footballwa.net — Western Australian Football News

KELMSCOTT END SWANS UNBEATEN START TO SEASON – WEEK NINE REVIEW

After last week’s win against then league leaders Wanneroo, Kelmscott Roos have travelled to the current league leaders Swan United and ended their unbeaten start to the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division, after a 3-0 win in week nine at the Swan Italian Club, Francis Street on Sunday afternoon. “I thought that was our best performance of the season,” Kelmscott coach Derek Clarke said. “The midfield three won the midfield contest resulting in Swan having to play the long ball over the top, with our two centre backs coping well with that.

“The early goal gave us a great start putting Swan on the back foot, and there were some excellent performances from the whole team. I’d like to mention a stand out game from the young Ben Bolt playing a new position for him in the midfield, but it was an all-round good game considering we were missing two of our top players and the weather conditions. I would also like to thank Swan for their excellent after game speech and player of the match it was much appreciated.”

It was Kelmscott who made the better start, opening the scoring after just four minutes. A corner was whipped into the box by Amos Doegolia, which fell to Russell Musere who hit it first time into the bottom corner past Nick Stone. Swan hit back but couldn’t find a way past a tight Kelmscott defence, and the visitors added a second in the shadows of half time. Isaac Koomson picked the ball up out wide, beat his defender and was brought down in the box and the referee pointed to the spot. Koomson picked himself up, and slotted home the resulting penalty.

Kelmscott wrapped up the points on the hour mark. A long ball over the top from Taylor Warwick found Doegolia who beat his marker and played a lovely ball across the box which found Koomson who finished well first time. “It was a complete performance from our boys. We knew Swan were flying in the league and it was up to us to be up for the game and take it to them, we caused them a lot of problems early and got the early goal which set the tone,” Warwick explained. “We controlled the game for large portions and defended perfectly throughout. It was a pleasing performance and one that gives us a lot of confidence going into the last two games for this half of the season.”

Hamersley Rover have consolidated fifth spot, after a 3-0 win against Olympic Kingsway at the Madman Arena, Kingsway Reserve. “It's a positive result in very tough weather and pitch conditions. We've had to battle illness within the squad this week and had some late withdrawals that sometimes impacts preparations. Having said that the boys have always stood tall through adversity and its testament to our strong culture not just within the group but also extends to our reserves team and club as a whole,” Rovers’ coach Antony Benetti explained. “Whilst we were perhaps a touch wasteful in front of goal, we had control of the game and the pressure was relentless. This league is extremely tight so getting three points and building momentum is still a big focus.”

The visitors found the opener on 14 minutes, when Ryan Charles was able to close down the keeper and block a pass that fell to Bryan Nobles who chipped the keeper from distance. They doubled their lead on the hour, Callum Duguid was able to beat his marker and crossed in to a diving Ryan Charles who powered his header into the bottom corner. The points were sealed five minutes from time, a free kick from Buster Claridge that found an unmarked Toby Kynaston racing into the box, who guided his header past the keeper.

The points were shared between Kingsley Westside and Maccabi, after a 1-1 draw at Maccabean Memorial Oval. “It was a game of two very different halves. In the first half, Maccabi were on top and we really didn't show up at all. They were better than us in most areas and deserved to take the lead,” Kingsley coach Simone Sichel explained. “After the break, we finally started doing the things we are good at and looked much more like ourselves. We played with better intensity, moved the ball quicker and created a number of good chances. Looking at the chances in the second half, we probably did enough to win the game.

“But credit to their goalkeeper who made several excellent saves to keep the ball out of the net. Having said that, our goalkeeper Tom Bull also came up big again by saving a penalty, so overall a draw was probably a fair result. It's another good point for us, and most importantly we feel like we are continuing to move in the right direction as a group. We will take the positives, keep working hard, and look forward to the next challenge.” It was the hosts who found the opener seven minutes from half time, Abel Thomas-Hy, swung in a corner and it was cleared out to Mike Kaye, who crossed it back in to Dion Berman at the far post, his shot was saved by Bull, and Thomas-Hy tapped in the rebound.

The visitors were level just after the hour mark, with Luke Salmon scoring on his return to the club. The hosts had a perfect opportunity to win it shortly after, when Thomas-Hy was brought down in the box after a nice turn, and the referee pointed to the spot. Berman stepped up to take the resulting penalty but Bull guessed the right way to save. “I’m disappointed we didn’t come away with the win as it was one of the more consistent performances we’ve put in for a while, created enough chances to win and unfortunately switched off for a split second for their goal which is disappointing,” Maccabi coach Ricky Berelowitz. “But we take the point and look forward to Kingsway this Sunday.”

Ballajura AFC have won their first game of the season since promotion, with a 2-0 win against Kwinana United at Kingfisher Park. “It was tough conditions for both teams the game was a real arm wrestle and a game of few chances fortunately when they came our way we finished them,” Ballajura coach Shane Fitzpatrick said. “We’ve finally got three points, and I thought we deserved them. Now we need to build from here and push on.” A tight contest came to life late, and the hosts hit the front 15 minutes from time, with Daniel Clarkson heading home from a corner. Then straight from the kick off, Ballajura won back possession and Jonathon Thompson dribbled past three of the Kwinana defenders, his shot was saved by Kyle Hasell, but Shohab Shujai tucked away the rebound to seal the points

In the final game Noranda Emerald were too good for bottom of the table Jaguar, running out 10-0 winners at the Noranda Sporting Complex. The hosts took control with early goals from Alex Pomeroy and Ronan Flaherty, before Jake Harkin added a third on the half hour. The visitors hope of a comeback was squashed with Dut Mathiang shown a straight red card before the break. It was one-way traffic after half time, a quick-fire brace from Lee Wilson made it 5-0, before Jack McClelland and Shane Hickey made it 7-0. It was eight with an own goal, before Wilson completed his hat-trick ten minutes from time. Wilson grabbed a fourth late to seal the comprehensive win.

AZZURRI EXTEND LEAD AT TOP OF THE TABLE – NPLWA – WOMEN’S WEEK 11 REVIEW

Perth Azzurri have moved five points clear at the top of the New Balance NPLWA – Women’s table, after a 3-0 win against the Hyundai FW Academy at Dorrien Gardens on Sunday afternoon. The Academy side were coming off a big win at RedStar last week, while the Azzurri were starting to hit their straps, and included Perth Glory striker Ella Lincoln who has signed for the season from the A-League side. It was a great start for the hosts, Daisy McAllister seeing her effort crash off the bar, and they found the opener on five minutes.

Jessica Flannery’s corner from the right seemed to go straight in to the net, although Kimberly McCartney claimed the goal. Their dominance was rewarded with a second just before the half hour, Lincoln raced into the box on the left and squared the ball to Daisy McAllister, who found the bottom corner. Lincoln’s shot came back off the post early in the second half, but the striker wrapped up the points on 64 minutes. A long ball from McCartney wasn’t dealt with and Lincoln nipped in raced into goal and finished with aplomb past Daisy McGreadie-Cole.

The round started on Saturday evening, and Balcatta Etna are back in the winner’s circle after a 1-0 win against Fremantle City at Hilton Park. Both teams were playing for the ‘Sicilian Cup’, and the hosts were coming off back-to-back victories, while the visitors were looking to break a three-game run without a win. Both sides had chances, Abbey Meakins fired over the top, before Tanika Lala was denied by Rebecca Bennett. Caitlin Doeglas was denied early in the second half by Cassia Souza. But the only goal of the game came 15 minutes from time. A long ball from Kalista Hunter sent Lucy Jerram racing clear, Fremantle keeper Souza came racing out to clear the danger, but the ball fell to substitute Jaime Duncanson, who lobbed home from distance, despite a goal line clearance from a Fremantle defender. The win sees Balcatta leapfrog Fremantle into second place, while Fremantle sit six points behind the leaders.

UWA Nedlands have secured their first win of the season, after a 1-0 win against Sorrento at Percy Doyle Reserve. The hosts welcomed Glory midfielder Georgia Cassidy to their starting line-up, but it was the visitors who secured the points 13 minutes from time. There looked like little danger when Lucy Hope got the ball, but she was put under pressure from Hailey Russell, and her back pass was totally missed by keeper Amalia Caceres and the ball rolled into the net. The hosts went close to a second in stoppage time, Melina Franklin’s effort cannoned back off the post. UWA remain at the foot of the table, but the win moves UWA to within two points of Sorrento and Subiaco. The final game between Subiaco AFC and Perth RedStar at Rosalie Reserve was postponed after only 12 minutes, due a waterlogged pitch, and will be rescheduled at a later date.

SHAMOON RESIGNS FOR GLORY

Perth Glory’s resigning’s continue for the 2026-27 A-League season, with defender Charbel Shamoon signing a new deal which extends his contract with the club until June 2028. The 22-year-old who joined from Western United ahead of last season, and after a good showing on his debut in week three against Melbourne Victory, he has been an ever-present in the side, and made 25 appearances last season. He scored his only goal for the club in the week six 2-0 win against Macarthur FC at the Campbelltown Sports Stadium.

The defender, who played for Melbourne City and Western United academies, and played 22 time for United’s A-League side. He was also called up to the Iraq national squad in 2025, and came off the bench to make his international debut, in the 1-2 defeat against Palestine in March last year. Shamoon became a crowd favourite, with his forward runs and strong defending, and he will be a vital part of the club moving forward.

