as far as Leo Stolikas, who shot was deflected back to Sprigg, who finished well past Hamersley.
Perth Azzurri have moved up to fifth, after stoppage time goal from Gordon Perkins has given them a 2-1 win against Sorrento at Percy Doyle Reserve. “It was definitely far from our best performance, but Gordon did what he’s been doing all season and we were able to come away with three points,” Perth’s Michael Scafetta said. “It keeps us in a strong position, which is the most important thing so we take it and look to work on things for a really important few weeks ahead.”
The Azzurri were ahead on 15 minutes, Sean O’Connor’s ball into the box found Perkins, who got in between two Sorrento defenders to head home. Sorrento, who were looking to bounce back from their loss at RedStar last week, levelled 20 minutes from time. Tim Hill’s searching pass sent substitute Rene Kisesa racing down the right, and his shot on the run flew past Liam Driscoll. It looked like the points would be shared, but two minutes into stoppage time Kenny Lowe’s side won it. O’Connor’s ball into the box was flicked on by Jamie McNelis, and Perkins beat keeper Ben Ratajczak to the ball to score.
In the late game, Balcatta Etna have moved off the bottom of the table after a 3-2 win against Dianella White Eagles at Dianella reserve on Saturday evening. “A game won with complete character and heart,” a delighted Balcatta coach Basil Lenzo said. “We know that we have this within us and every player came and executed on the game plan. Dianella don’t stop coming at you with their direct style and knowing that we had to have the mettle to be strong and grab the opportunities when they came, which we did. Super proud of the team.”
It was Dianella who made the breakthrough five minutes from half time. Albert Luwi finding the overlapping Sasa Njegic on the left, and his cross was headed home by former Balcatta striker Ben Hinshelwood. But in first half stoppage time, the visitors levelled. 2b long ball down the line found Charlie Betts, who went on a mazy run, before firing low past Peter Pilkadaris. Balcatta hit the front seven minutes into the second half, Dianella lost possession in the middle of the park and Jared Flavel raced in on goal and fired past Pilkadaris. They added a third goal, five minutes later, Flavel racing down the right and finding Betts, who made no mistake. Dianella found a late consolation goal, with substitute Miguel Restrepo scoring, but it was too little too late.
16.5.2026
FLOREAT TOO STRONG FOR KINGSLEY AND MOVE SEVEN POINTS CLEAR
Floreat Athena have continued their good start to the State League Division One season, and moving seven points clear at the top of the table, after a comprehensive 4-0 win in our Week Eight ‘Match of the Round’ against Kingsley Westside, in the top of the table clash at Chichester Park on Saturday evening. “I thought we started the game very brightly with two early goals then never let Kingsley a chance to build any momentum, which is very pleasing,” Floreat coach Alun Vernals said. “It was another professional performance at a very tough ground to get points, and we face another stern test next week at Cockburn, who picked up a good win today against Joondalup.” Floreat made a perfect start, and were ahead on two minutes, Tom Wassholm out-muscled his marker, before slipping the ball to Harry Lewis who made no mistake past Mason Stickels.
They doubled their advantage ten minutes later, Linus Persson finding Joshua Willis on the edge of the box, and he curled home superbly. It was 3-0 just after the hour mark, a corner to the back post was headed back by Persson, and Jordan Langley’s shot was deflected into the net off Nick Kefler. The hosts were reduced to ten men on 72 minutes when Xavier Medica was shown a straight red card for an off the ball incident. They wrapped the points up five minutes later with a fourth. A neat give and go between Willis and Wassholm, saw the latter race into the box, his shot was pushed out by Stickels, and Langley fired home the rebound.
UWA Nedlands have lost ground on leaders, after a 3-1 loss against Mandurah City at the Poolmart Mandurah Stadium. UWA made the better start, and hit the front on 13 minutes. Anthony Dolan sending Joe McInnes clear and he beat Mandurah keeper Josiah Godfrey to the ball and rolled the ball into an empty net. The Dolphins, who went into the game on the back of five straight defeats, hit back and levelled on the hour. A back pass was picked up by keeper Jim Collins, and the referee awarded an indirect free kick in the box, and
Kristers Zaluzinskis fired home the resulting set-piece. That goal lifted the hosts, and they were ahead on 83 minutes. A quick counter attack saw Jordan Callaghan break down the left, and his shot on the run flew past Collins. They sealed the points four minutes later, Sam Lovell sending Zander Basile clear, and he kept his composure and finished with aplomb past Collins.
Quinns are up to fourth, after two stoppage time goals gave them a 2-1 win against Inglewood United at Proto DPS Inglewood Stadium. “What a finish to what had been a very cagey hard-fought game,” Quinns coach Nick Jennings explained. “Credit to the players who kept believing — the work ethic, mentality, and togetherness were outstanding. These are the kind of wins that can build momentum, but we’ll stay grounded, recover well, and focus on the next challenge a big home game against Mandurah City.” Inglewood found the opener on 17 minutes, Rostyn Griffiths finding Gavin Byars in the box, and he laid the ball back to the former Perth Glory’ midfielder, and he found the bottom corner of the net from the edge of the box.
It was a tight game, but the hosts were reduced to ten men on 74 minutes, with Martin Coughlan receiving a second yellow card for kicking the ball way. The visitors were also down to ten moments later, with Elliot Ireland given a second yellow card, after block on Byars. It looked like Inglewood would hold on for the win, but in the second minute of stoppage time, Quinns found the equaliser. Christos Vaenas was brought down on edge of the box, but after consulting with his assistant the referee deemed it was inside the box and awarded a penalty. Chad Samuels stepped up and sent Jordan Barbas the wrong way from the spot. Then two minutes later Quinns won it. Vaenas’ crossfield ball found Andrew Flint on the right, and his cross to the back post found Samuels’ who head home.
It's been a tough week at Cockburn City, with coach Ken Palmer leaving the club, but they put that behind them to seal a 3-1 win against the in-form Joondalup City at Dalmatinac Park. “Yes, it was an important response from the group after a difficult week. Credit to the players for the character they showed against a very strong Joondalup City side,” coach Paulo Basto explained. “I thought the team approached the match with great intensity and discipline, and we were clinical in key moments. To come away with a 3-1 result against quality opposition was pleasing, but just as importantly, it showed the togetherness and resilience within the squad.
“There are still areas we want to improve, but overall, it was a positive performance and hopefully something we can continue to build on in the coming weeks.” The home side hit the front after only four minutes, Danish Amran racing into the box on the right, and his cut back found Alex Guzman who drilled his low shot past Joe Smith. But Joondalup were level 14 minutes later, Taiga Kobayashi free kick was powerfully headed home at the back post by skipper Liam Peacock. But the host weren’t finished and regained the lead on 25 minutes. Daniel Robinson’s first shot was blocked, but his second was a low shot that flew past Smith from the edge of the box. Then on 66 minutes the Cockerels sealed the points, a ball in from the right by Sebastian Da Silva found Matthew Bowen, who made no mistake.
In the final game a hat-trick from Tomas Despotovski has helped Subiaco AFC to a 5-1 win against Gwelup Croatia, and moving them off the bottom of the table. “We knew it would only be a matter of time before our strong performances started translating into points,” Despotovski said. “It’s never enjoyable sitting at the bottom of the table, but we’ve used that as extra motivation to keep pushing for results and we did that against Gwelup.” Subiaco opened the scoring on the half hour mark, with Jack Steele drilling a shot home from the edge of the box after Gwelup failed to clear a corner. It was 2-0 shortly after, Kelb Morrison crossing to George Wishart, who turned the ball home at the back post.
Gwelup were reduced to ten early in the second half, when Léandre De Oliveira was shown a second yellow card. It was 3-0 on 53 minutes, Steele found Ivan Skorich, who played the ball to Despotovski, and he finished clinically. Gwelup pulled one back nine minutes later, Robert Ferrante sent Jeremie Mba down the left and his low cross was finished well by Sam Wilkinson, but that was as good as it got. Despotovski added his second three minutes later, sent in on goal by Phil Arnold, and he completed his hat-trick in stoppage time, heading home Chris Harradine’s cross.
16.5.2026
ROVERS WIN TOP OF THE TABLE CLASH
Carramar Shamrock Rovers have closed the gap on league leaders Rockingham City, and handed them their first defeat of the season, after a 3-2 win in our Week Seven State League Division Two ‘Match of the Round’ at the Endeavour Homes Stadium, Larkhill Sportsplex on Saturday afternoon. “A fantastic result against a good solid Rockingham team. I felt we were in control for the first 20 minutes and Rockingham got a goal from an error from us,” Rovers’ coach Adam Walsh explained. “That changed the game for them and grabbed a second not long after. We never gave up battling hard, and in the second half was all about the lad’s desire and will to win they worked so hard defensively and allowed us to create chances to get the results we felt we deserved.”
Rockingham striker Shaun Mukevsho gave the hosts the lead on 22 minutes, and they found a second nine minutes before the break, with Ryan Kennedy on target. But on the stroke of half time Rovers found a lifeline, after Alex Connelly was brought down in the box, and Nathan Diaz scored the penalty to give them a real boost heading into the sheds. Rovers levelled just after the hour, Diaz’s effort deflecting off a Rockingham defender. It looked like the points would be shared, but in the second minute of stoppage time it was Rovers who won it, with substitute Cameron Dalling getting on the end of ball into the box.
Ashfield have moved to fourth after a 3-1 win against Canning City at the Ashfield Arena. “A good performance deserving of three points, and after going a goal down, I thought our reaction was top class,” Ashfield coach Malcom Tshuma explained. “For us it’s another three points and a continued step in the right direction.” The visitors opened the scoring on seven minutes, with Hanani Ndebele on target. But Ashfield levelled three minutes later, Joe Aiken drilled a low cross across goal and Mike Mwangiri tapped home from close range. The hosts were ahead just after the half hour, neat build up play ended with Dougal Kindness, and his lofted pass found Mwangiri who volleyed home. They sealed the points nine minutes into the second half, a mazy run down the left from Hasen Asadi resulted in his deflected cross finding the net off a Canning defender.
Balga and Kalamunda City have shared the spoils after a 1-1 draw at Princess Road Reserve. “Myself and Kris thought we started the match really well. Our pressure, and intensity in the first half was excellent, and the players worked extremely hard for each other,” Kalamunda coach Kyle Robertson said. “Both teams defended really well throughout the game and there were not many clear chances for either side. We were of course a little bit unlucky that clear handball in the second half was not given as penalty in our advantage, but at one stage we hope it will level over the season. Losing Jake (Marly-Orr) early in the second half after a heavy blow to the kidney was also a big moment for us, especially after we had already used a substitute shortly before, so we had to manage the game carefully from there. The players continued to work hard right until the final whistle and away from home against quality opposition it is another important point for us in what is shaping up to be a very tight competition.”
Kalamunda were rewarded with the lead on the half hour, when Alexandre Coelho showed great fight to win the ball, before delivering a dangerous ball into the box for Angel Andres, and his shot deflected off a Balga defender and into the net. Balga came out on the front foot after the break, and it was a real battle with both sides not taking a backward step, and both creating chances. Then ten minutes from time Balga found the equaliser. Bleron Mamudi volleying home, after a clearance out of defence went straight to him, and he fired home from 20 meters, which dipped just under the crossbar to give both sides a share of the spoils. “Again, we went behind, after we lost unnecessary the ball on the right, but managed to find the equaliser,” Balga coach Gerhard Janssen said. “During the first half Kalamunda created a lot of pressure and had more of the game without scoring and creating good chances. In the second half we turned the game around and it was a question of time when we were scoring. The draw is a fair result and we are looking forward to get three points at Morley.”
In the final game Forrestfield have made it three games without defeat, after a 3-0 win against North Beach at Luxwin Stadium, Hartfield Park. “The team played really well sticking to the task in securing the three points, but more importantly with a clean sheet,” Forrestfield’s Luqman Sayyed said. “It was a very positive performance with lots of improvements. We have been working on the press from the front, and it was good to see us score our first goal from it. Overall, really happy with the clean sheet and performance, also in a good position to keep building and moving forward from as we take it one game at a time and prepare for our next big challenge this Saturday where we host East Perth, in our main event for Scarlett’s memorial game, where all proceeds will be donated to not for profit, Kids Cancer support group.”
The hosts were ahead on eight minutes, Austin Reynolds pressed the goalkeeper forcing an error, and he found the net. Thay set the tone for the hosts, as they searched for a second, but North Beach also had their chances, but it was 1-0 at the break. The hosts did find a second eight minutes into the second half, Nathan Costello picked up a loose ball from a corner just inside edge of the box, and he fired home. Forrestfield put the game to bed ten minutes from time, Lucas Reid on target after Matt Evans had challenged the keeper on the edge of the box, and the ball fell to him to score.
16.5.2026
STATE LEAGUE FRIDAY REVIEW
We had three State League games on Friday evening, and in Division One, Murdoch University Melville have won the ‘University Challenge’ after a 3-2 win against Curtin University at Green Promo Park, Edinburgh Oval. “We are pleased with the win, but it definitely could have been more comfortable. Curtin battled well, but both teams and the game suffered from some very poor officiating. Some really bizarre decisions that spoiled the game in my opinion,” MUM Fc coach Gavin Brown said. “I thought Marc (Anthony) made really good substitutions and they all had a positive impact, some very good decision making in game.
“We have had a frustrating start dropping too many points through draws and not putting teams away, so we are pleased to pick up a win and hope to start climbing the table. “The visitors were ahead on 22 minutes, Takayuki Sone’s corner from the left was powerful headed home by Alan Carroll. But there lead only lasted eight minutes, Jason Stewart finding Gaspar Becerra, who slid the ball to Jude Baillie, his shot was blocked and the ball deflected for Becerra who finished low past Duncan Lennon-Black. The hosts had chances to take the lead before the break, but failed to take them, and at half time it was all to play for.
It was also a tight affair after the break, but it was visitors who hit the front just after the hour mark, when James Oliver brought down Gustavo Giron-Marulanda and the referee pointed straight to the spot. Skipper Edward Wynne-Willson stepped and beat Alec Radonich from the resulting penalty. But Curtin’s hopes of a comeback were dented 12 minutes from time, when Stewart was shown a second yellow card and sent off. It would be MUM FC who sealed the points in stoppage time, with a third, a stunning curling effort from Sone, who picked out the bottom corner. Curtin weren’t finished and pulled one back moments later, Becerra long-range strike beating Lennon-Black, but it proved to be just a consolation.
We had two games in Division Two on Friday evening, and in the first, Wembley Downs moved into second place, after a 4-2 win against East Perth at Butlers Reserve. Toby Robertson was the hero for the hosts, bagging all four goals, and coach Luke Thompson was delighted with his sides battling performance. “Very proud of the resilience shown by the lads tonight. To be able to come back after letting East Perth back in the game was very pleasing,” Thompson explained. “East Perth is very good side, and really make you earn everything. We had five minutes of madness that could have really let us down, but just really proud of the desire to fight to the end and get a result.”
The hosts found the opener on 26 minutes, when a long clearance from keeper Casey Robertson was misjudged by East Perth, and Toby Robertson nipped in between two defenders and lobbed the East Perth keeper Azarl Tanveer from the edge of the box. But the visitors were level just after the hour, when Ryan McCready latched onto a misplaced back pass to score. East Perth hit the front on 72 minutes, when they received a penalty, after a foul on McCready by Nick Burmej, and Owen Patterson converting the resulting spot kick.
But Wembley hit back, and restored parity ten minutes from time, when Takudzwa Chisunga and Luke Coltman combined, the latter slipping a great through ball to Robertson, who raced into the box and fired low past the on-coming keeper. Wembley regained the lead four minutes later, Luke Coltman shot from outside the box was blocked on the line by Adam McCarron, the rebound fell to Josh Waldock who’s shot was also blocked, and Robertson scored with an acrobatic kick to complete his hat-trick. The points were sealed late in stoppage time, when Rory Hannon’s ball over the top sent Waldock clear, and he squared the ball to Robertson, who rolled the ball home.
In the other game Morley Windmills have beaten Gosnells City 4-1 at Walter Padbury Reserve, with Noel Disha scoring a hat-trick. “It was good to bounce back after last week’s result at Wembley, John had a really clear plan for the game and the players executed it well,” Morley’s Daniel Dols said. “I thought our boys worked hard for each other and it helps when you’ve got midfielders who can get on the scoresheet. It was enjoyable to sit back and watch Noel do what he does best.”
It was a tight first half, but it was Morley who found the opener seven minutes from half time. A well worked move down the left between Gabriel Vasquez and Isaac Ntow, the latter crossing the ball across the box to Brennan Borzecki, who fed Vasquez who finished neatly. They added a second in stoppage time, Isaac Ntow was brought down in the box, and Disha made no mistake with the resulting penalty. It was 3-0 early in the second half, with a powerful shot from outside the by Disha finding the top corner. Discha completed his hattrick just after the hour mark, with another long distance which went in via the crossbar. Gosnells scored a consolation goal five minutes from time, with substitute Armeyas Dejene-Teklu on target.
15.5.2026
BELT-UP AMATEUR PREMIER DIVISION – WEEK SIX PREVIEW
North Perth United will go in search of their first win on the road in the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division on Sunday, when they visit Carine Open Space to take on Hamersley Rovers in our Week Six ‘Match of the Round’. (All games kick off at 3:00pm, unless stated) North Perth were convincing winners last week against Ballajura, while Hamersley game at Kelmscott Roos was postponed after Kelmscott’s Edward Chisopa, who had also played for Hamersley, broke his leg, and we all wish him a speedy recovery.
The last time the two sides met at the venue, was in week 15 last season, with North Perth prevailing 3-2 under lights. North Perth hit the front on 13 minutes. A long throw from Dean O’Meara picked out Eoghan Rea and his glancing header beat the Rovers’ keeper Ahmad Bakhtyar Rahimi. But the hosts levelled on 37 minutes, with Loris Tommolini on target. But the visitors regained the lead three minutes later, Caolin Coyle cut the ball back to Cian O’Dwyer made no mistake.
They added a third just before the hour, O’Dwyer was fouled off the ball, and the referee spotted it and pointed to the spot. O’Meara stepped up and converted the resulting penalty. It looked like they would take the points easily, but Rovers had other ideas and a stunning long-range strike from Hunter Murphy on 70 minutes, flew into the top corner past Cian Flynn to bring it back to 3-2. It set up a tense last 20 minutes, with Rovers pressing for the equaliser, but United held firm to take all three points.
North Perth defender Eoin Haverty said last week was a good win, and good to continue their winning run at home, and added it’s always nice as a defender to keep a clean sheet. “Credit to Ballajura it took up until the end of the first half to break them down,” he said. “We managed to settle into the game and capitalise on our chances in the second half, as well as coming away with a well-earned clean sheet. We’re happy with another win and to keep the momentum going into this weekend.”
They will be looking for their first three points on the road, after a draw at Noranda Emerald and a defeat at Maccabi on the opening day. Haverty said all games are tough in this league, especially away from home, but they have prepared well and are looking for all three points on Sunday. “We’ve faced Hamersley in night series already this season and came away with the win, but we won’t be complacent coming into Sunday’s fixture,” the defender explained. “Away games are difficult in this league so it’s important we take the game to them to come away with all three points. Another win will help keep the pressure on the teams above and reduce the gap on the leaders.”
Rovers coach Antony Benetti said the incident at Kelmscott was tough for everyone, and he was proud how both teams supported the player. “Last weekend’s game was a very humbling experience. The seriousness was evident straight away and in moments like this football becomes a very distant priority,” he explained. “Being that Eddie was a former Hamersley player also meant there was strong personal connections to both groups so that needed to be managed also. I must say it was great to see two teams come together to support Eddie and each other and I think that shows the strong culture within football.”
Rovers sit seventh on the table, three points behind United, and Benetti said it will be a tough test on Sunday, but a challenge they are looking forward to. “We are definitely looking forward to this weekend’s game. We know North Perth have significant qualities and can hurt you if you have lapses in concentration. As I've said before the league is a competitive one and wrestling momentum at any stage is important,” Benetti said. “A positive performance and maintaining consistency is something we are all driving towards, and so it’s a huge test this weekend to continue that. The boys have worked hard this week as they do every week and we will be looking to have that translate to rewards.”
In other games on Sunday, league leaders Wanneroo City will look to bounce back from their first defeat of the season against Swan, when they travel to Chichester Park to take on Kingsley Westside, while second placed Swan United welcome Olympic Kingsway to the Swan Italian Club, Francis Street. Noranda Emerald make the trip to Kingfisher Park to take on Ballajura AFC, and Maccabi entertain Jaguar at the Maccabean Memorial Oval. In the final game fourth placed Kwinana United host Kelmscott Roos at Kelly Park.
It’s been a good start for the hosts after promotion last season, and they edged out Maccabi last week, and coach George Mann is expecting another tough test on Sunday against Kelmscott. “Yes, your right It's going to be a tough contest but we are excited for the challenge,” he said. “Being a newly promoted team, every week is a battle. We faced Kelmscott in the Night Series and lost 2-1 so we understand how good they are, so we will roll the dice and aim to come out on top.”
Kelmscott keeper Taylor Warwick said the unfortunate Edward Chisopa has had surgery on his broken leg on Wednesday and is going well, which is good news. Warwick said they have worked hard this week at training and are ready for the challenge. “Kwinana is always a tough assignment, we’ve had an interesting week coming into this game, but with some important players returning from injury and work commitments, it will give us a good chance of leaving with three points,” he explained. “The table up top is so tight, and if we want to be up there come the end of the season, every game needs to be treated with huge importance. Kwinana are a great club with great facilities so it’s always enjoyable playing there and we are looking forward to the challenge on Sunday.”
15.5.2026
OLYMPIC SHOW TOUGH THE DOOR
With Olympic Kingsway third on the NPL ladder and three points of the top, and in the last eight of the Hahn Australia Cup, it looked like the club were in a great space, but obviously not with President Steve Nelkovski sacking Head Coach David Tough and his assistant Ross Edwards on Wednesday morning. The decision came as a shock for players and supporters alike, but for whatever reason the club decided to part ways.
Tough and Edwards have had great success at the club, leading them out of Division One in his first full season at the club, and went on to win the NPL Night Series in 2023, NPL WA title in 2024 and the State League Cup in the same season. They went a great run in the Australia Cup, the Green Machine beating A-League side Melbourne Victory, and becoming the second WA side to reach the round of 16, eventually losing on penalties against Brisbane City and becoming the first WA club to reach the round of 32 for two years running.
Tough said the decision is still raw and doesn’t want to make a comment, but he did say injuries have hit them hard this season, but they were still in contention for the league and cup competitions this season. “I’m totally gutted and I never saw it coming, but I can hold my head up high, and say I’ve given everything for this club,” Tough said.
“Our squad has been heavily depleted all season on average missing five to six first team players a week but we were still in contention for the league and the cup. When Ross and I took over at the club they were fourth bottom of the state league, and to gain promotion to the NPL and win numerous trophies is something I’m really proud of, and I would like to thank the players and supporters who have been on the journey with us.”
Tough, who also lead Wanneroo City to the Division One title in 2013, and was part of the ECU Joondalup coaching team that won the NPL in 2020, will be back and he said the support of his family and the football family had been overwhelming. “Firstly, to my wife Kirsty she has been my rock, and has always been by my side, and the message’s Ross and I have received this week from the football community has been overwhelming, and we’d like to thank you all. My time at Olympic has ended but I’ll be back and I’ll be back stronger than ever.”
