Welcome to footballwa.net! Here you will find all the latest football news from Western Australia, current tables for the state's top four Leagues, archived tables and results dating back to 1950, the Western Australian Club Directory which includes honour lists and divisional movements for each club and much, much more.

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1.2.2026

OLYMPIC AND STIRLING WIN ON A HOT SUNDAY AT MACEDONIA PARK

The hot weather took its toll on all State League Night Series games on Sunday, all postponed due to the extreme temperatures in the Perth CBD, and all are to be played on Tuesday evening, but for some reason the NPLWA games went ahead on the same evening. With temperature hovering around 36 degrees at kick off in the early game at Macedonia Park, it was Olympic Kingsway who made it back-to-back wins after a 3-1 victory against current holders Sorrento.

“We started the game really well and took the lead early, with defender Lewis scoring his first goal for the club,” Olympic striker Liam Boland said. “A couple of good goals from Rob after the break secured the win, after Sorrento had drawn level. It was stinking hot and the intensity of the game dropped for the last 20 minutes, as you can imagine, but it was good to get another game under our belts with a lot of players missing.”

It was a perfect start to the game for David Tough’s side, and they were ahead after only two minutes. After some neat build up play, the ball ended with defender Lewis Brace on the left, and his cross shot beat Gulls keeper Ben Ratajczak and going in off the far post. But Andres Oliveira’s side were level 12 minutes later David Stokoe turning the ball home after Adrian Sinagra had saved his initial effort.

The hot weather took its toll after the break, with both sides making changes, but it was Olympic who regained the lead on 57 minutes, former Halifax Town striker Robert Harker finishing clinically into the bottom corner. Harker, who has joined the Green Machine from Hume City this season, added his second seven minutes later, volleying home powerfully after good work from half time substitute William Ferson.

The temperature had dropped a little for the second game at the venue, with hosts Stirling Macedonia winning their first game in the preseason competition, beating local rivals Balcatta Etna 2-0. “Over all very pleased with last two weeks performances, last week playing for 60 minutes with ten man and I thought we were very good,” Stirling coach Ago Mujic explained.

“Last night I thought we controlled the game for 80% of time and also clean sheet is massive for our confidence. The boys played very well against very well organised and very fit Balcatta side. There are things to work on this week and prepare the team for next weekend’s game against Sorrento.” The hosts began brightly and had Balcatta on the back foot, and they were ahead on 13 minutes, with Aston Montgomery heading home from a corner.

They should have doubled their lead on 68 minutes when they were awarded a penalty, but Callum McKenzie failed to convert. But that miss was forgotten seven minutes from time, when the hosts added a second. Stirling’s high press turned the ball over from a Balcatta goal kick, and some neat passing between the lines, and Pacifique Dufitimukiza was sent one-on-one with keeper Ryan Stevenson, but he unselfishly squared the ball to McKenzie, who scored from close-range.

31.1.2026

NGO ON TARGET ON DEBUT IN V-LEAGUE

Congratulations to Perth Glory youngster Khoa Ngo, who made a successful start to his V-League career with Cong An Ho Chi Minh City, grabbing the second goal ten minutes into the second half on his debut, in their 2-1 win against PVF-Cand on Sunday. English striker Lee Williams gave City the lead before the break, before Ngo put the game beyond the hosts. The Glory speedster is on-loan to V-League side for the rest of the season.

31.1.2026

SUPER SUB KUCHARSKI SEES GLORY STUN LEAGUE LEADERS

Perth Glory have come from behind to beat Isuzu Ute A-League leaders Auckland FC 2-1 at HBF Park on Saturday evening. The visitors led at half time in the week 15 clash, with Jesse Randall scoring three minutes from the break. But a late brace from substitute Jaiden Kucharski, including a stunning winner in the final minute gave the hosts the points, much to the delight of the Glory faithful. “That’s the job when you start on the bench, come on a make a difference in the game,” two goal hero Jaiden Kucharski said post-match.

“They had a long trip and are five hours behind us, so we needed a strong second half, and I thought all the boys put in and we got the result for it. I know I can score goal, I’ve done it before, it’s just about getting in the right positions, and luckily, I did tonight. The win tonight is massive, anyone on their day can beat anyone in this league, we haven’t had the best form at home, so hopefully we change that in the second half of the season. It started today, hopefully we can back it up next week.”

Griffiths made one change to the starting side that were edged out against the Wanderers last week, with Will Freney returning to the starting line-up, with Gio De Abreu dropped to the bench, while on the bench it was a return for Lachie Wales. Glory went in to the game with black armbands, as a mark of respect for young defender Tadi Kuzamba, who had a family bereavement this week, everyone at Footballwa sends our deepest condolences to the family.

The hosts, who beat Auckland in their last visit to the venue, opened brightly, and Scott Wootton headed over early, before the big defender headed straight at former Glory keeper Oli Sail moments later. Glory continued to take it to the league leaders and just after the half hour Brian Kaltak’s ball over the top was nodded down by Trent Ostler, but Adam Taggart could only fire straight at Sail. The visitors had plenty of possession, but were struggling in the final third, but that all changed on 42 minutes. New Zealand international striker Jesse Randell picked up the ball on the right, and drove towards the box, and he finished clinically past Matt Sutton.

Glory made a change at the break, with Stefan Colakovski coming on for Ostler, and he was straight into the action, bringing a smart save out of Sail on the hour. Griffiths sent on Kucharski and De Abreu moments later, and Kucharski was involved as Glory went close shortly after. The striker cutting the ball back for Tom Lawrencwe, but the Welsh striker was denied by the alert Sail. The hosts should have levelled on 66 minutes, Lawrence’s corner picked out Taggart at the back post, but the Glory skipper, who needs one more goal to become the clubs highest goalscorer, couldn’t keep his header down, with the goal at his mercy.

The visitors were forced into a change six minutes later, with Sail taken off on stretcher with a knee injury, he was replaced by Michael Woud. Glory continued to press, and Lawrence then sent a fierce free kick inches past the post as Glory went in search of the equaliser, and it duly arrived 15 minutes from time. A searching pass from Wootton found Kucharski, who brought the ball down well, and lobbed the oncoming Woud. The Shed were in full voice as the hosts pressed for the winner, but the visitors went close to regaining the lead six minutes from time.

A ball into the box found Logan Rogerson, but the striker headed over at back post. He should have done better with the chance, and that miss came back to haunt Steve Corica’s side, when on 90 minutes Kucharski showed him how to do it. Colakovski, who had looked lively since coming on, made space down the left, and he picked out the former Sydney FC striker on the edge of the box and he finished superbly past Woud, with a stunning strike, and raced off to celebrate with the supporters in the Shed. It proved to be the winner.

The win moved Glory up to ninth on the ladder, only two points out of the top six, while Auckland lost top spot to Newcastle Jets. Next up for Glory is against Macarthur at Campbelltown Sports Stadium, while Auckland return to New Zealand to play Sydney FC for the first of two bouts inside ten days. Footballwa Man of the Match Jaiden Kucharski, closely followed by Scott Wootton.

Perth Glory: GK Matt SUTTON, 2 Charbel SHAMOON, 3 Sam SUTTON, 4 Scott WOOTTON, 7 Nicholas PENNINGTON (9 Jaiden KUCHARSKI 59'), 18 Rhys BOZINOVSKI (39 Giovanni DE ABREU 59'), 20 Trent OSTLER (67 Stefan COLAKOVSKI 46'), 22 Adam TAGGART (15 Zach LISOLAJSKI 90+7'), 27 Will FRENEY, 34 Tom LAWRENCE, 45 Brian KALTAK - Subs not used: RGK Ryan WARNER, 11 Lachie WALES, 25 Sebastian DESPOTOVSKI

Auckland FC: GK Oli SAIL (RGK Michael WOUD 69'), 2 Hiroki SAKAI, 4 Nando PIJNAKER (3 Jake GIRDWOOD-REICH 27'), 6 Louis VERSTRAETE, 8 Felipe GALLEGOS (7 Cameron HOWIESON 85'), 9 Sam COSGROVE, 10 Guillermo MAY (27 Logan ROGERSON 69'), 15 Francis DE VRIES, 21 Jesse RANDALL (35 Jonty BIDOIS 88'), 23 Dan HALL, 77 LACHLAN Brook - Subs not used: 17 Callan ELLIOT, 22 Jake BRIMMER - Attendance: 7,528 – Referee: Shaun Evans

30.1.2026

NEW BALANCE NPLWA NIGHT SERIES – WEEK TWO – FRIDAY REVIEW

The week two New Balance NPLWA Men’s Night Series games began on Friday evening at Frank Drago Reserve, and in the early Group A game, Fremantle City secured their first win in the competition, with a comfortable 5-2 win against Armadale. The damage was down in the first half with the port side leading 5-0 at the break, helped by a hat-trick from Nick Ambrogio, and he said it was a clinical performance. “Great team performance to secure a strong 5–2 win against Armadale, the boys played with patience, quality in possession and some clinical attacking,” he said. “A strong all-round performance and a great result for the group.” Scott Miller’s side found the opener on 16 minutes, Charlie Chechlacz sent former Armadale winer Chad Nilson in on goal, and he was brought down, and Ambrogio converted the resulting penalty.

They doubled their lead three minutes later, Chechlacz curling home superbly with a free kick. It was soon 3-0, Paul Zimarino slide-rule pass sent Ambrogio in on goal, and he finished past Alfie Brincat. Fremantle added a fourth seven minutes from half time, Nilson racing down the left and delivering a perfect cross to Shubham Mokala who made no mistake. Ambrogio completed his hat-trick in the final minute of the half, Mokala was denied by Brincat, but the rebound fell to the striker, and he made no mistake.

A shell-shocked Armadale pulled one back early in the second half, with player coach John Baird on target, before Luke Desmond added a second, but it was too little too late. In the late game at the venue, Bayswater City won their first game in the group, with a narrow 1-0 win against Perth RedStar. The only goal of the game came on 66 minutes, with Ollie La Galia on target. RedStar finished the game with ten men, after keeper Liam Reddy was sent off after picking up a second yellow card and in stoppage time.

In Group B at Dorrien Gardens, Perth Glory made to wins from two after coming from behind to beat Western Knights 2-1 in the early game. The Knights made a great start, and Jutin Tang gave them the lead after only seven minutes. Adam Kostrencic’s side held firm util the hour mark, when Maxim Uvarov levelled for the Glory youngsters, finishing after good work from Santiago Flores. It looked like the points would be shared, but two minutes from time Oliver Evans won it for Joe Heath’s side, firing home from the edge of the box.

“It was a game of two halves,” Glory coach Joe Heath said. “It was a really poor performance from us in the first half. We started the game slowly with no intensity and struggled to keep possession. We created some half chances but where wasteful in the final third. In the second half, we made changes and I felt like we dominated. Our intensity was much better out of possession and we created a lot more chances, and both our goalscorers were instrumental in turning the game around.”

In the late game at the venue Perth Azzurri and Dianella White Eagles have played out a 0-0 draw. The hosts had plenty of chances in the first half but found Peter Pilkadaris in good form between the sticks, while new recruit Chris Saldraris was solid at the heart of the back four. Dianella had their chances after the break, but it was Liam Driscoll, brother of Dianella keeper Joel, who came up with some crucial saves for the Azzurri. The hosts sit second in the group, one point behind leaders Glory, while the Eagles pick up their first point of the competition.

Dianella keeper Joel Driscoll, who watched on from the bench in this one, said it was strong performance from the side. “Solid performance from the boys, had to withstand a lot of pressure in the first half but ultimately came away from the game disappointed we didn’t get the win,” he explained. “We created plenty of chances in the second half and didn’t allow Perth to have any which is a massive positive to take out of the game.”

30.1.2026

STATE LEAGUE NIGHT SERIES – WEEK ONE FRIDAY – REVIEW

The 2026 State League Night series begun on Friday evening at Endeavour Homes Stadium, Larkhill Sportsplex, and in the Group C early game Murdoch University Melville beat Cockburn City 3-0. The Cockerels, who were promoted to Division One this season opened brightly, but it was MUMFC who hit the front on the half hour, with Edward Wynne-Willson on target. The striker added his second two minutes from the break, after good work from Sèagh Harris in the build-up.

Willson completed his hat-trick in first half stoppage time, and it proved too much, with Marc Anthony’s side securing the win. “It was a good early season challenge and we’re pleased to start with a positive result. Cockburn began better than us and we struggled to break their press early on.” MUMFC assistant coach Gavin Brown explained. “However, we were delighted that the boys kept trying to play and were rewarded with some good goals. Eddie scored a great hat trick, with real variety in his three finishes. The build up to the first and third goals demonstrated how we want to play and were great team goals, and Sèagh (Harris) created the second with some individual brilliance too.

“Probably the most pleasing part of the night was the introduction of some of our top young talents in the second half. They showed great energy as well as their ability and lifted everyone around them.” In the late game at the venue, hosts Rockingham City secured a 3-0 win against Canning City. Shaun Mukwevho opened the scoring midway through the first half, before Will Hayes added the second just after the hour. The points were sealed five minutes from time, with Robbie Galvin adding the third.

30.1.2026

2026 AUSTRALIA CUP WA DRAW

The draw for the Round Two and Round Three ties in 2026 Australia Cup WA was made today at the Football West headquarters. Here is the full draw - Round Two - Spearwood Dalmatinac v Twin City Saints (Kalgoorlie), Cracovia v Mindarie, Joondanna Blues v Wanneroo City, Dunsborough Town v Swan United, Ellenbrook United v Football Margaret River, Dalyellup Park Rangers v Kwinana United, Bunbury Dynamos v Stirling Panthers, North Perth United v Port Kennedy – Games to be played between Friday February 20 and Sunday February 22) – Byes: Chipolopolo, Easton Dardanup, Football Bhutan, Hamersley Rovers, Northern City, Peel United, Perth AFC, Queens Park, South Perth United, Swan Valley

Round Three – Carramar Shamrock Rovers v Bunbury Dynamos/Stirling Panthers, Curtin University v Quinns, Kalamunda United v Football Bhutan, Eaton Dardanup v East Perth, Ellenbrook United/ Football Margaret River v Swan Valley, Inglewood United v Peel United, Balga v Subiaco, Chipolopolo v Perth AFC, Spearwood Dalmatinac/ Twin City Saints v Rockingham City, Mandurah City v Murdoch University Melville, Ashfield v Queens Park, Cockburn City v North Perth United/Port Kennedy, UWA Nedlands v Floreat Athena, Canning City v Morley Windmills, Northern City v South Perth United, Joondalup City v Joondanna Blues/Wanneroo City, Dunsborough Town/Swan United v Forrestfield United, Cracovia/Mindarie v Gwelup Croatia, Gosnells City v Hamersley Rovers, Kingsley Westside v North Beach, Wembley Downs v Dalyellup Park Rangers/Kwinana United - Date’s TBC

30.1.2026

NPLWA MEN’S NIGHT SERIES – WEEK TWO PREVIEW

We head into week two of the New Balance NPLWA Men’s Night Series competition, and it begins on Friday evening. First in Group A, the early game at Frank Drago Reserve sees Fremantle City meeting Armadale (6:30pm) It was a tight opening week in the group, Fremantle played out a hard-fought draw with Bayswater City, while Armadale were narrowly beaten by Perth RedStar. The star of the show for Fremantle was keeper Luke Radonich, who produced a number of fine saves, including denying the hosts the win late, saving a penalty. He said it was an encouraging start to the competition.

“It was a good performance by the boys on Friday night. I thought we took a step forward and the performance was much better than we have put out the last couple of weeks which was positive,” the keeper said. “Still a while until the season starts, so if we can build on that performance this week against Armadale and continue to improve leading up to the season. We know Armadale will be another good test this week and another opportunity for boys to get minutes in the legs.” In the late game at the venue Callum Salmon’s Perth RedStar will look for two straight wins to start their campaign, when they take on hosts Bayswater City, Matthew Sparrow’s side looking to register their first after drawing the opener. (8:30pm)

Also on Friday, we head to Dorrien Gardens in Group C, and in the early game Perth Glory will go in search of another win, when they take on Western Knights (6:30pm) A ten-man Knights were edged out by the Azzurri last week, while Glory proved too strong for newly promoted Dianella. Midfielder Alfie Knight said it was good to get a first up win, but he is expecting another tough test on Friday. “I thought the boys played really well last week, it’s always good to get minutes in again and the result is also a bonus as well,” the youngster explained. “We’ve still a few things to work on in training this week and hopefully get the result this week to push us closer to a final spot.”

Glory Head Coach Joe Heath was pleased with the first up appearance in the competition. “Very pleasing to start the night series with a win, and to see promising signs from a team that is starting to gel together,” he explained. Some really nice opportunities created when in possession and all the players worked very hard for the win.” In the late game Ian Ferguson’s Dianella White Eagles will look to bounce back from last week’s defeat against Glory when they take on hosts Perth Azzurri, who will look for back-to-back wins, after Kenny Lowe’s side beat the Knights in the first week of competition. (8:30pm)

Finally, we head to Macedonia Park on Sunday for the Group C games, and Sorrento will look to get their night series title defence back on track when they take on Olympic Kingsway in the early game. (5:30pm) Andres Oliveira’s Gulls were edged out by Balcatta last week, while Olympic came from behind to beat Stirling, and David Tough said he was pleased to see some of the younger players in the squad get some game time. “Last week’s game was a great for the neutral because it really had everything. We had four players making their competitive debuts for the club and eight under 23s in the squad, which bodes well for the season ahead,” Tough explained.

“We started back in January with the aim of peaking for the first round of the league, so to come away with the three points so early in our preparation was very pleasing. There is still plenty for us to work on, but overall, it was a positive step. We are looking forward to the game against Sorrento. Andres is an excellent coach and I am sure he will have them well organised. With another week’s work, we expect to have more players available. In the late game it’s a local derby, with Ago Mujic’s Striling Macedonia hoping to bounce back from last week’s defeat against Olympic, but they take on Terry Nicolaou’s Balcatta Etna’s side, who came from behind to beat Sorrento last week. (7:30pm)

30.1.2026

STATE LEAGUE NIGHT SERIES WEEK ONE – GROUP A, B AND C PREVIEW

The 2026 State League Night Series starts this weekend, with six groups of four, with group winners and the two highest second placed teams progressing to the quarter-finals. Firstly, in Group A, we head to the renamed Luxwin Stadium, Hartfield Park on Sunday, and in the early game newly promoted Quinns meet UWA Nedlands. (5:30pm) UWA missed out on promotion to the NPL last season, Kris Donnell’s side beaten in the semi-final of the Promotion/Relegation play-offs, while Quinns won the Division Two title, and Nick Jennings’ side will be looking to start the pre-season on the front foot.

“We have had a steady but purposeful preseason, we’re not struggling with injuries and the boys are looking fit and sharp,” Quinns assistant coach Steven Flint said. “We are under no illusions about what is required to be competitive in Division One this year and it’s not a new environment for any of the players to be in, we know what is required to be competitive. It’s going to be a very tough league to be in, especially with quite a few clubs putting a lot of financial resources into their playing squads. Our first competitive hit out will be against a very good UWA on Sunday, a side that did very well last season. The lads are looking forward to the challenge and getting back to playing in proper games. In the late game at the venue, Forrestfield United host Wembley Downs (7:30pm)

Also on Sunday, we have the Group B games at Paintseal Arena, Ashfield Reserve. In the late game Gosnells City, who were relegated to Division Two last season, open their campaign against Ashfield (7:30pm) The hosts will have new coach in dug out, with Malcom Tshuma taking over, while for Gosnells coach Peter Allen, it’s been a re-build after relegation, but he has been pleased how the new look squad is gelling, and he can’t wait for the competitive games to start.

“Yes, I’m looking forward to the night series, pre-season is going well we’ve got a lot of young players in and looking to give them a chance to impress during night series,” Allen explained. “Each year the night series becomes more and more competitive and although we aim to win our games, we also are mindful that we’re building for that first game of the season in what will be a very competitive league.” In the early game at the venue Kingsley Westside, who missed out on promotion in the Promotion/Relegation play-offs last season, take on Gwelup Croatia. (5:30pm)

The Group C games begin on Friday evening at Endeavour Homes Stadium, Larkhill Sportsplex, and in the late game Rockingham City entertains Canning City. (8:30pm) Rockingham only just survived the dreaded relegation play-off’s last season, and Matthew Brooks goes into his first full season as coach, while Canning finished sixth, their best finishing position in the eight seasons in Division Two, and coach Lee Hayward said they are hoping to build on it this season. “We have seen a lot of change in players this year, so we are still in the process of getting to know each other and making it all gel together,” he explained.