Glory Football Director Stan Lazaridis said Shamoon has made giant strides since joining the club. “Charbel has very quickly become one of our key defenders, and was a standout performer in his first season with us,” he said on the Glory website. “Once he got his opportunity, he took it and was very good for us both defensively and pushing forward to provide another option in attack. He’s very level-headed, with a great work ethic and I’m confident he’ll keep on improving and be a really important player for us in the seasons ahead.”

SOCCEROOS STUN TURKIYE IN WORLD CUP OPENER

The Socceroos have started the 2026 World Cup Finals campaign with a stunning 2-0 win against Turkiye at the BC Place Vancouver on Sunday afternoon. Both goals were stunning strikes, in the first half on a quick counter attack saw Nestory Irankunda fire home, before after the break Connor Metcalfe did likewise down the other end to send the green and gold supporters in the ground and over Australia into raptures. Socceroos coach Tony Popovic was a happy man after the game, and with the tough decisions he made pre-game. “Proud to be here as head coach, to experience this," the former Perth Glory coach said post-match.

"Put a smile on these people's faces that have travelled so far to support us. And just so happy for a wonderful young group of men. It's something that, you know we've always seen (his quality) and I've got a lot of belief in the young man (on Patrick Beech’s selection ahead of Maty Ryan), and yes, he stood up today so very happy for him. You see the young boys combining to score a goal and can't underestimate what this will do for their confidence and belief. Emotionally, it will take a lot out of the players this game. So, we've got to get back and recover well and focus on the US."

The coach made five changes from the final pre-tournament friendly against Switzerland, with WA’s Jacob Italiano, Jordy Bos, Connor Metcalfe, former ECU Joondalup defender Cameron Burgess and Mohamed Toure came back into the side for the all-important World Cup opener. Meanwhile Patrick Beach was a surprise choice, retained his place in goals for only his third appearance for the national team ahead of Maty Ryan, while Paul Okon-Engstler started in midfield for only his seventh cap, and ten of the starting side made their World Cup debut in this game.

It was a lively start to the game, with the Socceroos not taking a backward step against their more fancied opponents. Türkiye were probing, but Australia held firm, the best chances for them came from distance, the best from Ferdi Kadıoğlu on 19 minutes, but it sailed over the top. Then eight minutes late the Socceroos hit the front. Beach made a smart save down one end, and a quick counter attack down the other saw Paul Okon-Engstler send Irankunda down the left, and the Watford winger’s pace took him clear, before cutting inside and finishing with aplomb past Ugurcan Çakir, his first goal in a World Cup Finals.

Türkiye went close to the equaliser three minutes later, Abdülkerim Bardakcı was given far too much space in the middle of the park his shot looked like it was heading into the corner of the net, but Beach got a hand to it, to deflect it on to the post and away to safety, a stunning save from the Melbourne City keeper. They continued to threaten with Orkun Kökçü fired wide of the target, but Australia was also finding holes in the Türkiye defence, and Jordy Bos volleyed just wide, before Irankunda’s shot was saved low by Çakir, but at the break it was the Socceroos with the narrow lead.

After the break the Socceroos were under the pump, but they held firm, putting their bodies on the line, as they kept Türkiye at bay. It was nearly 2-0 on 53 minutes, when Harry Soutter’s towering header was inches away from Toure in front of goal. Beach then got down well to save Arda Güler, as Türkiye lifted. With Okon-Engstler, Aiden O’Neill and Metcalfe, covering every blade of grass on the pitch, and Soutter Bos, and WA trio Italiano, Burgess and Allesandro Circati all outstanding, the Socceroos were determined to keep the European giants out.

Beach was at it again on 72 minutes, making a smart save at his near post to deny Zeki Çelik and three minutes later the Socceroos hit on another counter attack to seal the game. Metcalfe found space in the middle of the park and raced goalward, and from the edge of the box the St Pauli’s midfielder found the bottom corner of the net to double the Socceroos advantage. Türkiye couldn’t find a way past Beach, the keeper saving well to thwart Kerem Aktürkoğlu’s volley, before getting down well to tip Hakan Çalhanoğlu free kick around the post.

Nestory Irankunda was named the Player of the Match after scoring on his World Cup debut, and like everyone else, he was absolutely delighted with the win. “It's effing unreal," he said post-match. “Like it's a dream come true. You know we've got the win now. We worked extra hard. We fought 'til the end. And it's just an exciting moment. At the end of the day, you got to let these people talk, they can talk all they want but at the end of the day you've got to put the performance on the field and we've done that today. So, we've got to focus on the next game but we celebrate now and we regroup now." The Socceroos are next in action next Saturday morning, when they take on co-hosts USA in Seattle (3:00am WA Time)

Socceroos: GK Patrick Beach, 3 Alessandro Circati, 4 Jacob Italiano (6 Jason Geria 74’), 5 Jordan Bos (16 Aziz Behich 84’), 8 Connor Metcalfe, 9 Mohamed Toure (26 Tete Yengi 74’), 13 Aiden O’Neill, 17 Nestory Irankunda (23 Nishan Velupillay 61’), 19 Harry Souttar, 21 Cameron Burgess, 24 Paul Okon-Engstler (22 Jackson Irvine 84’) – Subs not used: RGK Maty Ryan, RGK Paul Izzo, 2 Milos Degenek, 7 Mathew Leckie, 10 Ajdin Hrustic, 11 Awer Mabil, 14 Cameron Devlin, 15 Kai Trewin, 20 Cristian Volpato, 25 Lucas Herrington

Türkiye: GK Ugurcan Çakir, 2 Zeki Çelik (18 Mert Müldür 81’), 3 Merih Demiral, 6 Orkun Kökcü (19 Yunus Akgün 62’), 7 Kerem Aktürkoglu (9 Deniz Gül 85’), 8 Arda Güler, 10 Hakan Çalhanoglu, 14 Abdülkerim Bardakci, 16 Ismail Yüksek (5 Salih Özcan 81’), 20 Ferdi Kadioglu, 21 Baris Alper Yilmaz (11 Kenan Yildiz 45’) – Subs not used: RGK Mert Günok, RGK Altay Bayindir, 4 Caglar Söyüncü, 13 Eren Elmali, 15 Ozan Kabak, 17 Irfan Kahveci, 22 Kaan Ayhan, 24 Oguz Aydin, 25 Samet Akaydin, 26 Can Uzun – Attendance: 52,497 Referee: Jesús Valenzuela

YOUNG SOCCEROOS CROWNED ASEAN U19 CHAMPIONSHIP

Australia have won the ASEAN U19 Boys’ Bank Sumut Championship 2026 title after beating Thailand 2-0 in the final at the Sumatera Utara Main Stadium in Deli Serdang, with former Perth Glory defender Alexander Garbovsky opening the scoring. The 18-year-old, who was a standout in his time in the Glory Academy, signed a two-and-a-half-year deal with the Swedish side BK Hacken in 2024. Olympic Kingsway coach Richard Garcia took charge of the team, with Head Coach Trevor Morgan relocating to the USA to be part of the Socceroos’ FIFA World Cup 2026 scouting team.

It was Garbovsky who opening the scoring four minutes before the break. It was a tight second half, but the Young Socceroos held firm as Thailand pressed for the equaliser, and a goal from Melbourne City midfielder Beckham Baker deep into stoppage time sealed the win. In the meantime, host Indonesia took third place in the tournament this year after beating Cambodia 1-0. Following a tight first-half, Algazani Dwi headed home the winner on 62 minutes, from Isfandyar Abdillah corner.

The triumph marks an important milestone for Australia’s youth development pathway, with the focus now shifting towards the AFC U20 Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers in August and September 2026. Line-up: Young Socceroos: GK George Plusnin, Haine Eames, Peter Antoniou, Alexander Garbowski, Medin Memeti, Jai Rose (Beckham Baker 63’), Alexander Bolton (Lewis Marinucci 90+5’), Lawrence Wong (Mathias Macallister 78’), Marcus Neil, Amlani Tatu (Nickolas Alfaro 78’), Luka Didulica.

FIVE STAR BAYSWATER HEAD TOP OF NPL – WEEK FOURTEEN REVIEW

Bayswater City have moved to the top of the New Balance NPLWA – Men’s table, after a 5-0 win on the road against Armadale at Alfred Skeet Reserve, in our week fourteen ‘Match of the Round’ on Saturday afternoon. With league leaders Perth RedStar and Olympic Kingsway’s game rescheduled, Matthew Sparrow’s side took advantage and leapfrogged both to move clear at the top. “A 5-0 away win against a side of Armadale’s quality is an outstanding result and one the players deserve enormous credit for. We were excellent from the first whistle, played with real intensity and purpose, and I thought our quality in the final third was the difference,” Sparrow explained. “Pat (Loughrey) will grab the headlines with a fantastic hat-trick and I’m delighted for him. He’s been working incredibly hard for the team all season and it was great to see him get the rewards for his efforts. His movement, energy and finishing were all top class.

“What pleased me most though was the overall team performance. We defended strongly, kept a clean sheet and showed a real ruthlessness when our opportunities came along. Armadale are always a difficult side to play at their place, so to come away with a 5-0 victory is a great result and on the whole squad can be proud of. The focus now quickly turns to Tuesday night and a huge cup semi-final. The players have put themselves in a great position in both competitions and we’re looking forward to the challenge ahead. Hopefully we can take the confidence and momentum from this performance into what is another massive game for the football club.”