The rumour mill went into overdrive on Wednesday, with who the club were bringing in, and it looks like current Australia under 23’s assistant coach Richard Garcia will head to the Madman Arena, when his commitments end with the national team. The club are yet to announce the departure of Tough and Edwards, but it’s been reported that Willy McNally has left as well, ending his 50-year affiliation with the club, but Simon Madaschi will be staying on at the club.
15.5.2026
KERR LEAVES THE BLUES AND WHERE TO NEXT?
Striker Sam Kerr - Chelsea's all-time top scorer in the Women's Super League - will leave the club when her contract expires this summer.
Kerr, 32, has scored 115 times in 157 appearances for the Blues and her final game will be at home against Manchester United on Saturday.
The Australian, who joined Chelsea in November 2019, has helped the club win five WSL titles, three FA Cups, three League Cups and the Community Shield.
"When I reflect on my Chelsea career and doing it for the last time [against Manchester United this Saturday], I just feel happy," said Kerr. "Happy that it happened, and I feel so grateful to have played for this club for six years and won as many trophies as we could."
Kerr has twice won the Golden Boot and was the WSL Player of the Season in 2022 and the PFA Fans' Player of the Year award winner in 2021 and 2022.
However, she suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury at a Chelsea training camp in January 2024 and spent 20 months on the sidelines.
Kerr, who signed a two-year contract extension in June 2024, returned to action after 637 days when she scored in a 3-1 win against Aston Villa in September 2025.
She has scored 16 goals in 29 appearances this season, with her goal against Leicester City taking her WSL tally to a record 64 for Chelsea.
Going into the game against Manchester United, Kerr is one behind equalling Fran Kirby's all-time record of 116 goals for Chelsea.
"We thank Sam for her incredible contribution to our success on the pitch and sustained growth off it," said the Stamford Bridge club.
"We wish her all the best in the next chapter of her career."
When Kerr joined Chelsea, it was the biggest transfer an English club had made.
She was a global superstar who had broken goalscoring records in each league she had played in, and was an icon back in Australia.
Her stock has only increased during her time in England as she helped Chelsea become the most dominant club of the past decade.
Known for her backflip celebrations, Kerr has scored some of Chelsea's biggest goals in FA Cups finals and Champions League knockout games.
Under former manager Emma Hayes, she was the star player in the team, and built a formidable partnership with playmaker Kirby during Chelsea's six-year stranglehold of the WSL.
Her two-year absence more recently, following an ACL injury, forced Chelsea to look elsewhere for attacking options and current manager Sonia Bompastor has not been able to call on Kerr for much of her time in charge.
However, Kerr's return to full fitness for the second half of this season - and six goals in her past six games in all competitions - showed what she is still capable of and why she remains one of the world's best strikers.
She is irreplaceable at Chelsea but Bompastor has already confirmed buying a number nine is high on the club's priority list for the summer.
Manchester City's top-scorer Khadija Shaw is top of Chelsea's wish list but whoever they sign to replace Kerr will have enormous boots to fill.
Kerr's future is unknown though sources close to the player have suggested a return to the National Women's Soccer League in the United States is on the cards.
Australian broadcaster 10 News reported in April that Kerr had agreed a move to Denver Summit but the striker quickly dismissed it on social media.
15.5.2026
GLORY HOST BAYSWATER IN THE FESTIVAL OF FOOTBALL IN ALBANY
It’s week ten of the New Balance NPLWA Men’s competition, and our ‘Match of the Round’ takes us down south to Albany, where Perth Glory hosts Bayswater City in Football West’s 2026 Belt Up Regional Festival of Football at Retravision Stadium on Saturday afternoon. (4:00pm) It will be part of a double header at the venue, with the Hyundai FW Academy taking on Perth Azzurri in the NPL Women’s competition in the early game. (2:00pm) The festival takes place in the Great Southern region between 11-16 May, with free activities.
There will be a club Development and Safeguarding Workshop, with FW Club Development Lead Mo Syafiq and Integrity and Governance Manager Jamie English. A Coach Education Workshop, with FW Coach Development Officer Cris Ola, Regional Girls Day Out Carnival, with FW Female Football & Advocacy Manager and ex-Perth Glory A-League player Sarah Carroll, a woman in Football Networking Breakfast, with FW CEO Jamie Harnwell and Female Football & Advocacy Manager Sarah Carroll and a number of school clinics, it should be a great week of football in Albany.
Both sides go into this one after wins in week nine, Glory beating Western Knights 3-1, while Bayswater knocked Olympic Kingsway off the top of the table, after a 3-2 win. The last time Glory hosted Bayswater was in Week Eight last season at the Sam Kerr Football Centre, when a stoppage time equaliser from Seb Despotovski gave both teams share the spoils. Bayswater who found the opener on the half hour, a ball from Sam Mitchinson found Oli La Galia, who held off his marker and finished clinically. It looked like that would be the winner, but in the fourth minute of stoppage time Joe Heath’s side levelled, Despotovski firing home from the edge of the box.
Bayswater City skipper Luke Palmateer, said last week’s win against Olympic was important, and he was delighted with the performance. “Friday was a really important three points for us, and it helped in maintaining the winning momentum we have had in previous weeks,” the defender explained. “It provided the perfect challenge against a Kingsway side who will be right up there for silverware come the end of the season, and I thought we showed great character to come back from going down early and then resilience to go ahead 3-2.”
Palmateer said a trip away is great bonding for the player group, and he said it will be another stern test against the young Glory side. “Away trips with team mates are always fantastic. We had the opportunity during the Australian championships to travel with the team and I felt it really galvanised and created great memories for the boys,” he said “This trip to Albany would be great to create some more memories, with the importance of another three points at the front of focus.
“Glory are always a tough side, and unpredictable in the squad that they put out. The league is so tight this year, particularly in the top position and anyone can take points off one another. We need to make sure we guard against complacency, and although it is a great trip away as a club and a squad, we need to remain aware that this is still another league game and it is vital to get the three points, and there’s nothing worse than being on a coach for several hours without a win under your belt.”
Glory’s win last week was their second of the season, and coach Joe Heath said it was a battling performance and happy to get the three points. “Yes, last week was an important win for us as a team,” he said. “It was a competitive game but we managed to score at the right times to cause maximum impact I felt. We were under pressure towards the end, but the lads battled hard for three points, which was pleasing.”
Heath said it’s a great weekend away for his players and it’s always fantastic to spread the NPL into the other parts of the state, and a game against one of the best teams in the league will be a huge challenge for them, but one he’s looking forward to. “It is very important we integrate with the regions, promoting the NPL and inspiring the next generation of talent. It would be great to discover the next Josh Risdon,” Heath said. “The game will be another challenge, Bayswater are a strong team, they showed that last season by winning the league.
“However, our lads will be raring to go having taken a lot of confidence from our last two games. We will approach this game as we have the first nine rounds, wanting to take all three points. We are capable of competing with any team in the league and we have shown we can score goals. We will be mentally ready for the battle come Saturday.”
In other games on Saturday, league leaders Perth RedStar welcome Armadale to the RedStar Arena, hoping to maintain their three-point lead at the summit, while the visitors will be looking to build on last week’s first win of the season. Olympic Kingsway will hope to put a turbulent week behind, after the departure of coach David Tough, and will aim to bounce back from their loss at Bayswater, when they head to Hilton Park to meet Fremantle City, with new signing Josh Risdon to make his home league debut, while Stirling Macedonia travel to Nash Field to take on Western Knights, hoping to bounce back from their defeat against Dianella last week. Meanwhile in the late game Dianella White Eagles entertain Balcatta Etna at Dianella Reserve. (5:00pm)
15.5.2026
KINGSLEY HOST LEAGUE LEADERS IN WEEK EIGHT
It’s been a great start to the 75th Anniversary year for Floreat Athena, sitting three points clear at the top of State League Division One table and unbeaten, and they will look to extend that on Saturday evening, when they make the trip to Chichester Park to take on third placed Kingsley Westside in our Week Eight ‘Match of the Round’ (6:00pm) Floreat needed a stoppage time winner from substitute Mohammed Al-Zaidy, to seal a dramatic 5-4 win against Subiaco last week, while Kingsley suffered their second defeat of the season, narrowly beaten 1-2 at Joondalup City. But with both teams in good form, and this first ever meeting in the league should be a cracker under lights.
Kingsley coach Ben Andrews thought they deserved something from last weeks game at Joondalup, especially after conceding so late. “Yes, disappointed to not pick up any points against Joondalup. I thought we started well and had some good early chances but conceded a very poor goal, and that changed the momentum and I thought Joondalup were excellent and relentless with their pressing so we were happy to get to the break only one down,” Andrews explained. “Second half we were a lot better, controlled the game and had them on the back foot, but Joondalup defended well. It was disappointing to concede a second so late but this can happen when pushing bodies forward.”
After the disappointment of missing on the NPL last season, Kingsley have once again started well, but Andrews believes consistency is the key, starting on Saturday night against the league leaders. “We’ve started well but the group knows we have been inconsistent with our performances. We’ve got an excellent really down-to-earth set of lads who want to improve and win every game, so we’ll continue to work hard to find more consistency as the season goes on,” he said. “Saturday night should be a cracker. Floreat have shown their intentions to bounce straight back up and have assembled a very talented squad. We are no illusions how tough it’s going to be, but we’ll prepare the best we can, and look to cause them problems where possible and get ourselves back on the winners list.”
Floreat midfielder Joshua Willis said the performance in the first half last week, was the outstanding, and they still had the character to fight back late to keep their unbeaten start to the season going. “Yes, I thought it was a brilliant performance from the group in the first half and then we knew we needed to kill the game, which Harry (Lewis) did with his goal to make it 4-1,” he said. “But fair play to Subiaco they fought their way back into the game, but we showed great character and strength to go and score that late winner, which we knew we had in us.”
Willis, who signed for the club from Armadale this season, said to win the game was important, to remain unbeaten, especially with the players wearing the heritage kit for their anniversary, and he knows they will need to show that sort of commitment again on Saturday night. “Yes, it’s great that we are unbeaten and of course with the club celebrating its 75th anniversary it was the cherry on top. But as a group we aren’t focused on these things, we are taking each game as it comes and 3 points is all that matters,” he explained. “As all games in this league, Saturday will be tough, especially away from home. But with the quality of players we have and the groups determination for three points every weekend, we are more than capable of going and taking all the points against Kingsley.”
In other games this weekend, second placed UWA Nedlands head down the freeway to the Poolmart Mandurah Stadium to take on Mandurah City, who will be looking to get back in the winner’s circle after five straight defeats. Gwelup Croatia are fourth, and they make the trip to Rosalie Park to meet Subiaco AFC, Inglewood United will look to build on their win against Mandurah last week when they entertain Quinns at Proto DPS Inglewood Stadium, who will be buoyed after their win at Cockburn last to time out, while Curtin University welcome Murdoch University Melville to Green Promo Park, Edinburgh Oval.
In the final game Joondalup City are on three game winning streak, and this week they head to Dalmatinac Park to meet Cockburn City. The home side will go into the game without coach Ken Palmer, who resigned in midweek. Club President Paul Mcvittie thanked Palmer for his work. “We thank Ken for his professionalism in the role to date. He accepted the role of Head Coach 18 months ago, on the back of back-to-back relegation, and he pulled together a squad, a very young one at that, and got the club promoted in his first year as a First team head coach,” McVittie said. “Ken is and always will be a highly regarded member of the Cockburn City Soccer Club. We sincerely thank him for all his time, commitment and dedication at the club and wish him the very best in his future endeavours. In the interim, assistant coaches Paulo Basto and Sam Hutchings will caretake the group in preparation for the weekend fixture against Joondalup City.”
15.5.2026
LAST TWO UNBEATEN CLUBS MEET IN DIVISION TWO MATCH OF THE ROUND
The two unbeaten sides in State League Division Two meet in our Week Seven ‘Match of the Round’ on Saturday afternoon, as Rockingham City host Carramar Shamrock Rovers at the Endeavor Homes Stadium, Lark Hill Sportsplex. (All games kick off at 3:00pm, unless stated) The hosts sit four points clear at the top of the table, but dropped their first points of the season last week, with Joseph Moss scoring late to give them a 2-2 draw against Forrestfield. Rovers arrive in fourth place, five points adrift of Rockingham, but do have a game in hand, and are coming off a big win at North Beach last week. So, with their unbeaten records on the line, it should be a great contest.
The last meeting between the two sides at the venue, was Week 19 last season, when the hosts secured a 3-2 win. Rockingham found the opener on 18 minutes, Ryan Kennedy picking out Shaun Mukwevho, who squared for Tom Kinane to side foot home. They added a second five minutes before half time, Kinane cutting in from the left and his shot took a deflection taking it past the Carramar keeper Jakeb Seppings. The visitors reduced the margin early in the second half, with Jack Reilly converting from a long-throw. But it looked like the hosts had sealed the points 12 minutes from time, when Harry Quigly crossed for substitute Delano Adams to head home. Rovers made it a tense final few minutes, after substitute Louie Martin made it 3-2 in the final minute, but Rockingham held on to take the points.
The big win at North Beach last week, made it six points and eight goals in their last two games, and assistant coach Leigh Doherty said it continued their recent good form. “It was a pleasing result for us in the end, our lads are coming to grips with our style of play and things are starting to come together in the final third to impact the scoresheet,” he said. “We knew North beach would be a tough game, so pleased to come away with the three points.
“Adam and I are really pleased with how the squad is progressing at the moment, but it’s still early doors. We know there’s a long way to go, but the attitude, work rate and quality of this year’s squad is excellent. After a difficult second half to last season, we have been able to reset and the players have responded great. We’re playing with confidence but at the same time staying grounded and focused on continuing to improve each week as we know Division Two form can change in the blink of an eye.”
Doherty said Saturday’s challenge at the league leaders is a tough test, but they have prepared well and looking forward to it. “Rockingham have started the season very strongly and deserve to be where they are on the table. They’re a well organised side, and in good form and being unbeaten themselves sets up for a good test to see where we are at. Playing top of the table are the games we look forward to, we know it’ll be a tough challenge down there but we’ll be well prepared and give them a game.”
Rockingham coach Matthew Brooks said last week’s draw showed what his team is all about, and he was really pleased to take a point late. “I was really proud of the group last week. To go down to nine men and still show the character, resilience and togetherness to fight back and earn a point says a lot about this team,” he explained. “Of course, there are areas we know we can improve, particularly in controlling moments of the game better, but the mentality and spirit the players showed was outstanding. Sometimes those types of performances can say more about a group than a comfortable win. We’re pleased with the start to the season, but we also know it’s still very early in the season and there’s a long way to go.
“Last year was difficult at times, but the group has worked extremely hard both on and off the pitch to improve standards and create a strong culture around the team. The players have bought into what we’re trying to build and they deserve credit for that. At the same time, we’re staying grounded because we know consistency across the whole season is what matters most. I also think the strength of the league this year has been really high, with a lot of quality sides capable of taking points off anyone each week, so there’s certainly no room to get ahead of ourselves.”
Rockingham will be without Graham Tough and Regan Davidson, who were both sent off last week, but Brooks said two unbeaten teams going toe-to-toe should be a great game, and they are looking forward to playing in front of their supporters. “Rovers have started the season very well and deserve a lot of respect. Any side that remains unbeaten and performs strongly away from home clearly has quality and good organisation,” Brooks said. “We know it will be another tough challenge, but they’re the games everyone wants to be involved in. We’re looking forward to being back at home in front of our supporters and hopefully putting in another strong performance.”
In the other week seven games, Kalamunda City, who sit second and coming off three straight wins, make the trip to Princess Road Reserve to take on Balga, while third placed Wembley Downs welcome East Perth to Butlers Reserve on Friday evening (7:30pm) Morley Windmills will look to bounce back from a heavy defeat at Wembley last week when they host Gosnells City at Wotton Reserve, Ashfield entertains Canning City at the Ashfield Arena, while in the final game Forrestfield United welcome North Beach to the Luxwin Stadium, Hartfield Park.
14.5.2026
WA U-18 SCHOOLBOY SQUAD SELECTED FOR NATIONALS
The 2026 U-18’s National Schoolboys tournament will be held in Victoria in July, and the squad has been selected after comprehensive trials. Head Coach Tony Campbell said it’s a totally different squad from last year, and a number of younger players have been selected, which is exciting, as they look for and inaugural gold medal. “Yes, it’s a completely brand-new squad, unfortunately we had no returners from the previous year. That usually helps in getting the message across of how tough it can be to the new players and how important our mindset and preparation is to have a successful week,” Campbell said. “On the other hand, it gives more opportunities for others to experience a national competition. It’s a fairly young squad with a mix from across our three state leagues. But like every year you never really know how you will do till the final whistle on the last day.
A number of younger players have been selected in the squad, including 15-year-old Oliver Bondar-Langley from South Coast Baptist College, which is fantastic for WA football moving forward, and Campbell said if there good enough, age doesn’t matter. “In the trials I honestly don’t look at age and only take a glancing look at what team they play for. It’s about gradually narrowing those numbers down to the 17 we need in the areas we need and looking at who is performing the best,” the coach explained. “Making sure we have that cover for the whole week. There are some younger boys in the group this year, possibly one of the youngest groups we’ve had. Maybe it will be tough going for them or they will shine as previous young stars have in the past. Hopefully they do well, learn from the experience and give it another shot the next year and bring that experience.”
The squad had a couple of friendlies against State League sides, which was a part of the trial process, and Campbell said both games were important in their preparation. “Yes, the friendly game was our last stage of the trial process. Floreat was an interesting one, the first half was positive and we only really conceded from a silly mistake at the back. But second half Floreat changed approach and we struggled to adapt and leaked a few goals,” he said. “The Ashfield game was a different story as we seemed to enjoy the bigger pitch and played some nice football and controlled the bulk of the game. The last third of the game saw a blow out in the score in our favour but it was good to see how we reacted in both games.
“I give very little instruction in the trial games, I really want to see what they can do in their preferred position and how they adapt as the game goes on, like the Floreat game. One issue the always crops up is centre backs focused more on overplaying from the back than defending. I’m not opposed to building it up but WA players seem to overdo it. I’ve learnt early in my tenure as coach and manager with the State team to take that pressure off having to do it and give them that freedom to pick and choose when they should do it, because we get hammered over there and if the benchmark team NSW mix it up it’s a good sign maybe we should as well.”
WA finished fourth in the last 18’s nationals, and Campbell said they will look to improve from that position, and it will be a proud moment for him to bring home a medal this season. “I looked through the records the other day and in the near 50 years+ of the comp I think we’ve only won a medal 12 times, and only a couple of silver with the rest bronze,” he explained. “Fourth is a decent position for WA, a medal is above expectations. That’s not to say we don’t have good players or we are satisfied with fourth, but it really hard, remember it’s just the one team from each state, the best of the best.
“Last year with one minute to go we were sixth, then the miracle happened and we jumped to fourth. Weirdly I felt last year was the most competitive we have been against all opposition. We gave NSW a run for their money along with the rest of the teams and played some great football, just bad mistakes cost us…coach killers I call them. I think we counted six-seven of the goals conceded were bad mistakes. But that takes nothing away from the lads, they were excellent with their attitude and application, just errors we get away with in WA were punished over there.
“The year before we were terrible in the first game against Queensland and went undefeated for the remaining games making literally no mistakes and still only finished third (although technically second but when equal on points it goes to the head-to-head not goal difference) with only inches keeping us from gold as NSW resorted to killing the game in the last ten minutes as we were getting on top. Nothing gives me more pride than bringing home a medal and that is our focus, but if it doesn’t happen then the next goal is making it a great experience for the lads, one they can learn off and hopefully bring back to WA and become better players.”
Full Squad: Akira Crampton (Servite College), Event Kadenge (John Septimus Roe Anglican Community School), Gianni Germano (Newman College), Orlando Pavlovic (La Salle College), Oliver Bondar-Langley (South Coast Baptist College), Luke Dimasi (Aquinas College), Levi Saunders (St Norbert College), Cayden Williams (South Coast Baptist College), Berk Demir (Bob Hawke College), Oscar Brenssell (Bunbury Catholic College), Anthony Donatelli (Servite College), Koa Thompson (Comet Bay College), Caleb Campbell (Lynwood Senior High School), Mohamed Saccoh (Melville Senior High School), Achnaff Sayon (Sevenoaks Senior College), Alex Ghebru (SEDA College), Sebastian Melo (Servite College)
14.5.2026
GLORY KEEPER SELECTED IN THE PFA WOMEN’S A-LEAGUE TEAM OF THE SEASON
Perth Glory keeper Teresa Morrissey’s stellar season has been rewarded, with selection in the Professional Footballers Australia A-League Women’s Team of the Season. In her first season at the club, the 25-year-old kept six clean sheets in 14 appearances, and made 65 saves. Former Glory trio Grace Jale, Leticia McKenna and Aideen Keane also made the team, which is compiled from votes cast by PFA members.
Morrissey went into the season as Perth Glory’s second-choice keeper and was yet to debut in the A-League Women after many years playing as a backup at Melbourne Victory, Western Sydney Wanderers and reigning champions, Central Coast Mariners. However, she had shown enormous potential at NPL level with Macarthur Rams and Box Hill United, where Morrissey won the NPLW New South Wales Goalkeeper of the Year with the former in 2024 and helped the latter win the NPLW Victoria Championship last year.
But after receiving her debut in December, Morrissey never looked back, taking her opportunity with both hands to establish herself as one of the top goalkeepers in the league. Morrissey finished the season first for goals prevented (7.0) and second in save percentage (81.3%) and saves per 90 (4.6), according to FotMob. The keeper also received PFA Player of the Month honours in January after an incredible run of form following her debut.
Full Team - Goalkeeper: Teresa Morrissey (Perth Glory), Defenders: Aimee Medwin (Brisbane Roar), Mackenzie Barry (Wellington Phoenix), Rebekah Stott (Melbourne City) (C), Ella Tonkin (Adelaide United), Midfielders: Pia Vlok (Wellington Phoenix), Isabel Gomez (Central Coast Mariners), Grace Jale (Wellington Phoenix)
Forwards: Holly McNamara (Melbourne City), Annalise Rasmussen (Central Coast Mariners), Brooke Nunn (Wellington Phoenix) Substitutes: Victoria Esson (Wellington Phoenix), Claudia Bunge (Melbourne Victory), Marisa van der Meer (Wellington Phoenix), Leticia McKenna (Melbourne City), Rhianna Pollicina (Melbourne Victory), Aideen Keane (Melbourne City), Daisy Brown (Brisbane Roar) - Coach: Bev Priestman (Wellington Phoenix)
14.5.2026
JOEYS BEATEN IN FINAL GROUP GAME
The Joeys have finished second in Group D at the AFC U17 Asian Cup, after 0-2 defeat against group winners Uzbekistan at the King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in Jeddah on Wednesday. With both sides quarter-final berths booked prior to the game, the defending champions will now meet the Korea Republic on Saturday while Australia will take on Vietnam on Sunday.
This was toughest test for the Joeys, with Uzbekistan looking to go back-to-back in the competition, but both sides took some time to find their feet. It was Uzbekistan who had the first opportunity, Laziz Abduraimov heading just wide of the post. The Central Asian side kept the pressure on with Akhrorbek Ravshanbekov and Abubakir Rakhimov both causing problems for the Joeys, with the latter seeing his close-range effort on ninth minute denied by Australia custodian Charlie Wilson-Papps, who made another save from Sukhrob Sadirzhonov seven minutes later.
