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31.12.2024
GLORY UNDER SCRUTINY AFTER AMINI AXING
Perth Glory announced over the weekend that former skipper Mustafa Amini had his contract terminated by the club, and was shown the door, but that hasn’t gone down well with the former Socceroos midfielder and the Professional Footballers Australia (PFA), who have confirmed he is to challenge Glory’s unilateral termination of his playing contract on the basis that it was unlawful and in contravention of the playing agreement and the rules and policies which govern the employment relationship.
It's another problem the club don’t need at the moment, and upon initiating judicial proceedings against the Club, Amini’s contract will remain on foot until a final determination is made. PFA Chief Executive Beau Busch said it’s a tough time for the player. “Mustafa is hugely respected by his peers across the league, and we will ensure he is fully supported during this difficult time for him and his young family,” he said.
“Whilst we are confident of a successful resolution for Mustafa, recent seasons have seen a rise in several clubs attempting to deploy abusive practices aimed at forcing players to waive their contractual rights. In the absence of an effective A-Leagues governance model that ensures uniform club compliance with the Collective Bargaining Agreement, the PFA will consider alternative responses to ensure the players’ rights are respected across the league.”
It could turn out to be a minefield for Glory, and among the alternative responses the PFA could consider are workplace inspections, Fair Work Commission compliancy and legal action through the FA National Dispute Resolution Chamber or the courts. The West Australian tried to contact the club over the matter, but they said they would not be issuing any further comment on the matter, and declined to comment again when contacted on Monday.
It’s been a nightmare for Amini, battling injuries in the off-season, and the club were initially eager to work and assist him — however, the relationship has soured in recent months, with the midfielder stood down and left feeling isolated. The West Australian understands the Glory were willing to work with Amini to seek an amicable solution for both parties and reach a settlement. If the player does accept any pay-out of his contract from the club, it would have meant he would have been left without a club, as he sought to continue his rehabilitation.
The football family were shocked when the PFA’s 2023-24 A-League Men’s report found 11 per cent of players felt unsafe in their club environment at some point last season, and 20 per cent said they or a team-mate were unwilling to discuss issues with coaching staff due to fear of intimidation or retribution. The report also found seven per cent of players reported instances of players being forced to train alone at their clubs, which is pretty poor in today’s game. But money might be the root cause of the problem, as when Amini was brought in on a three-year deal in 2022, he was as believed to be among the highest earners at the club.
New owner Ross Pelligra looks to be tightening the budget, with a number of players leaving the club recently, as he looks to bolster the struggling side, who sit second bottom of the Isuzu Ute A-League ladder. Amini was surplus to requirements, the 31-year-old has made just 36 A-League appearances in two-and-a-half seasons, and he spent the off-season recovering from knee surgery and coach David Zdrilic said Amini had not participated in full-squad training during his tenure, which began in July.
28.12.2024
AMINI SHOWN THE DOOR AT GLORY
Former Perth Glory skipper Mustafa Amini has been shown the door by the club, with the ex-Socceroo midfielder having his contract terminated by the club. It was a surprise move by the Glory, this after South American pair Luis Canga and Cristian Caicedo departed the club over the past fortnight by mutual termination of their contracts, but this one is different, with the club stating they would not be issuing any further comment on the matter.
The 31-year-old made 36 A-League appearances after joining the club in 2022 on a three-year deal from Sydney FC. He started at Central Coast Mariners in 2010, before a dream move to German giants Borussia Dortmund. Things didn’t workout in the Germany and he moved to Denmark, with spells at Randers FC and AGF. He made eight Socceroo appearances, his first starting appearance was at Stadium Australia in a friendly match against Lebanon in November 2018.
The midfielder was made captain for the 2022 season by former coach Ruben Zadkovich, but his time at the club has been plagued by injuries, and he didn’t play at all this season. He missed most of last pre-season with a back problem, but he had surgery in this off-season, but suffered a recurrence of a knee issue which provided a fresh set-back over the past few months.
The rumour mill has been working overtime about his absence from the side and even training with the first team squad, especially when head coach David Zdrilic revealed a few weeks ago Amini had not taken part in a session since his arrival. It a position the club are struggling with at the moment with Taras Gomulka and Brandon O’Neill also struggling with injury, and the absence of O’Neill from the game on Friday against Macarthur has also had the tongues wagging about his future at the club.
Zdrilic and Director of Football Stan Lazaridis have been vocal about the need to strengthen in the January transfer window as they find themselves second-last in the league. The talk is that Luke Bodnar and Kaelan Majekodunmi could have played their last games for the club, while Anas Hamzaoui Zach Lisolajski, O’Neill and Jarrod Carluccio look on the outer, so there are big changers on the way, watch this space.
27.12.2024
BULLS CONTINUES GLORY’S HOME PAIN
Perth Glory’s poor home form has continued, losing their fourth game of the season, and their record is now defeats in all games on home soil, and not scoring a goal. The latest saw them beaten 0-3 by Macarthur FC at HBF Park on Friday evening, in week ten of the Isuzu Ute A-League, and if the result was bad enough an injury to David Williams on 13 minutes saw the veteran striker stretchered off with a knee injury. A first half brace from Jed Drew set the win up for former Glory midfielder Mile Sterjovski’s side, before Ariath Piol added a third to steer the visitors to the win and move them to fourth on the ladder.
Head Coach David Zdrilic welcomed back skipper Adam Taggart to the starting line up from the side that secured the clubs first win of the season in Brisbane last week, he came in for Adam Bugarija who dropped to the bench. The other change saw Khoa Ngo replacing Abdul Faisal, who also dropped to the bench, while Brannan O’Neill was still missing after concussion in the loss to the Jets in round eight.
The hosts were on the front foot early, with Bulls keeper Filip Kurto saving Taggart’s snap shot on four minutes. The skipper was in again eight minutes later, this time he pulled his shot wide from the angle. But Glory was dealt a blow moments later, with Williams was forced off with what looked like a serious knee injury and was replaced by Bugarija. If that wasn’t bad enough, 14 minutes later the visitors found the opener, Marin Jakolis’ ball over the top caught Glory out, and Drew raced into goal and finished calmly past Cameron Cook.
It was 2-0 five minutes later, Glory failed to clear the ball on the edge of the box, and Kealey Adamson wanted the ball more and forced it into the path of Drew whose shot on the turn beat Cook. Glory needed a lift and Nicholas Pennington tried his luck from distance, but failed to keep his shot down, then in stoppage time the home fans thought they had reduced the margin. Trent Ostler made space down the right, his cross picked out Taggart who finished clinically, but the assistant’s flag was up for offside, and VAR agreed with him.
Pennington went close again early in the second half, but he couldn’t beat Kurto, but the Bulls looked dangerous going forward and some great defending from Riley Warland prevented Valerie Germain from side-footing home. But Glory again struggled in the final third, with Taggart isolated, the best chances continued to fall to the visitors, and on 73 minutes they added a third. Bugarija was caught in possession in the middle of the park and was made to pay.
Jakolis through ball sent substitute Piol in on goal and he finished with aplomb past Cook. It could have been worse late with substitute Yianni Nicolaou seeing his long-range striker hit the woodwork, but at the final whistle it was another defeat for Zdrilic’s side and if the Roar win against Western United on Sunday the Glory will again sit bottom of the table.
Perth Glory: GK Cameron COOK, 2 Riley WARLAND (15 Zach LISOLAJSKI 65'), 7 Nicholas PENNINGTON, 9 David WILLIAMS (16 Adam BUGARIJA 16') (17 Jarrod CARLUCCIO 85'), 12 Taras GOMULKA, 19 Josh RISDON, 20 Trent OSTLER (14 Nathanael BLAIR 85'), 22 Adam TAGGART, 24 Andriano LEBIB, 26 Khoa NGO (21 Abdul FAISAL 46'), 29 Tomi MRCELA - Subs not used: GK Oli SAIL, 27 Will FRENEY -
Macarthur FC: GK Filip KURTO, 5 Matthew JURMAN, 8 Jake HOLLMAN (19 Ariath PIOL 66'), 11 Jed DREW (24 Dean BOSNJAK 67'), 16 Oliver JONES, 18 Walter SCOTT, 20 Kealey ADAMSON (33 Yianni NICOLAOU 77'), 22 Liam ROSE (23 Frans DELI 61'), 26 Luke BRATTAN, 44 Marin JAKOLIS (21 BERNARDO 77'), 98 Valere GERMAIN - Subs not used: RGK Alexander ROBINSON, 27 Joshua DAMEVSKI - Attendance: 6,258 - Referee: Jack Morgan
27.12.2024
MARINERS LATE GOAL SINKS GLORY
Perth Glory have conceded late to go down 0-1 to the Central Coast Mariners, in the first part of the club’s double-header at HBF Park in Friday’s week eight Ninja A-League clash. Glory had their chances, but failed to take them, the visitors taking home the points, thanks to English striker Jade Pennock’s goal five minutes from time after a mix up at the back. The loss saw Glory slip to eighth on the table, while the Mariners move up to fifth.
Peters made three changers to the side that drew 1-1 against Western Sydney Wanderers last week with co-captain Izzy Dalton retuning after injury in place of the injured Kelli Brown, Tanika Lala came in for Ella Abdul Massih, while Natalie Tathem replaced Tijan McKenna. It was a lively opening from the hosts and former Glory ‘keeper Sarah Langman saved well to deny Dalton’s long-range shot on 14 minutes.
Then four minutes later Georgia Cassidy’s corner was headed inches over the top by Naomi Chinnama. The Mariners hit back and Casey Dumont, who joined the Glory from the Mariners this season, saved Pennock’s shot. Glory thought they had a penalty six minutes from the break, with Grace Johnston going down under a challenge, but referee Rebecca Durcau was well placed to wave away their protests, and at the break it was all to play for.
Glory was on the front foot early in the second half, Gabby Hollar went close three minutes in. The American striker received the ball in the right channel, she held off her marker, and her shot was heading for the top corner of the net, but Langman produced a smart save to deny her. Moments later Lala was sent clear, but Langman raced out of the area, enough to see the young striker fire wide, the Mariners custodian lucky to get the challenge right, as any contact would have seen a red card.
Mariners started to look threatening late in the game and Pennock wasted a great opportunity on 76 minutes, the Birmingham City loanee was sent clear by Brooke Nunn, but she failed to test Dumont. But five minutes from time it was the Mariners who were handed the winner. There was little danger from a long ball over the top by Tiana Fuller, but miscommunication between Chinnama and Dumont saw the Glory defender push the ball past the keeper and Pennock rolled the ball into an empty net.
Glory pressed late for an equaliser, like they did last week, and they and the crowd were convinced they had a penalty in the second minute of stoppage time when a blatant push by Taylor Ray on substitute Miku Sunaga, but once again the referee waved away their protests. But looking at the replays, I think she got that one wrong, but at the final whistle it was the Mariners leaving with all three points.
Perth Glory: GK Casey DUMONT, 5 Grace JOHNSTON, 7 Megan WYNNE, 8 Georgia CASSIDY, 9 Gabby HOLLAR (18 Isabella FOLETTA 69'), 11 Natalie TATHEM, 13 Naomi CHINNAMA, 23 Izzy DALTON (14 Miku SUNAGA 46'), 26 Tanika LALA (17 Morgan ROBERTS 78'), 27 Charli WAINWRIGHT (22 Ischia BROOKING 78'), 29 Onyinyechi ZOGG - Subs not used: RGK Miranda TEMPLEMAN
Central Coast Mariners: GK Sarah LANGMAN, 3 Ash IRWIN (16 Tess QUILLIGAN 39'), 4 Jessika NASH, 5 Annabel MARTIN (13 Sarah ROWE 78'), 7 Jade PENNOCK, 8 Bianca GALIC, 10 Taylor RAY. 11 Annalise RASMUSSEN (12 Tiana FULLER 64'), 19 Leia PUXTY, 21 Brooke NUNN, 22 Peta TRIMIS (24 Shay EVANS 64') - Subs not used: RGK Chloe CARMICHAEL – Referee: Rebecca Durcau
27.12.2024
ZDRILIC LOOKS FOR DEBUT HOME WIN
After last week’s first win of the Isuzu Ute A-League season in Brisbane, Perth Glory will look to build on the 1-0 win and give their supporters some Christmas cheer when they host Macarthur FC in week ten at HBF Park on Friday evening, in the second game of a double-header at the venue with the Glory women’s side. (kick off 7.45pm) Last week saw Glory Head Coach David Zdrilic get the monkey off his back, securing his first win in charge, and he is determined to build on the result at Suncorp Stadium.
“We were obviously very happy to get our first win and it was important,” he said in his pre-game press conference. “We’ve been through a tough start to the season, so for us to come away with the win against a team that was in a very similar position to us was good for the group and good for our confidence. The guy’s got rewarded for a really good mentality going into the game, they reset and went again in humid conditions.
“It wasn’t always the best football, we know that, but it was a very tense game and for us, it was all about getting the result. In general, we just want to kick on from this very positive result in front of our our fans who have been very loyal. We know the atmosphere at our stadium and what it can be and we want to embrace that and make sure we replicate the same feeling we had in Brisbane at home.”
The visitors were held to a 1-1 draw at home on Monday evening in week nine, with former Glory midfielder Danny De Silva’s early goal, cancelled out by Mariner’s youngster Haine Eames. Zdrilic knows the quality they possess, and he saw it at first hand in the opening game of the season, when they ran out 6-1 winners. They face a quick turnaround having hosted the Mariners on Monday evening, the Head Coach is certainly aware of the threat Mile Sterjovski, who played over 60 games for the Glory between 2009-201, side will pose.
“We definitely know the quality they have and they have a strong front four,” he explained. “They can break, they can counter and transition and get in behind you and be deadly. We know that from the first game and they’ve been doing that regularly not only this season, but last season as well. But it’s about us taking the game to them… and swinging that momentum in our favour.”
The last time the Bulls headed west was in round nine last season, when Glory came from two goals down at half time to win 3-2 in front of 5,163 fans at HBF Park. Matthew Millar gave the host the lead on the half hour, and French striker Valere Germain doubled their advantage in the shadows of half time. The comeback started three minutes into the second half with Salim Khelifi scoring, and Luke Ivanovic restored parity just after the hour. It looked like the points would be shared, but deep into stoppage time David Williams won it. In team news Adam Taggart should return to the squad, after missing last week due to illness, likewise Brandon O’Neill, after completing protocols after suffering a concussion against the Jets in week eight.
Perth Glory squad: GK Cameron COOK, GK Oli SAIL, 2 Riley WARLAND, 5 Lachlan BARR, 6 Brandon O’NEILL, 7 Nicholas PENNINGTON, 9 David WILLIAMS, 12 Taras GOMULKA, 14 Nathanael BLAIR, 16 Adam BUGARIJA, 17 Jarrod CARLUCCIO, 19 Josh RISDON, 20 Trent OSTLER, 21 Abdul FAISAL, 22 Adam TAGGART, 24 Andriano LEBIB, 26 Khoa NGO, 27 Will FRENEY, 29 Tomi MRCELA, 31 Joel ANASMO - *Two to be omitted* - Ins: O’NEILL, TAGGART - Unavailable: 3 Anas HAMZAOUI (injured), 8 Mustafa AMINI (injured), 10 Nikola MILEUSNIC (injured)
Macarthur FC squad: GK Filip KURTO, GK Alexander ROBINSON, 5 Matthew JURMAN, 7 Daniel DE SILVA, 8 Jake HOLLMAN, 11 Jed DREW, 13 Ivan VUJICA, 15 Dino ARSLANAGIC, 16 Oliver JONES, 18 Walter SCOTT, 19 Ariath PIOL, 20 Kealey ADAMSON, 21 BERNARDO, 22 Liam ROSE, 23 Frans DELI, 24 Dean BOSNJAK, 26 Luke BRATTAN, 27 Joshua DAMEVSKI, 44 Marin JAKOLIS, 98 Valere GERMAIN - *Two to be omitted* - Ins: ARSLANAGIC (promoted) DELI (promoted), DAMEVSKI (promoted) - Outs: 6 Tomislav USKOK (suspended) - Unavailable: 9 Chris IKONOMIDIS (Injured)
27.12.2024
GLORY AIMING TO KEEP GOOD FORM GOING AGAINST MARINERS
The first game in the A-League double-header on Friday, sees Perth Glory hosting Central Coast Mariners at HBF Park, in week eight of the Ninja A-League. (kick off 5pm) The visitors sit one point and one place ahead of the Glory in seventh on the ladder, but are coming off a 1-3 defeat against Western United last week. The Glory fought back to earn a 1-1 draw against Western Sydney Wanderers, which made it two games without defeat, after their 3-1 win against Adelaide last time out at home.
The last double header saw Glory beat the Jets in week two, and Head Coach Stephen Peters is looking for more of the same on Friday, but he well aware the Mariners are hurting after back-to-back defeats against Brisbane and Western United, and he is expecting a stern test. “I think there’s been some very good recruiting there from [Head Coach] Emily [Husband], particularly in [Jade]Pennock and [Brooke] Nunn,” he explained. “It looks like she’s really settled on some of the players from last year and is looking to play them more and more, which is good.
“It’s a group of players that I know quite well from versing Emily and a lot of those players in the New South Wales NPL and it presents a challenge. No doubt after losing to Western United last week, in fact I think it was back-to-back losses after previously being undefeated, Emily will be highly-motivated to put it right. We’ll need to be on our guard as they are a tough team and it’ll be a good match-up for us.”
Glory will be looking to make it three games unbeaten and they have moved up the table, and Peters has been pleased how is side is tracking. “I think on the balance of play we probably deserved to win [against Wanderers],” he said, “but when you look at the genuine nature of the chances we created, they only really came after they [Wanderers] scored. Overall, I think we showed really good character, to come back considering they scored in the 86th minute.
“We asked [the players] for consistency of performances and I think we’ve performed really well the last three weeks when we’ve had a loss, a win and a draw. I don’t think there’s been too much of a difference between those performances. I think it’s come down the level of the opposition that we’ve been playing against on the day. Overall, I think we’re on the right path.”
The last time Glory hosted the Mariners was in week 17 last season, when the visitors left with all three points after a 3-1 win at Macedonia Park. It started so well for the hosts with Mille Farrow opening the scoring on 25 minutes, but the Mariners levelled in the first minute of the second half, with Kyah Simon on target. Then late goals from Bianca Galic and Annalise Rasmussen sealed the points.
In team news, Peters confirmed that Kelli Brown’s knee injury will keep her out of the game, likewise Ella Abdul Massih, who could be out for an extended period with injury. In better news Izzy Dalton, is expected to return having recovered from the hamstring injury, while Claudia Valletta, former NTC striker Tanika Lala and Perth RedStar’s defender Mischa Anderson have all been added to the extended squad.
Perth Glory squad: GK Casey DUMONT, GK Miranda TEMPLEMAN, 2 Mischa ANDERSON, 4 Claudia VALLETTA, 5 Grace JOHNSTON, 6 Tijan MCKENNA, 7 Megan WYNNE, 8 Georgia CASSIDY, 9 Gabby HOLLAR, 11 Natalie TATHEM, 13 Naomi CHINNAMA, 14 Miku SUNAGA, 17 Morgan ROBERTS, 18 Isabella FOLETTA, 23 Izzy DALTON, 26 Tanika LALA, 27 Charli WAINWRIGHT, 29 Onyinyechi ZOGG *Two to be omitted* - Ins: ANDERSON, VALLETTA, DALTON, LALA - Outs: 20 Ella ABDUL MASSIH, 44 Kelli BROWN - Unavailable: 10 Susan PHONSONGKHAM (injured), 16 Bella WALLHEAD (injured), 19 Sarah O’DONOGHUE (injured), 20 Ella ABDUL MASSIH (injured), 44 Kelli BROWN (injured)
Central Coast Mariners squad: GK Sarah LANGMAN, GK Chloe CARMICHAEL, 3 Ash IRWIN, 4 Jessika NASH, 5 Annabel MARTIN, 7 Jade PENNOCK, 8 Bianca GALIC, 10 Taylor RAY, 11 Annalise RASMUSSEN, 12 Tiana FULLER, 13 Sarah ROWE, 14 Greta KRASZULA, 16 Tess QUILLIGAN, 19 Leia PUXTY, 21 Brooke NUNN, 22 Peta TRIMIS, 23 Lily MCMAHON, 24 Shay EVANS - *Two to be omitted* - Ins: KRASZULA - Outs: 2 Brianne RILEY
26.12.2024
PETERS CONFIRMS ANKLE INJURY FOR TOP SCORER BROWN
Perth Glory coach Stephen Peters has admitted the injury bug has bitten his team hard as they look to keep pace with the finals-chasing pack in the A-League Women’s. Peters has forecast at least two changes ahead of Glory’s meeting with Central Coast Mariners tomorrow night at Perth Oval.
Top goalscorer Kelli Brown is set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines while Ella Abdul-Massih will also miss the match. “Kelli has probably looking at a probably a grade two MCL injury, so that’s going to put her out for six to eight weeks,” Peters said.
“Ella looks like she’s got a bit of a calf strain, so she’s probably out for a week as well. The challenges keep mounting, but we’ve just got to look within the squad and promote internally, and then give some opportunities to someone else.”
Brown’s injury comes with Sarah O’Donoghue also weeks away from returning from an ankle injury, which will put pressure on Gabby Hollar to lead the line. In better news, co-captain Isobel Dalton is nearing a return from a hamstring issue and should play some part against Central Coast.
But with Glory already missing key winger Susan Phonsongkham, who is at least a couple of months away from returning from an ankle injuries, Peters indicated they would look towards injury replacement players.
“We’re definitely looking at one injury replacement, but there’s a bit that needs to be done there in terms of negotiations,” he said. “We’re on the phone and sending emails and making phone calls and trying to make things happen, because obviously, things of this nature happen, so we’re working around the clock.”
26.12.2024
ZDRILIC HOPING TO BUILD ON FIRST WIN
Perth Glory won’t be focusing too much on their opening round mauling at the hands of Macarthur as they prepare for tomorrow’s return fixture at Perth Oval. After the optimism of their off-season Australia Cup campaign, David Zdrilic’s first A-League game as Glory coach began with a 6-1 spanking by the Bulls.
Zdrilic said his players are looking to build on the positives of last weekend’s win over Brisbane Roar rather than their previous meeting with Macarthur. “We haven’t started the season very well - that was obviously the first game, but we’ve had other results that have not been great for us,” Zdrilic said.
“So in general, we just want to kick on from this very positive result for us and in front of our fans, who have been very loyal. When you’re winning games, it’s a much different feeling. Winning this game has done a lot for the confidence of the group, because they see that we can win games.”
Zdrilic believes Macarthur’s short break - they drew with Central Coast Mariners on Monday - and travel would likely not impact them. Nonetheless, he wants Glory to make things difficult for the visitors. “Anybody coming to Perth, it should be a tough trip for them,” he commented.
“Macarthur can break, they can counter, and they can transition, they can get in behind you and be deadly. We know that from the first game, but they’ve been doing that regularly, not only this season, but last season as well.”
“It’s about us taking our game to them and we know their strengths, but we need to make sure that they’re tested and it can go both ways. We need to make sure we swing that momentum in our favor.”
24.12.2024
JOHNSTON THRIVING ON NATIONAL STAGE (adapted from 'ALW In Focus: Grace Johnston' by Ben Gilby)
Perth Glory’s Grace Johnston has hit the ground running already this season, making a superb comeback from a heartbreaking ankle injury earlier in the year. The 19-year defender was flying in her debut A-League campaign for her home town club, putting together a series of displays that suggested she was a seasoned pro rather than someone taking their first steps in the country’s biggest league.
Johnston stepped up to the national league in a hugely impressive way. “I think the biggest adjustment was the speed of the game,” reflected Johnston. “With better and more experienced players and coaches it’s only natural for the game to be faster and more challenging. Being able to prep and train with the team in pre-season made that adjustment much easier.”
Johnston’s eye-catching performances were rewarded with a call up to the Young Matildas side last November for their matches against China. Just three months later, however, she suffered a devastating ankle injury that ended her season. “Physically, after my surgery, the first couple of weeks were the most difficult as I couldn’t make any progress,” she said.
“Once I got the green light to start physio exercises and could see and feel changes and improvements, it was an easier process. Mentally, obviously it was disappointing to end my season in that way, but I tried to not dwell on that fact and started looking towards the next one.”
As part of her preparation for her second A-League season, Johnston played locally for Perth SC under former Matilda Danielle Brogan. “That was an excellent experience,” she said. “I can’t thank Danielle and the club enough for allowing me to complete my rehab and return to play with them and being a part of a Cup-winning team and Top Four finalists with such a great group of girls was brilliant.”
