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30.8.2017
KERR THE HEADLINE ACT IN MATILDA'S SQUAD FOR BRAZIL
Best Women's Player of the Year award nominee Sam Kerr is one of the headline acts in a strong Matildas squad named by coach Alen Stajcic for the upcoming two-match series against Brazil. Stajcic has selected nineteen of the players who were part of Australia's historic Tournament of Nations triumph in the United States, where the Matilda's humbled Brazil 6-1.
Kerr recently equalled former Melbourne City W-League star Kim Little's National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) scoring record of 16 goals in a season for her club Sky Blue FC. "Sam's really had a breakout 12 months in the Westfield W-League and the NWSL," Stajic said of 23-year old Kerr. "She's matured as a player and a person, and the group couldn't be prouder of her."
Australia's squad to play Brazil on 16 and 19 September is Emily Gielnik, Chloe Logarzo, Gema Simon (Avaldsnes), Mackenzie Arnold, Clare Polkinghorne (Brisbane Roar), Ellie Carpenter (Canberra United), Lydia Wiliams (Houston Dash), Caitlin Cooper (Illawarra Stingrays), Tameka Butt (Klepp I-L), Laura Alleway (Melbourne Victory), Alanna Kennedy, Steph Catley (Orlando Pride), Hayley Raso (Portland Thorns), Sam Kerr (Sky Blue FC), Lisa De vanna (South Melbourne), Georgia Yeoman-Dale (Sydney FC), Elise Kellond-Knight (FFC Turbine Potsdam), Caitlin Foord, Katrina Gorry (Vegalta Sendai) and Emily Van Egmond (VfL Wolfsburg).
29.8.2017
FIT-AGAIN SAINSBURY WANTS TO BE A HERO
Socceroos defender Trent Sainsbury says he's shaken off a hamstring injury and is ready to be the "hero" in Thursday's crunch 2018 World Cup qualifier against Japan. Sainsbury limped off with the injury in Australia's last match, a 1-1 draw with Chile at the Confederations Cup in June.
The 25-year old hasn't played competitively since, but suggested he'd be available for selection for Thursday's crucial clash. "I'm very good at the moment," Sainsbury said. "Physically I had a bit of a rough time after the Confeds Cup. I've been working hard to get fit for my team Jiangsu and fit for this game, because it's a big game."
Sainsbury was Australia's stand-out defender at the Confederations Cup, starting all three games for the Socceroos. The Jiangsu Suning defender said he loved the big occasions and acknowledged the Japan clash was "massive" for the Socceroos. And he is determined to shake his injury woes to be part of the game.
"You always want to be involved in the big games, that's where the boys turn into men," Sainsbury said. "You get to show yourself. If you can make yourself the hero on the night and help the team and do your job, that's the sort of camaraderie you want to be involved in."
"You want to be involved in every game with this team, there's something special brewing. If you're involved in the big games and you get that special moment, you'll remember it for the rest of your life."
Sainsbury was full of confidence ahead of the Japan clash, eyeing off all three points and putting the pressure on the hosts. "I think the players we've got at the moment, we're definitely mentally and physically above the Japanese," he said.
"They're on their home soil and they've got great support behind them. Their fans are always very welcoming but at the same time there's a lot more pressure on them than us. The boys are ready for it, I'm pretty sure we're going to come away with three points with the way we're feeling and the boys' attitude at the moment."
28.8.2017
HERD DESPERATE TO RESURRECT HIS CAREER
Recovering from a serious knee injury and battling for form in England's third tier, new Western Sydney Wanderers signing Chris herd has returned to the A-League desperate to resurrect his career. The 28-year-old joined Western Sydney on a two-year deal from League One outfit Gillingham in July.
A product of the Aston Villa Academy, Herd made 36 Premier League appearances for Villa before being sent out on several loan spells in the Championship and League One during his 12 years in England. He made his Western Sydney debut against Arsenal last month and is hoping to feature next week against Victorian side Bentleigh Greens in the FFA Cup round of sixteen.
Herd, who joined Perth Glory last year only to terminate his contract after three months, said a return to Australia and the A-League was the perfect move to get his career back on track. "At the end of last season I was at a point where I realised I wasn't where I wanted to be, and that is playing good football," he said.
"I didn't leave Aston Villa on the right terms, I had a bad knee injury and it meant I had to drop down from playing in the Premier League to League One. I thought I would only be there (in League One) for a year but it ended up being two. At that point I felt I had to move on and give my career a bit of a kick-start."
Described as a utility player for his ability to cover a variety of positions in defence and midfield, Herd believes Western Sydney coach Tony Popovic is the man to unlock his potential. "I'm 28 now but I feel I have a lot of room to improve and the Wanderers are the right club for me to achieve that," Herd said.
"Tony is a great coach and I'm confident that he will be able to help me become a better player. Even though the club has signed me from playing in England I will still have to earn my right to play in the team. Hopefully by the time the season comes around I will be reaching full fitness and able to lock down a position in the side."
Herd is hoping he gets the chance to prove himself against Bentleigh. "The FFA Cup is a great opportunity to test the squad in competitive matches ahead of the regular season," he said. "Even though it is still our pre-season our goal is to win the Cup ... It will be a tough match but we are confident we can get a good result and progress to the quarter-finals."
27.8.2017
AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION, ROUND EIGHTEEN – REVIEW
The top of the Sunday Amateur Premier League has tightened up, after league leaders Wembley Downs were held to a 1-1 draw by Perth Royals on Friday evening at Edinburgh Oval. They made a perfect start and were ahead on eight minutes, Banin Hashim was given far too much time and space and he rounded Carlos Santos to score. Santos was keeping his side in the game and produced a great save to deny Hashim again on the half hour. The Royals went close themselves late in the half, Nick Calkin shot crashed off the woodwork and away to safety. Wembley dominated after the break, with Stephen Geoghegan becoming more involved, and his shot on the run early was well saved by Santos. Mark King, Hashim and Gary McCarthy were all denied by Santos, while Chris Redman hit the side netting from a difficult angle for the Royals.
But on 69 minutes the Royals levelled, Redman scoring. Wembley pressed for the winner and they had a chance to win it in the dying minutes but the visitors stood firm. “In the end, we did everything but score,” Colm Costello said. “That’s football. That’s the Royals, they worked hard and they got the point in the end. That’s disappointing for us but we are still top of the league and still all to play for. We just have to bounce back from this, we have a home game next week and looking forward to it.” Perth Royals coach Willie Devun was happy with the point. “I thought our team performance was great,” he said. “We were probably the better side in the first half, but they probably dominated the second half, created more chances than us but overall being second bottom against top and getting a point, we’re delighted.”
Kingsley closed the gap to the leaders to three points after a hard fought 3-2 win against Belmont Villa at Chichester Park. The home side were ahead in the first minute from a corner from Jayden Drummond which was nicely tucked away by Stuart Montgomery. It was 1-1 on the 10 minute mark when a long ball by Belmont wasn't dealt with and the resulting shot taking a deflection off a defender and looping over Kingsley keeper. From that point Kingsley were on top for a period and got a second when David Morris pounced on a short clearance from Belmont to turn his defender in the box and bury the shot in the bottom right corner of the net.
The second half was much the same with Belmont in control of possession and Kingsley relying on the counter attack, and it was Belmont who equalised on the hour, when a long ball over the top and miscommunication led to Jess Higgins heading into his own net. Kingsley got the winner late when substitute Joe Joyce pounced on a loose ball from a long throw and cooly put it into the top of the net. “It was a tough game for Kingsley, Belmont controlling large parts of the game I was absolutely proud of the lads for the character they showed and the willingness not to give up and keep fighting for a winner,” Kingsley Coach Steven Dimitrovich said.
In other games North Perth United beat Ellenbrook United 7-1 to keep third spot, Subiaco beat Southern Spirit 2-0, while Hamersley Rovers beat bottom of the table BB United 5-0. In the final game Leeming Strikers got revenge for their cup Semi-Final loss to Kwinana United winning 4-1 at Kelly Park. The visitors opened the scoring in the final minute of the first half, with David Palin firing home a free kick. Andrew Jennings quickly made it 2-0, before Lucas Pickering slotted in at the back post to make it 3-0 on the hour. Jennings added his second moments later, picking the ball up just inside Kwinana half and ran it all the way and slotted it past the keeper from a tight angle. Kwinana pulled one back late but it was Leeming taking the points. “After losing to Kwinana in semifinal midweek it was important to bounce back,” Leeming Coach David Palin said. “The result shows were a good team that had a bad night but credit to all the players that we could rock up, put in a good shift and keep our ambitions of a top four finish alive.”
26.8.2017
BAYWATER CITY WIN THE 2017 PS4NPLWA TITLE
It was a tense end to the season for Bayswater City, needing a win against Stirling Lions at Finance 365 Stadium, they got that part of the scenario right, with Luka Ninkovic and Gustavo Giron-Marulanda giving them a 2-0 lead. But Cameron Teece pulled on back in first half stoppage time, but Marulanda added a third after the break to seal the win, and at the final whistle they were sitting in second. But a late goal at Floreat, meant Inglewood drew and City jumped ahead of them, much to the delight of Coaches, players and supporters alike.
“We knew going into the game all we could do was win and hope Inglewood slipped up, and that exactly what happened, I’m over the moon,” assistant Coach Stewy Moses said. “I’m really pleased for everyone involved at the club, we were written off early in the season, but we had a self-belief, and we worked extremely hard, and we got the reward on Saturday. We’ll celebrate for a few days and we’ll be back in training for the Top Four Finals, and we’ll do doing all we can to win that.”
It was tense opening, with so much riding on the game, and it was also Lions’ Coach Rob Milevski final game in charge of the Macedonia Park club, but the home side settled their nerve better and were ahead after only six minutes, teenage striker Ninkovic’s shot took a deflection which wrong-footed John Perkins in the Lions goal, the ball rolling into the net. News filtered through from Floreat that Inglewood were ahead, but Bayswater continued to press and add a second on 36 minutes, Marulanda racing clear and lobbing the on-coming Perkins. The Lions weren’t going down without a fight and they pulled one back in stoppage time. Mathiang Mathiang cross picked Teece who headed past Devon Spence to make it 2-1 at the break.
The Lions went close to the equaliser early in the second half, when Blamo Quaqua was given far too much room, but his effort was superbly saved by Spence. Bayswater had the perfect opportunity to add a third when Adam Fielding pointed to the spot, but Marulanda’s spot kick was well saved by Perkins. The referee pointed to the spot again moments later, and Marulanda stepped up and again he missed, blazing over the top.
But the Columbian striker wasn’t to be outdone and he wrapped up the points on 69 minutes, heading past Perkins to make it 3-1. The Lions were reduced to ten men late on when Teece was sent off after receiving a second yellow card. “I’m immensely proud of the players and their work rate," Bayswater head coach Chris Coyne told the NPL website. “Everything they’ve done in the second half of the season has been magnificent, and I’m so pleased for them. They’ve done so much hard work to get themselves in that position, they deserve all the plaudits.”
Bayswater City: GK Devon SPENCE, 2 Declan HARGREAVES (7 Paul MCCARTHY 25’), 6 Todd HOWARTH, 9 Gustavo Giron MARULANDA, 11 Devon GIBSON, 13 Trent KAY (C), 17 Borbor SAM (10 Jason MIRCO 81’), 18 Brent GRIFFITHS, 19 Luka NINKOVIC (21 David HEAGNEY 54’), 20 Sam MITCHINSON, 23 Andrija JUKIC - Subs not used: RGK Dejan ALEKSIC, 12 David STOKOE
Stirling Lions: GK John PERKINS, 2 Michael PUGLIESE, 4 Blamo QUA QUA, 5 David MOLINARI, 6 Dejan SPASESKI, 9 Alex TANEVSKI (15 Shane CASSIDY 89’) 10 Daniel MICEVSKI (7 Miki VUJACIC 89’), 16 Mathiang MATHIANG, 17 Darren O’RIORDAN, 18 Moses KALAU, 19 Cameron TEECE - Subs not used: RGK Lance ALAVAKIS, 12 Adrian KOIOS, 13 Robbie McNeill - Red Cards: 19. Cameron TEECE 83’ - Referees: Adam Fielding
26.8.2017
INGLEWOOD LET TITLE SLIP LATE
A late equaliser by Chris Saldaris has seen Floreat Athena shatter Inglewood United’s title hopes on the final day of the PS4NPLWA season. Hamza Hina’s first half goal looked like giving Inglewood the title, but former Bayswater defender Saldaris break the visitor’s hearts, heading home the equaliser and handed the title to his former club.
“Set pieces are what did us," Inglewood Coach Andy Keogh told the NPL website. “It’s been our Achilles heel this season. You get a delivery like that from Dean Evans, time and time again it’s going to hurt you, so that was our downfall. A league is a league for a reason, it’s 26 games and it doesn't get defined by one result on the last day, it gets defined by every game you’ve played that year. “Looking back, we’re not defined by a set piece, we’re defined by the silly points we dropped throughout the season.”
It was a huge game for both clubs, Inglewood win and the title was theirs, while Floreat went into the game wanting three points and hoping Sorrento slipped up at home to Subiaco to reach the McInerney Ford Top Four Finals. Floreat made it clear from the outset they wouldn’t make it easy for Inglewood, and dominated possession in the early stages, but lacked quality in the final third. Inglewood began to come into the match, and opened the scoring on the half hour, Alex Salmon played Hina, who raced into the box, holding off his marker and rounding keeper Jason Saldaris and firing home. Floreat huffed and puffed but couldn’t create any clear cut chances and at the break it was Inglewood 45 minutes away from their first NPL title.
Floreat were out of the blocks early in the second half and went close on a number of occasions and on 65 minutes referee David Bruce spotted an infringement in the box and pointed to the spot, awarded a penalty to Floreat on 65 minutes. Skipper Dean Evans stepped up and saw his shot crash off the crossbar and away to safety, much to the relief of the travelling supporters. Inglewood were sitting back and Floreat were pressing and four minutes from time they found their equaliser. Evans’ pin-point corner found Chris Saldaris at the back post who headed past Alex Dunn. It was a bitter blow for Inglewood and they pushed everyone forward late looking for the equaliser, but it never came, and they were left to endure the anguish off letting the league slip on the last day of the season for the second year running.
Floreat Athena: GK Jason SALDARIS, 3 Clayton ARNEZ, 4 Andrew SCALDAFERRO (18 Phillip ARNOLD 60’), 6 Jesse FULLER, 8 Jonathan STYNES, 12 Jackson MORGAN, 13 Zelfy NAZARY (11 Juma AWAKA 68’), 14 Ludovic BOI, 15 Chris SALDARIS, 16 Edin NILAC, 17 Dean EVANS (c) - Subs not used: RGK Jordan BARBAS, 9 Declan HUDSON, 20 Joseph TWEATS
Inglewood United: GK Alex DUNN, 2 Alex ISHIDA-LIVINGS, 3 David CYRUS (c), 4 Scott BLACKMORE, 7 Kenny KEOGH, 8 Jason BARRERA, 9 Alex SALMON, 10 Ashley ROSINDALE (19 Chok DAU 51), 15 Brian FARRELL, 16 Matthew NTOUMENOPOULOS (5 Adam TONG 81), 17 Hamza HINA (14 Feisal Zaw 78) - Subs not used: RGK Riley STEPHENSON, 18 Jason COLLI - Referee: David Bruce
26.8.2017
ATKINS AT THE DOUBLE FOR REDS
Armadale ended their 2017 PS4 NPLWA on a high after coming from behind to beat Joondalup United 2-1 at Alfred Skeet Reserve. Josh Booysen put the visitors in front early, but James Atkins responded with two goals to seal victory. It snapped a five match losing streak for John O’Reilly’s side, and he said the best team won on the day and revealed he is looking forward to bolstering his squad in the pre-season.
“The lads were keen to get a win to finish the season because we have had a few off-results in the last few weeks,” he told the NPL website. “The players put in 100 percent today and we created so many chances so we were just unlucky not to win by a bigger margin to be honest.
Overall I think we have been progressive this season, we have kept our heads up all the way to the end and that was exemplified by today’s win. Hopefully we can kick-on now during the pre-season, pick up a couple of new players and strengthen what we have already started to build.”
It’s been a superb debut NPL season for Joondalup and they opened the scoring early in this one, Booysen wasn’t closed down and he surged into the box and finished clinically past Alex Radonich after only three minutes. They continued to dictate terms and Richard Howles had two golden opportunities to extend the lead, when he was twice put in one-on-one with the Radonich, but the Armadale custodian stood tall and he failed to find the target.
But on 28 minutes, and against the run of play Armadale levelled. Alex Bond picking out Atkins who made no mistake past James Bosdet. The home side were having the better of the game now and in the shadows of half time they hit the front. Jordan Pavett’s free kick was met by Aitken’s and his deft flick beat Bosdet. The home side almost added a third in stoppage time, Bond’s cross found Beau Rahim, whose volley was well saved by Bosdet.
Bosdet was called into action again early in the second-half, the Joondalup custodian produced a double save to deny Reds striker Billy Quinncroft on two occasions. Both sides had good chances in an end-to-end second half, the best falling to Armadale, Bond was sent clear, but Bosdet stood tall to deny him, but the damage had been done earlier and Armadale an out 2-1 winners. Joondalup coach Nick Jennings said missed chances cost them in the first half. “If you go by the first 30 minutes, they shouldn’t have been given a sniff, but in the end our keeper has pulled off at least three world class saves so we have been lucky to only lose 2-1,” he told the NPL website. “I think this game summed up our season; when we were on top we should have put the game to bed and silly defensive mistakes have crucified us.”
Armadale: GK Alec RADONICH, 3 Jake SARDELIC, 4 Nathan COSTELLO (C), 7 Alex BOND, 8 Jordan PAVETT, 14 David ANNALL, 16 Billy QUINNCROFT, 17 James ATKINS, 19 Beau RAHIM, 20 Ali GHOLAMI, 21 Broden BROWN (25 Anthony SKORICH 60’) - Subs not used: 2 Dylan WHITE, 12 Herman ALOGNON, 22 Ryan JAMES
Joondalup United: GK James BOSDET, 2 Joel LEDSHAM (24 David JAY 68’), 4 Arran MAPLESTONE (C), 7 Matthew SPARROW, 8 Josh WHITMORE, 9 Richard HOWLES, 11 Josh BOOYSEN, 16 Ross EDWARDS, 18 Anthony TAYLOR (22 Charlie BREEN 74’), 20 James BRUCE, 25 Sam WYNNE (6 Guy MCDONALD 58’) - Subs not used: RGK Jack NUNN - Referee: Tom Glavovic
26.8.2017
WILSON STUNNER HELPS GLORY TO WIN
A stunning strike from midfielder Brendon Wilson has helped Perth Glory to end their PS4 NPLWA season with a 2-0 win against Cockburn City at the Ashfield Arena. The former Burnley youth player stunning strike on the hour gave the Glory youngster the lead and the points were wrapped up by Yacoub Mustafa with 11 minutes remaining.
“It was a good performance, and it's great to end the season on a positive note,” Glory Coach John Gibson said. “We’ve had a tough season with a very young squad, so we’re happy with how things have gone. The boys have faced a lot of adversity and many challenges this year, but they have come through them and earned the right to be in the league.”
After earning their NPL safety last week at ECU Joondalup, Glory were on the front foot early, and Joe Knowles went close on a couple of occasions, but some resolute defending from Cockburn held him at bay. But despite dominating it was Cockburn who went close to the opener on 23 minutes. Former Glory youth player Gian Albano lost his marker in the box but his shot flashed over the top, keeper Nick Feely well beaten.
It was more of the same after the break, the Glory dominating possession but Cockburn looked dangerous on the counter attack, but it was the home side who hit the front on the hour, and what a goal at that. Wilson found space 25 meters from goal, and his long-range shot flew into the top corner of the net giving Radonich no chance, for one of the goals of the goals of the season.
The points were made safe on 79 minutes, skipper Daniel Stynes raced into the box and rounded Radonich, the Cockburn custodian brought down the midfielder, but before referee Michael Jasinski could award a penalty, Mustafa cleaned up, smashing the ball into the back of the net from close range to seal the three points.
Perth Glory: GK Nick FEELY, 2 Luca BODNAR, 3 Hayden STEVENS, 4 Cameron MURRAY, 5 Ollie ANNIS, 6 Callum TIMMINS, 7 Yacoub MUSTAFA (14 Bayley BROWN-MONTGOMERY 82’), 8 Brandon WILSON (13 Jack LEECH 90’), 9 Joseph KNOWLES (12 Michael DOMFEH 88’), 10 Daniel STYNES, 11 Michael MCDOUGALL - Subs not used: RGK Kyle MCDONALD, 15 Harry QUIGLEY
Cockburn City: GK Luke RADONICH, 6 Reuben TRISTAO, 7 Calvin WHITNEY, 8 Cameron EDWARDS, 9 Gian ALBANO (3 Daniel DOLS 46’), 11 Harry O’BRIEN (c), 12 Daniel SANTICH, 14 Julian TELES, 16 Riley VAN DIEKEN (18 Aden DA LUZ 82’), 17 Jesse LAZZARO, 21Joshua KUSER - Subs not used: RGK Ryan BARKER, 10 David ARAYA - Referee: Michal Jasinski
26.8.2017
BALCATTA WIN RELEGATION SHOWDOWN
Balcatta will be playing PS4 NPLWA football next season after beating Mandurah City 2-0 in the relegation showdown at Grindleford Reserve. A tense affair sparked into life in the second half with goals from skipper Calum O’Connell and Lucas Mello, which secured safety for Salv Todaro’s side, while Mandurah sit in the drop zone.
“All the effort the boys put in all year was fantastic," Todaro said. "We had a fantastic crowd today who helped the boys in, we worked really hard, and we're really happy.” In his final game in charge of Mandurah, Coach Doug Hesketh was understandably disappointed with the result. "I thought we played the better football,” he said. “But then we conceded an unfortunate goal and we had to go for it, a draw wasn't going to be enough,” he said.
The stakes were high heading into game, with hosts Balcatta needing just a point, while Mandurah knew nothing but a win was needed to avoid finishing bottom of the table and the possibility of relegation. The stands were packed for this one, with busloads of Mandurah fans on hand to cheer their side on, and they started the better, and skipper Jeff Bright long-range volley crashed off the crossbar early. Balcatta went close themselves, moments later, when top goalscorer Luccas Mello raced into the box, his shot superbly saved by Cyril Sharrock.
It was more of the same after half time, with both sets of supporters on the edge of their seats with chances at both ends. Sharrock was keeping his side in the game, the Mandurah custodian saving well to deny Anton De Francesch’s close-range volley. Moments later Mandurah went close to the opener, Slade Rule breaking on a quick counter attack and went one-on-one with Domenico Savoldelli, who narrowed the angle well and the midfielders lob dropped just over. But on 68 minutes the home side scored the decisive opener, O’Connell cut in from the left and his shot took a deflection and looped over the stranded Sharrock.
Mandurah pushed men forward looking for the equaliser and they almost conceded a second moments later, De Francesch firing inches wide when sent clear. Mandurah went for broke and had Balcatta on the back foot and Savoldelli produced a stunning save to deny Joe O’Brien’s effort from Jordan Rhodes’ cross. But with five minutes to go Balcatta scored the vital second, they hit on a swift attack and Mello cut in from the left and curled home superbly via the crossbar to set off wild celebrations, both on and off the pitch.
Balcatta: GK Domenico SAVOLDELLI, 3 Justin ONEK, 4 Calum O’CONNELL, 9 Luccas MELLO, 10 Jonathan CORNESS, 12 Anton DE FRANCESCH, 13 Daniel HEPWORTH, 14 Brody KENNEDY, 20 Tom PELLIZZARI, 22 Dejan ANDRIC (19 Endalk ACHAMYELEH 56’)(18 Ben MEREDITH 89’), 23 Ismael BANGURA (8 Brennan BORZECKI 65’) – Subs not used: 2 Rudnei NOGUERIA, 21 Luke HUTCHESON
Mandurah City: GK Cyril SHARROCK, 2 Oliver MCGEE, 3 Jeff BRIGHT, 4 Matthew STARES, 5 Mitchell FIRTH, 6 Lance LOUVIE, 7 Jack EADES, 9 Sean TROUP (17 Thomas STRAKER 73’), 10 Jordan RHODES, 11 Ryan FRANCIS, 14 Slade RULE (12 Joseph O’BRIEN 58’) – Subs not used: 15. Kevin CASTLE, 16. Mark MCLAUGHLIN, 21. Kieran SHAIL - Referees: Josh Mannella
26.8.2017
PERICH BRINGS DOWN THE GULLS
Sorrento put a tough week behind them by stumbling into the McInerney Ford Top Four Finals, despite a 1-0 loss at Percy Doyle Reserve against Subiaco. After an FFA Cup clash in Melbourne, the Gulls needed a point to make the finals, but David Perich’s late goal put that in jeopardy but with Floreat only drawing against Inglewood they took their place in the end of season finals.
“It was always going to be difficult after the big game on Wednesday night (in round 16 of the Westfield FFA Cup),” Sorrento coach Jamie Harnwell told the NPL website. “We weren’t ruthless with our chances and unfortunately Subiaco took their opportunity. We can’t be disappointed with our season; top four, and the final 16 of the FFA cup. “We’ve got the chance to win some silverware so we’re looking forward to next week against Perth SC.”
It was a frenetic start to the game, but early clear cut chances were few and far between. The best chance fell to the home side on the half hour. Jordan Brown’s header was heading for the top corner, by Subiaco keeper Ryan Montgomery produced a brilliant save to deny him. Subiaco started to take control in the second half and Steve Purton’s long-range shot was tipped over the top by James Morgan,
But it was the visitors who won it in the final minute, Perich pouncing to score from close-range past Morgan, after being picked out by a low cross. “It was another scrappy game against tough opposition," Subiaco Coach Ian McMurray told the NPL website. “We just wanted to secure an eighth-place finish, and thankfully we did the job today. It’s been tremendous season for us, and at the start we struggled for numbers, but we’ve stuck together. We’ve improved, and played football the way I want to, so I can’t ask any more than that.”
Sorrento: GK James MORGAN, 5 Scott JOHNSON (44 Daniel PEARCE 74’), 6 Daryl PLATTEN, 7 Alex MORGAN, 8 Ryan PEARSON, 11 Tim HILL, 13 Steve MCDONALD (12 Joshua TUCKER 70’), 14 Scott WITSCHGE, 15 Brodie MARTIN (10 Scott BULLOCH 46’), 18 Jordan BROWN, 20 Brad MCDONALD - Subs not used: RGK Connor CAMPBELL, 4 Shaun KILKELLY
Subiaco: GK Ryan MONTGOMERY, 6 Steve PURTON, 7 Robert HARDING (5 Matt CLARK 86’), 9 Ian MCMURRAY, 10 Owen COATES, 11 Carlin FEELY, 12 Nathan SMITH, 13 Jordan CANDLISH, 14 Ross JARMAN (16 Oliver CHEVRALS 71), 17 Alex CASTIELLO. 18 David PERICH - Subs not used: 3 Ger FITZGERALD, 4 Nathan HARDIE, 5 Matt CLARK - Referee: Stuart Muldoon
26.8.2017
PERTH GIVE ECU SIX OF THE BEST
Current PS4 National Premier League WA Champions Perth Soccer Club produced a stunning performance to thrash ECU Joondalup 6-1 in the final game of the regular season at Dorrien Gardens. The stunning result put the rest of the McInerney Ford Top Four Cup sides on notice, that they won’t relinquish their title without a fight. A First half brace from Niccolo Sabatini and one from Gustavo Catarcione put them on their way, before Gordon Smith pulled one back for the visitors just after half time. But Tom King and Andreas Theodosiades regained control for Perth, before Catarcione added his second late.
“We went into the game wanting to one put in a good performance, but score a lot of goals and I got both today, a great performance form the boys,” Perth Coach Ramon Falzon told the NPL website. “We have brought many young players into our squad, and we’ve worked hard on their game, but we expect a return from them and they are doing that, and it gives us a strong squad moving forward. We’ve had an excellent second round of results and our performances have been improving, and we’re starting to score goals which is important in this game. We go into the finals with confidence, but know it is do-or-die games, we have a few injuries from today, while see how they recover and we’ll try and do the job next week.”
It was ECU who opened the brighter and Gordon Smith shot on the run flashing over the top for the visitors, but Perth then starting to get on top, and Sabatini fired them in front on 14 minutes, the winger was closed down and he fired home from the edge of the box. Perth looked hungry for more and on the half hour they doubled their lead, Nicholas Ambrogio’s cross found the unmarked Catarcione, who volleyed home. ECU keeper Fraser Greenwood was a busy man, he saved well to deny Catarcione one-on-one, before denying the Brazilian again with a super save three minutes before the break. But on the stroke of half time Perth added a third, Catarcione was brought down by Jack Jones and Sabatini sent Greenwood the wrong way to send the home side in with a 3-0 lead.
ECU were back in the game three minutes into the second half when Gordon Smith was brought down by Perth keeper Francis Soale and referee Steven Gregory pointed to the spot, and Smith picked himself up to score. But normal service was resumed for Perth seven minutes later, with King finding the corner of the net, this despite Greenwood getting a hand to it. It was soon 5-1, King burst down the left and found Theodosiades, who made no mistake, before Catarcione raced clear to add a sixth on 70 minutes. It could have been more if it wasn’t for Greenwood, the ECU custodian produced great saves to deny Catarcione and Alex Silla, but at the whistle it was Perth moving on to the finals in good form.
Perth SC: GK Francis SOALE (c), 3 Andreas THEODOSIADES, 4 Adrian MADASCHI, 5 Niccolo SABATINI (7 Aleks JOVIC 75’, 8 Tom KING, 9 Gustavo CATARCIONE, 10 Nicholas AMBROGIO (2 Alex SILLA 75’), 13 Rocco PIZZATA, 16 Kieran COLWELL, 18 Lewis MILNE, 20 Elliot TATTERSAL (17 Frank FURFARO 57’) - Subs not used: RGK Malek KUC, 11 Matthew MILENKOVIC
ECU Joondalup: GK Fraser GREENWOOD, 2 Rikki SMITH, 3 Ross MILLARD, 4 Steven MCGARRY, 5 Graham DORAN (18 Cian HIRRELL 46’), 6 Shane PICKERING, 8 Declan HUGHES, 10 Gordon SMITH, 11 Samuel POLLARD, 17 Jack JONES (13 Tommy AMPHLETT 46’) (9 James OWEN 85’), 19 Ben JOHNS - Subs not used: RGK Jordan YOUNG, 7 Ryan MCDARBY - Referee: Steven Gregory
26.8.2017
ALL FLAGS STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND NINETEEN – REVIEW
It was a weekend of shock results in the All Flag State League Division one, with the top three sides all dropping points. League leaders Dianella White Eagles were held to a thrilling 3-3 draw by the improving Fremantle City. The home side started well, but it was Marc Anthony’s side who opened the scoring on 16 minutes. Angel Andres was caught in possession and Anthony Lomma was sent clear and he finished clinically past Joel Driscoll. The visitors doubled their lead nine minutes later, Ben West heading home Liam Fariss’ cross. Fremantle went close to a third moments later, West was in on goal, but his shot bounced off the woodwork. Andres’ then saw his free kick crash off the post, but Dianella were back in the game on the half hour, Francis Wanjiru’s cross was volleyed home by Damien Valomares.
After the break Dianella took control and Andres was brought down by Tom Allan, and the Spanish striker scored from the resulting penalty. The home side then hit the front Andres heading home powerfully from Ibrahim Hadad’s corner on 67 minutes. But six minutes later Fremantle levelled, it looked like Driscoll was fouled in move, but the ball was cleared off the line by Anga Loic, the ball rebounded off West and into the net. Fremantle almost won it late Rory Kiely raced one-on-one, but he fired inches wide of the target. The home side finished with ten men after skipper Bojan Radinovic was sent off late.
“It was a great performance, we hung in there and started the game really well,” Fremantle Coach Marc Anthony said. “Like I said to the lads at half time, Dianella are sitting top of the league, we expected them to come back in the second half, and they did that. It shows great character for us to be 3-3 at their place against the team top of the league.” Dianella Coach said it was a great game for the neutrals. "It was a tough game for the coaches to watch but I am sure the fans enjoyed it, six goals some of them pretty special indeed and lots of commitment from both sides,” he said. “I was particularly proud of our guys coming back from 2-0 down only to lose the win conceding a weird goal. Hats off to Fremantle they certainly put up a fantastic display and are a far better side than their position on the table reflects.”
Forrestfield United lost ground to the leaders when they were beaten 3-2 by Joondalup City at Illuka Sports Complex. The home side hit the front on the quarter hour mark, Sam Rawlings was brought off the bench early, and he had only been on the pitch five minutes when he fired home from close-range. Rawlings added a second midway through the first half, racing clear and finishing clinically past Luke Martino. Forrestfield were back in the game when Rhys Loxley scored from the penalty spot, and the winger drew them level after his second penalty was saved but he fired home the rebound. It looked like Forrestfield would go on and win after Joondalup’s Marc Campbell was sent off, but the ten men held on and scored the winner with two minutes to go. Rawlings was brought down in the box and Alex Robertson scored from the resulting penalty to win it. “We set out our stall and the players stuck to the game plan superbly,” assistant coach Paul McAteer said. “With six reserves in the squad it shows the strength and depth we have at the club.”
South West Phoenix also lost ground on the leaders after drawing 2-2 with UWA Nedlands at WML Stadium. Patrick Quinn put the home side ahead in the first minute, but UWA levelled on the quarter hour, and the visitors led at the break. They hung on till five minutes from time when Lee Stewart leveled. The Phoenix pushed for the winner but UWA held on. The only side to profit on the weekend was Western Knights who came home from Canning City with a big 8-0 win. Paul Lloyd scoring four, and Brian Patterson, Kevin Ashwood, Josh Cortez and David Murphy scoring the others. Rockingham City moved back in the winner’s circle with a hard fought 3-2 win against Ashfield at Lark Hill. Oriel Fernandez fired home from close-range from Kennedy’s free kick early. But Ashfield hit back and Jamie Stewart and Mike Kenny gave them the lead. Jason Pottier levelled, finishing well from Ravi Kuppusamy’s cross. But the home side won it when Lydon Hodgkiss heading home Blake Sokalowski’s free kick. “Delighted for the lads to get that result, our first half was as good as I've seen us this year. We had to dig deep after going behind but the desire to get all three points and that little bit of quality in the final third got us over the line,” Rockingham Coach Rob Crerar said. “It's been a difficult second half of the season without so many important players but now they are back you can see how important they are to the team. We have had great support from our loyal fans and we owed them a win.” Gosnell City had the bye this week.
26.8.2017
ALL FLAGS STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND NINETEEN – REVIEW
Gwelup Croatia have continued their rise up the WA Football ladder by taking out the All Flags State League Division Two title after a 2-0 win against Kingsway Olympic at Wishart Street. The home side were ahead on 36 minutes, Issac Koomson’s good work down the left ended with a cross to David Martin’s who finished low past Todd Hoyle. The home side were reduced to ten men just before half time when referee Alex Best sent Boro Kezic’s off an altercation after a heavy challenge from Ross Cosgrave on Kurt Kouakou. But the ten men wrapped up the points, and the title twenty minutes from time. A poor back pass from Cosgrave was intercepted by Gavin Knight, who held off Razack Geloo and fired home, much to the delight of the home supporters. “Winning with 10 men at home to seal the league was a perfect way to show how our year has gone,” Gwelup skipper Sebastian Munoz. “It was a very tough game, but we pushed through to win.”
Morley Windmills maintain second place with a big 8-1 win against Balga at Wotton Reserve. With Balga missing six players compared to last week's game against Quinns, Windmills took the advantage. Debutant Paul Grabic opened the scoring, before Igor Novakovic fired home directly from the corner. Novakovic then headed home the third, before Dion Berman got the fourth finish well from Novakovic’s cross. Novakovic was involved with the fifth too, again cutting the ball back to Berman. It was six when Scott Wrightson shot was parried, and Berman completed his hat-trick. Berman added the seventh before Wrightson added the eighth late on. Curtin University moved clear of the relegation zone with a 2-1 win against Swan United at Edinburgh Oval. Curtin were ahead when Swan stand in keeper Corey Walsh poor clearance went straight to Brandon Kagaro, who finished well from long-range. They doubled their lead when a low hard cross from Kristian Beven and bounced and spun off Chris Marshall and crept over the line. Cameron Anderson pulled one back for Swan on 75 minutes, but they couldn’t find the equaliser. “I said to the boys afterwards we have spoken a lot about turning tight games into 3 points. This one could have gone either way and Swan will be cursing poor finishing but well done,” Curtin Coach Campbell Ballantyne said. “We have five draws this season turning a couple to three points would make our season very different.”
In other games Kelmscott Roos won for the first time in four games after a 2-0 win against Shamrock Rovers at Harold Rossiter Reserve, while Wanneroo City consolidated third spot with tight 1-0 win against Quinns FC at Wanneroo Reserve. It was a tight first half, and it was a very keenly contested game, and Quinns had some good chances, but they failed to convert, but after the break Wanneroo came out looking for all three points, and they changed a couple of things around, and both teams created some good chances. It looked like we were heading for a scoreless draw, but with three minutes remaining Wanneroo won it. Chris Williams found space 20 yards out and he unleashed a cracking shot that dipped under the bar to win it. “With three games to go we are now six points clear of 5th place so a win at Balga on the weekend is crucial,” he said. “Quinns are a lot better than their table position suggests but really pleased to get the win.” Melville City had the bye this week.
25.8.2017
PS4 NPL-WA ROUND TWENTY-SIX PREVIEW
The PS4 National Premier League WA has reached the final game of the season and there are still a number of permutations that need resolving - the league title, the McInerney Ford Top Four Cup places and the side to be relegated. It sets up a nervous end to the season for the sides involved, and we start with the race for the title. Inglewood United are in pole position for the title, sitting one points clear at the summit and this week they travel to E&D Litis Stadium to take on Floreat Athena, who need the three points to reach the top four. Inglewood were made to week for the points last week coming from behind to beat Balcatta, while Floreat came home from Joondalup United with a 3-1 win, and after a week of turmoil at Floreat, they have to best the league leaders and hope Sorrento slip up in their game.
Inglewood winger Kenny Keogh said Saturday win against Balcatta was well-deserved, but they had to work for it. “Yes we knew it was always going to be a tough game coming into the last few weeks, and they (Balcatta) had a lot to play for too, “ he said. “But despite going behind we were confident we could get the right result and in the end we did.” Whatever happens on Saturday it's been a fantastic season for the club, but after missing out on the title in the last game last season, Keogh said they will be determined to go one better. “The lads have a new sense of belief this year and have been putting in a huge effort on and off the field,” he said. “Inglewood as a football club are going in the right direction with the 18, reserves and first team all in a shout to win something, so it’s a huge positive going forward.” Keogh said the players have prepared well and will be doing all they can to bring him the title. “We’re really looking forward to Saturday’s game, and these are the game you want to play in,” he said. “It’s a big game for both teams, but I think it's been a great season and great for football in WA.”
It’s been a tough week for the Floreat players, but they put that behind last week to beat Joondalup United and keep their top four hopes alive, and defender Andrew Scaldaferro said it was a great team performance. “I think the boys did well to put the off field stuff behind us and get a much needed win,” he said. “It showed the character we have in our squad, and we need to find more on Saturday against the league leaders. I think it’s been a great season for us, dealing with the injuries we’ve had. I think we deserve better than where we’re currently sitting but not much we can do now.” Scaldaferro said they will go into the game confident they can get the right result, and then hope Sorrento slip up. “We need to focus on our game and try to keep our finals hopes alive,” he said. “They (Sorrento) have played away in Melbourne mid-week so it will be difficult for them to back it up on the weekend again.” In team news for Floreat Kris Gate and Bobby Wilson will miss the game.
Bayswater City will be hoping Floreat can do them a favour on Saturday, but they still need maximum points when they take on Stirling Lions at Finance 365 Stadium. City are on a fantastic run of form, but were pushed all the way last week against Mandurah, but Sam Mitchinson said they got the job done in the end. “They (Mandurah) made it really hard for us they came out firing and I think they might be ok for survival if they play with the same intensity as they did against us,” he said. “For us it was just about the three points and making sure we kept our title hopes alive, and it makes this weekend interesting at the top and bottom of the table.” Mitchinson said all they can do is win and then hope Inglewood slip up. “Stirling have been in decent form apart from a belting from Cockburn, so they come with a lot of unpredictability,” he explained. “We will just approach the game as we have done the last nine and give it everything we have until the final whistle. Whatever is meant to be will be, I fancy Floreat to do us a favour, so hopefully we can get the job done too.” Team news?
The battle at the other end is as close, and the clash between Balcatta and Mandurah City will be a winner takes all game, with the loser relegated. Balcatta Coach Salv Todaro said they played well at Inglewood last week but came home empty handed. “I thought it was a very good performance by the boys last weekend, I thought we were very unlucky not to take at least take a point from the game,” he said. “We just lacked that little bit of composure in front of goals and maybe a little bit of luck and of course Inglewood were able to bring on a proven goalscorer in Ashley Rosindale to slot home the winner.” It’s a cup final for both sides, but Balcatta only need a point to survive, but Todaro said the players are ready for a tough game and will be looking to win it. “Yes it’s a very big game on the weekend, but as always we will be going out to win the game, anything less and that could spell trouble for us,” he said. “Mandurah will be emotional as it is Dough Hesketh's last game and I also hear that a couple of their older boys may be retiring. We all know the importance of the game and we will be going out as we have for the last 25 weeks with a game plan to win the game, it’s basically a cup final, with winner taking the prize.” In team news Danny Hepworth comes back into contention this week after missing last week and a couple of players are carrying knocks but all should play.
Mandurah know nothing more than three points will suffice, and they also came home after a good performance empty handed, after a narrow lose at Bayswater, a game Coach Doug Hesketh said it was gutsy effort. “We were very pleased with the performance last week against a very good experienced Bayswater team,” he said. “A win would have been great any other result irrelevant same as this week only a win will do and we’re ready for it.” The Dolphins will be backed by a big contingent of supporters travel down in coaches and Hesketh said they hope to send them home happy. “I really think we have given a good account this season, stepping up, and reaching the Night Series final with a solid looking squad,” he said. “But we’ve had a massive injury list, and played 11 players under the age of 21 in the first team during the season. Apart from a few embarrassing result, we now have a cup final on the last day of the season in my last game as first team coach. So it really is game on, we are very proud of what we are achieving and the hard work to manage a position in this league. We have everyone back now and a full squad to pick from we will do our best to play good football on the day especially for the superb supporters who have been there all year unconditionally.”
In other games on Saturday Perth Glory, who drew at ECU last week to cement their spot in the NPL next season, host Cockburn City at Ashfield Arena, while third placed Perth SC, who will be in the top four, will be looking to re-find their form when they host ECU Joondalup. Sorrento entertain Subiaco at Percy Doyle Reserve, needing a win to reach the top four, while the final game sees Armadale hosting Joondalup United at Alfred Skeet Reserve. Joondalup Coach Nick Jennings said he will be looking for a response from his players after a disappointing game last week against Floreat. “Last week we lacked any intensity in our play and fell way short of my basic expectations of the team. I feel we are a good team when we work hard as a unit but when these levels drop we are very average and last week against Floreat we were as poor as we've been all season,” he explained. “We've addressed a few issues at training and I will be looking for a response on Saturday from the boys, I'm desperate for us to finish the season on a high and we will go looking for a win. There will be changes to the starting X1 this weekend the only player assured of his spot is young Sam Wynne who scored last week and has been impressive since his promotion from the u20 squad.”
25.8.2017
ALL FLAGS STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND NINETEEN – PREVIEW
Only four rounds remain in the All Flags State League Division One, and this week’s Footballwa – Match of the Week takes us to WML Stadium, Bunbury where South West Phoenix entertains UWA Nedlands. The Phoenix had the bye last week, something Coach Mauro Marchione said isn’t the best. “Usually coming off the bye is not a good thing, iIn fact, we run the risk to lose the focus that we had since the game we won against Gosnells in the last fixture,” he said. “We were coming from three consecutive defeats before Gosnells as we lost in that period four of our main players and for that reason we needed to regroup and to re-start almost from the beginning with new players and a completely different system of play. It worked for us and we are here now to play for a spot in the top four. I didn't expect to be in this position at this stage of the year and for this reason I am already happy with this result considering that this is my first year a SWP and that basically this same team is coming from a ninth position last year.”
Marchione said things are going well at the club and he’s been delighted the way the players have responded under his tenure, but he said it’s a long way to go and he hopes to end the season well and see what happens. “All in all, we have already achieved our goal this year that is to have won a little trophy and most importantly, to have gained the consideration and the respect of every team that plays against us. It wasn't like this at the beginning of the season, I can guarantee you, you should have seen for example when Floreat came to Bunbury to play against us the very first friendly of the season, it looked that they came to play against a u/15 team... we won 4-2,” he explained. “Everything started from there for us and we continued to improve since then. The funny thing is that I received a few phone calls from other coaches asking me if it was true we beat Floreat...That meant only one thing: nobody was prepared to bet a cent on us for the season. We proved everyone wrong so far but, on the other hand, we never thought we could win this league either so, let’s be realistic or plan for the near future the promotion. As a team and as a club we still have a long way to go.
“The story doesn't change even though this first year we went well beyond the expectations. For now yes we are focused on the last four games but we are also preparing next year. We are already recruiting for next season and will try a few current players in different position in these last four games to understand what exactly we will need to strengthen this squad to be more competitive in the future. So when you ask about the fight for the top spot this year I can only say that, (as a previously said several times), we know that there are three teams above us that are better structured than us to win this league. We will certainly give it a go hoping to win every game left and also hoping that the ones ahead of us will lose something along the way but it will be very difficult to see Forrestfield, WK and above all Dianella losing points. To be honest, nobody at SWP believes that we can make it this year in this last four game race but having nothing to lose puts us in a very comfortable position, at least.”
The Italian coach said Saturday’s opponents have some quality players and will be a big test for his side. “UWA as well as the other teams we have to play in this last part of the season is a dangerous team but we are going into the game confident that we are now a strong squad that can play against anyone and win,” Marchione said. “In my opinion, UWA is the real surprise of this league: they play great football and have good players all over the park. If the ability of a coach to make his team playing good football is measured by the human material at his disposal then I believe that UWA coach should win the best coach of the year regardless of the final position on the ladder.”
UWA are coming off a disappointing loss in the local derby against the Knights, which ended their four game unbeaten run, and Coach Michael Janssen said defensive errors cost them. “The early goal against us didn't help us and our match plan, but both goals were very unnecessary and we have to blame ourselves for allowing the Knights to score twice that easy,” he said. “Being on the back foot against a very organized and strong team was a challenge, and we were not able to pull a goal back and to come back into the game. They constantly interrupted our build up with little tactical fouls. We had a few chances to score but credit to the Knights not letting us come too close. They are experienced and they know how to manage a result when they are in the lead. We can grow through this experiences and will make up for this on Saturday. Janssen’s said they will be looking to rebound this week, but a trip to Bunbury is a tough one. “Away at Phoenix will be another match you have to be up from the first whistle. We will be prepared to get a result and play to our best level,” he said. “They are organized and enjoy to play a good style, so I expect an interesting and intense match, as they need the win if they want to win the league.”
Dianella White Eagles are in pole position two points clear at the top and this week they entertain Marc Anthony’s Fremantle City at Dianella Reserve. Fremantle beat Joondalup City last week to move them to seventh, while Canning maintained their lead with a big 6-0 win against Canning. Coach Robbie Dunn was pleased with the performance and the boost to their goal difference. “The win last week was a much needed boost to our overall confidence at the club as well as to our goal difference going forward, all I can ask of the lads is to keep on playing to the level I know they can and hopefully get some more wins as we can't control anything else,” he said. “We started talking about our run in with six games to go and right now we have 3 wins from three games and the lads are giving everything they have to try and win as many as they can to see where we end up. It's also been a good distraction from pressure for our group lately as they read comments from another coach that his team is the best in the league along with others, so it's helped to take any pressure off us as a group. All I know is that our lads have been amazing this year and coming back from the brink of relegation to where they are now is a real credit to them.”
Dunn is expecting a tough game on Saturday, with Fremantle improving under their new coach. “Marc (Anthony) has done a fantastic job with Fremantle since joining them from Morley and I personally think he is one of the best up and coming young coaches in the competition,” he said. “I have known Marc since picking him in the state team when we beat the Glory and he was a fantastic player. I have worked with him over the years since then and his coaching style isn't too dis similar to mine so I know he will have his players well drilled and tough to break down. Fremantle played really well last time we met and we only just scraped through for a last minute win and I expect this game to be even tougher. The coaching staff have emphasised to our players that they really need to be at their best right from the start of this game and that we need to be every bit as ruthless at both ends of the park as we were against Canning last week to come away with a positive result.”
Forrestfield United sit in second spot and this week they travel north to take on Joondalup City at the Iluka Sports Complex. Forrestfield were made to fight all the way to beat Rockingham City last week, and winder Rhys Loxley said it was a typical clash against them. “Last week’s win was a real fantastic effort from the boys. Rocky always provide tough opposition no matter where they lie in the table, so I think a lot of credit has to be given to the lads,” he explained. “To show the character they did to go a man down and then go on to get the winner is a true reflection of our willingness to challenge and keep the pace with the top teams around us.” Loxley said Joondalup have been good in their first season in the league and he said they will make it hard for them. “I was impressed with Joondalup when we played them and they have shown this season that they are no pushovers, and I think they can really be proud of their achievements this season,” he said. “They show great commitment and work rate week in week out and if we don't turn up on the day, they certainly have the potential to cause us a few problems. However if we show the commitment and desire of last week, I am confident that we can come away with a positive result.” In other games on Saturday Rockingham City entertain Ashfield at Lark Hill, while Canning City host Western Knights at Burrendah Reserve, while Gosnells City have the bye.
25.8.2017
ALL FLAGS STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND NINETEEN – PREVIEW
It’s week 19 of the All Flags State League Division Two and the Footballwa – Match of the Week takes us to Wanneroo Reserve on Saturday evening where Wanneroo City will be looking to maintain their push to the top four when they entertain neighbours Quinns FC (6.00pm). Wanneroo are coming off the bye and Coach Tim Kantor isn’t a fan. “To be honest this is our 3rd break this season, with 2 byes and cup bye, and I'm not a fan of the uneven team competition, but that’s the way they’ve gone,” he said. “Every game in this league is tough and Saturday night will be no different. We trained on Saturday morning and the boys put in a great shift on Tuesday night.” Kantor said they have had a good season and with four games to go they will be doing all they can to get in the play-off’s but is expecting a tough game against the improved Quinns. “We have been in the top three all season and we are going to have to fight hard over the last four games to secure a play-off spot,” he explained. “We have a full squad to select from which is a good headache to have at this time of year, but we are under no illusions, Quinns are going to be tough to beat.”
Quinns have been on a good run of form unbeaten in their last four games, including a draw against Morley. They beat Balga last week and Alex Sallery said it was a well-deserved win. “It was good to get another home win over a club around us in the table,” he said. “We knew it was a real six pointer and we're all happy we got the job done pretty convincingly.” Sallery said Wanneroo well be desperate to get back to the winners circle after the bye and a loss last time out against Swan, but despite having a few players missing this week they will be looking for the three points. “We know this game will be very hard with them looking to get back to winning ways after a few shaky results and then a bye, but we've got our sights set on top four not the drop zone,” he explained. “Unfortunately we have a few players away to Bali this week and 2 suspended, but that's not going to affect anything, we're confident on getting a result.”
League leaders Gwelup Croatia could wrap up the title this week, when they host Kingsway Olympic at Wishart Street. Kingsway have been in good form and only sit two points out of the play-off’s and are coming off a hard fought win against Shamrock, while Gwelup moved 11 points clear with a win in the top of the table clash with Morley. Gwelup skipper Sebastian Munoz said it was a hard fought win. “The game was a testament to the hunger of the Gwelup boys, wanting the win more than our opponents and that showed in our goal celebration,” he explained. “We go into Saturday’s game exactly like Morley, the opponent doesn't matter, just the result we want does, and we’ll be doing all we can to get the points.”
Munoz said the club have big ambitions and the President, Coaches and players are determined to bring success to the club. “I'm sure Jure is thinking of next year already, but the credit goes to the boys who had to deal with a change of coach halfway through and a change of circumstances losing main players from our starting 11,” he said. “I'm sure the club will be forever grateful for the passion and will of the team that has been there for the past couple years, including the new players, and we know a win on Saturday will give us the title, and we can all celebrate, but we have to get the job done against Kingsway first and I’m confident we can.” In other games Curtin University host Swan United at Edinburgh Oval, Morley Windmills entertain Balga at Wotton Reserve, while Kelmscott Roos, who beat Swan 4-1 in midweek in a catch up game, travel to Harold Rossiter Reserve to take on Shamrock Rovers. Melville City have the bye this week.
25.8.2017
AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION, ROUND EIGHTEEN – PREVIEW
Its round 18 of the Sunday Amateur Premier League and this week’s Footballwa – Match of the week sees Kwinana United hosting Leeming at Kelly Park, in a repeat of their Amateur Cup Semi-Final in the week. Kwinana were held to a scoreless draw last week at Southern Spirit and Coach Kris Donnell said it was a bad day in the final third for his side. “Last weekend I felt we could have been a bit more clinical in front of goal,” he explained. “We squandered four big chances in the second half, which in the end cost us the win, but defensively we were very good, so it was probably two points dropped.” Donnell said he was delighted with the win against Leeming in the Cup on Wednesday and hopes they can but in another good minutes on Sunday. “It was great to get a win in the semifinal against Leeming, and I thought we played a blinder in the second half and didn’t allow them to play at all which was pleasing,” he said. “They are good with their set pieces, always very dangerous, but the boys defended superbly so we will want to take that into Sundays match against them again.” In team news Lewis McConnon and Lee Bates return to the squad.
Leeming edged out Ellenbrook last week and Coach David Palin said it was good to fight back for the win. “Any win when you come from behind is a good win,” he said. “But it was pleasing that the boys stuck at it for 90 minutes against an Ellenbrook side that had some real good threats.” Leeming sit one point out of the top four and Palin said they will be looking for the three points on Sunday to get as high as they can. “A spot in the top four was our aim before the season, and we’ll be doing all we can to reach it,” he said. “We have five games to go and we will continue to try strive for that, starting against Kwinana on Sunday. We have a few sore bodies from the cup loss to Kwinana, so we will see who is available but expect most to be ok.”
Wembley Downs sit five points clear at the top of the table and they kick the round off tonight when they entertain Perth Royals at Edinburgh Oval (8.30pm) The Royals were nearly beaten by second placed Kingsley last week, while Wembley thrashed bottom of the table BB United 10-0. Wembley Coach Colm Costello said it was a good win and they can’t slip up, with teams ready to pounce if they do. “It was a good performance last Sunday against a struggling BB, but with only five games left now, and although we're putting in consistent performances we feel nothing is won yet and one slip and it's game on,” he said. “We need to win every game from here on in and that's the feeling with the lads too. Any complacency or concentration lapse it's dropped points, so although we are top we can't take any team lightly. Teams behind us keep winning we so we need to concentrate on our own jobs and keep performance levels high to keep pushing to the title.”
Costello said the Royals stunned them in the first game before they come home with the points in the end. “We played the Royals earlier on in the season and were two down after 10 minutes and they'll throw everything at us for three points,” he explained. “We never expect an easy game from them and Friday no different. The attitude and approach will be the same and with competition for places I expect all the lads to work hard and hopefully get the job done.” There is another game tonight with North Perth United taking on Ellenbrook United at the Ellenbrook Sports hub, Subiaco host Southern Spirit at Rosalie Park, Kingsley entertain Belmont Villa at Chichester Park , while Hamersley Rovers host BB United at Carine Open Space.
22.8.2017
SAINSBURY IN DOUBT FOR WORLD CUP QUALIFIERS
Defender Trent Sainsbury is in grave doubt for Australia’s decisive World Cup qualifiers against Japan and Thailand with a groin injury. Sainsbury was a standout at the Confederations Cup in June and was playing a starring role against Chile before injury forced him off.
Unfortunately, Sainsbury has not played for his Chinese club Jiangsu Suning since. And despite being named in Ange Postecoglou’s 30-man squad last week, Sainsbury’s ongoing groin problems could force him out of the final 23-player list the coach will name tomorrow.
21.8.2017
WARD OPENS UP ON HIS DARK DAYS
Nick Ward was out of the game for two years until he joined Victorian club Bentleigh Greens mid-season, and feels life after the game can catch most professional footballers by surprise. The 32-year old has played for five A-League clubs amid spells in England with Queens Park Rangers and Brighton and Hove Albion.
Ward’s professional career came to an end in March 2015 when, in his only appearance for Western Sydney Wanderers, he suffered an ACL injury. The midfielder felt he was shut out by Western Sydney but also acknowledged it was not against the rules because of his contractual situation at the time.
However, after taking a lengthy break from the game, he will now face his former club in Wednesday night’s FFA Cup Round of 16. “It was a good opportunity (at Western Sydney), but then I was told a week out I couldn’t do my rehab at the club,” Ward told fourfourtwo.com.au
“I was even more disappointed especially after having in-depth conversations with the physios about what I’m doing, to have three weeks off and come back in early before all the boys and get going, but that wasn’t to be. For whatever reason (coach Tony Popovic) didn’t want me to stay … their duty of care stops when my contract ends”
After a break in Bali, Ward returned to Sydney and received a call from a close friend about starting a café business in the Melbourne suburb of South Yarra, where he worked as a barista and director for two years. He had previous experience with Fallout Clothing & Brooklyn Clothing between 2010 and 2014.
The midfielder is now with Bentleigh and full of belief he can return to the highest level. But he admits there have been some “very dark times” in the last two years after suffering the ACL injury. “I definitely felt lost, I went and saw a psychologist because I was pretty down about everything,” he said.
“I missed the routine of being in a football club every day and having someone structuring your life for you … it sounds like you’re a baby but it’s just what you’re used to. It’s massive issue in sport, you go from doing something every day and that’s the only thing you’ve done since you were a teenager, and then it’s taken away from you.”
Ward says Australia’s young professional footballers need to be realistic about life after the game. “Men in general are not ones to talk about their feelings and you have loads of these men coming out, whether it’s injury or retirement, they haven’t sorted out what they’re going to do,” Ward said.
“They have an idea but that first transition is going to be tough regardless and you’re going to miss football, miss your mates and it’s just so different. People do get stressed out, they go from being on good salaries to nothing. There needs to be some sort of program or just to help.”
“The most important thing about now is the game is growing, there should be investment in education and transition. Make sure you’re drilling it into them – ‘don’t waste your time, because you have time throughout the week and make sure you’re doing something and looking forward’ … you just have to make sure you have something behind you as a plan B.”
20.8.2017
KERR’S HISTORIC FOUR-GOAL BAG FOR SKY BLUE
Samantha Kerr continues to mount a compelling case to win the Best Women’s Player 2017 award, creating history with the first ever four-goal haul in the National Women’s Soccer League. Kerr inspired Sky Blue FC to come from three-nil own against Seattle with three goals of the highest order.
Then, with scores locked at four-all in a pulsating clash, she capped off the masterclass with a 94th minute header to steal victory with the last play of the day. The list of contenders vying with Kerr to be named the world’s best female player will be whittled down to three next month, with national team coaches, captains, selected media and an open vote online to determine the winner.
20.8.2017
DE VANNA: TIME TO SHOW THE WORLD WE'RE SERIOUS
Lisa De Vanna says it's time to show the world that the Matildas are serious about winning the Women's World Cup. The current Matildas squad is one of the most exciting ever assembled and is sure to be a major threat at the 2019 Women's World Cup in France, as well as next year’s AFC Women's Asian Cup.
Alen Stajcic's side have lost just once in 2017 - to Sweden - and have picked up wins against five teams all ranked inside the top fourteen in the world. Three of those were against teams in the top ten at the Tournament of Nations. After defeating United States 1-0 in the opening game, the Matildas backed it up with a 4-2 win over Japan and a 6-1 thrashing of Brazil.
And now De Vanna wants the Matildas to show why they can conquer the world in the coming years, starting with upcoming friendlies against Brazil in Penrith and Newcastle in September. “To be here [in Australia] and showcase their performance and continue the momentum from the Tournament of Nations is a great way to show people what we’re about,” De Vanna said.
“To come off the success we had. And to have the support from our country and (to play) in front of friends and family. You want to go out and show them we’re serious about this. Over the next two years we’re serious about being world champions. And there’s no better place (to do that) than at home.”
20.8.2017
CASTRO BEHIND MOVE TO GET TORRES TO GLORY
Former Barcelona midfielder Xavi Torres could make his way to the A-League this season with discussions under way between the 30-year old and Perth Glory. Glory’s own Spanish maestro Diego Castro is understood to have linked the two parties with the duo having played together during the 2012/13 season at La Liga side Getafe.
Glory are believed to have one marquee slot left to sign the Spaniard on a lucrative contract that could be placed outside the $2.92 million salary cap. Football Federation Australia has scrapped a $3 million fund designed to help clubs purchase big-name stars, but is willing to redirect the money to teams like Glory on a conditional basis for marketing purposes.
19.8.2017
KERR IN LINE FOR FIFA PLAYER AWARD
She's been hailed as the world's best female player and now Sam Kerr could have it officially confirmed by FIFA. The Matildas superstar has been nominated for the Best Women's Player 2017 award after her stunning season at domestic and international level.
Kerr is one of ten players in line for the honour, which will be presented at FIFA's football awards ceremony in London on 23 October. The list of contenders will be whittled down to three next month, with national team coaches, captains, selected media and an open vote online to determine the winner.
23-year old Kerr currently plays for Sky Blue FC, where she is the leading all-time scorer in the United States' National Women's Soccer League. But she is fast emerging as one of the most dominant players on the international stage after scoring four times at the recent Tournament of Nations, which was won by the Matildas.
The ten nominatees for the Best Women's Player 2017 are Lucy Bronze (Manchester City), Deyna Castellanos (Santa Clarita Blue Heat), Pernille Harder (Linkopings/VFL Wolfsburg), Sam Kerr (Sky Blue FC/Perth Glory), Carli Lloyd (Houston Dash/Manchester City), Dzsenifer Marozsan (Olympique Lyonnais), Lieke Martens (Barcelona), Vivianne Miedema (Arsenal), Wendie Renard (Olympique Lyonnais) and Jodie Taylor (Arsenal).
21.8.2017
SOUTH MELBOURNE V SORRENTO - PREVIEW (courtesy www.footballwest.com.au)
Sorrento will be flying the flag for West Australian football on Wednesday evening when they take on PS4 NPLVIC side South Melbourne at Lakeside Stadium in the Westfield FFA Cup round of 16. (5.30pm WA Time) South Melbourne are a powerhouse club in Victorian football and have won the State Premier League title on ten occasions, the latest was last season. Sorrento Coach Jamie Harnwell has had some tough games against them over the years, and he said they are looking forward to the challenge.
“When the draw was made, you couldn't wipe the smile off my face,” he said. “South Melbourne are a big and very proud club, the facilities are fantastic and it's a great place to play. I always enjoyed going over to play them when I was with the Glory, and you always knew it would be a tough game. This is certainly no different and they have a very strong, experienced squad who will be expecting to win.”
The Gulls reached this stage with a 1-0 win against Canberra Olympic, and Harnwell it was a great for them and WA football. “The game against Canberra was a great night and we knew we could create a bit of history by winning through,” he said. “So to be the first WA member fed club into this stage is fantastic and hopefully it doesn't stop there.”
The Gulls success has not come overnight and the work of Harnwell and his fellow Coaches Steve Neville and Michael Johnson has lift the profile of the club and a win on Wednesday will be great fillip to WA football. “I think you have to pay credit to the whole club for the continual evolution at Sorrento, the committee have supported Steve, Michael and I in everything we have tried to implement and the players have bought into what we want to achieve as well. When that happens it gives you a good platform for success,” he said.
“This game is a chance for everyone to show what they are capable of, players and coaches. We are certainly proud to be representing the NPLWA on the national stage. I think the standard of the competition here probably isn't given the credit it deserves and it would be great to see Sorrento FC make a statement by beating South Melbourne and progressing to the next round.”
This season South Melbourne sits in second place on the PS4 NPLVIC, three points behind leaders Heidelberg United, the side that knocked Perth Glory out of the competition in the last round. Coach Chris Taylor has a squad bristling with former A-League players. Skipper Bradley North played for Adelaide United, Matt Millar and Stefan Zinni with Melbourne City, Luke Pavlou with Brisbane Roar, and New Zealand international and former Wellington Phoenix defender Luke Adams.
They were last in action on Saturday against Kingston City, and won 2-0 with a brace from Leigh Minopoulos. Milos Lujic has been the avenue to goal for the Hellas, bagging 15 goals. The striker bagged the only goal in their win against Edgeworth Eagles in the last round, scoring in the 94th minute to see them into the round of 16.
Match Details
South Melbourne v Sorrento
Wednesday August 23, 2017
Lakeside Stadium
Kick-off: 5.30pm WST
20.8.2017
AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION, ROUND SEVENTEEN – REVIEW
Kingsley FC kept the tabs on league leaders Wembley Downs with a hard fought 2-1 against Perth Royals at JA Lee Reserve. The visitors were ahead on 17 minutes, Lee Thomas cross found David Ashworth who nipped in front of the keeper and defender to score. It was tight game with both sides having good chances but Kingsley wrapped up the points five minutes from time. Jayden Drummond raced down the left and cut inside the penalty area and was brought down and the referee pointed to the spot, and David Morris stepped up to convert the penalty. The Royals scored a late consolation goal in stoppage time, but it was too little too late. “It was a very lackluster and poor from our standards but I think a lot of that can be attributed to Perth Royals who played with real intent the whole game,” Kingsley coach Steven Dimitrovich said. “They didn't let us settle into the game at all overall, and I think the Royals can feel hard done by as they were the better team all day.”
Subiaco maintained fourth placed on the table after a hard fought 3-2 win against Belmont Villa at Gerry Archer Sports Complex. It was end-to-end football in the first half and it was the home side who took the lead on 20 minutes, Darren Gamble firing through a crowded area. But seven minutes later Subiaco levelled, Sean Johnson picked out Ryan Fish to score. The visitors were ahead ten minutes later, Johnson finding the target, but in first half stoppage time Belmont levelled through Nasser Hussein. After the break both sides pressed for the winner and Belmont controlled the majority of the second half, but they didn’t take their chances, with Paul McCormack and Patrick Barry going close, but three minutes from time Subiaco showed them how to do it, Tim Pugh scoring the winner.
“Most people would say that a draw would have been a fair result but I think the differences in goals was that we scored three quality ones,” Subiaco Coach Les Cavill said. “This time the boot was on the other foot from last week when we missed some very easy chances. Sometimes you can take your chances and sometimes it just doesn’t happen. This week that happened to Belmont. We only really had one good chance and we took it.”
“Obviously we are disappointed, but they are a good quality side and it was a good quality game from start to finish. The intensity was up,” Belmont coach Phillip Weall said. “The third goal at the end was really disappointing because we had so much attacking play for the last 40 minutes and they get one near the end. It was a good game to watch. Some of the quality of the goals, especially some from the Subiaco guys earlier were really good.”
Wembley DownS maintained their big lead at the top of the table after a comprehensive 10-0 win against BB United at Bosnian Recreation Centre. Gavin Walsh scored after 5 minutes and Banin Hashem shortly after finishing a well worked move down the left. Mark King, Scott Urquhart and Banin again before half time to make it 5-0. It was one way traffic in second half with Anthony Jones, Jay McDonald and Juri Galba rewarded with a great display and King and Walsh wrapping up the goals late on. “It was a big win for us at BB and another vital three points for us,” Wembley Coach Colm Costello said. “BB are having a really rough time this season and never got started, but we played some tidy football and could had more, but very pleased getting seven players on the scoresheet. The lads’ attitude and approach has been great all season so hopefully we can continue it and we have Perth Royals on Friday who we won't be underestimating at all.”
Third placed North Perth United beat Hamersley Rovers 3-0 at Woodville Reserve. United went in front with Jay Steedman on target, and they should have doubled it before half time but missed a penalty. They missed a second penalty after the break, but substitute Danial Conway come on in the second half and he scored two. “Hamersley were a decent team and we found it hard to score,” North Perth Coach Jason Winter said. “I thought we controlled the game from start to finish, and my man of the match was Sean Laheart.”
In other games Leeming Strikers edged out Ellenbrook United 2-1 at John O’Connell Reserve. Ellenbrook opened the scoring on 20 minutes and were leading at half time, but Leeming levelled on 65 minutes. Steven Da Silva ran onto a long ball, raced into box and fired into the roof of the net from 12 meters on a slight angle. Leeming won it with 15 minutes remaining, David Palin scoring a stunning 20 meter free kick. “The boys stuck at it all game and to their credit got the result in the end,” Palin said. “The result also highlights good squad depth with several players out so we couldn’t be happier with the three points and now we switch our attention to Wednesday nights Cup Semi Final.” In the final game Southern Spirit and Kwinana United draw 0-0 at Watsons Reserve.
20.8.2017
KAY UNLOCKS MANDURAH
Bayswater City kept their title hopes alive and put a dent in Mandurah City’s survival hopes after a hard fought 1-0 win at the Finance 365 Stadium on Sunday. The only goal of the game came on 66 minutes, with skipper Trent Kay heading home. “I thought we were quite good at times, but very patchy,” Bayswater coach Chris Coyne said. “To get that one nil win and clean sheet, we’ve kept ourselves alive, I think it means we’ve clinched second spot minimum, so we give ourselves an opportunity to have a second bite at the top four.”
It was a lively start to the game and Bayswater’s Andrija Jukic went close early, after he was given space and time by the Mandurah defence, his long-range shot beat Cyril Sharrock, but the crossbar came to the Mandurah Custodian’s rescue. Mandurah went close themselves on 27 minutes, Jeff Bright got onto the end of Jack Eades’ free-kick but his effort was well saved by Devon Spence. Sharrock came to his side rescue again on the half hour, after Gustavo Giron-Marulanda was played clear but Sharrock stood tall to deny him.
It was another tight opening to the second half, with both sides having chances, but it was the home side who won it, Kay rising highest to head home, much to the delight of the home supporters. Despite the loss, Mandurah coach Doug Hesketh was proud of his players. “We’ve come up to this league on short notice, we’ve started the season with an NPL night series final … and we’re going to finish the season with an exciting game to give the fans something to look forward to,” he said. “On that performance, today against that quality team, with two 17-year olds playing at centre back, this clubs not in bad shape”.