Uzbekistan’s good start was rewarded with the lead on 28 minutes. A defence-splitting through ball from Sadirzhonov found Mirkomil Murodov, who drilled his shot from just inside the box into the bottom right corner past Wilson- Papps. The Joeys looked for a quick response, but were struggling to get a foot hold in the game, their first chance came ten minutes before the break, Oliver O’Carroll, who headed straight at keeper Olimjon Shamuratov.
The dominant Uzbekistan doubled their advantage in the shadows of half time, the unmarked Akhrorbek Ravshanbekov, latching on to a cut-back from Sadirzhonov, and swept the ball in from the edge of the six-yard box. Uzbekistan continued to dictate terms after the break, and Sadirzhonov forced a smart save from the Australia keeper a minute into the restart, with Wilson-Pappas then saved low to keep out Murodov’s strike moments later.
The Joeys custodian made crucial saves from the ever-dangerous pair of Sadirzhonov and Murodov, with the former coming close to a third goal when he weaved down the left and sent a curling shot that whistled inches wide of the post. Despite Australia’s best efforts to reduce the scoreline, Uzbekistan controlled the pace of the match until the final whistle to head into the knockout stage with maximum confidence, while the Joeys need to bounce back.
Joeys: GK Charlie Wilson-Papps, 4 Marcus Savic, 5 Miles Milliner, 6 Sajjad Nasiri, 8 Oliver O'Carroll (23 Corey Da Cruz 86’), 9 Luke Becvinovski (20 Georgio Hassarati 77’), 10 Paul Lombardi (16 Akeem Gerald 46’), 11 Max Court (7 Aston Reid 81’), 14 Fraser Brown, 15 Emile Katrib, 22 Harrison Bond (21 Luka Demuth 46’) - Subs not used: RGK Lachlan Allen, RGK H. Yien-Li Ng, 2 Winston Ashburner, 3 Besian Kutleshi, 13 Arnie Mitchell, 17 Henrique Oliveira, 18 Stevan Rujak.
Uzbekistan: GK O. Shomurodov, 4 M. Hakimov, 7 A. Erkinov (3 M. Ruziboev 64?'?), 8 I. Ravshanov, 10 M. Murodov (?6 M. Mamatov 64?'?), 11 S. Sadirjonov (15 N. Uktamov 84?'), 13 M. Anvarov, 16 A. Abdunabiev (2 M. Abdusoliev 72?'?), 19 A. Ravshanbekov, 20 L. Abduraimov (64?'? ), 22 A. Rakhimov - Subs not used: 5 E. Olimov, 12 M. Sirojiddinov, 14 M. Orifkhonov, 17 J. Uktamboev. 18 F. Khayitmurodov, 21 A. Zoidjonov, 23 R. Aliev
13.5.2026
GRIFFITHS REWARDED WITH A TWO-YEAR DEAL AT GLORY
When Adam Griffiths took over from the sacked David Zdrilic, he became the fourth coach in the space of five years, and the club needed stability. Today the club’s hierarchy have rewarded Griffiths, who they believe has started to turn their fortunes around, with a two-year extension on his contract through to 2028. The clubs’ supporters have had to watch some dire football over the past two years, when the club finished bottom of the table and won the wooden spoon.
But this season there was a glimmer of hope, with Griffiths leading the club to dizzy heights of tenth on the table, and but for long-term injuries to Tom Lawrence and Lachie Wales, and the departure of Rhys Bozinovski to Dutch Eredivisie club Heracles Almelo, a spot in the finals could have been achieved. Griffiths, AKA The Lion, now needs to continue their improvement and push for a spot in the top six, for the first time since 2020 under Tony Popovic.
The 46-year-old said he’s excited by the challenge, and he wants to bring success to the club to thanked their loyal supporters. “The expectations of the fans for us to play finals football is something we need to relish, because if we as a group are not expecting ourselves to get to that level, we may as well quit,” he said. “The Glory supporters have given me everything since I walked through the door, and I feel their passion every single game and I want nothing more than to deliver the success this city is hungry for.
“They are a massive part of what we are building and we are just getting started. I would like to thank the owner, Ross Pelligra and the board for putting their faith in me to take Perth Glory forward. This club means everything to me and I am hungry to take it where it belongs. We have done a lot of the hard work; built the culture, set the standards and created a belief in this group that wasn’t here before.”
Griffiths said the signs are there, but they need to find consistent performances. “With the right preparation and the right planning, bringing in key players that are going to help us evolve and improve from last season, the trajectory is going in the right direction,” the coach explained. “When we evolve, then we become a stronger team, the confidence builds, the fans get behind that, and they believe. We had elements of that throughout this season, but we need consistency throughout this season.”
After being given the interim job after the departure of Zdrilic, it’s been a baptism of fire for Griffiths, but he’s relishing the opportunity to lead the club back to finals football. “When I reflect on the season, there was never a moment to breathe, so as soon as the season finished, and even just prior to the season finishing, I started to reflect on which areas we can improve and take the club to a level that is required to be great again,” he said.
“I took a lot of key understandings of different elements of the football club, and then tried to start setting plans in place, even though I hadn’t been appointed as the new manager. I started putting those things into place because I know if I don’t make those decisions at those critical junctions, then I’m constantly chasing again. You take a lot of learnings from what happened from the season, pre-season sets the foundations of everything in terms of the physicality you require throughout the course of the season, that you can take that physicality and then implement it.
“If you want to be a team that’s on the front foot, that physicality is essential and keeping players on the park for the course of the season, but it also allows you to start to implement all of the areas within your game plan in different time frames within the pre-season. When you come to the season again, you’re not trying to implement stuff on the run, the ideas and the concepts that you’ve implemented in pre-season, then just become the norm.
“We need to have a squad that needs to be available every week, and one of the challenges I had last season is that we’re constantly chasing our tail in terms of players being available and at disposal. We need a couple of players in the front third that are creative and have that dribbling, x-factor type of attribute, so we’re looking at those types of players now. That will give us more depth, so if we were to lose another critical player at a junction within the season, we don’t have to reinvent ourselves. But first we have to sit down with the players we have to get them on board first.”
Glory CEO Anthony Radich said that Griffiths showed he is the right man to drive the team forward, and believes they can be challenging for finals football next season. “The significant progress the team made under Adam’s charge is clear to see. He worked hard to earn his opportunity which came about under difficult circumstances early last season and under his guidance, we have seen something begin to grow,’ Radich said. “Adam has instilled competitiveness, structure and belief into the playing group who have clearly bought in to his approach.
“A number of the young players, in particular, have taken their performances to a new level under his guidance and that ability to develop our emerging talent is integral to our plans for the club going forward. Our members and fans have also warmed to Adam as a person and I believe his ambition to play an entertaining, attacking style of football will resonate strongly with them and reflect this club’s traditions. Having the opportunity to plan and oversee a full pre-season with his own staff will allow Adam to further instil his philosophy into the playing group and provide the stability within the football department which is essential for success. We are confident that under Adam, we will challenge very strongly for a finals berth in 2026/27.”
11.5.2026
JUNIOR MATILDAS SEAL SEMI-FINAL BERTH AT AFC U-17 ASIAN CUP
Australia have booked their place in the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup semi-finals, and confirmed their place at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco later this year, after a 2-0 win against Vietnam in their quarter final at the Suzhou Sports Centre Stadium on Monday, and will now take on Japan in the semifinals on Thursday.
“To see this group achieve something so significant is incredibly special. From the first day we came together, there’s been a real intent in how they have trained, connected and represented their country,” Junior Matildas Head Coach, Michael Cooper said. “They have embraced every challenge along the way and stayed focused on what we are building as a team.
“Earning a place at the U17 FIFA Women’s World Cup is a fantastic reward for their effort and an important step in their development as players and people. We will make sure we take a moment tonight to enjoy what we’ve achieved, but we also remain focused on this tournament with a semi-final ahead and more we want to deliver this campaign.”
Both FW Academy players Sakura Leong and Theo Mouithys were in starting lineup, and it was Australia who seized the early control, and Maeve Nicholas headed just wide of the target after only six minutes. They were in again on 25 minutes, Frideriki Karaberis’ shot from distance was well saved by Vietnam goalkeeper Tran Thi Cam My. Moments later Jugovic was denied by the Vietnam custodian, as Australia increased their tempo.
Australia eventually made the breakthrough on 28 minutes, when Karaberis reacted quickest after Jugovic’s initial shot had been saved, finding the net from close range. The Young Matildas doubled their lead three minutes later, Leyla Hussein collected Claire Corbett’s pass before firing a deft lob over Thi Cam My and into the corner of the net. They went close to a third on 33 minutes, WA’s Leong trying her luck from long range, but the keeper recovered well to make the save.
Vietnam started on the front foot after the break, and went close eight minutes in. Nguyen Thi Minh Anh met Le Thi Hong Thai’s cross inside the box, only to see her effort blocked by the Australian defence. Nguyen Thi Ngoc Anh I then wasted another chance three minutes later after seeing her attempt blocked again before Nguyen Thi Minh Anh broke into the area late, but her rising effort sailed just over the top right corner. They were unable to find a way through as Australia held firm to secure the win.
Australia: GK Dali Gorr Burchmore, 2 Willa Pearson, 5 Liana Luong, 6 Frideriki Karaberis, 7 Claire Corbett (3 Charlotte Bradshaw 85’), 8 Kaya Jugovic, 10 Leyla Hussein (14 Jada Taylor 64’), 13 Maeve Nicholas, 16 Tehya Aspland, 20 Sakura Leong, 21 Theo Mouithys (11 Matilda Dias Wadewitz 77’) – Subs not used: RGK Alyse Oppedisano, RGK Annabelle Croll, 9 Izabella Rako, 15 Tyra Bagiante, 17 Mary Dal Broi, 19 Harper Pell, 23 Abbie Puckett
Vietnam: GK Tr?n Th? C?m My, 3 Hoàng Th? Giang (14 Nguy?n Th? Thanh Lam 62’), 5 Hà Y?n Nhi, 7 Phan Th? Thu Phuong (4 Truong Y?n Linh 62’), 9 Nguy?n Th? Linh Chi, 10 Nguy?n Th? Minh Ánh, 11 Nguy?n Th? Ng?c Ánh I, 17 Lê Th? H?ng Thái, 19 Ð? Th? Hà Vi, 22 Nguy?n Anh Thu, 23 Tr?n Th? An – Subs not used: RGK L? Th? Th?y, RGK Bùi Th? Phuong Th?o, 2 Nguy?n Duong Phuong Nghi, 6 Nguy?n Th? Ng?c Ánh II, 8 Pham Th? Trang, 13 Ngô H?i Y?n, 15 Nguy?n Th? Phuong Th?o, 16 Ðoàn Th? Thu Hu?ng, 18 Ð?ng H? Thanh Phuong, 20 Nguy?n Khánh Ly
11.5.2026
JOEYS SEAL FIFA U-17 WORLD CUP PLACE WITH A GAME TO PLAY
The Joeys have qualified for the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar overnight for the first time since 2019, and they still have a game to play in the AFC U17 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia. They beat India in their opening game, with India losing to Uzbekistan overnight, Carl Veart’s squad have secured their place. This is a critical milestone for the Joeys and gives the next generation of Australian men’s footballers further opportunities to develop and grow against the best in their age group. Joeys Head Coach Carl Veart said it’s a great achievement by the squad.
“This is a fantastic achievement for the group and reward for the hard work they’ve put in throughout the campaign,” the former Adelaide United coach said. “As a group we have been clear about our ambition from the start which is to perform strongly at this Asian Cup and to put ourselves in a position to qualify for a World Cup. Qualifying for a FIFA U-17 World Cup is an important milestone in the development of these players, giving them the opportunity to test themselves against the best young talent in the world. We’re proud of the way the boys have represented Australia so far, and we’re excited to continue building as we prepare for Qatar.”
Football Australia’s Executive Director of Football, Heather Garriock congratulated Veart and the players on their qualification. “This qualification is a significant moment for our Australian football and our development pathway. The FIFA U-17 World Cup provides an invaluable platform for our emerging players to gain international experience and accelerate their growth on the global stage,” Garriock said. “We congratulate the players and staff on this achievement and look forward to supporting them as they continue their journey.” The FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar will run from 19 November to 13 December 2026. The Joey’s focus now turns to Uzbekistan who they play on Thursday 14 May at the King Abdullah Sports City Training Stadium in Jeddah in their next AFC U17 Asian Cup.
10.5.2026
SWAN CLOSE THE GAP ON LEADERS AFTER A NARROW WIN AT WANNEROO
Swan United have maintained their unbeaten start to the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division season, and ended league leaders Wanneroo City’s perfect start, after a 1-0 win in our Week Five ‘Match of the Round’ at Players Place on Sunday afternoon. “Although it’s early in the season it was an important game for us to make sure we came away with a result so the gap between us didn’t end up extending to seven points,” Swan coach Lee Taylor explained.
“The players were excellent today, and they deserve a lot of credit for sticking to the plan and were disciplined defensively throughout. We could have made our lives a little easier by taking some of our chances in the second half, but really happy to come away with a well-deserved three points.” Both these sides were relegated from the State League last season, and both will be trying to return at the first attempt, and it was Swan who scored the decisive goal ten minutes before the break. Some good build up play and run by John Monterosso down the right, before he delivered the ball into the box for Vishal Amunugama to finish neatly first time.
North Perth United remains third after a 4-0 win against Ballajura AFC at Woodville Reserve. “It was a comfortable win and we were well worthy of the three points, four goals and clean sheet,” North Perth coach Chris Batten said. “The game started pretty slowly but we soon found our rhythm and took control and scored four good goals and continued to create chances, so overall, happy with the result and the performance.” United midfielder’s Niall Kennedy and Barry Boggan were influential early, as the hosts searched for the opener, and it came seven minutes from the break.
Good work by Alex Wilde, who got to the by line, and pulled it back for the on-rushing Ben Green, his shot was saved by the keeper, but the rebound fell to Marcus Seydel who made no mistake. They added a second on 50 minutes, a Wilde free kick from the right, picked out Kennedy, whose glancing header found the net. It was 3-0 when Kennedy was brought down in the box, and he picked himself up to score the resulting penalty. They sealed the points with a fourth late, good work by Conor Hartley who beat three players, before squaring to Kennedy, who finished high onto the net to complete his hat trick.
Kwinana United are up to fourth, after a hard fought 2-1 win against Maccabi at Kelly Park. “It was a tough game and I’m delighted that we were able to get it over the line,” Kwinana coach George Mann said. “It was a huge effort all round and a great win. Maccabi are a strong side who made us work hard in a contest which truly could have gone either way.” A tight first half came to life late, and it was Kwinana who opened the scoring ten minutes before the break, with Neal Beveridge’s shot deflecting past the keeper. But Maccabi were level in the shadows of half time, with a fantastic solo goal by Henry Wilkinson-Derums. Both sides had their chances to win it, but it was the hosts who sealed the points just after the hour mark, Maddy Holman’s effort going in via the underside of the bar.
After back-to-back draws, Noranda Emerald are back in the winner’s circle, after a 4-0 win against Olympic Kingsway at Kingsway Reserve. “Delighted to get the three points and a clean sheet was very important to us also,” Noranda Emerald coach Ger Gaughan said. “We started quickly but they nearly caught us on the hop very early on too, but we pushed on a scored two goals before the break. We were a bit disappointed because it should have been more, but the positive is we kicked on in the second half, so glad get the win away from home.” The visitors went into the break in control, with goals from Alex Pomeroy and Shane Hickey in quick succession. Pomeroy added a third after good approach work, before they wrapped up the points late, with a pin-point pass from keeper Ger Doran found Keith Weekes who finished well into bottom corner.
Kingsley Westside have continued the poor start to the season for Jaguar, coming home from the Herb Graham Recreation Centre with a 9-0 win. “Full credit to Jaguar, they gave us a very competitive first half and made things difficult for us. We were a little bit poor with our ball movement and probably not playing the football, we wanted to play,” Kingsley coach Simone Sichel explained. “We still managed to go into halftime with a narrow lead. During the break we adjusted a couple of things and in the second half we went back to playing our football properly. What pleased me the most was the quality of the football after halftime. All nine goals came from really good combination play and collective movement.
We also had two penalties, but even those came after very good attacking combinations and quick football around the box. It was nice to see the boys rewarded for the way they played.” Ryan Fish gave them the lead at half time, but the damage was done after the break. Cameron Bishop converted two penalties to make it 3-0. Substitute Nathan Griffiths bagged five, with Kai Main-Nyckowsky adding the other. “Nathan’s impact from the bench was outstanding and again showed the importance of the whole squad contributing throughout the season,” Sichel added.
“Now the challenge for us is to use this performance and result as momentum going into our next two games against Wanneroo City and Swan United. They will be two very difficult and tough matches, but hopefully we can carry this confidence and intensity into those games.” The final game between Kelmscott Roos and Hamersley Rovers was postponed five minutes into the second half after Edward Chisopa broke his leg, and an ambulance was called. We wish him a speedy recovery.
10.5.2026
WOMEN’S STATE CUP – ROUND OF 16 REVIEW
It was cup weekend in the Women’s competition, with the round of 16 of the Construction Training Fund State Cup taking centre stage this weekend, and we had four all NPL ties, and reigning cup holders Fremantle City moved into the next round after a 6-0 win against Sorrento at Percy Doyle Reserve on Sunday afternoon. Fremantle were four to the good at half time, with a brace from Abbey Green, and others to Sam Brady and Lacey Heys. Leyna Wood added a fifth early in the second half, and Hey’s added her second shortly after to secure the big win.
Perth RedStar have started life without coach Chris Atturo, who left the club last week to seek opportunities overseas, with a hard fought 2-1 win against the Hyundai FW Academy at Sam Kerr Football Centre on Friday evening. It was Conrad McKelvie’s first game in charge, and his side found themselves behind on 25 minutes with Piper Dowe continuing her scoring run. But goal either side of half time from Renee Leota and Jayna Ridley secured the win. In the other two games involving NPL sides, league leaders, and last season’s runners-up, Balcatta Etna beat UWA Nedlands 1-0 in a hard-fought encounter at the Home Group Stadium, Grindleford Reserve on Friday evening, with Jamie-Lee Gale scoring the only goal of the game early.
Meanwhile Perth Azzurri retuned from Rosalie Park on Saturday evening with a 3-2 win. Sam Mathers gave the Azzurri the lead early, but Liana Cook levelled for the hosts on the half hour. Mathers added her second in first half stoppage time, before striker Jessica Flannery added a third shortly after the break. Sara Klott reduced the margin for Subiaco late, but Perth held firm to move into the next round.
In three of the other ties, it went to penalties. Firstly, Mandurah City beat East Perth at the Poolmart Mandurah Stadium on Friday evening, after the game ended 0-0. Also, on Friday evening at Len Packham Park Murdoch University Melville beat Perth AFC in shoot-out, after it was 1-1 after normal time, while Fremantle City Division One side beat Port Kennedy at Wauhop Park on Sunday afternoon, after it ended 3-3 at normal time. In the final game, doubles from Amy Buchanan and Ashley Sabean helped Subiaco AFC to a 5-1 win against fellow Division One side UWA Nedlands at Rosalie Park on Saturday evening.
10.5.2026
IS BENNIE A WORLD CUP BOLTER?
Former Perth Glory winger Daniel Bennie, who has been in good form for English Championship club Queens Park Rangers late in the season, has emerged as a bolter in Tony Popovic’s World Cup squad, after the 20-year-old was selected in a 10-player group, who have travelled to Sarasota to compete for a spot in the larger World Cup squad. It’s a first call-up to the senior national squad for Bennie, who will join fellow WA player and Swansea City defender Cameron Burgess
After a first wave of eight players were announced last week, Bennie and Burgess were joined by Watford winger Nestory Irankunda, Norwich City striker Mohamed Toure, Melbourne City duo Aziz Behich and Patrick Beach, Netherlands-based Ajdin Hrustic, promising Cardiff City midfielder Alex Robertson, Aston Villa goalkeeper Joe Gauci and Coventry City youth international Raphael Borges Rodrigues.
Popovic is using the camp to assess an extended number of players before naming his final 26-man squad on June 1, with Popovic quick to point out last week selection in the Sarasota camp did not guarantee anyone a berth. But the inclusion of Bennie, who won Glory’s young player of the year award in 2024, is rich reward after a breakout season at Loftus Road. After playing for Australia at the under-20 World Cup, Bennie played 17 of QPR’s last 20 league games, starting five of them. His strong form attracted the attention of Scotland, the birthplace of Bennie’s parents who the forward is also eligible for.
Perth-raised centre-back Burgess, along with forwards Irankunda and Toure, is expected to have strong claims on a starting berth in North America when the Socceroos take on Turkiye, USA and Paraguay in Group D when the World Cup begins in a month’s time. More players will be added to the training squad in coming weeks, before the squad flies to Los Angeles to face Mexico in a pre-World Cup friendly on May 30. The Socceroos will then journey to Oakland, their home base for the tournament, before one final warm-up game against Switzerland in San Diego ahead of their June 13 (Pacific Standard Time) opener against Turkiye in Vancouver.
Socceroos squad currently in Sarasota, Florida - Goalkeepers: Patrick Beach (Melbourne City), Joe Gauci (Aston Villa, on loan at Port Vale) - Defenders: Aziz Behich (Melbourne City), Cameron Burgess (Swansea City), Hayden Matthews (Portsmouth), Harry Souttar (Leicester City) - Midfielders: Anthony Caceres (Macarthur FC), Ajdin Hrustic (Heracles Almelo), Mathew Leckie (Melbourne City), Alex Robertson (Cardiff City) - Forwards: Daniel Bennie (QPR), Raphael Borges Rodrigues (Coventry City on loan at Wigan), Brandon Borrello (Western Sydney Wanderers), Nick D’Agostino (Viking FC), Mitchell Duke (Macarthur) Nestory Irankunda (Watford), Mohamed Toure (Norwich City), Nishan Velupillay (Melbourne Victory).
9.5.2026
MATHET HAT-TRICK GIVES ARMADALE FIRST WIN – NPLWA – MEN’S REVIEW
Armadale have leapfrogged Balcatta Etna at the bottom of the New Balance NPLWA – Men’s table after a 5-0 win in the Week Nine clash at Alfred Skeet Reserve on Saturday afternoon. It was John Baird’s first win as senior coach at Armadale, and it also sent Balcatta to the foot of the table, and Baird said he was delighted with the performance. “The players deserved that result. The way the group has stuck together through a difficult period has been outstanding and Saturday was a reward for all their hard work and belief, I’ve said for a few weeks now that the performances were improving and against Balcatta everything came together for us,” Baird explained. “
“The attitude, commitment and quality from the players was excellent from start to finish. Abraham Mathet was outstanding. His movement, energy and finishing were top class and a hat-trick was fully deserved. He’s worked extremely hard and it was great to see him get rewarded for that effort. I also want to mention everyone around the club because they’ve been different class. The support behind the scenes from staff, volunteers and supporters has been massive, and Saturday’s win was for the whole club.”
The host were ahead on 11 minutes, Abraham Mathet raced into the box and was brought down by Riley Stephenson, and the referee pointed straight to the spot. Mathet picked himself up and sent the keeper the wrong way from the resulting penalty. Then on 25 minutes the visitors were reduced to ten, Stephenson again bringing down Mathet who raced onto a Luke Desmond through ball, the referee awarded the penalty and sent the keeper off. The unfortunate Edward Wilcock was sacrificed, with substitute keeper Chase Manning coming on. The first thing Manning had to do was pick the ball out of the net, with Mathet finding the bottom corner with his penalty.