The group of girls at Dorrien Gardens included several others who have gone on to become part of the Glory squad this season, namely Johnston’s fellow midfielders Georgia Cassidy, Tijan McKenna and Charli Wainwright, along with striker Ella Lincoln. That familiarity helped the settling in process for the Glory playing group ahead of the 2024/25 campaign.
“Obviously with some of the Perth girls it was a quicker adjustment period, purely because we’ve known each other for so long and all played together,” said Johnston. “But I think pre-season really facilitated the whole team to bond on and off the field, which was great.”
That pre-season period also included the arrival of new head coach Stephen Peters. “I think his knowledge of the game is next to none, which he proved with his NPLW NSW side (Macarthur Rams) being so successful,” she said. “He’s given me a lot of confidence and allows me to express myself on the pitch, while also adhering to the game plan and his vision, which I have been enjoying.”
Whilst it is still relatively early days in the season, there have been a number of pleasing elements on view already. As the new players and system come together, Johnston is sure that there are good times ahead for the team and its supporters. “I think we can take a lot of positives from our early games,” she said.
“It takes a lot for a new side to gel so quickly in such a short time-frame and I believe we have done that. There are definitely things we need to work on, but I think that comes with time and the constant desire for the whole team to improve.” Glory Women are next in action on Friday when they host Central Coast Mariners at Perth Oval from 5:00pm.
23.12.2024
MUIR FINDS A NEW HOME WHILE CAICEDO MOVES ON
Former Perth Glory defender Jacob Muir has found a new home, after leaving the A-League club by mutual consent last month, meanwhile Colombian forward Cristian Caicedo has also left the club, after his contract was mutual terminated. Caicedo short stint in the west only saw the 22-year-old make three A-League appearances, but he didn’t fit in to the way the club wanted to play, and after being dragged in Adelaide he wasn’t selected in the squad again since, so the writing was on the wall.
“Unfortunately, Cristian didn’t fit the system that we want to play and the move hasn’t worked out for either the club or the player on or off the field and we’ve therefore come to an amicable agreement which allows him to move on,” said Glory Football Director Stan Lazaridis. “He has handled himself very professionally during his short period with us and we would like to thank him for his service and wish him all the very best for the next stage of his football journey.”
Muir has signed for Monterey Bay FC, who play in USL Championship, the second tier of the American soccer league system. The defender has signed a one-year contract with an option for 2026, pending league and federation approval. The 22-year-old played his junior football at Sorrento, before joining the Glory academy, and shone in the clubs NPL side, before signing a contract with the A-League club. He made his professional debut at the age of 19, coming on late 2021 Australia Cup match against Melbourne Victory. The following April, Muir made his A-League debut as a starter on the back line against Wellington Phoenix, playing the full 90 minutes. He went on to finish the season with four additional starts.
“I am extremely excited to be joining Monterey Bay for the upcoming 2025 season,” said Muir. “At Perth, I had come to a point in my career where I was looking for a new challenge, so when MBFC expressed their interest, I thought it would be a great opportunity for me to go and prove myself in a new environment. I have learned a lot during my last four years being in a professional environment under different coaches, and I’m excited to bring my passing, vision, defensive attributes and other skill sets to this side.”
Muir went on to make 36 senior appearances (27 starts) in all competitions across three seasons from 2021-2024, and scored the first goal of his professional career in the Australia Cup match against Moreton City Excelsior in the round of 16 this season, which also happened to be his final match with the club. Muir said he can’t wait to get started. “Since signing for Monterey Bay, I have spoken to a few people I know who have visited Monterey, and I have had nothing but amazing reports back from them,” explained Muir.
“I am super excited to be involved in such a great community and can’t wait to meet the many people that make the community as thriving as it is. I hope to give the Monterey Bay F.C. fans the success that they have been looking for since the inaugural season of this club. I will do everything I can defensively and offensively to help my teammates and coaching staff improve on what they were already building last year and help the team make the playoffs for the first time.”
Monterey Bay F.C. Technical Director Simon Dawkins said Muir is a leader, and will become a fan favourite. “Jacob’s versatility and his ability to read the game and make intelligent decisions under pressure set him apart,” he explained. “His physicality and technical attributes have impressed us, and his ability to be composed on the ball will be a vital part of how we want to play next season. With a player like Jacob, you can always expect to see 100% effort. I have no doubt he will become a fan favourite because he is a leader who wants to win.”
22.12.2024
ZDRILIC HOPING GLORY CAN BACK UP AT HOME
Perth Glory’s next step will be to win at after the team avoided equalling an A-League Men’s record 19th match without a win. Under-fire coach David Zdrilic admitted his relief after David Williams fired Glory to a 1-0 win over Brisbane Roar yesterday, a result which gave Glory their first win since February and jumps them off the foot of the table.
Having lost all three games at Perth Oval this season, Glory will be hoping to build on the result in Brisbane by scopping a point or three from Friday’s home clash with Macarthur. “Away from home, we’ve been very comfortable with being able to put in a fight and we’ve got two draws and now a win away from home,” Zdrilic said.
“We need to bring this same mentality and energy back home, because we’ve got such a loyal fan base. They’re always there backing us, and it’s such a great vibe in our stadium and we need to show them that kind of gutsy performance, and hopefully start getting the wins at home as well.”
Four of Glory’s next five matches are at home within a 19-day period. Zdrilic hailed his side’s effort against Brisbane, who have not won yet this season, and was glad to get the monkey off the back. “When you go this long, and it’s both us and Brisbane in the same boat, and you felt that in the game. It just took some moment, either way,” he said.
“I thought in the first half, we were more dominant and I felt after that first half, this was a game we can win;I think that all the time, but just generally, in this game, I was like, ‘we’ve got to go for this.’ There was an underlying nervousness from both teams in the game, and you really felt that with the situation that we’ve both found ourselves in.”
Just as pleasing for Zdrilic was the club’s second clean sheet of the season. Recent arrival Tomi Mrcela was solid in the middle of defence alongside teenager Andriano Lebib, who had not featured since Glory’s opening day thrashing from Macarthur.
“It’s clear we’ve conceded a lot of goals, and the manner that we concede is not so much one goal goes in, it’s another one and another one,” Zdrilic said. “That’s obviously an underlying mentality that we’re trying to fix, but a performance like that, it’s at least three games we’ve gone into the break with a clean sheet, and that helps, it keeps you in the game.”
21.12.2024
WILLIAMS SECURES GLORY’S FIRST WIN OF THE SEASON
Perth Glory have won for the first time in the 2024-25 Isuzu Ute A-League season, and their first league game for 19 games, after a 1-0 win against Brisbane Roar in the week nine clash at Suncorp Stadium on Saturday afternoon. A tight game was decided on 69 minutes, with skipper David Williams scoring the winner, and the celebrations post-match showed what it meant for head coach David Zdrilic, his first win as coach of the club, the three points taking them off the foot of the table, and replaced by the Roar.
“We’ve waited for this for so long and we’ve worked really hard, but we haven’t been good enough in the past weeks, but we have been putting in a lot of work and all the boys are training really hard, so I’m so happy for everyone for the result and we can celebrate for once,” midfielder Nicholas Pennington said post-match. “It was hard out there today, very humid and it was a struggle to play good transition football, and run a lot. It is hot in Perth, but not as humid, so the conditions were not what we are used to, but it was the same for both teams.”
Zdrilic made four changes to the side that were well-beaten by Newcastle Jets last week, Williams, Abdul Faisal Trent Ostler and Andriano Lebib coming into the starting side. Skipper Adam Taggart was missing due to illness, Brandon O’Neill with concussion protocol, import Luis Canga has left the club, while Khoa Ngo dropped to the bench. It was a hot one in the Queensland capital, and clear-cut chances where few and far between early, although Glory did make a positive start. Adam Bugarija goalbound shot was blocked by the alert Lucas Herrington, while Faisal’s low shot from the left flashed wide of the far post.
The first drinks break of the day came on 26 minutes, and four minutes later the hosts had the best opportunity. The ball falling to former Glory midfielder Keegan Jelacic just outside the penalty area, and his sweetly struck shot beat Cameron Cook, but the crossbar came to the rescue of the Glory custodian. Bugarija and Williams had half chances late, but failed to find the target, and at the break the game was still up for grabs.
The Roar were on the front foot after the break, and should have scored five minutes in. Former Glory defender Antonee Burke-Gilroy did well down the left, his ball into the box picked out skipper Jay O’Shea, but with the goal at his mercy he blazed over the top. They were in again moments later, this time Jelacic’s ball into the box caused panic in the Glory defence, the ball falling to another former Glory player Adam Zimarino, but he couldn’t keep his shot down.
Glory settled, with Tomi Mrcela commanding at the back, and they went close themselves on the hour, Faisal eased past his marker on the left, but his low shot was saved by the alert Macklin Freke. Glory was now in the control and went close again six minutes later, Taras Gomulka’s corner picked out Pennington, his header was well saved by Freke. Then three minutes later Glory found the opener, substitute Jarrod Carluccio played in the overlapping Josh Risdon.
His cross to the back post found Williams, and the skipper fired home, the ball deflecting off Herrington to beat Freke at his near post. The host pressed for the equaliser late, and O’Shea’s shot was tipped over the top by Cook, but they rarely looked like penetrating a solid Glory backline, and at the final whistle players, coaches and supporters celebrated a hugely significant and morale-boosting victory, to move them off the bottom of the table, while the home supporters booed their team off the pitch.
Brisbane Roar: GK Macklin FREKE, 4 Ben WARLAND (15 Hosine BILITY 33'), 8 Walid SHOUR, 10 Florin BERENGUER (18 Jacob BRAZETE 67'), 12 Lucas HERRINGTON, 16 Thomas WADDINGHAM, 17 Harry VAN DER SAAG (19 Jack HINGERT 67'), 21 Antonee BURKE-GILROY, 23 Keegan JELACIC (11 Neicer ACOSTA 85'), 26 Jay O’SHEA, 43 Adam ZIMARINO (30 Quinn MACNICOL 67') – Subs not used: RGK Matt ACTON, 35 Louis ZABALA
Perth Glory: GK Cameron COOK, 2 Riley WARLAND (31 Joel ANASMO 80'), 7 Nicholas PENNINGTON, 9 David WILLIAMS (27 Will FRENEY 90+4'), 12 Taras GOMULKA, 16 Adam BUGARIJA (17 Jarrod CARLUCCIO 63'), 19 Josh RISDON, 20 Trent OSTLER (14 Nathanael BLAIR 63'), 21 Abdul FAISAL (26 Khoa NGO 63'), 24 Andriano LEBIB, 29 Tomi MRCELA - Subs not used: RGK Oli SAIL, 5 Lachlan BARR - Referee: Nathan Shakespear
20.12.2024
GLORY LEAVE IT LATE TO EARN A POINT AT WANDERERS
A goal deep into injury time by New Zealand striker Kelli Brown has given Perth Glory a well-deserved 1-1 draw against Western Sydney Wanderers in their round seven Ninja A-League clash at Wanderers Football Park on Friday evening. Glory created the better chances in the game, but it was the hosts who hit the front four minutes from time, with Wanderers skipper Amy Harrison on target. It looked like Glory would leave empty handed but Brown had the final say firing home from the spot and move them up to seventh on the ladder.
Head Coach Stephen Peters made one change to the side that beat Adelaide United last week, with Ella Abdul Massih coming in for Natalie Tathem, who dropped to the bench. It was cagey start to the game, with clear cut chances few and far between. The first real chance fell to the hosts on 19 minutes, with Cushla Rue heading over the top when well place.
Glory hit back six minutes later, Megan Wynne’s long throw was flicked on by Gabby Hollar, but Brown’s header flashed wide. They were in again two minutes later, Brown sent Wynne away down the right channel, but her shot from the angle was superbly blocked by Ella Buchanan. The visitors went close again before the break, with Naomi Chinnama’s header claimed by Wanderers custodian Sham Khamis, but at the break it was all-square.
Wanderers were on the front foot early in the second half, but the Glory defence held firm, and just after the hour mark Peters’ side went close to the opener. Tijan McKenna’s through ball sent Brown in on goal, but Khamis made a smart save to deny her. Glory went to the bench bringing on Miku Sunaga for Abdul Massih, and the Japanese midfielder had an immediate impact, her shot was cleared off the line by the alert Harrison moments later.
It looked like the points would be shared, but four minutes from time the Wanderers hit the front. They won a free kick on the edge of the box, after Chinnama brought down Amy Chessari, and Harrison stepped up and curled the ball around the wall and past Casey Dumont, via the post. Glory threw everything forward, looking for the equaliser, Brown pouncing on an error from Harrison only to see her shot flash wide, and moments later Hollar raced one-on-one with Khamis, but the Wanderers keeper stood tall to deny her.
It was one-way traffic as Glory pressed, and they thought they had found the leveller early in stoppage time, Sunaga’s ball into the box found Brown, again Khamis denied her. Then from the resulting corner the Wanderers custodian saved well to thwart Onyinyechi Zogg. It looked like time would run out, but in the sixth minute of stoppage time they found a lifeline, after Khamis clattered Sunaga, and referee Rachel Mitchenson pointed straight to the spot. Brown stepped up, and despite Kamis getting a hand to the penalty, it went in via the crossbar, to give Glory a deserved point.
Western Sydney Wanderers: GK Sham KHAMIS, 3 Gemma FERRIS, 6 Amy CHESSARI, 7 Amy HARRISON, 9 Sophie HARDING, 10 Sienna SAVESKA (8 Olivia PRICE 79'), 11 Danika MATOS, 14 Ella BUCHANAN, 15 Cushla RUE (12 Bronte TREW 80'), 19 Talia YOUNIS (13 Talia KAPETANELLIS 69'), 37 Ena HARADA - Substitutes not used: RGK Keely SEGAVCIC, 5 Milly BENNETT
Perth Glory: GK Casey DUMONT, 5 Grace JOHNSTON, 6 Tijan MCKENNA (18 Isabella FOLETTA 86'), 7 Megan WYNNE (17 Morgan ROBERTS 80'), 8 Georgia CASSIDY, 9 Gabby HOLLAR, 13 Naomi CHINNAMA, 20 Ella ABDUL MASSIH (14 Miku SUNAGA 70'), 27 Charli WAINWRIGHT (11 Natalie TATHEM 46') 29 Onyinyechi ZOGG, 44 Kelli BROWN - Subs not used: RGK Miranda TEMPLEMAN – Attendance: 862 - Referee: Rachel Mitchenson
20.12.2024
KEOGH HEADS TO EAST PERTH FOR 2025
After their debut season in State League football, East Perth have shown their intensions to improve their second placed finish with the signing of former Perth Glory striker Andy Keogh for season 2025. The striker will feel at home at the Irish club, and I’m sure he will feel proud to wear the shamrock on his chest for the first time since playing his 30 internationals with the Republic of Ireland between 2007 and 2012.
Keogh started his football at Leeds United in 2023, after junior career at Cabinteely and St Joseph’s Boys AFC in Ireland, before spells at Scunthorpe United and Wolverhampton Wanderers, and he played over 100 games at Molineux. He had loan spells at a number of clubs, including Bury, Cardiff City, before joining Millwall in 2012. He then joined Glory for the first time in 2014, and returned in 2016 after a spell at Thail cub Ratchaburi FC, and helped the club to the premiership in the 2018-19 season.
He headed overseas again in 2019, playing for Saudi Arabian club Al-Qadsiah and Indian side North East United, before re-joining the A-League club again in 2020, the year the Irishman became an Australian citizen. He then went into the coaching ranks with Inglewood United, before a short stint at Amateur Premier Division club, North Beach. Last season the striker was the catalyst for Dianella White Eagles push for a spot in the NPL, bagging 19 goals, but they were beaten in the play-off final against Glory.
East Perth head coach Colm Costello said the signing is a great boost for the club’s promotion push. “We’re all delighted with Andy joining us, we’ve been speaking a bit over the past few months and I think it will be a great fit for the club and the players,” he explained. “He could have stayed higher up the leagues, and we know he had many offers, but after meeting him over the past months it’s evident that he is here for the right reasons. I really believe he will not only be a great addition to the playing squad but also a huge help to grow the club off the pitch, with his good habits and professional approach, and that’s testament to him as a person, we can’t wait to get started, as we have some un-finished business from last season.”
Costello said the signing is part of a fantastic pre-season for the club, and he is delighted to have kept most of last season’s squad, including top goalscorer Ryan McCready. “Yes, really pleased that we have retained nearly every player from last year, including Ryan, who bagged 25 goals last season to win the Golden Boot. It shows the character, commitment and the attitude of the lads which is massive for myself and the club.”
East Perth missed out on promotion in the play off’s last season, and Costello said the players are determined to put things right next season, but knows how difficult the league is, and they start the new campaign in the night series in Group C along with hosts Wanneroo City, Kingsley Westside and the side that knocked them out of the play off’s, Joondalup City. “We know every team will be better again this season so it should be a very strong competitive Division Two again this year,” he said. “The night series group will be some extremely tough games, but we look for a solid month of hard work to prepare ourselves best we can.”
20.12.2024
GOSNELLS CITY BUSY ON AND OFF THE PARK
It’s been a busy pre-season for Gosnells City, both on and off the park. On the park, President Ossie Pereira has resigned coaches Peter Allen and Alan Dunlop for a second season, after the pair steered them clear of relegation last term. Meanwhile off the park, the clubs pitch at Water Padbury Reserve came in for some criticism last season, not being able to take a lot of rain and becoming waterlogged quickly, turning it in to a quagmire some weeks, but the local council have done major work on the pitch to rectify the problem.
The President said they have a close working relationship with the local council, with the clubrooms renovated last season, and now the pitch improvements will make it perfect for playing good football. “Our Club have been working with the City of Gosnells during the off-season by keeping training off Cassidy Reserve so that the city could install sub soil drainage and a new reticulation system, which has now been completed,” Pereria explained.
“We’re just waiting for the ground to be levelled and the new turf should flourish soon with all the water being pumped onto it. The City of Gosnells has done a fantastic job managing this project, and the communication was commendable, as they kept us informed all along the way with regular updates and information. Our Club are looking forward to watching games being played on a pristine pitch next season, to match the recent renovations that was completed on our clubrooms last year.”
Pereria said the decision to continuing Allan and Dunlop tenure was an easy one, both did a fantastic job last year. “Peter and Alan are both home grown Gozzy lads, who have both worn our jersey during their playing careers. They did a fantastic job coaching our First Team last year and keeping us in Division One, as it was a very competitive league and a hard season,” Pereria said. “There are so many good teams in this league and although Gosnells City finished near the bottom, we were never hammered in any of the games that we lost, and the whole team have to be congratulated for their hard work, commitment and positive attitude throughout the season.”
It's a family affair at the club, with wife Dawn, and son Scott also heavily involved, and Pereria said the club is very close to all their hearts. “Dawn and I have been involved with Gosnells City FC for over 25 years, since our son Scott started playing the World Game at the tender age of five, and we hold this Club very close to our hearts,” he said. “Scott has since completed 25 continuous years playing at our Club, which is an exceptional achievement, and has captained our State League team for the last seven years. I’ve been President for the last three years and I’ve never been prouder when I awarded Scott our “Legacy Trophy” for his loyalty and dedication at our Club’s Presentation Night in October.”
On the pitch, like Pereria said, the club were very competitive last season, and although they finished tenth, coach Peter Allen said they were in most games, and there is a great deal to build on. “I thought we were unlucky in some games last season, but the loss at home to Mandurah City and away at MUMFC wasn’t the best,” he said. “When we had a settled side, we never took a backward step, and it showed in our good run in the middle of the season when we won four straight it showed what we can do, and we’ll be looking to build on that in 2025.”
With that in mind, Allen said to sign for the club again in 2025 along with Dunlop is exciting, and they will look to build on last season. “Alan and I are delighted to continue at the club, and preparation for 2025 is well underway,” Allen said. “The club mean a great deal to me, and I’ve played and coached here for many years, so I’m looking forward to giving back to the club and to Ossie for putting the faith in me. We started pre-season early and had a number of trialists down, and we’re delighted to have brought home striker Moses Macauley, and we hope to announce a few more singings in the coming weeks.”
Allen has been a member of the clubs committee for a number of years, which he has had to forego with his coaching duties, but he was rewarded with life membership of the club at the recent AGM, something that is really special to him. “Yes, very proud to be named a life member at the club, and I’ve been here over 20 years in various roles player, coach, committee and bar man,” the coach said. “I don’t do it because I have to, I do it because of my passion for Gozzy, it’s a family club and I’ve made some lifelong friends, the recognition is heartwarming, so here’s to a good 2025 for the club.”
20.12.2024
GLORY GO IN SEARCH OF BACK-TO-BACK WINS
After getting back in the winner’s circle last week with a 3-1 win against Adelaide United, Perth Glory Head Coach Stephen Peters will be looking for back-to-back wins for the first time this season, when they take on Western Sydney Wanderers in week seven of the Ninja A-League at Wanderers Park on Friday afternoon. (kick-off at 4pm WST, - live on 10Play). Despite taking the three points against the Reds, Peters will be looking for greater consistency in all areas of performance, and has challenged his players to maintain and lift the standards they set in that clash with the Reds.
“We’ve just got to find some consistency now,” he said. “It was a good performance, but it won’t mean much if we drop our guard and put in a rubbish performance this week. We definitely want to try and replicate the same type of application and effort against a team that just had a very good win. It’s about growing each week and the consistency aspect is what we’ve been drumming into the players this week. The things we’ve done well, we want to get addicted to those things and keep doing them. We don’t want to get complacent and go away from the things that are working for us.”
Peters’ side are currently tenth on the ladder, but only two points outside the top four, which shows you how competitive this league is, and the coach is well aware consistently is the key, and he knows of how significant a win against the Wanderers could prove to be. “Back-to-back wins in this competition is a huge thing,” he said. “You’ve seen how tight the table is, so if we can back it up and climb the table, that would be brilliant for us. To stay with the pack would be huge. To climb the table is massive and different pressures come with that. We’ve got to be ready for both of those pressures, but the mood in the camp is very good.”
Glory striker Gabby Hollar bagged a brace last week to steer Glory home, and she said they need to build on it. “Last week’s win was incredible and to get the three points, against a good Adelaide side, in front of our home fans, was great,” the American explained. “It was great to get on the scoresheet, but more importantly was to get the three points. We’ve been building each week, and the steps we’ve taken to progress have shown. There is lots of room for improvement for me, but I’m a striker and scoring goals is what we do, so nice to find the back of the net twice. it’s such a competitive league, and anyone can win on a given day, so it’s about collecting points. We’ve watched film of the Wanderers, and they are good team, but it’s all about us, we need to build on last week’s performance, because we’re heading in the right direction.”
The last time Glory played Wanderers at the venue was in week 20 last season, when a goal from Sophie Harding, secured a 1-0 win for the hosts. The Wanderers, who are sitting at the foot of the ladder, will go into the game buoyed after securing their first win of the season last week, with a big 5-1win Western United, but Peters said they are going there looking for a positive result and performance. “We’re going to go there and try and make a nuisance of ourselves.,” he said. “I actually think we’re coming up against them at a good time because that win obviously was a huge performance for them and they were very hungry in that particular game, but can they replicate that hunger, we’re going to find that out. I think it’s a good time to play them and we’re certainly not afraid of any team in the competition.”
The injury news wasn’t what the Glory faithful were looking for, with midfield duo Sarah O’Donoghue (ankle) and Izzy Dalton (hamstring) both missing once again on Friday. Peters said it was disappointing, but was delighted with contribution of former Perth SC midfielder Chari Wainwright on her starting debut last week. “It’s looking like six weeks for Sarah, which is a massive blow for her because her growth in such a short space of time has been huge for the team and for her personally,” he said.
“We’re all feeling for her, but young Charli [Wainwright] came in and did a great job at the weekend and it was nice to see a local Perth girl getting an opportunity and grabbing it with both hands. Izzy’s hammy is still a little bit tender, so I don’t think we’ll risk it. We’ve got to focus one game at a time, but also look a little bit ahead and make sure you’re not throwing all your eggs in one basket. We’ll probably manage her this week.”