It was Bayswater who found the opening goal on 21 minutes, Declan Hughes’ cross from the left was headed home by skipper Luke Palmateer, and they led by the that goal at the break. But three minutes into the second half they doubled their advantage. Ollie La Galia playing Loughrey down the left and he finished clinically past Alfie Brincat. Loughrey added his second on 55 minutes, a long throw from Coby Sutton wasn’t cleared, the ball falling to La Galia, who found the unmarked Loughrey at the back post and he swept the ball home. The home side couldn’t get back into the game, and five minutes from time Bayswater added a fourth. Hughes’ corner was played back across goal by Palmateer, and La Galia turned the ball home from close-range.

The icing was added to the cake in stoppage time, with Loughrey completing his hat trick. A neat back heel from Camreron Teece sent La Galia racing away and his cross to the back stick found Loughrey, who finished with aplomb to seal a comprehensive win. “It was a good performance from the lads. We knew Armadale would be difficult to break down, and although we only led 1-0 at halftime, I thought we controlled the game well and stayed patient,” Bayswater’s Pat Loughey explained. “The players came out with great energy in the second half, moved the ball well, and were clinical when the opportunities came. To score five goals while keeping a clean sheet is always pleasing, but the work rate and attitude of the group were probably the most satisfying aspects of the performance.”

Perth Azzurri have consolidated fourth place, but had to come from two goals down to beat Perth Glory 4-2 at the Sam Kerr Football Centre. It was the hosts who were ahead on 11 minutes, a diagonal ball from Alfie Knight sent Shaun Mutyavaviri down the left, he beat his marker and crossed back to Knight, whose shot was blocked the rebound falling to Malise Mpunga, who fired home. The Glory youngsters doubled their lead on 25 minutes, and again it was Knight who was the supplier. He won possession in the middle of the park and drove forward, before his cross picked out Louis Sollitt who headed home his eighth goal of the season. But the Azzurri found a lifeline five minutes before the break, Sam Pollard’s cross from the left was headed home by Gordon Perkins.

Kenny Lowe’s side were level ten minutes into the second half, Perkins won the ball off Mpunga, although it looked like he had fouled him in doing so, but he raced forward and finished from the edge of the box, his eleventh goal of the season. The Azzurri led for the first time nine minutes later, again Perkins won possession on the right, his cross found half time substitute Ethan Banks, his first shot was well blocked by Ruben Argent, but Banks no mistake from the rebound. The points were sealed 16 minutes from time, Banks, finding fellow substitute Pieter Jacobsz, who finished neatly past Tomislav Petkovic.

Sorrento are up to fifth, after a 1-0 win against Stirling Macedonia at Macedonia Park. Coach Andres Oliveria was pleased with the performance. “It was a really mature performance from the group today. Stirling are always a tough opponent, but we showed good control in key moments and real discipline without the ball,” he explained. “What pleased me the most was the collective effort everyone committed to the game plan, everyone worked for each other, and we earned the result through consistency and focus. It’s another step forward for us, and we’ll keep pushing to raise our level.” The only goal of the game came on eight minutes, Tim Hill winning possession in the middle of the park and he found Jakub Prajza, who cut the ball back to Rene Kisesa on the edge of the box and he fired home superbly, giving Liam Hattersley no chance.

Fremantle City are up to seventh, and regained the Sicilian Cup after a 5-2 win against Balcatta Etna at Hilton Park. “After a disappointing performance last we asked for a reaction this week and couldn’t ask for a better response,” Fremantle coach Dale Wingell said. “A dominant display, with plenty of players doing their bit. Some greatly crafted goals but for me it was our intent and desire that really shone through. Scoring early gave us the foundation to get the result we wanted and the players that came on definitely did their part too. Getting players back available now means our squad can be pretty interchangeable, which can help us to play in many different ways. As always, we enjoyed the win before a quick turnaround and refocus to face Olympic on Tuesday in the cup.”

The hosts made the best possible start, opening the scoring on three minutes. John Chalmers cross from the right was headed back across goal by Chad Nilson, and Iljas Ahmedov turned the ball home from close-range. They added a second ten minutes later, Shubham Mokala’s shot was well saved by Riley Stephenson, but Ahmedov swept home the rebound. Balcatta reduced the deficit on 24 minutes, Charlie Betts finding Nicolas Falco, who drilled home from the edge of the box, giving Luke Radonich no chance. But six minutes before the break, Fremantle regained their two-goal advantage, Charlie Chechlacz pouncing on a poor pass before sending Mokala in on goal and he finished clinically.

The hosts found a fourth 19 minutes from time, referee Josh Mannella spotting a hand ball by Luke Alessandrino and pointing to the spot. Fremantle skipper Charlie Chechlacz kept his nerve and sent Stephenson the wrong way from the resulting penalty. Balcatta pulled one back five minutes later, Jared Flavel firing home, moments after coming off the bench. But Fremantle sealed the points four minutes from time, Josh Risdon sending Taj Bingwa down the right and he finished low across Stephenson.

Dianella White Eagles are back in the winners, after a four game without a victory, after a narrow 1-0 win against Western Knights at Dianella Reserve. “A very pleasing outing for the club as a whole against a tough opposition, in our rivals Western Knights. We had a game plan going into it, we wanted to keep possession and let the ball do all the running,” Dianella skipper Saša Njegić said. “I think we did that very well for large spells of the game, which is why we walked away with the three points.

“But also, big credit to all the boys, we put out a very good defensive performance against a team that just scored three past Perth. We knew where we had gone wrong in previous weeks and had just made sure that we all worked hard for one another. We put bodies behind the ball and ran to that final whistle - once again very good win against a side that was up there in the top four mix.” The only goal of the game just before the hour mark. Miguel Restrepo was found down the right, and he beat his marker and got to the byline and crossed to the back post where Daniel Zivkovic rose highest to head home.

UWA MOVE TO THE TOP AFTER WIN AGAINST FLOREAT – WEEK TWELVE REVIEW

We have new leaders in the State League Division One, with UWA Nedlands coming from two goals down to beat former leaders Floreat Athena 3-2 at the UWA Sports Park. UWA coach Kris Donnell said after a difficult first half the second was outstanding. “Yes, first half I thought we were too passive and poor in possession. We weren't aggressive enough and didn't play with the intensity that's become a hallmark of this team. We made a few changes at half time and there were definitely a few choice words in the dressing room, but credit to the players because they responded brilliantly,” Donnell explained.

“The second half was outstanding. We played with much more energy, moved the ball quicker and showed the belief that's been driving this group for a long time now. To go unbeaten in the league at home since joining the club is a testament to this group of players and staff. They don't know how to give up. Even at 2-0 down there was never any panic, just a determination to keep pushing and find a way back into the game.” Floreat were ahead on 17 minutes, a long clearance from Devon Lindemann was well controlled by Jordan Langley, before finishing clinically past Tadgh O’Malley from just outside the box. Alun Vernals side doubled their advantage on the half hour, Luis Adlard sending Tom Wassholm racing clear, and keeper O’Malley raced out and tackled the striker, the ball falling back to Adlard, who chipped the ball from distance into an empty net.

Floreat were in control at the break, but the hosts pulled one back three minutes into the second half. Referee Stewart Beatie spotted a push in the box by Linus Persson on Seb Hooshangian and pointed to the spot, and Joe McInnes fired home from the spot. They were level five minutes later, the referee pointing to the spot again after a heavy tackle by Rhys Davies on half time substitute Dean Hurley, and McInnes again finished well. It looked like the points would be shared, but in the final minute it was Kris Donnell’s side who won it. Harvey Tomlinson’s clearance was charged down by Hooshangian, who raced into goal, his shot was saved by Lindemann, the ball rebound back to Hooshangian, whose lob was turned home by McInnes on the line to complete his hat-trick and set off wild celebrations on and off the park.

In our week twelve ‘Match of the Round’ Inglewood United have continued their recent good form with a 1-0 win against Kingsley Westside at Chichester Park on Saturday evening. “Kingsley were in some good form and Chichester is very difficult place to go, but we had a game plan and executed it for a sizeable amount of the game,” Inglewood defender Ciarán Salinger said. “Not many teams will come away with three points from that ground, so an all-round solid team performance.” The only goal of the game came on seven minutes, Gavin Byars founding space down the right and his low cross was turned home by Jake Nicholson.

Joondalup City have kept tabs on the top two, and spoilt the return to Gwelup Croatia of coach Taki Nicolaidis, with a 2-1 win at Iluka Park. “Good result to kick off the second half of the season. Thought the boys were excellent on the ball in the first half and created a lot of chances, then controlled the game on and off the ball in the second. Credit to Taki and Gwelup they had a go second half but our boys deserved the three points in the end.” Joondalup made the breakthrough in the shadows of half time, when Taiga Kobayashi’s free kick was headed home by skipper Liam Peacock. They sealed the points eight minutes from time, Sam McKearnen’s cross was only cleared as far as Kobayashi whose first time shot found the bottom corner. Gwelup did pull one back in stoppage time, Alex Nicolaidis’ cross from the right was turned home by Jacob Rossi, but it was too little too late.