“However, I’ve seen enough against Quinn’s and UWA to know we will be very competitive in Division Two this year. Against Floreat in our final match before Rockingham, we were a little short defensively but again, there was still a lot of positives to take from the game. The game against Rockingham will allow us to see where we are at against a team from our own division before we take on Cockburn and Melville. I know the guys are keen to get started, and having played a season down at Rockingham myself, Larkhill always has a good atmosphere, so it should be a good couple of weeks down there. In the early game in the group, Cockburn City meet Murdoch University Melville. (6:30pm)

30.1.2026

STATE LEAGUE NIGHT SERIES WEEK ONE – GROUP D, E AND F PREVIEW

In Group D newly-promoted North Beach begin life in the State League when they take on Balga at Wanneroo Reserve in the late game on Sunday evening. (7:30pm) Gerhard Janssen’s Balga finished fifth in Division Two, their best finish since 2019, while North Beach secured their place in the State League with a win in the play-off against Swan United. Coach Nick Di Carlo said it’s been a busy few months down at Charles Riley Reserve, but things are going well. “It's been a really exciting few months for our club as we had to quickly turn our attention to preparation for a debut season in the State League,” he explained. “We have been thrilled with the additions we have made to our squad, who have not just brought quality and experience, but have fit into the club culture.

“We've had some good tests in pre-season against State League One teams, and most importantly have seen improvement between games as well as grabbing some confidence boosting results. We'll be coming up against a well establish team in Balga this weekend who no doubt has aspirations to seek promotion after just missing out on the playoffs last season. It will be a good barometer for our progress in what is a really difficult group, but also the perfect preparation for a long an intense season. In the early game on Sunday, Floreat Athena begin life in Division One, when they take on Subiaco. (5:30pm)

In Group E, we head to Green Promo Park, Edinburgh Oval on Sunday evening, and in the early game the other promoted side Morley Windmills meet Kalamunda City. (5:30pm) Kalamunda were relegated last season, beaten in the playoff final by Cockburn City, while Morley return to the State League after relegation in 2023, securing their place in a dramatic 3-2 win against Wanneroo City. Morley coach John O’Reilly, who coached Armadale in the NPL for over six years, said Sunday will be a tough start for them, but one they are looking forward too.

“It’s great to be back in Saturday football with Morley Windmills, and pre-season has seen a great mix of returning players and new players,” he said. “It will take us a few weeks to fully gel and become a cohesive unit, but that's what NS is for Kalamunda have been up and down last couple of years but have always been a strong threat since joining state football, so it should be a good opening game for all involved.” In the late game at the venue, Curtin University welcome Mandurah City. (7:30pm)

Finally on Sunday, the Group F games will be played at Proto DPS Inglewood Stadium, and in the early game East Perth takes on Carramar Shamrock Rovers. (5:30pm) Rovers improved on their 2024 position, finishing seventh, while East Perth missed out on promotion, beaten for the second consecutive season in the play-offs. New head coach Sully Sullivan said the transition has been good, and they are ready for another season. “The boys have been brilliant. We’ve really focused on continuity and building on the foundations we’ve laid over the last two seasons. The energy at training has been excellent, and while we’ve integrated a few new faces, the core of the group understands the standards we expect,” Sullivan explained.

“We’re looking forward to getting under the lights against Carramar. The Night Series is always a fantastic barometer to see where the squad is at physically and tactically. Carramar are always a tough, competitive outfit, so it’s the perfect test for us to blow off the cobwebs. For us, Friday isn't just about the result; it’s about establishing our rhythm and showing that we can maintain the levels we’ve set for ourselves recently. We want to start the year on the front foot and put ourselves in a strong position early.” In the late game on the night, hosts Inglewood United meet Joondalup City. (7:30pm)

29.1.2026

GLORY YOUNGSTER HEADS TO THE CHAMPIONSHIP

Perth Glory young defender Christian Pullella has completed a permanent move to English Championship side Queens Park Rangers for an undisclosed fee, and will initially link up with the Hoops Development Squad. The 18-year-old featured regularly for the Glory Academy side in the NPL WA and also earned international honours for Australia at Under-16 and Under-17 level. The youngster said it’s a great opportunity. “I'm feeling great, and I’m just happy to get everything signed and be part of QPR,” he said. “As soon as I heard they were interested, it was a yes from me, 100 percent.”

Pullella, who spent five years with Glory and has made four appearances for Australia U17s to date, said fellow Aussies - and former Glory players, Daniel Bennie and Jaylan Pearman have already made the move to W12, and he admits he has been in touch with the pair. “They both messaged me prior to coming,” he said. “They’ve had nothing but positive things to say about everyone here, so it’s really exciting to be part of it. I think the club's putting a lot of priority into the youth, their academy and the training facilities. They've also announced they're applying for Category 1 status, so they obviously value their academy very highly My first target is getting out on the pitch, and I just can’t wait to get started.”

Glory Football Director Stan Lazaridis wished the youngster good luck. “This move to QPR represents an exciting opportunity for Christian, and he’s decided to take it he said,” he said. “We would like to thank him for his contribution as a PGFC Academy player and wish him all the very best in this next stage of his football career.” Meanwhile, Rangers CEO Christian Nourry said Pullella is a good pick up for them. “Christian has performed well for the Australia youth national team over the last 18 months,” he said. “And he brings a balanced full-back profile to the Development Squad with the athletic potential to have a successful professional football career.”

29.1.2026

MAYNARD-BREWER HEADS TO THE TANGERINES IN SCOTLAND

Former ECU Joondalup Academy keeper Ashley Maynard-Brewer has completed a permanent move to Scottish Premiership side Dundee United for an undisclosed fee. The transfer brings an end to his 10-and-a-half-year association with Charlton Athletic having joined the club’s academy as a teenager. Since making his professional debut in 2016, the goalkeeper has made 87 appearances for the Addicks across all competitions, including 19 league starts during last season’s promotion-winning campaign. The keeper said he can’t wait to get started. “Really happy to get the deal done, and I’m super excited to be here,” Maynard-Brewer said. “Once I know Dundee United were interested in me, I was desperate to come up here and play. I played at Tannadice twice in my time at Ross County, and it was a great atmosphere so I’m looking forward to playing for the home team.”

Maynard-Brewer, who also had loan spells at Chelmsford City, Hampton and Richmond Borough, Dulwich Hamley and Dover Athletic, as well as 17 games at Ross County, reflecting on his time at the Addicks. "I feel extremely grateful to have been at this club for the last 10-and-a-half years. This club gave me the opportunity to come to the UK and become a professional goalkeeper. I was supported by some incredible people like Joe Francis, Steve Avory and Tracey Leaburn,” he explained. “I leave with some amazing memories like the play-off campaigns in 2018/19 and 2024/25 and the Carabao Cup run in 2022/23. This club is full of incredible people and I’ve been really lucky to have met so many of you. I wish the club the best in the future!"

Charlton Managing Director James Rodwell thanks Maynard-Brewer for his services. "We’d like to thank Ash for everything he has contributed to the club over more than a decade. He’s an excellent goalkeeper and an outstanding person, and a real credit to our academy,” he said. “With his contract coming to an end and the World Cup on the horizon this summer, he has reached a stage in his career where regular first-team football is important and this move allows him to do that."

The keeper will compete with Dave Richards for the starting spot at United following Yevhen Kucherenko's departure earlier this month. "He is a terrific young goalkeeper as far as we are concerned, he knows the league having spent a loan spell at Ross County four seasons ago," said United manager Jim Goodwin. "He is a lot more experienced now for the opportunities he has had at Charlton and we believe we are getting a really good goalkeeper to come in and compete for that first-place slot. We were light in that department anyway; it is a position we have been working hard on since the beginning of the window. I am delighted to get Ashley over the line."

29.1.2026

GLORY DEFENDER RELISHING LEAGUE LEADERS CHALLENGE

Perth Glory welcome Isuzu-Ute A-League leaders Auckland FC to HBF Park for the week 15 clash on Saturday evening. (6:45pm) Adam Griffiths’ side are coming off narrow back-to-back defeats against Brisbane and Wanderers, in games they had chances to win, which has left them tenth on the ladder, but in a tight season, they are only five points out of the final’s places. Auckland have carried on from where they left off last season, which saw them take out the Premiers Plate in their first season in the competition, and they head over the ditch in pole position, and have not been beaten on their travels this season, so it’s going to be a huge challenge for the hosts.

Glory defender Scott Wootton said despite back-to-back defeats, the players are working hard to turn things around. “The mood in the camp is good, considering a few disappointing results recently, but one thing we’ve got here is a great team spirit, and a good bunch of lads, so the atmosphere in the camp is good,” the big defender explained. “We have plenty of games left in the season, and loads of points to play for, and the coach’s message is to keep improving, keep playing we want to play in the game, but get better in certain moments, which will help us turn things around and move up the table.

“In the main we’ve been playing some really good stuff, controlling games and playing the way we want to play, but when we’re on top in games we to turn that dominance and territory into goals. We are creating chances, and I’m sure it will come sooner rather than later, and we’ll give someone a good hiding, hopefully that comes on Saturday. The most important thing is not to get too high when your winning, don’t get carried away, but on the flip side when things haven’t gone our way not get too down and try and stay level headed and try and be consistent.”

Wotton, who joined the club from New Zealand club Wellington Phoenix, said Saturday’s opponents have been the benchmark since they came into the competition, but he is confident they can get a result on Saturday. “Auckland have been the best team since coming into the competition, a very good squad and I think they’ve improved their squad from last season. We’re under no illusions it’s going to be a difficult game, but one we are relishing and looking forward too,” the 34-year-old English defender explained. “We’re confident we can beat any team on the day, and we have a really good squad as well. This league is so tight, and you see all the time, everybody is beating everybody all the time at the moment, so we go into the game confident.”

Head Coach Griffiths said his side need to make small improvements if they are to get their push up the table going, started against a good Auckland side on Saturday. “We had some good moments against Western Sydney, but we didn’t take them early and the momentum shifted in that last 20 minutes,” he said. “It was a bit of a lapse in concentration and we conceded late, so we just have to work harder and really focus on those areas and start to become more clinical in those moments.

“If we become clinical, we get more momentum and we start to dominate the game more. From our perspective, we feel that we’ve been very close in every game and I feel that we can beat anyone that we’ve played thus far. It’s about re-focusing every day on those micro-moments, honing in on them and seeing how we can improve. Auckland is a team that doesn’t give up much, so we’re going to have to be at our best in terms of those clinical moments this week more than ever. It’s about finding that consistency and if we do that, we can go on a little run.”

Griffiths is well aware the quality Auckland head coach Steve Corica has his disposal, and he knows what to expect. “Obviously Auckland present a new challenge,” he said. “Every game has its different challenges and understanding the opposition is key, especially in this tight league. They’ve got really good aggression in their pressing, they’re a good team and they have a winning culture which is something we want to build, to have that same winning mentality consistently. They’re going to be an aggressive and physical team. They want to win and so do we, so we need to have the mentality to match that intensity and then try to improve on the areas we struggled in last week. Steve Corica has an appetite for winning. He’s won leagues, he’s very respected and he’s consistent.”

The last time the Black Knights headed to Perth was in week 13 last season, when Glory caused an upset, beating the then leaders 1-0, with Jaylan Pearman bagging the winner on the half hour. Meanwhile in terms of team news, Griffiths confirmed that Lachie Wales could be in line to make a welcome return from his hamstring injury and that the squad suffered no fresh injuries in the away clash with Western Sydney Wanderers, while Luke Amos and Andriano Lebib, have also been added to the squad.

Perth Glory Squad: GK Matt SUTTON, GK Ryan WARNER, 2 Charbel SHAMOON, 3 Sam SUTTON, 4 Scott WOOTTON, 7 Nicholas PENNINGTON, 9 Jaiden KUCHARSKI, 10 Luke AMOS, 11 Lachlan WALES, 15 Zach LISOLAJSKI, 17 Arion SULEMANI, 18 Rhys BOZINOVSKI, 20 Trent OSTLER, 22 Adam TAGGART, 24 Andriano LEBIB, 25 Sebastian DESPOTOVSKI, 27 Will FRENEY, 34 Tom LAWRENCE, 39 Giovanni DE ABREU, 45 Brian KALTAK, 67 Stefan COLAKOVSKI - *Two to be omitted* - Ins: AMOS, WALES, LEBIB - Unavailable: GK Cameron COOK, 5 Riley FOXE, 6 Brandon O’NEILL, 8 Callum TIMMINS, 31 Joel ANASMO (All Injured)

Auckland FC Squad: GK Michael WOUD, GK Oli SAIL, 2 Hiroki SAKAI, 3 Jake GIRDWOOD-REICH, 4 Nando PIJNAKER, 6 Louis VERSTRAETE, 7 Cameron HOWIESON, 8 Felipe GALLEGOS, 9 Sam COSGROVE, 10 Guillermo MAY, 11 Marlee FRANÇOIS, 15 Francis DE VRIES, 17 Callan ELLIOT, 19 Oliver MIDDLETON, 21 Jesse RANDALL, 22 Jake BRIMMER, 23 Dan HALL, 27 Logan ROGERSON, 35 Jonty BIDOIS, 77 LACHLAN Brook

28.1.2026

GLORY AND SKY BLUES SHARE THE SPOILS

Perth Glory have missed the opportunity to leap into second place on the Ninja A-League ladder, after being held to a 0-0 draw by Sydney FC at Sam Kerr Football Centre on Wednesday evening. Both sides had their chances, but keepers Teresa Morrissey and Heather Hinz made some great saves, and they had to settle for a point. “It feels great to be back, I did my other knee five years ago, so it made it easier to make the timeline shorter knowing what to expect,” returning Glory midfielder Natalie Tathem said post-match. “I turned up each day to make sure I could control, so it feels amazing to be back, just unfortunate we couldn’t get the win, but we kept a clean sheet.”

Tathem said it’s disappointing not to get the win, but they move on. “At half time we spoke, we weren’t close to them and winning our duals, which is something we really pride ourselves on. But the wind does make a big difference at this field, and we didn’t use it to our advantage in the first half, so we have to learn from that and move on,” she said. “We see our home as a bit of a fortress, so we try and get them home wins, as travel for us every other week is a challenge. We had a lot of chances tonight to take the three points, but we move to Wellington next week.” Stephen Peters made two changes to the side beaten by Melbourne City on the weekend, with Mischa Anderson replacing the injured Tijan McKenna, while Rola Badawiya came in for Charli Wainwright, who dropped to the bench.

The hosts opened brightly and had the first opportunity after only five minutes, but skipper Isobel Dalton’s long-range shot was straight at Sky Blue custodian Hinz. The visitors, who were searching for a first win in seven games, hit back, and Jodi Ulkekul made space in the penalty area, but her low shot was saved by Morrissey. Moments later Susan Phonsongkham free kick was saved by Hinz, before the Sky Blues keeper tipped Badawiya’s effort around the post by Hinz.

It was end-to-end football, with both teams pushing for the opener. Riley Tanner cut in from the left, but her shot flashed across the face of goal, before Abbey Lemon shot flashed just wide of the post. But Glory started to take control, and Phonsongkham’s free kick looked distained for the net, but the alert Hinz tipped it over the top. Both sides had late chances, Ulkekul header from a Sarah Hunter cross, was saved by Morrissey, before Dalton’s first time shot from outside the penalty area whistled over the top, but at the break it was 0-0.

It more of the same after the break, Emma Tovar shot from the edge of the box was saved by Hinz, before Tanner’s shot from the angle was tipped over by Morrissey. The Glory custodian then got down well to deny to deny Mackenzie Hawkesby, this after good work by Tanner. Sarah Hunter then found space on the edge of the box, but her shot was again well saved by the busy Morrissey. Peters went to the bench just after the hour, with Tathem returning to the pitch after her long-term injury, replacing Sarah O’Donoghue.

Glory needed to lift, and Badawiya shot drifted wide of the post, before the striker was bundled over in the penalty area, but referee Page Malau-Aduli waved away their protests, before Hinz tipped over Tovar’s shot from distance. Glory made a doubled change with Gabby Hollar and Ella Lincon, replacing Badawiya and Bronte Trew on 77 minutes, and Lincoln went close moments later, but Hinz made a smart save to deny her. The hosts were finishing the game the better and Hinz saved Phonsongkham’s shot.

It looked like the only goal would win this one, but Morrissey and Hinz wouldn’t be beaten. First the Glory keeper denied substitute Amber Luchtmeijer eight minutes from time, before Dalton fired inches past the post at the other end. Glory emptied the bench in search of the winner, with Tanika Lala returning from injury, but after five minutes of stoppage time the final whistle blew, and both sides had to settle for a point.

Perth Glory: GK Teresa MORRISSEY, 2 Mischa ANDERSON (27 Charli WAINWRIGHT 87’), 3 Emma TOVAR, 5 Grace JOHNSTON, 10 Susan PHONSONGKHAM (26 Tanika LALA 87’), 12 Bronte TREW (25 Ella LINCOLN 77’), 17 Rola BADAWIYA (9 Gabby HOLLAR 76’), 19 Sarah O’DONOGHUE (11 Natalie TATHEM 63’), 23 Isobel DALTON, 24 Julia SARDO, 29 Onyinyechi ZOGG – Subs not used: GK Jessica SKINNER

Sydney FC Squad: GK Heather HINZ, 2 Madison AYSON, 4 Tori TUMETH, 5 Kirsty FENTON, 7 Amelia CASSAR (15 Mackenzie HAWKESBY 46’), 8 Hana LOWRY, 9 Jodi ULKEKUL (19 Skye HALMARICK 89’), 13 Riley TANNER, 14 Abbey LEMON (18 Amber LUCHTMEIJER 71’), 16 Willa PEARSON, 21 Sarah HUNTER – Sub not used: GK Tiahna ROBERTSON, 17 Claire CORBETT, 23 Rubi SULLIVAN – Referee: Page Malau-Aduli

28.1.2026

WA FOOTBALL HALL OF FAME TO HONOUR PAST PLAYERS

Western Australia have had many outstanding players over the years, with many representing the Socceroos and Matildas, and the Football Hall of Fame WA will be holding their seventh induction at the 2026 Hall of Fame gala dinner and presentation at the Riverside Room at Optus Stadium on Saturday 7th November 2026. More of the true greats of Western Australian association football will be inducted into the Hall of Fame, which encompasses the Hall of Legends, Hall of Champions, Hall of Merit and the Hall of Recognition. It's one of the highlights on the WA football calendar, when they pay tribute to the major contributors to the State’s rich history of the sport, which stretches well over 130 years.

Among the past winners was Sandra Brentnall, who became the first female footballer to be inducted into a Hall of Legends in 2012. The Hall of Fame has also recognised the significant international achievements of many players. Some of the Champion players who have already been honoured include former Socceroo stars Robbie Dunn (2005), Tony Franken (2012), Gary Marocchi (2005), Robert Zabica (2012), Chris Coyne (2016), Stan Lazaridis (2012), and Alistair Edwards (2008) plus WA's first football Olympian Con Purser (1996).

Other greats inductions include Scott Miller (2012), Bobby Despotovski (2012), current Football West CEO Jamie Harnwell (2016), Alan Beale (1996), Denis Barstow (2002), Alan Vest (2016), Ron Adair (2005), David Jones (1996) and Ray Ilott (1996), and former state greats include John O’Connell (1996), Willie McNally (2012), John McInroy (2005), Len Dundo (1996), John Davidson (1996) and Hugh Miller (1996). They are inviting the public to put names forward to who that would like to see inducted at the next induction event to be held in November this year. To download the nomination form please scroll to the bottom of the home page at footballhalloffamewa.com.au - Then click on the yellow button "CLICK HERE TO NOMINATE"

Please email the form to the Secretary at admin@footballhalloffamewa.com.au

28.1.2026

SECOND PLACE UP FOR GRABS IF GLORY CAN OVERCOME SYDNEY FC

Perth Glory will be looking to bounce back from their defeat against league leaders Melbourne City on Sunday, when they welcome Sydney FC to Sam Kerr Football Centre, in their week 10 Ninja A-League clash on Wednesday evening. (7:00pm) The 0-2 loss against City was Glory’s first home defeat in five games, and it left them in ninth position on the table.