Western Sydney Wanderers squad: GK Sham KHAMIS, GK Keely SEGAVCIC, 3 Gemma FERRIS, 5 Milly BENNETT, 6 Amy CHESSARI, 7 Amy HARRISON, 8 Olivia PRICE, 9 Sophie HARDING, 10 Sienna SAVESKA, 11 Danika MATOS, 12 Bronte TREW, 13 Talia KAPETANELLIS, 14 Ella BUCHANAN, 15 Cushla RUE, 17 Milly CASSAR, 19 Talia YOUNIS, 23 Maya LOBO, 37 Ena HARADA - *Two to be omitted* - Ins: CASSAR (return from injury) - Unavailable: 2 Paige HAYWARD (leg), 4 Maddison MCCOMASKY (Shoulder), 24 Aya SEINO (ankle), 25 Holly CASPERS (Toe)
Perth Glory squad: GK Casey DUMONT, GK Miranda TEMPLEMAN, 2 Mischa ANDERSON, 4 Claudia VALLETTA, 5 Grace JOHNSTON, 6 Tijan MCKENNA, 7 Megan WYNNE, 8 Georgia CASSIDY, 9 Gabby HOLLAR, 11 Natalie TATHEM, 13 Naomi CHINNAMA, 14 Miku SUNAGA, 17 Morgan ROBERTS, 18 Isabella FOLETTA, 20 Ella ABDUL MASSIH, 27 Charli WAINWRIGHT, 29 Onyinyechi ZOGG, 44 Kelli BROWN - *Two to be omitted* - Ins: VALLETTA, ROBERTS - Unavailable: 10 Susan PHONSONGKHAM (injured), 16 Bella WALLHEAD (injured), 19 Sarah O’DONOGHUE (injured), 23 Izzy DALTON (injured)
20.12.2024
GLORY HOPING TO TAME THE ROAR
Perth Glory have done plenty of soul-searching this week after their poor performance against Newcastle Jets last week, and this week they travel to Suncorp Stadium to take on Brisbane Roar in week nine of the Isuzu Ute A league (kick off 2.00pm WA Time). Both sides are still searching for their first wins of the season, so three points will be massive in this one, but Glory have struggled at the venue over the years, including the A-League Grand Final in 2019.
But Head Coach David Zdrilic is hoping his chargers make emends for last week’s dismal performance in front of their home supporters, and he has been pleased with the players reaction at training this week. “Obviously the run of results that we’ve had has been tough to take, but as I said before, the guys reset themselves and the training’s been very good,” he said.
“We’re fully aware of the position that we’re in and we want more. The last game against Newcastle wasn’t good enough… but everyone is putting their hand up to play and to train. That, for me, is positive. We’re coming up against a team that’s in a very similar position to us. We need to use that as a positive motivation, which we are doing and training has been very good.”
Zdrilic’s tenure at the club hasn’t gone to plan, a little like Roar, and former Glory coach Ruben Zadkovich, and Saturday’s game is a real six pointer, and Zdrilic is expecting a battle with both sides desperate for the points to kick start their season. “We played them in our first [Australia] Cup match and they are a very good ball-playing side,” he said.
“They’ve obviously conceded goals like we have, but they can also create good moments and score goals, so we’re expecting a fight because they are also fighting for their lives. We expect them to come out at us and pose a very strong challenge, but that’s every game in the A-League. It’s more about us. We need to approach this game by being very aggressive and confident.”
The whole club and their supporters are hurting at the moment with the slow start to campaign, but Zdrilic said it happens to teams all over the world, and he is well aware a first win of the season can turn that around. “You can look around the world at teams that are going through a bad sequence and Manchester City is a perfect example,” he said.
“No-one would expect them to be losing games like they are and they don’t seem to be able to find a solution to it. We’re in a rut now where we haven’t been able to win games, so obviously a win would be massive for the confidence. In a tough period when you’re not getting the results, you have to fight for those moments and we have to keep fighting.”
The last time Glory played the Roar at the venue, was in week five last season with the hosts running out 2-1 winners in front of 9,769 supporters. Former Glory youth midfielder Henry Hore gave the hosts the lead on 56 minutes, and James O’Shea doubled their advantage ten minutes later. Aleks Susnjar pulled one back in stoppage time but it was too little too late.
A shining light this season has been the emergence of teenage winger Khoa Ngo, and he said the players are working extremely hard to turn things around. “Everyone is still working hard, and every week we are re-setting,” he said. “Yes, we’ve had a number of losses but we must make sure we’re on the same page, and get ready for the next game. The mood in the camp is great, and a win on Saturday would be a great booster for us. Tags (Adam Taggart) and the coaching staff have been great, pushing us to maintain the high standards and making sure we’re not slacking, and on our toes, especially the younger players.”
Brisbane Roar squad: GK Matt ACTON, GK Macklin FREKE, 4 Ben WARLAND, 6 Joe CALETTI, 8 Walid SHOUR, 10 Florin BERENGUER, 12 Lucas HERRINGTON, 15 Hosine BILITY, 16 Thomas WADDINGHAM, 17 Harry VAN DER SAAG, 18 Jacob BRAZETE, 19 Jack HINGERT, 21 Antonee BURKE-GILROY, 23 Keegan JELACIC, 24 Sam KLEIN, 26 Jay O’SHEA, 27 Ben HALLORAN, 30 Quinn MACNICOL, 35 Louis ZABALA, 43 Adam ZIMARINO - Ins: CALETTI, JELACIC, KLEIN - Outs: 11. Neicer ACOSTA
Perth Glory squad: GK Cameron COOK, GK Oli SAIL, 2 Riley WARLAND, 5 Lachlan BARR, 7 Nicholas PENNINGTON, 9 David WILLIAMS, 12 Taras GOMULKA, 14.Nathanael BLAIR, 15 Zach LISOLAJSKI, 16 Adam BUGARIJA, 17 Jarrod CARLUCCIO, 19 Josh RISDON, 20 Trent OSTLER, 21 Abdul FAISAL, 22 Adam TAGGART, 24 Andriano LEBIB, 26 Khoa NGO, 27 Will FRENEY, 29 Tomi MRCELA, 31 Joel ANASMO - *Two to be omitted* - Ins: LISOLAJSKI, OSTLER, LEBIB, FRENEY - Unavailable: 3 Anas HAMZAOUI (injured), 6 Brandon O’NEILL (concussion protocol), 8 Mustafa AMINI (injured), 10 Nikola MILEUSNIC (injured)
20.12.2024
GLORY KEEN TO AVOID UNWANTED A-LEAGUE RECORD
90 minutes is all that separates Perth Glory from an unenviable record - the longest winless run in A-League Men’s history. In a match-up rich with plot-lines, David Zdrilic’s men will head to Suncorp Stadium on Saturday to face fellow cellar-dwellers Brisbane Roar.
The last time Glory won a game it was against Brisbane back in February, in front of then new chairman and owner Ross Pelligra. But it has been all downhill since for Glory, with an off-season change of coach - from Alen Stajcic to Zdrilic - doing little to alleviate the on-field woes.
Zdrilic is a man under fire following an atrocious start to the season which has seen Glory ship a staggering 24 goals in just eight matches, while scoring only eight. Brisbane coach Ruben Zadkovich is similarly under pressure with his team failing to win any of their first seven games of the season.
Young Glory attacker Khoa Ngo said while three points would no doubt boost confidence, they were not thinking about their 10-month long winless run or avoiding the record. “We think about what we can do that’s positive for this week, and us focusing on what we can do best for our team, and focus on one step at a time,” Ngo said. “That’s all we can do for now.”
Ngo backed Zdrilic and said the coach had remained upbeat despite the poor start to the season. “Right now it’s a challenging time for him and the staff, but the way he’s been dealing with us, and the way he’s been pushing us and maintaining the positivity in this club and this team is exceptional,” he said.
“There’s a lot of times where he could be really mad with us, because we haven’t been the best, but he’s maintained the positivity, and that just helps us wanting to work harder and harder for him to get the win for him.”
19.12.2024
HOLLAR TARGETING MORE GOALS
Having ended her goal drought with a double in last weekend’s win over Adelaide United, Gabby Hollar is targeting more as Perth Glory look to leap up the A-League Women’s ladder. The off-season recruit had not found the net in Glory’s first five games but scored a penalty and a late header on Sunday.
And with a chance to make it two wins on the trot against Western Sydney Wanders, Hollar said it was important they started to build some momentum to stay in touch with the top six. “It was great to finally get on the score sheet but more importantly, just to get those three points with the team was was incredible,” she said.
“We’ve been building each week, and the steps that we’ve been taking to progress have shown and we just kept building off of that, and it was bound to happen. It’s such a competitive league that anybody can win on any given day, so just being able to get all the points we can from every match is so crucial.”
Any forward knows goals are currency, and Hollar was delighted to get off the mark against Adelaide with two decisive second-half goals. “There’s lots of room for improvement, but at the end of the day, that’s what us forwards are supposed to do,” she commented.
When Megan Wynne was felled in the box with 15 minutes to go, it was Hollar who immediately reached for the ball and walked towards the penalty spot. “I wanted it. I practiced them that week, I don’t know why, but I wanted it, and I was confident, and so I was excited to take it,” she said.
Western Sydney are coming off a morale-boosting win of their own after easily accounting for Western United last weekend. “It’s such a competitive league that anybody can win on any given day, so just being able to get all the points we can from every match is so crucial,” she said.
“We’ve watched some film. It’ll be a good game, but if we just keep building and take the momentum from our last performance, I think we’re in good hands. Each week, we just want to keep progressing, keep being able to play for 90 minutes, 100 minutes, whatever it is.”
18.12.2024
FOOTBALL RIFT ROCKS AT REDSTAR
Football is a sport for everyone, the beautiful game has been played all over the world, and it unites families and communities. The thrill of taking part, scoring a goal, and developing your game, and to play with your mates, is what it is all about. But sadly, at Perth RedStar that isn’t the case, with a big rift at the club, which has seen whole junior teams, and club stalwarts leave, after a power struggle with the President.
The club have been a powerhouse in WA football for a number of years, and as ECU Joondalup they unearthed talented players who have gone on to play the game all around the world. Their junior development program has been second to none, with the likes of former Everton defender Mick Lyons and John Brown both contributing greatly to their success.
But the soul has been ripped out of the northern suburbs club, with the in-fighting, and it all came to light after a superb article by Ashley Morrison on his ‘Not The Footy Show’ website. It doesn’t shine a glowing light on the club, and the antics of the President, who I’m sure wants the best for his investment into the club. But is he going about it the wrong way, and many believe he has totally wiped-out years of history of the club.
Please read the article at the link below and have your say, because football is for everyone - https://notthefootyshow.ashleymorrisonmedia.com/a-major-hick-up/
18.12.2024
GLORY DEFENDER DEPARTS
Perth Glory’s season has been a disaster, no wins, sitting bottom of the table, and new head coach David Zdrilic under pressure. Something had to give, and the first part of that was announced by the club on Wednesday, with Ecuador defender Luis Canga given the flick. The club announced the 29-year-old was leaving the club by mutual consent, and last week’s poor performance against Newcastle, when he was dragged at half time, was the final straw.
The club do have cover at the heart of defence, with Tomi Mrcela joining last week, but the club in statement said another central defender will be signed shortly. “We felt it wasn’t working out with Luis and agreed that it was in the best interests of both parties to part ways,” Glory Football Director Stan Lazaridis said. “Luis has conducted himself with great professionalism throughout his short time with us and on behalf of the club, I would like to thank him for his efforts and wish him all the very best for the future. We hope to announce the signing of a replacement centre-back shortly.”
His departure might not be the last, as Zdrilic and Lazaridis look to move other players on and bring in others to strengthen the squad. The transfer window will open in January, and the club have promised to be active in the market, and with support waning, they have to get it right. Defender Jacob Muir has already moved on, while Colombian striker Cristian Caicedo spat the dummy, after being dragged late in Adelaide, after only coming off the bench on the hour, and he hasn’t been selected in the squad since.
The two imports weren’t on their own, with Belgian defender Anas Hamzaoui and Japanese midfielder Hiroaki Aoyama, who signed from Marconi, have both failed to impress, although Hamzaoui is out with an injury at the moment. The local players have also been over looked for selection recently, the likes of Luke Bodnar and Kaelan Majekodunmi, so are they on the way out too, only time will tell. The club need to get it right, they have an owner who doesn’t like to fail, and all Glory supporters hope they do.
18.12.2024
PETERS RELISHING WESTERN SYDNEY OPPORTUNITY
Perth Glory coach Stephen Peters is relishing the chance to take on Western Sydney Wanderers as his side seek to claim back-to-back A-League Women’s wins for the first time in more than a year. With the A-League ladder tight - Glory are third from bottom but also only two points off fourth - Peters preached the need for consistency ahead of a crucial run of games.
Glory are away on Friday to Western Sydney Wanderers, who thrashing Western United 5-1 last time out. “We’re coming up against them at a good time, because that that win was a huge performance for them,” said Peters, who is looking forward to the encounter.
“They were very hungry in that particular game, so I don’t know, can they replicate that hunger? We’re going to find that out. It’s a good time to play them. We’re certainly not afraid of any team in the competition, and we’re going to go there and try and make a nuisance of ourselves.”
The last time Glory Women won on the road was New Year’s Eve, and November 2023 was the last time they won two in a row. “Back-to-back wins in this competition is a huge thing. You’ve seen how close the table is,” Peters said. “If we can back it up and climb the table, that’d be brilliant for us.”
Peters said staying in touch with the lead pack in the finals race was fuelling his side, but they could not afford to get complacent. “It’s a massive motivation for us, just to stay with the pack would be huge, to climb the table is massive and different pressures come with that as well,” he said.
“We’ve got to be ready for both of those pressures. The things that we’ve done well, we want to get addicted to those things that have worked well for us and just keep doing them.” Sarah O’Donoghue and co-captain Isobel Dalton will miss Friday’s game due to an ankle injury and a hamstring strain respectively.
18.12.2024
GLORY PART WAYS WITH CANGA AFTER JUST EIGHT GAMES
Perth Glory’s squad upheaval has begun ahead of the January transfer window with import defender Luis Canga leaving the club by mutual consent. The 29-year old centre-back, who was capped three times by Ecuador, made just eight starts for the club after arriving shortly before the season. And he may not be the last of the Glory’s foreign legion to depart, with several others already out of favour.
Canga’s arrival was greeted with enthusiasm and the early on-field signs were promising. However, his recent performances have dipped and after making a crucial error against Newcastle Jets - which lead to the visitors first goal in a 4-0 hiding - on the weekend, his A-League career ended with the indignity of being substituted at half-time.
“We felt it wasn’t working out with Luis and agreed that it was in the best interests of both parties to part ways,” Glory Football Director Stan Lazaridis said. “Luis has conducted himself with great professionalism throughout his short time with us and on behalf of the club, I would like to thank him for his efforts and wish him all the very best for the future.”
Canga has not been the only import to struggle. Japanese midfielder Hiroaki Aoyama has been replaced at half-time in all four of his starts. Colombian attacker Cristian Caicedo has made only three appearances. And Belgian left-back Anas Hamzaoui is yet to make an impact, although his current absence has been due to injury.
17.12.2024
AQUINO REFLECTS ON BREAKTHROUGH YEAR
Goalkeeper Morgan Aquino has opened up on her farewell A-League Women’s season, attributing her stunning breakout year to a surge in confidence and a clear mindset. And while the 23-year old has no regrets over her off-season move to America as she looks to extract the most out of her burgeoning career, she has left the door open for a potential return to Perth Glory somewhere down the track.
Aquino capped off an outstanding 2024 when she was named in the Matildas’ squad for their recent four-game international series. It came after her final year with Glory ended with a slew of honours, including Professional Football Australia’s goalkeeper of the season and the A-League Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year award.
At the start of last season, many assumed recently-acquired Young Matildas goalkeeper Sally James would win the number one jersey over Aquino. Instead, Aquino started every game last season, and attributed her confidence to a clearer mindset, while also crediting James for pushing her. “People don’t understand how tough it is having to keep your position,” Aquino explained.
“Either you get that number one spot and you’re not challenged, and then it makes training and games go by ... there’s no challenge with that. But then, on the other hand, when you bring in two people that can play week in, week out, it’s quite stressful. Previous seasons to last, I was more stressed with being in and out of teams, but that last year, I was backed in regardless if I made a mistake or not.”
“I was always kept on my toes; ‘I can’t make a mistake, or I’ll be dropped.’ Whereas last year, I went into it to enjoy it, whatever happens, I knew I was backed in, even if I made a mistake, I would have been okay. But Sally pushed me a lot, and I’m grateful for it, because I don’t think I’d be the same if I wasn’t challenged week and week out.”
Aquino’s season led to an overseas offer from DC Power in the USL W League. “Having soccer purely just to focus on, there’s no external factors. I’ve really got that one main focus, which is good. That’s where I grow as well — the club’s been very supportive and I think I’ve grown a lot already just in this short space of time,” she said. “It’s a higher level and getting consistent game time over there for me was important, and I’m getting that.”
However, that does not mean Aquino does not miss her former stomping ground. “I was at Glory for a long time, and if I play in the A-League again, that’s obviously the club I want to play for; being close to home and having that support week in, week out,” she said. “Every time I played last season, I brought 50 people with me, that was my entourage every time. It was really nice to know that in the crowd, I always had people to look for.”
16.12.2024
SOCCEROOS TO PLAY JAPAN AT OPTUS STADIUM
The Socceroos are heading back to Western Australia, after Football Australia confirmed they will face Japan at Perth (Optus) Stadium on Thursday, 5 June 2025 (7:00pm local / 9:00pm AEST) as part of their Round Three AFC Asian Qualifiers – Road To 26 Qualification campaign. It’s the first time the Australian men’s side have played at the venue, but big games have been a success at the ground, the sell out A-League grand final in 2019 between Perth Glory and Sydney FC, likewise the Matildas Olympic Qualifier against the Philippines in October 2023, and a number of games featuring EPL and European sides.
Tony Popovic’s side could already be qualified before the game, with win in games against Indonesia at the Sydney Football Stadium on March 20, and a trip to China PR the following week, but the group is so tight with only one point separating five teams, with Japan all but secured of qualification. But it should go down to the wire, but it wouldn’t be Australia if we did it the easy way, would it. Australia last faced Japan in Saitama in an away fixture during the October 2024 Men’s FIFA International Window, in what was a tense, tightly fought 1-1 draw.
Football Australia CEO, James Johnson said he was delighted to have a game of this magnitude played in Western Australia. “We are thrilled to confirm that the Subway Socceroos will face one of Asia’s premier footballing nations, Japan, in what promises to be a defining match in our FIFA World Cup 2026 qualification journey. This rivalry is steeped in history and showcases the very best of Asian football, and we’re excited to bring it to Perth, a city with a rich football heritage and an engaged fanbase,” he said. “This is more than just a football match, it’s a moment for Western Australian fans to connect with the Subway Socceroos and witness world-class football at one of the nation’s most iconic venues.
“The timing of this match, at such a critical juncture in our qualification campaign, makes it a must-see spectacle for fans of the green and gold. The support of our fans plays a crucial role in lifting the team, and I urge everyone to turn out in numbers to create an unforgettable atmosphere for Tony (Popovic) and the squad. We are especially grateful to the Western Australian Government for their partnership and ongoing commitment to growing football in the region. This collaboration highlights the power of sport to unite communities and inspire the next generation of players and fans.”
WA Deputy Premier and Minister for Tourism, the Hon. Rita Saffioti MLA said it’s very exciting to be hosting the Socceroos again on their journey to the FIFA World Cup 2026. “Excitement for the FIFA World Cup 2026 is already building, and we’re expecting this Round Three qualifier to capitalise on that hype, bringing over a thousand Socceroos and Japan fans to cheer on their teams as they go head-to-head at Perth (Optus) Stadium for the chance to directly qualify for the World Cup,” Minister Saffioti said.
“Of course, it’s also easy for Japanese fans to travel to WA for the match, with direct flights between Tokyo and Perth operating three times a week. Events form a major part of our overarching tourism strategy, helping to attract out of state visitors and generate millions for our local economy, and this match is just the latest in a growing list of events we have secured for WA next year.”
Socceroos’ Assistant Coach, Hayden Foxe, who was assistant coach at Glory in that 2019 A-League Grand Final at Optus Stadium, a game all Glory supporters would like to forget, said the match would be special for the playing group and the football community in Western Australia. “I’ve seen first-hand the passion for our game in Western Australia. It’s a vibrant football community filled with hard-working people who have been great supporters of the Socceroos over many years,” Foxe said. “We’re excited to be heading to Perth for this important fixture, and Perth (Optus) Stadium is a fantastic venue, and I’m sure the home fans will create a great atmosphere for the players. Facing Japan on home soil is as big as it gets in our Confederation, and the team is looking forward to the challenge.”.
The concluding scheduled is to be played from September 2024 to June 2025, the AFC Asian Qualifiers – Road to 26 will feature three groups of six teams playing in a home-and-away, round-robin format, offering direct qualification to the FIFA World Cup 2026™ for the top two finishers of each group. To find out all the latest information on fixtures, results and Third Round Qualification updates check out - https://www.the-afc.com/en/national/asian_qualifiers/asian_qualifiers.html
Tickets for this match start from $16 Child, $19 Concession, $29 Adult, and $89 Family, and Corporate Hospitality Packages are also available. A Football Account Pre-Sale at 10.00am AWST on Tuesday, 17 December 2024 and General Public On-Sale at 10.00am AWST Wednesday, 18 December 2024 via Ticketmaster. $2 (plus GST) from every ticket sold will be donated to the ParaRoos and ParaMatildas, Australia's CP national teams for male and female footballers with cerebral palsy, acquired brain injury or symptoms from a stroke.
15.12.2024
HOLLAR AT THE DOUBLE FOR GLORY
Perth Glory have won for the second time this season, after a 3-1 win against fourth placed Adelaide United in week six of the Ninja A-League at the Sam Kerr Football Centre on Sunday afternoon. A first goal for the cub from Naomi Chinnama gave Stephen Peters’ side the lead at the break, but substitute Chelsie Dawber levelled twenty minutes from time. But Glory hit back five minutes later with Gabby Hollar converting from the spot. The visitors were then reduced to ten players with Matilda McNamara shown a red card, and the points were sealed late with Hollar adding her second, the win moving Glory to within two points of the top six.
Glory made two changes from the side that lost to Melbourne Victory last week, with Hollar coming in for the injured Sarah O’Donoghue, while skipper Izzy Dalton also missed out with former Perth SC midfielder Charli Wainwright coming in for her A-League debut. There was another good crowd on hand at kick off, and it was the hosts who made the better start, with Hollar inches away from a Kelli Brown cross at the back post. But on 24 minutes the Glory did find the breakthrough.
Georgia Cassidy’s teasing cross from the right picked out Chinnama, who rose highest at the back post to head home. The goal lifted the hosts, and their supporters, and they went close to another 12 minutes later, Welsh international Megan Wynne’s long-range shot was straight at Reds keeper Claudia Jenkins. The lively Brown was in again just before the break, the Kiwi striker raced into goal but Jenkins was out quick to smother her shot, and at half time Peters’ side held a narrow lead.
Glory started the second half, as they had finished the first, and Hollar fired over the top just before the hour, but the Reds lifted and Casey Dumont made a smart save to deny Emily Condon moments later. But it was Glory creating the better chances, and on 66 minutes they went close to a second. Hollar’s shot was well saved by Jenkins, and the Reds custodian was quick to her feet to deny Johnston from the rebound, before McNamara got back to clear the ball off the line.
But on 69 minutes, Adelaide levelled. Glory gave the ball away in the middle of the park, and Dawber was sent clear, going one-on-one with Dumont, and the Young Matildas striker finished well. But five minutes later the host regained their lead, with referee Mikayla Ryan pointing to the spot after Wynne was brought down by Meleri Mullan, and Hollar stepped up and confidently converted the resulting penalty.
The chance of a late comeback for the visitors disappeared eight minutes from time, when McNamara pulled back Brown as the striker raced towards goal, and the referee showed a straight red card to the Matilidas defender. Glory pressed for a third, and it looked they had found it two minutes from time, when substitute Ella Abdull Massih raced clear, but Jenkins saved well to thwart her. But in stoppage time the hosts did find a third. Brown’s corner from the left found Hollar at the back post and she headed past Jenkins, to seal the points and send the home faithful home happy.
Perth Glory squad: GK Casey DUMONT, 5 Grace JOHNSTON, 6 Tijan MCKENNA, 7 Megan WYNNE (20 Ella ABDUL MASSIH 76’), 8 Georgia CASSIDY (18 Isabella FOLETTA 76’), 9 Gabby HOLLAR, 11 Natalie TATHEM, 13 Naomi CHINNAMA, 27 Charli WAINWRIGHT (14 Miku SUNAGA 60’), 29 Onyinyechi ZOGG, 44 Kelli BROWN - Subs not used: GK Miranda TEMPLEMAN, 2 Mischa ANDERSON
Adelaide United squad: GK Claudia JENKINS, 2 Emily HODGSON (3 Meleri MULLAN 65’), 4 Matilda MCNAMARA, 5 Sarah MORGAN (6 Tiarna KARAMBASIS 78’), 13 Ella TONKIN, 14 Lucía LEÓN, 17 Zoe TOLLAND, 19 Katie BOWLER (10 Chelsie DAWBER 65’), 22 Erin HEALY (8 Emily CONDON 10’), 23 Fiona WORTS - Subs not used: GK Annalee GROVE – Red Card: McNamara 82’) – Referee: Mikayla Ryan
14.12.2024
GLORY HIT ROCK BOTTOM
Perth Glory have slipped to the foot of the Isuzu Ute A-League, after an embarrassing 4-0 loss against Newcastle Jets at HBF Park on Saturday evening. The visitors arrived in the west having only scored four goals in their six games, but they were already 3-0 up inside 26 minutes courtesy of strikes to Thomas Aquilina, Lachlan Bayliss and Ben Gibson. Gibson, playing just his seventh A-League match, added a second goal less than a minute into the second half to put the result beyond doubt.