The hosts added a third early in the second half, Mathet the supplier this time finding Desmond on the edge of the box, who turned past his marker and fired home. Mathet completed his hat-trick just after the hour, when Armadale won a third penalty, Charlie Garnham cross hit the arm of James Fanelli, and Mathet sent Manning the wrong way from the spot. Armadale wrapped up the scoring on 71 minutes, Cherno Bah sent substitute Zachary Pentony down the left, and his cross was turned into his own net by the unfortunate Chris Tilson.
Dianella White Eagles coach Ian Ferguson has returned to his former club Stirling Macedonia and left with all three points after a thrilling 4-3 win at Macedonia Park. “It was a great game for both sets of fans, going 2-0 up then 3-2 down as Stirling had the upper hand,” Ferguson said. “We then made three changes and I thought all the substitutes made a massive contribution to the game, that swung it in our favour. The lads showed character and didn’t give up when 3-2 down and got the result in the end.”
The visitors were ahead on 19 minutes, Cory McNelis raced down the right, and got to the by-line and crossed to Luwi, who headed home. They doubled their lead four minutes later, skipper Sasa Njegic shot on the run flew past Liam Hattersley. Stirling pulled one back just after the half hour mark, Calvin Whitney sent Pacifique Dufitimukiza down the right and he squared the ball to Callum McKenzie, who made no mistake. The hosts took the lead five minutes into the second half, when Euan Cameron’s corner was turned home by Joshua Bilaloski. But Dianella restored parity 16 minutes later, Njegic’s free kick found the unmarked Franc Gamiz Quer at the back post, who fired home.
It was game on, and both sides looked for the winner, but it was Dianella who found it ten minutes from time. Daniel Zivkovic made space down the right and crossed to fellow substitute Asher Nelson, who scored against his former club. “Definitely an entertaining game for the fans on each side for sure,” Eagles striker Albert Luwi said. “We started the game very well and was probably our best start to a game this season but credit to Stirling they capitalised on some lack of concentration from us and put away their chances. They are a top team so it was never going to be an easy game, but I feel we did play a hand in helping them get back into the game. But ultimately very pleased in the end we dug deep and reacted brilliantly to such a poor start to the second half and got the win in the end.”
In the final game Perth Glory have secured their second win of the season, after a 3-1 win against Western Knights at the Sam Kerr Football Centre. Glory hit the front on 21 minutes, a cross into the box found Louis Sollitt, whose shot deflected off a Knights defender and into the net. It was 2-0, when Sollitt was sent clear, and he finished clinically past Robert Sinclair. The Knights pulled one back in the shadows of half time, a long throw into the box wasn’t dealt with, and Jesse Lazzaro swept the ball home from close-range. But it would be Glory who took all three points, when they added a third early in the second half. Maxim Uvarov cross picked out Shaun Mutyavaviri, who got in between two Knights defenders to head home.
9.5.2026
UWA BEAT CURTIN TO KEEP PRESSURE ON LEADERS – STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE REVIEW
UWA Nedlands have kept the pressure on State League Division One league leaders Floreat Athena after a 3-0 win against Curtin University in our Week Seven ‘Match of the Round’ at the Green Promo Park, Edinburgh Oval on Saturday afternoon. “Another solid, disciplined all round team performance against a very competitive Curtin team,” UWA coach Mark Reid said. “Pleasing to keep another clean sheet and couldn’t have asked for more, in the effort the boys gave again.”
Both sides went into this one in good form, but it was the visitors who made the breakthrough on six minutes, Dean Hurley’s cross from the right was turned home by Joe McInnes. They doubled their advantage on 19 minutes, Nicolas Falco sent Hurley into the penalty area, and he was brought down by Mighael Muller, and the referee pointed straight to the spot, and McInnes sent Alex Radonich the wrong way from the resulting penalty. They sealed the points nine minutes from time, Antony Dolan sent fellow substitute Hugo Perez into the box and he finished with aplomb.
Joondalup City have made it three wins on the bounce, after a 2-1 win against Kingsley Westside at Iluka Park. “I thought it was a great performance from the boys,” Joondalup coach Guy McDonald said. “I thought we were superb in the first half and then showed a will to defend in the second along with creating multiple chances throughout the game.” The host were ahead on 20 minutes, Jaxon Temata shot from the edge of the box was saved, but Louis Hadfield scored from the rebound. They sealed the points in stoppage time at the end of the game, Luke Steer burst into the box on the left, he was brought down by Isaac Driessen, but the referee paid a good advantage and the ball fell to Phoenix Lee, who swept the ball home. Kingsley hit back in stoppage time, Luke Doyle’s free kick was bundled home by Elliot Tattersall, but it was just a consolation goal.
Gwelup Croatia remain fourth, after a late goal from substitute Sam Wilkinson gave them a 2-2 draw against Murdoch University Melville at the Croatian Sporting Complex Wishart Street. “If I’m honest, despite going one nil up MUM executed their game plan better than us in the first half and deserved to be leading at half time,” Gwelup coach Toby Wright explained. “However, we came out in the second half more organised and got the point we deserved for an improved second half performance. A special shout out to 18-year-old Sam Wilkinson who got his debut Wednesday and then came on and scored the equaliser, and another youngster James Philips who also got his debut.”
Gwelup found the opener on 11 minutes, Ben Cambell was sent down the left channel, and his low shot beat Duncan Lennon-Black and found the bottom corner. But their lead only lasted three minutes, Gustavo Giron Marulanda found Seagh Harris on the right, and he cut inside and finished clinically past Rocco Liberti. Then four minutes later MUM FC, Giron Marulanda saw his shot well saved by Liberti, but from the resulting Adrian Ciampini’s corner, Sam Gallagher headed home at the near post. But Gwelup would find the equaliser four minutes from time, Jeremie Mba saw his effort saved by Lennon-Black, but Wilkinson was on hand to fire home the rebound.
The hosts ended the game with ten men after Shaun McDermott was shown two quick yellow cards and sent off. “It was a game of two halves, I thought we were excellent and well worth our lead at half time after going behind against the run of play, but we never came out second half and allowed Gwelup to play the game on their terms and eventually it came back to bite us late in the game,” MUM FC coach Marc Anthony explained. “But a draw was a fair result. Moving forward, we need to start turning these draws in to wins otherwise we will be at the wrong end of the table.”
Inglewood United have won their second game of the season, with a 2-1 win against Mandurah City at the Proto DPS Inglewood Stadium. “It was a hard-fought win yesterday especially in the second half of the game,” Inglewood defender Ciaran Salinger said. “First half I thought we dominated the ball and dictated possession, as the game stretched out, they caused a bit more chaos and played a bit more direct. I thought we weathered the storm quite well and defended resiliently as a team. Full credit to the whole squad who worked their socks off for and got the three points.”
The hosts, who were coming off back-to-back defeats, were ahead on the half hour Liam Hudson crossing from the left and Jake Nicholson rose highest to head home. They added a second ten minutes later, Declan Hudson finding Nicholson who dinked home neatly over Mandurah keeper Josiah Godfrey. Mandurah found a lifeline just before the hour mark, half time substitute Lachlan Hannah’s cross from the right was finished well by Jordan Callaghan. The visitors pressed late looking for an equaliser, and the referee was busy with a number of yellow cards, but the hosts held firm to take the points.
In the final game Quinns have beaten a ten-man Cockburn city 2-0 at Dalmatinac Park. “Cockburn are a quality young side, so to come away with a 2–0 win was a really pleasing performance,” Quinns coach Nick Jennings said. “I thought the players showed great discipline, work ethic, and composure throughout the game.” The visitors were ahead on four minutes, a corner from the right was recycled by Chad Samuels on the left, and his ball found its way to Shaun Doherty on the edge of the box and his first time shot found the bottom corner of the net past Ben Radonich. The host chances of a comeback were dented when skipper Euen Grant was sent off for a last man challenge on Tyler Holden. Quinns sealed the points with a second on the half hour, when the referee spotted a handball by Charles Young. Samuels stepped up and scored the resulting penalty, despite Radonich getting a hand to it.
9.5.2026
WEMBLEY HIT MORLEY FOR SIX – STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO REVIEW
Wembley Downs have continued their good start to the State League Division Two season, with a big 6-1 win in our Week Six ‘Match of the Round’ at Butlers Reserve on Saturday evening. “Obviously very happy with the result and we were finally more clinical in the final third,” Wembley coach Luke Thompson explained. “The first half, Morley were the better side and didn't deserve to go in two down, we only had a few attacks the whole half and happened to be clinical. But second half we adapted and played very well and kept up being clinical in front of goal.”
Wembley were ahead on 28 minutes, Takudzwa Chisunga sent Toby Robertson down the right, his cross found Callum McLeod, who finished clinically past Luke Martino. They doubled their lead five minutes before half time, a ball over the top sent Toby Robertson clear and he finished well. Wembley went on with it after the break, and made it 3-0 on 69 minutes, a long throw wasn’t dealt with, and Hayden Boffey finished with aplomb from the edge of the box. They added a fourth moment later, a ball over the top found Billy Templeton-Knight, who held off his marker before firing home.
It was 5-0 five minutes later, a clearance from keeper Casey Robertson was headed on and Mella Loding cut inside his marker and finished clinically past Martino. They added a sixth shortly after, Robertson sent clear, and with Morley looking for the offside flag, that never came, he rounded Martino and rolled the ball home. Morley found a consolation goal on 78 minutes, Wembley turned the ball over in the middle of the park and the ball was slipped through to Isaac Toah Ntow, who made no mistake, but it was too little too late for the visitors.
League leaders Rockingham City have dropped their first points of the season, but salvaged a 2-2 draw with a late goal against Forrestfield United at the Endeavour Homes Stadium, Larkhill Sportsplex. “Disappointing game in the end for us, we definitely came off with feeling like a loss,” Forrestfield defender Shaydon Passalacqua said. “We gave a poor goal away early which was disappointing but came out firing after half time. Credit to Rocky they didn’t let off and pushed all the way to the finish and saved a point. It’s hard to win this league and to be undefeated through the first six games shows they are serious contenders, but so are we” Rockingham found the opener after only 11 minutes, with striker Shaun Mukwevho on target, and they led by that goal at the break.
But Forrestfield were on the front foot after the break and levelled three minutes in, a long throw wasn’t dealt with and Matthew Evans finished well. Then shortly after Rockingham defender Graham Tough was shown a second yellow card for a foul in the box, and Lucas Reid fired home the resulting penalty. Forrestfield had a number of chances to extend their lead but failed to take them, and 15 minutes from time there was a tussle and the referee sent of Rockingham’s Regan Davidson and Forrestfield’s Joshua Gardner. It looked like Forrestfield would leave with the points but three minutes from time Rockingham levelled. Substitute Ryan Kennedy’s cross was headed home by Joseph Moss.
Kalamunda City have closed the gap on the leaders to four points, after a 3-1 win against Canning City at the Spanish Club of WA on Saturday evening. “First half today we were in complete control our keeper didn’t really have a save to make in the opening 45 minutes. We moved the ball well, controlled territory and created a number of good moments, but football can be a funny game because it doesn’t matter how much possession you have if you don’t put your chances away,” Kalamunda coach Kyle Robertson said.
“Credit to Canning City though, they kept competing and managed to get their break just before half time which changed the feel of the game a little. From what I saw today they continued to work hard, stayed organised and I’m sure they’ll start climbing the table as the year goes on. For us, it’s another important win and another step forward for the group. The competition is very tight already and every result matters. The players can enjoy the win tonight, but myself and Kris have already switched our focus to a tough challenge against Balga next weekend.”
Kalamunda were coming off a big win against North Beach last week, and were ahead in this one on 20 minutes, Angel Andres playing in Andrea Erbetta who made no mistake. But Canning hit back immediately, with Brian Mashingaidze scoring. The referee signalled for handball initially, but after a chat with his assistant the goal stood. But Kalamunda sealed the points with two quick goals after the break. First on the hour Andres shot was saved by the keeper, and skipper Nicolas Roca slotted home the rebound, before Andres fired home a penalty three minutes later.
Carramar Shamrock Rovers are up to fourth, after a 5-1 win against North Beach at Charles Riley Memorial Reserve. “I thought it was a fantastic team effort to keep momentum going heading into the Rockingham game,” Rovers’ coach Adam Walsh said. “We scored the first, probably against the run of play, and added another before the break. We had a bit of a wake-up call when North Beach scored but re-focused and sealed the win.”
The visitors hit the front on 31 minutes, a great switch by Josh Reid picked out Jack Reilly, who played in Nathan Diaz, who slid the ball home. They added a second moments later, Aidan Donnelly finishing neatly at the back post, and went into the break in control. They added a third early in the second half, with Reilly added his second. North Beach found a lifeline on the hour, with B Reynolds on target, but nine minutes later Rovers made sure of the points, with Lewis Jones finishing off a good move down the right. Dean Cowbrough rounded off a fantastic day for Rovers, grabbing a fifth in final minute, heading home a Connor Cleary cross.
Balga have scored late to share the spoils with East Perth, after a 2-2 draw at Hudson Park. “East Perth is a physical strong side with good defensive organisation and it was clear to us that we need patience to score,” Balga coach Gerhard Janssen said. “The team came back twice, which shows that we are not only believe in our system because we never stopped playing our football, even in the last minute. We should've scored more goals that is the only thing we all look at and the team is not very lucky. The picture shows that we scored a regular goal in the second half, when, unfortunately, the linesman decided against us. By the way, no criticism against a top referee team, but our boys did not complain and kept fighting till the end and were rewarded.”
The hosts were ahead on the 11 minutes, with Ryan McCready on target, although Balga thought keeper Noah Boulaye had been fouled, but the goal stood. But Balga were level on the half hour, Ivwan Simbile was fouled in the box and Jose Zuniga made no mistake from the spot. It looked like East Perth had won it ten minutes from time, with McCready added his second, turning home after a ball in from the right. But in three minutes into stoppage time Balga restored parity, Bleron Mamudi played the ball into the box to onrushing Samir Ramos, who rounded East Perth keeper Azarl Tanveer to score.
In the final game, Gosnells City search for a first win of the season goes on, but they did pick up a point after a 0-0 draw against Ashfield at Walter Padbury Reserve. Gosnells coach Peter Allen said his young side are showing improvement. “We knew we were in for a tough game against Ashfield they’ve had a good start to the season and Malcom has them well organised, but we’ve been competitive in games just not finding the back of the net and so it proved again,” he explained. “Both teams had great chances and credit to both keepers for pulling off great saves. At the end of the day no complaints, a draw was the right result, we take the point and try build from it going forward, I believe these young lads will click and the results will follow.”
8.5.2026
FLOREAT SCORE LATE TO BEAT SUBIACO
Floreat Athena remain on top of the State League Division One, and remain unbeaten to start the season, but only just, scoring deep into stoppage time to beat Subiaco AFC 5-4 in a thriller at E&D Litis Stadium on Friday evening. Floreat coach Alun Vernals said a good performance was almost spoilt after giving up a 4-1 lead, and he is well aware there is plenty of improvement from his side. “It was a comfortable night for us that nearly went horribly wrong,” he explained. “You can’t take your foot of the pedal in any game in this league, and we did that tonight, and credit to Subiaco for never giving in. In the end, pleased we managed to get the winner, but we have plenty to work on next week.”
It looked like being a comfortable night for the hosts, racing to a 3-0 lead inside the first 26 minutes. The club celebrating their 75th anniversary, and wearing a special heritage kick on the night, while new Korean signing Hee-Jun Kim made his debut. They found the opener on nine minutes, when Harry Lewis’ corner was powerfully headed home by Jacon Young. They added a second six minutes later, Lewis crossing from the right and Jordan Langley lost his marker to head home. It was soon 3-0, with Tom Wassholm on target. It looked like being a long night for Marc Wingell’s side, but they found a lifeline two minutes later, Kaleb Morrison scoring.
The game looked over on the hour mark when Floreat added a fourth, Joshua Willis’ cross picking out Lewis, who finished clinically. Subiaco weren’t finished, and remarkably scored three late goals to restore parity. They scored their second three minutes from time, Tomas Despotovski pounced on a loose ball and racing in on goal and finishing neatly. It was 4-3 sixty seconds later, Robert Petkov sending Despotovski clear, and he outpaced his marker before finishing with aplomb. Then amazingly it was all-square on 89 minutes, Jack Steele crossing from the right and Isaac Scellier fired home at the back post.
It looked like the points would be shared, but four minutes into stoppage time, the hosts won it, keeper Max Winton made a great save to deny Luis Adlard’s shot, but the rebound fell to Mohammed Al-Zaidy who drilled his shot home, to set off wild celebrations on and off the pitch, and left Subiaco devastated. “It was very disappointing to not come away with a point after that last five minutes to get three goals,” Subiaco’s Tomas Despotovski explained. “We know we have the fighting spirit and desire, but just a shame we haven’t been able to get results recently.”
8.5.2026
REDSTAR MOVED TOP OF THE TABLE AFTER WIN IN LOCAL DERBY – NPLWA - FRIDAY REVIEW
Perth RedStar have moved three points clear at the top of the New Balance NPLWA – Men’s competition, after a 4-1 win against local rivals Sorrento, in our Week Nine ‘Match of the Round’ at the RedStar Arena on Friday evening. RedStar coach Callum Salmon said his side continue to improve, and he was pleased with the performance in the local derby. “Proud of the boys, it was a great result against tough opposition,” Salmon said post-match. “I’m happy with where the team is and how we’re playing, and a special mention to Teddi Curran, scoring fantastic goal last night, and we’re looking forward next week.”
The hosts hit the front on five minutes, Matthew George sent Aaron Black racing down the left, and he cut into the box and his low cross was turned into his own net by the unfortunate Manolo Veneracion. They doubled their advantage eight minutes before the break. Nick Walsh finding Gordon Smith down the left, who rolled his marker and laid the ball off to Black, whose shot was saved by Ben Ratajczak, but Liam Murray turned home the rebound.
The visitors were back in the game six minutes into the second half, Tim Hill finding Dean Cummings on the left, who picked out Kyunghwan Kim, who shot found the bottom corner past Liam Reddy. But RedStar regained their two-goal advantage 19 minutes later, George’s cross field pass found Jacob Evans, and his cross found it’s way to Black, who made no mistake. They sealed the points late, George ball found Curran, who outmuscled his marker before finishing clinically for the teenagers first NPL goal in the first team.
Bayswater City have moved to second, and beaten former league leaders Olympic Kingsway after a 3-2 win at Frank Drago Reserve. Bayswater coach Matthew Sparrow said his side showed character to fight back after conceding early. “Superb win and performance from the group against a top side. To go 1-0 down after a couple of minutes could easily have knocked us, but I thought the players showed real character and personality to respond the way they did,” he said post-match.
“We stayed calm, kept believing in ourselves and I felt our intensity and quality on the ball grew as the half went on and led at the break. Once again, they pegged us back, but I thought the mentality from the players was outstanding. To go on and win it at the death was really pleasing and, overall, I felt we deserved it on the night for the way we approached the game and the chances we created. It was also a great advert for football in WA with a fantastic crowd under the lights at Frank Drago Reserve. The atmosphere was brilliant and the players certainly fed off that energy throughout the night. It’s a massive three points for us, but we’ll enjoy the win, recover properly and then turn our attention to another big week ahead.”
The visitors made a perfect start, and were ahead on two minutes, Tyler Garner’s through ball sent Rob Harker clear, and the striker finished clinically past Lewis Italiano. But Bayswater were level 16 minutes later, a great ball from Daniel Stynes picked out Brent Quick on the right, who got in front of Ollie Annis and finished low past Adrian Sinagra. Chris Jackson was then denied by Sinagra as Bayswater pressed for a second, but the home side did hit the front on the half hour. Declan Hughes’ cross into the box picked out Chris Jackson, who stooped to head home, and they led at the break.
Olympic hit back after the break, and restored parity on 76 minutes. Annis’ cross from the left was headed clear by Luke Palmateer, but it fell to substitute Will Ferson, and the former Perth Glory Youth midfielder fired low past Italiano. It was game on, with both sides pressing for the winner, but it was Bayswater who would find it. Quick raced out from the back and his ball over the top found Sean McManus, and with the Olympic players looking for the offside flag, that never came, the winger raced into goal and dinked the ball over the oncoming Sinagra. The action wasn’t over there, Olympic were reduced to ten men, with skipper Mitch Oxborrow shown a straight red card by referee Steven Gregory for a tackle on BorBor Sam.
In other game on night, the points were shared with Perth Azzurri coming from behind at the break to draw 1-1 with Fremantle City at Dorrien Gardens. “It’s always been a tough place for us to come and get a result so we knew we had to be at it,” Fremantle skipper Charlie Chechlacz said. “We had some good chances despite them having a good amount of possession, so taking a point away from home is a positive.” Fremantle new signing Josh Risdon made his debut for the club, after his retirement from professional football with Perth Glory, and it was the port side who found the opener on five minutes. Perth turned the ball over in the middle of the park, and Chechlacz played Chad Nilson in down the left, and his low cross was turned home by Iljas Ahmedov.
The hosts found the equaliser just before the hour mark, with three substitutes involved. David Ninkovich picked the ball up in his own half and raced forward and found Jackson Morgan, who slipped neat ball onto Gordon Perkins, who made no mistake past Luke Radonich, to give both sides a share of the spoils. “It was a frustrating game with a mistake from me early on to give away a goal,” Perth striker Jamie McNelis said. “But I felt we dominated the second half in possession and created a lot of chances and deserved at least a point out of the game.”
8.5.2026
JUNIOR MATILDAS WELL BEATEN BY JAPAN, BUT MOVE THROUGH TO KNOCK OUT STAGE
The Junior Matildas have been well beaten in their final AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup Group B game, with Japan proving to strong, running out convincing 5-0 winners at the Suzhou Taihu Football Sports Centre on Friday. It means Japan have topped the group with a perfect three wins, and will face the Group C runners-up in the quarter-finals on Monday, while Australia also advanced after finishing second, and they will play Group A runners-up Vietnam.
Head Coach Michael Cooper made six changes to the team that drew 1-1 with Lebanon in the previous fixture. Annabelle Croll came in between the sticks, while Liana Luong, Kaya Jugovic, Leyla Hussein, Maeve Nicholas and Tyra Bagiante came into the starting eleven. Maeve Nicholas wore the captain's armband. WA’s Sakura Leong kept her place in the side, but Theo Mouithys, who had scored in both of their group games, was on the bench.
Despite having already confirmed their last eight spot, Japan went on the offensive from the start with Harura Matsushita's third minute effort from outside the box forcing a smart save from Australia custodian Croll. Japan was rampant, and Australia were struggling them and conceded the opener on 16 minutes, with Mei Hanashiro heading home a corner. The setback sparked Australia into immediate action with Nicholas's left footed shot requiring a save from Kou Kadowaki.
That, however, proved to be the only shot on target for the Junior Matildas in the first half as Japan widened their lead on 22 minutes, after Arisu Ota dispossessed Charlotte Bradshaw and relayed the ball to Mino Tamamura who, in turn, released Hanashiro to finish clinically. It was 3-0 on 35 minutes, with Tamamura getting her name on the scoresheet with a well-placed finish.
The Australian custodian was also busy in the second half, Croll denied Rei Kitamura and Mino Tamamura in the opening minutes, but failed to cleanly save the latter's shot from distance on 52 minutes, with Nanami Kurita slotting the spilled ball home from close range. Australia was on the back foot, as Japan pressed for another, and it duly arrived on 73 minutes, substitute Rara Higuchi's long-range shot beating Croll to seal a 5-0 victory.