Bayswater City: GK Devon SPENCE, 2 Declan HARGREAVES, 6 Todd HOWARTH, 9 Gustavo Giron MARULANDA, 11 Devon GIBSON (8 Paul MCCARTHY 59’), 13 Trent KAY, 17 Borbor SAM (10 Jason MIRCO 85’), 18 Brent GRIFFITHS, 19 Luka NINKOVIC (21 David HEAGNEY 68’), 20 Sam MITCHINSON, 23 Andrija JUKIC - Subs not used: RGK Dejan ALEKSIC, 12 David STOKOE,
Mandurah City: GK Cyril SHARROCK, 2 Mitchell FIRTH, 3 Jeff BRIGHT, 4 Daniel MARSHALL (10 Daniel DAVIES 26’), 5 Aidan CLARK, 6 Lance LOUVIE, 7 Jack EADES, 9 Sean TROUP, 11 Ryan FRANCIS, 14 Slade RULE, 15 Kevin CASTLE – Subs not Used: 17 David HARDY, 16 Jason RULE, 21 Kieran SHAIL - Referee: Matthew Southern
19.8.2017
KNOWLES LATE STRIKE BOOST GLORY’S NPL HOPES
A late goal from Perth Glory striker Joe Knowles has given them 1-1 draw against ECU Joondalup at the ECU Football Stadium, the point moving Glory out of the drop zone, and now survival is in their own hands going into next week’s final games of the PS4 NPLWA season. Shane Pickering turned home Sam Pollard’s free kick early for the home side, and it looked like that would be enough for Dale McCulloch’s side, but Knowles had the last word firing home to share the spoils.
“We weren’t switched for their opening goal, but I thought we showed great character to come back and dominated for most of the game,” Knowles said. “I’ve had trouble with my right groin, and to be fair I’d been shanking them all day with my left, so I took a chance with my right and happy it went in. It’s my first 90 minutes in a while, so I’m glad to get that in my locker, but we have a big game next week and we’ll be doing all we can to get a result in that one to secure our NPL future.”
The home side made the perfect start and were ahead on just two minutes. Pollard’s free kick picked out Pickering, who lost his marker and turned the ball low past Nick Feely. The home side went close to doubling their lead on the quarter hour, the speedy Daryl Nicol raced down the left and cut the ball back to Pollard, but the former Glory youngster’s shot flashed wide of the target. The Glory started to get in the game with Brandon Wilson pulling the strings in the middle of the park, and Michael McDougall’s shot was saved low by Fraser Greenwood, and moments later the ECU custodian saved well to deny Daniel Stynes’ free kick, before saving low from Wilson’s follow up shot.
Both sides pressed in the second half as the rain set in, and Glory substitute Yacoub Mustafa was denied by Greenwood early. But it was the home side who went close to doubling their lead on 66 minutes. Gordon Smith and Nicol combined on the half way line, Nicol getting a lucky deflection which took him clear, and his lob over the on-coming Nick Feely drifted agonizingly wide of the post. Feely then saved well to thwart Steven McGarry, and the Scottish midfielder headed inches over moments later, as the home side looked to put the game to bed.
With news filtering through from the other game involving teams in the relegation zone, Glory continued to push for the equaliser and it eventually came on 83 minutes. Knowles won possession in the middle of the park, and was given far too much room, he drove forward and finished superbly low past greenwood. It looked like they had gained a vital point, but they almost lost it in stoppage time. A long throw by Jack Jones was flicked on by McGarry, Gordon Smith brought the ball down with his chest, but his volley flashed inches over the top.
ECU Joondalup: GK Fraser GREENWOOD, 3 Ross MILLARD, 4 Steven MCGARRY, 5 Rikki SMITH, 6 Shane PICKERING, 7 Kevin MOON, 8 Declan HUGHES, 9 Daryl NICOL, 10 Gordon SMITH, 11 Samuel POLLARD, 17 Jack JONES – Subs not used: RGK Jordan YOUNG, 12 Fraser GARNAUT, 13 James OWEN, 16 Tom HOUGH,19 Graham DORAN
Perth Glory: GK Nick FEELY, 2 Luca BODNAR, 3 Hayden STEVENS, 4 Cameron MURRAY, 5 Ollie ANNIS, 6 Callum TIMMINS, 7 Bayley BROWN-MONTGOMERY (14 Yacoub MUSTAFA 46’), 8 Brandon WILSON, 9 Joseph KNOWLES, 10 Daniel STYNES, 11 Michael MCDOUGALL (12 Gomo DUKULY 67’) – Subs not used: RGK Kyle MCDONALD, 13 Jack LEECH, 17 Sam RIAK - Referee: Tom Dowle
19.8.2017
INGLEWOOD ONE WIN AWAY FROM THE TITLE
Inglewood United came from behind to beat Balcatta 2-1 at the Perth Plasterboard Centre Stadium, and they are now one win away from taking out the 2017 PS4NPLWA title. Dejan Andric had given relegation threatened Balcatta the lead, but Kenny Keogh levelled before the break. The winner came from substitute Ashley Rosindale on the hour, the win a fitting tribute to Inglewood defender Jason Colli, who was playing his last league home game for the club after announcing his retirement during the week. “It was a great to play my last game at the ground, it was an emotional day and one that will never be forgotten,” Colli said. “Balcatta put up a great fight, but credit to the boys on getting the result.”
It was a massive game for both sides at either end of the table, and the visitors opened the brighter and went close early. Luccas Mello raced down the flank cut inside his marker, but his shot flashed inches wide of the target. Balcatta were up for this one and it was a nervous looking Inglewood, and on 20 minutes Balcatta hit the front. The home side failed to deal with a cross and Andric pounced to score from close-range. Conceding the goal gave Inglewood the spark they needed to get back in the game.
Hamza Hina went close to the equaliser, but he failed to beat keeper Domenico Savoldelli from Matthew Ntoumenopoulos’ teasing free kick, but the Jordan Youth international winger made emends on the half hour. He raced clear from Alex Dunn’s long kick and cut the ball back to Keogh, who was jogging on the spot to fire home. Keogh almost had a second before the break, pouncing on a poor clearance from Savoldelli, but the Balcatta keeper just managed to get back to save his shot.
Inglewood was busy early in the second half and Savoldelli was keeping his side in the game, but he was beaten when Inglewood hit the front on the hour. Ntoumenopoulos’ corner was headed down by Keogh, and Balcatta didn’t clear their lines and Rosindale fired home from close-range. The home side went close to a third, with both Rosindale and Ntoumenopoulos both hitting the woodwork.
With time running out both sides went close. First Balcatta’s Ismael Bangura was denied by Dunn, Before Inglewood’s Chok Dau and Ntoumenopoulos were denied by Savoldelli. But at the final whistle it was Inglewood celebrating the win, and the crowd stood as one to give Colli a standing ovation to send the club great off with three points.
Inglewood United: GK Alex DUNN, 2 Alex ISHIDA-LIVINGS, 3 David CYRUS, 4 Scott BLACKMORE, 7 Kenny KEOGH 8 Jason BARRERA, 9 Alex SALMON (19 Choc DAU 73’), 16 Matthew NTOUMENOPOULOS, 17 Hamza HINA, 18 Jason COLLI (15 Brian FARRELL 93’), 23 Brian WOODALL (10 Ash ROSINDALE 45+1’) – Subs not used: RGK Riley STEVENSON, 5 Adam TONG, 14 Feisal ZAW
Balcatta: GK: Domenico SALVOLDELLI, 2 Rudnei NOGUEIRA (8 Brennan BORZECI 72’), 3 Justin ONEK, 4 Calum O’CONNELL, 9 Luccas MELLO, 10 Jonathan CORNESS, 12 Anton DE FRANCESCH, 14 Brody KENNEDY, 16 Marco CHADINHA (23 Ismael BANGURA 31’), 20 Tom PELLIZZARI, 22 Dejan ANDRIC (19 Endalk ACHAMYELEH 59’) – Subs not used: RGK Luke HUTLESON, 18 Ben MEREDITH – Referee: Steven Gregory
19.8.2017
SABATINI ON THE SPOT FOR PERTH
Perth SC made sure of a spot in the McInerney Ford Top Four Cup, after a late penalty from Niccolo Sabatini gave them a hard fought 4-3 win against Cockburn City at Dorrien Gardens. The home side were ahead early through Scottish import Lewis Milne, but Liam Murray restored parity for the visitors. Gustavo Catarcione put Perth ahead at the break, but a brace from Harry O’Brien turned things around for the Cockerels after the break. It looked like they would take the points but Elliot Tattersal levelled three minutes from time, before Sabatini won it. “I think there were periods where we were brilliant, penetrated really well and created good chances,” Perth Coach Ramon Falzon told the NPL website. “But at the same time, I thought there were instances in both halves where we just made too many errors on the ball, and some of them were really simple and should never happen at first team level.”
Perth lost ground on the leaders last week after a scoreless draw with Joondalup, but they were in front in this one after only three minutes. Milne found room on the edge of the penalty area and he finished low past Luke Radonich. But their lead only lasted four minutes, Murray stabbing home after Perth failed to deal with a free kick. It was end-to-end football with Gian Albano and Catarcione both going close for their respective teams, but seven minutes before half time Perth regained the lead, Catarcione racing clear and holding off his marker to finish clinically past Radonich.
The home looked to go on with it after the break, but they were set back on their heels on the hour when Cockburn restored parity. O’Brien lost his marker and the former Perth Glory youth winger lobbed superbly over Francis Soale. Then10 minutes from time, Cockburn stunned the home side with the lead. O’Brien pounced on a mistimed pass from Kieran Colwell, and finishing well past Soale. Perth were down but not out and three minutes from time they levelled, second half substitute Tattersal finding the back of the net.
Then deep into stoppage time Catarcione raced clear and fell under the challenge of Radonich, and referee Stuart Muldoon pointed straight to the spot, much to the annoyance of the Cockburn players and bench. Sabatini kept his nerve and stepped up and fired into the top right corner to give Perth the three points, and a top four finals spot. “We have got heaps of work ahead of us now leading into the Top Four,” Falzon said. “We’ve got a few players coming back from injury, which is definitely giving us a bit of depth at the end of the season. The Top Four Cup is our trophy to defend as well, and that is the mind frame our players need.”
Perth SC: GK Francis SOALE (c), 2 Alex SILLA, 3 Andreas THEODOSIADES, 5 Niccolo SABATINI, 8 Tom KING, 9 Gustavo CATARCIONE, 11 Matthew MILENKOVIC (20 Elliot TATTERSAL 58), 13 Rocco PIZZATA, 16 Kieran COLWELL, 18 Lewis MILNE, 21 Paul ZIMARINO – Subs not used: RGK Malek KUC, 4 Adrian MADASCHI, 7 Aleks JOVIC, 10 Nicholas AMBROGIO
Cockburn City: GK Luke RADONICH, 5 Kieron STALLARD, 6 Reuben TRISTAO, 7 Calvin WHITNEY, 8 Cameron EDWARDS (3 Daniel ROBINSON 87’), 9 Gian ALBANO, 11 Harry O’BRIEN (c), 15 Daniel SANTICH, 16 Liam MURRAY (10 David ARAYA 65’), 17 Jesse LAZZARO, 18 Aden DA LUZ (14 Julian TELES 46’) – Subs not used: RGK Ben RADONICH, 2 Joshua KUSER - Referee: Stuart Muldoon
19.8.2017
GULLS BROUGHT DOWN BY LIONS
Stirling Lions good end of season form continued with a hard fought 2-1 win against Sorrento at Macedonia Park. Blamo Quaqua opened the scoring early, before Reece Vittiglia gave the Gulls an immediate response. But Moses Kalau’s goal on the hour gave the Lions all three points and put a dent in Sorrento’s top four chances, and also a blow ahead of Wednesday’s FFA Cup game against South Melbourne. “It was our last home match this season in front of many loyal fans and we wanted to put on a showing and win the match,” Daniel Micevski said. “I thought we were solid all over the park and got a deserved result.”
Sorrento looked like they had the FFA Cup on their minds early as the Lions opened the scoring on five minutes. Quaqua was given far too much space on the edge of the penalty area and the former Glory youth midfielders shot flew past James Morgan and into the top corner of the net. It wasn’t what the Gulls were looking for, but they hit back three minutes later. Vittiglia was sent clear of the Lions defence his first shot was saved by John Perkins but Vittiglia fired home the rebound.
The visitors lifted and had the Lions on the back foot, and they went close to the lead on 25 minutes, Vittiglia’s long-range free kick beat Perkins, but the crossbar came to the Lions custodian’s rescue. Then in the shadows of half time Scott Johnson nearly gave the Gulls a half time lead, but his shot was cleared off the line by the alert Alex Tanevski.
The second half was another tight tussle, but clear cut chances were few and far between, that was before the hour mark when the Lions restored their lead. Kalau made space down the left, cut inside his marker and fired home. The Lions went close to a third moments later, the speedy Tanevski got down the left, his shot well saved by James Morgan. Sorrento brought on Sean Canham on 70 minutes and he set up George Hunter, who was denied by a great save from Perkins.
Sorrento battled to the end and Canham was thwarted again late, this time a superb fingertip save from Perkins denied the English striker, as the Lions held on to take the points. “It was a very good win, and we played really well as a team,” Lions striker Cameron Teece said. “If we took our chances better could have won by a lot more, but it was a deserved win.”
Stirling Lions: GK John PERKINS, 2 Michael PUGLIESE, 4 Blamo QUAQUA, 5 David MOLINARI, 6 Dejan SPASESKI, 9 Alex TANEVSKI, 10 Daniel MICEVSKI, 15 Adrian KOIOS, 17 Darren O’RIORDAN, 18 Moses KALAU, 19 Cameron TEECE ( 14 Lukas DE LIMA 84’) - Subs not used: RGK Lance ALAVAKIS, 3 Zane CASELLA, 12 Robbie MCNEIL, 13 Nicholas ASHLEY
Sorrento: GK James MORGAN, 3 George HUNTER, 4 Shane KILKELLY, 5 Scott JOHNSON (9 Sean CANHAM 70’), 6 Daryl PLATTEN, 8 Ryan PEARSON (2 Jacob SHORE 81’), 11 Tim HILL, 17 Reece VITTIGLIA (7 Alex MORGAN 28’), 18 Jordan BROWN, 20 Brad MCDONALD, 21 Sam BYLES – Subs not used: RGK Anthony SALPIETRO, 12 Joshua TUCKER – Referee: David Bruce
19.8.2017
ATHENA TOP HOPES STILL ALIVE AFTER JOONDALUP WIN
Floreat Athena kept their 2017 Top four finals hopes alive with a 3-1 win over Joondalup United in Round 25 of the PS4 NPLWA on Saturday. The visitors were ahead on the quarter hour through Zelfy Nazary, but the home side hit back five minutes later with Tony Taylor on target. Chris Saldaris gave Floreat the lead at the break, before Jon Stynes won all three points after half time. “We had a hard week on the track and today we rolled up our sleeves and it was a battle,” Floreat midfielder Dean Evans said. “They made it difficult for us, but we capitalised on our chances, and it’s good to get the three points after a couple of disappointing recent losses.”
The visitors, who needed a win and results elsewhere to go their way to reach the end of season finals, were ahead on 17 minutes. Zelfy Nazary was sent down the flank, and cut inside his marker and finished clinically past James Bosdet. But their lead only lasted three minutes, as Josh Whitmore’s cross picked out Taylor, who made no mistake from close-range. Bosdet then produced a great save from Evans’ free kick as Floreat pressed for another. But on the half hour the visitors did find their goal, another Evans’ pin-point free kick was headed home by Chris Saldaris.
Joondalup made a good start after the break, and they had the perfect opportunity to level on 52 minutes after referee Steven Gregory spotted a foul in the box and awarded a penalty. They have had trouble from the spot this season, and Matt Sparrow continued that, seeing his penalty saved well by Jason Saldaris. It was a bitter blow for Joondalup who had been in control of the game, but it was Floreat who took all three points with a third goal on 75 minutes. Evans’ again was the supplier, his set-piece picked out Stynes who headed home
Joondalup United coach Nick Jennings was not happy after the game. “Today we lacked heart and any real commitment,” he said. “The boys didn’t listen to the instructions and we lost our structure. I think we got what we deserved and we’ll need to make changes for next week.”
Joondalup United: GK James BOSDET, 4 Arran MAPLESTONE, (5 Joe Stocker 66’), 6 Guy MCDONALD, 7 Matthew SPARROW, 8 Josh WHITMORE, 9 Richard HOWLES, 11 Josh BOOYSEN, 13 Chris PUGH (24 David JAY 73’), 16 Ross EDWARDS, 18 Anthony TAYLOR, 25 Sam WYNE – Subs not used: 17 Luke SERRA 21 Jack NUNN
Floreat Athena: 1. Jason SALDARIS 3. Clayton ARNEZ 4. Andrew SCALDAFERRO 6. Jesse FULLER 8. Jonathan STYNES 12. Jackson MORGAN (9. Declan HUDSON 82) 13. Zelfy NAZARY 14. Ludovic BOI 15. Christopher SALDARIS 17. Dean EVANS 18. Phillip ARNOLD (33. Mark PRITCHARD 80) – Subs not used: RGK Aiden HOLLOWAY, 11 Juma AWAKA, 20 Joe TWEETS - Referee: Steven Gregory
19.8.2017
PERICH WINS IT LATE FOR SUBIACO
A goal in stoppage time from Subiaco midfielder David Perich has given them a 2-1win against Armadale at Alfred Skeet Reserve. The hosts were down to ten men on 67 minutes when Milan Ognjenovic was given his marching orders, but the ten men hit the front 12 minutes from time, thanks to a Charlie Kenna penalty, but Jordan Candlish came off the bench to level five minutes later. Armadale went down to nine-men when Kenna was showed a second yellow card, and Subiaco made their numerical advantage count with Perich’s late winner. “I thought we were pretty average and it was a bit of a scrappy game to be honest, but naturally I’m delighted with the win,” Subiaco player/coach Ian McMurray told the NPL website. “It was disheartening when the penalty was given against us but credit to the boys for coming back and getting the result. It’s been a great season, I think we have lifted ourselves a place or two today so we’ll go into our last game of the season against Sorrento with confidence and hopefully we can continue our good run.”
It was a typical end of season game with chances few and far between in the first half and it was a quiet day for both keepers. The best chance of the half went to the home side five minutes before half time. A ball into the penalty area picked out English import Jordan Pavett, but he failed to find the target, and at the break it was all-square.
The game took a twist on 67 minutes when referee Walter Ciotti showed a straight red card to Ognjenovic for a foul on the edge of the box. From the free kick Subiaco went close to the opener. Alex Randell played the ball short to McMurray, who laid it off to Steve Purton whose powerful shot flashed inches wide of the target. But it was the ten men of Armadale who opened the scoring on 78 minutes, when referee Ciotti pointed to the spot. Kenna stepped up to take the resulting penalty, and Subiaco keeper Ryan Montgomery got a hand to it, but he couldn’t stop the ball nestling in the back of the net.
The home sides’ celebration were cut short when Subiaco leveled five minutes later. Former Armadale midfielder Candlish was picked out by Robert Harding, and he finished clinically past Michael Craggs. Things went from bad to worse for the home side when Kenna was shown a second yellow card and sent off on 85 minutes, and Subiaco pressed for the winner and it came on 90 minutes. Armadale failed to clear their lines in a goalmouth scramble and Perich fired home from close-range to seal the win.
“This was not the result we wanted today,” Armadale assistant coach Jonathan Lupolo-Chan said. “We knew it was going to be a hard game, but in games like these you expect three points. To go down 2-1 after getting the goal and to get two red cards is tough to take, but that’s football. We have definitely got a point to prove next week, to show that a lack of discipline and killer instinct won’t let us down, so next week will hopefully be a much-improved performance.”
Armadale: GK Michael CRAGGS, 3 Jake SARDELIC, 4 Nathan COSTELLO (C), 7 Charlie KENNA, 8 Jordan PAVETT, 10 Alex BOND (17 James ATKINS 72’), 14 David ANNALL, 18 Milan OGNJENOVIC, 19 Beau RAHIM, 21 Broden BROWN, 25 Anthony SKORICH (22 Daniel CUMMINGS 89’) - Subs not used: RGK Alec RADONICH, 11 Cameron DE-LUCA, 20 Ryan JAMES - Red Cards: Ognjenovic 67, Kenna 85
Subiaco: GK Ryan MONTGOMERY (C), 4 Alex RANDELL, 6 Steve PURTON, 8 Mike LAWSON (13 Jordan CANDLISH 65’), 9 Ian MCMURRAY (16 Asher NELSON 76’), 10 Owen COATES (7 Robert HARDING 79’), 11 Carlin FEELY, 12 Nathan SMITH, 14 Ross JARMAN, 17 Alex CASTIELLO, 18 David PERICH - Subs not used: 15 Nathan HADRIE - Referee: Walter Ciotti
19.8.2017
ALL FLAGS STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND EIGHTEEN – REVIEW
Dianella White Eagles maintained their lead at the top of the All Flags State League Division One after a comfortable 6-0 win against bottom of the table Canning City. It was Canning who had the opening chance but defender Spiro Nenadicc got back with a great last ditch tackle. It was a scrappy first half but Dianella got on top of the game, but they just couldn’t take their chances, but they did go in at the break with the lead after a great cross from Emmanuel Kankpeyeng found Francis Wanjuri who cleverly back heeled the ball into the net from five meters. But after the break the home side found their touch and they doubled their lead early, Kankpeyeng crossed for Angel Andres to head home powerfully at the near post. Again Kankpeyeng raced past his marker and cut inside and crossed to Sotiris Theodosiades who finished well. It was 4-0 when Jason Stepanovski, who returned to the side after injury, brilliantly played in Andres who held up his marker and slammed the ball low into the far left corner of the net. Kankpeyeng finally got the goal his performance deserved when he added the fifth, and he was involved with the sixth, his shot crashed off the post and deflected into the net off a Canning defender. It could have been more but Canning keeper Luke Stonebridge made four or five great saves to keep the score down.
“The lads were superb today, they have been threatening to score lots of goals in many games this year and in the first half I thought that this was going to another one of those games where we just wouldn’t punish sides like we should do,” Dianella Coach Robbie Dunn said. “At the break they all spoke about what needed done and to their credit they just kept going and the goals finally came. We had a good performances all over the park today and were very ruthless which is what we talked about all week. I am so happy for the club the supporters and the lads and I hope that they can keep going for the next three weeks and see where we end up.”
A ten man Forrestfield United kept tabs with Dianella after a hard fought 1-0 win against Rockingham City at Hartfield Park. The home side had defender Leslie Mari sent off in the first minute of the second half, and both sides had chances to win it, but the only goal of the game came from Trevor Laure on 52 minutes. The home side opened brightly and Rhys Loxley was causing problems down the flanks, and he had two great low crosses early, which were inches away from Laure and Jordan Hart at the back post. Loxley then went close himself, racing clear but keeper Alfie Brincat was out bravely to save at the wingers’ feet, and was injured in the clash and replaced by Phillips Herschell. Rockingham went close on the half hour, Lydon Hodgkiss’ header beat Luke Martino, but was cleared off the line.
But in the first minute of the second half Forrestfield defender Mari was shown a second yellow card by referee John Taran and was sent off. But six minutes later the ten men hit the front, Hart found space and cut the ball back for Laure, who finished into the bottom corner of the net. Rockingham went close to the equaliser moments but Christian Hogge fired wide from close-range, while Hilario Nunes shot over the top with just Martino to beat. Forrestfield also had chances, Loxley was denied by Herschell, and Hasan El Yassri picked out Sani Sinclair, but a poor first touch let the striker down. But Laure’s goal was enough to keep the home side in the mix for promotion to the NPL.
“I’m over the moon with the performance today, but all the work and effort I and my family exerted into this beautiful club is a very small contribution in comparison to the love, support and genuine concern during our darkest period of our life,” Forrestfield Coach Rod Banjac said. “As tough as it is to deal with, I will find strength to keep playing my part in this fantastic environment. A lot of these boys have grown up with Marko and for them to pull through and perform the way they have is something special. This tragedy made me also realise that we have a lot of great people in our broader football community, and I'm so grateful for the support we have received.”
Fremantle City moved up to seventh with a 3-1 win against Joondalup City at Hilton Reserve. They opened the scoring when a corner from maverick winger Ben Reynolds was met by Ben West who scored a bullet header giving the keeper no chance to send them into the break with the lead. Fremantle were on top early in the second half and their dominance was rewarded with a second, with Anthony Lomma finishing after a nice move down the left by Reynolds. Joondalup were back in the game when they scored a contentious goal from a corner when following a scramble in the box, it was cleared off the line, but a goal was awarded. But Fremantle regained their two goal lead moments later, when Anthony Lomma header picked out Alec Robinson, who rolled his marker and finished from close-range. “It was a good win good win for us which now pulls us further away from the bottom places,” Robinson said. “We picked up a bit of momentum the last few weeks under the new gaffers which stands us in good stead building for next season, but we will continue to build, and try to cause an upset next week away at Dianella.”
Ashfield returned to winning ways with a 3-0 win against Gosnells City at Ashfield Arena. The game was wrapped up in the first with Ashfield scoring all three goals. Gareth Lloyd opened the scoring with a long-range shot which went in off the post, before Jamie Stewart heading home a second. It was 3-0 when some neat play down the right and the ball was sent into the box by Harry Clisby, and Stewart slotted home his second. “The second half wasn't the prettiest of games of football to watch and the damage had been done in the first half,” Ashfield Coach Matt Wardle said. “Credit to Gosnells who never stopped trying and on another day it could have been a different game if they had taken their chances. All the best to Alan Dunlop and Gosnells in their quest for survival a great club and great people involved.” In the final game Western Knights won the local derby against UWA-Nedlands 2-0 at the UWA Sports Park. The Knights opened the scoring when goalkeeper and defender didn't clean the ball on time and Adriano Jelenovic nipped in to walk the ball home. They wrapped up the points when a corner kick picked out Jelenovic alone on top of six yards box and he finished well. – South West Phoenix had the bye this weekend.
19.8.2017
ALL FLAGS STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND EIGHTEEN – REVIEW
It was the top of the table clash in the All Flags State League Division Two, and Gwelup Croatia have moved 11 points clear after a 1-0 win against Morley Windmills at the Croatian Sporting Complex. It was a tight first half with chances at both ends but it was scoreless at the break. But the only goal of the game came late with Teeboy Kamara’s shot was deflected home. “It was a good win for us, they made it very tough and really challenged us. We came in at half time fairly disappointed as we had created more opportunities but we were wasteful. Second half was much the same and we were happy when Teeboy scored a good goal late on for us,” Gwelup keeper Tom Dixon said. “It's the first time in a while we've had a game where we've had to really work for the three points, which is a massive credit to Morley who I think will take a lot out of that game into a successful playoff run. We move on and we've got Kingsway this week and a win means mathematically the league title is ours.”
Quinns moved away from the drop zone after a 2-0 win against Balga at Gumblossom Park. It was an open game early, with both sides having good chances. The best chance fell to the visitors, Nahom Michael broke down the left and crossed to an unmarked Curtis Wreglesworth three yards out of an open goal but the ball was inches away from him at the back post. After that let off the home side hit back and opened the scoring, after Adam Buckley finished smartly from a shot that had ricocheted of the post. For the last 20 minutes of the first half Balga were penned back by Quinns playing very high and very wide with Jake Benson-Cooper, who returned to the lineup after a year of living interstate, and Ali Elhassain providing the width. Quinns’ second goal came when Benson-Cooper was fouled on the left of the penalty area, and Gareth Hamilton stepped up to take the resulting free kick past Aleks Vrteski and into the bottom corner of the net. Balga opened brightly after the break, but they couldn’t find the target, and Quinns' two first half goals were enough for the win.
Swan United missed a chance of jumping to third on the table after a 4-3 defeat against Melville City at Rosher Park on Thursday evening. Melville raced to a two goal lead at half time but Swan were back in the game with two goals in as many minutes after half time. First Chris Marshall’s flicked on a free kick to John Monterosso to head home. Then straight from the kick off, they were level Marco Trimboli cutting inside and finishing with aplomb. But Melville then took control with two more goals and despite James Shamim late goal, Melville hung on for the win. In other games Kingsway Olympic edged out Shamrock Rovers 1-0 at Kingsway Reserve while Kelmscott Roos and Curtin University drew 0-0 at Frye Park – Wanneroo City had the bye this week
18.8.2017
PS4 NPL-WA ROUND TWENTY-FIVE PREVIEW
With only two weeks to go in the PS4 National Premier League WA, it’s heating up at both ends of the table and this week’s Footballwa – ‘Match of the Week’ involves club at either end, as Bayswater City entertains Mandurah City at Finance 365 Stadium. It’s a repeat of this season’s Night Series Final, but three points are vital for both sides as they fight for the title and relegation respectively. The last time the two sides met in the Premier League at the venue Mandurah snatched a dramatic 1-1 draw in round 20 in 2011. Alex Caniglia gave the home side the lead on the quarter hour mark, and it looked like they would win it but the visitors were awarded a controversial last minute penalty by referee Michael Nugus, and Ivan Zuvela converted from the spot to share the spoils. Mandurah were edged out by ECU Joondalup last week, but results elsewhere went their way to still keep them in the mix Mandurah Coach Doug Hesketh, who is in his last season at the club, said it was a good performance from his side, but ECU had a little more quality in the final third on the day. “I thought we played well in the first half against ECU, and we had opportunities, but in difficult conditions never took advantage,” he explained. “But in the second half we never got going really, and I thought they had the edge on the day, so no complaints and good luck to them Dale assembled a good squad and they have some great quality up front with Stevie McGarry, Nicol and Smith.” Hesketh is determined to keep the Dolphins in the NPL, and he said they go to Bayswater looking to get a positive result. “This week we are really in another tough game, and we all know Chris is a winner and they will be out for a result, but so are we, the NPL is where we want to be,” he said. “My job here is not finished yet, we want to test ourselves against the best teams week in week out, and it's a challenge we accept, and the lads will be doing all they can to get a result on Sunday.” In team news Mark McLachlan and Ollie McGee will miss the trip.
Bayswater continued their good run, making it seven wins straight with big win against Armadale, to keep them on the heels of Inglewood for the title. Coach Chris Coyne said it was a great result but told his players they need to lift for the finals. “I was super happy with the result and at the end of the day, but I wasn’t happy with how sloppy some of the boys were in their distribution and decision making,” he explained. “We worked hard but we are a passing team and possession in good areas is vital so when players don’t take care I get annoyed. It wasn’t through anything other than complacency and I can't let that creep in at this time of the year.” Coyne said the good form on the park is only a part of the clubs success, and he said the clubs committee have worked extremely hard off the pitch. “I have been very privileged to work with such a good committee. We don’t always agree on everything but as we are like minded in our desire to move the club forward, we always put the club before our individual needs,” he said. “So many clubs are fraught with people only there for their own selfish reasons, we don’t have that at Bayswater and we all acknowledge that the club and the players must come first.” A win is a must against Mandurah and Coyne said they need to prepare well. “This will be a very tough test against two of the most experienced gaffers in WA with Doug and Mick Lyons at the helm,” he said. “Playing on Sunday could be a Godsend, as we will know the results of the previous day, but we will just ensure that we prepare as we always do to give ourselves every opportunity.” In team news for Bayswater, David Stokoe, Brent Griffiths and David Heagney available and Dejan Aleksic available after illness. Sunday (3pm) Bayswater City v Mandurah City – Finance 365 Stadium – Referee Matthew Southern
Inglewood United continues to hold off Bayswater and this week they entertain Balcatta at Perth Plasterboard Centre Stadium. This one also has consequences at both ends of the table, and Balcatta will be looking to end a seven game run with a win, and they will be up against it, with Inglewood only losing once in their past 18 matches. Balcatta were beaten by Stirling Lions in the local derby last week, and Salv Todaro’s young side have been on freefall, and the coach will be hoping they turn it around sooner rather than later. Inglewood beat Cockburn City last week, and keeper Alex Dunn said it was a hard fought win. “I actually thought on the weekend against Cockburn was one of our best performances all year,” he said. “They (Cockburn) are a tough team and were coming off a massive win, so we knew it wouldn't be easy, and we played some great football and at a high intensity. The win was the most important thing at this stage of the season, everyone was delighted to get it and move on to this week.” It’s an end of an era at Inglewood on Saturday, with Jason Colli playing his last home game before retirement at the end of the season, and Dunn said he’s played against and with Jason and wished him all the best. “Credit to Jason he's had a fantastic career, and has been a very loyal servant to Inglewood, and deserves a good send off,” he said. “I have had the pleasure of playing against Jason, and now alongside him in the past two years. I am sure it'll be an emotional day for everyone involved, but all the lads want to send him off in style and keep our title hopes alive with a good win.” Dunn said Balcatta will be desperate for the points so they need to be at their best. “We have been treating the last 5-6 weeks as cup finals, and this game is no different,” he said. “We won't be taking them lightly because if you don't show up any team can roll you on their day. Everyone knows what is at stake and everyone is committed to ensure we get a positive result on Saturday.” In team news John Migas is still injured, but Ashley Rosindale is back from a week off and Hamza Hina is back after suspension. - Saturday (3pm) Inglewood United v Balcatta – Perth Plasterboard Centre Stadium – Referee Steven Gregory
Perth SC lost ground on the top two last week with a 0-0 draw against Joondalup United, and this week they host Cockburn City at Dorrien Gardens. Cockburn were beaten at Inglewood last week, and pushed the leaders all the way, and Scott Miller will be looking for a similar performance on Saturday, but with a different result. Perth midfielder Harley Orr said it was a frustrating day, but he side both sides had chances to win it, with both keepers playing well on the day. “Yes it was a very disappointing result against Joondalup, but we both had chances in the first half, but we couldn’t find the net,” he said. “Francis Soale our keeper saved a penalty and made a number of crucial saves to keep us in it. But we had a large amount of chances and just couldn't convert and their keeper made some good saves late on.” Orr has been a regular in the Perth starting 11 this season, and he’s enjoyed working with Ramon Falzon, who has brought the best out of him. “This season I've had the most minutes out of everybody, which has been great and playing in a new position at holding midfield, in place of our captain Clark Keltie who has been injured,” he said. “It's been good working with Ramon, and he's put a lot of faith in me and gives myself and the boys a lot of confidence.” Orr knows the importance of three points on Saturday, and then they have to hope the other results go their way to keep in the title race. “Yes the game against Cockburn is a must win,” he said. “We can't think about other results because it's out of our hands, so we just need to make sure we get our result and see what happens after the game with other results, but we need to get our job done first.” - Saturday (3pm) Perth SC v Cockburn City – Dorrien Gardens – Referee Stuart Muldoon
Perth Glory’s NPL status is hanging by a thread, and this week they head to the ECU Football Stadium to take on ECU Joondalup. The Glory were beaten by Subiaco last week, the defeat making it just one win in 11 games for John Gibson’s side, and like the other teams down at the foot of the table, they need to turn that around swiftly if they are not to drop of the NPL. ECU on the other hand, has hit some good form, but it’s too late for Dale McCulloch’s side to reach the end of season finals, but he has brought in some talented youngsters and a number have flourished. One is Declan Hughes the youngster returned to the club from Bayswater this season and has cemented a spot in the middle of the park, and he’s going from strength to strength, and he’s steeped up from the under 20’s well. “Obviously the first team games are a lot quicker compared to 20’s games and a lot more physical,” he explained. “But playing alongside experienced players makes my job a lot easier, and having the likes of Steven McGarry and Kevin Moon around me gives me great confidence and I’m really enjoying my football at the moment.” ECU came home from Mandurah with the points, and won in mid-week against Subiaco, making it three wins on the trot, and Hughes said it was a good win at Mandurah in difficult conditions. “It was a good win for us, and the conditions were very tough, the first half was a battle up until Daryl (Nicol) scored,” he said. “The last 20-30 minutes the game opened right up and we secured the 2-0 win to keep our good run going.” Hughes knows the Glory will be up for Saturday’s game with relegation on the card, but he said they would only be concentrating on their performance and if they get that right the result will take care of itself. “We aren't concerned about other teams, we only worry about our game,” he said. “We are going to go out and play our normal game, and if we get that right we will get the three points.” Saturday (3pm) ECU Joondalup v Perth Glory – ECU Football Stadium – Referee Tom Dowle
It’s a massive week for Sorrento a trip to Macedonia Park to take on Stirling Lions on Saturday, before a huge Westfield FFA Cup clash against South Melbourne on Wednesday. The Lions beat Balcatta last week, with youngster Alex Tanevski bagging a hat-trick, while Sorrento consolidated a top four spot with a big win against Floreat Athena. Sorrento midfielder Tim Hill said it was a huge three points in the race for the end of season finals. “Last week was a hard fought win, but I thought we deserved it in the end,” he said. “Floreat were desperate for the points too, but we scored a couple of good goals and defended well to get the positive result.” Hill said the FFA Cup is huge, but and they are looking forward to the challenge. “South Melbourne is going to be a massive challenge for the club, but we are buzzing at the moment, and once we’ve played Saturday’s league game we will focus on the cup,” he explained. “It’s great for us to be the first WA state team to make the round of 16, so the boys are all looking forward to the trip.” Hill returns to his former club this week and he said they are a good side, and they need to be at their best to get the win and maintain their top four spot. “You never know what you’re going to get from the Lions, but with boys like Moses and Alex Tanevski up front they are always dangerous going forward,” he said. “So we’ll need to be strong defensively, and if we do that the rest will work itself out as we’ve been getting the job done lately.” In team news Scott Bulloch and Alex Morgan return to the squad. - Saturday (3pm) Stirling Lions v Sorrento – Macedonia Park - Referee David Bruce
Floreat Athena’s top four hopes took a huge blow last week with their defeat at Sorrento, but they will be looking to bounce back at the same venue when they take on Joondalup United at Percy Doyle Reserve. The 2-0 defeat has almost put an end to Floreat’s top four hopes, they need to win their last two games and hope results elsewhere go their way. Joondalup put a dent in Perth SC’s title hopes last week with a 0-0 draw, and Coach Nick Jennings thought they deserved more. “Personally I felt we should have taken all three points at Perth, although we rode our luck at times we produced our best defensive performance of the season,” he said. “At the other end we missed so many opportunities, including yet another penalty, but at the end of the day we were happy with the point.” Joondalup have shown the rest of the league they deserve to be in the NPL, but the ground situation has but a cloud over them, and Jennings hopes its sort out very soon. “In MY opinion the ground issue is a real sore point, and it would appear the council have got cold feet on assisting fully and all their promises came to nothing,” he explained. “We are an NPL side on the pitch but have nothing off the field, which puts us at a massive financial disadvantage. Sorrento FC has been great landlords this season, and hopefully this arrangement will continue.” Jennings said Floreat will be hurting after last week loss, but they will be looking to improve on their last performance against them. “We will look to take the game to Floreat who smashed us 5-1 in the earlier fixture, after we had taken the lead,” he said. “I'm sure it will be highly entertaining and we are desperate to return to the winners circle. It's been a long wait for three points and our last home game of the season would seem the perfect time to seal it with a victory.” In team news Rowdy Yates will return to the Joondalup squad, but Jay Marsden, Alex Wild and Jess Compton are still missing. Youngster Sam Wynne, who made his first start last week, and impressed will be line for another start. - Saturday (3pm) Joondalup United v Floreat Athena – Percy Doyle Reserve – Referee Daniel Cole
In the final game of the round Subiaco makes the trip to Alfred Skeet Reserve to take on Armadale. Subiaco continued their good form with a win at the Glory last week, while Armadale were well beaten at Bayswater. Subiaco were also in action in midweek, with 1-2 loss against ECU Joondalup and Coach Ian McMurray said both games were tough. “Saturday’s match was played in tough conditions, but we got the job done,” he said. “They (Glory) were very mobile and kept the ball very well, which we knew they would. We worked hard collectively, defended well and had our keeper in fine form. We managed to score goals at important times of the game and came away with an important win. “On Wednesday I thought we deserved something from the game, it was another tight affair, but we now have to recover and get set for the trip to Armadale.” It’s been a good season for the Rosalie Park club and under the tutelage of McMurray, and the Coach said the players have been outstanding. “This season has been excellent for us and we’ve come a long way in a short time,” he explained. “The lads have been great throughout the season, getting stronger as it’s gone on. We’re delighted with performances this year, but realise we need to keep improving for our remaining matches and for next season.” The trip to Armadale is one McMurray is looking forward too. “Alfred Skeet is never an easy place to go, and we know Saturday will be another challenge,” he said. “It will be a battle for sure, and they (Armadale) took the point’s last time, so I’m sure our lads will be keen to get the win this time around.” - Saturday (3pm) Armadale v Subiaco – Alfred Skeet Reserve – Referee Walter Ciotti
18.4.2017
ALL FLAGS STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND EIGHTEEN – PREVIEW
With only five rounds to go in the All Flags State League Division One the top of the table is still as tight as ever, with only six points separating the top five sides. This week’s Footballwa – ‘Match of the Week’ takes us to the UWA Sports Park, when UWA-Nedlands entertain Western Knights in the local derby. UWA came home from Canning with a big win, while the Knights are coming off the bye. The last time the two sides met at the same venue in the league was in round 3 last season, when they fought out a 2-2 draw. The visitors were a head early with Adriano Jelenovic on target. Conor Devlin levelled for UWA, before Alex Kretowicz gave UWA the lead at the break. It looked like the home side would hold on for the three points, but a late goal from Paul Lloyd gave both sides a share of the spoils.
UWA Coach Michael Janssen said the win at Canning was more impressive with a number of players missing. “With some key players missing against Canning, it was a compelling presentation of the team,” he said. “The win was never in danger throughout the 90 minutes and we controlled the game from the whistle. We were able to perform as a unit and used at least three of our chances. I thought Canning definitely presented themselves not like the bottom of the ladder team, and fought hard for every yard. We always focus on the up-coming matches, so Canning was another important step in our development.” Janssen said Saturday will be a tough test, but it’s one they are looking forward too. “Saturday will be a different game, the Knights come back fresh from the bye and are keen to get back on track, but we are prepared to manage the challenge,” he said. “All players are ready for a hard battle and we want to make up for the game in May. Looking at the ladder never helped anybody for a game, we have to deliver on the highest possible level and we want to win the next game. Anything else is not important, but the 90 minutes at the Mack from 3pm-5pm.”
League leaders Dianella White Eagles have home ground advantage when they meet Canning City at Dianella Reserve. Canning lost at home to UWA, while the Eagles came home from Joondalup City with a hard fought 2-0 win. Coach Robbie Dunn said it was a very important win, and his squad is getting stronger each week. “Last week’s game was a must win for the club and the players responded very well indeed by playing a very solid game and they deserved their win,” he explained. “These players really amaze me as the group has been decimated by suspensions, holidays and players returning overseas etc, but someone forgot to tell the remaining players that this is tough to deal with as they keep turning up for the games and putting in some pretty gutsy performances. Our last loss was against a very defensive Bunbury side and we copped a silly own goal and a last minute disaster from our own terrible mistake but the players lifted themselves up and learnt from their pain and since then they have slowly powered their way back into becoming a decent side again.”
Dunn said they have prepared well for Saturday’s game, against a side that drew with them in the reverse fixture. “The players know that we need to keep doing what we are good at and if we do then the results should come, we also know that in football anything can happen so we will work hard on being more ruthless in attack as well as defence,” he said. “Canning took two points from us last time we met and this time the players really want to get three points and they will work very hard all over the park during the game to hopefully achieve this. We will be very wary of Canning and show them the respect they deserve but hopefully we can perform at our usual level and come away with the win. We have centre back Agid Agoud back from suspension and midfielder Yann Castrec back from his overseas trip, we will also await news on Ermais as he suffered a head on crash with a drunk driver whilst on his way to the game against Joondalup last week. Thank goodness he had airbags or he wouldn't be with us so now we just wait on the news of whether he is ok and if he is up for the game or not.”
In other games Fremantle City entertain Joondalup City at Hilton Reserve. Fremantle let a lead slip at Rockingham last week, while Joondalup were beaten at home by Dianella. The sides met in round 7, with Fremantle coming home with a 3-2 win, and Saturday will be another tight contest. Ashfield host Gosnells City at the Ashfield Arena, with both sides looking to bounce back from defeats last week, Ashfield at the Phoenix, and Gosnells against Forrestfield. Ashfield will be hoping for a repeat of their round 7 away game when they beat Gosnells won 4-1. In the final game Forrestfield United, who sit in third spot, two points behind the league leaders, but do have a game in hand, host traditional rivals Rockingham City at Hartfield Park. Forrestfield beat Gosnells last week in the local derby, while Rockingham, who has dropped off the pace in recent weeks, and they haven’t won since round 10 when they beat UWA, and are coming off a 1-1 draw against Fremantle last week. But games between these two sides are always close contests and Saturday will be no different.
Forrestfield Coach Rod Banjac said the win last week was a great effort from his players. “The win against Gosnells was a just reward for the way our boys conducted themselves over the last three weeks under extremely difficult circumstances,” he said. “Taking part in a derby away from home was always going to be a challenge but we were up to it, and although we got the desired result I was very impressed with Gosnells ability and in particular the style and quality of football they play. I have no doubt that they will cause a few upsets before the season finishes.” Banjac knows Saturday will be a tight contest, and recent form goes out the window in games against Rockingham. “One word comes to mind when thinking of Rocky and that is respect. Fierce rivals on the park but best of friends once the match finishes,” he said. “Games between the two clubs are always well supported where football was always the winner. And there is no doubt that this one will be up there with the best of them as both clubs are extremely ambitious with an aim of winning promotion. We have quite a few players missing training due to flu or injuries, but we have a healthy depth within the squad and will be fielding a very strong side on the weekend that will be completely focused on the three points.”
18.4.2017
ALL FLAGS STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND EIGHTEEN – PREVIEW
Gwelup Croatia have taken a strangle hold of top spot in the All Flags State League Division Two table, and sit eight points clear, but on Saturday their nearest challenges Morley Windmills make the trip to Wishart Street in the Footballwa – ‘Match of the Week’. The Windmills are the only team to beat Gwelup in the league this season, a 2-1 win at Wotton Reserve in round 7 and if they are to keep in touch with the leaders they need to win this one. Morley lost ground in the title race last week drawing 3-3 against Quinns, while Gwelup thrashed bottom of the table Shamrock Rovers 8-1. Morley Coach John Castrilli said last week’s game was one that got away, but he said they were missing a couple of players, but should have won it. “Yes the result was a little disappointing we had plenty of chances to kill the game off, but besides missing a bucket full of chances every week,” he said. “We were missing the suspended Igor Novakovic and Yves Mwila due to work commitments which didn’t help, but we are also conceding sloppy goals, which are a huge frustration at the moment.” Castrilli said it’s a tough game on Saturday, but they will go into it full of confidence, especially after the last result against them. “We go into the game against Gwelup this week with a full squad so there will be no excuses,” he said. “We get Igor and Yves back this week for the top of the table clash, and I’m confident that if we play to our full potential then we can come away with a result.”
Gwelup striker Gavin Knight said last week’s win was well-deserved on a difficult pitch, but they got the job done. “When you play bottom teams sometimes there is an upset, but the lads played very well last week and we got a big win,” he said. “It was nice for the team to score eight goals, and put in a good performance, which gives us confidence for this week’s game against Morley.” Knight said the players are looking forward to Saturday’s game as they look to maintain their lead at the top of the table. “It would be great to win this weekend against Morley and get one step closer to the league title,” he said. “But were under no illusions it will be a tough game, like the last time we played them. They have some good players in there squad and could make it hard for us to break them down, but we are full of confidence with a few wins in a row at the moment, that we can get the job done. We have a full squad to choose from, and that includes me after missing a few weeks with injury.”
Gwelup Coach Paul Dundo has had perfect start to his tenure at the club and he was happy with the win at Shamrock. “It was another big win which was direct result from the players following the pre-game instructions and being patient, moving the ball quickly to break down the defensive formation that Shamrock set up with. We knew what to expect going into the game, so was I very happy with how the lads applied themselves and most importantly played for 90 minutes,” he said. “We were up 3 nil at half time and it was very pleasing to see us go on with it and score another 5 second half goals. All starting 11 players and the substitutes that came on, which included young Lucas Munoz making his 1st team debut, were outstanding.”
Dundo knows Morley will be looking to close the gap with a win, but he’s confident they can get the job done. “This weekend is a real six pointer, and definitely game of the round. As a past Player and Captain of Morley it is nice to see the club doing well and pushing for promotion back to the First Division with things going well on and off the park for Morley with John Cas and Danny Evans at the helm,” he explained. “This Saturday however is chance for us to make amends for the first round last minute 2-1 loss to Morley and also increase the gap between us. Our boys are well motivated for this game and have been working very hard in training this week, to ensure we continue on with our winning streak. It will be a huge test for us and I am expecting a very tough game this weekend, so we know we must put together another solid 90 minutes. With it being match of the round hopefully we draw a large crowd, so I encourage all neutrals and anyone looking to watch a very competitive game of Football to get down to the Gwelup Croatia Soccer Club at Wishart Street, Gwelup this Saturday at 3pm.”
Swan United moved into the top four last week with their win at Wanneroo, and this week they hosted Melville City at Rosher Park on Thursday evening (7.30pm). Melville are coming of a big win against Kelmscott Roos, moving them up to seventh on the table, and this one should be a cracker. Swans Coach Matt Debarro said last week’s win has given them a boost for the run in. “It was great to win such an important game, and move us into the top four,” he said. “I felt for Wanneroo, they were very good but we held on to get the win soaking up the pressure well late in the game.” Debarro said Melville is good football side and he isn’t surprised that they have picked up in recent weeks. “They (Melville) are always competitive. They play good structured football so it's sure to be a good game,” he said. “We’re looking forward to the challenge, and hopefully we can get a third clean sheet in a row and also get the win. We still have 6-7 players missing due to injury, but I'm very pleased with the likes of Marco Trimboli and Joey Romeo, and Cam Anderson who have stepped up in the first team.”
In other games Kelmscott Roos host Curtin University at Frye Park. Curtin drew at home against Kingsway last week, while Kelmscott slipped out of the top four with their heavy loss at Melville. Quinns held second placed Morley last week and this week they host Balga, who are coming off the bye. In the final game Kingsway Olympic are still in contention for a top four spot and this week they entertain Shamrock Rovers at Kingsway Reserve. Rovers are still adrift at the foot of the table, and need to start to pick up points sooner rather than later if they are to avoid relegation. Kingsway keeper Todd Hoyle said they should have won last week. “It was a little disappointing not to get the three points, especially with the amount of chances we had,” he said. “But we’ll take the point which keeps us in the mix for the top four and move forward.” Hoyle, who joined the club from ECU Joondalup earlier in the season, said Saturday game is a big game in their top four chances. “Obviously it’s a massive game for us with the way table is looking, every game from here on in is crucial,” he said. “But we will take it one week at a time, and with the form we are in at the moment there’s no reason why we can’t make the top four.”
18.8.2017
AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION, ROUND SEVENTEEN – PREVIEW
It’s week 17 of the Amateur Premier Division, and this week’s Footballwa – ‘Match of the Week takes us to the Gerry Archer Sports Complex when Belmont Villa entertain Subiaco. Belmont is coming off a narrow loss against Kwinana, but skipper James McDaid said they deserved more from the game. “Yes losing 3-2 to Kwinana was a very painful result for us. The players and management were very disappointed at the referee’s decision to give our central defender Dean Armstrong a straight red card at the start of the second half for what looked like a fair challenge,” he explained. “Even when we went down to 10 men we still looked the more dangerous team, pulling it back to 2-2, then only for Kwinana's goal keeper producing two fantastic short range saves, and keeping his teammates in the game. Being a man down took its toll and within the closing stages of the game Kwinana got through our tired defence and slotted home the winner to our disappointment. We have no doubt if we had finished the game with 11 men we would have collected the three points.” Belmont beat Subiaco at their place earlier in the season and McDaid said they will be looking for a repeat on Sunday. “We had a great game away to Subiaco on our first meeting, winning 3-1. However, they are a tough opponent and always give us a good battle,” he said. “It was the same when we were playing them two seasons ago back in division one, so we must be up for the physical battle and switched on from kick off to collect three points from a tough side to break down. We’ve gone through a change in management recently, welcoming back our old coach Phil Weall to steer us in the right direction as we feel we have seriously underachieved this season considering the talent we have at the club. We are good enough to beat any team in that league when we have our strongest side available, which unfortunately has been difficult this season.” In team news for Belmont Sean Carroll returns to the squad after suspension, but Armstrong will miss after his red card last week.
Subiaco let the points slip last week after 1-2 loss against Kingsley, who scored both their goals in the last nine minutes. It was a bitter blow for Les Cavill side and Ryan Fish said they deserved more from the game. “The Kingsley defeat was hard to take for the lads,” he said. “Playing so well but coming away with nothing was difficult, but at the end of the day we didn’t take our chances, and Kingsley did when they came, so credit to them they are a great side.” Subiaco sit in fourth spot on the table eight points ahead of Sunday opponents, and Fish is expecting another tight game. “A win against Belmont keeps in touch with the top, but we know they are a good side and they are coming off a loss, so we know they will be looking to bounce back,” he said. “We will need to be at our best if we want to take the points, but we’re confident we can. We go into the game with no injuries and we will probably have a similar line-up to last week.”
League leaders Wembley Downs hit the road this week, with a trip to The Cage to take on bottom of the table BB United. BB United are still searching for their first point of the season, and are coming off a 3-1 defeat against Perth Royals last week, while Wembley won the top of the table clash with North Perth United. Wembley winger Stephen Geoghegan said it was a tight game, but they took their chances. “Last week was a very tough game, and we knew we needed to be well organised to deal with a dangerous in-form North Perth, but our management Colm and Sully had us well drilled and we executed the game plan quiet well,” he explained. “To be fair it wasn't our best performance of the season, but we worked hard and did what was needed to get the three points. We lost to them 4-3 to last minute goal in round five, and we could hear them celebrating in the dressing room, so we took that feeling and turned into a positive for us and we've won every single game in the league since then. We won't get carried away though, as there is still a lot of football to be played.” Geoghegan said they will be ready for a tough challenge, against a side who have struggled this season, but he knows they have nothing to lose. “BB away is next and another three points at stake, we don't take any opponent lightly, and we’ve got six games to go and they are six cup finals,” he explained. “That’s the mentality for our run in, they (BB United) have had a tough time of it lately but all credit to them, they get back out there every week and have another go, so we have to be up for it early.” In team news Juri Galba returns from suspension, while Brion Moriarty and Gary McCarthy return from injury and all will be all eager to try get back into the side.
In other games Leeming Strikers entertain Ellenbrook United at John Connell Reserve, while Kwinana United hit the road when they take on Southern Spirit at Watsons Reserve. North Perth United will be looking to bounce back from their loss last week when they host Hamersley Rovers at Woodville Reserve, and in the final game second placed Kingsley travel JA Lee Reserve to take on Perth Royals. Kingsley left it late last week to beat Subiaco, but midfielder Jayden Drummond said it showed the character they have in the squad. “I thought we controlled the first 25 minutes, considering the state of the pitch, but we couldn't take our chances,” he explained. “Then it was backs against the wall for rest of the game, they scored a quick counter attacking goal, but fair play to Dima for going for it, and we put four up top in the last 10 minutes and courtesy of Lee Thomas two long throws we stole it at the death, fair play to all the lads we weren't the best, but we never gave up.” Drummond said Sunday’s opponents will be up for this game and they need to be on their game. “These are probably the danger games, with the Royals being at the opposite end of the table,” he said. “But I'm sure if we stick to the way we've been playing in recent weeks bar the Subiaco game we should get the job done and keep the pressure on Wembley.” – In team news for Kingsley Paul Rainford is back in goal after a week away, and Lewis Flatt is hoping to return from injury.
18.8.2017
MCINERNEY FORD SPONSORS TOP FOUR CUP (courtesy footballwa.net.au)
Prominent WA car dealership McInerney Ford is the new major sponsor of the NPLWA Top Four Cup and Junior NPLWA Top Four Cup for the next two seasons. The McInerney Ford Top Four Cup will take place at the end of the PS4 National Premier Leagues WA season. The McInerney Ford Junior NPLWA Top Four Cup is scheduled to take place over three weeks commencing on Sunday, September 10 and concluding on Sunday, September 24.
The new deal continues a long-standing relationship between McInerney Ford and Western Australian football. Dealer Principal Denis McInerney is delighted to be continuing McInerney Ford’s support of Football West and WA football through the sport’s top-tier finals series. “We have been supporting Football West in developing the game for a long time and we are looking forward to continuing our partnership through the McInerney Ford Top Four Cup,” he said. “Finals football is exciting for everyone involved. Through our partnership with Football West we will continue to embrace the growth of the game while celebrating the level of football talent in WA.”
Football West Chief Executive Officer James Curtis said the partnership would provide additional exposure for the game to the wider football community. “McInerney Ford have long supported Football West and our extended partnership will give us further capacity to grow the sport in WA,” Curtis said. “The McInerney Ford Top Four Cup is a celebration of the highest-performing teams in the PS4 NPLWA and McInerney Ford’s involvement will greatly assist us in presenting a high-quality event for the next two seasons.
“We look forward to working with Denis and his team to make the McInerney Ford Top Four Cup a great celebration of the football talent we have in our State.” The McInerney Ford Top Four Cup semi-finals will take place on Saturday, September 2 with the McInerney Ford Top Four Cup Preliminary Final held on Wednesday, September 6. The series concludes with the McInerney Ford Top Four Cup Grand Final on Saturday, September 9. This year’s grand final will be held at the home of Bayswater City, Finance 365 Stadium (Frank Drago Reserve).
17.8.2017
BURGESS SETS SOCCEROOS GOAL
Scunthorpe United's Australian defender Cameron Burgess has revealed his plan to try and break into the Socceroos set-up in the next 12 months. Burgess inked a three-year deal with Scunthorpe in June after coming through the ranks at Fulham’s academy.
The 21-year old centre back, who has represented Australia at Under-20 and Under-23 levels, grew up in Perth, departed the south-west London club in the pursuit of regular first-team football. Burgess has previously been on loan at the likes of Oldham Athletic, Bury, Ross Country and Cheltenham Town.
"There’s guys that have been involved and played games and have gone the same path I’m going like Bailey Wright, James Meredith, (Massimo) Luongo," Burgess told fourfourtwo.com.au "Guys that have actually managed to be involved from being at a top team in this division that I’m playing in now, which is encouraging. But obviously I’ve got to wait my turn and prove that I’m good enough to get in the team."
"I’ve got a little while to go yet I imagine but that’s definitely a goal for me and is a big part of coming to Scunthorpe. It’s all about playing well for your club. They’re (the Socceroos) always watching, I don’t know how they manage to watch all the games but I know they do watch a lot of games and its encouraging to see. They’re always watching, that’s what you have to keep at the back of your mind."
Burgess has made two appearances for Scunthorpe so far this season, with the club undefeated after the first two rounds of league. The Iron went close to promotion last term, finishing third on the table and then losing to Millwall in the playoffs. Burgess said going up next year into the Championship is the target.
“The attraction firstly was the ambition of the club, it matches my ambition," he said. When I met the manager that’s all he talked about, to get to the next level and how we’re going to get there. I played against Scunthorpe twice with Oldham last season and they were a hard-working team, they had all the right things about them."
Obviously they had a bad last month, conceded three penalties in the last 20 minutes against Gillingham and had some bad luck. But apart from that it’s pretty much the same team this season so hopefully can do it again. First and foremost I want to play games. That’s how I’m going to learn and get better."
16.8.2017
SMITH AT THE DOUBLE FOR JACKS
A brace from skipper Gordon Smith has helped ECU Joondalup to hard fought 2-1 win against Subiaco, in their round 19 catch-up game at Dorrien Gardens on Wedensday evening. The Scottish striker opened the scoring on the half hour, but Nathan Smith levelled for Subiaco on the hour. Both sides had good chances to win it, but it was Gordon Smith who won it, firing home with ten minutes remaining. “It was a hard fought battle out there tonight, they (Subiaco) were a honest side,” ecu Coach Dale McCulloch said. “We played some good football in the first half and took the lead, but we didn’t get that second, and full credit to Subiaco they got back into it and levelled, but we manged to get the winner and I thought we deserved it. We’ve spoke about ending the season well, and the lads put in a good shift tonight, so we will recover and move on to the Glory on Saturday, who are desparte for the points.”
The origanal game was washed out, but this one was a tight affair, with clear cut chances few and far between early, the best chance fell Subiaco on 17 minutes, Carlin Feely cross shot was pushed away by Fraser Greenwood. But it was ECU who opened the scoring on 32 minutes. Steven McGarry started the move sending Daryl Nicol down the left, his cross picked out Gordon Smith, who finished clinically past Ryan Montgomery. Both sides had chances as the game sprung to life, Alex Randell’s free kick was tipped over the top by Greenwood, before Gordon Smith saw his shot cleared off the line by Steve Purton. Subiaco ended the half well and Purton’s long-range shot was saved by Greenwood, before the ECU custodian reacted well to tip over Randell’s free kick late.
ECU should have doubled their lead early in the second half, Pollard’s goalbound shot was cleared off the line by Nathan Smith, before McGarry’s follow up shot was blocked by some desparte defending from Subiaco. That great defending became more important, as five minutes later Subiaco levelled. Good lead up play ended with Nathan Smith racing into the box and the defender finished low past Greenwood. Nicol was causing Subiaco problems down the right, and his shot on the run was saved low by Montgomery, but on 80 minutes it was the visitors who won it.
A deflected through ball picked out Gordon Smith at the back post, and his shot into the ground beat Montgomery at his near post. Nicol was in again four minutes later, but his shot was tipped over the top by Montgomery, and the speedy winger fired inches wide moments later. Subiaco pressed late, and Ian McMurray turned his marker in the box, but Jack Jones got back with a great last ditch tackle as the striker was prepared to pull the trigger. It was Subaico ending the game the better looking for the equaliser, and they forced two late corners, and even keeper Montgomery went up for them, but ECU hung on to take the points.
Subiaco: GK Ryan MONTGOMERY, 4 Alex RANDELL, 6 Steve PURTON, 9 Ian MCMURRAY, 10 Owen COATES, 11 Carlin FEELY, 12 Nathan SMITH, 14 Ross JARMAN (5 Matt CLARK 87’), 16 Asher NELSON (7 Robert HARDING 83’), 17 Alex CASTIELLO, 18 David PERICH – Subs not used: RGK Hamish ST GEORGE, 3 Ger FITZGERALD, 8 Mike LAWSON
ECU Joondalup: GK Fraser GREENWOOD, 3 Ross MILLARD, 4 Steven MCGARRY 5 Graham DORAN (15 Rikki SMITH 76’), 6 Shane PICKERING, 7 Kevin MOON, 8 Declan HUGHES, 9 Daryl NICOL, 10 Gordon SMITH (13 Ben HINSHELWOOD 91’), 11 Samuel POLLARD (12 Fraser GARNAUT 90’), 17 Jack JONES - Subs not used: RGK Jordan YOUNG, 16 Tom HOUGH - Referee: David Bruce
16.8.2017
INGLEWOOD'S COLLI CONFIRMS RETIREMENT PLANS
Inglewood United stalwart Jason Colli has announced he will hang up his playing boots for the final time at the end of the 2017 season. In an era when footballers are often all too ready to swap one club for another, Colli has defined loyalty by committing himself to Inglewood United for the past fourteen seasons.
Throughout that time he has been a regular fixture of the defence, chalking up a club record 373 (and counting) appearances while lining up alongside close to 200 teammates and playing under ten different coaches. The 33-year old makes his final appearance on home soil this Saturday when Inglewood hosts Balcatta in the second to last round of the regular season.
“I feel the time is right for me to retire,” Colli said of his decision. “I could keep playing as both mentally and physically I feel great but I want to go out on my terms. Also, we have good group of young players at the club and now it’s their time to step up and show what they can do.”
“Inglewood is a great club to be a part of filled with great people, and that made the decision to retire very difficult. Ever since I walked through those gates back in 2004 everyone from Ziggy and Karl Kramer, John Nemeth, Agnes Hastie and many others have made me feel welcome and that feeling has not changed.”
Colli first played juniors at Forrestfield United and spent a handful of seasons with Perth SC as a teenager prior to moving to Inglewood in 2004. “If you had of told me then that I’d play over 350 games for Inglewood I would have laughed,” he said. “I didn’t think I would play that long, let alone for the one club.”
“Inglewood has been my home and I feel privileged to have been able to play for the club for so long. I will always look back with great pride at every time I pulled on the shirt. I just wish we could have won more silverware but, hopefully, we can make up for that in the next couple of weeks.”
Colli’s solitary trophy success came in 2005 when he scored the opening goal in a 3-0 defeat of Swan IC to bring the Night Series title to Inglewood. “Winning the Night Series was definitely one of the highlights of my career,” said Colli, who four years later was part of the State team that triumphed over South Australia 4-2.
“There is nothing like taking to the field with your mates to try and win a game of football, and once the 90 minutes are over heading up to the clubhouse to dissect what happened over a drink or two … that routine has been a big part of my Saturdays and I’d be lying if I didn’t say I’ll miss it.”
“Inglewood has been great to me and I want to remain involved at the club, as to what that will be that will have to be discussed with the committee at the club at the end of the season. Away from the football field, I’m looking forward to spending more time with my young family and playing the odd round of golf.”
16.8.2017
WILLIAMS HOPES FOR INDIA BREAK
Defender Aryn Williams is open to playing internationally for India should the opportunity arise. Released by Perth Glory in April and following a brief spell with Victoria club Preston Lions, the 23-year old recently signed with I-League newcomers NEROCA FC. And already the former Perth Glory player has come to the attention of India national team coach Stephen Constantine.
“I have relatives in Mumbai which is where my mother and grandparents were born,” Williams told newindianexpress.com “Playing for India is definitely something that I am looking to do in the future. Rhys is currently playing for Australia and my twin brother Ryan has also been playing for the Young Socceroos in recent times. If I get given the opportunity then of course, I’d love to play for the Indian national team.”
Williams played juniors at ECU Joondalup prior to entering the academy system at Burnley. He joined Perth Glory in 2015, making 22 appearances for his hometown club across two seasons, and when NEROCA came knocking he didn’t think twice about moving to India. “It’s a great opportunity for me,” he said. “Also I wanted to follow in my grandfather Lincoln Grostate’s footsteps as he played for WIFA in the 1950’s.”
“Coming to India is a new chapter in my career … My hopes for this season are to play well for Neroca and hopefully challenge for some silverware either in the I-League or the Super Cup. I’d like to remain within Indian football for years to come as I think I have a lot to offer and hopefully one day I can pull the Indian national team jersey over my head with pride.”
14.8.2017
BABALJ: MY TIME IS FINALLY COMING
“After every rain comes sunshine” according to Eli Babalj’s parents. And for the two-time Socceroo it's a mantra he lives by. Five years ago, then 20-year old Babalj was one of the hottest properties in Australian football after netting nine goals for Melbourne Heart, winning a Young Footballer of the Year nomination and earning a move to Europe.
Unfortunately, due to injury, selection issues and off-field problems, Babalj hasn’t kicked on, with stints abroad at Red Star Belgrade, AZ Alkmaar and PEC Zwolle. But after signing a two-year deal with Czech contenders Mlada Boleslav earlier this month and debuting a few days later, Babalj is hoping it’s time for the “sunshine”.
“A lot has happened,” Babalj told fourfourtwo.com.au “It has been a rollercoaster. I don’t like to talk about it. It’s been a long series of unfortunate circumstances but I’m here now, I’ve recovered from my knee injury, I’ve played games with Adelaide in the Champions League and now I’ve signed in Europe.”
“It’s looking up. My luck is going to change. I believe in that. I’ve been persistent. I’ve invested in my body so much. I’ve given everything I can to get back to where I should be. It’s been a frustrating couple of years, not being able to impact anything.”
Babalj’s move to Red Star in 2012 ended in a premature exit after the Serbian club failed to fully compensate Heart, leading to his A-League return to his former club. The Sarajevo-born Perth-raised striker moved back to Europe in 2013, joining AZ but was overlooked and battled a groin injury before being loaned out to Zwolle where he failed to make an impact.
AZ also loaned out Babalj to Adelaide United in 2015 where he suffered a long-term anterior cruciate ligament injury. Babalj and AZ mutually agreed to terminate his contract with a year to run in 2016, with the Australian heading to a specialist clinic in Belgium his rehabilitation.
His A-League return with Adelaide in 2017, which included an AFC Champions League goal, marked his full return to fitness after his injury frustration, before finding his way back to Europe with Mlada Boleslav out of the blue.
“I booked a three-week holiday in Europe and I thought I’d be back in Australia where I was,” Babalj said. “A few things happened and I ended up staying in Europe and training in Belgium. I was just seeing what was out there. This opportunity came up, someone got in contact with me, saying they were keen to see me.”
“After having the injuries I had last year, not many teams want to take a risk on you, which is unfortunate. They wanted to see me first hand and see if everything was alright. I went in and trained two days and did medical tests. I did all the medicals and funnily enough in that week, I had a few other offers.”
Babalj wouldn’t be drawn on which clubs made him offers, but it’s understood they were teams in Australia and South Korea. “I had to weigh up what I wanted to do, sometimes when you’re waiting, there’s nothing and you’re stressing and then all of a sudden you get a few options,” he said.
“I was here training, everything worked well, the club wanted me and if someone told me a year ago I’d come back after the injury I’d play in the AFC Champions league, score there and then sign with a top four club in the Czech Republic, I’d take it with both hands. I’m very grateful for this opportunity.”
Babalj, who is reluctant to do media interviews and doesn’t have any social media profile, is optimistic his time is coming at Mlada Boleslav, who are regularly one of the top four clubs in the Czech league, which is ranked 13th in Europe. “I think my luck is turning and I’m very fortunate to be where I am now with this contract,” he said.
“I’m hoping to stay fit and healthy. That’s the only thing that’s stalled me in my career so far. I know when I’m fit and healthy what I can do. I believe in myself and my body now. Hopefully everything goes my way now. That’s all I can hope and believe in.” Babalj’s Mlada Boleslav are due to face Karvina in the Czech League on Monday.
14.8.2017
MONEY BEHIND GRIFFITHS' GLORY EXIT
Departed captain Rostyn Griffiths has indicated money was a major reason for his decision to leave Perth Glory, saying A-League clubs can’t compete in the Asian player market. Griffiths was granted a release after Uzbekistan giants Pakhtakor Tashkent swooped for the defensive midfielder and paid Glory a transfer fee.
Griffiths, 29, took to Twitter to explain his hurried departure to fans. “Leaving any club is difficult, but to leave your hometown club, your family and your friends is a decision that can’t be taken lightly,” he wrote. “I weighed up everything, spoke with my family and together we decided the move to Pakhtakor FC was the right one.”
