Fremantle City winger Chad Nilson was on target in their 3-3 draw at Bayswater City

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3.4.2026

MACCABI HOST THE CHAMPIONS IN WEEK ONE

The 2026 Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division kicks off on Sunday, and our ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to Maccabean Memorial Oval, where Maccabi host the Night Series winners and last season’s champions North Perth United. (All games kick off at 3:00pm) United have begun their title defence in style, beating Wanneroo City in the Night Series Final last week, while Maccabi, who finished second in their group in the preseason competition, missing out on a place in the quarter finals on goal difference, will be looking to improve on last season’s eighth place finish.

The last time they played at the venue was in week one last season, when United left with the points after a 4-1 win. The visitors hit the front, with skipper Eoghan Rea heading home, and it was 2-0 with a superb finish from Niall Kennedy after some great work from Cian O’Dwyer. They added a third before the break, Rea heading home his second. Maccabi reduced the margin early in the second half, Michael Kaye followed up a shot from Dion Berman, that was pushed onto the post by the keeper, but North Perth secured the points late, with Raido Reinsalu on target.

It will be North Perth coach Chris Batten’s first game in charge of the club, and he said the players are all exited for the start of the new season. “We have a huge target on our backs now after our season last year and also our night series win and we know that there’s no easy games, even more so this season,” Batten explained. “We are excited about the challenge and we will just take each game as it comes. I’ve watched a bit of Maccabi and they won’t be easy. looks like they’ve recruited well and will be a tough early test. We just have to focus on what we do and hopefully we get off to a winning start. Nothing is taken for granted though, we know we have to work hard collectively to win any game so Sunday will be no different. We are looking forward to it.”

Maccabi coach Ricky Berelowitz will coach for the fourth season at the club, and he said it’s a huge first up challenge, but one they are looking forward to. “Obviously very excited to get started again, it’s a long off season and we’ve all been eager to get the season underway,” Berelowitz said. “We’ve got a pretty tough start but we’re excited at the challenge starting with North Perth this week. They were head and shoulders above everyone last year, so we know it’s going to be tough, even if they’ve had Jason and a few players move on.”

It will be a first game in the Amateur league for Swan United, since they entered the State League in 1986, and they face a tricky opening game, with a trip to Kingfisher Oval to take on the newly promoted Ballajura AFC. New Swan coach Lee Taylor said things have been improving over the preseason, and they can’t wait for the season opener. “We’ve made a lot of progress since our first preseason games with what has been a big rebuild of the playing squad so it’ll be interesting for us to see how we stack up against the other sides in the league once we get underway,” Tayloe explained. “We’ve played each other already in the night series so we already know a little bit about each other and we will both be wanting to start the season on a high. It’s going to be a very competitive season, so it’s important for us to make sure we start well and get the three points at the end of the game.”

In other Sunday games, Kwinana United welcome Jaguar to Kelly Park, Kelmscott Roos head to Kingsway Reserve to take on Olympic Kingsway, while Kingsley Westside entertain the newly formed Noranda-Emerald at Chichester Park. In the final game Hamersley Rovers host Wanneroo City at Carine Open Space. City were relegated from the State League last season for the first time since 1978, and new coach Jason Winter will be looking for a quick return.

Rovers will have a new man in the dugout this season, with Antony Benetti replacing Nigel Smith, and he will be looking to improve on their sixth placed finish last season. “The season kicking off is always an exciting occasion, especially with a round one game at home,’ he said. “The week leading into round one always feels a bit different because it’s now time to put the mechanisms into place and on show. The boys were focused this week and the culture within the group is fantastic, especially with so many new faces coming in this year. Wanneroo are definitely a formidable side with real quality but our focus is always on ourselves and what we need to do to get our campaign off to a positive start.”

3.4.2026

NPLWA – MENS WEEK SIX THURSDAY REVIEW

We had three Week Six New Balance NPLWA – Men’s games on Thursday evening, and first up, Fremantle City have come from three goals down to draw 3-3 against Bayswater City at Frank Drago Reserve on Thursday evening, to extend their unbeaten run to five games, while it is now four games without a win for last season’s champions Bayswater. “Tonight is a real testament to the character and resilience of the group. To come back the way we did against Bayswater and extend our unbeaten run says a lot about the belief within the squad,” Fremantle’s Nick Ambrogio explained. “While we’re proud of the fight shown, we also know there are areas we can tighten up, particularly in how we manage key moments throughout the game.”

The hosts led 2-0 at the break, with Ollie La Galia opening the scoring early, before a Chris Jackson penalty doubled their lead. The game looked over on 69 minutes when La Galia added his second to make it 3-0, but Scott Miller’s side weren’t finished. Substitute Iljas Ahmedov reduced the margin seven minutes later, before Chad Nilson made it 3-2 seven minutes from time. Sixty seconds later the port side were level with substitute Paul Zimarino scoring. Both sides pressed for the winner, but the points would be shared, leaving Fremantle sixth on the table, with Bayswater seventh. “Going into the game, we knew that we needed the three points, after a few consecutive results were both the performance and the outcome were not what we expect of ourselves,” Bayswater skipper Luke Palmateer said post-match.

“We needed to change and tweak a few things in our playing style and I thought we did that very well through the majority of the game, and we scored three goals and had thought we had the game exactly where we needed. We are extremely disappointed to let a lead slip in that fashion and are left scratching our heads a bit at our identity and how we must turn this around now. Fortunately, in football every week gives you a platform to rectify past mistakes, so we must put this behind us but take the lessons of needing to finish games in the right manner if we are going to make something meaningful of this season.”

Perth RedStar have rebounded from their first defeat of the season at the Knights last week, coming from behind to beat Stirling Macedonia 2-1 at the RedStar Arena. “Great three points tonight, against a team who always make it difficult to play against,” RedStar’s Gordon Smith said post-match. “I thought if it wasn’t for their goalkeeper in the first 30 minutes, we’d have been out of sight. Then to come back after a goal down shows the quality and character we have and we just have to keep pushing each other on week in week out.”

A tight first half, which saw action at both ends, burst into life five minutes into the second half with Alex Tanevski opening the scoring for the visitors. They were only ahead for ten minutes, with Liam Murray equalising for the hosts, and Scottish striker Gordon Smith won it for RedStar five minutes later, the win leapfrogging RedStar over Stirling to third on the table.

Perth Azzurri have also bounced back from their defeat at Stirling last week, beating Dianella White Eagles 2-0 at Dorrien Gardens. It was a tight encounter, but the real action came late, and on 71 minutes the visitors were reduced to ten men with defender Franc Gamiz Quer sent off. The Azzurri then claimed the lead six minutes later, with Gordon Perkins on target. Things got worse for the Eagles five minutes from time when Daniel Zivkovic was also sent off, and from the resulting free kick Perkins fired home from the edge of the box to seal the win, and move the Azzurri up to fourth on the ladder.

3.4.2026

STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE – WEEK THREE THURSDAY REVIEW

We had three games in the State League Division One on Thursday evening, and we had controversy late in the in the 0-0 between Inglewood United and Floreat Athena at the Proto DPS Inglewood Stadium. “An unfortunate end to what was otherwise a very strong and competitive performance. The game was evenly balanced for the opening 20–30 minutes with both sides having their moments. The red card shifted the momentum and allowed the game to open up in our favour,” Inglewood defender Ciaran Salinger said. “In the second half, we controlled possession for long periods but were unable to convert our build up play into clear chances or goals.

“The match ultimately turned in injury time, when Rostyn Griffiths made a run from deep that was incorrectly ruled offside. There was no clear involvement from the player penalised, making the decision baffling to understand. It is frustrating not only for us players but also for spectators and fans to see crucial moments influenced by questionable decisions. Situations like this highlight the importance of measured decision-making, rather than unnecessary intervention, especially at key stages of a match.”

Floreat, who had won both their games to start the season, found themselves down to ten men, when midfielder Harvey Tomlinson was sent off by referee Adrien Liechti ten minutes before the break. They held firm until the first minute of stoppage time, when a surging run by Rostyn Griffiths, saw him play a neat give and go with Kian Mcguigan, before finishing neatly past Joshua Hunter. But after consulting with his assistant the goal was disallowed for offside in the build-up.

Floreat coach Alun Vernals said he was really pleased with how his side fought out the game after going down one man. “I was really pleased how the lads stuck at it tonight, especially after going down to ten men in the first half,” he said. “The players work extremely hard with and without the ball to earn a point, which was pleasing, and it maintains our unbeaten start to the season. We now have two weeks to work on things before we host MUM FC.”

Floreat defender Callum Dodds echoed his coach’s words, and said they had chances, even though they were down to ten in the first half. “I thought it was a well-deserved draw. In fact, I thought we should have actually got more from the game even given the fact we had a player sent off early in the first half,” Dobbs said. “Inglewood played well, and were a tough, physical team and definitely challenged us - although I believe we out played them throughout the game and fought to the end.”

Gwelup Croatia has but a difficult week behind them, after coach Basil Lenzo left to join Balcatta, securing a 1-0 win against Curtin University at Green Promo Park, Edinburgh Oval. “Great reaction from the players after an unexpected coaching change,’ new Gwelup coach Toby Wright explained. “The whole squad responded really well, making for a smooth transition. Obviously pleased to get our first three points and first clean sheet of the season, after such a short turnaround. Really thankful for the club putting their faith in me and now we focus on making steady improvements as the season progresses.”

The only goal of the game came on five minutes, a corner was only cleared as far as Jacob Rossi, who laid it back to Baptiste Poullain, who fired home superbly from distance. The hosts had a chance to level on the half hour, when Gaspar Zuljevic was brought down by Shaun McDermott, and the referee pointed to the spot. Declan Tanna stepped up to take the resulting penalty, but Rocco Liberti guessed the right way to save.

“Really happy for the boys to get our first win of the season, especially considering the circumstances within the club this past week,” Liberti said. “We’ve been playing some good football these last few weeks and haven’t felt the results truly reflected our performances, so very happy to get the win and a clean sheet against Curtin, and I’m happy I was able to contribute to that with a penalty save as well.”

Meanwhile UWA Nedlands have won for the first time this season, after a 4-2 win against Cockburn City at Dalmatinac Park. “I thought the boys were class last night, we came to Cockburn to get three points and that’s exactly what we did,” UWA defender Jake Sardelic said. “We haven’t had the start we wanted this season but last night we showed our potential and quality.” It was a tight first half, with Joe McInnes giving the visitors the lead early, but Matthew Bowen levelled shortly after.

UWA regained the lead eight minutes into the second half Luke Salas sending McInnes in on goal, and he rounded the keeper to score. They added a third on 73 minutes, Mark Bauersachs’ cross was turned into own net by Nicolas Santalucia. Cockburn were back in the game six minutes later, Andrew Rankin’s cross on the run was turned into own net by Lewis Nohar. But Kris Donnell’s side sealed the points five minutes from time, Seb Hooshangian racing clear to score.

3.4.2026

SEASON SPOTLIGHT: AMATEUR LEAGUE PREDICTIONS

This week we take a look at what might lie ahead in the Amateur League Premier Division this season, while also casting an eye over what could unfold across the lower leagues.

Wanneroo City, relegated from the State League last season, along with newly merged Noranda Emerald and defending champions North Perth United, will be among the favourites for the title.

All eyes will also be on the other new sides in the competition, with relegated Swan United joined by promoted teams Kwinana United and Ballajura AFC as they look to make their mark in the top flight. footballwa.net predicts the 2026 competition, with “The Insider”, Murray Stevens from The World Football Programme radio show, footballwa.net founder Jacob Aufdemkampe, and for the first time, predictions from ChatGPT, offering their thoughts on how 2026 might unfold.

3.4.2026

BALCATTA ETNA WELCOME PERTH GLORY IN OUR ‘MATCH OF THE ROUND’

It’s not been the start to the New Balance NPLWA - Men’s season Balcatta Etna would have liked, and they are still searching for their first points, and on Tuesday they parted company with head coach Terry Nicolaou. It was a shock decision, but that’s football for you. They will be hoping new coach Basil Lenzo can lead them to their first win on Saturday when they welcome Perth Glory to the Home Group Stadium, Grindleford Reserve, in our week six ‘Match of the Round’. (All games kick off at 3:00pm unless stated) Glory are coming off back-to-back defeats at Stirling and RedStar, and they sit ninth on the table, five points ahead of the hosts. So, both sides need the win to kick start their season.

The last time the teams met at the venue was in week ten last season, when Glory secured a 3-1 win. Glory found the opener on 14 minutes, Adrian Pini finding Christian Pullella, who slipped in Max Naylor down the left channel, and the striker finished with aplomb past Stefan Sotirovski. Glory doubled their lead three minutes before the break, when Pullella’s corner was headed home by Daniel Jankuloski. They secured the points on 74 minutes, with a third, Pini curling a free kick past Sotirovski. It went from bad to worse for the hosts, with Declan Hargreaves picking up a second yellow card in the final minute and sent off. But they did find a late consolation goal, with Ben Hinshelwood scoring deep into stoppage time, but it was Glory taking home the points.

Glory coach Joe Heath said despite the back-to-back defeats, he has seen good signs from his young side. “Yes, not great results for us the last two weeks, but encouraging signs from two really good first half performances,” he explained. “We have struggled to maintain the performances across 90 minutes and need to rectify that quickly. I thought we controlled the game for 60 minutes against RedStar, then undid our good work with 12 minutes of madness conceding two. Then against Kingsway, who are a good team that know how to win games of football, again I thought we were the better team first half, but you don't get points for winning a first half.”

Teenage striker Louis Sollitt has led the line well for Glory this season, bagging four goals to sit joint top scorer in the league, and Heath said some of the other young players have stepped up in recent weeks. “Louis for me is a real talent. He is quick, strong and shows quality on the ball and in front of goal, I’ve worked with him for three seasons, and he is a great character,” he said. “Yes, it's encouraging to see young lads stepping into the NPL this year such as Jack Lenon, Lucas Mura, Christiano Farfan, Shaun Mutyavaviri and Oliver Evans, who all have a lot to learn, but are competing well at this level so far.”

It's never ideal to play a team after a coach is dismissed, but Heath said it’s business as usual, and they will be looking to bounce back from back-to-back defeats. “We will prepare as normal for our round six game at Balcatta, and this will be our sixth straight away game so far,” he said. “The boys always give 100% and I'm sure this weekend will be no different.”

Romanian-Born striker Darius Ghinea, who joined Balcatta from English club Witham Town, said it’s not been easy this season, but he had seen signs of improvement over the last three games, and to see the coach leave is sad, but they have to move on. “Yes, unfortunately the first game of the season didn’t go our way what so ever, the plan didn’t work out, but it’s football we all have bad days, but we’ve really improved recently, he said. “I have a lot of respect for Terry, we started preseason nice and early, got us fit, and was well organised.

“Unfortunately, the first games of the season were against tough opponents and things just didn’t seem to work out for us. But I believe we always gave it our all on match day, and I everyone, from players to all the staff members, and we will continue to do that. We are training hard for that game, with the new coach, and we have a very strong tactic going into Saturday and you can feel a good energy in and around the club, we are all very excited for Saturday as in this league anyone can beat anyone.”

The round kicks off tonight (Thursday) with three games. First up Bayswater City will be looking to bounce back after three games without a win, including last week’s loss at Dianella, when they host Matthew Sparrow’s former club Fremantle City at Frank Drago Reserve (7:00pm). The visitors will be buoyed after last week’s late win against Armadale, to stretch their unbeaten run to four games. Third placed Stirling Macedonia make the trip to the RedStar Arena to take on Perth RedStar (7:00pm), who lost for the first time last week at the Knights. Meanwhile, at Dorrien Gardens, it’s the battle of the former Perth Glory coaches, with Kenny Lowe’s Perth Azzurri welcoming Ian Ferguson’s Dianella White Eagles (7:15pm). In Saturday’s other games, league leaders Olympic Kingsway host Armadale, while second placed Western Knights head to Percy Doyle Reserve to take on Sorrento.

3.4.2026

MUMFC RETURN HOME TO TAKE ON QUINNS

It’s week three of the State League Division One over the Easter weekend, and our ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to Len Shearer Reserve, where Murdoch University Melville return to their home ground, and welcome Quinns. (All games kick off at 3:00pm, unless stated) The hosts are coming off a hard-earned draw at Inglewood, making it two draws to start the season, while Quinns game against Subiaco was called off, but the newly promoted side won their opener at Curtin, so both sides go into this one unbeaten and looking to maintain it on Saturday.

The last time MUMFC hosted Quinns, was in week nine in 2022, when they scored deep into stoppage time to draw 1-1. A tight game burst into life late, and it was Quinns who found the opener on 70 minutes. A long throw wasn’t dealt with a referee David Bruce spotted a foul in the box and pointed to the spot, and skipper Hayden Doyle stepped up and found the bottom corner.

Both sides were then reduced to ten men when MUM’s Tim Robertson and Quinns Joel Ledsham were both sent off. It looked like Quinns would leave with the points, but four minutes into stoppage time MUMFC found the equaliser. A long free kick from Tom Allan was punched clear under pressure from Patrick Stephenson, but it only went to Tom Pellizzari whose looping header found the net.

It was a hard-earned point at Inglewood last week for the hosts, but head coach Marc Anthony said they need to be better. “Yes, it was good point away from home, but we probably didn't do enough to win the game, so we need to improve moving forward,” he said. “We’ve started the season with two draws, which isn't too bad considering we were away from home.”

MUM FC have some experience in their side, the likes of Gustavo Giron-Marulanda, Alan Carroll, Harry Clisby and Matt Worton and Anthony said the squad is taking shape and he knows Saturday will be another stern test. “We have integrated a few young kids into the group which is great for the future of the club, but the older boys have been excellent helping with their development,” he explained. “We’re looking forward to our first home game of the season against Quinns, and as you know there are no easy games in this league this season, and they will be extremely tough, but being at home will hopefully be a big help for us.”

Quinns were winners in the opening game at Curtin, but their game at Subiaco was postponed last week, due to both grounds being unavailable, which was frustrating for coach Nick Jennings. “Naturally the playing group were disappointed with the postponement of our round two game,” he said. “I’m not sure how two sides who couldn’t host a game due to pitch unavailability can be scheduled to play each other, I’ll be polite and call it an admin error.”

Jennings has added some experienced to his side after winning Division Two title last year, with the likes of James Bosdet, Matt Henry and Chad Samuels to name a few, and he believes he has got a good mix. “Like all promoted sides you need to improve the depth and quality of your squad, and I feel we have done that,” he explained. “We’ve recruited not just good quality players but good people who are prepared to work hard and fight for their position in the starting side.”

They will return to their home ground Stylish Park in week four, but they are on the road again, and Jennings is expecting a tough encounter at MUMFC this week. “Yes, our ground is shared by Quinns with a tee ball club and we’ve only got the keys back on 1st April, and the council now have to get the facilities ready for our round four game at home against Joondalup City,’ he said.

“Murdoch are always a difficult team to play, and they are very well coached and play some great football. We won’t have to play on their plastic carpet which is a relief for a few players knees, but we know we will have to be at our very best to get a positive result on Saturday. Like always we’ll look to get on the front foot and be super positive in everything we do.”

The round starts tonight when joint leaders Floreat Athena entertains Inglewood United at E&D Litis Stadium. (7:30pm) Glenn Grostate’s side is still searching for a first win in his tenure, but on the other hand Alun Vernals’ side won both, and sit behind leaders Mandurah City on goal difference, this one should be a cracker. In other games on Thursday, Cockburn City meet UWA Nedlands at Dalmatinac Park (7:30pm), while Gwelup Croatia travel to Green Promo Park, Edinburgh Oval to meet Curtin University. (8:30pm) In the other Saturday games league leaders Mandurah City will look for a hat trick of wins to start the season, when they travel to Chichester Park to take on Kingsley Westside, while Joondalup City welcome Subiaco AFC to Iluka District Open Space.

3.4.2026

WEMBLEY AIMING FOR A HAT-TRICK AT FORRESTFIELD

Wembley Downs are the early leaders on the State League Division Two table after back-to-back wins, and they feature in our week three ‘Match of the Round’ when they travel to the Luxwin Stadium, Hartfield Park on Saturday afternoon. (All games kick off at 3:00pm) The hosts lost for the first time this season last week in the local derby against Kalamunda, and will be looking to bounce, while Wembley won comprehensively against North Beach to sit top, and will be looking to make it three from three on Saturday.

The last time Wembley headed to the venue was in week 11 last season, when they hosts prevailed 4-1. The hosts were ahead on the half hour, Austin Reynolds finding the top corner. They added a second just before half time, Sherwin Tucker finding Reynolds who finished clinically past Daniel MacQuillan. Reynold’s completed his hat-trick early in the second half redirecting Shaydon Passalacquas header into the top corner. It was 4-0 when Tucker headed home Matty Evans’ cross from the right. Wembley scored a consolation goal late, Tristan Sullivan pouncing on a defensive mix up, racing one-on-one with the keeper to score.

In only their second season in the State League, it’s been a positive start for Wembley, with wins against Balga and North Beach, but coach Luke Thompson said it’s still early days. “We’ve been very pleased with the start and the contribution from the whole squad,” said. “But no one wins the league after two rounds, so we are not getting carried away at all, just next game mentality.”

The coach said it was nice to score multiple goals last week, and good to see some of the younger players stepping up. “We have a very young squad across the board and its great seeing everyone step up and play their part,” Thompson explained. “Billy (Templeton-Knight) scored in the cup and Taye (Thistlethwaite) scored on the weekend and its great seeing them play with freedom and enjoying the moment. Our goal is to try and be consistent in our performances and hopefully the results will take care of themselves.”

They hit the road for the first time this season, and come up against Forrestfield, who beat them in the night series, and Thompson said it would be nice to get one over them. “To be fair, Forrestfield have been a bogey side for us, we haven't really laid a glove on them every time we've played them,’ he said. “Daryl has assembled a great squad and are definitely going to be there or there abouts come the end of the season, so we know we are going to have to try and maintain our standards to be able to walk away with a result.”

Forrestfield had a positive start to the new season, with a win against Gosnells, but coach Daryl Platten said they need to find consistency, after slipping up against Kalamunda last week. “It’s been an inconsistent start to the season a solid win against Gosnells was nice, but the loss loss to Kalamunda was very disappointing,” Platten said. “We just didn't show up on Saturday, and there were to many passengers, and if we want to have a successful season, we can't have too many more off days.”

Like Wembley, Forrestfield have a young squad, and the coach is pleased how some of them have performed so far. “The young lads have had a decent start both Anton (Guarino) and Josh (Bell) have settled nicely into the club, both good lads that work incredibly hard,” Platten explained. “Josh missed most of preseason due to a foot injury, and Anton had a great preseason, but went on holiday for three weeks just before the season so both a little under cooked at the moment, but I think we will see the best of them in the coming weeks.”

A 5-2 win in the night series against Wembley was encouraging, but Platten said Saturday will be a very different game. “This week will be a good test for the boys, and we’ll be looking for a response from last week's disappointing performance,” he said. “Wembley have started the season on fire and they always carry a threat going forward and the first two results of the season show that. I’m confident that if our boys stick to their task and don’t switch off we can get the three points.”

In other games on Saturday, the undefeated Ashfield travel to Grandis Park to meet Carramar Shamrock Rovers. Ashfield were involved in a week two catch up game on Tuesday evening, securing a 1-0 win against Balga at Princess Road Reserve. With the game heading for a draw, substitute Joe Aitken picked up a loose ball in midfield and found the run of debutant Jack Kiama, who took the ball in his stride before rocketing one into the top corner with the last kick of normal time.

“Delighted with the three points and another fantastic effort from my boys. We started the game the better side but Balga’s experience came into the fold and they caused us a few issues,’ Ashfield coach Malcom Tshuma explained. “We adjusted a few things at half time which allowed us to get back into the game. Balga are a top side and most people’s favourites to win the league. So, to come here and get three points is a very good feeling for the group. We are a work in progress and still have a lot of areas I want to improve so it’s back to training tomorrow and get ready for another tough away fixture at Carramar.”

The other unbeaten side is Rockingham City, and they welcome Kalamunda City to Endeavour Homes Stadium at the Larkhill Sportsplex, while Balga will look to bounce back from back-to-back defeats when they travel to Burrendah Park to meet Canning City. Morley Windmills entertain North Beach, while East Perth host Gosnells City at Hudson Park.

3.4.2026

BENNIE COURTED BY SCOTLAND

Former Perth Glory winger Daniel Bennie is being courted by Scotland, as the Australia U20’s player continues to impress in England with Championship club Queens Park Rangers. The 19-year-old, who was born in Hong Kong is proud of his dual heritage, and can play for his place of birth, Scotland and Australia, and it appears there is a tug of war between SFA and FFA for his services. Speaking to the West Australian, he was coy on where his allegiances lie. “I’m proud of both. I’ve grown up with Scottish family, but I’ve lived in Australia for a long time — both of them are home to me, and it means the world to me to be from both,” he said. “I’m just proud to be from both countries, and that’s a big thing, so we’ll see what happens in the future.”

The former Sorrento, ECU Joondalup and NTC player, has overcome injuries to fight his way back into QPR’s first-team and earned regular minutes since the start of the year, and his performances have been impressive, including a stunning strike against Hull in February, which helped the Hoops to a 3-1 win. They currently sit in 12th position in the Championship, and he has come in to good form recently, and after playing 207 minutes across 12 league games last season, he has notched 410 minutes in the same amount of Championship appearances this year and has featured in 13 of QPR’s last 14 games in all competitions.

Bennie, who helped the Young Socceroos to the AFC Asian U20’s Cup last year, has attracted the attention of World Cup-bound Scotland, who he is also eligible to represent internationally, and recently told The Times he would be open to playing for the Scottish. But the speedy winger was quick to acknowledge his strong ties to Australia as well, and his time at Glory in the final season under Alen Stajcic was very important in his player development.

“It probably turned me from a boy to a man in terms of professional football. Having that long season. I played almost every game at 17 was a big factor of to where I got to know,” Bennie said. “Learning off the likes of Tags (captain Adam Taggart) and with Staj trusting me as much as he did was a really big thing. I improved so much that season and it set me up really well to come over here and do the best I could.”

In his second full season in the English Championship, which is a tough competition, Bennie said he was settled in and, after being used as a jack-of-all-trades last season, was enjoying playing as a winger and striker in the current campaign, the same positions he played growing up. “It’s a big transition. The A-League is a lot less games, but it is in the heat and it is really tough. Moving here, it’s a lot quicker pace and every second day sometimes you get a game,” Bennie explained. “Last year was a bit tougher, playing out of position quite a lot. When I was coming off the bench, I was getting appearances wherever: left-back, right-back, whatever. “But this year it’s really helped that I’ve been in that front three, where I do my best work so I’ve got to show off what I can do.”

The speculation around Bennie’s international future comes hot on the heels of fellow rising Australian stars Adrian Segecic and Nectar Triantis changing their allegiances to Croatia and Greece, respectively, while winger Sydney-born Cristian Volpato recently reiterated his desire to represent Italy. But his situation is vastly different to those players, all of whom were born and raised in Australia, and the former two having impressed for Australian under-age teams.