Under fire Glory coach David Zdrilic said they just didn’t get started, and his first thoughts were for the members and supporters. “We need to apologise to the fans," he said post-match. “Everyone turned out and it's just not good enough. We didn't even give ourselves a chance to get into the game today with those early goals. It's just very simple errors. Defensively as a team, we just haven't been good enough."
The coach made two changes to the side that were beaten by Melbourne Victory last week with new signing Tomi Mrcela coming into the side, his second spell at the club, for Lachlan Barr, while Brandon O’Neill came in for Jarrod Carluccio, the pair dropping to the bench. Meanwhile in the Jets line-up there were two familiar faces, with former Glory players Callum Timmins and Aleks Susnjar returning to HBF Park.
With all the talk in the week being about the off-field matters, the home supporters were hoping for some cheer on the pitch, but it was a disastrous start with the Jets finding the opener on eight minutes. Clayton Taylor and Daniel Wilmering combined down the left, the latter crossed into the box, and a sliced clearance from Luis Canga went straight to an unmarked Aquilina, who fired home past Cameron Cook at his near post. They went close to a second moments later, Kosta Grozos’ corner was headed goalward by an unmarked Aquilina, but the alert Taras Gomulka cleared the ball off the line.
The Glory faithful were getting restless, and their mood worsened on 20 minutes, when the Jets added a second. The visitors had lost skipper Grozos with injury, but his replacement Bayliss made an immediate impact. A short corner routine caught Glory napping the ball played to the substitute who nutmegged Adam Bugarija, before curling home superbly. The Jets were ripping the hosts to pieces, and it wasn’t a surprise when they added a third on 26 minutes. Aquilina made space down the right, and his low cross was turned home by Gibson, with Canga nowhere near him. The crowd let their feelings known at the break, the Glory leaving to boos.
Zdrilic made a triple change at the break, with Canga, who was having a nightmare, replaced by Lachlan Barr, while Abdu Faisal and Jarrod Carluccio came on for Khoa Ngo and Bugarija. They had already lost O’Neil, with concussion late in the first half, replaced by Nathanael Blair, so they needed a good start to the second half to get back into the game, but they found themselves four goals behind in the first sixty seconds. Taylor fed Aquilina down the right and his low cross was turned home at the back post by Gibson.
Glory had struggled in the final third all night, but they went close on 51 minutes, the lively Faisal getting to the bye-line and cutting the ball back to Adam Taggart, whose shot was well saved by Ryan Scott. It was only a slight reprieve for the Glory, and Taylor should have added a fifth moments later, blazing over the top when well placed. Late on substitute Justin Vidic saw an effort flash inches wide, but it was another horror show for the 5,459 supporters, including owner Ross Pelligra, and at the final whistle the boos rang out again, it is worrying times for the club.
Jets coach Rob Stanton was full of pride in his players for claiming their second win of the season and carving a four-point gap between themselves and bottom-placed Glory, to break their four-game losing streak. “Last week was something (where) I was asked a question and I expressed an opinion, because I’m committed to what I do,” he said post-match.
“I think there’s a lot of people out there that have an opinion on everything and the commitment to nothing. I expressed an opinion because I’m committed to working with the players, developing them. Tonight, they’ve given a terrific performance for the fans. But they’ve been pretty good all year to be honest, and haven’t had the rub of the green or the results. Tonight, I think all the hard work they’ve put in, they’ve been rewarded and deservedly so.”
Perth Glory: GK Cameron COOK, 2 Riley WARLAND, 6 Brandon O’NEILL (14 Nathanael BLAIR 44'), 7 Nicholas PENNINGTON, 12 Taras GOMULKA, 16 Adam BUGARIJA (17 Jarrod CARLUCCIO 46'), 19 Josh RISDON, 22 Adam TAGGART, 26 Khoa NGO (21 Abdul FAISAL 46'), 29 Tomi MRCELA, 33 Luis CANGA (5 Lachlan BARR 46') - Subs not used: RGK Oli SAIL, 9 David WILLIAMS, 31 Joel ANASMO
Newcastle Jets: GK Ryan SCOTT, 4 Phillip CANCAR, 7 Eli ADAMS (10 WELLISSOL 84'), 13 Clayton TAYLOR (6 Matthew SCARCELLA 77'), 15 Aleksandar ŠUŠNJAR, 17 Kosta GROZOS (37 Lachlan BAYLISS 19'), 19 Callum TIMMINS (28 Will DOBSON 84'), 22 Ben GIBSON (29 Justin VIDIC 69'), 23 Daniel WILMERING, 33 Mark NATTA, 39 Thomas AQUILINA - Subs not used: RGK Noah JAMES, 27 Nathan GRIMALDI – Attendance: 5,459 - Referee: Lachlan Keevers
14.12.2024
PETERS TARGETS IMPROVED CONCENTRATION
Coach Stephen Peters says Perth Glory have lost games in the margins so far this A-League Women’s season, however, there is no cause for concern. Ahead of a visit from fourth-placed Adelaide United on Sunday, Peters said his side had been on the wrong side of several key moments and improved concentration would be a remedy.
Glory suffered their third loss in their opening five games in heartbreaking manner on the weekend as they fell 1-0 to a late, long-range Alana Murphy effort. They find themselves in eleventh spot on the ladder with a win over the Reds jumping them within touching distance of the top six at this early stage of the season.
Peters said it was far from panic stations, particularly given the effort and intensity was already abundantly clear. “We’re just concentrating on the fine details, just to make sure we convert those efforts into points, a bit of reward for effort there,” Peters said.
“The effort’s definitely been there, we’ve been concentrating for large periods, we’re getting better in terms of how many minutes we’re competitive for in matches. The intensity is there, I just believe we’ve got to make sure that we’re alert in the key moments. We’ve got to try and help the players identify what those key moments are, so we’re trying to replicate them in the sessions.”
With the dangerous Fiona Worts and Emily Condon in fine form, having scored all eight of United’s goals this season, Peters said his players would have a good test on their hands. “They’re a very well-structured side that play a very structured, possession based game and Fiona Worts is a fantastic goal scorer for them,” Peters said.
“But it’s a little bit of the theme, right? Each team that we play, they’ve all got a pretty good striker, so the good thing about that is we have a similar preparation for that each week. Obviously the players have different characteristics, but our prep is pretty similar.” Sarah O’Donoghue will miss Sunday’s game with new signing Claudia Valletta in contention to debut.
13.12.2024
WARLAND READY TO FIGHT FOR CLUB AND CAREER
Left-back Riley Warland is prepared to lay it all on the line to abet Perth Glory’s season-long slump. After an injury-plagued pre-season, Warland declared he was ready to seize his opportunity with both hands and expressed his determination to bed down a spot in the starting eleven.
The arrival of Newcastle Jets for Glory’s first home game in a month on Saturday provides the team with the best chance to win their first game of the men’s season. Newcastle have lost five of their six games this season, their lone win coming back in round two.
Warland played his first game of the season against Melbourne Victory last weekend and with another start against the Jets likely, he is keen to make the most of his chance. “All pre-season I hadn’t played, so it’s been a very hard journey for myself trying to get back into the team,” Warland said.
“I got my opportunity last week, it’s just about putting one foot in front of the other and playing my best football and doing the best for the club that I can. I’ve been training for a long time. I’m not one to shy away from hard work. I like to push myself every single day.”
Warland has had a topsy-turvy career, having joined English Premier League side Fulham as a teenager, before returning to the A-League for stints with Glory and the Jets. After NPL WA stops at Gwelup Croatia and Perth RedStar, former Glory coach Alen Stajcic threw Warland an A-League lifeline on the eve of last season.
Warland said he had not taken his second chance at Glory for granted. “It means the world to me. This is my hometown club, and I never really thought no was an option,” he said. “I work very hard away from the club — there’s a lot of work a lot of people on the outside, they don’t see, and it doesn’t bother me one bit.
“I know in myself how much work I’ve put in and how much I deserve this because I work so hard... but being back here at my hometown club now, back to back seasons means a lot, and all I want to do is play football and try and help the club get back to where they used to be.”
13.12.2024
YOUNG MATILDA VALLETTA JOINS GLORY WOMEN
Young Matildas defender Claudia Valletta has signed on with Perth Glory Women’s squad as an injury-replacement player. A member of the Bulls FC Academy who has also plied her trade in both Iceland and Italy, 21-year old Valletta will be contention to make her Glory debut in Sunday’s home fixture against Adelaide United.
Glory Head Coach Stephen Peters believes that the club’s latest recruit will significantly boost his defensive options. “Claudia is a player I know well from her time in the NSW NPLW and she has a great deal of potential,” he said. “She’s very athletic and dynamic and can operate equally effectively at full-back or centre-back. We’re excited to have her on board and look forward to seeing her compete for a place in the backline this season.”
13.12.2024
GLAVOVIC TO COACH THE AZZURRI IN THE NPLW
Perth Soccer Club have announced Tom Glavovic as their new NPLW Head Coach for season 2025, replacing Danielle Brogan, who resigned after the 2024 season for family reasons. Many will know Glavovic has one of the top referees in WA, but he also played at a high level, playing in the Regionalliga in Germany and for FK Partizan Belgrade, one of the most prestigious clubs in Serbia, where he represented both the state and national U16 teams. He also has an AFC B Licence Coach and has a Level 1 Referee License.
Club President Jason Marocchi said Glavovic was the perfect replacement for Brogan, who led the club to the State League Cup last season. “On behalf of everyone at Perth SC, I would like to welcome Tom to the Azzurri family," Marocchi said. “Tom has a deep understanding of the local football landscape and the skills to identify and nurture emerging talent. We look forward to working with Tom to continue our journey of developing talented players and challenging for silverware in the women's game in WA."
Glavovic is looking forward to the challenge ahead at Dorrien Gardens. “Taking on the Head Coach role at such a prestigious club is both an exciting opportunity and a significant challenge,” he said. “Perth SC has such a rich history in WA football, and following on from such a successful season under Danielle Brogan adds to the responsibility. I’m looking forward to building on that success and working with a talented group of players to achieve even greater things in 2025. Finishing second in the league and lifting the Cup Final against RedStar is an excellent platform to work from. It highlights the resilience and quality of the squad, and I aim to continue fostering that winning mentality while introducing new ideas to keep us competitive in 2025.”
The new coach has spent the past four years as the First Team Assistant Coach at the Hyundai NTC, with key achievements being the 2023 State Cup win and assisting in the development of seven professional players, five of who were selected for the Young Matildas. Glavovic said the opportunity to coach at the NTC was rewarding. “Working alongside Ben Anderton at the NTC was an invaluable experience. The program has been instrumental in developing young talent in WA, and I’m proud to have been part of a team that prioritizes player growth and development,” he explained. “Seeing so many players progress through the ranks and make an impact at higher levels is incredibly rewarding.”
It will be a busy 2025 for Glavovic, who will continue to referee, but he knows the young referees are coming through the system. “Refereeing has been an important part of my football journey, and I plan to continue in the upcoming season, albeit with reduced availability due to the demands of the Head Coach role. I still enjoy being involved in the game from this perspective and look forward to contributing where I can,” he explained. “It’s great to see so many talented young referees coming up through the system. The future of refereeing in WA looks bright, and I’m confident they will continue to raise the standard in the years to come. It’s encouraging to see the passion and commitment they bring to the role.”
13.12.2024
GLORY AIM TO BRING DOWN THE JETS
With all the off-field news taking all the headlines this week, Perth Glory head coach David Zdrilic said it’s business as usual on the pitch, and he is looking to make the most of home ground advantage as they welcome Newcastle Jets to HBF Park on Saturday in week seven of the Isuzu Ute A-League. (6:45pm kick off) Glory are coming off a 0-2 defeat against Melbourne Victory, and the coach said it was an underwhelming performance.
“We expected a tough game against Melbourne Victory, so there was no surprise there,” he said. “The quality that they have… and they’re very dominant at home. We had two good performances against Western United, even though we didn’t get the result and obviously against Adelaide we built on that. But against Victory, we weren’t then able to progress and even though we knew it was going to be a tough game, we just didn’t hold the ball enough. So, from that point of view, we weren’t happy, but we’re still positive about playing at home [this weekend].”
On Saturday they welcome the Jets, who sit one point and one place above them on the ladder. They played them twice in pre-season, winning one game each, but games between the two sides have been close affairs over the years and remarkably, the last five A-League meetings between the sides have all ended with a 2-2 result. Zdrilic is expecting a similarly tight game on Saturday, but he is hoping that having the Glory members and fans behind them will give them the edge.
“We haven’t played at home for over a month now, so we’re really looking forward to that, taking those steps forward that we showed against Western United and Adelaide and getting back on track in that regard,” he said. “For us, every game is the same and Newcastle is another strong team, and in some ways, they’re in a similar position to us.
“They haven’t got the results they’ve been wishing for and we played them a couple of times in pre-season and it was close in both games. We know each other well and recent results have been very tight between the two teams, so we’re expecting another one like that. We’re really happy to be back at home and we want to make sure that we show everyone that we have been making progress, taking the Victory game out and we want to take those next steps moving forward.”
Defender Riley Warland, who helped Perth RedStar to the NPWM title in 2023 before signing for Glory, was a surprise selection last week, and he said the off-field problems do not affect the side. “The off-field stuff doesn’t affect us at all, we’re focused on training and the 90-plus minutes on the weekend, so all the boys are fine, the attitude is great,” he said. “We’ve got a lot of young boys, and it’s pretty hard to bounce back from results we’ve been having, but the senior players we have help us through the adversity we’re going through and bouncing back each week which is what we’ve been doing.
“We have a great support network around us here, and knowing our fans turn up at home and away games means a great deal to us. I know it’s been hard recently but they know we will fight to the end in every game. I’ve been injured all season, and had no minutes so it’s been a very hard journey for me trying to get back into the team, obviously no one wants someone to get injured, but unfortunately there was an injury, and I’ve been training hard and fortunately I got my opportunity last week an I’ll be doing the best for the club, and I’m only going to get better as more games and minutes come along. We’re focused on Saturday and getting the three points, then we will move on to the next game.”
The last meeting in the league between the two sides came in round 20 last season, when Adam Taggart’s late goal giving Glory a point in a 2-2 draw. It looked like the visitors would be leaving with all three points, after goals either side of half time from Clayton Taylor and Lucas Mauragis gave them a two-goal lead. But Glory found a lifeline 18 minutes from time with Taggart on target, and the Socceroos striker restored parity in the final minute, to give them a share of the spoils. In team news defender Tomi Mrcela is line to play, in his second spell at the club, after playing in the NPL sides pre-season friendly against Inglewood United in midweek, he will be involved if the international clearance is received in time. Unfortunately, fellow defender Anas Hamzaoui will miss out through injury, as well as Trent Ostler, Nikola Mileusnic and Mustafa Amini.
Perth Glory squad: GK Cameron COOK, GK Oli SAIL, 2 Riley WARLAND, 5 Lachlan BARR, 6 Brandon O’NEILL, 7 Nicholas PENNINGTON, 9 David WILLIAMS, 12 Taras GOMULKA,14 Nathanael BLAIR, 15Zach LISOLAJSKI, 16 Adam BUGARIJA, 17 Jarrod CARLUCCIO, 19 Josh RISDON, 21 Abdul FAISAL, 22 Adam TAGGART, 24 Andriano LEBIB, 26 Khoa NGO, 29 Tomi MRCELA, 31 Joel ANASMO, 33 Luis CANGA - *Two to be omitted* - Ins: LEBIB, MRCELA - Unavailable: 3 Anas HAMZAOUI (injured), 8 Mustafa AMINI (injured), 10 Nikola MILEUSNIC (injured), 20 Trent OSTLER (injured)
Newcastle Jets squad: GK Ryan SCOTT, GK Noah JAMES, 4 Phillip CANCAR, 6 Matthew SCARCELLA, 7 Eli ADAMS, 9 Lachlan ROSE, 10 WELLISSOL,13 Clayton TAYLOR, 15 Aleksandar ŠUŠNJAR, 17 Kosta GROZOS, 19 Callum TIMMINS, 22 Ben GIBSON, 23 Daniel WILMERING, 27 Nathan GRIMALDI, 28 Will DOBSON, 29 Justin VIDIC, 33 Mark NATTA, 37 Lachlan BAYLISS, 39 Thomas AQUILINA - *One to be omitted* - Outs: 14 Dane INGHAM - Unavailable: 11 Jacob DOWSE, 24 Alex NUNES, 25 Oscar FRYER, 44 Ben VAN DORSSEN, 66 Zac BOWLING
13.12.2024
GLORY WELCOME ADELAIDE UNITED IN WEEK SIX
Perth Glory Women’s Head Coach Stephen Peters said they all felt the pain of last weekend’s last-gasp defeat against Melbourne Victory, but he believes it will serve to fire his players up for Sunday’s Ninga A-League week six clash with Adelaide United at the Sam Kerr Football Centre (kick-off at 5pm) The stunning strike from teenager Alana Murphy secured the points for Victory, but Peters said they have taken plenty of positives from the performance.
He believes his side can bounce back, but knows they face a Reds outfit who have opened the season well. “They’re a very well-structured side that play a very structured, possession-based game and Fiona Worts is a fantastic goalscorer for them,” he said. “But each team we play, they’ve all got a pretty good striker, so the good thing is that we have a similar preparation for that each week. The players obviously have different characteristics, but our prep is pretty similar.”
Peters has been pleased with the effort and determination of his players, but they need to improve the finer details. “The effort has definitely been there and we’ve been concentrating for long periods,” he said. “It’s just about concentrating on the fine details to make sure we convert those efforts into points. Obviously, we’ve been getting better in terms of how many minutes we’re competitive for in matches, but to lose in the 92nd minute, that one stung.
“We’ve got to work harder to not let that repeat itself. The intensity is there, we’ve just got to make sure that we’re alert in the key moments and we need to help the players identify what those key moments are… and make sure that they’re switched on at all times. We’re getting closer on that and I’ve said it a few times; it’s a work in progress.”
It will be second A-league Women’s game played at the new arena, and the coach is determined to give the club’s members and fans something to celebrate this weekend, especially after the late defeat last week. “It is a cliche, but this week we really do have to concentrate on ourselves,” he said. “I think if we get our game right, then we put ourselves in every contest. Every time we went forward [against Victory], we got bums off seats to cheer us, so we want to create more of those moments for the fans to get behind.
“That way it hopefully lifts the players as well. We really wanted to put on a good show in our first ALW game there and obviously getting beaten in the last minute took the oxygen out of that. But hopefully the fans saw that we were very much putting in a huge effort, playing for the shirt and playing for each other and hopefully we can get the three points this week.”
New signing Natalie Tathem has been an ever-present this season, and the defender said last week was difficult to take. “I thought we fought for 90 minutes and it was just that last few minutes we conceded, but Stephen’s message is what can we learn from this and how we can be better,” Tathem said. “And you can see each week the team is getting better, so we need to focus on what we can control, and instead of playing for 90 minutes, we need to play 100.
“I think defensively we’ve been coping a few goals from distance, and its something we’ve focused on, and it was a shame for Kasey on her home debut last week, as it was their only shot on target, so we’re focused on a clean sheet this week. We will have our work cut out with Fiona (Worts) who is aways a tough player to defended, likewise Emily Condon, but for me I love to play against the best players, so like each week our focus is a clean sheet, and we’ve worked hard this week to do that.”
The last time they hosted Adelaide United in Perth, was in round four last season, when Glory came from behind at half time to run out 2-1 winners in front of 1,231 supporters at Macedonia Park. Dylan Holmes gave the Reds the lead in the shadows of half time, but Gace Jale levelled early in the second half. It looked like the points would be shared, but four minutes from time Susan Phonsongkham won it for the hosts.
Peters has a few injury concerns heading into the game, but believes they have the squad to cover it. “We have a couple of 50-50 ones and we haven’t got the scans back for them yet,” he said. “Unfortunately, Sarah O’Donoghue looks like she’ll miss a bit of football which is really disappointing for her as she’s done a tremendous job to date.”
Perth Glory squad: GK Casey DUMONT, GK Miranda TEMPLEMAN, 2 Mischa ANDERSON, 5 Grace JOHNSTON, 6 Tijan MCKENNA, 7 Megan WYNNE, 8 Georgia CASSIDY, 9 Gabby HOLLAR, 11 Natalie TATHEM, 13 Naomi CHINNAMA, 14 Miku SUNAGA, 17 Morgan ROBERTS, 18 Isabella FOLETTA, 20 Ella ABDUL MASSIH, 21 (gk), 23 Izzy DALTON, 27 Charli WAINWRIGHT, 29 Onyinyechi ZOGG, 44 Kelli BROWN - *Two to be omitted* - Ins: ANDERSON, SUNAGA, ROBERTS - Unavailable: 10 Susan PHONSONGKHAM (injured), 16 Bella WALLHEAD (injured), 19 Sarah O’DONOGHUE (injured)
Adelaide United squad: GK Annalee GROVE, GK Claudia JENKINS, 2 Emily HODGSON, 3 Meleri MULLAN, 4 Matilda MCNAMARA, 5 Sarah MORGAN, 6 Tiarna KARAMBASIS, 8 Emily CONDON, 10 Chelsie DAWBER, 13 Ella TONKIN, 14 Lucía LEÓN, 17 Zoe TOLLAND, 19 Katie BOWLER, 20 Miley GRIGG, 22 Erin HEALY, 23 Fiona WORTS, 24 Abby MIDDLETON, 27 Sian DEWEY - *Two to be omitted* - Ins: MCNAMARA - Outs: 7 Abby CLARKE - Unavailable: 11 Isabel HODGSON (foot), 16 Dylan HOLMES (hip)
12.12.2024
AFGHANISTAN WIN THE 2024 FOOTBALL WEST KICK IT – WORLD CUP
Afghanistan have won the 2024 Football West Kick It - World Cup, after a 2-1 win against Iraq in the final at Inglewood Stadium. It was fantastic tournament full of colour, and exciting football, and well run by Inglewood United FC. Afghanistan coach Ben Wantee said it was a pleasure to lead the side in competition. “Coaching Afghanistan is always a joy, as the boys are players, I've either played with or still play with today,” he explained. “When we won the Kick It World Cup last time, the team wasn't as strong as it is this year.
“We were fortunate to have players like Pieter, Gordon, Abdullahi, Zeed and Luke join the team, which definitely strengthened us, although there were also a lot of strong teams this year. The two teams I thought would go the furthest were Netherlands and Congo, and I expected to face one of them in the final. Overall, it was a fantastic tournament with great teams, excellent organization, and very few negatives. I honestly can't think of anything to complain about.”
The competition was tough with both finalists, fighting through the 20-team tournament to play off in the final. Afghanistan was drawn in Group B, and kicked things off with a big 7-1 win against North Sudan in round one, with Jacobsz scoring five, with others to Mohammad Rezai and Gordon Perkins. In round two they meet Zimbabwe, with Jacobsz the difference again the Armadale striker bagging a hat-trick. In round three they took on El Salvador, and found themselves behind with Jack Murray on target, but it was Jacobsz again who found the equaliser with 20 minutes to go, the game ending 1-1, that point took them through to the round of 16, along with El Salvador.
Iraq was drawn in Group E, and in round one they were made to work hard to beat Greece 1-0, with Charlie Breen on target, but the striker was later sent off. In round two they met Zaire, and a hat-trick from Hamza Hina and another from Mohammed Al-Zayadi secured a 4-1 win. That set up a round three clash with Burundi, with the winner to top the group, and Iraq prevailed 1-0, with Burundi also qualifying for the round of 16. Other teams to qualify for the knock out stage were Sierra Leone, Croatia, Netherlands, Nigeria, Djibouti, Greece, DR Congo, Iberia, Uganda Cranes, Poland, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
Afghanistan eased through to the quarter finals with a 3-0 win against Nigeria. Jacobsz sent them on the way with another goal, before Perkins and Mehdi Gholami sealed the win. Iraq on the other hand were taken to penalties, after they drew 1-1 with Sierra Leone, before progressing 9-8 in the shoot-out. In the other games, Croatia beat Burundi 3-1, Netherlands edged out E Salvador 2-1, Djibouti beat Greece 4-2 on penalties after the game ended 1-1. Liberia beat DR Congo 1-0, Poland beat Uganda Cranes 5-4 on penalties, while Zambia saw off Zimbabwe 2-0.