But the league is so tight, with only two points separating second to ninth, so a win against the Sky Blues, will move them temporarily to second, so there is extra motivation for the Glory. The visitors have struggled this season, only winning two games, one being against Glory in week three, when goals from Bianca Galic and Riley Tanner secured a 2-0 win in the harbour city, so if Stephen Peters’ side want to keep their finals chances in their own hands, a win is crucial with eight games remaining.

Peters said it’s huge motivation to get to second place, and one they can’t let slip. “It’s very rare that you get two bites at the cherry to go to second spot which is what we’ve recently experienced, it’s all about the opportunity for us now,” the Head Coach said. “We can’t think about the negatives or the pressure; we’ve just got to think about the opportunity that’s presenting itself. We want to collect some points from this little spell that we’ve had.

“We played the Champions away, the Premiers at home and now we have Sydney FC who have been a very successful team in the history of the league straight after that. So, the challenge has been fantastic for us and the opportunity for us is huge. I just hope we can showcase the football that we’re capable of producing, along with the tough stuff that we’ve been known for in recent times. If we can do that, it’s going to be a good one for us.”

The last time the two sides met at the venue, was in week 11 last season when the points were shared after a 1-1 draw in front of a 1,139 crowd. Caitlin Doeglas, who was playing her first game since returning from NPL side Perth RedStar, gave the hosts the lead on 24 minutes, but in first half stoppage time the Sky Blues levelled, with Lucy Johnson on target. Both sides had chances to win it after the break, but both had to settle for a share of the spoils.

The Sky Blues arrive in tenth place, five points adrift of Glory, but they do have two games in hand. But their form is poor, not winning any of their last seven games, but are coming off a 0-0 draw against Victory last week, and Peters knows the quality Ante Juric’s side have, so he is expecting a stern challenge. “I think they’re defensively very good and are still a very difficult side to play against,” he said.

“They’ve had a 0-0 draw against Adelaide and a 0-0 draw against Melbourne Victory in recent times, two good sides and they obviously beat us earlier this season, so we have to make sure we’re not taking anything for granted. I think if we play the football, we’re capable of playing, we can put ourselves in a good space to get the three points.”

Peters is hoping to have some his walking wounded back for the game, but kept his cards close to his chest when asked about his squad for the clash. “There’ll be three or four different faces,” he said. “It’s more from a planning perspective because obviously it’s important that we don’t fatigue the same players. “Natalie Tathem’s very close and there have been a couple of other players who have been doing really well, like Tanika Lala, so we’ll see how we go.” Lala will return to the squad named today, but Tathem will be given another week, while Gabby Hollar and Olivia Wood have also been added to the extended squad.

Ante Juric has named his extended squad for the clash, and it’s a welcome sight as midfield Mackenzie Hawkesby is included in the extended squad for the first time since the clash against Wellington Phoenix last year. Shay Hollman, Indiana Dos Santos, Natalie Tobin and Madeleine Caspers remain sidelined through injury and pregnancy while Bianca Galic joins the unavailable list with an ankle injury. There will also be a return to the west for former Glory favourite Hana Lowry, who has recovered from her recent knee injury.

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

Sydney FC Squad: GK Heather HINZ, GK Tiahna ROBERTSON, 2 Madison AYSON, 4 Tori TUMETH, 5 Kirsty FENTON, 7 Amelia CASSAR, 8 Hana LOWRY, 9 Jodi ULKEKUL, 13 Riley TANNER, 14 Abbey LEMON, 15 Mackenzie HAWKESBY, 16 Willa PEARSON, 17 Claire CORBETT, 18 Amber LUCHTMEIJER, 19 Skye HALMARICK, 21 Sarah HUNTER, 23 Rubi SULLIVAN, 24 Caley TALLON-HENNIKER - *One to be omitted* - Ins: HAWKESBY (return from injury) - Unavailable: 6 Shay HOLLMAN (leg),10 Indiana DOS SANTOS (knee), 12 Natalie TOBIN (pregnant), 26 Madeleine CASPERS (rib), 32 Bianca GALIC (ankle)

26.1.2026

FORMER GLORY PAIR IN AUSTRALIA DAY HONOURS LIST

Former Perth Glory CEO Tony Pignata and former Glory head coach Alen Stajcic are part of four distinguished members of the Australian football family who have been recognised in the January 26 Honours List for their contributions to the sport and their communities. Pignata was appointed CEO at the club in May 2018, and he spent four-and-a-half years in the role, during which time the club won its first ever A-League Premiership and made its debut in the Asian Champions League.

Pignata, who is now Football Tasmania CEO, received the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the Governor General's Australia Day Honours in recognition of his significant services to football in Australia. His contribution to the game spans playing, administration and senior executive leadership, with influence across grassroots, state and national levels of Australian football.

Stajcic was head coach at Glory from August 2023, before departing the club in June 2025, has been awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for his service to football as a coach. Stajcic, who departed his last club Western Sydney Wanderers last week, was the Head Coach of the CommBank Matildas from 2014-2019 and has played a significant role in the development of women’s football having held multiple roles within the Australian women’s national teams, the A-League and the Philippine Football Federation.

In other football honours, PFA founder and former CEO, Brendan Schwab, was the recipient of the Member of the Order of Australia (AM) and recognised for his significant service to professional sport as a lawyer, and as an advocate for athlete's rights. Schwab who co-founded the PFA in 1993, played a critical role in advancing the rights of Australian footballers through establishing collective bargaining for the Socceroos, Matildas, A-League and National Soccer League players.

Ian Holmes, former CEO of Soccer Australia, received the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for his service to football. Holmes has made significant contributions to football having served at various levels, including as President of the NSW Amateur Soccer Federation and CEO of Soccer Australia. His work was instrumental at national and state levels and his leadership and administration pivotal in shaping the sport’s growth and development in Australia.

25.1.2026

GLORY LET IT SLIP AS WANDERERS WIN IT LATE

Perth Glory conceded a stoppage time goal, to lose 0-1 in the week 14 Isuzu Ute A-League clash against Western Sydney Wanderers at CommBank Stadium on Sunday afternoon. It looked like Glory would leave with a hard-earned point, but two minutes into added time new Wanderers striker Ryan Fraser, who signed from English Championship side Southampton last week, came off the bench and fired home the winner for the hosts. “It hurts to concede so late, but we had some good moments in the first half, but we didn’t take those moments, and a very good Wanderers team made them three big changes, and we weren’t good enough in those moments and turned over the ball cheaply and the pressure kept coming,” Glory head coach Adam Griffiths said post-match.

“The easiest way to take the steam out of the game is to keep the ball, but we turned it over cheaply, and it makes it easy for players like Fraser to take control of the game. The whole team is working hard and we’re seeing the brand of football we want, but as I said it’s those critical moments we need to be better with the ball.” Glory kept the same team that were edged out by Brisbane Roar last week, while on the bench Jaiden Kucharski and Will Freney returned from injury, while new signing Stefan Colakovski was also added, but no room for English midfielder Luke Amos.

The officials said there would be two drinks break in each half, and it was the hosts who started brightly on a warm day in NSW, and Angus Thurgate’s shot from the edge of the box was deflected wide off Gio De Abreu, and shortly after Aidan Simmons fired over the top. Glory hit back after the first drinks stop, Tom Lawrence’s low cross found Adam Taggart on 21 minutes, but the Glory skipper could any fire straight at Lawrence Thomas.

Then moments later the Wanderers custodian made a smart save to deny a Lawrence’s free kick, as Glory pressed for the opener. Wanderers had a lot of possession, but struggled to find a clear-cut opportunity, the best falling to Brandon Borrello on the half hour, but he couldn’t keep his effort down. Glory ended the half the better and Taggart crossed to Nicholas Penningtion, and his first time shot was well blocked by the alert Lawrence. At half time it was all-square, the hosts with no shots on target, and it is all to play for after the break.

Glory made a double change at the break, with Freney and Seb Despotovski coming on for De Abreu and Trent Ostler and it was the visitors who went so close to the lead just before the hour mark, Sam Sutton’s corner fell to Taggart, and his shot on the turn flashed over the top. Wanderers new coach Gary van Egmond made a triple change moments later, and they started to get on top. First Sutton got down well to save one of them, Bozhidar Krav’s cross shot, then on 71 minutes they went even closer.

Fraser’s shot was well blocked by the alert Matt Sutton, the rebound falling to Thurgate, and with the goal at his mercy the midfielder blazed over the top. Wanderers were looking the likely team to score late, and Sutton made a smart save to thwart Phillip Cancar’s swerving effort. The visitors were hanging on, and substitute Awan Lual was next to go close, getting on the end of Kraev’s low cross, but his effort hit the post and away to safety. The home faithful thought they had a penalty two minutes from time, after Kraev’s header hit Brian Kaltak on the arm, but it was point-blank range and VAR ruled no spot kick.

Then in the final minute Alex Gersbach’s corner fell to Lual, but his shot crashed of the bar. It was all hands-on deck for Grifith’s side and Sutton produced a stunning save moments later to deny Fraser’s curling effort. It looked like they had survived the onslaught, but from the result corner the hosts won it. Sutton pounced clear, but it dropped to Fraser on the edge of the box, and the Scottish striker fired through the crowded penalty area and the ball deflected past Sutton to win it for the hosts. Glory did have a late chance to salvage a draw, but Colakovski was inches away from turning Lawrence cross home at the back post.

Western Sydney Wanderers: GK Lawrence THOMAS, 3 Alex GERSBACH, 5 Dylan SCICLUNA (39 Awan LUAL 86'), 8 Steven UGARKOVIC (7 Ryan FRASER 60'), 9 Kosta BARBAROUSES (17 Jarrod CARLUCCIO 90+6'), 14 Phillip CANCAR, 21 Aydan HAMMOND (25 Joshua BRILLANTE 60'), 22 Anthony PANTAZOPOULOS, 26 Brandon BORRELLO (23 Bozhidar KRAEV 60'), 31 Aidan SIMMONS 32 Angus THURGATE - Subs not used: RGK Jordan HOLMES, 19 Ruon TONGYIK

Perth Glory: GK Matt SUTTON, 2 Charbel SHAMOON, 3 Sam SUTTON, 4 Scott WOOTTON, 7 Nicholas PENNINGTON (67 Stefan COLAKOVSKI 78'), 18 Rhys BOZINOVSKI, 20 Trent OSTLER (25 Seb DESPOTOVSKI 46'), 22 Adam TAGGART, (9 Jaiden KUCHARSKI 84'), 34 Tom LAWRENCE, 39 Gio DE ABREU (27 Will FRENEY 46'), 45 Brian KALTAK - Subs not used: RGK Ryan WARNER, 15 Zach LISOLAJSKI, 17 Arion SULEMANI – Referee: Ben ABRAHAM

25.1.2026

BOLAND HAT-TRICK GIVES THE GREEN MACHINE A PERFECT START TO NIGHT SERIES

The week one games in the New Balance NPLWA Men’s Night Series were completed on Saturday evening and in the late game in Group C, we head a seven-goal thriller, with Olympic Kingsway coming from behind to beat a ten-man Stirling Macedonia 4-3 with Liam Boland scoring a hat-trick for the Green Machine at Percy Doyle Reserve. “The game would have been an absolute cracker as a neutral, there were great goals big tackles and lots of end-to-end moments,” Olympic defender Ollie Annis explained. “I thought we had the better of the first 15-20 minutes but Stirling were the better team for the rest of the half. They came out the second half with 10 men and controlled the first 15 minutes of it and ended up going ahead, but we calmed down and started to control large parts of the game and got on top of them to see out the win.”

Olympic, who won the pre-season competition in 2023, hit the front on 12 minutes, Boland bagging his first for the evening, firing home a free kick after Noah Ieraci was brought down on the edge of the box. They doubled their advantage nine minutes later, new English striker Robert Harker, who has signed from NPLVIC side Hume City, on target on his first competitive game for the club, curling home a free kick from the edge of the box after he was brought down. Stirling were back in the game eight minutes from half time, with striker Callum McKenzie scoring. But in the final minute Stirling were reduced to ten-men when Danny Douglas received a second yellow card.

But it didn’t deter Ago Mujic’s side, and they restored parity in first half stoppage time, with Samuel Dweh on target, then on 68 minutes, the ten-men hit the front, with Aston Montgomery making it 3-2. Olympic lifted and five minutes later Olympic were level, with Boland bagging his second, heading home at the back post from Annis’ corner, and the big striker won it three minutes later. Annis won a tackle in his own half and found Younous Sow, who raced forward and found Harker, who combined with Joe Hobson, and the striker crossed to Boland at the back post to complete his hat-trick

In the earlier game at the venue, Sorrento’s defence of their Night Series title has started in defeat, after a late goal from Jesse Fuller saw the Gulls go down 2-1 to Balcatta Etna. “I was pleased in the character of the squad, especially in the way we managed to overturned a difficult start to earn a well-deserved win,” Balcatta coach Terry Nicolaou said. “We struggled to settle early, defending deep, and rarely found any rhythm with Sorrento controlling the opening stages. We made two positional changes during the break which seem to work, as we showed much more energy, intensity, and structure, during our second-half performance.”

The hosts found the opener six minutes from the break, after some nice build up from the back ended with South Korean midfielder Kyung- Hwan, who drove inside his marker and fired home low from distance past Stefan Sotirovski. But twenty minutes into the second half Balcatta found the equaliser, with Darius Ghinea scoring after a well worked move. Both sides pressed for the winner, and it was Balcatta who found it four minutes from time, with skipper Fuller on target. “I’m really pleased with our performance but there’s still plenty to improve,’ Sorrento coach Andres Oliveira said. “Getting the chance to test five U23 players was a real bonus as well, and it gives us a clear picture of what’s coming through.”

23.1.2026

MATIDLAS STRIKER ENDS GLORY’S HOME WINNING STREAK

Perth Glory recent winning run at home has come to an end, after two goals from the Ninja A-League’s leading scorer Holly McNamara gave Melbourne City a 2-0 win at Sam Kerr Football Centre on Saturday evening. The hosts had won four games on the bounce, but they had no answers to McNamara, the Matildas striker making it 11 goals for the season with a goal in each half to move City five points clear at the top of the table. Glory needs to respond on Wednesday when they welcome Sydney FC to keep them in the finals mix.

“I thought we started pretty well in the first half and we were really up on them, but our second half wasn’t good today and we switched off in two moments and Melbourne City just used them,” Glory defender Onyinyechi Zogg said post-match. “But they are a top team, for me one of the best teams in the competition, but we will have to go over the video of the game. The press worked really well first half and we had some good moments, and at the end as well, but we need to take those chances. Sydney FC awaits on Wednesday evening, and that’s our next challenge.”

Glory head coach Stephen Peters named an unchanged side from last weeks hard-fought draw against Central Coast Mariners, and knew a win would move them up to second on the table. City started brightly and skipper Rebekah Stott header was saved by Teresa Morrissey after only three minutes. The hosts settled and Malena Mieres saved from Susan Phonsongkham’s free kick six minutes later. Glory suffered a blow on the quarter hour mark, with influential defender Tijan McKenna limping off and replaced by Mischa Anderson.

But it would be City who found the opener on 20 minutes. Danielle Turner picked out McNamara with a lofted through ball over the top, and referee Georgia Ghirardello played a great advantage after Turner was brought down in the process, and the Matildas striker held off her marker and lifted a composed chip over Morrissey to give the visitors the lead. The hosts were on the back foot, and City continued to dictate terms, and Scott’s effort flashed over the top, before Deven Jackson’s shot from the edge of the box whistled over the top, but City headed into the sheds with the advantage.

City went close to a second early in the second half, but Aideen Keane’s glancing header drifted wide. Glory were struggling in the final third, the best chance falling to Sarah O’Donoghue, but she fired straight at City ‘keeper Mieres on the hour. City on the other hand looked threatening, and it wasn’t a surprise when they doubled their lead 12 minutes later. Jackson did well in the middle of the park, before releasing Bryleeh Henry down the right, she surged into space and squared to McNamara, and the striker made no mistake, finishing clinically past Morrissey.

The hosts were down, but not out and substitute Ella Lincoln saw a shot blocked, before Zogg’s shot from distance hit the crossbar, but try as they might they were unable to get back into the game, and it was City leaving with the points. Glory host Sydney Fc on Wednesday, in their week ten catch-up game, and they have the bye next week, while City take on Adelaide United at Coopers Stadium on Friday. “It was a good team performance, and we kept the ball well,” City striker Holly McNamara said post-match. “We’ve fixed a few from the last couple of game, and we executed well tonight, so we are very happy with the result.”

Perth Glory: GK Teresa MORRISSEY, 3 Emma TOVAR (28 Clancy WESTAWAY 82'), 5 Grace JOHNSTON, 6 Tijan MCKENNA (2 Mischa ANDERSON 15'), 10 Susan PHONSONGKHAM, 12 Bronte TREW (25 Ella LINCOLN 62'), 19 Sarah O’DONOGHUE, 23 Isobel DALTON (17 Rola BADAWIYA 62'), 24 Julia SARDO, 27 Charli WAINWRIGHT (4 Daisy MCALLISTER 82'), 29 Onyinyechi ZOGG - Subs not used: RGK Jessica SKINNER

Melbourne City: GK Malena MIERES, 3 Danielle TURNER, 5 Taylor OTTO, 6 Leticia MCKENNA, 8 Alexia APOSTOLAKIS (12 Shelby McMAHON 62'), 9 Holly MCNAMARA (2 Ellie WILSON 83'), 11 Deven JACKSON, 13 Rebekah STOTT, 16 Karly ROESTBAKKEN, 21 Aideen KEANE, 22 Bryleeh HENRY (17 Kaya JUGOVIC 90+5') - Subs not used: RGK Melissa BARBIERI, 10 Izabella RAKO, 19 Keira SARRIS - Referee: Georgia Ghirardello - Attendance: 856

23.1.2026

NPLWA MENS NIGHT SERIES - FRIDAY REVIEW

The 2026 New Balance NPL Night Series kicked off with a bang on Friday evening, with four competitive games from Group A and B. First in the early Group A game at Alfred Skeet Reserve, Perth Glory beat newly promoted Dianella White Eagles 3-1. Louis Sollitt gave the Glory youngsters the lead five minutes before half time, before an own goal on 68 minutes doubled their advantage. Dianella, coached by former Perth Glory coach Ian Ferguson, hit back and reduced the margin seven minutes from time, with substitute Alfie Guya on target. But Glory made sure of the points three minutes later with substitute Santiago Flores adding the third.

In the late game at the venue 2024 winners Perth RedStar secured a 2-1 against hosts Armadale. “Happy to start night series with a win away at Armadale,” RedStar defender Blair Govan said post-match. “I thought Armadale were quite sharp at the start but once we got settled into the game there was a lot of positive stuff from us. Few things we know we can work on also, but it was good to get the first 90 minutes in for a lot of us as well.” Callum Salmon’s team found the opener on three minutes, Liam Murray crossing to new signing Gordon Smith, who headed home. Jon Baird’s Armadale hit back immediately, with Hamish van Dieken converting from the spot two minutes later.

The game was end to end, with both sides having their chances, but it was RedStar who won it on the half hour. A nice spell of possession saw RedStar find Ryan Finnie in space, and the former Scottish under-19’s international strode forward and finished with aplomb past new Armadale keeper David Keenan. The hosts pressed for an equaliser after the break, but failed to find it. “Overall, I’m pleased with a lot of aspects of the performance,” Baird said. “There were some strong individual displays and plenty of positives to take, but ultimately, we didn’t get the win, so there’s still plenty to work on moving forward.”

In Group B, Perth Azzurri got their campaign off with a hard fought 1-0 win against a ten-man Western Knights in the early game at Frank Drago Reserve. The Knights were reduced to ten after only 19 minutes, when Dylan White was shown a straight red card by the referee. Kenny Lowe’s side struggled to breakdown a resilient Knights side, but they did find the winner in the shadows of half time, with Jackson Morgan beating Sam Riley. In the final game at the venue, the points were shared, with Fremantle City coming from behind twice to secure a 2-2 draw against NPL Champions Bayswater City. “Really happy with our intent and endeavour. The lads worked super hard over the 90 minutes but did it with good level of quality. Our back four were relentless, (Our two 17yr old full backs played beyond their years),” Fremantle coach Dale Wingell explained.