Bennie was born in Hong Kong to Scottish parents, and it was not until he was 12 years-old he stepped foot in Australia. Not that Bennie is focusing too much on international honours right now; while he admitted the prospect of playing at this year’s World Cup would be amazing, he is more concerned with keeping his feet on the ground at QPR. “It’s in the back of my head, but I’m trying just to take each game as it comes and just worry about my football here,” he said. “And I’m sure that’ll steer me in the right direction for what comes.”

3.4.2026

GLORY’S SLIM FINALS HOPES GOES ON THE LINE AGAINST MARINERS

With four Isuzu Ute A-League games to go, Perth Glory needs to make every post a winner if they are to play final football, and first up they head east to take on Central Coast Mariners, in the week 23 clash at the polytec Stadium in Gosford on Saturday afternoon. (2;00pm WA Time) Adam Griffiths’ side kept their faint finals hopes alive with a stoppage time equaliser in the draw against Melbourne City last week, with Adam Taggart becoming their all-time top goalscorer, which leaves them five points outside the top six

Glory defender Brian Kaltak said the international break has come at a good time for them, and they have had a good couple of weeks on the track. “With no players on international duty, it was good to focus on our game and build up to this weekend’s game,” he said. “We have taken plenty of confidence from the second half performance against Melbourne, and everybody knows how important Saturday’s game is for us. We’ve been doing well and we’re looking for three points this weekend. There is still a belief in the squad, you can see how we are as a team collectively, but most important individually. The positive vibe we put in at training, this week especially, you can see we still feel positive we can reach the top six.”

It's a return to his former club for Kaltak, the Vanuatu defender played three seasons at the club between 2022 and 2025, before heading west, and he is looking forward to the game. “I have beautiful memories of my time at the Mariners, and I’m sure it will be strange for the supporters to see me there in different colours,” he said. “They are in a good place on the table, so it’s an important game, and we both need the points, so it’s massive for both teams. They have been playing well recently, and will have a powerful force up front, and for us it’s to stop them, and make use of the chances we have up front.”

Glory coach Adam Griffiths said his squad is refreshed and revitalised, and knows the importance of Saturday’s game as they push for a finals place. “The boys are very much up for this challenge that we have, and I feel that they are coming off the back of the Melbourne City game with some confidence,’ he explained. “I definitely believe that we are capable of being part of the Finals conversation. We just have to get the three points against Central Coast which will be a challenge, but something we’re going to address. We’ll approach it with the similar kind of energy that we finished the Melbourne game, and that’s high intensity and trying to get some more goalscoring creation moments.

“We’ve been really trying to focus upon the things that were positive in the Melbourne City game, of which they were a lot. We’re trying to make sure that boys want to attack in numbers and the last few training sessions have been really positive. We need consistency and to have players available on a consistent basis. We’re starting to get players playing more regularly and then it’s about trying to find the right balance with this group. With key players that have been out through injury or sold, it’s made it more difficult during a critical period of the season, but this group now, I think they have enough minutes under their belts and they’re fully focused.”

Last time Glory played the Mariners in Gosford was in week 24 last season, when they were beaten 3-1. The hosts opened the scoring on five minutes, with Alou Kuol on target, but Nicholas Pennington levelled for Glory five minutes later. Brazilian midfielder Mikael Doka gave the Mariners the lead at the break, and Christian Theoharous sealed the win on the hour. Griffiths is well aware the Mariners are in the finals mix as well, sitting seventh at present, and knows the threat Warren Moon’s side will pose. “Central Coast Mariners are a strong team, they’re doing well and they’re a difficult team to play against,” he said. “They’re a team that is difficult to break down and beat. Nearly every team that they’ve come up against has found that, so it’ll be tough, especially away from home, but we’re confident.”

Central Coast Mariners Squad: GK Andrew REDMAYNE, GK Dylan PERAIC-CULLEN, 2 James DONACHIE,5 Lucas MAURAGIS, 6 Haine EAMES, 11 Sabit NGOR, 15 Storm ROUX, 16 Harrison STEELE, 17 Kaito TANIGUCHI, 18 Nathanael BLAIR, 20 Will KENNEDY, 22 Arthur DE LIMA, 23 Oliver LAVALE, 24 Diesel HERRINGTON, 26 Bradley TAPP, 37 Bailey BRANDTMAN, 43 Jacob NASSO, 45 Jesse MANTELL, 48 Chris DONNELL, 72 Ali AUGLAH - *Two to be omitted* - IN: DE LIMA (promoted) KENNEDY (promoted), MANTELL (promoted) - UNAVAILABLE: 4 Trent SAINSBURY (not selected), 3 Nathan PAULL (injured), 8 Alfie McCALMONT (injured), 7 Christian THEOHAROUS (injured), 10 Miguel DI PIZIO (injured), 21 Seth CLARK (injured)

Perth Glory Squad: GK Matt SUTTON, GK Ryan WARNER, 2 Charbel SHAMOON, 3 Sam SUTTON, 4 Scott WOOTTON, 7 Nicholas PENNINGTON, 8 Callum TIMMINS, 9 Jaiden KUCHARSKI, 15 Zach LISOLAJSKI, 16 Gabriel POPOVIC, 18 Luca TEVERE, 19 Josh RISDON, 22 Adam TAGGART, 23 Anthony DIDULICA, 24 Andriano LEBIB, 25 Seb DESPOTOVSKI, 27 Will FRENEY, 39 Gio DE ABREU, 45 Brian KALTAK, 67 Stefan COLAKOVSKI - *Two to be omitted* - Ins: POPOVIC, RISDON - Unavailable: GK Cameron COOK, 6 Brandon O’NEILL, 11 Lachlan WALES, 20 Trent OSTLER, 31 Joel ANASMO, 34 Tom LAWRENCE (All Injured)

3.4.2026

GLORY HOPING TO END SEASON ON A HIGH

Perth Glory 5-2 defeat against Brisbane Roar all but ended their Ninja A-League finals hopes, sitting eighth on the table three points out the top six. Last week’s defeat also hurt their goal difference, and they have ten goals to pick up on the Mariners, who sit in the last finals spot, so it looks like the final two spots will be fought out by the Roar, Central Coast Mariners and Friday’s visitors to the Sam Kerr Football Centre, Melbourne Victory. (4:00pm)

It wasn’t the result Glory were chasing in Brisbane, and defender Onyinyechi Zogg said it was very sombre after the game, but they have to pick themselves up for the Victory game. “The mood wasn’t good after the game last week, but we’ve recovered and looking forward and focusing on Victory this week, it’s in the past and we can’t change it,” she explained. “We have to learn from it, and we’ve already watched the video of the game and analysed it and know what we did wrong. Nobody was happy after last week, but it’s a chance to make emends on Friday, but we need to do better.”

Glory’s chances have gone for the finals, although they can mathematically still qualify, but need to thrash Victory and hope the Mariners lose heavily to Sydney, but I won’t be holding my breath. Victory meanwhile also needs a win and hope that the Mariners lose, to take sixth spot, and Zogg said it sets up a great game. “We’re really happy to be at Sam Kerr, and playing in front of our fans, and it’s my favourite day of the week when I know we are playing there,” the defender said. “I’m expecting a tough game, obviously for Victory, it’s a do or die game, but we want to finish our home games with a win, and I’m positive we can do that.

Glory coach Stephen Peters said they handed the Roar opportunities, and on the night, they took them, which was disappointing “A lot of the downfalls in the game were self-inflicted which was fairly disappointing, and that’s an area we need to address moving forward,” he said. “I think there’s a mix of some people wanting answers as to why things have happened and how they’ve happened and then there’s another group of players that are opportunistic as well and can see an opportunity to play the last game of the season, so I think there’s a fairly healthy blend there.”

Peters said they have moved on from last week, and all their focus is on Friday’s clash, and finishing the season well in front of their supporters. “We haven’t beaten Melbourne Victory since I’ve been the coach, so it would be nice to do that and also we’re very aware that we’re playing on Good Friday and we don’t want to have people coming out to support us and not give them a performance,” he said. “So, I think that’s something we need to take very seriously, our supporters have been super. Sam Kerr is such a great venue for us and we’ve had great success there this season and last season, so we want to continue that and reward the people that come out and support us there, so if people are looking for something to do on Good Friday, they should come out and support us and we’ll try and give them some good entertainment.”

The last time Victory headed west, was in week five last season, when a stoppage time goal from Alana Murphy gave them a 1-0 win at Sam Kerr Football Centre. They will be looking for another win on Friday, and it's must win for Jeff Hopkins’ side, and Peters is expecting Victory to come out swinging. “They’re a very good team with lots of very experienced players,” he said. “It’s quite a shock they are where they are on the table and I think they’d be shocked more than anyone, so we’re expecting them to try and put that right and get themselves in the six. They’d obviously be well fired up, and I don’t think Jeff pulls any punches there and we’ve got to be ready. In my opinion, [Rhianna] Pollicina is the best midfielder in the comp… obviously they’ve got dead-ball threats as well and they’re very robust at the back with [Claudia] Bunge and Kayla [Morrison] who are very difficult to get past. We’ve just got to be on our guard.”

Glory’s keeper crisis hit a new low last week with Teresa Morrissey injuring herself in the warm up and with Jessica Skinner and Meg Phillips unavailable, Perth Azzurri custodian Dayle Schroeder made her A-League debut. Peters said Morrissey, who suffering a knee injury, could make a return on Friday. “Hopefully Teresa comes through ok this week,” he said. “She’s had scans and there is some indifferent news there, but nothing catastrophic. In terms of players coming back, we almost have a clean bill of health at the moment, so we’re in a pretty good space.”

Perth Glory Squad: GK Teresa MORRISSEY, GK Dayle SCHROEDER, 2 Mischa ANDERSON, 3 Emma TOVAR, 5 Grace JOHNSTON, 6 Tijan MCKENNA, 7 Megan WYNNE, 8 Georgia CASSIDY, 9 Gabby HOLLAR, 12 Bronte TREW, 17 Rola BADAWIYA, 19 Sarah O’DONOGHUE, 20 Ella ABDUL MASSIH, 23 Isobel DALTON, 24 Julia SARDO, 25 Ella LINCOLN, 27 Charli WAINWRIGHT, 28 Clancy WESTAWAY, 29 Onyinyechi ZOGG - * Two to be omitted* - Ins: MORRISSEY, TREW, WESTAWAY - Unavailable: 10 Susan PHONSONGKHAM (injured), 11 Natalie TATHEM (injured), 13 Naomi CHINNAMA (injured)

Melbourne Victory Squad: GK. Courtney NEWBON, GK Payton WOODWARD, 3 Claudia BUNGE, 4 Chelsea BLISSETT, 5 Sofia SAKALIS, 6 Taylor RAY, 7 Ella O’GRADY, 9 Holly FURPHY, 10 Rhianna POLLICINA, 11 Nicki FLANNERY, 16 Kennedy WHITE, 18 Kayla MORRISON, 23 Rachel LOWE, 24 Laura PICKETT, 27 Rosie CURTIS, 28 Sienna TECHERA, 41 Jessica YOUNG, 66 Alana JANCEVSKI, 81 Grace MAHER - *Two to be omitted* - Ins: FLANNERY (return from injury) - Outs: 14 Fiorina Iaria, 17 Poppy O’Keeffe (National team selection), 20 Leyla HUSSIEN - Unavailable: 8 Sienna SAVESKA (injured), 19 Zoe MCMEEKEN (injured)

2.4.2026

ALL CHANGE AT HOME GROUP STADIUM

The first coaching departure in the NPLWA Men’s competition has come early, with Balcatta Etna parting ways with Terry Nicolaou after they struggled in the opening four games and are still looking for their first points of the season. They started the campaign with a heavy defeat against Bayswater City, but were unlucky in the other matches, losing narrowly to Fremantle City, Olympic Kingsway, and Perth Azzurri. However, the club has moved early. Nicolaou was shocked by the decision, but he hopes Balcatta can turn their form around.

“First and foremost, I want to thank the players, staff, and supporters of Balcatta Etna. It has been a privilege to lead the club,” he said.

“Although I understand the coaching landscape in football can be very unstable, Balcatta Etna’s decision to relieve me of my duties after four matches under these circumstances does not reflect the reality of the hard work, the rebuild, or the direction the team was heading. I’m very disappointed with both the timing and the rationale. This season began with a completely rebuilt squad following the work done last year to keep the club in the NPL. We faced three of the league’s top sides in the opening rounds and, despite the challenges, the group showed clear progress, commitment, and a strong identity forming.

“Rebuilding takes time, and the players were fully invested in the direction we were heading. I stand firmly behind the work my staff and I have done, the culture we were establishing, the standards we were raising, and the long-term plan that was put in place. I am proud of the players and staff who bought into that vision and gave everything. While the club has chosen a different path, I leave knowing that I acted with integrity, professionalism, and total commitment to the badge. I wish the players success for the remainder of the season, and I remain confident in the foundations we built together.”

Balcatta have acted quickly to fill the void, with Gwelup Croatia coach Basil Lenzo taking over. He will be in charge for Saturday’s game against Perth Glory. Lenzo has a long connection with the Grindleford Reserve club and, after taking training this week, he can’t wait to get started. “I’m up for the challenge (again) and, given my history with Balcatta, I’m super keen and energetic to give the club everything I can to help change the situation,” Lenzo explained. “Our first session was very solid and energetic, and the players know that it’s now time to be brave. Coaching in the NPL has always been a goal of mine, so I’m very appreciative of the opportunity.”

Balcatta’s gain is Gwelup’s loss, and Lenzo said the club has been great to work for and wished them all the best for the rest of the season. “The Denona family have been very welcoming to me and my family, so this wasn’t an easy decision, but Jure knows what family means and my historical ties to Balcatta made it significant,” he said. “While he was disappointed, he was supportive. He also understood that, as coaches, we don’t get these types of chances often. I can’t thank him and Technical Director of Football Lucas Le Marchand enough for their support, and I will be supporting them from afar. I sincerely wish the club the very best.”

Toby Wright will take over at Gwelup, with Dom Ciullo as his assistant, and the pair will be in charge for their game at Curtin University on Thursday evening.

31.3.2026

SOCCEROOS PUT ON A FIVE-STAR SHOW

The Socceroos have played their final home game before the FIFA World Cup Finals later in the year, with a comprehensive 5-1 win against fellow qualifiers Curacao in the FIFA Series at AAMI Park in Melbourne, on Tuesday evening. Awer Mabil had given Australia the lead at the break, but the visitors were level five minutes into the second half with Ajany Martha on target. But the hosts took control with former Perth Azzurri defender Alessandro Circati grabbing a second, before substitutes Jordy Bos and a brace from Nestory Irankunda sealed the win.

Coach Tony Popovic was pleased with the performance. "Wonderful send off. We wanted to win this game and go off on a high note after this FIFA series and scoring 5 is a nice bonus," he said post-match. "We conceded a soft goal to go 1-1... but was a great reaction after that. Some boys today got an opportunity and I'm sure they enjoyed the camp... and hopefully we've added a few more players to the squad depth."

In front of another disappointing crowd, the visitors went close to the opener on 11 minutes, Circati pass was pounced on by Juninho Bacuna, and he found Tahith Chong, and the Sheffield United midfielder saw his deflected shot was well saved by Matt Ryan. They were in again four minutes later, another error at the back let them in, and Jeremy Antonisse raced into the box, but Circati got back with a timely tackle. But after a slow start, it was Australia who found the opener on 23 minutes.

A mis-placed pass from Leandro Bacuna was intercepted by Kai Trewin, and he played the ball into Deni Juric, whose neat flick sent the ball into the path of Mabil, who finished clinically. Curacao threatened again ten minutes later, some neat build up play ended with a superb through ball from Leandro Bacuna sent Antonisse in on goal, but his low shot was well saved by the alert Ryan. The Socceroos went close to a second just before the break, Ajdin Hrustic made space down the left, and his cross to the back post found Mabil, but his shot crashed off the post.

Curacao were back in the game five minutes into the second half, a long ball caught Australia napping and Martha raced clear down the right, and he finished through the legs of Ryan. Australia hit back and Aiden O’Neill fired just wide of the target, before Mabil blazed over the top after a great ball from Circati. Then on 67 minutes Australia regained the lead, Riley McGree’s cross, was met by Circati, and his diving header beating Eloy Room, for his first goal for his country.

They added a third, moments later, McGree was again involved, the Middlesbrough midfielder finding Bos, who finished with aplomb. Irankunda had been lively since coming off the bench, and it wasn’t a surprise when he added a fourth. Bos finding the Watford winger, and quick feet saw him race into the box, and his shot deflected off the keeper and just rolled over the line, and he celebrated with his back-flip and a Michael Jackson dance, included a silver glove. Irankunda was in again four minutes later, a well weighted pass by Nishan Velupillay sent him in on goal and he made no mistake, to seal the win.

Irankunda spoke post-match how much Tony Popovic has helped him, and he was also asked about his goal celebration. "I'm happy with the performance, just doing what the boss wants me to do. We've had conversations in the last few months and he's just trying to help me become a better player. As you can see tonight, he's helped me during the week to get in positions like that to score more goals" Irankunda said. "I am a huge MJ fan, obviously you always want to back yourself to score. Me and my boy did talk about it and he just threw it (Silver glove) and I had to catch it and put it on, and do the celebration."

Australia: GK Matthew Ryan, 4 Kye Rowles (21 Cameron Burgess 66’), 8 Connor Metcalfe (20 Paul Okon-Engstler 46’), 10 Ajdin Hrustic (9 46’), 11 Awer Mabil (14 Riley McGree 66’), 13 Aiden O’Neill (22 Alex Robertson 82’), 15 Kai Trewin, 16 Aziz Behich (5 Jordy Bos 66’), 23 Alessandro Circati (2 Milos Degenek 81’), 24 Deni Juric (7 Nestory Irankunda 66’), 26 Lucas Herrington (19 Jason Geria 46’) - Subs not used: RGK Patrick Beach, RGK Paul Izzo, 3 Jacob Italiano, 6 Martin Boyle, 17 Patrick Yazbek, 25 Ante Suto

Curacao: GK Eloy Room (RGK Trevor Doombusch 82’), 2 Shurandy Sambo (17 Tyrese Noslin 63’), 3 Juriën Gaari, 4 Roshon van Eijma, 5 Sherel Floranus (20 Joshua Brenet 64’), 7 Juninho Bacuna (21 Kevin Felida 73’), 8 Livano Comenencia (6 Godfried Roemeratoe 46’), 9 Brandley Kuwas (16 Jearl Margaritha 46’), 10 Leandro Bacuna (12 Sontje Hansen 82’), 11 Jeremy Antonisse (19 Gervane Kastaneer 46’), 13 Tahith Chong (15 Ajany Martha 46’) - Subs not used: RGK Tyrick Bodak, 24 Riechedly Bazoer, 14 Kenji Gorre

29.3.2026

NORTH PERTH TAKE OUT AMATEUR NIGHT SERIES

North Perth United have won the 2026 Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division Night Series, after a 2-0 win against Wanneroo City in Sunday evening’s Final at Players Parade, Madeley. The hosts had the better chances in the first half, but failed to take them. But second half goals from Marcus Seydel and Scott McArthur sealed the win for Chris Batten’s side. The coach was delighted with his side’s performance on the night. “We had a good week of training and very well prepared. I found it strange us going in as heavy underdogs when we won the double last year,” he explained.

“A lot of the outside noise made my team talk a lot easier, and the lads deserved it. Best team from start to finish, it’s been a pretty big rebuild from the club but we’ve replaced quality with quality. First half was a typical cup final a little scrappy but we made a couple adjustments at half time and when the first goal went in, there was only going to be one winner. I’m proud of every single one of the boys, and winning creates confidence and we are in a good position going into our first league game on Easter Sunday. Finally, it was great to see as many our fans at the game too, certainly a noisy bunch which helped push the lads on.”

It was Wanneroo City, who are coached by former North Perth coach Jason Winter, who started the brighter, and Jordan Cook’s corner wasn’t dealt with at the near post, but the alert keeper Ben Green claimed. Moments later Cook fired straight at Green from the edge of the box, before Loris Tommolini shot from the angle was saved by the North Perth custodian. The hosts best chance came on 20 minutes, Jack Wilson found space on the edge of the box, but his shot was pushed over the top by Green.

North Perth settled, and went close themselves six minutes later, Seydel’s snap shot from just outside the box was saved by Cian Flynn. But it was Wanneroo who finished the half the better, and Wilson saw his goalbound shot well blocked by John Harris, and they were in again in stoppage time. A great through ball from Wilson sent Charlie Reid racing clear, but a great last-ditch tackle from Tom Fowler denied him, but at the break it was all-square.

The second half started well for North Perth, and three minutes in they found the opener. Barry Boggan sent Jake Chamberlin down the left, and his low cross found it’s way through to Seydel who made no mistake, firing low past Flynn. Wanneroo looked for an immediate response, and they went close on the hour, Tommolini was given far too much room on the edge of the box, but his shot was saved low by Green. But the decisive second goal came for North Perth 18 minutes from time.

Wanneroo were caught in possession in the middle of the park and McArthur raced into the box and found the bottom corner of the net, much to the delight of the North Perth faithful. Wanneroo kept pressing, and Wilson’s long-range shot was wide, before Alex Wheelhouse’s free kick was saved by Green, but they couldn’t find a way through a tight defensive well lead by Fowler and John Harris, and it was the North Perth fans celebrating at the final whistle, and North Perth midfielder Marcus Seydel was voted ‘Player of the Match’.

North Perth skipper Niall Kennedy said it was a game of two halves. “I don’t think either time wanted to give much away in the first half, albeit Wanneroo probably shaded it on the chances,” he explained. “Second half we stepped up a gear, started to play more free flowing football and got a good grip on the game. Delighted for two of our new boys Marcus and Scotty who notched on the night. We’ve had a few tough games with Wanneroo this season, but we’re buzzing to leave with the silverware on this occasion. We’ll be looking to build on this momentum into the league campaign.”

Wanneroo coach Jason Winter said North Perth wanted it more on the night. “It was a tight game, and scoreless at half time, but they came out the stronger and scored two goals and deserved there win in the end I believe,” he explained. “I think it's a good learning curve for the squad, and the club, that Sunday Premier League isn't easy. In any league anywhere in the world you have to work hard and earn it. If we want to do well this season, we'll have to earn it. We’ve had a good preseason, now our focus turns to Hamersley away on Sunday.”

Wanneroo City: GK Cian Flynn, 2 Carl Ennis, 3 Zak Thomas, 4 Robbie Sallis, 5 Kane Fitch, 6 Aaron Louttit, 7 Alex Wheelhouse, 8 Jack Wilson, 9 Loris Tommolini, 10 Ben Gammack, 11 Alan Reidy, 12 Michele Berlingeri, 13 Jordan Cook, 16 Frankie Stammers, 19 Sam Gammack, 20 Asa Sippits, 21 Charlie Read, 28 Lukas Schuller

North Perth United: GK Ben Green, 2 John Harris, 4 Eoin Haverty, 5 Tom Fowler, 6 Barry Boggan, 7 Marcus Seydel, 8 Niall Kennedy, 9 Yanich Jordan, 10 Conor Hartley, 11 Raido Reinsalu, 12 Tomas Carroll, 14 Scott McArthur, 15 Conor Quinn, 16 Jake Chamberlin, 17 Ronan Dunphy, 30 Mark Shaughnessy – Referee: Joe Willis

29.3.2026

EAST PERTH TOO STRONG FOR SORRENTO

East Perth have won the Construction Training Fund Women’s League Night Series, with a convincing 7-1 win against Division Two side Sorrento in the Final at Players Parade, Madeley on Sunday evening. It was second time lucky for Luke Green’s side, who were beaten on penalties in last season’s final, and he was delighted with the performance. “I’m extremely proud of the group. It was a big rebuild to the squad and it takes a lot of character to gel the way they have,” he said. “Sorrento had an amazing tournament and should be proud of what they achieved, despite the scoreline they posed real tactical questions so we had to adjust a few plans. We are hopeful that this is the foundation to a solid season and I can’t wait to see what this group can achieve.’

East Perth hit the front on 20 minutes Rachel Hein’s corner was turned home by Shauna Fox. They doubled their lead four minutes later, Fox was the provider this time, a great through ball to Christiane Astorp, and the striker made no mistake past Monique Todd. But the Gulls were back in the game on the half hour, Alexis Townsend’s corner was headed home by Jodie Brough. But East Perth regained their two-goal advantage six minutes later, Astorp turning her marker in the box and finishing well, then in the shadows of half time it was 4-1, with Kate Hurley’s lob going in.

It was 5-1 on 72 minutes, Astorp completing her hat-trick from the penalty spot, after a handball. It was six shortly after, Hein’s free kick fell to Kellie Kinahan, whose shot crashed off the post, but Fox was on hand to fire home the rebound. The icing was added to the cake in stoppage time, with Kinahan’s corner headed home by Astorp, her fourth of the night to seal a comprehensive which saw the striker win the Player of the Match Medal.

Sorrento coach Jake Stewart said it had been a good competition for them, but they came up against a good East Perth side on the night. “Unfortunately, it wasn’t to be for us. We came up against a very strong East Perth side who were a class above as we had expected,” he explained. “All the girls worked really hard and unfortunately, we just couldn’t get a foothold in the game. We can take heart in the fact that we made it to the final against all expectations and have shown throughout that we have a team capable of mixing it at state level. I am extremely proud of all my players for getting us here and our focus now turns to an exciting and promising season ahead.”

East Perth: GK Maria Flandes-Iparraguirre, 2 Chantelle Colalillo, 3 Lauren Nicholson, 4 Lydia Ward, 5 Christiane Astorp, 6 Shauna Fox, 7 Kate Hurley, 8 Rachel Hein, 9 Laura Regan, 10 Brianna Patrick, 11 Charlotte Lynch, 12 Dyon Keane, 14 Kellie Kinahan, 15 Demi Bounds, 16 Nadia Harvey, 17 Lucy Nassau, 18 Aoife McCann

Sorrento: GK Monique Todd, 35 Brittany Allen, 36 Carla Biegun, 37 Gabrielle Denman, 38 Holly Cannon 39 Ava Broderick, 40 Shelby Cochran, 41 Madilyne Beeken, 42 Ella Kamarudin, 43 Caoimhe Mahon, 44 Kaley Cornell, 46 Royan Norman, 47 Kaylee Sprainaitis, 49 Jodie Brough, 50 Alexis Townsend, 51 Isabel Judd – Referee: Emily Bunston

29.3.2026

FW ACADEMY WIN FOR THE FIRST TIME THIS SEASON

It was a shortened New Balance NPLWA – Women’s week three, with the game between Balcatta Etna and Perth RedStar postponed, but the Hyundai FW Academy were the big winners of the weekend, sealing their first win of the season beating newly promoted Sorrento 7-2 at Sam Kerr Football Centre on Sunday afternoon. After two draws to start the season coach Stephen Warmsley was pleased with his young squad.