Australia: GK Annabelle Croll, 3 Charlotte Bradshaw, 4 Keira Sarris, 5 Liana Luong, 6 Frida Karaberis, 8 Kaya Jugovic (11 Matilda Dias Wadewitz 74'), 10 Leyla Hussein (9 Izabella Rako 63'), 13 Maeve Nicholas, 15 Tyra Bagiante (19 Harper Pell 46'), 16 Tehya Aspland (17 Mary Dal Broi 46'), 20 Sakura Leong (14 Jada Taylor 46') – Sub not used: RGK Alyse Oppedisano. RGK Dali Gorr Burchmore, 23 Abbie Puckett, 2 Willa Pearson, 7 Claire Corbett, 21 Theo Mouithys
Japan: GK Kou Kadowaki, 2 Wara Shimizu, 5 Misato Maeda (3 Anri Ito 46'), 6 Misaya Takeda, 8 Harura Matsushita (4 Rei Kitamura 46'), 10 Arisu Ota, 14 Mei Hanashiro (7 Rara Higuchi 46'), 17 Mino Tamamura, 19 Yumi Hayashi, 20 Nanami Kurita (9 Yuzuha Ikeda 68'), 22 Akina Masaki (21 Asuka Tanaka 79') – Subs not used: RGK Mikan Yamanaka, RGK Ayaka Miyaji, 11 Futaba Noda, 13 Runa Sumiya, 15 Keiko Kitajima, 16 Maho Kubota, 18 Mashiro Yamaji
8.5.2026
TOP OF THE TABLE CLASH IN AMATEUR PREMIER DIVISION
It’s week five of the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division, and our ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to Players Place, Wanneroo Reserve, where league leaders Wanneroo City host second placed Swan United. (All games kick off at 3:00pm) The hosts have taken all before them this season, winning all of their opening four games, sitting four points clear at the top, the latest a 6-0 win in the local derby against Olympic. The visitors are also unbeaten, and after drawing the opening two games have won the last two, the latest a 7-1 win against Jaguar. So with both sides in good form, and both hoping to get back to the State League after relegation last season, this should be a cracker.
The last the two teams played at the venue, was last season in week 14 in Division Two, with Swan come home with all three points after a 2-1 win. It was Wanneroo who led at the break, with Kane Fitch converting from the spot, after referee Ollie Clark spotted a handball in the box. But ten minutes into the second half the Swans were level. A corner from Nicholas Burmej, was turned back to him and his deep cross to the back post was headed down by Yousif Toto and substitute Brennan Borzecki turned the ball home from close-range. It was the visitors who won it 13 minutes from time, Burmei’s corner was headed home by Borzecki.
Swan coach Lee Taylor said it’s been a good start for the new look side, but knows is still early days, but he’s pleased with their start to the season. “It’s still early in the season and there’s a long way to go, but the signs have been positive so far. The group is working hard, buying into what we’re trying to build, and there’s a good hunger within the squad to keep improving week by week,” he explained.
“I’ve been really pleased with the attitude and commitment from the players. Bringing together a new squad always takes time, but the group is starting to develop strong connections both on and off the pitch. Back-to-back wins have helped us build some confidence but there is still plenty we can improve on, but the players deserve credit for the way they’ve approached the season so far.”
Taylor knows the challenge that lies ahead of them on Sunday, but he said it’s challenge they are looking forward to. “Wanneroo City away will be a great test for us they are a strong side. These are the types of games you want to be involved in and it should be a good challenge for both teams,” he said. “For us, the focus will remain on our own performance and making sure we approach the game with the right mentality.”
With Wanneroo sitting top of the table, many believe the title is theirs, but coach Jason Winter said that’s the furthest thing from his mind, the only thing he is focusing on is Swan United on Sunday. “I haven’t really thought about promotion to be honest, ideally that’s what everyone at the club would want, but it’s only Round Five, and all I’m thinking about is Swan on Sunday,” he explained.
“I’ve been pleased with the squad, the main thing when we started was trying to build a squad and good culture and I believe we have that, and this weekend we have three of last years under 18s in the squad which is great to see. The game against Swan on Sunday, is a bit of an unknown as there a new squad also and new coach. But we both sides still unbeaten and in good form, it should be a cracking game.”
In other games this weekend, third placed Hamersley Rovers make the trip to Frye Park to take on Kelmscott Roos, with both looking to build on big wins last week, while North Perth United welcome Ballajura AFC to Woodville Reserve. Jaguar will go in search of a first win of the season when they host Kingsley Westside at the Herb Grahan Recreation Centre, Noranda Emerald head to Kingsway Reserve to meet Olympic Kingsway, while in the final game Kwinana United entertain Maccabi at Kelly Park.
8.5.2026
NPLWA – MEN’S WEEK NINE – FRIDAY PREVIEW
We are back into league action in the New Balance NPLWA – Men’s competition, after last week’s Hahn Australia Cup ties, and we have three blockbusters on Friday evening, with Perth Azzurri entertaining Fremantle City at Dorrien Gardens, while league leaders Olympic Kingsway host Bayswater City at the Madman Arena. It’s a huge game for Bayswater defender Sam Mitchinson, who will play his 250th game for the club. He arrived Bayswater City in 2014, and has helped the club to 4 NPL titles, 3 Night Series titles, 2 Top Four titles, and won 2 Rocco D’Orazio Medallist. Club President Oriano Colli said he has been a great servant to the Frank Drago Reserve club.
“In his very first season at the club, Sam took out our highest individual honour — the Rocco D’Orazio Medal — and a decade later, won it again in 2024. A remarkable reflection of his consistency, professionalism, and love for the club,” Colli explained. “But Sam represents far more than trophies and accolades, his loyalty, his leadership, his passion, and that is what Bayswater City stands for. Congratulations Sammy on 250 outstanding games, you are a true Baysie legend through and through.”
Meanwhile our Friday evening, Week Nine ‘Match of the Round’ is the City of Joondalup Derby, where Perth RedStar welcome Sorrento to the RedStar Arena. (All games kick off at 7:00pm) The Gulls go into the game on the back of four straight wins, which has moved them up to sixth, while RedStar are joint-leaders, and unbeaten in their last three league games, so it sets up a thriller under lights at the campus.
The last time the two sides met at the venue was in the final game of last season, with Callum Salmon’s side winning 1-0. It was a typical derby game, with chances at both ends, but it looked like the points would be shared, but in stoppage time the hosts won it with a fine team goal. Sam Pollard found Taj Filipe on the left, he cut inside and played a neat give and go with fellow substitute Liam Murray, Filipe racing into the box and squaring the ball to Sonny O’Shea who fired low past Ben Ratajczak.
The Gulls came home from Hilton Park with the points last time out, and coach Andres Oliveira was delighted with his side. “Fremantle are a good team, and Scott Miller got them playing really well, so to come away with a clean sheet and three points says a lot about the character of the group. I thought defensively we were disciplined, organised, and willing to do the hard work for each other, as a coach is a great thing to see,” Oliveira said. “We’re really pleased with the run we’re on. The performances have been consistent, the group is growing every week, and you can see the belief building across the squad.”
Oliveira said any local derby is a challenge, but it’s one the players are relishing. “The players have worked hard to create this momentum, and the pleasing part is that we still feel there’s more improvement in us,” he explained. “Both teams coming off wins, and in good form, it sets up a great occasion. RedStar have quality all over the pitch, so we know we’ll need to be at our best. For us, it’s another opportunity to show our identity, compete, and keep building. It should be a fantastic game under lights.”
RedStar also came home with three points last week, after a 4-2 win against Balcatta, and coach Callum Salmon said the hosts were tough opponents, and they need some quality goals to take the points. “I thought Balcatta were one of the best teams we’ve played so far,” Salmon explained. “But we scored some excellent goals to win it, but they never gave up and pushed us all the way to the end. Riley (Warland) and Liam (Murray) goals in particular were incredible and Aaron Black has been on fire every game so far. Long may it continue
Salmon said they go into the game in a confident mood, but he knows there is still room for improvement. “Yes, so far so good, but we’re not getting ahead of ourselves as it’s very early doors and the quality of the league things can turn if you turn up expecting to win without earning it. The Group is pushing each other, and the senior players set the standards for the younger players to follow and achieve,” he said. “We’re all excited for the game and looking forward to Friday night game against Sorrento under lights. We will be relying on the team leaders Ryan (Finnie), Blair (Govan), Rocket (Liam Reddy) to keep the standards high and we’ll pick the best team we can to ideally keep the wins coming, as league is tight and you can’t afford to slip up to achieve our goals.”
8.5.2026
NPLWA – MEN’S WEEK NINE – SATURDAY PREVIEW
In Saturday’s New Balance NPLWA – Men’s games (All kick off at 3:00pm) Perth Glory welcome Western Knights to the Sam Kerr Football Centre, with both sides looking to get back to winning ways, while third placed Stirling Macedonia entertain Dianella White Eagles at Macedonia Park. In the final game we have a real six pointer at the foot of the table, when Armadale host Balcatta Etna at Alfred Skeet Reserve.
The hosts are still searching for their first win of the season, but have been close in the last few weeks, but bad discipline has cost them three out of the last four games, going down to ten men when they have been in a winning position, and coach John Baird said it has been frustrating, but he believes they are growing as a team, and he hopes to end their winless drought on Saturday.
“Yes, it has been frustrating, there’s no hiding from that. In a number of games, we’ve been in control and the red cards have really shifted the momentum against us. That said, the performances have definitely improved week on week, and the group is showing the right attitude and commitment “If we keep playing the way we are with 11 on the pitch, I’m confident the results will turn and that win isn’t far away,” Baird explained.
“We know it’s a big game for both sides on Saturday, and Balcatta are in a similar position and will be just as determined to get their season going, so we’re expecting a tough, competitive match. For us, it’s about focusing on our own performance, maintaining discipline, and building on the positives we’ve shown. If we do that, we give ourselves every chance to get the result we’re after.”
Balcatta won their first game under new coach Basil Lenzo, but have been edged out in their last two games, but the improvement is there, and he said Saturday is a huge game, and one they are looking forward too. “Since our arrival, the players have been awesome and we are encouraged by the improvements to date. We have played some good football and we have really worked hard but the game has a way to keep us very grounded and keep us working harder. We are can only focus on what we can control and whilst we genuinely should have achieved a few positive results in two games, and all we got is greyer hair, so everyone knows what’s at stake,” Lenzo explained.
“Over the years, Armadale at home is always a tough opponent. We do need to keep bringing the work ethic and ensure we do the simple things really well but let’s be honest, it’s a big game for both teams. Armadale have been scoring goals and that makes for a good encounter. I think what’s important though is that whilst its big for both teams, both teams have some time to get this right to pull some consecutive wins. Every game is going to require our everything.”
8.5.2026
CURTIN AND UWA LOOK TO KEEP GOOD FORM GOING
It’s been a busy week in the State League Division One, with most teams playing games in midweek, and two of them meet in our Week Seven ‘Match of the Round’, with Curtin University hosting UWA Nedlands at Green Promo Park, Edinburgh Oval. (all games kick off at 3:00pm, unless stated) Both sides were in action on Wednesday evening in Week Six games, and both had victories. Curtin travelled to the Poolmart Mandurah Stadium and returned with a 1-0 win, with Jason Stewart scoring the only goal on the hour mark. Meanwhile, UWA moved into second place after a 4-0 win against Inglewood United at the UWA Sports Park. Joe McInnes gave the hosts the lead early, and Hugo Martin Perez doubled their advantage on be quarter hour. McInnes added his second midway through the second half, before former Inglewood striker Dean Hurley added a fourth late.
The other game on the night was an eight-goal thriller with Gwelup Croatia and Cockburn City playing out a 4-4 draw at Macedonia Park. Ben Campbell gave the home side the lead early, but Andrew Rankin leveled for City. They went on to score two quick goals in the second half to take control, with Matthew Bowen and Rory McGrath on target. But Gwelup hit back with substitute Callum Stocks and Jeremie Mba restoring parity. It looked like Gwelup had won it when Mba added his second three minutes from time, but in stoppage time Bowen added his second on the night to give both sides a share of the spoils in a entertaining clash.
The last time Curtin hosted UWA was in week ten last season, when UWA won a seven-goal thriller. The visitors were ahead on 32 minutes, with a strike from distance from Roberto Soares, and they added another four minutes later, the unfortunate Mighael Muller heading into his own net. They led by three at the break, Mark Bauersachs crossing to Joseph McInnes who scored from close-range. It looked game over on the hour when UWA added a fourth, Soares scoring his second of the game. But Curtin hit back, and Rowan Steed reduced the margin 15 minutes from time, and it was 4-2 when Bauersachs back pass went into his own net. They added a third two minutes from time, with Nathan Smith converting from the spot to set up a tense final few minutes, but UWA held firm to take the points.
Curtin skipper Jeffrey Ledwith said it’s been tough, but successful week for the club, with a big win at Western Knights in the cup, and their win at Mandurah in midweek. “The cup game at Nash Field was a great result for us, and I’m super proud of the boys for the fight they showed. We were knocked out of the cup by Western Knights last year, so it’s good to come back, get the win, and progress further in the cup,” he explained.
The win at Mandurah was their first of the season, and lifted them off the bottom of the table, and Ledwith said it is a confidence booster for them. “Yes, it was a huge result for us and our first win of the season. We have been playing good football lately, and it’s a confidence booster when we are able to get the results to match,” the skipper said. “It’s always a difficult matchup against Mandurah, especially in Mandurah. They were physical and kept the pressure on us, but luckily for us, our striker Jason Stewart was able to put the ball in the back of the net. He has been working hard for us and coming back from injury, and he has been a massive help for us.”
Ledwith said Saturday game is another test for them, but they go into it in a confident mood. “UWA are on top of the ladder for a reason, and we know they have quality players. It’s definitely going to be a tough battle for both sides, but we feel confident in the team and the players we have to perform,” the defender said. “If there is one thing I have learnt in this league, it is that any team can beat any team on their day. We look to prepare for the game ahead and will bring our best effort to get a good result.”
UWA have continued their form from last season, which saw them finish second, the highest they have finished since their return to the State League in 2012, and assistant coach Mark Reid said Wednesday’s performance was top draw, and the new look side are starting to hit their straps, and they will look to continue it on Saturday at Curtin, but he knows there is more to come from them. “I thought it was a very solid performance against a very well organised Inglewood side,” he explained.
“Our defence was strong and it was pleasing to see all our goals coming from some good football being played. We have made various additions to the squad this season, and the more games we play the better we are gelling. We still have things to work on, but just taking it one game at a time. Curtin have had two great wins in their last two outings, so we know we are going to be in for a very tough game. We just need to stick to our game plan and let’s see how we go.”
The round kicks off on Friday evening, with league leaders Floreat Athena hosting Subiaco AFC at the E&D Litis Stadium (7:00pm) The home side moved three points clear after last week’s 1-0 win at Quinns (Match was abandoned at half time due to floodlight problems, but with the game having reached half-time, the result stands as per competition rules), while Subiaco sit second bottom after a narrow loss at Kingsley. Joondalup City entertain Kingsley Westside at Iluka Park, while Mandurah City and Inglewood United will look to bounce back from back-to-back defeats, when they meet at the Proto DPS Inglewood Stadium. Murdoch University Melville head to the Croatian Sporting Complex, Wishart Street, to meet Gwelup Croatia, while in the final game Cockburn City host Quinns at Dalmatinac Park.
8.5.2026
WEMBLEY HOST MORLEY IN DIVISION TWO ‘MATCH OF THE ROUND’
After a bye-round last week, we head into Week Six of the State League Division Two, and our ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to Butlers Reserve, where Wembley Downs host Morley Windmills. (5:00pm) Both sides are coming off narrow defeats in the last round, with the hosts losing 1-2 against league leaders Rockingham City, while the visitors were beaten 2-3 at Forrestfield, so both will be looking to bounce back on Saturday, especially with only two points separating the two sides. The last time Wembley hosted Morley in a league game was in Week 18 in 2024, when the pair met in the Amateur Premier Division, with Morley leaving with all three points after a 3-2 win.
It was the hosts who found the opener on 18 minutes, with Harry Browne firing across Nick Stone from the angle, and they held the lead until twenty minutes from time, when Morley levelled. Ali Gholami whipped in a free kick and Oliver Simpson rose highest to head home. The visitors were ahead ten minutes later, Vincente Olavarria crossing to the back post where Travis Taylor headed against the post, but Gavin Knight was quickest to the rebound to score. But Wembley weren’t finished and restored parity two minutes later, with Browne adding his second, racing through from a defensive splitting pass, and finishing neatly. It looked like the points would be shared, but three minutes later Morley won it, Knight found space on the edge of the box, and his shot found the bottom corner of the net to seal the points.
Wembley coach Luke Thompson has been pleased with the performances this week, in the cup and league, losing narrowly to Fremantle and league leaders Rockingham, but he knows they have to improve in the final third. “Fremantle City last week in the cup and Rockingham the week before in the league were exactly the same type of game, and I thought we played really well, and caused the opposition problems and deserved more from the game, if it was solely based on performances,” Thompson explained. “But we haven't been good enough in the final third and made the most of our chances or field position, and unfortunately its cost us results.”
Thompson said Morley will be another stern test, especially after their cup win last week, and they need to keep an eye on striker Luke Salmon. “We are looking at this week as a chance to start turning those strong performances into wins, but know it won’t be easy,” he said. “Any side coached by John (O’Reilly) are always well organised and tough to beat. They are in a good space at the moment and are performing well and have a proven goal scorer in Luke (Salmon), so we know we will be in for a tough game.”
Morley assistant coach Jesse Bridgeman said the win in the cup was well deserved, and a good response from their loss at Forrestfield in the league. “Yes, the result again Cockburn was great for the club,” he said. “it showed how when we apply ourselves properly, we have a side that can compete with the teams a division above, we worked hard for the full 90 minutes and deserved the win.
“But the last match in the league was disappointing, leading 2-0 at Forrestfield at half time, and we were quite comfortable, and to lose 3-2 due to not being focused until the end and drop all three points was a real wake up call. We know Saturday at Wembley will be a good test, and they have had a good start to the season so that will be a good challenge for our side. The group is working hard week in week out and focusing on our consistency.’
In other games this week (All games kick off at 3:00pm, unless stated), leaders Rockingham City welcome Forrestfield United to Endeavour Homes Stadium, Larkhill Sportsplex, looking to maintain their perfect start to the season, and their five-point lead at the top. Second-placed Ashfield will look to bounce back from their first defeat of the season, when they visit Walter Padbury Reserve to take on Gosnells City, while North Beach host Carramar Shamrock Rovers to Charles Riley Memorial Reserve. East Perth entertains Balga at Hudson Park, while in the final game Kalamunda City take on Canning City at the Spanish Club of WA (5:00pm)
8.5.2026
JOEYS START U-17’S ASIAN CUP WITH A BIG WIN
The Australian Joeys were at their clinical best to secure a 4-0 win against India in their opening AFC U17 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026 in Jeddah on Wednesday. The goals were shared amongst the group with Luke Becvinovki, Max Court, Luka Demuth and Henrique Oliveira on target, the win puts Australia in a comfortable position in the three-team Group D with India needing victory against Uzbekistan on Sunday to stay in contention for a knockout stage spot.
Head Coach Carl Veart named a strong side for the first game of the all-important tournament. The top eight teams qualify for the FIFA U-17 World Cup 2026, meaning that passage out of the three-team group will secure the Joeys’ place at the showpiece event for the first time since 2019.
Australia could not have asked for a better start as they opened the scoring in the fifth minute when Archie Mitchell’s low cross from the left trickled to the centre to be swept home by Becvinovski. India had a chance to restore parity just two minutes later when Azlaan Shah was put through into the box but could not find the composure in his effort, sending the ball into the side netting.
Indian keeper Rajrup Sarkar then pulled out two fantastic acrobatic saves to push away Oliver O’Carroll’s strike from range before tipping away Emile Katrib’s header with a reflex save to his left. But he could do little to prevent a second on the half hour, when Max Court converted from the spot after Moosa Ashiq had tripped Akeem Gerald in the box.
There was more attacking intent from India at the start of the second half with Gunleiba Wangkheirakpam heading wide from close range before Denny Singh forced a save off Charlie Wilson-Papps. At the other end, Becvinovski’s wicked free-kick from the right just after the hour, saw Miles Milliner rising highest to get his head to the ball but the defender’s effort sailed just over the bar.
Another chance went begging for India when Raj Wahengbam nodded a rebound wide after Wilson-Papps had saved Azlaan’s initial strike. The miss came back to haunt India, when 16 minutes from time the Joeys went further ahead through a deflected Demuth shot from the edge of the box that wrong-footed Rajrup, with Henrique Oliveira completing the emphatic win late, following a mazy run from the right.
Joeys: GK Charlie Wilson-Papps, 3 Besian Kutleshi, 5 Miles Milliner (4 Marcus Savic 84’), 6 Sajjad Nasiri, 8 Oliver O'Carroll, 9 Luke Becvinovski (20 Georgio Hassarati 78?'), 11 Max Court (7 Aston Reid 63?'?), 13 Arnie Mitchell, 15 Emile Katrib (2 Winston Ashburner 78’), 16 Akeem Gerald (21 Luka Demuth 63’)?, 17 Henrique Oliveira – Subs not used: RGK Lachlan Allen, RGK H. Yien-Li Ng, 10 Paul Lombardi, 14 Fraser Brown, 18 Stevan Rujak, 22 Harrison Bond, 23 Corey Da Cruz
India: GK Rajrup Sarkar, 4 Shubham Poonia, 5 Korou Konthoujam, 6 Moosa Ashiq, 7 Azian. Shah (15 Yuvraj Kadam 82?'), 9 Ngangom Washington (12 Raj Wahengbam 46?')?, 10 Dallalmuon Gangte, 13 Lawmsangzuala, 16 Md Aimaan Bin (3 Indra Magar 46?')?, 20 Gunleiba Wangkheirakpam, 23 Denny Singh (17 Rahan Ahmed 87?') - Subs not used: RGK Manashjyoti Baruah, RGK Alok Nishad, 2 Lesvin Rebelo, 8 Nitishkumar Yengkhom, 11 Diamond Singh, 14 Abhishek Kumar, 18 Adithi Alungal, 19 Heerangamba Seram
8.5.2026
HBF PARK TOPS THE A-LEAGUE BEST PITCH VOTING
Perth Glory’s HBF Park have been voted by the players as the PFA A-League Men Stadiums of the Season for the second straight year. HBF Park and Go Media Stadium received the highest average rating by the players for atmosphere and pitch quality, respectively. HBF Park received the best pitch quality on average for consecutive seasons, scoring 4.7 from the 12 games surveyed by the players. This score reflects a slight increase on last year’s average score of 4.4.
“We’re delighted to see the venue that we proudly call home recognised as the best in the country for pitch quality for a second consecutive season,” Perth Glory Chief Executive Officer Anthony Radich said. “This honour is deserved recognition of the outstanding work of the HBF Park venue management and grounds team, whose dedication and attention to detail has set a benchmark for excellence across the industry. We are very grateful for their great care and professionalism and wish to congratulate all concerned”
A Venues West spokesperson added: “Venues West is thrilled that HBF Park has again been recognised by A-League Men’s players for its outstanding pitch quality. These are professional athletes who demand the highest standards, and we are proud they see that reflected in the consistency and quality delivered by our team at HBF Park and our turf managers Green by Nature, particularly at a multi-purpose venue that balances elite sport with a busy events calendar.”