“Due to the A-League salary cap it is very difficult for clubs to compete financially with offers from overseas clubs, such as the one I received from Pakhtakor FC. Unfortunately, this is the challenge that confronts A-League clubs who are trying to compete in a global market and, in many cases, rapidly growing markets like Asia.”
13.8.2017
HERD AIMING FOR SOCCEROOS HONOURS
After spending over a decade in England, Chris Herd is hoping his return to Australia will help him achieve more goals - one of which is a return to the Socceroos. The versatile 28-year old recently joined Western Sydney Wanderers following his release from League One club Gillingham, where he played last season.
Herd joined Aston Villa as a teenager and was sent out on several loan spells including to Bolton Wanderers, Wigan Athletic and Wycombe Wanderers. He has also been capped three times for the Socceroos and was included in the Asian Cup squad, but injury forced him out before the tournament began.
And while his focus on his club football, Herd is hopeful of returning to the national stage. “That’s something that I think every Aussie player wants to be involved in,” he said. “I’ve been involved in the past and I would like to get myself back into the squad. First of all I’ve got to do well for Western Sydney and then everything will take care of itself.”
Having left Australia as a teenager, Herd says his time in England has shaped him as a person and a player but he insists there is still more to come from him. “I moved over as a 15-year-old with a mate that plays at Perth Glory now, Shane Lowry,” explained Herd, who made over 120 appearances in England.
“It was a big experience and it’s made me who I am today. It’s made me stronger, a better person and a better player. I’m only 28, I can still improve - there’s still more to come. I don’t have any regrets. There are things I still want to achieve in my career, so I’m just hoping to do that at Western Sydney.”
13.8.2017
DAVIES SADDENED BY CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE CLOSURE
Pahang captain Matthew Davies has expressed his sadness that the Football Federation Australia has decided to shut down its Centre of Excellence, where he trained as a teenager. The centralised program gathers the nation's most promising young footballers from ages 15 to 17 every year, housing and training them at the Australian Institute of Sport in Canberra.
Founded in 1981, the programme has aided the development of a multitude of Socceroos including Frank Farina, Kevin Muscat, Craig Moore, John Aloisi, Mark Viduka, Lucas Neill, Brett Emerton and Mark Bresciano. Davies entered the programme in 2010, going on to captain the team and voted the 2011/12 National Youth League Player of the Year.
FFA announced earlier this year that the Centre of Excellence will close at the end of 2017. The reasons for that decision include increasing costs and the decline in the number of former Centre of Excellence trainees progressing to the Socceroos, as well as the need for A-League clubs to shoulder more of the responsibility of developing young players.
"I feel a little bit saddened about that, to be honest," 22-year old Davies said. "I know they have produced a lot of players, the statistics that they pour is that a lot of the future Socceroos actually came through the Centre of Excellence. I think the decision had something to do with the budgeting and a change of direction. It's a bit disappointing and disheartening to learn about it."
Davies was a little sceptical when asked whether the A-League clubs are in a position to fully develop their own young players. "They (the clubs) have a big hole to fill," he said. "It won't be easy for the clubs to take over the role of giving such good training, given the lack of funding surrounding youth development." Davies is part of Malaysia’s Under-22 side preparing for the 2017 South East Asian Games.
13.8.2017
WILLIAMS RELISHES MATILDA’S TOURNAMENT TITLE
The football world seemed surprised by Australia's convincing romp through the Tournament of Nations. Everyone, that is, except the Matilda’s themselves, and especially goalkeeper Lydia Williams. Australia won all three games at the round-robin competition hosted by the United States.
The Matilda’s defeated the hosts 1-0 in their opening game before sending a combined total of ten goals past Japan and Brazil. Williams, a Matilda’s regular, said the performance at the Tournament of Nations was a culmination of the team's work over the last three years.
"We have been building toward tournament-style games, how we recover and get the results we need," Williams said. "The majority of us have been together for three years with the same style and the same coach. Everything ticked the boxes and all the blocks have come together. To not only win it, but win it convincingly, that was a big thing for us."
Williams' tournament was cut short when she suffered a quadriceps injury in training, but not before she recorded the clean sheet against the United States. "We went out guns blazing and determined to play not only our style of football but also to counter the way the Americans play," she said. "We were effective in that."
Williams is currently in rehabilitation and focused on Australia’s friendly series with Brazil in September. "It is tough," she said. "We have national team in another month so it is eyes on that and trying to get healthy. I want to get to the best I can. It was hard, a bit of an overload injury. It is just about building up strength again."
13.8.2017
AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION, ROUND SIXTEEN – REVIEW
Wembley Downs maintained their lead at the top of the Sunday Amateur Premier League with a hard fought 3-1 win against third placed North Perth United at Butlers Reserve. A big crowd was on hand for this top of the table clash and the home side were ahead on ten minutes. Stephen Geoghegan cross from the left was headed across goal by Jason Trpevski and Mark King poked it home from close-range. Wembley keeper Niall McCarthy saved well to keep their lead, and on the stroke of half time Wembley doubled their lead. Geoghegan free kick on the edge of the box went straight through the North Perth keeper to give the hosts a 2-0 lead.
But North Perth hit back in the shadows of half time, with Mehdi Rabei scoring from the penalty spot after a foul by skipper Jay McDonald. North Perth were then reduced to ten men and Wembley took advantage and Anthony Jones made it 3-1. The gloss was taken off the win when Trpevski was sent off late. “A great team performance from the lads, and a classic game for the neutral,” Wembley Coach Colm Costello said. “As I said last week I knew both teams would go for it, but we had to shuffle around a bit with Juri Galba out suspended and lost Brion Moriarty with an injury but the lads were immense across the pitch. We took our chances and Jay and Jonesy kept us rock solid at the back. We move on now to next week and away game at BB and get back to hard work on Tuesday and Thursday.”
Second placed Kingsley also won, with a come-from-behind 2-1 win against Subiaco at Rosalie Park. It looked like Subiaco were going to surprise Kingsley when they lead 1-0 with Sean Johnson’s goal just after half time, but Kingsley levelled ten minutes from time through Aaron Lickiss, before Joe Joyce scored the winner for Steven Dimitrovich Kingsley. “We had to chase it knowing Wembley was ahead so we went after it and credit to the boys today,” Dimitrovich said. “It keeps the pressure on Wembley and keeps some pressure on ourselves, so who knows what can happen from here on in if we just keep winning and doing our job.”
Kwinana United edged out Belmont Villa 3-2 at Kelly Park. Alan Benson put the home side ahead but Belmont leveled. The home side led again with a great free kick from Craig Dineley, but Belmont hit back to level again. But with 15 minutes remaining the home side won it. Gary Lunt went through one on one with the keeper to score. “We had to work hard for the three point but we got the job done,” Kwinana Coach Kris Donnell said. “I was really pleased with the effort from the side, the boys didn’t stop all day.” In other games Ellenbrook United edged out Southern Spirit 4-3 at Ellenbrook Sports Hub, while BB United are still looking for their first win of the season after going down 3-1 against Perth Royals in the bottom of the table clash at the Cage. In the final game Hamersley Rovers drew 0-0 with Leeming Strikers at Carine Open Space.
12.8.2017
GRIFFITHS COMPLETES UZBEK DEAL
Former Perth Glory captain Rostyn Griffiths has completed his move to Uzbek giants Pakhtakor Tashkent after signing an 18-month deal. The eleven-time Uzbek champions announced the deal on Thursday, after 29-year old Griffiths jetted to Tashkent late last week.
Griffiths played last season with Glory having had his first European experience with Dutch club Roda JC in 2015/16. Pakhtakor finished fifth in the Uzbek League last term and are currently sitting fifth, however they were champions in 2014 and 2015.
The club is managed by former Ajax and Rangers striker Shota Arveladze. "Griffiths is a very experienced player, his transfer was the last for us to the second half of the season." Arveladze said. "We filled the place for an Asian player."
"We will try to show attacking football, but in modern football, we must not forget about the defence as well. The team must have a balance, only then you can achieve the goal. In the club, we all work to become a superclub, starting from the president to every employee. We are moving in the right direction." Williams is currently in rehabilitation and focused on Australia’s friendly series with Brazil in September. "It is tough," she said. "We have national team in another month so it is eyes on that and trying to get healthy. I want to get to the best I can. It was hard, a bit of an overload injury. It is just about building up strength again."
12.8.2017
SAINSBURY IN A RACE AGAINST TIME
One of Ange Postecoglou’s key defensive options, West Australian Trent Sainsbury, is likely to go into the Socceroos’ crucial World Cup qualifier against Japan with little preparation. Trent Sainsbury is expected to anchor the Socceroo’s back three despite having not played since Australia drew with Chile at the Confederations Cup in late June.
Sainsbury played in all three games at the Confederations Cup on the back of a loan spell at Inter Milan, but hasn’t played since returning to his Chinese club, Jiangsu Suning, due to a groin injury. Though his club expect him to accrue some minutes before Postecoglou’s squad assembles in less than three weeks’ time, it’s believed he is viewed as touch and go to be match fit by Socceroos officials.
12.8.2017
INGLEWOOD CLOSE IN ON THE TITLE
Inglewood United maintained their lead at the top of the PS4 National Premier League WA table after a hard fought 2-0 win against Cockburn City at the Perth Plasterboard Centre Stadium. Brian Woodall gave the home side thee lead just before half time, before the league’s top goalscorer Alex Salmon made sure of all three points on the hour to maintain their one-point lead at the top with two games remaining.
“This was a big game for us, and I thought we dominated the game and deservedly got the three points,” Salmon said. “It was nice to get a goal and good to see Brian get his, we’ve worked well over the past few weeks and it’s great to see us both on the scoresheet, and we move on to another big game against Balcatta who are struggling at the other end of the table, but we will do what we always have, prepare well this and go again.”
The home side dominated early, but were wary of a Cockburn side who bagged seven last week against Stirling. They carved out a number of good chances, Woodall curling shot whistled over the top, Chok Dau lifted his shot over the top, before Kenny Keogh’s low shot flashed across the face of goal without an Inglewood player getting a touch. Cockburn then went close themselves on 27 minutes, when Calvin Whitney’s strike was saved well by Alex Dunn.
Cockburn keeper Luke Radonich kept his team in the game, first denying Woodall and eight minutes later saving well from Salmon’s close-range header. But the home sides’ pressure was rewarded on the stroke of half time. Keogh won possession and played in Woodall, who finished clinically past Radonich. Both sides had early chances after the break, Julian Teles was picked out in the box, but fired over the top, before Salmon’s effort was saved by Radonich.
But it was Salmon who secured the points finishing well from close-range after being picked out by Keogh’s cutback, making it 28 goals in 23 games for the English striker. Cockburn threatened late, but Inglewood held firm with skipper David Cyrus and Scott Blackmore outstanding. The win keeps Andy Keogh’s side in pole position, and they know two wins in their final two games will see them crowned league winners.
Inglewood United: GK Alex DUNN, 2 Alex ISHIDA-LIVINGS, 3 David CYRUS, 4 Scott BLACKMORE, 7 Kenny KEOGH, 8 Jason BARRERA, (5 Adam TONG 86’) 9 Alex SALMON, 15 Brian FARRELL (6 Victor BRAUNER 74’), 16 Matthew NTOUMENOPOULOS, 19 Choc DAU (14 Feisal ZAW 66’), 23 Brian WOODALL – Subs not used: RGK Riley STEPHENSON, 18 Jason COLLI
Cockburn City: GK: Luke RADONICH, 2. Joshua KUSER, 5. Keiron STALLARD, 6. Reuben TRISTAO, 7. Calvin WHITNEY (16. Riley VAN DIEKEN 77’), 9. Gian ALBANO, 10. David ARAYA (3. Liam MURRAY 59’), 11. Harry O’BRIEN, 14. Julian TELES, 15. Daniel SANTICH, 17. Jesse LAZZARO (18. Aden DA LUZ 69’) - Subs not used: RGK Ben RADONICH, 8 Cameron EDWARDS - Referee - Tom Dowle
12.8.2017
BAYSWATER KEEP IN TOUCH WITH INGLEWOOD WITH WIN
Bayswater City have won for the seventh straight game after a comfortable 4-1 win against Armadale at Finance 365 Stadium. Andrija Jukic gave the hosts the lead early, before Gustavo Giron-Marulanda doubled their advantage before the break. Jordan Pavett pulled one back for Armadale, but Marulanda added a his second and Borbor Sam added the fourth to give Chris Coyne’s side the points, and keep them only one point behind PS4 NPLWA leaders Inglewood United.
“I’m obviously pleased with the result and the effort, but I thought we had to be a lot more professional and a lot more clinical than we were today,” Coyne said post-match. “We will just keep doing what we are doing and hope that someone slips up; it was Perth’s turn today so we have to keep winning games and hope someone can get a result from Inglewood. We know they (Inglewood) have been a very good team and have been up there all year so credit to them, but that doesn’t mean were not going to keep pushing to win the title. We have a tough game against Mandurah next week, so all we can do is worry about ourselves, work hard and hope the result will come.”
The host hit the front early in this one, when a poor clearance from keeper Michael Craggs went straight to Jukic, and the former Perth Glory midfielder took a touch and fired home from long-range into an empty net. Bayswater were dominating and carved out a number of chances, and it wasn’t a surprise when they doubled their lead on the half hour. Marulanda nipping in front of marker to finish off well from a low cross.
John O’Reilly’s side were back in the game early in the second half, James Atkins ball found Pavett who first time shot beat Devon Spence. But their celebrations were soon cut short when Bayswater regained their two goal advantage moments later. Luka Ninkovic’s shot was parried by Craggs, but Marulanda was quickest to react, firing home the rebound. The points were made safe on 71 minutes when second half substitute Sam raced into the box and curled home a great shot just out of the reach of the outstretched hand of Craggs.
“In the last few weeks I think we have been creating a lot of chances, but the difference between being at the top of the ladder and the bottom comes down to working those opportunities into actual goals,” Armadale Coach John O’Reilly said. “We had a really good run of defensive performances at the start of the year, but unfortunately now we have been hit with some end of the season blues with injuries and suspensions. So I think our defensive woes come down to a lack of depth to finish as strongly as the first-half of the season.”
Bayswater City: GK Devon SPENCE, 2 Declan HARGREAVES (17 Borbor SAM 60'), 6 Todd HOWARTH, 8 Paul MCCARTHY, 9 Gustavo GIRON MARULANDA, 10 Jason MICRO (18 Brent GRIFFITHS 60'), 11 Devon GIBSON, 13 Trent KAY (C), 19 Luka NINKOVIC (4 Tristian COLLI 66'), 20 Sam MITCHINSON, 23 Andrija JUKIC – Subs not used: RGK Dejan ALEKSIC, 12 David STOKOE
Armadale: GK Michael CRAGGS, 3 Jake SARDELIC, 4 Nathan COSTELLO (C), 7 Charlie KENNA, 8 Jordan PAVETT, 14 David ANNALL, 17 James ATKINS (12 Broden BROWN 65'), 18 Milan OGNJENOVIC, 19 Beau RAHIM (10 Herman ALOGNON 74'), 20 Ali GHOLAMI, 22 Anthony SKORICH (21 Dan CUMMINGS 80') – Subs not used: RGK Alec RADONICH, 6 Alex BOND - Referee: Stuart Muldoon
12.8.2017
PERTH SLIP UP AGAINST JOONDALUP
Perth SC lost ground of the PS4 NPLWA leaders after being held to a scoreless draw by a determined Joondalup United at Dorrien Gardens. The result means Perth will need to win their final two games and hope that results elsewhere for Inglewood United and Bayswater City go their way to claim top spot. “The last two games we were very quick on the ball and penetrated several times. Today we just weren’t clinical enough,” Perth Coach Ramon Falzon said. “But credit to Joondalup, because I think they came here with a plan to defend and counter attack, and it worked for them. It’s very disappointing but we just need to react, get up, and try to win the next two games.”
Perth were on top early, but it was the visitors who should have taken the lead on 12 minutes, when keeper Francis Solae brought down Josh Booysen in the box and referee Matthew Southern pointed straight to the spot. Anthony Taylor stepped up to take the resulting penalty, but Soale made emends by denying him with a superb save to his left. Perth went close to the opener nine minutes later, but Lewis Milne’s free kick was superbly saved by James Bosdet, while Andreas Theodosiades lifting the follow-up shot over the top.
It was Perth on the front foot and moments later Harley Orr cross from the right picked out Gustavo Catarcione, but his effort flashed agonisingly wide of the target. Joondalup weren’t without chances of their own, and on the half hour Richard Howles squared to Booysen, with Soale out of position but a last ditch tackle from a Perth defender denied him. Both sides had late chances but at the break it was all-square.
It Perth pressing after the break, but Joondalup sat back and soaked up the pressure and they looked dangerous themselves going forward, and both sides created half chances but the best chance to win it came from the home side in the final minutes. Niccolo Sabatini pounced on an attempted clearance from Bosdet and his first time shot looked like the winner but Bosdet got back superbly to deny him, and earn his side a well-earned point.
“I’m disappointed we haven’t scored, because I felt we were the better team and we created so many opportunities but, yet again, we didn’t take them,” Joondalup Coach Nick Jennings said. “We try and win every game we play, we’ve got Floreat at home, we’ll try and win that, and Armadale away. We’ll be looking for two wins and to finish on a high.”
Perth SC: GK Francis SOALE (c), 2 Alex SILLA, 3 Andreas THEODOSIADES (17 Frank FURFARO 63’), 5 Niccolo SABATINI, 7 Aleks JOVIC (10 Nicholas AMBROGIO 86’), 8 Tom KING, 9 Gustavo CATARCIONE, 12 Jordan DE LEO, 15 Harley ORR (21 Paul ZIMARINO 68’), 16 Kieran COLWELL, 18 Lewis MILNE – Subs not used: RGK Daniel PASSARELLI, 13 Rocco PIZZATA
Joondalup United: GK James BOSDET, 4 Arran MAPLESTONE (c), 6 Guy MCDONALD, 7 Matthew SPARROW, 8 Josh WHITMORE, 9 Richard HOWLES (17 Luke SERRA 91’), 11 Josh BOOYSEN (5 Joe STOCKER 80’), 13 Chris PUGH, 15 Sam WYNNE, 16 Ross EDWARDS, 18 Anthony TAYLOR – Subs not used: RGK Jack NUNN, 2 Joel LEDSHAM, 24 Charlie BREEN - Referee: Matthew Southern
12.8.2017
CANHAM AT THE DOUBLE FOR GULLS
A brace from Sorrento striker Sean Canham has given the Gulls a valuable three points after a hard fought 2-0 win against Floreat Athena at Percy Doyle Reserve. It was a huge win for the home side in their fight for a top four spot, taking them four points clear of Floreat, and within four points of league leaders Inglewood United.
With their historic Westfield FFA Cup Round of 16 game against South Melbourne this month the Gulls had to but that to one side and needed a win in this one to take a step closer to the end of season top four finals. It was the visitors who had the first real chance, when Dean Evans found space down the right, and his cross picked out Mark Pritchard whose shot flashed inches past the post.
Floreat were dictating terms and had Sorrento on the back foot, but the home side were hitting well on the counter attack, and Tim Hill’s long range shot was saved by Jason Saldaris. But after dominated possession, Floreat found themselves behind on the half hour, Ryan Pearson’s deep cross was headed home by Canham at the back post.
Sorrento went close to doubling their lead early in the second half, Scott Witschge superb volley beat Jason Saldaris, but the crossbar came to the rescue of the Floreat custodian. Pearson was in again moments later, the defender raced clear, rounded the keeper, but took the ball to wide and his shot from the angle flashed wide of the target. Floreat were still in the game and Sorrento keeper James Morgan kept his side in the game.
First the WA State keeper saved well to deny Jon Stynes, before making another good save moments later to thwart Ludovic Boi. Floreat were well on top, but pushing men forward looking for the equaliser they left themselves short at the back and ten minutes from time Sorrento scored the decisive second goal. Sorrento won a free kick on the edge of the penalty area and Canham stepped up and fired the ball past Jason Saldaris to seal a big win.
Sorrento: GK James MORGAN, 4 Shane KILKELLY, 6 Daryl PLATTEN, 8 Ryan PEARSON (5 Scott JOHNSON 67’), 9 Sean CANHAM (3 George HUNTER 90’), 11 Tim HILL (18 Jordan BROWN 85’), 13 Steve MCDONALD, 14 Scott WITSCHGE, 17 Reece VITTIGLIA, 20 Brad MCDONALD, 21 Sam BYLES – Subs not used: RGK Connor CAMPBELL, 12 Joshua TUCKER
Floreat Athena: GK Jason SALDARIS, 2 Juma AWAKA (5 Bobby WILSON 81’), 4 Andrew SCALDAFERRO (13 Zelfy NAZARY 59’), 6 Jesse FULLER, 8 Jon STYNES, 11 Kris GATE, 12 Jackson MORGAN, 14 Ludovic BOI, 15 Chris SALDARIS (3 Clayton ARNEZ 45’), 17 Dean EVANS, 33 Mark PRITCHARD – Subs not used: RGK Jordan BARBAS, 18 Phillip ARNOLD – Referee: Adam Fielding
12.8.2017
SMITH AND NICOL GIVE ECU THE POINTS
ECU Joondalup have come home from their long trip to the Securitas Protect Stadium with a hard fought 2-0 win against Mandurah City. A first half goal from the Jacks top goalscorer Daryl Nicol put them ahead at half time, and WA State Captain Gordon Smith made sure of the three points 11 minutes from time. The loss for Mandurah keeps them in the mix for relegation, but with other results on the day going their way they are still in with a fighting chance to avoid the drop. “The conditions out there today were terrible, so we had to adjust our style and system and to be fair it was an ugly win,” Smith said. “We want to end the season on a high, and we have three games left and want to get all nine points.”
Mandurah were up for this one and opened brightly and Lance Louvie went close early, his effort was saved low by Fraser Greenwood at the second attempt. ECU lifted and went close themselves moments later, Smith’s deflected shot was well saved by Mandurah keeper Cyril Sharrock. Jeff Bright then had to be alert to clear Nicol’s cross off the line, before Smith headed straight at Sharrock from a Nicol free kick. Steven McGarry then headed just wide of the target as the Jacks pressed, and they made their pressure count with the lead on 34 minutes. McGarry flicked on a throw in, and Nicol’s first time volley from the edge of the box flew past Sharrock via the post.
After the break Jordan Rhodes’ deflected free kick was well save by Greenwood as Mandurah looked for a response, but they were unable to sustain the pressure as conditions worsened. ECU were dangerous on the break and Declan Hughes shot was saved low by Sharrock, before Nicol’s shot whistled wide of the target. With Kevin Moon, Hughes and McGarry bossing the midfield the Jacks looked dangerous on the counter attack, and they sealed the points on 79 minutes. Nicol raced down the left from inside his own half, before slipping the ball into Smith, who finished clinically past Sharrock.
“It was a difficult game in difficult conditions,” ECU Coach Dale McCulloch said. “We’ve just got to be ugly sometimes and make sure we get the three points. “I thought the first half was 50/50, but we had enough control of that game to deserve the win.” Mandurah’s Doug Hesketh was happy with his side's application in tough conditions. “We played good football in the first half,” he said. “In the second half we tried to be direct with the wind and it just backfired.”
Mandurah City: GK Cyril SHARROCK, 2 Mitchell FIRTH, 3. Jeff BRIGHT, 4 Matt STARES, 5 Thomas STRAKER, 6 Lance LOUVIE, 7 Jack EADES, 9 Joseph O’BRIEN (14 Kevin CASTLE 84’), 10 Jordan RHODES, 11 Ryan FRANCIS, 13 Slade RULE (16 Mark MCLAUGHLIN 67’) – Subs not used: 12 Jack WILD, 17 Bailey MULLINS, 21 Kieran SHAIL
ECU Joondalup: GK Fraser GREENWOOD, 3 Ross MILLARD, 4 Steven MCGARRY, 5 Graham DORAN, 6 Shane PICKERING, 7 Kevin MOON, 8 Declan HUGHES, 9 Daryl NICOL, 10 Gordon SMITH, 11 Sam POLLARD, 17 Jack JONES – Sub not used: RGK Jordan YOUNG, 12 James OWEN, 14 Ben HINSHELWOOD, 15 Ryan MCDARBY, 16 Tom HOUGH - Referee: Nico Hoyle
12.8.2017
GLORY SLIP CLOSER TO DROP AFTER LOSS TO SUBIACO
Perth Glory’s PS4 NPLWA spot is hanging by a thread after they were beaten by Subiaco at the Ashfield Arena on Saturday afternoon. Subiaco player/coach Ian McMurray gave them the best possible start scoring early, but the Glory hit back just after half time with skipper Daniel Stynes on target. But a goal from David Perich 11 minutes from time was enough to give Subiaco the three points, but leave the Glory off the bottom spot on goal difference only with only two games to go. “We didn’t take our opportunities and we had a lot of chances to win the game,” Glory Coach John Gibson said. “We weren’t ruthless in front of goal. The first goal was early, conceded cheaply and the second was against the run of play so that hurt us.”
Subiaco Coach McMurray on the other hand was happy with the three points. “It was a scrappy game but we came here and got the job done today,” he said. “The last couple of weeks we’ve dropped our game a little bit so it’s good to change that. It wasn’t pretty but I’m glad we got the win.” Both sides took time to get used to the conditions as the rain continued to fall in Perth, but it was the visitors who hit the front on nine minutes. Some poor defending let the big striker in and he made no mistake, firing low past Nick Feely into the bottom corner of the net. The Glory went close to leveling on the quarter hour mark, Stynes did well down the flank, and cut the ball back from the bye-line to Michael Domfeh, but the striker fired wide of the target.
The hosts’ needed a good start to the second half and skipper Stynes delivered four minutes in. Stynes’ cut in from the left and drilled his shot low past Ryan Montgomery. The home side were now in control and it looked like they would go on and take the points, but they couldn’t find a way past Subiaco keeper Montgomery. Stynes thought he had given the Glory the lead, but his close-range effort was superbly saved by the Subiaco custodian. But Subiaco made Glory pay for their profligacy when they took all three points on 79 minutes. A ball into the box was brought down well by McMurray, and he laid it off to Perich, whose half volley flew past Feely, to seal the points, and leave the Glory youngster teetering above the drop zone
Perth Glory: GK Nicholas FEELY, 2 Luca BODNAR, 3 Hayden STEVENS, 4 Cameron MURRAY, 5 Ollie ANNIS (15 Harry QUIGLEY 65’), 6 Callum TIMMINS, 7 Bayley BROWN-MONTGOMERY (14 Michael MCDOUGALL 70’), 8 Brandon WILSON, 10 Daniel STYNES, 11 Michael DOMFEH, (9 Joe KNOWLES 55’) – Subs not used: RGK Kyle MCDONALD, 13 Jack LEECH
Subiaco: GK Ryan MONTGOMERY, 4 Alexander RANDELL (15 Robert HARDING 87’), 6 Steve PURTON, 8 Mike LAWSON, 9 Ian MCMURRAY (5 Matt CLARK 91’) 10 Owen COATES, 11 Carlin FEELY, 12 Nathan SMITH, 13 Jordan CANDLISH (16 Asher NELSON 70’), 14 Ross JARMAN, 18 David PERICH – Subs not used: RGK Hamish ST GEORGE, 19 Ger FITZGERALD 21 - Referee: Steven Gregory
12.8.2017
LIONS HIT BACK FROM BELTING TO WIN LOCAL DERBY
Stirling Lions have bounced back from their 0-7 loss against Cockburn City last week to beat Balcatta in the local derby at Grindleford Reserve. Alex Tanevski was the star, the former Glory striker netted a brilliant hat-trick, while Justin Onek scored Balcatta’s consolation goal, and the loss was their seventh straight defeat leaving them close to relegation and setting up a huge game in two week against another side in the relegation fight Mandurah.
“It feels very good as Rob (Milevski) showed faith in me during the week,” Tanevski said. “It was a good hard fought win and it was good to bounce back and prove to the fans and the league that we aren’t a side that mucks around. All season long Rob and the coaching staff have been pushing us and always believing in us.” Milevski was delighted with the result and praised Tanevski for his goals. “I thought we started positively, created a lot of chances and could have been up with a few more goals at half time,” he said. “We killed the game off with the second and third goal and Alex was brilliant up top for us today.”
Balcatta had opened the brighter and created a number of good chances, but they had left their finishing boots at home, and Tanevski showed them how to do it on ten minutes. The lively Daniel Micevski’s cross picked out the young striker and he headed home past Domenico Savoldelli. The Balcatta custodian was doing all he could to keep his side in the game making a number of fine saves. Lions’ skipper Miki Vujacic went close to a second on 23 minutes, but a ball across the box was only inches away from him at the back post.
But the Lions doubled their lead seven minutes after half time, with Tanevski superbly lobbing Savoldelli to add his second and but the Lions in total control. He completed his hat-trick on 74 minutes, with a good individual goal. He raced past two Balcatta defenders before firing past Savoldelli. The host found a late consolation goal nine minutes from time, with Onek heading home, but it was too little, too late. “Silly errors have cost us all season, we’ve had our chances,” Balcatta skipper Calum O’Connell said. “We’ve got a very young team, we’re learning every week but in this league you have to put points on the table. We’ve got two more games left, a tough one next week against Inglewood and then Mandurah on the final day. Who knows what could happen.”
Balcatta: GK Domenico SAVOLDELLI, 2 Daniel HEPWORTH, 3 Justin ONEK, 4 Calum O’CONNELL (c), 5 Tom PELLIZZARI, 7 Marco CHADINHA (17 Ismael BANGURA 61’) 8 Brody KENNEDY, 9 Luccas MELLO (18 Ben MEREDITH 81’), 10 Jon CORNESS, 11 Brennan BORZECKI (22 Dejan ANDRIC 45’) 12 Anton DE FRANCESCH – Subs not used: RGK Luke HUTCHINSON, 13 Rudnei NOGUEIRA
Stirling Lions: GK John PERKINS, 2 Michael PUGLIESE, 4 Blamo QUA QUA, 5 David MOLINARI, 6 Dejan SPASESKI, 7 Miki VUJACIC (c) (14 Lukas DE LIMA 71’) 9 Alex TANEVSKI (12 Debaba MTWALE 90’) 10 Daniel MICEVSKI, 16 Mathaing MATHAING, 17 Darren O’RIORDAN, 18 Moses KALAU (3 Zane CASELLA 88’) – Subs not used: RGK Lance ALAVAKIS, 13 Nicholas ASHLEY - Referee: Tom Glavovic
12.8.2017
ALL FLAGS STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND SEVENTEEN – REVIEW
It’s as you were at the top of the All Flags State League Division One with all the top three sides winning in Week 17. Dianella White Eagles maintained their led at the top with a hard fought 2-0 win against Joondalup City at the Iluka Sports Complex. Dianella started out really quickly and their pressure paid off some 4 minutes into the game. Angel Andres intercepted a pass and fed in Francis Wanjuri behind his full back and he slipped in a great cross for Sotiri Theodosiades to expertly side foot the ball into the net from six meters. Both sides had good chances as the half wore on, but Joondalup were finding it tough to get control of the game with Dianella quickly onto any passes that they tried to make, and at the break the visitors led 1-0. Joondalup started well after the break and created some good chances but couldn’t convert, and their task was made harder on 70 minutes when they were reduced to 10 men with Sam Philips sent off, and Dianella added a second two minutes later.
Andres pouncing again on a defensive mistake, to race one-on-one with the keeper and finishing with aplomb. Joondalup pressed late put couldn’t find a way past a well organised Dianella defense, the best chance falling to Jamie Kalaher, whose header was well saved by the Dianella keeper. “I was really happy with the win against a side that were on a winning streak, the lads pressed really high and they were good enough to punish Joondalup’s mistakes at the back,” Dianella Coach Robbie Dunn said. “I’m sure the Joondalup coaching staff will take a lot from the game as they played well especially when they went a man down, they have done well as a group and look safe from the drop in a league which can be really tough to get results in. Our players now have four games to go and we will be trying our best to finish with more wins and see where we end up.”
South West Phoenix kept in tabs with Dianella with a big 6-2 win against Ashfield at WML Stadium. The visitors were ahead when Dan Corbett scored in a goalmouth scramble, and the Phoenix missed a penalty when Kieran Quinn missed a penalty, and Quinn then saw a free kick crash off the crossbar. Moments later Michael Farmer saw his effort crash off the woodwork, before Ryan Stewart hit the post. But the home side’s pressure was rewarded late in the half with Farmer leveling with a header, and he sent them to the break with a lead with another headed goal. Ashfield levelled just after half time, with Jay Lang’s free kick giving the keeper no chance. But the Phoenix hit back with Stewart scoring and a quick double from Quinn, including another penalty that saw Jodi Thompson sent off put them in control and Lee Stewart rounded off the scoring late to make it 6-2.
In other games Rockingham City hit back late to draw 1-1 with Fremantle City at Lark Hill. Alex Robinson profited from a defensive error to give Fremantle the lead on the half hour, but ten minutes from time Hilario Nunes levelled for the home side. UWA-Nedlands came home from Canning City with a 3-1 win, moving them to fifth place. Luke Randazzo opened the scoring for UWA on the half hour, racing clear from Alex Kretowicz through ball. Canning hit back but UWA keeper Ranjeet Singh produced a good save to deny Joe Kelly. But the home side doubled their lead with Harry Hosking sending Randazzo clear, and he rounded the keeper and slid the ball home. Canning pulled one back from the spot, after Kelly was brought down by Patrick Morrison, and Kelly scored the resulting penalty. But UWA secured the points with Morrison heading home Kretowicz’s cross. “It was so important for us to continue our form and get the win here today,” UWA coach Michael Janssen said. “No matter where they are on the table, Canning are always a tricky side to beat at home and I’m very pleased with how the boys navigated the conditions and finished strongly.”
In the final game Forrestfield United also kept in touch of the top two with a hard fought 2-0 win against Gosnells City in the local derby at Walter Padbury Reserve. The hosts created some good chances early, but it was the visitors who were ahead on 13 minutes Trevor Laure eased past two Gosnells defenders before cutting the ball back to Rhys Loxley who made no mistake from close-range. Hasani Sinclair was forced off with injury and his replacement Ben Rogers doubled Forrestfield’s lead on 52 minutes. Laure was the supplier again this time racing down the right and cutting the ball back to Rogers to score. “I can’t express how proud I am of the players and the club,” Forrestfield Coach Rod Banjac said. “We’ve had three tough weeks and the boys have been subjected to a lot of grief, as we all have, but we stuck together and today we performed well against quality opposition and I’m really proud of how the players conducted themselves today.” Gosnells coach Alan Dunlop said he was disappointed with the result, given his side were right in the game. “I’m extremely disappointed, I thought the boys put in a good game today in front of a good crowd, created some good chances and could’ve got one ourselves,” he said. “That would’ve changed the complexion of the game a little bit but the second goal got us.” – Western Knights had the bye this week.
12.8.2017
ALL FLAGS STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND SEVENTEEN – REVIEW
Gwelup Croatia moved eight points clear at the top of the All Flags State League Division Two table with a comprehensive 8-1 win against Shamrock Rovers at Harold Rossiter Reserve. The visitors were ahead on 16 minutes, Jake Verini curling home, and David Martins headed a second after a flowing team move on the half hour. James Sammut then produced a contender of the ‘Goal of the Season’ with a stunning 20 meter volley to send Gwelup to the break 3-0. Gwelup added a fourth on the hour with a shamrock defender turning the ball home, and Verini added a fifth moments later. Noah Shamaki added a sixth on 72 minutes, before Shamrock pulled one back from the penalty spot sixty seconds later. But normal service was resumed with Teeboy Kamara added the seventh. The icing was put on the cake when Sammut punished some poor defending to add the eighth to seal a huge win for the leaders. "Shamrock have some good players in their team but unfortunately for them we were just playing good football," Gwelup skipper Sebastian Munoz said. "James Sammut and Jake verini were on fire scoring some brilliant goals, with a special mention to David Martin's and Noah Shamaki with some nice finishing. We went out on a windy wet day, against a physical team and managed to play very well. Good momentum heading into this week's game."
Morley-Windmills lost ground on the leaders after a 3-3 draw against Quinns FC at Wotton Reserve. Quinns went ahead early, when Adam Buckley's low shot from the edge of the box hit the net. Quinns doubled their lead eight minutes from the break, a superb shot by Jonny Mckeown from 30 metres gave the keeper no chance. Morley-Windmills tried desperately to get back into the game, however it was Quinns that had the early running in the second half. Windmills got one back in the 73rd minute, a pass to Dion Bermon found him racing towards goal on an angle, and he beat Adam Bowers low to his right. The home side equalised in the 78th minute, Scotty Wrightson's free kick went around the wall and found it's target near the inside of the post. Windmills went 3-2 ahead just five minutes later, a corner kick found Ryan Treacey who headed home. Quinns did not give up, and in the 86th minute Gareth Hamilton shot from outside the box found its way to the bottom corner of the net to make it 3-3.
Melville City eased past Kelmscott Roos with a 5-1 at John O’Connell Reserve. Mark Lucas gave them the lead from the penalty spot, and Dean Thurston, Grant Mowatt, Amel Dzaferovic and another Lucas goal from a free kick gave them a comprehensive win. “It was a very good performance and it was great to get back on the winning track,” Melville Coach Gavin Brown said. “It’s been really disappointed with a lack of consistency this season, but we can only look forward and hope that we finish the season strongly.”
In Sunday’s game Curtin University and Kingsway Olympic played out a scoreless draw, while in the final game Swan United moved to fourth with a hard fought 1-0 win against Wanneroo City. The only goal of the came from a free kick whipped in by James Shamim from the right, and John Monterosso headed back across goal, and in the goal mouth scramble the ball bounced up to Tommy Black who headed home. “To be honest I felt for Wanneroo they had the breeze in the first and could have put us away early with some chances some great keeping and last ditch defending kept them at bay,” Swan Coach Matt Debarro said. “I felt they were better for the most but we again managed a clean sheet and found the goal we needed. I must commend Tim and his players, they are a great team and I hope they are there in the top four with us at seasons end - I wish them all the best.” – Balga had the bye this weekend.
11.8.2017
SORRENTO TO TAKE ON SOUTH MELBOURNE IN FFA CUP
Sorrento will head east to take on NPL Victoria’s South Melbourne FC in the Westfield FFA Cup Round of 16. The Gulls are the first Member Federation club from WA to reach the Round of 16, after beating last year’s semi-finalists Canberra Olympic 1-0 at Percy Doyle Reserve in the Round of 32. Sean Canham’s 7th-minute winner became the 300th goal scored in the Westfield FFA Cup final rounds.
Gulls Coach Jamie Harnwell said it’s a huge challenge. “South Melbourne are arguably the biggest club outside of the A-League teams and have a fantastic stadium out at Lakeside so it will be a great occasion for the club,” he said. “They are a very good side and we will have to ensure we prepare right and are at 100% on the day to give ourselves a chance of winning and progressing to the next round.”
South Melbourne defeated three-time FFA Cup Round of 32 entrants Edgeworth Eagles 1-0 to make the Round of 16. The Round of 16 draw was conducted on Wednesday night following the final four matches of the Round of 32. Inaugural Cup holders Adelaide United will host 2015 champions Melbourne Victory in the last 16, while last year’s finalists Melbourne City FC and Sydney FC were drawn against Member Federation clubs Hakoah Sydney City East and Bankstown Berries respectively.
2014 semi-finalists Bentleigh Greens will host Western Sydney Wanderers FC, Moreton Bay United and Gold Coast City will play-off in a Queensland derby, APIA Leichhardt and Blacktown City meet in an all-NSW showdown and Sydney United 58 FC was drawn to host Heidelberg United. The Round of 16 will comprise two match nights with four matches per night. FOX SPORTS will broadcast one match live and exclusive in full on both match days in the Round of 16, with LIVE streaming and updates of the other matches.
The specific match details in regards to dates, venues and kick-off times will be announced at a later date. Full Draw - Adelaide United v Melbourne Victory, South Melbourne v Sorrento, Moreton Bay United v Gold Coast City, Sydney United 58v Heidelberg United, Blacktown City v Apia Leichhardt, Bentleigh Greens v Western Sydney, Hakoah Sydney v Melbourne City, Bankstown Berries v Sydney FC
11.8.2017
PS4 NPL-WA ROUND TWENTY-FOUR PREVIEW
The title, top four and the relegation battles continue in week 24 of the PS4 National Premier League WA this weekend. The Footballwa – Match of the Round takes us to Percy Doyle Reserve where fourth placed Sorrento host fifth placed Floreat Athena. Only one point separates the two on the table. Floreat lost round with a scoreless draw against Mandurah last week, while Sorrento edged out Joondalup United to leapfrog Floreat, so this one is vital for both side top four aspirations. The last time the two side met at the venue was in round 13 last season, when Floreat came home with a 3-0 win. Ludovic Boi opened the scoring early, and the points were wrapped up with late goals from Andrew Scaldaferro and Jon Stynes.
Floreat skipper Ludovic Boi said last week’s result was disappointing, but he said you have to give credit to Mandurah, who defended for their lives. “Yes last week was a disappointing result, we needed the three points to stay in the mix and give ourselves a chance to win the league,” he said. “But credit to Mandurah they defended well, and we struggle to break them down and the quality just wasn’t there from us. The conditions were not great but that’s no excuse, we just need to take the next few games as they come and concrete our place in that top four.” In last week’s draw Bobby Wilson returned to the squad, and Boi said his experience will be vital in their run to the end of the season. “Bobby has had a knee injury for a while now but it’s always good to have him around and using his experience on and off the field,” he said. “We have been lacking players this year with injuries including myself but he is slowly getting back on the field and using him for his aerial threat. Hopefully he will be back at 100% next year after a pre-season.” Boi said a trip to Sorrento is never easy, and he’s expecting Saturday’s game to be the same. “Sorrento is always hard to play against, but both teams will be going at 100% to keep up with the leaders and stay in the top four so it should be a good game for the fans,” he said. “Both teams know the strength and weakness of their opponents, this game will be won depending on which team decide to turn up on the day.”
The narrow win against Joondalup pleased Coach Jamie Harnwell, but he said they made it hard for them. “I was really pleased with the performance on Saturday, and we knew we had to match their effort and intensity first, which we did well and then we had a couple of moments of real quality,” he explained. “The only disappointing part was that we didn’t kill off the game when we had the chance to, and so had to endure those nervy moments late on.” It’s been a huge week for Sorrento, the Gulls drawing South Melbourne in the Westfield FFA Cup Round of 16, and Coach Jamie Harnwell said they have to put that to the back of their minds and focus on three points on Saturday. “It’s a great draw for us and we’re looking forward to the challenge, but we’ve more urgent commitments on Saturday against Floreat,” he said. “It’s a must win game for both clubs, not only for those faint title chances but certainly for the top four. Floreat will be disappointed with their result last week and I’m sure will want to make amends, but we are on a good little run and want to keep that momentum going for the rest of the season. We will have to turn up with the same attitude and desire as last week to win the game.” In team news for the Gulls Alex Morgan and Scott Bulloch are unavailable, while Brodie Martin and Scott Johnston could come into the squad.
League leaders Inglewood United return home this weekend when they entertain Cockburn City at Perth Plasterboard Centre Stadium. Cockburn are coming off a stunning 7-0 thrashing of Stirling last week, and Scott Miller will be looking for more of the same on Saturday. Inglewood came home from Armadale with a big win, with striker Alex Salmon continuing his good form in front of goal with a hat-trick. The striker said with the other teams around them winning it was vital they got the job done at Armadale. “It was a good win, at a tough ground to go, as I found that out last season,” he said. “It was nice to see a few familiar faces, but more important to get the win and my hat trick capped it off.” Salmon was dragged by Coach Andy Keogh after his third, but he said he was told it was going to happen. “Andy said to me at half time he was giving me till 60 minutes to get my hat trick or I was coming off,” he explained. “It was all about man management from Andy, because of the WA State games in the week, he wanted to rest me for another big game Saturday so I’ve got no complaints, and it worked as I scored a hat-trick for the state team on Tuesday against Singapore.” The sides drew in the first meeting of the season and Salmon said it will be another close game this weekend. “That result was certainly a statement, they are a good side they were good in the game at the start of the year,” he said. “The game ended 2-2, but as long as we do what we have been doing with our squad, we should be going into every game expecting to take the three points that won't change on Saturday.” In team news for Inglewood Hamza Hina will miss the game through suspension, while Cockburn will be without Blake Adams who broke his leg in last week’s win.
Perth SC continued to match Inglewood after coming from behind to beat Subiaco last week, and on Saturday they host Joondalup United at Dorrien Gardens. Joondalup pushed Sorrento all the way in the local derby, but fell short, but Nick Jennings’ side have shown all season they are no pushovers and he will have his side ready for the challenge on Saturday. Perth defender Alex Silla said the 3-1 win at Subiaco was well-deserved and it was vital in their push for the title. “It was disappointing to fall behind so early in the game after we set out to achieve our fourth consecutive clean sheet, but I thought we responded really well to go on and score the next three goals in the first half,” he said. “Coming from behind hasn't been something we've done a lot from this season so the character of the boys to do that in such an important time of the season was really great.” Silla’s good season saw him selected in the WA State side for the Tri-series games, and he said it was a nice surprise. “It was a really great honour for me, an injury in the back line meant I got the call up from Ramon the night before the game, which was really unexpected,” he explained. “I feel as though I've worked hard this year and I hope I can use this state team experience to keep putting in good performances for my team and club.” Silla said they can’t take Joondalup lightly, and he believes the title race will go down to the wire. “Joondalup United have proven that they can take points off anyone in the league this season so the weekends game will be a very tough one for us,” he said. “We slipped up last time against them going up 2-0 and then conceding three very soft goals. We can't afford to let that happen again on our home turf this weekend at such a critical part of the season, so I'm sure all the boys will be ready to fight for 90 minutes for the three points and keep putting pressure on the teams in the title race.” In team news Frank Furfaro will miss for Perth, while Rowdy Yates is suspended for Joondalup.
The relegation battle continues this week, and Balcatta will be looking to end a horror run of form when they host Stirling Lions at Grindleford Reserve in the local derby. The Lions were thrashed at Cockburn last week, a result that Coach Rob Milevski and the WA football public weren’t expecting, and the coach will be looking for a response this week. Balcatta were beaten at ECU last week, a game keeper Domenico Savoldelli said they had chances to take something from it. “I think it was a tough result for us, we worked hard throughout and wanted to come away with a positive result,” he said. “But a lack of focus at important moments cost us and we came home empty handed.” Savoldelli has been in great form this season, but he is well aware they need to start picking up wins, sooner rather than later, and he will hoping for a repeat of the last time they played the Lions when they came home with all three points. “Despite it being a rough season for us, I still aim to give my best efforts every week for my team, and we want to finish positively and keep moving forward next season,” he explained. “Saturday is a vital game for us, it’s a local derby, but we need the points to move away from the bottom of the table and it’s why we are all hungry for all three points in this one.”
Mandurah City have home ground advantage when they host ECU Joondalup at Securitas Protect Stadium. Mandurah came home from Floreat with a hard-earned point and will be looking for all three in this one, while ECU got back in the winner’s circle with a big win against Balcatta. Mandurah Coach Doug Hesketh said it was a backs to the wall point at Floreat. “I thought we matched Floreat in the first half and did really well,” he said. “But in the second they dictated for sure and we dug deep, and got a great point and a deserved one over the 90 minutes I thought. We played a lot of young lads and they are doing well and are getting an opportunity now. Mitch Morin, Slade Rule, Joey Obrien, Mitch Firth, Zak Byrne and Josh Warren all very good potential players for Mandurah in the future.” Hesketh said it’s getting close on the table and he said they are looking forward to the challenge against a good ECU side. “This week we start again, I thought we played great up at ECU and despite a loss the performance was a good one,” he said. “They picked a good win last week, but again I am confident in our squad and fancy us again this week in a tough game.” In team news Ollie McGee is suspended, while Rikki Smith and Fraser Greenwood are in line for a return to the ECU squad.
Perth Glory throw away a two goal lead to lose to Bayswater last week, but they will be looking to bounce back on Saturday when they Entertain Subiaco at Ashfield Arena. Subiaco also gave away a lead, losing 3-1 to Perth after taking the lead early, but they are clear of the relegation, so the pressure is off, but it’s defiantly not off the Glory who still precariously close to the drop zone. Midfielder Jack Leech said last week’s loss was hard to take after playing so well in the first half. “Yes it was a great first half performance from us, I thought we played some great football and capitalised on our chances which has been something we have been struggling to do this season so it was a great effort and great to see,” he explained. “The second half performance was not so good, we let the lead slip and we lacked the desire to finish the game off and as a result we were left very disappointed as it was a game we should have followed through with and won the three points.” Leech said three points against Subiaco are vital on Saturday, and they will be doing all they can to get them. “We haven’t had much luck during the season which is unfortunate and it doesn't help but we can't blame that on the dropped points and poor performance throughout the season, we have to take responsibility of how we play, leave no excuses and earn the points we deserve,” he said. “Saturday is a massive game, we will been fully focused and ready for the challenge like we are every week, if we can repeat the first half performance this week but execute it for the full 90 minutes I am very confidence we will be able to take out the vital three points.”
In the final game takes us to Finance 365 Stadium where Bayswater City takes on Armadale. A ten man Armadale were well beaten by Inglewood last week, but the sending off early really changed the game, but John O’Reilly’s side have had a good season and are well clear of relegation, and go into the game with nothing to lose, while Bayswater have everything to lose. Young striker Luka Ninkovic was on target last week as Bayswater fought back to beat the Glory, and he said it was a great comeback. “It was a hard fought win, we started the second half with a much higher intensity and showed much more desire than the first half,” he explained. “We needed the three points and I’m really proud of how we played as a team to achieve the final rest.” Ninkovic has enjoyed working with Columbian striker Gustavo Giron-Marulanda and he said he’s helped him in becoming a better player. “Gustavo is an amazing player and I love playing alongside him, he's always positive and a great finisher,” he said. “I’m always asking him questions, and try to learn as much off him as I can, to help me become a better player.” On Saturday Ninkovic said they need to stay switched on for the whole game, as Armadale have been good this season away from home. “It's another tough game, and they have had a good away record this season, so we know it will be another tough test for us,” he said. “We have prepared well for this week in order to get another three points and stay in the title race.”
11.8.2017
ALL FLAGS STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND SEVENTEEN – PREVIEW
If the NPL is tight at the top the All Flags State League Division One is just as close, with only two points separating the top four sides. This week’s Footballwa – Match of the Week is the clash between South West Phoenix and Ashfield at WML Stadium. The Phoenix came home from Forrestfield with a point last week, while Ashfield beat top of the table Western Knights, the win moved them up to fifth on the table, only five points off top spot. The last time these teams meet in Bunbury was in round five last season when they produced a six goal thriller with a 3-3 draw. Lee Stewart opened the scoring, and Sam Guthridge added a second. Steve Kirk and Brett Maguire levelled for Ashfield and it looked like they had won it when Alex Stamatiadis scored, but a stoppage time equaliser from Michael Farmer gave both sides a point. Phoenix Coach Mauro Marchione said it was a tough game last week, and a tough day for him and his side at Forrestfield, with the club mourning the loss of Marko Banjac. “Yes it was a sad day. Ratko is a very good friend of mine and I felt very emotional the day before the game and during the game on Saturday as well. The loss of a son is unbearable and there is nothing anyone can say or do to alleviate suffering,” he said. “Both sides played an entertaining game and that's what Ratko asked me before the game. The boys on the pitch, the supporters and everyone involved in the game have honoured the memory of Marko and that is what counts the most.
“In regard to the game, I think we played a solid match, scoring two goals and missing another few chances in front of Luke Martino, who in the first half made one incredible save from Jayden Prosser when we were already leading 1-0. If we scored that goal the game was virtually closed. Then they equalized in evident off side and then we went one goal up before the break. They drew the game on penalty with 15 minutes to go. Until that moment we didn't have any problem to keep them quite. So I am surprised to read Liam's comments on the game saying that we parked the bus. We allowed them to have the possession as we had too many key players missing and others not at 100% of their form but that doesn't mean that we only defended. We had a very composed tactical shape and we worked well with it. In fact, pressing a team like Forrestfield if you have not a full team available and not all the players highly fit is a suicide as they come out from the back very easily and can exploit the space between the lines if you fail with your pressing. We avoided that adapting to their game and hit in counter attack. It was working until their penalty...
“At the end of the day, everyone is entitled of his opinion however the story of the game says that we scored two great goals and created at least another 4 clear chances to score the third, if this means parking the bus then I am in the wrong job. Besides, if you have 80% of the possession and you only shoot on goal three times in the whole game (including the penalty) you have to ask yourself questions rather that find excuses. Our keeper made one great save at the very end but very little during the whole game and we had several chances to score the third as well so, yes, I think Liam watched another game. Probably he forgot what happened in the last two times the two teams met.
“In saying that, Forrestfield is by far the team that plays better football in this league along with us and I think they will be the one to get promoted this year. They have everything to go up and I would be very happy for Ratko and everyone at Forrestfield if it will happen. We certainly will fight to the end however, as I previously said, it doesn't depend on us only but on the results the other teams will do. WK and Dianella are ahead of us on goal difference and Forrestfield has a game in hand if they keep winning there is no chance for us. In fact, at this stage of the season for us to get promoted is almost impossible.”
Marchione said Saturday’s game will be another tough game, but they will be looking for the three points to keep their title challenge on track. “Ashfield have always been a good team and it will be another difficult game to play Saturday. Matt and Marco are doing a great job there and I think Matt, in a five year period of time, will be one of the best coaches in NPL,” he said. “He has ideas and in his first year he is doing very well considering that this year Division One is most probably the best competition at this level of the last 20 years. We will play to win, like always but they can be dangerous and we need to take this into account.”
Forrestfield United hit the road this weekend when they travel to Walter Padbury Reserve to take on Gosnells City in the local derby. Gosnells were beaten by Fremantle City last week, while Forrestfield drew at home with the Phoenix. Gosnells Coach Alan Dunlop said the loss at Fremantle was really disappointing. “Last week I was very disappointed with the team’s performance, we started poorly and let Fremantle grow in confidence, and we made some silly mistakes and Fremantle punished them,” he explained. “All credit goes to Fremantle they had a game plan and executed it well, and our young team couldn't handle Fremantle's physicality.”
Dunlop said they are looking forward to the derby, and he’s looking for a response from the players. “We’re all really looking forward to this game, after the disappointing loss last week the boys are looking to bounce back, and what better way than the local derby,” he said. “Forrestfield are a great side and play some nice stuff, they are also pushing for the title, so we are well aware this will be an extremely difficult game. But it’s our last home game of the season and we will be looking to get a win for the fans that have been terrific this season.” In team news Gosnells’ Jacob Collard returns to the side and others!!!!
Dianella White Eagles also hit the road this week when they travel to the Iluka Sports Complex to take on Joondalup United. Dianella returned to the winner’ circle last week with a big win against Rockingham, while Joondalup, made it three straight wins after a big win against Canning City. Joondalup Coach Gary Kalaher said last win was important to back up their big win at Rockingham. “The players talked all week about the win at Rockingham being worthless unless we backed it up with three points against Canning,” he explained. “Although, at this stage it is all about the points as coaches we were delighted with the way we played.” Joondalup drew at Dianella in their first game this season, and Kalaher said they are looking forward to the challenge. “We are under no illusions that the task we face this weekend will be a stern one,” he said. “But we are playing well and hopefully we can carry this good form into the weekend in what is an important game for both clubs.”
In other games on Saturday Rockingham City entertain Fremantle City at the Lark Hill Sportsplex. Rockingham were beaten at Dianella last week, which continued their six game run without a win, and Rob Crerar will be looking to change that on Saturday. Fremantle beat Gosnells last week, and are only one point behind Saturday’s opponents, and new coach Marc Anthony will be looking to continue their good form under his tutelage. In the final Canning City host UWA-Nedlands at Burrendah Reserve. Canning have been left adrift at the bottom of the table, and need to start picking up wins sooner rather than later, but UWA, who are coming off the bye, are still in the mix for a top four spot and will be looking for three points to maintain that.” – Western Knights have the bye this week.
11.8.2017
ALL FLAGS STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND SEVENTEEN – PREVIEW
Its round 17 of the All Flags State League Division Two and the Footballwa – Match of the Week takes us to Wanneroo Reserve where fourth placed Wanneroo City entertain firth placed Swan United. With only six points separating the two sides, this is a huge game with a top four spot up for grabs. Wanneroo came home from Kelmscott with a big win, while Swan beat Balga at home. The last time these two teams met at the venue was in round 10 last season, when Wanneroo ran out 1-0 winners, with the only goal of the game coming on the half hour through, Jon McGahern.
Wanneroo Coach Tim Kantor said it was a good win at Kelmscott, and thought they dominated before they had three players sent off. “Again in the first half I thought we dominated, and had three or four really good chances, but the most pleasing thing was that we played probably our best 45 minutes this season,” he explained. “The goal difference which eventuated in the second half was nice to get given our top four aspirations, but I do feel for Kelmscott and the ongoing impact of the three red cards in games to come.” Kantor said Swan will be desperate to close the gap on them on the table, and is expecting a tough game. “It’s a huge game against Swan this week. We are six points ahead of them, but they have two games in hand so a win on Saturday is very important for us,” he said. “If we can take Saturday’s first half performance into the Swan game I'm confident that we will make a good account of ourselves. The goal is to make the play offs and beyond, so a win Saturday is crucial.” In team news for Wanneroo, they lose Dom Elliot through work commitments but other than that everyone is fit and ready to go.
Swan Coach Matt Debarro said last week’s win was well-deserved and he was delighted with the defensive display. “Last week was a very good performance from the team, we controlled the game start to finish and never felt under pressure,” he said. “I was happy for the boys to get a clean sheet as well, as they have been working really hard at training.” Debarro, who coached at Wanneroo in 2015, said it is a huge game for both teams, but he’s happy to see them doing well, but on Saturday it’s all about the black and whites. “It’s a massive game for both teams, and a win is very important for us,” he said. “I’m glad to see Wanneroo back as a top four side, and Tim (Kantor) has done a great job there, but on Saturday we’ll be doing all we can to get the three points, but we’re under no illusions they will be very difficult to beat at their place.” The Swans go into the game with a number of players missing but Debarro said it’s been like that for a few weeks. “Jordan Rosetto is still out with an ankle injury, Julien Cassagne is out with a knee, Dom Ando also misses out, and Steve Shore is not 100%,” he explained. “So we have some significant outs but we’ve had to battle with that for the last seven games, so we’ll go there and give it a good go.”
League leaders Gwelup Croatia make the trip to Harold Rossiter Reserve to take on bottom of the table Shamrock Rovers. Gwelup maintained their six point lead at the top of the table with a win against Curtin, while Shamrock were edged out in a five goal thriller against Morley, leaving them four points adrift at the foot of the table. Gwelup defender Danny Cain said Curtin were hard to break down but got the job done in the end. “Last week was a decent performance, they (Curtin) set up very defensively, and we needed to be patient and move the ball quicker to break them down,” he explained. “Once we got the first, we were confident we would be able to get more, and we did to run out comfortable winners.” Top v bottom games around the world have a history of upsets, and Cain they need to go there and be switched on from the first whistle. “It will be a tough game this week, Shamrock seemed to have turned it around,” he said. “We are expecting a physical game, but the lads are up for it.”
In other games second placed Morley Windmills host Quinns FC at Wotton Reserve. Morley kept in touch with Gwelup with a hard fought win at Shamrock, while Quinns are coming off the bye, and will be desperate for points, at the foot of the table, being only three points ahead of bottom of the table Shamrock. In the final game Melville City host fourth placed Kelmscott Roos at John Connell Reserve. Melville are coming off a heavy loss at Kingsway, while Kelmscott also lost heavily at home against Wanneroo, and had three players sent off, who all miss this week. – Balga have the bye this week
11.8.2017
AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION, ROUND SIXTEEN – PREVIEW
With only seven rounds to go in the Amateur Premier League, Wembley Downs maintain their five point lead at the top of the table, but they are involved in the Footballwa – Match of the Round, when they host third placed North Perth United at Butlers Reserve. North Perth are the only team to beat Wembley this season – a 4-3 win in round five - are coming off a big win against BB United, while Wembley were pushed all the way by Leeming, before coming home with the win. North Perth Coach Jason Winter said it was a good win, and it boosted their goal difference, but it’s the point’s gap that is the concern for him. “Yes it was a good win but against a team struggling at the moment,” he said. “Yes it was good for goal difference, but I don't think goal difference matters anymore the six point gap is what we need to close.”
Winter said Sunday is the biggest challenge of the season for them, playing the leaders and Champions elect but they’ll go there and give it a good go. “We will be up against it on Sunday, they (Wembley) are unbeatable at the moment and in great form and have home advantage,” he explained. “I think Wembley have more or less the league won, I don't see them slipping up there good side and scoring a lot of goals. We have a full squad going into Sunday game, and all I want from my players is to play the best, and give Wembley a good game.”
Wembley Coach Colm Costello said the title race is far from over, but if his side show the spirit and determination they showed at Leeming last week, they can win it. “It was a great away win down at Leeming, it’s a difficult place to get a result and their home record is very good,” he said. “Although we were not great performance wise, we worked hard and showed great team spirit, and Gaygo getting that crucial goal late on, so we were delighted with three points.”
Costello said North Perth is a good team and the last result shows that, but he said the players are looking forward to the tough game. “A huge game at our place this weekend and it should be a cracker,” he said. “A last minute goal beat us at their place last time, which was hard to take, but they are a quality side and we know what's coming, so we will be well up for the challenge. It’s another cup final for us, and that's the way it's been the last few weeks and the lads have won every game since that defeat at North Perth, so I don't think they’ll need much motivation for this one. I think both teams will go for it and we won't be sitting back, so two attacking sides, it should be a great game.’ In team news Wembley regain the services of experienced utility player Anthony Jones, while Felipe Simeos should shake off his calf injury.
In other games Kwinana United entertains Belmont Villa at Kelly Park, while Hamersley Rovers host Leeming Strikers at Carine Open Space. Southern Spirit make the trip Ellenbrook Sports Hub to take on Ellenbrook United, while the bottom two sides BB United and Perth Royals meet at the Bosnian Recreation Centre. In the final game second placed Kingsley travel to Rosalie Park to take on fourth placed Subiaco. Subiaco Coach Les Cavill said they have been good in recent weeks and will need to be at their best on Sunday against a good Kingsley side. “We have been competitive over the last few weeks, and are looking forward to the challenge,” he said. “It will be tough as we’ve had as many as six regular first team players missing with long and medium term injuries, so we’ll see if any return this week.”
9.8.2017
MANAGER SAYS THERE IS 'MORE TO COME' FROM EDWARDS
Socceroos hopeful Ryan Edwards has plenty more to offer according to his manager Alan Archibald. Edwards scored a stunning goal yesterday as Partick Thistle advanced to the next round of the Scottish League Cup against St. Johnstone.
The 23-year old midfielder went under the radar last season but had a solid campaign with the Scottish club, making 38 appearances across all competitions - more than any other player. And with the potential of the Socceroos making it to next year's FIFA World Cup, Edwards is looking to up his game and become a potential bolter for the squad.
Edwards has started off in the perfect way, scoring a goal of the year contender just a few games into the season. “It was a great strike from Ryan Edwards," Patrick manager Archibald said. “I thought he made the difference tonight.”
“He tries his luck from distance and he hit the bar against Rangers last season with a similar one. But it was a terrific goal tonight. Ryan played the most minutes out of the whole squad last season so he is a big player but I think there is still more to come from him.”
“I'm delighted for Ryan Edwards. He didn't have the best of pre-seasons but he certainly made a difference to the team tonight. Hopefully we can kick on in the league now. We've got a tough one next with Celtic but thankfully we're in the next round.”
9.8.2017
CASTRO LURES FORMER ROOMMATE GUERAO TO GLORY
Perth Glory import Diego Castro has been given the chance to rekindle an old partnership after convincing the club to sign midfielder Andreu Guerao on a one-year deal. Castro and Guerao played together at Spanish clubs Malaga and Sporting Gijon, before they went their separate ways.
Castro, who re-signed with Glory in May, is believed to have played a key role in bringing Guerao to Glory for the coming season. "He has great technical ability and composure on the ball, along with a superb range of passing that will enable him to link the team from back to front," Glory coach Kenny Lowe said.
"In addition to having played with Diego in Spain, he was also a teammate of Liam Reddy, Scott Neville and Mitch Nichols at Western Sydney, and they have all spoken very highly of him not only as a very good footballer, but also as a top guy."
"I am sure he will be fantastic for us as a leader. We don’t have too many guys over 30 in the squad, so his experience and know-how will be invaluable. Having so many familiar faces around, along with his knowledge of the A-League and ability to speak the language, will help him settle in quickly and gel with the rest of the squad."
Guerao came up through Barcelona's La Masia academy, where he played alongside Lionel Messi in the club's 'B' and 'C' teams. He teamed up with Castro at Malaga then Sporting Gijon before moving to Polish club Polonia Warsaw.
Spells at Auckland City (New Zealand), Dinamo Tbilisi (Georgia) and Lechia Gdansk (Poland) were followed by a three-season stay at Spanish side Racing de Santander. He spent 2015/16 with Western Sydney Wanderers and most recently turned out for Greek club Aris.
8.8.2017
SALMON’S HAT-TRICK GIVES WA A BIG WIN
The WA State Team has ended the Tri-Series 2017 with a 5-3 win against the Singapore Youth side on a wet and wild Tuesday night at Dorrien Gardens. WA skipper Gordon Smith opened the scoring early, before Niccolo Sabatini added a second from the penalty spot. Singapore pulled one back just before half time with a penalty from Muhammad Hami Syahin Bin Said. Alex Salmon came off the bench at half time and bagged a hat-trick to seal the win for Ramon Falzon’s side, while Mohamad Taufik Bin Suparno and Muhammad Shahrin Bin Saberin scored for the visitors.
“The pitch was very difficult, but the boys did really well,” WA Coach Ramon Falzon told the Football West website. “We were disappointed how we finished the game last week, but we adjusted things slightly in our defensive set-up and to retain the ball longer, and it worked we scored five goals. I thought we linked really well tonight, and although we only had limited preparation the boys showed great quality, just a pity we conceded some soft goals. “I’ve been in WA seven years and I’ve seen the talent we have in our league, and for them to get the opportunity to play international football, and to come away with a convincing win, I’m really proud of the boys.”
WA dominated early and after a poor clearance from Singapore keeper Muhammad Zharfan Bin Rohaizad, Daryl Nicol’s shot flashed wide. But their dominance was rewarded with the lead on six minutes. Jon Stynes sent Sabatini down the left, his cross picked out Smith at the back post, and the skipper headed home. Moments later Stynes slipped a through ball into the path of Gustavo Catarcione, but with just the keeper to beat the striker fired wide of the target. Smith had another chance on the quarter hour, again Sabatini’s cross picked out the Scotsman, but he headed wide of the target.
Nicol and Sabatini was causing the Singapore defence all sorts of problems, and Sabatini sent Ross Millard down the left who picked out Catarcione, whose shot on the turn was saved by the keeper. Sabatini went close again on 21 minutes, but his curling free kick flew over the top. Singapore created their first real chance two minutes later. Haiqal Pashia Anugrah raced clear, his shot beat keeper Francis Soale, but Gian Albano got back superbly to clear the ball off the line.
But three minutes later it was WA who increased their lead. Sabatini was brought down in the box by Teh Ting Wei Darren, and referee David Bruce pointed straight to the spot. Sabatini picked himself up to send the keeper the wrong way from the resulting penalty. Singapore ended the half well and they were rewarded in stoppage time, when Hami Syahin Bin Said scored from the penalty spot, after being brought down by Albano, and at the break it was WA leading 2-1.
WA made a number of changes at the break and they soon added a third, Dean Evans’ corner headed home by Salmon. The visitors pulled one back on the hour, Taufik Bin Suparno robbed Adrian Madaschi, raced into the box, and finished low past James Morgan. But WA regained their two goal advantage on 71 minutes. Evans’ corner wasn’t dealt with by the Singapore defence and Salmon pounced and fired home from six meters.
Singapore was back in the game four minutes from time, with Shahrin Bin Saberin heading home at the back post. But the icing was put on the cake in stoppage time when WA added a fifth and Salmon his hat trick to seal the win. A quick break ended with a great diagonal ball by Borbor Sam to Salmon, and the PS4 NPLWA top scorer finished clinically.
Western Australia: GK Francis SOALE, (RGK James MORGAN 46’), 2 Rocco PIZZATA, 3 Ross MILLARD (21 Kieran COLWELL 56’) 6 Calvin WHITNEY (6 Matt NTOUMENOPOULOS 56’), 7 Gian ALBANO (22 Alex SILLA 56’), 8 Niccolo SABATINI (18 Richard HOWLES 46’), 9 Gordon SMITH (C) (12 Jason BARRERA 56’) 10 Gustavo CATARCIONE (15 Alex SALMON 46’), 11Jon STYNES (5 Dean EVANS 46’), 13 Jesse FULLER (4 Adrian MADASCHI 56’), 20 Daryl NICOL (17 Borbor SAM 46’)
Singapore Youth: GK Muhammad ZHARFAN BIN ROHAIZAD, 2 Haiqal PASHIA ANUGRAH (21 Ammirul EMMRAN BIN MAZLAN 65’), 3 Muhammad AMIRUL BIN AZMI (4 Muhammad SHAHRIN BIN SABERIN 73’), 5 Teh TING WEI DARREN, 7 Muhammad MUHAIMIN BIN SUHAIMI (11 Muhammad AMIR BIN ZALANI 65’), 8 Joshua BERNARD PEREIRA (10 Mohamad HANAFI BIN MOHD AKBAR 65’), 15 Irfan FANDI AHMAD (C), 20 Ikhsan FANDI AHMAD, 22 Muhammad SYAHRUL BIN SAZALI, (19 MOHAMAD TAUFIK BIN SUPARNO 46’) 26 Lee SI QIN ILLYAS (28 Muhammad MUHELMY BIN SUHAIMI 65’), 29 Muhammad HAMI SYAHIN BIN SAID (13 Muhamad ZULQARNAEN BIN SUZLIMAN 73’) - Subs not used: RGK Hairul SYIRHAN BIN MARDAN, 6 Armin MAIER BIN RAFI, 16 Tan HAN WEI LIONEL, 18 Mohammad FASHAR ISKANDAR BIN S ROSEDIN - Referee: David Bruce
8.8.2017
EDWARDS HOPING TO STEP UP FOR PARTICK
Ryan Edwards is hoping to be the man to chip in with goals for Partick Thistle in the absence of top scorer Kris Doolan. The West Australian midfielder, who was suspended for Saturday’s league opener against Hibernians, is in contention to start against St Johnstone this evening.