“It was nice to get the first win of the season and score a high number of goals. The mentality was great from the start and early goals always help,” Walmsley explained. “With ten U16 players and two U15 players, to perform at this level with a young group like this is a testament to the players and the program. The challenge for these girls is to do this consistently in training and in matches on a regular basis.”

The hosts took control in the first half, with three quick goals in the first ten minutes. First, Theodora Mouithys finished clinically from just outside the box on three minutes, before Cate McAuliffe headed in Zoe Dumont’s corner to double their lead two minutes later. It was 3-0 moments later, with Piper Dowe racing clear to finish past Amalia Caceres. It was four on the half hour, Dowe adding her second with a neat finish.

They added a fifth just before the hour mark, McAuliffe pounced on a pass out of the Sorrento defence and she released Mouithys, who run into the box to score. It’s been a tough start for the Gulls, but they showed a lot of character and reduced the margin eight minutes from time. A long free-kick ran all the way through to Tamzyn Aisbett, who scored to become the Gulls' first scorer in NPL WA. They added a second moments later, the Academy failed to clear another ball into the box and substitute Hanna Marchlewicz scored. But the Academy hit back, and Mouithys unselfishly finding McAuliffe after a quick breakaway which made it 6-2, before a late own goal completed the scoring.

In other games Tom Glavovic’s Perth Azzurri made it back-to-back wins to open their title defence to continue their lead at the top of the table, after a 2-0 win against Subiaco AFC on Sunday. The hosts were ahead on the half hour, when Maja Archibald’s defence splitting pass sent Epril Nossent in on goals, and she finished well past Briana O’Dell. They sealed the points with a second before the break, Matilda Bohm’s clearance sent Jessica Flannery, and she made no mistake.

In the final game Fremantle City remain undefeated this season and stay in third place after a 5-0 win against UWA Nedlands at Hilton Park. Leyna Woods gave the host the lead on the half hour, and skipper Annebelle Leek added a second from the spot just before the break. Abbey Green made it 3-0, before late goals from Lacey Heys, and a long-range lob from substitute Georgie Ireland sealed the win for Samantha Geddes’ side.

28.3.2026

OLYMPIC TAKE THE GLORY

Olympic Kingsway have maintained their place at the top of the New Balance NPLWA – Men’s table, after a hard fought 4-2 win against Perth Glory in their first home game of the season at the Madman Arena, Kingsway Reserve on Saturday afternoon. Glory led at the break with Louis Sollitt on target, but a second half hat-trick from Liam Boland, and another from Robert Hawker gave them a 4-2 win. “I thought Glory were the better team in the first 20 minutes, so it was great response from the team in the second half after a lacklustre first half trailing 1-0,” Boland said. “Rob Harker scored a classy goal which got us back in the game right after the break and we kicked on from there with a great second half. It was a great start to a run of home games that we have now.”

The visitors started brightly and were rewarded with the lead just after the half hour. Glory won possession in the middle of the park and Oliver Evans sent Louis Sollitt away, he held off challengers from Aryn Williams and Harley Orr, before finishing well past Adrian Sinagra. They held the lead at the break, but whatever Olympic coach David Tough said at half time worked, as the Green Machine were on the front foot after half time, and they were level seven minutes in. Former Glory midfielder Noah Ieraci found Robert Harker in a pocket of space on the edge of the box, and the English striker finished with aplomb past Ryan Warner.

The hosts went close again moment later, but Joe Hobson’s shot crashed off the post, but they did hit the front on 55 minutes. Mitch Oxborrow’s free kick deflected off a Glory defender and Boland was on hand to score from close-range. But his celebrations were cut short with the flag up for offside, but after consulting with his assistant the referee awarded the goal. The hosts were now in control and they added a third on 69 minutes. Tyler Garner was impeded on the edge of the box by Santiago Flores, and Boland smacked the resulting free kick around the wall and into the corner of the net.

Joe Heath’s team weren’t finished and eight minutes later they pulled one back. Substitute Tyler Fitch cross from the left found Sollitt, who got in front of his marker to head home, and it was game on. Glory pressed for the equaliser, and Sollitt went close to his hat-trick, but his shot on the run was saved by Sinagra, but it was Olympic who sealed the game in the final minute. Harker won possession on the left of the penalty area, before finding Boland, who’s neat first touch took him clear of his marker, and his second was to finish low past Warner to seal the three points.

Dianella White Eagles have moved up to fourth, after a 2-0 win against Bayswater City at Dianella Reserve on Saturday evening. A goal in each half from Cory McNelis and Albert Luwi, secured the clubs first win on home soil this season. “It was a big win for the club, I think after last week we knew we had to increase on our performance especially in front of goal, which we did creating a lot of good chances in both halves and gladly capitalising on some,’ Luwi explained. “This was also a great opportunity to show what quality we have in this squad and where we want to be in this league and Bayswater is always a great test for that and I’m glad we rose to the occasion and can hopefully carry on this momentum in the coming games.’

A tight first half came to life midway through. Bayswater unfortunately lost defender Jackson Stephens to injury on 22 minutes, he was replaced by Coby Sutton, and it seemed to affect them, and five minutes later Dianella hit the front. Miguel Restrepo picked the ball up in the middle of the park and sent a lovely weighted ball into the path of McNelis, who held off Sam Mitchinson, before finishing low past Jason Saladris. Sean McManus went close to an equaliser eight minutes later, his deflected shot drifting just past the post.

Luwi was then denied down the other end, Jason Saladris getting down to make a smart save, after the big striker’s shot from the angle, before Restrepo fired over the top. Down the other end Sutton header was straight at Joel Driscoll, and in the final minute Luke Palmateer headed over the top, but at the break the hosts held a narrow lead. But eleven minutes into the second half Dianella added a second. Asher Nelson sent George Ballah down the left, and his low cross was turned home by Luwi.

Bayswater looked for a response, and McManus’ looping header landed on top of the net. But Dianella also had their chances, with Ballah’s free kick whistling over the top, before Luwi’s goalbound shot was well block by Mitchinson. Oliver La Galia was then denied by a last-ditch tackle from Franc Quer, as Bayswater lifted the tempo, before McManus’ shot was cleared off the line by Lachlan Collins. Then a clash off the ball between Restrepo and Brent Quick caused a melee, with all the players involved. After it all calmed down and the referee booked Quick and his former teammate Asher Nelson. Bayswater couldn’t find a way back into the game, and it was Dianella taking the points, the loss leaving last season’s champions in seventh place.

“We went into the game knowing that it was going to be a hard-fought battle from the very first whistle given the quality Bayswater have and have shown over the last year or so,’ Dianella skipper Sasa Njegic said. “However, we knew that if we stuck to our game plan and played like we did in periods against Fremantle, for the whole game against Bayswater we could get a result. I think the boys were up for the challenge and played hard for every ball - especially focusing on defending as a unit and keeping our first clean sheet of the season. It also always helps when you have a big turnout of fans and the atmosphere is electric, so to win against last year’s premiers at home in front of them was special.”

Stirling Macedonia are up to third, after their first home win of the season, and secured the ‘Dylan Tombidis Trophy’ with 3-1 win against Perth Azzurri at Macedonia Park. First half goals from Callum McKenzie and Calvin Whitney saw the hosts ahead at the break, and although Julian Kelly pulled one back for Kenny Lowe’s side early in the second half, substitute Jamie Bilaloski won it for Ao Mujic’s side. “I thought the boys were brilliant today, we knew it was going to be a tough battle but everyone worked extremely hard,” Stirling striker Callum McKenzie said post-match. “We pressed really well, and we kept it simple and played to the conditions perfectly I thought, and I definitely feel like the better team came out on top.”

Stirling were ahead on 16 minutes, Euan Cameron’s free kick was turned home at the back post by McKenzie, for the Scottish strikers fourth goal of the season. They doubled their advantage seven minutes later, Perth keeper Liam Driscoll had a poor touch, and it was pounced on by McKenzie, the rebound falling to Whitney, who fired into an empty net. The Azzurri were back in the game ten minutes into the second half. David Ninkovich’s cross was played back to the edge of the box by Gordon Perkins, and Kelly found the bottom corner. It was game on, but it was the hosts who won it on 65 minutes. McKenzie was sent down the left channel, and he squared the ball to Jamie Bilaloski who poked the ball home.

In the final game Fremantle City have scored deep into stoppage time to beat a ten-man Armadale 2-1 at Hilton Park. Scotlan Morrison had given John Baird’s side the lead at the break, but they were reduced to ten men late, with Cherno Bah sent off. Charlie Chechlacz levelled early in the second half, and former Armadale winger Chad Nielson won for Scott Miller’s side in the 94th minute. “It was a really important win for us today. We were disappointing in the first half and started too slowly, which allowed Armadale to get on top early,” Nilson said post-match. “The red card before halftime probably sparked a response within our group, and I thought we showed a lot more patience and control in the second half.

“We dominated the game after the break, waited for our moments, and thankfully were able to take them. It was nice to score the last-minute winner, but most importantly it was a big three points for the team.” Armadale hit the front on 33 minutes, a long clearance from keeper David Keenan found Corey Sutherland on the left. He outmuscled his marker, before finding Morrison on the edge of the box, and his low shot beat Luke Radonich. But all their hard work was undone just before the break, when Bah was shown a second yellow card for simulation, it looked very harsh, but it left Armadale down to ten.

The hosts were level five minutes into the second half, Nick Ambrogio sent Nilson down the left, his cross was deflected to Chechlacz, who made mistake, firing low past Kennan. It looked like Armadale would hang on for a well-earned point, but deep into stoppage time, and the last action of the game, Fremantle won it. Riley Woodcock’s corner from the right picked out an unmarked Nilson at the back post, who headed home, much to the delight of the home faithful and his fellow teammates.

28.3.2026

KNIGHTS CONTINUE UNBEATEN START TO THE SEASON AFTER BEAT REDSTAR

Western Knights have remained unbeaten in the New Balance NPLWA – Men’s competition after a thrilling 4-2 win against Perth RedStar, in our week five ‘Match of the Round’ at Nash Field on Saturday afternoon. The hosts raced to a three-goal lead, with goals from Regan Hutchison and a brace from Kristian Santich. Matthew George reduced the margin before the break, but Jesse Lazzaro sealed the points from the spot in the second half, before substitute Jacob Evans pulled one back late, but it was too little too late for the visitors. “A brilliant win for us, we were relentless and resilient off the ball with our pressure and our shape and in transition we broke with pace and a purpose and was ruthless in the final third,” Knights defender Regan Hutchinson said post-match. “I thought we did the basics well and showed why we are one to watch this season. We Keep grinding these results out and make it difficult for teams that play us.”

It was the visitors who started the brighter and a long clearance from Sonny O’Shea caused confusion between keeper and defender, and Noah Lummert was quick to clear the danger. Moments later Redstar had a penalty shout turned down after Daniel Walsh looked to go through Gordon Smith, but the referee was well placed to wave away their protests. The Knights settled and Luke Hewings’ teasing cross landed on top of the net, and on 12 minutes they found the opener. Hewings crossfield pass found Hutchinson, and the English defender strode forward and fired home from distance.

RedStar looked for an immediate response, and from Aaron Black’s corner Blair Govan header was pushed around the post by Sam Reilly. Moments later Benson Nsegetse raced down the right, and cross was turned inches over his own goal by Walsh. But on 18 minutes it was 2-0, a quick break by Justin Tang found Konstantinos Sparta on the right, and his low cross was fired home by Santich. The visitors were shell-shocked, but they conceded a third ten minutes later. Hewings ball into the box was only cleared as far as Santich, and the midfielder fired home superbly from the edge of the box.

It was a dream start for the Knights, but RedStar were back in the game seven minutes later. Matthew Goerge found Black on the left, and he slipped a ball back to George, who had continued his run, and he fired low past Reilly. The visitors ended the half the better, George’s curling effort flashed wide of the post before Riley Warland saw his effort cleared off the line by Noah Lummert, but the Knights held firm, and RedStar had it all to do after the break.

The Knights went close to a fourth straight from the kick off in the second half, Woonsub Sim’s audacious lob had Luca Iovene back-peddling to tip the ball over the top. They were in again on 53 minutes, Sparta’s shot from the edge of the box took a slight deflection, and whistled just wide of the post. They went even closer moments later and attempted clearance from Govan ricocheted off Hutchison, the ball cannoning back off the post, before Jesse Lazzaro’s curling effort was pushed wide by the alert Iovene.

Just before the hour, RedStar thought they had a second, after Smith headed home Black’s cross, but the Scottish striker had strayed inches offside. But two minutes later it was the Knights that added a fourth, referee David Bruce pointing to the spot after Hewings’ shot hit the arm of Tom Hough, and Lazzaro sent Iovene the wrong way from the resulting penalty. It was nearly five moments later, when Ryan Finnie’s poor pass was intercepted and Santich was denied a hat-trick by a smart save for the busy Iovene.

With RedStar pushing men forward the Knights had chances to put the game to bed, Hewings firing into the side netting, before Santich’s snap shot was saved by Iovene. But the visitors did find a lifeline ten minutes from time, with substitute Jacob Evans curling home superbly from distance. Both sides cleared the benches with time running out, the best chance for RedStar to cut the deficit came from Black’s whose teasing cross was punched clear by Reilly, with players waiting to pounce on a mistake. The win keeps the Knights in second place, and still unbeaten, while the first loss of the season sees Redstar drop to fifth.

Western Knights: GK Sam Reilly, 2 Regan Hutchinson, 4 Daniel Walsh, 6 Noah Lummert, 8 Woonsub Sim (5 Max Blackshaw 81’), 15 Konstantinos Sparta, 16 Justin Tang (9 Manase Abandelwa 81’), 18 Sammy Barry (10 Jack Sprigg 65’), 20 Luke Hewings, 21 jesse Lazzaro, 22 Kristian Santich (17 Asher Hwight 88’) - Subs not used: RGK Anthony Lance, 3 Luke Sprigg, 7 Dylan White

Perth RedStar: GK Luca Iovene, 2 Nick Walsh, 3 Riley Warland, 4 Blair Govan, 9 Aaron Black. 10 Matthew George (23 Jacob Evans 67’), 14 Gordon Smith (5 Oskar Patterson 87’), 17 Sonny O’Shea, 18 Tom Hough (24 Teddie Curran 84’), 19 Ryan Finnie, 21 Benson Nsegetse – Subs not used: RGK Jayden Ispiroglu, 6 Matthew Ntoumenopoulos, 11 Dennis Galan, 37 Taj Filipe – Referee: David Bruce

28.3.2026

MANDURAH MOVE TOP AFTER WIN AT COCKBURN

Mandurah City have continued their winning start to their State League Division One season, after a hard fought 3-2 win against Cockburn City in our ‘Match of the Round’ clash at Dalmatinac Park on Saturday afternoon. “Today was our best result to date, a dominant performance from start to finish and on another day, we win that game by more,” Mandurah coach Zach Headington said. “Cockburn were clinical in their goals but great character from the group to react and come back from behind twice and then to win speaks volumes.”

It was the hosts who opened the scoring on the quarter hour, Luka Caceres made space down the left, his cross was blocked, but he pounced on the rebound and crossed to Isaac Mcvittie at the back post, who made no mistake. But the Dolphins were level on 38 minutes, Kris Zaluzinskis sent Charlie Breen racing down the right, and he cut the ball back to Jordan Callaghan, whose first shot was saved by Ben Radonich, but he fired home the rebound. Cockburn regained the lead again early in the second half, Matthew Bowen crossing from the left and Mcvittie was on hand to fire home his second. But Mandurah restored parity on 64 minutes, Harry Collins’ ball into the box was played into the path of Joey O’Brien by Sam Lovall, and the former Sorrento striker finished clinically.

The visitors won it five minutes later, a quickly taken free kick from Collins found Lovell in space on the left, his cross found Callaghan, whose flick was saved by Radonich, but the striker was quickest to the rebound to score from a tight angle. The only downside of the game was the sending off of Max Worswick, who picked up a second yellow for a challenge on Bowen three minutes from time. Then from the resulting free kick, Josiah Godfrey saved well low to his left to deny Andrew Rankin, Mandurah held firm to take home all three points. ‘A hard-fought win till the end, to come back from being behind twice shows a lot of character,” O’Brien said. “I’m very proud of the overall work rate and our reaction when things went wrong.”

UWA Nedlands have scored deep into stoppage time to salvage a 1-1 draw against Gwelup Croatia at the Croatian Sporting Complex, Wishart Street. “We were far too passive and took too long to find our rhythm in the first half,” UWA Coach Kris Donnell said. “To the players credit, the second half was a big improvement, we showed more intensity, moved the ball quicker and looked more like ourselves, but we have to be more clinical in front of goal. We created enough chances to get something from the game, but at this level you have to take those moments.’

The home side made the perfect start, and were ahead on seven minutes, UWA were caught in possession out on the left, and Jeremie Mba raced away, and fired low past keeper Jim Collins at his near post, and Basil Lenzo’s side led at the break. It looked they would hold on for their first win of the season, but that all changed in the third minute of stoppage time. A ball into the box by Jake Sardelic struck the arm of Jack Overy and the referee pointed to the spot. It did look harsh, but after consulting with his assistant, he confirmed the penalty, and Lewis Nohar kept his nerve and sent Rocco Liberti the wrong way, to give both sides a share of the spoils. “The lads showed great intent and spirit today and that is what we were after,” Gwelup coach Basil Lenzo said. “I think it was a fair result and we are really super proud of the young squad.”

In the final game Inglewood United have come from behind to earn their first point of the season, after a 1-1 draw with Murdoch University Melville at the Proto DPS Inglewood Stadium. “I thought we were unfortunate not to get the three points today, we had a lot of the ball and dictated a lot of the play,” Inglewood defender Ciaran Salinger explained. “Credit to MUMFC who hung in and defended well, sadly we couldn’t convert the chances we had. Disappointing to not get three points, but we need to go again for Thursday against Floreat.” Both sides went into this one looking for their first wins of the season, and it was the visitors who found the opener on 19 minutes. Gustavo Giron-Marulanda was picked out in space in the middle of the park, and the former Bayswater City striker moved forward and his shot from the edge of the box found the bottom corner of the net past Jordan Barbas.

But Inglewood levelled six minutes before the break. Salinger won possession in his own half and he played a diagonal pass to Declan Hudson, and his cross found Martin Coughlan at the back post, who calmly took a touch and slotted the ball home. Both sides had chances to win it after the break, but had to settle for a point each. “The conditions were a lot better than expected, pitch was great but game was scrappy,’ MUMFC assistant coach Gsvin Brown said. “A draw was probably a fair result. Lots of effort, but not a lot of control from either side.” The games between Subiaco AFC and Quinns at Rosalie Park, and Kingsley Westside and Curtin University at Chichester Park were both postponed.

28.3.2026

ROCKINGHAM WIN IT LATE AT MORLEY

Our week two State League Division Two ‘Match of the Round’ didn’t disappoint, with Rockingham City scoring two late goals to beat Morley Windmills 2-1 at Wotton Reserve on Saturday afternoon. Rockingham coach Matthew Brook said it was good to continue their winning start to the season, but they were made to work hard for it. “We struggled to find our rhythm in the first half, credit to Morley they were hard to break down and they controlled a lot of the game,” Brook explained. “In the second half we were much better and controlled the game and began to create chances and on the balance of play deserved something out of the game. Credit to the lads the character was great, Morley are well drilled and hard to break down, they will be very competitive this year.”

The hosts, who opened their season with a win against East Perth last week, were ahead early, with Brennan Borzecki on target. It looked like that would be the winner, but three minutes from time Rockingham levelled. Ryan Kennedy whipped a free kick into a dangerous area and it ended up in the back of the net off a Morley player. That set up a frantic finish, with both sides chasing the winner, and it went to the visitors in the third minute of stoppage time. Another set piece from deep wasn’t dealt with and Shaun Mukwevho reacted well to the second phase to fire home to seal the win.

“It was a really hard-fought game. Morley were very organised with plenty of quality and very good on the attack,” Rockingham midfielder Chris Thackray said. “Going down one-nil early on away from home is always hard, but the lads never gave up, and we always knew that we would get the chances to win, and I thought it was the depth of quality in our squad that shone through in the later stages to win the game. Great to get another win on the road early in the season.”

Kalamunda City have bounced back from their first-round defeat at Carramar Shamrock Rovers, beating Forrestfield United 2-0 in the local derby at the Luxwin Stadium, Hartfield Park. “Really pleased with the performance today. I thought the group showed a strong response after last week, particularly in terms of discipline, work rate, and concentration across the full 90 minutes,” Kalamunda coach Kyle Robertson said. “A special mention to our goalkeeper Jake, who completely dominated his box and made some important interventions at key moments. That said, performances like this aren’t built on one or two players.

“What we saw today was a complete team performance. We were back to our best and controlled the game from start to finish. A lot of people wrote us off after last week, but Kris and I had full belief in this group. We’ve added quality to what we built last year, and now the players are really starting to buy into what we’re building. It’s also important to recognise that everyone played their part today, from the players to our strength and conditioning staff, our team manager, and the wider committee who support us behind the scenes.

“In a way, last week was needed. The response from the players this week was exactly what we were looking for, and full credit to them for how they approached it. Now the focus shifts to next week at Rockingham. They’re a strong side, full of confidence, and it should be a great contest. It’s one we’re really looking forward to. We’re expecting great support from the Kalamunda fans, and hopefully we can deliver another strong performance for them over the Easter weekend. Today was a big result, and it was important for us to show the city that Kalamunda City is the real deal.”

The visitors were ahead on 23 minutes, a corner from the left by Agustin Ventre was only cleared to the edge of the box to Isaac Spencer, and the former Armadale youngster drilled a low shot past James Wratten. They sealed the points with a second in the shadows of half time, Lorran De Almeida made space down the left and cut the ball back to Thang Sangpichung, and the former Gosnells midfielder made no mistake. “Kyle and Kristian gave us the tools we needed to get the results, but we knew ourselves after last week we needed to be better,” Kalamunda keeper Jake Maley-Orr explained. “Some quality defensive work, lead to fantastic transition allowing out forwards to really be dangerous. We will have be celebrating tonight but back to work come Tuesday for another "shock result" I have full trust in our team and background staff to get the job done.”

Wembley Downs have made to two from two, and moved to the top of the table on goal difference, after a 5-1 win against North Beach at Butlers Reserve. “Very happy with a good performance from the whole squad,” Wembley coach Luke Thompson said. “We were made to work really hard in the first half, but we made some small adjustments at half time and executed really well. All the substitutes made an impact today too showing great depth across the group.” The hosts were a head when Luke Coltman’s corner was headed home at the back post by Tristan Sullivan

But North Beach levelled before the break, with last season’s top goalscorer Alex Kretowicz on target. But Wembley took control after half time, and they regained the lead when Callum McLeod’s free kick from the right found substitute Toby Robertson, who beat the onrushing keeper to the ball to score. It was 3-1 when Rory Hannon beat his marker down the right and crossed to Josh Chalmers, and the skipper made no mistake. Robertson bagged his second to make it 4-1, getting on the end of a cutback from the byline from McLeod, before Taye Thistlethwaite added the fifth, heading home to complete the scoring.

In the final game Canning City and Gosnells City have played out a scoreless draw at Burrendah Park. “We created a few good openings but failed to convert our chances, that’s been a bit of a repetitive theme over the last few weeks and something we need to get right moving forward,’ Canning City coach Lee Hayward explained. “I thought we defended reasonably well but struggled to put through the lines. It's still a pretty new squad with almost an 80% turnover from last season, but I’m confident we can get it right over the coming weeks.” Former Gosnells striker Moses Macauley was a handful, first denied by Gosnells keeper Andrew Craggs early, before he got on the end of a Kevin Beattie cross, but his header crashed off the post.

Gosnells’ best chance fell Abdul Dofash, but he was denied by a great save from Paul Leask. Canning could have won it late, but Craggs stood tall to deny Freeman Nyatsambo, but it ended 0-0. “I thought it was a fair result, both teams had their chances in a hard-fought battle,” Gosnells coach Peter Allan said. “We are still a work in progress, but Alan and I were really pleased how the young players fought the game out to earn our first point of the season.” The other two games of the round, Ashfield against Balga at the Ashfield Arena, and Carramar Shamrock Rovers against East Perth at Grandis Park, were postponed.

27.3.2026

FLOREAT EDGE OUT JOONDALUP IN WEEK TWO OPENER

Floreat Athena have begun week two of the State League Division One, with a come from behind 2-1 win against Joondalup City at a wet E&D Litis Stadium on Friday evening. Harry Edwards had given Joondalup the lead just before the break, but second half goals from Joshua Willis and a Jordan Langley penalty sealed the win, and kept Alun Vernals’ side unbeaten start to the season.

“Difficult conditions tonight, and we couldn’t get going in the first half, but really happy to come away with the win,” Vernals said post-match. “Joondalup were one game away from the NPL last season, and will be there or thereabout this season, so a good win for us, but we need to improve moving forward.”

Guy McDonald’s side hit the front in the shadows of the break, a ball into the box by Cameron Stratton was played down neatly by Luke Steer and Edwards’ first touch took him clear of his marker and he finished from close-range. Floreat had struggled in front of goal in the first half, but they made emends after half time, and drew level on 74 minutes, with Willis’ free kick into the box beating everyone and nestled in the net.

Then sixty seconds later the hosts found the winner, Harvey Tomlinson was brought down by Brad McDonald in the box, and referee Steven Gregory pointed straight to the spot. Langley stepped up found the top corner of the net past Brett Corey. The hosts went close to a third seven minutes from time, but Langley couldn’t direct his header home at the back post. Joondalup pressed late looking for the equaliser, by Floreat held firm to take the points.

27.3.2026

GLORY’S FINALS HOPES DENTED IN BRISBANE

Perth Glory’s finals hopes have been dented after a 5-2 loss against Brisbane Roar at Spencer Park in the week 21 clash in the Ninja A-League on Friday evening. Glory heading into the game with finals place in their own hands, but this defeat could see them drop out of the finals all together if Central Coast and Melbourne Victory win this weekend. The hosts raced to a 2-0 lead, with Aimee Medwin and Momo Hayashi on target. But Glory hit back with goals either side of half time from Julia Sardo and Rola Badawiya.

But that’s was as good as it got for Stephen Peters’ side, and further goals from Kijah Stephenson, Hayashi, and substitute Tameka Yallop sealed the win for the Roar. “A tough game indeed tonight,” Glory skipper Isobel Dalton said post-match. “From the first minute it felt like a finals match, and it felt really intense out there the whole game. We were our own worst enemy, we were at fault for three of the goals, which is annoying, but I guess that’s what happens in finals like football, very frustrating.

Peters made three changes to the side that drew against the Mariners last week, with Onyinyechi Zogg returning from suspension in place of Misha Anderson, Megan Wynne came in for Ella Lincoln, while Julia Sardo replaced Olivia Wood. That changed to four in the warm up, with keeper Teresa Morrissey injured, and Perth Azzurri keeper Dayle Schroeder came in for her Glory debut, after signing an injury replacement contract after Jessica Skinner was injured in the week.