In quarter finals Afghanistan beat Poland 3-1. Gholami gave them the lead in the first half, and Jacobsz added a second midway through the second. But Poland was back in the game on the hour, with Federico Achilli scoring, but Jacobsz sealed the victory late. Iraq eased into the semi-finals with a 5-2 win against Netherlands. Hina gave them the lead early, but Rob Ferrante levelled for the Dutch. But that was as good as it got for them, with Reda Alsalemi bagging a hat-trick, before Hina added a five, Jesse Lazzaro scored a late consolation goal for the Netherlands.
In the other quarter-finals, Croatia beat Liberia 4-1 and Zambia edged out Djibouti 2-1. The semi-finals saw Afghanistan take on Zambia, while Iraq met Croatia. Afghanistan was too strong for Zambia, running out 4-0 winners, with goals from Jacobsz, Zakir Hussain, Rezai, and Gholami. The other semi-final was a tense affair and James Bourne gave Croatia the lead at the break, but Breen levelled after the break and we were off to penalties, with Iraq running out 5-4 in the shoot-out.
That set up the final between Afghanistan and Iraq, and Armadale striker Pieter Jacobsz was the star man with two second-half goals to give his team a deserved if hard-fought 2-1 victory. Charlie Breen did pull one back to give Iraq hope when he scrambled the ball over the line from close range. But it was Afghanistan who lifted the trophy and received the $5,000 winners' cheque, although they did finish with 10 men after Saadat Mohammadi received a straight red card for a foul on Hamza Hina.
Armadale skipper Luke Collins was a member of the Afghanistan side and he was also really impressed with the tournament, and how competitive it was. “Yes, it was a very well-run tournament, credit too Football West for putting on the event,” the defender said. “There were some very good, competitive teams in it, that made a very fierce competition, Afghanistan were exceptional throughout and deserved winners I thought.”
Jacobsz’s brace against Iraq earned him the Player of the Final award and meant he finished the tournament with 15 goals to wrap up the Golden Boot. This follows a stellar season in the Men’s NPL where the striker won the Gold Medal as Player of the Year, plus the Golden Boot and Goal of the Season awards. Asher Nelson of Zambia was named Player of the Tournament.
Final line-up’s - Afghanistan Squad: GK Ahmad Rahimi, 2 Lica Tommolini, 3 Luke Collins, 6 Ali Nazary, 7 Saadat Mohammadi, 8 Mohammad Rezai, 9 Pieter Jacobsz, 10 Gordon Perkins, 12 Mostafa Noori, 15 Mehdi Mohaseli, 16 Mehdi Gholami, 20 Zakir Hussain, 22 Zayd Farah.
Iraq Squad: GK Josiah Godfrey, 2 Ishmael Dawson, 7 Hamza Hina, 8 Patrick Loughrey, 9 Shay Natalotto, 10 Reda Alsalemi, 12 Charlie Breen, 15 Mohammed Al-Zayadi, 23 Luke Christie, 30 Cameron Murray, 36 Keegan Chambers
12.12.2024
THINGS GO FROM BAD TOO WORSE FOR GLORY, OR DO THEY?
If you thought a 17-game winless run was bad for Perth Glory, then hold my beer, as things have got even worse this week, with the tax office moves to liquidate Ross Pelligra’s Perth Glory holding company. But Glory fans can breathe easy with Pelligra set to quickly erase the club's reported $1m tax bill amid his ongoing commitment to stay on for the long haul.
Glory and their loyal supporters were sent into a spin when the Australian Tax Office launched a wind-up action against the club over an unpaid tax bill reported to be $946,879.55. The club's hierarchy initially believed the bill had something to do with previous owner Tony Sage, given no correspondence had been received.
But they soon discovered it was indeed Pelligra's liability and it was just a case that the statutory payment document was posted to Perth Glory Football Pty Ltd's registered office in suburban Keilor East, rather than the PO box in use.
Glory chief executive Anthony Radich confirmed Pelligra has committed to paying off the debt. "A letter or notification was sent to the street address in Victoria and not received at that end to my understanding, and nothing was received in Perth, and there's been no email or phone communication at either end," Radich told AAP. "It's almost like a traffic infringement when you (normally) get the reminder notice - none of that was forthcoming.
"Having dealt with these institutions, in the normal course of events you're getting phone calls and emails and the like. To have the one notice in September and nothing from that point on, it's unusual. That's why it took the business by surprise. On the Friday it was brought to our attention about the court order and we were perplexed about what it pertained to."
The wind-up application was due for its first hearing on February 7, but it's expected that won't be necessary once Pelligra takes care of the bill. "Now that we're fully aware of it and the status of it, the owner will look to clear that as soon as possible, that won't be an issue," Radich added. "That will now be squared away pretty quickly by Ross, well in advance of that court date. It's probably an immaterial amount for the business of the size that it is."
Pelligra bought Glory in February after previous owner Tony Sage was forced to hand back the club's licence amidst ongoing financial woes. Sage, who was a Glory fan, was the club’s sole owner for 15 years and he estimates he poured more than $50m into the club. The turmoil from that was almost terminal for the club, and after a number of enquires, it was Pelligra who was the saviour, and Radich wants to reassure fans the property developer by trade who also owns Italian Serie C club Catania FC, is in it for the long term.
"If you look at the Pelligra group and it's capitalisation, it's very asset rich. The financial capabilities are definitely there," Radich said. "And the intent from Ross is a long-term view. That position hasn't changed. He's in it for the long haul. In terms of his other business interests the football club complements that and is part of that strategy going forward. He's definitely in it for the long term, and this (tax situation) is just an unfortunate set of events. But in terms of the viability of the club and his ownership, the fans shouldn't have any concerns at all."
9.12.2024
TAX OFFICE MOVES TO LIQUIDATE GLORY
New Perth Glory owner Ross Pelligra is facing a liquidation push less than 10 months after grabbing the A-League club from investment promoter Tony Sage. The Australian Taxation Office has asked the Federal Court to put liquidators into Pelligra’s company Perth Glory Football Pty Ltd as club officials say they’re surprised by the legal attack.
Glory chief executive Anthony Radich told 'the West Australian' newspaper the club had not received any correspondence or notices from the ATO on the matter. Radich added it was a matter for Pelligra’s flagship company Pelligra Group to sort with the tax office and he expected it to be resolved shortly.
The size and source of the alleged debt tax office debt underpinning the liquidation application against Perth Glory Football Pty Ltd is not known. The company was set-up by Pelligra in January with Australian Securities and Investments Commission records showing it’s address as being the north-west Melbourne headquarters of the Pelligra Group.
Pelligra took control of Glory in February after a drawn-out sales process overseen by receivers appointed by A-League governing body Australian Professional Leagues in July last year. Previous owner Sage and football officials had made a series of tit-for-tit claims ahead of APL forcing his holding company, Okewood Pty Ltd, to hand back its national competition operating licence. "In terms of his other business interests the football club complements that and is part of that strategy going forward. He's definitely in it for the long term, and this (tax situation) is just an unfortunate set of events. "But in terms of the viability of the club and his ownership, the fans shouldn't have any concerns at all."
9.12.2024
DUMONT’S JOURNEY TO 150 A-LEAGUE GAMES
Casey Dumont is used to chaos — it is part of the territory which comes with being a cross-code athlete while also working as a nurse. And after a whirlwind month which has seen her cross the country three times and swap brown and gold for purple and orange, she is ready for the calm which comes with settling into a new routine.
But first, there is the small matter of the buzz and hubbub which comes with a personal milestone, as the Perth Glory goalkeeper prepares to create A-League Women’s history. Dumont will today become the sixth player - and notably, the first ‘keeper - in the league’s history to reach the 150 game milestone, less than a month after finishing a two-year spell with AFLW side Hawthorn.
“Every time I hear it, I have a smile on my face,” said Dumont. “There’s been some hiccups in my career with injuries and certain clubs and staff, and I wish I hit the milestone earlier. But you know what? I am so thankful to Hawthorn they allowed me to pursue the dual athlete life, so I was able to keep getting the games and hit that milestone, because it’s always been my dream since I knew it was a possibility.”
Just one of Dumont’s previous 149 games have come for Perth, but her path to make her Glory debut involved a few journeys. Towards the end of her time with Hawthorn, the club’s high performance team allowed Dumont to do 30-40 minute goalkeeping sessions after training, which have proved valuable in her re-aclimatising to the round ball game. And when Hawthorn’s season ended on November 16, Glory came calling the very next day.
“On the Monday, I had to get the removers booked and planned; Tuesday, I had to do all my screenings with Hawthorn to get ticked off, as well as get approval to transition over,” she said. “Wednesday, the removers actually came; Thursday, I was on the flight first thing in the morning, while also trying to get my car freighted over. I trained the Friday, trained the Saturday and then that afternoon, we’re on the flight to Sydney to play in Unite Round against Canberra (on Sunday).”
Dumont’s milestone game will come against Melbourne Victory, the club where she cemented herself as one of the league’s greatest ever goalkeepers. She won the Golden Glove award as the competition’s best custodian in 2021/22, and helped the side to a minor premiership and a Grand Final win before she made the decision to give AFLW a try.
8.12.2024
MATILDAS SENDS POLKINGHORNE OUT A WINNER
A goal in stoppage time from Melbourne Victory teenager Alana Murphy has given them a 1-0 win against Perth Glory in the week five Ninja A-League game at the Sam Kerr Football Centre on Sunday afternoon. Both sides had chances in a hard-fought game in front of a crowd around 1,000, in the first ever league fixture at the venue. The hosts defiantly deserved something from the game, but the winner was a stunner from the Victory midfielder Alana Murphy, moving them to sixth on the ladder, with Glory slipping to 11th.
“Frustration to concede so late, and it was the first time we let them pull the trigger from that distance,” Glory head coach Stephen Peters said post-match. “I thought defensively we were good, and I thought we looked fitter if I’m honest, but we didn’t mange the territory well, and we were thankful to Casy (Dumont) who made some great saves. On the performance, we are growing, although we didn’t start well, but we defiantly finished well. We need to work on the finer details and get better at them, but the effort was there but we need to start getting the outcomes out of that effort.”
Peters was not happy with the officials and made his thoughts quite clear, which might see him getting a please explain from Football Australia. “I had some concerns today with the officials, just before they scored, I wanted to make a double change, to slow things down, but she waved me away, and it actually happens every week,” he explained. “I’d also like an explanation on the penalty, what more could she have done, but they seem to look for these things against us, something we’ll have to get used to. But we’re disappointed in the result, because I thought there was a point there for us.”
Peters made one change to the side that draw in Canberra in the last round, with Kelli Brown coming into the side in place of Gabby Hollar, who dropped to the bench, while former Perth SC midfielder Charli Wainwright was on the bench, hoping for her A-League debut. It was special day for Glory keeper Casey Dumont, her first game at home for the club and becoming the first keeper in the leagues history to reach 150 appearances. Both sides had early sights at goal, Brown firing straight at former Glory custodian Courtney Newbon on six minutes, before Nicki Flannery fired wide of the target at the other end.
Clear cut chances were few and far between, the best falling to Izzy Dalton, but the skipper couldn’t keep her shot down. With the heat taking its toll and referee Mikayla Ryan allowed both teams a drink break on the half hour. After the resumption Glory went close to the opener, Grace Johnston made space down the left and picked out Brown, who slipped the ball to Sarah O’Donoghue, but her shot from the edge of the box drifted wide. Then in the shadows of half time Victory went close, but former Glory midfielder Alana Jancevski scuffed her shot when well placed.
Victory was in again early in the second half, Glory turned the ball over, and Flattery shot on the run hit the side netting. Then on 68 minutes Victory won a penalty, after Jancevski’s corner from the right hit the arm of defender Onyi Zogg, and the referee was well placed and pointed straight to the spot. It looked a little harsh on the replay, but Glory didn’t need to worry, with Dumont guessing the right way to save Rachel Lowe’s resulting penalty. It set up a tense finale, with the Glory faithful right behind their team, but in the final minute, it was Victory who won it.
Beattie Goad cut in from the left and found substitute Ava Briedis, who picked out an unmarked Murphy in the middle of the park, whose shot from distance found the bottom corner past the unsighted Dumont. Peters gave a A-League debut to Wainwright moments later, coming on for Natalie Tathem, but the hosts couldn’t find the equaliser. Glory will be back in action next Sunday, when they welcome fourth placed Adelaide United to the Sam Kerr Football Centre (5.00pm)
Perth Glory: GK Casey DUMONT, 5 Grace JOHNSTON, 6 Tijan MCKENNA, 7 Megan WYNNE (9 Gabby HOLLAR 55'), 8 Georgia CASSIDY, 11 Natalie TATHEM (27 Charli WAINWRIGHT 90+2'), 13 Naomi CHINNAMA, 19 Sarah O’DONOGHUE (20 Ella ABDUL MASSIH 71'), 23 Izzy DALTON, 29 Onyinyechi ZOGG, 44 Kelli BROWN (18 Isabella FOLETTA 90+2') - Subs not used: RGK Miranda TEMPLEMAN
Melbourne Victory: GK Courtney NEWBON, 2 Ellie WILSON, 3 Claudia BUNGE, 6 Beattie GOAD, 7 Ella O’GRADY (5 Sofia SAKALIS 67') 8 Alana MURPHY, 11 Nicki FLANNERY, 13 Sarah D’APPOLONIA (22 Ava BRIEDIS 78') 18 Kayla MORRISON, 23 Rachel LOWE, 66 Alana JANCEVSKI – Subs not used: RGK Geo CANDY, 24 Laura PICKETT, 27 Rosie CURTIS - Attendance: 971 - Referee: Mikayla Ryan
8.12.2024
VICTORY TOO STRONG FOR GLORY
Perth Glory’s search for a first win in the 2024-25 Isuzu-Ute A-League continues, after a 2-0 loss against Melbourne Victory in the round seven clash at AAMI Park on Sunday afternoon. An early goal from French midfielder Zinedine Machach was a perfect start for Patrick Kisnorbo’s side and they totally dominated, with Glory not having a shot in the first half. It didn’t get much better after the break, Glory struggling in the final third, and the hosts doubled their lead on the hour with Ivory Coast defender Adama Traore scoring.
The win keeps Victory second on the ladder, while Glory remains second bottom, still searching for that elusive win. They are now without a win in 17 games – a run stretching back to Round 18 of the 2023-24 season. If David Zdrilic’s side fail to beat Newcastle Jets at home in Round 8, they will equal the club’s longest-ever winless run of 18 games recorded between December, 2006 and November, 2007.
“That first 10 minutes, conceding a goal the way we did again, it changes the flow of the game. Having said that, I thought we settled it down,” Glory head coach David Zdrilic said post-match. “Yes, they had chances, yes, we were lucky at times, but we were able to slow the game down a little bit. It’s a difficult place to come and be dominant. They’re deadly in transition, they caught us quite a few times as soon as we ventured forward, they were able to bypass us, they’ve got very good one-vs-one players who were able to skip away from challenges.”
There was a surprise in selection by Zdrilic, with Riley Warland making his first start of the season, despite not being named in the squad, replacing Anas Hamzaoui, who was missing omitted from the squad. Meanwhile, Jarrod Carluccio came in for Trent Ostler, who was also not selected. The hosts were off to flyer in this one, and went close on five minutes, former Glory defender Jason Garia shot was scrambled away after good work by Machach. But the hosts found the opener two minutes later. Machach picked the ball up on the half way line, and wasn’t closed down, the former Marseille midfielder raced towards goal, before easing past Louis Canga and finding the bottom corner of the net past Cameron Cook.
The Glory custodian was working overtime, as Victory pressed for a second, making a smart save to deny Brendan Hamill, and standing tall to thwart Nikos Vergos. It was backs to the wall for Glory as Victory searched for a second, Nicholas Pennington getting back with a last-ditch tackle as Daniel Arzani was about to pull the trigger. The former Socceroo went close again before the break, his deflected shot hitting the post, but Glory held firm and grateful to be only one goal behind, but they had shown very little up top, with no shots at goal and Adam Taggart isolated.
Victory continued to dictate terms after the break, with Traore’s low cross only need a touch at the back post, but it missed everyone. Then on the hour their pressure was rewarded with a second, Vergos was the architect, given acres of room in the middle of the park, his defence-splitting pass found Traore, who raced clear before finishing clinically past Cook. The AAMI Park crowd were baying for blood, but Glory hit back and had their first shot on target four minutes later, Josh Risdon’s long-range shot was straight at former Glory custodian Jack Duncan.
Glory went close again three minutes later, substitute Nathanael Blair’s shot from distance was saved by Duncan. But with Glory pushing for a goal, they were caught out at the back again 11 minutes from time, Cook doing well to push Jing Reec’s shot onto the bar. The hosts were well worth their win, and it could have been greater late on, with Traore firing over the top when well-placed. Glory will be back in action next Saturday, when they host Newcastle Jets at HBF Park.
Melbourne Victory: GK Jack DUNCAN, 2 Jason GERIA, 3 Adama TRAORE (22 Joshua RAWLINS 86'), 5 Brendan HAMILL, 6 Ryan TEAGUE, 7 Daniel ARZANI (27 Reno PISCOPO 77'), 8 Zinedine MACHACH (18 Fabian MONGE 86'), 9 Nikolaos VERGOS (19 Jing REEC 76'), 11 Clarismario SANTOS RODRIGUES (10 Bruno FORNAROLI 76'), 14 Jordi VALADON, 21 Roderick MIRANDA - Substitutes not used: RGK Daniel GRASKOSKI, 16 Joshua INSERRA
Perth Glory: GK Cameron COOK, 2 Riley WARLAND (15 Zach LISOLAJSKI 90+1'), 5 Lachlan BARR, 7 Nicholas PENNINGTON (6 Brandon O’NEILL 84'), 12 Taras GOMULKA, 16 Adam BUGARIJA (31 Joel ANASMO 90+1'), 17 Jarrod CARLUCCIO (9 David WILLIAMS 57'), 19 Josh RISDON, 22 Adam TAGGART, 26 Khoa NGO (14 Nathanael BLAIR 57'), 33 Luis CANGA - Subs not used: RGK Oli SAIL, 21 Abdul FAISAL - Attendance: 9,742 - Referee: Shane Skinner
8.12.2024
MATILDAS SENDS POLKINGHORNE OUT A WINNER
The Matildas have ended 2024, and given veteran defender Clare Polkinghorne a winning end to her international career, after a 6-0 win against Chinese Taipei in front of over 30,000 fans at Kardinia Park in Geelong. First half goals from Leah Davidson, Tameka Yallop and Emily Gielnik sent the Matildas on their way, before Michelle Heyman, Tash Prior and Sharn Freier finished off the scoring, a fitting end for the former Brisbane and current Kristianstads DFF defender.
"I'm really proud of tonight's performance, especially a lot of young players come in and making their first start, making their debut, first goal," Polkinghorne said post-match. "I think last two games in particular being really good for the next generation of players coming through. "For me to finish on a night where we scored six goals and got a clean sheet, I am really proud of everyone and it is a really nice way to finish off."
It could be interim coach Tom Sermanni last game in charge of the Matildas, and he made four changes to the starting eleven. All were enforced as Daniela Galic, Clare Hunt and Charli Grant headed back to their clubs in Europe, while Chloe Logarzo was unavailable due to concussion suffered in that game. The changes meant that Leah Davidson and Bryleeh Henry came in to make their starting debuts. Winonah Heatley also started, while Clare Polkinghorne came into the team to make her final appearance for Australia.
The game also saw the introduction of CommBank Matildas #233 and #234, with goalkeeper Chloe Lincoln and midfielder Laura Hughes making their debuts after being substituted on in the second half. Much like the first game, Australia dominated early, and found the opener on six minutes. Emily van Egmond’s corner was recycled back to the San Diego Wave’s midfielder, and her cross picked out Davidson who headed home, for her first international goal. They doubled their lead five minutes later, a poor clearance by Wang Yu-Ting fell to Yallop, and the Brisbane Roar midfielder raced into the penalty area and finished clinically into the bottom corner.
The Matildas continued to dictate terms and it wasn’t a surprise when they added a third six minutes from the break. Yallop was the supplier this time, crossing from the left, and Gielnik out muscled her marker to head home. She looked in an offside position, but the flag stayed down and they went into the break with a 3-0 lead. Sermanni made a double change at the break with Remy Siemsen and Alex Chidiac were introduced in place of goal scorers Gielnik and Davidson. Siemsen made an immediate impact, Chinese Taipei gave the ball away on the edge of their box on 56 minutes, and the Kristianstads striker nicked the penalty area and raced into the box, before squaring the ball to Heyman, who made no mistake to make it 4-0.
The 30,097-crowd stood as one on 63 minutes, as Polkinghorne left the pitch for the last time for the green and gold, and was replaced by Jessika Nash. Moments later teenage keeper Lincoln became the first goalkeeper to debut for Australia since Teagan Micah in 2021, replacing Mackenzie Arnold. Then five minutes later Laura Hughes was the second debutant of the night when she replaced former Canberra United teammate Heyman. Australia continued to create chances, and their pressure was rewarded with a fifth on 73 minutes. Van Egmond’s free-kick from the right picked out Prior, the Newcastle Jets defender rose highest to head home.
The icing was added to the cake five minutes later with a sixth. A ball over the top by Winonah Heatley, sent Freier off in a foot race with Wu Kai-Ching, and the Brisbane Roar striker won the race and finished with aplomb past Yu-Ting. The result meant that Australia finished the year on a high, and will look ahead to the SheBelieves Cup in February, against Japan, the United States and Colombia.
“I was just really pleased with that application tonight, for the whole 90 minutes, everybody got involved and having six goalscorers is a fantastic thing for the team,” Sermanni said post-match. “I think the talent is there to win the Asian cup. What we need is to continue to build the depth and the strength in the sport and the competition within the sport, keep everybody healthy, hopefully, and then, we have certainly got enough quality in the team to actually win the tournament.”
Australia: GK Mackenzie Arnold (RGK Chloe Lincoln 65’), 3 Winonah Heatley, 4 Clare Polkinghorne (31 Jessika Nash 63’), 10 Emily van Egmond, 13 Tameka Yallop (29 Karly Roestbakken 70’), 15 Emily Gielnik (30 Remy Siemsen 46’), 24 Sharn Freier, 35 Leah Davidson (27 Alex Chidiac 46’), 32 Michelle Heyman (38 Laura Hughes 70’), 33 Bryleeh Henry, 37 Natasha Prior – Subs not used: RGK Morgan Aquino, 34 Matilda McNamara
GK Wang Yu-Ting, 2 Chang Chi-Lan (17 Chen Jin-Wen 72’), 6 Teng Pei-Lin (3 Su Sin-Yun 86’), 8 Li Yi-Wen (21 Lin Hsin-Hui 86’), 12 Pu Hsin-Hui, 14 Wu Kai-Ching, 15 Ting Chia-Ying (19 Su Yu-Hsuan 33’), 26 Tseng Yun-Ya (13 Chan Pi-Han 46’), , , 20 Che Ying-Huin, 24 Lin Ya-Hsuan (9 Hsu Yi-Yun 32’), 26 Huang Ke-Sin – Subs not used: RGK Cheng Ssu-Yu, RGK Chiu I-Hsiu, 4 Yu Wen-Chie, 11 He Jia-Shiuan 22 Li Pel-Jung, 25 Tseng Yun-Ching
8.12.2024
MRCELA BACK TO BOLSTER GLORY’S DEFENSIVE STOCKS
Perth Glory’s defence woes have been there for all to see this season, conceding 18 goals in the first six games, but they have acted quickly to fix the problem by bring in experienced Perth-born defender Tomislav Mrcela from Croatian side NK Rudes, subject to international clearance, the for his second spell at the club. The 34-year-old was a member of the Glory side which won the A-League Premiership under Tony Popovic in 2019 and he has signed for the remainder of the 2024/25 season.
The defender is excited to be back for a second spell with his hometown club. “I have fantastic memories of my time with Glory and I’m delighted that this opportunity to return came up,” he said. “It is an exciting new era for the club and I’m really looking forward to contributing on and off the pitch. The Glory members and fans were superb with me when I was here before and I can’t wait to play in front of them again and do my bit to help drive the team forward.”