Mandurah City have continued their recent good form, and moved into the top four, after beating Subiaco 5-3 at Rosalie Park. “It was a great result for the boys and pleasing to make it five wins in a row. We took our chances well today, which was probably the difference in the game, but full credit to Subiaco who kept coming at us and made us work hard right until the final whistle,” Mandurah coach Zac Headington explained. “What I was most pleased with was the belief the group showed whenever momentum shifted. There were periods where we had to dig in, stay disciplined and see the game out, and the lads did that really well.

“At the same time, there can be no complacency. Five wins is a positive run, but we've achieved nothing yet and we know every week presents a new challenge. The togetherness within this group is outstanding at the moment. The players are working for each other, supporting each other and buying into what we're trying to build. The lads have been relentless in their approach, both at training and on match day. Their work ethic, commitment and willingness to keep pushing each other are creating a strong foundation, and that's something we'll continue to demand as we move forward.”

Mandurah were on fire early, scoring two goals in the first five minutes. First on three minutes Maxwell Worswick’s cross was spectacularly fired home by Lachlan Hannah. Moments later it was 2-0, Hamza Hina cutting into the box on the right, and drilling a low shot past Hood Majiet. Subiaco were back in the game mid-way through the first half, when Robert Petkov’s shot was saved but Tomas Despotovski finished at the back post. But the Dolphins added a third shortly after, with Jordan Callaghan volleying home from the edge of the box.

The hosts were back in the game just after the hour, Ben Bathgate’s cross from the left was finished at the back post by Ivan Skorich. The goals kept coming, Mandurah added a fourth after Christopher Harradine brought down Charlie Breen and the referee pointed to the spot, and Joe O’Brien sent the keeper the wrong way from the resulting penalty. But Subiaco weren’t finished and they made it 4-3 three minutes later, Petkov crossing to Skorich for his second. Mandurah were reduced to ten men seven minutes from time when Liam Bonner dragged back Skorich and was shown a straight red card. But they added a fifth deep into stoppage time, with O’Brien adding his second, to give them a comfortable win.

Cockburn City have made it back-to-back wins for the first time this season, after a stoppage tie goal from Daniel Robinson has given them a 3-2 win against Murdoch University Melville at Len Shearer Reserve. Today was a hard-fought game, and an encouraging win for us,” Cockburn coach Terry Nicolaou said. “Throughout the game, but especially in the second half, we managed to create numerous goalscoring opportunities but were unable to capitalise on many of them. Murdoch proved to be a strong and competitive side, consistently testing our defence and creating several dangerous moments of their own. In the end, our persistence paid off with a late winner. The dedicated and hard-working squad of players deserved this win.”

The hosts thought they had the lead on the half hour, with Eddie Wynne-Willson scoring, but after a long delay the goal was ruled offside. Then five minutes later the visitors hit the front, Matthew Bowen’s first shot was blocked, but he fired home the rebound. MUM FC were level five minutes into the second half, Joshua Macri’s free kick picked out Feisal Zaw, who lost his marker to head home. But Cockburn regained the lead on 58 minutes, Bowen’s shot crashed off the bar, and Isaac Mcvittie was pushed over in the box by Duncan Lennon-Black, and referee Michal Jasinski awarded a penalty.

Robinson stepped up sent the keeper the wrong from the spot. But Marc Anthony’s side were level again three minutes later, Gustavo Giron-Marulanda easing past his marker on the edge of the box and finished clinically. After the goal there was an altercation and after consulting with his assistant the referee sent Wynne-Willson off. It looked like the points would be shared, but in the fourth minute of stoppage time Robinson fired home at the back post to seal the points.

In the final game, the points were shared, with Quinns and Curtin University playing out a 2-2 draw at Stylish Park, Grindleford Reserve. “Not a lot to say about a pretty insipid match really. Curtin’s away form has been good, they came to Stylish with intent and poured numbers forward early, however we couldn’t capitalise on transition,” Quinns coach Steven Flint said. “Obviously pleasing to get a point after last week, however I think we controlled more periods of the game for longer and a little disappointed not to get a win.” It was Curtin who opened the scoring on the quarter hour mark, with Gaspar Zuljevic cutting in from left and curling home past Conall Power. But the hosts levelled in the shadows of half time, Jack Murray’s free kick was turned home at the back post by Andrew Flint.

Quinns were ahead on hour, Elliot Ireland’s free kick from the left, was flicked home by skipper Ben Johns at the near post. But the points were shared nine minutes later, referee pointing to the spot and Zuljevic made no mistake with the penalty, to give both sides a share of the spoils. “Disappointed to concede a couple of soft goals from set pieces, but overall, a draw was probably a fair result,” Curtin coach Troy Reid said. “Pleased to come away with a point after going a goal down, and we created enough chances to feel we could have snatched the winner.”

LEADERS ROCKINGHAM BEATEN AND DUO WIN FIRST GAMES OF THE SEASON – WEEK ELEVEN REVIEW

Our week eleven State League Division Two ‘Match of the Round’ was a stalemate, with Ashfield and Wembley Downs playing out a 0-0 draw at the Ashfield arena on Saturday afternoon. “Very happy with the performance today. We were brave in pushing numbers forward in search of a winner but ultimately, we couldn’t find a breakthrough,” Ashfield coach Malcom Tshuma said. “We are left feeling frustrated with the result but I think that’s an indication as to how we’re progressing as a team.” Both sides cancelled each other out in a tight contest, but it was the host who had the best chances late in the game.

First on 80 minutes Jack Kiama and Alex Pozhar combined neatly down the right and found Michael Mwangiri who’s through ball found Hasen Asadi but his finish was well saved by Casey Robertson. They were in again soon after, when a corner fell to Ben Entwistle in the box but his snapshot was deflected over the bar. Then late on a clever ball from Entwistle found Mwangiri, whose first time volley was well smothered by Robertson. “It was a tough game today, the pitch was very slippery and difficult for both teams to play on,” Wembley coach Luke Thompson said. “I thought the game became a battle and both teams didn’t really create too much of note, but we take the point and move on.”

League leaders Rockingham City have been beaten for only the second time this season, going down 3-1 to a resurgent East Perth at Endeavour Homes Stadium, Larkhill Sportsplex. “It’s always a tough place to go, but we were finally back to full strength today, and we are a match for anybody in the league which we showed,” East Perth coach Sully Sullivan explained. “It was a great physical game but unfortunately the referees didn't help both sides and lot of frustration from both teams, but I thought it was a fair result in a good three points on the road.”

After a quick start from the visitors, their pressure finally returned dividends with Ryan McCready in the right place as always to slide in. Rockingham hit back and levelled with a stunning free kick from Dylan Rogers gave East Perth keeper Peter Stewart no chance. It was an arm wrestle after the break, with the midfield battle crucial, but it was East Perth who regained the lead when a great run from Owen Patterson, who finished into the bottom corner. Rockingham threw everything at East Perth late, looking for the equaliser, but they were caught out on a quick counter attack and Gérard Clarke finished well at the back post.

Balga have won back-to-back games for the first time this season, with a 5-0 win against North Beach at Charles Riley Memorial Reserve. “It was a very pleasing performance and resulted in my second game in charge with a 5–0 win. The players trained well during the week and carried that into the match, executing the game plan well and creating far more chances than the scoreline reflected,” Balga coach Amir Dzamastagic explained. “Credit to the squad for their hard work and commitment. Our full focus now turns to preparing for next week's home game against Morley Windmills.”

The visitors were on the front foot and Seamus Edwards opened the scoring on ten minutes getting on the end of a flick, before David Dimola doubled their advantage 14 minutes later heading home from a corner. It was 3-0 soon after, with striker Bleron Mamudi scoring, and the striker added his second before the break, a stunning strike from the edge of the box, to send Balga into the sheds with a 4-0 lead. It was a tighter second half, but just before the hour mark it was 5-0, Jose Zuniga’s corner was turned into his own net by a North Beach defender.

Carramar Shamrock Rovers continued their unbeaten start to the season, with a 2-1 win against Forrestfield United at Grandis Park. “It was a great performance from the lads today,” Rovers’ coach Adam Walsh said. “We went into the break with a 2-1 lead, but Forrestfield came out second half and gave us no rest whatsoever but we stood up to the pressure and managed to hold on. Jakeb (Seppings) pulled off some great saves and the post saved us more than once. Really proud to be involved with this bunch of lads they work endlessly for the team and club, just a pity there were three red cards late in the game, which spoilt a great game.”

The hosts took a deserved lead on ten minutes, Nathan Diaz bagging his fifth goal of the season, poking home in a crowded penalty area. But the visitors were level three minutes later, the hosts switching off and Forrestfield skipper Matthew Evans made no mistake. Then three minutes before the break Rovers regained the lead, Jack Reilly cutting in from the right and firing low past Charlie Bayliss. That proved to be the winner, but late on the referee sent three players off, Joshua Reid and Wayne Guest for Rovers, and Maxwell Snelson for United, which took a little gloss off a great game.

Canning City have won for the first time this season, after a 5-3 win against Morley Windmills at Burrendah Park. “Delighted with the win,” Canning coach lee Hayward said. “Hopefully the performances over the past few weeks and today’s result, give us something to build on in the second half of the season.” It was Morley who found the opener on seven minutes, with Samual Marta scoring from the spot. But Canning were level on the half hour, good work from Hanani Ndebele found Sahr Musa, who made no mistake. But Morley were reduced to ten men when Gabriel Vasques was shown a straight red card. But the ten men regained the lead just before half time, Ali Gholami firing home a free kick.