With their season on the line, Glory were out of the blocks well early and Badawiya just failed to convert Wynne’s cross, before the American striker headed straight at Chloe Lincoln. The Roar custodian then saved well to deny Wynne, before she got down well to save Gabby Hollar’s deflected effort. It was one-way traffic, and it was against the run of play on 20 minutes, when the hosts found the opener. Angie Beard’s corner picked out Medwin, who rose highest to head past Schroeder via the crossbar. Glory then handed the hosts a second on the half hour, a pass by Schroeder to Georgia Cassidy on the edge of the box was turned over, Hayashi seizing on a loose ball and finding the net.

It was an uphill battle now for Glory, but they showed real character and reduced the margin in the shadows of half time. Emma Tovar’s corner was headed home by Sardo from close-range. Glory levelled early in the second half. Tovar slipped the ball to Badawiya on the left of the penalty area, and her cross shot was turned into the net by Lincoln. Glory could sense a comeback, but it wasn’t to be, the Roar regaining the lead on 57 minutes. Glory turned the ball over in the middle of the park, and Stephenson chipped over Schroeder from the edge of the box,

They added a fourth five minutes later, Hayashi’s free kick deflected off the wall to wrong-foot the unfortunate Schroeder. Glory pressed players forward looking to get back into the game, but the hosts sealed the game in stoppage time Ashlyn Miller slipped in Yallop who finished clinically. The win all but puts the Roar in the finals, while Glory will now hope that Mariners and Victory both lose to Canberra and Sydney respectively, to keep their slim hopes alive.

Brisbane Roar: GK Chloe LINCOLN, 2 Angela BEARD, 4 Kijah STEPHENSON, 5 Aimee MEDWIN, 6 Ruby CUTHBERT (22 Ava PIAZZA 87'), 7 Momo HAYASHI, 8 Josie STUDER, 15 Kiera MEYERS (13 Tameka YALLOP 69'), 17 Bente JANSEN, 27 Ashlyn MILLER, 32 Alicia WOODS - Subs not used: RGK Tahlia FRANCO, RGK Stella CAMPBELL, 18 Amali KINSELLA, 47 Kyla Hanson

Perth Glory: GK Dayle SCHROEDER, 3 Emma TOVAR, 5 Grace JOHNSTON, 6 Tijan MCKENNA, 7 Megan WYNNE (2 Mischa ANDERSON 69'), 8 Georgia CASSIDY (27 Charli WAINWRIGHT 62'), 9 Gabby HOLLAR (25 Ella LINCOLN 69'), 17 Rola BADAWIYA (19 Sarah O’DONOGHUE 62'), 23 Isobel DALTON, 24 Julia SARDO (46 Ella ABDUL MASSIH 46'), 29 Onyinyechi ZOGG - Subs not used: None - Referee: Rachel Mitchenson

27.3.2026

BOS WINS IT LATE FOR SOCCEROOS

Jordy Bos has spared Australia's blushes in one of the Socceroos' final World Cup hit-outs, striking late to help them claim a 1-0 win in the FIFA Series over Cameroon in a dour clash at Accor Stadium in Sydney on Friday evening. In front of a crowd of only 23,798 the Socceroos struggled to create or challenge their opponents in the final third, but they had the better chances after the break, including a missed penalty from Ajdin Hrustic, but Bos was on hand five minutes from time to win it.

"The first half there were a lot of new boys and we looked a little bit anxious," Popovic said post-match. "I thought we created some good openings but didn't finish the chances. It was a little bit stretched more than what we would have liked. I think in the second half we were more compact and aggressive and the players felt a lot more comfortable out on the pitch." Popovic named a starting eleven with a mix of youth and experience as players look to make the case for selection for the World Cup Finals, with Lucas Herrington and Deni Juric became Socceroos #658 and #659 respectively when they were named to start.

Australia came out of the blocks smartly, with former Perth Glory defender Jacob Italiano impressive, combining well with the likes of Martin Boyle and Jordy Bos. But chances were few and far between, on a difficult pitch, but it was Cameroon who dominated the shots and had more final third entries at the break, but without anything clear-cut. To be fair neither side had a ‘big chance’ in the first 45 minutes, but it was a solid defensive effort from Australia who perhaps will look to replicate that in competitive games in the future.

Popovic looked to change that with the introduction of the Nestory Irankunda and the experienced Awer Mabil at half-time. They replaced Deni Juric and Martin Boyle, and the hosts started to get on top, but still they struggled in the final third. Popovic made a triple substitution just after the hour mark. Cameron Burgess, Paul Okon-Engstler and Ajdin Hrustic were introduced to inject some more fresh legs into the side, with Jason Geria, Connor Metcalfe and Riley McGree making way.

The best opportunity of the match came shortly after, a cross from Italiano just evaded the leap of Irankunda, but Aiden O’Neill gathered the ball and raced into the box and was upended by Oliver Kamdem, but the referee waved away the penalty protests. But VAR thought different, and after checking the monitor the penalty was awarded and Ajdin Hrustic was given the responsibility of converting the spot kick, but he was foiled by a smart save from Cameroon goalkeeper Devis Epassy. Irankunda was a constant threat and he used his pace to create a wonderful chance, beating his marker on the right, and whipping in a cross, where Alessandro Circati nodded on the ball to Cameron Burgess, who was not able to direct his header on target.

Then five minutes later Irankunda forced another sharp save from Epassy, as Australia pressed for the winner, and it came five minutes from time. Paul Okon-Engstler put a well weighted ball into the penalty area. Hrustic dummied smartly, allowing Bos to steal in behind and apply a well taken finish past Epassy. That moment would prove to be the decisive one, in a hotly contested contest, and it will give the coaching staff plenty to think about ahead of the game against Curacao on Tuesday evening.

Australia: GK Mathew Ryan, 3 Jacob Italiano (15 Kai Trewin 82’), 5 Jordan Bos, 6 Martin Boyle (11 Awer Mabil 45’), 8 Connor Metcalfe (20 Paul Okon-Engstler 65’), 13 Aiden O’Neill (17 Patrick Yazbek 81’), 14 Riley McGree (10 Ajdin Hrustic 64’), 19 Jason Geria (21 Cameron Burgess 64’), 23 Alessandro Circati (2 Milos Degenek 81’), 24 Deni Juric (7 Nestory Irankunda 45’) 26 Lucas Herrington – Subs not used: : RGK Paul Izzo, RGK Patrick Beach, 9 Nishan Velupillay, 16 Aziz Behich, 22 Alex Robertson, 25 Ante Suto

Cameroon: GK Devis Epassy, 3 Che Malone, 5 Emmanuel Moungam, 6 Fidel Brice Ambina (9 Angel Yondjo 74’), 13 Darlin Yongwa, 14 Danny Namaso, 15 Arthur Avom, 17 Samuel Kotto, 19 Ryan Fosso, 22 Oliver Kamdem (11 Saidou Alioum 74’), 26 Christian Kofane – Subs not used: RGK Blondy Nna Noukeu, RGK Simon Ngapandouetnbu, 2 Jackson Tchatchoua, 4 Kevin Keben, 6 Arnold Kamdem, 19 Mahamadou Nagida, 21 Etta Eyong, 24 Stephane Keller

27.3.2026

WANNEROO CITY TAKE ON NORTH PERTH UNITED IN NIGHT SERIES FINAL

The Amateur Premier Division Night Series competition concludes on Sunday, weather permitting, with the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division Night Series Final between hosts Wanneroo City and North Perth United, at Players Place Madeley, (7:00pm) Hosts Wanneroo City were unbeaten as they topped Group A, with a 1-0 win against Kingsley Westside, a 2-0 win against Olympic Kingsway, before a hard fought 2-2 draw against Maccabi saw them qualify for the knock out stage. That set-up a semi-final against Kelmscott Roos, and goals from Jordan Rowe, Sam Gammack, Charlie Read, Loris Tommolini, Micheal Berlingeri, Frankie Stammers and an own goal sealed an emphatic 7-0 win.

It will be a special game for Wanneroo coach Jason Winter, who coached North Perth for a number of seasons, but he said it’s just another game of football. “We are really looking forward to the game, we’ve had two good session this week, and the players are ready,” Winters said. “Going up against my old team will be interesting as I know a lot of players/ coach, but at the end of the day it’s just a game of football, so hopefully both teams have a go and its good game down at Players Place.” City co-captain Jack Wilson said it’s still pre-season, but with a trophy on the line the players are up for it. “The lads are looking forward to it, and it’s a final, but it's still preseason, so we'll use the game to keep developing as a squad,” he explained. “The effort and energy from the lads through the full 90 against Kelmscott were superb so we'll be looking to do the same on Sunday.”

North Perth United was the only team to win all their group games, and topped Group B. They opened with a 5-0 win against Ballajura, before a 2-0 win against Swan United. In the final game they won an eight-goal thriller against Hamersley Rovers, to seal a semi-final tie against Noranda Emerald. Thy did it the hard way, coming from two-goals down, Yanich Jordan reducing the margin, before an own goal late took the game to penalties, with United prevailing 8-7. New United coach Chris Batten said it should be a great contest. “It’s really exciting to be able to get to a final this early in the season and it’s fitting that it’s against Wanneroo. It will be a good test to see where we are after rebuilding both squads last year. We come off winning our three group games and then a tough semifinal win against Noranda Emerald, where we played some really nice stuff,” Batten explained.

“Bringing in Keano (Ian McLean) as my assistant has helped massively and he’s installed discipline straight away. Keano has been there and done the and the lads really respect him. As for the Final, you want to try and treat it as “just another game” but it’s not. Tactics will go out the window and it’ll come down to who wants it more on the night in what could be testing conditions. We’ve had a great week at training and I’ve 21/22 boys to pick from so we have a very strong squad. We are all buzzing for Sunday.”

United skipper Niall Kennedy it should be a tough encounter, especially with a number of former United players in the Wanneroo side. “There’s no point beating around the bush on this one, there’s bound to be a bit of needle in this game given Wanneroo’s set up include North Perth’s former management team and five or so of our former players. They left with our well wishes but that goes out the window once we step onto the pitch on Sunday night,” Kennedy said.

“We’ve had a complete overhaul of the double winning squad from last season, which was difficult and we’ve had to build up slowly throughout pre-season with lads away. We’re starting to find our feet now and we’re getting better by the week. Fair play to Batten and Keano, they’re starting to drill their style into us and have added players to the squad that have lots of quality. Whilst Sunday night isn’t the be all and end all for the season, it’s still a massive early season game in its own right and both clubs will be looking to use Sunday night to springboard them to success this season. We’re buzzing for this one.”

27.3.2026

EAST PERTH MEET SORRENTO IN WOMEN’S LEAGUE NIGHT SERIES FINAL

The Construction Training Fund Women’s League Night Series Final, sees Women’s Division One side, East Perth taking on Women’s League Central Division Two side, Sorrento in the early game of a double header at Players Place, Madeley. (5:00pm). Both sides have been the form teams of the competition, winning all their group games, and both winning tight semi-finals, so it should be an entertaining game. East Perth won Group A, with a 9-0 win in the opening game against Armadale, which was followed by a 6-0 win against Hamersley Rovers. They secured top spot with a 5-1 win against Fremantle City, which set up a semi-final clash against Perth AFC, and a brace from Shauna Fox and another to Christiane Astorp saw them runout 3-1 winners.

Coach Luke Green said it was a tough game, but his side dug deep to secure their final place. “Perth AFC are a fantastic outfit that last season had our number, so we knew it was going to be a good contest where the team had to dig in for a result and to their credit that's exactly what they did,” Green explained. “It’s still preseason so we aren't getting ahead of ourselves and know when we face them in the league in a few weeks we will need to step up again to match them.”

Green said Sorrento have done really well so far in the competition, so he is expecting another stern test. “Looking forward to the final on Sunday, we have a new squad with a lot of changes compared to last season. The group has worked hard on and off the pitch to gel and enjoy what has been a great preseason so far and we are extremely proud of the group,” he said. “With Sunday we have a chance to go one further than last season and win the night series. We are very aware of how strong and tough Sorrento will be with them already beating three state league teams on their path and we know we can't take them lightly. Hopefully on Sunday we can put on a great final for all to enjoy.”

Sorrento surprised many with their run to the final, and topped Group D. They beat last season’s winners Subiaco AFC 3-1 in the opening game, then a hard fought 2-1 win against Kingsley Westside, before a 7-0 win against Murdoch University Melville secured top spot. In the semi-finals they took on Mandurah City, and they held their nerve in the penalty shootout winning 5-4 after the game ended scoreless. Sorrento keeper Monique Todd was the hero, saving Mandurah’s fifth penalty which would have seen them through, and in sudden death the Gulls prevailed.

Sorrento coach Jake Stewart said it’s been a tremendous run for his side in the competition, and the semi-final win showed the character in his side. “We knew it would be a close game and the girls held strong throughout, showing their determination to be successful,” he said. “As with any penalty shootout, it is a 50-50 chance, but I feel we deserved the result on the night and to reach the final is a huge achievement.”

Stewart believes they could be the first Division Two side to reach the Night Series Final, and they are looking forward to the challenge, which would be a great start to their season. “We are excited to be a part of the final and we expect a tough game against a very well organised East Perth side,” he said. “The girls have worked very hard to get us to where we are and this squad is a close-knit team with a never die attitude. It is definitely a one to watch final, were looking forward to it.”

27.3.2026

UNBEATEN KNIGHTS AND REDSTAR MEET IN ‘MATCH OF THE ROUND’

We have three unbeaten teams in the New Balance NPLWA – Men’s competition going into week five, and our ‘Match of the Round’ features two of them, with Western Knights welcoming Perth RedStar to Nash Field on Saturday afternoon. (All games kick off at 3:00pm, unless stated – weather permitting). Both sides have won two and drawn two, to sit second and third respectively on the table, just separated on goal difference. They are both coming off tough games last week, the Knights coming home from Bayswater with a hard-earned point, while RedStar came from behind to beat Glory 2-1, so it sets up an intriguing clash.

The last time the teams met at the venue was in week one last season, when they played out a 1-1 draw. The hosts opened the scoring four minutes into the second half, Kristian Santich’s corner from the left was retrieved by Konstantinos Sparta on the right of the penalty area, his cross into the box was headed home by Luke Sprigg. But RedStar found the equaliser on the hour. Matthew George slipped in Sam Pollard, who cut the ball back from the bye-line and Daryl Nicol fired home.

New RedStar striker Aaron Black has started life well at the northern suburb club after joining from Clydebank in Scotland this season, and he said it’s been a good start, unbeaten heading into round five, and the Scottish striker opened his account in the league in the win against Glory. “I’m loving playing in the NPL so far and nice to get off the mark in the league, and I just want to try and score as many goals as I can till the end of the season to help the club to success,” Black explained. “To still be undefeated is something the boys are happy about, and the comeback win against Glory was great team effort. In the first half I didn’t think we were at our best, but second half the win was fully deserved.”

Black said they will look to maintain their good start on Saturday, but knows it will be a tough game, against the unbeaten Knights, and last week’s win came at a cost with Luke Bodnar suffering a broken leg, and Black said it was reckless tackle and he was amazed no cards or a free kick were given. “We’re all gutted for Bods, and all our thoughts are with him and the family after the terrible injury. I’ve watched on replay and it was a reckless tackle,” Black explained. “We know it will be a tough game on Saturday against Western Knights, and they have started well and are at home, but I’m looking forward to it and we head there in a confident mood and hopefully another three points.”

New Knights defender Daniel Walsh has been outstanding as the new look side have started the season unbeaten, and he said to go away to Bayswater and come home with a point shows how they have improved. “I thought it was a really mature performance last week. Away at Baysie presents as one of the tougher tests of the season and to come away with a point, as well as the clean sheet, was really satisfying,” he said. “We’ll take confidence from the fact we created numerous good opportunities to score and hope to put them away in the future.”

It's a return to where it all started for the big defender, and he said the club have worked hard to build a strong squad this season. “Yes, the Knights were actually my first junior club. A lot of the people around the club I already knew from when I was younger so that made the transition seamless. Everyone couldn’t have been more welcoming. I really enjoyed my time at RedStar, but finding somewhere where I would play more regularly was a priority for me this off-season,” Walsh explained.

“The club have always had a lot of quality, but I think we’ve built some good depth this year. Reegs (Regan Hutchinson) and Azza (Aaron Pike) have been great and it’s wonderful to play behind a player with the experience of Woonsub Sim. Along with Luke Hewings, Jack Sprigg and Sam Barry the new signings have created a really good mix of youth and experience. We’ve started off the season with some good results and have proven we’re capable of doing something special this year.”

It's a clash against his former club this week, and he will also come face to face with brother Nick, who plays for RedStar, and Walsh is relishing the challenge especially with both teams undefeated this season. “Obviously nice to face my brother and they come here in good form,” he said. “It’s no secret they’ve got quality all over the park and always look to play an attacking style of football, so we’ll be looking to make it hard for them and bounce off the home support at Nash Field.”

In other games on Saturday, the only other unbeaten side is league leaders Olympic Kingsway, and they entertain Perth Glory at Madman Arena, Kingsway Reserve, while Bayswater City will look to end a two-game run without a win when they visit Dianella Reserve to take on Dianella White Eagles in the late game. (7:00pm) Stirling Macedonia will also be looking to bounce back from back-to-back defeats, when they host Perth Azzurri, who have won their last two games, Sorrento and Balcatta Etna meet at Percy Doyle Reserve, with both sides still searching for a first win of the season, while in the final game Fremantle City welcome Armadale to Hilton Park. Please Note: Due to Cyclone Narelle some games maybe affected – please check the club’s social media for further information.

27.3.2026

MANDURAH AND COCKBURN LOOK TO KEEP UNBEATEN START TO THE SEASON

We head into week two of the State League Division One, and our ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to Dalmatinac Park, as Cockburn City welcome Mandurah City. (All games kick off at 3:00pm, unless stated – weather permitting) The Dolphins kicked off their season in style, with a brace from the returning Joey O’Brien gave them a 5-1 win against Subiaco, while the Cockerels, who have returned to Division One this season, let a two-goal lead slip to draw 2-2 with MUMFC, so both teams will look to keep their inbeaten start to the season going.

The last time Mandurah travelled to take on Cockburn was in week two in 2024 when they won 4-0 at Beale Park. Craig Barker gave the visitors the lead at the break, before the Dolphins took control, with Leigh Griffiths, Scott Davidson and substitute Liam Bonner, securing the comfortable win. Mandurah started the season well last week and O’Brien helped himself to brace, and he said it was a great way to return to the club, after signing from NPL club Sorrento. “Yes, it was a dream start on my return to Mandurah,” he said. “To be fair, we never looked like conceding and were clinical in the second half when the chances came, so a perfect start to the season.”

The striker is looking forward to Saturday, and he said it will be tough test, with Cockburn on a high from promotion last season. He also said a return to the Dolphins was a right decision for him, but thanked Sorrento for his time there. “I enjoyed playing for Sorrento and appreciate all the support the club gave me. I wish I could has given more during my time there, but it was the right decision for me to return home,’ the striker explained. “I’m looking forward to playing Cockburn for the first time in a while, good to see them back in Division One. It will be a good challenge for us and another chance to build on our win last week.”

Cockburn assistant coach Paulo Basto said last week was a game of two halves, but they deserved a point. “It’s a bit of a mixed feeling, to be honest. We did a lot of good things to put ourselves in a strong position, especially going two goals up, but we’re obviously disappointed not to see the game out,” he said. “It shows we still have areas to improve in terms of game management and concentration, but at the same time, we’ll take the positives and the point and keep building. Fair play to MUMFC who fought back with their experience players stepping up, a draw was probably a fair result.”

Basto said it had been a couple of difficult years for the club, after back-to-back relegations, but the work done behind the scenes has helped them bounce back. “It’s been really positive for everyone involved with the club. There’s a clear direction off the pitch, and that’s translating into what we’re doing on it,” he explained. “Promotion was a big moment for us, especially after a difficult couple of years, and it’s given the whole group confidence and belief again. We’re focused on continuing that progress and establishing ourselves at this level.”

They take on Mandurah City, who are the early league leaders, and Basto said the players have worked hard this week and they will be looking for improvement in key areas. “We know it’s going to be a tough game, especially with Mandurah starting the season well, so we know they’ll come in with confidence,” the coach said. “For us, it’s about focusing on our performance, building on what we’ve done well, and improving in the key moments. Being at home, we want to be on the front foot like last week and give our supporters something to get behind the team.”

The games begin on Friday evening, when Floreat Athena welcome Joondalup City to the E&D Litis Stadium, and this one should be a cracker with both sides coming off 3-1 wins last week. (7:00pm) Gwelup Croatia hosts UWA Nedlands at the Croatian Sporting Complex, Wishart Street, while Murdoch University Melville travel to the Proto DPS Inglewood Stadium to take on Inglewood United. The game between Subiaco AFC and Quinns has been rescheduled to Wednesday April 22, with Rosalie Park and Gumblossom Park both unavailable. The Kinglsey Westside and Curtin University game has been moved to Tuesday April 7, Some other games maybe affected due to Cyclone Narelle – please check the club’s social media for further information.

27.3.2026

WINDMILLS AND ROCKINGHAM AIM FOR BACK-TO-BACK WINS

Morley Windmills have returned to the State league this season, after two seasons in the Amateur Premier Division, and they started life back in to Saturday football well, securing a 3-1 win against East Perth. They will be looking for back-to-back wins on Saturday, but their opponents Rockingham City will also be aiming for the same, when they meet at Wotton Reserve on Saturday afternoon. (All games kick off at 3:00pm. Unless stated – weather permitting) City produced a great away performance last week, coming home from Canning with a 3-1 win, so it should be a tight game, as both look to maintain their unbeaten start.

The last time they played at the venue was in week 13 in 2018, the season Rockingham won promotion to the NPL and they left with all three points after 4-1 win. Justis Bradley gave the visitors the lead from a corner halfway through the first half, before Ross Staley added the second just before the break cutting in from the right to score. Morley pulled one back ten minutes into the second half, with Nicola Gazzola on target, but Rockingham replied instantly with Ryan Kennedy on target. With Morley chasing the game the visitors added a fourth late with Jason Pottier scoring.

New Morley defender Daniel Dols said the opening round win against East Perth was a great result to kick off their re-entry into Saturday football. “John and Garth have worked really hard to lay foundations over the last two years, to make sure that our return to the state league was a competitive one,” he explained. “So, it was nice to see that translate into a result on Saturday against a tough opponent.”

The defender and his family have a long connection with Morley, and he said a move to the club this season was a surreal experience. “My family has had continuous involvement with Windmills for over 70 years. My dad played for the club and his father, uncle and cousins were also heavily involved,” Dols explained. “Wotton Reserve is somewhere I spent nearly every weekend as a kid and to come back to the club and play on the pitch has been a very nostalgic and surreal experience. It was a major factor in my decision to come to the club and one I’m very happy with.”

Dols joined Morley from Subiaco this season, and said it was a tough decision to move on, but he’s excited to be at Morely. “I really enjoyed my time at Subiaco. The calibre of coaching staff and players were really high and there are some great people around the club. I’m keeping an eye on their results and hope they see success this year,” he said. “It was a tough decision to leave in the end but my decision to join was ultimately driven by my family connection to Morley, as well as the opportunity to be part of a larger project that was underway. I’ve been really impressed by the standards and professionalism at Morley and I’m excited by the squad that the club have built.”

John O’Reilly’s side will go in search of back-to-back wins on Saturday, and Dols said they are looking forward to the challenge. “We’re excited by the prospect of playing Rockingham this weekend, they seem to have started well and like East Perth, I think will be a very competitive side this season,” he said. “We’ve had a strong preseason and want to test ourselves against quality opposition, so this weekend is a great opportunity to see if we can continue to build on the momentum we have.”

Rockingham have begun the season well, strong night series saw them top their group, and they followed it up with a solid performance at Canning in the season opener. Defender Harry Quigley has re-signed for the season and has been pleased with the positive start. “I joined Rockingham for the first time last year. With our ambitions to win the league it was an easy choice to resign for my second season here,” the former Perth Glory youth defender said. “We were really pleased with how our night series campaign went, finishing top of our group and being the only Division Two team to make it through the group stages. We felt like we had a really strong pre-season, so it was encouraging to start the season in the same positive way.”

It's a big challenge at Morley this week, but Rockingham are really growing off the pitch under President Fraser Marr, and coach Matthew Brroks has them playing well on the pitch, and Quigley said it is a great start after almost being relegated last season. “Fraser and Rob Crerar have come in and made really big improvements around the club as a whole which has been pivotal in reshaping the mindset and direction Rocky wants to go,” he explained.

“As well as the Presidents, Brooksy has come in and made a huge impact on the group. He got us back on track after a slow start last year. This year with a solid preseason, a stable environment, adding some good depth and talent on the field, we believe we can rectify last year and go all the way. We’re all looking forward to a new test this weekend against Morley. They’re a new team for me but I do know their coach well and they will be a well drilled team for sure. The boys can’t wait for round two and to keep our winning momentum going.”

In other games on Saturday, we have three local derbies. First Forrestfield United host Kalamunda City at the Luxwin Stadium, Hartfield Park, Canning City take on Gosnells City at Burrendah Park, while it’s the Irish Derby as Carramar Shamrock Rovers entertain East Perth at Grandis Park. Wembley Downs will look for back-to-back wins when they welcome North Beach at Butlers Reserve, while Ashfield and Balga meet at the Ashfield Arena. Some games maybe affected due to Cyclone Narelle – please check the club’s social media for further information.

27.3.2026

PETERS FOCUS ON ROAR IN FINALS RACE

With two Ninja A-League games to go this season, Perth Glory’s finals hopes are in their own hands, win both games and they will play finals football for the first time since 2019, and first up they head to Spencer Park to take on seventh placed Brisbane Roar on Friday evening. (5:00pm WA Time). They missed a huge opportunity last week, after a draw with Central Coast Mariners, saw them drop to eighth on the table, but it’s so close with only two points separating fifth and eighth.

A win against the Roar would put Glory in a good position, ahead of the final home game against sixth placed Melbourne Victory. Glory Head Coach Stephen Peters is aware of the challenges that Roar and Glory’s final round opponents Victory will provide, but Central coast Mariners are also still in the mix, all vying for fifth and sixth place, so the penultimate round will have nay twists and turns.

“Our destiny is still very much in our hands,” Peters said. “I think it’s a unique experience for the girls as they’ve obviously not been in this position for a number of years. “So, for us to be having these conversations and having to deal with the pressure that comes with it is a real growth point for us. Hopefully some of the stuff that we’ve already been through in our time together in the last two years we can take into Brisbane on Friday.”

Peters said they had their chances to beat the Mariners last week, but it wasn’t to be, but there were some positives to take out of the scoreless draw. “I thought we controlled the game quite well and I was very happy with most of it,” he said. “It was just that cutting edge in the final third that let us down. We had two good chances to score and potentially take the three points and I think we restricted them to only two long-range shots… and that calamity of a corner, but outside of that, I thought we contained them very well, so overall, I was pretty happy with it.”