In addition to making 30 appearances during his spell in the west, the centre-back has played all over the world. He left Perth as a teenager to play in Croatia with a number of clubs, including NK Primorac 1929, NK Imotski, Hrvatski Dragovoljac and NK Lokomotiva. In 2016 he joined South Korean club Jeonnam Dragons, before heading to the Glory. He left Glory and had spells at East Bengal in the Indian Super League, Western Sydney Wanderers in the A-League and Uzbekistan side Neftchi Fergana
Glory Football Director Stan Lazaridis believes that Mrcela will bolster the club’s defensive stocks. “Tomi is a strong, experienced defender who knows the club and the league and will do an excellent job for us,” he said. “He brings a commanding and composed presence to the heart of the defence and is also a fantastic character who has already settled very easily into the group. We look forward to seeing him play a key role for us over the course of the rest of the season.”
8.12.2024
KERR’S RETURN DELAYED
It’s been a huge year off the pitch for Matildas skipper Sam Kerr, announcing fiancé Kristie Mewis, the USWNT and West Ham midfielder, was pregnant with their child, but unfortunately on the pitch, the 31-year-old suffered the serious knee injury - the second time she's needed a reconstruction - while training on a team camp in Morocco during January 2024. Reports this week out of her club side Chelsea, say the strikers return has been delayed which is a blow for her club and national sides.
Chelsea coach Sonia Bompastor has confirmed the Matildas striker will not be returning anytime soon which is hugely disappointing for the striker, and said the Australian striker wouldn't be returning to training for some months yet. “I would say Sam we are looking to maybe have back with us February, March, not before that,” the Frenchwoman, who has yet to be beaten since joining the club at the start of the season, said. “She didn’t start yet to train, even being modified with the group, so she’s still on her individual process rehab and I think it will take at least two or three more months for her to be fit enough to be with the squad.”
So, from the high of the news of her upcoming family addition, it has now been followed by a shattering update for Chelsea and Matildas fans, they will be without the superstar for most of the season. It means Kerr will need to wait to score her 100th goal for the club (she's got an astonishing 99 in 128 matches for the Blues), but she will likely now not be available to lead Australia in the SheBelieves Cup, which starts on February 20. Australia is also scheduled to play international heavyweights Japan and the USA, as well as a dangerous Colombian side.
ACL injuries were once career-ending, and while medical advancements have seen reconstructions become better than ever, it is still a recovery that can be anything but smooth. USA star Cristen Press needed 781 days to return, while Manchester City midfielder Jill Roord, who hurt herself at the same time as Kerr, made her comeback after just eight months and was dominating from the get-go. We wish Sam all the best in her rehabilitation and the birth of their child.
7.12.2024
AQUINO SAYS BREAKING WA’S 15-YEAR MATILDAS DEBUT DROUGHT WOULD BE SURREAL
Goalkeeper Morgan Aquino says becoming the first Western Australian to debut for the Matildas since Samantha Kerr would be a surreal achievement. The 23-year old, who sealed a move to American USL Super League side DC Power in the off-season after an honour-laden final season with Perth Glory, could make her national team debut against Chinese Taipei in Geelong this afternoon.
If Aquino makes her senior international bow, she would be the first player from Western Australia to debut for the Matildas since Kerr back in 2009, ending a 15-year wait for local products. A former Junior and Young Matilda, Aquino said making her full international debut would be a dream come true, particularly after not really being on the radar a year ago.
“It’d be surreal, it’d be amazing. Sam’s led the way in WA for a long time,” Aquino, who played locally with Northern Redbacks, said head of today’s game. “Obviously, to put on the jersey, even if it’s on the bench or anything like that, it’s just an amazing experience and something that I’ll never take for granted at all.”
Aquino enjoyed a superb final season with Glory, winning the A-League Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year award and voted Professional Football Australia’s Goalkeeper of the Season. She credits her breakout 12 months, which has culminated in a move to the United States and a maiden Matildas call-up, to a shift in mindset.
“I didn’t really look at it as a career opportunity — only in the last couple of years, since there’s been more funding and things like that,” she said. “I got my first proper, big contract moving up to the US, knowing that this is a career path, and I can focus purely just on this, and I don’t have to study so much anymore, because I was studying as well. Over the last year or so, I really put my full focus into it.”
Aquino said training with the likes of another Glory goalkeeper in Matildas number one Mackenzie Arnold had been special, but credited her time in the national team’s youth set-ups for easing the transition. “I’m grateful for the time I spent in the Junior and Young Matildas, because I don’t feel so thrown in the deep end,” she said.
“I came in halfway through camp, a few days before they actually got into Melbourne. They’re familiar faces for me, but I’m not a familiar face to them. It’s nice to be around it and hopefully I don’t drop their standards too much, and I learn off them as well.”
5.12.2024
ZDRILIC FORECASTS TRANSFER WINDOW CHANGE
Perth Glory coach David Zdrilic says each player will be assessed in the lead-up to the January transfer window as he looks to reinforce the squad. Glory face high-flying Melbourne Victory away on Sunday, coming off the back of their second draw of the season away to Adelaide United. And despite an improved performance against the Reds, the Glory boss knows his side still have a long way to go.
Zdrilic has flagged movement in the transfer market when the window opens in a few weeks. The coach was asked about the futures of both former skipper Mustafa Amini, who has not trained with the full squad as his frustrating battle with injury continues, and out-of-favour goalkeeper Oli Sail, who has lost his spot to Cameron Cook. “We need to find the right balance in this squad, however we’re also making the moves in the background for January and for next year,” Zdrilic said.
“We’re making a lot of different moves and some of them are going to start already in January. Everybody’s going to be looked at, but we clearly know we need to strengthen, we know what we need to strengthen, and we’re going to start work on it. Obviously in the January window, there’s limited ability to do things, but we’re trying to do everything we can. He (Amini) has been injured pretty much the whole time I’ve been here. He’s not one that I’m thinking about at all because he just hasn’t trained at all with us.”
5.12.2024
NEW KALAMUNDA CITY COACH HAS HIT THE GROUND RUNNING
After promotion to the State League Division One last season as Champions, Kalamunda City have been working hard to get ready for the challenge, and it’s been all systems go for new head coach Maxi Van Ravensteyn, who has taken over from German Montealegre Quijano. Ravensteyn, who was the reserves coach at the club a few seasons ago, will be joined by assistant Ezequiel Vivas Greiner, the pair looking forward to the new challenge. “It’s an exciting time to return to the club. I know Kalamunda very well and the players too, this club has been on the rise for the last couple of years and the expectations won’t be different for 2025. We started training on the first week of November and the whole squad is focused and ready for what is going to be a big challenge, he explained.
“I met Ezequiel a few years back, technicality gives him the “assistant” role but there has never been hierarchy in our coaching group, we function as one. We were both playing for Maddington White City in 2022 when the Reserves team was left with no coach and we stepped in to help the club. Coaching together was one of our objectives, it came earlier than we expected but at the same time it became a part of who we are now. Ezequiel is a passionate person, and he will convince you that you are the best player in the league and that has a great impact on our player’s performance.”
Ravensteyn is well aware he has some big shoes to fill, with German taking the club from Amateur Premier Division to the state league and winning promotion to Division One, but he said the transition has been smooth. “I have been Reserves coach when German ran the First team, so I know first-hand we indeed have some big shoes to fill, and German did an outstanding job, he is the most important coach in the history of the club,” he said. “The transition has been smooth, this is a resilient team that year after year reinvents itself, it is probably one of its biggest strengths. I heard many times the story of how this team started as a group of South American people playing in a park, then started playing Amateurs and here we are now. Some very important people like Gustavo Ospina, Cesar Orozco and Petar Mrdja contributed to what the club is today and although we are sad not to have them at Kalamunda anymore, we have always kept going, the ball keeps rolling.”
The club have some very passionate supporters, who follow the team home and away, and Ravensteyn said it great to have that support. “The South American community in Perth feels identified with this team, with its values and ambition, and our games became a hub, a place to meet and share the passion for this sport,” he said. “This year we have three players moving interstate to Perth just to play for Kalamunda, players that are currently at State League teams in other states but are willing to change their whole life just to play for us and although it sounds crazy, I understand why they do it, this is a family that makes you feel home. We will be looking forward to seeing all our supporters once again, we appreciate their efforts and we will give them another great season.”
The club produced some outstanding players last season, a standout was Rain Blauberg who won the Division Two Keeper of the Year, while young striker Farruh Mavlonov and Samir Ramos were amongst the goals. Unfortunately, a few players have moved on, but Ravensteyn said it’s a great squad to build on for 2025, and he will be looking to strengthen certain areas. “As you know, the end of the year brings a lot of movement and attention to the player’s market. It is no secret that a few of our players will be at Wanneroo next year, so we have been working hard in the background to replace big names like Jose Zuñiga and Samir Ramos,” the coach said. “We are very confident we have found the right players and we will be announcing our new contracts in the new year. Our objective was to first secure the backbone structure and we have retained important players like Rain, Nicolas Roca, Gaston Bazet and Farruh Mavlonov, so it all looks very promising.
5.12.2024
NEW LOOK MATILDAS TOO STRONG FOR CHINESE TAIPEI
The Matildas have bounced back from their two defeats against Brazil, beating Chinese Taipei 3-1 at AAMI Park on Wednesday evening. Tash Prior and Sharn Freier scored early, in their first starts for the national side, before Chen Jin-wen capitalised on a mix-up between Tottenham teammates Clare Hunt and Charli Grant to give the visitors hope at the break. The contest that had threatened to turn into a rout, tightened from that point, but the Matildas added a third with Bryleeh Henry also scoring her first goal for the green and gold to seal the game.
Interim Head Coach Tom Sermanni was happy enough with how the game panned out. “Overall, I was pleased in how we played in general, but we probably made life a bit difficult for ourselves when we gave the goal away,” he said post-match. “That sort of interrupted our rhythm for a bit, but the introduction of the subs gave us a new energy again and we saw the game out very well. It was a good solid win, to be honest, and the more people you get on the scoresheet, the better.
“As a coach, you would like to create more when you do that, but then you have also got to be pragmatic and practical. We have had one training session on the day before the game with a significantly different group of players. And then you throw them on the field with a little bit of guidance, and you hope that things all come together. You have got to look at the game in that way as well, so I think overall, it was challenging to create chances, but that is not unexpected.”
It was dawn of a new era for the Matildas, with the likes of Sam Kerr, Mary Fowler, Steph Catley, Caitlin Foord, Kyra Cooney-Cross, Ellie Carpenter, Hayley Raso and many more missing, but the return of Emily Gielnik and Chloe Logarzo was important, and by the end of the game, the pair, plus Emily van Egmond, Michelle Heyman, Tameka Yallop and Daniela Galic were on the bench, and we saw a glimpse into the future.
Freier, Prior and Henry all scored their first international goals, with only a handful of caps between them, and Leah Davidson came off the bench for her debut. All told, five rookies and eight players with fewer than 10 caps took the field, early experience for these players will serve the Matildas in the long run, while former Perth Glory keeper Morgan Aquino was amongst the substitutes.
The Matildas were on the front foot from the first whistle, with Heyman and Gielnik a constant threat up top, and it wasn’t a surprise when the hosts hit the front on ten minutes. A short corner from van Egmond, caught the visitors napping, Logarzo cross to the back post picked out Prior was side footed home from close-range. They doubled their advantage two minutes later, Yallop pass sent Heyman racing down the right, see looked up to see Gielnik clear, and played her in.
The Melbourne Victory striker looked offside, but the flag stayed down, her shot on the run was pushed onto the crossbar by Chinese Taipei keeper Wang Yu-Ting, the rebound was headed home by Freier. Sermanni was forced into a change on the half hour, with Logarzo forced off the pitch after a head clash, with Alex Chidiac coming on to replace her in midfield. It was a huge blow for the midfielder, who has only just returned from a serious knee injury.
That seemed to upset the Matildas, and four minutes later the visitors pulled one back. Chan Pi-Han’s racking ball caused confusion at the back, with Hunt and Grant both leaving the ball to each other, and Jin-Wen Chen raced into goal and finished low past Mackenzie Arnold. The hosts looked to add more before the break, Heyman headed straight at the keeper after a pinpoint cross from Gielnik, and Freier thought she had her second goal of the night late, but the flag was up for offside or a push by the Brisbane Roar striker.
Australia continued to control the play in the second half, creating the better chances, but Chinese Taipei defended well, and were dangerous on the counter attack, so the game was still up for grabs. But that all changed 12 minutes from time. Heyman and Gielnik were replaced on 72 minutes, with Remy Siemsen and Henry coming on. Henry would need little time to get into the game, Charlotte Grant’s ball down the left sent Yallop down the left, her cross to the back post found the Melbourne City striker, who’s stooping header beat Yu-Ting, for her first international goal on her third appearance.
The goal sealed the result for the majority of the 26,795 crowd, but there was still time for another debut, with Leah Davidson coming on to become CommBank Matilda #232. Attention now turns to the match against the same opponent in Geelong on Saturday evening. "It's a good opportunity for girls who haven't had as much game time," said Freier said post-match. "We just have to grab every opportunity we can and put our best foot forward. I'm very privileged and grateful I got the opportunity for a few more minutes. It felt good."
Australia: GK Mackenzie Arnold, 6 Chloe Logarzo (27 Alex Chidiac 31’), 10 Emily van Egmond (3 Winonah Heatley 80’), 13 Tameka Yallop (31 Jessika Nash 87’), 15 Emily Gielnik (30 Remy Siemsen 72’), 22 Charlotte Grant, 24 Sharn Freier, 25 Clare Hunt, 26 Daniela Galic (35 Leah Davidson 80’), 32 Michelle Heyman (33 Bryleeh Henry 73’), 37 Natasha Prior – Subs not used: RGK Chloe Lincoln, RGK Morgan Aquino, 4 Clare Polkinghorne, 29 Karly Roestbakken, 34 Matilda McNamara
GK Wang Yu-Ting, 3 Su Sin-Yun (6 Teng Pei-Lin 88’), 9 Hsu Yi-Yun (24 Lin Ya-Hsuan 88’), 12 Pu Hsin-Hui (15 Ting Chia-Ying 88’), 13 Chan Pi-Han (26 Tseng Yun-Ya 46’), 14 Wu Kai-Ching, 17 Chen Jin-Wen (8 Li Yi-Wen 76’), 19 Su Yu-Hsuan (11 He Jia-Shiuan 73’), 20 Che Ying-Huin, 21 Lin Hsin-Hui (4 Yu Wen-Chie 88’), 26 Huang Ke-Sin – Subs not used: RGK Cheng Ssu-Yu, RGK Chiu I-Hsiu, 22 Li Pel-Jung, 25 Tseng Yun-Ching
5.12.2024
VICTORY IN GLORY SIGHTS ON SUNDAY
Perth Glory are coming off a moral boosting performance against the unbeaten Adelaide United last week, with skipper Adam Taggart’s brace earning David Zdrilic’s side a 2-2 draw, and the head coach is looking for more of the same when they take on Melbourne Victory at AAMI Park on Sunday afternoon (2.00pm kick off WA Time) Victory are second on the Isuzu Ute A-League, and unbeaten at home, but Zdrilic said he saw enough in the draw on Friday to suggest his side can hold their own, and believe a settled side will help that.
“Like Adelaide, Victory are one of the form teams in the A-League, and they’ve been very comfortable, and have started the season really well,” he said at his pre-game press conference. “They’re a confident side, so it’s a similar challenge to the one we anticipated against Adelaide away from home. Clearly, they have weapons and are strong, but they’ve also lost a game to Wellington and given up chances, whether that be through transition or good build-up play.
“We’re expecting another tough game, but hopefully we can take the same steps that we did against Adelaide. We’ve spoken about being better defensively and obviously get more of the ball and create more chances and we were able to do that against Adelaide. I thought there were some really positive signs there, but we know we have to fight for everything we’re getting, not just the points. We were able to play the same line up in the last two games for the first time, which was a big positive. We have some guys with niggles from the Adelaide game and we’re still assessing them as we want to keep the same group together, so I don’t envisage too many changes unless they’re enforced.”
Nicholas Pennington has been a shining light for the Glory in the last couple of games, and the Italian-born midfielder knows the challenge that’s ahead of them. “Victory have shown again they have a very strong squad, so we know it will be a very tough game, but we’re ready to give them a good fight,” he said. “We’re not intimidated, yes, they have good players, but we have players to counter them, we have to get the balance right, so it should be a good game.”
Last time Glory played Victory at the venue, a former Glory striker spoilt the day, as the hosts ran out 2-1 winners. Bruno Fornaroli gave Victory the lead on 16 minutes, and it looked like he had sealed the points scored a second early in the second half. But Glory hit back with Daniel Bennie scoring his first senior goal for the club, and they had chances to take a point, but Victory held firm to seal the win. In team news, Abdul Faisal and Andriano Lebib have been added to the travelling party.
Melbourne Victory squad: GK Jack DUNCAN, GK Daniel GRASKOSKI, 2 Jason GERIA, 3 Adama TRAORE, 5 Brendan HAMILL, 6 Ryan TEAGUE, 7 Daniel ARZANI, 8 Zinedine MACHACH, 9 Nikolaos VERGOS, 10 Bruno FORNAROLI, 11 Clerismario SANTOS RODRIGUES, 14 Jordi VALADON, 16 Joshua INSERRA, 18 Fabian MONGE, 19 Jing REEC, 21 Roderick MIRANDA, 22 Joshua RAWLINS, 26 Luka KOLIC, 27 Reno PISCOPO, 28 Kasey BOS - *Two to be omitted* - Ins: INSERRA (promoted), KOLIC (promoted)
Perth Glory squad: GK Oli SAIL, GK Cameron COOK, 3 Anas HAMZAOUI, 5 Lachlan BARR, 6 Brandon O’NEILL, 7 Nicholas PENNINGTON, 9 David WILLIAMS, 12 Taras GOMULKA, 14 Nathanael BLAIR, 15 Zach LISOLAJSKI, 16 Adam BUGARIJA, 17 Jarrod CARLUCCIO, 19 Josh RISDON, 20 Trent OSTLER, 21 Abdul FAISAL, 22 Adam TAGGART, 23 Cristian CAICEDO, 24 Andriano LEBIB, 26 Khoa NGO, 33 Luis CANGA - *Two to be omitted* - Ins: 21.Abdul FAISAL, 24.Andriano LEBIB - Unavailable: 8 Mustafa AMINI (injured), 10 Nikola MILEUSNIC (injured)
4.12.2024
GLORY HOPING FOR VICTORY TO CELEBRATE DUMONT’S MILSTONE
Perth Glory will be aiming to build on last rounds hard fought draw against Canberra United, and keep their perfect home record this season, when they host Melbourne Victory in week six of the Ninja A-League at Sam Kerr Football Centre on Sunday afternoon (5.00pm kick off) Victory sit fourth, after a 1-1 draw with Central Coast Mariners last round, but they have a squad packed with experience, but head coach Stephen Peters is looking to taking them on, with or without their Matildas players.
“We’re planning as per the programme and trying not to look at who’s playing for the Matildas and who’s not,” Peters said at his pre-game press conference. “We’re looking at them as a whole team and the patterns they create. “Obviously Emily Gielnik and Alex Chidiac are very dangerous players, so we’re doing our homework on them and a couple of other sparks they have in the team in terms of creating chances.
“Rachel Lowe and Nickoletta Flannery spring to mind, along with Alana Jancevski. They’re a very good side and we’ll need to be definitely at our best to get a result there. But it’s a great challenge and we’re very excited to host them at Sam Kerr for the first time. We’re very much looking forward to seeing our loyal Members and fans out there supporting us and I think it’s a momentous occasion for WA football.”
Peters has made the most of the international break, and coming off a good performance against Canberra, he believes his players are ready for the challenge. “We created some good chances [against Canberra] and I felt we definitely should have had two goals in the first half, and it would have made it a different game if we had done that,” he explained.
“But there were lots of positives to take out of the way we played and the combinations we created and it was actually the first time this season that we’ve won on the possession stat. The international break has meant more time on the grass for us, plus we’ve got to nurse some of the players that have still got niggles and aren’t 100%. The morale has been very good, I think everyone believes we’re heading in the right direction and we’re looking forward to the next challenge.”
The last time Glory hosted Victory in Perth was in round five last season, when the teams played out a 2-2 draw at Macedonia Park. Hana Lowry gave Glory the lead at the break, but Victory hit back with Rachel Lowe levelling 11 minutes from time. It looked like the visitors had taken the points when Lowe added a second five minutes later, but deep into stoppage time Lowry equalised, much to the delight of the 1,533 supporters.
Peters congratulated new recruit Casey Dumont, who is poised to become the first goalkeeper in ALW history to reach the milestone of 150 career games on Sunday, if selected. “It’s huge for her,” he said. “To play 150 games when you consider the season used to be 14 games, that just tells you how long she’s been around and what she’s been through to get to 150 games. Ironically, it’s against Melbourne Victory where she spent a lot of time and against [Head Coach] Jeff Hopkins who is someone she respects and admires a lot. It’s going to be a special day for her and we’re looking forward to being a part of that.”
The coach also had good news on the injury front, confirming Welsh international striker Kelli Brown is likely to return from injury and that co-captain Onyi Zogg should also be fit enough to feature, while Isabella Foletta has been added to the squad. As for the visitors, former Glory midfielder Alana Jancevski has been in good form, and Hopkins will be hoping Matildas pair Gielnik and Chidiac will be available after playing last night against Chinese Taipei.
Perth Glory squad: GK Casey DUMONT, GK Miranda TEMPLEMAN, 2 Mischa ANDERSON, 5 Grace JOHNSTON, 6 Tijan MCKENNA, 7 Megan WYNNE, 8 Georgia CASSIDY, 9 Gabby HOLLAR, 11 Natalie TATHEM, 13 Naomi CHINNAMA, 14 Miku SUNAGA, 17 Morgan ROBERTS, 18 Isabella FOLETTA, 19 Sarah O’DONOGHUE, 20 Ella ABDUL MASSIH, 23 Izzy DALTON, 29 Onyinyechi ZOGG, 44 Kelli BROWN - *Two to be omitted* - Ins: FOLETTA, BROWN - Unavailable: 10 Susan PHONSONGKHAM (injured), 16 Bella WALLHEAD (injured)
Melbourne Victory squad: GK Courtney NEWBON, GK Geo CANDY, 2 Ellie WILSON, 3 Claudia BUNGE, 4 Sara D’APPOLONIA, 5 Sofia SAKALIS, 6 Beattie GOAD, 7 Ella O’GRADY, 8 Alana MURPHY, 10 Alex CHIIDAC, 11 Nicki FLANNERY, 15 Emily GIELNIK, 18 Kayla MORRISON, 22 Ava BRIEDIS, 23 Rachel LOWE, 24 Laura PICKETT, 27 Rosie CURTIS, 66 Alana JANCEVSKI - *Two to be omitted*
4.12.2024
NPLWA MEN’S NIGHT SERIES FIXTURES ANNOUNCED
Perth RedStar will begin the defence of their 2024 NPLWA Men’s Night Series Crown in late January, when they take on Perth SC at Dorrien Gardens, the hosts coached by RedStar former coach Kenny Lowe. A Daryl Nicol brace saw Callum Salmon’s side beat Bayswater City 3-1 in last season’s final at the Sam Kerr Football Centre. Also in Group B are 2022 winners Floreat Athena, newly promoted Sorrento, Western Knights and Stirling Macedonia.
Last season’s beaten finalists Bayswater City, who will have Matthew Sparrow in charge for the first time, start this season competition with a clash against Perth Glory at Alfred Skeet Reserve. Also in Group A are NPL Champions Olympic Kingsway, Armadale, Balcatta Etna and Fremantle City, who also have a new coach, with Scott Miller joining the port club. Round One matches take place across the weekend of 24-26 January at Dorrien Gardens, Alfred Skeet Reserve and Percy Doyle Reserve. Later group matches will be played at Frank Drago Reserve and Macedonia Park.