But the hosts restored parity early in the second half, Brian Mashingaidze was picked out from a corner and his half volley beat Luke Martino. A few minutes later Canning were ahead, Mashingaidze corner was finished by Will Roscoe. It was 4-2 on the hour mark, Hanani Ndebele making space down the left, and cutting inside his marker and firing into the far corner. But Morley weren’t finished, and pulled one back five minutes later, with Marta scoring his second to set up a tense finish. But Morley were reduced to nine men five minutes from time, with Daniel Dols shown a second yellow card, and the hosts sealed the points in stoppage time, with a neat finish from Freeman Nyatsambo.

In the final game, Gosnells City has also won for the first time this season, and stopped the recent good form of Kalamunda United, after a 2-1 win at Walter Padbury Reserve. “The win is a relief, but it’s been coming the last few weeks we’ve been in games and just not taken our chances when we’ve been on top,” Gosnells coach Peter Allen explained. “But as a coach it’s hard to keep selling it, that it’s only a matter of time, so today to be down against the run of play and for my lads to dig deep and come out on top is great. It’s only one win and we know we’re in a battle but today and these last few weeks shows me these lads are up for the battle.” The visitors, who arrived in fourth place on the table, and they found the opener on the half hour, with substitute Andrea Erbetta on target. It looked like that would be the winner, but Gosnells had other ideas and drew level ten minutes from time with substitute Abdulla Dofash scoring. Then in the final minute the hosts won it, with skipper Aaron Coslani scoring.

WANNEROO SPOT ON TO BEAT NORTH PERTH

Wanneroo City have bounced back from their loss at Kelmscott last week, with a hard fought 1-0 win against North Perth United in Friday’s opening week nine Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division clash at Players Place, Madeley, the loss ended North Perth’s four-game winning run. “It was a great win for us. We wanted to make up for our poor performance last week and the lads were up for the task last night,” Wanneroo coach Kevin Flavin said.

“We knew it was going to be a tough close game but overall, I think we deserved the win. Especially in the second half, where I thought all the lads off the bench made a huge impact on the game. A couple of standout performances were Kane Fitch and Ben Gammock who really stepped up to the occasion and put in brilliant performances.”

It looked like the points would be shared, but North Perth’s cause wasn’t helped when Nial Kennedy received a second yellow card and sent off. Then in stoppage time the hosts won it, a neat one two between Ross Buckley and Fitch on the edge of the box, and his shot was blocked by North Perth defender John Harris, and the referee pointed straight to the spot for handball. Fitch kept his nerve and stepped up making no mistake from the resulting penalty to send the hosts back to the top of the table.

“I thought it was a well-deserved win, and we restricted them to very little going forward which is a huge credit to us given how good of a side they are,” Fitch explained. “It’s a big win in the context of the season and our recent results against teams around us, however there’s still a long way to go this season and hopefully this will be the start of another good run for us moving forward.” In the earlier reserves game, goals from Ben Toms, Kaisun de Ocampo and own goal gave Wanneroo a 3-1 win.

Wanneroo: GK Cian Flynn, 3 Zak Thomas, 4 Robbie Sallis, 5 Kane Fitch, 7 Alexander Wheelhouse (23 Julian Bian 62’), 8 Jack Wilson, 9 Loris Tommolini, (10 Jordan Cook 62’), 11 Alan Reidy (13 Frankie Stammers 62’), 12 Oliver Bradley (19 Sam Gammack 76’), 14 Benjamin Gammack (2 Jaydan Licastro 85’), 16 Ross Buckley – Subs not used: Nil

North Perth United: GK Luke O Brien, 2 John Harris, 4 Eoin Haverty (16 Bryan Neal 85’), 5 Tom Fowler, 7 Conor Butler, 8 Niall Kennedy, 9 Conor Quinn (10 Jack Hurrell 72’), 13 Jake Chamberlain, 14 Scott McArthur, 15 Michael Brennan (11 Regan McGoldrick 85’), 17 Marcus Seydel (18 Yanich Jordan 62’) - Subs not used: RGK Mark Shaughnessy, 12 Arron Lunn

POPOVIC LEAVES GLORY

Perth Glory striker Gabriel Popovic has left the club and signed for Sydney FC on a two-year contract. The 22-year-old joins the Sky Blues after making nine appearances and scoring two goals during the 2025-26 campaign at Glory. As well as his two spells the Glory, Popovic has played for Xanthi in Greece, Rudes in Croatia and with Catania in Italy, and loan spells at other Italian clubs Fiorenzuola and Puteolana, but he is excited to now get started in the Harbour City.

“I’m incredibly excited to be coming home to Sydney,” Popovic said. “This is where I grew up, where I first fell in love with football. To now have the opportunity to wear the Sky Blues jersey is something I’m very proud of. I’m really looking forward to joining a club that has so much momentum behind it after the way they finished last season. “There’s a very strong squad here with a lot of talented young players and I can’t wait to get started, meet the boys and contribute however I can.”

Popovic joins a Sydney FC side that made last season’s Isuzu UTE A-League Grand Final, with head coach Patrick Kisnorbo pleased to have added some more attacking firepower to his squad. “Gabriel is a strong, dominant number nine with a real passion for the game,” Kisnorbo said. “He’s the type of striker who will cause problems for defenders and he gives us a different option in our forward line. For a player who is only 22 years old, he already has good experience having played professional football in a number of different countries. That exposure to different environments and styles of football will be valuable and we’re looking forward to helping him continue his development here at Sydney FC.”

The move to sign Popovic comes off the back of Sydney’s capture of former academy product Jake Hollman, who signed a three-year deal with Sydney FC after leaving English club Walsall. Sydney FC are expected to be very active during the coming weeks as they look to replace seven off-season exits, a list that included first team players such as Joe Lolley, Aspostolos Stamatelopoulos, Joel King and Piero Quispe. Popovic will link up with his new Sydney FC team-mates at the end of June as preparations begin for the Sydney Super Cup clash with Tottenham Hotspur and the Australia Cup 2026 campaign.

TOP FOUR MEET IN BELT-UP AMATEUR PREMIER DIVISION – PREVIEW

It’s a huge weekend, with the top four teams meeting in week nine of the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division, and with only three points separating them on the table, it should be two thrilling encounters. Firstly, on Friday evening second placed North Perth United head to Players Place, Madeley to take on third placed Wanneroo City. (8:00pm). The hosts lost top spot last week after their defeat at Kelmscott, while North Perth made it four straight wins with a narrow win at Jaguar. North Perth coach Chris Batten said it’s a game they are all looking forward too. “This was one of the first fixtures we looked for when they were released at the start of the season. The boys are buzzing for it and have trained exceptionally well this week too,” he explained.

“We have just been going about our business, picking up results and improving our performances week in week out. We welcome back some big players into the squad and the inclusion of club captain Niall Kennedy, who has played some of his best football while being at the club recently comes back in too. We are all excited to test ourself against one of the best sides in the league. Obviously, I have history with Kevin (Flavin) and Jason (Winter), who I’ve worked with over the last 4-5 years. It’s always good to test myself against the best coaches in the league. Can’t beat Friday night football under the lights.”

Wanneroo coach Jason Winter said they are looking forward to the game and I’m sure he will be looking to bounce back after last week’s defeat, but he knows it will be another tough game. “It should be a cracking game, two good sides going at it,” he said. “We’ve have had two good session this week and are ready to go. I think tonight might come down to who wants it more, we’re really looking forward to it.”

Then on Sunday, new league leaders Swan United welcome fourth placed Kelmscott Roos to the Swan Italian Club, Francis Street. (All games kick off at 3:00pm) The hosts are the only unbeaten side in the league and sit one point clear at the top, this after a big win at Maccabi last week, while Kelmscott continue to improve, with three wins on the bounce, the latest a win against Wanneroo last week. Swan coach Lee Taylor said they are in a good position, but there is still a long way to go, and Sunday will be another challenge game against the inform Roos.

“Sunday will be a tough game, but one we are looking forward to, Kelmscott are in the mix and with only one defeat so far we know we need to make sure we perform to a high level, their position in the table reflects the quality they have throughout the squad,” Taylor explained. “From our perspective, we’re pleased with our start to the season. Remaining unbeaten is a positive reflection of the work the players and coaches have put in.

“But we know there is still a long way to go and plenty of improvement left in us. Matches like Sunday are a good test of where you are as a group. Like every week our focus will remain on our own performance, maintaining the standards we’ve set, and hopefully putting in a display that gives us the opportunity to come away with a positive result.”

Kelmscott were big winner last weekend, against the then leaders Wanneroo, and coach Derek Clarke said they hope to build on that performance, and has been pleased with the momentum his players have achieved over the past month. “Yes, Sunday is another really tough game, and these are must win games for this time of the season,” he said. “We have momentum at the moment after a lot of hard work on the training ground, with rain predicted the weather is always a good leveller, so may the best team win.”

In other games on Sunday fifth placed Hamersley Rovers head to Madman Arena, Kingsway Reserve to meet Olympic Kingsway, Noranda Emerald will look to bounce back after back-to-back defeats, when they welcome Jaguar to the Noranda Sporting Complex. Ballajura AFC entertain Hamersley Rovers at Kingfisher Park, while in the final game Kingsley Westside entertain Maccabi at Chichester Park. Kingsley got back to winning ways last time out at Olympic, and coach Simone Sichel said they are ready for the challenge against Maccabi.