“In the middle third we were tough, creative and calm, while in the front third we were disruptive, confident and willing. Bill and Taj took their opportunities when presented, and the players that came on continued seamlessly at the same level. Really pleasing reaction from previous week. Lots of positives to take out. You could see the players enjoyment out there tonight. Plenty of energy, great intent with a focused mindset. Hope to build on that next week.” The hosts hit the front after only four minutes, with new signing BorBor Sam on target. But Fremantle hit back seven minutes later, after some great interplay Bill Orr followed up on a John Chalmers shot that came back off the cross bar to bundle the ball over the line. Bayswater regained the lead on the half hour, Sam was the supplier this time after good work out wide, he picked out Pat Loughrey, who finished past Luke Radonich.

But seven minutes later Fremantle restored parity, a quick counter attack saw Taj Bingwa use his pace to carve out an opportunity, which he tucked away near post. City had the chance to win it after the break, when they were awarded a penalty, but Radonich, who made a number of outstanding saves in the game, got down well to save Loughrey’s spot kick. “It was an entertaining game and a fair result overall, although I thought we created enough chances to win the match on the night,” Bayswater coach Matthew Sparrow said. “Full credit to both sides for contributing to an open, competitive game. There’s still a lot for us to work on, as we know, and it is very early days, but there were plenty of positives to take from the performance, particularly going forward.”

23.1.2026

AMATEUR PREMIER DIVISION NIGHT SERIES

The 2026 Amateur Premier Division Night Series is locked in, with 12 clubs split across three groups and matches played under lights at Wanneroo City SC, Kingfisher Park and Kelly Park. The competition kicks off on Saturday 14 February, with group winners and the best runner-up progressing through to the semi-finals.

Group A will be based at Wanneroo City SC and includes Wanneroo City, Maccabi, and the amateur teams of Kingsley Westside and Olympic Kingsway. Wanneroo will be eager to make a strong start in the amateur ranks following relegation from the State League, with new coach Jason Winter having recruited well over the off-season.

At Kingfisher Park, Group B features newly promoted Ballajura AFC alongside League champions North Perth United, Swan United FC and Hamersley Rovers. All eyes will be on how Swan respond after their relegation, while North Perth’s depth will be tested after the loss of several key players.

Group C will be hosted at Kelly Park and sees newly promoted Kwinana United join Noranda Emerald, Kelmscott Roos and Jaguar Football Club. Emerald enter the series as the defending Night Series title holders and will again be one of the sides to watch.

A strong early-season test awaits all clubs as the countdown to the 2026 campaign begins.

23.1.2026

NPLWA MEN’S NIGHT SERIES – WEEK ONE PREVIEW

The 2026 New Balance NPLWA Men’s Night Series begins this week, with games on Friday and Saturday evening. First on Friday evening in Group A, Armadale host Perth RedStar at Alfred Skeet Reserve. (8:30pm) it will be the first competitive game at the club for new assistant coach Pete Taylor, who has joined head coach John Baird’s coaching staff this season, and he said he is looking forward to playing in front of the home supporters.

“It’s a brand-new chapter after so many years with Mandurah, so it’s been a little different but we’re excited to move into the competitive games with the league season not far away,” he explained. “We’ve been welcomed with open arms and we hope to show our appreciation through our performances. We’ve had a little snippet of the Army faithful in pre-season so we’re looking forward to hearing them throughout the night series and beyond.”

It's been a busy pre-season at Armadale, with a number of new signings at the club, and Taylor said they have worked hard and they are looking forward to a big clash against the 2024 Night series winners. “Pre-season has gone as planned. Theres been a big turnover so it’s been a pleasure getting to know everyone and we’ve gone unbeaten in three games so far. We’re far from finished preparing as we look to find the best combinations/chemistry and get everyone ready and firing for the first league game,” Taylor said.

“RedStar are an excellent team with a very good coaching group so it’ll be a nice gauge as to where we’re also at. Good luck to all involved and it’s great to get season 26 underway.” For RedStar they will go into the competition without the retired Daryl Nicol, but will be looking to start the competition with a positive result. The other Group A game is also on Friday evening, when Bayswater City welcome Fremantle City to Frank Drago Reserve. (8:30pm)

In Group B, newly promoted Dianella White Eagles begin life in the top flight on Friday evening, when they take on Perth Glory in the early game at Alfred Skeet Reserve. (6:30pm) The Eagles sealed promotion, after winning the Division One title last season, with striker Albert Luwi leading the way in front of goal, and he said there is a buzz around the club. “From top to bottom throughout the club everyone is super excited to be back in the top flight,” he said. “The night series is always a great way of seeing how we match up and the perfect occasion to get everyone match fit and ready for the season ahead where it matters the most.”

Dianella recently beat Glory in a pre-season friendly, and the striker said Friday is another important game as they prepare for the season ahead. “Yes, we beat Glory 2-0, but preseason can be a bit unpredictable sometimes especially while trying to incorporate the new additions,” Luwi explained. “I think the game on Friday will be a great watch, Glory are always an energetic bunch, so there will definitely be goals, we are definitely looking to put in a strong performance and get the win to start the competition.” The other game in Group B is at Frank Drago Reserve on Friday evening, as Perth Azzurri, who are fresh off winning the Coppa Italia, take on Western Knights. (6:30pm)

Finally in Group C, defending Night Series Champions Sorrento begin their defence in the early game against Balcatta Etna at Percy Doyle Reserve on Saturday evening. (5:30pm) It will be the first competitive game for new Gulls coach Andres Oliveira, and he said he and the players can’t wait to get started. “It’s an exciting moment for the group and for me taking charge first competitive match at Sorrento, and we are also aware of the standards the club set last year by winning the Night Series,” the coach explained. “We’re not focused on defending anything, we’re focused on building our own identity, competing with intent, and taking the first step in what we hope will be a strong season. The players have been excellent and we’re looking forward to getting started.”

Oliveira, who last coached in the NPL at Inglewood in 2023, said pre-season has gone well, and they are ready for a stern test against Balcatta. “Pre-season has been positive. The group is working hard, and we are progression week to week until the season starts. We have only had one game so far, against RedStar last week, and it gave us a clear picture of where we’re at and what the next steps to work on,” he said. “Balcatta are always competitive, so we’re expecting a tough match. For us, it’s about bringing our principles to life and a collective mindset. The Night Series is a great platform to test ourselves early, and this fixture will give us a strong indication of where we stand on our progression.” The other game in the group is also at Percy Doyle Reserve on Saturday evening, with a repeat of last seasons State League Cup Final, when Olympic Kingsway meeting Stirling Macedonia. (7:30pm)

23.1.2026

GLORY AIM TO BOUNCE BACK FROM ROAR DEFEAT

Perth Glory will aim to bounce back from last week’s loss against Brisbane Roar, when they visit the CommBank Stadium to take on Western Sydney Wanderers in week 14 Isuzu Ute A-League clash on Sunday afternoon. (4:00pm WA Time) The game has been put back from the original time of 2:00pm WA Time, due to the expected hot conditions in NSW on Sunday. The narrow loss last week saw Glory slip to tenth on the table, but they are only four points out of the top six, while the Wanderers poor start to the season sees them at the foot of the table, and coach Alen Stajcic was sacked in midweek, replaced by Gary van Egmond. It’s a must win for both sides, so it sets up an enthralling contest.

Glory Head Coach Adam Griffiths worked under van Egmond during his playing career, and he acknowledges that the coaching change adds an extra line to the pre-game narrative, but insisted his sides preparations have not been significantly affected by the prospect of a new-coach “bounce”. “We were wary of them anyway,” he said. “They’re a team that has been a little bit unlucky, and they’ve hit the crossbar a lot and they have a lot of quality players, so with a new coach it just adds a little bit of the unknown.

“I think there’ll be some form of change to make his mark and I expect it to be a difficult game away from home, but it’s a challenge that we’re looking forward to. He [van Egmond] is a very good coach who has won the league before and he knows the A-League very well, so it I’ll be nice to see a familiar face. Obviously, it makes things a little more difficult when you’re analysing the opposition, but a lot of the time we are focusing on ourselves and how we can improve and keep moving up in the right direction, so for us, it doesn’t change much.”

Glory midfielder Nicholas Pennington struggled with injury early in the season, but he is back to good form, and relishing playing under Adam Griffiths. “Yes, it was a tough pre-season for me, as I had a few problems with my groin, but I’ve worked really hard with the physio’s and they helped me get through it,” the midfielder explained. “All the hard work is showing now, and I’ve been able to contribute. We’ve been playing well and getting some good results, but I thought we deserved more, but half way through the season we are in a good position. We are playing some good football, and it’s a style of football you want to play in, high intensity, possession based, and it’s shown on the park.”

The Italian born midfielder said their form has improved, and they are confident going into the game on Sunday. “We feel we can win every game, and we showed that at Melbourne City, and we’re hoping to do the same against the Wanderers,” Pennington said. “Yes, they have been struggling, but they are a good team, with good players, but we know we can go there and win the game, and that’s the most important thing for us. I’ve been surprised this season with the Wanderers, but sometimes in football you don’t get the results, and things don’t go for you, and I think that is what has happened to them, but we know Sunday is going to be a real tough game.”

Glory will be hoping for a better result from the last time they played in front of the Red and black Bloc, the hosts running out 4-1 winners in week 21 last season. It started so well for the visitors, with Adam Taggart opening the scoring after only five minutes, but it went downhill from there. A brace from Aydan Hammond gave the Wanderers the lead at the break, before second half goals from Oscar Priestman and Bulgarian midfielder Bozhidar Kraev sealed a 4-1 win.

There was good news on the injury front, with a Will Freney, and Jaiden Kucharski returning to the squad, while new signing Stefan Colakovski has also been added to the ravelling party, but there is still no Lachie Wales. “There are a few players returning, “Will, JK and Lachie will become available, but the weeks not finished yet, so we’ll see how they finish the week,’ Griffiths explained. “Stef is the same as the others; he’s available now which his fantastic for us.

“We’re starting to bring back quality players into the squad who will challenge the players that are in there at the moment, so it’s exciting times. With these players coming back into training, it increases the intensity and makes sure that everyone’s on their toes, that’s the advantage of having a stronger squad. It means if everyone’s on their game, performance is going to increase.”

Western Sydney Wanderers squad: GK Lawrence THOMAS, GK Jordan HOLMES, 3 Alex GERSBACH, 5 Dylan SCICLUNA, 8 Steven UGARKOVIC, 9 Kosta BARBAROUSES, 11 Hiroshi IBUSUKI, 14 Phillip CANCAR, 17 Jarrod CARLUCCIO, 19 Ruon TONGYIK, 21 Aydan HAMMOND, 22 Anthony PANTAZOPOULOS, 23 Bozhidar KRAEV, 24 Nathan BARRIE, 25 Joshua BRILLANTE, 26 Brandon BORRELLO, 31 Aidan SIMMONS, 32 Angus THURGATE, 37 Alaat ABDUL-RAHMAN, 38 Jai ROSE, 39 Awan LUAL, 42 Jesse CAMERON, 45 Alou KUOL - Ins: 21 Aydan HAMMOND (Return from international duty), 23 Bozhidar KRAEV, 31 Aidan SIMMONS (return from international duty)

Perth Glory Squad: GK Matt SUTTON, GK Ryan WARNER, 2 Charbel SHAMOON, 3 Sam SUTTON, 4 Scott WOOTTON, 7 Nicholas PENNINGTON, 9 Jaiden KUCHARSKI, 10 Luke AMOS, 15 Zach LISOLAJSKI, 16 Gabriel POPOVIC, 17 Arion SULEMANI, 18 Rhys BOZINOVSKI, 20 Trent OSTLER, 22 Adam TAGGART, 24 Andriano LEBIB, 25 Sebastian DESPOTOVSKI, 27 Will FRENEY, 34 Tom LAWRENCE, 39 Giovanni DE ABREU, 45 Brian KALTAK, 67 Stefan COLAKOVSKI - *Two to be omitted* - Ins: KUCHARSKI, FRENEY, COLAKOVSKI - Outs: 30 Tadi KUZAMBA - Unavailable: GK Cameron COOK, 5 Riley FOXE, 6 Brandon O’NEILL, 8 Callum TIMMINS, 11 Lachie WALES, 31 Joel ANASMO (All Injured)

23.1.2026

LEAGUE LEADERS HEAD WEST IN WEEK 14

Perth Glory welcomes the Ninja A-League leaders Melbourne City to the Sam Kerr Football Centre on Saturday in the week 14 clash, as they look for fifth straight wins in front of their supporters. (5:00pm) Glory secured a well-earned point on the road last week at the Mariners and It kept their good form going, their last defeat in the league came against Saturday’s opponents in week nine. The 1-1 draw last week leaves Glory in joint fifth place on the ladder, only four points behind City, who were stunned by Newcastle Jets last Friday, and drew against Brisbane Roar on Tuesday, so it’s a massive game for both teams.

It's been a huge week for Glory defender/midfielder Tijan McKenna, who was voted ‘Shark Player of the Month’, in the competition, something she was delighted with, especially playing out of position this season. “It’s always nice to rewarded, and even more when I’ve been playing out of position,” McKenna said. “It was a bit of a shock for me when I heard on the flight home to Perth, but everyone was quite excited when hearing the news.

“It’s nice to prove myself in another position in the team, and it’s helped me as a player, and has developed my game in more positions in the team, so it’s been good. To build composure on the ball, as at centre back you can’t make many mistakes, and having the experienced Onyinyechi Zogg next to me obviously helps me build confidence in the position.”

The 21-year-old will come up against her former club and her sister Leticia, who also played for the Glory for two seasons, and she knows it will be a tough game, but they are looking forward to it and building on the hard-fought point last week. “Getting a draw on the road is something we’ve built on, and we’ve not had it easy on our travels, but we not using that as an excuse,” she said. “But to come home with a point build the confidence in the group moving forward.

“All the squad are building confidence, and building a statement of the starting eleven, and getting the gist of how people play, which shows on the pitch, and Stephen (Peters) is also very confident all the time, but it also helps having the depth in the squad. Saturday is going to be a challenge, they are a great team and a great club, and I learnt a great deal in my time at the club, but the confidence we’ve had in the last couple of weeks, it will be a nice even game. It will be nice to get back home, and I will defiantly put in a strong tackle on Leticia, and it will fuel the fire in the family to have a nice tussle.”

Head Coach Stephen Peters said the last time they played City, it was a tight game, but a Holly McNamara hat-trick sealed the points for the hosts, but he believes his side showed enough in the week nine clash, to suggest they can reverse the scoreline this weekend. “They [Melbourne City] have a very good side, they believe in what they do… and we’ve got to be ready for what they bring,” he said. “You’ve got to be switched on the whole time. In that game [at AAMI Park], we made errors at crucial times that hurt us, but our general approach play was really good.

“We’re really proud of that and hopefully we can replicate that type of effort against them and get the points. We’re still the only team in the competition this year to take the possession stats away from them, so we’ll hang our hat on that one and see if we can do the same on Saturday. These guys are the benchmark of the competition in terms of their output and the quality they possess and it’s a really, really good challenge for us. It’ll be a real test of where we’re at and we’re looking forward to it.”

Peters said they had their chances to claim all three points against the reigning champions Central Coast Mariners last week, but was pleased to come home with some reward for the performance. “It was a good game for the neutral,” he said. “Both teams had chances, they had some very good chances in the first half and we had some good chances after it went to 1-1. It would have been nice to have iced one of those and put the pressure back on them. Their goal, I thought, was a little bit fortuitous, but there were a couple of errors from us in the lead-up, so I think overall it was a good point earned against a very good side.”

The coach said they need to be on the front foot against City, and he is confident they will in a crucial game in their finals charge. “Every game is becoming a finals game because that’s how close the competition is,” Peters said. “I think it’s five points between first place and ninth which is pretty crazy, so every game is so crucial. We’re at our best when we’re able to get into the face of the opposition, be on the front foot and have that nuisance value. The games that we’ve won… our effort and intensity defensively have been super and we’ll be looking to replicate that and as our game grows, I think we get a lot better with the ball. I think in the last couple of weeks, you can see that that’s been growing and I feel we’re a team that people need to take note of.”

The last time City ventured over to the west they secured the Premiers plate with an emphatic 5-1 win in week 23 last season. American striker Taylor Otto opened the scoring after only three minutes, and Bryleeh Henry added a second three minutes later. Susan Phonsongkham reduced the deficit from the spot on 12 minutes, but that’s as good as it got for the hosts. Otto added her second and Holly McNamara made it 4-1 at the break, before Leticia McKenna added the fifth after the break.

It's a buy few days for Glory, as they entertain Sydney FC on Wednesday evening at Sam Kerr, so Peters will have an eye on that game in his team selection, but he’s been pleased with the whole squad. “We’ve got to look at a little bit of a load management situation with the two games so close together and then a trip to New Zealand,” he said. “So, it’s a unique one for us and we’ll most likely delve into the squad for these next two games.”

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

Melbourne City squad: GK Melissa BARBIERI, GK Malena MIERES, 2 Ellie WILSON, 3 Danielle TURNER, 5 Taylor OTTO, 6 Leticia MCKENNA, 8 Alexia APOSTOLAKIS, 9 Holly MCNAMARA, 10 Izabella RAKO, 11 Deven JACKSON, 12 Shelby McMAHON, 13 Rebekah STOTT, 15 Chinaza UCHENDU, 16 Karly ROESTBAKKEN, 17 Kaya JUGOVIC, 19 Keira SARRIS, 21 Aideen KEANE, 22 Bryleeh HENRY - *One to be omitted* - Ins: SARRIS - Unavailable: 7 Danella BUTRUS (concussion), 14 Laura HUGHES (knee), 18 Leah DAVIDSON (knee), 20 Caitlin KARIC (knee)

21.1.2026

ONE IN ONE OUT FOR GLORY

Perth Glory have re-signed winger Stefan Colakovski on a contract which runs until the end of the 2025/26 A-League season, while former Glory striker Nathanael Blair has signed for Central Coast Mariners. Colakovski made 24 appearances after joining Glory in 2022, scoring six goals, one of which took out the club’s 2023-24 Goal of the Season Award, and he was also a crowd favourite. He joined the Glory from Melbourne City, and was part of their side which won a Championship and two Premierships, then left the west in 2024 and headed to Wellington Phoenix, but injury curtailed his stay over the ditch.

The 24-year-old said he’s delighted to be back at the club. “It feels amazing to be back, and it’s been a long time coming,” he told the Glory website. “I’ve been waiting in the shadows, doing my training and rehab, but I’m back I just love wearing this jersey. I left the club to try something overseas, but unfortunately it didn’t eventuate, and I signed for Wellington, but after two months I tore my ACL. I spent a few months back home in Melbourne to do my rehab, but I returned to Perth in mid-July and medical team at the club have helped with the recovery from my injury, and I’ve got to thank a number of people behind the scenes that has got me back to where I’m now.”

The winger said football is his life, and it’s good to be back playing, and reuniting with former Wellington Phoenix coach Adam Griffiths and defenders Scot Wootton and Sam Sutton at Glory “I feel very grateful, very excited, and I know it’s all a little bit cliche, but being out for so long with a major injury gives you some time to reflect. Being out of the game for so long, I’m so excited to be back on a pitch. You don’t realize what you have until it’s gone and all I’ve done is football, and played football my whole life,” he explained.

“It’s been my only job, and it’s been my only hobby as a kid. I feel like a little kid again just excited to play his first game. It feels very nice when you can sense a genuine excitement from them for me to be back playing and that means a lot. He (Griffiths) is a character, and myself, I love big characters. I love when people bring something different and unique. He makes you work hard and he makes you work for it and I feel like I haven’t had that in a while, so I’m very excited to work with him.”

Glory Football Director Stan Lazaridis said the winger will provide another quality option in the final third for them. "Cola always gives you a spark and we’re very pleased to be bringing him back to the club," he said. "He’s a technically gifted player who’s wonderfully easy on the eye and he’s also a great character who brings a lot of positivity into the group. He knows the club well and is desperate to make his second spell here a success. I know our members and fans really took to Cola the last time he was with us and I’m sure they’ll be very pleased that he’s back in the fold. We’re looking forward to seeing him add another dimension to our attack."