Full Fixtures – Round One - Friday 24 January - Group A - Olympic Kingsway v Fremantle City (Dorrien Gardens, 6.30pm), Group B - Perth SC v Perth RedStar (Dorrien Gardens, 8.30pm) - Saturday 25 January. Group A - Perth Glory v Bayswater City (Alfred Skeet Reserve, 6.30pm), Armadale v Balcatta Etna (Alfred Skeet Reserve, 8.30pm) - Sunday 26 January - Group B - Sorrento FC v Floreat Athena (Percy Doyle Reserve, 5.30pm), Western Knights v Stirling Macedonia (Percy Doyle Reserve, 7.30pm)
Round Two - Friday 31 January - Group A - Fremantle City v Armadale (Frank Drago Reserve, 6.30pm), Bayswater City v Olympic Kingsway (Frank Drago Reserve, 8.30pm) - Group B - Western Knights v Floreat Athena (Dorrien Gardens, 6.30pm), Perth SC v Stirling Macedonia (Dorrien Gardens, 8.30pm) - Sunday 2 February - Group A - Balcatta Etna v Perth Glory (Percy Doyle Reserve, 7.30pm) - Group B - Sorrento FC v Perth RedStar (Percy Doyle Reserve, 5.30pm)
Round Three - Saturday 8 February - Group A - Fremantle City v Perth Glory (Frank Drago Reserve, 6.30pm), Bayswater City v Balcatta Etna (Frank Drago Reserve, 8.30pm) - Group B - Perth SC v Sorrento FC (Macedonia Park, 6.30pm), Stirling Macedonia v Floreat Athena (Macedonia Park, 8.30pm) - Sunday 9 February - Group A - Armadale v Olympic Kingsway (Alfred Skeet Reserve, 7.30pm) - Group B - Perth RedStar v Western Knights (Alfred Skeet Reserve, 5.30pm)
Round Four - Friday 14 February - Group A - Perth Glory v Olympic Kingsway (Dorrien Gardens, 6.30pm) - Group B - Perth SC v Western Knights (Dorrien Gardens, 8.30pm), Saturday 15 February - Group A - Balcatta Etna v Fremantle City (Frank Drago Reserve, 6.30pm), Bayswater City v Armadale (Frank Drago Reserve, 8.30pm) - Group B - Floreat Athena v Perth RedStar (Macedonia Park, 6.30pm), Stirling Macedonia v Sorrento FC (Macedonia Park, 8.30pm)
Round Five - Friday 21 February - Group A - Fremantle City v Bayswater City (Macedonia Park, 6.30pm), Group B - Stirling Macedonia v Perth RedStar (Macedonia Park, 8.30pm) - Sunday 23 February - Group A - Armadale v Perth Glory (Alfred Skeet Reserve, 7.30pm), Olympic Kingsway v Balcatta Etna (Percy Doyle Reserve, 7.30pm) - Group B - Floreat Athena v Perth SC (Alfred Skeet Reserve, 5.30pm), Sorrento FC v Western Knights (Percy Doyle Reserve, 5.30pm).
4.12.2024
2025 STATE LEAGUE NIGHT SERIES FIXTURES ANNOUNCED
Inglewood United will start life outside the Premier League for the first time since 1992, when they play Swan United in the opening round of the 2025 State League Night Series at Inglewood Stadium on February 2. Alex Stanojevic’s side will be determined to bounce straight back like Sorrento did last season, but face a tough challenge, and will be joined in Group A by Gwelup Croatia and newly promoted Wembley Downs, who will begin their first season in State League football.
In Group B, 2023 winners Mandurah City welcome Canning City, Balga and newly promoted Kalamunda City, while in Group C, Wanneroo City hosts Division Two Champions Joondalup City, East Perth and Kingsley Westside. Group D sees Ashfield entertaining Subiaco AFC, Curtin University and Quinns, and in Group E Cockburn City begin life in Division Two for the first time, when they host Gosnells City, Murdoch University Melville and Rockingham City, and finally in Group F last season’s beaten finalists Dianella White Eagles will hope to go one better, when they take on hosts Forrestfield United, Shamrock Rovers and UWA Nedlands.
Full fixtures below: Group A – Inglewood United, Wembley Downs, Gwelup Croatia and Swan United – games to be played at Inglewood Stadium. Fixtures – Round One – Sunday February 2 – Gwelup Croatia v Wembley Downs (5.30pm), Inglewood United v Swan United (7.30pm) – Round Two – Saturday February 8 - Swan United v Gwelup Croatia (6.30pm, Inglewood United v Wembley Downs (8.30pm) – Round Three – Sunday February 16 – Wembley Downs v Swan United (5.30pm), Gwelup Croatia v Inglewood United (7.30pm)
Group B - Mandurah City, Balga, Canning City and Kalamunda City – games to be played at Poolmart Stadium, Peelwood Parade. Fixtures – Round One – Sunday February 2 – Kalamunda City v Balga (5.30pm), Mandurah City v Canning City (7.30pm), Round Two – Sunday February 9 – Canning City v Balga (5.30pm), Mandurah City v Kalamunda City (7.30pm) – Round Three – Sunday February 16 – Balga v Mandurah City (5.30pm), Kalamunda City v Canning City (7.30pm)
Group C - Wanneroo City, Joondalup City, East Perth and Kingsley Westside – games to played at Wanneroo Reserve. Fixtures – Round One – Friday January 31 – Kingsley Westside v East Perth (6.30pm). Joondalup City v Wanneroo City (8.30pm), Round Two – Saturday February 8 – East Perth v Joondalup City (6.30pm), Wanneroo City v Kingsley Westside (8.30pm) – Round Three – Friday 14 February – Joondalup City v Kingsley Westside (6.30pm, Wanneroo City v East Perth (8.30pm)
Group D - Ashfield, Subiaco AFC, Curtin University and Quinns – games to played at Ashfield Reserve – Fixtures – Friday January 31 - - Subiaco AFC v Quinns (6.30pm), Curtin University v Ashfield (8.30pm) – Round Two – Saturday February 8 – Ashfield v Quinns (6.30pm), Subiaco AFC v Curtin University (8.30pm), Round Three – Quinns v Curtin University (6.30pm), Ashfield v Subiaco AFC (8.30pm)
Group E – Cockburn City, Gosnells City, Murdoch University Melville and Rockingham City - – games to played at Dalmatinac Park – Fixtures – Friday January 31 – Gosnells City v Cockburn City (6.30pm), Murdoch University Melville v Rockingham City (8.30pm) – Round Two – Saturday February 8 – Cockburn City v Rockingham City (6.30pm), Murdoch University Melville v Gosnells City (8.30pm) – Round Three – Friday February 14 – Cockburn City v Murdoch University Melville (6.30pm), Rockingham City v Gosnells City (8.30pm)
Group F - Forrestfield United, Shamrock Rovers, UWA Nedlands and Dianella White Eagles – games to played at Crazy Domain Stadium, Hartfield Park – Fixtures – Round One – Sunday February 2 – UWA Nedlands v Carramar Shamrock Rovers (5.30pm), Dianella White Eagles v Forrestfield United (7.30pm) – Round Two – Carramar Shamrock Rovers v Dianella White Eagles (6.30pm), Forrestfield United v UWA Nedlands (8.30pm) – Round Three – Sunday February 16 – Dianella White Eagles v UWA Nedlands (5.30pm), Forrestfield United v Carramar Shamrock Rovers (7.30pm)
4.12.2024
A-LEAGUE NEEDS A REVAMP, AND THE PLAYERS KNOW IT
The Isuzu Ute A-League may be only six rounds in, but the crowds are not turning up, the only shining light for Football Australia has been the Melbourne (City v Victory) and Sydney Derby’s (Wanderers v Sydney), while the new Kiwi Derby (Auckland v Phoenix) has been an added bonus. But it shows supporters are dissatisfied with the product, which is a concern moving forward. The total attendance figure after round six is 353,463, which is an average 10,099 per game, which isn’t that bad. But when you look, the Sydney Derby had 30,777 in round five, and 27,496 in the opening round. The Melbourne Derby 20,093, while the Kiwi Derby had 26,496. That’s the highlight, but 11 games this season have had under 6,000, with many games in the ‘Unite Round’ being very low, is this a concern?
But even more concerning, reports on Tuesday showed half of A-League Men's players are dissatisfied with the running of the league. The figures are 27 per cent very dissatisfied, while just 11 per cent have a high level of trust in the organisation that runs the league, the APL. The annual Professional Footballers Australia (PFA) survey, completed by 191 players, and the figures showed they were not happy with how the Australian Professional Leagues (APL) had performed in its management of the competition. Regarding developing a vision to improve the league, 46 per cent had "low trust" in the APL to deliver, while only 11 per cent had a "high" trust level in the managing body.
The A-Leagues insisted it had worked to stabilise the league. "Following a series of damaging missteps, that is hardly surprising," chief executive Beau Busch and former co-chief executive Kate Gill said in a statement. “Beyond that, the players are concerned that the management of the leagues has apparently become adrift of any discernible strategy, guiding principles, or effective accountability measures. “We note this survey was completed in May when there was a lot of uncertainty about the league," A-Leagues commissioner Nick Garcia added.
"We have worked through a lot of these challenges over the last year to stabilise the league and improve all revenue streams, and we continue to work with all stakeholders on our new league strategy to help us drive sustainable growth across the leagues. We take these points very seriously and the players' priority focus areas are among the key points we are aiming to improve with the new league strategy."
There were also some concerns regarding player safety at club level. Approximately 11 per cent of players felt their club environment was either physically or psychologically unsafe at some point in the 2023/24 season. One in five said players at their club were unwilling to discuss issues with the coaching staff due to fear of retribution, while seven per cent reported instances of players being forced to train alone at their clubs. The PFA said it had met with all clubs, who had accepted the findings.
Another challenge for all clubs is holding on to their talented youngsters. Glory lost exciting winger Daniel Bennie last season, who joined Queens Park Rangers in the English Championship, while the biggest moves saw Socceroos and Adelaide United pair Nestory Irankunda and Joe Gauci moving to Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich and English Premier League side Aston Villa respectively. The transfer figures in total have exceeded the money brought in by the league's broadcast deal for the first time.
Figures provided by PFA indicated the value of the 22 outbound transfers, drew a fee added up to well over $20m when including add-ons and other clauses. The PFA is adamant the transfer figure, cited by the A-Leagues' website as $20.6m, exceeded money brought in by the current broadcast deal with Network 10/Paramount Plus. The growth in transfer incomings — which broke last season's record mark of $10 million — is a dramatic increase from previous seasons.
Before 2022/23, collective transfer receipts tended to average $2.5m a season. It indicates the importance of transfers to clubs' bank balances — especially after the APL cut central distributions — and could well swing more clubs like Central Coast and Adelaide, to develop and sell young talent. Yes, many might say it’s part of the game, but many players go overseas to early, and many return home disheartened. We need to look after our young players, there is a duty of care, but try telling that to an agent. Football will survive whatever happens, but can the league survive in the current sporting environment?
2.12.2024
IREDALE READY FOR THE FIGHT AT HIBS
It’s been a difficult season for former ECU Joondalup and Perth Glory Youth defender Jack Iredale, injury and other players good form, delaying his starting debut for Scottish Premier League club Hibernian, but back-to-back starts has seen Hibs go undefeated, after a draw against second placed Aberdeen in midweek, before a 3-0 win at Motherwell on Saturday.
The 28-year-old, who joined the Easter Road club from Bolton Wanderers this season, has hit back at Hibs 'bottle' accusations in the media, stating 'I'd go to war with these boys'. The club have been accused of lacking minerals but defender Iredale isn't having it, and said prior to the Motherwell game, he'd go to war with his Hibs teammates - and isn't having the accusation that they don't have any bottle.
The Hibees have been hammered for their apparent lack of reserves especially late in games this season. But boss David Gray reckons their stunning injury-time fight back in Tuesday’s 3-3 draw with Aberdeen has gone some way to silencing the naysayers, and Iredale has no concerns about the spirit in the dressing room and that of skipper Joe Newell. “I can understand when you look at periods of the game where we've conceded goals but at the same time, I've got no questions about the character in that team,” the defender explained.
“That's a changing room of boys that I would want to go to war with and we are just really getting punished for things. When you're not getting that bounce of the ball, it just feels like everything's on top of you. But in terms of character in that team, we've got leaders in there. I'm trying to be one myself, but we've got multiple leaders in there that we are relying on. I think Joey, especially as captain, has been exceptional for us this week, especially with the messages that he's given us and the way that he's led. I think his performance on Tuesday night showed that.
“And if we're following Joey into battle, then everyone's right behind him and the manager as well. Joey's a really upbeat character. He's a really positive guy and I think that's super important. You don't want to be walking around feeling like there's a dark cloud above you. And I can imagine that he's been going through a tough time as well as captain of this club. But just the way that he's kept us together as a group, I think, is massive.”
Iredale played his first full game for the club in the 3-0 win at Fir Park, with goals from Junior Hoilett, Mykola Kuharevich and Josh Campbell, which backed up Tuesday's dramatic draw with Aberdeen to ease the pressure on head coach David Gray. Hibs are now three points above Edinburgh rivals Hearts, who host Aberdeen on Sunday, while Motherwell remain fifth. "You don't always get what you deserve in football but we did today," Gray said post-match. “Defensively, that's as strong as we've looked, right across the board. I think this is one of the first times this season where I'm not talking about individual errors."
1.12.2024
BRAZIL TAKE OUT THE SERIES AGAINST MATILDAS
Brazil have taken out the two match international series, after defeating the Matildas 2-1 at the Cbus Super Stadium on the Gold Coast on Sunday afternoon. The win for the South American’s sealed a 2-0 series win, in another physical encounter in front of a sell-out crowd. Brazil led 2-1 at half-time after a wonder strike by midfielder Gabi Portilho and a tap in at the far post by defender Lauren. Hayley Rasso pulled one back in the shadows of half time, but the Matildas couldn’t find the equaliser after the break, and they had keeper Teagan Micah to thank for keeping them in the game, making a number of fine saves.
Matildas interim coach Tom Sermanni was left to lament his side’s lack of composure in the final third, but was happy with the officiating in this one, after his side weren’t protected in the opening game. “The difference is, first and foremost, the referee gave a couple of early yellow cards, so that settled the game down a little bit,” he said post-match. “Outside of that, I think it was a very similar kind of contest. Again, they are a very high press and high tempo team.
“I thought we, in general, to look over the 90 minutes, I think we coped with that a little bit better than we did the other night. The objective tonight was to finish strongly, and I thought the subs that we brought on made a big impact that we did. There were a couple of times when we were in great positions and had we just executed the pass better or made a better decision, we’d have been in. We either took the wrong options sometimes, or the pass just wasn’t quite up to what it needed to be.”
There were four changes from the team who were beaten in the first meeting on Thursday, with Michelle Heyman and Tameka Yallop coming into the side for Courtney Nevin and Clare Polkinghorne, as Interim Head Coach Tom Sermanni shuffled the deck. Teagan Micah made her first start for the national team in nearly 12 months as the Liverpool custodian replaced Mackenzie Arnold between the sticks. The other change was forced, with Nevin being a late inclusion in the side at left-back, replacing Steph Catley, who was ruled out with leg tightness during the warm-up.
The game was a significant one for Emily van Egmond, who took the captain’s armband. The San Diego Wave midfielder was honoured as the game marked her 151st appearance, equalling Cheryl Salisbury in second on the all-time appearance list. It was Brazil who opened the brighter and Micah made a smart save to deny Amanda Gutierres, and following it up by parrying a shot away at the near post by Gabi Portilho ten minutes later.
There was plenty of feeling in the match, as there was in Brisbane, with Brazil fullbacks Kaka and Lauren receiving yellow cards early for cynical grabs on Caitlin Foord and Raso respectively. The Matildas hit back with while Yallop and Ellie Carpenter both firing wide, but Brazil’s good start was rewarded with the opener on 29 minutes. The visitors drove down the right-hand side in transition, catching Australia’s defence out, and Adriana sent Portilho clear, and she made no mistake with a clinical finish. Micah was keeping her side in the game, getting down well to thwart Amanda Gutierres ten minutes later.
But moments later the South American’s doubled their advantage. A short corner caught the Matildas napping, and Gutierres cross to the back stick was turned home by the unmarked Lauren. But two minutes later the Matildas hit back to reduce the margin. Yallop sent Foord racing down the left, she skipped past her marker and picks out Raso at the back post to fire home, much to the delight of the home faithful.
Sermanni made a double change at the break, with Sharn Frier replacing Caitlin Foord, while Tash Prior became Matildas#231, replacing Clare Hunt for her senior international debut. The match opened up after the break with both sides making plenty of ground but unable to find the finish. Alanna Kennedy went closest with a swinging free kick just tipped over the bar by Lorena.
Australia pushed for an equaliser throughout the second half, and created a number of chances as the game wore on, but they couldn’t find a way past a hard-working Brazilian defence, and a keeper who spent most of the second half in the hands of the trainer. The Matildas will play two more friendlies in this international window against Chinese Taipei, with the first in Melbourne on Wednesday followed by a clash in Geelong on Saturday.
Yallop said it was another tough game, just disappointed they couldn’t get something out of it. “We do want to play top ten teams. That’s what we wanted to, here on home soil as well, so disappointed we couldn’t get the result but I think we put out a better performance tonight,” the Brisbane Roar midfielder explained post-match. “We obviously looked at [Thursday’s] performance, and I think there were some changes that we made.
“You saw that in the formation that we came out with. I think it was frustrating for us because we did create a lot of opportunities. And there was possibly a few, almost one-on-one situations that if the play had of run on, we might have got a few chances. So, I think we did much better today, creating those 100% chances then we did in the last game.”
Australia: GK Tegan Micah, 2 Courtney Nevin (22 Charlotte Grant 60’), 9 Caitlin Foord (24 Sharn Freier 46’), 10 Emily van Egmond (26 Daniela Galic 60’), 13 Tameka Yallop, 14 Alanna Kennedy, 16 Hayley Raso, 21 Ellie Carpenter, 23 Kyra Cooney-Cross, 25 Clare Hunt (37 Natasha Prior 46’), 32 Michelle Heyman (15 Emily Gielnik 60’) - Subs not used: RGK Mackenzie Arnold, RGK Chloe Lincoln, 3 Winonah Heatley, 4 Clare Polkinghorne, 27 Jamilla Rankin, 35 Leah Davidson
Brazil: GK Lorena, 4 Lauren (5 Lais Estevam 78’), 7 Aline Gomes (19 Victoria 93’), 8 Angelina, 9 Adriana, 10 Duda Sampaio, 11 Amanda Gutierres (17 Nycole Raysla 62’), 14 Kaka (13 Fe Palermo 77’), 18 Gabi Portilho (2 Bruninha 77’), 21 Giovana Queiroz (15 Dudinha 62’), 23 Isa Haas - Subs not used: RGK Natascha Honegger, RGK Cláudia, 6 Yasmim, 16 Camila Martins-Pereira, 20 Marilia Furiel
1.12.2024
SOCCEROOS RECALLS MOTIVATING BOLTON'S JONES
Gethin Jones hopes to resurrect his Socceroos career by getting Bolton Wanderers back on track in England's League One. The defender recently returned to full fitness following a knee injury which had kept him out of action for the opening stages of the new season.
Jones’ last international appearance was June's friendly against Palestine. Since then the Socceroos have seen a change of manager with Tony Popovic now in charge of qualifying for the World Cup in the summer of 2026, a task which resumes against Indonesia in March.
Jones knows he now needs to return to top form for Bolton to add to his six international caps so far. "Obviously I am focussed on what happens with Bolton right now and everything else takes care of itself but whilst I was injured things changed," he said.
"When Graham Arnold left we had a big Skype session and he wanted to speak to all the lads, and said he loved it there but it was his time to leave. The new manager has come in now and will obviously be doing things his way."
"The physio with Australia keeps in touch with us all, those in the squad and those just outside it, and he has been keeping tabs on how I have been doing, where I am fitness-wise. Hopefully now I am back playing again I'll get that recognition from them again, maybe another call-up."
Australia are currently second in Group C behind Japan and would qualify directly for the World Cup if they can maintain that position in the final two games. There are also two other routes to the finals, with space for 48 teams in the tournament, to be held in the US, Canada and Mexico.
Jones, who played internationally for Wales at youth levels, is desperate to play his part for Australia. "It's just over a year ago now that they called and confirmed it all, and definitely one of the biggest reasons for saying yes was the prospect of playing at a major tournament," he said.
"Obviously I was born in Australia and I loved it when I was there as a youngster, so to have played at the Asia Cup was a massive privilege for me and a great experience. But the chance to maybe go to a World Cup one day would be amazing. Any footballer would work hard to get that sort of opportunity."
29.11.2024
IREDALE REVEALS 'HONEST' TALKS MADE A BIG DIFFERENCE AT HIBERNIAN
Hibernian defender Jack Iredale has revealed the squad's honest summit meeting at the start of the week helped them get back on track with a 3-3 mid-week draw against Aberdeen. The Easter Road side were thumped 4-1 by Dundee last weekend, putting further scrutiny on under pressure head coach David Gray.
But a 96th minute leveller against high-flying Aberdeen on Tuesday has eased some of the pressure. While Hibernian remain on nine points and bottom of Scotland's Premiership on goal difference, Iredale believes team spirit is not an issue, as emphasised by clear-the-air talks between the players in the wake of the Dens Park capitulation.
Hibernian have only won once in the league all season, but Iredale feels morale is now higher than it has been as they head prepare to play Motherwell. "In terms of character in that team, we've got leaders in there," said Iredale, who joined from Bolton Wanderers in the summer. "I'm trying to be one myself, but we've got multiple leaders in there that we are relying on."
"I think Joey (Newell), especially as captain, has been exceptional for us this week, especially with the messages that he's given us and the way that he's led. I think his performance on Tuesday night showed that. And if we're following Joey into battle, then everyone's right behind him and the manager as well."
"Joey's a really upbeat character. He's a really positive guy. And I think that's super important. You don't want to be walking around feeling like there's a dark cloud above you. And I can imagine that he's been going through a tough time as well as captain of this club. But just the way that he's kept us together as a group, I think, is massive."
"I won't say too much, but we had talks amongst ourselves without the coaching staff in the changing room. And he led that. And then we went out on Tuesday and delivered that performance. And I think you see it live. Everyone reacted really well off it. We've got a little bit of momentum now. Everyone's looking forward to tomorrow. But we know there's a lot of work left to be done."
Asked to elaborate on the player-led chats, Iredale added: "I wouldn't say brutal. I think it was just honest. It wasn't a crisis talk. It was just us as a group knowing that we are the ones that can get ourselves out of this position. But also, just to really stick together. Because that's what we have to do at this time. We have to stick together."
"You've seen on Tuesday the way that the game went. Going ahead with a really strong performance at the start. Going behind twice, but then coming back from behind twice as well. You saw the reaction from everyone... I've got no questions about the character in that team. That's a changing room of boys that I would want to go to war with."
28.11.2024
COOK THRIVING ON COMPETITION FOR NO.1 SPOT
Cameron Cook believes the fight for the number one jersey between himself and Oli Sail can only be a good thing for Perth Glory. The young shot-stopper was impressive in last weekend's away loss to Western United, which was his first start of the season.
Cook and Sail have shared the gloves since the latter's arrival at the start of last season. Early in the 2023/24 campaign Cook was the preferred choice before Sail broke into the starting eleven towards the middle of the schedule.
Cook said the competition between him and Sail will push them both and the team stood to benefit. "That's probably one of the most important things when it comes to competition for any position, it doesn't matter whether it's keepers or strikers," he said.
"Healthy competition is the most important part of trying to put forward the best performance on the weekend. Having that battle all week for that position forces you to to play the best you can and get the most out of training."
The role of back-up 'keeper is a tough one. "It's mentally trying to stay switched on and engaged," Cook explained. "Keeping the mindset of the next game could be the game I play, or the next game could be the time that I'm chosen to step up."
29.11.2024
TAGGART BRACE GIVES GLORY A POINT IN ADELAIDE
Perth Glory skipper Adam Taggart scored a double to earn them a 2-2 draw against the unbeaten Adelaide United at Coopers Stadium in round six of the Isuzu Ute A-League on Friday evening. The striker pounced in first half stoppage time to give David Zdrilic’s side the lead at the break, but the Reds responded early in the second half with Zach Clough and Bart Vriends giving them the lead. But Glory hit back with Taggart added his second, and both sides had chances to win it, but both had to share the spoils.
“Very pleasing with a hard-fought point, but we had to adapted, as we haven’t started the season well that’s clear, but I thought, like all pre-season, we had goals in us and good counter attacking goals, and we created those chances tonight,” Zdrilic said post-match. “Although they had possession, we created the chances, not as much as would have like, something we haven’t this season, so it was very happy about that.
“Obviously they were on top early, but I was please the way we rode the pressure, and we settled down a bit, and we got that goal in stoppage time, and to be fair we had a couple more chances, but they did as well. But to concede two early goals after half time, which has been what has happened this season was disappointing, but we hit back and I was really pleased with the fight back, especially against a side that is in form, so all in all I was happy with the point.”
Zdrilic made one change to the side that was beaten in the Unite Round by Western United, with Adam Bugarija coming in for Hiroaki Aoyama, as they looked for a first win of the season. But it was the hosts who began the brighter with Stefan Mauk’s curing effort inches wide. It was one-way traffic with Glory defending desperately, with Anas Hamzaoui getting in a vital last-ditch challenge just as Ben Folami was about to pull the trigger.
Glory weathered the storm and went close themselves on the quarter hour mark, a quick break saw Bugarija send Taggart racing down the left, he cut inside the box but his shot lacked power and was easily saved by James Delianov. The home fans were getting frustrated with no shots on target, as a win would take the Reds to the top of the table, but that all changed on 32 minutes. Zac Clough’s free kick was headed back across goal by Panagiotis Kikianis, and Bart Vriends swept the ball home.