And Edwards reckons that the extra work he has been doing in training can help him become more of a goal threat for the Jags. “I feel I’ve got goals in me and want to improve in that area,” Edwards said. “I just need to take my chances. We haven’t relied too much on Kris at the start of the season - Stevie Lawless, Chris Erskine and Blair Spittal have chipped in and we have defenders who are a threat at set pieces.”
“I don’t want to lose anything from my unselfish nature but in the back of my mind I want to start scoring more. It’s disappointing to lose Kris because he’s massive for us on and off the pitch. We’ve got other players who might not be natural strikers but can play in that position. Hopefully we can bring someone in because we need to strengthen in that area but in the meantime others will step up.”
Edwards can’t wait to get out on the pitch after enduring a watching brief as Thistle went down at Easter Road. “It was frustrating being suspended on Saturday and it was the first game I haven’t been available since coming to the club,” he said.
“I would hate to think how it must feel to be injured for a long time. I had it for one game and didn’t like it. I remember the booking that ruled me out and it was probably the worst game of my career so far. I had to switch to an unfamiliar right back role and I didn’t even tackle Jonny Hayes. I just fell over and got the yellow card!”
Edwards is hoping to go a step further than Thistle managed in cup competitions last season by seeing off St Johnstone on their way to a trip to Hampden. “We made the quarter-finals of the Scottish Cup last season and want to progress,” he said. “St Johnstone are a team we can beat but they’re very good and we’ve had some good battles.”
8.8.2017
GLORY WOMEN PICK UP BOLGER
Perth Glory Women have signalled their Championship intentions with the signing of Nicola Bolger. The versatile midfielder brings title-winning experience to Bobby Despotovski's Glory team following several seasons at Sydney FC.
Bolger admitted the decision to leave her hometown of Sydney was a difficult one, but says she's excited for the opportunity ahead. I am a big believer that opportunities will come and go and sometimes it’s worth taking a risk and venturing down a different path,” Bolger said.
“I am forever grateful for my time and experiences with Sydney FC. But it was always a goal of mine to venture interstate in the W-League whenever the timing allowed it and I’m fortunate to be in a situation off the field that allows me to pursue this opportunity.”
“I’m lucky enough to have the full support of family, friends and loved ones that has allowed me to head to Perth. It’s a new team, a new state and a new opportunity with a club that has proven to be very competitive and successful in the past few seasons and I’m very eager and excited for what’s ahead.”
Bolger, 24, is looking forward to getting to know her new teammates. “Glory have fielded some really great international players in the past few seasons, and I’m definitely looking forward to the opportunity to combine with them,” she said.
“In terms of who I’m particularly looking forward to playing with, I don't think you can go far past Sam (Kerr). I have always loved playing with her through the national teams and previous Sydney FC seasons together, so I’m definitely looking forward to getting out on the field with her again.”
7.8.2017
BABALJ DEAL DONE
Czech club Mlada Boleslav have confirmed the signing of Australian striker Eli Babalj. The 25-year old striker has put pen to paper on a two-year deal with Mlada Boleslav, currently home to ex-Melbourne Heart teammate Golgol Mebrahtu, following a two-week trial with the Czech First League club.
6.8.2017
JONES THE HERO IN FEYENOORD’S DUTCH CUP TRIUMPH
Goalkeeper Brad Jones was the hero as Feyenoord prevailed in a penalty shootout over Vitesse to win the Johan Cruijff Shield (Dutch Super Cup), the traditional opener ahead of the new Eredivisie season. Jones saved two penalties in the shootout to help Feyenoord win 4-2 on spot-kicks.
Jones was in sublime form for Feyenoord, carrying on from last season where he was superb as the club won their first Eredivisie title in almost two decades years. Jens Toornstra opened the scoring for Feyenoord inside 10 minutes before Vitesse equalised just after the break via Alexander Büttner.
6.8.2017
AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION, ROUND FIFTEEN – REVIEW
League leaders Wembley Downs had to fight all the way, before eventually beating Leeming Strikers 3-1 at John Connell Reserve, to maintain their five point lead at the top of the table. The visitors were ahead on the stroke of half time, Banin Hashem cross from the right was deflected into his own net by a Leeming defender. They doubled their lead on the hour mark, with Mark King scoring from the penalty spot. Leeming weren’t out of it and they pulled one back when a corner into the box wasn’t dealt with and Kudzi Chigwanda scored. But they made sure of the points with the goal of the match with ten minutes remaining. Stephen Geoghegan picked the ball on the half way line and raced past two defenders before unleashing a shot into the corner of the net.
“As expected it was a tough game for us against well organised Leeming side,” Wembley Coach Colm Costello said. “So we are very pleased with the three points in a tricky away fixture. The lads all worked really hard especially in middle of park, so a huge win for us and vital 3 points with Kingsley and North Perth both winning comfortable and still breathing down our necks.”
Kingsley maintained the pressure on Wembley with a 5-0 win against Kwinana United at Chichester Park. Jayden Drummond opened the scoring early, after volleying home from Jesse Higgins’ through ball. Nick Lowe doubled their lead after good lead up play from David Morris, before Drummond added the third, after a good one two with David Ashworth. Morris added the fourth after a good ball from Ashworth, before Morris added his second and Kingsley’s fifth after good ball from Joe Joyce.
In other games North Perth United thrashed bottom of the table BB United 10-0 at Woodville Reserve, while Subiaco leapfrogged Leeming with a hard fought 3-2 win against Perth Royals at JA Lee Reserve. Hamersley Rovers came home from Watsons Reserve with a 2-1 win against Southern Spirit, and in the final game Belmont Villa beat Ellenbrook United 4-2 at Ellenbrook Sports Hub.
6.8.2017
BAYSWATER COME FROM BEHIND TO TAKE THE GLORY
Bayswater City came from 0-2 down at half time to overrun Perth Glory to run out 3-2 winners at the Ashfield Reserve on Sunday afternoon. The Glory dominated in the first half with goals from Brandon Wilson and Michael Domfeh, but Bayswater hit back in the second half, Luka Ninkovic pulled one back early, and a deflected free kick from Todd Howarth levelled things up, before skipper Trent Kay won it four minutes from time.
“The first half we didn’t turn up and we gave them two easy goals, but we had a spray from the coaches at half time and everyone step up to the challenge and scored three, thanks for coming,” Kay said. “We knew we had to come out all guns blazing, as a loss would have probably ended our title aspirations, but we’ve kept the pressure on Inglewood and we’ll be fighting to the end don’t you worry about that.”
The Glory took it right up to Bayswater and they were ahead on 18 minutes. Wilson received the ball in the middle of the park, but he was given far too much space, and his clever lob flew into the net, giving keeper Devon Spence no chance. They doubled their lead just before the half hour, Luca Bodnar sent Stynes down the right, and his cross from the bye-line found Domfeh, whose low shot found the bottom corner of the net.
It was a different Bayswater side after the break and they were back in the game nine minutes into the second half, Marulanda’s cross was turned home by Ninkovic at the near post. The visitors were now starting to get on top and they levelled on 68 minutes. Howarth’s free kick took a deflection off the wall, wrong footing Feely and ended in the net. Nick Feely then produced a stunning save low at his near post to deny Ninkovic, before Paul McCarthy header was cleared off the line by Callum Timmins.
Glory went close to regaining the lead on 84 minutes, Bayley Brown-Montgomery raced clear, but was denied by a great last ditch tackle from substitute Shayden Pasalqua. But two minutes later Bayswater scored the winner. Howarth’s cross from the left was met by an unmarked Kay, who hammered the ball past Feely from four meters. Glory had one last chance to earn a draw, Stynes’ late free kick deflected off the wall, but luck wasn’t on their side, the ball just going past the post.
Perth Glory: GK Nick FEELY, 2 Luca BODNAR, 3 Hayden STEVENS, 4 Cameron MURRAY, 5 Riley WARLAND, 6 Jack LEECH (15 Sam RIAK 79), 7 Bayley BROWN-MONTGOMERY, 8 Brandon WILSON (12 Callum TIMMINS 61), 9 Michael DOMFEH (13 Gomo DUKULY 61), 10 Daniel STYNES, 11 Yacoub MUSTAFA - Subs not used: RGK Kyle MCDONALD, 14 Ollie ANNIS
Bayswater City: GK Devon SPENCE, 2 Declan HARGREAVES (14 Shayden PASALAQUA 61'), 6 Todd HOWARTH, 8 Paul MCCARTHY, 9 Gustavo GIRON-MARULANDA, 11 Devon GIBSON (15 Tristan COLLI 92'), 13 Trent KAY, 17 Borbor SAM (10 Jason MICRO 46'), 19 Luka NINKOVIC, 20 Sam MITCHINSON, 23 Andrija JUKIC - Subs not used: RGK Michael COHEN, 16 Jordan - Referee: Josh Mannella
5.8.2017
DE VANNA RE-WRITES MATILDAS' RECORD BOOKS
Lisa De Vanna admits chasing the Matildas all-time goalscoring record has been stressful. It's played on her mind and even stopped her from scoring. But now the record is hers, she's looking into the distance and wondering how many more goals there might be.
The 32-year-old striker scored twice in Australia's 6-1 romp over Brazil as the Matildas claimed the Tournament of Nations. It was enough to draw level and then surpass forward Kate Gill to claim the goalscoring record. It was also long time coming.
Australia's most reliable source of goals had dried up - these were De Vanna's first goals for the national team for a year. "To be honest, it's a monkey off my back," De Vanna told AAP. "When I went onto the field it was my main concern, to score two more goals. It affected me."
"Today was the first time I didn't think about it, just played my game and the opportunity came. Scoring those goals is everything to me because I've given so much to the game. An achievement like that, it's fantastic."
After netting her 42nd goal in a Matildas shirt, how many might she end up with? With the 2018 Asian Cup, 2019 World Cup and 2020 Olympics on the horizon, De Vanna - who has struggled with lower leg problems in recent years - said she'd be listening to her body.
"I have this argument with Staj (coach Alen Stajcic) every time I have my little emotional moments," said De Vanna, who has played 124 games for Australia since debuting in 2004. "He says 'you can play until you're 40' and I'm like 'I'm not going to be here until I'm 58'."
"Today at half-time I said to him I've only got another 10 minutes left in my tank and he said that's fine. I've done my days where I play 90 minutes and push my body to the limits. Now it's about making sure I'm in a good environment and my head is right emotionally, and physically. If I can have that I can have a long career."
5.8.2017
MURRAY INSPIRED THE MATILDAS TO VICTORY REVEALS DE VANNA
Matildas record-breaker Lisa De Vanna has revealed late Australian football legend Les Murray was an inspiration behind their 6-1 rout of Brazil. The Australian women's soccer team claimed a first trophy in seven years by winning the Tournament of Nations in Carson, United States, and they did so with black armbands on their sleeve for Murray.
Murray died on Monday after a battle with illness. He will be honoured by the New South Wales government with a state funeral, but yesterday the Matildas paid a stunning tribute of their own. De Vanna aaid the Matildas ran out with Murray in their hearts after a pre-match rallying call from coach Alen Stajcic.
"Today was emotional," De Vanna said. "Staj usually puts different things in team meetings and today it was all about Les. You could tell in Staj's voice how much he and (fellow SBS commentator) Johnny Warren meant to him and the game. For obviously Polks (Clare Polkinghorne) and Lydia (Williams) who are senior players, we obviously knew all about his legacy and what this man fought for."
"Just like we are fighting to be the best team, to be recognised and to lift the game and the women's game in Australia. Les was a pioneer. Staj laid out how he was like us women, fighting to show what we can do. A lot of the girls took that advice onto the field and it showed. To go out and score six goals, it was a bit of a dedication to Les."
De Vanna scored twice in the 6-1 win to overtake Kate Gill as the Matildas all-time leading goalscorer. "Everyone knows how much playing for my country means to me," she said. "Scoring those two goals was everything because I've given so much to the game. To have something like this to look back on is fantastic."
5.8.2017
NICOL HAS BALCATTA IN A SPIN
ECU Joondalup returned to the winners circle with a 5-2 win against Balcatta at the ECU Football Stadium, with speedy winger Daryl Nicol scoring a hat-trick. He opened the scoring from the penalty spot early, before Steven McGarry doubled their lead. Justin Onek pulled one back for the visitors before the break, but Nicol added another penalty on the hour, but still Balcatta hit back and skipper Calum O’Connell reduced the margin, but Sam Pollard added the fourth for ECU before Nicol completed his hat trick nine minutes from time.
“It was a good performance today, but to be fair it could have been double figures with the chances we missed but we played well both halves which is important going forward,” Nicol told the NPL website. “It was a good morale boost as well, after a bad run of results, so to get a good win under our belt is important as we look to finish the season off well.” The home side dominated early and were ahead on six minutes, Nicol was brought down by Onek and referee Matthew Southern pointed straight to the spot. Nicol picked himself up to send Domenico Savoldelli the wrong way from the resulting penalty.
It was 2-0 on 13 minutes. A corner from Sam Pollard was headed onto the crossbar by Gordon Smith, the rebound falling to Steven McGarry who finished well at the back post. Balcatta then came to life, and ECU keeper Jordan Young produced stunning low save to deny Tom Pellizzari on 22 minutes. But from the resulting corner they pulled one back. Onek rising highest to head powerfully home from close-range. The home side went close to a third on the stroke of half time, and after a goal mouth scramble Nicol’s snap shot crashed off the post.
Both sides had chances early in the second half, Jon Corness’ volley from the edge of the box was saved by Young, before Pollard shot from a tight angle rattled the post. But it was the home side who added a third on 55 minutes, Smith was brought down by Savoldelli and the referee pointed to the spot, and Nicol converted the penalty. It looked like ECU would run away with it, but on 70 minutes Balcatta were back in the game. Luccas Mello’s corner was headed home by skipper Calum O’Connell.
It was end to end football and Pollard’s shot on the run crashed off the post for the hosts again moments, before Mello’s shot flashed inches wide of the post for the visitors. But the home side restored control with a fourth goal on 77 minutes. Jack Jones’ corner wasn’t dealt with by the Balcatta defence and Pollard pounced to fire home. It soon became 5-2, a clever through ball from Smith sent Nicol racing clear and he finished clinically, to give ECU a comprehensive win.
ECU Joondalup: GK Jordan YOUNG, 3 Ross MILLARD, 4 Steven MCGARRY, 5 Graham DORAN, 6 Shane PICKERING, 7 Kevin MOON, 8 Declan HUGHES (16 Tom HOUGH 86’), 9 Daryl NICOL, 10 Gordon SMITH (c) (15 Ben HINSHELWOOD 88’), 11 Sam POLLARD, 17 Jack JONES - Subs not used: RGK Will PARKES, 11 Keylun POLLARD, 18 Ryan MCDARBY
Balcatta: GK Domenico SAVOLDELLI, 2 Daniel HEPWORTH, 3 Justin ONEK, 4 Calum O’CONNELL (c), 5 Tom PELLIZZARI, 7 Marco CHADINHA, 8 Brody KENNEDY, 9 Luccas MELLO, 10 Jon CORNESS, 12 Brennan BORZECKI (21 Ben MEREDITH 52’), 13 Dejan ANDRIC (18 Ismael BANGURA 68’) – Subs not used: RGK Luke HUTCHINSON, 14 Rudnei NOGUEIRA - Referee: Matthew Southern
5.8.2017
COCKERELS STUN THE LIONS
A stunning first half by Cockburn City has helped them to a stunning 7-0 win against Stirling Lions at Dalmatinac Park on Saturday afternoon. They led by six at the break, with Julian Teles bagging a hat-trick, Gian Albano a brace, and another from Kieron Stallard, while Albano completed his hat trick ten minutes into the second half. “Seven goals is out of this world for us, the performance was brilliant,” Cockburn City Coach Scott Miller told the NPL website. “Every time we went forward we were frightening and we took our chances well.”
The hosts made a perfect start and they were ahead after only two minutes. Harry O’Brien’s low cross wasn’t dealt with by Lions keeper Lance Alavakis and Teles tapped home from close-range. Albano doubled Cockburn’s advantage on 17 minutes, finishing clinically, before adding his second four minutes later, when he reacted quickest to fire home after Alavakis’ initial save. It was 4-0 on the half hour, Teles was found unmarked in the box, and he made no mistake.
It was a shell-shocked Lions side, but they did go close moments later Cameron Teece’s shot was well saved by Luke Radonich. But there was no rest bite for the Lions and it was 5-0 when Stallard headed home Jesse Lazzaro’s cross, before Teles completed his hat-trick two minutes from half time to make it a staggering 6-0 at the break.
The Lions looked to steady the ship after the break and Teece went close early, but on 55 minutes it was Cockburn on the scoresheet again. Albano was brought down in the box and referee Michal Jasinski pointed to the spot. Albano picked himself up to fire home the resulting penalty to complete his hat-trck and seal a memorable win for the Cockerels. “We lacked concentration and defended poorly and they punished us,” Lions Coach Rob Milevski told the NPL website. “We got what we deserved in that first half.”
Cockburn City: GK Luke RADONICH, 5 Keiron STALLARD, 6 Reuben TRISTAO, 7 Calvin WHITNEY, 9 Gian ALBANO (18 Aden DA LUZ 63’), 10 David ARAYA (8 Liam MURRAY 45’), 11 Harry O’BRIEN, 13 Blake ADAMS, 14 Julian TELES (12 Riley VAN DIEKEN), 15 Daniel SANTICH, 17 Jesse LAZZARO – Subs not used: RGK Ryan BARKER, 2 Joshua KUSER,
Stirling Lions: GK Lance ALEVAKIS, 2 Michael PUGLIESE, 3 Nicholas ASHLEY, 4 Blamo QUAQUA, 5 David MOLINARI, 7 Miki VUJACIC, 9 Alex TANEVSKI, 10 Daniel MICEVSKI (17 Darren O’RIORDAN 77’), 16 Mathaing MATHAING, 18 Moses KALAU, 19 Cameron TEECE (12Robbie MCNEILL 84’) - Subs not used: RGK Lachlan MCALINDON, 6 Dejan SPASESKI, 14 Lukas DE LIMA – Referee Michal Jasinski
5.8.2017
PERTH KEEP THE PRESSURE ON LEADERS
Perth SC kept in touch of Inglewood and Bayswater at the top of the table after a come-from-behind 3-1 win against Subiaco at Rosalie Park. Asher Nelson put the home side in front early, but goals from Lewis Milne, Aleks Jovic and Niccolo Sabatini gave Perth a convincing victory in the end. Alex Randell missed a late penalty for Subiaco but the damage had been done earlier. “I thought we played very well, our backline only made one mistake,” Perth Coach Ramon Falzon. “We expected them to come out and press us and give space behind especially on the flanks.”
It was a frantic start to the game, with both sides creating good opportunities but it was the home side who opened the scoring on eight minutes. Player/coach Ian McMurray flicked the ball onto Nelson whose volley flew into the top corner of the net giving Francis Soale no chance. But the visitors levelled on 24 minutes, Scottish import Milne found space in the box to score past Ryan Montgomery. They continued to dictate terms and they hit the front two minutes later, Jovic beat the offside to finish low past Montgomery. Perth took a strangle hold of the game in the shadows of half time when they added a third, Sabatini sweeping home after a swift counter attack.
It was a tight second half with chances few and far between, but Subiaco had a lifeline with five minutes remaining when referee Tom Glavovic spotted a handball and awarded a penalty. Randell stepped up but saw his spot kick crash off upright and away to safety. It went from bad to worse for Subiaco when defender Alex Castiello was sent off after a foul on Gustavo Catarcione. “We got a bit lazy, they came into the game and we couldn’t stop them,” McMurray told the NPL website. “The difference is the final third - the final delivery was better for them and they took their chances.”
Subiaco: GK Ryan MONTGOMERY, 4 Alex RANDELL, 6 Steve PURTON, 7 Owen COATES, 9 Ian MCMURRAY (10 Adrian CACERES 88’), 12 Jordan CANDLISH, 13 Nathan SMITH (11 Carlin FEELY 81’), 14 Ross JARMAN (8 Mike LAWSON 85’), 16 Asher NELSON, 17 Alex CASTIELLO, 18 David PERICH – Subs not used: 19 Andy LESTER, 21 Hamish ST GEORGE - Red Cards: Castiello 88
Perth SC: GK Francis SOALE, 2 Alex SILLA, 3 Andreas THEODOSLADES (10 Nicholas AMBROGIO 61’), 5 Niccolo SABATINI (20 Elliot TATTERSAC 85’), 7 Aleks JOVIC (21 Paul ZIMARINO 83’), 8 Tom KING, 9 Gustavo CATARCIONE, 12 Jordan DE LEO, 15 Harley ORR, 16 Kieran COLWELL, 18 Lewis MILNE - Subs not used: RGK Daniel PASSARELLI, 13 Rocco PIZZATA - Referee: Tom Glavovic
5.8.2017
GULLS WIN THE TENANTS’ DERBY
Sorrento moved to within four points of the league leaders, and into the top four, after a hard fought 2-1 win against co-tenants’ Joondalup United at Percy Doyle Reserve on Saturday afternoon. Sean Canham gave the Gulls the lead on the half hour, and it looked like Scott Witschge had won it mid-way through the second half, but Ross Edwards pulled one back for Joondalup, and they pressed late but couldn’t find the equaliser with WA State keeper James Morgan making a number of fine saves.
“They (Joondalup) bullied us last time and got the result, so we knew we had to match them for effort and intensity,” Sorrento Coach Jamie Harnwell told the NPL web site. “We did that and had two pieces of real quality which told. We made it a little bit harder for ourselves than we should have but the boys really stood up and were counted. It’s all about momentum now, and we just want to keep going on with that until the end of the season. It’s good to have it (Top Four) in our hands, obviously we’d like to look a little higher but another Inglewood win today makes that tough.”
It was a tight first half with chances few and far between, but on the half hour English striker Canham sent the Gulls to the break with the lead. He made space for himself, turned his marker before finishing clinically past James Bosdet with a curling shot into the top corner of the net. It was his 13th goal of the season and capped off a great month for him after scoring the winner in the FFA Cup win against Canberra Olympic.
The tight football continued after the break, and Canham had a chance of another goal early, but he headed over when well placed. But it didn’t matter to much as the Gulls added a second on 68 minutes. Ryan Pearson raced past a couple of Joondalup defenders before feeding Witschge whose shot on the run flew into the corner of the net giving Bosdet no chance.
It looked game over but Joondalup showed their fighting spirit and pulled one back three minutes later, Edwards losing his marker at the back post to finish past James Morgan.
It was game on and James Morgan was having to earn his pay packet. First he saved well to deny Joondalup top goalscorer Richard Howles, before the Sorrento custodian saved low to thwart the lively Matt Sparrow. Joondalup were leaving holes at the back as they chased the equaliser, and Canham almost added a third late, but his header was superbly saved by Bosdet. Joondalup had one last chance to grab a point, and James Morgan was at it again saving superbly to palm away substitute Luke Serra’s shot, which secured the points for the Gulls.
Joondalup United: GK James BOSDET, 3 Rowdy YATES, 4 Arran MAPLESTONE, 6 Guy MCDONALD (22 Robert TARPEY 88’), 7 Matthew SPARROW, 8 Josh WHITMORE, 9 Richard HOWLES, 11 Josh BOOYSEN (17 Luke SERRA 65’), 13 Chris PUGH, 16 Ross EDWARDS, 18 Anthony TAYLOR (5 Joe STOCKER 72’) – Subs not used: RGK Jack NUNN, 15 Sam WYNNE
Sorrento: GK James MORGAN, 4 Shaun KILKELLY, 6 Darryl PLATTEN, 8 Ryan PEARSON (7 Alex MORGAN 69’), 9 Sean CANHAM (3 George HUNTER 87’), 11 Tim HILL, 13 Steve MCDONALD, 14 Scott WITSCHGE, 17 Reece VITTIGLIA, 20 Brad MCDONALD, 21 Sam BYLES – Subs not used: RGK Anthony SALPIETRO, 2 Jacob SHORE, 16 Jackson DONGRAY – Referee: Tom Dowle
5.8.2017
DOLPHINS STAY AFLOAT IN RELEGATION FIGHT
Mandurah City earned a valuable point in their relegation fight after they held Floreat Athena to a 0-0 draw at E&D Litis Stadium. Both sides struggled in the final third and clear cut chances were few and far between, but Mandurah coach Doug Hesketh thanked his travelling supporters for helping them get a point.
“It’s all done in good spirits and they are desperate for us to stay up too,” he said. “This will be my last season as head coach, so we are really determined to keep the club in the NPL. We had a 17 year old up front, we had a 17 year old in the back four, we brought two 18 year olds on and honestly I’m delighted. If we can come to an outfit like this with players like they had on the field today and keep a clean sheet with some of our youngsters, I think we are in good shape.”
Going into this game both sides had everything to play for at both ends of the table, with Floreat needing a win to keep their title and top four hopes alive, while Mandurah needed the points to move away from the relegation zone. It was the home side were dominate early and had Mandurah on the back foot, but they suffered a blow on 25 minutes when influential midfielder Kris Gate limped off. Mandurah almost took the lead two minutes later when Jack Eades’ free kick from the edge of the penalty area was saved by Jason Saldaris.
It was more of the same after the break with Oliver McGee and Chris Saldaris both marshalling their back four superbly. But it was the home side that were looking dangerous, with Mandurah content to sit back and hit on the counter attack, and it was the home side that had the best chance to win it two minutes from time. Second half substitute Bobby Wilson lost his marker in the box, but his header hit the woodwork and was cleared.
“It’s frustrating because I’ve been out for 12 or 13 weeks, so coming on it would have been nice to score a goal and obviously win it for the boys,” Floreat defender/striker Bobby Wilson said. “Our quality wasn’t good enough and I think it showed on the pitch, we just couldn’t get it in the back of the net. I think we’ve probably let the league go now, I think today was probably the difference for us going and nicking the league, so now it is just a matter of battling every week to try and get into the top four.”
Floreat Athena: GK Jason SALDARIS, 3 Clayton ARNEZ (16 Juma AWAKA 90’), 4 Andrew SCALDAFERRO, 6 Jesse FULLER, 8 Jon STYNES, 11 Kris GATE (18 Phillip ARNOLD 25’), 13 Zelfy NAZARY (5 Bobby WILSON 61’), 14 Ludovic BOI, 15 Chris SALDARIS, 17 Dean EVANS (c), 33 Mark PRITCHARD – Subs not used: RGK Jordan BARBAS, 2 Brayden FRANKER
Mandurah City: GK Cyril SHARROCK, 2 Oliver MCGEE, 3 Jeff BRIGHT (c), 4 Matt STARES, 5 Mitchell FIRTH, 6 Lance LOUVIE, 7 Jack EADES, 10 Mitchell MORRIN (17 Mark MCLAUGHLIN 65’), 11 Ryan FRANCIS (16 Joshua WARREN 90’), 12 Joseph O’BRIEN (15 Kevin CASTLE 73’), 14 Slade RULE – Subs not used: 9 Zach BRYNE, 21 Kieran SHAIL - Referee: Steven Gregory
5.8.2017
INGLEWOOD GIVE ARMADALE SIX OF THE BEST
Inglewood United has maintained their lead at the top of the PS4 NPLWA with a comprehensive 6-2 win against a 10 man Armadale at Alfred Skeet Reserve. The home side lost Jackson Bealey after only 12 minutes, and it was all downhill from there for John O’Reilly’s side, and former Armadale striker and the league’s top goal scorer Alex Salmon scored a hat-trick to take his tally to 27, while Kenny Keogh, skipper David Cyrus and Hamza Hina were also on target. A brace from English midfielder Jordan Pavett, were the consolation goals for Armadale.
“The game got a bit upsidaisy in the second half, but the lads stuck together and we got the win which is what counts at this stage of the season,” Cyrus told the NPL website. “This result puts the pressure on Bayswater (City) who play tomorrow and Perth (SC) keep piling the pressure on us, but we are in pole position and it’s ours to lose. It’s close at the top but we just have to keep plodding on, it doesn’t matter how the results come as long as they keep coming.”
It wasn’t the start the Army supporters were looking for when Bealey was shown a straight red card by referee David Bruce after a poor tackle on young Inglewood defender Alex Ishida-Livings. The visitor made their numerical numbers count with the lead eight minutes later, Salmon easing his way past the last defender before finishing low past Michael Craggs. It was 2-0 on 36 minutes, when Keogh’s shot on the turn nestled in the back of the net.
It was one-way traffic and it wasn’t a surprise when the visitors added a third three minutes later. The lively Matthew Ntoumenopoulos’ ball over the top caused panic at the back and a mix up between defender and keeper let Salmon nip in and punish them, but to the displeasure of the Army supporters, and send Inglewood into the sheds with a 3-0 lead, and giving Armadale a mountain to climb.
That mountain became higher three minutes into the second half, when Salmon was brought down in the box by Milan Ognjenovic and the referee pointed straight to the spot, and Salmon picked himself up to score from the resulting penalty to complete his hat-trick. It was 5-0 when Cyrus volleyed home, but Armadale continued to battle and they reduced the margin on 68 minutes, with Pavett scoring from a free kick on the edge of the box, and he added another nine minutes later finishing well from Ognjenovic’s free kick.
But it was Inglewood who had the final say, Keogh making space down the flank and crossing to Hina who made no mistake. “The sending off in the first 10 minutes didn’t help us, but I think it was a game of two halves today,” Armadale assistant coach Jonathan Lupolo-Chan told the NPL website. “In the first-half we just couldn’t get our heads around it, but we regrouped at half-time and it showed because in the second half the boys showed they have the heart to play competitively against a big side like Inglewood.”
Armadale: GK Michael CRAGGS, 2 Dylan WHITE (17 James ATKINS 68’), 3 Jake SARDELIC, 4 Nathan COSTELLO (C) (22 Broden BROWN 86’), 7 Charlie KENNA, 8 Jordan PAVETT, 14 David ANNALL, 15 Jackson BEALEY, 16 Billy QUINNCROFT, 18 Milan OGNJENOVIC (10 Herman ALOGNON 86’), 19 Beau RAHIM - Subs not used: RGK Alec RADONICH, 21 Daniel CUMMING - Red Cards: Bealey 12
Inglewood United: GK Alex DUNN, 2 Alex ISHIDA-LIVINGS, 3 David CYRUS (C), 5 Adam TONG, 7 Kenny KEOGH, 8 Jason BARRERA (10 Ashley ROSINDALE 58’), 9 Alex SALMON (6 Victor BRAUNER 48’), 15 Brian FARRELL, 16 Matthew NTOUMENOPOULOS (18 Jason COLLI 65’), 17 Hamza HINA, 19 Choc DAU - Subs not used: RGK Ryan STEPHENSON, 4 Scott BLACKMORE - Referee: David Bruce
5.8.2017
ALL FLAGS STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND SIXTEEN – REVIEW
It’s as you were at the top of the All Flags State League Division One after Forrestfield United and South West Phoenix fought out an entertaining 2-2 draw at Hartfield Park. Phoenix Coach Mauro Marchione was pleased with his side sticking to the game plan, despite having a number of players missing. “We played to our plan very well on the counter and we surprised them early,” he said. “It wasn’t easy, but I think we matched them in every department.”
It’s been a somber week at Forrestfield and they said farewell to Marko Banjac, son of Coach Rod in a touching ceremony before kick-off, with both sides standing in a minute’s silence. It was the visitors who opened the scoring on 17 minutes, Corey Barclay lost his marker in the penalty area to steer the ball past Luke Martino. But the home side were level just after the half hour, Sani Sinclair heading home. But in the final minute of the half Phoenix regained the lead, Michael Farmer getting to the ball before Martino to head bravely home.
The home side dominated after the break and they were rewarded with the equaliser on 72 minutes, when referee Julian Serra spotted a foul in the box, and Sinclair beat Adam Guthridge from the resulting penalty. Forrestfield had good chances to take all three points, but Guthridge denied Sinclair and Liam Merigan, but Phoenix managed to hold on and get a share of the points.
“It was a good contest, and I’m pleased that we could break down their defence despite them parking the bus,” Forrestfield skipper Merigan told the Football West website. “I thought we had scored but somehow their keeper pulled off that unbelievable save. It’s been a sad week for the club, the news of Marko’s death hit the club very hard, but it shows the character of the club for everyone to come out and pay tribute like they did.”
Dianella White Eagles moved level with the league leaders after a 4-1 win against Rockingham City at Dianella Reserve. The home side dominated early and had Rockingham on the back foot and they were ahead on ten minutes, Francis Wanjuru chipping Rockingham keeper Alfie Brincat. It was 2-0 ten minutes later, Ibraham Hammad volleyed home off the post from ten meters. It was 3-0 on the half hour, Angel Andres heading home a superb Hammad corner.
The second half was much the same, but the host had to wait until 80 minutes to add a fourth, Andres was put through by Komando, he held off two defenders before slamming home an unstoppable shot into the far left side of the net. Rockingham got a last minute consolation goal when Jason Pottier scored from the penalty spot. “I was very happy with the win but more so by the complete performance by all the lads who pressed Rockingham from the outset and then kept the ball well and moved it around when we had it giving our opposition very little opportunity of getting into the game at all,” Dianella Coach Robbie Dunn said. “We could have and should have scored more and hopefully this performance will show the lads just how good they can be when they do the simple things well.”
In other games Fremantle City beat Gosnells City 4-2 at Hilton Reserve, while Joondalup City beat Canning City 4-0 at Iluka Sports Complex. Joondalup dominated possession for the first 20 minutes but squandered some very good chances, before Mark Tenney raced through to score. Joe McQuade made it 2-0 scoring direct from a corner for the second time this season. Canning started brightly after the break but Tenney made it 3-0 on the hour. Substitute Sam Phillips returning from injury burst through on the left before squaring to Devon Rindel who finished into the roof of the net to make it 4-0.
In the final game league leaders Western Knights were beaten 1-0 by Ashfield at Ashfield Arena. The only goal of the game came from the penalty spot with Jamie Stewart stepping up and scored. “It was a great win for us against a very strong, well organised Western Knights,” Ashfield Coach Matt Wardle said. “We knew they would be a difficult task to overcome and they showed why they have done so well this year by playing some neat football early on. But we took our chance when it came and from then on Knights didn't look like scoring against us, we were very determined to not concede and the boys protected Brad Effie very well. For Ashfield it is now about finding some consistency which has been hard to come by for us this year.” - UWA-Nedlands had the bye this week
5.8.2017
ALL FLAGS STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND SIXTEEN – REVIEW
All Flags state league Division Two league leaders Gwelup Croatia maintained their lead six point lead at the top of the table after a 4-1 win against Curtin University at Wishart Street. Danny Cain opened the scoring on 24 minutes, getting on the end of a James Sammut corner. It was 2-0 on the half hour mark, a stunning volley off an Isaac Koomson cross. It was 3-0 just before half time Teeboy Kamara firing home from the edge of the box. Curtin pulled one back after the break, but Koomson added Gwelup’s fourth to seal the win.
“It wasn't a great game, Curtin were very defensive and didn't trouble us much, but we were disappointed to concede as we switched off a bit in the second half, but the game was over by then,” Gwelup defender Cameron Yorke said. “But the main thing is we got three points and keep the gap between us and Morley in tack.”
Wanneroo maintained their third spot with a big 7-0 win against Kelmscott Roos at Frye Park. The visitors dominated from the outset and Kye Douglas finished well from a set-piece. It was bizarre end to the half when Jack Hailstones converted a retaken penalty to double their lead, and Kelmscott had three players sent off. Wanneroo took control of the game and added five more goals to end up with a comprehensive win.
“Saturday was crunch time for us after a mid-season slump, and it’s only fair to comment on the first half which I thought we dominated from the first whistle, and we had numerous chances early,” Wanneroo Tim Kantor said. “It's not fair on Kelmscott to comment on what happened in the second half. I will say this though, the remaining eight players on the park worked their back sides off and full credit to them. From our perspective we will take a lot out of the 1st half as it was probably the best 45 we've played all season. We now turn our attention to Swan which is a mini cup final.”
Swan United moved closer to the top four after a 2-0 win against Balga at Francis Street. The home side’s first goal was a penalty scored by James Shamim after Marco Trimboli was pushed in the box after fifteen minutes. Swan doubled their lead second when John Monterosso headed home ten minutes after. Balga dominated the second half in their attempt to get back into the game, but could not get past the tight Swan defence. Against the run of play, Swan had the chance to go three up, but John Monterosso's shot from the penalty spot went flying over the bar. “It was a great team display, we focused more on what we were doing defensively which paid off with a clean sheet and majority of Balga’s possession in their own back third. Our keeper was never really tested other than the odd cross which we defended easily,” Swan Coach Matt Debarro said. “I was very happy with the display as we've needed to tighten up all year hopefully we can carry this into next week in a very important fixture against a strong and well coached Wanneroo side.”
In other games Morley Windmills kept tabs on Gwelup, but had to work hard for a 3-2 win against Shamrock Rovers at Harold Rossiter Reserve. Kingsway Olympic continued their good form with a 4-0 win against Melville City. Jake Cherrie and Frederico Achilli gave the hosts a 2-0 lead at the break, before Nathan Thorp added a third. Cherrie added his second to give Graham Normanton’s side a comfortable win. - Quinns FC had the bye this week.
4.8.2017
KERR LEADS MATILDAS TO TOURNAMENT OF NATIONS GLORY
The Matildas have blitzed their way to Tournament of Nations glory by defeating Brazil 6-1 to claim the inaugural four-team competition in stunning style. Doubles from record-breaker Lisa De Vanna and Caitlin Foord helped Australia overturn an early deficit with Katrina Gorry and Sam Kerr also adding their names to the scoresheet.
Kerr was irrepressible, winning a first half penalty to earn an equaliser before providing two assists and icing the match with Australia's sixth goal. The comprehensive win was the Matildas' third in a week and delivered their first piece of silverware since the 2010 Asian Cup. A first ever win over world champions the United States and victories over highly-ranked Japan and Brazil make it arguably the Matildas' greatest success.
4.8.2017
PS4 NPL-WA ROUND TWENTY-THREE PREVIEW
This week’s Footballwa Match of the Round takes us to the E&D Litis Stadium where Floreat Athena entertains Mandurah City. The game is vital at both ends of the table, Floreat needing the points to keep in the top four, while Mandurah will be desperate for three points in their battle against relegation. Floreat got back to winning ways last week with a big win against Armadale, while Mandurah let a lead slip to draw 1-0 with Subiaco. The last time these two sides met in the Premier League at the venue was in round 22 in 2011, when they played out a 2-2 draw. Miki Vujacic put Floreat ahead early in the second half, before Aaron Dos Santos levelled. It looked like Floreat had won it when James Isaia scored, but a late penalty from Ivan Zuvela gave both teams a share of the spoils. Mandurah City Coach Doug Hesketh said last week was a good point in the end. “Yes I will take a point at this stage of the season, but we could have won it for sure,” he said. “The sending off changed the game, but I was really happy how the lads approached the game and I thought we played well.” Hesketh said they have grown this season in their first NPL season, and go into Saturday’s game confident they can get a result. “We have worked hard all season on and off the field, and we’ve lifted the clubs profile, and reached a Night Series Final and had no admin errors during the season so we are proud how we adapted,” he said. “We have to be totally focused game day, especially with our current position on the ladder, and as usual take it one game at a time. Floreat are a good team full of quality, but we go there looking for the win. It's as important for them as us, and we have beaten them there in the night series. So we certainly won't underestimate them but looking forward to the challenge.” In team news Andy Brown, Jordan Rhodes and Tom Straker are all suspended, but they get Ollie McGee and Daniel Davis back.
Floreat midfielder Dean Evans, who was in action for the WA State side on Wednesday, said last week’s win against Armadale was important, after back to back defeats. “It was good to get back to winning ways after two consecutive losses, and I feel we created enough chances to win the game comfortably,” he said. “But we let them back in the game with some soft goals which we need to address.” With the season getting down to the pointy end Evans said their fate is in their own hands. “We know we are in a position where we need to win every game to have a chance of winning the league and also securing a place in the top four as its getting tight up there,” he explained. “We need to keep putting pressure on the teams above us and hopefully there will be a few more twists and turns before the season ends.” The midfielder knows Saturday’s opponents are fighting for their survival in the league and is expecting a tough game. “It’s always tough playing teams at the other end of the table, and they had a good result last week, and we know we will have to be at our best to win the game and continue to pile pressure on the teams around,” he said. “We definitely won’t be taking Mandurah for granted as they are a tough team to play if you let them.” In team news Jackson Morgan is suspended, while Bobby Wilson will be pushing for a starting spot after returning on the bench last week. Saturday (3.00pm) – Floreat Athena v Mandurah City – E&D Litis Stadium - Referee Stuart Muldoon
Bayswater City are the form team of the league, and their six game unbeaten run has seen them jump to second on the table, only one point behind Inglewood. This week they make the trip to Ashfield Arena to take on a Perth Glory, and like our Match of the Week both side are desperate for points at the both ends of the table. The Glory was edged out by the odd goal by Inglewood last week, while Bayswater came home from ECU with all three points, and defender Devon Gibson said it was a good performance. “Last week was a great 2-0 win for the baysie boys on the weekend, and it puts us in a good position coming through to the final games of the season,” he said. “There’re still some tough games coming up for teams in the top four and with it being so close all teams must be on their game.” Gibson returned from month out of the game last week and he said it was great to be back, although he felt it Sunday morning. “It's always hard playing your first game back in four weeks, coming back from having an injury and a holiday, but I got an hours under my belt and I think the coaches were happy with that,” he explained. “I was happy to come back straight into the starting 11, it's been hard for a few players to shake of some injuries , and players being away, but the young boys that are coming through, I take my hat off to them. Joining the squad in so short notice, they have been performing very well, and it's coming to the final stages of the season, for them next year could be very rewarding.” Gibson said Saturday’s game could be a banana skin game for them, but he’s confident they can get the job done. “This weekend could be very interesting, as we always find Glory to be a tough opponent,” he said. “They also have young hungry footballers, and for our team to have more experienced players, we don't want to be chasing the young ones around all day, so we will have to play smart – were looking forward to it.” - Sunday (3.00pm) – Perth Glory v Bayswater City – Ashfield Arena - Referee Josh Mannella
Inglewood United maintained their lead at the top with a narrow win at Perth Glory, and they are on the road again this week, when they take on Armadale at Alfred Skeet Reserve. Armadale have lost back-to-back games, this after going on a five game run without defeat and Coach John O’Reilly said the loss at Floreat was unlike his side. “Last week at Floreat, defensively and collectively, we let ourselves down and ended on the wrong side of an ugly score line,” he said. “But in defeat we learn more about ourselves and thus gives us the opportunity to stand up the following week and prove that this was a bump in our road to progression. The high standards we have set ourselves means that when we lose, it hurts us more, but in turn drives us on in determination to overcome our next challenge. Training has been very good this week, with high tempo and intensity being key, giving us the confidence that we will be competitive on Saturday in our battle for the points.” O’Reilly will come against Andy Keogh this week, the Coach said he worked with him when he was coach at Shamrock, and he’s looking forward to pitting wits again. “I look forward to going head-to-head with a Republic of Ireland Star in Andy Keogh, who I was lucky enough to work with briefly at Shamrock Rovers during pre-season last year,” he explained. “His NPL coaching debut season has been going very well for him and his side, and on Saturday they will be a very tough opponent. We have had a poor turn of fortune in our last couple of weeks, two straight losses have been disappointing, coming off the back of a five game undefeated streak, but we will be up for the challenge on Saturday.” Saturday (3.00pm) – Armadale v Inglewood United – Alfred Skeet Reseve - Referee David Bruce
It’s been a huge two weeks for Sorrento, and they look to consolidate a top four spot when they meet co-tenants Joondalup United at Percy Doyle Reserve. It’s a home game for Joondalup, and they will be looking to bounce back from last week’s loss at Stirling, while the Gulls will go in search of another three points, after a hard fought win against Cockburn City last week. Sorrento defender Ryan Pearson said it’s been a hectic few weeks but the win last week was well deserved. “The Cockburn game was always going to be a tough game after a midweek game like we had on Wednesday, as all the boys used every ounce of energy and hard work to get us over the line with the win in the FFA Cup,” he explained. “But none the less we knew it was just important to keep us up there with the leaders. So we put out the same team and it was a pretty even match, until we got our first goal which gave us that lift to then comfortably see out the win, especially bagging our second. It was just a shame we conceded late on to not get the clean sheet.” Pearson said Joondalup have impressed this season, and they beat them in the first meeting, but he is confident they can reverse that result on Saturday. “Yeah we play away at home this week,” he joked. “Joondalup have been doing well this season, and I imagine it to be a fast paced physical game more than anything. They got the win against us last time so we'll want to correct that loss, as if results go our way we could climb up to second spot. So we will be right up for it again. Every game from now to the end of the season is like a cup final.” In team news Brodie Martin is still in doubt for the Gulls - Saturday (3.00pm) – Joondalup United v Sorrento – Percy Doyle Reserve - Referee Tom Dowle
Perth SC will look to keep the pressure on the leaders when they travel to Rosalie Park to take on Subiaco. The won comfortably last week against Balcatta, while Subiaco came home from Mandurah with a 1- draw. Keeper Francis Soale said the win against Balcatta was a good performance, and the first half was outstanding. “It was a really strong 90 minute performance from the lads, which was probably a pretty accurate reflection of where we're at, at the moment as a team,” he said. “Obviously the early goal really did allow us to play with even more freedom and we ran out big winners.” Subiaco have impressed this season and on their day can beat any team, and Soale knows they need to be on their toes from the whistle. “They've had some great results this season, and were unlucky not to come away with a point at our place in the first game,” he said. “Playing at their ground they're tough to break down, so we'll have our work cut for us. That being said our boys aren't scared of anyone at the minute with our recent form we'll go into Saturday hunting for another three points to build more pressure on Inglewood.” In team news club skipper Adrian Madaschi and Matthew Milenkovic return for Perth - Saturday (3.00pm) – Subiaco v Perth SC – Rosalie Park – Referee Tom Glavovic
Balcatta make the trip to the ECU Football Stadium to take on ECU Joondalup looking to end a five game streak without a win. They were well beaten at Perth last week, and their last win was in the local derby against Perth Glory in round 17, and they need to start finding results sooner rather than later if they are to stay in the topo flight. ECU have also struggled in recent weeks and they have fell off the pace and a top four spot is out of reach. They were beaten at home last week and Coach Dale McCulloch said silly mistakes cost them. “Last week saw us go down at home to Bayswater City 2-0, in a game I thought we dominated for large period’s but mistakes cost us,” he said. “To be honest it’s been the story of our season, but it’s no excuse, I’m the coach and I take the responsibility for it. We are in this together, the players are working hard to improve and I’m confident we can put in a good ninety minutes on Saturday.” McCulloch is well aware Balcatta will be desperate for a win and they need to be on song, and he’s hoping his side can finish the season well, starting Saturday. “Balcatta are fighting for their NPL lives and they will up for Saturday’s game, so we need to be strong,” he said. “But we are looking to bounce back and get back to winning ways and end the season with five wins.” In team news for ECU, skipper Jon Higgins limped off last week and is in doubt, while Fraser Greenwood will miss again after having surgery last week. – Saturday (3.00pm) – ECU Joondalup v Balcatta – ECU Football Stadium – Referee Matthew Southern
The final game takes us to Dalmatinac Park where Cockburn City entertains Stirling Lions. Cockburn were beaten a Sorrento last week, while Stirling beat Joondalup United in a thriller. A stunning winner from striker Alex Tanevski was a contender for goal of the season, but he said it was good to get the win. “It was a great team performance the boys fought very hard for the win,” he said. “Joondalup are a very strong side so it was no walk in the park for us, but our home fans gave us that extra 10% with their energy to get us through in the end.” On the goal Tanevski said he’s been working on it at training. “I’ve been practicing the overhead kick at training with David Micevski, and in the back of my mind I knew what I wanted to execute,” he said. “As the ball came in from Miki I knew that I just needed to get my chest control right to set myself up for the overhead kick to work, I took a gamble and thankfully it paid off.” The former Glory Youth striker has been outstanding this season, and he said they are hoping to end the season with four wins, starting at Cockburn. “It’s a game of little importance but you go out and play every game to win,” he said. “Our away record has not been great this season so we want to improve on that. It will be another tough task on the weekend, but hopefully we can continue our momentum.” - Saturday (3.00pm) – Cockburn City v Stirling Lions – Dalmatinac Park – Referee Michal Jasinski
4.8.2017
ALL FLAGS STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND SIXTEEN – PREVIEW
The top of the All Flags State League Division One is tight with only six points separating the top five sides, and it’s all to play for. This week’s Footballwa – Match of the Week takes us to Dianella Reserve where fourth placed Dianella White Eagles take on sixth placed Rockingham City. Dianella were held to a scoreless draw at Gosnells last week, while Rockingham were beaten at home by Joondalup City, so both will be looking to bounce back on Saturday. The last time these two sides met in the league at Dianella Reserve, Rockingham came home with a 3-2 win. Jason Stepanovski gave the home side the lead early, but Ryan Kennedy levelled from the spot. City then took control with a brace from Gersh Rowland, and despite Nasir Komi pulling a goal back City held on for the win.
Dianella coach Robbie Dunn it was frustrating not to get the points last week, but praised Gosnells for their performance. “It was disappointing to not get the win but Gosnells played well at times, and Alan and Dion are doing a great job with their lads,” he said. “I thought that we played some really good controlled football but we just didn’t have our usual cutting edge up front on the day. Our squad has been decimated by injuries and suspension already this year so now losing another two with red cards against Gosnells isn't helping us going forward. If we could have kept our squad together from the start of the year I really believe we would have been in a lot better position than we are now.” Dunn said Saturday’s game will be another tough test but one their looking forward too. “Rockingham will be a tight game and we have to come up with another new starting 11 which has been the case for the last eight games, but one thing though is that the players really surprise me as to just how resolute that they are and they keep playing football where they can and never give up,” he explained. “They will have to be at their best though as Rockingham teams usually are at their best when times are tough, so I expect another stressful time on the sidelines for the coaches and a tough hit out for our players on the field.” In team news Angel Andres returns from a two week suspension, while Spiro Nenadicc comes in for his first start of the season.”
Rockingham coach Rob Crerar said after taking the lead against Joondalup they never turned up for the second half. “It was a really disappointing result, and our performance in the second half didn't deserve anything from the game,” he said. “We have to be better than that and we’ll be looking for a response from the players this weekend.” Crerar’s side sit five points behind Dianella on the table, but he said they go there looking for three points to closer the gap. “It's a massive challenge for the current group to win away at Dianella, who are a very talented side,” he said. “We are giving a lot of game time to our younger players, and with that comes some inconsistency, but if we can put 90 minutes together I am confident that we can win the game.” In team news keeper Alfie Brincat returns to the squad, while Maxwell Snelson and Travis Williams are in line for a recall.
In other games league leaders Western Knights return to league action after their gallant effort in the Westfield FFA Cup on the Gold Coast, when they travel to the Ashfield Reserve to take on Ashfield. The Knights went down 3-1 in the cup, but are coming off a hard fought 1-1 draw against Forrestfield last week, while Ashfield lost ground on the top four with defeat against UWA. Gosnells City will be looking to build on their draw against high flyers Dianella last week when they travel to Fremantle. Gosnells Coach Alan Dunlop said it was a good performance from his side. “I was really pleased with our performance, it was a very tough game with both teams well committed,” he said. “Both teams had good chances and maybe a draw was a fair result, but we definitely could have won the game if we had scored one of our many chances. “ Dunlop said Ashfield are good side and will be a tough opponent. “It’s a big game with both sides sitting level on points on the table, and it’s another cup final for us and the players are looking forward to it. We see this as a chance to get a positive result and push for a top six finish, which we believe we can achieve, but we are well aware of the dangers of such a big game. I felt we deserved the win the last time we met, but it has made the lads hungrier to win this game.” In team Scott Pereira and Aaron Coslani are still out with long term injuries, but they have Jacob Collard back from suspension.
Second placed Forrestfield United will be looking to keep the pressure on the Knights at the top of the table when they host South West Phoenix at Hartfield Park. The Phoenix overcame Fremantle last week, while Forrestfield drew in the top of the table clash with the Knights, but with both side level on points on the table this one will be a cracker. In the final game bottom of the table Canning City will hit the road to take on Joondalup City at the Iluka Sports Complex. Joondalup stunned Rockingham last week, while Canning are coming off the bye. “Having the bye has been a good time for all of the players, coaches and club members to have a deserved rest and reflect on what's happened so far this season,” Canning Coach Pete Lord said. “Personally I've had some real time to itemize weaknesses in our squad, tactics, and structure. I’ve put these into motion by starting our plan with Paul Oliver and the other coaches for preseason 2018 with coaching structures, target signings and planning our preseason schedule. It's been a tough few months, to say the least but I'm excited for next seven games we have left this year.” Lord said they are slowly getting their performance up to starch and fancy their chances of a win at Joondalup. “We have improved week in week out since I've taken over the job and we are playing some good football at times but only having five points is disappointing,” he said. “We work extremely hard on the way we want to play football and making sure the younger lads really enjoy the game. However we are in a results business and points are really all that matter. We have conceded goals that you can't train for time and time again but when you’re at the bottom you don't get that luck, and only hard work and a belief in our game plan will turn it around.
“At the beginning of the season we threw away 3 or 4 games by imploding for 7-8 minutes and conceded a 95th minute equalizer to Dianella at home. While in the last couple of weeks against Ashfield we were deserving of at least a point especially second half and at Rockingham we should have taken all 3. I have no doubt we are on the right track and everyone that's a part of it is on the same page. This week is a game we will be focused for and of course want to win. Joondalup are very strong at home and play to their strengths, in the reverse fixture we were 2-0 up and threw it away. I'm happy with my squad and the way the players are working, for a young squad who have an average age of 19, they are still enjoying the football. We can focus on the league position and just keep having that positive attitude and enjoy playing is the focus.” Joondalup Coach Gary Kalaher said it was a good win at Rockingham, but they need to back it up against Canning. “It was a very important three points for us at Rockingham last week, but it still remains very tight at the bottom. With the bottom four all playing each other this week the stakes are high,” he said. “We had a very tough game against Canning last time and know they are fighting for survival just like us. We will prepare for and expect another hard fought encounter.”
4.8.2017
ALL FLAGS STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND SIXTEEN – PREVIEW
We head to Kingsway Reserve for this week’s All Flags State League Division Two Footballwa – Match of the round, when Kingsway Olympic entertain Melville City. Kingsway came home with a good 3-1 win against Wanneroo in the local derby last week while Melville’s recent good form came to an end after back-to-back defeats. These teams last met at the same venue in the final round last season and they put on a six goal thriller, with both sharing the points in a 3-3 draw. Melville keeper Daniel Agudelo said the last two games were frustrating but they need to lift for Saturday’s game. “It's always disappointing to lose, especially when the team is playing well, the Shamrock game was quite frustrating, however, credit to Shamrock they managed the game and time well,” he said. “League leaders Gwelup was always going to be tough, we performed very well first half, however, playing a quality side like that you can’t afford to make mistake, as we found that out when they pounced and converted on our mistakes.” The former Swan and Morley custodian said they have been playing some good stuff this season, but haven’t been rewarded and they will have to be at their best to get the points against Graham Normanton’s Kingsway side. “Although we had a very slow start to the year, we have been competitive in all games, and we have been performing well despite the results,” he said. “This week will be no easy game, Normo has them playing well, but I believe if we keep performing with a little patience we can get the result.”
The win at Wanneroo moved Kingsway to within five points of the play-off’s spot and Nathan Thorpe said it was a good team performance. “It was a great win for us last week the local derby in very testing pitch conditions and both teams to their credit tried to play football from the whistle,” he said. “We have been giving sloppy goals away all year which has cost us and we were focused on not giving anything away. We had two debutants in the starting eleven, one of them getting on the score sheet which is pleasing to see him stepping up from the reserves and making an impact.” Thorpe said they will doing all they can to reach the end of season play-offs. “We have Melville at home this week, who we edged out 4-3 last time around in a game that had everything,” he said. “Their results have improved since the last time we played them and like us they are a team who likes to play football and dominate possession so set for a great game ,and we’ll be doing all we can to keep our chances of top 4 alive in a very unpredictable league this year.”
League leaders Gwelup Croatia sit six points clear at the top of the table and this week they host Curtin University at Wishart Street. They are coming off a comprehensive 4-0 win at Melville last week, while Curtin made it back-to-back wins with a win at Shamrock. Curtin Coach Campbell said it was good to win especially after winning their catch up game in midweek. “It was an important win at Shamrock, and it was pleasing we backed up from our win against Wanneroo in the catch up game,” he said. “It was our first back-to-back wins this season, so we go into Saturday’s game full of confidence.” Ballantyne said a trip to Gwelup is a tough task but they are looking forward to the challenge. “We’re under no illusions it will be challenging, but Gwelup has already dropped points to Wanneroo and Morley this season, two of our recent scalps,” he explained. “So we know win at Gwelup could be real bonus points that could change our season, and back to pushing for a play-off spot. In team news we have Rory Binnie and Khaled Salah both back in full training and Danny Tood has returned from travel. We are also working on signing some new overseas players, who have started the first semester at the University, but it will be a fight to get them ready for the game, and after being unbeaten in three, it will be hard for them all to force their way into the team.”
In other games second placed Morley Windmills are coming off the bye and they make the trip to Harold Rossiter Reserve to take on Shamrock Rovers. They have a game in hand on the leaders, but are currently six points behind, so a win is vital to keep in touch. Shamrock sits four points adrift at the bottom of the table, but they have improved in recent games, so it was a disappointing loss at Curtin last week. Both Kelmscott Roos and Wanneroo City will be looking to bounce back from defeats last week when they meet at Frye Park. Kelmscott were well beaten at Balga last week, while Wanneroo lost heavily at home to Kingsway. Both are sitting in play-off spots at present, so the three points are vital in this one. The final game of the round takes us to Francis Street in Middle Swan, where Swan United entertains Balga. Swan lost ground on the top four, with a loss at Quinns last week, while Balga’s recent good form continued, with a win against Kelmscott. Balga midfielder Kyall Osborne said it was one of their best performances of the season. “I thought the win against Kelmscott was the best we have played as a team for a while now in difficult conditions,” he said. “I thought our structure in defence was good and attacking players all had confidence and were a constant threat all game. It was a good performance on the bad surface, which wasn't great for both teams, but the win is a reflection of the hard work we have been putting in at training.” Osborne said a trip to the Swan is always a difficult one, but they head their full of confidence. “This week’s game will not be easy...we struggled to cope with their big attacking players last time out,” he said. “But I feel we have learned a lot from the last few weeks and we are full of confidence going into this week. We have to be at our best to pick up points and get back to where we feel as a team we belong in the top half of the table.”
4.8.2017
AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION, ROUND FIFTEEN – PREVIEW
We are off to Chichester Park for the Footballwa – Match of the Round as second placed Kingsley entertain Kwinana United. Kingsley won 3-0 at Ellenbrook last week, while Kwinana were beaten by the odd goal at home by Subiaco. Kingsley Coach Steve Dimitrovich said it was a good win, to keep them in touch with the league leaders. “Last week was a very good win for us, it was a very workman like,” he said. “We had a lot of possession and played the game on our terms for the entire 90 minutes, but the most pleasing thing part of the game was the fact we had three different goal scorers, with Nick Lowe, David Morris and David Ashworth on target.” Kingsley has only lost once this season at home and Dimitrovich will be hoping they can continue that on Sunday, but is well aware Kwinana have a talents side. “It’s a big game for us this weekend, against a very tough opponent in Kwinana,” he said. “In our first meeting it was a very tight affair until half time, when we made a couple of adjustments and had a very good win in the end. It will be another tough game on Sunday, and they (Kwinana) have been playing really well, so we will have to be at our best to come away the points.” In team news Bailey Salmon misses the game, but Dimitrovich has a number of players’ vying for a spot in the side.
Kwinana coach Kris Connell said the loss last week was disappointing, but they did play well but need to cut out silly errors. “I thought we played some good football against Subiaco, and could have won it late, with a real good chance,” he said. “But we made a fatal mistake late in the game and unfortunately it cost us.” Connell said they know that Kingsley have some good players, and they need to be on their toes from the first whistle. “They (Kingsley) are a great side, and have held their own this season,” he explained. “We go into the game knowing we need to be at our best to get a result, so the lads know what is required.” In team news Danny Dyson will miss the game, while Dean Patefield is back in the squad.
In other games North Perth United should get the job done when they host bottom of the table BB United at Woodville Reserve. North Perth are only six points behind Wembley, and are still in the mix, and are coming off a bi 9-0 win against Perth Royals, but on the other hand BB United are stilling searching for their first point of the season. Southern Spirit have home ground advantage when they entertain Hamersley Rovers at Watsons Reserve. The Spirit were beaten at Wembley last week, but pushed the league leaders all the way, while Hamersley were held at home by Belmont Villa. Fifth placed Subiaco hit the road to take on Perth Royals at JA Lee Reserve, looking to keep their top four hopes alive. Subiaco beat Kwinana last week, but the Royals will need to improve after a big loss against North Perth last week.
The final game takes us to John Connell Reserve where league leaders Wembley Downs take on Leeming Strikers. Leeming Coach David Palin said it’s been a big week for his players and he was happy they could get the win last week. “After coming off a really tough cup quarter final win against Crocavia, we were really happy to get the win,” he explained. “It was expected but going to the Cage is never an easy place but the boys applied themselves well and was very businesslike performance.” Palin said Wembley have been the team to beat all season, but they are looking for a positive performance. “They (Wembley) are very good side that goes without saying, the consistency and high level they play at week in week out is a real credit to Colm and his players,” he said. “They wore us down at their ground earlier in the season and we knocked them out of the cup two weeks later, so we are expecting another battle but one we look forward to as it’s always good to test yourself against the best teams.”
Wembley Coach Colm Costello said they had to work hard for last week’s win against the Spirit. “It was a good win last week, and I was happy to take 3 points in a game we were bang average,” he explained. “A win is a win so we will be looking to improve performance wise this week.” He said Leeming are a good side and they proved that last time they met. “We are expecting a really tough game down in Leeming, as last time we met they knocked us out of cup,” he said. “In the cup game our attitude and approach was terrible and it showed and the pitch. David got his game plan and tactics spot on and deservedly beat us that night so we know what is needed and expected to get a result on Sunday. We played catch up for eight odd games so we are well aware few slip ups and we're third again. We have been taking every game one at a time and week to week, so if we take our eye off the ball we will drop points. Every game is cup final approach and training has been getting more intense every week so the lads are well up for this challenge, and this league is far from over.”
3.8.2017
BRISBANE SNAP UP OXBORROW
Brisbane Roar have signed former Perth Glory midfielder Mitchell Oxborrow for the 2017/18 A-League season. Oxborrow joins Brisbane after departing Glory at the end of last season, having made over 25 appearances for the club across two seasons.
The 22-year old becomes Brisbane coach John Aloisi's fourth signing of the off-season, joining Fahid Ben Khalfallah, Massimo Maccarone and Corey Gameiro. "Brisbane is a great club with brilliant fans, and I'm extremely grateful to be given this opportunity," Oxborrow said.
"My new teammates have made me feel welcome and my focus now is doing my part for the team over the coming months. I'm stoked to be here and looking forward to the challenge of helping the club be successful this season." Oxborrow adds to Aloisi's midfield and defensive options.
3.8.2017
WILLIAMS PENS INDIAN DEAL
Former Perth Glory defender Aryn Williams has resolved his club future after joining newly promoted Indian I-League club Neroca FC. The 23-year old confirmed the signing on social media on Wednesday, having been released by Glory at the end of the 2016/17 A-League season.
Williams was part of Glory's squad for the past two seasons and more recently spent time with Victoria club Preston Lions. The former Burnley player is the latest Australian to head to India, following in the footsteps of Erik Paartalu and Cameron Watson.
2.8.2017
KNIGHTS GO LOOKING FOR FFA CUP GLORY
Western Knights will have the support of all the West Australian football family, as they head into tonight’s Westfield FFA Cup round of 32 game against Gold Coast City. They go into the game full of confidence, topping the All Flags State League Division One and fresh off a great win in the State League Cup Final against Sorrento. So they are well prepared and Coach Trim Morgan said they are looking forward to the challenge. “Tonight is a huge test but it’s one they are looking forward to, the players are ready to do WA proud, they are a tight knit group and are determined to put on a good show,” he said. “We are in good form and have players that can cause the Gold Coast problems, and we will be looking to join Sorrento in the next round.”
The coach said the Gold Coast are an unknown challenge for them, but he has done some homework on them. “Tonight if we got our game plan right we will have a great chance of coming home with a win,” he said “We have watched a couple of videos of them, but we will be only concerned about our performance, and if we get that right we’ll be all right. The players are relishing the opportunity to play on the national stage and we’ll be doing all they can to get in the hat for the next round.”
For skipper Paul Lloyd he said the consistency of the side has got them to this stage, and he said he can’t see why it won’t continue tonight. “We've been on a great run, losing only once in the last 15 games and keeping seven clean sheets, so confidence is high and the lads are full of confidence going into the game,” he said. “Tomorrow is almost like another Cup Final, anything can happen on the night, we couldn't have prepared any better for the game, we know they are top of their league and obviously have some dangerous players but we have players that can hurt them too and we're looking to join Sorrento in the last 16.”
Hard-working President Gordana Sliškovic said it’s been a great run, and she hopes it continues tonight. “We’re going nicely at the moment, and to maintain our place at the top of the league in a hard fought game against Forrestfield last week, and the week before we beat Sorrento in the cup final, which was a great day for our club, and I’m still getting over it,” she Joked. “That win boasted the morale of the squad, and we are really proud of the coaching staff and the players and we can’t wait for Wednesday’s FFA Cup tie.”
Trim has done a fantastic job on the park, but the work off the park has given the club a massive lift and Sliškovic has been a huge part of that, and she said they go into tomorrow’s game with nothing to lose and everything to gain. “We arrived on the Gold Coast today and were soaking up the experience of being on the big stage in the Westfield FFA Cup, the boys are up for it,” she said. “We’ll go out and play our game and give it a crack, and like I said whatever happens I’m really proud of everyone who has got to this stage of the competition, and you never know what can happen in cup games, so it could be another great night for us and WA football.”
2.8.2017
DE SILVA CLEARED FOR CENTRAL COAST DEBUT
Central Coast Mariners coach Paul Okon confirmed marquee signing Daniel De Silva is eligible to make his club debut tomorrow night despite fears red tape would delay his registration. The former Perth Glory player is set to play some part in Central Coasts' FFA Cup match against Blacktown City, with his international transfer clearance having been approved by Football Federation Australia.
But Okon is coy as to whether De Silva is fit and ready to start against Blacktown. He is tempted to use the youngster as a bench option in their first competitive game of the season. Central Coast trained in Sydney today where De Silva had one final chance to push his claim for a starting position in the Cup.
"He's working incredibly hard in recent months and he's put himself in a position where he's not at full 90-minute fitness so we'll manage him and get him up to the level," Okon said. "He's available for selection, he's itching to get minutes ... whether that's from the start or off the bench, we'll decide later on after training."
2.8.2017
YOUNG SOCCEROOS TAKE OUT OPENING TRI-SERIES GAME (courtesy www.footballwest.com.au)
A clinical second half performance from the Young Socceroos has seen them run out 3-0 winners against West Australian in the opening Tri-Series 2017 game at Perth Plasterboard Centre Stadium on a chilly Wednesday evening. The WA side had the better of the first half, creating a number of good chances, but after half time the Young Socceroos took control with goals from Western Sydney Wanderers’ duo Moudi Najjer and Oliver Puflett, and Melbourne Victory’s Nicholas Sette.
Young Socceroos Coach Ufuk Talay thanked Football West for putting on the tournament, and said it was a good work out for his squad, ahead of their upcoming AFC under 19 Championship Qualifiers. “It was a good second half and a good work out for us, and I’d like to thank Football West for hosting us here, and so far it’s been fantastic,” he said. “We change the side at half time to have a look at some players to give everyone a run and we’ve identified a few players ahead of our qualifiers. At the end of the day the result doesn’t matter, it more about the performance, and it was a good opportunity for players to get some game time.”
WA coach Ramon Falzon said after a bright first half it was a disappointing result, but he was really impressed with the young opposition. “I thought in the first half we played quite well and created a couple of good chances, which we didn’t take, but the second half was tough,” he explained. “But credit to them, they are a very good side, and they got in behind us in the second half and caused as all sorts of problems. But we realise they are a national side and we wish them luck in the up-coming qualifiers, and we move on to Singapore next Tuesday.”
WA were on the front foot early and skipper Gordon Smith was denied by Sydney FC keeper Duro Dragicevic after only two minutes, before Daryl Nicol’s glancing header was saved by Dragicevic. The PS4NPLWA’s top goalscorer Alex Salmon then saw his curling shot flash wide, before Cian Albano shot on the run drifted over the top. The Young Socceroos settled and Sebastian Pasquali’s long-range shot fizzed wide, before Giordano Marafioti wriggled into the box, but his shot flashed inches wide of the post.
It was completely new Young Socceroos line up in the second half, and they started to get on top, and WA keeper James Morgan produced a finger-tip save to deny them early. Morgan was working overtime, and he was in the action again moments later when Sette’s cross picked out Puflett, whose effort was saved low by the WA custodian. Their pressure was rewarded with the opener on 67 minute. A great through-ball from Sette sent Najjer clear, and he finished clinically past Morgan.