Glory’s American striker Gabby Hollar echoed the coached words on the Mariners game, but said all the players will doing all they can to reach the finals. “It was disappointing we couldn’t get the three points last week, but you are in a good position if you a disappointed with a tie,” Hollar said. “I thought we played well out of the back, but were lacking a bit in the final third, and the connections weren’t there. We go into the last two games wanting six points, regardless of the table, it’s in our own hands and the best way to do that is win both. To play finals football would be incredible for me and the rest of the players, it’s been a while since the club played finals, so I would love to experience it.”

The last visit to Queensland was in week three last season, when the hosts won 3-0. Tameka Yallop gave the Roar the lead early, before Tamar Levin doubled their advantage. They sealed the points on the hour, with Yallop added her second from spot. They have played already this season, with the Roar prevailing 3-2 at HBF Park in week three. Grace Kuilamu’s opener was cancelled out by Rola Badawiya, but two quick goals after half time by Dutch striker Bente Jansen wrapped up the points. Ella Lincoln did pull one back in stoppage time, her first goal for the club, but was just a consolation.

Roar had lost four games on the bounce, but rebounded last week with a 4-2 win against Newcastle Jets, and Peters said they will be a confident mood for this must-win game for both sides. “They had eight or nine games in January and early February which was always going to be difficult for them, but I think they handled that really well and got a few wins in a row,” he said. “Then obviously fatigue and a pretty bad injury toll took place, so I think it’s pretty normal what they’ve gone through given the amount of quality they’re missing.

“I’m sure they were very pleased with that game against Newcastle because it was a real statement from them and it puts them right back in the mix. It feels like an age ago that we played them. It’s a hard one to predict and I think it will depend upon which team controls the game. They know our strengths and we know theirs and they probably know our weaknesses just as well as we know theirs, so it’s going to be who adapts well and controls the game.” in team news Onyinyechi Zogg returns from suspension, while Bronte Trew is also available.

Brisbane Roar Squad: GK Chloe LINCOLN, GK Tahlia FRANCO, 2 Angela BEARD, 4 Kijah STEPHENSON, 5 Aimee MEDWIN, 6 Ruby CUTHBERT, 7 Momo HAYASHI, 8 Josie STUDER, 11 Marianna SEIDL, 13 Tameka YALLOP, 15 Kiera MEYERS, 17 Bente JANSEN, 18 Amali KINSELLA, 20 Stella CAMPBELL, 22 Ava PIAZZA, 27 Ashlyn MILLER, 32 Alicia WOODS, 47 Kyla Hanson - *One to be omitted* - Ins: LINCOLN (return from international duty), BEARD (return from international duty) - Outs: 3 Daisy BROWN (international duty), 14 Zara KRUGER (international duty) - Unavailable: 10 Grace KUILAMU (knee), 24 Sharn FREIER (knee), 23 Isabela HOYOS (knee)

Perth Glory Squad: GK Teresa MORRISSEY, GK Jessica SKINNER, 2 Mischa ANDERSON, 3 Emma TOVAR, 5 Grace JOHNSTON, 6 Tijan MCKENNA, 7 Megan WYNNE, 8 Georgia CASSIDY, 9 Gabby HOLLAR, 12 Bronte TREW, 16 Olivia WOOD, 17 Rola BADAWIYA, 19 Sarah O’DONOGHUE, 20 Ella ABDUL MASSIH, 23 Isobel DALTON, 25 Ella LINCOLN, 27 Charli WAINWRIGHT, 28 Clancy WESTAWAY, 29 Onyinyechi ZOGG - *Two to be omitted* - Ins: TREW, ZOGG - Unavailable: 10 Susan PHONSONGKHAM (injured), 11 Natalie TATHEM (injured), 13 Naomi CHINNAMA (injured), 24 Julia SARDO (injured

27.3.2026

TANNER-HOATH INDUCTED INTO THE WA WOMEN’S SPORT HALL OF FAME

The name Penny Tanner-Hoath is well known in the WA football family. Earlier this month she was recognised for her work in the game, after being inducted into the WA Women’s Hall of Fame, Sport category. For four-decades Penny has championed women’s football, supporting the world game as a player, representing Australia (1993-1995), mentor, broadcaster, advocate, and archivist. She created WomenSoccer.com.au, an archive of WA women’s football, received a life membership from Football West, and was until recently the only woman on the Football Hall of Fame WA Board.

Her love for the game continues, hosting the World Football Programme on Fremantle FM radio on Saturday mornings, and still plays and coaches at her beloved Murdoch University Melville, and she was proud to be recognised; “Firstly, I’m so grateful and blessed to live in this amazing place called Australia, where I feel safe, welcome and enabled,” Tanner-Hoath said. “There are a number of people who deserve this award, that’s not to say I haven’t worked hard my whole life to achieve good things, and I’ve probably outlasted a lot of them.”

Tanner-Hoath has also worked hard away from the pitch too, juggling her football commitments as well as being a mum and running her family business. But she is first in line to offer her expertise and volunteer. “Someone once said to me that volunteers work just as hard as those who are paid, and don’t let anyone else tell you anything else,” Tanner-Hoath said. “I love doing what I do, learning and sharing, playing football and doing it with a smile. I plan to live until I’m 100, so there is still a lot to do, so I better get back to it, the jobs only half done. Being an elite athlete spans a short time of brilliance. I’ve been there and loved it. Being a volunteer is a lifetime of dedication, pioneering, role modelling, strategizing and just simply being there to help the next person along.”

The football fanatic was in her element over the past three weeks, with AFC Asian Cup games being played on Perth, and she said it was just great to go to the games, sit back and watch with her daughter Rose. “Attending wholly as a guest to all matches I was able to mix with the football royalty and local politicians,” she said. “The Asian Cup was such a great event for Perth to host, it brought a lot of mates and important people together to reminisce and reconnect, and it was nice and relaxed for me attending only as a fan along with my daughter - Loved it.” You can hear Penny on The World Football Programme on Saturday mornings from 10:00am on 107.9fm.

27.3.2026

VALE BARBARA GIBSON

It is with much sadness that we hear of the passing of Barbara Gibson. A Football West Life Member, Football Hall of Fame Inductee, recipient of an Australian Sports Medal for her services to sport, Barbi and ‘Mum’ to many young soccer players; who left us Tuesday March 17, aged 95. Penny Taylor-Hoath wrote this lovely piece on the Football Hall of Fame WA website. “Alongside life partner, Peter Dimopoulos, Barbara worked tirelessly, from 1975 and throughout the 1980’s, helping and growing the women's game, one of her most loved volunteer roles, in WA soccer. Barbara was a pioneer in those early days for women's soccer here in WA, helping to create and support new pathways for some our most talented athletes, including Matildas Sharon Mateljan (Loveless), Sandra Brentnall, Jude Pettit (Jae), Teresa Kozak (White) and Julie Gorton (Clayton).

“Significant events such as the first female President being elected in 1975 (Barbara Kozak), the change of Association name from ‘Girls’ to the Western Australian Women’s Soccer Association, WA winning the inaugural National Championships, WA players being selected in the National All Stars and inaugural tours to India and Malaysia for the WA teams, WA hosting a National Championship, Sandra Brentall scoring Australia’s first ever goal, all happened under Barbara’s watch. A feature of Barbara’s involvement was as tour manager and as committee member in women’s soccer, serving as WA State Team manager at the inaugural 1975 National Championships.

Also, tour Manager for the Western Australian Teams competing internationally in Malaysia and India in 1977 and 1980 in front of tens of thousands of fans, then as committee member of the Western Australian Women's Soccer Association as Secretary, Treasurer and President and then later as Secretary for the Football Hall of Fame Western Australia until 2014. In a professional capacity, Barbara was Secretary for the Soccer Federation WA for many years and was involved with the Bayswater and Inglewood clubs. As a player ‘Barbi’ was a late starter, entering the field well into her 40’s - Rest in peace, pioneer. You are much loved and much remembered The Gibson family welcomes you to Barbara’s service at Simplicity Funerals, 69 Dixon Road, Rockingham, April 8, 2026 at 10am.

Football West CEO Jamie Harnwell passed on his and the organisations commiserations “On behalf of Football West, I offer my condolences to Barbara’s family and friends,” Harnwell said. “She gave decades of service to our game and to female football in particular. When we marvel at the incredible spectacle of over 70,000 fans turning out to cheer on the Matildas in a major international final, we should also remember the pioneers of the women’s game, such as Barbara, who helped lay the foundation stones.” From everyone involved with Footballwa, we send our thoughts to the Gibson family.

22.3.2026

NPLWA – WOMEN’S WEEK ONE REVIEW

The 2026 New Balance NPL WA Women’s week one was completed on Sunday and at Hilton Park, Fremantle City and Perth RedStar have played out an entertaining 2-2 draw. Fremantle coach Samatha Geddis said they will take a lot of positives from the performance. “It was a hard-fought draw to kick off the season against a tough, disciplined opponent. Proud of the way the team dug in and fought back when it mattered,” Geddes explained. “Overall, a positive start to the season and momentum we’re looking to build on. Plenty of positives to take away, and a few areas to sharpen up during the week as we prepare for UWA next weekend.”

The pair played last week in the Third-Placed Night Series play-off, with Fremantle winning 2-0, but it was the visitors who found the opener on eight minutes. New signing Holly Tancin, who signed from Heidelberg United, played a neat through ball to Renee Leota who raced into goal and finished clinically past Cassia Souza. They added a second seven minutes later, with a contender for goal of the season, Tancin winning possession from Catherine Adams, before firing home superbly from distance.

It was a perfect start for the visitors, but the hosts were back in the game just after the half hour mark. Erin Siah’s corner from the left was turned home at the back post by midfielder Janice Kiama. RedStar led at the break, but it was Fremantle next on scoresheet on the hour. Skipper Annabelle Leek’s ball over the top found Lacey Heys, who beat RedStar keeper Gabby Dal Busco to the ball and poked home. Both sides had chances to win it, but they had to settle for a share of the spoils.

It was a huge day for Sorrento, the Gulls playing their first game in the NPLWA, but Subiaco AFC spoilt the party, scoring three second half goals to secure a 3-0 win at Percy Doyle Reserve. “We were pleased to secure our first three points of the season, although it was a bit of a rocky start, and we took some time to settle into the game in the first half, creating chances but not quite finishing them,” Subiaco defender Ana Denona said. “At halftime, we regrouped and discussed a few key adjustments, which made a big difference. The team came out much stronger in the second half, played with more composure, and were clinical in front of goal, taking the chances, we had created earlier. Overall, it was a strong second-half performance and a great way to start the season with a well-earned three points.”

It was a tight first half with both sides having chances, Subiaco’s Elise Cunningham fired straight at Sorrento keeper Amalia Caceres, early, but it was the hosts with better chances, but they couldn’t beat Subiaco ‘keeper Briana O’Dell, the best a double save, to deny Daisy Snowden and Stella Zampogna. Subiaco went close early in the second half Ella Mastrantonio darting into the box, rounding the keeper, but she couldn’t find the target from the angle, but on 58 minutes Subiaco did find the opener.

Mastrantonio’s free kick wasn’t dealt with and Mia Hargreaves shot was deflected into the path of Sara Klott, who fired home. The Gulls pressed for the equaliser, and Sophia Papalia fired over the top, but it was Subiaco who doubled their advantage eight minutes from time. Substitute Lauren Tyne was brought down on the edge of the box by Jaalah Rudd, and Mastrantonio curled the resulting free kick home, via the crossbar. The points were sealed five minutes later, substitute Mabel Wilkinson firing home superbly from just outside the box, to give new Subiaco coach Christine Coppin a first up win.

In the final game Night Series winners Balcatta Etna had to settle for a point, after a 2-2 draw against Hyundai Football West Academy at Home Group Stadium, Grindleford Reserve. The hosts were first on the scoreboard four minutes before half time, Caitlin Doeglas’ ball sent Abbey Meakins inside the left side of the penalty area, and she finished with aplomb past Daisy McGreadie-Cole. The Academy hit back 12 minutes from time, when Ella Lange’s corner was headed home at the back post by Daniella Santich.

Both pressed for the winner, and it looked like Balcatta had found it with three minutes remaining. A poor clearance was pounced on by Meakins, and she found Sofia Nikloska, who rolled the ball into the path of Doeglas, who finished neatly.But Stephen Walmsley’s team weren’t finished, and they found parity two minutes later. Zoe Dumont’s cross found Sakura Leong, and the Junior Matildas winger found the top corner from the edge of the box. Peter Rakic side still had time to win it, and Sofija Nikoloska was denied by McGreadie-Cole, before Frankie Murray headed the resulting corner just wide, but both sides had to settle for a point.

21.3.2026

TAGGART 60 NOT OUT AS SKIPPER RESCUES A POINT

Skipper Adam Taggart has rescued a point for Perth Glory with a last-minute equaliser against Melbourne City in the week 22 Isuzu Ute A-League clash at HBF Park on Sunday afternoon. In doing so Taggart became the clubs highest goalscorer, passing Andy Keogh on 60 goals. It looked like Daniel Arzani’s first half goal would be enough for City t league with all three points, but Taggart striker keeps their finals hopes still flickering.

Taggart was thrilled to go top of the Glory goalscoring record, but he thought they deserved a win. “It means the world, I grew up watching Damien Mori and Bobby Despotovski score goal here, and to reach this number is special for me,” he said post-match. “I didn’t think I was going to buy one tonight, luckily in the end I finally put one away. Obviously stoked, but disappointed we didn’t come away with the win. With the record so close, I think it weighed on my mind a little, and as the weeks went on, I dropped a little confidence, so I had to keep pushing. Tonight, was one of those nights I had a few chances, but I didn’t let my head drop, so hopefully that goal will open the floodgates for the rest of the season.”

Glory made three changes to their starting line-up, from the loss in Wellington, with Gio De Abreu replacing Callum Timmins, Seb Despotovski came in for Luca Tevere, while Taggart returned from injury and replaced Jaiden Kucharski. The hosts made a quick start, with City keeper Patrick Beach making a smart save to deny Stean Colakovski in the opening minute. Glory keeper Matt Sutton was then called on to claw away Elbasan Rashhani effort around the post, as City lifted the tempo.

Sutton was called on again on the quarter hour mark, pushing France defender Samuel Souprayen’s shot around the post. But the visitors did find the opener seven minutes later, Arzani was in the right place at the right time to pounce on a loose ball, and the Socceroos midfielder found the bottom corner. Glory looked for an immediate response, but Despotovski shot straight at Beach. City should have added a second in the shadows of half time, Max Caputo dragging his shot across goal.

Glory opened brightly after the break, Despotovski pulls the ball back from the left for Taggart, but Aziz Behich got in a great block. There were chances at both ends, with Taggart again failing to find the target after De Abreu had picking out at the back post. Down the other Behich’s cross found Caputo, but his header flashed just over the top. It looked like it wasn’t going to be Taggart’s night, after he was denied by the legs of Beach twenty minutes from time.

The hosts were pressing and substitute Tevere’s shot goes well wide, before Sam Sutton’s cross was met bt Taggart, but his header flashed agonisingly wide of the post. Beach then stood tall to deny Taggart again eight minutes rom time, the City custodian standing tall one-on-one, before substitute Anthony Didulica cross was fired wide by Tevere. It looked like City would take the points, but the Glory skipper had other ideas, finding the equaliser in the first minute of stoppage time. Kucharski made space down the right, and he crossed to Taggart, who lost his marker and finished low past Beach, in front of the Shed, who celebrated long and hard.

Glory are still five points behind sixth-placed Macarthur with four matches to go, meaning their outside chance of playing finals is still alive. City meanwhile will stay in ninth spot, two points behind Macarthur but with a game in hand. After the international break, City will host the Western Sydney Wanderers and Perth travel over to the Central Coast to take on the Mariners in a huge game.

Perth Glory: GK Matt SUTTON, 2 Charbel SHAMOON (15 Zach LISOLAJSKI 89'), 3 Sam SUTTON, 4 Scott WOOTTON, 7 Nicholas PENNINGTON, 22 Adam TAGGART, 25 Seb DESPOTOVSKI (9 Jaiden KUCHARSKI 66'), 27 Will FRENEY (23 Anthony DIDULICA 81'), 39 Gio DE ABREU, 45 Brian KALTAK, 67 Stefan COLAKOVSKI (18 Luca TEVERE 66') – Subs not used: RGK Ryan WARNER, 8 Callum TIMMINS, 24 Andriano LEBIB,

Melbourne City: GK Patrick BEACH, 8 Ryan TEAGUE, 11 Elbasan RASHANI (39 Emin DURAKOVIC 66'), 13 Nathaniel ATKINSON, 14 Daniel ARZANI (41 Lawrence WONG, 81'), 16 Aziz BEHICH, 17 Max CAPUTO (15 Andrew NABBOUT 81'), 22 Germán FERREYRA, 26 Samuel SOUPRAYEN, 28 Marcus YOUNIS, 47 Kavian RAHMANI (36 Harry SHILLINGTON 71') – Subs not used: RGK James NIEUWENHUIZEN, 2 Harrison DELBRIDGE, 19 Zane SCHREIBER - Attendance: 6,029 - Referee: Shaun EVANS

21.3.2026

NPL-WA MEN’S WEEK FOUR REVIEW

It was a massive night for Stirling Macedonia, with the club celebrating their 40th anniversary at Macedonia Park, but traditional rivals Olympic Kingsway spoilt the party, securing a 1-0 win on Saturday evening, and moving to the top of the NPL WA table. “It was definitely our best performances of the season and we should have put some chances away to make it 4 or even 5-0,” Olympic striker Liam Boland said. “Nonetheless it’s a hard place to get three points and we have done that a couple of seasons in a row there now which is always nice over your rivals. We take a lot of positives from the match and we look forward to next week against Glory.”

Both sides had chances in an entertaining game, in front of a big crowd, but the only goal of the game can in the shadows of half time, and it was a great team goal. Daniel De Silva and Rob Harker combined on the edge of the box, with De Silva sending Tyler Garner down the left, and his low cross was turned home by Liam Boland. “Always a cracker of a game against Stirling, and I thought we dominated the ball and had the better chances throughout the game just lacked in front of goal,” Olympic defender Ollie Annis said. “Stirling created some good chances and got some great balls in the box, but we defended really well and saw out the game for a massive three points.”

Perth RedStar have moved up to third after a come-from-behind 2-1 win against Perth Glory at the RedStar Arena. “Really happy with our win today, I thought we were quite comfortable in the first half but a questionable penalty put us 1-0 down,” RedStar skipper Blair Govan explained. “We came out in the second half and put a lot more pressure on them, unfortunately we lost Luke Bodnar to a nasty leg break, but that really fired us up and we grabbed the two goals to win the game and could have had more. Fantastic attitude again from the whole team, but today’s win was for Bod’s. A top person and player who we will miss a lot.” Everyone at Footballwa hope Luke Bodnar has a speedy recovery.

The visitors opened the scoring four minutes from the break, after Tadiswa Mutyavaviri was bundled over in the box by Tom Hough and Riley Warland after a corner. It looked a little harsh, but Gabriel Popovic stepped up and sent Liam Reddy the wrong way from the resulting penalty. On 67 minutes a fifty-fifty challenge between Bodnar and Hayden Thomas, saw the former Glory and RedStar midfielder carried off the pitch on stretcher with a nasty injury. On replay’s it looked like the Glory player had gone in a little high, but the referee thought no cards were required. That lifted the hots, and four minutes later Bodnar’s replacement levelled. Warland sent Sonny O’Shea down the right, his cross wasn’t clear, the ball falling for Matthew George, who made no mistake.

Then seven minute later Callum Salmon’s side won it, Aaron Black brought down in the box by Max Argent, and the referee pointed to the spot. Gordon Smith stepped up and sent Jhett Warner the wrong way from the resulting penalty. “I thought the game was a tale of two halves. First half Glory shaded us and were marginally better, but I don’t think they deserved the lead and unsure what their penalty was for,” RedStar coach Callum Salmon explained. “I thought the second half we were excellent and there was only one team that was going to win, and could’ve scored 3 or 4. The tackle on Bodnar was a disgrace, unnecessary and he’s broken his leg. Will have surgery on Monday. On another note, I’d say the biggest hurdle and a concern to the Glory’s young player development was the inclusion of the A-League players yesterday, none of which performed better than our local, younger players sitting on the sidelines.”

Perth Azzurri are up to fifth, and made it back-to-back wins, after a 2-0 win against Balcatta Etna, in the Ferrari Cup clash at Dorrien Gardens. “It was another good win and it’s good to keep the momentum going,” Azzurri midfielder Michael Scafetta said. “Credit to the Azzurri fans who came down to support us, you guys made it the best atmosphere I’ve played in Perth for sure.” The hosts were coming off a 6-5 win against Armadale last week, a great game for the neutrals, but not coach Kenny Lowe, and he would have been delighted with his team start, taking the lead after only seven minutes. Ethan Banks’ cross from the left was flicked on Pieter Jacobsz, and Scafetta controlled the ball well before finishing clinically past Stefan Sotirovski. They doubled their lead 13 minutes later, when Banks’ free kick from the right was headed home at the back post by Jacobsz.

In the final game Fremantle City have spoilt Dianella White Eagles first home game in the top flight of WA football for 28-years, coming back to draw 1-1 at Dianella Reserve on Saturday evening. “Very frustrating draw, we definitely deserved more from the game having dominated possession and chances in the game,’ Dianella striker Albert Luwi said. “It was one of those games where we got punished in the end for not putting away our chances and not putting the game to bed early. We let Freo grow into the game late in the second half and they managed to secure a point. It was great to be back home after three away games but just unfortunate we couldn’t reward the special occasion with the win.”

The hosts, who last played in the Premier league in 1998, and they made a great start, taking the lead in controversial circumstances. A ball into the box by Miguel Restrepo was claimed by Fremantle keeper Luke Radonich, under pressure from Chris Saladris, and assistant linesman said he had carried it over the line, and referee Michal Jasinski didn’t spot a foul and allowed the goal. It looked like that would be the winner, but six minutes from time Fremantle levelled. Riley Woodcock’s free kick wasn’t cleared and substitute Lucas Rossi finished from close-range. “It was always going to be a tricky place to go tonight, and we knew we would be in for a tough game,” Fremantle’s Charlie Chechlacz said. “As expected, they started quick and we struggled to get going. We came out second half and we were much better and got the equaliser we deserved with the second half performance.”

21.3.2026

JOONDALUP CITY OPEN SEASON WITH WIN AT GWELUP

Our State League Division One week one ‘Match of the Round’ has seen Joondalup City leave the Croatian Sporting Complex, Wishart Street with a 3-1 win against Gwelup Croatia on Saturday afternoon. First half goals to Louis Hadfield, Luke Steer and skipper Liam Peacock took the game away from the hosts, and despite Callum Stocks pulling one back for the hosts before half time, Quinns held firm to leave with the points. “Happy with a great start to the season, especially away from home on a tough surface,” Joondalup coach Guy McDonald said. “The boys started really well, and we’re delighted to come away with three points.” Joondalup were ahead on 11 minutes, Hadfield picking off a loose pass, and racing into goal, his first shot was saved by Rocco Liberti, but his follow up shot found the net. It was 2-0 moments later, Reece Kral ball out wide found Harry Edwards, this after a great advantage played by the referee. some neat passing between Edwards and Steer saw the latter fire low past Liberti.

The hosts were shell shocked, but it got worse just after the half hour, when Joondalup added a third. Taiga Kobayashi’s free kick picked out Peacock, who got in front of his marker to head home from close-range. Gwelup found a lifeline in first half stoppage time, a free kick from the edge of the box by Jamie Sinnott was turned home by Stocks, with the Joondalup players looking for the offside flag, that never came. There were no goals after the break, and it was Joondalup heading back up the freeway with all three points. “It was a great start to the season for us. I thought we controlled the game from start to finish and played some good football at times,” Joondulup’s Liam Peacock said. “The new lads have settled in really well which was great to see. There are plenty of positives to take from the performance and things we can keep building on as the season goes on.”

Kingsley Westside have also won on the road, beating Inglewood United 2-0 at the Proto DPS Inglewood Stadium. “Very pleased to start the new season with three points,” Kingsley coach Benjamin Andrews said. “We knew after playing Inglewood in the night series how difficult of a game it would be, but credit to our lads for digging in and ensuring we started the season with a positive result.” The hosts, who finished in their highest position in the league ever last season, were ahead in this one, on 26 minutes. A quick clearance from keeper Isaac Driessen caught Inglewood napping, and Max Adamson raced clear and finished clinically past Jordan Barbas. It was 2-0 eight minutes later, a ball down the line saw Adamson beat Rostyn Griffiths and race in to goal and he finished with aplomb past Barbas, which sealed the game.

Cockburn City and Murdoch University Melville have shared the spoils, after a 2-2 draw at Dalmatinac Park, the visitors coming back from two goals down. “A draw was a fair result, we were extremely slow out of the blocks and Cockburn took advantage to go two up,” MUMFC coach Marc Anthony said. “Gustavo scored a great goal to get us back in it and I thought for 30 minutes in the second half we looked like going on to win it, but Cockburn and ourselves had chances to win it in the end.” The hosts, who were promoted from Division Two last season, were ahead on 16 minutes, James Bourne pouncing on a loose pass to fire home superbly from the edge of the box. They doubled their lead four minutes later, Isaac Mcvittie raced down the right, cut inside his marker and crossed to Bourne who guided his header past Duncan Lennon-Black.

Cockburn were back in the game eight minutes before half time, Gustavo Giron Marulanda picked the ball on the left, and his mazy run took him past several defenders, before rounding the keeper to score a great individual goal. The visitors earned a point 16 minutes from time, substitute Laine Bathgate’s shot was well saved by Ben Radonich, but Marulanda was quickest to the rebound to score. “Really pleased with the performance, the energy, and the will to win from the boys right up until the final whistle,” Cockburn coach Kenny Palmer explained. “Playing against MUM FC is always a good marker of where you are at. They are a well-coached team with quality individuals. We had periods of dominance throughout the game but a draw was probably a fair result with both teams creating chances to snatch the win in the final minutes.”

In the late game add the other promoted club Quinns secured a 2-0 win against Curtin University at Edinburgh Oval-Green Promo Park on Saturday evening. “I felt we were good value for the three points, and it was a hard-working team performance from the boys bouncing back from the defeat in the cup last week,” Quinns coach Nick Jennings explained. “It wasn’t a fluent free flowing game of football, but a victory full of character and commitment and a winning mentality a great way to start the league program.”

Quinns were ahead on seven minutes, Chad Samuels’ cross from the left was headed home by Shaun Doherty. The hosts struggled in the final third, with only one shot in the first half, but they improved after the break, but couldn’t find the equaliser. But Quinns sealed the points in stoppage time, a quick break saw Liam Hunt send the speedy Samuels clear, and he rounded the keeper and rolled the ball home. Curtin had a chance to pull one back moments later, when substitute Alfie Bryant was brought down in the box by Paul Grant, and referee David Bruce pointed straight to the spot. Nathan Smith stepped up to take the resulting penalty, but Conall Power guessed the right way to save.