Meanwhile, Blair has signed for the Mariners, also for the remainder of the A-League season. The 21-year-old made 16 appearances at Glory, and is fresh from the AFC U23 Asian Cup with the Olyroos. He is looking forward to returning to his home state. “I’m thrilled to be joining the Mariners and looking forward to representing this great club,” he said. “This is an exciting opportunity for me to return to New South Wales and show what I have to offer at this level. I’m keen to start training from today, and work with the coaching staff and players to give everything I can for the fans and this club.”

Mariners Head Coach, Warren Moon said Blair will add more firepower to his side’s attacking third. “We’re excited to be able to welcome Nathanael to the squad for the rest of the season,” Moon said. “He’s a young, powerful forward who will offer a different dimension in our front-third and importantly, bring further depth to the squad as we push into the second half of the season. Nathanael has a lot of qualities that can shine at A-League level and with his recent experience representing the Olyroos in the U23 Asian Cup, we’re hoping to see him excel at the Mariners.”

18.1.2026

PHONGSONGKHAM ON TARGET AS GLORY HOLD CHAMPIONS

Perth Glory have fought out an entertaining 1-1 draw with reigning Ninja A-League Champions Central Coast Mariners in the week 13 clash at polytec Stadium on Sunday afternoon. A suburb volley from Susan Phongsongkham gave Stephen Peters’ side the lead in the first half, her third goal of the season, but the hosts hit back to take a share of the spoils just after the hour with Petra Trimis scoring an Olimpico. Both sides had chances to win it, with Glory custodian Teresa Morrissey again making some telling saves, the point moving Glory into the top six.

Phonsongkham said it was nice to find the net, but they do need to improve in the final third, especially on the road. “I was hoping it would to my right foot, and get a good contact on it and it’s nice to see it in the back of the net,” she said post-match. “I thought it was one of our better performances away from home, so we’re pretty pleased with that, but we’re still looking for that perfect performance. We’ve been drilled to be clinical inside the penalty area, and it’s something we need to get better at. We did have plenty of opportunities in the second half, but unfortunately, we need to be more clinical, so we’re hoping to build on that and keep going.”

Peters made one change to the side that beat Western Sydney Wanderers last week, with Clancy Westaway replacing the injured Georgia Cassidy, while there was good news on the bench with striker Rola Badawiya returning from injury. The visitors were the first to go close, skipper Isobel Dalton’s long-range shot was straight at Mariners keeper Annalee Grove, but the hosts hit back and Morrissey stood tall to deny Annalise Rasmussen one-on-one, and moments later the Glory custodian thwarted the striker again, as the Mariners started to get on top.

There were chances at both ends, Sarah O’Donoghue’s curling effort flashed over the top for the visitors, before Morrissey, who has been in great form this season, denied Jynaya Dos Danos with a smart save. Then somewhat against the run of play on 34 minutes, Glory found the opener. Bronte Trew won possession off Lorena Baumann on the right, before crossing into the penalty area. The Mariners defence failed to deal with it, the ball falling to Phonsongkham, who volleyed home superbly.

The Mariners lifted after the break, with the Glory defending deep, and Morrissey had to be alert to push Trimis’ shot around the post on the hour. But two minutes later Trimis levelled for the host, her in-swinging corner found the net past Morrissey, who looked like she was impeded by Taren King, but the goal stood. The game was up for grabs, and Sarah O’Donoghue shot on the turn flashed wide moments later for Glory. Then the Mariners thought they had the lead, Rasmussen converting from close-range, but the flag was up for offside.

Rasmussen, who is the current leader in the Golden Boot race, wasted another opportunity late, as she couldn’t keep her effort down when well placed. Substitute Badawiya went close for the Glory as chances came and went, while Izabel Gomez failed the find the target at the other end. The result means the Mariners stay third on the ladder and move two points clear of fourth-placed Melbourne Victory. Meanwhile the draw for Glory, their first of the season, sees them move into sixth on the ladder ahead of back-to-back home games against Melbourne City and Sydney FC.

Central Coast Mariners: GK Annalee GROVE, 4 Baxter THEW (3 Elizabeth BARWICK-GREY 82'), 5 Annabel MARTIN, 6 Isabel GOMEZ, 7 Avaani PRAKASH (9 Millie FARROW 61'), 11 Annalise RASMUSSEN, 14 Greta KRASZULA, 17 Jynaya DOS SANTOS (10 Tamar LEVIN 61'), 18 Taren KING, 22 Peta TRIMIS, 23 Lorena BAUMANN - Subs not used: RGK Sophia VARLEY, 13 Kaiya BUCHANAN, 16 Tess QUILLIGAN

Perth Glory: GK Teresa MORRISSEY, 3 Emma TOVAR, 5 Grace JOHNSTON, 6 Tijan MCKENNA, 10 Susan PHONSONGKHAM (17 Rola BADAWIYA 63'), 12 Bronte TREW (25 Ella LINCOLN 86'), 19 Sarah O’DONOGHUE, 23 Isobel DALTON, 24 Julia SARDO (2 Mischa ANDERSON 90+2'), 28 Clancy WESTAWAY (27 Charli WAINWRIGHT 63'), 29 Onyinyechi ZOGG - Subs not used: RGK Jessica SKINNER, 4 Daisy MCALLISTER - Referee: Anna Marie Keighly

17.1.2026

SCAFETTA AT THE DOUBLE AS AZZURRI WIN COPPA ITALIA WA

Perth Azzurri are the 2026 Coppa Italia WA winners, after beating Balcatta Etna 3-1 in the final at Dorrien Gardens on Saturday evening, with a brace from Michael Scafetta and another Julian Kelly. “It was good to get a win and a trophy to start the season, especially coming into the night series,” Scafetta said. “We showed what we are about yesterday, with some really good build up for the goals and for the penalty, luckily, I was able to get on the end of two of them. We are building really strongly and we are all really confident for the season ahead as it gets closer.”

Kenny Lowe’s side were ahead after good work down the left by Ethan Banks, and his low cross was turned home by Scafetta. They added a second before the break, after Sam Pollard was brought down in the box, and Scafetta sent the keeper the wrong way from the resulting penalty. Balcatta were back in the game after the break with Jack Allen’s half volley beating Liam Driscoll. But the result was put beyond doubt with Azzurri substitute Kelly adding a third for the hosts.

In the third and fourth playoff game, Bayswater City beat Fremantle City 2-0 with goals from Borbor Sam and Declan Hughes. “It was another really good run out for the lads. Nice to come away with a clean sheet and a couple of goals, but more importantly it was our third game in 10 days and a great opportunity to get strong minutes into the group,” Bayswater coach Matthew Sparrow explained.

“At this stage of the season the results aren’t the focus, it’s all about the work we’re putting in and how we’re tracking physically and tactically. We’ve now got a good week to prepare properly and we’re looking forward to another good test against the same opponents in Fremantle. For me, it’s about getting fitter, sharper and more connected week by week, so we’re in a really good place heading into round one next month.”

17.1.2026

OLYROOS ASIAN CUP ENDS WITH LATE GOAL FROM KOREA REPUBLIC

Korea Republic have edged out Australia 2-1 to book their AFC U23 Asian Cup semi-final spot at the King Abdullah Sports City Hall Stadium on Saturday. The Olyroos had their chances but failed to take them at critical times in the game. Baek Ga-on gave Korea Republic the lead midway through the first half, but Luka Jovanovic levelled early in the second half. Both sides had chances to win it, but two minutes from time it was Shin Min-ha who broke the hearts of the Olyroos to seal the tie.

The hard-fought quarter-final victory means Korea Republic make a return to the last four stage after missing out in the previous two editions, with defending champions Japan awaiting them in Tuesday’s semi-final. “It’s a lot to take in to lose like that – it hurts,” Olyroos head coach Tony Vidmar said post-match. “The players were fantastic, the way they went out and played the game. They deserved so much better from it. Especially in the second half, there was only one team on the pitch. Maybe we didn’t create as many chances, but we didn’t deserve to lose, that is for sure.”

Vidmar made four changes to his final squad of the group stage, with Aidan Simmons, Jed Drew, Louis Agosti and Mathias Macallister coming into the starting XI. With Giuseppe Bovalina, Ethan Alagich, and former Perth Glory duo Jaylan Pearman and James Overy dropping to the bench. The Olyroos were out of the blocks early, and Drew had the first opportunity on four minutes, but his low shot was straight at keeper Hong Seong-min. But the 2020 Champions hit back, with Kang Seong-jin and Kang Min-jun going close, and they duly opened the scoring on 21 minutes.

The Olyroos were caught napping by Lee Hyun-Yong’s long ball into the box, which fell to Ga-on to finish with a fine volley into the net. Vidmar’s side almost hit back immediately, but Simmons’ effort flashed just wide of the target. Then seven minutes before half-time, Australia thought they had a penalty when referee Fu Ming spotted a handball and pointed to the spot, but it was overturned by VAR, and at the break the Olyroos had it all to do.

Australia began on the front foot after the break, and they were rewarded with the equaliser six minutes in. The lively Drew picking out Jovanovic, and the Adelaide United striker finished past Seong-min from the angle. Both sides had half chances, as the game opened up and the best chance fell to the Australian youngsters five minutes from time, Aydan Hammond was sent clear, but Seong-min stood tall to deny the Western Sydney Wanderers striker.

That miss came back to haunt them three minutes later, when Korea Republic won it. Kang Seong-jin's corner was powered home by Min-ha, which sparked wild celebrations, on and off the pitch. Australia pushed forward looking for the equaliser in stoppage time, the best chance fell to substitute Overy, but the Manchester United youngster couldn’t guide his near post header home. Vidmar highlighted the positives gained from the tournament - particularly for the younger players.

“The exposure and experience they gained, and the way the players performed throughout this campaign is really encouraging, there’s a lot of positives coming through. The way they approached it was unbelievable. It was a joy to work with all of them,’ he explained. “Unfortunately, one area that let us down was defending set-pieces. We conceded from them in every game, and that’s something we need to reflect on moving forward.”

Korea Republic: GK Hong Seong-min, 2 Kang Min-jun, 3 Bae Hyun-seo, 5 Lee Hyun-yong, 7 Kang Seong-jin (4 Jo Hyun-tae 90+4'), 8 Kim Dong-jin, 15 Baek Ga-on (18 Jeong Jae-sang 77'), 17 Kim Yong-hak (13 Kim Do-hyun 46'), 19 Lee Geon-hee, 22 Jang Seok-hwan, 23 Shin Min-ha - Subs not used: RGK Moon Hyun-ho, RGK Hwang Jae-yun, 6 Lee Chan-ouk, 9 Kim Tae-won, 11 Jung Ji-hun, 14 Jung Seung-bae, 16 Kim Han-seo, 20 Park Jun-seo

Australia: GK Steven Hall, 2 ?Aidan Simmons (21 James Overy 81'), 3 ?Joshua Rawlins, 6 Kaelan Majekodunmi, 7 ?Jed Drew (19 ?Marcus Younis 65'), 8 ?Jordi Valadon, 11 Yaya Dukuly, 15 Nathan Paull, 16 ?Luka Jovanovic (9 Nathanael Blair 81'), 20 Louis Agosti (17 Jaylan Pearman 74'), 23 Mathias Macallister (10 ?Aydan Hammond 73') - Subs not used: RGK Lachlan Allen, RGK Dylan Peraic-Cullen, 4 Kane Vidmar, 5 ?Giuseppe Bovalina, 13 ?Ariath Piol, 14 ?Ethan Alagich, 22 ?Marcus Humbert

16.1.2026

MARINERS SNAP UP FORMER GLORY YOUNGSTER

Central Coast Mariners have signed former Rockingham City and Perth Glory midfielder Chris Donnell for the remainder of the A-League season. The 21-year-old joins from NPLNSW club Sydney Olympic where the former Australian youth international featured most recently in Olympics’ inaugural Australian Championship campaign. Born in Glasgow, Donnell moved to Perth at a young age, and played his early football at Rocky, before joining the Perth Glory academy and making his Isuzu UTE A-League debut in 2022 against Wellington Phoenix.

He headed to the UK in 2023 with trials at a number of clubs, and he impressed at English Premier League side Fulham, who signed him. He was a standout in their academy, and was loaned out to Scottish Championship side, Airdrieonians, and while at the Cottagers, he was selected in the Young Socceroos squad, that played in 2023 Asian Cup in Uzbekistan. Donnell, who is the third mid-season signing for the club, along with Ali Auglah and Oli Lavale, is thrilled to be back in the A-League with the Mariners, and can’t wait to get started.

“This is a great opportunity for me to return to the A-League and I can’t wait to get started,” the defensive midfielder said. “The Club has a great history in not only developing the next generation of players but also success on the field and I’m looking forward to being a part of that environment. “I want to work hard with the coaching staff and the team to achieve everything we can this season.”

Mariners Head Coach, Warren Moon said Donnell will bolster the Mariners midfield for the tail end of the season. “We’re excited to have Chris sign for the Club for the remainder of the season,” he said. “Chris is a young, talented midfielder who has had a taste of football abroad and we think he has the potential to thrive in our environment on the Central Coast. We’ve seen what he’s been able to do at A-League level and most recently, in the Australian Championship and we’re looking forward to having Chris with the squad for the rest of the season.”

16.1.2026

GLORY LET IT SLIP AGAINST THE ROAR

Brisbane Roar have taken the points after a 2-1 win against Perth Glory in their week 13 Isuzu Ute A-League clash at HBF Park on Friday evening. Adam Taggart had given the hosts the lead early, and in doing so equalling Andy Keogh’s all-time club record of 59 goals, but Chris Long levelled from the spot, and the visitors won it with a looping header from Sam Klein early in the second half. Roared on by over 12,000 supporters, Glory pressed late looking for the equaliser, but they couldn’t find a way past a resolute Roar defence.

Glory head coach Adam Griffiths said he was left a bit frustrated, and is looking for a 90-minute performance from his side. “We weren’t at it ourselves after we conceded,” he said post-match. “We started brightly and then lost a lot of momentum from that goal and confidence, and then started to play a different brand of football that I’ve never seen before, which was the frustrating bit. It took us a while to wake up, and then when we did wake up, we started to create more, start to dominate and play the way we wanted — but we need to do that for 90 minutes.”

The coach named an unchanged side from the one that beat Central Coast Mariners last week, while on the bench there was a return for Seb Despotovski. The Roar arrived without head coach Michael Valkanis, who had to rush home to Greece for a family emergency, and it was a physical start to the game with both teams not taking a backwards step. A strong challenge from Gio De Abreu on Noah Maieroni set the tone, which saw the youngster booked, and in the melee that followed, Klein was also shown a yellow card.

The game settled down and on 20 minutes it was the home side who hit the front. Rhys Bozinovski headed forward to Trent Ostler, whose neat flick sent Taggart racing clear, the Roar defenders were looking for the offside flag, that never came, and the Glory striker finished with aplomb past Dean Bouzanis. The Roar hit back and Georgios Vrakas cut in from the left, and his long-range shot was saved at his near post by the alert Matt Sutton, but moments later the Roar levelled.

A corner from the left found Klein, whose shot hit Taggart, and the appeals for handball were waved away by referee Adam Kersey, but after a VAR call, he was sent over to the screen, and then awarded a penalty. It looked a little harsh, but the handball rule is as clear as mud these days, but Long didn’t care, converting the resulting spot kick. It seemed to rattle Glory who lost their impetus, and Sutton got down well to save Klein’s shot from the edge of the box moments later, but at the break it was all square.

The visitors went close to the lead just after half time, Klein’s clever chip from distance almost caught out Sutton, but the keeper got back to tip it over the top. Then on 50 minutes the Roar hit the front, a long throw by James McGarry wasn’t dealt with, the ball rebounding to Klein whose looping header found the net. The goal silenced the big crowd, and the visitors went close to a third moments later, when former Glory youth player Henry Hore fired just over the top. Glory hit back and Brian Kaltak’s shot whistled wide, before Tom Lawrence sent Taggart in on goal, but his shot from the angle was parried away by Bouzanis. The Glory supporters were right behind their side as they pressed for the equaliser, and Nicholas Pennington’s shot was straight at the Roar custodian.

The crowd were getting frustrated by the Roar’s time-wasting, but it was the visitors who were denied a third late, after Sutton produced another good save to deny Maieroni late in the game. Glory had their chances, but failed to take them and it was the Roar taking the points, and moving them up to third on the table, while the Glory stay ninth, but only two points out of the top six. They are back in action next Sunday, when they visit CommBank Stadium to take on Western Sydney Wanderers.

Perth Glory: GK Matt SUTTON, 2 Charbel SHAMOON, 3 Sam SUTTON (15 Zach LISOLAJSKI 56'), 4 Scott WOOTTON, 7 Nicholas PENNINGTON, 18 Rhys BOZINOVSKI (10 Luke AMOS 81'), 20 Trent OSTLER (25 Sebastian DESPOTOVSKI 56'), 22 Adam TAGGART, 34 Tom LAWRENCE, 39 Gio DE ABREU (16 Gabriel POPOVIC 90'), 45 Brian KALTAK - Subs not used: RGK Ryan WARNER, 17 Arion SULEMANI, 24 Andriano LEBIB

Brisbane Roar: GK Dean BOUZANIS, 2 Youstin SALAS, 3 Dimitri VALKANIS, 6 Austin LUDWIK, 8 Samuel KLEIN, 9 Christopher LONG (17 Justin VIDIC 72'), 10 Georgios VRAKAS (44 Jordan LAUTON 90+3'), 13 Henry HORE (41 Emmett SHAW 84'), 19 Michael RUHS (16 Matthew DENCH 72'), 23 James McGARRY, 31 Noah MAIERONI - Subs not used: RGK Macklin FREKE, 15 Hosine BILITY, 30 Quinn MACNICOL - Attendance: 12,594 - Referee: Adam KERSEY

16.1.2026

DE ABREU READY TO ROAR AGAINST BRISBANE

Perth Glory welcome Brisbane Roar to HBF Park on Friday evening in week 13 of the Isuzu Ute A-League, and they will look to build on last weeks emphatic 3-0 win against Central Coast Mariners, and continue their push up the table. (Kick off 6:45pm) It was a sparkling performance from Adam Griffiths’ side, with some of the younger players stepping up, which bodes well for the rest of the season. Glory sits ninth on the table, and the Roar arrive in fifth, but have lost back-to-back games, so with only two points separate the two sides a win will be massive in this one.

It was a huge occasion last week for former ECU Joondalup midfielder Giovanni De Abreu, who made his starting debut for the club, and he said it was special. “It was a big goal of mine, and a dream come true,” he said. “It all happened so fast as well, I wasn’t expecting it, but I went out there and enjoyed every moment. I enjoy playing for Griff (Adam Griffiths), and I feel like I resonate with what he says. I thought me and Boza (Rhys Bozinovski) played well together, and Griff said to me – ‘just do what you do’. He’s always hungry, and he’s never satisfied, what is a good quality to have as a coach, as there is always something to improve on with your game.”

The 18-year-old came through the ECU Joondalup Academy, and was selected in the FC Bayern U19 World Squad, and captained the side in some of the games on the recent tour, and in their final game beat the German giants under 19’s side. The midfielder said it was an amazing time and very grateful for the opportunity. “I learnt a lot from my time there, but it was crazy for me, as no one spoke English, so I had to adjust and learn,” he explained. “I thought I built a little bit of character development there, and my football has improved. It was very professional, and good to be around some quality players, and the facilities were insane.”

De Abreu came in for his debut in the win against the Mariners, replacing the injured Will Freney, another youngster who has impressed this season, but De Abreu said one win is good, but they are chasing more, starting on Friday night against Brisbane in front of their supporters. “We’re all feeling pretty good after the game, it was a good result for us, but we are focused on the next one,” the young midfielder said. “One win is good, but we need to do it again and again, so we’re all focused now. Obliviously there is a lot of work to do, but it’s a good start. It was awesome playing in front of our fans, and it was great after the match celebrating with the fans in the Shed End.”