They added a second nine minutes later, Sette burst clear and finished with aplomb past Morgan. The Young Socceroos were playing some outstanding football, and it was only a matter of time before they added a third, with Najjer crossing to Puflett who made no mistake from five meters. The Tri-Series 2017 continues on Friday evening at Hartfield Park Forrestfield, when the Young Socceroos take on the Singapore under 20’s – Kick off 7.00pm
Tri-Series 2017 – Game 1
Western Australia 0
Young Socceroos 3 (Naijar 67mins, Sette 76’, Puflett 91’)
Western Australia: GK Devon SPENCE, (RGK James MORGAN 46’), 4 Ross MILLARD (20 Alex SILLA 58’), 6 Matt NTOUMENOPOULOS (18 Niccolo SABATINI 58’), 7 Gian ALBANO (13 Jon STYNES 63’), 9 Gordon SMITH (C) (8 Calvin WHITNEY 58’), 10 Alex SALMON (11 Gustavo CATARCIONE 63’), 14 Richard HOWLES (17 Borbor SAM 46’), 15 Daryl NICOL (21 Ryan FRANCIS 63’), 16 Tom KING (2 Sam MITCHINSON 58’), 19 Jason BARRERA (5 Dean EVANS 63’), 22 Jesse FULLER (3 Rocco PIZZATA 63’)
Young Socceroos – First Half: GK Duro DRAGICEVIC, 4 Walter SCOTT, 8 Joshua CAVALLO, 9 Giordano MARAFIOTI, 10 Sebastian PASQUALI, 11 Christian THEOHAROUS, 13 Dyan PIERIAS, 19 Alex GOLLAN, 20 Joel KING, 22 Callum TIMMINS, 24 Jacob ITALIANO
Young Socceroos – Second Half: GK Isaac RICHARDS, 2 Tate RUSSELL, 5 Mathieu CODIER, 6 Marc TOKICH, 15 Aaron REARDON, 16 Moudi NAJJAR, 17 Nicholas SETTE, 21 Mohamed ADAM, 23 Fabian MONGE, 25 Oliver PUFLETT 26 Gianni STENSNESS - Referee: Steve Gregory
2.8.2017
GARCIA SETS COACHING GOAL
Retired midfielder Richard Garcia has set his sights on becoming a coach after joining Kenny Lowe's team at Perth Glory. Garcia hung up his playing boots for the final time three months ago after a 20-year career in professional football during which he played in England, North America and the A-League as well as representing Australia on 17 occasions.
Garcia has joined the club's coaching staff with assistant Andy Ord having departed to become the national team coach of Bangladesh. "It's been great to be able to come in every day and still be around the lads, albeit in a different type of role," Garcia said. "It's something I've always been interested in, going into that coaching side. Hopefully I can continue on the path that I'm going and be able to flourish in a different type of area within football."
Garcia returned to Australia in 2012 to join Melbourne Heart in 2012 after playing in the English Premier League with Hull City. After only making six appearances in the A-League last season, he decided to time was right to retire.
"I think being at my age I didn't really want to finish up, I felt like I could play another couple of years," he said. "But I thought it probably was the right time to start focusing on other things, hopefully trying to find a different pathway."
Garcia entered West Ham United's Academy as a 15-year old and was part of the club's famous youth team that won the FA Youth Cup and FA Premier Youth League in 1999. After a scattering of first team appearances for the Hammers, he moved to Colchester United in 2004 and helping the club securing promotion to the Championship a year later.
Garcia switched clubs again in 2007, this time joining Hull City. He helped the Tigers win promotion to the Premier League in 2008 and a few months later was part of the starting line-up for the clubs first ever Premier League game. He went on to played for Melbourne Heart, Sydney FC, Minnesota United and Glory before calling time on his career.
"I don't think you realise how much you've done and what you've achieved until you set back and reflect," he said. "I'm very proud of what I've accomplished. To know you've had such a long career in the game, at a game level, and to be able to come home and play in front of your friends and family as well has been a really fantastic experience."
"I've got nothing but fond memories of my career, even the sort of down times when I had three cruciate operations. They're still fond memories because I'm very happy with the way I dealt with that and bounced back. They sort of make you the person you are."
Garcia made his international debut for Australia against South Africa in 2008, and played against both Germany and Serbia in the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. He said winning promotions, representing his country and appearing in the Premier League were all obvious highlights, but admits his whole spell in the professional game is hard to separate.
"The whole thing is part and parcel," he said. "The older you get the more you realise if you hadn't done one thing or another, the other things wouldn't have followed. It is a journey, it's not just the first year or the second year, it's the maintenance of your career and actually being able to stick it out through thick and thin. That's probably what helped me succeed in the long run, and that's what I'm most proud of."
1.8.2017
RICHES TEMPT GLORY SKIPPER GRIFFITHS TO WALK OUT
Captain Rostyn Griffiths has parted company with Perth Glory to accept a lucrative contract to join Pakhtakor Tashkent, who play in Uzbekistan's top flight. The 29-year old midfielder still has a year to run on his contract at Glory but has been released to pursue his career abroad.
"I'd really like to thank the club and the members and fans for giving me the opportunity to play here for a second time and to captain the team," Griffiths said. "To be handed the skipper's armband was a massive honour for me, so leaving to go overseas is not something that I have done lightly."
"But at this stage of my career and bearing in mind where the A-League is at financially, this overseas opportunity would have been a very tough one to turn down. Perth will always be my home town and obviously I'd like to wish the club all the very best for the coming season and beyond."
Griffiths departure is a huge blow to Glory's ambitions of building on last season's top six finish and challenging for their first A-League championship. He previously left the club in 2015, to join Dutch side Roda JC, citing a desire to play overseas before his career was over.
31.7.2017
KERR SPARKS MATILDAS' ROUT OF JAPAN
West Australian Sam Kerr has fired the Matildas to a second consecutive win at the Tournament of Nations, scoring a first half hat-trick in Australia's 4-2 defeat of Japan. Red-hot Kerr scored her first international hat-trick to inspire Australia to come from behind to defeat their great regional rivals.
The win - Australia's heaviest over the 'Nadeshiko' in 32 years - followed the Matildas' first-ever defeat of world champions the United States on Friday. While the American triumph came from an all-round team effort, San Diego was the Sam Kerr show. Kerr brought her strong club form to international level to devastating effect.
Mina Tanaka opened the scoring after six minutes but it wasn't long for an unmarked Kerr tapped in the equaliser from Hayley Raso cut back from the right.
Just after the quarter hour Kerr turned her marker before unleashing a curling finish to put the Matildas ahead. And with half-time looming the livewrire attacker won a header then raced clear to convert a one-on-one at the second attempt. Australia's fourth came from the penalty spot via Emily Van Egmond.
31.7.2017
GLORY SNAP UP EX-LIVERPOOL YOUNGSTER BRIMMER
Perth Glory have announced the signing of midfielder Jake Brimmer as the club continues to build its squad for the 2017/18 A-League campaign. Brimmer, 19, joins Glory having spent the previous three years at English Premier League giants Liverpool.
Born in Melbourne, Brimmer first rose to prominence with Nunawading City and also spent time in Football Federation Victoria’s NTC program before being spotted by Liverpool. He was a key member of the Liverpool Academy side during his three years in which he represented Australia at Under-17 and Under-20 levels.
A creative and dynamic central midfielder, Brimmer was linked with moves to both Burnley and Kaiserslautern before deciding to join Glory. “Jake is one of the brightest young Australian prospects and we beat off some stiff competition from clubs in both Europe and the Hyundai A-League to sign him,” said Jacoib Burns, Glory’s Head of Football.
“He’s an intelligent midfielder with a great passing range and technical ability who has the potential to be a massive asset to the club. We’re really excited to have him on board.” Brimmer is expected to make his Glory debut in tomorrow’s FFA Cup Round of 32 clash with Heidelberg United.
31.7.2017
IS GLORY CAPTAIN GRIFFITHS OFF TO UZBEKISTAN?
Perth Glory are set to be dealt a major blow ahead of the new A-League season with captain Rostyn Griffiths to secure a move to Uzbekistan. It is understood the 29-year old will move to an undisclosed club in the central Asian nation, leaving a huge hole to fill in Glory’s midfield. Griffiths signed a two-year deal when he returned to Glory from Roda JC in July 2016 but it now appears he'll leave the club a season early.
31.7.2017
BABALJ TRIALS WITH CZECH CLUB
Two-time Socceroos striker Eli Babalj has gone on trial with Czech top flight club Mlada Boleslav. Babalj has endured a difficult five years since leaving Melbourne City for Red Star Belgrade after a breakthrough campaign in 2012. The talented 25-year old forward has been without a club since leaving Adelaide United at the end of their AFC Champions League campaign this year.
Babalj has linked up with ex-Melbourne teammate Golgol Mebrahtu at Mlada Boleslav. Mebrahtu has revitalised his career in the Czech Republic, netting 10 goals last season and already scoring three times in the Europa League this campaign. The Czech club signed Russian striker Nikolay Komlichenko earlier this week as they seek to boost their forward options.
Babalj earned two caps for Australia in 2012, scoring twice in East Asian Cup qualifiers. A move to the Netherlands where he was with AZ Alkmaar and PEC Zwolle was hampered by injury, prompting his A-League return with Adelaide United in July 2015.
31.7.2017
LOFTY AMBITIONS FOR GLORY RECRUIT POSCOLIERO
New recruit Jacob Poscoliero believes the sky is the limit this season as he prepares for his first competitive outing with Perth Glory. Coach Kenny Lowe is planning to field a strong side in tomorrow’s FFA Cup clash with Victorian outfit Heidelberg United at Olympic Village in Melbourne.
Defenders Poscoliero and Scott Neville are the only new faces in the squad, while creative pair Diego Castro and Mitch Nichols will be the key absentees. Castro is still on leave in Spain and is yet to return to Perth, while Nichols is serving a four-match suspension imposed by Football Federation Australia.
While Shane Lowry and Alex Grant appear to be the first choice central defensive pairing after recovering from long-term injuries, Poscoliero is keen to force his way into Kenny Lowe’s preferred eleven. The versatile 27-year old gained 47 appearances in that role with Central Coast Mariners across the past few summers.
“We’ve got great depth in this squad, the squad is very strong. But I’d be silly if I came to a club and I didn’t want to start,” Poscoliero said. “First and foremost I want to start at centre-back. If there’s injuries or for whatever reason I need to fill in elsewhere, I’m happy to do a job. But I see myself as a centre-back.”
Having finished near the foot of the A-League table in each of his three seasons with Central Coast, Poscoliero is expecting to be closer to the top with his new club. “I think top-four, top-two should be achievable if obviously we all work hard together and have the same ambition of really having a strong season,” he said.
30.7.2017
AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION, ROUND FOURTEEN – REVIEW
Wembley Downs maintain their five points lead at the top of the Sunday Amateur Premier League after a hard fought 2-0 win against Southern Spirit at Butlers Reserve. It was a perfect start for the home side and they were ahead on four minutes. The lively Stephen Geoghegan raced down the flank and cross to Jason Trvevski to score. It was a hard fought game with both side having good chances but the home side wrapped up all three points late on, with Mark King scoring from the penalty spot.
“Overall I’m happy with the win in a very average performance from us, with sloppy passing and lacked concentration at times,” Wembley Coach Colm Costello said. “The game had very few clear cut chances, and Southern Spirit are hard working side so we’re happy to grab the three points. It’s back to working hard Tuesday and Thursday for another tough opponent in Leeming next week.”
Kingsley kept in touch with Wembley after a 3-0 win against Ellenbrook United at the Ellenbrook Sports Hub. The visitors dominated early and were ahead on the half hour, Jayden Drummond skipped down the left and crossed to Nick Lowe who finished low past Liam Reid. They doubled their lead ten minutes later, Lowe this time crossed to the back post and David Morris made no mistake. The points were wrapped up just after half time, Morris crossing to David Ashworth who headed past Reid. The home side went close themselves on the hour Jon Martinez long-range shot beat Paul Rainford, but the crossbar came to the rescue of the Kingsley custodian, before Jack Taylor fired wide from close-range late.
“It was a very workman-like performance and the whole game was played on our terms,” Kingsley Coach Steve Dimitrovich said. “I was pleased with our work rate, especially without the ball. I was very proud of that. We turned the ball quite quick which was good.” In other games on Sunday North Perth United boosted their goal difference with a 9-0 win against Perth Royals at Woodville Reserve, while Leeming Strikers maintained fourth spot with a 4-0 win at bottom of the table BB United. Subiaco came home from Kelly Park with a 2-1 win against Kwinana United, while Hamersley Rovers and Belmont Villa drew 2-2 at Carine Open Space.
30.7.2017
MATILDAS STAR WILLIAMS STOPS THE USA IN THEIR TRACKS
Goalkeeper Lydia Williams led the Matilda’s into the history books with a breakthrough win against the United States and believes Australia can go all the way to 2019 World Cup champions. The Matildas secured their first victory in 28 attempts against the Americans with Williams keeping a clean sheet in the historic 1-0 victory in Seattle.
Tameka Butt found the winner after 67 minutes but Williams was just as crucial at the other end with some vital saves at the death in the Tournament of Nations opener. The final whistle sparked scenes of jubilation as the 29-year old shot-stopper ran into the arms of fellow veterans Lisa De Vanna and Clare Polkinghorne.
"Myself, Lisa and Pols have been around for a long time and we've played the US multiple times throughout our careers and never been able to achieve anything, so to be able to do it was a moment of relief and excitement," Williams said. "It was a really gutsy effort by the girls to come away with the win."
Williams said the Matildas have come into their own over the past two years. "We only had three days’ worth of prep so it was difficult to get everyone on the same page so quickly but we've had this team for around for two years now and we know how each other play so we were we really confident going in," Williams said.
"I think we've proven over the last two years we can take on any team in the world. This win was something that was a long time coming. This group has done so many history making events in the last two years so it's pretty incredible to keep achieving things we haven't done before."
Williams says the pride still burns within every time she pulls on the green and gold of Australia. "Everyone in this Matildas side knows each other really well, I'm in the leadership group and we're all really close in there as well, but everyone just puts in for each other because this team is a family," Williams said.
"As for my future we'll see how the body holds up, I've been playing for 13 years now so we'll see how my consistency and performance goes. We've got the World Cup qualifiers next year and I think this team can go on and win it the following year." Williams, currently playing with the Houston Dash, will turn out for Melbourne Heart in next seasons W-League.
29.7.2017
IREDALE JOINS MORTON
Scottish Championship side Greenock Morton have signed of former Perth Glory defender Jack Iredale on a six-month contract. The 21-year old was born in Greenock but spent his childhood in moved Perth, playing juniors for Quinns, ECU Joondalup and Stirling Lions, before entering the Australian Institute of Sport.
An Australia youth international, Iredale joined Glory in 2014 only for a succession of knee injuries to hamper his progress with the A-League outfit. He enjoyed a short stint with Joondalup to keep him ticking over prior to his attempt to win a deal in Scotland.
“He’s a strong boy, has good balance, good use of the ball, is aggressive with good physicality about him, so he’s got a lot of attributes,” said manager Jim Duffy. “He’s a young lad who doesn’t really have any experience in this country, so we’re not 100% sure of what level he can reach, but certainly in training he looks very accomplished and very comfortable.”
“So, sometimes you go with that, but the bottom line is we need to see him in competitive matches, and until you throw someone in, you don’t really know for sure. But we think he has potential and that’s the reason why we’ve invited him to sign until the end of this year initially with a view to perhaps taking it a stage further.”
Duffy feels sending Iredale out on loan to help him transition into Scottish football could be an option. “I’ve spoken to him and said there are a few possibilities, he said. “One is to start off with the Under-20s and get used to playing here. We were actually looking around for a young centre-back for the 20s.”
“Two is to put him out loan and we’ve had a couple of clubs enquiring about the possibility of getting him on loan straight away because they’ve seen him in the bounce games. The final one is, because we have injuries to central defenders just now, do we pitch him right in? I’ve spoken to him about all three and he’s happy to give it a go.
“He knows himself that coming over here and playing is different. It’s not always the quality – it’s just a different style of football sometimes, different tempo, different expectations and different demands. But he’s certainly got something that we think is worth pursuing. We’ll see how he does, and if he doesn’t then we’ll look at it over the next few months.”
29.7.2017
MARULANDA BRACE KEEPS BAYSWATER ON TRACK
A brace from striker Gustavo Giron-Marulanda has given Bayswater City a hard fought 2-0 win against ECU Joondalup at the ECU Football Stadium, to keep their title hopes alive. The Colombian striker opened the scoring from the penalty spot just after the break, but the home side should have levelled moments later, but Gordon Smith saw his penalty saved by Devon Spence. The points were wrapped up in stoppage time, with Marulanda rolling the ball into an empty net after an error from debutant keeper Jordan Young. “It was a great all round team effort and performance from us, and everyone worked hard and did their roles perfectly,” Bayswater midfielder Andrija Jukic said. “It was a tight game, in tough conditions, but we took our chances and the three points.”
It’s been a sad week in the referees department at Football West with Noel Short, a former official and assessor passing away, and all officials this weekend wore black armband as a mark of respect. The first half was one to forget, with clear cut chances few and far between, as both sides cancelling each other out. The best chance went to the home side Jon Higgins’ in-swinging corner was pushed over the top by Spence, while Andrija Jukic’s long-range shot whistled past the post for the visitors.
The visitors made the perfect start to the second half, taking the lead five minutes in. Marulanda sending Young the wrong way from the penalty spot after Jason Mirco was brought down by Jack Jones. ECU had the perfect opportunity to level two minutes later when referee Michal Jasinski pointed to the spot after Declan Hargreaves was adjudged to have handled in the box, but Gordon Smith saw his spot well saved low to left by Spence. The Bayswater custodian was inspired and produced another great save to deny Daryl Nicol moments later.
Both sides had chances as the game opened up, Mirco’s shot on the run was pushed around the post by Young, before Spence tipped over Nicol’s free kick at full stretch. The home side were pushing men forward looking for the equaliser and it almost came late, Nicol’s shot beat Spence, but Sam Mitchinson cleared the ball off the line. But in stoppage time Bayswater wrapped up the points. An attempted clearance from Young fell to Marulanda, who raced past the stranded keeper to fire home into an empty net.
“A good win for us, they are dangerous going forward so to keep a clean sheet is pleasing,” Bayswater Coach Chris Coyne told the NPL website. “The old guard of Howarth and Kay were magnificent, and for Devon to finally save a penalty was good. It was also great to see Gustavo pick up another two goals, and this week at training was the first time I saw him train like he was before he went away, so it’s a good sign for the rest of the season for us. Today was important, many have doubted us after a slow start and drawing a few games, but we’ve flown under the radar, so with four games to go, the title is still achievable, but it’s up to Inglewood to slip up, but we won’t stop, we’ll keep going the whole way.”
ECU Joondalup: GK Jordan YOUNG, 3 Ross MILLARD, 4 Rikki SMITH, 6 Shane PICKERING 7 Kevin MOON, 8 Declan HUGHES, 9 Daryl NICOL, 10 Gordon SMITH, 13 Jon HIGGINS (C) (11 Keylun POLLARD 46’), 14 Steven MCGARRY, 17 Jack JONES – Subs not used: RGK Ryan MCDARBY, 5 Graham DORAN, 12 Stefan VRANESEVIC, 16 Tom HOUGH
Bayswater City: GK Devon SPENCE, 2 Declan HARGREAVES, 6 Todd HOWARTH, 8 Paul MCCARTHY, 9 Gustavo GIRON-MARULANDA (16 Shayden PASLAQUA 93’), 10 Jason MIRCO, 11 Devon GIBSON (14 Jamie MURPHY 68’), 13 Trent KAY (C), 17 Bor Bor SAM, 20 Sam MITCHINSON, 23 Andrija JUKIC – Subs not used: RGK Michael COHEN, 4 Tristan COLLI, 15 Jordan POKLER - Referee: Michal Jasinski
29.7.2017
TEN MAN DOLPHINS EARN A POINT
A ten man Mandurah City have held off a fast finishing Subiaco to draw 1-1 at Securitas Protect Stadium on Saturday afternoon. Joe O’Brien gave the hosts the lead on the hour, but the sending off of skipper Andy Brown put them on the back foot, and a deflected Mike Lawson free kick earned Subiaco a point. “The conditions made it quite hard to play football yesterday, and the game really turned into a hard fought battle,” Subiaco’s Carlin Feely said. “While we didn't play as well as we would have liked, Mandurah played a strong defensive game and we had to come from behind to settle for a point.”
With only two points separating the bottom three sides at kick off Mandurah opened brightly and Mitch Firth headed inches over from Jeff Bright’s pin-point cross after only five minutes. They created a number of half chances, but they couldn’t find a way past Subiaco custodian Ryan Montgomery, the best fell to O’Brien seven minutes before half time, his deflected shot was cleared off the line by Nathan Diaz
Both sides had good chances to take the lead in the shadows of half time. First Jordan Rhodes’ volley was well saved by Montgomery, before Steve Purton’s long-range volley was tipped over the top by Cyril Sharrock, but at the break it was scoreless. Mandurah opened brightly again after the break and they were rewarded with the lead on the hour. Subiaco failed to clear their lines, and Rhodes’ shot was only cleared as far as O’Brien who hammered the ball past Montgomery, much to the delight of the home faithful.
But 13 minutes later the home side were reduced to ten men when referee Adam Fielding showed a second yellow card to Brown, and he sent the Mandurah skipper off. Subiaco made their numerical advantage count two minutes later with the equaliser. Lawson’s free kick took a wicked deflection off Firth and wrong footed Sharrock to level. Subiaco pushed late looking for the winner, but they couldn’t find the target and both sides had to do with a share of the spoils.
Mandurah City: GK Cyril SHARROCK, 2 Mitchell FIRTH, 3 Jeff BRIGHT, 4 Matt STARES, 5 Lance LOUVIE, 6 Shane BOYLE (14 Kevin CASTLE 90), 7 Jack EADES, 8 Andy BROWN, 9 Joe O’BRIEN (13 Slade RULE 88), 10 Jordan RHODES (17 Mitchell MORRIN 69), 11 Ryan FRANCIS – Subs not used: 12 Daniel DAVIES, 21 Kieran SHALL - Red Cards: Brown 73
Subiaco: GK Ryan MONTGOMERY, 4 Alex RANDELL (8 Mike LAWSON), 6 Steve PURTON, 7 Nathan DIAZ (12 Nathan SMITH), 9 Ian MCMURRAY, 13 Jordan CANDLISH, 14 Ross JARMAN, 16 Asher NELSON (11 Carlin FEELY 70), 17 Alex CASTIELLO, 18 David PERICH, 19 Stefan HILL - Subs not used: 10 Adrian CACERES, 21 Hamish ST.GEORGE - Referee: Adam Fielding
29.7.2017
LEAGUE LEADERS EDGE OUT THE GLORY
Inglewood United maintained their lead at the top of the PS4 NPLWA table after a hard fought 2-1 win against Perth Glory at Ashfield Arena. Two early goals from Ashley Rosindale and Kenny Keogh set Andy Keogh’s side on their way, and despite Glory striker Bayley Brown-Montgomery pulling one back on the hour the leaders held on to take the three points. “It was a good first half performance with couple of good goals,” Andy Keogh told the NPL website. “It was a tough game and I’m happy we didn’t slip up. We could have had a couple more, and to be fair they could have also had a couple in the second half as they put on a good show, especially with an inexperienced young team.”
The visitors were on top early and were quicker to get to grips with the slippery pitch, and they were ahead on 13 minutes. Matthew Ntoumenopoulos free kick picked out Rosindale, who lost his marker and headed just inside the far post, giving Glory keeper Nick Feely no chance. Rosindale, who led the line with Alex Salmon suspended, went close again five minutes later, but his effort from Brian Farrell’s cross was saved by Feely. Inglewood continued to press and they doubled their lead on 23 minutes, Kenny Keogh was sent clear by an inch-perfect pass from Chok Dau, and he finished with aplomb past Feely. Inglewood went close to a third on the half hour, but Feely was alert to save Scott Blackmore’s effort. The Glory almost pulled on back in the shadows of half time, but skipper Yacoub Mustafa’s shot flashed wide of the target.
Whatever Glory Coach John Gibson said at the break worked as the Glory started to get back into the game, and Brown-Montgomery half volley whistled over the top, and on the hour they pulled one back. Mustafa’s mazy run, ended with a through-ball to Michael Domfeh, whose shot was parried by Alex Dunn, but Brown-Montgomery was quickest to react to score from the rebound. The Glory were dominating now and Gomo Dukuly played a ball into the path of Domfeh, but it was claimed by Dunn, before the Inglewood custodian saved low from substitute Ollie Annis’ shot on the turn.
Inglewood were dangerous on the counter attack and Feely twice came to the Glory’s rescue making two good saves to deny Kenny Keogh and substitute Brian Woodall. But time ran out for John Gibson’s side and it was Inglewood celebrating the three points at the final whistle. “We had some processes we wanted to do in fairly difficult conditions and we definitely did that in the second half,” Gibson said. "First half, we just played football instead of thinking about what we were trying to achieve, and that changed dramatically the second half. We gave away two soft goals. The second half was a fantastic performance, so we’re disappointed not to get anything out of it.”
Perth Glory: GK Nick FEELY, 2 Luca BODNAR, 3 Hayden STEVENS, 4 Cameron MURRAY, 5 Riley WARLAND, 6 Jack LEECH, 7 Bayley BROWN-MONTGOMERY, (12 Gomo DUKULY 65’) 8 Sam RIAK, 9 Michael DOMFEH, 10 Michael MCDOUGALL (15 Ollie ANNIS 60’), 11 Yacoub MUSTAFA (14 Abias BUKURU 79’) – Subs not used: RGK Kyle MCDONALD, 13 Liam MURRAY
Inglewood United: GK Alex DUNN, 2 Alex ISHIDA-LIVINGS, 4 Scott BLACKMORE, 5 Adam TONG 6 Victor BRAUNER (23 Brian WOODALL 69’), 7 Kenny KEOGH, 8 Jason BARRERA, 10 Ashley ROSINDALE, (17 Hamza HINA 58’) 15 Brian FARRELL, 16 Matthew NTOUMENOPOULOS, 19 Choc DAU, (18 Jason COLLI 86’) - Subs not used: RGK Riley STEPHENSON, 20 Shubham MOKATIL - Referee: Daniel Cole
29.7.2017
TANEVSKI STUNNER WINS IT FOR STIRLING
A stunning overhead bicycle kick from young striker Alex Tanevski has helped Stirling Lions to an entertaining 3-2 win against Joondalup United at Macedonia Park. Daniel Micevski gave the home side the lead early, but Joondalup levelled after half time with Matt Sparrow on target. Tanevski then took centre stage scoring a double, including the winner with a contender for goal of the season. Joondalup lifted late and Richard Howles pulled on back, and the visitors had a chance to earn a point but Lance Alavakis saved Arran Maplestone’s penalty deep into stoppage time.
“It was a good game for the neutrals, a very entertaining game with lots of good goals, drama and chances created,” Micevski said. “We have been on a good run of form and continued on with that today, and in the end I thought we deserved the three points.” The Lions were unbeaten in their last four games and opened brightly in this one and were ahead on 11 minutes. Cameron Teece found Micevski down the right, the winger finishing clinically from the edge of the penalty area past James Bosdet. Joondalup had chances of their own but failed to convert and the Lions were ahead by the singe goal at the break.
The Lions were out of the blocks well after the break, but they found Bosdet in inspired form, he produced great saves to deny Teece and Tanevski from adding to the Lions’ lead, and those saves became more important when they equalised on the hour. The Lions’ failed to clear their lines, and in a goalmouth scramble Sparrow fired the ball home. But the Lions hit straight back and regained the lead six minutes later.
Micevski raced clear and played the ball into Tanevski, and the former Perth Glory youth striker made no mistake finishing low past Bosdet. The home side increased their lead on 75 minutes with a stunning strike from Tanevski. There looked little danger when Miki Vujacic played the ball into the area but Tanevski controlled the ball on his chest, before firing home from eight meters with a stunning bicycle kick, into the top corner of the net. The Lions should have put the game to bed moments later, Teece lost his marker in the penalty area, but with the goal at his mercy he missed the target.
That miss was costly as Joondalup were back in the game two minutes later. Howles got on the end of a cross to fire home from close-range. It was end-to-end football late, but it was Joondalup who had the chance to claim a point, when referee Josh Mannella pointed to the spot after Howles was brought down by Shane Cassidy. Maplestone stepped up, but Alavakis guessed the right way to save his penalty to earn all three points for the Lions. “I thought we created so many chances, but how we managed to score only two, I’ll never know,” Joondalup Coach Nick Jennings said. “In the last four games (of the season) we’ve got to look for four victories, we don’t want to end the season on a low. We’ve had an okay season, but I’m not happy with our recent form.”
Stirling Lions: GK Lance ALAVAKIS, 2 Michael PUGLIESE, 4 Blamo QUAQUA, 5 Nicholas ASHLEY, 7 Miki VUJACIC (c), 9 Alex TANEVSKI (14 Lukas DE LIMA 77’), 10 Daniel MICEVSKI, 15 Shane CASSIDY, 16 James MATHIANG (6 Robbie MCNEILL 86’), 18 Moses KALAU, 19 Cameron TEECE (3 Zane CASELLA 93) – Subs not used: RGK Alex DONEV, 12 Nigel SMITH
Joondalup United: GK James BOSDET, 3 Rowdy YATES, 4 Arran MAPLESTONE (c), 7 Matthew SPARROW, 8 Josh WHITMORE, 9 Richard HOWLES, 11 Josh BOOYSEN (25 Luke DOYLE 80), 13 Chris PUGH, 16 Ross EDWARDS, 17 Luke SERRA (6 Guy MCDONALD 61), 23 Jay MARSDEN (15 Sam WYNNE 65) – Subs not used: RGK Jacob CAREY, 29 Charlie BRIEN - Referee: Josh Mannella
29.7.2017
GULLS STILL FLYING HIGH
It’s been a massive week for the Sorrento Football Club, and they capped it off with a hard fought 2-1 win against Cockburn City in week 22 of the PS4 National Premier League WA at Percy Doyle Reserve on Saturday afternoon. It was a tight first half, but the hero of their FFA Cup win against Canberra Olympic Sean Canham, opened the scoring on the hour, before Reece Vittiglia made sure of the points four minutes from time. Cockburn scored a consolation goal in the final minute, through Liam Murray, but it wasn’t enough and the win keeps the Gulls in touch with the top five. “It wasn’t the prettiest of games, we were a little bit flat in the first half but we managed to get there in the end,” Sorrento Coach Jamie Harnwell told the NPL website. “We didn’t train as normal on Thursday. It was more of a recovery session as we couldn’t do a lot of work. But I’m pleased that we managed to come out and get the result in the second half today.”
It was a cagey start to the game with both sides defending well, but the first real chance went to the visitors on 20 minutes. Cockburn skipper Harry O’Brien’s shot beat James Morgan, but the post came to the Sorrento custodian’s rescue. Further good chances were few and far between and at the break it was scoreless. After the break, Sorrento midfielder Brad McDonald long-range shot flashed wide of the target, before Jesse Lazzaro and Julian Teles combined to set up a golden opportunity, but Teles’ shot failed to find the target. But on the hour mark it was the home side who opened the scoring. A set-piece saw Steven McDonald’s header blocked, but Canham was on hand to fire home the rebound.
Sorrento added a second four minutes from time, Vittiglia sent clear and sliding the ball past the on-coming Luke Radonich. It looked like game over but Cockburn got themselves a lifeline in the final minute, substitute Liam Murray firing home to set up a nervous period of stoppage time for the Gulls but they stayed strong to take all three points. “Sorrento is a great football club, they’ve obviously played the three games in a week,” Cockburn Coach Scott Miller told the NPL website. “You could see them struggling, but I thought their defending today was outstanding.”
Sorrento: GK James MORGAN, 4 Shaun KILKELLY, 6 Darryl PLATTEN (C), 7 Alex MORGAN, 8 Ryan PEARSON (3 George HUNTER 71’), 9 Sean CANHAM (2 Jacob SHORE 89’), 11 Tim HILL, 13 Steve MCDONALD, 17 Reece VITTIGLIA (12 Josh TUCKER 89’) 20 Brad MCDONALD, 21 Sam BYLES – Subs not used: RGK Anthony SALPIETRO Yellow Cards: 20. Brad MCDONALD
Cockburn City: GK Luke RADONICH, 5 Kieron STALLARD, 6 Reuben TRISTAO, 7 Calvin WHITNEY, 9 Gian ALBANO, 10 David ARAYA (18 Liam MURRAY 61’), 11 Harry O’BRIEN (C), 13 Blake ADAMS, 14 Julian TELES, 15 Daniel SANTICH (2 Joshua KUSER 89’) 17 Jesse LAZZARO – Subs not used: RGK Ryan BARKER, 3 Daniel DOLS, 8 Riley VAN DIEKEN - Referee: Tom Glavovic
29.7.2017
PERTH SEND BALCATTA CLOSER TO RELEGATION
In a game that was vital at both ends of the table, Perth SC has run out convincing 4-0 winners against Balcatta at Dorrien Gardens. The win keeps Perth on the tails of league leaders Inglewood, while the defeat leaves Balcatta hoovering close to the relegation zone, only two points clear of bottom side Mandurah. The damage was done in the first half with Scottish midfielder Lewis Milne, Niccolo Sabatini and Aleks Jovic scoring, while top goalscorer Gustavo Catarcione added a fourth mid-way through the second half.
“We got the job done in the first half, and in the second half we just needed to make sure that we shut up shop at the back and come away with our third consecutive clean sheet,” Perth Coach Ramon Falzon told the NPL website, and he also praised winger Sabatini. “Niccolo is having an outstanding season this year and he showed that today as he created a lot of chances for us and scored a beautiful goal himself. We have four games to go but we will keep on taking it week-by-week, focus on getting the three points and hopefully at some stage someone will slip up and do us a favour like last year.”
It was a quick start by the home side, and they were ahead on six minutes. Sabatini crossed to Milne, and the former Cowdenbeath and Forfar Athletic midfielder headed home, his first goal for the club. Perth continued to dictate terms, but they squandered a number of chances, but eight minutes before half time they did double their advantage. It was Sabatini again who did the damage, this time waltzing past a couple of Balcatta defenders before finishing with aplomb past Domenico Savoldelli. The flying Italian was at it again in the shadows of half time, this time he squared the ball to Jovic, who lost his marker and curled the ball into the top corner of the net.
With coach Salv Todaro’s half time address still ringing in their ears Balcatta opened the brighter after the break and they should have pulled on back nine minutes in. Jonathan Corness’ volley from the edge of the box was superbly saved by Francis Soale at full stretch. But Perth wrapped up the points on 72 minutes with a fourth. Frank Furfaro cut the ball back from the bye-line and Catarcione fired home from close-range. “In the first half we were woeful, but Perth were a class above us and made us pay for every mistake we made,” a disappointed Balcatta Coach Salv Todaro told the NPL website. “I wanted a reaction from the boys at half time and I thought we played a lot better, but Perth still looked dangerous every time they went forward. We can’t afford throw the towel in, so we just have to keep going and hopefully we can play better in the next four weeks than we did today.”
Perth SC: GK Francis SOALE, 2 Alex SILLA, 5 Niccolo SABBATINI, 7 Aleks JOVIC (3 Andreas THEODOSIADES 65’), 8 Tom KING (22 Marco SANTALUCIA 78’), 9 Gustavo CATARCIONE, 12 Jordan DE LEO, 15 Harley ORR (10 Nicholas AMBROGIO 71’), 16 Kieran COLWELL, 17 Frank FURFARO, 18 Lewis MILNE – Subs not used: RGK Daniel PASSARELLI, 20 Elliot TATTERSAL
Balcatta: GK Domenico SAVOLDELLI, 2 Rudnei NOGUEIRA (16 Marco CHADINHA 45’), 3 Justin ONEK (13 Daniel HEPWORTH 46’), 4 Calum O’CONNELL (C), 9 Luccas MELLO, 10 Jonathan CORNESS, 12 Anton DE FRANCESCH, 14 Brody KENNEDY, 15 Camelo GIUFFRE , 18 Ben MEREDITH (8 Brennan BORZECKI 65’), 20 Tom PELLIZZARI – Subs not used: RGK Luke HUTCHINSON, 22 Dejan ANDRIC - Referee: Steven Gregory
29.7.2017
STYNES GIVES FLOREAT TITLE HOPES A LIFT
Floreat Athena maintained their spot in the top four of the PS4 NPLWA with a 5-2 win against Armadale at E&D Litis Stadium on Saturday. Jonathan Stynes was the hero, the midfielder bagging four goals, with Dean Evans also scoring. Charlie Kenna and Jordan Pavett were on target for the visitors, but former Armadale defender Jesse Fuller said it was a great team performance from Floreat.
“We knew it would be a tough game, as they took all three points in our last encounter, so we made sure that we were switched on from the very first minute,” Fuller said. “I think the conditions suited us a bit better on the day, too, allowing us to control the tempo in the first half and get a nice buffer going into half time. It's coming to the pointy end of the season, so it's nice to keep pace with the leaders. I think it will come down to the wire and the way things have been going, anyone can get a win against their opposition. We just need to do our job -- and that's win all of our remaining games.”
Floreat made the perfect start and were ahead on five minutes, Stynes getting on the end of swift passing movement, and curling the ball past Michael Craggs and into the bottom corner of the net. But the visitors hit back and were level on the half hour, when Jake Sardelic’s cross was headed past Jason Saldaris by Kenna. But it didn’t take long for Floreat to regain the lead, Stynes heading home Mark Prichard’s free kick three minutes later. It was 3-1 five minutes before the break, Kris Gate and Stynes combined, with Stynes unselfishly finding Evans who made no mistake.
It didn’t take long after the break for Stynes to complete his hat-trick, with Evans returning the complement. The former Perth Glory midfielder raced down the left and crossed to Stynes, who brought the ball down well, and rounded Craggs to score to make it 4-1. English midfielder Pavett gave John O’Reilly’s side some hope when he cleverly chipped Jason Saldaris just after the hour mark, but Stynes put the icing on the cake by a adding a fifth, and his fourth nine minutes from time, capitalising on a defence slip to score
“The problem today was we saw the ugly side of our game when we lost the ball and Floreat punished us on the counter, “Armadale Coach John O’Reilly told the NPL website. “To get five goals put past you means we have to work on this area in the next four weeks. We could have been a lot more clinical with our own chances as well.”
Floreat Athena: GK Jason SALDARIS, 4 Andrew SCALDAFERRO, 6 Jesse FULLER, 8 Jonathan STYNES, 11 Kris Gate, 12 Jackson MORGAN (18 Phillip ARNOLD 94’), 14 Ludovic BOI, 15 Chris SALDARIS, 16 Clayton Arnez (2 Juma AWAKA 57’), 17 Dean EVANS, 33 Mark Pritchard (13 Nelfy NAZARY 67’) – Subs not used: RGK Jordan BARBAS 5 Bobby WILSON
Armadale: GK Michael CRAGGS, 2 Dylan WHITE, 3 Jake SARDELIC, 4 Nathan COSTELLO, (18 Milan OGNJENOVIC 60’), 7 Charlie KENNA, 8 Jordan PAVETT, 9 Kyle KING, 14 David ANNALL (21 Herman ALOGNON 73’), 16 Billy QUINNCROFT (25 Anthony SKORICH 77’), 17 James ATKINS, 20 Ali GHOLAMI – Subs not used: RGK Alex RADONICH, 10 Ryan JAMES - Referee: Nico Hoyle
29.7.2017
ALL FLAGS STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND FIFTEEN – REVIEW
Football took a back seat before the top of the table clash between Western Knights and Forrestfield United at Nash Field, when players, coaches and supporters in the big crowd observed a minutes silence to respect the tragic loss of Forrestfield Coach Rod Banjac’s son Marko, the youngster who tragically lost his life in a fatal accident while on holidays in Monaco. In the game the points were shared in an entertaining 1-1 draw. Knights’ skipper Paul Lloyd opened the scoring just before half time, but Forrestfield hit back to level just after the break and they both shared the spoils, the Knights maintaining their three point lead at the top of the table. “A few of us went down to watch the cup final last week and we noticed that they try to get all their work done in the first half,” Forrestfield midfielder Mitch Crocker said. “So we tried to just contain them for the first half and let our fitness get us over the line in the second and I think we did that very well, but we just weren’t clinical enough in front of goal. But it was always going to be one of those days where you have to grind out a result, but we can’t help feeling that its two points dropped in the end.”
It was a tight first half, with clear cut chances few and far between early, but Forrestfield were dangerous from set-pieces and Knights’ keeper Sam Stone had to be alert to save Mitch Crocker’s free kick on the half hour. The Knights ended the half the better and were rewarded with the lead in the shadows of half time. Brian Patterson was hauled down on the edge of the penalty area and Lloyd curled the ball around the wall and past Luke Martino to find the bottom corner and send the Knights into the sheds with the lead. It was hard on Forrestfield to go into the break one down, but they responded superbly four minutes into the second half to level. Barnett took over responsibility of a free kick, the defender firing past Stone to level. The Knights lost David Murphy, after he received a second yellow card and was sent off and Forrestfield pressed late for the winner and it almost come late, when Ben Rogers raced clear, but he fired over the top. Forrestfield Assistant Coach Terry Brown was satisfied with the point. “I thought it was a fairly even game, which could have gone either way,” he told the Football West website. “You don’t win the cup if you’re no good. They’re a quality side.” Knights coach Trim Morgan said it was important for his team to concentrate, despite the side’s busy schedule. “I’ve kept their feet on the ground,” he told the Football West website. “We’ve had to focus on three big games and be ready for each one mentally and physically. It was a brilliant victory last week in the State Cup final, but if we want to win the league we have to focus.”
South West Phoenix kept the pressure on the top two after a 3-1 win against Fremantle City at the WML Stadium in Bunbury. The home side raced to a 2-0 lead early with Jayden Prosser and Michael Farmer on target. But Fremantle pulled a goal from a penalty, and the Phoenix were reduced to nine men when James McCleary and Giordano Mascia were sent off ten minutes later. But the nine men added a third in the second half with Patrick Quinn scoring, but the home side then went down to eight men with five minutes left, with Fraser Healey also receiving his marching order. But they hung on to take the points, in a crazy game of football. “We won a very unusual game, we played for 65 minutes in 9 vs 11 and the last 5 in 8 vs 11 and we still won 3-1,” Phoenix Coach Mauro Marchione explained. “This displayed a courage that I’ve rarely seen in my life as a player first and as a coach after. We don't know how this season will finish as there are too many good teams better than us out there however, yesterday we delivered a great lesson of football and no one can't take this away from us. I cannot ask for more from my boys - I am very proud of all of them.”
In other games Dianella White Eagles lost ground on the top three after they were held to a scoreless draw by Gosnells City at Walter Padbury Reserve, while Rockingham City also lost ground when they were beaten 2-1 by Joondalup City at Lark Hill. The home side were ahead on 25 minutes, with Liam Hurst scoring, but Joondalup levelled on the stroke of half time, a quickly taken free kick by Devon Rindel found Emrah Bingol, who calmly finished into the roof of the net. After losing Tyler Smith, who was stretchered off with a serious knee injury, Joondalup took the lead through full back Alex Robertson, who found space on the edge of the area and lofted the ball over the keeper. “Really happy with the performance it was a hard earned three points,” Joondalup Coach Gary Kalaher said. “It was a difficult day for football, for both sides in windy conditions, but to come home with a win was very pleasing.”
In the final game UWA Nedlands leapfrogged Ashfield after beating them 1-0 at the UWA Sports Park. The only goal of the game came when UWA hit on a quick counter attack after an Ashfield free kick. Great link up play between Conor Devlin and Patty Morrison, lead to Morrison sliding a brilliant ball across the six yard box for Alex Kretowicz to finish at the back post. "It was really important for us to get the three points today over a strong Ashfield side,” Tim Robertson said. “With six games to go, hopefully can string a few more together and push towards the top four. We play really well as a team at home and held on well in the first half when Ashfield had the momentum. Two home games to come against Canning and Knights could turn our season around." – Canning City had the bye this weekend
29.7.2017
ALL FLAGS STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND FIFTEEN – REVIEW
League leaders Gwelup Croatia maintained their lead at the top of the All Flags State League Division Two, with a 4-0 win against Melville City at John O’Connell Reserve. It was a tight first half with both sides having chances, but the game came to life four minutes into the second half when midfielder James Sammut scored. Melville pressed looking for the equaliser, but they were caught out again on 76 minutes, with Teeboy Kamara scoring. It was bitter blow for the home side and things got worse for them four minutes later when Kamara added a third. Then four minutes from time Kamara completed his hat-trick, to make it 4-0 and move Gwelup six points clear at the top of the table. - We knew it was going to be a difficult match, coming from a week off and we knew Melville would be well organised,” Gwelup defender Cameron Yorke said. “We had to be patient and have faith in our quality, which showed in the end and it was crucial that we extended our lead at the top of the ladder.”
Wanneroo City lost ground on the leaders after they were beaten 3-1 by Kingsway Olympic in the local derby at Wanneroo Reserve. Youngster Mella Loding opening the scoring for Kingsway before Nathan Thorp added a second. Liam Murray pulled one back for the hosts, but Marc Eldridge added a third to seal the win. “The conditions made it a fairly even contest but over the last month of football I believe the teams endeavor has picked up somewhat and we carried that through to this weekend which got us the three points,” Josh Pereira said. “I also think we've been threatening to score a few goals in a game for a while now, but have been letting ourselves down with the final pass but we put it all together this week.” Quinns gained three valuable points when they beat Swan United 3-1 at Gumblossom Park. The visitors opened brightly, but found themselves behind after a great cross from the right picked out Adam Buckley, who went one-on-one with the Swan keeper and finished clinically. Quinns continued to dictate terms and they added a second moments later. A corner wasn’t dealt with by the Swan defence and the ball fell kindly to Buckley who hammered home his second. Swan came out in the second half fired up and pulled one back with a long range strike from James Shamim. But the home side soon regained their two goal lead, when a quick counter attack by Darren Tucker, who released Craig Tooley, who put it on a plate for Jono McGhern to slot home close range. “We knew that this was a massive game for us in our season and fully believed we could get the win, so happy we could,” Alex Sallery said. “We go into our bye full of confidence that more time on the training field can set us up for a good run home looking to take maximum points.”
Balga also won a vital three points after a 3-1 win against Kelmscott Roos at Princess Road Reserve. The home side took the lead on the half hour, Nahom Michael racing past two Kelmscott players, and scored from the angle. They doubled their lead just before half time, after Dino Topcagic was fouled in the penalty box, and Topcagic took the penalty himself and made no mistake. Kelmscott were back in the game on the hour, when Juan Cabrera lost his marker in the penalty area and fired home from six meters. But Balga wrapped up the points on 70 minutes with the third. Michael added his second with a stunning long-range shot which went in via the post. In the final game Curtin also gained three vital points with a 4-1 win against bottom of the table Shamrock Rovers at Edinburgh Oval. The home side were ahead on 20 minutes, a long throw from Dilip Thapa found Eddie Tikoft, who beat the offside trap and sprinted through and finished clinically. It was 2-0 five minutes later, Adrian Cinanni won the ball in the middle of the park and spotted the Rovers’ keeper off his line to score. Rovers pulled one back in the first minute of the second half, but they were reduced to ten men on the hour and moments later Thapa scored Curtin’s third, finishing well at the near post. Rovers’ keeper when then sent off ten minutes from time, and Curtin added a fourth late, Mark Donnelly poking home from a free kick. – Morley Windmills had the bye this week.
28.7.2017
PS4 NPL-WA ROUND TWENTY-TWO PREVIEW
After last week’s break for the State League Cup Final, we’re back into league action and it’s week 22 of the PS4 National Premier League WA and the Footballwa – ‘Match of the Round’ has consequences at both ends of the table, when league leaders Inglewood United make the trip to Ashfield Arena to take on Perth Glory, who are struggling at the other end of the table. In the last round the Glory produced a good performance to help their relegation survival, beating Mandurah City 5-0, but on the other hand Inglewood lost for the first time in 14 games when they lost 3-1 at home against Stirling Lions, so three points in this one is vital for both. The last time the two sides met at the venue was in round three last season, with Inglewood running out 1-0 winners, the only goal of the game came early from Kenny Keogh.
Glory skipper Daniel Stynes said last week’s win was huge and gives them confidence going forward. “Yes it was one of our best games of the season by far, it seem to come together at an important time,” he said. “I thought from back to front we were very good, but we still have a few areas what can be worked on.” Stynes has been in outstanding form in the NPL and was selected in the Glory A-League side that beat Perth SC 3-0, and against Inglewood last week, in their pre-season friendly and the teenage said to play in the A-League side was a huge thrill. “I started in both games which was very rewarding and something I'm happy with,” he explained. “Both were good experiences for me, playing with some top players, I really enjoyed it, and the other lads who came on performed well too, which is pleasing.” Stynes knows the importance of Saturday’s game, and he said they ready for the challenge. “Andy (Keogh) has done very well with them since he took over, and they are a very good team,” he said. “However I still believe when we're on form we can beat any team in the league, as we nearly did last time just unfortunate to concede very late on and for them to snatch a draw.” In team news Hayden Stevens returns from suspension, while Riley Warland and Trent Ostler bot return after playing for the Australian Joeys in Thailand.
Inglewood striker Alex Salmon continues to lead the league’s top goal scoring charts and he said last week’s surprise loss against Stirling was a kick up the backside for them. “It was a disappointing loss especially after the good run we’ve been on,” he said. “But to be fair I came away from the game with no complaints, the better team on the day won we weren't good enough.” Salmon’s great form has been rewarded with a spot in the WA state side and he said he’s looking forward to taking on the Singapore 20’s and the Young Socceroos. “Obviously I'm happy to be in the state team and looking forward to the two games and I'm sure the rest of the lads are the same,” he explained. “The standard at training has been good so hopefully we take that into the games and get some good results.” Salmon, who will miss Saturday’s game due to suspension, said the lads are determined to get back on track, but is expecting a tough game. “You never really know what you’re going to get from Glory in terms of the team but we obviously know they will be fit and want to play football the right way,” he said. “If we go there and do what we have been doing I'm confident it will be enough and the lads can get another run going.” - Saturday (3.00pm) Perth Glory v Inglewood United – Ashfield Arena – Referee Daniel Cole
Bayswater City are the form team of the league at the moment and this week they hit the road to take on ECU Joondalup at the ECU Football Stadium. Bayswater jumped to second after their catch-up game win against Subiaco last week, with Gustavo Giron-Marulanda bagging a brace to take it to 12 for the season. The Black and Blues have a good record at ECU, and haven’t lost in the northern club since 2012, and will fancy their chances of continuing that on Saturday. ECU will give another debut to a youngster on Saturday with Jordan Young coming in for the injured Fraser Greenwood. The 19-year-old is looking forward to the game. “It's Always a scary thought, but I couldn't be more comfortable playing behind the back four knowing the experience and strength they all have,” he said. “It's disappointing not seeing Frasers name on the team sheet but having him and the boys prepare up until this point in the season we can only stay strong from here no matter who we play and the results of last week’s game.” The 2-2 draw all but ended their top four hopes, but Young said they are ready for a big game against Bayswater. “It was a disappointing result for us, we all know where we sit on the table and the importance of winning was crucial,” he said. “But the decisions made by the referee unfortunately were unreasonable, a point is a lot better than no points at all. We are a strong group and we will be up for this one. The support and motivation all the players have from the coaches and staff at ECU is tremendous, I hope all the players keep that in mind no matter where we end up on the table. We can only hope other results go our way, but that's not our focus for now it's about us still fighting for top four, and we will continue to do that till it’s mathematically impossible.” – Saturday (3.00pm) – ECU Joondalup v Bayswater City – ECU Football Stadium – Referee Michal Jasinski
Perth SC continued their push to retain the NPL title, when they entertain Balcatta in the Italian derby – Ferrari Cup at Dorrien Gardens. Balcatta have been on free fall over the past month and have gone 10 games without a win, although they were award three points in their round 17 draw with Perth Glory. Balcatta were beaten 2-0 at Subiaco last week, and with only three points separate the bottom three sides, a win on Saturday would be nice. Perth sit one points off the leaders, and came home from Armadale with a hard fought win last week, and Frank Furfaro said they had to work for it. “It was a hard games, but we felt we were constantly creating opportunity, we just couldn't convert them into goals,” he said. “But we stuck to the game plan and played hard as a team and ended up coming out with the three important points.” Furfaro has been outstanding this season, his pace causing problems to every team, and he knows Balcatta will be up for a big game in the Italian derby and they will need to be switched on from the first whistle. “It's a difficult game, and it doesn’t matter where they are on the table, it is a derby and there is that rivalry,” he explained. “But we will be going into this game just as we have the whole session, looking for a result and to come away with the three points. We are all fighting fit and looking to keep our good form going.” – Saturday (3.00pm) – Perth SC v Balcatta – Dorrien Gardens – Referee Steven Gregory
Floreat Athena have lost back-to-back games, but are still only three points of the leaders, and they will be looking to turning that around on Saturday when they host Armadale at the E&D Litis Stadium. Armadale were edged out by Perth last week and keeper Michael Craggs said they deserved something from the game. “It was disappointing not to have at least come away with a point, however I cannot fault the performance that we put in. I feel as though we played much better than in the first round yet don't have at least a point to show for it,” he explained. “We were a lot more attacking minded this time around which showed at some points as they got in behind a few times but our back line was stellar as always. Disappointed that an own goal was the thing that broke the deadlock but we had our chances as well that we did not put away. Kudos to Franny, he was a wall with his positioning with the shots from close range. With how much the Perth and their supporters celebrated the win at the final whistle really shows that a game against Army isn't an easy game anymore which is a great change, going forward.” The Reds beat Floreat tin the reverse game and Craggs said it was one of their best performances of the season. “Our win against Floreat was fantastic - Comprehensive and at home where we usually have our most trouble. We will take a whole lot of confidence into this game knowing we have what it takes to beat them,” he said. “However we were aware that they were missing a few players that will be back this time around so we will be ready for revenge, especially as they are pushing for top spots as the season draws close. We love games against the top sides. I feel as though our play style caters to dealing with the bigger teams and we have had success against them so all the boys are fired up for this one.” - Saturday (3.00pm) Floreat Athena v Armadale – E&D Litis Stadium – Referee Nico Hoyle
It’s been a huge week for Sorrento, a State League Cup Final defeat against Western Knights and a historic win against Canberra United in the Westfield FFA Cup, but they back in league action on Saturday when they entertain Cockburn City at Percy Doyle Reserve. In the league the Gulls beat local rivals ECU last time out, while Cockburn scored late to draw against Joondalup United. In the first meeting between the two sides the points were shared in a 1-1 draw. The Gulls were ahead on nine minutes with Alex Morgan on target, but the Cockerels hit back on the hour with Daniel Robertson scoring. Saturday’s game will be another close game, but would the cup games have taken too much out of the Sorrento players, only time will tell. In team news Cockburn skipper Euen Grant is suspended, while Brodie Martin is out injured again for Sorrento. – Saturday (3.00pm) – Sorrento v Cockburn City – Percy Doyle Reserve – Referee Tom Glavovic
Stirling Lions have home ground advantage this week, when they host Joondalup United at Macedonia Park. The Lions scored late to draw at ECU that after their stunning win at Inglewood the week before. Joondalup dropped two points when they conceded a late controversial penalty at Cockburn, and midfielder Jay Marsden said they had the chances to win it comfortably. “I thought it was a good, but could and should have put the game to bed in the first half with a few of the chances we had,” he said. “But unfortunately we let them back into the game second half and paid the price in the end.” Marsden, who joined United from ECU at the start of last season, said the players are determined to end the season as high as they can up the table, and three points on Saturday would be a perfect start. “We are looking forward to this week’s game and definitely fancy ourselves taking 3 points,” he said. “We need to be switched on for 90 minutes, we definitely know it's not going to be an easy game with Stirling being on such a high, but we’re up for the challenge.” In team news Joe Stocker will miss the game due to suspension, while Nicholas Ashley will miss for the hosts. – Saturday (3.00pm) – Stirling Lions v Joondalup United – Macedonia Park – Referee Josh Mannella
In the final game Mandurah City will be looking to get off the bottom of the able when they host Subiaco at the Securitas Protect Stadium. Subiaco’s good run came to end at Bayswater last week, but head south confident of getting the three points. Mandurah were well beaten at Perth Glory last week and Coach Doug Hesketh said they never got going. “We all came away flat from the Glory game, we didn't perform as a team and couldn't take a trick all day,” he said. “We are certainly hoping for a reaction from the lads and Subiaco will be a good test. The week is going well training wise, with good energy spirit and intensity so will try to take that onto the pitch and see how we go.” In team news Ollie McGee and Tom Straker are both suspended for the home side, and Hesketh said it’s been a challenging time for his side. “We can’t take a trick at the moment, with Tom and Ollie out,” he said. “So we are being challenged, but we have a lot of guys trying to establish themselves in the side, so it’s a good time for them to show what you can do.” – Saturday (3.00pm) – Mandurah City v Subiaco – Securitas Protect Stadium – Referee Adam Fielding
28.7.2017
ALL FLAGS STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND FIFTEEN – PREVIEW
It’s week 15 of the All Flags State League Division One, and the Footballwa – ‘Match of the round’ takes us to Nash field for the top of the table clash between Western Knights and Forrestfield United. It’s been a huge week for the Knights, winning the state league Cup Final against Sorrento last weekend, but they lost their last league game, a surprise 2-1 defeat against Fremantle. Forrestfield didn’t capitalize on that defeat, being held to a goalless draw at home by UWA Nedlands. The last time the two sides met at the venue was in round six last season, with Forrestfield winning 3-2. Jonty Turner gave the home side the lead early, but Forrestfield hit back with Liam Merigan scoring a brace either side of half time. Hasani Sinclair added a third to but the game to bed, although Paul Lloyd’s late penalty was just a consolation goal.
Only three points separate the two sides at the top of the table and Knights’ keeper Sam Stone said they need to contrite on this game and not the FFA Cup round of 32 game on the Gold Coast next week. “We’ve essentially got three ‘cup finals’ in the space of a week and a half, and it’s a great feeling, but the prime focus is on Forrestfield without a doubt,” he said. “Our goal at the start of the season was to win the league, so it’s a must win. We’re excited for the FFA cup, but we’ll start thinking about Gold Coast a bit more Sunday morning.” Stone last week’s Cup Final win was a great occasion for everyone involved with the club. “It was a brilliant win, the best I’ve been a part of, and one I thought we deserved. It was quite a cagey affair and I don’t think either team played their best football, but we kept our heads and saw the game out excellently,” he said. “To see what the win meant to the club, the committee, the supporters, and to know that you played a part in that was a fantastic feeling.” Stone said they go into Saturday’s full focused and determined to get the three points. “We had a couple of knocks but should be at full strength come Saturday, and it’s really another cup final for us,” he said. “Forrestfield are one of the strongest teams we’ve played all year and we know how good they can be. We love playing at home because the support is always there, and if we play anywhere near our best we’re positive we can take all three points.”
It’s been a somber week for the Hartfield Park club, with Head Coach Rod Banjac’s son Marko losing his life due to a fatal accident while on on holidays in Monaco – From everyone at Footballwa.net we send our sincere condolences to the Banjac family. Vice-Captain Rhys Loxley said the players will be doing all they can to win the game for Marko and Rod. “The accident involving Marko is tragic and the Forrestfield community including the boys have been hit hard with his loss,” he explained. “Though, we will pick ourselves up and do whatever we can to get the win as I'm sure that is what he would've wanted us to do.” Forrestfield missed the opportunity to close the gap on the Knights with their draw against UWA and Loxley said they had their chances. “The game against UWA was frustrating as we had all of the play, however, we weren't clinical in front of goal and that let us down,” he explained. “Credit to UWA though, they came with a game plan to sit deep and defend and they executed their plan well.” Forrestfield beat the Knights earlier in the season, and Loxley said the players are looking forward to repeating that in Saturday’s game. “We’re under no illusions Saturdays game will be really tough,” he said. “Although we beat them at our place, it was an evenly contested game that could have gone either way. They have shown that they are good enough to match it with the best in the state and they will be buzzing after their cup final win, so we will need to be up for the challenge given what is at stake.” In team news Matt Harold returns to the squad, but both Liam Merrigan and Jimmy Duncan will need to pass late fitness tests to take their place in the side.
Marc Anthony began his tenure as Coach at Fremantle City with a big win at home against the Knights last week, and they hit the road this week with a trip to Bunbury to take on South West Phoenix at WML Stadium. The former Celtic midfielder said he has been delighted the way the players have been since he and assistant Coach Caitlin Lennie took over the reins and he said the win against the Knights was a huge positive. “Last week’s win was real good, and a great win for the club and the players,” he said. “To be fair it was a scrappy game, but the lads never say die attitude got them over the line, which is really pleasing going forward. “Anthony said the Phoenix were impressive in the Night Series and have been playing some good football, and he said it will be a huge challenge. “It’s always an extremely tough away trip to Bunbury, and they are coming off a massive win last time out, “he said. “So we need to try and match them in every department to get a result.” When asked on team news Anthony came back with a beauty. “Team news - I'm still trying to remember their names,” he joked. “We had a few players who didn’t train this week but we hope they pull up OK, although we will be missing Alex Robinson who is suspended.”
In other games Dianella White Eagles moved to third with a 4-2 win against UWA in last week’s Round 12 catch-up game, and this week they travel to Walter Padbury Reserve to take on Gosnells City. City lost at Joondalup City last week, which ended their recent good form, while the Eagles need to keep winning and hope for favorable results in the other games. UWA-Nedlands host Ashfield at the UWA Sports Park. Ashfield are coming off the bye, and need three points to keep in touch with the top four, while UWA drew 0-0 at Forrestfield. There is only one point separating the two sides on the table so a win is important for both. In the final game Joondalup City make the trip to the Lark Hill Sportsplex where they take on Rockingham City. City Coach Gary Kalaher said it was a great win, and was pleased the way his side performed on the day. “The win against Gosnells was obviously important but probably more important was the dominance of the performance,” he said. “However Gosnells are a good side with some very good players and they bounced back with a convincing win at Canning in the midweek game.” Kalaher said Saturday’s opponents have had a good season and have dangerous players. “I was very impressed with Rockingham when they beat us earlier in the year,” he said. “James Harmer is a quality player we know well from his time at Joondalup United, so we are under no illusions about the task we face on Saturday.” In team Joondalup has Alex Robertson and Tyler Smith available, but are again without Nathan Hibbert and Sam Phillips through injury. – Canning City has the bye this week.
28.7.2017
ALL FLAGS STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND FIFTEEN – PREVIEW
We’ve reached Week 15 of the All Flags State League Division Two and this week’s Footballwa.net – ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to John O’Connell Reserve where Melville City entertains league leaders Gwelup Croatia. The two sides met for the first ever time in round 4, and Gwelup edged them out 2-0 in a close contest. Melville has been in good form in recent weeks, and last week’s loss against Shamrock was their first in six weeks, and Grant Mowatt said it was disappointing result. “The Shamrock defeat was hard to take after going on such a good run in the recent weeks, but I thought we played well against shamrock we just lacked the cutting edge in the final third,” he said. “Taking nothing away from Shamrock on how they set up and made it hard for us to break them down. Hopefully we can go on another run like that and hope we can sneak into the playoff places.” Mowatt said Gwelup have been the form team of the league, but they are looking forward to another tight game. “I think the game against Gwelup will be a good one,” he said. “Earlier in the season we gave them a game at their place, so who knows what could happen this week. There obviously a good team that's why they’re sitting top of the table just now. We did have quite a few boys with injuries and knocks in recent weeks, but I actually think for once we might have a full squad available.”
Gwelup skipper Sebastian Muñoz has returned the squad in recent weeks after injury, and he said the transition under new Coach Paul Dundo has gone well and last week’s big win against Wanneroo showed that. “They (Wanneroo) were organised last time we played, having someone to play off up top and their keeper was brilliant,” he explained. “But this time around we didn't want to have excuses, we knew what they were about a nullified it as best we could.” Muñoz said the last game against Saturday’s opponents was a great game, and he believes Saturday will be no different. “Melville made it difficult for us last time we played, a well-structured team who like us, like to play football,” he explained. “We go into the game full of confidence and in good form, but looking at their results recent so are they, so it should be a great game to watch.” The skipper said they have had some serious injuries to players this season but they have a big squad to fill the void. “We have had some horrific injuries to David Sesay and Benny Kouakou this season, and we seem to have a different squad every week,” he said. “But we have a very talented squad and who ever steps in does the job well.”
Balga have home ground advantage when they host Kelmscott Roos at Princess Road Reserve. Balga were held to a draw at Kingsway last week, and with the bottom of the table tightening up three points is a must on Saturday. Kelmscott won last time out at home against Quinns, but last week’s catch up game against Swan United was called off again. Owen Curtis said it’s been a difficult time at the club, but the win at Quinns gave the whole club a lift. “It was a massive game from the lads and since the Swans game was washed out, that was our first match on the turn,” he said. “It was also our first six point fixture of the year, and it filled the lads with a heap of confidence, which was needed after the events of the last few weeks.” Curtis, who will again miss due to injury, said Saturday should be a good game. “Balga were a tough opposition for us last time we played them, so on their home ground we'll be prepared for a good match,” he said. “Unfortunately I'm still out with an injury. There are a few others looking for Thursday to see if they'll be fit. But hoping for a strong side come Saturday.”
In other games Wanneroo City will be looking to bounce back from their loss at Gwelup when they play the local derby against Kingsway Olympic at Wanneroo Reserve. Shamrock Rovers will be looking to maintain their good form under new coach Gerry McEwan when they travel to Edinburgh Oval to take on Curtin University. Rovers still sit bottom of the table but they have closed the gap on the rest of the league in recent weeks and are coming off a big win against Melville last time out. Curtin are only two points ahead of Shamrock, and are coming off a good result too, a 0-0 draw against second placed Morley Windmills. In the final game Swan United make the trip to Gumblossom Park to take on Quinns. The black and whites had the bye in the last round and their catch up game against Kelmscott was postponed again, but Coach Matt Debarro said it was the right decision and they are looking forward to get back on the park on Saturday. “Yes it was disappointing the game wasn’t played, but I think the ref made the right call to postpone as it did feel unsafe out there,” he said. “We’re looking forward to playing again, but every game is tough in this league so like always the focus is to play our best to get the result and keep our top four chances alive.” - Morley Windmills has the bye this week.
28.7.2017
AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION, ROUND FOURTEEN – PREVIEW
Wembley Downs continue to lead the Sunday Amateur Premier League, and this week they entertain Southern Spirit at Butlers Reserve, in the Footballwa.net – ‘Match of the Round’ Wembley came home from Belmont with a big win last weekend, while the Spirit easily beat bottom of the table BB United. Wembley will have a new skipper this week with Jay McDonald taking over the arm band from Ian Cleary, who has returned to Ireland. McDonald said last week’s win at Belmont was a great result to send their skipper off. “After a good performance against Kingsley we set ourselves a high standard, had a good week in training and took it into the match on Sunday,” he explained. “This season we always have goals in us, but it was made a lot easier when Belmont lost a player for a red card about half way in the first half.”
The big defender said it will strange not having the Irishman in the side. “Cleary who? We've moved on already,” he joked. “Only kidding he will be a massive loss not just for the squad but the whole club. He was a great character and intelligent player,” he said. “The starting 11 has been evolving all year with Blaine Slater moving between midfield and defence and players like Jason Trpevski stepping up of late in the middle so we think we have the quality to fill the hole. It is another huge game for us and a big week. Our reserves played in the amateur cup quarters on Wednesday, and the squad went to support them, so we had a session on Thursday to prepare. We always have a good contest with the Spirit and concentration is the key. We'll go out confident being top of the league but we know nothing more than three points will do. In team news Banin Hashem and Juraj Galba return to our squad after travelling overseas, and they will be itching to get back on the pitch to help out the side.”
Spirit skipper Matt Bennion said it was really important to back up with a win against BB United after their big win at North Perth. “Yes it was a great win against BB last week, we started well and scored a few early goals which really set up the win for us,” he said. “It was especially pleasing to back it up after a tough North Perth game two weeks ago.” Bennion said a trip to Wembley is never easy, and Sunday will be the same, but they are looking forward to it. “Absolutely, we are looking forward to the challenge against Wembley this week, they are a well drilled side and you always know you'll be up for a tough game against them,” he said. “But we will just continue to work hard as a team, play our game and hopefully come away with the points.
“We know it will be a tough task on Sunday, they are a great side and sit top of the table for a reason,” he said. “But our lads are looking forward to the challenge and one we will be all up for.” In other games on Sunday Ellenbrook United entertain second placed Kingsley at the Ellenbrook Sports Hub, while third placed North Perth United host Perth Royals at Woodville Reserve. BB United continue their search for their first point of the season when they entertain Leeming Strikers at the Bosnian Recreation Centre, while Subiaco travel to Kelly Park to take on Kwinana United. In the final game Hamersley Rovers host Belmont Villa at Carine Open Space.
26.7.2017
CANHAM SEND SORRENTO INTO NEXT ROUND
A goal after only six minutes from Sorrento striker Sean Canham has given Sorrento a historic 1-0 win against Canberra Olympic at Percy Doyle Reserve, and in doing so the Gulls became the first WA state league side to qualify for the Westfield FFA Cup Round of 16. The win was built on a great defensive display with skipper Daryl Platten, Sam Byles, Steven McDonald and Shaun Kilkelly outstanding, while man of the match James Morgan produced a number of fine saves to thwart the visitors late.
“A great win for the club, I thought Canberra were superb going forward tonight, but we had a couple of good chances and couple of disallowed goals, but thankfully we got the win,” Sorrento Coach Jamie Harnwell said. “We didn’t play as fluently as I would have liked, the pitch didn’t help that, but when you’re in cup games you just ask for grit and determination and the boys showed that in spades tonight. We had to battle hard at the end and it was a little nervy, but our keeper made a couple of good saves to see us through.”
It was cold night in the northern suburbs, but the home supporters didn’t have long to wait to warm up with the Gulls taking the lead after only seven minutes. Recce Vittiglia found a pocket of space down the left, his teasing cross picked out Canham, and the former Exeter City and Notts County striker headed powerfully home.
It was a perfect start, but Canberra looked for an early response, Josh Calabria’s low shot was blocked by Steven McDonald, before Platten had to be alert to clear Rob Cattanoch’s deep cross away, with Nick Bobolas ready to pounce at the back post. The visitors were now getting on top with Daniel Colbertaldo pulling the strings in the middle of the park, and Sorrento central defenders McDonald and Kilkelly were working overtime to keep them at bay.
Cattanach snap shot on the quarter hour was well saved by James Morgan, but Sorrento went close themselves ten minutes later. Scott Witschge and Vittiglia combined, and Canham’s long-range shot whistled over the top. Then a quick free kick from Sorrento caught Canberra napping, and Vittiglia’s shot on the turn drifted wide of the target, but at the break the home side led 1-0.
It was an amazing start to the second half with both sides having goals disallowed in the space of sixty seconds. First Sorrento failed to clear their lines on 51 minutes, and a deep cross picked out Cattanach who finished well, but the flag was up for offside. Moments later a long clearance was flicked on by Canham, and Witschge played the ball on to Vittiglia, who finished well, but again the flag was up for offside. Sorrento continued to push forward and Canham’s header was deflected wide, and from the resulting corner Steven McDonald’s header was cleared off the line by Michael Reeve
But Canberra weren’t going down out without a fight and Reeve’s goal bound shot was blocked, before substitute Tommy McLachlan fired inches wide. Sorrento thought they had a second on 78 minutes, Brad McDonald’s free kick was headed back across goal by Canham, and Kilkelly fired home at the back post and raced to celebrate with the Sorrento faithful, but referee Adam Fielding spotted a foul by Canham and the home sides’ celebrations were cut short.