21.3.2026

ASHFIELD SPOILS NORTH BEACH DEBUT

North Beach first game in the State League has ended in defeat, going down narrowly 1-0 to Ashfield in our State League week one ‘Match of the Round’ at the Ashfield Arena on Saturday afternoon. It was a first game in charge of Ashfield for Malcom Tshuma, and he was delighted to start his tenure with three points. “It was tough conditions today, but I thought we adapted and controlled the game for large periods,” he explained. “Ashfield haven’t won a first game of the season for some time, so it’s quite pleasing to have broken that streak and picked up three points today. Job done and our focus quickly turns to Balga next week.”

The only goal of the game came on the hour mark, Blake Pritchard picked the ball up from midfield, and his mazy run beat three players before a low cross found Alex Pozhar at the back post who tapped it home. North Beach coach Nick Di Carlo said it wasn’t there day. “Today wasn't the State League debut we were hoping for, so it's a tough one to walk away from given how we felt we had prepared leading up to this first fixture,’ he explained. “Ashfield were energetic across the pitch for 90 minutes which we didn't match for long enough periods. We just couldn't get into our usual rhythm today for the occasion, but will learn a lot from this experience moving forward as a unit and focus immediately to next week.”

Morley Windmills have made a successful return to State League football, beating East Perth 3-1 at Wotton Reserve, and coach John O’Reilly said his squad was tested today, but they came through with flying colours. “I was happy with the squad performance today, good to start the season with three points,” he said. “With some injuries to key players in the game, the players that came off the bench added value to what we wanted to achieve, so I’m delighted with the win.” The hosts found the opener on 34 minutes, Luke Salmon brought down in the box, and he picked himself up to score the resulting penalty. But East Perth were level moments later with an own goal. Morley regained the lead 18 minutes from time, Brennan Borzecki was found on the right, and he hit the ball back across the keeper and into the net. They sealed the points in stoppage time with a third, substitute Noel Disha cutting in from the right and firing past Azarl Tanveer from distance. The visitors finished the game with ten-men, after Owen Paterson was shown a second yellow card and sent off.

Wembley Downs have secured a hard fought 2-1 win against Balga at Butlers Reserve. The side hit the front on 37 minutes, Louis Carlish crossed into the box, where the Balga keeper Noah Boulaye came out at full stretch but could only parry into the path of Callum McLeod who finished at the back post. They added a second early in the second half, a cross into the box from right was claimed by Boulaye, but he clattered into his own defender which caused a spill, and Joshua Waldock took the ball on his chest and volleyed it home. But five minutes later Wembley were reduced to ten men, after Ryuya Kuroyanagi was sent off. Balga looked to make their numerical advantage count, and they reduced the margin in the final minute, with Ilya Nebylytsya turning the ball home after a goalmouth scramble, but it was too little too late. “A great team performance especially going down to ten men for the final 35 minutes,” Wembley coach Luke Thompson said. “Our hard work and mentality really showed against a quality outfit in Balga, who will be right near the top come the end, I’m sure.”

Rockingham City have continued their good preseason form, returned home with all three points from Willetton Reserve, after a 3-1 win against Canning City. “Good to get the first three points in the board, I thought we were a little rusty, but we grew into the game and had a better second half to get us over the line,” Rockingham coach Matthew Brook explained. “Credit to Canning they made it hard for us and we’re always dangerous, they will do well this year. We move onto next week looking to step up our performance another level.” Rockingham found the opener in the shadows of half, Brian Paterson strike from distance took a deflection and ended up in the top corner. They doubled their lead early in the second half, Will Hayes pouncing on miscommunication between Canning players, who raced into goal and slid it under the keeper. The points were wrapped up 18 minutes from time, a corner was flicked on, and Shaun Mukwevho tapped it in at the back post. Substitute Hanani Ndebele pulled one back for the hosts late, but the damage had already been done.

Carramar Shamrock Rovers beat Kalamunda City 3-1 at Grandis Park, and Jackson Dongray said it’s a perfect start to the new season. “We knew we’d be in for a challenge today, and credit to the Kalamunda boys they made us work hard for it,’ he said. “But very pleased with the effort everyone put in today, just disappointing to concede one late.” The hosts made the break through after Jack Reilly broke clear and a quick counter attack and he squared it nicely for Nathan Diaz to finish clinically. It was 2-0 when Wesley Casimir converted from the spot, before a stunning third for Lewis Jonas. He picked the ball in his own half and went on a solo run before finishing well past Jake Maley-Orr. Kalamunda did pull one back, after Rovers’ defender Aidan O'Donnell put the ball in his own net.

In the final game Forrestfield United have won the local derby, beating Gosnells City 2-0 at Luxwin Stadium, Hartfield Park. The hosts found the opener on 15 minutes, a throw was flicked on by Nathan Costello which found Jung-Bin Lim, his shot on the turn was saved by Andrew Craggs but Noah Appleby fired home the rebound. They sealed the points on the hour, Costello heading home. “Really pleased with the result. We knew it wouldn't be easy as none of the games in this league are, but I feel we were definitely deserved the win, as we had more control of the game and a lot more chances, but Gosnells were tough defensively,” Forrestfield coach Daryl Platten explained. “I asked the boys for three points and a clean sheet and they went about their business well. A good start to the season and now we focus on another local derby against Kalamunda next week.”

21.3.2026

GLORY SLIP OUT OF TOP SIX AFTER STALEMATE AGAINST MARINERS

Perth Glory have slipped out of the top six, and missed the opportunity to strengthen their finals push, after being held to a 0- draw by Central Coast Mariners in the week 21 Ninja A-League clash at Sam Kerr Football Centre on Saturday afternoon. So, it means with two games remaining, Glory sits in seventh place, but only one point out of the six, and face a crunch game next week away at sixth placed Brisbane Roar.

“Today’s game felt like a final for both teams who are pushing for the top six,” Gloey’s skipper Isobel Dalton said post-match. “We had a bit of momentum in the first half, but needed to tidy it up in the final third, and we were giving the ball away cheaply and not taking clear cut chances. We have to keep on doing what we’ve been doing, we had a lot of possession out there today, but need to more tidy and more clinical in the final third.”

Glory made three changes to the side from that lost in Adelaide last week, with Mischa Anderson replacing the suspended Onyinyechi Zogg, while Olivia Wood come in for her first start for the club in place of Natalie Tatham. Georgia Cassidy also returned for Charlie wainwright, who dropped to the bench. Also on the bench was Ella Abdul Massih, making a welcome return from injury. While in the Mariners’ starting lineup was former Perth Azzurri defender Baxter Thew. The visitors had the best opportunity in a tight opening, and former Glory striker Mille Farrow was unable to nudge home from close-range on 20 minutes.

At the other end moments later, Rola Badawiya fired narrowly wide after being picked out by Ella Lincoln. Both sides had late chances in the first half, Teresa Morrissey made a smart save to deny Tamar Levin’s long-range effort, before Mariners’ custodian Annalee Grove got down well to push away Dalton’s free kick, but it was a frustration first half, and the game was in the balance.

The visitors were on the front foot after the break, and Peta Trimis dragged a shot wide of the target early, before Elizabeth Barwick-Grey nodded over the top from a Levin corner, when well placed. Glory hit back Gabby Hollar headed wide from Emma Tovar’s corner, as both sides pressed for the opener. Levin was a real handful and she was denied again by Morrissey again on 71 minutes, the Glory custodian tipping her shot over the top.

From the resulting corner the Mariners went closer, Glory failed to clear their lines, and in the goalmouth scramble Levin’s effort hits the bar. The home faithful thought they had the lead on 85 minutes, Dalton’s low cross found substitute Sarah O’Donoghue, but her goalbound shot was deflected away after some desperate defending from the Mariners. The hosts had one final chance in stoppage time, but Abdul Massih’s free kick was wide of the target, and both sides had to settle for a point.

Perth Glory: GK Teresa MORRISSEY, 2 Mischa ANDERSON, 3 Emma TOVAR, 5 Grace JOHNSTON, 6 Tijan MCKENNA, 8 Georgia CASSIDY (19 Sarah O’DONOGHUE 64'), 9 Gabby HOLLAR (27 Charli WAINWRIGHT 64'), 16 Olivia WOOD (20 Ella ABDUL MASSIH 76'), 17 Rola BADAWIYA (7 Megan WYNNE 76'), 23 Isobel DALTON, 25 Ella LINCOLN (28 Clancy WESTAWAY 88') – Subs not used: RGK Jessica SKINNER

Central Coast Mariners: GK Annalee GROVE, 3 Elizabeth BARWICK-GREY, 4 Baxter THEW, 6 Isabel GOMEZ, 7 Avaani PRAKASH, 9 Millie FARROW (21 Eliza FAMILTON 69'), 10 Tamar LEVIN (17 Jynaya DOS SANTOS 89'), 13 Kaiya BUCHANAN, 14 Greta KRASZULA, 22 Peta TRIMIS (12 Tiana FULLER 69'), 23 Lorena BAUMANN – Subs not used: RGK Sophia VARLEY, 16 Tess QUILLIGAN, 19 Jaya BOWMAN - Attendance: 793 - Referee: Sophie ALLUM

21.3.2026

MAIKA HAMANO’S STUNNING LEAVES MATILDAS HEART BROKEN IN ASIAN CUP FINAL

A superb goal from Japanese winger Maika Hamano has left the Matildas and the 74,397-crowd, the highest in the tournament’s history, heartbroken, the Tottenham Hotspurs star sealing a 1-0 win at the Sydney Olympic Stadium on Saturday evening and giving them a third Asian Cup Final win. Australia had their chances, but were wasteful in front of goal, and despite the loss, Matildas Head Coach Joe Montemurro said it was a brave performance, but not to be. “I’ve got 26 warriors out there that for 21 days, have been absolutely fantastic,” he said.

“They've understood our game plan. They've understood our approach. Sometimes, things fall for you. Sometimes they don't. But I think for us, this has been an excellent journey. We played top teams, and that's what we wanted. We wanted to test ourselves against top teams and our ability to attack in tournament football. But tonight was a real testament for me personally, because some of the things we're trying to instil happened tonight against probably one of the best teams in the world.”

The coach said they couldn’t find target, and their profligacy in front of goal cost them, said sometimes, that’s what happens. “In other games, we had two or three chances, and we scored two,” he said. “Today, I think we created probably more chances than we had all tournament and didn't score. So how do you fix that efficiency in the moment, having the coldness to put the ball in the back of the net. But this tournament has been really important in terms of finding the way when the team's probably not performing well, or there might be a negative result from that perspective.

“That’s the biggest learning for us. I think we embarked on a process to say, okay, what are the best teams in the world doing, and where do we need to be? One of those things is the discussions we've had many, many times about keeping the ball – we have to control our situation and our destiny. From a technical perspective, we need to mould that with our physicality and our mentality, so we need to find that balance, and I think we'll be in good stead. We need to understand where we are, technically, and how we can complete technically. Our mentality is good, and our physicality is good. We need to understand those things, and they're the areas I'm trying to introduce.”

Montemurro made one change to the starting eleven that defeated China in the semi-final., with Winonah Heatley replacing Clare Hunt in the heart of the defence. It was a bright opening from the Matildas and Sam Kerr’s shot was saved by Ayaka Yamashita, before Matry Fowler played in Caitlin Foord, but the Arsenal striker shot lacked power to beat the Japanese custodian. But after their bright start, the Matildas were stunned on 17 minutes, with Japan scoring. Hamano received the ball wide on the left, and she darted inside and finished with a plomb, past the outstretched arm of Mackenzie Arnold.

The home side were almost gifted an equaliser just after the half hour, the quick-thinking Foord nicked the ball from Yamashita as she played out, but Foord’s shot from the angle was wide of the target. Japan was dangerous on the counter attack and Kyra Cooney-Cross made a great block before half time, as they looked for a second, but in stoppage time it was the Matildas with the final chance of the half, Kerr made space down the right and the Chelsea striker’s cross picked out Foord, but her shot was straight at Yamashita.

Japan went close to a second ten minutes into the second half, with Riko Ueki’s shot stinging the palms of Arnold. Then down the other end Kaitlyn Torpey effort flash wide after combining with Foord, before Foord’s low cross found Hayley Raso, but some great defending by Everton defender Hikaru Kitagawa denied her. The Matildas ramped up their pressure late, but the Japan defence were not to be beaten, Emily van Egmond, Ellie Carpenter and Torpey all having efforts blocked.

The final chance fell to Allanna Kennedy in the final minutes, but her header was well saved by Yamashita. It wasn’t to be for the Matildas, but they gave it their all, but Japan held firm. A devastated Foord blamed herself for Australia’s defeat post-match. “We had such an amazing opportunity to do something special, and I take a lot of responsibility (for the loss),” she said. “I had three really, really good chances and I need to do better. It definitely hurts.”

Australia: GK Mackenzie Arnold, 3 Winonah Heatley, 7 Steph Catley, 8 Kaitlyn Torpey, 9 Caitlin Foord, 11 Mary Fowler (10 Emily van Egmond 83'), 14 Alanna Kennedy, 19 Katrina Gorry (16 Hayley Raso 64’), 20 Sam Kerr, 21 Ellie Carpenter, 23 Kyra Cooney-Cross (6 Clare Wheeler 84') – Subs not used: RGK Morgan Aquino, RGK Chloe Lincoln, 2 Courtney Nevin, 4.Clare Hunt, 5 Jamilla Rankin, 13 Alex Chidiac, 15 Kahli Johnson, 17 Amy Sayer, 22 Michelle Heyman, 24 Charlize Rule, 25 Holly McNamara, 26 Remy Siemsen

Japan: GK Ayaka Yamashita, 4 Saki Kumagai, 5 Hana Takahasi, 6 Toko Koga, 7 Hinata Miyazawa, 9 Riko Ueki (20 Manaka Matsukubo 57’), 10 Fuka Nagano, 13 Hikaru Kitagawa (21 Miyabi Moriya 83'), 14 Yui Hasegawa (3 Moeka Minami 83'), 15 Aoba Fujino, 17 Maika Hamano (25 Remina Chiba 75’) – Subs not used: RGK Akane Okuma, RGK Chika Hirao, 2 Risa Shimizu, 8 Kiko Seike, 11 Mina Tanaka, 16 Yuzuki Yamamoto, 18 Honoka Hayashi, 19 Momoko Tanikawa, 24 Yui Narumiya, 26 Maya Hijikata

20.3.2026

ARMADALE AND SORRENTO SHARE THE SPOILS

Our New Balance NPLWA – Men’s Week Four ‘Match of the Round’ has seen Armadale and Sorrento play out a 1-1 draw at Alfred Skeet Reserve on Saturday evening. Leigh Griffiths gave the hosts the lead early, and they dominated, but Sorrento hit back after the break and Kyunghwan Kim levelled 11 minutes into the second half. The Gulls were reduced to ten men 13 minutes from time, but Armadale couldn’t find the winner, and it was Sorrento keeper Ben Ratajczak who denied them, producing a stunning save late to deny Abraham Mathet.

Armadale coach John Baird said it felt like two points lost, after a good performance. “I felt the boys did really well and should’ve won the game to be honest,” Baird said post-match. “We hit the bar and their best player was the keeper. But it’s our first point on the board, although it feels like a loss because how well we played, but we have to take the positives and push on to next week.’

Both sides went into this one looking for their first wins of the season, and it was Armadale who dominated early and they were rewarded with the opener on eight minutes. Former Sorrento keeper David Keenan’s long clearance was misjudged by David Stokoe, and Griffiths’ clinical first time shot found the net. They went close to a second moments later, with Hamza Hina firing over the top from the edge of the box. The hosts were well in control and on 13 minutes Craig Barker saw his shot crash off the post, before Hamish van Dieken’s overhead kick was straight at the keeper.

The hosts lost Emerson Alexis with an injury shortly after 22 minutes, and he was replaced by Jai Rawling. They continued to dictate terms and Griffiths shot flashed inches wide moments later, and on 35 minutes Kyle Murray’s cross from the left picked out Mathet and his first time shot hit the outside of the woodwork. Griffiths was denied again four minutes later, after his free kick was pushed around the post by the alert Ratajczak. Sorrento’s best chances came late, Will Richards’ corner was headed just over the top by Jakub Prajza, but at the break it was the hosts with a narrow advantage.

Sorrento started on the front foot after the break, and should have levelled in the second minute. Prajza sending the lively Clay Gibbs down the right, he raced into the box but Keenan stood tall to save. Moments later an under hit back pass was cleared under pressure by the Armadale custodian. It was the Gulls on top now and Luke Christie’s snap shot was saved by Keenan, and their early pressure was rewarded with the equaliser on 56 minutes. A quick break by Gibbs down the right, and his cross was turned into the path of Kim, who made no mistake past Keenan. Armadale settled and went close to regaining the lead, great work down the right by Mathet, his low cross was turned just wide by Cherno Bah.

Hina’s shot on the run flew over the top, before Craig Barker couldn’t keep his volley down, as the hosts pressed for the winner. Sorrento were then reduced to ten men on 77 minutes, with referee Steven Grogory showing a second yellow card for a late tackle on Mathet. The host then laid siege on the Sorrento goal and the home faithful thought they had found it five minutes from time. Rawling’s cross from the right picked out Mathet at the back post and his header was superbly saved by Ratajczak. Then in stoppage time Griffiths shot from the edge of the box was deflected over the top, and from the resulting corner Cameron Murray head over the top, but at the final whistle both sides had to settle for a share of the spoils.

Sorrento coach Andres Oliveira said he was proud of his sides fighting spirit on the night. “Armadale came out flying in the first 20 minutes, but once we settled, I felt we took control of the game and started to play on our terms,” Oliveria said post-match. “The sending off naturally put us under pressure and forced us to defend deeper than we wanted, but the boys showed real character. I’m proud of the way they dug in, stayed together, and showed genuine fighting spirit to make sure we came away with a point.”

Armadale: GK David Keenan, 3 Charlie Garnham, 7 Hamza Hina, (9 Scott Morrison 72’), 8 Hamish Van Dieken, 10 Craig Barker, 11 Leigh Griffiths, 12 Cameron Murray, 14 Abraham Mathet, 19 Emerson Alexis (22 Jai Rawling 22’), 20 Cherno Bah (29 John Baird 78’), 77 Kyle Murray – Subs not used: RGK Alfie Brincat, 23 Ryder Morrow

Sorrento: GK Ben Ratajczak, 2 David Stokoe (20 Zachary Garcia 46’), 4 Manolo Veneracion, 5 Ronan Dowling, 7 Kyunghwan Kim, 10 Jakub Prajza, 11 Tim Hill (9 Connor Simpson 67’), 14 Luke Christie, 15 William Richards, 17 Dean Cummings, 19 Clay Gibbs – Subs not used: RGK Santiago Henao, 24 Christopher Niles, 32 Charlie McLeod – Referee: Steven Gregory

20.3.2026

WANNEROO CITY TO MEET NORTH PERTH UNTED IN AMATEUR NIGHT SERIES FINAL

The 2026 Amateur Premier League Night Series Final will see Wanneroo City take on North Perth United at Wanneroo Reserve next Sunday (7.30pm), after both won their semi-finals on Friday evening at the same venue. In the early game North Perth United sealed their place after a tense 8-7 win on penalties against Noranda Emerald, after coming from 0-2 down to draw 2-2 at full time, and coach Chris Batten said it was a great comeback win. “It was a very good contest in really tough conditions with the heat and humidity,” he said.

“I probably got the tactics a little wrong and we played a bit too defensive in the first half as we were very aware of how quick Emerald come out the gates and then found ourselves two goals down and hadn’t really kicked a ball. “We got the lads in and myself and Ian McLean (Keano) my new assistant sat the lads down and discussed a few things and make some changes tactically at half time. We let the lads just go out and play and the second half was some of the best football we’ve played all night series. Then in the lottery of penalties, and the lads held their nerve.

“It’s always a tough match against Emerald and it’s become a really good rivalry with them. Ger and Shane are great lads so there’s always good banter with them. But my lads were brilliant on the night, not just the 11 but the whole squad with everyone contributing to a very good win. We are all buzzing with getting to the final where we will play Wanneroo. That has another level to it after Kev and Jason left NPU last year, it could be a spicy one. Will be very strange seeing them in the opposite dug out, but I’d love to get one over on them in the final.”

Emerald started well and were out of the blocks early, and Jack Stevenson gave them the lead on 18 minutes from the spot, after Conor Hogan was brought down in the box. They doubled their advantage two minutes later, with a great finish from Aaron McDaid. But North Perth pulled one back on the hour, new signing Micky Brennan raced down the wing, before getting to the by-line and cutting inside his marker, crossing to Yanich Jordan who volleyed home. North Perth made some changes at the right time and the fresh legs really gave them another level of intensity, and they found the equaliser in the final minute. A ball into the box came off Emerald defender Cathal Gaffney, the ball looping over Emerald keeper Gerard Doran and into the net. In the shootout North Perth keeper Luke O’Brien saved two penalties, and Eoin Haverty fired home the winner.

In the late game, hosts Wanneroo City were too strong for Kelmscott Roos, running out 7-0 winners. “It was great win last night, the boys were brilliant, and have done everything we've asked of them this preseason and they got the rewards tonight,” Wanneroo coach Jason Winter said. “We rotated again giving a couple lads there first start in nights and they did really well, but once we got the first goal we really settled into the game, but I think we were on top even before the goal. The final will be a great game against North Perth, they’ve got some good players, and hopefully we can get a big crowd down next Sunday night at the club.”

The hosts were on the front foot early and Jack Wilson’s rattled the crossbar early, but they hit the front when Jordan Rowe’s curling effort from the edge of the box found the corner of the net. They added a second before the break, with Sam Gammack finishing neatly past Taylor Warwick. The home side added a third after the break, when Charlie Reid raced clear down the right, after good work from Loris Tommolini, and he finished low past Warwick. Tommolini added a fourth with a clinical finish, before an own goal made it 5-0. Another stunner from Micheal Berlingeri made it 6-0, his rocket from the edge of the box going in via the crossbar, before Frankie Stammers round out the scoring, after being picked out by Jordan Cook.

20.3.2026

KNIGHTS AND BAYSWATER SHARE THE SPOILS

Week Four of the New Balance NPLWA – Men’s competition began on Friday evening, with leaders Western Knights coming home from Frank Drago Reserve with a hard-earned 0-0 draw against Bayswater City. The hosts were looking to bounce back from defeat at RedStar last week, while the Knights were hoping to continue their unbeaten start to the new season. Clear cut chances were few and far between in a tight first half. Chris Jackson and Luke Palmateer headed wide for the hosts, but the best fell to the visitors just before the break. A corner from Woonsub Sim was played back across goal by Aaron Pike to Justin Tang, who lifted his shot over the top.

It was more of the same after the break, both sides struggling in the final third. The game came to life late, and the Knights almost found the opener. First Pike’s low effort from the edge of the box was saved by Saldaris, before Sam Barry’s curling effort flashed just wide of the target. but the hosts should have taken the lead 12 minutes from time. A long clearance from Jason Saladaris wasn’t dealt with by the Knights, and Sean McManus played in substitute Charlie Burden-Whittletom, but with the goal at his mercy he fired wide of the target. There was still time for the Knights to take home the points, when former Bayswater winger Konstantinos Sparta fired wide after a quick counter attack. The visitors ended the game with ten men after Pike was sent off, after an off the ball incident with Ryan Inman, but the ten men held firm to take home a point.

Bayswater City coach Matthew Sparrow said they lacked composure in key moments. “It was a hard-fought game against a very good Knights side and, if I’m honest, one where we never really got into our rhythm. We were missing a number of key players, which disrupted us a bit, but I still thought the group showed good discipline and organisation defensively. We limited them to very little and looked solid as a unit throughout,” Bayswater coach Matthew Sparrow explained.

“With the ball, we just weren’t quite at it. We didn’t move it quickly enough, lacked a bit of sharpness and quality in the final third, and didn’t show the composure needed in key moments to really hurt them. On another day, with better execution, we probably find a way through. We’ve set very high standards over the past year and we expect to maintain that week in, week out, so there’s definitely disappointment to drop points at home, even against a side that came here top of the league. That said, it’s another clean sheet and a solid foundation, but we know there’s more to come from us.”

20.3.2026

LANGLEY AND O’BRIEN AT THE DOUBLE FOR ATHENA AND MANDURAH

In Friday night’s opening State League - Division One games Floreat Athena have begun life in Division One, with a 3-1 win against UWA Nedlands at E&D LitIs Stadium, while Mandurah City thrashed Subiaco AFC 5-1 at the Poolmart Mandurah Stadium. “Pleased to start the season with a win, against a side who will be right up there this season,” Floreat coach Alun Vernals said. “I thought it was a really good game of football, with both sets of players wanting to get the ball down and play, it was a good advertisement for state league football. It’s only week one, we now reset and look forward to the visit of Joondalup City next week.”

The teams had met in the Hahn Australia Cup last week, with UWA winning 4-3, but it was Floreat who found the opener on 16 minutes. Tom Wassholm’s corner wasn’t dealt with and Jordan Langley fired home from close-range. Floreat doubled their advantage five minutes into the second half. some neat exchange of passes ended with Wassholm, and with the UWA players looking for the offside flag, that never came, he finished low past UWA keeper Jim Collins.

UWA were back in the game on 63 minutes, a short corner caught Floreat napping, and Luke Salas’ cross from the right was headed home by Jacob Turner at the back post. it was game on, but Floreat settled and regained their two-goal lead seven minutes later. Wassholm was brought down by Joseph Roscoe and the referee pointed straight to the spot. Langley stepped up and sent Collins the wrong way from the resulting penalty to seal the win. Floreat will be at home against next Friday, when they host Joondalup City, while UWA make the trip to Gwelup Croatia.

Meanwhile Mandurah City produced a five-star show against Subiaco. The returning Joey O’Brien gave the Dolphins the lead on the half hour, and they lead by that goal at the break. Jordan Callaghan doubled their lead just after the hour mark, before O’Brien add his second, to make it 3-0. The points were secured 20 minutes from time with Charlie Breen adding a fourth, and eight minutes later Kris Zaluzinskis made it 5-0. Tomas Despotovski scored a late consolation goal for Subiaco, but it was too little too late.

Mandurah defender Harry Collins said it was perfect start to the season. “Buzzing with the performance from the lads tonight, against a well organised Subiaco side,” Collins said. “The boys worked hard and we got the perfect start to the season, and we are already looking ahead to the next game against Cockburn next week.”

20.3.2026

AZZURRI START THE NEW SEASON WITH A BANG

Perth Azzurri have started their defence of the New Balance NPLWA – Women’s title with a 6-0 win against UWA Nedlands at Dorrien Gardens on Friday evening. The hosts were coming off a loss in the Night Series Final last week against Balcatta Etna, while UWA were coming off a battling 1-1 draw with the Hyundai FW Academy. Striker Jessica Flannery said it was a perfect start to the new season. “It was such a great result to start the season with,” she said. “I think we all played really well as a team, and we had to stay patient and wait for a goal until the 45th minute without getting frustrated, which was a definitely positive.”