Stadiums with capacities of 25,000 or less, typically referred to as ‘boutique venues’ scored well in the atmosphere stakes. These included the 17,000 capacity Adelaide’s Coopers Stadium (pitch: 4.4, atmosphere: 4.3), Sydney’s Leichhardt Oval (pitch 4.3, atmosphere 4.3), and Brisbane’s Kayo Stadum (pitch 4.3, atmosphere 4.3). Melbourne’s AAMI Park also scored strongly receiving a 3.8 for pitch quality and an average of 3.5 for atmosphere across Melbourne Victory and Melbourne City matches.
Victory’s home games scored markedly stronger than City’s averaging 4.1 while City averaged 2.8. Meanwhile, Apollo Projects Stadium in Christchurch also scored strongly in the one match played there in April, receiving 4.0 for both pitch quality and atmosphere. Brisbane Roar’s solitary game in the Sunshine Coast received a strong score for atmosphere of 4.0, but a slightly slower score for pitch quality with 3.0. These contrast with the results of Roar’s main stadium, Suncorp, which had an average pitch quality rating of 2.8 across eight matches surveyed, and a 2.5 atmosphere rating. This was an improvement on the 1.8 atmosphere rating the previous season.
6.5.2026
SCOTTISH SIDE SIGN RAWLINS
Scottish side Dundee United have completed an A-League hat-trick by signing Melbourne Victory defender Josh Rawlins on a two-year deal overnight. The 22-year old becomes the third A-League player to sign with the Tangerines ahead of next season, joining Newcastle Jets’ Lachie Rose and Auckland FC’s Jesse Randall.
“It has been a privilege to represent Melbourne Victory over the last two seasons, pushing me to better myself as a footballer and a young person, and I want to thank everyone at the Club for supporting and accelerating my development,” Rawlins told Victory’s official website. “I am looking forward to a new opportunity and environment, but I will never forget this period in my career.”
Rawlins has signed a pre-contract, arriving at Dundee United on a two-year deal with a club option for an additional season. A Perth Glory junior, he played a prominent role in each of the last two campaigns with Victory having returned to Australia following a spell in the Netherlands with FC Utrecht, where he made 24 appearances for the youth team.
Rawlins, who has represented Australia at Under-23 level, featured over 50 times in the A-League across the last four seasons. The full-back made his senior debut at just 16 years of age, first appearing for Glory in 2021. It wasn’t long before international interest materialised and now he’s heading to Europe for a second spell.
5.5.2026
'MOST SPECIAL': SAM KERR SAVOURS HISTORIC CHELSEA GOAL
Samanatha Kerr has been left savouring a goal she believes may be the most special of her garlanded career as she became Chelsea's all-time leading scorer in England's Women's Super League. Kerr's 64th goal in the WSL ignited Chelsea's 3-1 win at Leicester City on Sunday and ensured the Blues will be playing Champions League football again next season.
Kerr, whose future at Chelsea after this season is still in doubt, sounded quite emotional about the 13th minute expertly taken header that took her past former teammate Fran Kirby's club landmark. "There have been some pretty special goals in my career, but I don't know if it gets more special than this," the the 32-year old said.
Kerr is finishing this season strong, increasingly looking as if she's returning to her best after her long-standing absence through the ACL injury. She would have broken the record last week if myopic officials hadn't missed her header that crossed the line for what would have completed a hat-trick against Everton.
But no-one was left in any doubt this time as she nodded home Niamh Charles's cross from the left to score 2296 days after her first goal for Chelsea. "I've not scored as many in the league as I'd have liked but to come back from an ACL and still be top scorer in the league for a club like Chelsea is great," said Kerr.
5.5.2026
SURGERY FOR MAYNARD-BREWER
Dundee United goalkeeper Ashley Maynard-Brewer has gone under the knife today to address a season-ending shoulder injury. The 26-year old is targeting the Scottish pre-season for his return to action having not featured since dislocating his shoulder in last month’s loss to Rangers. Although out of contact at the end of the month, Maynard-Brewer is hoping the club take up the option to extend his agreement for another 12 months.
2.5.2026
VETERAN LUIK CREATES EUROPEAN HISTORY WITH HACKEN
Veteran defender Aivi Luik has etched her name into European football history after helping BK Hacken completed a 4-2 aggregate victory over Hammarby in the final of the inaugural UEFA Women’s Europa Cup. At 41 years and 44 days, Luik became the oldest female player to win a UEFA club competition, breaking the record previous held by Brazilian legend Formiga (38 years, 90 days).
Luik, a 45-time Matilda, played every single minute of both legs of the decider, which Hacken won 1-0 and 3-2 respectively, as her club became the first Swedish side to win a European trophy in 22 years. 19-year old striker Felicia Schroder was the hero, scoring a hat-trick in the second leg and finishing as the competition's top scorer with eight goals overall.
For Luik, this is another sensational moment in a career that has spanned over two decades. The Perth-born defender has claimed league titles in Australia, Denmark and Sweden and now adds a European trophy to her collection. Her late career renaissance is particularly special, given Luik's successful fight to clear her name after being handed a three-month ban for doping offenses in 2024.
Luik fought for seven months against the Italian anti-doping authority who had served the ban after she was given a cortisone injection by her Naples-based club, Pomigliano. The club eventually admitted there was no wrongdoing on her part, but only after she was forced to pull out of contention to represent Australia at the Paris Olympic Games.
3.5.2026
JUNIOR MATILDAS HELD BY LEBANON
The Junior Matildas have failed to back up their win in the opening game of the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup game against India, after being held to a 1-1 draw by Lebanon in Suzhou on Tuesday afternoon. Lebanon was well beaten in their opening game by Japan, and it looked like Australia would take the points, especially after Hyundai FW Academy striker Theo Mouithys gave them the lead, but it was cancelled out by Sara Karnib, to give Lebanon their first point of the competition, and Australia now meet Japan in the final Group B game.
Head Coach Michael Cooper made three changes to the side that recorded a 2-0 win over India in the opening game, with Frida Karaberis, Izabella Rako and Jada Taylor coming into the starting side, with Frida Karaberis, Leyla Hussain and Abbie Puckett dropping to the bench. Australia was on the front foot early, pinning Lebanon deep in the opening exchanges with Claire Corbett testing Marie Joe Chebly from distance on three minutes, before the Lebanon keeper pulled off a fine save to deny FW Academy midfielder Sakura Leong’s rasping shot from inside the box.
Another chance went begging in the eighth minute when Claire Corbett pounced on a loose ball off Chebly’s clearance to set up for Tehya Aspland, who hit her powerful effort straight into the arms of the Lebanese custodian. The sustained pressure resulted in the opening goal at the half hour mark when Mouithys timed her run to perfection to latch onto Keira Sarris’s through ball before lobbing over the advancing Chebly and into the back of the net.
Lebanon came close to leveling five minutes before the half-time whistle when Anabel Zihenni charged into the box and tried to squeeze the ball past Australian keeper Dali Gorr Burchmore, who reacted well to smother the effort. Australia continued their attacking approach in the second half with Willa Pearson angling her header wide in the 49th minute before Maeve Nicholas and Kaya Jugovic came close from inside the box.
However, Lebanon equalised against the run of play just before the hour mark with Yara Geitani releasing the ball to Sara Karnib who slotted home past Burchmore. Australia tried to respond but Chebly denied Leyla Hussein from distance on 77 minutes, before foiling Kaya Jugovic from a tight angle as the teams took home a share of the spoils. Attention turns towards their final group stage game against Japan on Friday night, looking to advance to the knockout stages.
Australia U-17: GK Dali Gorr Burchmore, 2 Willa Pearson, 3 Charlotte Bradshaw, 4 Keira Sarris (13 Maeve Nicholas 46'), 6 Frida Karaberis (8 Kaya Jugovic 46'), 7 Claire Corbett, 9 Izabella Rako (10 Leyla Hussain 46'), 14 Jada Taylor (15 Tyra Bagiante 77'), 16 Tehya Aspland, 20 Sakura Leong, 21 Theo Mouithys – Subs not used: RGK Annabelle Croll, RGK Alyse Oppedisano, 5 Liana Luong, 11 Matilda Dias Wadewitz, 17 Mary Dal Broi, 19 Harper Pell, 23 Abbie Puckett
Lebanon U-17: GK Marie Joe Chebly, 2 Yasmina Nassar, 3 Christina Chebly, 4 Joya Bou Assaf, 5 Gia Frangieh, 6 Gaelle Abou Malhab (8 Sara Karnib 56'), 9 Sara Issa (11 Yasmin El Habbal (90+1'), 10 Yara Geitani, 16 Marita Chebly, 17 Anabel Zihenni (7 Calina Osman 85'), 19 Avy Douaihy – Subs not used: RGK Ghinwa Karam, RGK Nourhan Rafeh, 12 Yara Abi Fadel, 13 Rama Kharroubi, 14 Zahra Asaad, 15 Layane Kalkas, 18 Angy Boustany, 20 Esraa Hamzeh, 21 Rama Moghrabi
3.5.2026
GOALS GALORE IN WEEK FOUR OF THE AMATEUR PREMIER DIVISION
The goals were flowing in Week Four of the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division, with 41 scored on the day, and in our ‘Match of the Road’ Hamersley Rovers made it back-to-back wins and moved up to third on the table, after a 7-1 win against Maccabi at Carine Open Space on Sunday afternoon. “Really very pleased with the result today and to get back-to-back league wins,” Rovers’ coach Antony Benetti explained. “There is real belief in this group and they showed it with such a dominant start. We've been looking for that consistency over 90 minutes and I felt today we were able to dominate most of the game.”
It was a blistering start to the game for the hosts, with two goals in the opening four minutes. They were ahead on two minutes, Callum Duguid was able to beat his marker and drive a low cross in for Bradley Dean to slam home. They added the second shortly after, a great individual goal from Duguid, cutting in and finishing clinically into the bottom corner from a tight angle. It was 3-0 early in the second half, with Ryan Charles getting up highest from a corner and heading home. The visitors were shell shocked, but the goals kept coming, and it was 4-0 on 53 minutes, a neat one two released Duguid who raced in on goal and slipped it past the keeper.
Then five minutes later they added a fifth, Ryan Charles and Timothy Higgins combined to find Duguid who beat his marker and finished with aplomb, to complete his hat-trick. Bryan Nobles added the sixth just after the hour, his long-range shot found the top corner, before Maccabi scored a consolation goal late, with Dion Berman on target. “It was nice to see a few boys hit the back of the net and that just increased the level of confidence in the group,” Benetti added. “It's very early days and it’s a tough league, so we'll look to focus forward and continue the aim in building momentum.”
We had a six-goal thriller at the Noranda Sporting Complex, with Noranda Emerald and North Perth United playing out a thrilling 3-3 draw. “Very disappointed not to take the three points, to be in full control of the game but ten minutes of madness cost us,” Noranda Emerald coach Ger Gaughan said. “We’ll learn from it, but full credit to Chris and the lads for coming back into it. They have a never say die attitude that will keep them near the top again, this season.”
The hosts found the opener after a great strike from Connor Gormley was parried away and quick thinking by Andrew Wood set up Jack McClelland for the finish, and they added a second when Wood bravely headed home, after a high looping cross into the box, and they lead 2-0 at the break. North Perth made a triple change at the break, it had the desired effect, and they pulled one back, a great diagonal ball over the top Conor Hartley, whose first touch took him clear of his marker, and he lobbed the on-coming keeper from distance.
The visitors were soon level, a corner from the left from new signing Conor Butler beat the keeper and nestled into the top corner. The comeback was complete with North Perth hitting the front, some nice interchange at the back, saw a defence splitting pass from Tom Fowler, which sent Conor Hartley racing through on goal who finished expertly. But the hosts hit back to take a point, with a cracking volley from Connor Jordon.
“We started off really slow and lethargic. We didn’t create much at all and it was a pretty scrappy affair, but we found ourself 2-0 down at half time,” North Perth coach Chris Batten said. “We had a discussion at half time and the boys know they hadn’t turned up and that they had to do better, and we made three changes and switched a couple of players which luckily worked out. We were on the front foot without really playing our best football., but in the end a draw was probably a fair result but certainly had us scratching our heads wondering what we’d just witnessed.”
Wanneroo City have continued their winning start to the season, with a 6-0 win in the local derby against Olympic Kingsway at Kingsway Reserve. “I was very pleased with our performance today always nice to win a local derby which got physical at times with some tough challenges going in but thankfully our lads stuck to the game plan and focused on playing some great football and got the result they deserved,” Wanneroo assistant coach Kevin Flavin explained. “Getting the clean sheet also is enjoyable, but our attacking players were on fire today in the second half especially Ross Buckley who had a MOTM performance.”
City found the opener 15 minutes from the break, Alan Reidy was put through one-on-one with the keeper, but he then squared it to Sam Gammock coming through on the left to finish first time. They added a second early in the second half, Zak Thomas with a cross into the box and the header by Ross Buckley was going wide but Reidy came in at back post to turn the ball home. The home side were then reduced to ten men with Charlie Bandeira was shown a straight red card.
It was 3-0 on 56 minutes, when a cross from Reidy found Buckley, who scored a screamer, and they added a fourth shortly after, a pinpoint pass from Jordan Cook into Buckley who made no mistake. It was 5-0 on 85 minutes, some great build up play in the middle of the park where Michael Berlingeri was put through, and he found Charlie Read who volleyed it home. The icing was put on the cake in the final minutes with a sixth, a scramble in the box, and the ball fell to Frankie Stammers who finished low across the keeper into the far corner.
Swan United moved up to second after a 7-1 win against bottom of the table Jaguar at the Swan Italian Club, Francis Street. “Pleased with the performance, we are playing some really good football in periods of games and got our rewards today,” Swan coach Lee Taylor said. “So, we’re happy to take the three points and move on to next week.” The hosts were ahead seven minutes before the break, with Dami Afolabi finished well after the ball dropped to him in the box. They doubled their advantage in first half stoppage time, a cross from the right from Mehrab Rahimi, was taken down well by John Monterosso who finished into the bottom corner.
Jaguars were back in the game early in the second half, with Mawien Mawein scoring, but Swan soon regained their two-goal lead with Tyler Buckley getting on the end of a free kick. But any hopes of a comeback for Jagaur were dented on 67 minutes, after Chol Maper was shown a red card. Swan made their numerical advantage count, adding a fourth seven minutes from time, good work from Dami Afolabi on the right, before cutting the ball back for Liam Merigan. Swan went on with it, Merigan adding a fifth, before he completed his hat-trick from the spot in the final minute. He wasn’t finished there, making it 7-1 with a nice turn on the edge of the box and finding the top corner.
Kelmscott Roos are back in the winning circle, coming home from Kingfisher Park with the points, after 5-3 win against Ballajura AFC. “It was a good performance and one that we can take a lot of positives out of,’ Kelmscott keeper Taylor Warwick said. “We scored some good goals and had a lot of joy in the midfield. But we let our guard down too much. Going 5-0 up was good, but we let Ballajura back in the game with some sloppy stuff late on. A good result but a lot to improve on still going into and more tough game next week.”
The visitors were ahead on 20 minutes, Kingsley Nteng picked the ball up on the right, beating his man and playing a great ball across the box, and Ben Bolt got in front of his marker and finished well. They added a second when Nteng eased past his marker, and his cross shot from the bye-line beat the Ballajura keeper at the far post. It was 3-0 in the shadows of half time, Callum Husain played a great through ball splitting the centre backs and sending Isaac Koomson one on one with the keeper, he around him and finished into an empty net.
Kelmscott made it 4-0 early in the second half, after the referee spotted a handball in the box, and pointed to the spot, with Koomson converting the resulting penalty. The points looked save when Kelmscott added a fifth on 69 minutes, Amos Doegolia picked the ball up on the right and played a neat ball into the middle of the park to find Gerard McGahey, who found Nteng in the box, and he finished clinically. The hosts pulled one back nine minutes from time, with Davor Pavic scoring, and they added a second two minutes later, with Daniel Clarkson on target. The comeback was on, when Pavic scored from the spot moments later, but that’s as good as it got, Kelmscott holding firm to take home the points.
In the final game we had six goals, with Kwinana United beating Kingsley Westside 4-2 at Chichester Park. ‘It was great game for the neutrals,” Kwinana coach George Mann said. “The play was back and forth, but at the end we’re really pleased to come home with the win.” The home side were ahead midway through the first half with Kai Main-Nyckowski scoring, but United were level seven minutes before the break, with Thomas Walsh on target. Kingsley were ahead again six minutes into the second half with Nathan Griffiths scoring. But again, the visitors hit back and restored parity just after the hour, Cam Hewitt firing home, after Kingsley keeper Thomas Bull had a saved a penalty. They were awarded another penalty 12 minutes from time, but once again Bull saved, but Maddy Holman fired home the rebound to give the visitors the lead. The points were secured late with Mitchel Gruin scoring.
3.5.2026
BALCATTA MOVE CLEAR ON TOP OF NPLWA – WOMEN’S LADDER
Balcatta Etna have moved two points clear at the top of the New Balance NPLWA - Women’s table, but were made to work hard to beat Sorrento 3-0 at Percy Doyle Reserve on Sunday afternoon. “It was a frustrating game for us, with Sorrento sitting very deep and making it difficult to break them down, so we had to remain patient,” Balcatta skipper Abbey Meakins explained. “In the first half we didn’t quite play the way we wanted, but it was a positive response from the group to come out in the second half and take a few of our chances. Overall, it was pleasing to come away with a win, even if it wasn’t our best performance.”
The hosts, who were coming off their first win of the season at Subiaco last week, had a good early opportunity in this one, Isla Edwards sending Daisy Snowden in on goal, but she couldn’t find the target, firing into the side netting. Peter Rakic’s team hit back, but found Gulls Amalia Caceres in good form, denying Meakins and Caitlin Doeglas, before the lively Meakins’ shot clipped the outside of the post. It was more of the same after the break, Sorrento keeping a good shape, and holding the league leaders at bay, but on the hour mark, Sorrento resistance ended.
A corner from Jaime Duncanson picked out Frankie Murray at the back post, and the defender lost her marker and headed low into the net. They added a second 13 minutes later, Meakins won a challenge on the right of the penalty area, and fired a powerful shot which beat Caceres at her near post. The points were sealed three minutes from time, when Balcatta found a third. A clearance out of defence struck Lucy Hope, the ball running kindly for Doeglas, and the former Perth Glory striker found the bottom corner past Caceres from the edge of the box. She went close to a second in stoppage time, her shot coming back off the post.
Perth Azzurri lost ground on the leaders after they were held to a 1-1 draw by Perth RedStar at Dorrien Gardens on Saturday evening. “I thought it was a good game from both teams, we are a little bit frustrated to come away with another draw, but are still happy with the result,” Azzurri’s Jessica Flannery explained. “I think everyone is just wanting to continue working on the things that need improvement, and we know that the results we continue to come if we do that.” It was another tight game between the past two NPL-Women’s champions, the best chance in the first half fell to the hosts, with Daisy McAllister denied by RedStar keeper Gabby Dal Busco.
The Azzurri introduced Charli Wainwright at half time, after her stint in the A-League with Perth Glory, but it was the visitor who went close to the opener, with Jayna Ridley shot from outside the box hitting the post. But on 56 minutes it was the hosts who hit the front. A neat move saw Grace Warburton send McAllister down the right channel, and she crossed to Flannery, who made no mistake. But Chris Aturo’s side earned a point 18 minutes from time, substitute Jasmine Gray raced down the left, and outpaced her marker before finishing with aplomb past Dayle Schroeder.
The Hyundai FW Academy are back in the winner’s circle after a late goal from Piper Dowe sealed a 1-0 win against Fremantle City at Hilton Park. Both sides had their chances in a tight first half, Leyna Wood’s long-range shot was saved by Academy keeper Daisy McGreadie-Cole, while Savanna Glavovic’s effort was blocked and cleared. Both sides struggled in the final third, the best for the visitors fell to Ella Lange, her shot from distance flashed over the top, before the alert McGreadie-Cole made a smart save to deny Mia Yeo.
But the winner went to the Academy three minutes from time, Cate McAuliffe won possession in the middle of the park and her pass sent Dowe clear, who outpaced her marker, before finishing low past Fremantle custodian Cassia Souza. New coach Andrew Ord said it’s been a tough couple of weeks for the players, but the win was a real team effort. “It’s been an emotional couple of weeks for the girls with many of them tasting success after making history at the Emerging Championships then coming back down to earth with a bump last week at Balcatta,” Ord explained. “They also had to deal with Stephen (Walmsley) deciding to take a break from football when he was such a popular figure around the girls.
“I just want to pay tribute to the work he did for the program in the last couple of years, raising the bar to new heights and working in a coordinated way with Football West to put long term development above everything. I am so proud of the response against Fremantle who are flying high at the moment. With the Junior Matildas away opportunities have come to many U16 players all at once and they were really well led by Daniella Santich and Cate McAuliffe who were the only older players on the pitch and the responsibility has elevated their game to new heights.”
In the final game Subiaco AFC have secured their second win of the season, after a 3-0 victory against UWA Nedlands at Rosalie Park. “We are very pleased with the result and performance today, it was a very important win for us,” Subiaco midfielder Ella Mastrantonio said. “Hopefully this can give us the confidence going into an important next couple of weeks. Very proud of the team today.” The visitors went close early, Emily Dinsdale was sent in on goal, but Subiaco keeper Briana O’Dell stood tall to save.
But it was the home side who found the opener seven minutes from half time. A short corner caught UWA napping, and Mastrantonio’s cross beat everyone and found the back of the net. They doubled their lead on the hour, with a stunning strike. Mastrantonio found Niamh Taylor-Hughes, who wasn’t closed down and she rifled home from the edge of the box, despite Janina Sauer getting a hand to it. They sealed the points ten minutes from time, Taylor-Hughes was brought down in the box by Alyssa Kinkaid and Sara Klott converted the resulting penalty.
3.5.2026
STATE LEAGUE CUP 18’S AND RESERVES ROUND OF 16 REVIEW
It was State League Cup Day in the Under18’s and Reserves on Saturday, and two NPL sides were knocked out by lower league opposition in the Reserves Cup. Firstly, at Iluka Park Joondalup City have beaten Bayswater City 4-3 on penalties, after the game ended 2-2 after normal time. Bayswater were ahead 2-0 at the break, with goals from Cian Sheridan and Castel Brandli, but two quick goals from Jamie Martin and Zac Pattison levelling things up for the hosts. Bayswater had Jack Morre sent off, before the game went to penalties, and Joondalup prevailed.
“The first half saw Bayswater capitalise on our mistakes, and went into the break 2-0 up. We approached the second half knowing that we needed a quick goal and then go back to playing football and dominating the midfield battle which we hadn’t in the first half.’ Joondalup coach Darren Veness said. “The lads responded with a quick goal and then an equaliser. To their credit Bayswater came back at us even though they were down to nine men and looked dangerous. We held out, moving into the dreaded penalty shootout. Bayswater were clinical with their first three penalties, but missed the last two, giving us a chance after missing our first one. Going to sudden death Teddy (O'Shea) calmly slotted the 5th penalty giving us a deserved win.”