Canberra were ending the game the better, and James Morgan produced a great safe to deny Colbertaldo’s long-range shot. The Sorrento custodian produced an even better safe moments later, this time tipping substitute Michael John’s curling shot around the post. He was at it again two minutes from time, this time getting down quickly at his near post to turn Stephen Domenici’s shot. There was three nervous minutes of stoppage time, but the home side hung on to book their place in the hat for the next round.
Sorrento FC: GK James Morgan, 4 Shaun Kilkelly, 6 Daryl Platten, 8 Ryan Pearson, 9 Sean Canham, 11Tim Hill, 13 Steven McDonald, 14 Scott Witschge, 17 Reece Vittiglia, 20 Brad McDonald, 21 Sammy Byles - Subs not used: RGK Anthony Salpietro, 2 Jacob Shore, 7 Alex Morgan, 18 Jordan Brown, 19 Daniel Pearce – Yellow Cards: James Morgan 92’
Canberra Olympic: GK Angelo Konstantinou, 2 Tim Bobolas, 3 Josh Calabria, 4 Daniel Colbertaldo, 5 Phil Yarnold (15 Tommy McLachlan 65’), 6 Jeremy Habtemariam (22 Michael John 83’), 10 Stephen Domenici, 11 Michael Reeve (16 Josh Gulevski 79’), 12 Rob Cattanach, 17 Nick Bobolas, 23 Nathen Megic – Sub not used: RGK Jack Pettit, 8 Bernard Rene – Yellow Cards: Bobolas 11’, Calabria 44’, Yarnold 55’, Colbertaldo 90’ - Referee: Adam Fielding
26.7.2017
GOOD LUCK TO SORRENTO IN THE FFA CUP TONIGHT
Sorrento will be flying the flag for West Australian football in the Westfield FFA Cup round of 32, when they host Canberra Olympic at Percy Doyle Reserve tonight (6.30pm). We hope all football fans can get along to the game and support the Gulls, as they try and become the first WA state league club to reach the round of 16.
“It's a good draw for the club. I know the boys had their hearts set on an away trip, but to host a fellow member federation club at Percy Doyle Reserve will be a great occasion, and we’re looking forward to the challenge,” Sorrento Coach Jamie Harnwell said. “Olympic had a fantastic run last year and we will certainly need to be at our best, but we have our eyes set on the next round and will do everything we can to achieve that.”
Harnwell said they will have to rebound from the disappointing State League Cup Final defeat “It’s a bit of the kick up the backside, it would’ve been nice going in to tonight with a bit of momentum,” he said. “But now I’ve asked the players to remember how it feels and to use that as motivation now going into the FFA Cup.”
Canberra Olympic head coach Frank Cachia has said that his team is ready and raring to go. The club reached last season’s semi-finals before losing 3-0 to Sydney FC, the same team that beat the Gulls in 2015. Cachia said that the travel element could be the biggest factor for this match-up. “I think we’re going into it largely unknown because of the travel factor,” he said when asked about his side’s chances.
“They [Sorrento] will be going in as favourites, they don’t have to move from their own backyard. But we know that we have ability within our squad and we’re confident that we can put in a good performance. And if that performance is anywhere near the level that we can play I think we’ll give a good account of ourselves.
From everyone at Footballwa.net - Good luck to Sorrento FC
Match Details
Sorrento v Canberra Olympic
Wednesday 26 July 2017
Percy Doyle Reserve, Duncraig (WA)
Kick-off: 6.30pm local (8:30pm AEST)
Referee: Adam Fielding
Assistant Referee 1: Josh Nixon
Assistant Referee 2: Arvin Shanmuganathan
Fourth Official: David Bruce
Broadcast: Streamed LIVE at https://www.foxsports.com.au/football/ffa-cup/live-stream
Join the conversation on Twitter using the hash-tags #SORvCOL #FFACup
Squads
Sorrento: 1.James Morgan (gk), 2.Jacob Shore, 4.Shaun Kilkenny, 6.Daryl Platten, 7.Alex Morgan, 8.Ryan Pearson, 9.Sean Canham, 10.Scott Bulloch, 11.Timothy Hill, 12.Joshua Tucker, 13.Steven McDonald, 14.Scott Witschge, 15.Brodie Martin, 16.Jackson Dongray, 17.Reece Vittiglia, 18.Jordan Brown, 19.Daniel Pearce, 20.Brad McDonald, 21.Sammy Byles, 22.Danny Jones, 24.Spiro Dimitriou, 60.Anthony Salpietro (gk), 60.Connor Campbell (gk)
Canberra Olympic: 1.Angelo Konstantinou (gk), 2.Tim Bobolas, 3.Josh Calabria, 4.Daniel Colbertaldo, 5.Phil Yarnold, 6.Jeremy Habtemariam, 7.Adrian Macor, 8.Bernard Rene, 10.Stephen Domenici, 11.Michael Reeve, 12.Rob Cattanach, 13.David Carder, 14.Callum Smith, 15.Tommy McLachlan, 16.Josh Gulevski, 17.Nick Bobolas, 18.Jordan Tskenis, 19.Brad Sawyer, 20.Jack Pettit (gk), 21.Jamie-Lee Guo (gk), 22.Michael John, 23.Nathen Megic, 24.Jackson Clement-McNee, 25.Dimitri Parascos, 99.Victor Yanes
23.7.2017
AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION, ROUND THIRTEEN – REVIEW
The Footballwa.net – Sunday Amateur Premier League Match of the Week saw North Perth United come home from John Connell Reserve with a hard fought 2-1 win against Leeming Strikers. It was North Perth who controlled the first half, but they couldn’t find the target, but on the stroke of half time Leeming showed them how to do it with the lead. A low cross from Lucas Pickering picked out Andrew Jennings, who slid in at front post to fire home. The visitors levelled early in the second half with Ago Mujic scoring. They scored the winner with Richard Dendle scoring, to keep them in touch of the top two. “It was good result for us against a well organised side,” United Coach Jason Winter said. “We were missing three players but the lads that played this game were quality from start to finish, I felt we controlled the first half but Leeming scored in the last few minutes of the first half against the run of play. But second half the lads responded and scored twice, although we probably a bit fortunate with the winner. But I felt we deserved it, we were the better side on the day with most of the possession, hopefully we bring this momentum into Wednesday Cup Quarter Final against Ellenbrook.”
Wembley Downs maintained their lead at the top of the table with a 7-1 win against Belmont Villa at Gerry Archer Reserve. The visitors were ahead in the first minute, Mark King was brought down in the box, and Ian Cleary converted from the spot. It was 2-0 moments later Gavin Walsh picking out King who finished well. Belmont pulled one back with Patrick Berry cutting the ball back to Darren Gamble to score. But on 22 minutes Belmont were reduced to ten men, after Darrell Gibney was sent off for a tackle on Stephen Geoghegan. Wembley then took control and Walsh and Geoghegan added two more before the break. They continued to dominate after the break and further goals from substitutes Brian Moriarty and Dean Wall wrapped up a comprehensive win. “I’m delighted, it’s hard to say too much about a 7-1 win,” Wembley coach Colm Costello said. “It’s really good to come here and get three points. They (Belmont) are a good side…but once they had their player sent off they were always going to be on the back foot.”
Kingsley bounced back from last week’s loss at Wembley with a 2-0 win against Hamersley Rovers at Chichester Park. David Ashworth headed home the opener in the first half, and Jayden Drummond lobbed the second after the break to seal the win. Kwinana United beat Perth Royals 3-0 at Kelly Park, with Jamie Nugent scoring a brace and Gary Lunt scoring the other. In other games Subiaco edged out Ellenbrook United 1-0 at Rosalie Park, while Southern Spirit beat BB United 4-0 at Watsons Reserve.
22.7.2017
RISDON TARGETS SOCCEROOS
Josh Risdon has hailed the tough decision to leave Perth Glory for another A-League club as the right move, saying he needed to get out of his comfort zone. Speaking for the first time since joining Western Sydney Wanderers, the 24-year old says the time was right to move on from Glory after seven seasons.
Risdon rose to national prominence to earn three caps for the Socceroos at right-back in a sign of his growth as a player in 142 A-League appearances for Glory. But the Bunbury-raised defender said disappointing form last season prompted him to embrace a new challenge by signing a two-year deal with Western Sydney.
Fresh from his first hit-out for the club in last Saturday night's 3-1 loss to English giants Arsenal, Risdon said he hoped the move would put him back on the Socceroos radar. "I've always wanted to travel with soccer and play in different places," Risdon said. "This move was probably coming for me."
"Obviously there's the impression that with the Eastern States, there's a lot more exposure over here. It was a move that I thought about for a while, but now that I've done it I feel it's a good move for me. I really enjoyed my time at Glory and I'll be forever grateful to them for giving me the opportunity that I had there."
"But I felt like it was time to move on, I felt like I was getting too comfortable in Perth. I wanted to get out of my comfort zone. Last season for me personally wasn't the best. I'm not sure what that was down to, but that played a massive part for me to come over."
Risdon broke the news to Glory coach Kenny Lowe face-to-face in January that he would be leaving. "I wanted to be fully honest with him from the get-go," Risdon said. "He was very respectful of my decision. It made it a lot easier."
Risdon, who'll meet his former club on the opening day of the new A-League season, has not ruled out wearing the purple of Glory again someday. "Hopefully I can pursue my career and it can take me to more places and then you never know," Risdon said. "I could end up back in Perth."
22.7.2017
JELENOVIC GIVES KNIGHTS CUP FINAL VICTORY
A goal from striker Adriano Jelenovic was enough as State League Division One side Western Knights beat PS4NPLWA side Sorrento 1-0 in the State League Cup Final at the Perth Plasterboard Centre Stadium on Saturday afternoon. In a game of very few chances the Knights striker raced clear from a long ball out of defence and fired home from 20 metres much to the delight of the Knights supporters in the big crowd.
“It was hard game to play for many players in my team, it was a first final that they are playing so everyone was a little bit nervous, but we knew we had enough quality in our team to win the game,” Jelenovic explained. “We knew if everyone did what Trim requested us to do, we going to win that game. We followed his instructions and we reduced our mistakes and tried to play simply and directive football and try to finish our chances. That's how we also scored the goal, good direct and precise ball came to me and I found myself a little bit off space to score the winner. After the goal we held out their long balls, and defensively we were amazing. Basically they didn't create any serious chance, and in my opinion we well deserve to win the game.”
It was a great day for football and the crowd were in place for the singing of the National Anthem, and then it was down to the action with both teams testing each other out early. It was a tight affair with clear cut chances few and far between, Reece Vittiglia shot inches over the top after the Knights turned the ball over, but the Knights hit back and Brian Patterson headed just wide. The game was more open now and Daryl Platten headed straight at Sam Stone, before David Murphy’s free kick was cleared off the line. Paul Lloyd then had a snap shot tipped around the post by James Morgan, before Jelenovic headed wide Lloyd’s in-swinging corner, but at the break it was 0-0.
Sorrento went close early in the second half Tim Hill’s header flashed inches over the top, before Ben Coulter’s shot was well saved by James Morgan. But the decisive goal came on 69 minutes, Sorrento played the ball into the Knights’ area, which was cleared up to Jelenovic, who controlled the ball and ran at the Sorrento defence, before firing home from 20 meters, and raced off to celebrate with the Knights fans behind the goal. Sorrento pressed late, the best chance fell to Steven McDonald whose goal bound shot was blocked. But at the final whistle, Knights’ players, coaches and supporters celebrated a fantastic win for the Nash Field club and Ben Coulter was the winner of the Stan Lazaridis medal.
Knights’ Coach Trim Morgan said his team were outstanding. “It was absolutely sensational, we had lots of possession in the first half and a few half-chances, and in the second half we had a cracking goal, and then we defended well,” he said. He also praised the goalscorer and Coulter, who was outstanding. “Benny’s been great all season and we know Adriano can finish,” he said. “He did the business against the last two PS4 NPLWA sides, and what a finish 30 odd yards out today.”
Sorrento: GK James MORGAN, 4 Shaun KILKELLY, 6 Daryl PLATTEN, 7 Alex MORGAN, 11 Tim HILL, 12 Josh TUCKER, 14 Scott WITSCHGE, 15 Brodie MARTIN, 17 Reece VITTIGLIA, 20 Brad MCDONALD, 21 Sam BYLES – Subs: RGK Antony SALPIETRO, 2 Jacob SHORE, 9 Sean CANHAM, 13 Steve MCDONALD, 18 Jordan BROWN
Western Knights: GK Sam STONE, 2 Tom SOUTHGATE, 3 David MURPHY, 5 Graham TOUGH, 6 Ben COULTER, 8 Brian PATTERSON, 9 John CHALMERS, 10 Paul LLOYD, 13 Harry HALL, 15 Adriano JELENOVIC, 21 Josh CORTES – Subs: 12 Ryan TUCKER, 17 Delan DE SILVA, 18 James BURNS, 20 Sam HUTCHINGS, 27 Kevin ASHWOOD - Referee: Steven Gregory
22.7.2017
COCKERELS SCORE LATE TO WIN RESERVES CUP FINAL
A penalty two minutes into stoppage time from Sam Garces has given Cockburn City a hard fought 3-2 win against Balcatta in Saturday’s State League Reserves Cup Final at the Perth Plasterboard Centre Stadium. Cockburn dominated the first half and an own goal from Giordan Serra and a Julian Teles strike gave them a commanding lead at the break, but Balcatta hit back after the break, with a brace from Kyle Jackson. It looked like going to a dreaded penalty shoot-out, but second half substitute Sam Garces, who was devastated not to be playing from the start, converted from a penalty in normal time to win it for the Cockerels.
Coach Ross Greer said they deserved the win but had a few uneasy moments in the second half, and had a special mention for the player who scored the winner. “I thought we created more than enough chances to win the game, but they made a few changes, and they had too after we totally dominated the first, but it could have gone either way after half time,” Cockburn Coach Ross Greer said. “It was great for Sam to score the winner, he was really disappointed not to be in the side, but I’m really happy he came off the bench and scored the winner, he won’t be disappointed tonight.”
Cockburn dominated early, and Adam Anfuso shot was saved by Luke Hutchinson, before Teles fired into the side netting. Their early dominance was rewarded with the lead on 16 minutes, when a cross from Daniel Santich was saved by Hutchinson, but the ball rebounding off the unfortunate Serra and rolled agonizingly into the net. It was 2-0 sixty seconds later Teles found space on the edge of the penalty area and finished clinically.
Balcatta’s first chance came moments later Brennan Borzecki’s long-range shot was well saved by Ryan Barker, at the second attempt. In fact Balcatta ended the half the better and went close on 35 minutes, Abbas Alshaikh won possession in the middle of the park and slipped a great through ball into the path of Ben Meredith, but Barker stood tall to deny the striker. Cockburn should have added a third in the shadows of half time, Ryan Pratt’s cross picked out the unmarked Daniel Robinson, but he headed over the top from close-range.
Balcatta needed a good start to the second half, and they certainly got one, scoring after only 50 seconds. Borzecki feeding Jackson on the right, his shot was half saved by Barker, but it rolled home and it was game on. It was an open game now, with chances at both ends. Borzecki heading wide for Balcatta, before Pratt’s shot was well saved by Hutchinson, after he was sent one-on-one with the Cockburn custodian. But on 65 minutes Balcatta levelled, Alshaikh’s free kick was headed back across goal by Meredith, and Jackson was at the back post to stab the ball home.
It looked like this one was going to a penalty shoot-out but on 92 minutes, Teles sent Pratt into goal and he was brought down by Gioffre, and referee Anthony Walsh pointed straight to the spot. Garces stepped up and scored from the resulting penalty to give Cockburn the win, and set off wild celebrations at the final whistle.
Cockburn City: GK Ryan BARKER, 2 Ryan SARDI, 3 Mohammed SULAIMAN, 4 Hudson BLISS, 6 David DOS SANTOS (10 Sam GARCES 62’), 7Adam ANFUSO (17 Michael DE BELLIS 80’), 9 Ryan PRATT, 11 Andrew EMSAVANA (8 Losene DULLEH 75’), 13 Chris THACKRAY (C), 14 Julian TELES, 15 Daniel SANTICH, 16 Daniel ROBINSON - Subs not used: RGK Jordan COMBE, 5 Thomas BOURNE
Balcatta: GK Luke HUTCHINSON, 24 Brennan BORZECKI, 25 Kyle JACKSON (28 Luqman ABDIRAHMAN 92’), 26 Abbas ALSHAIKH, 27 Ben MEREDITH, 32 Tyler UGLOW, 33 Antoni DALESSIO, 34 Filippo GIOFFRE, 35 Tim HIGGINS, 36 Giordan SERRA (C), 37 Johnathan BOUHLAS (30 Henri MULWILA 68’) - Subs not used: RGK Skye DOYLE, 29 Oliver FORD, 31 Raed ALANZI - Referee: Anthony Walsh
22.7.2017
PERTH SC SPOT ON TO WIN THE UNDER 18’S CUP FINAL
Perth SC has won the State League under 18’s Cup Final beating Armadale 4-1 on penalties after the score was 1-1 at normal time. It was a dramatic end to the game, with Armadale’s Daniel Cummings scoring two minutes from time, but with the last kick of stoppage time Khaynan MacCarthy levelled to send the game to the shoot-out. Perth keeper Makek Kuc was the hero, saving two penalties and Perth’s Louis Rossi scored the sealing penalty.
“All credit to Armadale, they absolutely came out and played today and gave us a good game,” Perth Coach Basil Lenzo said. “After we had equalised, I was quietly confident on the penalties and I thought Makek (Kuc) was a standout in goals. Regardless of what age group, a cup final is always going to be a tough and scrappy game but the boys battled all day and put in a great team performance.”
The two sides had met in the league last weekend with Perth running out big winners, but this was a cup final and anything can happen. Armadale had the first real chance on the half hour, Eraste Vyamunga through ball sent Luke Tester into the box, but Kuc was out quick to save. Perth went close to the lead themselves seven minutes later, Shay Donovan stole the ball off a defender, before laying it off to Kristian Santich, who fired his first-time shot over the bar.
It was a typical cup tie with both sides not giving an inch, and it continued after the break. Santich’s shot from the edge of the box on the hour beat Duncan Lennon-Black, but the post came to the rescue of the Armadale custodian. Then on 77 minutes Vyamunga’s free-kick beat Kuc, but the post also came to the keepers rescue, as both sides pushed for the opener.
The break-through finally came two minutes from time, when a through-ball put Cumming one-on-one with Kuc, and the striker finished with aplomb. Perth pressed late pushing men forward and they levelled two minutes in to stoppage time. Armadale had two opportunities to clear their lines put failed, and the final one deflected off MacCarthy and rolled into the net to send the tie to penalties.
In the shoot-out, Darragh Nagel and Abdullahi Osman had their penalties saved by Kuc, and Perth won it with Rossi finishing comfortably making it four out of four from Perth to win it. “In the first-half I thought we created enough chances to score a few goals and in the second the game levelled out, but overall I thought our side played very well,” a disappointed Armadale Coach Joe Pugliese said. “In the end I just put it down to a lucky goal from Perth, but overall it was a great game from the two best teams in the league. “When the game goes to penalties, it goes to penalties and the team that puts it in wins and unfortunately that wasn’t us today.”
Armadale: GK Duncan LENNON BLACK, 7 Alex BOND, 8 Darragh NAGEL, 9 Luke TESTER (3 Conor DUNNE 83’), 10 Eraste VYAMUNGA, 11 Abdullahi OSMAN, 14 Daniel CUMMING (4 Jacob DE SILVA 90’), 18 Charlie SIMPSON, 19 Daniel STONE (5 Brad GREIPL 69’), 20 Connor MACRAE, 22 Jack CAPPENDELL - Subs not used: 2 Anthony LUCY, 32 Conor MCFALL
Perth SC: GK Malek KUC, 3 Nick MESSINA, 5 Lucas ROSSI, 6 Ben PULLELLA, 8 Lennon CRANE, 9 Louis ROSSI, 11 Shay DONOVAN (14 Jackson ELRIDGE 76’), 15 Kristian SANTICH, 16 Khaynan MACCARTHY, 17 Callum MAGEE (20 Sam THORNILEY 59’), 22 Matthew LENZO (C) - Subs not used: RGK Sebastian BELL, 21 Angelo CALASSE - Referee: Jake Friend
22.7.2017
TANEVSKI SCORES LATE TO EARN LIONS A POINT
Striker Alex Tanevski scored a last minute equaliser to give Stirling Lions a 2-2 draw in the week 3 PS4NPLWA catch-up game at the ECU Football Stadium on Sunday. The Lions were ahead early with Darren O’Riordan on target, but the hosts levelled before half time through skipper Jon Higgins. Gordon Smith marked his return to the starting line-up with a goal and it looked like they had won it, but Tanevski had the final word scoring on a quick counter attack to put a damper on the ECU 25th anniversary celebrations.
“I thought we started the game really well, and but a lot of pressure on them, and I thought we were well worth the early lead,” Lions Coach Rob Milevski said. “We should have been two up, but didn’t take our chances, but we gave away silly free kicks in key area and we were level. We changed a few things at half time, and despite going behind we showed good character to hit back and claim a point, which I thought was a fair result, especially with the rain sweeping across the pitch at times.”
The Lions arrived into the game after surprising the league leaders Inglewood last week, and they surprised the hosts in this one, by dominating early, and they were ahead after only eight minutes. A corner from the left wasn’t dealt with by the ECU defence, and O’Riordan’s shot from the edge of the box, flew into the bottom corner of the net. It should have been 2-0 four minutes later, Mathiang found himself one-on-one with Fraser Greenwood after dink over the top by Mike Vujacic, but the defenders weak shot was straight at the ECU custodian.
It was one-way traffic and Tanevski went close again moments later, but his shot on the run was pushed around the post by the alert Greenwood. The hosts started to get into the game, and Gordon Smith shot on the turn was well saved by Perkins, and on 28 minutes they were level, Higgin’s superb curling free kick giving Perkins no chance.
ECU started the brighter after the break, and they thought they had the lead on the hour, a long ball over the top sent Gordon Smith racing clear, and the flag stayed down, and he finished low past Perkins.
The goal was allowed, but after the Lions’ player’s protests, referee Tom Glavovic spoke to his assistant and reversed the decision. The home side went close again on 65 minutes. A long clearance from Greenwood sent Gordon Smith racing down the right, he played Nicol in on goal, his shot was superbly saved by Perkins, the rebound falling to Steven McGarry’s whose header bounced off the top of the crossbar. But two minutes later the home side’s pressure was rewarded with the lead. Higgins’ deep corner picked out Gordon Smith at the back post, and he headed home.
Perkins came to his sides rescue again on 72 minutes, saving Nicol’s low cross, but the keeper injured himself in doing so and was replaced by reserve keeper Lance Alavakis. The Lions weren’t out of this one, and skipper Vujacic’s long-range shot was blocked by Greenwood, and Jack Jones was quickest to react to clear the rebound with Tanevski ready to pounce.
It looked like ECU would celebrate their 25th anniversary with a win but the Lions had other ideas. ECU lost possession cheaply in their third final third and a long ball sent Tanevski racing clear down the left, he eased past his marker and finished clinically past Greenwood. Both sides had late chances to win, the best falling to the home side with the final action of the match. Nicol’s deep cross picked out Gordon Smith at the back post, but he could only find the side netting.
ECU Joondalup: GK Fraser GREENWOOD, 3 Ross MILLARD, 4 Rikki SMITH, 5 Graham DORAN, 7 Kevin MOON, 8 Declan HUGHES, 9 Daryl NICOL, 10 Gordon SMITH, 13 Jon HIGGINS (C), 14 Steven MCGARRY, 17 Jack JONES Subs not used: RGK Jordan YOUNG, 6 Shane PICKERING 11 Keylun POLLARD 15 Ryan MCDARBY, 19 Cian HIRRELL
Stirling Lions: GK John PERKINS (RGK Lance ALAVAKIS 73’), 2 Michael PUGLIESE, 7 Miki VUJACIC(C) (4 Blamo QUAQUA 81’), 8 Alex SULESKI, 9 Alex TANEVSKI, 10 Daniel MICEVSKI, 15 Shane CASSIDY, 16 Mathiang MATHIANG, 17 Darren O’RIORDAN, 18 Moses KALAU, 19 Cameron TEECE (12 Jason RUBIDGE 76’) - Subs not used: 6 Robbie MCNEILL, 13 Adam FALCONE - Yellow Cards: Vujacic 29’, Suleski 52’, Tanevski 71’ - Referee: Tom Glavovic
22.7.2017
MARULANDA AT THE DOUBLE FOR BAYSWATER
Bayswater City recent good form continued, after a 3-1 win against Subiaco in the PS4NPLWa week 2 catch up game on Sunday afternoon, at the Finance 365 Stadium. Youngster Luka Ninkovic gave the hosts the lead early, before Gustavo Giron-Marulanda added a second on the stroke of half time. Marulanda made sure of the points on the hour, while Carlin Feely scored a late consolation goal from the visitors.
“I was really pleased with Gustavo (Marulanda) today, he was very confident in front of goal and he never looked like he was going to miss,” Bayswater Coach Chris Coyne said. “The title is Inglewood’s to lose, so we have to keep believing that if we do things properly at our end we’ll get that one opportunity that we need. The only thing we can do now is keep grinding out results and then we’ll see where we end up in the next five weeks.”
Both these sides were in good form, both unbeaten in their last four games, but it was Bayswater who opened the brightly and were ahead on 10 minutes, Luka Ninkovic found a pocket of space in the penalty area, and his first-time shot beat Ryan Montgomery. Both sides had half chances, but it was the home side that doubled their lead one minute before the break. A swift counter attack ended with Borbor Sam, who slipped the ball into the path of Marulanda, who finished clinically.
It was more of the same after the break, and on the hour the home side added a third. Ninkovic was the supplier this time, making a darting run into the box, before squaring the ball to Marulanda, who did the rest. Subiaco fought to the end and they were rewarded with a late consolation goal three minutes from time, Feely easing past a couple of Bayswater defenders before firing low past Devon Spence.
“I thought we had a good chance to get a result today but we just weren’t at our best,” Subiaco Coach Ian McMurray said. “We could have had a couple more goals today but when you’re playing against a quality team like Bayswater who are pushing for the league you’ve got to take your chances and unfortunately for us we didn’t do that today.”
Bayswater City: GK Devon SPENCE, 2 Declan HARGREAVES, 6 Todd HOWARTH, 8 Paul MCCARTHY (16 Giordano COLLI 90’), 9 Gustavo MARULANDA (15 Luke SALMON 81’), 10 Jason MIRCO, 13 Trent KAY (C), 17 Borbor SAM, 19 Luka NINKOVIC (14 Tristan COLLI 71’), 20 Sam MITCHINSON, 23 Andrija JUKIC - Subs not used: RGK Shayden PASLAQUA, 25 Michael COHEN
Subiaco: GK Ryan MONTGOMERY(C), 4 Alex RANDELL (8 Mike LAWSON 71’), 6 Steve PURTON, 7 Nathan DIAZ, 9 Ian MCMURRAY, 11 Carlin FEELY, 13 Jordan CANDLISH, 14 Ross JARMAN, 15 Dylan Andrews (19 Stefan HILL 90’), 17 Alex CASTIELLO, 18 David PERICH (12 Asher Nelson 77’) - Subs not used: RGK Hamish ST GEORGE, 10 Adrian Caceres - Referee: Josh Mannella
22.7.2017
ALL FLAGS STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE WRAP
In the All Flags State League Division One Catch up game Dianella White Eagles kept in touch of the league leaders with a come from behind 4-2 win against UWA Nedlands. The home side started brightly and wasted a number of fine chances, but in their first attack Alex Kretowicz opened the scoring for the visitors, tapping home at the back post. But Dianella levelled five minutes later, Sotiris Theodosiades scoring from a free kick. Dianella continued to dictate terms but found themselves behind two minutes from half time, with Kretowicz adding his second.
The home side were level ten minutes into the second half with Francis Wanjiru crossing to new signing Damion, who finished well. Dianella pressed and were ahead on 70 minutes, with Wanjiru heading home at the far post. The pints were made safe three minutes from time, Ibrahim Hamad turned his marker and unleashing an unstoppable shot to make the game safe for Dianella.
“I thought that we were always in control of the game even when we went behind on the two occasions. UWA defended well but our lads really wanted this win and played some really good attacking football which was just too hard for the UWA side to cope with,” Dianella Coach Robbie Dunn said. “I am very happy for our players and the club after this well-deserved win and I hope it helps give everyone the confidence to carry on with their good brand of football till the end of the season.”
21.7.2017
STATE LEAGUE CUP FINAL - PREVIEW
All roads will lead to the Perth Plasterboard Centre Stadium in Inglewood on Saturday afternoon, with the 2017 Football West State League Cup Final taking centre stage. It’s an intriguing final, with PS4 NPLWA side Sorrento taking on All Flags State League Division One league leaders Western Knights at 3pm. Sorrento had to work hard to beat another Division One side in the Semi-Final, with Sean Canham scoring the only goal in a 1-0 win against Dianella White Eagles, and Coach Jamie Harnwell said it was a professional performance from his side. “Given the amount riding on the game in terms of qualification for the State Cup Final and the FFA Cup Round of 32, I was thrilled with the resilience that our team showed,” he said. “All credit to Dianella for their showing, but I felt we were deserved winners on the night, the only issue was that we failed to put away our chances and left ourselves with some nervy moments at the death but we dealt with them well.”
The Gulls have a great cup pedigree having won the cup on three occasions (2011, 2012 and 2015), and Harnwell said they have done the work on the pitch but the committee need to take a lot of the kudos off the pitch. “The clubs committee deserve a huge amount of credit for the success that the club has,” he explained. “The backing that the coaching staff and players receive each week win or lose is fantastic, and the professionalism of the clubs operations continues to increase. It’s funny that after having gone so long to win our first cup final, we have been quite successful in recent years and we are hopeful of adding Sorrento FC on to the cup again on Saturday.”
Harnwell knows they will need to prepare well against the Knights, who beaten two of the top team in the NPL on their route to the Final, but his players will be ready for the challenge. “Western Knights are a similar unit to Dianella, and we won’t be underestimating them at all,” he said. “They have a couple of real threats going forward and we need to be careful of how quickly they counter attack. As a team we will continue to play as we have all season and try stretch the Knights as much as possible. I’m not sure that there is too much I can say to the players, so many of them have been in this position before. If anything, it will just be a reminder that you never know what is around the corner in this game and when you’re next chance to win something will be - You don’t want to leave the pitch with any regrets.”
The Western Knights have been the underdog in their last two cup games, but a 3-1 win against NPL Champions Perth SC in the sixth round, and a stunning 2-1 win against Bayswater in the Semi-Final, with Paul Lloyd’s last minute penalty giving them the opportunity on Saturday. Knights’ coach Trim Morgan said they played some great football in both games and worked their socks off. “I thought we showed no fear against Perth and Bayswater, and we were focused on our game and the system that we play,” he said. “The players really worked hard in transition and even when they were down against Bayswater, we continued to play good attacking football.”
The Nash Field club have won the State League Cup on two previous occasions, in 2000 and 2008, and Morgan said they are working hard on and off the pitch to get back to the NPL, and a win on Saturday will give them a huge lift in their title chase. “There is an incredible amount of work that goes on behind the scenes at a football club, and Gordana and her committee and all the volunteers are working hard to ensure that we have the foundations to be successful,” he explained. “It will be an incredible achievement if we beat Sorrento on Saturday, and hopefully it will be the start of a renaissance at the club.”
Morgan said they know a great deal about Sorrento, but stopping them is another problem, but they are looking forward to the challenge. “They (Sorrento) are a fantastic club, who have passionate coaches in Jamie and Steve Neville,” he said. “They are well organised from back to front, but I think the game will be won in the middle of the park, so hopefully the boys can start quickly and settle the nerves. But I’ll back my side, and you don’t play too many Cup Finals in your career, so we will tell the boys to soak up the atmosphere, express themselves and enjoy the occasion.”
In other games on the day, the Under 18’s Cup Final kicks off at 10.00am, where Perth SC takes on Armadale. The sides met last week in the league, with Perth running out big winners, but Joe Pugliese and Kodi Madeley will be hoping to reverse that result on Saturday. Armadale made the final with a 4-2 penalty shoot–out win against Inglewood United, after it was 1-1 at full time, while Perth edged out Cockburn City 2-1 to set up Saturday’s Final. At 12.15pm the Reserves Cup Final sees Cockburn City up against Balcatta. These sides have met twice in the league this season, Cockburn winning at home in round two, while the points were shared in Round 14, after a 0-0 draw at Grindleford Reserve. Balcatta reached the Final after a hard fought 3-1 win against Division One side Forrestfield United, while Cockburn edged out Perth SC, to set up Saturday’s game and this one, like their games this season will be a tight one.
21.7.2017
CUP FINAL CAPTAINS LAST WORD…….
It’s a massive couple of weeks of cup football Sorrento and Western Knights, and after Saturday’s State League Cup Final, they both play in the Westfield FFA Cup Round of 32 games against Canberra United and Gold Coast City respectively. We sat down and spoke to the Captains of both sides, Paul Lloyd and Steve McDonald ahead of the big game, as their clubs push for cup success. The Knights had to do it the hard way to reach Saturday’s Grand Final, a 3-0 win on the road against Kingsway Olympic in round three, before a big win at home in round four against Busselton. That set up a game against Sunday Amateur Premier League leaders Wembley Downs, and they had to work hard to beat them 3-0. In round six they hosted NPL Champions Perth SC, and goals from Jack Rycroft, Lloyd and Ben Coulter gave them a huge upset 3-1 win. They travelled to Bayswater City for the Semi-final, and once again caused the upset, this time in a tight encounter and a late penalty from Lloyd gave them a stunning 2-1 win.
Knights Captain Paul Lloyd said they head into the game well aware of the strengths of Sorrento, but knowing they can beat anyone on their day. “We know when we are at our best we're capable of matching and beating any team as we proved with the Perth and Bayswater games,” he said. “But we no Sorrento will be just as tough, if not tougher in a cup final, so we'll be going into it with the same attitude and taking nothing for granted.” The Knights have big ambitions on and off the park and a spot in the NPL is something they are all aim to achieve. “The league title has been our aim since pre- season and we have used the momentum from that in our cup run, and we want to keep that going, it's only half a job done,” he explained. “The toughest stage starts now staying top and seeing it out till the end and winning the league, but on Saturday anything can happen in a cup final, the lads are all desperate to lift the cup and will give everything, but so will Sorrento, there are match winners in both teams.” The Knights last won the cup in 2008, and Lloyd said it will give everyone at the club a huge lift if they are to take out Saturday’s Final. “We've had a great cup run and played some top teams and come away with big wins, to lift the cup now is the biggest challenge for us,” he said. “It's been too long since the club last won the trophy and I'd love to win it for the lads, the staff and the great people at the club.”
Sorrento eased through the fourth round with a big win against Woodvale, before edging out UWA Nedlands 3-1 in round five. They had a tricky game in round six, with a trip to Wanneroo, but came home with a hard fought 2-0 win, Alex Morgan gave the Gulls the lead early, before Reece Vittiglia wrapped up the tie on the hour mark. In the Semi-Final they hosted Dianella White Eagles, who had beaten ECU Joondalup and Cockburn city in the previous rounds, but a Sean Canham goal gave them a 1-0 win. Sorrento Captain Steve McDonald said the whole club is buzzing on the eve of their two big cup games. “A great couple of weeks for the club, and this is why we play football, to be involved in such games,” he said. “The Knights have been the giant killers of this year’s cup, and they well and truly deserve their place in the final, and we've had a really good season as well, but that will all count for nothing on the day, it's a cup Final and whoever wants it most on the day will win. Trim Morgan has them playing some really good football, and we most certainly won't be taking them lightly, Jamie has us playing a very fast and attacking style of football and we know on our day we can beat anyone.”
McDonald, who missed last week’s league win against ECU Joondalup, but is fit and ready for the Final, said the Knights have some dangerous players, but they have prepared well and are ready for it. “I missed the game on Saturday due to an eye injury that unfortunately happened at work, but nothing serious, and will definitely be fit and ready to go this week,” he explained. “Jamie and Steve have us raring to go, and left no stone unturned in our preparation for what should be a great game. I want to win every time a step out onto that field, and even more so on Saturday, we have a great bunch of lads and a great team spirit, and we'll be throwing everything that we have at the Knights, and hopefully we'll be the ones holding the cup aloft at the end of the game. To lead the club to a fourth cup success would be unbelievable, considering six years ago we had never won it.”
21.7.2017
PS4 NPLWA CATCH-UP ROUND - PREVIEW
With the Cup final on Saturday the PS4 NPLWA takes a break, but on Sunday there are two catch-up games from Week two and three. Both games were organically postponed due to the serve hot weather in the Perth area and the day, and it should be a little bit cooler this time around with rain forecasted on Sunday. First up on at 12.30pm, two of the form teams of league meet, when Bayswater City entertains Subiaco at the Finance 365 Stadium. Bayswater have won their last four games, including a 1-0 win at Floreat Athena last week, likewise Subiaco, who have moved away from the relegation zone with four straight wins, and are coming off a 2-0 win against Balcatta last week. The sides meet in round 15 at Rosalie Park, with Subiaco running out 3-2 winners. Player/Coach Ian McMurray gave the home side the lead, but Bayswater skipper Trent Kay levelled. Jordan Candlish gave Subiaco back the lead. But again Bayswater hit back, with David Heagney scoring. In a frantic finish Alex Randell scored from the spot to give Subiaco the lead, and their keeper Ryan Montgomery made sure of the three points when he saved Heagney’s late penalty.
McMurray said last week’s win was important, to keep their good run of form going. “Last week’s win against Balcatta was hard fought, but to be honest it was a scrappy win in tough conditions,” he said. “But the boys knew the importance of the match, to continue our four game unbeaten run, and they got the job done.” Subiaco heads into the game on a good run of form, and McMurray said they are full of confidence after beating them last time around. “We’re under no illusions Sunday is a tough match, against A Bayswater team who are also on a good run of form, and are undefeated since we played them last time,” he said. “It’s another challenge for us, which I know the lads are looking forward to. They (Bayswater) are one of the best teams in the competition, but we know if we can continue to play as we have, we can mix it with the best.”
Bayswater assistant Coach Stewart Moses said last week’s win wasn’t pretty, but the lads got the job done. “It was a hard fought win last week, although it wasn’t the prettiest games to watch,” he said. “But I thought we controlled the game for large periods, and the three points closed the gap on the top four, and if we win our game in hand on Sunday we will be in the top four and only one point behind the league leaders. So it’s still all to play for and many wouldn’t have thought that a few weeks ago.” Moses said they probably took them lightly in the first meeting, but he said that won’t happen on Sunday. “The last game at their place was two days before the Cup game, and we thought we would just go there and collect the three points, but Subiaco came out and got stuck in and rolled us,” he explained. “We’ve reminded the players this week the importance of the game, not only the position on the table, but to get some revenge for that defeat. The lads are pumped for this one and we’re determined to get the three points and keep our unbeaten run going with a trip to ECU Joondalup next week.” In team news Andrija Jukic returns from suspension, but they lose Brent Griffiths due to suspension.
The other game on Sunday is the round three, catch-up game, with ECU Joondalup hosting Stirling Lions at the ECU Football Stadium. The pair met at Macedonia Park in round 16 where it ended 2-2. ECU raced to a 2-0 lead at half time, with Jack Iredale and top goalscorer Daryl Nicol on target, but the Lions hit back with second half goals from Michael De Lima and Cameroon Teece, and should have gone on and won it, but had to settle for a point. The Lions stunned the league last week with a big win at league leaders Inglewood United, who they seem to have the wood on in recent seasons, excuse the pun, and keeper John Perkins said it was their best performance of the season and a great 90 minutes from the whole side. “It seemed last week we finally played to our potential and showed glimpses of our quality as a team for 90 minutes,” he said. “Inglewood has dangerous and experienced players and are a physical side, but I thought we won the 50-50’s and were first to the second ball throughout and it was a deserved win.” The Irish keeper said games against Sunday’s opposition are always tight and if history repeats itself, there will be plenty of goals. “The games against ECU always seem to produce lots of goals, and the last encounter was typical of the saying ‘a game of two halves’,” Perkins explained. “They (ECU) dominated in the first half and were 2-0 up and we dominated second half and ended 2-2. I think both teams would have seen a draw as a fair result but both think they should have won also. We head there in good space, but we know Sunday won’t be any different form previous games against them, with both teams looking for the three points.” In team news youngster Nicholas Ashley will miss the trip due to suspension.
It’s a big day at the campus with the Jacks celebrating their 25th anniversary, with former players and coaches being invited to celebrate on the day, and Dale McCulloch’s side will be hoping to put on a good performance, something they didn’t last week at Sorrento. The loss at Percy Doyle Reserve almost put an end to their top four hopes, but striker Gordon Smith said they need to be better. “Everyone was disappointed with the result against Sorrento, we just didn't get going at all and we can have no complaints about the score line,” he said. “Dale has had stern words since, so we will be looking to bounce back on Saturday.” Smith returned after missing a month with a knee injury and he said it was to get back playing again. “Yes it was great to be back on the field and the knee is feeling good,” he explained. “It's been frustrating watching on from the sides, but all you can do is be positive and do the correct things to make sure you’re ready to help the team. Sunday can't come quick enough for me.” The Scottish striker said they will be looking for three points on Sunday, and keep their hopes of finals football alive. “Sunday is pretty much a must win - we are under no illusions points will be dropped by other clubs from now to the end of the season, and although the Top four is out of our hands, we must stay on top of our game because you just never know,” he said. “Being the clubs 25th anniversary we want to make it a special day for everyone who has put their time and effort into this club, and three points will help that.” In team news Kevin Moon returns to the squad, while Smith will be pushing for a starting role after coming off the bench last week.
21.7.2017
AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION, ROUND THIRTEEN – PREVIEW
It’s week 13 of the Sunday Amateur Premier League and this week’s Footballwa – ‘Match of the Week’ takes us to the John Connell Reserve where fourth placed Leeming Strikers, entertains third placed North Perth United. United go into this one on the back of a surprise home defeat against Southern Spirit, and coach Jason Winter said it was a bad day at the office. “It was a very disappointing loss, we never got going,” he said. “Also that defeat looks to have ended or league hopes unfortunately, but we move on to another important game against Leeming.” Winter said they will go into the game as underdogs as Leeming are on a good run of form. “They (Leeming) are a very good side, and I think when we beat them in round two they had four of their players missing,” he said. “Leeming are favourites to win on Sunday and with the form they are in, it should be good game.” After Sunday’s game United will play Ellenbrook United in the Quarter Finals of the Amateur Cup, and Winter said he will have a few selection headaches. “We are missing three strikers from last week, which is unfortunately, but that’s football,” he explained. “It’s an opportunity for three lads to step up and show there quality. This is a big week for us, and could make or break our season with the Cup game on Wednesday.”
Leeming Coach David Palin said last week’s win was hard fought and keeps their good form going. “We were pleased with the win against the Royals, they gave us a tough game first time around, and they also had come off a good result the week earlier,” he said. “It was important that we applied ourselves in the right manner, and the boys did that and got the right result on the day.” Palin said they head into the game full of confidence and relishing the opportunity to keep their good form going. “Form our end we are really looking forward to the challenge, and we’ve lost once in the last 11 league and cup games, so we’re looking to extend that this week,” he explained. “They (North Perth) had a setback last week, but are a very good side and a lot of peoples favourite to win the league. They have threats all over the park and Jason always has them well organised. It should be a cracking game and with third place up for grabs I’m sure my guys will be really up for the challenge.” Like North Perth Leeming are in cup action in midweek, when they take on Division Two side Cracovia White Eagles and Palin hopes to have a few players back from injury. “We still have a question mark over Ben Greaves and Will Kirkpatrick, who both missed last week,” he explained. “Apart from that we are all ready to go, which is great especially with the Cup game on Wednesday.”
In other games league leaders Wembley Downs make the trip to the Gerry Archer Sports Complex to take on Belmont Villa, while second placed Kingsley entertain Hamersley Rovers at Chichester Park. BB United continue to look for their first win of the season and this week they travel to Southern Spirit at Watsons Reserve, Subiaco host Ellenbrook United at Rosalie Park while Kwinana United host Perth Royals at Kelly Park. Wednesday’s other Amateur Cup quarter finals fixtures are, Kwinana United v Peel United Division 3 at the Gerry Archer Sports Complex, while Southern Spirit v Joondalup United Division 1, at the Perth Plasterboard Centre Stadium – All games kick off at 8.15pm.
19.7.2017
STATE LEAGUE CATCH UP GAMES
There are also four games this week as the State League clubs catch up with postponed and abandoned games from Week 12, and it kick off on Wednesday evening in the State League Division One with Gosnells City beating Canning City 4-1 and lift the inaugural ‘Frank Longstaff Trophy’ The visitors led 1-0 at the break with Joshua Wade on target after a well-worked corner. They added two more after half time, with Dean Apelgren finishing well, and Wade Farmer adding another. Canning striker Callum Roberts was then sent off, and Farmer scored his second to make it 4-0, before Joe Kelly scored Canning’s late consolation goal. The other Division One game is on Saturday afternoon (3pm) when Dianella White Eagles entertain UWA-Nedlands at Dianella Reserve. A win for the home side will push them into joint second place with Forrestfield United and South West Phoenix, but a win for UWA will take them above Dianella, as the top of the table tightens up. “We are looking to this game to try and get our season back on track,” Dianella Coach Robbie Dunn said. “Injuries and suspensions continue to hamper the squad but the players are a resilient lot and they will give it their best. Angel’s suspension is a big loss as he is without doubt the best striker in the league, his continued close attention from defenders, some definitely questionable, has finally taken its toll on him and now he will have to sit out the next two weeks. We will work around this and tinker with the formation a little and hopefully come up with a line up which can get the points against a very good UWA side.”
UWA Coach Michael Janssen said they are looking forward to the challenge. “After the earlier cancellation of the game we are looking forward to the challenge in this one,” he said. “The first match of the season was a hard fought draw, and Dianella will try to close the gap to the Knights and Forrie on Saturday. We are in a good form and the team performance will be the key to a success on Saturday. We know what we will expect and we are prepared for a battle till the final whistle. With ten players out with injuries before the Forrie game the depth of our squad has been tested. Each player is sharp and has the desire to start, so training is intense and each week the competition in the squad is on a high level. If we play to our best we are good to get a result, and Dianella are under pressure to win, and that makes it sometimes difficult for teams.”
In the State League Division Two Curtin University host Wanneroo City at Edinburgh Oval on Thursday evening, while Kelmscott Roos entertain Swan United at Frye Park. Swan Coach Matt Debarro said it’s a big game for the Black and Whites. “It's make or break for us now, a draw or loss does nothing for our cause. We have been inconsistent and it has cost us in regards to the ladder position,” he said. “My players have been put on notice, it's time to step up or I will be making drastic personnel changes. We are more than capable of winning this game with ease, but we need to be more ruthless and committed to defending otherwise we will find ourselves on the chopping block against a strong Kelmscott team and missing out on the top 4 play offs at the end of the year. There's no excuses to not win it comes down to the players executing for 90 minutes.”
18.7.2017
INGLEWOOD TAKE THE GLORY IN FRIENDLY
Perth Glory have started their friendly games in preparation for their clash against Heidelberg in the Westfield FFA Cup, and their 2017-18 Hyundai A-League season with a 3-1 defeat against PS4 National Premier League WA leaders Inglewood United at the Perth Plasterboard Centre Stadium on Tuesday evening. Kenny Keogh gave the home side the lead at the break, before Alex Salmon and former Glory Youth player Chok Dau added two more after half time. The Glory scored their consolation goal late with youngster Jacob Italiano on target.
It was a young Glory line-up, with a number of their NPL players in the squad, while off-season signings Scott Neville, Mitch Nichols and Jacob Poscoliero all started, before Lowe opted to make ten outfield changes at half time. He also had a look at trialist James Fletcher, the Canberra youngster, who was selected in the FFA Centre of Excellence last season as a 15-year-old.
“It was a good hit-out against a very good Inglewood side that are top of the table,” Glory Coach Kenny Lowe said. “It was great to get 45 minutes into the players that we had out there. We didn’t pick up any injuries, which is another positive and we’ll now look to get some game time into the players that didn’t play when we take on Perth SC next week. The focus for us at the moment is getting that game time into our players so that we hit the ground running when we play Heidelberg in the Westfield FFA Cup."
The Glory made a bright start, and Rostyn Griffiths fired over the top early, but chances at either end were few and far between until the hosts took the lead on 22 minutes. Salmon picked out Kenny Keogh just inside the box and he turned neatly before finding the bottom corner of the net. The Glory hit back with Andy Keogh creating two chances for Adam Taggart whose shot and subsequent header failed to find the target.
Daniel Stynes was next to threaten, his half-volley was well saved by Inglewood custodian Alex Dunn. Then on the stroke of half time the Glory went close to the equaliser, when Griffiths pounced on a defensive mix-up, but his header crashed off the post and Dunn was quickest to react to save the rebound, with Taggart ready to pounce.
It was a youthful Glory side that began the second half, however they soon found themselves 2-0 down. A corner was only cleared to the edge of the box and Salmon’s first time shot took a slight deflection and flew past Liam Reddy into the roof of the net. Inglewood continued to threaten, and the Glory had Reddy to thank for keeping the scoreline down, the veteran producing a number of good saves.
The Glory had their chances too, Callum Timmins’ shot whistled over the top, before a powerful shot from Fletcher flashed narrowly wide. United added a third nine minutes from time when Jack Leech brought down Dau in the box, and the youngster picked himself up to score from the resulting penalty. The Glory scored their consolation goal in stoppage time, with Italiano scoring from close-range. The Glory continue their pre-season at Dorrien Gardens next Tuesday when they take on Perth SC.
INGLEWOOD UNITED 3 (Keogh 22', Salmon 51', Dau 82') PERTH GLORY 1 (Italiano, 90')
Inglewood United: GK Alex DUNN, 2 Alex ISHIDA-LIVINGS, 4 Scott BLACKMORE, 5 Adam TONG, 6 Victor BRAUNER, 7 Kenny KEOGH, 8 Jason BARRERA, 9 Alex SALMON, 16 Matthew NTOUMENOPOULOS, 15 Brian FARRRELL, 19 Chok DAU – Subs: 3 Shubham MOKALA, 10 Ashley ROSINDALE, 11 Kristian DESPOTOVSKI, 18 Jason COLLI, 23 Scott NEWLAND
Perth Glory: GK Liam REDDY, 23 Scott NEVILLE (12 Cam O'DOHERTY 46'), 3 Walter SCOTT (16 Harry QUIGLEY 46'), 2 Alex GRANT (4 Luke BODNAR 46'), 5 Jacob POSCOLIERO (15 Cam MURRAY 46'), 7 Joel CHIANESE (25 Bayley MONTGOMERY-BROWN 46', 19 James FLETCHER 70') 8 Rostyn GRFFITHS (17 Jack LEACH 46'), 6 Mitch NICHOLS (21 Jacob ITALIANO 46'), 10 Daniel STYNES (11 Yacoub MUSTAFA 46', 26 Ethan BROOKES 80'), 9 Andy KEOGH (18 Callum TIMMINS 46'), 22 Adam TAGGART (24 Michael DOMFEH 46', 27 Abias BUKUKI 80')
18.7.2017
FFA PROBE DE SILVA ROMA DEAL
Football Federation Australia have stepped in to probe Danny De Silva’s contract wrangles and try to unravel them before the start of the A-League season. De Silva, 20, signed a three-year deal with Central Coast Mariners earlier this month after he left Perth Glory following an 18-month loan spell with Roda JC in the Eredivisie.
But his contract details are mired in secrecy which could reveal he is at the centre of either an outlawed co-ownership or third party ownership agreement with Italian giants, Roma. And until the controversy is cleared up, FFA can't register him with Central Coastfor next season.
Two years ago De Silva was said to have signed a transfer deal with Roma, but despite training with the Serie A team in Melbourne in 2015, the deal apparently fell through. Roma are said to have abandoned the move after they ran out of foreign player signing spots for their squad.
Glory, however, insist they at no stage had been in talks with Roma over a bid for De Silva, never mind agreed on a transfer fee. Instead, a hastily arranged loan to Dutch side Roda was put in place, with a staggering €1m fee paid to Glory. Football insiders believe that fee was actually bankrolled by Roma via Roda to maintain their interest in De Silva.
After just 16 appearances in 18 months for Roda, De Silva was released from his Eredivisie loan deal in January and returned to Australia. Although he was not re-registered by Glory for last season’s A-League squad, he was treated by club physios for months for an osteitis pubis injury while talks on his future continued.
Glory are understood to have been keen to keep the youngster for the 2017/18 season but De Silva’s family were eager for Danny to rejoin his former Young Socceroos coach Paul Okon at Central Coast. As the season ended and De Silva’s Glory contract expired, De Silva should have been a free agent and able to join the Mariners directly.
But instead, permission had to be sought by Central Coast from Roma for the move – and now the FFA want to know why. De Silva has never been on Roma’s books and has been a contracted Glory player since turning professional until his contract expired last month.
“De Silva is still connected to Roma, hence the reason we have negotiated with both Roma and Daniel De Silva,” Central Coast admitted to fourfourtwo.com.au. “The way he is connected to Roma is something that can’t be explained as it is protected by ‘Commercial in confidence’.”
There is now speculation Roma have tried to do a co-ownership contract with Central Coast over De Silva – where they share the player’s future with another club. Co-ownership was once common in Italy - and saw Brazil star Adriano owned by both Inter and Parma – until it was banned from Serie A in 2015, although it is still reportedly used in South America.
Alternatively he may have privately entered into a side agreement with Roma giving them an option on him in the future…but that could be perilously close to a third-party ownership arrangement banned by FIFA.
When he was first linked with Roma, De Silva insisted his future would be with the club in Italy, but admitted: “It’s not completely finalised. It’s a little hard to say… I’m not sure if I’m allowed to say what’s going to happen yet...”
This month a Central Coast spokesman added “Daniel De Silva has signed a three year contract with the Mariners and isn’t on loan. How his deal works with Roma and why we had to negotiate with Roma is Daniel (and his representatives) business that we cannot comment on.”
Now FFA have stepped in to try to resolve the issue before it escalates further. Under the current contract though, it is believed De Silva cannot be registered with Central Coast for the coming season. FFA are understood to be confident it can be fixed, but admit it is an ongoing issue.
18.7.2017
WILLIAMS FIT TO FIRE AT ROTHERHAM
Midfielder Ryan Williams says he is back to full fitness and ready to put his injury problems behind him at new club Rotherham United – but admits forcing his way into the Socceroos set-up this season is not his main goal. Williams is coming off a difficult two years at Championship side Barnsley, who he joiuned in 2015 from Fulham.
A series of pelvis and groin injuries have limited the 23-year old to just 23 appearances in the past two seasons. On being released by Barnsley last month, Williams signed a two-year deal with League One side Rotherham. And the former Australian youth international is keen to make up for lost time.
“As far as personal goals go my aim is just to play every week and focus on each game rather then looking too far ahead,” he said. “I feel you can get to caught up with where you want to be and forget to just play football and enjoy it. Clearly the aim for the club is to get back to the Championship and that's mine too.”
Williams is keen to repay the faith shown in him by Rotherham boss Paul Warne, who's side finished last in the 24-team Championship last season. “The attraction of the club was the manager, after having spoken with him about how he wants the team to play and how I fit into that team really made me want to be a part of it,” Williams said.
“It's a great opportunity for me to show what I'm about and for me to play regularly which will then allow people to look past my injury history. The gaffer said to me as long as I work hard for the team, which he has already identified I do, then with my ability the rest will fall into place ... I need momentum and he's given me an opportunity to do so.”
“Leaving Barnsley wasn't as disappointing as I thought it would be, the reason being I was injured and didn't enjoy not playing, which is something you need to be doing. I still have a lot of friends at the club and will remain friends with them for a long time, there’s definitely no hard feelings there.”
Williams has been in England for the past seven years, having joined Portsmouth as a 17-year old from ECU Joondalup. The winger signed for Fulham in 2012 and spent time on loan at Gillingham and Oxford United before moving to Barnsley. Along the way he's represented Australia at Under-20 and 23 levels.
Socceroo coach Ange Postecoglou has previously selected players performing well in League One for Australia, including Massimo Luongo (Queens Park Rangers), Bailey Wright (Bristol City) and James Meredith (Millwall). But Williams admits breaking into the national team is not on his radar right now.
“To be honest I just want to concentrate on playing games and playing well in those games,” he said. “If in that period I get noticed by Ange then great, if not I'll just be happy I'm out there playing football again and work even harder. Taking football for granted is definitely something that I don't do these days.”
17.7.2017
EDWARDS: NEW SIGNINGS WILL KEEP THISTLE COMPETITIVE
Ryan Edwards is hoping the cavalry is coming over the hill to help Partick Thistle in their time of need. The Firhill side were without five first-team regulars due to injury for Saturday’s Betfred Cup tie against Livingston, who claimed victory via a penalty shoot-out.
Edwards is keeping his fingers crossed his teammates will be back soon, and hopes there might be a new faces added to the squad before the transfer window closes. “We could definitely do with a few extra bodies,” Edwards commented. “We saw towards the end of last season that we had a good squad where the starting eleven was really strong, and so was the bench.”
“But it’s encouraging right now that we have boys coming back, and they’re running so they shouldn’t be too far off. Obviously one or two are long-term so we are looking to strengthen the squad with one or two signings as well. We need more competitiveness within the team because it drives everyone forward.”
Although Thistle lost to Livingston - missing three of their four penalties - there was enough in their first-half play that would have pleased “manager Alan Archibald, including Chris Erskine’s fine strike that gave them the lead. Keaghan Jacobs cancelled that out early in the second half but Edwards wasn’t too despondent.
“We started really well in the first 20-25 minutes and we got the goal, and could have got a couple more if we’d taken our chances,” he said. “When the crowd started to get on the ref’s back, it turned the momentum in Livingston’s favour. Credit to them, they probably deserved it for the rest of the game. They won the battle and had better chances.”
Thistle now have a week to prepare for the visit of Championship title challengers St Mirren. Edwards feels the squad’s fitness is building day after day, especially through playing competitive matches rather than just friendlies. “We came back (to training) earlier this year to try and get to match fitness and sharpness,” he said.
“There’s nothing better than playing competitive games. Friendly games are mundane and boring and you just want to get back into the big stuff … We want to win every game. The most important thing to us is the league. We’re obviously disappointed we didn’t start well but there are more games to come in this competition.”
17.7.2017
STATE’S NEW FOOTBALL CHIEFS HAVE A CLEAR GOAL IN MIND
Football West is chasing promotion. Having plucked former management consultant James Curtis out of left field as its new chief executive, State football’s governing body is further broadening its board expertise as it steps up the chase for a new home it sees as crucial to the game’s future.
New directors in RAC chief of corporate affairs Will Golsby, Jackson McDonald commercial lawyer Liz Tylich and HBF executive Andrea Hoskins refresh a board that already includes Liam Twigger (PCF Capital), Sherif Andrawes (BDO WA) and Lui Giuliani (Aspire Capital).
The changing shape of the board — it is rounded out by retail executive Henry Atturo, former Socceroos goalkeeper Jason Petkovic and another lawyer in Anna Liscia— is about both raising the profile of the sport and adding the skills football needs to keep up in an increasingly competitive sporting landscape.
“Everyone involved with the board and the management over time has added value,” Twigger, Football West’s chairman, said. “But we are on this journey to make ourselves one of the premier sports in WA and we need a management team and a board that can deliver,” he said.
At the centre of Football West’s ambitions is its proposed State Football Centre, a multi-purpose, administrative and training complex. The centre will not only promote the game locally, support myriad development programs and generate revenues through stronger commercial partnerships, but also enable football to attract more international teams and keep them in Perth longer.
Even as it prepares to lure football games to the new stadium, WA lacks the top-class training facilities demanded by top-flight visiting teams. “The State Football Centre is crucial to us,” Curtis says, as he sips a coffee around the corner from Football West’s cramped offices on Lord Street in East Perth.
Football retains the highest participation in WA sports, with 177,300 adults and children playing the game last year, ahead of second-placed basketball on 143,200, according to the AusPlay survey. Yet, Curtis says, “we are the only major sport in WA that doesn’t have its own training and administrative facilities”.
Colin Barnett raised hopes during the State election by pledging $37 million to the project, which envisages flood-lit playing fields, a grandstand for up to 4000 spectators, a gym and offices. However, getting funds from a new Government that is slashing State spending could prove tougher.
“Obviously, there are Budget pressures,” Curtis concedes. “But we are having discussions with the State Government about how we can structure the model. That’s what’s key to us, it needs to be done. We build the SFC, it enables the sport to be sustainable, making us less reliant on government support.”
Sport and Recreation Minister Mick Murray noted the “productive” discussions with Football West on the project, notwithstanding that “the very poor condition of the State Budget must be taken into account on future funding decisions”. Twigger says the need to open doors in government to advance the project was a key factor in the organisation going outside football for a chief executive last year.
Curtis joined Football West after four years with the Department of Aboriginal Affairs in various roles, including executive director community development. He sees football in WA as “probably the best business model for achieving social change”, citing the AusPlay statistics and a growing number of first-generation players.
According to a Football West survey instigated by Curtis to gauge the thoughts of those in the sport, the game is widely enjoyed. “We have been able to get the games on the park and we have a lot of highly satisfied people out there, but we haven’t necessarily lifted it to the level where we need to take it,” Curtis says. “We are going to have to get the sport the respect and support it needs.”
16.7.2017
WEMBLEY WIN IT FOR CLEARY (courtesy www.footballwest.com.au)
Wembley Downs have moved five points clear at the top of the Amateur League Premier Division table after a 3-0 win in the top of the table clash against Kingsley FC at Butlers Reserve on Sunday afternoon, in skipper Ian Cleary’s final home game for the club. Anthony Jones missed an early penalty for the home side, but Stephen Geoghegan scored either side of half time, before Jason Trveski headed home the third to wrap up the points, as Wembley celebrated the last home game for the skipper, who heads back to Ireland in two weeks’ time.
“I thought we dominated the first half, and I thought the early penalty miss would come back to haunt us, but we rebounded and I thought that was the best performance since I’ve been at the club,” Wembley Coach Colm Costello said. “They (Kingsley) are a good side and we knew we would have to fight for the win and we did, and I was really pleased for Ian (Cleary), it was one of his best performance in a red shirt. I thought we won the midfield battle, which was very important, and we’re really happy to send Ian off with a win in his final game at Butlers Reserve. But there is still a long way to go in the season, there is no trophy given out after 12 games we need to stay focused and it all starts at Belmont next week.”
Only two points separated the sides at kick off, and the home side made the perfect start, when Luke Armstrong brought down Geoghegan, and referee Avi Cohen pointed straight to the spot. Anthony Jones stepped to take the resulting penalty, but Kingsley keeper Paul Rainford guessed the right way to save down to his left. The game was tight, with Wembley dominating possession, but Kingsley were dangerous on the counter-attack. Mark King’s shot on the turn was saved by Kingsley keeper Rainford, before Jayden Drummond’s long-range free kick was tipped over by Wembley custodian Niall McCarthy. But two minutes from half time the home side’s possession was rewarded with the lead. A long clearance was flicked on by King, sending Geoghegan clear. The speedy winger was sent wide by the defender, but he cut back inside and fired home, despite Rainford getting a hand to it.
Kingsley lifted after the break and Drummond’s shot on the run was well saved by McCarthy, and the rebound was scrambled clear by Wembley. It was the best period of the game for the visitors, and Drummond shot on the run flashed wide moments later. But Wembley still looked dangerous going forward with Cleary, Trveski and Gavin Walsh running the show in the middle of the park. Then on the hour the home side doubled their advantage. They won a free kick on the edge of the penalty area and Geoghegan curled home the free kick superbly, into the top corner of the net giving Rainford no chance. It was 3-0 eight minutes later, Geoghegan’s free kick picked out Trveski at the back post, who headed home powerfully from four meters. Kingsley pressed late and David Ashworth’s shot was well saved by McCarthy, before substitute Stuart Montgomery chip was tipped over by the Wembley custodian. The visitors went close to a consolation goal in stoppage time, but David Morris’ free kick crashed off the crossbar and away to safety.
In other results on the day North Perth lost ground on the leaders after a surprise 3-1 defeat against Southern Spirit at Woodville Reserve, while Leeming strikers came home from JA Lee Reserve with 2-0 win against Perth Royals. Ellenbrook United beat Kwinana United 4-2 at the Ellenbrook Sports Hub, Subiaco beat Hamersley Rovers 5-3 at Carine Open Space, while Belmont Villa beat bottom of the table BB United 3-1 at the Bosnian Recreation Centre.
15.7.2017
SORRENTO WIN THE LOCAL DERBY
Sorrento bounced back from last week’s heavy defeat at Perth SC with a convincing 2-0 win against ECU Joondalup in the Northern Derby at Percy Doyle Reserve. Scott Witschge scored a goal in each half to seal victory and give them bragging rights over their local rivals. “We asked for a reaction from the players before the game, and we certainly got it from the first minute,” Sorrento coach Jamie Harnwell told the NPL website. “We were compact at the back and when we got the ball out wide we looked very dangerous. I thought Reece (Vittiglia) was outstanding and Scott (Witschge) showcased his pace out wide and pulled the trigger at the right time.”
Heavy showers welcomed the players on to the pitch, and both sides took a while to get used to the slippery conditions, but Sorrento were the first to go close on 12 minutes. Tim Hill lost his marker on the edge of the penalty area, and his shot was well saved by Fraser Greenwood. The rebound fell to Witschge, whose shot was blocked by Rikki Smith, and Sorrento was convinced it was handball, but referee Michal Jasinski waved away the players’ strong penalty claims.
ECU were struggling in the final third, but they did go close on 24 minutes, Steven McGarry heading Ross Millard’s cross just wide of the target. But home side looked more threatening going forward and they were rewarded on 37 minutes with the lead. Witschge was sent down the right, and cut inside his marker, and finished superbly across Greenwood and into the corner of the net.
Sorrento were in again three minutes before half time, a defence splitting pass from Hill sent Recce Vittiglia clear, but a superb last ditch tackle from Rikki Smith denied him. ECU went close to an equaliser on the stroke of half time. James Owen found space just outside the area, and his shot on the turn was low by James Morgan, but at the break Sorrento were in control.
The home side continued to dominate after half time, and Witschge shot on the run flashed wide early, before Alex Morgan’s effort was saved low by Greenwood. Vittiglia and Witschge were real handful in the attacking third, while skipper Daryl Platten and Shaun Kilkelly were outstanding at the back, and Sorrento’s early pressure was rewarded with a second on the hour.
Witschge eased past Jon Higgins on the right, and his curling shot took a slight deflection off a defender before nestling in the back of the net. ECU were struggling to get a foot hold in the game, and it was Sorrento who almost added a third late, Alex Morgan’s shot well saved by Greenwood, before Vittiglia pulled his shot wide of the target. But at the final whistle it was the Gulls celebrating, and they will go into next week’s Cool Ridge Cup Final against Western Knights at the Perth Plasterboard Centre Stadium, full of confidence.
Sorrento: GK James MORGAN, 4 Shaun KILKELLY, 6 Darryl PLATTEN (C), 7 Alex MORGAN (2 Jacob SHORE 74’), 11 Tim HILL, 12 Josh TUCKER, 14 Scott WITSCHGE, 15 Brodie MARTIN, 17 Reece VITTIGLIA (3 Daniel PEARCE 91’), 20 Brad MCDONALD, 21 Sam BYLES - Subs not used: RGK: Connor CAMPBELL, 13 Steve MCDONALD, 18 Jordan BROWN
ECU Joondalup: GK Fraser GREENWOOD, 3 Ross MILLARD, 4 Shane PICKERING (11 Keylun POLLARD 72’), 5 Graham DORAN, 6 Rikki SMITH, 7 Jon HIGGINS (C), 8 Declan HUGHES, 9 Daryl NICOL, 12 James OWEN (10 Gordon SMITH 59’), 14 Steven MCGARRY, 17 Jack JONES - Subs not used: RGK Jordan YOUNG, 15 Ryan MCDARBY, 19 Cian HIRRELL - Referee: Michal Jasinski
15.7.2017
SAM IS AT IT AGAIN FOR BAYSWATER
Bayswater City’s recent good form continued with a hard fought 1-0 win against Floreat Athena at the E&D Litis Stadium. Speedy winger Borbor Sam scored the only goal of the game, the win moving Chris Coyne’s side to within four points of league leaders Inglewood United. “We’ve got a very good team, there’s no hiding from that and we have underperformed this year,” Coyne told the NPL website. “I said to the team at half time that I’m not going to accept mediocrity and our second half performance was magnificent. We’re getting to the pointy end now and we have sort of gone under the radar, but it’s working well for us and hopefully that continues as we’re really relishing this challenge going forward.”
The home side were looking to bounce back from last week’s shock lose against Subiaco, and they were out of the blocks early in this one, Phil Arnold fired wide against his former club, before Jon Stynes lost his marker on the edge of the box, but his shot was well saved by Devon Spence. Bayswater were struggling in the final third, and lacked the usual cutting edge, and at the half time whistle Coyne wasn’t happy.
But after a stern word at the break Coyne’s side were out brightly, and they hit the front four minutes into the second half. Sam, whose pace had caused problems all afternoon, was sent down the flank by Gustavo Giron-Marulanda, and he cut inside his marker and finished clinically past Jason Saldaris. Stynes went close to an equaliser for the hosts, after he was sent clear, but Spence stood tall to deny him.
It was end to end football now with both sides having good chances. First on 75 minutes, the lively Marulanda found a pocket of space, and his long-range shot crashed off the crossbar. But the best chance late went to the home side. Dean Evan’s free kick picked out Jackson Morgan, but the former Perth Glory youth midfielder headed over the top when well placed.