The visitors were well set-up and held firm for the first 43 minutes, but then the hosts found the opener with a stunner. Kimberly McCartney found Sam Mathers in the middle of the park, and the midfielder looked up and fired home superbly from distance, for an early contender for goal of the season. Then in stoppage time they found a second. Moments after Ruby Marshall’s shot had bounced off the crossbar, a UWA clearance only went out to Flannery on the right, and her cross shot beat Janina Sauer, to send the Azzurri into the sheds with a 2-0 lead.

The hosts had dominated the scoring opportunities in the first half, with 15 shots to just one for UWA, but the visitors were still in the game. The visitors need a good start after the break to find a way back into the game, but it was the hosts who added a third, five minutes into the second half, with Flannery’s looping header over Sauer for her second of the night. It was 4-0 on the hour, some neat build up play ended with Maja Archibald, whose shot from distance flew into the net. It was five moments later, when Mathers’ corner was headed home by Matilda Boehm. They completed the scoring on 78 minutes, Flannery winning possession on the left of the penalty area and crossing to substitute Ailsa Zindell, who swept the ball home.

20.3.2026

MATILDAS TAKE ON JAPAN IN AFC ASIAN CUP FINAL

Australia will be looking for their second AFC Asian Cup success on Saturday, when they take on two times winners Japan in the final at Sydney’s Olympic Stadium. (Kick off 5:00pm) Japan eased into the decider with goals from Riko Ueki, Maika Hamano, Saki Kumagai and Remina Chiba giving them a 4-1 win against South Korea on Wednesday evening, while goals from Catilin Foord and Sam Kerr saw the Matildas beat reigning Champions China in their semi-final at Optus Stadium on Tuesday. Ueki leads the Golden Boot race, with six goals, with Matildas midfielder Alanna Kennedy one behind.

This will mark the 31st meeting between the two sides since first playing each other back in 1984. The last meeting came in during the SheBelieves Cup in the USA at the start of 2025, with Japan recording a 4-0 victory to open their campaign, and eventually going on to lift the trophy after wins over Australia, Colombia and the USA. Japan have lifted the AFC Women's Asian Cup title two times, first in 2014 and last in 2018, where they beat Australia 1-0 in the final. This was the last time the CommBank Matildas were in the final of the tournament, after both Australia and Japan missed the showdown in the 2022 edition of the tournament.

There will be a familiar face in Japan's dugout, former CommBank Matildas player and assistant coach, Leah Blayney, who will be part of Nils Nielsen's side on the night. Nielsen's side had a successful run through the group stage, not conceding a goal and scoring 17 in the process. Their 7-0 Quarter-final win over the Philippines saw them qualify for the FIFA Women's World Cup 2027, and advance to the semi-final. Japan flexed their muscles once again in the semi-final, booking their place in the final, however, in the process, they conceded their first goal of the tournament.

This will be the third AFC Women's Asian Cup Final the two sides have met in, with the home side looking to inflict punishment on the disappointment they faced in 2014 and 2018. Australia have won the Women’s Asian Cup once – their only major title – at the 2010 edition in China, where the Matildas defeated North Korea 5-4 on penalties, with Sam Kerr, then 16 years old, scored the opening goal in that final. “I remember being in the change room before, which was not the most luxurious change room, and just pretending that I was so cool, so chill – but absolutely crapping my pants, smirking, laughing in the line up,” Kerr recalled.

“That is how I deal with my nerves. Singing the national anthem, (I was) still super nervous, then once the game started… I was quite unfit then as a kid. Looking at myself, I wasn’t the fittest athlete in the world, I wasn’t a mature athlete, I wasn’t the strongest so that game was seriously hard for me. I was pretty exhausted in the first half, I was, like, gone. I was just really happy to be there, and had no expectations. It’s so new, so fresh to me that I think I was just living in a little bit of a blur the whole tournament. We just kind of went with it. We were so naive, so many things went over our head and we had that kid mentality of like ‘whatever’. That mentality that you don’t actually care when you’re young helps so much.”

The skipper praised the fighting spirit of the team after their 2-1 semi-final victory over China, and had a message for the fans ahead of the all-important final on Saturday. “Everyone was just fighting for each other,” she said. “It takes everyone, and that was hard tonight. Everyone played their part, and that's what happens when the team sticks together. We’re very happy. We just have so much belief. Even with people saying we took the hard way, you saw the fight and the belief that we have in each other, and we're building up and getting better each game. The home crowd helps us a lot, so I think it's a perfect opportunity for us,” she said. “I know that we've got an amazing team. We’ll stick together, like we always do, with that ‘Never Say Die’ Matildas attitude. We need you guys. Pack the stadium. Be loud. Wear your jerseys.”

Japan coach Nils Nielsen insists Australia will be “massive favourites” in the final, but his team’s progress to the title match suggests otherwise, scoring 28 goals and conceding just one. “The Matildas really have an amazing team; they have adapted to whatever is coming their way,” Nielsen said. “They have a great coach … He hasn’t been here long, and he’s already made so many nice transforms. When they play in front of a crowd like this, Australia are big favourites for the final.”

Meanwhile, Australia’s head coach Joe Montemurro believes his side can do better than what they showcased against China in the gruelling semifinal. “We’re going to have to be better,” he said. “There’s a resilience that we have in our psyche. We need to be better with the ball; we need to be smarter and control tempo. They (Japan) seem to find solutions in whatever situations you throw at them. We have some ideas we think could be important, as much as they are a great team, they do have weaknesses. If we find some continuity and rhythm with the ball, we can do some good things in the game. We just have to make sure we are prepared in all phases. If we manage the moment well, we’ll do well in the game. There’s no favourite in the final. Setting the tone will be very important in any final. Then you can settle and manage the moments better. How we approach the first 10-15 mins, control our emotions, focus on the situations and what we’ve worked on.”

20.3.2026

FREMANTLE SKIPPER HOPES TO START THE SEASON ON A HIGH

The 2026 New Balance NPLWA – Women’s competition kicks off this weekend, although the there was a game in midweek, with Hyundai FW Academy bringing their week four game against UWA Nedlands forward, due to a number of their players will be away at the Nationals. Chloe Rodrigo gave the Academy the lead on the half hour, before UWA secured a point with half time substitute Milla Butler levelling 12 minutes from time.

On Sunday there is a repeat of the Third-Placed Night Series clash, with Perth RedStar making the trip to Hilton Park to take on Fremantle City (All games kick off at 3:00pm). The Port side were victories in that game, with goals from Lacey Heys, and Leyan Wood, giving them a 2-0 win, and skipper Annabelle Leek said Sunday will be another tough encounter. “We know we’ll have to be at our best on Sunday in order to get the season off to a good start,” the defender explained.

“This will be the third time we’ve played RedStar after playing them twice in Night Series already so we’re feeling very well prepared. There’s no doubt it’ll be a challenging game but there’s a real feeling of excitement and confidence within the team, and we hope to carry the momentum from our last game against them into this one.”

RedStar striker Renee Leota said they have been working hard in preseason and she is looking forward to see if they can execute what they have been working on. “We're really looking forward to Round one. It's always a fresh start and a good chance to set the tone for the season early,” she said. “Coming up against Freo again so soon after the night series gives both teams a bit of familiarity, but league football is a different challenge. We know they'll be organised and competitive, so for us it's about focusing on our standards, staying connected as a group, and executing what we've been working on.”

The week one fixtures begin tonight, with champions Perth Azzurri hosting UWA Nedlands at Dorrien Gardens. (7:00pm) Azzurri keeper Dayle Schroeder said she’s looking forward to Friday night football. “We’re good, we want to get started and show everybody what we are still capable of,” Schroder told the clubs media. “I love playing under lights, so I’m really excited for another Friday night game. We’ve worked a few scenarios at training this week, and making sure we don’t give them anything. We want to be really clinical, hit our targets and minimise our mistakes and working as a team.

“If we do that the result will take care of itself, and hopefully we can get a few more people down to watch the game.” The other games are on Sunday, with Night Series winners Balcatta Etna welcoming the FW Academy to the Home Group Stadium, Grindleford Reserve, while newly promoted Sorrento begin life in the league with a home game against Subiaco AFC at Percy Doyle Reserve.

20.3.2026

ARMY AND GULLS LOOK TO KICK START THEIR SEASON

It’s week four of the New Balance NPLWA Men’s competition, and most teams are on the board with a win this season, but our ‘Match of Round’ takes us to Alfred Skeet Reserve, as Armadale and Sorrento go in search of their first wins for the new season. (All games kick off at 3:00pm unless stated) The Gulls sit tenth, after gaining a point in their opening game against Glory, while the hosts have lost all three, and sit joint bottom of the table, but they showed good signs last week narrowly beaten by Azzurri in an 11-goal thriller, so it may be still early in the season, but this one is three vital points for both teams.

Last time they played at the venue was in week 20 last season, with Armadale securing a 4-2 win. The visitors made a great start Franco Villa giving them the lead, and the striker doubled their advantage on 20 minutes. But the hosts hit back after the break, Amir Ajan firing home, before Pieter Jacobsz levelled. The Gulls then had keeper Ben Ratajczak sent off, and from the resulting free kick Ajan curled home to give Armadale the lead, before substitute Joshua Willis sealed the points late.

New Armadale coach John Baird said they had played well in the last two games, against Bayswater and Azzurri, but came home empty handed. “Look of course it’s been frustrating start to the season so far, we expected a bit of pain before going forward as group, 19 new players into the squad but the performance Bayswater game I felt we deserved the points especially down to ten-men for an hour into the game,” he explained. “Saturday scoring five away from home is outstanding and very positive, but losing six is extremely frustrating to say the least. We need to get better as a defensive group as a team not solely on the defence it’s the team that we need to get better as and it will I’ve no doubt about it.”

New signing Leigh Griffiths and Abraham Mathet both scored twice last week, and Baird said the other players stepped up in front of goal, and he will be looking for more of the same against Sorrento. “Yes, Leigh getting two goals is very good, and same with Abraham also and Hamza getting his first of the season. I’m really pleased on how we’ve went about our business in the last two games, and certain things we’ll have to improve on quickly and we have a honest group and am sure they will,” the Scotsman said. “We’re at home on Saturday, and something I’m looking forward to. I know our game plan and what we’ll be looking to achieve and I know the players are in the same why of thinking.”

Like his Armadale counterpart, Sorrento coach Andres Oliveira said their last two games were good, but came away with nothing, but he believes they are heading in the right direction. “We’ve put together two very strong performances against Stirling and Dianella, so of course it’s frustrating to come away without anything to show for it especially losing in the second half,” he explained. “But the important thing is the level of football we’re playing is intent, the structure, and the chances we’re creating are all there. The group is heading in the right direction, and if we keep performing at that standard the results will turn.”

The return of skipper Dean Cummings has been a huge plus for the Gulls, the striker returning from injury, and he scored a stunner last week, but the coach said to conceded four was disappointing. “Yes, it was great to see Dean get on the scoresheet, he’s worked hard coming back from an injury,” Oliveira said. “But conceding four is never part of the plan, but we’re a new look side and we cannot get a consistent team due to injuries each week. Both of these issues will take time to gel. There are good signs in how we’re trying to play, now it’s about tightening the details and cutting out the moments that hurt us.”

They head on the road for the first time this season, but Oliveira knows both sides will desperate for their first wins of the season, so he’s expecting a tough game. “Armadale away is always a tough trip, and with both teams chasing their first win it sets up a big game,” he said. “For us, it’s a good opportunity to turn our performances into points. If we bring the same energy and quality we’ve shown in the first two rounds and add a bit more ruthlessness in both boxes, we give ourselves every chance of getting the result.”

The round starts on Friday evening when league leaders Western Knights makes the trip to Frank Drago Reserve to take on Bayswater City, who will be looking to bounce back from their first defeat of the season at RedStar last week (7:00pm) On Saturday afternoon Perth RedStar will hope to build on that win, when they host Perth Glory at the RedStar Arena. It’s the annual Ferrari Cup at Dorrien Gardens, when Perth Azzurri hosts Balcatta Etna (3:15pm) In the late games, fresh of their first win in the NPL at Sorrento last week, Dianella White Eagles will hope to make it back-to-back when they welcome Fremantle City to Dianella Reserve.

In the final game we have a repeat of the Night Series Final at Macedonia Park, where Stirling Macedonia entertain Olympic Kingsway (6:00pm) It’s a massive weekend for the hosts, as they celebrate their 40th anniversary at the ground. It kicks off Saturday with all three NPL teams playing, while their will be a game between the club’s legends, with some of the club’s best players involved. There is entertainment and food trucks throughout the weekend, so it should be a great way to celebrate 40 years of football, culture and community at Macedonia Park.

20.3.2026

JOONDALUP READY FOR 2026 AFTER LAST SEASON’S PLAYOFF DISAPPOINTMENT

The 2026 State league Division One starts this weekend, and it looks like being one of the closest fought campaigns for many a season, with many teams hoping for promotion to the NPL. Our Week One ‘Match of the Round’ involves two sides who are among those sides, as Gwelup Croatia entertain Joondalup City at the Croatian Sporting Complex on Wishart Street. (All games kick off at 3:00pm, unless stated) The visitors were one game away from promotion last season, beaten in the playoff final against Fremantle, and they will hope to start the new season with a win.

Meanwhile, Gwelup, who won the Third-Placed Playoff in the recent Night Series, will be trying to return to the NPL for the first time since 2022, so this should be a great opening game of the season. The last time the sides met in the league at the venue was in week ten last season, when Joondalup left with all three points after a 1-0 win. It was a game both sides had their chances, but it was Joondalup who took the decisive one six minutes from time. A quick throw in found Callum Stocks, who played the ball to Eddie Wilcock who got to the by-line and crossed to Jayden Rowles, who fired low past Rocco Liberti.

Joondalup will be looking for a good start to the season, after missing out in the play-off final last season, and coach Guy McDonold said last season is forgotten, and they are ready for another big one this season. “Our preseason has been really positive. We have a few new lads in, so the focus has been integrating them into the squad and making sure they understand how we want to play,” he said. “Last year is gone, we are fully focused on this season and making sure we compete every single week.

“First and foremost, there isn’t one weak side in this league, and if you don’t compete every week, more than likely you will drop points. So, the preseason is finally done, and we’re looking forward to Saturday game against Gwelup. It’s always a tough competitive contest between the two of us, but we are ready and hungry for three points, it should be a good game.”

Gwelup coach Basil Lenzo said preseason has been OK at the club, and a third placed finish was pleasing, but he played a number of younger players, which was good heading into a new season. “Yes, it was an OK preseason, and we were able to play a few of the younger lads which was pleasing,” he explained. “Whilst it was nice to finish third, our Night Series was inconsistent. Like many coaches, we want to get in a habit of winning, however focus on getting ready for the first game of the season was paramount.”

The club have added some quality to their squad for the new season, and Lenzo said they need to be at the best each week, with the talented teams in the league this season, starting with Joondalup City this weekend. “What a season it’s going to be with some powerhouse names in the State League, everyone focuses on themselves and we are no different,’ he explained. “No one game is easy and it’s about bringing your very best every week. To do that, we needed some additional depth and that’s what we did.

“There are good teams who have gone pretty hard in recruitment which is kudos to them and good for our league, and I’m prepared to say that I think 2026 may see two teams actually go up. We start against Joondalup, who are always up for a tough game. They are well organised and a play a direct style. We are all excited and look forward to opening up with three points, and know that it will have to be done with hard work.”

In other games in week one, Floreat Athena welcome UWA Nedlands to E&D Litus Stadium on Friday evening, in a repeat of last week’s Hahn Australia Cup tie, which UWA won 4-3 (7:00pm) Also on Friday evening Subiaco AFC head up the Kwinana Freeway to take on Mandurah City at the Poolmart Mandurah Stadium. (7:30pm) On Saturday Inglewood United host Kingsley Westside at Proto DPS Inglewood Stadium, the club will be honouring former Life Member, John Nemeth who sadly passed away. Newly promoted Cockburn City welcome Murdoch University Melville to Dalmatinac Park, while the other promoted side Quinns hit the road to take on Curtin University in the late game at Green Promo Park at Edinburgh Oval. (5:00pm)

20.3.2026

A MASSIVE DAY FOR NORTH BEACH AS THEY MAKE THEIR STATE LEAGUE DEBUT AT ASHFIELD

It’s a huge day for North Beach on Saturday afternoon, the club playing their first State League game, and they feature in our Division Two Week One ‘Match of the Round’ when they visit the Ashfield Arena to take on Ashfield. (All games kick off at 3:00pm) Nick Di Carlo’s side won the promotion playoff last season, sending Swan United out of the league, after finishing runners-up in the Belt Up Amateur Premier Division. It’s been a tough job to get the club ready for State League football but the coach said they have worked hard in the preseason, and they are ready to go.

“We’re really excited to kick off season 2026 in a new era for the club in State League. It's been a massive preseason transitioning from Amateurs which has had its challenges along the way, but we've been working hard on and off the field as a unit and are really happy with where we have ended up going into Round One,” Di Carlo explained. “We are under no illusions of the step up in difficulty we will be facing over 22 rounds, but are also confident on our day we will be able to match it with the best.”

They face a difficult start to the new season, having to play their first four games on the road, and it starts at Ashfield on Saturday, and De Carlo said they can’t wait to get started. “We are really pleased with the squad we have put together across the off season. The difficulty is integrating new players into a club culture whilst improving the overall team with experience,” he said. “A lot of the work has been identifying not only quality players, but quality people.

“And I think we've certainly done that over the last few months and the new faces have added tremendous value. We will be treating every game this season as a challenge that will require us to be at our best to walk away with a result, and that starts at Ashfield this week. Not being at home for the first four weeks will be a real test of resilience amongst the squad, but something we can't wait to get started.”

It’s a new challenge for new Ashfield coach Malcom Tshuma, and he’s been pleased how things are going heading into the new season. “We’ve had a solid preseason and I’m happy with the output from the players,” he said. “The players have had to adapt to my ideas and I’ve had the chance to learn about them as footballers and people and overall, I’m quite pleased with how preseason has gone. We enter Round One with a full bill of health which is important.”

They come up against the newly-promoted North Beach in the opener, and Tshuma said he is looking forward to the new challenge and seeing what his new look squad can produce. “I think we assembled a squad that will represent the type of football Ashfield wants to play moving forward,” the coach explained. “This is a total rebuild so you will probably see our best football as the season progresses.

“I’m fully confident in my players and hopefully we can deliver a brand of football that will get people coming down to watch Ashfield again. It’s important we focus on the game ahead and not the occasion. Winning or losing the first game won’t define our season by any stretch. It’s important we stick to our game plan and adapt within the game where we have to. It’s never easy playing the newly promoted side first up but it’s an exciting challenge and one we’re looking forward too. We will be ready.”

In the other games in the opening week, Morley Windmills return to the State League, after also winning in the promotion playoffs last season, and they entertain East Perth at Wotton Reserve. The two clubs who were relegated last season start on the road, Kalamunda City travel to Grandis Park to take on Carramar Shamrock Rovers, while Gosnells City meet Forrestfield United in the local derby at Luxwin Stadium, Hartfield Park. Wembley Downs welcome Balga to Butlers Reserve, while in the final game Rockingham City head to Willetton Reserve to take on Canning City.

20.3.2026

TIMMINS READY FOR CITY CLASH

It’s been a frustrating season for Perth Glory midfielder Callum Timmins, after returning for a third spell at the club, with injuries curtailing his appearance for his hometown club, but he hopes to make emends in the last five games of the season as they press for a finals berth. They start that on Sunday, when they welcome Melbourne City to HBF Park in the week 22 clash in the Isuzu Ute A-League on Sunday afternoon. (4:00pm) “Yes, it’s not been the season I’d have hoped for returning to the club, it’s been stop and start,” he explained. But I’ve to focus on the next couple of games, do my best for the club, and we’ll see what happens.

“Anything can happen on this league, we have to take it step by step, and we get a result this week, who knows what can happen. We still think we can get in the finals, and there is a lot of belief in the squad. I’m looking forward to playing at HBF Park again, and our 12th man, the fans. It’s important they get behind us to help us make that finals spot.”

The English-born midfielder said the two-game trip to New Zealand was a good bonding experience for the squad, but the loss against Wellington had put a dampener on the trip. “We got a good point against one of the stronger teams in competition (Auckland), and we could have won it I thought,” the former Newcastle Jets midfielder said. “But the game in Wellington we let ourselves down and the performance was flat, and it’s made the lads more eager to make up for it this week against City. We have to improve after our performance in Wellington, and that’s what Griff and the players have emphasized at training.”

Glory sits second-bottom on the ladder, but still can play finals football, but need to win all their games and hope the other teams around them slip up. Sunday’s visitors Melbourne City are one those teams in the final mix, they sit in seventh place, but only three points ahead of Adam Griffiths side, and they will be buoyed after a big win in Sydney in midweek. Griffiths he is looking for a response from his chargers, after a poor performance in Wellington.

“The performance against Auckland was what we expect, and when I look back at that performance, I felt it was a nice building block going into the Wellington game and unfortunately it did not end up the way we wanted it to,’ Griffiths explained. “We wanted four points minimum out of the trip and we didn’t get that. I was very disappointed with the performance [against Wellington] and we need to rebound and respond back here at home in front of our fans. The Glory fans deserve a big performance and that’s been the message this week. We want a response, there’s still a big opportunity and we need to focus upon our performance first, and a big strong performance normally results in a win.”

The last time City headed West was in week four last season, and it’s a game many Glory supporters will want to forget, the visitors leaving with a comprehensive 5-0 win. A first half brace from Steven Ugarkovic set City on their way, with second half goals from Austrian midfielder Andreas Kuen, Israeli striker Yonatan Cohen and Albanian striker Medin Memeti sealed the rout. Griffiths is expecting the City Boys to be up for the clash, after the big win against Sydney FC, and he knows it will be a very competitive game, like playing finals football.

“They’ve been up and down, but they’re a very strong team, and they just brought four key players into their team during the January transfer window,” Griffiths said, “They just had a really strong win against Sydney FC, but every team is beatable on their day and as a coaching group and a club, we’re expecting a big performance from our boys. I’m expecting a very competitive game, they’re a physical team who are good in transition and are very dangerous, but we want to take the game to them.”

In team news Trent Ostler’s season is over, after the midfielder broke his jaw in two places, while Adam Taggart returns after injury, but unfortunately Tom Lawrence’s foot injury will keep the Welshman out again. There is a return to the squad for Gabriel Popovic and Seb Despotovski, who missed the two-games in New Zealand, but who was in sparkling form in the NPL over that time.

Perth Glory Squad: GK Matt SUTTON, GK Ryan WARNER, 2 Charbel SHAMOON, 3 Sam SUTTON, 4 Scott WOOTTON, 7 Nicholas PENNINGTON, 8 Callum TIMMINS, 9 Jaiden KUCHARSKI, 16 Gabriel POPOVIC,17 Arion SULEMANI, 18 Luca TEVERE, 19 Josh RISDON, 22 Adam TAGGART, 23 Anthony DIDULICA, 24 Andriano LEBIB, 25 Seb DESPOTOVSKI, 27 Will FRENEY, 39 Gio DE ABREU, 45 Brian KALTAK, 67Stefan COLAKOVSKI - *Two to be omitted* - Ins: POPOVIC, TAGGART, DESPOTOVSKI - Unavailable: GK Cameron COOK, 6 Brandon O’NEILL, 11 Lachlan WALES, 20 Trent OSTLER, 31 Joel ANASMO, 34Tom LAWRENCE (All Injured)

Melbourne City squad: GK Patrick BEACH, GK James NIEUWENHUIZEN, 2 Harrison DELBRIDGE, 4 Liam BONETIG, 8 Ryan TEAGUE, 11 Elbasan RASHANI, 13 Nathaniel ATKINSON, 14 Daniel ARZANI, 15 Andrew NABBOUT, 16 Aziz BEHICH, 17 Max CAPUTO, 19 Zane SCHREIBER, 22 Germán FERREYRA, 26 Samuel SOUPRAYEN, 28 Marcus YOUNIS, 35 Medin MEMETI, 36 Harry SHILLINGTON, 39 Emin DURAKOVIC, 41 Lawrence WONG, 47 Kavian RAHMANI. - In: BONETIG (promoted), NABBOUT (returns from injury), WONG (promoted) - Unavailable: 7 Mathew LECKIE (hip), 10 Takeshi KANAMORI (knee), 21 Alessandro LOPANE (quad), 30 Andreas KUEN (suspension)

20.3.2026

BADAWIYA LOOKING FOR MORE GOALS IN FINALS PUSH

Perth Glory striker Rola Badawiya broke her goal drought in last week’s loss to Adelaide, and she will be looking for more on Saturday, as Glory welcomes her former club Central Coast Mariners to Sam Kerr Football Centre in the week 20 of the Ninja A-League (2:00pm). Badawiya’s opener wasn’t enough in Adelaide last week, Glory going down 2-1, but the striker said it was an important goal for her. “I’ve had a bit of a dry spell, so it was important to get on the scoresheet,” the American striker said. “So many strikers around the world go through that, so it was just important to keep your head up and keep focusing and the goals will come, so hopefully I can take that momentum into the next game.”

Badawiya, who played 24 games for the Mariners in 2023-24, before joining Portuguese SC Braga club, said they have three games left this season and all are big games for the club. “Every game is a grand final for us, and we have to give it everything on the field, because our season depends on it,” she explained. “It would be nice to beat last season’s champions, but we have to respect them, but not too much. I’m expecting a lot of goals, with both sides having goals in them, but we have been spoils at the back recently, so if shut them down we should be ok.”

The Mariners sit one point and one place behind Glory on the table, but have only won once in their last five games, but Glory coach Stephen Peters knows they are also chasing a finals birth, but a win for his side would give them a huge boost, as they chase a first Finals appearance since 2019. “I can only hope that Saturday presents a good opportunity for fans to come out and support us,” he said. “Obviously we’re going to need them there and I just think it’s a tremendous opportunity for us to showcase what the home crowd means to us. Going into a crunch game like this and fighting for a direct role in the top six, I don’t think it gets any bigger in recent memory.”

That being said, Peters knows the enormity of a win in Saturday’s game, and knows his players are ready for the challenge. “I think there’s been no room for error since we lost those four games in a row earlier in the season,” he said. “The players have been pretty used to that pressure, to making sure that we’re ready to fight for points, particularly at home and this week is no different. Obviously, there are three rounds to go, but it’s definitely in our control and that’s something we need to be proud of, that we’ve got it to that point. Now it’s about making sure we don’t slip.”

Peters will be looking for his side to bounce back from a loss against Adelaide United last week, and he said it was a disappointing performance. “I think it was definitely a missed opportunity for us to take something from the game,” he said. “I think we started really well, but then we weren’t particularly pleased with our approach after that and we got a bit gun-shy there and it was a disappointing outcome in the end. There were some positives for us to take away from it, but overall, we were a bit disappointed.”

The Mariners took the points the last time these two sides met in week eight, with Jade Pennock scoring the only goal of the game five minutes from time, in front of over 2,400 supporters at HBF Park. Peters said they arrive in a poor run of form, but he is certainly not underestimating them. “I think they’re a quality side, and they are still the Champions,” he said. Isabella Gomez and Peta Trimis are fantastic players and we have to be ready for them.