Griffiths is looking for his side to stay on the front foot against the fifth placed Roar, and is expecting a physical game in Friday’s encounter, against a side who started the season well, but will be looking to bounce back from two straight defeats. “They [Brisbane] deserve to be where they are, they play a different style of football, but it’s an effective style of football and they’re good at it,” he explained. “We’ve got to match that and continue to improve on how we want to play and take that game to them.

“We’re going to embrace the challenge and we’re going to excel. We’ve been regrouping and re-setting and getting ourselves prepared for this game. We focus everything on ourselves, every game. We’ve been focused on what makes us and continuing to turn Perth Glory into a winning team. We do the 80-20 rule where we focus 80% on us and 20% on Brisbane.”

It’s Glory annual ‘Footballers Go Free’ game, in conjunction with Football West, and Griffiths said his side are looking forward to playing in front of big crowd, and continue their push up the table. “Perth Glory has been starved of success, so winning games will obviously increase crowds and get people talking,” he said. “We want to continue on that trajectory and we’re doing everything possible to make that happen. You have to have sustained success and that’s the objective. I think we’re improving as a collective and that’s something that we have to continue if we’re going to keep moving up the ladder.”

The last time Roar played in Perth, was in week 23 last season, when the Roar secured a 3-1 win at HBF Park. It started so well for the hosts with Luke Amos scoring a stunner to opener the scoring on seven minutes. Unfortunately, it went downhill after that, with Asumah Abubakar levelling eight minutes before the break, and a brace from Sam Klein sealed the points. Griffiths said a number of injured players are getting close to full fitness, and some could come into the squad this week. Attacking duo Jaiden Kucharski and Seb Despotovski are closing in on a return to full fitness, while Zach Lisolajski made a welcome return from injury last weekend, but Freney (hip), Callum Timmins and Brandon O’Neill (both calf) are expected to again be unavailable. “A couple of players are coming back to training,” Griffiths said, “and then we’ll make a decision as to whether they’re ready to step into the squad or not.”

16.1.2026

PETERS HOPES TO END AWAY DAY BLUES

After back-to-back home wins, Perth Glory will be looking to turn that form into points on the road, when they visit polytec Stadium on Sunday afternoon to take on current Champions Central Coast Mariners, in week 13 of the Ninja A-League. (2:00pm WA Time) It’s been a good five weeks for Stephen Peters’ team, winning four consecutive home games, their only defeat at Melbourne City just after Christmas.

That form has seen Glory move up to fifth on the ladder, this after last week’s 3-1 win against Western Sydney Wanderers, with goals from Emma Tovar, Susan Phonsongkham and Ella Lincoln saw Glory leap into the top six. They are two places and two points behind the Mariners, who also secured a big win last time out, with goals from Peta Trimis and Annalise Rasmussen giving them a 2-1 win against Newcastle Jets.

It’s tight at the top with only six points separating the top seven teams, Glory needs to get it right on the road, if they are to stay in in the finals race. Head Coach Stephen Peters said they need to take their home form on the road, and take the game to the hosts. “We’re trying not to think about the fact that we’ve won four out of the last five,” he said. “It’s fantastic that we achieved that, but it’s in the past, it’s done. We’ve now just got to concentrate on the next game.

“We’re not going to rest at winning four games out of five, we want to continue to win matches, we want to play Finals football and we want to compete. If we play the game we want to play [against Central Coast], I think we’ll be right in the contest. We’re not going to die wondering, we’re not going to sit back and wait for them, because that’s just not in our DNA. We want to get forward, get after them and be a nuisance.”

Kory Babington’s side are unbeaten at home this season, winning three and drawing one, and Peters knows it a tough assignment, but confidence is high in the camp going into the clash. “We’re quite pleased with where we’re sitting at the moment,” he said, “but if you start ladder watching, it’s not really going to get you anywhere. “There’s also the old adage that we’re not very good away from home, so that challenge is there for us as well.

“Central Coast are a very good side again this season, and I think everyone kind of forgets that they’re the Champions. They’ve got a good level of resilience, they seem like a together unit and they have some fantastic strike weapons. The likes of [Isabel] Gomez, [Peta]Trimis and [Annalise] Rasmussen are definitely players to look out for. But even though it’s a massive cliche, we are just looking at ourselves and how we can improve. We firmly believe that if we put together a performance of the quality that we are capable of producing, we can go toe-to-toe with anyone in the competition.”

The last time the sides met was in the league was in week 19 last season when they played out a six=goa; thriller at the Industree Group Stadium, the game ending 3-3. Jessika Nash gave the hosts the lead on 19 minutes, but goals either side of half time from Sarah O’Donoghue had Glory ahead. But the Mariners hit back with goals from Rasmussen and Tiana Fuller looked to have given them the three points. But Glory had other ideas and deep into stoppage time Tijan McKenna earned them a point.

Former Perth RedStar defender Mischa Anderson said the squad is working hard each week, and spot in the starting side is up for grabs, so training is intense. “We have a great depth to our squad, and everyone is fighting for a spot in the starting side week in and week out,” she said. “I was starting, but lost my spot, but I’m still pushing to get back into the team, like every player in the squad. I’m enjoying the game time at the moment and taking every game as it comes, and learning from every game that I get. I’m very grateful for the time that I got in the side, and it was brilliant to play for my home team and the home fans, who have been great at Sam Kerr this season.”

Glory will go in search of only their second win on the road this season, but Anderson said they are looking forward to the challenge. “We’re feeling confident, after our wins at home, and I think we’re ready for whatever comes to us,” the defender said. “We focus on ourselves and go out there and try our hardest to bring the points home. Our defensive line is doing pretty well, claiming clean sheets at home, and on the weekend, we were very clinical in front of goal, so we aim to continue that this week.”

Anderson played against a number of Mariners players in her time in the NPLNSW, and she knows it will be a tough game, but it’s one she is relishing. “Mariners are a great team, but we have to focus on ourselves, and control the uncontrollable, and I think we will do fine,” she said. “We not need to look at the ladder too much, we need to keep doing what we’ve been doing. I’ve played with Isobel Gomez and Greta Kraszula in the NPL in Sydney, so I know them, but on Sunday their no friendship when we get on the pitch.”

15.1.2026

LATE DRAMA SEES OLYROOS REACH KNOCK-OUT STAGE IN ASIAN CUP

Australia was on the verge of elimination from Group D of the AFC U23 Asian Cup at Prince Faisal bin Fahd Stadium, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, going into stoppage time trailing 1-0 to Iraq after Ammori Faisal’s spot kick. But late goals from Adelaide United’s Yaya Dukuly and Sydney FC’s Matthias Macallister secured their qualification for the quarter finals, and the 2-1 win saw them top the group and will now take on Korea Republic. “We saw players who fought to the very end, and this is a big thing for us,” Head Coach Tony Vidmar said post-match.

“Their mindset was that of never stopping but to keep on going and this is a credit to them. Iraq like the game long and wide and it’s physically demanding, especially in the first half, where we didn't play as well as we should have. It’s cagey in a way and we know how dangerous they are and we had to take a different approach. But the belief the players have instilled in each other, they’re driven, played aggressively even when a goal down and fully deserved to win.”

Vidmar made three changes from the side that was narrowly defeated by China. Giuseppe Bovalina, Luka Jovanovic and former Perth Glory midfielder Jaylan Pearman coming into the starting eleven, replacing Aydan Hammond, Macallister and Nathaniel Blair, while Glory defender Kaelan Majekodunmi kept his spot at the heart of the defence. With so much on the line, it was a tight first half, with clear cut chances few and far between. The first opportunity fell to the Olyroos on 27 minutes, former Glory defender James Overy’ curling effort forced Layth Sajid into a fingertip save. Then in the shadows of half time Iraq hit back, and Hameed Ali weaved past his marker but fired his low drive straight at Australia keeper Steven Hall as the teams went into the break on level terms.

Australia began the second half brightly, and Dukuly was played in on goal by Jovanovic, but the striker hit the side netting. Iraq needed a win to move through to the knock out stage, and they lifted, Faisal firing wide, before Hall had to be alert to tip over Ayman Luay’s long-range effort. Then on 63 minutes Iraq found the opener, the Australian custodian bringing down Luay, and Faisal made no mistake from the resulting penalty. Australia pushed for the equaliser, and Jed Drew shot was comfortably collected by Sajid, while Jovanovic and Nathan Paull failed to trouble the Iraq custodian from inside the area.

Vidmar’s team thought they had been given a lifeline after the referee pointed to the spot in 17 minutes from time, following Adam Rasheed’s foul on Dukuly, but the decision was overturned after a VAR review. It looked like it wasn’t going to be their night, but that all changed in the third minute of stoppage time. Former Glory defender Josh Rawlins’ cross from the right picked out an unmarked Dukuly at the back post, who powered his header past Sajid.

Iraq pushed players forward looking for the equaliser late, but the Olyroos capitalised on the space left in behind. A slick team move saw Dukuly find Blair in behind, and clever work between the former Glory striker and Jovanovic, picked out Macallister who fired into an empty net to seal dramatic come-from-behind victory. The result means that Australia have qualified for the next stage of the AFC U23 Asian Cup as Group D winners, and will play Korea Republic, who finished runners up in Group C, on Saturday evening. The other teams to qualify are Japan, Jordan, Vietnam, UAE, Uzbekistan and China PR.

Australia: GK Steven Hall, 3 Joshua Rawlins, 5 Giuseppe Bovalina (2 Aidan Simmons?79'), 6 Kaelan Majekodunmi (9 Nathanael Blair 85'), 8 Jordi Valadon (20 Louis Agosti?64'), 11 Yaya Dukuly, 14 Ethan Alagich, 15 Nathan Paull, 16 Luka Jovanovic, 17 Jaylan Pearman (23 Mathias Macallister 79'), 21 James Overy (7 Jed Drew 64') - Subs not used: RGK Lachlan Allen, RGK Dylan Peraic-Cullen, 4 Kane Vidmar, 10 Aydan Hammond, 13 Ariath Piol, 19 Marcus Younis, 22 Marcus Humbert

Iraq: GK Layth Sajid, 2 Hamid Ali, 3 Josef Al Imam (13 Abbas Fadhil 69'), 4 Adam Rasheed, 5 Abdulrazzaq Qasim, 6 Hussein Fahem, 10 Amoori Faisal, 15 Ali Mokhalad, 17 Karrar Ali (20 Abbas Adnan 45'), 21 Layth Mahmood (8 Yasir Wisam 90'), 23 Aymen Luay (11 Mustafa Nawaf 90') - Subs not used: RGK Ridha Abdulaziz, 7 Mohammed Jameel, 14 Jaber Dhumad, 18 Ali Sadeq, 19 Sidad Haji

15.1.2026

AZZURRI AND ETNA MEET IN COPPA ITALIA WA CUP FINAL

The first piece of silverware is up for grabs on Saturday evening, with the Coppa Italia WA Cup Final taking place at Dorrien Gardens, as Perth Azzurri host Balcatta Etna (8:00pm) Both sides progressed to the final with big wins in the semi-final last week. First on Thursday evening, goals from Ethan Brooks, Josh Cala and Evans Moorehouse saw the Azzurri beat last season’s NPLWA champions Bayswater City 3-1 at Frank Drago Reserve.

Cala said it was good first hit out for the side. “I was impressed with our first proper hit out last Thursday against the reigning champions and thought we showed promising signs for the season ahead,” he explained. “I thought the result spoke for itself as we played quite well while still having key players out for the game. I look forward to the game against Balcatta this weekend, hopefully we can continue what we are working on as a group and that should help us get the win.”

Meanwhile on Saturday evening Balcatta secured a 3-0 win against Fremantle City at the Home Group Stadium, Grindleford Reserve. The hosts were ahead when Jarred Flavel picked out fellow new signing Charlie Betts Jnr, who made no mistake. Flavel added the second with a clinical finish, before another new signing Iljas Ahmadov rounded the keeper to finish off a good team move to add the third.

Coach Terry Nicolaou said it was a busy day, with his squad playing two games on the day. “Yes, your right it was a challenging day for the players, as we played RedStar away early, played well, and won 2-1, then we backed up in the Italia Cup at home to Fremantle,” he said. “I thought we played some decent football, and scored three creative goals. I was pleased how the new players fitted in, and it gives us confidence in the final on Saturday night against Azzurri.” In the early game Bayswater City take on Fremantle City in the third and fourth play-off.

14.1.2026

SUTTON SIGNS A THREE-YEAR CONTRACT AT GLORY

Perth Glory have secured the services of injury-replacement keeper Matt Sutton for a further three-years, after the 25-year-old signed a contract with the A-League club today. The keeper, who headed west from Western United, after injuries to Cameron Cook and Mark Birigetti, has been in outstanding form, and he has now made 12 appearances, keeping three clean sheets, and he’s over the moon to continue his stay at the club.

“Since moving over, in a real last-minute decision as an injury replacement, but ever since I’ve been here, I’ve loved expects of WA, on and off the pitch, and we’re building something really special her so it was too hard to say no,” the keeper explained. “We’ve been building towards some of the recent performances, and the connections I’ve been building with the back four, especially Brain and Scotty, the two twin towers at the back, and you can see we’ve made a real good connection and playing well together.”

The move came after his former club Western United went into receivership, and Sutton said it’s been a whirlwind for sure. “I’d just re-signed for United, which was unfortunate, but these things happen in football,” he said. “But I couldn’t be more excited for the next three years, and I’m stoked to be here at Perth Glory. The beach lifestyle in Perth, I really fit in, and I grow up on the beach on the east coast, but west is best. I love playing in front of our fans, it’s amazing.”

Glory Football Director Stan Lazaridis has been hugely impressed by Sutton both on and off the pitch. “We were very pleased to be able to bring Matt in when we lost both our keepers to injury just before the season started,” he said. “He has fitted in so well, providing a reassuring presence in goal and pulling off some outstanding saves.

“A no-nonsense, very likeable character, Matt has worked in well with our other goalkeepers and it’s clear that our members and fans have really taken to him. We’re thrilled that he’s agreed to sign this long-term deal which means that we now have an extremely strong and competitive goalkeeping unit at the club moving forward. Matt has a very bright future ahead of him and we look forward to seeing him fulfil his huge potential here at Perth Glory.”

14.1.2026

DALTON ASSERTS A-LEAGUE WOMEN MUST CAPITALISE ON ASIAN CUP

Perth Glory captain Isobel Dalton has urged the A-League to not waste the chance to capitalise on the looming Asian Cup after the league’s post-Women’s World Cup shine quickly wore off. The players’ union Professional Footballers Australia on Wednesday launched ‘Ready For Takeoff’, their official vision for the embattled league.

The report called for more thorough engagement with fans of the women’s game, pointing to the packed stadiums which accompany Matildas games. With the Women’s Asian Cup to kick off in Perth on March 1, Dalton said the league could not afford to let slip another golden opportunity to substantially grow the game.

“Part of that will come down to having good fan engagement around the Asian Cup, but then also having a plan in place as to how that can get implemented into the A-League Women,” Dalton said. “With the World Cup, there was a massive opportunity and it just didn’t take off. Having the Asian Cup here again is the last opportunity the A-League and Australian women’s football will actually get to make something out of our league.”

Dalton has had three stints in the A-League and while she acknowledged both the quality and quantity of games had improved, she felt there was no plan from the game’s custodians to guide the league’s off-field growth. “During the World Cup, there was so much that could have been leveraged off,” she said.

“I don’t think the league took the right steps to build on what the Matildas did and they could have used that as an opportunity to really grow this league even further,” she said. “You saw sold-out stadiums across the whole country and it trickled into the A-League a little bit, but there wasn’t enough fan engagement to get people to come out to games and support the local teams within their state.”

Among the reports’ recommendations is for a full-time professional league to be implemented by next season. Currently, players are only contracted for eight months and the league’s minimum salary is well below $30,000 and the five other major women’s sporting leagues in Australia.

“Even when you’re on a two-year contract, you’re still not paid for those four months,” Dalton commented. “For me, this last off-season was the hardest. I was very anxious about where the money was coming in from, what my career was going to look like, what my future looked like.”

“You almost have to live day-to-day hoping that everything works out. It takes a mental toll on players a lot more than what you probably see, living in the unknown for so long. Especially as a player, if you’re coming off-contract, going into the off-season, then you’ve really got no sense of direction or idea of where that money’s going to come from.”

Dalton recently completed a criminology degree and has worked multiple jobs during her time with Glory to supplement her income. But this season, something had to give. “I was working for Boom Logistics, one of our sponsors. I’ve only recently dropped it due to the mental side of it, how hard it actually was to balance it,” she said.

“I decided to give it up and just stick with the football, because I know that football can’t last forever, take that pay cut and and just hope things will work out for me. I do get stuck in two minds, because as much as I would like a lot more financial stability, you don’t want to give the game up. For me, it’s about sticking with it and hoping things will change.”

14.1.2026

GLORY SECURE GOALKEEPER SUTTON ON LONG-TERM DEAL

Perth Glory have converted goalkeeper Matt Sutton's short-term contract to a permanent deal. The 25-year old has put pen to paper on a three-year deal with Glory after starting every game this season despite arriving as an injury replacement for Mark Birighitti, who has been sidelined by a knee problem.

Sutton has provided assurance between the posts for Glory and bolstered the stability behind an improving back four. With Birighitti back from injury but not yet returned to the field and fellow shot-stopper Cameron Cook still out with a knee problem of his own, the move entrenches Sutton as the club's first choice 'keeper.

After three clean sheets this season, said Sutton had well and truly earned his extension.

"We were very pleased to be able to bring Matt in when we lost both Mark Birighitti and Cameron Cook to injury just before the season started," said Glory football director Stan Lazaridis. "He has fitted in so well, providing a reassuring presence in goal and pulling off some outstanding saves."

"We're thrilled that he's agreed to sign this long-term deal, which means that we now have an extremely strong and competitive goalkeeping unit at the club moving forward. Matt has a very bright future ahead of him, and we look forward to seeing him fulfil his huge potential here at Perth Glory."

13.1.2026

NEW BALANCE ON BOARD WITH FOOTBALL WEST

Football West have announced New Balance as its first exclusive naming rights partner of the National Premier Leagues WA competitions. It’s not the first time Football West have had sponsors for the Premier League, with Westnet in 2003 & 2024, 6PR in 2005, Vodafone in 2006 and APB in 2010 but this is the first in the NPL era. The naming rights partnership begins with the upcoming 2026 season and is for three years.

It will cover the following: NPL WA Men’s (plus U23s & U18s), NPL WA Men’s Nights Series, NPL WA Men’s Top Four Cup (plus U23s & U18s), NPL WA Women’s (plus U21s), NPL WA Women’s Nights Series, NPL WA Women’s Top Four Cup plus U21s), NPL WA Season Launch and NPL WA Awards. Football West CEO Jamie Harnwell said: “We are excited to welcome New Balance as the naming rights partner of our two premier competitions. This is the first time Football West has had its own partner for the NPL, and so to have a global sportswear leader in New Balance is a great endorsement of our highest leagues.”

New Balance, an independent brand since 1906, is renowned for empowering individuals through sport and craftsmanship, fostering positive change in communities around the world. The two top-flight leagues will officially be known as the New Balance NPL WA Men’s and New Balance NPL WA Women’s competitions. The NPL WA naming rights agreement is an expansion of Football West’s current Official Apparel Supplier partnership with New Balance and Belgravia Apparel.

Belgravia Apparel is the Australasian elite teamwear partner of New Balance, supplying both supporter and performance products for a broad range of professional and amateur sporting organisations across Australia and New Zealand. “New Balance is already a highly valued partner of Football West and a great supporter of grassroots football with whom we share the values of mutual respect, fair play and excellence,” Mr Harnwell said. “This investment will bring wider promotion and greater exposure for the New Balance NPL WA competitions and our clubs.”

New Balance Australia Regional General Manager Dean Howard said: “At New Balance, our job is to aid athletes in their pursuit of excellence, whether that means helping professional athletes win medals, or propelling the community to live a healthy and active lifestyle. We are proud to partner with Football West and look forward to seeing our naming rights partnership come to life over the next three years.”

13.1.2026

TOM LAWRENCE – SIGN HIM UP SAYS GLORY LEGEND

The form of Perth Glory striker Tom Lawrence has many supporters crying out for the club to sign the former Welsh international on a permanent deal, and former Sorrento head coach and Glory legend Steven McGarry is another who believes the 31-year-old should be signed sooner rather than later. The former Derby County and Rangers striker headed down under on a one-year contract, and after greeting match fit, he has starred under Adam Griffiths, and performed really well, and he is unlucky not to be nominated for the December Shark Player of the Month award.