“After a very important win against Kingsway, this is another massive test for us. Maccabi pushed the league leaders all the way last week, and I'm sure they'll be disappointed not to have taken something from that game,” Sichel said. “They are a well-organised side with plenty of talented players and are clearly very well coached. We know we'll need to be at our best. Our focus will be on executing what we've worked on during training, playing our football, and putting in a strong performance for the full 90 minutes.

“Three points for us would be huge and would help us continue the positive momentum we have built over the last few weeks. The group is in a good place at the moment, but we know there is still plenty of work to do. We're looking forward to the challenge, bringing our best performance to Maccabi, and hopefully coming home with another important win.”

POPOVIC EXTENDS CONTRACT AS SOCCEROOS COACH

Football Australia and Socceroos Head Coach Tony Popovic have agreed to a contract extension through to the AFC Asian Cup 2027. The announcement comes on the eve of the Socceroos’ FIFA World Cup 2026 opener against Türkiye. The former Perth Glory coach has been capped 58 times as a player, and Popovic will become the first individual to represent the Socceroos at a FIFA World Cup as both a player and a Head Coach, 20 years after featuring in the drought-breaking 2006 tournament.

Appointed in September 2024, Popovic took charge of his first matches in October 2024. He went on to guide the team to its first direct qualification for the FIFA World Cup since 2014. The qualifying campaign was underpinned by the Socceroos’ equal second-longest undefeated streak, while his first 11 games marked the second-longest undefeated start to a Socceroos coaching career. Popovic has managed 18 matches as Head Coach of Australia, recording 10 wins and four draws.

“I’m delighted that I will continue to coach the Socceroos through to the AFC Asian Cup 2027,” Popovic told the Football Australia website. “It has been an honour and a privilege to lead the Socceroos, and it is a role that I thoroughly enjoy and one I have never taken for granted. My absolute focus right now is on the FIFA World Cup 2026. I’m proud to lead my country into a World Cup, but most importantly, I want to ensure that our team is fully prepared and focused on our group matches against Türkiye, the United States, and Paraguay. From the moment I took over, I have tried to factor in the long-term interests of the Socceroos while ensuring that we achieve the short-term results, which in the first instance was qualifying for the FIFA World Cup 2026.”

Football Australia CEO, Martin Kugeler said Popovic has made a positive impact in the role. “Securing Tony Popovic’s contract extension on the eve of the FIFA World Cup is a fantastic outcome. Tony is a world-class coach, and he has proven his ability to deliver results while developing talent at the same time,” Kugeler explained. “Tony’s positive impact on the Socceroos and Football Australia has been clear, from securing direct qualification for the FIFA World Cup for the first time in 12 years, to building out the depth of the squad and laying the foundations for future success. We can see the growing excitement among Socceroos fans.

“While the immediate focus is on the FIFA World Cup 2026, this extension provides clarity and enables Football Australia to plan with absolute confidence for the period following the tournament, leading into the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027. Stability and continuity are vital, especially with our exciting, developing young Socceroos squad. With the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 coming so soon after the World Cup, this provides a natural progression and an opportunity for Tony and the team to build upon the positive momentum generated over the past 21 months.”

His comments were echoed by Football Australia Executive Director of Football, Heather Garriock. “We are delighted to extend Tony’s contract. Since his appointment in September 2024, he has successfully guided the CommBank Socceroos to direct qualification for the FIFA World Cup 2026 and reinforced why he is regarded as one of the game’s leading coaches,” Garriock said. “Tony has brought elite standards, strong leadership and a relentless commitment to high performance that has elevated the entire national team environment.

“Beyond results, Tony has created a culture of accountability, professionalism and belief that has driven both individual and collective growth. He has expanded the depth of the squad, provided opportunities for the next generation of Australian talent and positioned the team strongly for the future. With the FIFA World Cup days away and the AFC Asian Cup to follow, there is genuine excitement about what this group can achieve under the stability of Tony’s leadership as we continue our pursuit of success on the world stage.”

ARMADALE STAND IN THE WAY OF TOP SPOT FOR BAYSWATER – WEEK FOURTEEN PREVIEW

After a stuttering start to the season, Armadale seemed to have turned a corner, and last week’s win against Fremantle City, made it only one loss in the last five games, with a brace from Luke Desmond, and that defeat was a narrow 0-1 loss against league leaders Perth RedStar. They will look to take that form into our New Balance NPLWA – Men’s Week Fourteen ‘Match of the Round’, when they host third placed Bayswater City at Alfred Skeet Reserve on Saturday afternoon. The visitors could go top of the table with a win this week, with the Olympic Kingsway and Perth RedStar game having been rescheduled for July 11, with both sides missing a number of players due to a wedding. City are coming off a last-ditch win against Dianella last week, with Daniel Stynes scoring late to seal the points and made it just one defeat in their last eight games, so with both sides in form, this should be a great game. (All games kick off at 3:00pm)

The last time the two sides met at the venue was in week sixteen last season when City left with all three points after a 4-0 win. In their first game since Alun Vernals resigning as coach, and it was a tight first half, but two late goals from Bayswater burst the game wide open. First on 44 minutes Sean McManus slipped in Chris Jackson, and he rounded Seb Medica and rolled the ball into the net. Then straight from the kick off Armadale gave the ball away, and Jackson spotted Medica off his line and lobbed him. Bayswater made it 3-0 just after the hour mark. Declan Hughes’ cushioned ball found the unmarked Cameron Teece, who chested the ball down and finished low past Medica. It was 4-0 ten minutes from time, Ollie La Galia was denied moments earlier by a smart save from Medica, but he made emends shortly after, firing home after Hughes’ cross had been flicked on by Teece.

Armadale coach John Baird has been delighted with how his players have responded after a tough start to the season, and last week’s win against Fremantle was built on their resilience, both at training and match days. “The pleasing thing for me is the growth in the group. Results have improved, but more importantly our performances have become more consistent. The players have shown great belief, they’ve worked hard for each other and they’ve embraced the standards we’re setting,” the Scotsman explained.

“We know we’re not the finished product and there’s still plenty to improve, but the lads deserve credit for the way they’ve responded and the momentum they’ve built over the last month. Last week’s win was a fantastic result for the group. Fremantle came into the game in great form and we knew we would have to be at our best. I thought our intensity, work rate and commitment to the game plan were outstanding. We caused them problems going forward and showed real resilience when we needed to defend. It was a performance that reflected the character of the group and one we can take confidence from.”

Baird said they are looking forward to the visit of Bayswater. He knows it will be a stern test, but having their loyal supporters behind them, he’s hoping to continue the good form they have shown recently. “Every game in this league is a challenge and Bayswater are one of the competition’s benchmark clubs. They’re well coached, have quality across the pitch and have been consistently near the top end of the table,” Baird said. “For us, it’s another opportunity to test ourselves against one of the best sides in the league. We’re at home, in front of our supporters, and we’re confident and we’ll be looking to impose ourselves on the game. If we bring the same energy, discipline and intensity we’ve shown in recent weeks, we’ll give ourselves every chance of getting a positive result.”

Bayswater left it late again last week to secure the win against Dianella, but coach Matthew Sparrow said it shows the character they have in the squad. “I was delighted with the result and particularly the way the players kept going right until the final whistle,” Sparrow said. “Going forward I thought we looked dangerous throughout and created enough chances to win the game. At the same time, we know conceding three goals isn’t good enough and there are areas we need to improve. It was an important three points, but also a reminder that there is still plenty for us to work on.

“Yes, the character in the group has been excellent all season, and the players never seem to panic when things aren’t going our way and they keep believing they can find a result. To only lose one of our last eight games is pleasing, especially considering some of the challenges we’ve had with injuries and availability. That said, we’re not getting carried away. The competition is very tight and we know we need to keep improving if we want to be where we hope to be at the end of the season.”

Sparrow said anytime you play at Armadale it’s a challenge, and he’s expecting nothing to change on Saturday. “It’s a difficult fixture, and John has them well organised and they’ve shown in recent weeks they’re capable of causing problems for anyone in the league,” he explained. “We know we’ll have to be at a good level to get a positive result. The challenge for us is to build on the momentum we’ve created, continue improving our performances and show the same resilience and work ethic that has served us well over the last couple of months. We’re looking forward to it.”

In other games on Saturday, Stirling Macedonia welcome Sorrento to Macedonia Park, the visitors looking to build on their win at Balcatta last week, while Dianella White Eagles host traditional rivals Western Knights at Dianella Reserve. Fremantle City entertains Balcatta Etna at Hilton Park, in the ‘Sicilian Cup’, while in the final game Perth Azzurri makes the trip to Sam Kerr Football Centre to meet Perth Glory. The Azzurri sit fourth, but lost ground on the leaders after being held by Stirling.

Azzurri assistant coach Ellis Healing said they are looking to make emends on Saturday. “Games against Stirling, are always a tough game for us, as they always turn up with energy and intensity. So, to go 3-1 down and get to back to 3-3 and probably be unlucky not to win the game was pleasing for us,” Healing explained. “This week at Glory will be no different, we haven’t been starting games in the best way this season, so we will be looking to get on the front foot early and get control of the game as early as we can.”