Floreat Athena: GK Jason SALDARIS, 3 Clayton ARNEZ (20 Joe TWEATS 87’), 6 Jesse FULLER, 8 Jon STYNES, 12 Jackson MORGAN, 13 Zelfy NAZARY (16 Juma AWAKA 81’), 14 Ludovic BOI, 15 Chris SALDARIS, 17 Dean EVANS, 18 Phil ARNOLD (11 Liam HUDSON 75’), 33 Mark PRITCHARD - Subs not used: RGK Aidan HOLLOWAY, 2 Zoran VRTESKI
Bayswater City: GK Devon SPENCE, 2 Declan HARGREAVES, 8 Paul MCCARTHY, 9 Gustavo MARULANDA, 10 Jason MIRCO, 12 David STOKOE, 13 Trent KAY, (14 Jamie MURPHY 20’) (4 Tristan COLLI 68’), 17 Borbor SAM, 18 Brent GRIFFITHS, 19 Luka NINKOVIC, 20 Sam MITCHINSON - Subs not used: RGK Shayden PASLAQUA, 16 Giordano COLLI - Referee: David Bruce
15.7.2017
A FIVE STAR SHOW FROM GLORY BOYS
Perth Glory won for the first time in eight weeks and boosted their chances of survival in the PS4 NPLWA after a 5-0 win against Mandurah City at the Ashfield Arena on Saturday afternoon. Walter Scott opened the scoring early, before skipper Daniel Stynes scored a hat-trick to put the Glory youngsters in control, before Callum Timmins put the icing on the cake with a fifth late.
“It was one of our most mature performances in a long time and we took our opportunities really well,” a delighted Glory Coach John Gibson told the NPL website. “But it shouldn’t take an apparent big game for us to want to do this, so we’ll keep driving forward and the boys will get some confidence for the rest of the season. But we’re very demanding of our group and we need to do more in the rest of season.”
The home side went close to the opener in the first minute. Stynes’ free kick flashing just wide of the upright, before Mandurah went close moments later, but Shane Boyle’s long-range shot was off target. Bayley Brown-Montgomery then went close, after his shot on the turn whistled inches past the post. But on 25 minutes the home side hit the front, Scott wasn’t closed down outside the penalty area and his low shot flew into bottom corner of the net giving Mandurah keeper Cyril Sharrock no chance.
Mandurah hit back late in the half, and Jeff Bright’s shot on the run flashed just wide of the target on the half hour, before Nick Feely had to be alert to tip over Ollie McGee’s cross shot. It was end to end football with both sides having late chances. First Boyle’s volley went wide of the target, before Sharrock produced a great save to deny Gomo Dukuly, after good work by Stynes.
The Glory made the perfect start to the second half and they doubled their lead four minutes in. Yacoub Mustafa raced down the left and picked out Stynes on the edge of the penalty area and he curled home superbly. The Glory added a third just after the hour mark, Stynes nipping in after some hesitation in the Mandurah defence.
The visitors were reduced to ten men when Straker received a second year card from Josh Mannella and sent off on 75 minutes after a poor challenge on substitute Michael Domfeh. It was 4-0 five minutes later, when Timmins sent Stynes one-on-one with Sharrock, and the skipper finished with aplomb to complete his hat-trick. They added a fifth two minutes from time, Timmins scoring to cap of a great all-round team performance from the Glory.
Perth Glory: GK Nick FEELY, 2 Harry QUIGLEY, 3 Luca BODNAR, 4 Cameron MURRAY, 5 Walter SCOTT, 6 Jack LEECH, 7 Bayley BROWN-MONTGOMERY, (12 Michael MCDOUGALL 81’), 8 Callum TIMMINS, 9 Gomo DUKULY (13 Michael DOMFEH 56’), 10 Daniel STYNES (C), 11 Yacoub MUSTAFA - Subs not used: RGK Kyle MCDONALD, 14 Sasa NJEGIC, 15 Jaxon TRIMATA
Mandurah City: GK Cyril SHARROCK, 2 Ollie MCGEE, 3 Jeff BRIGHT, 4 Matt STARES (12 Daniel DAVIES 69’), 5 Mitchell FIRTH, 6 Thomas STRAKER, 7 Lance LOUVIE (14 Slade RULE 83’) 8 Andy BROWN (C), 9 Sean TROUP 10 Joe O’BRIEN, (16 Mitchell MORRIN 54’) 11 Shane BOYLE – Subs not used: 15 Kevin CASTLE, 21 Kieran SHALL - Red cards: Straker 75’ - Referee: Josh Mannella
15.7.2017
SUBIACO CONTINUE GOOD FORM
Subiaco made it four straight wins in the PS4 NPLWA after a 2-0 win against Balcatta at Rosalie Park. The win moved Ian McMurray’s side 12 points clear of the drop zone, and continued their good form. Alex Castiello gave the home side the lead in the first half before McMurray sealed victory just after the hour. “A fantastic win again for us we really have some good momentum and are confident for the Bayswater game on Sunday lots of players are in form,” Castiello said. “Both experienced and younger played and the team chemistry is great we are all really enjoying this part of the season and are confident for the challenges ahead.”
Subiaco were on top early, but found Balcatta keeper Domenico Savoldelli in good form, making a number of fine saves to keep them at bay. But there was little the Balcatta custodian could do when the home side took the lead on 27 minutes. David Perich’s cross picked out Castiello, who rose highest to head home. Balcatta were struggling in the final third, and their best chances came from long-range effort’s which didn’t trouble Subiaco keeper Ryan Montgomery.
Subiaco should have doubled their lead just before half time, but Savoldelli came to Balcatta’s rescue, pushing Nathan Diaz’s shot onto the post. Both sides created half chances after the break, but both sets of defences were on top, but on 68 minutes Subiaco scored the sealer. Jordan Candlish wasn’t closed down and his long-range shot was only parried by Savoldelli, and McMurray was on hand to score from close range.
McMurray was relieved to come away with the three points after a scrappy game and was happy to keep a clean sheet in tough conditions. “We’ll look to keep winning and keep climbing up the table until the end of the season,” he told the NPL website. Balcatta coach Salv Todaro said he was pleased with his side’s second half performance, but their finishing had let them down. “I’m really disappointed,” he told the NPL website. “I thought my boys were in the game, created a number of half chances and didn’t put them away, while the other team had a couple of chances and capitalised on them.”
Subiaco: GK Ryan MONTGOMERY(C), 4 Alex RANDELL, 7 Nathan DIAZ, 11 Carlin FEELY (12 Asher NELSON 80’), 6 Steve PURTON, 13 Jordan CANDLISH, 14 Ross JARMAN, 9 Ian MCMURRAY (10 Adrian CACERES 86’), 17 Alex CASTIELLO, 18 David PERICH (8 Mike LAWSON 73’), 19 Stefan HILL – Subs not used: 15 Dylan ANDREWS, 21 Nic SPECA
Balcatta: GK Domenico SAVOLDELLI, 3 Justin ONEK, 4 Calum O’CONNELL (C), 9 Luccas MELLO, 10 Jonathan CORNESS, 12 Anton DE FRANCESCH 14 Brody KENNEDY 15 Camelo GIUFFRE, 16 Marco CHADINHA 18 Ben MEREDITH, 22 Dejan ANDRIC (8 Brennan BORZECKI 81’) - Subs not used: 5 Antoni D’ALESSIO, 19 Endalk ACHAMYELEH, 21 Luke HUTCHINSON - Referee: Daniel Cole
15.7.2017
LIONS STUN LEAGUE LEADERS
Stirling Lions continued their dominance over Inglewood United, coming away from PS4 NPLWA league leaders with a 3-1 win. Daniel Micevski opened the scoring early, before second half goals from youngsters Nicholas Ashley and Cameron Teece secured the win, and Alex Salmon’s late penalty was the only a consolation goal for the hosts. “We knew we had to start fast and set a high tempo to upset Inglewood, who have been scoring for fun lately,” Lions defender Shane Cassidy said. “Rob had us working hard during the week on our shape and also on blocking the passing lanes into the Inglewood forwards which I thought our midfield and forwards did all game. We knew if we kept our defensive shape that we could catch them on the break which we did, and we owed the manager a result after a run of poor results so hopefully we have turned the corner and can continue it on to next week at ECU.”
The Lions had beaten Inglewood on the last two occasions and they made a perfect start and were ahead on six minutes, Micevski firing home after the Inglewood defence failed to clear their lines from a corner. Inglewood keeper Alex Dunn had to be alert two minutes later to prevent a second, standing tall to smoother Moses Kalau’s effort.
Both sides were forced into changes midway through the half, with Inglewood’s John Migas and Stirling’s Alex Suleski both forced off with injury. Inglewood pressed late in the half, with Scott Blackmore headed over when well placed, before Lions keeper John Perkins denied Salmon and Ashley Rosindale, but at the break the visitors led.
Inglewood needed a good start after half time, but it was the visitors who doubled their lead ten minutes in. Miki Vujacic’s corner picked out Ashley, who rose highest to head past Dunn. A major shock was on the cards, with Inglewood 14 game unbeaten run in threat, and then got worse when the Lions added a third on 64 minutes.
Teece was sent clear, and the Inglewood defence stood waiting for the offside flag, that never came, and the striker finished past Dunn. Inglewood pressed to get back into the game and Adam Tong fired wide, before Salmon dragged his shot wide of the target, but they did get themselves a consolation goal three minutes from time, Salmon scoring from the penalty spot, his 24th goal of the season, but it was too little too late, as the leaders fell to a first home defeat of the season.
Inglewood United: GK Alex DUNN, 4 Scott BLACKMORE, 5 Adam TONG, 8 Jason BARRERA (15 Brian FARRELL 46’), 9 Alex SALMON, 10 Ashley ROSINDALE (7 Kenny KEOGH 56’), 11 John MIGAS (3 David CYRUS 26’), 16 Matthew NTUEMENOPOLOUS, 18 Jason COLLI, 19 Choc DAU, 23 Brian WOODALL (C) – Subs not used: RGK Riley STEPHENSON, 6 Victor BRAUNER
Stirling Lions: GK John PERKINS, 2 Michael PUGLIESE, 5 Nicholas ASHLEY (6 Robbie MCNEILL 77’), 7 Miki VUJACIC (C), 8 Alex SULESKI (16 Mathaing MATHIANG 37’), 9 Alex TANEVSKI, 10 Daniel MICEVSKI, 15 Shane CASSIDY, 17 Darren O’RIORDAN, 18 Moses KALAU (13 Adam FALCONE 87’) 19 Cameron TEECE – Subs not used: RGK Lance ALAVAKIS, 12 Jason RUBIDGE - Referee: Anthony Walsh
15.7.2017
PERTH JUMP TO SECOND AFTER WIN AT ARMADALE
2016 League Champions Perth SC have kept their chances of a repeat on track, after a hard fought 1-0 win against Armadale at Alfred Skeet Reserve. Aleks Jovic’s early second half deflected goal was all that separated the two sides, the win moving Perth into second spot only one point behind leaders Inglewood. “For us it was all about the result today, so this is a very important win, especially since Armadale are a hard side to beat,” Perth Coach Ramon Falzon told the NPL website. “We created a lot of good chances today, kept it safe at the back and didn’t make any mistakes. The players know if we want to go back-to-back we need to have one of the best defensive records in the league, so it was crucial that we got a clean sheet today.”
The home side were undefeated in their last five games, and they went close to the opener on 17 minutes. Billy Quinncroft threaded a pass into James Atkins, but Perth keeper Francis Soale was out quickly to deny him. The visitors went close themselves 10 minutes later, when Gustavo Catarcione shot was half blocked by Armadale custodian Michael Craggs, who managed to get back to clear the ball off the line. Just before half time the home side almost opened the scoring, Nathan Costello’s ball picked out Atkins, whose first time shot was well saved by Soale.
Perth opened brightly after the break, seven minutes in Catarcione’s clever back-heel sent Niccolo Sabatini in on goal, but again Craggs was out quick to save. But on 57 minutes Perth hit the front. Jovic found space and his shot took a deflection off Jordan Pavett, which wrong footed Craggs, who did get a hand to it, but couldn’t stop it rolling into the net. Armadale pressed for the equaliser, but they couldn’t find a way past Soale, while the Armadale custodian produced a stunning save to deny Perth a second nine minutes from time, he managed to get back to tip the ball over the top at full stretch.
Despite the loss, Armadale coach John O’Reilly said he was happy with how his players performed and picked out keeper Michael Craggs for special praise. “We played very good football out there today, the players really gave it to Perth and put in a hard-fought battle,” he told the NPL website. “Michael (Craggs) is a very important part of the team, he has consistently put in good performances over the year and today was no exception. I said to the boys today if Perth were going to take points from us today they would have to wrench them from our hands, and unfortunately they just got over the line today and we didn’t.”
Armadale: GK Michael CRAGGS, 2 Dylan WHITE, 3 Jake SARDELIC, 4 Nathan COSTELLO (C), 8 Jordan PAVETT, 14 David ANNALL, 16 Billy QUINNCROFT, 17 James ATKINS, 19 Beau RAHIM, 20 Ali GHOLAMI, 25 Anthony SKORICH (9 Kyle KING 41’) – Subs not used: RGK Alex RADONICH, 10 Ryan JAMES, 21 Charlie SIMPSON
Perth SC: GK Francis SOALE, 2 Alex SILLA, 5 Niccolo SABATINI, 7 Aleks JOVIC (3 Andreas THEODOSIADES 66’), 8 Tom KING, 9 Gustavo CATARCIONE, 12 Jordan DE LEO, 15 Harley ORR, 16 Kieran COLWELL, 17 Fran FURFARO, 18 Lewis MILNE – Subs not used: RGK Daniel PASSASRELLI, , 10 Nicholas AMBROGIO, 19 Roberto DEL BORRELLO, 20 Elliot TATTERSALL – Referee Tom Dowle
15.7.2017
CONTROVERSAL PENALTY GIVES COCKBURN A POINT
A controversial late penalty from Cockburn City’s Harry O’Brien has given his side a 1-1 draw against Joondalup United at Dalmatinac Park. Joondalup had led with an Arran Maplestone penalty in the first half and it looked like they had won it, until the late drama. Joondalup coach Nick Jennings was not happy about the decision. “I thought it was a great tackle,” he told the NPL website. “I’m sure when you watch the highlights, then you’ll see it’s a brilliantly timed tackle with great execution.” But Cockburn Coach had another take on it. “I thought we controlled the second half quite easily, they were quite strong in the first half,” he told the NPL website. “They will say it wasn’t a penalty, we’ll say that the first one wasn’t a penalty though.”
Both sides had early half chances, with Cockburn striker Gian Albano, and Joondalup’s Richard causing both sets of defenders a few headaches. But the deadlock was broken on 34 minutes, when referee Nico Hoyle spotted a handball and pointed to the spot. Maplestone stepped up and kept his nerve to fire past Luke Radonich to give Joondalup the lead. Albano continued to be a handful, and the former Perth Glory player saw his low shot well saved by James Bosdet.
Cockburn opened up brightly in the second half and they went close to the leveler early, O’Brien found space in the box, but he was closed down and the chance was lost. It looked like Joondalup would be leaving with all three points, but in stoppage time referee Hoyle pointed to the spot again after substitute Jesse Lazzaro fell under a sliding tackle in the penalty area. Despite the protests from the Joondalup players, Obrien stepped up and scored to give both sides a share of the spoils.
Cockburn City: GK Luke RADONICH, 4 Euen GRANT, 5 Kieron STALLARD, 7 Rueben TRISTAO (2 Joshua KUSER 82’), 7 Calvin WHITNEY, 9 Gian ALBANO (17 Jesse LAZARRO 55’), 10 David ARAYA (16 Daniel ROBINSON 66’), 11 Harry O’BRIEN, 13 Blake ADAMS, 14 Julian TELES, 15 Daniel SANTICH – Subs not used: RGK Ryan BARKER, 3 Daniel DOLS.
Joondalup United: GK James BOSDET, 2 Joel LEDSHAM, 3 Rowdy YATES, 4 Arran MAPLESTONE, 5 Joe STOCKER, 7 Matthew SPARROW, 9 Richard HOWLES (25 Luke DOYLE 90’), 11 Josh BOOYSEN (6 Guy MCDONALD 72’), 17 Luke SERRA (10 Alex WILD 64), 18 Anthony TAYLOR, 23 Jay MARSDEN – Subs not used: 99 Conal Power, 22 Sam WYNNE – Referee Nico Hoyle
15.7.2017
ALL FLAGS STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND FOURTEEN – REVIEW
It’s as you were at the top of the All Flags State League Division table, after week 14 results. League leaders Western Knights were beaten for only the third time for the season after Fremantle City came from behind to win 2-1 at Hilton Reserve. The Knights were in front on 25 minutes, Kevin Ashwood finishing from the angle. Fremantle, who’s Coach Steve Plucknett, resigned in midweek, hit back twenty minutes from time. Ben Reynolds got to the bye line and pulled the ball back for Rory Kiely who finished cleverly from six meters. It was game on with both sides have chances to win it but it was the home side who sealed the three points five minutes from time. Sean Browne raced into the box and was brought down and the referee pointed straight to the spot, and Alec Robinson kept his nerve to win it. Fremantle new Coach Marc Anthony was in the crowd to watch, and he and Cathal Lennon will take over the reins on Tuesday night.
Forrestfield United missed a perfect opportunity to close the gap on the Knights when they were held to a scoreless draw by UWA-Nedlands at Hartfield Park. “Our boys produced another quality performance, but unfortunately with so many clear cut chances created not a single one ended up where it was intended,” Forrestfield Coach Rod Banjac said. “There is no one more disappointed than our talented players, and we will be working hard to rectify that throughout the following week.” South West Phoenix drew level with Forrestfield with a last minute winner in a 2-1 win against Dianella White Eagles at Dianella Reserve. It was a tight first half but all the action after the break. The visitors hit the front five minutes into the second half, Ryan Stewart’s corner was turned into his own net by Goran Radinovic. It looked like it wasn’t going to be Dianella’s day when striker Angel Andreas was sent off, but five minutes from time they found an equaliser, with Ibrahim Hamid’s effort deflecting off a Dianella defender. It looked like the points would be shared but in the final minutes the Phoenix won it. A poor goal kick was collected by Corey Barclay, who laid the ball into the path of James McCleary, who played in Patrick Quinn who slide the ball under Nas Farsalas to win it.
“It wasn't a great game, there was too much at stake for both teams. However, on our end we played a solid game defensively speaking and looked much more organised and dangerous than Dianella up front “In actual fact they were very quiet and all in all they played a very average game - I thought better of them. They are still the favourites to win this league along with Forrestfield and the Knights, but they must lift their game if they want to go all the way,” Phoenix Coach Mauro Marchione said. “Perhaps the difference between the two teams on the day was in the preparation. They thought they won the game before playing it; big mistake. Instead we prepared the game in all its aspects and there were no surprises: we knew exactly what they were going to do and we closed all the lines of passing for the wings and for Angel plus play well with quick combinations when in possession. At the end of the game our keeper didn't dirt his gloves and came out immaculate from a raining day; it says it all. This win doesn't change our plans. Dianella has a game in hand as well as Forrestfield and both have a much better goal difference. Even if we win every game left there will be little possibilities to finish on top for us. Truth is that we are preparing ourselves to win eventually next year. In the meantime we are enjoying our football and make experience with a very young squad. That is all we need for now but, all considered, what a great satisfaction to beat Dianella on their ground! At the end of the game there was a surreal silence... A win like this is worth a whole season, believe me.”
In other games Joondalup City beat Gosnells City 1-0 at the Iluka Sports Complex. The only goal of the game came on the hour, when new German import Emrah Bingol fired home after Mark Tenney’s shot had been parried by the Gosnells keeper. “The three points allowed us to leapfrog Gosnells but there is still a lot of football to be played,” Joondalup coach Gary Kalaher said. “It was an excellent performance by our boys who produced similar performances in our previous two home games only to lose by the odd goal to both Western Knights and UWA.” In the final game, Canning City and Rockingham City have fought out a 1-1 draw at the Lark Hill Sportsplex. Canning were ahead on the hour, when good work from Joe Kelly, who beat the full back and cut it back to Callum Roberts, who laid it off to Ante Jukic who finished into the bottom corner from the edge of the box. But the home side levelled five minutes from full time, when Hilario Nunes’ headed home Jonny Araya cross.
“Saturday's performance was for me a fantastic display of disciplined football from our lads. For a team at the bottom of the table we are playing some great football at times but as we are leaking goals at the moment we approached this game against Rockingham with caution,” Canning Coach Pete Lord said. “Our focus was on keeping a clean sheet, however a fair chunk of our goals this season have either been through a bad pass or decision from us or an unlucky bounce or a tackle when we have a lot of bodies in the box. It was the same with their goal this week, with a bit of head tennis the ball fell to their player to head home with 17 men in the box. With five minutes to go it's a real bitter pill to swallow, but again we must stay positive because the football we are playing doesn't represent our league position and nearly every team we have played am sure will say the same.
“This league is very inconsistent with any team taking the chocolates each week and we are just staying focused and waiting for it to be our turn to get the rub of the green. We were on top against a good Rockingham side for the majority of the game and we kept them to a couple of half chances aside from the goal. This felt like a loss to the lads but as we explained that when the luck is against you the only thing you can do is persevere, knowing we are doing the right things as a group and believing that the luck will turn. Having an average age of 20 for our squad it's tough at times for them all to understand, but this situation we are going through will benefit the younger lads in the long run. We have two of the biggest games coming up in Gosnells on Wednesday with our catch-up game and Joondalup after our bye who are both really strong teams that we need to be focused for if we want to gain maximum points.” - Ashfield had the bye this weekend.
15.7.2017
ALL FLAGS STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND FOURTEEN – REVIEW
All Flags State League Division Two leaders Gwelup Croatia increased their lead at the top of the table to three points after a 7-1 win against Wanneroo City at the Croatian Sporting Complex. It was the visitors who should have gone ahead after only seven minutes, when Referee Brendan Skinner pointed to the spot after a foul from Gwelup defender Jake Verini. Jack Hailstones stepped up to take the resulting penalty but he blazed over the top. After that let off Gwelup opened the scoring four minutes later, James Sammut tapping home at the back post. It was 2-0 on 21 minutes, Gavin Knight’s shot going in via the post. Then six minutes later Gwelup won themselves a penalty, but Noah Shamaki’s penalty crashed off the crossbar. But four minutes before half time Wanneroo pulled one back, from another penalty, after Kurt Kouakou’s handball and Hailstones converted this time, despite Tom Dixon getting a hand to it. But Gwelup regained their two goal lead in first half stoppage time, with another penalty. Wanneroo defender dragged Knight down in the box and was sent off, and Knight picked himself up to convert from the spot. Gwelup ran away with it after the break, Shamaki firing home from a tight angle on 55 minutes, and he added another seven minutes later. It was 6-1 when Sammut scored another penalty. Shamaki completed his hat-trick ten minutes from time to make it 7-1, to wrap up a comprehensive win.
“The 7-1 win was a very important win for the club, as in the first round Wanneroo held us to a 1-1 draw and more importantly the win now makes a 9 point gap between first and third, making it very hard for Wanneroo to continue to challenge for top spot,” Gwelup Coach Paul Dundo said. “I was very happy with the way the boys played, followed instructions and went about their business. The work rate of the whole side was fantastic and to score seven goals against the third placed team was also very pleasing. The Football we played with the quick movement of the ball, possession and the goal scoring opportunities we created was a joy to watch, it left me thinking that I was glad I wasn’t playing as an opposition defender. Full credit to Wanneroo, who went a man down late in the first half, as they didn’t stop working all day and continued to fight right to the final whistle. We now have to remain grounded, continue to work hard at training and look to prepare for our next fixture against Melville in a fortnights time, as there will be no easy games in the weeks ahead. Hopefully the break this weekend due to the Cup Final gives us a chance to re-group and also allow those players with niggles to overcome them and be ready for our next fixture.”
In other games Morley Windmills lost ground on Gwelup after they were held to a 0-0 draw against Curtin University at Edinburgh Oval, while Kelmscott Roos new Coach Aaron Beatty celebrated his first game in charge with a 4-2 win against Quinns FC at Frye Park. The home side were ahead on 20 minutes, Michael Schalk free kick crashed off the crossbar, and Asa Sippits was quickest to react to score from the rebound. They doubled their lead ten minutes later, another free kick whipped into the box by Schalk and a glancing header by Hayden Innes found the net. Quinns started the second half well and Adam Buckley pulled one back, and moments later Gareth Hamilton levelled. Quinns were on top, and looking very dangerous, but against the run of play Kelmscott regained their lead. Sippits picked the ball up on the wing just over the halfway line and ran down the right, cut inside two players and finished clinically into the bottom corner to make it 3-2. Then five minutes later they sealed the three points, a long clearance from keeper Kristian Usedo found Sippits, who controlled it first time and volleyed it over the keepers head to make it 4-2 and complete his hat trick. “We're really happy with the result and our performance,” Sippits said. “We played some great football at times, but most importantly showed the heart and fight to win the game after losing our 2-0 lead. A great team performance and for the coach, fans and everyone involved at Kelmscott.”
Meanwhile Shamrock Rovers’ improvement under new coach Gerry McEwan continued with a 2-0 win against Melville City at Harold Rossiter Reserve, with goals from Declan Murphy and Colm Holden. In the final game Kingsway Olympic drew 1-1 with Balga. The home side were ahead just after half time, but Balga salvaged a draw with the equaliser 15 minutes from time. Nahom Michael was given the ball in middle of the park, and his powerful shot from 30 meters found the roof of the net giving the keeper no chance. – Swan United had the bye this weekend.
14.7.2017
PS4 NPL-WA ROUND TWENTY-ONE PREVIEW
After last week’s surprise defeat against Subiaco, Floreat Athena will be looking to bounce back this weekend when they entertain Bayswater City at the E&D Litis Stadium, in the Footballwa – PS4 NPLWA Match of the Week. Bayswater are starting to get their game together and have only lost once in their last five games, including a 2-0 win in the Italian derby against Balcatta last weekend, so this game will be a tight affair. The last time this two sides met at the same venue a ten man Floreat run out 2-1 winners. Brian Farrell gave the visitors the lead on the half hour, and Denis Galan was then sent off, but two goals after the break from former City striker Phil Arnold and Jon Stynes gave the home side a memorable win, and Saturday’s game will be another tight affair.
Floreat defender Andrew Scaldaferro said last week’s defeat was disappointing, and is the kick up the behind they needed. “I think last week was a big wake up call for us, and we were definitely off our normal game,” he said. “We have to keep winning to stay up the top, and the lads are looking forward to the challenge of taking on a good Bayswater side on Saturday.” The loss was Floreat first on home soil this season, and Scaldaferro said they have been consistent all season, and he hopes last week was just a blip. “Yes the weekend was very disappointing as we’ve been very strong at home, but that game is now in the past and we have moved on,” he said. “I have no doubt that the boys can respond with a positive performance against Bayswater, and get back to winning ways before the finals.” Bayswater head into the game in good form and Scaldaferro said it will be a big challenge, but it’s one the players are looking forward too, this without the defender, who is suspended this week. “It is always a good fiery game against Bayswater and this weekend will be no different. The boys are keen to bounce back with a win and I’m confident we can do so,” he said. “I unfortunately miss out this weekend, but we welcome Zoran Vrteski, who has recently joined the club, and he played his first game last week, otherwise we have no changes.”
Bayswater speedy winger Borbor Sam has been in outstanding form this season, and his trickery had Balcatta on the back foot last week, but he said the scoreline didn’t reflect on their performance. “I felt like we deserved more out of that game considering the amount of chances we created and had but at least we're creating chances, the boys work well collectively as a group and we walked away with the 3 points,” he said. “But we were happy to walk away with the win, plus we've got great momentum at the moment the boys are taking every game as a final and confidence is very high.” Sam, who has been selected in the WA State squad for the up-coming games, said it’s a great honour to represent your state and he is looking forward to the games. “It's always an honour to represent my state and it's always good to play with the best players in the state,” he explained. “This year we get to play against international opposition, so it will be a great test for me and the boys selected.” Saturday’s game is huge, with only four points separating the two sides on the table, and Sam said they head their full of confidence and looking for three points. “Yes it's a massive game and a must win, with the top four still in our sights,” he said. “We always come out to play against Floreat and everyone is looking forward to the test so I'm excited for that.” In team news for City Brent Griffiths and David Stokoe returns to the squad, but Andrija Jukic is suspended and David Heagney will also miss the trip. – Saturday (3.00pm) – Floreat Athena v Bayswater City – E&D Litis Stadium – Referee David Bruce
League leaders Inglewood United has taken all before them this season, and scoring goals for fun, and they return home to the Perth Plasterboard Stadium on Saturday to entertain Stirling Lions. The Lions got back into the winners’ circle with a 2-0 win against Perth Glory last week, the win moving them nine points clear of the drop zone, and they will be looking for a repeat of last season’s game at the same venue, when they came home with a 3-0 win, and they also won the reverse fixture 2-0 at Macedonia Park earlier this season. Inglewood defender John Migas said the win at Joondalup was good, and they are playing with confidence at the moment. “Joondalup have caused a few upsets this year so we had to make sure not to take them lightly. The boys came out firing and it was just one of those game where each flick and back heel was coming off,” he said. “To be honest it was one of the best games I’ve been involved in at Inglewood, the front six were all on fire, and I felt like I had one of the best seats in the house playing at left back, it was a joy to watch and be a part of.” Migas said the squad is fit and healthy and are taking on board the game plan from Coach Andy Keogh, and he said the mix of youth and experience is working well. “Things couldn’t be going better at the moment, we have a great mix of youth and experience and everyone seems to be fit so competition for spots is heating up,” he explained. “Andy’s knowledge of the game is second to none, it’s been great having him down and he definitely gets the best out of the players.” There is a great deal of traditional rivalry between the two sides, and Migas said they will be going into the game looking for the three points, and reversing the last two results against the Lions. “Stirling have definitely been our bogey team over the last couple years and we’ll be doing everything we can to change that on Saturday,” he said. “At the moment we’re playing each game like it’s a final and hopefully we continue to do so for the last six games. Stirling have a strong team and on their day are capable of beating anyone so we’ll definitely need to be at our best to come away with the three points.” – Saturday (3.00pm) – Inglewood United v Stirling Lions – Perth Plasterboard Centre Stadium – Referee Anthony Walsh
There is a real six pointer at Ashfield Arena on Saturday afternoon when Perth Glory takes on Mandurah City. The side are level on points at the foot of the table, and both sides know a win will give them breathing space from the drop zone. The Glory dominated the first half last week, but came home from Stirling empty handed, while Mandurah fought out a 1-1 draw at Armadale. Defender Joe O’Brien said it was a hard fought point, but they could have nicked it late. “I thought the draw was a fair reflection of the game, both sides had chances and it was good game of football,” he said. “We performed well away from home and we were rewarded with a crucial point in the end.” The Dolphins are yet to win on the road this season, while the Glory are yet to win at home, so something has to give on Saturday, as a draw will not be good for either side. O’Brien said they go into the game full of confidence and are determined to get the three points. “We’ve really found some form, the fans have been amazing all season, and have stuck by us,” he explained. “The coaches have never given up on us, and the club as a whole is strong, and it’s helped us to close the gap and we are determined to be playing NPL football next season. Every game we play is important, we just have to give it everything we’ve got to fight for place in this league and we’re confident we can take home three points on Saturday.” – Saturday (3.00pm) – Perth Glory v Mandurah City – Ashfield Arena – Referee Josh Mannella
Balcatta make the trip to Rosalie Park on Saturday to take on rejuvenated Subiaco. The home side produced their best performance of the season on the road, beating joint league leaders Floreat Athena, and Ian McMurray’s side will be looking to make it four consecutive wins in this one. Salv Todaro’s side sit only one point clear of the foot of the table, and were beaten by Bayswater last week, and they will be searching for their first win in nine games. But skipper Calum O’Connell said their performance at Bayswater last week was good, and with a little luck they could have taken something from the game. “I wouldn't say we were disappointed, we have to look at the situation, we have a team of players who are learning from every game they play,” he said. “I think we competed with Bayswater, we tried to match them in every area and with a bit more quality upfront we could have taken some points away. But happy with the effort unfortunately Bayswater have a lot more quality where it counts.” There has been a huge turnover of players at the club, but O’Connell said the new look squad is gelling well and they go into Saturday’s game looking for three points to end their barren spell. “Yes the squad was hit very hard in the transfer window, and we seem to of had a new player every week for a while there and that's not healthy. But we have a very young group of boys learning their trade and they are all working very hard to get better at what they do. I think it’s a transition phase for the club and a look to the future,” he explained. “Every week is a big game for the club, and Subiaco are the form side going into the game, so we expect them to be very busy. But I'm very confident in the boys that we can go there and get the result that we need to keep our heads above water. We have full squad as far as I know, which is something that we haven't had every week this season.” – Saturday (3.00pm) – Subiaco v Balcatta – Rosalie Park – Referee Daniel Cole
It’s 4th v 7th with Sorrento hosting ECU Joondalup in the Northern derby at Percy Doyle Reserve. The Gulls had their feathers ruffled last week, going down 5-0 at Perth SC, and will want to get some confidence back for their up-coming FFA Cup tie against Canberra Olympic in a couple of week. ECU got back in the winners’ circle last week with a win against Cockburn, moving them closer to the top four, and defender Jack Jones returned from a knee injury in the game and said it was well-deserved win. “It was great to get the three points on the weekend and the way we did it was even better, and the top four is defiantly still in reach, we just need to keep playing to our strengths and take every game as it comes,” he said. “With all the boys fighting for spots at the minute no one wants to lose their place in the team, and I think that could be a big positive for us heading in to the last seven games of the season.” ECU have given a number of their young player’s debuts this season and the 20-year-old defender said it bodes well for the future. “Being a young player at most clubs you’re always hoping for a chance to progress within the ranks, at ECU all the younger players get that chance week in week out. Dale and the coaching staff have created this environment which is great for the younger players to know they have the backing of the Gaffa,” he explained. “You look at the likes of Fraser Garnaut, Declan Hughes and James Owen just to name a few, when they got their opportunity they all performed great. Sam Pollard has become a big attacking option for us this season and that's all come from him being given a chance.” Jones said Saturday’s clash against their near neighbours is huge, and he said the last time they played them earlier in the season, they dominated for most of the game but were beaten, so he said they will be looking to turn their possession into goals this time around. “After playing Sorrento earlier in the season and losing in a game where I thought we was the better side, we will want to leave there place with all three points and nothing less,” he said. “The fact that it's a local derby makes it even bigger they will know how big this game is in terms of the league position too. It's should be an entertaining game and I'm really looking forward to being a part of it.” In team news Sorrento striker Sean Canham is suspended and Scott Bulloch is away, while Rikki Smith and Gordon Smith will come into contention for a spot in the squad. – Saturday (3.00pm) – Sorrento v ECU Joondalup – Percy Doyle Reserve – Referee Michal Jasinski
Perth SC stunned Sorrento last week and they will be looking to keep the pressure on the top two when they travel to Alfred Skeet Reserve to take on Armadale. The Reds were held to a 1-1 draw by Mandurah last week, but John O’Reilly’s side have been in form in recent weeks, and are unbeaten in their last five games, with new signings Billy Quinncroft, Anthony Skorich and Ali Gholami adding depth to their squad. Perth are only four points adrift of the league leaders, and the 5-0 win against Sorrento showed the rest of the league the Champions are still in the title race, and Scottish import Lewis Milne said it was a good all-round team performance. “We knew it was a big game that we needed to win, with us both being on the same points,” he said. “So we were happy to get a massive three points in a convincing win which I'm told isn't easy against Sorrento.” Milne has settled in well at the Gardens after joining from Scottish football. “I've settled in very well, I feel like I've been here for years, that's down to how good the club is run. For a part time club it's as close as you will get to a professional set up from experience back home, the boys and coaching staff have been very welcoming and everyone else behind the scenes - so in other words it's been an easy transition,” he explained. “I played with Cowdenbeath for five years were we played most of our football in the championship, I made my debut a week after turning 17 and was a regular starter 18 onwards playing around 120 times for them. Last year I played with Forfar Athletic in league two were we had a successful season getting promoted to league one via the play offs and managed to score 10 goals in the campaign.” Milne has been told the trip to Armadale is never an easy game, but they need the three points to keep in touch of the leaders. “I've never been but have been told in the past few days it's a tough place to go, there's never an easy place to go at this stage of the season with so much at stake,” he said. “If it's at the top or bottom of the table everyone is fighting for something so we will be going into the game with the same mentality as we have the whole season to get the three points and be confident in the ability we have in the squad.” In team news for Perth, Nicholas Ambrogio and Andreas Theodosiades return to the squad, but Rocco Pizzata will miss again due to suspension, while for Armadale Charlie Kenna and Jackson Bealey are both suspended. – Saturday (3.00pm) – Armadale v Perth SC – Alfred Skeet Reserve – Referee Tom Dowle
In the final game Joondalup United hit the road, with a trip to Dalmatinac Park to take on Cockburn City. Both sides are coming off big defeats, the Cockerels were well beaten by ECU Joondalup, while United were thumped 7-0 by the rampant Inglewood. United keeper said they have been the best team they have played this season, and said they will take some beating. “Yes it was a very disappointing result for us, we just didn’t turn up and silly goals cost us big time,” he said. “But credit to Inglewood they are the best team we have played this season, and they will taking some stopping for the title now.” Bosdet said the lads are hurting this week, and will be doing all they can to get back to winning ways, to keep in touch with the top four. “The good thing in this league is there is always the next game, so we can’t wait to get back on the pitch to put it right,” he said. “We owe the managers and the club a performance after last week and we’ll be doing all we can to get the results on Saturday.” Bosdet said they have had a good week on the track and ready for a huge game at Cockburn. “It’s a cliché I know, but we’re just taking it one game at a time, we have dropped a lot of points recently, which has cost us big time for the top four, but who knows what can happen,” he explained. “We obviously want to finish as high as we can and who knows where that will come the end of the season. We go into Saturday’s game knowing we need a big performance and hopefully one which will get us the three points.” In team news for Joondalup Ross Edwards is out, and looks like he will miss the rest of the season which is a huge loss for United, while Josh Whitmore is suspended – Saturday (3.00pm) – Cockburn City v Joondalup United – Dalmatinac Park - Referee Nico Hoyle
14.7.2017
ALL FLAGS STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND FOURTEEN – PREVIEW
It’s week 14 of the All Flags State League Division One, and the Footballwa – Match of the Week takes us to Dianella Reserve, where Dianella White Eagles entertain South West Phoenix. The sides are level on points on the table, and are six points behind the league leaders, so three points are vital for both sides. The Eagles conceded late to draw with traditional rivals Western Knights last week, while the Phoenix won convincingly at home against Joondalup City. The last time they met at the venue in the league Dianella ran out 3-1 winners in the final game of last season to move them clear of the automatic relegation spot. Phoenix Coach Mauro Marchione said last week’s win was good and kept them in touch with the leaders. “Yes, a good win against Joondalup, a much needed win to get back on track. However, leaving the ladder on the side, truth is that we have changed almost half squad since the night series and it will take time to adjust and to be competitive again,” he explained. “Unfortunately the competition is too short and there are at least three teams such as the Knights, Dianella and Forrestfield that at the moment are better than us, so for us to recover all the points we lost on the way it is almost impossible. If we could still count on Nicola, Carlo Chiellini and Jayden Prosser we could have gone all the way to finish on top, but Nicola went back to Italy and Carlo will be out for most of the reminder of the season. Bottom line is that we must be realistic and understand that at this stage there are teams better structured than us to win this league. Our job now is to play good football and grow in experience and we will see what it will happen in the next couple of years. That is the time I gave to myself to bring Phoenix into the NPL.” Marchione said Dianella have a very good side, and are at home so will be favourites going into the game, but they are looking forward to the challenge. “Dianella in my opinion is still the favourites for the title despite the Knights and Forrestfield also playing great football. For us Saturday it will be a great chance to see where we are compare to the top team of the league and if we can get away with a positive outcome we will be just happy.” He said. “At the end of the day it is only a game that worth three points with the difference that they have to win to make sure they stay in touch with the Knights. For us it is merely a prestigious win if we can get it; we have no ambitions to finish on top now, which is the reality. I will be also happy to see a few friends again at Dianella, in particular my good friend Vesko who since came back gave to the club that level of professionalism that it was missing in the past. It will be a good day and a great game I hope.”
Dianella Coach Robbie Dunn said it was a battle last week against the Knights, but he thought they did enough to take the points. “We started really well and were looking very good but lack of playing time and a new foreign formation of 3 5 2 started taking its toll and we slowly gave up ball and space, but all credit has to go to the Knights though who really started running us ragged,” he explained, “They definitely were the better side but after going 1-0 up I thought that we were really unlucky not to go on and win it. We gave up a really soft goal and these sort of give a ways have dogged all season so far.” Dunn said the injuries that hit his squad earlier in the season are slowly getting better, and he said they will still be looking for three points to keep on the tails of the Knights and Forrestfield, but knows the talent the Phoenix have in their squad. “The Phoenix are on a very good run right now and we will have to be at our best to get a result against them. Training has been the best it has been in weeks so the lads look up for this one and I know that they want to get back to playing the good brand of football which we are getting to be known for,” he said. “A lot of the lads were down on their usual best against the Knights and they want to make amends, and are training hard to ensure their form turns around. We also get Captain Bojan Radinovic back along with Yann Castric who were both out against the Knights, and their leadership and quality will be gladly welcomed back and will certainly help us get back on track”
Forrestfield United are coming off the bye last week, and this week they have home ground advantage when they entertain UWA-Nedlands at Hartfield Park. UWA are coming off a big win against Fremantle last week, with Lloyd Prout scoring a brace, and the win moved them closer to the leading pack, and only five points away from Saturday’s opponents. Forrestfield have a perfect record at home, five from five, and winger Rhys Loxley said they have tried to make Hartfield a fortress, and they could have done without the bye. “The bye probably came at the wrong time if I'm honest, we were in really good form before the break and you want that continuity. Though training has be good and has given us a platform to continue our good form,” he said. “Hartfield has been a happy hunting ground for us this season and I feel that has been vital in our climb up the table. The fans always turn up in numbers and often they are the ones that get us across the line.” The last time the sides met it was an entertaining 1-1 draw, but Loxley said they have started to hit their straps and will be looking for three points on Saturday. “UWA have the ability to beat anyone on their day. However, we know what's at stake and three points are vital if we want to keep the pressure on league leaders Western Knights,” he said. “We have a strong squad, although we will be without Matt Harold this week, and we will be doing all we can to get the job done.”
In other games Rockingham City will be hoping to bounce back from defeat at Gosnells last week when they host Canning City at the Lark Hill Sportsplex. They will need to improve their home form if they are to take the three points, as they have only won one of the five games at home, and Coach Rob Crerar will hope they can. Canning has improved in recent weeks, but they were edged out by the odd goal against Ashfield last week, but they need to turn their good performances into points sooner rather than later to stay in touch with the rest of the teams around them. League Leaders Western Knights make the trip to Hilton Reserve to take on Fremantle City. Coach Steve Plucknett left the Port club in midweek, this after a successful spell which included winning the Division Two title last season, and everyone at Footballwa wishes him all the best in the future. Fremantle were well beaten at UWA last week, and they will be looking for an improved performance against the Knights. Trim Morgan’s Knights have a huge month on the horizon with their FFA Cup game on the Gold Coast in three weeks’ time and he will be hoping the players can put that to the back of their minds for the important league game before then.
In the final game Gosnells City hit the road when they travel to the Iluka Sports Complex to take on Joondalup City. Joondalup made the long trip to Bunbury last week to take on the Phoenix, and were well beaten, but back on home soil Gary Kalaher hopes for an improved performance against the improving Gosnells side, who they beat 2-0 in the game earlier in the season. Gosnells stunned Rockingham last week, and they have only lost once in the last five games and skipper Dean Aplegren said they are starting to hit some good form. “We were thrilled with the win, and Rockingham are a good side and their league position shows that. We battled all day and created plenty of chances,” he said. “We weren't happy with the goal we conceded but were happy that we limited their chances and took some of our own. We feel like we're finally hitting some form and getting the results that we feel we deserve.” Aplegren said their performance against Joondalup the last time they met wasn’t the best, but he said they will be doing all they can to reverse that result. “We were disappointed with our game against them at our ground but we went through a bunch of changes at the start of the year and it has taken some time for the young lads and new faces to find their feet,” he explained. “Also for the new coaches to integrate their style and for our team to gel, but we're quite a different side now, and we'll definitely be going into the game wanting three points.” In team news Gosnells’ Wade Farmer will miss with suspension, while Aaron Coslani is still in doubt with injury. Ashfield have the bye this week.
14.7.2017
ALL FLAGS STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND FOURTEEN – PREVIEW
We’ve reached round 14 of the All Flags State League Division Two, and this week’s Footballwa – Match of the Round takes us to the Croatian Sporting Complex where league leaders Gwelup Croatia entertain third placed Wanneroo City. Only six points separate the two sides on the table, and Wanneroo have a game in hand, so a win to either side will be massive. The pair met in round two, with both sides taking a point in a 1-1 draw. Gwelup were ahead on four minutes, James Sammut finishing clinically after good build up play from captain Sebastian Munoz'. Wanneroo hit back and dominated and had a number of chances but they failed to convert them. But ten minutes from time the home side levelled. Matt Hatton slipped a perfect pass through to Scott Johnston, who kept a cool head rounding Tom Dixon and slotting home.
Both sides go into the game with wins, Wanneroo edging out an improved Shamrock Rovers, while Gwelup won easily at Balga. Gwelup keeper Tom Dixon said the lads are improving each week under new coach Paul Dundo, and despite losing a couple of important players due to long-term injuries, they produced a professional performance at Balga. “It was a good win at Balga, and we've had two big wins under Paul now, not much has really changed, just a tweak to our formation,” he said. “We've unfortunately lost Benny and Dave Sesay to some pretty nasty injuries. Dave has been one of our best performers this year, so it's a big loss, but we've got quality throughout the club so we've had a few reserves players step up. We also brought Danny Cain in to replace a few boys who have left, and he's done very well, and has fitted in seamlessly.” Dixon said Saturday will be a big test, but he thought Gwelup deserved more from the game earlier in the season. “Wanneroo will be a tough game but we are very confident, we feel the 1-1 draw last time out was a flattering result for them,” he explained. “We've improved a lot since then, and we are unbeaten at home in the league, but they're third and have stayed with us and Morley, so they won't be an easy side to break down. We've got a few boys back from suspension, one of which is Jake Verini who is big gain for us coming in. Also Sebastian Munoz made his first appearance last week with the first team after a long injury, and he was fantastic and we saw how badly we have missed his quality.”
Wanneroo defender Stuart Siddall said last week’s win was important after their game against Curtin was postponed, and he said Rovers were up for the game. “Shamrock have improved since we played them in round two, and they made things difficult for us, but we weren’t up to our usual standard on the day,” he said. “But saying that, it was important to still get the win and keep in touch of the leaders, although we didn’t perform to our best.” Wanneroo new Coach Tim Kantor has them playing some good football, and Siddall said they need to maintain that for the rest of the season. “Yes, we have been playing some great football this season, which is reflected in our current league position,” he explained. “However, we have also had a couple of off games and dropped points. Whilst we are happy with our current position at the half way mark of the season, we believe we can improve in the second half, and hopefully we will be fighting for top spot come the end of the season.” On Saturday’s big game, Siddall said it should be a cracker. “They (Gwelup) are a quality side and it’s no surprise they have performed well this season,” he said. “Our last meeting was an excellent showcase of the talent on display in Division Two, and showed that we have the ability to pose a threat to any team. Saturday is a big game and hopefully we can produce the level of performance we know we are capable of.”
In other games the in-form Melville City make the trip to Harold Rossiter Reserve to take on Shamrock Rovers. Gavin Brown’s side are on a five game unbeaten run, and beat Curtin last week. New Coach Gerry McEwan has lifted the Rovers, and they were edged out narrowly by Wanneroo last time out. Graham Normanton’s Kingsway Olympic have home ground advantage when they entertain Balga at Kingsway Reserve on Saturday. The visitors well be looking to bounce back from their heavy defeat against league leaders Gwelup last week, while Kingsway were held to a draw by Quinns. Both sides are level on the table, but only five points from the foot of the table, so a win is vital for both sides. It’s been a difficult week for Kelmscott Ross, with Coach Chris Bates resigning (From everyone at Footballwa we would like to wish Chris all the best in the future), and this week they entertain Quinns at Frye Park. The Roos are coming off the bye, while Quinns drew against Kingsway, and Quinns Alex Sallery said it was a good game. “I thought the draw was probably a fair result, and either team could have snuck it at the end,” he said. “But at the end of the day it would have been unjust on either team.” It’s the second time this season Quinns have taken on a team with a new coach, and Sallery hopes for a better result this time around. “Club who get a new coach seem to lift, and you can never say it’s a good chance to win against teams in that position, note the Shamrock game a few weeks ago,” he said. “We’re heading there on the back of a few good performances, but results haven’t been going our way. But we’re playing well and in high spirits, but we know Kelmscott is always a hard place to go, but we’ll be looking for revenge from the round three defeat. They are a big physical side and we know what to expect this time around.” In team news for Quinns, John McNeill returns to the side after suspension.
In the final game second placed Morley Windmills are on the road again when they visit Edinburgh Oval to take on Curtin University, looking to keep in touch of the leaders. They were involved in a nine goal thriller last week at Swan, and Ryan Treacey said they got the job done, but only just, the midfielder scoring a late winner. “It wasn’t our best performance, we missed a lot of chances which didn’t help, although we made even more which is always good,” he said. “But defensively we just switched off at wrong times, which cost us four goals, I’m just glad we got the three points to keep us near the top.” Treacey said they have been playing some good football, and he said it’s good to be a part of it. “John (Castrilli) and all the coaches we have here have got us playing some good stuff, and it’s great to be a part of this team, we are probably playing the best football in the league, long may it continue.” The trip to Curtin could be a banana skin, but Treacey said they are confident they can get the job done. “This going to be a good game, and we need to win, and everyone is looking forward to it,” he said. “We are focused and ready to go out and get the three points.” The team news for Morley David Houston returns to the squad. – Swan United have the bye this weekend,
14.7.2017
AMATEUR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION, ROUND TWELVE – PREVIEW
All roads will lead to Butlers Reserve on Sunday afternoon for the Amateur Premier Division top of the table clash between Wembley Downs and Kingsley. Both sides warmed up for Sunday’s massive game with big wins, Wembley beating Subiaco 5-1, while Kingsley came home from the Cage with a 6-0 win against BB United. Only two points separate the two sides on the table, and both have only lost the once this season, Wembley losing to North Perth in round five, while Kingsley’s only defeat came against Wembley in the opening round of the season.
Kingsley coach Steven Dimitrovich said they head into the game in good form and boosted their goal difference at BB United last week. “Yes we had a goal difference win at BB United,” he said. “It wasn’t the prettiest of games, we were just happy to come home with the points and no injuries to key personnel.” Kingsley go into the game in good form, and have only dropped two points since the opening game defeat by Wembley, after a 2-2 draw at Leeming in round nine, and Dimitrovich said they are looking forward to taking on the league leaders. “Sunday is a massive game, and one we are absolutely relishing, and if the round one game is anything to go by it will be two sides attacking each other from the start,” he explained. “They (Wembley) have some of the best wide players in the league in Stephen Geoghegan on the left and Banin on the right, so we know we will have to be at our best defensively to stop them. So if our defensive does their jobs well, I think we have enough firepower going the other way to trouble them and recent signing Stuart Montgomery has given us an extra dimension in attack.” Dimitrovich said whoever wins this one will have the advantage in the title race, but there is still North Perth United lurking in the background. “A win this weekend for either side would be a huge advantage in the context of the season, a win puts us on top by a point, but a win for Wembley will put them five points clear, and would put them in the pole position for the title,” he explained. “Of course North Perth are still in the mix, but this would have to be biggest three points both sides will play for all season.”
Wembley Downs Coach Colm Costello said Sunday‘s win against Subiaco was a tight game until they had two players sent off, but it gave him the opportunity to rest a few players late in the game. “Yes they (Subiaco) really took the game to us and it was tight game, but obviously the sending off turned the game,” he said. “But with having a handy lead it give me the opportunity to bring key players off who were on yellow cards to keep them for the Kingsley game.” Costello said his players are up for this game, and hopes to send off skipper Ian Cleary with a win in the top of the table clash, who heads back to Ireland in two weeks. “He has been great for us and it will be nice to win this one for him,” he explained. “He’s great to have on the park he organises well and give us that bite in the middle of the park, which we will need on Sunday.” Costello said Sunday’s game should be entertaining and hopes a big crowd will be on hand to witness it. “It’s a huge game for us and the league and it would be great if we get a good crowd down to Butlers Reserve,” he said. “Kingsley have a better run than any other team in league, unbeaten in their last ten league games, so we know exactly how good they are. They have the best defence in the league too, so we know it's going to be a massive game and test for us, but we are improving every game and getting consistent performances form, which is great.” Costello said the league has been tight all season and he expects a few more twists and turns ahead. “Yes a win would bridge a small gap, but it goes out the window if we switch off away to Belmont the following week,” he said. “This result win or lose will be irrelevant, it's a tight division this year and every team in top eight can take points off each other, as the first 11 games have shown, so although Sunday is huge it's as big as the next game too. The players are up for this one, and I’m sure Kingsley boys will be too, so hopefully it will be a cracker.” In other games on Sunday third placed North Perth United entertain Southern Spirit at Woodville Reserve, while Subiaco travel to Carine Open Space to take on Hamersley Rovers. Perth Royals host Leeming Strikers at JA Lee Reserve, Ellenbrook United entertain Kwinana United at the Ellenbrook Sports Hub and Belmont Villa travel to the Bosnian Recreation Centre (AKA The Cage) to take on BB United.
13.7.2017
WESTERN SYDNEY SNAP UP HERD
Fringe Socceroo Chris Herd is set to line-up against English Premier League giants Arsenal this weekend after agreeing to a two-year deal with Western Sydney Wanderers. The 28-year old moves to Western Sydney from English League One side Gillingham, having made 14 appearances for the club last season.
"I’m delighted to get it over the line and get signed in time for Saturday and I’m looking forward to the season ahead,” Herd said of his move into the A-League. “I’ve had great memories in England, I’ve spent the biggest part of my career there so far but this is my next chapter and I’m fully focussed on doing well for the Wanderers."
Herd’s signing for Western Sydney comes after he gave up on a previous move to Perth Glory a year ago when work-related problems for his wife Amii and their family made the utility player return to England. A former ECU Joondalup, Herd spent the last twelve years in England where he played for Aston Villa, Lincoln City, Chesterfield and Gillingham, amongst others.
Herd, who is capable of operating in both midfield and defence, has represented the Socceroos on three occasions since debuting against Belgium in 2014. He will be available for selection in Western Sydney’s first international marquee match against Arsenal on Saturday night.
13.7.2017
URAWA RED DIAMONDS TAKE A SHINE TO SAINSBURY
Trent Sainsbury is on the wanted list of Japan's best supported club Urawa Red Diamonds, as uncertainty clouds his future with struggling Chinese Super League side Jiangsu Suning. A formidable presence for Australia at the Confederations Cup before suffering a hamstring injury as the Socceroos bowed out after a stirring 1-1 draw with Chile, Sainsbury left Russia with his reputation much enhanced.
Sources in Japan have revealed that the 25-year old defender is seen by Urawa's Serbian coach Mihailo Petrovic as a prime target for the 2016 J1 League runners up, who sit eighth on the ladder after 18 rounds. The 2007 AFC Champions League winners, who regularly attract crowds approaching 40,000 to Saitama Stadium, last won a J.League title in 2006, and have been five-time runners up.
While publicly committed to Jiangsu, where his contract has 18 months to run, Sainsbury is looking to play regular football again after his loan spell from Jiangsu to Inter Milan yielded just a 20-minute cameo off the bench in the final Serie A game of the season. New CSL rules limiting three starting spots to foreign signings for each match appears to hinder Sainsbury's prospects of breaking back into a team he made 29 league appearances for in his debut season.
Sainsbury's agent Tony Rallis, who expects him to be fit again within three weeks, reiterated that he remains under contract at Jiangsu, and it's they who will determine whether he stays or goes. "There's nothing you can do about it. Before he left China (for Italy) he'd play every game," said Rallis. "Trent remains a required player at Jiangsu."
"There's this fascination about why he's in China but the simple facts are it's down to the financial resources of the Chinese. And in his position he's been playing against some of the very best in the world (when in China). He was wanted back in China by his club as soon as the Serie A finished but had to go to the Confederations Cup."
13.7.2017
GARCIA APPOINTED ASSISTANT COACH AT GLORY
Former captain Richard Garcia will launch his coaching career at Perth Glory as one of the club’s assistants. The 35-year old will remain with Glory as part of the coaching team under Kenny Lowe. His addition follows the departure of Andy Ord, who left in May and was subsequently appointed senior coach of Bangladesh.
The retention of Garcia, who retired at the end of last season, will keep significant experience around Lowe, with another former Glory captain, Jacob Burns, working as the club’s football operations manager. Garcia played 58 A-League games for Glory over three seasons.
Garcia made his name in England during stints with Hull City and West Ham United and finished with 17 caps for Australia, which included playing in the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. He has been open about his senior coaching ambitions after fulfilling a dual role as player and part-time mentor during his final season.
Glory are meanwhile closing in on the signature of a foreign visa player who they hope to add to their 18-man squad in the next fortnight. It is understood the club will use the slot on a central midfielder to complement the likes of Rostyn Griffiths, Mitch Nichols and the emerging Brandon Wilson.
9.7.2017
DE SILVA SIGNS THREE-YEAR DEAL WITH CENTRAL COAST
Central Coast Mariners have completed the long-expected signing of Daniel De Silva, recruiting the highly-rated playmaker on a three-year A-League deal. De Silva has been without a club since leaving Dutch side Roda JC in January, after injury and lack of game time, but joining Central Coast reunites the 20-year old with his former Young Socceroos coach Paul Okon.
"Paolo gave me so many opportunities as a young player, he took me to the under-20 World Cup," De Silva said. "I love the brand of football he plays and instils into the players, so that was a big factor for me deciding to come to this club. I've worked with him previously and really enjoyed it so I am looking forward to working with him full time this season."
"Hopefully I can add some attacking flare to the squad, that's really important when you get to that final third to make assists and score goals - I think that's what my game is and I look forward to bringing that to the club this season. I want to play a part in getting this team into the finals and going as close to winning the league as possible, if not win the league."
De Silva burst on the A-League scene with Perth Glory in 2013. He signed for Italian giant AS Roma and earned a Socceroos call-up soon after. That dream move soon turned into a loan to the Eredivisie, where he made only 16 appearances across two seasons with Roda. Despite the struggle for minutes, his talent was recognised by Italian publication Tuttosport, who nominated him for the Golden Boy award for the best young talent in Europe.
De Silva has spent the past few months in a strength and conditioning program in Perth in readiness for his A-League comeback. His move to Central Coast follows that of Dutch midfielder Tom Hiariej, Spanish defender Alan Baro and winger Andrew Hoole, in a sign the Gosford-based battlers mean business this season. Okon is on the hunt for a striker and a goalkeeper to round out his squad.
8.7.2017
ARNOLD SIZES UP BIRIGHITTI
Sydney FC coach Graham Arnold is looking at the possibility of landing Swansea City's third choice goalkeeper Mark Birighitti to fill the void left by departed gloveman Danny Vukovic. The former Newcastle Jets shot-stopper has not made a single appearance for the Swans - who he joined year ago from Newcastle - and is looking to move on in search of first team football.
It's understood that Sky Blues coach Graham Arnold, who is tweaking his double winning squad, would be willing to consider either or loan or permanent move for Birighitti. The 26-year-old former Olyroos 'keeper has a year remaining on his Swansea contract but it's likely the club would not stand in his way should an agreement with Sydney be reached.
7.7.2017
HERD TRIALS WITH WANDERERS
Former Aston Villa midfielder Chris Herd is trialling with Western Sydney Wanderers. Herd, 28, has been a free agent since being released by Gillingham in May after one season with the English League One club. The Perth-raised midfielder has been training with Western Sydney and took part in Wednesday's behind-closed-doors friendly against Blacktown City.
Western Sydney have room in their squad, having released 13 players during the off-season while making only five signings to date. Any move by Herd would come barely 12 months after he walked out on Perth Glory due to family re-location issues. Herd signed with Glory in April last year but mutually terminated his contract three months later without playing a competitive game in order to stay in England.
8.7.2017
INGLEWOOD IN SEVENTH HEAVEN
Inglewood United moved clear at the top of the PS4 NPLWA table after a stunning 7-0 win against Joondalup United at Percy Doyle Reserve on Saturday afternoon. Youngster Chok Dau gave the visitors the lead early, and further goals from Ashley Rosindale, a brace to Brian Woodall, Kenny Keogh and Alex Salmon, his 23rd of the season wrapped up a comprehensive win.
“Well what can you say, seven goals for and none conceded was great for us and to be honest I felt we could have had another 4 or 5 with the chances we missed,” defender Adam Tong said. “We know teams are going to give what they have for the first 20 minutes and when we get the ball down and settle I think our midfield and forwards dictate games as they showed yesterday. It's a Pleasure to see these young lads in the team playing with confidence and that credit goes to them and Andy for believing in their ability, so we keep going and working hard to bring success to the club.”
The visitors got the perfect start and they were ahead after only five minutes. Scott Blackmore’s ball over the top sent Dau racing clear, and the teenager raced clear and finished with aplomb past James Bosdet. The Joondalup keeper was the busiest man on the park, saving well to deny Woodall, before Salmon fired wide as Inglewood had the home side defending in numbers. But Inglewood ripped the game apart with three goals in as many minutes.
First a poor clearance from Bosdet fell kindly to Woodall who rolled the ball into an empty net on 38 minutes, before Rosindale waltzed past a couple of defenders to add the third sixty seconds later. It was sensationally four moments later, Dau finished low past Bosdet. It was a superb 45 minutes from the league leaders, clinical up front and tight at the back, as they look for their first title since 1996.
A shell-shocked Nick Jennings sent his players out for the second half, looking for a response and they went close 10 minutes in. Josh Whitmore’s long-range shot looked destined for the corner of the net, but Alex Dunn saved well to deny him. But normal service was resumed on the hour when Inglewood added a fifth. Woodall cut in from the left and finished low past Bosdet from the angle.
Second half substitute Kenny Keogh added the sixth, tapping home from close-range after good approach work from Salmon. The icing was put on the cake three minutes from time, when referee Steven Gregory pointed to the spot after Keogh was brought down in the penalty area. Salmon stepped up and planted the ball into the roof of the net to extend Inglewood’s unbeaten run to 14, and move them three points clear at the top of the table.
Joondalup United: GK James BOSDET, 3 Rowdy YATES, 4 Arran MAPLESTONE, 5 Joe STOCKER, 7 Matthew SPARROW, 8 Josh WHITMORE, 9 Richard HOWLES (22 Robert TARPEY 67’), 10 Alex WILD (11 Josh BOOYSEN 57’), 17 Luke SERRA, 18 Anthony TAYLOR (2 Joel LEDSHAM 57’), 23 Jay MARSDEN – Subs not used: RGK Jack NUNN, 15 Sam WYNNE
Inglewood United: GK Alex DUNN, 4 Scott BLACKMORE, 5 Adam TONG, 8 Jason BARRERA (15 Brian FARRELL 59’), 9 Alex SALMON, 10 Ashley ROSINDALE (7 Kenny KEOGH 64’), 11 John MIGAS, 16 Matthew NTUEMENOPOLOUS (6 Victor BRAUNER 72’), 18 Jason COLLI, 19 Choc DAU, 23 Brian WOODALL – Subs not used: RGK Riley STEPHENSON, 2 Alex ISHIDA-LIVINGS - Referee: Steven Gregory
8.7.2017
CATARCIONE BRINGS DOWN THE GULLS
Perth SC leapfrogged Sorrento into third place on the table, and bounced back from their loss at Inglewood last week, with a comprehensive 5-0 win at Dorrien Gardens on Saturday, and in doing so kept in touching distance of the top two. Brazilian striker Gustavo Catarcione was the hero bagging a hat-trick, while an own goal by Sorrento defender Steve McDonald and another from Frank Furfaro gave Ramon Falzon the points.
“We believe in the way we play our football, we took our chances and kept a clean sheet, so I can’t be happier,” Falzon told the NPL website. “We’ve had other good performances this season where we’ve missed too many chances, but we know we’ve got the ability and if we can do it against a team like Sorrento we can do it against anyone. It was a massive win today because neither of us could afford to drop points. All we can do is to make sure that we keeping picking up three points, and hope for good news elsewhere.”
Perth was lively early with Furfaro’s pace causing the Gulls defence problems, and he went close early, but James Morgan stood tall to deny him. Sorrento then went close on the quarter hour, when former Perth striker Reece Vittiglia found space in the box, his shot on turn crashed off the crossbar and away to safety. But seven minutes later the home side opened the scoring, after Alex Silla made space down the right and crossed to Catarcione to tap home from close-range.
Catarcione was in again five minutes later, when Scottish import Lewis Milne slipped the Brazilian in on goal and he finished low past James Morgan. Sorrento needed a lift and they went close to pulling one back late in the half, Sean Canham lost his marker back he headed over the top from five meters. But in the final minute of the half, Perth made it 3-0. Silla raced through a static defence and his low cross was turned into his own net by the unfortunate Steve McDonald.
Perth put the game to bed eight minutes into the second half when they added a fourth, Furfaro capping off a good performance firing home from close-range. The best was left for last, with Catarcione completing his hat-trick, he held off his marker and finished in the corner of the net, his 15th goal of the season. Sorrento went close to a consolation goal, but substitute Alex Morgan and Canham both going close, but it was a day to forget for Jamie Harnwell’s side.
Perth SC: GK Francis SOALE, 2 Alex SILLA, 5 Niccolo SABBATINI (20 Elliot TATTERSAL 82’), 7 Aleks JOVIC (3 Andreas THEODOSIADES 80’), 8 Tom KING, 9 Gustavo CATARCIONE (10 Nicholas AMBROGIO 85’), 12 Jordan DE LEO, 15 Harley ORR, 16 Kieran COLWELL, 17 Frank FURFARO, 18 Lewis MILNE – Subs not used: RGK Daniel PASSARELLI, 19 Roberto DEL BORRELLO
Sorrento: GK James MORGAN, 2 Jacob SHORE (12 Josh TUCKER 65’), 8 Ryan PEARSON, 9 Sean CANHAM, 13 Steve MCDONALD, 14 Scott WITSCHGE (7 Alex MORGAN 65’), 15 Brodie MARTIN, 17 Reece VITTIGLIA,18 Jordan BROWN, 20 Brad MCDONALD (11 Tim HILL 80’), 21 Sam BYLES - Subs not used: RGK Anthony SALPIETRO, 6 Darryl PLATTEN – Referee David Bruce
8.7.2017
SUBIACO STUN JOINT LEAGUE LEADERS
Subiaco have ended Floreat Athena’s five game unbeaten run with a 2-0 win at the E&D Litis Stadium. Jordan Candlish and Nathan Smith were on target for Ian McMurray’s side, moving them nine points clear of the drop zone. The loss left Floreat three points adrift of leaders Inglewood, and Perth’s win against Sorrento moved them only one point behind Glen Grostate’s side.
Subiaco player/coach Ian McMurray was full of praise for his side. “We played very well today, the whole team worked hard and thoroughly deserved the win,” he said. “I felt we were in control for the majority of the match and great to earn another clean sheet. We scored a couple of good goals and created chances which was great to see, I’m delighted for the players, but it will be another hard challenge next week against Balcatta.”
The visitors arrived on the back of back-to-back home wins against Joondalup United and Stirling Lions and they were ahead on 12 minutes. McMurray made a great run down the left, and crossed for Candlish who finished clinically into the bottom corner giving Jason Saldaris no chance. Floreat were struggling in the final third, with Ludovic Boi and Jon Stynes closed down well on the flanks, and it was a quiet first half for Subiaco custodian Ryan Montgomery.
The home side needed a good start after the break, but it was Subiaco who began the brighter, and they doubled their lead early four minutes in. Smith raced into the box, skipped past his marker and finished low by Jason Saldaris. Floreat continued to struggle in the final third, and the lack of a recognised number nine hurt them, and it was Subiaco who almost added a third ten minutes from time, David Perich’s effort was cleared off the line by the alert Chris Saldaris.
Floreat Athena: GK Jason SALDARIS, 2 Zoran VRTESKI (11 Juma AWAKA 56’), 4 Andrew SCALDAFERRO, 6 Jesse FULLER, 8 Jon STYNES, 10 Kris GATE, 12 Jackson MORGAN (20 Joe TWEATS 81), 13 Zelfy NAZARY (33 Mark PRITCHARD 56’), 14 Ludovic BOI, 15 Chris SALDARIS, 17 Dean EVANS – Subs not used: RGK Aidan HOLLOWAY
Subiaco: GK Ryan MONTGOMERY, 4.Alex RANDELL, 6 Steve PURTON, 7 Nathan DIAZ, 11 Carlin FEELY, 12 Nathan SMITH, 13 Jordan CANDLISH, (9 Asher NELSON 87’), 14 Ross JARMAN, 16 Ian MCMURRAY (10 Adrian CACERES 81’), 17 Alex CASTIELLO, 18 David PERICH (8. Mike LAWSON 86’) Subs not used: 19 Stefan HILL - Referee: Tom Glavovic
8.7.2017
BAYSWATER WIN THE ITALIAN DERBY
Bayswater City kept in touch with the top four after a hard fought 2-0 win in the Italian derby against Balcatta at the Finance 365 Stadium. Luka Ninkovic opened the scoring in first half stoppage time, before Gustavo Giron-Marulanda added the sealer four minutes from full time. “I think it was another great win, as we continue to build up some good confidence, we have not been at our best this season, lacking concentration losing important games especially at home, we played really well and enjoyed possession for a long period of the game,” Marulanda said. “Another positive is we haven’t conceded from an open play in the last three games which is really important, and we look to be getting stronger as the season comes to the finals, and we hope to keep this winning run till the end of the season and see where it will put us then.”
The home were on top early with lively winger Borbor Sam causing problems, but they couldn’t turn his dominance into goals. Both keepers produced important saves as the game opened up. First Devon Spence had to be alert to produce a great save to deny skipper Jon Corness’ long-range shot. Moments later it was the Domenico Savoldelli to produce a telling save pushing over Marulanda’s powerful shot. It looked like the sides would go in all-square but Bayswater had other ideas and they hit the front in the final minute. Marulanda found space down the flank and squared the ball to Ninkovic, who finished past Savoldelli from close-range.
Balcatta were out of the blocks early in the second half, and the lively Luccas Mello drifted past two defenders, but Spence stood tall to produce another outstanding save. It was end to end football with both sides pressing, but the home side looked more dangerous in the final third and they wasted a number of chances. Sam continued to be a problem and ten minutes from time he raced past his marker and crossed low to the back post, but Marulanda was only inches away from the ball at the back post.