Lawrence is not the only player out of contract at the end of the season, including Adam Taggart, which will be tough as the league braces for a league-wide salary cap reduction from $3.5m currently to a ‘hard’ cap of $3m next season, but that doesn’t include one marquee player. McGarry, who was part of the last Glory’s side that reached the A-League Grand Final against Brisbane Roar in 2012, told The West Australian newspaper, that Glory needed to do everything possible to retain Lawrence, who has helped steer Perth to within three points of third. “If I’m Perth Glory, looking at it in terms of recruitment for next year, he’s number one,” the Scotsman said. “I know you don’t want to look too far (ahead), but you have to — he’s out of contract end-of-season. He’s come in and done fantastic, and he’s a real influence on the team.”

His influence on the team, especially the young players, is there for all to see, he has also bagged five goals and he can play in a number of positions, and has the ability to drop deep from his attacking role to help overload the midfield and then use his strength and athleticism to drive forward, which was on full show against the Mariners. He has also been clinical in front of goal, which was best evidenced by his hat-trick against Melbourne City last month.

Lawrence spoke to Paramount + after the big win against the Mariners, and he said he was loving his time in Perth, and McGarry said he is also enjoying his football, which was why he joined the club. “He’s not going to love life just because Perth is a wonderful place; he’s enjoying life because he’s enjoying his football at the moment,” he said. “The team are improving over the course of the season, and he’s been a major part of it. He’s a wonderful footballer; he’s got great pedigree.”

McGarry said Lawrence’s more than 300 games of experience across England’s Championship and the Scottish Premiership were telling at the lower intensity of the A-League. But injuries curtailed his time at Scottish giants Rangers, but he’s over those injuries now, and he’s doing what he loves to do – play football. “The hustle and bustle of the British leagues, it’s 100 miles an hour, and it’s physical, but he’s a really technical footballer,” McGarry explained. “The A League’s a little bit slower, especially in Perth with the climate and the heat. It allows him to get on the ball and show his class and skill.”

12.1.2026

AUSTRALIA UNDER 23S EDGED OUT BY CHINA PR AT ASIAN CUP

Australia will need to win their final Group D game on Wednesday against Iraq to progress to the knock-out stage, after they were beaten 0-1 by China PR in their second AFC Asian Cup clash at Al Shabab FC Arena, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on Sunday evening. Coming off a hard-fought win against Thailand, a win would have seen Tony Vidmar’s side qualify for the knock out stage of the tournament, but a goal just before half time by Peng Xiao secured the win for China PR. The Olyroos thought they had levelled late, with Giuseppe Bovalina bundling the ball home, but after a VAR check it was disallowed for handball.

Australia’s fate is still in their own hands, a victory in the final group game will secure their progression into the Quarter finals. Head coach Tony Vidmar said his side were a little bit cautious on the night. “China PR weren’t under any sort of pressure in the first half and in the second, the only thing we wanted to do was score,” Vidmar said. “We knew we would control the majority of the ball with China PR sitting so deep and their mindset of not conceding, so we had to make things happen. This was a time when we had to be really aggressive but we were a little bit cautious.”

Vidmar made three changes from the opening game against Thailand, with Manchester United's James Overy, Perth Glory’s Kaelan Majekodunmi and former Glory striker Nathanael Blair, all making their first starts of the tournament, with Bovalina, Aidan Simmons and Luka Jovanovic dropping to the bench. Australia controlled the early possession but failed to turn their advantage into goals, with Ethan Alagich and Mathias Macallister, who had combined well against Thailand, having an off-day.

Alagich’s shot on 18 minutes failed to find the target, and efforts from Majekodunmi, Blair and Joshua Rawlins failed to trouble keeper Li Hao. But two minutes from half time China PR found the opener. A free kick from Wang Yudong was only cleared as far as Xiao, and his volley flew past Steven Hall and into the roof of the net, their first shot on target.

That goal boosted the Chinese and they went close to a second early in the second half, Wang Yudong’s free-kick across the goalmouth flashed wide, before Li Zhenquan fired into the side netting from close range. Vidmar’s side lifted and started to take control, and Hao saved well to deny Blair on the hour after good work by Overy on the right, and then he did even better to smother Yaya Dukuly’s shot from inside the six-yard box a minute later.

The Olyroos were pressing, and Jovanovic long range effort which was saved by the alert Hao, and then Bovalina couldn’t keep his effort down. Then with the final chance of the game it looked like their pressure was rewarded with the equaliser, Alagich’s cross from the right was bundled home by Bovalina at the back post, but his celebrations were cut short by the VAR review which spotted the handball. The Aussies now turn their attention to their final group stage game against Iraq on Wednesday night (7:30pm WA time).

Melbourne Victory defender Josh Rawlins said their fate is in their own hands, going into Wednesday game. “To win, simple, six points should get us through,” the WA-born Rawlins said post-match. “The belief is massive…the belief in this group is amazing, I think we can achieve great things this tournament. It is in our hands, and we just need to take our opportunities in the next game. But we know Iraq are not going to be an easy team either.”

Australia: GK Steven HALL, 3 Joshua RAWLINS, 6 Kaelan MAJEKODUNMI, 8 Jordi VALADON 7 Jed DREW 84’), 9 Nathanael BLAIR (16 Luka JOVANOVIC 77’), 10 Aydan HAMMOND (5 Giuseppe BOVALINA 58’), 11 Yaya DUKULY (13 Ariath PIOL 77’), 14 Ethan ALAGICH, 15 Nathan PAULL, 21 James OVERY, 23 Mathias MACALLISTER (17 Jaylan PEARMAN 58’) - Subs not used: RGK Lachlan ALLEN, RGK Dylan PERAIC-CULLEN, 2 Aidan SIMMONS, 15 Kane VIDMAR, 19 Marcus HUMBERT, 20 Louis AGOSTI, 21 Marcus YOUNIS

China PR: GK LI HAO, 2 Hu HETAO, 3 He YIRAN, 4 Umidjan YUSUP, (13 Wang BOHAO 81’), 6 Xu BIN, 8 Mutellip IMINGARI, (21. Bao SHENGXIN 70'), 9 Behram ABDUWELI, 10 Wang YUDONG, (14 Yang HAOYU 81'), 15 Peng XIOA, 20 Li ZHENQUAN (19 Zhang AIHUI 81'), 23 Yang Xi - Subs not used: RGK Luan YI, RGK Huo SHENPING, 5 Liu HAOFAN, 7 Xiang YUWANG, 11 Kuai JIWEN, 17 Bao SHIMENG, 18 Chen ZESHI, 22 Mao WEIJIE

11.1.2026

NIGHTMARE OVER FOR FORMER GLORY SKIPPER

After 12 months without a club, former Perth Glory captain and Socceroo midfielder Mustafa Amini has made his next move, joining Thai second-tier side Nakhonsi United. It has been a difficult year for Amini, who has eight caps for Australia and spent time at Borussia Dortmund, before stints in Denmark and Cyprus, as well as back home in the A-League. The 32-year-old had his contract terminated by Perth Glory last December and took the matter to court, with a settlement reached. Speaking on his move, Amini didn’t miss Glory on how he was treated at the club.

“Not just because of injury but because of how it was handled, I was made a scapegoat,” he wrote on Instagram. “Lies were told. They even blocked my surgery while a knee specialist confirmed surgery was needed. They had power over me the contract protected payment, not how a person is treated. No accountability. In that time, I got stronger. I built the best team around me, did all the proper planned rehab that was needed kept working when no one was watching, and that’s why I could step straight back in and play 90 minutes. They tried to write my ending, but they only fuelled the next chapter.

“I’m grateful to those who believed and supported me and to the ones who didn’t, thank you too. When there was no clear end goal, I kept working, session after session. Running alone and hours in the gym It wasn’t easy training without certainty, but I refused to stop. There were moments I thought it might be over but I love this game too much to let it go that easily. Grateful to everyone who helped me along the way, every message, every push, every bit of belief mattered more than you know.”

Amani made his debut for the club in their 0-0 draw against second placed Police Tero on Friday, the point leaving them in 13th place on the table. The midfielder becomes the latest Australian to join Nakhonsi United, where compatriot Tony Basha is football director and has begun bringing a string of his countrymen to the club. The midfielder joins Dylan Ruiz-Diaz, Ivan Khosho and Benjamin Bruckner in Thailand, “Playing in Asia has always been a goal of mine. Proud to sign with Nakhonsi United, excited and ready for Thailand,” Amini said. “Thank you to Tony Basha and Australasian Soccer Academy for the help and the chance. This is just the beginning.”

Basha said it’s great to have Mustafa at the club. “We are thrilled to announce the signing of former Socceroo and Borussia Dortmund star, Mustafa Amini. His extensive experience in European football, spanning over a decade, will be invaluable to our club,” Basha wrote on Instagram. “I am genuinely excited to work with Musti, who not only brings a wealth of talent but also embodies the spirit of a true clubman.

“Throughout my career, I have always believed in providing opportunities to players, and Musti comes with a distinguished pedigree that speaks volumes. I had the privilege of working with Musti when he was just 14 years old at the academy, and I look forward to reconnecting with him here at Nakhonsi. His contributions will undoubtedly help us achieve our long-term goals.”

10.1.2026

A DOMINANT GLORY THRASH MARINERS

Perth Glory have secured their second home win of the season, after a dominant 3-0 win against Central Coast Mariners in their week 12 Isuzu Ute A-League clash at HBF Park on Saturday evening. First half goals from Nicholas Pennington and the returning Adam Taggart set them on their way, while Tom Lawrence capped off another strong performance scoring straight from a corner after the break to complete a superb performance.

Head coach Adam Griffiths said the fans deserve the best and he hopes to give that to them, and he also praised the performance of Lawrence and youngster Gio De Abreu. “Defiantly an enjoyable performance first half, and when I came in, I know the real energy from these fans, and my and the team’s objective is to bring joy to them, so we’re going to push every week. Today was a good performance, but it’s not enough,” he said post-match. “I thought the start of the second half we came out a little bit flat, and we need to come out faster to keep the momentum moving forward.

“We’re really lucky to have Tom at the club, and we love him, but there are multiple players who are working together to push us forward and really stepping up. I thought Gio was exceptional tonight, he plays with so much hunger, you can tell he loves football, and that’s what we want here. We have players coming back, so competition will drive all of them to be the best version of themselves. Everyone wants to be part of the team, and I’m really excited to have these players back, but we need to keep pushing, and we’ll be back in tomorrow and prepare for the next game.”

Griffiths made two changes to the side that were edged out by Victory last week, with skipper Taggart returning with Arion Sulemani dropping to the bench, while former Perth RedStar midfielder De Abreu came in for his starting debut, in place of Will Freney who missed the game with a hip injury. Meanwhile on the bench Zach Lisoljski returned from injury, and youngster Tadiwanashe Kuzamba was in the squad for a first time.

The hosts dominated early, with Pennington denied by a smart save from Mariners ‘keeper Andrew Redmayne after only three minutes. De Abreu was next to go close, his volley looked destined for the top corner, but Redmayne produced a stunning save to deny the youngster. But Glory’s strong start was rewarded with the lead on 24 minutes. Rhys Bozinovski sent Trent Ostler down the right, he played Charbel Shamoon into the box, and his low cross picked out Pennington at the back post, whose first time shot beat Redmayne.

The visitors were struggling in the final third, but their best chance came just past the half hour, Miguel Di Pizio shot flashed inches wide of the target. Glory continued to dictate terms and Lawrence was sent clear by Matt Sutton’s long clearance, and he out-muscled his marker James Donachie, his shot beat Redmayne, but crashed off the post and rebounded back on to the Mariners custodian and out for a corner. Then in the shadows of half time Glory doubled their advantage, Lawrence finding Taggart on the edge of the box, and striker fired through a crowded penalty area and the ball deflected into the net.

The visitors opened brightly after the break and Di Pizio tested Matt Sutton, which he saved comfortably. But against the run of play it was Glory who added a third on 54 minutes. Lawrence’s in swinging corner from the left beat everyone including Redmayne, the ball nestling in the top corner of the net for an Olimpico. It was the Welsh strikers fifth goal of the season, and he celebrated long and hard in front of the Shed. Redmayne then denied substitute Luke Amos’ curling effort as Glory pressed for another.

Griffiths cleared the bench late, with Kuzamba coming off the bench for his Glory debut, and at the final whistle they were celebrating the three points and a second clean sheet of the season. The biggest crowd of the season of nearly 8,000 went home delighted with the result and the performance, with Glory moving up to seventh on 16 points, and continuing the improvement under Griffiths, and I’m sure many will be back next week when they host Brisbane Roar on Friday evening at the same venue.

Perth Glory: GK Matt SUTTON, 2 Charbel SHAMOON, 3 Sam SUTTON (15 Zach LISOLAJSKI 74’), 4 Scott WOOTTON, 7 Nicholas PENNINGTON, 18 Rhys BOZINOVSKI (16 Gabriel POPOVIC 84’), 20 Trent OSTLER (10 Luke AMOS 70’), 22 Adam TAGGART (30 Tadiwanashe KUZAMBA 84’), 34 Tom LAWRENCE (17 Arion SULEMANI 70’), 39 Giovanni DE ABREU, 45 Brian KALTAK - Subs not used: GK Ryan WARNER, 5 Riley FOXE

Central Coast Mariners: GK Andrew REDMAYNE, 2 James DONACHIE, 5 Lucas MAURAGIS, 6 Haine EAMES (7 Christian THEOHAROUS 84'), 8 Alfie McCALMONT, 10 Miguel DI PIZIO, 11 Sabit NGOR (14 Nico DUARTE 87'), 15 Storm ROUX (20 Will KENNEDY 61'), 16 Harrison STEELE (24 Diesel HERRINGTON 61'), 26 Bradley TAPP, 37 Bailey BRANDTMAN (22 Arthur DE LIMA 61') – Subs not used: RGK Jai AJANOVIC, 9 Ryan EDMONDSON – Attendance: 7,912 - Referee: Ben ABRAHAM

10.1.2026

CASSIDY STILL BUILDING FITNESS AFTER INJURY

Coach Stephen Peters has admitted the fitness of Georgia Cassidy is a juggling act after the young midfielder was once again restricted during Perth Glory’s 3-1 win over Western Sydney Wanderers. The Young Matilda suffered a serious hamstring strain late in the National Premier Leagues season, curtailing her involvement in Glory’s preparation for the new A-League season.

20-year old Cassidy has managed 395 minutes across six games and is yet to play a full 90 minutes this season. On the weekend she was replaced at the mid-point of Glory’s fourth straight home win, with Peters saying the central midfielder’s conditioning was a work in progress.

“It’s a loading issue now, where we probably loaded her too much, not by design or anything. She’s not exactly in the best condition with her hamstrings,” he said. “It’s a week-by-week thing with her, and then just some of the load shifted to the other leg. We needed to just manage her - she actually didn’t train all week.”

But Peters declared himself satisfied with Cassidy’s performance and said her absence was felt in the 20 minutes after the restart when Western Sydney established more of a footing on the game. “It’s very hard when you take Cassidy out of the team, she brings so many other players into the game. Losing her, we lost a bit of fluency,” he said.

“We were a bit too rigid, and we rode our luck a little bit, they seemed to have their blinkers on there in the second half. It was a strange one. The more I tried to send a message to them, the less they listened to it — it may be a little bit of fatigue, I’m not sure.”

Tijan McKenna started the game at centre-back and swapped with Cassidy throughout the first half before moving into the midfield permanently after the break. McKenna’s on the ball presence helped settle Glory’s nerves and swing the game back in the hosts favour late in the piece.

“Tijan and G (Cassidy) have got a very good relationship. They’ve known each other for a long time, so they’re comfortable interchanging between each other, so that’s a massive plus for us,” Peters said. “Wherever you put her, she’s just a beast, we’re super happy with her. She was my player of the match, probably equal with (goalkeeper) Teresa Morrissey because she does so many different jobs for us and does them well.”

9.1.2026

TRIPLE TREAT FOR GLORY

Perth Glory have moved to fourth on the Ninja A-League table after securing a 3-1 win against Western Sydney Wanderers at Sam Kerr Football Centre on Friday evening. They raced to a two-goal lead at half time with goals from Emma Tovar and Susan Phonsongkham, and although the visitors pulled one back 15 minutes from time from substitute Yuan Cong, Glory sealed the points late with Ella Lincoln on target, much to the delight of another big crowd.

“I haven’t scored a goal in a while, and to do it in front of our supporters it feels amazing,” goalscorer Tovar said post-match. “I feel proud of myself and the team tonight, and I’ve been waiting to show of my celebrations, and I was able to tonight. Over the past couple of games, we’ve been working particularly hard defensively, but what we’ve been missing is the quality in the final third. We’ve work hard at training leading up to the game on finishing our chances when we get them, and we did that tonight.

Tovar added the form of keeper Teresa Morrissey has also been outstanding. “She is arguably the most important player on our team,” she said. “She is our goalkeeper and we’ve got to take care of her, and she takes care of us with her performances. We didn’t get a clean sheet tonight, but we’ve had three at home in a row, so we couldn’t be prouder of her honestly.”

Head Coach Stephen Peters kept the same side that beat Newcastle Jets last week, and both sides had early chances, the best falling to the hosts, with Isobel Dalton’s shot was straight at Wanderers ‘keeper Sham Khamis. Morrissey then got down well to save Holly Caspers shot, as the Wanderers lifted. But just before the half hour it was Glory who found the opener. A poor clearance was intercepted by Dalton who found Tovar on the edge of the box, and the American fired home into the corner of the net, her first goal for the club.

The visitors looked for a quick response, but they couldn’t find away past Morrissey, who denied Amy Harrison four minutes later. It looked like Glory would head into the sheds with a 1-0 lead, but two minutes from the break they found a second. Harrison brought down Sarah O’Donoghue just outside the penalty area and Phonsongkham stepped up and curled the resulting free kick past Khamis and into the top left corner of the net, to send them to half time with a two-goal buffer.

Glory was forced into a change at half time with Georgia Cassidy picking up an injury, and she was replaced by Mischa Anderson, and it seemed to unsettle the side and Wanderers lifted their tempo with Poppie Hooks heading Harrison’s corner wide of the target. Morrissey was called on again on 70 minutes, producing a smart save to deny Cong’s shot. Both sides went to the bench as the game lifted, with the visitors pressing, and Caspers firing wide, before Wang Ying fired over the top.

But their pressure was rewarded on 75 minutes, a ball from the right picked out Caspers, who controlled the ball well on the edge of the box and played in Ella Buchanan down the left channel, and her low cross was turned home at the back post by Cong. It was game on, but the hosts weren’t finished and Tijan McKenna’s shot from distance crashed off the crossbar on 83 minutes.

The hosts needed another goal to seal it, and it duly came sixty seconds later. Lincoln was found by McKenna on the right of the penalty area, and the substitute cut inside and raced past a number of Wanderers defenders before firing home from the edge of the box for a great individual goal, and her goal celebration was equally impressive. The Glory are back in action on January 18, when they visit Polytec stadium to take on fifth placed Central Coast Mariners.

Perth Glory: GK Teresa MORRISSEY, 3 Emma TOVAR, 5 Grace JOHNSTON, 6 Tijan MCKENNA, 8 Georgia CASSIDY (2 Mischa ANDERSON 46'), 10 Susan PHONSONGKHAM, 12 Bronte TREW (9 Gabby HOLLAR 71'), 19 Sarah O’DONOGHUE (28 Clancy WESTAWAY 76'), 23 Isobel DALTON (25 Ella LINCOLN 71'), 24 Julia SARDO (27 Charli WAINWRIGHT 88'), 29 Onyinyechi ZOGG - Subs not used: RGK Jessica SKINNER

Western Sydney Wanderers: GK Sham KHAMIS, 3 Wang YING, 4 Poppie HOOKS, 6 Amy CHESSARI (8 Olivia PRICE 71'), 7 Amy HARRISON, 11 Danika MATOS, 14 Ella BUCHANAN (5 Milly BENNETT 85'), 19 Talia YOUNIS (10 Yuan CONG 60'), 25 Holly CASPERS, 37 Ena HARADA, 66 Chloe BERRYHILL (9 Kim SOEUN 71') – Subs not used: RGK Brianna EDWARDS, 22 Alana CERNE - Referee: Rachael MITCHENSON

9.1.2026

OLYROOS START ASIAN CUP WITH A WIN

The Olyroos have started their Asian Cup campaign in style, coming from behind to beat a ten-man Thailand 2-1 in their opening AFC U23 Cup clash in Riyadh Saudi Arabia on Thursday evening. The Group D clash didn’t start well for Tony Vidmar’s side, with Sittha Boonlha's shot deflected off Nathan Paull to give Thailand the lead early. But they were reduced to ten-men moments later, with Phon-Ek Jensen given his marching orders. Skipper Ethan Alagich levelled from the spot on the half hour, and shortly after Mathias Macallister won it.