INGLEWOOD HOPING TO KEEP WINNING RUN GOING AT KINGLSEY – WEEK TWELVE PREVIEW

Inglewood United seemed to have turned the corner after a slow start to the season, and they are coming off three straight wins, but they will need to be at their best on Saturday evening when they travel to Chichester Park to take on third placed Kingsley Westside in our week 12 ‘Match of the Round’ (6:00pm) United moved up to sixth place on the table, after a Leon Giglia goal saw them win narrowly 1-0 win against Curtin. On the other hand, Kingsley bounced back from a loss at MUMFC the week before, with a big 7-0 win against Quinns. It’s tight at the top, with only two points separating the two teams, so a win would be huge as both sides chase promotion.

The last time they met at Chichester Park, was in week fourteen last season, when the hosts sealed a 4-1. The hosts found the opener on 39 minutes. Luke Doyle’s free kick was nodded on by Paul Stewart, and Nick Koefler lashed the ball home. It was 2-0 moments later, Stewart finding Max Adamson, who held off several Inglewood defenders before firing home from the edge of the box.

They added a third, ten minutes into the second half, Stewart finding the bottom corner of the net. Inglewood found a lifeline four minutes later, Stephen Christopher’s diagonal ball sent Cammron Morris in on goal and he finished low. But the hosts sealed the points with a fourth, 13 minutes from time. Stewart raced into the box and was brought down by Jason Dunphy, and Adamson stepped up and sent Lindsay the wrong way from the resulting penalty.

Inglewood defender Jordan Brown, said they are starting to put in 90-minute performances, and are heading in the right direction, but were made to earn the three points in the last game. “Yes, last week was a tough game against Curtin and credit to them,” he said. “We weren’t at our best on the day, but thankfully we did enough to get the three points. It’s good to get some results and climb the table the past month or so, and I think as a team we feel there’s another level we can get too.”

Brown said Kingsley scored a big win last week, and will be coming into the game in good form, but so are they. “Hopefully we can put it together in the second half of the season, and stay competitive in the league, and it starts at Kingsley on Saturday evening,” he explained. “They are coming of a huge result last week and have shown there a top side, so it’s a big test for the boys this week. But if we play to our level, it should be a great game with a big three points up for grabs.”

Kingsley skipper Neil Gillies said last week was a good performance, but thought that sort of result had been coming for a while. “Yes, it was great to get back to winning ways against Quinns, the boys were superb from start to finish. We felt a big scoreline had been coming for us for a few weeks, so it was good to create a lot of chances and score a lot of goals,” he said. “We have had a few defeats in recent weeks, so we are hoping that result can kickstart the second half of our season and we are hoping to maintain our position in the top four.”

Kingsley have only lost once on home soil this season, and Gillies said they are looking to step it up on Saturday to continue that. “We know Inglewood are in good form and we know they are a tough side to play against who don’t concede many goals, so we know we’ll have to be at our best again,” the skipper explained. “But we back ourselves against anyone at home and are coming into the game very high in confidence as a team, we’re looking forward to it.”

In other game this week (All games kick off at 3:00pm), we have a top of the table clash, with leaders Floreat Athena travelling to the UWA Sports Park to take on UWA Nedlands. Three points separate the two sides, the home side losing ground on Floreat after a draw against Joondalup last week, with a late penalty from Joseph McInnes giving them a point, while Floreat beat Gwelup 4-0. Fourth placed Joondalup City welcome Gwelup Croatia to Iluka Park, while Murdoch University Melville entertain Cockburn City at Len Shearer Reseve. Quinns will look to bounce back after the heavy loss at Kingsley, when they host Curtin University at Stylish Park, Gumblossom Reserve, while in the final game, the inform Mandurah City travel to Rosalie Park to take on Subiaco AFC.

FORRESTFIELD LOOK TO END ROVERS’ UNBEATEN START – WEEK ELEVEN PREVIEW

Carramar Shamrock Rovers are the only unbeaten team in the top three leagues in WA football, and they will look to maintain that on Saturday when they welcome Forrestfield United to Grandis Park in our week eleven State League Division Two ‘Match of the Round’ (All games kick off at 3:00pm, unless stated) Rovers went close to losing their unbeaten start to the season last week, but a stoppage time goal from Louie Martin, secured a 1-1 draw with Morley. Meanwhile Forrestfield were beaten for the first time in six games last week, a 1-3 defeat against Balga, and they will look to bounce back this week, and with only three points separating the two sides, it sets up an interesting game.

The last time they met at the venue was in week one last season when Rovers won 2-1. The hosts were ahead on four minutes with referee Shou Chen pointing to the spot, and Jamie Gibson converted the resulting penalty. But they switched off seven minutes later from a set-piece, and Austin Reynolds made no mistake. But Rovers regained the lead on the half hour, with Gibson scoring from another penalty. Forrestfield piled on the pressure late, but they couldn’t find the equaliser, and Rovers held firm to start the season with a win.

Rovers sit third, five points off the leaders, and coach Adam Walsh said last weeks draw showed what his team is all about. “In terms of character these lads have that in abundance,” he said. “A never die attitude which is why we managed to get a chance to grab a goal late in extra time, and we stole a point on Saturday, but it could be a vital point come end of the season. It's been a great start for us we would have bitten your hand off for the position we are in pre-season so really happy.”

Walsh knows it’s only half way through the season, and having already played seven home games, and won all three away games, he’s looking to continue their good run against Forrestfield. “Yes, it’s a long way to go I trust the lads to continue to give everything to give us a good chance at promotion. Playing most of the second half of the season away will either help us of hinder us but I'm looking forward to it,” Walsh explained. “Saturday's game is massive, and we know a new coach coming in always creates a danger as he will have had another week implementing his ideas to the squad. We prepare the same way we always do and hopefully get a result.”

Forrestfield had been one of the form teams over the past six weeks, but they were brought down to earth with the defeat against Balga, and assistant coach Carlos Echeverria said mistakes cost them. “So far, our playing group has been superb. Very enthusiastic and supportive of the new coaching staff and allowed us to play to our strengths and bounce back after a slow start to the season,” he explained. “We knew it was going to be a though game last week, and Balga was up for it on the day. We made couple of silly mistakes and they made us paid.”

Echeverria, who was part of Gary Marrocchi’s Swan IC side that won the State Cup in 2003, and has been at Forrestfield for 15 years, working with their juniors. He joined up with head coach Eddie Garrido this season, after the departure of Daryl Platten, and he said they are looking forward to a tough test on Saturday. “Yes, we are looking forward to this week’s game against Carramar, and we know they are a quality side and always give you a tough battle,” he said. “We have trained well this week, and have made sure we are ready for what they have to bring.”

In other games on Saturday, league leaders Rockingham City entertain East Perth at Endeavour Homes Stadium, Larkhill Sportsplex, the visitors looking to bounce back after a loss against Kalamunda. Second placed Wembley Downs travel to the Ashfield Arena to take on Ashfield, while fourth placed Kalamunda City head to Walter Padbury Reserve to take on Gosnells City. North Beach will look to build on their win at Canning, when they host Blaga at Charles Riley Memorial Reserve, while in the final game Canning City host Morley Windmills at Burrendah Park.

FRENEY AND KUCHARSKI RETURN FOR GLORY

Perth Glory have continued to build their A-League squad for 2025-26 and have confirmed the signing of midfield Will Freney and striker Jaiden Kucharski. The 20-year-old Freney has signed a new two-year deal with the club, and the Sydney-born Freney started his football journey at Marconi, then joined the Western Sydney Wanderers academy, before a season at Macarthur FC.

He headed west in 2024 and stared in the NPL, before making his A-league debut off the bench in the 1-0 win in Brisbane the same year. His league starting debut, was in early 2025, in the narrow defeat against the Wanderers at HBF Park, and he’s established himself in the middle of the park, with nuggety style of play a hit with coach Adam Griffiths, and he made 23 appearances last season.

Glory Football Director Stan Lazaridis said he has been hugely impressed by the way midfielder has seized the opportunities he has been given over the last two years at the club. “Will is developing into an excellent central midfielder and has become a really key part of the squad,” Lazaridis explained. “He’s still learning certain aspects of his role, but he’s quick to take information on board and has great energy and drive. We’re delighted that Will is continuing his development with Glory and are really excited at what lies ahead for him.”

The 23-year-old Kucharski has signed a new contract with the club which runs until 2029. Another NSW-born player, and the striker started his football journey at Blacktown City, before joining the Sydney FC academy. He bagged 31 goals in his 56 appearances in the academy, and joined the A-League side in 2022, and he went on to play 60 games for the Sky Blues and was part of their Australia Cup winner’s side in 2023.

He headed to WA in 2025, and made an impact, scoring on his Glory debut against Wellington Phoenix in Round One and ended his first season with 19 appearances, and he added a further two goals. One of those goals, a stunning against Auckland FC in Week 15 at HBF Park, which earned him the club’s Goal of the Season Award and was also short-listed for the A-League Men’s Goal of the Year.

Glory Football Director Stan Lazaridis is confident the lively striker will continue to be a key attacking weapon next season. “We’ve seen from day one just how talented JK is," he said, "and I believe that he is only going to get better. "He has great pace and mobility which makes him very hard to defend against and on top of that, is a clinical finisher. JK really suits the way we want to play, he gets our members and fans out of their seats and having him sign a long-term deal is a huge positive."