The other upset came at Nash Field, where Forrestfield United beat Western Knights 3-1. Both sides scored early, Copper Holland for the visitors after six minutes, before the Knights levelled seven minutes later. Anthony Lerino gave Forrestfield the lead before half time, and despite going down to ten men, with Raphael Mahony being sent off, a goal four minutes from time from Torsten Tode sealed the win for Forrestfield. We had two all NPL clashes, and firstly at the RedStar Arena, Perth RedStar beat local neighbours Sorrento 1-0, with the only goal of the game come 16 minutes from time from Odan Okich. Meanwhile at the Home Group Stadium Olympic Kingsway beat Balcatta Etna 1-0, with Thomas Sallis scoring the only goal of the game late on.
In the other games, a brace from Liam McGarvie helped Fremantle City to a 6-1 win against Subiaco AFC at Hilton Park, while doubles from Achnaff Sayon and Hudson Burn has seen Perth Glory move into the quarter-finals, after a 6-2 win against Gwelup Croatia at Wotton Reserve. Stirling Macedonia needed penalties to beat UWA Nedlands at Dianella Reserve 5-4, after the game ended 2-2 after normal time, while in the final game between Ashfield and Quinns at Ashfield Arena was abandoned at half time after a light fault, the score at the time was 1-1, but it will be replayed at a later date.
In the under 18’s State League Cup, Perth Glory needed a late equaliser in their game against Gwelup Croatia at Wotton Reserve, before prevailing on penalties. Adrian Gooding had given Gwelup the lead just after half time, but Samuel Hatzaw levelled on the hour. It looked like Gwelup had won it after Jaxon Chakley scored six minutes from time, but a stoppage time equaliser from Leandro Jesus sent the game to penalties, where Glory won 5-4.
We had three all NPL ties, and two first half goals from Kaleb Jacobs and Munaf Alrumayid gave Perth RedStar a 2-1 win against Sorrento at the RedStar Arena, and goals from Orlando Ricciardello, Tarran McQueen, Sebastian Aquilia and an own goal gave Perth Azzurri a 4-0 win against Balcatta Etna at the Home Group Stadium, while Stirling Macedonia beat Dianella White Eagles 5-4 on penalties, after the game ended 1-1.
In other games, goals from Thandolwami Tshuma, Jordan Salim and Kiros Hannam have given Forrestfield United a 3-1 win against Kalamunda City at Nash Field, Carramar Shamrock Rovers beat Subiaco 4-2 on penalties at Hilton Park, while penalties were also needed, with Joondalup City beating Murdoch University Melville 3-1 in the shoot-out. In the final game doubles from Harvey Park and Isreal Dima, has helped Quinns to a 6-1 win against Balga AFC at Princess Road Reserve.
2.5.2026
CURTIN STUN THE KNIGHTS IN CUP UPSET
We will have three State League teams in the Hahn Australia Cup (WA) Quarter-Finals, after an action-packed round of 16 this weekend. The big upset came at Nash Field, with Division One Curtin University beating NPL side Western Knights 3-2 after extra time. “Really proud of the boys for the grit and determination they showed today. After absorbing a bit of pressure in the first half and restricting Knights to chances from distance, we made a few changes at half time, but we gave them a gift of a goal at the start of the first half, and to the boys’ credit they responded well,” Curtin coach Troy Reid explained.
“We had chances to win it in normal time, but we found another gear in extra time and got the job done in the first half. I’ve been told this is the first time the club has beaten an NPL side, so that’s a huge credit to the boys and the trajectory the club has been on over recent years.” It was the hosts who found the opener in the first minute of the second half, with Aaron Pike on target, but the visitors were level on 58 minutes. Jude Baillie, who had just come on to the pitch, saw his through ball misjudged by the Knights defender, the ball finding Gasper Becerra, who fired home. There was no more goal in normal time, so we were off to extra time, and it was Curtin who hit the front eight minutes into the first period.
Jai Coker and Becerra combined down the right, the latter crossed to Baillie, whose shot on the turn flew past Anthony Lance. It was 3-1 to Curtin six minutes later, a long clearance from Alec Radonich wasn’t dealt with, the ball falling to Jason Stewart who raced into goal and finished with aplomb past Lance. The Knights did pull one back in the final minute, with Luke Hewings scoring, but it was too little too late, Curtin taking their place in the next round. “Really proud of the boys for the performance today, it was a really tough game as everyone knows the quality Western Knights possess,” Curtin midfielder Nathan Smith said. “We rode our luck at times, but got the result, and our goal scorers took their moments very well and that got us the win.”
The round started on Friday evening, with Perth RedStar beating Inglewood United 3-0 at the RedStar Arena. “Good to get the win and progress into the quarter finals. I thought we controlled most of the game and limited them to chances,” RedStar’s Gordon Smith said. “It’s great to see young Jacob get a couple of goals and we now wait for the draw.” The hosts found the opener on the half hour, when Aaron Black raced down the left and his low cross was turned home by Jacob Evans from close-range. The tie wasn’t decided till late, and two minutes from time the hosts added a second, Black sending Evans down the right, and the youngster finished with aplomb. The icing was added to the cake in stoppage time when RedStar added a third. Black’s shot was spilled by Jordan Barbas and Matthew George was on hand to turn the ball home.
The other game on Friday was a seven-goal thriller, with Rockingham City beating Ashfield 4-3 at the Ashfield Arena. “We started the game very well taking an early lead, but for the next 60 minutes we’re not at our best. Credit to Ashfield they played well and made it difficult for us,” Rockingham coach Matthew Brook said post-match. “As the game stretched a little and we played with some greater quality we were able to create and take a number of our chances which was pleasing. The end of the game was sloppy on our part and made it closer than it needed to be but we move on and look forward to the next round.” The visitors found the opener on three minutes, with Brian Patterson winning possession in midfield and drove forward and slotted it clinically past the keeper.
But the hosts levelled just after the hour mark, with Kian Durant scoring. It was game on, but on 69 minutes Rockingham regained the lead, Ryan Kennedy’s free kick to the back post was headed home by Graham Tough. City increased their lead six minutes later with Mitchell Foley scoring, after some neat build up, and the game looked over two minutes from time with Shaun Mukwevho played through and he made no mistake from the edge of the box to make it 4-1. But Ashfield hit back with Robert Toto pulling one back in the first minute of stoppage time, before Oleksandr Pozhar added another sixty seconds later, which set up a frantic end to the tie, but Rockingham held firm to move in to the quarter-finals.
The other State league side into the next round is Division Two side Morley Windmills, who beat Division One side Cockburn City 3-1 at Wotton Reserve. “After recent results our focus, was our focus,” Windmills coach John O’Reilly said. “We needed to perform with a consistent level for the full 90 minutes and that’s exactly what the players did today.” It was the visitors who found the opener on 38 minutes, with Oliver Carr scoring. But Morley hit back and levelled two minutes later, with Gino Hampshire scoring from the spot after the referee spotted a handball.
The hosts then hit the front early in the second half, with Gabriel Vasques receiving the ball outside the box, before glided past the challenge and finishing into the far corner. It was a typical cup-tie with both sides pushing for the next goal, but it went to John O’Reilly’s side on 65 minutes, with Hampshire adding his second, rising highest to head home, after a ball into the mixer, to seal the win and move the Windmills into the hat for the next round.
In the other games, East Perth giant-killing run has come to an end, after beating NPL side Stirling Macedonia in the last round, they couldn’t repeat that result, going down 7-1 against Dianella White Eagles at Dianella Reserve on Saturday evening. “Tonight was a very good performance from the boys - from the first to the last whistle. We knew coming into the game that it wouldn’t be easy as East Perth have been very good in their respective leagues in the last few years and had also beaten Macedonia in the game before,” Dianella skipper Saša Njegic said post-match. “I think we made an emphasis in the locker room to keep the ball moving at all times and it paid dividends with a 7-1 score line.
“Also, I would just like to give credit to the East Perth boys, never gave up and I’m sure they’ll be making a run for promotion this year. So apart from the score, we were happy with the performance of all the boys and hope to carry the momentum into the upcoming game against Stirling Macedonia.” The hosts raced to a two-goal lead early, with goals from Franc Gamiz Quer and Daniel Zivkovic, and they led by that score at the break. But they burst the game wide open with two early goals in the second half, Njegic added the third, before Ben Hinshelwood made it 4-0. Ryan McCready pulled one back for East Perth, but the hosts finished the game off in style, Cory McNelis making 5-1, before two late goals from Hinshelwood, to complete his hat-trick, and sealed the comprehensive win.
In the only all NPL tie, Olympic Kingsway have narrowly beaten Balcatta Etna 1-0 at the Home Group Stadium, Grindleford Reserve on Saturday night. “Pleased for the boys to be moving into the last eight,” Olympic assistant coach Ross Edwards said. “The game was very tight and Balcatta are a good side. We could have scored a few more throughout the night but couldn’t finish the game off, and in the end like exiting cup ties the last 5 minutes was frantic and end to end, but we held firm to progress.” The only goal came eight minutes before half time, Will Ferson's cross was turned into his own net by the unfortunate Balcatta skipper Jesse Fuller.
Fremantle City have moved into the quarter-finals, after a 3-1 win against Wembley Downs at Hilton Park. “We created plenty of opportunities in the first half but were not clinical enough to finish them off. We struggled to come to terms with their formation and as the game continued without us adding it put us at risk of conceding,” Fremantle assistant coach Dale Wingell explained. “Wembley got the goal they deserved and that made the last 20 interesting. Luke Radonich pulled off a number of crucial saves to keep us in the game and our subs made an instant difference.
“A little bit of composure and quality enabled us to get two near the end. We knew it would be a tough game and credit to Luke. He has the team set up well and I can why they have had success of late. For us its job done and we progress on to the next round.” Fremantle were ahead on 20 minutes, Nick Ambrogio firing home a penalty after Chad Nilson was brought down. But Wembley weren’t finished and levelled 14 minutes from time with substitute Billy Templeton-Knight scoring, just after coming off the bench. It looked like we were heading to extra time, but Fremantle regained the lead late. First on 83 minutes Paul Zimarino found the net, and deep into stoppage time skipper Charlie Chechlacz sealed the tie.
Bayswater City were made to work hard to progress into the next round, coming home from Iluka Park with a narrow 1-0 win against Joondalup City. “A really pleasing result and an important win for us in a cup game. Joondalup made it difficult, they were organised and competitive, so we had to be patient and disciplined throughout,” Bayswater coach Matthew Sparrow explained post-match. “I thought we controlled large parts of the game, limited them to very little and looked very solid defensively, which is always a big positive.
“It probably wasn’t our most fluent performance going forward, but in cup football it’s about finding a way to win and the boys did that. Credit to the group, they stuck at it, showed good character and got the job done. We’re delighted to be through to the quarter finals and now our focus quickly turns back to the league.” The only goal of the tie came on 24 minutes, when Ollie La Galia bulldozed his way through and held off his marker before finishing past Joe Smith.
2.5.2026
LIGHTS OUT AT QUINNS AS KINGSLEY KEEP PRESSURE ON THE LEADERS – STATE LEAGUE REVIEW
We only had two State League Division One games on Saturday, and both games ended 1-0, with Kingsley Westside beating Subiaco AFC 1-0 at Chichester Park, while the game between league leaders Floreat Athena and Quinns at Stylish Park, Gumblossom Reserve was 1-0 to Floreat before the lights went out at the break, and the game was abandoned, but with the game having reached half-time, the result stands as per competition rules.
At Chichester Park the hosts hit the front on ten minutes. Good work by Raezz Pandor and Noah Leasor in the middle of the park sent Ben Ford down the right, he found Pandor just inside the penalty area, and his first time shot went in via the far post. The visitors looked for a quick response Tomas Despotovski firing over the top, before Phil Arnold’s long-range shot was saved low by Isaac Driessen. Pander went close to a second on 20 minutes, his shot from the edge of the box flashed inches past the post, and four minutes later Jack Robinson’s shot was well saved by Max Winton. Both sides had late chances, Ivan Skorich’s deflected shot drifted just wide of the post as Subiaco pressed for the equaliser, before Pandor went close again just before half time, bursting into the box, but Jeremy Tshongo got back with a great last-ditch tackle.
Subiaco were on the front foot after the break, and from Despotovski’s corner, Arnold headed just wide. But clear-cut chances were few and far between, but Kingsley substitute Paul Stewart’s cross shot was well claimed by Winton. The hosts went even closer moments later, Max Adamson rounded the keeper, but his shot from the angle was cleared off the line by the alert Tshongo. The hosts went close to a second in stoppage time, Stewart sending Elliot Tattersall into the box, he beat his marker and cut inside Christopher Harradine, but his shot was well saved by Winton, but the hosts had done enough to maintain their unbeaten home record.
“A really hard-fought win, the lads dug in and showed plenty of character. We’ve watched a fair bit of Subiaco over the last few weeks and knew they would be a tough test despite their recent results,” Kingsley assistant coach Jason Stern said. “I thought we defended superbly well again as a team and nullified most of what Subiaco threw at us, but we feel like we should’ve made more of the chances we created. In saying that we are really happy to pick up the three points to continue our decent start.”
In the late game, Floreat made a good start, and Joshua Wilis’ shot from the edge of the box drifted inches wide early. But on six minutes the hosts hit the front, a ball down the line found Harvey Tomlinson, who cut on to his left foot and drilled his shot from the edge of the box into the top corner of the net, giving Quinns keeper James Bosdet no chance. They went close again moments later Tomlinson found Tom Wassholm, but his shot on the run flew wide of the target, before Jordan Langley was sent in on goal, but Bosdet stood tall to deny him.
Quinns hit back and Jordan Allen-Rana deep cross was pushed away by Joshua Hunter with Joshua Allum ready to head it home. The chances kept coming for the visitors, Harry Lewis’ snap shot was saved by Bosdet, as Floreat looked for a second. But Quinns were making inroads, and Chad Samuels bicycle kick flew wide. Quinns went close again just after the half hour, Samuels raced into goal, but Linus Persson got back with a crucial last-ditch tackle to deny him. Both sides had late chances, Bosdet was alert to tip Jacob Young header over the top, before Paul Grant goalbound header was cleared by Tomlinson, but at the break, the floodlights failed, and the game was abandoned.
In the only State League Division Two game on Saturday, was the Week Five catch up game between Canning City and Carramar Shamrock Rovers at Burrendah Park, and it was the visitors who claimed the three points, after a 3-0 win. “It was a scrappy start to the game, with Canning having most of the possession, but we managed to get a break away and won a penalty. We didn't take that chance, and Canning were unlucky, hitting the post twice,” Rovers’ coach Adam Walsh explained. “But we took some control of the game and started creating some chances, and the second half was a better performance from us and managed to take the points.”
The visitors missed an early penalty, Nathan Diaz was fouled in the box, but Kieran Harrison missed the resulting spot kick. But Rovers did find the opener on 23 minutes, Aidan O’Donnell heading home a free kick, and they went into the break with a narrow advantage. The visitors doubled their lead just after the hour, Harry Bisset taking advantage of another quality set piece, before substitute Connor Cleary came on and had an immediate impact grabbing third, turning the ball home after a flick on from Bisset, to seal the win for Rovers.
2.5.2026
WA YOUNGSTER ON TARGET FOR JUNIOR MATILDAS
The Junior Matildas have started their AFC U-17 Women’s Asian Cup campaign in China with a 2-0 win against India in Group B at the Suzhou Taihu Football Sports Centre on Saturday evening. Hyundai Football West Academy striker Theo Mouithys gave the youngsters the lead midway through the first half, before an own goal from Abhista Basnett on the hour secured the win for Michael Cooper's side.
FW Academy midfielder Sakura Leong was also in the starting line-up, as the Matildas looked to start their first game on a high, and on a wet and humid evening in Suzhou they started brightly. Leong dispossessing Redima Devi Chingkhamayum in the sixth minute before drilling a low shot straight at India goalkeeper Munni Bhambhu, and eight minutes later Sydney FC defender Willa Pearson’s effort from a corner flashed wide of the target.
But on 25 minutes, their pressure was rewarded with the lead. Mouithys’ forced a poor clearance from keeper Munni Bhambhu, which was pounced on by Claire Corbett, who played the ball back to Mouithys, who curled home from the edge of the box. The striker thought she was offside, but the flag stayed down. Australia threatened to double their lead in the closing stages of the first half, with Pearson and Kaya Jugovic missing the target from inside the box, while Mouithys saw her low effort parried by Munni before Leong fired the rebound over the bar.
It was more of the same after the break, with Australia pressing for a second, but India almost levelled ten minutes in, Joya Joya’s through pass finding Pritika Barman clear on the right, only for the Indian midfielder to send her long-range effort wide. But just before the hour mark, the Matildas did double their advantage. Kaya Jugovic's cross from the left Indian centre-back Basnett, attempted clearance looped over her own goalkeeper and into the back of the net.
India almost reduced the margin moments later, skipper Julan Nongmaithem pounced on some hesitation in the matildas defence, but her shot was saved low by Dali Gorr Burchmore. It was the Matildas looking the more dangerous in the later stages, Corbett was on the end of a neat buildup, the midfielder’s shot on the run skimmed the top of the crossbar. They had the ball in the net again ten minutes later, Kaya Jugovic found herself on the end of a cross from Sakura Leong, who headed home, but her celebrations were cut short, with Jugovic was judged to be offside.
They were in again 18 minutes from time, Abbie Puckett raced through on goal, rounding the goalkeeper, but as she was about to shot a combination of surface and tackle from a defender saw her fire wide. She injured her leg in the incident, and was replaced. A great start for the youngsters, who now have a short turnaround heading into their second Group B fixture against Lebanon at the same venue hoping to secure a knockout berth on Tuesday afternoon (3:30pm WA Time).
Australia U-17: GK Dali Gorr Burchmore, 2 Willa Pearson, 3 Charlotte Bradshaw, 4 Keira Sarris (13 Maeve Nicholas 62'), 7 Claire Corbett, 8 Kaya Jugovic (9 Izabella Rako 88'), 10 Leyla Hussain (22 Hayley Muir 62'), 16 Tehya Aspland, 20 Sakura Leong, 21 Theo Mouithys (14 Jada Taylor 72'), 23 Abbie Puckett (6 Frida Karaberis 72') – Subs not used: RGK Annabelle Croll, RGK Alyse Oppedisano, 5 Liana Luong 11 Matilda Dias Wadewitz, 15 Tyra Bagiante, 17 Mary Dal Broi, 19 Harper Pell
India U-17: GK Munni Bhambhu, 4 Elizabed Lakra, 5 Divyani Linda, 6 Thandamoni Baskey (22 Bonifilia Shullai 88'), 7 Julan Nongmaithem (9 Pearl Fernandes 80'), 11 Ritu Badaik (19 Alisha Lyngdoh 66'), 12 Pritika Barman, 16 Redima Devi Chingkhamayum, 17 Abhista Basnett, 18 Alva Devi Senjam, 21 Joya (8. Anushka Kumari 66') – Subs not used: RGK Tamphasana Devi, 2 Alena Devi Sarangthem, 3 Taniya Devi Tonambam, 10 Olivia Chanu Ningthoujam, 14 Valaina Jada, 15 Joyshini Chanu, 20 Anwita Raghuraman
1.5.2026
OXTOBY REFLECTS ON LIFE AND FOOTBALL
Newcastle United manager Tanya Oxtoby recently discussed her football journey to date and the things that have shaped her as a person. "It was very simple. A simple life," Oxtoby told newcastleunited.com of her upbringing in Wickham, a tiny country town in the Pilbara region of Western Australia.
"There'd be cyclones and all of that type of thing. But it was pretty cool. In the '80s, it had a very small population, everybody knew everybody. I had the best life growing up. We had a boat and we'd go fishing every weekend. I was driving at ten, on the beaches and stuff. When I look back at my childhood, those types of experiences are crazy, thinking where I am now."
Oxtoby became manager of Newcastle United Women in November 2025 after leaving her post with Northern Ireland Women. In the relative privacy of her office at Cochrane Park she looks back with fondness on a former life down under as the first of two children born to Steve and Rhonda, who comes from an Aboriginal background.
"It's a massive part of who I am. There were no real visible role models of an indigenous background when I was playing. I was really, really conscious of that," Oxtoby says. "For me, it was about not only being female at that point - even then, I knew I was gay. So all of those different pockets, if you like, I knew I was representing."
"It was important to be visible in that space and being Aboriginal was part of that too. If you're authentic to yourself, it's manageable. I don't ever try to be someone I'm not. I am who I am. You either love that or you hate it. I can't apologise for it. I always want to be the best version of myself. I always want to be visibly showing others that it can be done."
The 43-year-old is speaking unreservedly and with a rawness that doesn't diminish when the conversation turns to her older brother, Michael. He was born with a chromosome disorder and was non-verbal, so she learned sign language as a child. At a time when there was less understanding around special educational needs, the tight-knit community of Wickham helped.
"He was the most special person ever," Oxtoby says gently. "He was my biggest supporter. Whenever I played, I could always hear him in the crowd. While he couldn't communicate with words, he could scream and he could yell. When I was on the ball, I could hear him cheering and getting excited. If someone tackled me, I could see him pointing his finger as if to say, 'that's not OK! That's my sister!'"
Michael died from sarcoma in 2018. A tumour had been found in his hip. The family chose to fill his final months with joy and Oxtoby recalls dressing up as Santa at Christmas, only for her watch to give her away. She recalls her brother's knowing look, "as if to say, I know it's you!" she smiles as grief begins to sound like strength.
"When he left us, you can look at it one of two ways. It's really sad. But he lived an amazing life for 39 years - probably more amazing than some of us live in a whole lifetime. I think the people he touched and the way he affected people's lives... that's his legacy. I know he's around. I see him every day in Albie, in his little mannerisms, the way he is. I'm like, 'oh, wow - that is too close to home'."
Albie is Oxtoby and her partner Alice's five-year old son. The Newcastle boss is one of few mothers working in the top two tiers of the women's game in England and says her club have been supportive of her finely. "The girls entertain him no end," she smiles. "It's nice for the players, too, to see a different side of me as well. They probably think I'm quite blunt, to the point, direct. And then, obviously I'm a massive big softy underneath, but I just don't show it."
Oxtoby left Wickham at the age of 12 to take up a football scholarship in Perth. A decade or so later she completed a double major in Psychology at university. There are elements of her studies that have proved applicable in dealing with players. "But that's also a two-way street. It's them trying to also understand me and know, I suppose, how to get the best outcome when we’re chatting as well," she said.
Some managers have little desire to be understood whereas others simply want their authority to be respected. "If you want an environment that has got a good culture and is respectful, that has to be two-way. It has to be," she counters. "There are non-negotiables and things that we're not going to agree on, and that's OK. But at the end of the day, you've got to have the capacity to have a bit of back-and-forth."
"Otherwise, what's the point? That, to me, is more of a dictatorship, it's not necessarily a partnership. The best cultures I've been a part of, there is certainly an element of, 'I'm not budging on that', but the rest of it is collaboration and trying to get the best out of ourselves, because what fits one player doesn't always fit another and everyone's circumstances are really different."
Between 2021 and 2023 Oxtoby was assistant to Emma Hayes at Chelsea. She says her time in West London, which brought back-to-back Women's Super League titles and three successive FA Cups, influenced her tactical approach. "If you have a very distinctive way that you want to play, you better have the best players in the world to be able to execute that every single time," she says.
"In my opinion, football is fluid and you need the ability to be flexible. I always say I want the players to feel confident they can make decisions. We want them to be decision-makers. If you're at Wembley in front of 80,000, they're not going to hear me. If I want them to play a certain way, they have to be able to make decisions for themselves and I think that's when you get the utopia and the best out of people."