Australia head coach Tony Vidmar was happy with his side, but also gave credit to Thailand after the game. “We came to win and achieved our objective but credit to Thailand for their energy, the way they played and for making it difficult for us after they were down to 10 men,” he said. “But there were moments in the game when we turned the ball over unnecessarily and that nearly hurt us, and this is something we definitely do not want. We created some good chances, however, and did score, and we want to take this forward into our next match (against China PR).”

Perth Glory defender Kaelan Majekodunmi was on the bench for this one, but it was Thailand who started the brighter and opened the scoring on eight minutes. Boonlha picked up a loose ball from a corner and sent a low drive from the edge of the box that hit defender Nathan Paull before going past keeper Steven Hall. The joy for the Thai’s disappeared moments later, after a crude tackle by Maneekorn on Jordi Valadon. The referee initial showed him a yellow card, but after a VAR check, it was changed to a straight red. Australia pressed for the equaliser, but Thai keeper Chommaphat Boonloet saved to deny Macallister on 20 minutes.

But nine minutes later their pressure was rewarded. Adelaide United striker Yaya Dukuly was brought down by Pichitchai Sienkrathok, and his Reds teammate Ethan Alagich made no mistake with the resulting spot kick. They added a second moments later, Sydney FC striker Mathias Macallister collected the ball near the left edge of the area from Alagich, shrugged off multiple defenders and curled into the far corner, leaving the Thai goalkeeper with no chance.

The ten-man Thailand side went close to levelling before the break, Oussama Thiangkham hitting the woodwork from a narrow angle, and Chawanwit Saelao saw his effort slip just wide. Australia also had their chances, Boonloet kept Thailand in the game by saving Luka Jovanovic’s effort from outside the area and then blocking a thunderous shot from distance by Alagich, but at half time the Olyroos held a narrow lead.

The intensity of the game dropped after the break, but it was the Olyroos who went close to a third, with Alagich and Macallister denied by the busy Boonloet, and the Thai custodian reacted well on the hour to save Ayden Hammond’s effort. While Hall was rarely tested in open play, the U23s were unable to add a third goal and were forced to remain alert until the final whistle as Thailand pushed for an equaliser. The Aussies now turn their attention to a crucial Group stage clash with China, before concluding their group campaign against Iraq later in the week.

Australia: GK Steven HALL, 2. Giuseppe BOVALINA (17. James OVERY 46’), 3. Joshua RAWLINS, 4. Nathan PAULL, 5. Aidan SIMMONS, 8. Ethan ALAGICH (C), 10. Jordi VALADON, 7. Aydan HAMMOND (11. Ariath PIOL 80’), 16. Luka JOVANOVIC (9. Nathanael BLAIR 69’), 11. Yaya DUKULY (14. Jed DREW 69’), 23. Mathias MACALLISTER (6. Louis AGOSTI 85’) - Subs not used: RGK Lachlan ALLEN, RGK Dylan PERAIC-CULLEN, 13 Kaelan MAJEKODUNMI, 15 Kane VIDMAR, 19 Marcus HUMBERT, 20 Jaylan PEARMAN, 21 Marcus YOUNIS

Thailand: GK Chommaphat BOONLOET, 2 Saphon NOIWONG, 5 Nathan JAMES, 6 Sittha BOONLHA, 7 Thanawut PHOCHAI, 8 Chawanwit SAELAO, (9 Thiraphat PUETHONG 58’), 13 Wichan INARAM, 16 Pichitchai SIENKRATHOK, (17 Yotsakorn NATTHASIT 58’), 18 Iklas SANRON (22 Paripan WONGSA 87’), 19 Peeranan BUAKAI (4 Oussama THIANGKHAM 36’), 21 Phon-EK JENSEN - Subs not used: RGK Siraset AEKPRATHUMCHAI, RGK Narongsak NAENGWONGSA, 12 Parinya NUSONG, 10 Chinnagoen PHUTONYONG, 3 Pattarapon SUKSAKIT, 15 Pakawat TAENGOAKSON, 11 Siraphop WANDEE, 14 Jittiphat WASUNGNOEN

9.1.2026

COPPA ITALIA WA RETURNS THIS WEEK

The Coppa Italia WA is back in 2026, with Italian heritage NPLWA clubs Balcatta Etna, Bayswater City, Fremantle City and Perth Azzurri meeting, and it kicks off in Thursday evening, when NPL Champions Bayswater City host Perth Azzurri in the first Semi-Final at Frank Drago Reserve. (7:00pm) It will be the first time the tournament has been held in nearly 40 years. It all started in 1982, and was a weekend carnival style tournament contested by all Italian heritage clubs in the semi-professional and amateur leagues in WA. East Fremantle Tricolore were the first winners of the tournament and backed it up the following year. Bayswater Inter and Perth Azzurri have also won the trophy on two occasions.

Perth Azzurri won the last Coppa Italia competition in 1987, and in Thursday’s game it will be a new look Azzurri side, with a number of new signings, including former Armadale trio Pieter Jacobsz, Amir Ajan and Charlie Fleming, keeper Liam Driscoll from Green Gully in the Victorian NPL and Sam Pollard from Perth RedStar. Pollard said it’s a great opportunity for the new faces to gel. “The game on Wednesday will be a good chance for us to get some important minutes in the legs,” he said. “It will also be a great opportunity for us new players and the rest of the team gain a bit more familiarity with one another.”

The Champions had a great 2025, winning the league title and representing WA in the inaugural Australian Championship, and impressing. Head Coach Matthew Sparrow said it’s still early days for them but it’s a great way to start pre-season. “The boys have only just come back in for their first session and we still have a number of players unavailable,” he said. “Perth have been back for a couple of months, so we expect them to be well ahead of us in terms of sharpness and fitness. For us, tomorrow is simply about getting some minutes into the legs and easing the group back into match conditions. The result isn’t a priority at this stage — it’s just an opportunity to start the pre-season process and build towards what’s important for us later on.”

On Saturday Balcatta Etna host Fremantle City at the Home Group Stadium, Grindleford Reserve. (7:00pm) Both sides struggled last season, with Balcatta securing their survival in the final game at Floreat Athena, while Fremantle did likewise in the NPL-WA/State League First Division Promotion/Relegation Play-off against Joondalup City. Fremantle assistant coach Dale Wingell said it’s good to back into action, and Saturday will be an important step in their preparation for the new season. “Yes, it’s great to come back after the Xmas break and get some competitive games in,” he said. “Saturdays game gives us the opportunity to get some valuable game minutes into our entire squad, but the ultimate goal is to be ready for the season proper.” The winner of each game will play in the final at Dorrien Gardens next Saturday, with the losers to play in the third and fourth playoff on the same night.

Balcatta head coach Terry Nicolaou said they have had a good pre-season, and knows these games are important. “Our pre-season training Schedule has been designed to engage new squad members, and to ensure all players develop a style of football and fitness that will enable us to compete with the top teams,” he explained. “The playing group have been fully committed to the style we're trying to incorporate and have developed a strong understanding of the club culture.

“We have signed some talented young players, and combined with our experienced players should provide some entertaining football. The Coppa Italia is a great opportunity for myself and the players to experience a fantastic community footballing initiative, and I hope all supporters come and enjoy the fantastic Italian spirit.” The winner of each game will play in the final at Dorrien Gardens next Saturday, with the losers to play in the third and fourth playoff on the same night.

9.1.2026

BOZINOVSKI HOPING FOR HOME COMFORTS AGAINST THE MARINERS

Perth Glory entertain Central Coast Mariners in week 12 of the Isuzu Ute A-League on Saturday evening, their first of two consecutive home games at HBF Park. (6:45pm) Glory were edged out by Melbourne Victory in a five-goal thriller last week at AAMI Park, but the performances continue to improve. That defeat left them on 11 points in 13th place on the table, and they will be looking to secure their second home win of the season in front of their supporters. But they come up against a Mariners side fresh off a big win in Adelaide last week, which moved them off the bottom of the table, and are only two points behind Glory, so three points are massive for both sides.

Rhys Bozinovski joined the club late in pre-season, after the demise of Western United, signing a two-year deal, and he has fitted in well under new head coach Adam Griffiths, and he said the club have rallied under his guidance. “It was a weird couple of months for me at United, but once I moved to Perth I but my head down and worked hard, and I think I’ve found me feet now,” the 21-year-old explained. “Griff has come and changed things tactically, but it’s more of a mentality thing with him, and he’s established belief in the group. We’re all on board with him and we’ve taken that into games and it’s been unreal since he’s been here, and we all want to do well for him.”

Bozinovski said the road trip to Melbourne was pleasing, and they played well in both games, and he’s looking forward to the two up and coming homes games and continuing his good form. “Yes, we got the result in the first game against City, but obviously fell short in the second game against Victory, but that’s in the past, we’ve been back on the track this week, and worked hard, and hopefully we can get the three points this week,” he said. “It’s massive we have two home games, hopefully all our members and fans can get behind us.

“Griff speaks to us every day, individually and as a team, and we’ve had meetings and he talks about what we can do better. There are tactical changers, but we know in a 90-minute game there is going to be periods where the other teams on top, and of course last week Victory were a good team, so we expected that, so hopefully we can turn that around on Saturday.”

The talented midfielder, who missed out on a place in the Australia u23’s squad for the Asian Cup, said he’s focused on helping the Glory to push up the table. He also goes in search of a first goal for the club on Saturday, but he said it’s a strong squad and competition for places is intense, but he knows it’s all about three points. “Saturday is our first game in 2026, and we want to win. We don’t look at the ladder, we know the task ahead and we’ve got two tough games, starting with the Mariners this week, and Brisbane after. We know the importance of both games, and with the table as tight as it is, we need to win,” Bozinovski said.

“We’ve analysed them (Mariners) tactically and we know where we can exploit them, but every A-League game is tough, and anyone can beat anyone, so we need to make sure we’re at our best. It’s nice to get assists for goals, but I’m still searching for my first goal, hopefully it will come. We’ve got a lot of good midfielders, and good squad, so there is competition every day, so to come into training with those players around you make you better. My partnership with Will (Freney) in the midfielder has been amazing, we work well together, and let’s hope it continues.”

Head Coach Adam Griffiths said he wants clubs to fear coming to HBF Park, and with two consecutive homes, he’s looking to secure only their second win on home soil this season. “We want to make our home ground our fortress,” he said. “That’s going to be the focus moving forward now because we know if we can do that, then we know that we’re going to have more consistency in our performance and we can attack the rest of the season. When we step out onto the pitch at HBF, the mentality needs to be right and we have to be ready to attack the game.

“We’re looking at how we can improve how we want to play and we continue to focus on areas where we need to improve, while also doubling down on the areas we have improved in already and continuing to up our levels every single day. I feel like our performances have been strong… we do need to improve our home form and that’s going to be the focus. Once we can get that consistency, I think the players will really thrive on the home support, start to take that pressure off and really excel.”

The coach is well aware a win on Saturday will put them just outside the top six, and a good run of form can see them consolidate a spot in the finals. “The league is so tight at the moment… you get a couple of wins and you skyrocket right up into the [top] six,” Griffiths said. “Every single team is beating each other and the teams that get consistency are going to be the teams that move forward. That’s what we want to look for too, so every game for us is 100% focused on getting three points. If you perform well, eventually the consistency happens with results and points.”

It will be the second visit to Perth for Central Coast, they left with the points in week four, with Bailey Brandtman’s scoring the only goal in a 1-0 win. They arrive this time on the back of a huge 4-0 win on the road against Adelaide United, and Griffiths said it’s another challenge his team is relishing as they look to snap a five-game winless run against them. “Against Adelaide they stepped up and they pressed Adelaide and got some joy from that, so potentially they could do that, but in the previous game, it was more of a low block and we would have to try and break that down,” he said. “So, you never know what a team is going to bring and we’ll be prepared for anything. When we see tactical changes, we’ll make those changes in the game and the players are smart enough to adjust to those things.”

The news on the injury front is improving, with Jaiden Kucharski, Seb Despotovski and Lachie Wales all back on the grass, and on track to be back in action within the next couple of weeks. Skipper Adam Taggart is in contention to start having been used off the bench in the last two games, while Josh Risdon, Adam Bugarija and Gabriel Popovic have been added to the squad.

Meanwhile the Mariners have appointed Warren Moon as their permanent head coach on a deal until the end of the season. Previously acting in an interim capacity following the departure of former head coach Mark Jackson, Moon has now been handed a full-time contract until the end of the current campaign. Taking charge of 11 games so far this season, the former Brisbane Roar boss has guided the Mariners to three wins during his tenure.

Perth Glory Squad: GK Matt SUTTON, GK Ryan WARNER, 2 Charbel SHAMOON, 3 Sam SUTTON, 4 Scott WOOTTON, 5 Riley FOXE, 7 Nicholas PENNINGTON, 10 Luke AMOS, 16 Gabriel POPOVIC, 17 Arion SULEMANI, 18 Rhys BOZINOVSKI, 19 Josh RISDON, 20 Trent OSTLER, 21 Adam BUGARIJA, 22 Adam TAGGART, 24 Andriano LEBIB, 27 Will FRENEY, 34 Tom LAWRENCE, 39 Giovanni DE ABREU, 45 Brian KALTAK - *Two to be omitted* - Ins: POPOVIC, RISDON, BUGARIJA - Unavailable: GK Cameron COOK, 6 Brandon O’NEILL, 8 Callum TIMMINS, 9 Jaiden KUCHARSKI, 11 Lachlan WALES, 15 Zach LISOLAJSKI, 25 Sebastian DESPOTOVSKI, 31 Joel ANASMO (All Injured)

Central Coast Mariners squad: GK Andrew REDMAYNE, GK Jai AJANOVIC, 2 James DONACHIE, 5 Lucas MAURAGIS, 7 Christian THEOHAROUS, 6 Haine EAMES, 8 Alfie MCCALMONT, 9 Ryan EDMONDSON, 10 Miguel DI PIZIO, 11 Sabit NGOR, 14 Nico DUARTE, 15 Storm ROUX, 16 Harrison STEELE, 20 Will KENNEDY, 22 Arthur DE LIMA, 24 Diesel HERRINGTON, 26 Bradley TAPP, 37 Bailey BRANDTMAN, 41 Shumba MUTOKOYI, 42 Laurence TAYLOR - *Two to be omitted* - UNAVAILABLE: 3 Nathan PAULL (international duty), 4 Trent SAINSBURY (injured), 40 Dylan PERAIC-CULLEN (international duty)

9.1.2026

MORRISSEY HAS A CLEAN SHEET IN HER SIGHTS

Perth Glory will go in search of a fourth consecutive home win, when they entertain Western Sydney Wanderers in week 12 of the Ninja A-League on Friday evening. (7;00pm) Stephen Peters’ side moved into the top six after a 1-0 win against Newcastle Jet, with skipper Isobel Dalton scoring the only goal, while the Wanderers secured a 1-1 draw against league leaders Canberra United last week, so they arrive in good form, so it sets up a thrilling encounter.

Last week a strong performance from keeper Teresa Morrissey helped secure the win, and it has been a tough start to life at club for her, missing the start of the season with a back injury, but she has been in great form since her return. Glory brought in Alyssa Dall'Oste on a short-term contract to cover her injury, and she never let the club down, and Morrissey said she was a great team mate. But the former Young Matildas ‘keeper said it’s great to be back and working again with Stephen Peters. “It was heart breaking to miss the start of the season, but it’s not been my first injury. But my replacement was such a great team member, and a blessing in disguise,” Morrissey explained.

“It kept me focused, and I couldn’t take my spot for granted, so yes it sucked, but here we are. Stephen (Peters) and I have worked together before in NPL, and to have him here I’m very lucky. To have his faith in me is special, and without his help, I wouldn’t be in the position I am now. So, it’s my opportunity to not let him, or anyone in the club, and the team down, and we are aiming for finals here. Yes, it would suck if I lost my spot, but that’s part of football, you have to hold yourself accountable.”

Morrissey was previously on the books of Melbourne Victory, Central Coast Mariners and Friday’s opponents Western Sydney Wanderers, and was part of the Mariners squad that won last season’s Grand Final. She worked with Peters at NPLW NSW club Macarthur Rams, winning the Goalkeeper of the Year in the competition in 2024. The ‘keeper said they head into Friday’s game in a confident mood, and playing in front of their supporters is special but they need to be switch on.

“The spirits are high within the team, and we hope to continue that run and see how far we can go, so the more wins and clean sheets the better,” the Glory custodian said. “The Wanderers did well against league leaders Canberra United last week, so we can’t be too complacent, in spite of how well we’ve been doing at home. They are coming here and will not want to fly home without a result, so we’ve got to be ready, and we are definitely not taking this game lightly at all.

“The fans at Sam Kerr are the best fans I’ve played in front of. It’s great to see so many kids there, and we’re grateful for their and their parents’ support. They are right behind us, when we save a goal and when we score a goal, so we hope we can maintain our form and hope the fans maintain their fantastic support they always give us, and we make it four straight wins at home.”

The last time Wanderers headed to Perth was in week 20 last season, when a goal in stoppage time by Isabella Foletta, gave the hosts a hard-fought 1-0 win. Glory also beat the Wanderers on the road in the opening week, and head coach Peters said Friday’s clash will be another stern test. “You’re obviously going to take some things out of that first game in terms of some of their players’ characteristics and what their dangers are,” he said. “But they’ve got a lot of new faces in the squad, so we’ve got to be prepared for that and they’ve also made some tactical changes from game to game, playing different formations against different opponents, so it’ll be interesting to see which one they play against us.

“We’ve got to be prepared for that. If you look at the three [positive] results, they’ve had, they won away at Brisbane with a clean sheet, they had a clean sheet against Sydney FC in a 0-0 draw and they had a 1-1 draw with Canberra who are top of the league. If you look at those [results] in isolation, they’re very capable and I know I’ve sounded like a bit of a broken record saying this of late, but every team in the competition is capable of taking points in any game, so you have to be up for it and you can’t take anything for granted.”

Peters went on to confirm leading scorer Rola Badawiya, who scored in the opening week win at Wanderers Football Park, will miss again with a quad problem, but no further injuries were picked up last week. The coach has been delighted with how squad has performed, and pleased with the character they have shown in or out of the starting side. “We have a good vibe, and there’s a resilience and a togetherness about them,” he explained. “I think they’re all on the same page in terms of what they’re wanting out of the game. The pleasing thing about that is that it doesn’t matter who is in or out of the team, they’re all bringing that to the table. It’s great that we’re getting that consistency from a larger part of the squad.

“The fluency is developing in attack and I think the last couple of games have showcased that, which is good, but it has always been there. I think we were quite good at the start of the season with the football, but obviously when you lose confidence, you tend to go into your shell and concentrate on being a bit sturdier, so it’s a bit of a balancing act. I think we’ve just got to stick to our principles off the ball and on the ball and if we do that for consistent periods in the game, we’re in every single match in this competition.”

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

Western Sydney Wanderers squad: GK Sham KHAMIS, GK Brianna EDWARDS, 2 Janae DEFAZIO, 3 Wang YING, 4 Poppie HOOKS, 5 Milly BENNETT, 6 Amy CHESSARI, 7 Amy HARRISON, 8 Olivia PRICE, 9 Kim SOEUN, 10 Yuan CONG, 11 Danika MATOS, 14 Ella BUCHANAN, 17 Allyssa NG SAAD, 19 Talia YOUNIS, 22 Alana CERNE, 25 Holly CASPERS, 37 Ena HARADA, 66 Chloe BERRYHILL - *Two to be omitted*