“They’re a dangerous team and if they get on the ball, they’re going to put some good stuff together, so hopefully we can cancel that out and also show what we’re about as well. I think it should be a good match-up for us.” In team news defender Onyi Zogg will miss the game, with a one-game suspension after her red card in Adelaide, and Natalie Tathem will miss again with injury, but Daisy McAllister, Bronte Trew, Olivia Wood and Tanika Lala have been added to the squad.

Perth Glory Squad: GK Teresa MORRISSEY, GK Jessica SKINNER, 2 Mischa ANDERSON, 3 Emma TOVAR, 4 Daisy MCALLISTER, 5 Grace JOHNSTON, 6 Tijan MCKENNA, 7 Megan WYNNE, 8 Georgia CASSIDY, 9 Gabby HOLLAR, 12 Bronte TREW, 16 Olivia WOOD, 17 Rola BADAWIYA, 19 Sarah O’DONOGHUE, 23 Isobel DALTON, 25 Ella LINCOLN, 26 Tanika LALA, 27 Charli WAINWRIGHT, 28 Clancy WESTAWAY - *Two to be omitted* - Ins: MCALLISTER, TREW, WOOD, LALA - Unavailable: 10 Susan PHONSONGKHAM, 11 Natalie TATHEM, 13 Naomi CHINNAMA, 20 Ella ABDUL MASSIH, 24 Julia SARDO (All Injured), 29.Onyinyechi ZOGG (suspended)

20.3.2026

SEASON SPOTLIGHT: STATE LEAGUE 2026 PREVIEW

This week we take a look at what might lie ahead in the State League this season.

In Division One, Floreat Athena are strong favourites to win the title and bounce straight back to the NPL-WA. However, the likes of Inglewood United, UWA-Nedlands FC and Joondalup City will also fancy their chances.

Division Two also looks set to be a tight competition this year. Forrestfield United and East Perth are among the favourites, while a much improved Rockingham City will be one of the teams to watch.

The footballwa.net team takes a look at all 12 clubs, joined by footballwa’s very own “The Insider”, Murray Stevens from The World Football Programme radio show, footballwa.net founder Jacob Aufdemkampe, and for the first time, predictions from ChatGPT, offering their thoughts on how 2026 might unfold.

17.3.2026

FOWLER AND KERR SEND MATILDAS INTO ASIAN CUP FINAL

The Matildas have moved into the final of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup, after defeating defending champions, China PR 2-1 in the semi-final at Optus Stadium on Tuesday evening. In front of over 35,000 a first half strike from Caitlin Foord gave Australia the lead, but Zhang Linyan levelled for China from the spot. But the decisive goal came from Sam Kerr, the former Perth Glory captain rounding the keeper to score and celebrated with the WA faithful in the crowd. China pressed late but they couldn’t find an equaliser, with the Tillies hold firm. The result means that they will play either Japan or Korea Republic in the final at Stadium Australia on Saturday.

Matildas coach Joe Montemurro said they showed plenty of resilience, but he wasn't happy with the way his team played. "If we ask the football question it was a bit of both, it wasn't great from us in the first half. Second half we found a few opportunities, we're going to have to be better,” he said post-match. "We scored a very good goal and I thought we were starting to find our rhythm, and [then] we just backed off. We went very deep again. It must be in the DNA. it must be in the water. We just need to play higher, and we need to be braver. But look, it's tournament football, we got the result we wanted."

Montemurro made two changes to the side that beat North Korea in the quarter-finals. Steph Catley came into the back line after being cleared to play after concussion, while Kyra Cooney-Cross made her first start of the tournament in midfield. Winonah Heatley and Emily van Egmond were the two players to start from the bench. It was good start from the Matildas and they should have scored early, Kaitlyn Torpey’s cross picking out Mary Folwer at the back post, but she blazed over the top. But the miss didn’t faze the Manchester City striker and on 17 minutes she was involved in the opening goal. She sent Ellie Carpenter racing down the right, and the Chelsea defender then fed Fowler, who had continued her run, and she cut the ball back to Foord, and she finished with aplomb past Peng Shimeng.

But nine minutes later China levelled. A back header by Claire Hunt was pounced on by Linyan, who raced into goal and fell under the challenge of Mackenzie Arnold, and the referee pointed straight to the spot, much the displeasure of the Australian custodian. VAR checked it and there was a little contact, but Linyan stepped up and sent Arnold the wrong way from the resulting penalty. Fowler went close on two occasions shortly after, as the Matildas looked to respond, but Linyan went close at the other end, racing on to a flick, but good defending from Catley denied her, but at the break it was all to play for.

The chances were few and far between after the break, but China looked dangerous going forward, but Australia defended well, and hit on the counter attack and they regained the lead on 58 minutes. Kaityln Torpey found Kerr, who picked out Foord in the middle of the park, and Kerr made a darting run through the middle and a delightful through ball from Foord sent her clear, she rounded the keeper and finished well from a tight angle. They went close to a third, a corner swung in towards the penalty area where Kerr heads just wide of the target.

It was a tense finish, with China pushing players forward looking for the equaliser, and they went close in stoppage time. Wang Aifang was found just inside the penalty area, but her shot flashed wide of the target. Moments late the crowd stood as one with Emily van Egmond coming on with Charlize Rule to make her 170th appearance, a new record for the Matildas. But after seven minutes off stoppage time the whistle sounded, with Australia into the final. "It's a massive relief," Foord said post-match. “We're building with confidence, and building with momentum. I think you've seen that. I think every minute we grew more into the game. Tonight, we were in control and we got the job done, I’m just really proud of all the girls."

Australia: GK Mackenzie Arnold (GK), 4. Clare Hunt (3. Winonah Heatley 61'), 7. Steph Catley, 8. Kaitlyn Torpey, 9. Caitlin Foord, 11. Mary Fowler (17. Amy Sayer 78'), 14. Alanna Kennedy (24. Charlize Rule 90'), 19. Katrina Gorry (10. Emily van Egmond 90'), 20. Sam Kerr, 21. Ellie Carpenter, 23. Kyra Cooney-Cross (6. Clare Wheeler 78') – Subs not used: RGK Morgan Aquino, RGK Chloe Lincoln, 2 Courtney Nevin, 5 Jamilla Rankin, 13 Alex Chidiac, 15 Kahli Johnson, 16 Hayley Raso, 22 Michelle Heyman, 25 Holly McNamara, 26 Remy Siemsen

China PR: GK Peng Shimeng, 3 Chen Qiaozhu (4 Wang Linlin 87'), 5 Wu Haiyan, 8 Yao Wei, 9 Wurigumula (13 Jin Kun 71'), 10 Wang Yanwen (16 Liu Jing 77'), 15 Wang Aifang, 19 Zhang Linyan, 20 Zhang Chengxue (24 Yuan Cong 87'), 23 Shao Ziqin, 26 Zhang Rui (14 Li Qingtong 77') – Subs not used: RGK Zhu Yu, RGK Chen Chen, 2 Wang Ying, 6 Zhang Xin, 11 Wu Chengshu, 17 Xie Zongmei, 18 Tang Jiali, 21 Li Mengwen, 25 Lyu Yatong - Attendance 35,170

15.3.2026

DUNCANSON SEALS NIGHT SERIES FINAL FOR BALCATTA

Balcatta Etna are the 2026 New Balance NPL-WA Women’s Night Series winners, after a narrow 1-0 win against Perth Azzurri in the Final at Percy Doyle Reserve on Sunday evening. The only goal of the tight encounter came early in the second half, Frankie Murray’s effort coming off the crossbar and Jaime Duncanson forced the ball over the line. Both sides had chances after the break, with Azzurri keeper Dayle Schroeder making some good saves to keep her side in the game, which saw her take out the Tracey Wheeler Medal as Player of the Match, but it was in vain, Balcatta claiming back-to-back preseason competition.

"Incredibly proud of this playing group and the signs of improvement and champion mentality they're showing each week,’ Balcatta coach Peter Rakic said post-match. “It has been a rewarding start to the season and to go back-to-back in night series is just another bonus and another sign of what we are aiming to achieve as a club. The team spirit has been huge, with every individual playing their role in the squad and that was something that was heavily discussed when we began the campaign, so I couldn't possibly ask for more on that front. We still have a lot to show, and we're looking forward to a very competitive season with hope to be pushing everyone for more silverware.”

Skipper Abbey Meakins said it was a tough game, but delighted to lift the trophy. “I’m super proud of the girls and the effort everyone has put in throughout night series. It probably wasn’t the prettiest or cleanest game of football, but finals are always tight and cagey, and sometimes you just have to find a way to get the job done,’ Meakins explained. “It’s always nice to add another piece of silverware for the club and reward the hard work the players have been putting in. Now the focus quickly turns to Round One this weekend, and we’re really looking forward to building on this result and seeing what this group can do over the course of the season.”

Balcatta who beat the Azzurri in group stage, created the better chances in the first half, the best falling to former Azzurri striker Duncanson, who was played into goal by Rachel Jarvis, but she was denied by the alert Schroeder. The decisive moment came two minutes into the second half, Murray’s ball into the box hit the crossbar and Duncanson challenged Schroeder to force the ball over the line. Perth pressed looking for the equaliser, and they almost found it late, substitute Ailsa Zindell sending Jessica Flannery in on goal, but a great last-ditch tackle from substitute Monique D’Opera denied her the opportunity. Balcatta defender Frankie Murray said she was delight to play her part in the win and the goal. “I think Duncs got it over the line, but nice to be involved in the winner,” Murray said.

“It is always a tough match against Perth especially a final. It was a defensively strong match across the park for both teams making it hard to break lines. There were some tough battles on and off the ball and the desire from both teams was definitely there, it wasn’t the prettiest of wins but we got across the line which is always important - We want to keep building from this, focusing on each week of the league as it comes and really focusing on improving our style of play.” In the Third-Place Playoff an early goal from Lacey Heys, and a late effort from Leyna Wood gave Fremantle City a 2-0 win against Perth RedStar in the early game at the venue.

Perth Azzurri GK Dayle Schroeder, 3 Grace Warburton, 5 Epril Nossent (14 Alanna Ottobrino 80’), 6 Hannah Collins (18 Macey McCready 23’) (12 Xuri Dalton 72’), 7 Ruby Marshall (16 Ailsa Zindell 72’), 9 Louise Tana, 10 Maja Archibald (4 Lauren Continibali 80’), 11 Matilda Boehm, 13 Sam Mathers, 15 Jessica Flannery, 17 Kimberly saw McCartney - Subs not used: RGK Emme Ingrey. 2 Violet Longmore

Balcatta Etna: GK Rebecca Bennett, 4 Frankie Murray (2 Monique D’Opera 67’), 5 Carys Davis, 6 Carla Bennett (3 Sofija Nikoloska 64’), 8 Abbey Meakins, 9 Ella Marwick, 11 Alyssa Van Heurck, 12 Jaime Duncanson (16 Isabella Foletta 64’), 14 Caitlin Doeglas, 15 Ellis Glanfield, 19 Rachel Jarvis (7 Mohammad Zainuurafiq 87’) – Subs not used: RGK Isabella Comito, 17 Mia Britton, 18 Vanessa Nalder

15.3.2026

HAHN AUSTRALIA CUP (WA) – ROUND THREE SUNDAY REVIEW

The Hahn Australia Cup (WA) was completed on Sunday, and we had no upsets on the day. In the opening game, Rockingham City returned from Dalmatinac Park with a 4-0 win against Spearwood Dalmatinac. Will Hayes gave the visitors the lead at the break, before Celeston Fuller added a second just before the hour mark. Josh Soto made it 3-0, before Shaun Mukwevho wrapped up the scoring eight minutes later. “Great to get back on the park in competitive games, the lads played with good control and intent,” Rockingham coach Matthew Brook explained. “Credit to Spearwood they made it difficult for us and provided a danger on the break. All round a professional performance and a good hit out heading into round one.”

Morley Windmills also won on the road, beating Canning City 4-0 at Willetton Reserve. “The lads played very well, keeping possession for good periods and creating some very good passages of play,” Morley coach John O’Reilly explained. “Canning were resilient in defence and made it hard for us to get our goals.” The Windmills were ahead on the quarter hour, a cross into the box was headed down by Luke Salmon, and Isaac Toah Ntow turned the ball home. It was 2-0 before the break, Brennan Borzecki sent into the box by Samuel Marta and the winger finished from the angle. They sealed the tie late, with long-range strike from Vasqui, before Gino Hampshire beat his marker and rolled the ball across to Ntow to score.

East Perth were the big winners, easing into the next round after a 16-2 win against Eaton Dardanup. New signing Ceilum Maher bagged seven goals, and Liam McLaughlin scored a hat-trick in a dominant performance, while Dylan Doney and Stephen Kane were on target for the hosts. East Perth coach Sully Sullivan said the hosts made them really welcome. “Happy to move into the next round, it was a clinical performance from the lads,” he said. “But I must pay credit to Dardanup they never stopped all game and they put out red carpet for us more than any other club we have ever played against, so thanks to coach Alan Buckley and the club for their hospitality.”

Murdoch University Melville made the trip to the Poolmart Mandurah Stadium, and returned with a 4-1 win against Mandurah City. The visitors put the tie to bed in the first half, leading 3-0 at the break. First on the half hour a stunning free kick from Takayuki Sone, before two good finishes from Adrian Campini had MUMFC with one foot in the next round. But the hosts pulled one back ten minutes from time with an own goal, but Delano Adams rounded off the scoring with a well-taken finish at the death. “It was a great win, in hot conditions,” MUMFC coach Marc Anthony said. “It was also a valuable hit out before the league starts next week.”

Perth AFC have moved into the next round after a 4-1 win against Chipolopolo at Camberwell Park. Goals either side of half time from Lucas Pickering and Oscar Pit had Perth in control, but Geoffry Kipnach reduced the margin for the hosts on the hour. But a second yellow card to Emmanual Kahoro saw the hosts reduced to ten men, and late goals from Steven Da Silva and Ante Jukic sealed the tie. “Great to get the win and progress to the next round, wasn’t the best game we’ve ever played and we conceded a sloppy goal,” Perth AFC coach Nathan Thorp said. “But advancing was the main objective against a tricky Chipolopolo side.”

Dunsborough Town caused an upset in round two beating Swan United, but their cup run came to an end after an 8-0 defeat by Forrestfield United in the South West town. Forrestfield coach Daryl Platten was pleased with his side in the tricky tie. “It was a very professional performance. The boys stuck to the game plan and went about their business well,” he explained. “A three-hour drive on a Sunday afternoon wasn't ideal for the boys, but they got on with it and got the chocolates. All in all, a good day's work and we now focus on the season opener.” The visitors went into the break 2-0 up, courtesy of a Josh Bell double. Matt Evans scored a brace either side of the hour mark, to put Forrestfield in control, before a hat-trick by Austin Reynolds put the game to bed. He made it 5-0, after great through ball from Jung bin Lim, then getting on the end of new signing Marvin Masso cross to make it six, before a tap in four minutes from time made it 7-0. Sam Platten then finished the day off with a bullet of a strike from 25 meters, to end a good road trip for Forrestfield. In the final game Northern City beat South Perth United 5-4 at Dryandra/Pendula Reserve

14.3.2026

HAHN AUSTRALIA CUP (WA) ROUND THREE SATURDAY REVIEW

The 2026 Hahn Australia Cup (WA) round three continued on Saturday, and in the early game Subiaco AFC needed extra time to beat Balga 3-2 at Proto DPS Inglewood Stadium. Tomas Despotovski gave Subiaco the lead in the first half, before Samir Ramos levelled on 69 minutes to send the game to extra time. Balga’s Menghoung Chroek was sent off in the first period of extra time, and the game took a twist in the second period. A high tackle caused a melee, with the referee sending three players off, Seamus Edwards and Martin Gorong for Balga and Ben Bathgate for Subiaco. Subiaco took advantage of the eight-man Balga side with Kaleb Morrison giving them the lead. But Balga hit back with Riley Chapman restoring parity. It looked like going to penalties, but at the death Ivan Skorich won it for Subiaco. “We expected a tough battle against a resilient Balga side,” Despotovski said. “The boys showed great determination over the 120 minutes and secured the breakthrough in extra time.”

Gwelup Croatia had to come from behind against Amateur Division One club Cracovia to move into the next round, after a 3-1 win at the Cracovia Club. “It took us some time to get into the game and conceding one very early didn’t help,” Gwelup’s Tarek Atta said. “But once we found our rhythm the game turned in our favour. It’s always good to get into the later stages of the cup so we can challenge ourselves against opposition in the NPL.” Marc Eldridge had given the hosts the lead early, and they led by that goal at the break. But Gwelup levelled on the hour, with Atta scoring, and it looked we would be off to extra time, but late goals from Jamie Sinnott and another from Atta, sealed the win. Gwelup coach Basil Lenzo said Cracovia made it really hard for them. “Full credit to Cracovia who made it very difficult for us and highlighted what the Cup is all about,’ he explained. “They had a lot of good players (Passerelli, Boi, Zimarino, Carlino, Elridge) who we have coached, and full credit to them and their supporters for making their environment as uncomfortable as possible. Sometimes, an ugly win is what it takes and we look forward to what’s installed for the next round.”

Cracovia coach Nathan Falcone said they were proud of the players on the day. “We led 1–0 for the majority of the match and could have easily taken a 2–0 lead into the break with the chances we created,’ he said. “Unfortunately, the boys just ran out of legs late on, but it was a very spirited performance and the effort from the group couldn’t be questioned. Chris and I are very proud of the effort from the players and are really looking forward to the season ahead.”

Gosnells City also need extra time to beat Amateur Premier Division club Hamersley Rovers 3-1 at Walter Padbury Reserve. “It’s all about getting through to next round,” Gosnells coach Peter Allen said. “We took the lead and looked in control but credit to Hamersley they dug in and gave us a scare. But also, a lot of credit to my lads for digging out the result when tested, we have a lot of young lads and they all stood up.” Armeyas Teklu gave the host the lead on the half hour, but Toby Kynaston levelled for Rovers, to send the tie to extra time. but two late goals for Gosnells, from Abdul Dofash and own goal sent Gosnells into the next round.

Despite the loss, Rovers’ coach Antony Benetti was pleased with his side’s performance. “Yes, really pleased with the effort despite the disappointment. We didn't start the game as well as we would have liked but we certainly felt we dominated in the second half,” he said. “It was a good game for the neutral with both teams pushing for a winner in extra time and unfortunately a few errors cost us. Considering we had a few players out and the tough opposition I am optimistic in the direction we are heading. We are certainly an honest group and the boys know that round one is now the focus and are willing to put the work into ensuring a good league start.”

Carramar Shamrock Rovers were too strong for Bunbury Dynamos, running out 5-1 winners at Grandis Park. Nathan Diaz gave them the lead early, but Jeremy Stevens levelled for the visitors from the spot. But Dean Cowbrough regained the lead for Rovers in the shadows of half time, and second half goals from Jack Reilly, Kieran Harrison and an own goal secured the tie. In other games Ashfield beat Queens Park 7-0 at the Ashfield Arena, while a brace from Issac McVittie gave Cockburn City at 2-0 win against Port Kennedy at Dalmatinac Park. Inglewood United eased through to the next round, with an 8-0 win against Peel United at the Proto DPS Inglewood Stadium, with Owen Goodliffe bagging a brace off the bench, while goals from Ryder Leasor, Max Adamson and Jon Hulme gave Kingsley Westside a 3-1 win against North Beach, with Luke Wearing scoring for North Beach.

Ellenbrook United won a ten-goal thriller against Swan Valley at Ellenbrook District Open Space, with Didier Cheri scoring a hat-trick for the hosts. Wembley Downs beat Kwinana United 3-0 at Butlers Reserve, with late goals from Rory Hannon, Billy Templeton-Knight and Mella Loding. Curtin University also moved through after beating a fast-finishing Quinns 3-2 at Green Promo Park, Edinburgh Oval. The hosts raced to a 3-0 lead, with goals from Declan Tanna, Jude Baillie and an own goal. Chad Samuels pulled one back on the hour for Quinns, and Ben Johns pulled another one back from the spot eight minutes later, but Curtin held firm to go into the hat for the next round. “It was a tough game and a good battle from both sides,” Curtin’s Nathan Smith said. “We started well and Quinn’s fought their way back into it for a tough finish. Proud of the guys for getting the result and we push onto the next round.”

14.3.2026

NPLWA – MENS – WEEK THREE REVIEW

Perth RedStar have won for the first time this season, after a 2-1 win against reigning champions Bayswater City, in our Week Two ‘Match of the Round’ at the RedStar Arena on Saturday afternoon. “Feels great to get the three points after drawing our first two games,” RedStar striker and former Bayswater captain Gordon Smith said post-match. “I thought we were in control for large parts of the game and fairly comfortable, and deservedly went 2-0 up. But once we let them back in the game, naturally Bayswater put on a bit of pressure for the last period of the game but we showed great resilience and worked extremely hard to see out the game. We now turn our focus to Glory who had a great result themselves today.”

Both sides went into this one in contrasting form, Bayswater winning both of their games, while RedStar had drawn both, but it was Callum Salmon’s side who found the breakthrough on 24 minutes. A loose back pass saw Smith press Bayswater keeper Lewis Italiano the ball broke to Aaron Black, and the Scottish striker passed the ball into an empty net. The hosts doubled their advantage early in the second half, Riley Warland’s free kick wide on the left went into the wall, but he returned the rebound back into the box and Liam Murray finished clinically into the roof of the net.

Bayswater found a lifeline just after the hour, RedStar failed to clear Sean McManus’ cross from the right and Bor Bor Sam headed over Liam Reddy. The visitors pressed for the equaliser, but RedStar held firm to take the points, and kick start their season. RedStar coach Callum Salmon said his players deserved the win. ‘The boys worked hard and deserved the result,” he said. “I enjoyed the game, and Bayswater always play very direct and it’s tough to get a rhythm going but we’re happy with the win and we move on to Glory next week.” Footballwa – Man of the Match – Ryan Finnie (RedStar)

Western Knights have moved to the top of the table, despite being held to a 1-1 draw by Fremantle City at Nash Field. Both goals came early in this one, the visitors found the opener after only three minutes, with Chad Nilson grabbing his third goal of the season, following up after Charlie Chechlacz’s stinging shot was parried by Sam Reilly. But the Knights levelled six minutes later with Justin Tang shot on the turn beating Luke Radonich, also adding his third of the campaign. Fremantle assistant coach Dale Wingell said it was a game of two halves. “We certainly had the ascendancy in the first half but couldn’t finish off the chances we created,” he said. “They probably had the better opportunities in the second half, as we relied more on the counter but we were desperate to protect our goal and were determined to not lose that game. They are a good attacking team and this is a tough place to go to, so we take the point and look to progress on that performance next week.”

Olympic Kingsway have moved to joint leaders after a 2-1 win against Balcatta Etna at the Home Group Stadium, Grindleford Reserve. “It was a good win away, and looking at the other games, we knew people would take points off each over so it was important to walk away with three points,” Olympic assistant coach Ross Edwards said. “The last few seasons away at Balcatta has not been great for us. So extremely happy with the boys with getting the win. Credit to Balcatta they stayed in the game and got an excellent equaliser to push us all the way.” The visitors were ahead just after the half hour, Mitch Oxborrow sending Will Ferson into the box and he finished with aplomb past Stefan Sotirovski. But the home side, who were still searching for their first win of the season, levelled 15 minutes from time, with Charlie Betts’ glancing header beating Adrian Sinagra. But Olympic secured the points four minutes later, Tyler Garner raced down the right and picked out substitute Daniel De Silva, and he neatly dinked the ball over the oncoming Sotirovski to move the Green Machine to joint leaders on the table.

We had an 11-goal thriller at Dorrien Gardens, with Perth Azzurri winning for the first time this season, beating Armadale 6-5 in a goal feast. Ethan Banks gave the hosts the lead early, but Armadale hit back on ten minutes, with Leigh Griffiths on target, after Abraham Mathet’s shot was saved by Liam Driscoll. But Kenny Lowe’s side hit back, with Banks adding his second, finishing well from Pieter Jacobsz cross, only for Mathet to head Armadale level on the half hour. Mathet then gave John Baird’s side the lead four minutes before the break, after Griffiths cut the back to him. But on the stroke of half time the hosts levelled, Julian Kelly firing home to send the sides into the break all-square.

The goals kept coming after the break, with Sam Pollard regaining the lead for the Azzurri in the opening minute, superbly volleying over David Keenan. But their lead only lasted ten minutes, with Hamza Hina making it 4-4, after he was sent clear by Craig Barker and he beat Driscoll at his near post. The game would have been a defensive nightmare for the coaches, but for the neutrals it was a great game, and the Azzurri took control with two quick goals. First Sam Riak poked home from close-range, and former Armadale striker Peiter Jacobsz added a sixth after Keenan dropped a cross. A late penalty from Griffiths gave Armadale a fifth, but they couldn’t find the equaliser and are still to pick up a point this season, but they have to take great encouragement on their performance, in a crazy game of football at the Gardens.

Perth Glory have also won for the first time this season, after a 4-2 win at Macedonia Park, against the previously unbeaten Stirling Macedonia. “I was very pleased with our performance today, we scored some good goals and defended well for 90 minutes,” Glory coach Joe Heath said. “Stirling are a very strong, aggressive team and I was impressed with how our young lads dealt with that. It was a good team performance with some moments of individual quality.” The visitors made the best possible start, ahead in the first minute. Santiago Flores’ cross found Louis Sollitt, and the striker made no mistake. But Stirling were level 17 minutes later, a long throw fell to Kai Matthews, who fired home.

But it was Glory who took the lead into the break after Oliver Evans found space on the edge of the box and fired low past Nic Speca. Joe Heath’s side took control with two quick goals late. First on 75 minutes skipper Seb Despotovski shot on the run found the bottom corner, and three minutes later it was 4-1, Evans adding his second with great shot from just outside the box. Stirling did pull one back late, with Pacifique Dufitimukiza scoring from close range after an initial header bounced off the crossbar, but it was too little too late. Glory finished the game with ten-men, after Flores received a second yellow card and was sent off.

Dianella White Eagles have won their first game in the top flight of WA football for 28 years, after a 4-2 win against Sorrento at Percy Doyle Reserve. “Ian and I are very happy to get our first win in the NPL,” Dianella assistant coach John Lavery said. “But most of all it’s great for the players who have put so much work in pre-season, the club and our fans.” Both sides went into the game in search of a first win, and it was the Gulls who found the opener on 18 minutes, with Connor Simpson heading home. But in the shadows of half time Ian Ferguson’s side levelled, with Asher Nelson given far too much room in the box to fire low past Ben Ratajczak. The visitors took control early in the second half with Corey McNellis looping a header over the keeper, before Nelson made it 3-1 turning home Lachlan Collions’ cross at the back post. Sorrento skipper Dean Cummings did pull one back shortly after for Andres Oliverira’s side, with great strike, but the points were wrapped up nine minutes from time with Nelson completing his hat-trick heading home Collins’ cross from the right