"They (the players) - rightly or wrongly - make a decision, take accountability for that choice whether it came off or it didn't, and we move on from it and it's a learning. Everyone has their own style. We have principles, we have a certain way that we want to play, but what that looks like week to week may vary a bit, because that's the challenge. It keeps players on their toes as well."
Oxtoby followed the Magpies' rise to the second tier from afar. And since her appointment they have lost just twice in WSL2. "I think it's not about changing everything all at once - that's really clear. I've never done that, whether it was Northern Ireland or Bristol City. It's staging it and thinking about what's going to give us the biggest bang for our buck right now."
"How do we have the biggest impact, and what area is that in? And making sure that we nail that down first, then slowly layer on top. I think if you come in and just blow it up... maybe the staff in the building feel like I have! But for me, I've just gone, 'these are the main things we need to go after' ... It's trying to do it in a way that's sustainable. If you rip it all apart, you're bound to have to take five steps back."
"Having people around you that shape the way you are authentic is important. Sometimes, just knowing you're enough being you is key. That, for me, is probably the piece now. We've got great leaders here and they're all very different. But I want them to be different, because I don't want them to be anything that they're not. The way they influence every single person in the group differently is what it's about. We don't want robots. The world is robotic enough, I think."
Those in her profession are not always given to reflection but Oxtoby recounts two significant memories. The first is of taking her dad to Wembley for Manchester City 3-0 Women's FA Cup final win over West Ham United in 2019. "We were sat watching. He was like, 'one day, that will be you'. I laughed. I just thought, 'good one, nice one mate'. But he had tears in his eyes," she said.
"He reminded me of it in the Chelsea era when we won three FA Cups in a row. That was a real opening of the door into my world, and he got to see what we get to experience here (in women's football in England) and the support we have. It was a pretty special moment."
The other is from 2018. She was at Perth Airport preparing to fly back to England after Michael's funeral - for which she'd put together a soundtracked slideshow of photos and videos of the two siblings and their family - when her phone rang. The 40-minute call ultimately led to her taking the Bristol City job, her first managerial post in the WSL.
Oxtoby's career flowed from there without much time to grieve and she admits some emotions were compartmentalised. "Normalising some of those feelings is my way of coping with it," she said. "The rest of the time I kind of park that and pop it there. There are times when Albie will smack me in the face with it, which is good - it's a reminder. He'll say stuff like, 'do you miss your brother?'"
"Those little comments when you're not prepared for it... or he'll get sad and he'll go, 'I wish I'd met my uncle Mike - why is he in heaven?' Then you're having a whole conversation with a child about that. It's those moments you can't control, and you have to allow yourself to feel it."
Albie, whose middle name is Michael, has a photo of his uncle on his bedside table. Last Christmas, while her parents were over from Australia, Oxtoby sat with Albie and put the slideshow on. "It was the first time I'd watched it back since the funeral. That's a long time ago. That's how long grief takes, to allow yourself to feel that. It was the right time: 'do you want to see your uncle Mike?'
"He's got real innocence in his eyes, so he was like, 'is that you, mummy, when you were a kid?' It's nice. But it's just taking those moments when you feel ready to deal with them," she says. "There's no timeframe on that. Everybody does it differently."
1.5.2026
BELT-UP AMATEUR PREMIER DIVISION – WEEK FOUR PREVIEW
After last week’s cup round, we are back into league action in the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division, and our Week Four ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to Carine Open Space, where Hamersley Rovers entertain Maccabi. (All games kick off at 3:00pm, unless stated) Both sides progressed in the Amateur League Cup, with wins against Spearwood Dalmatinac and Curtin University respectively, and they will both look to continue their solid starts to the new season, with both coming off wins in the last round. They played out two tight games last season, a 0-0 draw at Hamersley in week ten, before a goal from Callum Duguid gave Rovers a 1-0 win the return fixture in week 21.
Rovers secured their first win of the season against Kingsley last time out, and coach Antony Benetti said it was good to get a win on the board. “We've had an interesting start to the season and definitely feel like we had opportunities to have picked up a few more points leading into round four,” he said. “As a new group the challenge was always going to be to find consistency but what I'm proud of is we've always been competitive and that's largely due to the players commitment and belief in the direction we are aiming for. Now it’s a focus on turning effort into reward and with some players returning its added more competitiveness in our preparations. It's still very early into the season and we will be aiming to now build momentum.”
Benetti said Sunday’s clash soon be competitive, and one they are looking forward too. “Maccabi have started the year well and picked up important points. We know this weekend is a challenge and we are definitely up for it,” he explained. “Building a winning run in any competition is important and changes the landscape of the league very quickly. As usual our focus is on how we can impact the game and get maximum points. The league is tough and that always makes for competitive games, but we have confidence in what we need to do.”
Maccabi bounced back from their first defeat of the season at Noranda Emerald in week two, with a win against Ballajura, and coach Ricky Berelowitz said they need to build on it. “Yes, we are pleased so far but we started in a similar way last year and then lost six in a row,” he explained. “So, we’re not really looking at the table, we’re just trying to focus week by week and try and win every time we step out onto the pitch.”
They make the trip to Hamersley on Sunday, and with them winning last week, Berelowitz is expecting another stern test. “Hamersley are always difficult to play against so it will be a tough game as usual, but we’re confident going into every game that we can beat anyone on our day,” he said. “So hopefully the boys show up with the right attitude and desire and we can keep picking up points.”
In other games on Sunday, Olympic Kingsway host league leaders Wanneroo City at Kingsway Reserve, the visitors are still the only team in league to win all three opening games. Kingsley Westside entertain Kwinana United at Chichester Park, while Kelmscott Ross head to Kingfisher Park to meet Ballajura AFC. Swan United will look to bounce back after their defeat in the cup and build on their last league win against Kwinana, when they host bottom of the table Jaguar at the Swan Italian Club, Francis Street.
In the early game fourth placed Noranda Emerald welcome second placed North Perth United to the Noranda Sporting complex (1:00pm) The hosts were held to a draw at Kelmscott last week, and coach Ger Gaughan said it’s a game they are all looking forward too. “North Perth are still one of the best teams in this league and there’s a great mutual respect which definitely adds to the rivalry,” he said. “I know Chris will have the lads well up for this one, but we are feeling good in our new home and excited for the challenge.”
United were made to work for their win against Olympic Kingsway, and coach Chris Batten said it continued their good start, but knows they need to be on their game on Sunday. “The lads are looking forward to it. We had a pretty tough game last week against Ellenbrook in the cup on the Astro turf, and we gave the lads Tuesday off due to some knocks and niggles but they trained well last night,” he explained. “When the fixtures come out Noranda Emerald are always the first match you look for. They’re a very good team and as I’ve said previously there’s a really healthy rivalry between the sides.
“Ger and Shane are top coaches and any team they have been involved in are always well trained and drilled so we know we will be up against it on Sunday. We managed to get over the line in the night series tie, taking them to penalties after being 2-0 down so we do take some confidence out of that but I’m sure they’ll be out for revenge. Both teams are in good form so I’m expecting another very good game against them. We have a full squad to pick from apart from Barry Boggan who is suspended for the game, so there’s no excuses for Sunday.”
1.5.2026
HAHN AUSTRALIA CUP WA – ROUND OF 16 PREVIEW
The last 16 of the Hahn Australia Cup WA takes centre stage this weekend, as clubs battle it out to advance to the quarter-finals. (All games kick off at 3:00pm, unless stated) East Perth were the giant-killers in the last round, knocking out cup holders Stirling Macedonia, and they face another NPL side in this round, when they visit Dianella Reserve to meet Dianella White Eagles on Saturday evening. (5:30pm) East Perth skipper Chris Smith said the club is buzzing after the win against Stirling, and knows they face another stern test at Dianella.
“Always great for the club and as a team playing against a NPL club as you want to test yourself against the best. We were confident we could get some sort of result that day and credit to everyone we came away with a deserved win,” he explained. “We’ll go again on Saturday against another NPL team and we have nothing to lose going into the game. Dianella will be another big test and after only getting promoted they are already proving they are good enough to compete against the best in the NPL. As a club we look forward to another big day and hopefully we can do ourselves proud and see what happens at the end of the game.”
Dianella striker Albert Luwi was on target in their win at UWA Nedlands in the last round, and he knows cup games are a great leveller, so they need to be on their game from the first whistle, something they weren’t in the last round. “The win at UWA was a good result, although it was a bit of a slow to start the game, but once we got the first goal, we took control of the game and created a nice cushion for the second half and ultimately for the win,” the striker said. “We definitely know we going into a match that’s going to come with its challenges, and I guess we can use their last result as a reminder to approach this game with intent and focus if we do that, I’m confident we will walk away winners.”
The other Saturday evening game is an all-NPL tie, with Balcatta Etna hosting last seasons beaten finalists Olympic Kingsway at the Home Group Stadium, Grindleford Reserve. (5:15pm) Olympic arrive into this one top of the league, while Balcatta sit second bottom, but in the cup, anything can happen. We will have at least two State League sides into the quarter-finals, with Morley Windmills hosting Cockburn City at Wotton Reserve on Saturday afternoon, while Division Two league leaders Rockingham City head to the Ashfield Arena to take on Ashfield on Friday evening. (7:00pm)
A brace from Luke Salmon, gave Morley and upset win against Gwelup Croatia in the last round, and coach John O’Reilly said it was a deserved win, and he’s looking for more of the same against Rockingham. “The Gwelup game was special, and we played well in the first half and then second half I just let the boys play off the leash and they excelled,” he said. “This week we will take the challenge seriously from Cockburn, who have been strong contenders over the last two seasons.”
Rockingham were pushed all the way at Ellenbrook in the last round, and midfielder Chris Thackrey said they had to work hard to win the tie. “It was a great contest against Ellenbrook, they were very well organised and disciplined, with some quality players in the attacking areas. I am sure they will have a very good season this year with the playing group they have,” he explained. “For us, it was another game on the road, and we knew it would be a challenge, as those cup games most often are, and we put in a professional performance and got the job done “
Thackrey said it said be a great tie under lights at Ashfield, and they head into the game looking to keep building their momentum. “We expect another hard-fought contest at Ashfield in another game on the road against a team that has also started the league campaign very well,” he said. “It has the potential to be a fantastic cup clash under the lights at Ashfield. We will be looking to put in another professional performance with the same energy and hard work that has got us to this round and keep building the momentum.”
The other ties see NPL teams taking on State League sides. First on Friday evening Inglewood United head to the RedStar Arena to meet Perth RedStar. (7:00pm) Inglewood caused an upset in the last round, beating RedStar neighbours Sorrento, and defender Ciaran Salinger said it’s another test, but one they are looking forward too. “Yes, it was a very hard fought win the last round against Sorrento. Always a tough side to break down and your always guaranteed a physical game. Luckily, we had our finishing boots on that night and got the win,” Salinger said. “Always looking forward to playing another NPL side. Really give you a perspective into the character of our squad what levels we can push for. RedStar is a tough game for any team in the state, so it should definitely be an entertaining one.”
The RedStar eased into the last 16, with a come-from-behind win at Armadale, and skipper Blair Govan knows they will be in for a tough encounter. “Yes, we are expecting a tough game against Inglewood, I don’t think they’re league position gives a true reflection of their team and Glenn always organises his team really well so we know we are in for a tough one,” the defender explained. “But we have to focus on ourselves. This is an important part of the season for us and we will be looking to continue our good form this week.”
Bayswater City face a tough trip to meet Joondalup City at Iluka District Open Space. Joondalup were too strong for Gosnells City in the last round to set up this tie, and skipper Liam Peacock said the lads are up for this one. “The boys are looking forward to the test against Bayswater City,” he said. “It’s cup football, and we’ll be looking to shock a few.” Bayswater edged out MUMFC in the last round in a tough game, and coach Matthew Sparrow said it will be another tough test on Saturday.”
“It’s always a tough trip away to Joondalup City, they’re a well-organised side and cup games always have that extra edge, so we’re expecting a real challenge on Saturday,” he said. “For us, it’s about building on the momentum we’ve created over the last few weeks. We’ve shown good character in recent games, but we know there are still areas we can tighten up, particularly in both boxes. We’ll go there with the right mentality, respect the opposition, but also look to impose ourselves on the game. The cup is something we take seriously, so we’re looking forward to it and hopefully progressing to the next round.
In the other ties, Fremantle City welcome Wembley Downs to Hilton Park on Saturday. (2:30pm) Wembley upset Subiaco in the last round, but coach Luke Thompson knows this is a huge challenge, but one they are looking forward to. “We are under no illusions on how tough a challenge Fremantle will be, but we are looking forward to it and hope to continue playing well,” he said. “As East Perth proved last round, anything can happen.” The final game sees Curtin University head to Nash Field to take on Western Knights. (2:30pm).
1.5.2026
STATE LEAGUE PREVIEW
We have a truncated Week Six in the State League Division One due to the cup games, with only two games being played on Saturday, and our ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to Stylish Park, Grindleford Road, where Quinns host league leaders Floreat Athena. (5:00pm) Floreat moved three points clear at the summit after a 3-1 come from behind win against Curtin University on Monday, and Joshua Willis was on target just before half time to get them back in the game and they went on with it, and he said they were slow out of the blocks and were punished on the day, something they need to address. “We started the game poorly, and got punished, this is something as a group we need to improve on,” he said. “My goal was needed, and I’m glad I could help the team but we increased the standard in the second half and got our rewards. Every game in this league will be tough as we’ve seen, and Quinns will be no different. But as a group I feel we are more determined than ever to put it right in terms of our performance.”
It's been a good start to life in Division One for Quinns after promotion last season, but last week suffered their first defeat on the road at UWA Nedlands, and midfielder Elliot Ireland said they never got going on the day, and will be looking to bounce back on Saturday. “Yes, it was a tough game, UWA are a good side and playing mid-week definitely had an effect on us, but in saying that for the standards we set we simply didn’t get going, and ultimately UWA deserved the win,” the midfielder said. “Floreat are another good side who have shown their intent to go right back up after their relegation. It’s definitely a challenge we look forward to, it’s the perfect game and opportunity for us to bounce back after the UWA result.”
The other game on Saturday sees Kingsley Westside host Subiaco AFC at Chichester Park. (3:00pm) Kingsley sit second on the table, and are unbeaten at home, while Subiaco sit 11th, and will be looking for a second win on the road, the last coming at Joondalup City in Week Three. The hosts beat Cockburn City 3-1 last week, with Raeez Pandor on the scoresheet, and he said they had to work hard for the points, and knows it will be the same on Saturday. “It was a tough fought game against Cockburn, but the team played as a unit,” he said.
“I thought we stayed disciplined, and kept the attacking pressure we were able to dominate through key periods until the end. Getting that win was important for us—not just for the points, but for building back a winning atmosphere within the squad. We’ve been solid at home, and we’re looking to continue that form this week. Subiaco may not have had the best start to the season, but they’re a side we expect a competitive match. Yet I’m confident in our quality and ability to perform. Pushing on toes for the top spots and keeping the pressure on Floreat.”
Subiaco were edged out 2-1 at MUMFC last week, and midfielder Tomas Despotovski thoughts they deserved something from the game. “It was disappointing to finish that game without taking anything from it, similar to our previous matches against Quinns and Inglewood. We played some good football in those games but unfortunately weren’t able to turn our performances into points,” he said. “We know it will be a difficult challenge playing away at Kingsley’s ground. They are in good form, which is reflected by their position in second on the table, but the boys and coaches are ready for the challenge. We’ve been putting in the hard yards at training and working hard to turn these recent results around.”
The other games in Week Six will be played on Wednesday evening (May 6) Gwelup Croatia meet Cockburn City at Macedonia Park, Mandurah City welcome Curtin University to the Poolmart Mandurah Stadium, Inglewood United head to the UWA Sports Park to meet UWA Nedlands, while Murdoch University Melville welcome Joondalup City to Len Shearer Reserve on May 20.
In Division Two, with the cup taking place, there isn’t any game with Week Six taking place next weekend. But we do have a Week Five catch up game when Canning City host Carramar Shamrock Rovers at Burrendah Park on Saturday afternoon (3;00pm) The hosts are still searching for a first win this campaign, and will be looking to bounce back from a heavy defeat at East Perth in the last round. Meanwhile, Rovers are unbeaten this season, and are coming off a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Wembley Downs, and skipper Kieran Harrison said they will be looking to get back in the winner’s circle on Saturday.
“I thought the Wembley game was a well-earned draw. They’re a good side, very well setup and I think they’ll have a good season. They were probably the better team in the first half but the second half was a lot more even once we got to grips with how they wanted to play. A draw was probably a fair result in the end,” Harrison explained. “You always know what you’ll get down at Canning, it will be a tough afternoon, I’m sure. I think anyone can beat anyone in this league regardless of form so the fact they’re yet to win doesn’t really matter. It will be a good game and we will do all we can to get the win.”
Canning coach Lee Hayward said the loss at East Perth was tough, but they have had two weeks to get it out of their system, and he’s looking forward to Saturday’s game. “Yes, it was a tough game out in our last game against East Perth. We actually had a better share of the possession but possession doesn’t win you games, and East Perth were ruthless in front of goal, and we struggled to deal with the directness of the game,” he said. “The boys have had two weeks of training to get ready for Carramar, and we are confident if we can dominate the ball and take our chances the wins will come, and hopefully that’s this week.”
1.5.2026
KALTAK AND MCKENNA TAKE OUT ‘MOST GLORIOUS PLAYER OF THE YEAR’
It was a successful night for Perth Glory defender Brain Kaltak, making a clean sweep of the awards at the clubs Most Glorious Players night at Perth’s Westin Hotel on Tuesday evening, while Tijan McKenna won the Women’s Most Glorious Player of the Year. The big defender won the 2025-26 Most Glorious Player of the Year, and also won the Members/Supporters and Players’ Player of the Year in what was his debut season with the club after moving from Central Coast Mariners.
The 32-year-old struggled early in his time at the club, but the Vanuatu international defender blossomed under the tenure of Adam Griffiths, and he thanked the coach for his improvement. “I thought I had a really good season, despite the slow start, but then I picked myself up, and I’ve been killing it ever since,” Kaltak told The West Australian. “A turning point was when Griff stepped in and he expected more from us.
“Big players they step up, lead the way, show the example of what we want to be like as a team. That changed the way I think, and it changed me as a senior player, there to lead by an example, and I think I did. He demanded more from us as senior players and he spoke clearly when it came to all the senior players. It’s been a big change, a shift from not just myself and my performance, but the other boys as well.” By seasons end, the defender ranked second in the league for clearances (173) and equal seventh for both blocks (22) and interceptions (33) and had helped Perth’s defence concede 17 fewer goals this season.
He believes Glory can move further up the table next season, and with the entirety of this year’s back four and goalkeeper Matt Sutton contracted for next year. Griffiths is out of contract, but Kaltak hailed the job he had done, and hopes he’s around next season. “It means a lot to have a good, supportive coaching staff and the players as well, where they push you forward, and they always, look after you,” he said. “When you have a good environment, it helps everyone to achieve their goals, or whatever we want to achieve.”
In other awards for the Men’s side, Young Socceroos Gio De Abreu won the DT38 Young Player of the Season, the 19-year-old midfielder, was outstanding in maiden year of senior football. Jaiden Kucharski won the Goal of the Year Award, for his stunning match-winner against Auckland FC in Round 15, although Seb Despotovski was unlucky with his stunner against Brisbane Roar in the final game of the season, while Tom Lawrence, Nicholas Pennington and Adam Taggart all shared the Bobby Despotovski A-League Men’s Golden Boot. The club also paid a special tribute to club legend Josh Risdon to mark his retirement from the professional game after an illustrious 16-year career in which he became Glory’s all-time A-League record appearances holder.
Perth-local local McKenna, was rewarded for a fantastic season, where she became Stephen Peters fix it player, excelling in several different positions and established herself as one of the most consistent performers in the squad. In other awards, keeper Teresa Morrissey was named Members’ Player of the Year and Players’ Player of the Year, and Rola Badawiya took out the Golden Boot and also won Goal of the Year for her fantastic Round Two strike against Brisbane Roar at HBF Park. While former Perth Azzurri player, Grace Johnston was named the Women’s Best Young Player Award.
1.5.2026
SUCCESSFUL NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS FOR WA BOYS
It was another successful National Championships for the West Australian teams, with both the Under 15’s and 16’s topping their respective 2026 Emerging Socceroos Championship tables. The 15’s were beaten in the Quarter-Finals by Victoria Blue, while 16’s reached the Champions Final, before losing narrowly also to NSW Navy. The under 16’s coach Neil Kilkenny said it was a great tournament and he was pleased with the boy’s attitude and character throughout.
“The boys did well to reach the final, but if I’m honest, at the same time I wanted to win it,” Kilkenny said. “I thought the boys showed real character to reach the final, in tight quarter and semi-final wins against Victoria Blue and South Australia. I was happy for Jack (English), who scored the winner in the semi-final, but to get past Victoria in the quarter-finals, who were one of the best two teams in tournament was brilliant, and it was a great squad effort.”
Kilkenny believes football in WA is up the up, and thanked Garth Naven for his support along the journey. “We are putting on high demands on the boys, and they are thriving, which is fantastic for WA football,” the former Socceroos, Leeds United and Perth Glory midfielder said. “It’s good signs, and hopefully we can keep pushing the levels, and I think I’m making a difference in WA football, obviously I have decent experience in the professional game, and hopefully I can pass on some detail to the younger generation. At the same time, I’ve got ambitions to coach as high I can, and I’m learning a great deal at Football West under Gareth (Naven), who has been brilliant to me and I can’t speak highly enough of him.”
The Under 16’s topped Group D, and started the group stage with a 3-0 win against NSW Reginal. Sorrento’s Saul Monger gave them the lead early, before Perth Glory’s Daniel Reilly doubled the advantage on the half hour, before his Glory teammate Samual Hatzaw sealed the game after the break. They played Queensland White in game two, and Perth Glory’s Dhaniel Brown scored the only goal in a 1-0 win. In the final game they needed a draw to top the group, and they found it after a 0-0 draw against Victoria Country.
They played one of the best teams in the competition in the quarter finals, and in a tight contest they played out another 0-0 draw, but the WA youngsters held their nerves to win the penalty shoot-out. That set up a semi-final against South Australia, and an early goal from Perth RedStar’s Jack English won it. In the Championship Final they played NSW Navy, and a brace from Dimitri Staveris, proved enough for the NSW outfit to win the title.
The under 15’s, who were coached by John Walmsley, and he was delighted with the squad’s performance. “Great effort from the team overall. To top the group without conceding a goal was a strong achievement and reflects how organised and difficult to play against we were. Preparation was a challenge this year with the April start and limited games leading in, but the players adapted really well,” Walmsley explained. “Winning four of six games, including some strong performances against quality opposition, was very pleasing. Hopefully it provides a platform for more of our players to be identified for national team opportunities this year.”
The 15’s topped Group C, and in game one an early goal from Perth RedStar’s Frankie Inzalaco, gave them a 1-0 win against NSW Reginal, and in game two goals from South West Phoenix’s Alex Sawyer, and FW Academy’s John Leonidas gave them a 2-0 win against Queensland White. They topped the group in style, with a 5-0 win in the final group game against Victoria Country. FW Academy’s Freddie Smith was the hero bagging a hat-trick, with his FW Academy team mates Adam Ikhlef and Jayden Dube also on the scoreboard. It set up a quarter final against Victoria Blue, and in a hard-fought game they were beaten 3-0. They played the 5th / 6thplay off against NSW Navy, and were beaten 1-0, with Noah Miladinovic goal early in the second half giving them the win.
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