YOUNG SOCCEROOS LET IT SLIP LATE AT ASEAN CUP BUT STILL MAKE THE SEMI-FINALS

The Young Socceroos have thrown away a 2-0 lead, conceding two late goals to draw 2-2 with Cambodia at the Sumatera Utara Main Stadium in Deli Serdang on Tuesday evening. But the draw was enough for Trevor Morgan’s side to win Group C, with Cambodia sneaking into the semifinals of the ASEAN U19 Boys’ Bank Sumut Championship. It took just three minutes for Australia to take the lead through Marcus Edward Neil, as Alexandro Diogo Nunes then doubled the advantage on 18 minutes.

However, Cambodia did not give up going into the second half as Sokea Sreng narrowed the gap at the hour mark before Lewis Domenic Marinucci’s own goal eight minutes from time gifted Cambodia the draw. The Young Socceroos were reduced to ten men late as they pressed for the winner, with Mathias Macallister sent off in stoppage time. The draw booked a place for both sides in the knockout stage in two days. In the semifinals, the host Indonesia will entertain Australia, while Thailand will take on Cambodia.

Australia Squad: GK Daniel Graskoski, GK Lachlan Charles, GK George Plusnin, Nickolas Alfaro, Peter Antoniou, Bechham Baker, Alex Bolton, Delano Cecchi, Maxwell Cooper, Harry Crawford, Luka Didulica, Oliver Dragicevic, Mikael Evagorou-Alao, Haine Eames, Alexander Garbowski, Mathias Macallister, Lewis Marinucci, Medin Memeti, Marcus Neill, Alexandro Nunes, George Plusnin, Jai Rose, Amlani Tatu, Lawrence Wong – Hesd Coach Trevor Morgan

ITALIANO OPENS UP ON TOUGH ROAD TO THE SOCCEROOS

Jacob Italiano was once put up in lights alongside PSG superstar Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Real Madrid forward Rodrygo, Argentinian star Thiago Almada, Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones and Scottish playmaker Billy Gilmour among the players set to take the soccer world by storm. That was 2018 and he was 17 at the time, playing as a winger for Perth Glory.

Eight years on, Italiano is set to be Australia’s first-choice right wing-back at a World Cup. But the 24-year old’s path to the national team and the World Cup is testament to development not always being linear. “There were times it wasn’t quite going so well, but that’s all built into the way I am now, how I play now, and I wouldn’t change it for anything,” Italiano told 'the West Australian' newspaper in California.

The former Inglewood United junior only made his Socceroos debut last October after steady performances in Austria with Grazer AK over the past two years. What preceded that was a half-decade’s worth of toil in the German lower leagues for Borussia Monchengladbach’s reserve team, seemingly out of sight and out of mind.

When his contract at Monchengladbach ran out, Italiano almost came home to Australia. But instead he switched to Austria and is now heading to a World Cup. “The tournament hasn’t started yet, but before October it was just a dream and now it’s here, so it is pretty exciting,” he said. “The move to Austria was to be able to play consistent football over in Europe and put my best foot forward for the national team.”

“That was my thinking going over there. And it’s all worked out that way, which was a big relief. There was a bit of interest (from Australia) at the end of my contract in Germany. I was pretty close to coming back, it was definitely a big option for me. I was definitely considering it, but then Austria came in and I always thought to myself I wanted to try and stick it out as long as possible in Europe.”

Italiano made his first team debut for Glory at 16 as an agile winger whose maturity immediately stood out for Kenny Lowe’s side. While he still counts Perth legend Diego Castro as the best player he has ever played with - “he was embarrassing us in training” - , Italiano’s own performances saw Monchengladbach pounce on his signature, and he joined the five-time German Bundesliga winners in 2019.

He was just 18 when he moved to a foreign land where he did not speak the language and barely nine months after arriving, a global pandemic hit. “In your mind, it’s all going to go well and then when it doesn’t, you’re competing with yourself, trying to get over it,” Italiano said. “COVID didn’t help as well. That was four or five months just gone out of the time I had there, I was stuck in my apartment alone over in Germany when everyone in Australia, it was all open and perfect.

“Everyone was really scared, especially in Germany and around Europe. You’d walk down the street, and people would go to the other side of the road and avoid you, and people were going grocery shopping with full hazmat suits. I got myself into a routine, changed back to the Australian time zone so I could speak with all my family and friends throughout the night, play PlayStation with them, and then I’d go through one or two runs or workouts throughout the day, and that was pretty much all I could do.”

Once the pandemic eased, Italiano was confronted by new battles - hamstring and leg muscle injuries and a bout of glandular fever. “It’s all built into what I am now, I have a lot tougher skin, mental toughness from being able to get through that, knowing that I’ve got through it and come out better from it,” he said.

Italiano plugged away and made more than 100 appearances for Monchengladbach’s second team, although he never made the jump to a full Bundesliga appearance. “We were in the fourth league, but it was still professional. There’s some big stadiums in the league, sometimes you have 15, 20,000 fans at the stadium,” he said. “It was still a good level, but it wasn’t quite senior football.”

“I was playing with some 17-year olds when I was 21, so that’s where I wanted to take another step. I was close a few times, training with the first team and being in and around friendly matches and performing well, but a lot of the times, when I would maybe be able to go for a loan move or a transfer, an injury would pop up or an illness. So the timing of things didn’t quite work out for me.”

The A-League came calling but Italiano instead found a home in Grazer, where he has played 50 matches over the past two years and even scored a hat-trick featuring two excellent volleys earlier this year.

“I’m loving it, love the city as well, the people - me and my partner really settled there and it shows with the way I’ve been able to perform consistently,” he said. “That was kind of why I went over there, to get consistent minutes, play 90 minutes every week and show what I’m capable of, to try and get into the national team. It’s all fallen into place.”

CIRCATI EMBRACING LEADERSHIP EARLY IN HIS CAREER

By his own admission, Alessandro Circati was not too fazed upon finding out he was in the Socceroos’ World Cup squad. Which is not to say he does not appreciate what an honour it is to fulfill a lifelong dream, but sums up his seemingly perpetual composure which manifests on the pitch. It is this level-headed nature which saw the 22-year old become Australia’s youngest captain in 44 years last year when he wore the armband against New Zealand.

Not many Australians can say they have captained a Serie A side either, yet Circati can also lay claim to that honour when he skippered Parma not once, not twice, but thrice in the season just gone. The imposing centre-back has never chased the armband, because it is not what proper leaders do; he simply accepts it when it is handed to him and seeks to carry out his duties as best as possible.

“When I was younger, I was always playing with boys much older than me, so they were always the leaders,” Circati told 'the West Australian' newspaper. “I was just the young boy in the team, the young talent in the team, so that was never in the back of my head — I was just there to play football. It wasn’t something that I’ve ever forced myself into it. It came naturally at club and with the Socceroos.”

It can be a steep learning curve when you find yourself as a captain at such a young age, but Circati has come to understand and embrace the diverse backgrounds of his teammates as a leader. “Everyone grew up in different environments, with different families, different situations, family issues, anything. Really understanding a person and treating people differently, but with the same respect, is very important,” he said.

Leadership is something which cannot be learned in a classroom. But in his first two seasons in Italy, Circati had a front-row seat to a legend of the game in goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon, who ended his career at Parma. It was Buffon, who played 176 games for Italy including their 2006 World Cup final victory and more than 500 for Juventus, who famously convinced Circati to listen to his heart when it came to choosing Australia over the Azzurri.

“The leadership to him came very naturally. He was 44 years old, I was 19, 20; he was more than double my age,” Circati said. “He’d lived more than what I had times five in football. He was probably a leader for 15 years of his career, so everything he did came naturally and subconsciously. Maybe I took things on board, I still don’t know. Maybe I do some similar things that he does.”

Just 13 games into his international career, Circati has all the hallmarks of a future Australia captain and looms as a bedrock of the Socceroos defence for the next decade. He finds himself at the vanguard of a new wave of Socceroos who are starting to make an impact overseas, alongside the likes of Jordan Bos, Nestory Irankunda, Mo Toure, Cristian Volpato and Lucas Herrington.

Needless to say, Circati is excited about what the present and future holds. “The young people in this team, Cristian, Nestor, Mo, myself, Lucas ... it does show that Australian football is growing. All the people I’ve mentioned I play with all add something or bring something to the team, which the team didn’t have,” he said. “There’s lots of us in Europe now, playing in great teams in Europe, great leagues in Europe.”

“That’s probably the biggest thing, and probably the thing which will one day lead us to success. If we can perform at this World Cup with this young group, then four years down the line, how much experience someone can gain, how much can someone improve over four years? I’d only be excited to see what four years down the line, what eight years down the line would look like for the young players now that we have in the squad.”

After a torn anterior cruciate ligament ruined his first season in the Italian top flight, Circati played 31 Serie A games and played a full 90 in all but three of them. But rather than the past year having made him feel like he belonged in one of the best leagues in the world, Circati said he knew two years ago that he could thrive at the highest level. “That feeling actually came when we were in the second division,” he said.

“The year we got promoted, we played cup games, beat two first division teams and then we went on and played Inter, played Fiorentina the following year in the cup ... I did realise I can play at this level. I didn’t know it was a matter of time, whether that was through promotion, through a transfer, ideally was through promotion, and that’s what we did.”

To be circled as a star for club and country at such a young age can carry baggage, but the ice-cool demeanour Circati brings to his game does not suddenly dissipate once he leaves the pitch. “I don’t really care what people say to be honest. I know when I play well, I know when I play poorly,” Circati said. “Obviously, if a teammate says it, it’s very much appreciated. If a pundit says it, if a journalist says it, I don’t really care.”