The visitors were still in the game and frown on the Bayswater coaches was there for all to see, but the frown turned to a smile four minutes from time when Bayswater scored the sealer. Marulanda lost his marker in the penalty area and finished low past Savoldelli, much to the relief of the home faithful. “If we take our chances the game is dead and buried,” Bayswater Coach Chris Coyne told the NPL website. “I would’ve taken 2-0 before the day starts, but in hindsight that performance is not good enough. We’ve got too many good players to display what we did there today and I expect more.”
Bayswater City: GK Devon SPENCE, 6 Todd HOWARTH, 8 Paul MCCARTHY (15 Shayden PASALAQUA 89’) 9 Gustavo Giron MARULANDA, 10 Jason MIRCO, 11 Devon GIBSON (16 Giordano COLLI 83’), 13 Trent KAY (c), 17 Borbor SAM, 19 Luka NINKOVIC (14 Jamie MURPHY 69’) 20 Sam MITCHINSON, 23 Andrija JUKIC – Subs not used: RGK Dejan ALEKSIC, 22 Jordan POKLA
Balcatta: GK Domenico SAVOLDELLI, 2 Rudnei NOGUEIRA (16 Marco CHADINHA 71’) 3 Justin ONEK, 4 Calum O’CONNELL (c), 9 Luccas MELLO, 10 Jon CORNESS, 12 Anton DE FRANCESCH, 14 Brodie KENNEDY, 15 Carmelo GIUFFRE (C), 18 Ben MEREDITH, 20 Tom PELLIZARI – Subs not used: RGK Jake SEYMOUR, 8 Brennan BORZECKI, 22 Dejan ANDRIC - Referee: Adam Fielding
8.7.2017
HONOURS EVEN AT ALFRED SKEET
The points were shared in a tight contest at Alfred Skeet Reserve with Mandurah City heading home with a well-earned point after a 1-1 draw against Armadale. The home side were ahead just before half time through Anthony Skorich, but Mandurah levelled in first half stoppage time with Joe O’Brien on target. Both sides had chances to take all three points after the break but both had to settle for one. “The way the lads reacted after conceding was sensational, so I have nothing but praise for them,” Mandurah Coach Doug Hesketh told the NPL website. “I thought we played very well today and we could have sneaked it in the second half but it was not to be. Armadale are a tough nut to crack especially at their home ground, so this is a massive point for us.”
Mandurah arrived at the foot of the table, but they had closed the gap to the rest of the league and they went close to the opener on the half hour. Mitch Firth beat his marker and crossed to O’Brien at the back post, but his effort was well saved by Armadale custodian Michael Craggs. Armadale had looked dangerous going forward, and they showed the visitors how to do it and opened the scoring four minutes from half time. Billy Quinncroft’s shot was parried by Cyril Sharrock, and Skorich was quickest to react to score. The home faithful’s joy was short-lived as the visitors levelled in stoppage time. Ryan Francis’ low cross picked out an unmarked O’Brien at the back post who made no mistake.
Armadale went close to regaining their lead on 53 minutes, when Skorich nicked the ball off a defender, but he former Armadale custodian Sharrock produced a great save to deny him. Mandurah were dangerous from set-pieces and went close late to taking all three points, but both sides had to settle for a point. “Mandurah set up very defensively today and they were very hard to break down,” Armadale Coach John O’Reilly told the NPL website. “But credit to them because they came here looking to grind out a result and that’s exactly what they did. It’s hard to say that we deserved to win today, so unfortunately for us a draw was a fair result in the end.”
Armadale: GK Michael CRAGGS, 3 Jake SARDELIC, 4 Nathan COSTELLO (C), 7 Charlie KENNA, 8 Jordan PAVETT, 14 David ANNALL (15 Jackson BEALEY 55’), 16 Billy QUINNCROFT, 17 James ATKINS (12 Joshua TOMOE 63’), 19 Beau RAHIM, 20 Ali GHOLAMI, 25 Anthony SKORICH (9 Kyle KING 71’) – Subs not used: RGK Alec RADONICH, 2 Dylan WHITE
Mandurah City: GK Cyril SHARROCK, 2 Oliver MCGEE, 3 Jeff BRIGHT (C), 4 Matt STARES, 5 Mitch FIRTH, 6 Joe O’BRIEN (15 Kevin CASTLE 86’), 7 Lance LOUVIE, 8 Daniel DAVIES, 9 Sean TROUP, 11 Ryan FRANCIS, 12 Shane BOYLE (1. Michael MORRIN 64’) – Subs not used: RGK Kieran SHAIL, 10 Slade RULE, 16 Mark MCLAUGHLIN - Referee: Nico Hoyle
8.7.2017
JACKS BACK IN THE WINNERS CIRCLE
ECU Joondalup returned to the winners circle after four games without a win with a comprehensive 3-0 win against Cockburn City at the ECU Football Stadium. Defender Shane Pickering gave the hosts the lead on the hour half, before Daryl Nicol added a brace either side of half time to secure the three points, and ECU keeper Fraser Greenwood secured a clean sheet saving a penalty from Julian Teles late in the game. “Really pleased with the performance today, I couldn’t single anyone out for special praise as it was a great team performance,” ECU Coach Dale McCulloch said. “We changed a few things today and it worked and I was really pleased with Declan Hughes’ performance on his debut, the kid did great.”
The sides were separated by only two points on the table at kick off, and clear cut chances were few and far between, but that all changed on 27 minutes, with the home side taking the lead in their first real attack. A corner from the left was only cleared to Steven McGarry on the right, his cross picked out Pickering, who lost his marker to head past Luke Radonich. Radonich then had to be alert to push Jon Higgin’s in-swinging corner around the post on the half hour, but six minutes later the home side doubled their advantage.
Sam Pollard found Jack Jones on the right and his cross into the box found Nicol, who beat the on-coming Radonich to the ball to head home from six meters. Cockburn had the perfect opportunity to pull one back on the stroke of half time. Calvin Whitney’s free kick found Reuben Tristao, who headed over the top with the goal at his mercy. Both sides had early chances after the break, Higgin’s dangerous corner had to tipped over the top by Radonich at full stretch, before half time substitute Julian Teles’ shot on the turn was saved low by Greenwood.
But the points were made safe on 58 minutes, McGarry’s through-ball sent Nicol racing clear, and he rounded the keeper and rolled the ball home, despite Euen Grant’s attempted goal line clearance. Nicol went close to a hat-trick moments later, after he got on the end of Jones’ low cross, but it flicked the crossbar on the way over. Cockburn had a lifeline, ten minutes from time, when referee Josh Mannella pointed to the spot after Teles was brought down in the penalty area. The big striker picked himself up to take the resulting penalty, but Greenwood picked the right way to make a stunning one-handed save down to his right.
ECU Joondalup: GK Fraser GREENWOOD, 3 Ross MILLARD, 4 Steven MCGARRY, 5 Graham DORAN, 6 Shane PICKERING, 7 Kevin MOON, 8 Declan HUGHES, 9 Daryl NICOL 10 Jon HIGGINS (C), 11 Sam POLLARD (15 James OWEN 83’), 17 Jack JONES (19 Cian HIRRELL 86’) - Subs not used: RGK Jordan YOUNG, 14 Roland RIXER, 16 Rikki SMITH Yellow Cards: Nicol 36’ Cockburn City: GK Luke RADONICH, 4 Euen GRANT (C), 5 Keiron STALLARD, 6 Reuben TRISTAO, 7 Calvin WHITNEY, 10 David ARAYA, 11 Harry O’BRIEN (18 Riley VAN DICKEN 83’), 13 Blake ADAMS, 15 Daniel SANTICH, 16 Daniel ROBINSON (14 Julian TELES 46’), 17 Jesse LAZZARO (2 Joshua KUSER 69’) - Subs not used: RGK Ryan BARKER, 3 Daniel DOLS Yellow Cards: Nil - Referee: Josh Mannella
8.7.2017
LIONS EDGE OUT TEN MAN GLORY (Report by Football West reporter Matthew Corvi)
Stirling Lions claimed three valuable points against Perth Glory with a 2-0 win in their PS4 NPLWA clash at Macedonia Park. A red card to Glory defender Hayden Stevens was the turning point in the game, as the home side wrestled control and scored twice. Stirling Lions coach Rob Milevski was pleased with the result, which moves the club away from the relegation battle. “I’m happy with the performance, we kept our discipline and shape for the whole 90 minutes,” he said. “We knew they would move the ball well, so we setup in a counter attacking style and it paid off for us.” Lions’ striker Cameron Teece said it was a good win against his former club. “It was a well-deserved win, but we had to battle it out for the whole game, and we were lucky enough to grab a couple of goals and take the three points.”
Despite a dominant start from Glory, they were reduced to 10 men when Stevens was shown a red card for pulling back the attacking player in a one-on-one situation. The referee had no chance but to award a penalty, but Nicholas Feely got down low to save Milorad Vujacic’s penalty and keep the game goalless. Glory nearly held out until half-time but they conceded two minutes into additional time when Daniel Micevski found space on the edge of the area and made no mistake.
The second half continued the same way as the first half ended as the visitors tried to hold firm despite being a man down. Glory then went down to nine men with 15 minutes remaining as Ashwin Jayakamar came off injured and with no remaining substitutions Stirling took full advantage. Neat play out wide resulted in Jason Rubidge receiving the ball in the area and scored to seal the win for Stirling. Perth Glory coach John Gibson was disappointed with the way the game panned out for his young side. “I think we dominated play for majority of the game, but we need to be more ruthless,” he said. “We gave away two of the weirdest goals you’ll see this season, so we shot ourselves in the foot.”
Perth Glory: GK Nicholas FEELY, 2 Luca BODNAR, 3 Hayden STEVENS, 4 Cameron MURRAY, 5 Walter SCOTT, 6 Jack LEECH (15 Ashwin JAYAKUMAR 46’), 7 Bayley BROWN-MONTGOMERY (13 Gomo DUKULY 67’), 8 Callum TIMMINS, 9 Joe KNOWLES (12 Michael MCDOUGALL 63’), 10 Daniel STYNES (C), 11 Yacoub MUSTAFA – Subs not used: RGK Kyle McDONALD, 14 Michael DOMFEH Yellow Cards: Timmins 56 - Red Cards:
Stirling Lions: GK John PERKINS, (20 Lance ALAVAKIS 84’), 2 Michael PUGLIESE, 5 Nicholas ASHLEY, 7 Miki VUJACIC (C) (6 Robbie MCNEILL 84’), 8 Alex SULESKI, 9 Alex TANEVSKI, 10 Daniel MICEVSKI, 15 Shane CASSIDY, 17 Darren O’RIORDAN, 18 Moses KALAU (12 Jason RUBIDGE 62’), 19 Cameron TEECE – Subs not used: 13 Adam FALCONE, 16 Mathaing MATHIANG - Referee: Matthew Southern
8.7.2017
ALL FLAGS STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND THIRTEEN – REVIEW
In the match of the round, All Flags State League Division One leaders Western Knights were held to a 1-1 draw by Dianella White Eagles at Nash Field, to extend their lead to four points at the top of the table. The visitors started brightly and looked the most likely to score in the first 15 minutes, but the Knights slowly turned up the heat and were creating some good chances, but couldn’t find the target. Then just before half time the Knights were reduced to 10 when Adriano Jelenovic was sent off for striking Emmanuel right in front of the referee. The Eagles drew first blood with Angel Andres scoring a stunning free kick from 30-yards, and it looked like they would be home with the three points, but a late Jamie Burns header from a long-throw gave them a share of the spoils. “It was a tough game after two weeks off and to play against a very good Knights side with an understrength team was a real test for our lads,” Dianella Coach Robbie Dunn said. “I am very proud of how they fought and in the end got a point from the game as their lack of matches was going against them.”
South West Phoenix moved to fourth with a 4-0 home win against Joondalup City. A brace from Callum Dobbs and singles to Patrick Quinn and Jayden Prosser gave them a comprehensive win. Ashfield jumped to fifth with a hard fought 3-2 win against Canning City at Ashfield Reserve. The visitors were ahead on 12 minutes, Callum Roberts playing a one-two on the edge of the box before outpacing his marker and firing low past Brad Eiffe. The home side hit back with Jordan Clark heading home twice to give them the lead at the break. Canning levelled five minutes into the second half with Joe Kelly finishing clinically. It was Clark’s day and he completed his hat-trick to win it for Ashfield, racing clear, rounding the keeper and tapping home from close-range. “I was looking for a response from my players after last week’s lose and I got one, it takes a lot of character to come back after last week’s performance and today we played some good football at times and deserved our win,” Ashfield Coach Matt Wardle said. “Credit to Pete and his Canning side, who didn't stop all game and pushed us all the way - All the best to them in their push for safety.”
UWA-Nedlands made it back-to-back wins with a 3-0 win against Fremantle City at the UWA Sports Park. Both sides had chances early, with Lloyd Prout hitting the side netting for the home side, before Alec Robinson’s shot was well saved by Ranjit Sekhon, and Josh Marocchi had to be alert to clear the striker’s shot off the line moments later. But later in the first half UWA hit the front, Patrick Morrison found Prout down the right wing, the winger cut the ball back to Robertson who made no mistake. It was 2-0 eight minutes after half time, Morrison’s through ball picked out Prout, who finished well. It was 3-0 just before the hour, Prout racing clear one-on-one with the keeper and finished with aplomb to wrap up the points.
In the final game Gosnells City recent good form continued with a 2-1 win against Rockingham City at Walter Padbury Reserve. The visitors were ahead on the half hour, Jason Pottier racing clear from a through ball from Blake Sokolowski, and he finished well. Gosnells were back in the game sixty seconds into the second half, Dean Aplegren’s cross was volleyed home superbly by Cherno Bah. Both sides had chances to win it, but the three points went to the home side with the winner on 70 minutes, Darren Francis found space in the penalty area and headed home to move them above Joondalup City on the table. “I thought we defended well and played some great football along the way, and I thought we thoroughly deserved the win,” Gosnells Coach Alan Dunlop said. “It also gives us a bit of confidence going into a crucial run of games.” – Forrestfield United had the bye this weekend.
8.7.2017
ALL FLAGS STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND THIRTEEN – REVIEW
Gwelup Croatia maintained their lead at the top of the All Flags State League Division Two with a 6-0 win against Balga at Princess Road Reserve. The visitors were ahead on 12 minutes, Teeboy Kamara's left-wing cross bamboozled two Balga defenders before the keeper misjudged it and it ended up in the back of the net. It was 2-0 moments later, Gavin Knight finishing from close range. Then on the stroke of half time Gwelup added a third, Knight doubling his tally from the penalty spot after a foul on the tricky Kamara. Two goals from Noah Samaki either side of the hour mark put the game to bed, first powering home from the edge of the box, before curling home superbly into the top corner. Four minutes from time Shamaki completed his hat-trick from close range to round off a great day for him and Gwelup. The only disappointment on the day for the league leaders was the late sending off of Issac Koomson who received two booking in stoppage time.
Morley kept in touch with Gwelup with a thrilling 5-4 win against Swan United at Francis Street. Morley were ahead when Igor Novakovic slipped the ball to Dion Berman who beat his man drilled the ball home. Swan were level when CJ Andeniyi scored an own goal, but they regained the lead with Novakovic’s curling effort. But Swan hit back again and James Shamim headed home a deep cross. Morley again hit the front with Novakovic firing home a free kick via the post to send the Windmills to the break with the lead. The Black and white were level when Shamim’s free kick floated over the head of the Morley keeper to make it 3-3. Novakovic completed his hat-trick when he headed home, after a corner was headed back across goal. Shamim then completed his hat-trick from the penalty spot and it looked like the points would be shared but Morley had other ideas. A free kick in the final minute of the game from Ryan Treacey flew into the net to set off celebration on and off the pitch. “A good win, and a good game,” Morley Coach John Castrilli said. “Once again a game we made difficult for ourselves by making silly defensive errors which we are working hard on to rectify.”
In other games Quinns FC drew 1-1 with Kingsway Olympic at Gumblossom Reserve. The home side were ahead when good play down the right ended with the ball inside to Liam Mcgurk who hit it top corner of the net and left the keeper with no chance. But Kingsway earned a point with a late equaliser, Jake Cherrie receiving the ball and he hit it on the half volley into the top left corner across the face of the goal. “The draw was a fair result for both teams, either team could have had a couple more goals,” Quinns Alex Sallery said. “Jake also scored in the first half but it was disallowed for offside, but it was a close thing.” Melville continued their recent good form with a narrow 1-0 win against Curtin University at Len Shearer Reserve. The only goal of the game came from Mark Lucas’ corner, with Adam Mangion finishing it off. “We were poor to be honest, especially first half, we didn't keep the ball well at all and the game was extremely scrappy and very stop-start,” Melville coach Gavin Brown said. “Curtin pressed well which disrupted us, but we have struggled to win games when we haven't played well over the past few seasons, so I'm delighted to get the three points. We have now taken 13/15 points over the last five games and scored 13/conceded one so we are happy with our form. Just hoping we can sustain it till the end of the year to make up for our poor start.”
In the final game Wanneroo City maintained third spot on the table after a hard fought 2-1 win against Shamrock Rovers at Wanneroo Reserve. The home side started brightly and were ahead on ten minutes, with Godfrey Asimwe lobbing the advancing keeper and finding the net. It was a scrappy game and both sides had good chances, but it was Shamrock who equalised with 20 minutes to go. But the home side won it late, Jack Hailstones made space down the right flank and delivered a perfect ball to Chris Williams who finished it off. “To be honest it was a very scrappy affair with both teams making numerous mistakes, but to our boys credit they found a way to win. It was an ugly win but we'll certainly take it and now we knuckle down in preparation for a rampaging Gwelup next week.” – Kelmscott Roos had the bye this weekend.
7.7.2017
PS4 NPL-WA ROUND TWENTY PREVIEW
It’s week 20 of the PS4 National Premier League WA and the Footballwa – Match of the Week takes us to Macedonia Park where Stirling Lions host Perth Glory, in a vital game at the foot of the table. The Lions have fell off the pace in recent weeks and only sit six points ahead of Saturday’s opponents, so the three points are vital with the relegation zone tightening up in recent weeks. The Lions were beaten at Armadale last week, which made it five games without a win, while the Glory were beaten by Sorrento in Geraldton, and that was their sixth game without a win, so you can see how big Saturday’s game is to both sides. The last time the two sides met at Macedonia Park was in round 11 last season, when a Joe Knowles penalty two minutes from time gave the Glory a 1-0 win, and they will be desperate for a repeat of that result on Saturday.
Glory midfielder Jack Leech said the second half performance against Sorrento last week was one of the best 45 minute performances of the season, but they couldn’t convert their chances. “Yes it was an extremely disappointing result against Sorrento, our first half performance really let us down conceding the two goals putting us on the back foot, we didn't play to the conditions of the game and got punished for it,” he explained. “The second half was much improved we dominated the game move the ball quickly and created plenty of chances but were unable to score. Punishing teams is something we most improved on to win game and capitalise on our chance but we also need to be tight at the back and we'll disciplined.” Leech said Saturday’s game against the Lions is huge, and they know if they play at their best they can come home with the right result. “With the season coming to an end and the bottom of the table being so close it's vital that we start winning to pull away from the bottom, we know we can do it we just have to stick to our plan and execute it to the best of our ability,” he said. “This week’s game is vital it's a must win for us to start climbing the ladder, we have put all that hard work in during the week and we can't wait for the game and the three points.” The Glory will be unchanged from last week, with Riley Warland still away with the Australian Joeys in Thailand.
The Lions will also be desperate for the points, and Daniel Micevski said they had their chances last week, but they were unable to find the target. “I think we had the chances to win it last week, but we couldn’t find the target, we have to be better in that area,” he explained. “But again with the amount of injuries, commitments and suspensions it's been difficult for us to gain any rhythm, but we will go again on Saturday.” It’s getting to the stage now The Lions desperately need a win, and with bottom of the table tightening up in recent weeks, it’s starting to look like a real dog fight, so Saturday is a real six pointer. “In this league any team can win on their day, it's been fine lines in all our matches,” Micevski explained. “Every match is important with how tight the table is from top to bottom. We still have many absences with Dave (Micevski), Luca (De Lima)s, Blamo (Qua Qua), Dejan (Spaseski), Steve (Sokol) Moses (Kalau) all missing last week, but I think we have still shown good signs and hopefully we can grab the win against a solid Glory team.” - Saturday (3.00pm) Stirling Lions v Perth Glory – Macedonia Park – Referee Matthew Southern
League leaders Inglewood United hit the road this week, when they travel to Percy Doyle Reserve to take on Joondalup United. Andy Keogh sides have been in outstanding form, and are coming off a win against title contenders Perth SC last week, which maintained their 13 game unbeaten run. Alex Salmon continued his goal scoring bagging a brace to take his total to 22 for the season, while youngsters Hamza Hina, Chok Doh and Matt Ntoumenopoulos continue to impress. Joondalup were beaten at Bayswater last week, when two late Gustavo Giron-Marulanda goals gave the home side a 3-1 win. The defeat left Coach Nick Jennings disappointed, and he thought they were the better team on the day. “We were outstanding from the first minute and I think the quality of our play surprised Bayswater, particularly after we'd equalised,” he said. “I'm still absolutely gutted for the boys that they weren't rewarded with at least a point but all credit to Bayswater they ceased on a lapse in concentration and grabbed the points at the death.” Jennings said skipper Arran Maplestone has been outstanding this season and he was surprised his skipper wasn’t selected in the WA State Squad. “Arran was one of the boys I put forward for State selection having scored nine goals in 12 games, he covers a variety of positions and is always first class, both in quality and attitude,” he explained. “Whilst it's always hard selecting State or rep squads and everyone has their opinions, a number of people from other clubs have questioned to me how can he not of been selected. Having said that we have many outstanding talents in WA and I'm sure the state team will do us proud in their three games and I wish Ramon and his team all the best.” The coach knows Saturday’s team are the form team of the competition, and they gave them a touch-up in the previous meeting this season, but he said they are looking forward to the challenge. “Andy has come in and taken an outstanding group of players and taken them to the next level, and we will have to play even better than last week to get anything from the game,” he said. “At their place earlier in the year they blew us away with four late goals, after we'd led 2-1, so again we'll need to improve on that. But like always we'll work hard at training and put together a game plan and look to take the three points, no pressure on us it's all on the league leaders. Ross Edwards and Jess Compton miss out with injury, but we have fireman Rowdy Yates returning following his Fireman of the Year Calendar commitments.” - Saturday (3.00pm) Joondalup United v Inglewood United – Referee Steven Gregory
Floreat Athena moved level with Inglewood in midweek with a 3-0 win against Balcatta, and they have home ground advantage on Saturday when they entertain Subiaco at the E&D Litis Stadium. Subiaco have been the big improvers this season under the guidance of Ian McMurray, and have had big wins against Bayswater and Joondalup United, and with David Perich, Ryan Montgomery and Alex Castiello all having good season, but they have struggled on the road with only two wins on their travels this season. Their game against ECU Joondalup was postponed last week, and they now have two games in hand, but with the bottom of the table so tight they need to keep getting results. Floreat defender Jesse Fuller said the win against Balcatta maintained their good form, and a clean sheet was equally important. “The game was one we knew would be tough, as Balcatta took two points off us in our previous match,” he said. “We had the intention of pressing them early and it worked on our favour with two first half goals. At times we let them back in on the counter, but 3-0 is probably an accurate reflection on the game.” Fuller’s good form was rewarded with a spot in the WA State squad and he said he’s looking forward to the games against the Glory, the young Socceroos and the Singapore under 20’s. “It was a bit of a good surprise to be honest. I feel like my form had been good this year -- especially early on, playing a new position,” he explained. “It's nice to be recognised by other coaches as well, and the state team is something i haven’t been a part of before so I'm looking forward to it.” Fuller is well aware of the improvement in Subiaco, and is expecting another tough game on Saturday. “Subiaco have been doing well, but we try to just focus on what we need to do as a team,” he said. “If we can do that and start strongly, I'm sure we can come away with another positive result.” In team news for Floreat Phil Arnold is suspended, while Mark Pritchard and Zoran Vrteski will be pushing for a starting role. - Saturday (3.00pm) Floreat Athena v Subiaco – E&D Litis Stadium – Referee Tom Glavovic
Cockburn City hit the road this week, with a trip north to take on ECU Joondalup at the ECU Football Stadium. ECU’s game at Subiaco was postponed last week, but they have struggled in recent weeks and have lost four home games this season and will need to start to turn things around or a top five spot will be out of their reach. Cockburn leapfrogged ECU last week with their win against Mandurah, and keeper Luke Radonich said they should have put the game to bed in the first half and had to hold on late to claim the win. “We definitely made things a lot harder than they had to be against Mandurah, we should have put the game to bed in the first half we created that many chances,” he said. “But saying that the weather didn't help and once Mandurah got there goal we panicked a bit, but we held on and got a much needed three points.” The Cockerels were well beaten by ECU in the first game this season and Radonich said they will be looking to turn that around on Saturday, and with them only being five points off the top five, three points on Saturday will help in their end of season finals push. “It's another big game for us this weekend against ECU, they are really the only team to touch us up this season and dominated us in all aspects in the first round,” he explained. “But we have grown as a team since then so hopefully we put in a good performance and come home with the three points. We have everyone back on the park now, so hopefully we can keep everyone on there for rest of the season and make a big push for top four.” They do go in without the suspended Gian Albano and Cameron Edwards is in doubt, while ECU will still be without Gordon Smith and Tommy Amphlett. - Saturday (3.00pm) ECU Joondalup v Cockburn City – ECU Football Stadium – Referee Josh Mannella
Bayswater City have been quietly closing the gap on the top four, and are only seven points off the leaders, and this week they entertain Balcatta in the Italian derby at the Finance 365 Stadium. Balcatta have plummeted down the table in recent weeks, and haven’t won in their last eight games, which included a 3-0 loss at Floreat on Monday evening, so they need to start gaining points, sooner rather than later. The Black and Blues have only lost once in their last four games and are coming off a hard fought win against Joondalup United last week, and Coach Chris Coyne said he was delighted the way his side fought the game out for 90 plus minutes. “I thought the players were excellent in playing to the end,” he said. “Once we went 1-0 up we really let them back into the game and they deserved their equaliser but once they did score we really tightened the screws and the fact the boys kept the self-belief till the end showed me the desire is still there.” Coyne said Balcatta always lift for this game and their last game was a tight encounter, and he’s expecting Saturday to be no different. “Everyone lifts when they play us it is a known fact around the league they want to beat Bayswater and Balcatta are no different,” he explained. “The mental toughness needed by my players every week to combat this is immense, and I think over time it was lost on a few but we seem to be getting over that and playing with a bit more steel.” In team news Declan Hargreaves is suspended, but they do regain the services of defender David Stokoe, while Balcatta will be without defender Calum O’Connell - Saturday (3.00pm) Bayswater City v Balcatta – Finance 365 Stadium – Referee Adam Fielding
It’s third v fourth at Dorrien Gardens on Saturday afternoon when Perth SC entertains Sorrento. The home side are coming off a loss at Inglewood last week, and will be without Rocco Pizzata who was sent off in the 3-2 loss. Both side are level on points on the table, and there is four point gap to the leaders, so three points will be vital for both sides. Sorrento travelled to Geraldton last week and came home with a win against the Glory, and Coach Jamie Harnwell said they should have but the game to bed in the first half, and he was disappointed they let the Glory back in the game after the break. “It was a long trip, but it was thoroughly enjoyed by all the players, staff and supporters. Unfortunately, in the NPL, we are limited in our opportunities to get all the players away together, so this was a great chance to spend time as a group before a huge month or two ahead,” he explained. “I was really pleased with the application and quality of our play in the first half. Although we went in at 2-0 up, it could easily have been more. The energy and speed of our play was getting back towards our best. Perth Glory to their credit, recovered in the second half and had some decent possession, but one or two chances aside I thought we kept them at arm’s length for most of it and should have scored another couple ourselves.” Harnwell said it’s always a tough trip to Dorrien Gardens, but they haven’t lost their in the regular season for their last four visits. “I think games between ourselves and Perth stretching back over a number of years have all been tough and close fought. Ramon has done a great job in building on last year’s championship success, despite a long term injury to captain, Clark Keltie,” he said. “I think both teams play some really good, attractive football and with both wanting to be at the top of the table come the end of the season it should be a great game.” In team news for Sorrento Shaun Kilkelly played a full game in the under 20’s last week and is in line for a recall, likewise Jackson Dongray, but they will be without Scott Bulloch who is overseas. - Saturday (3.00pm) Perth SC v Sorrento – Dorrien Gardens – Referee David Bruce
In the final game Mandurah City will be looking to jump off the bottom of the table if they can get a win against Armadale at Alfred Skeet Reserve. They will need other results to go their way but they will take confidence from a good second half performance against Cockburn last week, but the damaged had been done in the first half. Armadale have struggled at home, but won for only the second time on home soil last week against Stirling but they made hard work of it, and Coach John O’Reilly said his side showed great resolve to get the win. “I don’t think we made hard work of the game, to think that takes away from the performance that Stirling put in,” he said. “You can win a game with only one goal, and after you have your goal you can be patient and play more conservatively and wait for more opportunities to present and that what happened in the game last week.” O’Reilly knows Mandurah will be desperate for a win, and he said they have some quality in their side, but he said the new signings are gelling well in his side, and he is confident they can get the win. “Yes the squad has a little more depth now with players back from being away and the new signings we have made, but most important is the group are combining well and buying into the targets we have set for the year, individually and collectively,” he explained. “Mandurah are not to be underestimated, a couple of teams have done that this year and Mandurah have taken those opportunities to get themselves into a position to fight to avoid relegation. We will prepare the same way this week regardless of our opposition to give ourselves the best possible chance of performing well and getting a result.” Armadale will be at full strength for the game, while Mandurah will be without the suspended Tom Straker. - Saturday (3.00pm) Armadale v Mandurah City – Alfred Skeet Reserve – Referee Nico Hoyle
7.7.2017
ALL FLAGS STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND THIRTEEN – PREVIEW
We have reached week 13 of the All Flags State League Division One, and the Footballwa – Match of the Week is one of the biggest rivalries in WA football with top of the table Western Knights hosting third placed Dianella White Eagles at Nash Field. The two clubs have played some thrilling encounters over the years, and Saturday will be no different, especially with only six points separating the pair on the table. The Eagles game at home to UWA was postponed last week, while the Knights came from behind to beat Joondalup City, to maintain their three point lead at the top of the table. The last time the clubs met at Nash Field was in round 18 last season, with the Knights running out 3-1 winners. Paul Lloyd gave them the lead early, but Camilo Cardenas levelled. But goals from Adriano Jelenovic and Kevin Ashwood secured all three points for the Knights.
It’s been a frustrating time for the Eagles, having the bye in round 11, and last week’s game postponed, but Dunn said it’s given them a chance for a few players to recover from injury. “The two weeks started off as a good thing as it gave players some much needed rest after our cup and league commitments,” he said. “It’s now worked against us for this game as two of our players suspended are still out after the game being postponed last week.” Dunn, who coached the Knights for a number of seasons, is looking forward to his return, and he hopes to close the gap on the table with a win. “This will be the first time that I have visited Nash Field with an opposing side, I am very fond of the Knights and the people at the club having both played and coached there,” he explained. “I took over as coach at the Knight when they were totally decimated player wise and having been relegated from the first division, With the help of Andy Thorburn and Steve Huxtable we created a very good squad and won the night series and these players form the basis of the current squad which is doing extremely well this year under the expert guidance of Trim Morgan. We had a great win against them at our ground earlier on but since then we have lost many players to long term injury or leaving the country but the players we now have representing Dianella will definitely love the chance to do the double over the side that many are tipping to win the league this year. Whatever the outcome I am sure that it be a great game and continue the high standard of play being dished out by many of the first division sides this year.” In team news Yann Castrec and skipper Bojan Radinovic are suspended for the Eagles.
Trim Morgan’s Knights are on a high at the moment, sitting on top of the table and also into the FFA Cup round of 32 and an away trip to Gold Coast City, and they return home for the first time in six weeks. Morgan said last week’s come from behind win showed the character he has in his side. “It was a game in which the players dominated possession for long periods of time but lacked a little polish. We moved the ball with more pace in the second half and got our reward with two sharp finishes,” he said. “I thought that Joondalup played some good football and were unlucky not to get an equalizer late on when they put us under a lot of pressure.” Morgan is expecting another tough game against their traditional rivals, but he said the players are looking forward to the challenge and with their nearest rivals Forrestfield having the bye, a win will move them six points clear with a win. “We were very lackluster in the first round against an excellent Dianella side who punished us. The club always look forward to this fixture and the great atmosphere that goes with it,” he explained. “The players will be fully focused on their tasks this weekend and have been training hard. It is another must win game if we are going to push for the title.” In team news John Chalmers, David Murphy and Ryan Shackleton are back this weekend and they also have new signing Greg Pellow from Joondalup United, but Brian Patterson will miss due to suspension.
In other games Ashfield will look to bounce back from last week’s heavy loss at Forrestfield when they entertain Canning City at Ashfield Reserve. Canning’s game against Gosnells was called off last week, but they are desperate for three points as they sit four points adrift at the bottom of the table. Ashfield slipped to sixth after last week’s defeat, but they are only three points of third, but they need to tighten up at the back conceding 26 goals in their 11 games this season, they will have to do it without Daniel Corbett who is suspended. Fourth placed Rockingham makes the trip to Walter Padbury Reserve to take on Gosnells City. Rockingham, who will be without Ryan Kennedy due to suspension this weekend, led three times last week but had to settle for a 3-3 drew against the Phoenix last week, but it dropped them seven points off the leaders, while Gosnells game at Canning was postponed, and Alan Dunlop’s side will be looking for the points to move away from the drop zone.
Joondalup City head south with the long trip to Bunbury to take on South West Phoenix at the WML Stadium. The Phoenix fought back to earn a draw at Rockingham last week, but they have struggled in front of goal, scoring only 19 goals, which is the lowest out of the top seven sides in the league, and they have only won once on home soil this season. Joondalup let a half time lead slip last week against league leaders Western Knights, but Coach Gary Kalaher said it was a good performance from his side. “Our disappointment at not getting anything out of last week’s game is a measure of how much we have improved,” he said. “Trim (Morgan) has put together a very strong team with some real quality players and we matched them at times.” Kalaher said although the Phoenix has struggled at home to-date this season, it will be a huge test with an undermanned squad travelling. “Ordinarily that would give us confidence (Phoenix’s home record), going into the game, but we will be testing the depth of our young squad,” he explained. “We travel without the suspended Joe McQuade, the injured Sam Phillips and Tyler Smith, Sam McCracken and Sam Rawlings, while Elliot Rose and Nathan Hibbert both face late fitness tests.
In the final game Fremantle City return from the bye, when they travel to the UWA Sports Complex to take on UWA-Nedlands. The weather won out last weekend, with UWA’s game at Dianella being postponed, and they will be looking to carry on from their win on the road at Joondalup in round 11. Before the bye Fremantle lost back-to-back games, and Coach Steve Plucknett said the bye came at the right time for his side, but he has been pleased with the way the season has gone to date. “Yes the season has gone the way we expected, there are some very good teams in Division one,” he said. “We have been competitive when we have been able to put out a first eleven, but we have been tested over the last few weeks with players out, but no excuses though, as all sides go through this during the season.” Only two points separate the two sides on the table and Plucknett said UWA will be looking to make emends from the defeat the last time they played earlier in the season. “Without doubt UWA will be looking to reverse the result from our first meeting this season,” he said. “If we are to get anything out of the game we will have to get the work rate up for 90 minutes, as anything less just won't do.” In team news for Fremantle, Tom Allen returns in goal. – Forrestfield United have the bye this weekend.
7.7.2017
ALL FLAGS STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND THIRTEEN – PREVIEW
This week’s round 13 Footballwa – Match of the Week – takes us to Francis Street in Middle Swan where firth placed Swan United entertains second placed Morley Windmills. Swan’s game at Kelmscott was lost to the weather last week, while Morley lost for only the second time this season, going down 5-0 at home to Melville City. The last time the two sides meet at the venue Morley came home with a 2-0 win in round 18 last season, with Ben Wantee bagging a brace.
Morley Coach John Castrilli said they had early chances in the game last week, but Melville deserved their win. “Yes last week’s game was disappointing, I thought we did well enough to be well in front at half time but we simply did not take our chances,” he explained. “The second half was a different story as we simply lost our way by trying to chase the game, but Melville played very well on the counter and they were absolutely clinical with their finishing.” Castrilli said it’s a tough trip to take on the Black and Whites, but he said it will be a good challenge for his side to bounce back. “We travel to Swan this week knowing they have also been improving and that it is also a very hard place to play football especially in the wet conditions,” he said. “So we will stay focused and go their well aware of the task ahead. We only have two players not available for selection this week so once again no excuses we just need to get the job done.” In team news for Morley, they will be missing the suspended David Houston.
Swan have been great away from home, but have struggled at Francis Street, but Coach Matt Debarro said the first half of the season has gone to plan. “The season has been good so far, in regards to results the 2 draws have been the difference between us and a top three spot,” he explained. “On a whole we have had a lot of injuries but have stayed in touch and have never, not been a chance to win in any games we’ve lost. Our best football is yet to come and we are starting to get all our injured players back.” Debarro said Morley has been good in the first half of the season, and Saturday will be a chance for him to see where they are at. “We have set our sights on a top four spot this year. The squad is good enough to be there and win promotion but we know we have to play our best each week to be there,” he said. “This is a very tough league and you can't afford to let results get away. We are definitely confident going into the game on Saturday, they were lucky last time when two great individual goals for them plus a late goal we had disallowed to tie it up was all that separated us, we’re looking forward to the challenge.”
League leaders Gwelup Croatia hit the road, with a trip to Princess Road Reserve to take on Balga. It’s a big day for the home side, with the club holding its Life and Past Members Day, and the club are asking for everyone who have been involved with the club in the past to head along to watch the game. Balga have won back-to-back games and are coming off a win at Shamrock Rovers last week, the win moving them up to sixth, and they will be hoping for a big game on Saturday. New Gwelup Coach Paul Dundo got off to a winning start last week, with a big win against Quinns and he said it was a good performance from his side, but some of the gloss was taken off with the broken leg on David Sesay. “It was a great result for the club and was fantastic to see us keep a clean sheet in very wet wild conditions,” he explained. “We took time to settle and find our rhythm, but it was expected with the changes in the starting eleven, but Quinns also made it hard in the first half and the conditions weren’t ideal. The only disappointment for the day was losing David with a broken leg, just after he had scored our second. He will be a huge loss and we wish him a speedy recovery.”
Balga have struggled this season, but Dundo said they have a good side and will be up for a big game after back to back wins. “Balga will be another difficult fixture his weekend, they finished 3rd last year and will want to turn their season around and as you have stated, two straight wins for them will ensure they are going to be up for it,” he said. “For us it’s another opportunity to get another three points and also look to improve in certain areas in which we have worked on through the week at training. There are no easy games when you’re listed as favourites as other sides will always lift against the side sitting at the top of table, so we know it’ll take another 90 minutes of hard work to get the result we want. I am looking forward to the game and another opportunity to watch and enjoy the football ours boys are capable of playing.” In team news Kris Spaseski and Jake Verini are unavailable, and skipper James Sammut and Gavin Knight both very doubtful with injuries, however they do have Noah Shamaki back available for selection. Balga will be without the suspended Dennis Fekovic.
In other games add other games Melville City entertain Curtin University at John O’Connell Reserve. Curtin have dropped off the pace in recent weeks and will be looking for the first win in seven games, and last week their game against Wanneroo City was postponed because of the weather. Melville have gone the other way and are undefeated in their last four games, are coming off their best performance of the season at Morley last week. Quinns and Kingsway Olympic met at the Gumblossom Park, both looking to rebound from last up defeats. Quinns were beaten by Gwelup last week, while Kingsway had the bye, but they were beaten at home by Swan in round 11. Wanneroo City will also be looking to get back in the winners’ circle when they host Shamrock Rovers at Wanneroo Reserve. Bottom of the table Shamrock lost for the first time under new coach Gerry McEwan last week against Balga, and they will be hoping for a positive result on Saturday to close the gap on the rest of the league. Wanneroo’s game at Curtin was postponed last week, but they lost ground on the leaders with a draw at Melville in round 11, but Coach Tim Kantor said it’s been a good first half of the season for Wanneroo.
“It has been a very good first half of the season, and we turn for home with 20 points,” he said. “We've lost our main striker Scott Johnston to Sorrento but Nathan Scully and Dom Elliot have been very handy in the final third, so we are looking forward to the second half of the season.” Kantor knows Shamrock will be desperate for the points and is expecting a tough game. “Gerry’s teams are always difficult to break down and it's always a danger game against a team desperate to avoid the drop,” he said. “We know it’s going to be a very tough game and we will need to be at our best to get a result. In team news, Nathan Scully should return from injury after the week off, while new signing Godfrey Asimwe is pressing for selection. Dom Elliot is not available due to work commitments but other than that we will have a full squad to select from which is a great problem to have.” – Kelmscott Roos have the bye this week.
7.7.2017
CURTIN'S NEW "TURN UP AND PLAY" FORMAT ON SATURDAYS
Curtin University's new in-house program runs Saturday mornings during school terms. It is a simple, friendly ‘turn up and play’ game format, which is perfect for kids who either want to try football (soccer), wish to join in after the regular season started or are football mad and already play/train with Curtin, or other clubs, but want more football! Click here to find out more!
5.7.2017
DRISCOLL SIGNS PRO FOR READING
West Australian goalkeeper Liam Driscoll has signed a one-year professional contract with English Championship club Reading. Driscoll, who played locally for Balcatta, ECU Joondalup, Bayswater City, has been with Reading for the past two years as an apprentice.
After impressing with the Royals’ youth teams, 18-year old Driscoll has been handed a pro deal. “It's been my dream ever since I was a kid to sign a pro deal somewhere,” Driscoll said. “But I've realised that signing a pro is literally the start of my journey, as every year it'll get even more difficult to make it to the first-team.”
Driscoll arrived at Reading in 2015 after trialing initially with Arsenal and Crystal Palace. “It was a real welcoming club when I first came here as all the coaching staff made sure I'd settled in well,” he said. “I've also made some great progress in my game and have achieved stuff that I'd never thought I'd be able to.”
Driscoll wants to test himself with a loan move for senior football this season. “This season ideally for the first half of the season is go out on loan to a Ryman Premier League team and gain experience and also confidence, then hopefully for the second half go to the Conference South,” he said.
3.7.2017
ATHENA EASE PAST BALCATTA TO STAY LEVEL WITH LEADERS
Floreat Athena kept in touch with leaders Inglewood United with a 3-0 win against Balcatta at the E&D Litis Stadium on Monday evening. The game, which was postponed on Saturday at Grindleford Reserve, was switched to Floreat’s home ground under lights, and first half goals from Jon Stynes and Ludovic Boi put them in control. Boi added a second in the final minutes to seal a comprehensive win. “It was good to get the three points, and keep us in touch with Inglewood, but we had to work for it, and the boys worked their soaks off tonight,” Floreat midfielder Zelfy Nazary said. “We’ve worked hard to get the combinations right, and we’re working really well as a unit, and we have a game plan, and we’re taking it on board and the results are coming, and hopefully it continues like this.”
Floreat opened brightly, but struggled in the final third, and it was Balcatta who had the first real chance on nine minutes, Ben Meredith playing in Dejan Andric, but Chris Saldaris got back with a vital challenge. Floreat continued to press and Kris Gate’s shot on the run was well saved by Domenico Savoldelli, before the Balcatta custodian saved well at the feet of Stynes moments later. But on 36 minutes Floreat made the breakthrough, Dean Evans’ low cross was turned home by Stynes from close-range. Then on the stroke of half time Floreat doubled their advantage. Evans’ deep cross picked out Boi at the back post, and he headed into the corner of the net to send them into the break in control.
Balcatta continued to struggle after half time, and Savoldelli had to be alert to punch clear Evans’ cross early, before Balcatta had their best chance of the game on the hour. Anton De Francesch’s ball over the top sent half time substitute Ismael Bangura in on goal, he beat Floreat keeper Jason Saldaris to the ball, but he put the ball wide of the target. After that let off Floreat began to take control again, and Savoldelli saved low from Boi, before substitute Joe Tweats was sent in goal by Nazary, but Tom Pellizari cleared the ball off the line. But in the first minute of stoppage time Floreat added their third, Mark Pritchard’s ball over the top sent Boi in on goal and he finished clinically past Savoldelli to complete a comprehensive win.
Balcatta: GK Domenico SAVOLDELLI, 2 Rudnei NOGUEIRA, 6 Nicolas TATASCIORE, 8 Brennan BORZECKI, 12 Anton DE FRANCESCH, 14 Brody KENNEDY, 15 Carmelo GLUFFRE (C), 16 Marco CHADINHA (23 Ismael BANGURA 46’), 18 Ben MEREDITH, 20 Tom PELLIZARI, 22 Dejan ANDRIC Subs not used: 7 Antoni D’ALESIO, 19 Endalk ACHAMYELEH
Floreat Athena: GK Jason SALDARIS, 3 Clayton ARNEZ (16 Zoran VRTESKI 72’), 4 Andrew SCALDAFERRO, 6 Jesse FULLER, 8 Jon STYNES (33 Mark PRITCHARD 63’), 10 Kris GATE, 12 Jackson MORGAN (20 Joe TWEATS 80’), 13 Zelfy NAZARY, 14 Ludovic BOI, 15 Chris SALDARIS, 17 Dean EVANS (C) - Subs not used: RGK Aidan HOLLOWAY - Referee: Josh Mannella
2.7.2017
EDWARDS EXTENDS STAY AT PARTICK THISTLE
Ryan Edwards has signed a one-year contract extension with Partick Thistle, keeping him at Firhill until mid-2019, and immediately thanked the Scottish club's fans for making him feel welcome. The West Australian midfielder says it was an easy decision to make, with the reception he has been given by the staff at the club another major factor in his decision to prolong his stay.
And he hopes that he can thank the Thistle management, his teammates and the supporters by continuing to produce the fine form on the pitch that he showed during an impressive campaign last season. “The supporters have been great with me here,” Edwards said. “They even created a song for me last season and it gives you a nice little buzz to hear that when they sing it. I love that, the fans are great.”
“Being in Glasgow, everyone supports Celtic or Rangers, so the fans that support Partick Thistle are the true fans, and they really mean a lot to the club and to me. They’ve made my time here even better, and I want to thank them for all the support. It was a really easy decision to sign the new deal. We spoke briefly at the end of the season about it and got it done when we came back. It’s such a great environment so I didn’t have to think about it.
“Last season was a breakthrough season for me really, forcing my way into the team and playing every week. I can’t thank the club enough for that, and it’s a great platform for me to play my football at the moment. Everything is so positive here and the club is moving in the right direction. It has been great for my career being here, and hopefully I can repay everyone by continuing to perform on the field.”
The challenge for Edwards now is to add to his own game and continue his improvement, and he hopes that will continue to be under the guidance of manager Alan Archibald and assistant Scott Paterson. “The manager has been massive for me,” he said. “He gave me my initial contract and I haven’t hesitated to sign a number of extensions since.”
“He has given me confidence to go and play, and it’s absolutely massive for the club that he’s still around. It was a major factor in my decision to extend my deal, and hopefully both he and Scotty stay around. I think it’s inevitable that they will go down south to England at some point, and they deserve to, but hopefully it isn’t for a few years yet.”
“There are things I want to improve in my game, and I hope they are the ones to oversee that. I’ve got to a level now where I really want to focus on things like my composure in the final third, and trying to put that last little bit into my game. I want to really increase my assists and goals.”
“I hope that I can one day in the future get back to play in England again if I show my best form here. I’m obviously in no rush to leave Thistle, but I’ve had a taste of it with Reading and I’d like to go back down there in the long run and prove I can play at that level.”
1.7.2017
SALMON AT THE DOUBLE FOR LEAGUE LEADERS
Inglewood United moved three points clear at the top of the table after a 3-2 win against Perth SC in the top of the table clash at the Perth Plasterboard Centre Stadium on a wet and windy Saturday afternoon. Alex Salmon bagged his 21st and 22nd goals of the season either side of half time, before Gustavo Catarcione pulled one back for the visitors just after the hour. Jordan Youth international Hamza Hina wrapped up the points 19 minutes from time, while Niccolo Sabatini late penalty gave Perth a late consolation goal.
“It was a big win for us, and I thought we made hard work of it by conceding two poor goals but we got what we deserved and that has been the case for weeks now we've worked hard and took our chances we are on a great run,” Salmon said. “We know what it has taken to be top of the league and nothing will change in the remaining games.”
Both sides were level on the table at kick off, but it was the home side out of the blocks early and Chok Dau brought a good save from Francis Soale early, but their early dominance was rewarded with the lead on 20 minutes, Salmon curling home a free kick into the bottom corner after Brian Woodall was brought down on the edge of the box. Salmon was in again moments later, but a last ditch tackle from Hayley Orr cleared the danger. Perth hit back late in the half and Catarcione fired wide of the far post after being played in by Aleks Jovic, before Orr forced Alex Dunn into a smart save from his long-range shot.
The game took a massive twist four minutes into the second half when Rocco Pizzata was sent off after bringing down Hina in the box, and referee Adam Fielding awarded the penalty and showed the defender a second yellow card. Salmon stepped up to take the resulting penalty, and despite Soale going the right way the striker found the corner of the net. Both sides had chances as the game opened up, Woodall and Salmon went close for the home side, while Jovic and Orr fired wide for Perth. Dunn then produced a stunning save to deny Paul Zimarino volley from the edge of the box, as Perth lifted.
Perth did reduce the deficit on 67 minutes, Catarcione was sent clear by a defence splitting pass and he slid the ball past the advancing Dunn. It was game on, but their resurgence only lasted four minutes, before Inglewood bagged a third. Salmon was the provider this time, crossing to Hina, who brought the ball down well and finished with aplomb past Soale. It looked game over but Perth were back in it again two minutes from time, when John Migas was deemed to have brought down Catarcione, and Sabatini scored from the spot to set up a thrilling finale.
Both sides went close, Salmon beat Soale, but the post came to the Perth custodian’s rescue, before Dunn produced good saves to deny Catarcione, but at the final whistle it was Inglewood celebrating the three points, and continue their long unbeaten run. “I’m happy with our performance because we created plenty of chances, but just made silly mistakes which they capitalised on,” Perth coach Ramon Falzon told the NPL website. “It’s a tough one to take as the boys worked hard and played well enough in the second half to deserve something from the game.”
Inglewood United - GK Alex DUNN, 3 David CYRUS, 5 Adam TONG (4 Scott BLACKMORE 53’), 8 Jason BARRERA (15 Brian FARRELL 82’), 9 Alex SALMON, 11 John MIGAS, 16 Matthew NTOUMENOPOULOS, 17 Hamza HINA, 18 Jason COLLI, 19 Choc DAU, 23 Brian WOODALL (10 Ashley ROSINDALE 70’) – Subs not Used: RGK Riley STEPHENSON, 2 Alex ISHIDA-LIVINGS, 15 Brian FARRELL
Perth SC - GK Francis SOALE, 2 Alex SILLA (21 Paul ZIMARINO 52’) , 5 Niccolo SABATINI, 7 Aleks JOVIC, 8 Tom KING, 9 Gustavo CATARCIONE, 12 Jordan DE LEO, 13 Rocco PIZZATA, 15 Harley ORR, 17 Frank FURFARO, 18 Lewis MILNE – Subs not Used: RGK Daniel PASSARELLI, 16 Kieran COLWELL, 19 Roberto DEL BORRELLO, 20 Elliot TATTERSAL - Red Cards: Pizzata 49’ - Referee: Adam Fielding
1.7.2017
MARULANDA LATE BRACE SEALS BAYSWATER WIN
Bayswater City kept in touch of the leaders in the PS4 NPLWA after a 3-1 win against Joondalup United at the Finance 365 Stadium on Saturday afternoon. They left it late to secure all three points, this after Borbor Sam had given them the lead late in the first half and Arran Maplestone had levelled on the hour for the visitors, but a brace from second half substitute Gustavo Giron-Marulanda in stoppage time claimed all three points. “I’m delighted with the result, but the performance in the second half was poor,” Bayswater City Coach Chris Coyne told the NPL website. “In the end, no one really cares about how you play, it’s all about the result.”
Joondalup United coach Neil Jennings was extremely disappointed and thought they deserved something from the game. “I’m absolutely gutted,” he told the NPL website. “Performance wise, I couldn’t have asked any more from the boys. We switched off for a second and it cost us the game, but I thought we were the better team today.” Bayswater dominated the start of the game and midfielder Andrija Jukic missing the best chances to put his side ahead, but just before the break the home side hit the front. Sam turned his marker on the edge of the penalty area, and his shot beat James Bosdet, who did get a hand to it but couldn’t stop from going in.
The second half was more of the same with Bayswater on the front foot and Joondalup defended in numbers, but the visitors were also dangerous on the counter attack, and they began to get into the game and they levelled on 66 minutes, when referee Michael Jasinski awarded a penalty, and Maplestone made no mistake from spot kick, giving Devon Spence no chance.
It looked like Joondalup had earned a point, but Coyne’s side had other ideas, and in the second minute of stoppage time they regained the lead. Marulanda tapping in from close-range after he lost his marker and fired home a low cross. Joondalup throw everything forward late looking for the equaliser, including keeper Bosdet for a late corner, but Bayswater cleared and Marulanda raced clear and rolled the ball into an empty net to win it.
Bayswater City – GK Devon SPENCE, 2 Declan HARGREAVES, 6 Todd HOWARTH, 8 Paul MCCARTHY, 11 Devon GIBSON, 13 Trent KAY, 17 Borbor SAM, 19 Luka NINKOVIC, 20 Sam MITCHINSON, 21 David HEAGNEY (9 Gustavo Giron-MARULANDA 63’), 23 Andrija JUKIC (10 Jason MICRO 67’) – Subs not used: RGK Dejan ALEKSIC, 15 Jason POKLER, 18 Brent GRIFFITHS
Joondalup United – GK James BOSDET, 4 Arran MAPLESTONE, 7 Matthew SPARROW, 8 Josh WHITMORE, 9 Richard HOWLES, 10 Alex WILD, 13 Chris PUGH, 16 Ross EDWARDS (5 Joe STOCKER 77’), 17 Luke SERRA (11 Josh BOOYSEN 83’), 18 Anthony TAYLOR, 23 Jay MARSDEN – Subs not used: RGK Jack NUNN, 2 Joel LEDSHAM, 6 Guy MCDONALD - Referee: Michal Jasinski
1.7.2017
QUINNCROFT HELPS TAME THE LIONS
A brace from striker Billy Quinncroft has helped Armadale to only their second win at Alfred Skeet Reserve this season, after a 2-0 win against Stirling Lions in Week 19 of the PS4 NPLWA. Quinncroft scored both goals in the last fifteen minutes of the match, and the three points took them 11 points clear of the drop zone. “Great win for the boys, it has us pushing further up the table,” Quinncroft said. “We have been playing good football the last couple of weeks, but switched off for a couple of minutes which cost us all of the three points. On Saturday we didn't take the foot off the pedal and saw the game out for the full 90 minutes.”
First goal was build up play switched out to the right wing, which then was set back for pavett to whip the ball in for me to head home.. Second goal came from our clearance.. the defender was running back to goal chasing the ball with me behind him and I tackled him just over the half way line and saw the keeper off his line then I hit it powerfully first time which saw the ball end up in the top corner.
It was a wet day and the pitch was difficult to play passing football but both sides put on a good show in the first half for the spectators. The home side went close to the lead on the half hour, with Quinncroft cutting in from the flank, but his curling shot was well saved by Lions custodian John Perkins. Further clear cut chances were few and far between, but on the stroke of half time the visitors went close to the opener. Daniel Micevski was brought down on the edge of the penalty area, and Cameron Teece’s set piece deflected off the wall, falling kindly to Shane Cassidy, but Armadale keeper Michael Craggs was alert to save.
The Lions went close again early in the second half, after Alex Tanevski was sent in on goal, but the former Perth Glory youth striker couldn’t beat Craggs, who stood tall to save. But on 75 minutes it was the home side that broke the deadlock. Substitute Jordan Pavett found space and crossed to Quinncroft, whose glancing header beat Perkins. The Lions pressed for the equaliser and five minutes from time Miki Vujacic played in Teece, who went in on goal, but his shot flashed inches wide of the target.
But with the Lions pushing men forward looking for the equaliser they were caught out at the back and the home side sealed the points in stoppage-time, with Quinncroft’s clever lob catching Perkins off his line much to the delight of the Army faithful. “It was always going to be a tough game today in the wet conditions,” Stirling coach Rob Milevski told the NPL website. “But at the end of the day Armadale took their chances and unfortunately we didn’t. There were a lot of positives for us in this game, but we just need to focus on finishing during the week and hopefully we can bounce back next week against Glory.”
Armadale - GK Michael CRAGGS, 3 Jake SARDELIC, 4 Nathan COSTELLO (C), 7 Charlie KENNA, 9 Kyle KING (12 Joshua TOMOE 59’), 14 David ANNALL, 16 Billy QUINNCROFT, 17 James ATKINS (8 Jordan PAVETT 68’), 19 Beau RAHIM, 20 Ali GHOLAMI, 25 Anthony SKORICH – Subs not used: RGK Alec RADONICH, 2 Dylan WHITE, 18 Milan OGNJENOCIV,
Stirling Lions - GK John PERKINS, 2 Michael PUGLIESE, 5 Nicholas ASHLEY, 6 Robbie MCNEILL, 7 Miki VUJACIC (3 Zane CASELLA 90’), 9 Alex TANEVSKI (12 Jason RUBIDGE 68’), 10 Daniel MICEVSKI, 15 Shane CASSIDY, 16 Mathaing MATHIANG, 17 Daniel O’RIORDAN, 19 Cameron TEECE – Subs not used: RGK Lance ALAVAKIS, 8 Alex SULESKI, 13 Debaba MTWALE - Referee: Tom Glavovic
1.7.2017
GULLS FLY HOME FROM GERALDTON WITH THE POINTS
Sorrento kept on the heels of the league leaders after a 2-0 win against Perth Glory at Wonthella Oval in Geraldton. The game, which was part of the Geraldton Football Festival, was hard fought in wet and windy conditions, but first half goals from Reece Vittiglia and Sean Canham gave the Gulls the points. The Glory responded after the break and created a number of chances, but they couldn’t find a way past a tight Sorrento defence.
“It was an important result for us to keep pace with the top four. I thought we played with good intensity particularly in the first half creating lots of chances,” Sorrento midfielder Brodie Martin said. “But credit to Glory they came out strong in the second half but we remained compact and defended well.”
Sorrento began the game well, and had the Glory youngsters on the back foot, with Kyle McDonald making a couple of important saves early. The Gulls were dominating and Vittiglia’s header crashed off the crossbar, but luck was on the Glory’s side, and Kyle McDonald had to be alert again to save Ryan Pearson’s header on the half hour.
But five minutes later the Gulls pressure was rewarded with the lead. Brad McDonald fed Pearson down the flank, and he cut inside the box and crossed to Vittiglia who headed home. Then two minutes before halftime the Gulls doubled their advantage, Canham was quickest to react in a goalmouth scramble and he fired home into the top corner, to send the Gulls into the break in full control.
Whatever Glory Coach John Gibson said at the break worked, as the Glory looked sharper and had Sorrento on the back foot. They went close ten minutes in, when a quick counter attack ended with Callum Timmins, who slipped Daniel Stynes in one-on-one with James Morgan, but the Sorrento custodian produced a great save to deny the Glory skipper.
Moments later Stynes was in again, this time he raced down the flank, and his shot flashed inches wide of the target. Both sides created and wasted good chances as the rain set in, but it was the Glory looking the most likely to score. They continued to take the game to Sorrento, and had a final chance to get back into the game when a deep cross was headed back across goal by Stynes, but Michael Domfeh blazed over from close-range.
Sorrento – GK James MORGAN, 2 Jacob SHORE, 8 Ryan PEARSON, 9 Sean CANHAM, 13 Steve MCDONALD (C),14 Scott WITSCHGE, 15 Brodie MARTIN, 17 Reece VITTIGLIA, 18 Jordan BROWN, 20 Brad MCDONALD, 21 Sam BYLES – Subs not used: RGK Anthony SALPLETRO, 6 Daryl PLATTEN, 11 Tim HIL, 12 Joshua TUCKER
Perth Glory – GK Kyle MCDONALD, 2 Joseph MARINO, 3 Luca BODNAR, 5 Walter SCOTT, 6 Jack LEECH, 7 Bayley BROWN-MONTGOMERY, 8 Callum TIMMINS, 9 Gomo DUKULY, 10 Daniel STYNES (C), 11 Yacoub MUSTAFA, 16 Cameron MURRAY – Subs not used: RGK Cealan MILLER, 12 Michael MCDOUGALL, 13 Michael DOMFEH, 14 Harry QUIGLEY, 15 Ash JAYAKUMAR - Referee: Steven Gregory
1.7.2017
COCKERELS BACK IN THE WINNERS CIRCLE
Cockburn City won for the first time in four weeks after they edged out a fast finishing Mandurah City 2-1 at Dalmatinac Park. The home side led 2-0 at the break with goals from Blake Adams and Gian Albano on target, but Mandurah skipper Andy Brown pulled on back on the hour, and they had chances to take something from the game, but it was Cockburn celebrating the three points at the final whistle. “I thought we completely dominated in the 1st half and should have been more than 2-0 up, but after half time Doug changed some personnel for Mandurah and they made life difficult for us after the break,” Cockburn City defender Kieron Stallard said. “They scored a very good goal through Andy brown and could have equalised but our keeper Luke pulled off a great save from a deflected free kick. In saying that we hit the woodwork three times and missed a couple of one on one’s in the second half so probably should have won by more than one goal. It was a good win in tough conditions and at this stage of the season all that matters is the three points so we are happy to get them leading into this week’s game against ECU Joondalup.”
The Dolphins arrived on the back of a big loss last week at home against Inglewood, and they held firm early, and both sides defended well, but on 25 minutes the home side hit the front. A poor back pass was pounced on by Adams, who raced in on goal, his first effort was saved by Cyril Sharrock, but Adams fired home the rebound. The home side doubled their advantage four minutes later, when referee David Bruce spotted handball in the box by Tom Straker, and Albano stepped up to score from the resulting penalty.
Cockburn continued to dictate terms after the break and the woodwork came to Mandurah’s rescue early, Albano effort crashed off the post, and moments later Reuben Tristao did likewise, as the Cockerels looked to but the game to bed. But Mandurah were still in it and they started to put pressure on Cockburn and pulled on back on the hour. Joe O’Brien cut the ball back to Brown, who finished clinically from the edge of the penalty area.
It was game on and Mandurah pressed looking for the equaliser and it almost came, when Jeff Bright’s free kick took a deflection off the wall, but a stunning reaction save from Luke Radonich denied him Mandurah dominated late and created some good chances, but it was in vain and it was Cockburn taking the points, to maintain their top five hopes, while Mandurah still stay ? points adrift at the bottom of the table. “The Coaching staff were delighted with second half performance, but really disappointed with result obviously with no points,” Mandurah Coach Doug Hesketh said. “I was a great reaction to a difficult situation at half time I thought we were very good second half.”
Cockburn City - GK Luke RADONICH, 4 Euen GRANT (C), 5 Kieron STALLARD, 6 Reuben TRISTAO, 7 Calvin WHITNEY, 9 Gian ALBANO, 10 David ARAYA (2 Josh KUSER 87’) 13 Blake ADAMS, 15 Daniel SANTICH, 16 Daniel ROBINSON, 17 Jesse LAZZARO (11 Harry O’BRIEN 61’) – Subs not used: RGK Ryan BARKER, 3 Daniel DOLS
Mandurah City - GK Cyril SHARROCK, 2 Oliver MCGEE, 3 Jeff BRIGHT, 4 Matt STARES (16 Shane BOYLE 46’) 5 Tom STRAKER (14 Slade RULE 71’), 6 Mitchell FIRTH, 7 Lance LOUVIE, 8 Andy BROWN (C), 9 Sean TROUP, 10 Jordan RHODES (12 Joe O’BRIEN 46’), 11 Ryan FRANCIS – Subs not used: RGK Lewis MANNING, 15 Kevin CASTLE - Referee: David Bruce
1.7.2017
ALL FLAGS STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE, ROUND TWELVE – REVIEW
Western Knights maintained their lead at the top of the All Flags State League Division One table after a come from behind 2-1 win against Joondalup City at the Iluka Sports Complex on Saturday afternoon. Trim Morgan’s side were three points clear at kick off but they found themselves behind at half time, when Joe McQuade bent his free kick around the wall from long-range. The Knights hit back and were level five minutes after the break, Josh Cortez beat his marker and crossed to Brian Patterson who made no mistake. The Knights won it on the hour, when Adriano Jelenovic eased past the Joondalup defender and found Kevin Ashwood, who finished well. “It was a really hard game to play, because the ground was so slippery and after u18 and reserve games wasn't in good condition so it was really hard to play and control the ball,” Jelenovic said. “They played the long balls and try to get in behind our defenders, but it wasn’t a game with many chances, but we took our two chances what we had and won the game.”
Forrestfield United kept the pressure on the leaders with an emphatic 6-0 win against Ashfield at Hartfield Park on Saturday evening. The home side made a perfect start and were ahead on three minutes. Rhys Loxley played Ben Rogers in at the near post, and the striker poked the ball home off an Ashfield defender. It was 2-0 on 17 minutes, Mark Barnett’s ball over the top sent Rogers in on goal, but confusion between keeper and defender saw the Ashfield defender head into his own net. It was 3-0 three minutes later, Liam Merigan was sent clear and he was brought down by Brad Eiffe, and referee Julian Serra pointed straight to the spot. Sani Sinclair stepped up and converted the resulting penalty. It was one-way traffic and it was 4-0 on the half hour Rogers laying the ball off to Loxley who finished clinically past Effie. The home side added a fifth before half time, a defence splitting pass from Mitch Crocker sent Loxley clear and he finished with aplomb.
The fog was rolling in after half time, but it couldn’t stop Forrestfield adding a sixth on the hour, Rogers found space in the penalty area and finished superbly into the top corner of the net. It could have been six but Eiffe saved Loxley’s late penalty to deny him a hat-trick, but it was a comprehensive win for Rod Banjac’s side. “The game against Ashfield was always going to be tough, but the boys were up to the task and dominated throughout the match,” Banjac said. “We at Forrestfield have different objectives to most clubs as winning is a very distant second to quality football, after all we are in the business of entertainment, and it's pleasing that we achieved both in front of a big vocal crowd. The performance is a fantastic advertisement for our academy, the style of football we have adopted and the three points are a just reward for an excellent display by our most senior team. We have set very high standards for ourselves and although we have a long way to go, it is now clear that we are improving after each performance. We now have a well-deserved one weeks break, with the bye, but the aim is already firmly focused on the next match.”
The weather won out in games between Dianella White Eagles and UWA-Nedlands at Dianella Reserve and the local derby between Canning City and Gosnells City at Burrendah Reserve, the games will be rescheduled at a later date. In the other game that went ahead on a wet Saturday afternoon was a six goal thriller with South West Phoenix come from behind three times to draw 3-3 with Rockingham city at the Lark Hill Sportsplex. The home side went into the break with the lead, after Jason Pottier sending Oriol Fernandez in one-on-one with the Phoenix keeper, and he finished low. But the visitors levelled just after half time, James McCleary scoring. But Rocky hit back and Liam Hurst headed home Ryan Kenndey’s cross. But again the Phoenix hit back with Jayden Prosser scoring, but Rockingham regained the lead with Lydon Hodgkiss heading home another Kennedy cross. But the Phoenix rescued a point with Prosser adding his second to seal a thrilling 3-3 draw. “Disappointing to score three and hold the lead three times but still not win the game,” Rockingham Coach Rob Crerar said. “But credit to the players, they dug in and showed a lot of character against a tough opponent.” – Fremantle City had the bye this round.
1.7.2017
ALL FLAGS STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO, ROUND TWELVE – REVIEW
There was a massive upset in the All Flags State League Division Two, with leaders Morley Windmills being thrashed 5-0 by Melville City at Wotton Reserve. The home side held a two point lead at the top of the table at the half way mark of the season, and had a 100% record on home soil. But Melville arrived on a three game run without defeat, and they were ahead at the break. Friday Zico scoring a stunner from long-range on his debut for the club on the half hour. Melville doubled their lead with Zico bagging another one after the break and completed his hat-trick from the penalty spot moments later after Christian Long was brought down. The points were wrapped up with Long added a brace on swift counter attacks late, and Coach Gavin Brown was delighted with the performance. “It was a real team performance, everyone played well which is really pleasing,” he said. “In fairness, Morley was good first 20 minutes, and could have scored a couple, but we were excellent from then on - probably the best performance of my three years in charge. Grant Mowatt, Christian Long and Friday Zico were all superb.”
Gwelup Croatia leapfrogged Morley after a 5-0 win against Quinns FC at Wishart Street. It was the first game in charge for new Gwelup Coach Paul Dundo, and former Quinns Captain Danny Cain made his debut for the club. It was a tight first half, but the home side hit the front on the stroke of half-time, David Sesay swept in at the back post from Teeboy Kamara's right-wing cross to send Gwelup in at the break with the lead. Sesay doubled their lead four minutes into the second half, tapping home Gavin Knight's downward header. The game was halted for 35 minutes after Sesay was taken away in an ambulance for a suspected broken leg, and everyone at Footballwa wishes him all the best on his recovery. But Gwelup rallied and Kamara made the points safe late on, with Knight and Jake Verini smashing home goals from close range in stoppage time to give them a big win and celebrate Dundo’s first game in style.
The weather caused the postponement of games between Kelmscott Roos and Swan United at Frye Park, and Curtin University and Wanneroo at Edinburgh Oval, but in the final game Balga made it back-to-back wins for the first time this season with a 2-1 win against Shamrock Rovers at Harold Rossiter Reserve. It was an even first half, with both sides having some chances, but it was scoreless at the break. The visitors started the second half brightly, but it was Shamrock that took the lead on the hour. A cross saw Balga keeper Robert Klenkoski grab the ball, however it appeared to be dislodged from him by a challenge from a Shamrock player, the ball falling to Dean Leaper who blasted into the net. But Balga hit back and levelled ten minutes later, a through ball by Alen Patarov, found Curtis Wreglesworth whose shot was blocked by Shamrock keeper Justin Scarvaci, but the rebound fell to Liam Hunt, who made no mistake. Balga looked for the winner and it came ten minutes from time. A free kick from Patarov found Milos Dubroja, who headed home from a tight angle. Shamrock pressed late, and they threw everything at the Balga defence in the last ten minutes, but they couldn't find the equaliser. – Kingsway Olympic had the bye this round.
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