But referee Shaun Evans was sent across to the screen by VAR to check the goal, and a combination of offside and handball saw the goal disallowed after a lengthy delay, much to the frustration of the home faithful. The Glory finished the half the better, and Josh Risdon’s bullet header was well saved by the alert Delianov, then in stoppage time they found the opener. Nicholas Pennington ball was only cleared to the edge of the box by Ben Folami and Taggart fired low past Delianov.
The Reds supporters were disappointed at the break, but that all changed four minutes into the second half as they levelled. Mauk’s cross from the right picked out Folami, who laid the ball to Clough, who finished low across Cameron Cook. Then two minutes later the hosts hit the front, Clough’s free kick was headed home by the unmarked Vriends, and Glory had a mountain to climb now. But climb it they did and they restored parity on 61 minutes. Risdon’s ball sent substitute Cristian Caicedo into the box, he looked offside but the flag stayed down, he found Pennington, who teasing cross was met by Taggart, the skippers headed flew past Delianov, much to the delight of the Glory supporters in the corner.
Adelaide had the ball in the net again four minutes later, but the flag was up with substitute Archie Goodwin straying offside. It was all hands-on deck late for Glory, as Adelaide pushed for the winner, and they thought they had a penalty in stoppage time when the ball rebounded onto the arm of substitute Brandon O’Neill, but the referee waved away their strong protests, and VAR agreed with him, and the points were shared. The Glory are back in action next Sunday, with another away trip, to take on Melbourne Victory at AAMI Park.
Adelaide United: GK James DELIANOV, 3 Bart VRIENDS, 6 Stefan MAUK (36 Panashe MADANHA 80'), 7 Ryan KITTO, 9 Luka JOVANOVIC (26 Archie GOODWIN 64'), 10 Zach CLOUGH (12 Jonny YULL 63'), 14 Jay BARNETT, 17 Ben FOLAMI, 20 Dylan PIERIAS, 51 Panagiotis KIKIANIS, 55 Ethan ALAGICH – Subs not used: RGK Max VARTULI, 8 ISAÍAS, 27 Josh CAVALLO, 42 Austin AYOUBI
Perth Glory: GK Cameron COOK, 3 Anas HAMZAOUI, 5 Lachlan BARR, 7 Nicholas PENNINGTON (6 Brandon O’NEILL 80'), 12 Taras GOMULKA, 16 Adam BUGARIJA (23 Cristian CAICEDO 59') (17 Jarrod CARLUCCIO 90+1'), 19 Josh RISDON, 20 Trent OSTLER (9 David WILLIAMS 80'), 22 Adam TAGGART, 26 Khoa NGO (14 Nathanael BLAIR 59'), 33 Luis CANGA – Subs not used: RGK Oli SAIL, 15 Zach LISOLAJSKI - Referee: Shaun Evans – Attendance: 8,443
28.11.2024
BRAZIL SPOIL POLKINGHORNE CELEBRATIONS
The Matildas have been beaten 3-1 by Olympic Silver Medalists Brazil at Suncorp Stadium on Thursday evening, on a night Clare Polkinghorne began her farewell tour, after announcing her retirement from international football in the week. Amanda Gutierres scored twice in the first half for Brazil, before former Perth Glory striker Caitlin Foord hit back just before half time, to the delight of the majority of the 47,501 crowd. Giovana Queiroz restored Brazil's two-goal lead soon after, but were forced to hang on late after Vitória de Jesus Santos Calhau was sent off for a second yellow card.
It was a physical game, against a Brazil team who flew into challenges throughout, and Interim Head Coach Tom Sermanni said the referee “allowed herself to be bullied”. "We knew that was going to happen, unfortunately, particularly in the first half, we didn't deal with it very well,” he said post-match. "It was a very physical game. I think the referee allowed herself to be bullied a bit tonight and a few early yellow cards might have changed some of the dynamics of the game.
"Overall, I can't have any complaints about the result. I think it was fair. Ironically, just when we were beginning to get a foothold in the game, we made a mistake for the third goal and it set us back again. It was a good competitive game and we go away with things to work at." Sermanni made four changes to the side that defeated Germany last month, with Polkinghorne, Winonah Heatley, Emily van Egmond and Hayley Raso came into the starting eleven.
It was Heatley’s first start and first appearance in Australia for the national team. She played in midfield in front of a back three, with Ellie Carpenter and Steph Catley as wing-backs. The game also marked Van Egmond's 150th appearance for Australia. She is the fourth player to reach that milestone and is now equal-third on the all-time appearance list for the CommBank Matildas. Another big crowd was on hand to watch the Matildas, but it was the South Americans who opened brightly, and they were rewarded with the lead on six minutes.
A ball over the top by Vitoria Calhau was flicked on by Marilia Furiel and Amanda Gutierres raced clear, her first touch took her around Mackenzie Arnold and she rolled the ball in the net from a tight angle. Then seven minutes later she added a second, a superb ball out to the left by skipper Yasmim sent Aline Gomes away down the left, she cut inside the box and rolled the ball into the path of Gutierres, who finished clinically from the edge of the box.
The crowd were stunned, but the Matildas built into the game as the first half went on, and copped a few tasty challengers along the way, but they were rewarded with a goal two minutes before the break. Great work down the right by Carpenter and her low cross was dummied by Van Egmond at the near post, and Foord showed a great first touch, to take her away from her marker and the Arsenal striker coolly finished past Natascha Honegger, to get the Matildas back in the game.
It was more of the same after the break with tempers flaring on several occasions with Foord and Calhau copping yellow cards after an altercation. Despite their possession, chances were few and far between for the green and gold, lacking the firepower of Sam Kerr and Mary Fowler up top But on 54 minutes Brazil pounced for a third, Alanna Kennedy was caught in possession by first half substitute Queiroz, who raced into goal and finished with aplomb past Arnold.
Then on the hour mark the crowd stood as one as Polkinghorne was substituted out for the last time in her hometown, with fellow Queenslander Sharn Freier replacing her. The Matildas struggled in the final third, with Frier’s long-range shot the best chance to reduce the margin. The visitors were reduced to ten players four minutes from time after Calhau was shown a second yellow card after delaying a Carpenter free kick. Brazil held firm late, with the damage already done for the Matildas.
Although Frier was inches away from a cross from Foord’s deep into stoppage time, before substitute keeper Lorena produced a smart reaction save to thwart her again moments later. The two teams meet again on Sunday at Robina on the Gold Coast. “It’s really tough, and obviously the game was stopping a lot. They were going down plenty of times, so for us trying to find flow and trying to find rhythm was difficult,” Matildas star Hayley Raso said post-game. “We struggled with it tonight, but we know we have the chance to bounce back the next game, and we’ll be up for that one.”
Australia: GK Mackenzie Arnold, 3 Winonah Heatley (26 Daniela Galic 72’), 4 Clare Polkinghorne (24 Sharn Freier 63’), 7 Steph Catley, 9 Caitlin Foord, 10 Emily Van Egmond (13 Tameka Yallop 67’), 14 Alanna Kennedy, 16 Hayley Raso, 21 Ellie Carpenter, 23 Kyra Cooney-Cross, 25 Clare Hunt – Subs not used: RGK Tegan Micah, RGK Chloe Lincoln, 2 Courtney Nevin, 15 Emily Gielnik, 22 Charlotte Grant, 27 Jamilla Rankin, 32 Michelle Heyman, 35 Leah Davidson, 37 Natasha Prior
Brazil: GK Natascha Honegger (RGK Lorena 59’), 3 Vitoria Calhau, 5 Lais Estevam (16 Camila Martins-Pereira 76’), 6 Yasmim (2 Bruninha 76’), 7 Aline Gomes, 10 Duda Sampaio, 11 Amanda Gutierres (9 Adriana 60’), 13 Fe Palermo, 18 Gabi Portilho (19 Victoria 76’), 20 Marilia Furiel (21 Giovana Queiroz 23’), 23 Isa Haas – Subs not used: 4 Lauren, 8 Angelina, 14 Kaka, 15 Dudinha, 17 Nycole Raysla
28.11.2024
TOUGH AIMING FOR MORE SUCCESS IN 2025
Last season Olympic Kingsway won their first Premier League title since 1980, taking out the NPLWA Men’s competition. But that was only the start of the successful season for David Tough’s side, also winning the State League Cup, coming from two goals down to beat Perth RedStar 3-2 in the final. Then becoming only, the second WA side to win an Australia Cup tie, with a 4-1 win against Edgeworth Eagles, before eventually being edged out 2-3 by Isuzu Ute A-League side Adelaide United.
Tough has overseen the club’s resurgence since arriving at the Kingsway Sporting Complex in 2021, winning the Division One title the following season, followed by a third placed NPLWA finish in 2023, and the title last season. The coach said it has been a team effort, and everyone played their parts in the club’s success. “It was an incredible season, and a real testament to the hard work put in by everyone involved,” he said. “The board and volunteers played a massive role behind the scenes, making sure everything ran smoothly, while on the pitch the squad was relentless, and every player stepped up, it was a true team effort.”
Club President Steven Nelkovski said it was an outstanding season for the club, and the work Tough and his coaching team have put in was central to their success. “As a club, 2024 was the most beautiful and rewarding season,” the President said. “The club’s success was the result of meticulous planning and building strong business foundations that connected and engaged our community. As coach, DT is central to our success, he’s the best coach in the State whose attention to detail, analysis and knowledge is unrivalled.’
Footballwa spoke to Tough at the start of the season and he said: “As a club, we aim to improve our performance both on and off the pitch each year. We believe we have an improved squad this season and are determined to compete on all fronts.” But they surpassed that, and the coach should take a great deal of credit, with his recruitment spot on, and he said the title was special. “Last season's recruitment was crucial to our success. We focused on signing players who were not only talented but willing to work hard for their teammates,” he explained.
“The blend of experienced and young players worked well, and the older players set a good example in training and matches, which helped the younger players improve throughout the season. The coaching staff were really pleased, and to win the league was a great effort, and winning it meant a great deal for everyone, especially because of its history. Winning it after 44 years was special and all the hard work everyone put in during the season, to win the league put the icing on the cake.”
Away from the pitch Tough had some devastating news, receiving the dreaded call from the UK after the passing of his mother. It’s a call you never want, but it puts everything in perspective and the club and the football family rallied around the Scotsman, something which gave him a great deal of solace. “Heartbroken, it happened so quick, and I haven't truly gotten over it,” Tough said. “I would like to thank everyone for the support I received, especially from the club and the football community, it was greatly appreciated. It helped me get through that challenging period.”
Tough hasn’t rested on his laurels, with the signing former Perth Glory winger Jayden Gorman and former Perth SC midfielder Hayley Orr for next season as they look to retain their title. But the coach knows there will be more incomings and outgoings before their title defence begins. “We've had some player movement, which is normal in football. This gives us an opportunity to freshen up the squad,” he said. “We've already made some quality signings and retained the core of last season's squad, while we still have a couple of visa spots available and are waiting for the right players to strengthen the team further.”
28.11.2024
UNBEATEN REDS NEXT UP FOR GLORY
Perth Glory head to Coopers Stadium on Friday to take on Adelaide United in the opening Isuzu Ute A-League Round Six game (4:35pm WST, watch live and FREE on 10Play). To say three points are a must is an understatement, with Glory sitting second bottom with only one point, and coming off heavy defeats against Melbourne City and Western United, where they conceded eight goals. Head Coach David Zdrilic is focusing on the present rather than dwelling on the past, and he knows they come up against a team inform, with the Reds unbeaten to start the season, with three wins and a draw, but Zdrilic feels his team’s performances are improving and that they are capable of reaching another level.
“We envisaged a different start, but we know where we’re at,” he said. “There have been a lot of changes in the team… we’re still trying to find the right balance and I think we took a step forward in the last game. That’s what we’re focusing on and making sure we take more of those steps this week. We want to get that first win and there’s no better time to do it than against someone like Adelaide who are in top form. You can see they’re playing with freedom, they’re very confident and the football they’re playing is fluid.
“That comes with the results that they’ve had previously and obviously last week they were able to come from behind twice to earn the victory. They’re a very good team, but I think every team in the A-League is very even. We expect a tough match every week and Adelaide is no different. It’s a great venue, they’ve got a great fan base and are playing full of confidence, but we just tackle the games the same way, trying to improve every week. We’ll go in thinking only about the win, not the previous results.”
Zdrilic said he has been encouraged and impressed the way his players have shown in the face of adversity in recent weeks, but he made no excuses, and knows they are ready for the fight. “In the moment now, results are not good enough and no-one’s happy, we want to improve that,” he explained. “In a run of games like we’ve had, it can go either way. They [the players] either fight and re-set, or they look for excuses. The guys haven’t given any excuses and they’re all putting their hands up to play. The group themselves, despite the results, have been re-setting and going again and you’ve got to commend them for that.”
The coach believes the club is moving in the right direction in a number of key areas, and he said things will improve. “I understand it’s a results game and we have been improving and will continue to improve, but there is so much happening at this club that’s positive,” he said. “The club getting its own training ground for the first time ever, for example. There are a lot of positive things happening off the field and this team is going to evolve as well. It won’t be staying the way it is we will get the balance right and there will be big improvements on and off the field. In the next six to 12 months, it’s going to be a very different look and feel at the club.”
The last time they played Adelaide at the venue was in round 16 last season, the pair played out a thrilling 3-3 draw. The hosts raced to a two-goal lead early, with Hiroshi Ibusuki and Zach Clough scoring. Adam Taggart pulled one back before the break, and David Williams levelled on the hour. Josh Rawlins looked to have won it for Glory eight minutes from time, then Oli Sail then saved a penalty moments later. But deep into stoppage time Panagiotis Kikianis found the equaliser for the Reds, to give both sides a share of the spoils.
Cameron Cook came in for his first start of the season last week, and made a number of fine saves, and he said competition for a spot with Oli Sail is keeping both keepers on their toes. “It’s important in any position to have healthy competition for places in the starting lineup, and having that battle brings the best out of you,” Cook said. “Last week wasn’t the result we were happy about, but the start to the game was a big step for us and a positive and we need to take the next step on Friday.”
The 23-year-old played for the Reds academy team before heading west, and he will have a family and friends in the crowd, which he knows can be hostile at times. “The atmosphere at Coopers is always intimidating, but I’m looking forward to it,” Cook said. “They (Adelaide) have had a good start to the season, and scored a lot of goals, and we need to be wary of that, but we are more than ready in putting in a good performance. We can’t dwell on the past results, that’s football, we have to keep a clear head and our focus is all on Adelaide on Friday.”
Glory did not suffer any fresh injuries in last week’s loss against Western United, leaving Nikola Mileusnic and Mustafa Amini as the only confirmed absentees for the trip to South Australia, with Nathanael Blair and Jarrod Carluccio added to the squad. Meanwhile Luke Bodnar and Kaelan Majakodunmi continue to be on the outer at the club, while Jacob Muir has left the club.
Adelaide United squad: GK James DELIANOV, GK Max VARTULI, 3 Bart VRIENDS, 6 Stefan MAUK, 7 Ryan KITTO, 8 ISAÍAS, 9 Luka JOVANOVIC, 10 Zach CLOUGH, 12 Jonny YULL, 13, 14 Jay BARNETT, 17 Ben FOLAMI, 19 Yaya DUKULY, 20 Dylan PIERIAS, 26 Archie GOODWIN, 27 Josh CAVALLO, 36 Panashe MADANHA, 42 Austin AYOUBI, 44 Ryan WHITE, 51 Panagiotis KIKIANIS, 55 Ethan ALAGICH - *Two to be omitted* - Ins: WHITE - Outs: 22 Ryan TUNNICLIFFE - Unavailable: 4 Jordan ELSEY, 40 Ethan COX, 54 Bailey O’NEIL
Perth Glory squad: GK Oli SAIL, GK Cameron COOK, 3 Anas HAMZAOUI, 5 Lachlan BARR, 6 Brandon O’NEILL, 7 Nicholas PENNINGTON, 9 David WILLIAMS, 11 Hiroaki AOYAMA, 12 Taras GOMULKA, 14 Nathanael BLAIR, 15 Zach LISOLAJSKI, 16 Adam BUGARIJA, 17 Jarrod CARLUCCIO, 19 Josh RISDON, 20 Trent OSTLER, 21 Abdul FAISAL, 22 Adam TAGGART, 23 Cristian CAICEDO, 26 Khoa NGO, 33 Luis CANGA - *Two to be omitted* - Ins: BLAIR, CARLUCCIO - Unavailable: 8 Mustafa AMINI (injured), 10 Nikola MILEUSNIC (injured)
28.11.2024
ZDRILIC GETS THE DREADED VOTE OF CONFIDENCE FROM GLORY OWNER
It’s not been a happy start to David Zdrilic’s first head coaching role in senior football, with Perth Glory languishing second bottom on the Isuzu Ute A-League ladder with just one point after five games, that a hard fought 0-0 draw against Central Coast Mariners in round three. The Glory faithful have had a terrible run of results and performance, but they continue to back their side, but for how long?
The first game new owner Ross Pelligra watched after taking over from Tony Sage, was the 3-2 win against Brisbane Roar, ironically that was the last time Glory won an A-League Men’s game, having now gone 15 league matches without a win. Pelligra has come out and backed Zdrilic and the clubs football department, penning a letter to the clubs’ members on Tuesday, the chairman admitted the start to the season had been disappointing.
After the Unite Round defeat against Western United on Friday afternoon, it left Glory with an unwanted record, as no club in A-League Men’s history had conceded 16 goals in their opening five games, but Pelligra said the club’s football department were working on bringing through the next generation, and he is adamant that Zdrilic and football director Stan Lazaridis were the right men for the job, and are both focused on developing young players. “The board’s remit to Football Director Stan Lazaridis and Head Coach David Zdrilic was a strong focus on recruiting and developing young players for the future,” Pelligra explained. “That focus remains, as does reconnecting with the WA community and our key stakeholders to ensure sustained success both on and off the field.
After a strong pre-season, the fans saw a light at the end of the tunnel, but they never saw the train coming in the other direction. New recruits have struggled to fit in, and a number of them are struggling to get match fit, which is a concern. But Pelligra, who is also overseeing the club moving their headquarters from Fremantle to Mirrabooka, and also owns Italian Serie C side Catania, assured fans he was “100 per cent committed to the club long-term” and said he was eager to reward the supporters’ passion.
“You haven’t given in, and I thank you for that. And we need you now more than ever to get behind us and give us your full support,” he said. “It is my personal mission to reward your loyalty with much-deserved success. “Nothing in life comes easy, but I assure you that while our current challenges are undeniably difficult, they are only temporary and will make the joy that ultimately awaits us taste even sweeter.” Glory play on the road in the next two games, against Adelaide United and Melbourne Victory, but they will be looking for their supporters to get behind them on Saturday December 14 when they meet Newcastle Jets at HBF Park (6.45pm).
28.11.2024
BIRIGHITTI BACK WITH PERTH
One-time Socceroos goalkeeper Mark Birighitti has signed on with his former Perth SC as Junior Goalkeeper Technical Director. The 33-year old returns to the club which launched his professional career that included spells in Australia, Italy, England, the Netherlands and Scotland.
“Perth SC is delighted to announce Socceroo goalkeeper Mark Birighitti as the club’s new Junior Goalkeeper Technical Director,” read a club statement. “Mark, who played his junior football at Perth SC, will share his wealth of professional experience with our young keepers for season 2025.”
“Representing Australia at both youth and senior levels, Mark has played professionally in the A-League and Europe, including with Adelaide United, Newcastle Jets, Central Coast Mariners, Swansea City, NAC Breda and Dundee United.”
28.11.2024
PATIENCE IS A VIRTUE FOR STRUGGLING GLORY
Perth Glory coach David Zdrilic is refusing to be disheartened by the embattled club's horror start to the A-League season. Glory have lost four of five games and will be searching for a maiden victory under new coach Zdrilic when they face an undefeated Adelaide United side on Friday.
Glory are 12th (one point) and have the worst goal difference (-14), while Adelaide are fourth (10 points). Defeating Carl Veart's side at their home will be no easy feat for Glory, but Zdrilic is optimistic about the road ahead.
"The pressure is always there to want to see a win," Zdrilic said. "The results are not there, not good enough, no one's happy and we want to improve that, but the whole club's going to have a different feel in six to 12 months."
"There's so much happening at this club that's positive. All the improvements are happening slowly on the pitch, hopefully that leads to results very quickly. We're training in different grounds, we don't have our set venue to train at. That's going to change in a short space of time."
Though Glory coughed up a one-goal lead to lose 3-1 to Western United last time out, Zdrilic praised his players' work ethic during their rebuild. "In a run of games like we've had, you can expect a group to either fight and reset, or they start looking for excuses," he said.
"The guys haven't given any excuses. Everyone's putting their hand up to play. You've got to commend them for that. We want to get that first. We want to get results, and there's no better side to do it against than someone like Adelaide, who's in top form."
27.11.2024
SEASON OVER FOR FORMER GLORY STAR
Former Perth Glory player Hana Lowry was on a high last week after the Sydney FC midfielder was selected for the first time in the Matildas squad for the four international friendlies against Brazil and Chinese Taipei. But her dreams have been shattered after the 21-year-old suffered a season-ending anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury in Sydney’s 1-1 draw with Melbourne City in the Unite Round on Sunday afternoon. Lowry joined Sydney FC on a two-season contract in August after playing 72 games for her home club, scoring 11 goals, and winning the club’s Most Glorious Player award last season.
The midfielder has thanked everyone for their support, and said she can’t wait to get back playing for the Sky Blues. “This isn’t how I wanted my season to go, but I’m taking it as a challenge to grow both mentally and physically,” Lowry explained. “The support from my teammates, coaches, and the whole Sydney FC family has been overwhelming, and it’s already keeping me focused on what’s ahead. I’ve really loved every minute of playing for Sydney FC, even though it has only been for a few games, and I can’t wait to get back.”
Lowry said she has had conversations with two team mates, skipper Natalie Tobin and Kirsty Fenton, who have both suffered ACL tears in recent years, and that has been pivotal in the days following her season-ending injury. Defender Tobin has returned to action at the club this year, while fellow defender Fenton is continuing her own recovery and is expected to return to Ninja A-League action this season. “Nat has been incredible, both as a leader and someone who understands exactly what I’m going through,” Lowry said. “She’s shown me what’s possible with hard work and resilience. Kirsty, too, has been a great support, and I know we’ll be leaning on each other during our rehabs.”
Sydney head coach Ante Juric, like all her teammates and friends, threw his full support behind the young midfielder. “We’re all absolutely devastated for Hana,” Juric said. “She’s been incredible for us this season and was just starting to show her full potential. Being selected for the Matildas recently was a testament to her hard work and talent. To see her season cut short like this is truly heartbreaking but Hana is strong, and we’ll do everything in our power to support her recovery. This team is like a family, and Hana is such an integral part of that, everyone, from the players to the staff, is behind her 100% to ensure she is going to come back stronger.”
27.11.2024
HOPKINSON TAKES THE REINS AT WOTTON RESERVE
Morley Windmills will be pushing for promotion back to the State League in 2025 under the tutelage of John O’Reilly and Dan Evans, but they will be working under a new President after Garth Hopkinson replaced John Castrilli at the clubs recent Annual General Meeting. This was one of many changes at the club for the new season, as they looking for promotion. Cate Bailey-Sarre is the new secretary for 2025 and James Hodnett the treasurer, replacing Rob Cornel who has stepped down but is still on the committee. Other Committee members staying on are, John Bryant (Vice President), Bob Hodnett (Ground Allocations), Jack Styles (Registrar), Rob Cornel and Ralph Geronzi.
Hopkinson has been player at the club since he was a young 7/8-year-old and then representing the Senior side for four years when he turned 18. He then took on other opportunities in the WA Football Community before deciding to come back in 2011 to join the socials team, where he played for 14-years, until last year where he played in the first season of the club’s title winning Over 35s, and to lead the club back to the state league is top of his agender.
“I am truly honoured and grateful to stand before you all today as the new club president of the Morley Windmills Soccer Club. I would like to extend thanks to each one of you for your words of support and encouragement in my decision and the trust and confidence you have shown in me,” Hopkinson said at the AGM. “I’d like to thank the committee of 2024 and John Castrilli for his work as club president. I know there is a lot of work that goes on behind the scenes to put each season together and none more so than the previous.
“To our young families at the club with a child in the junior program in 2024 who tirelessly taxied your children from game to game and volunteered your time on a Sunday at matches and throughout the weeks at training. Thank you for choosing Morley Windmills as your home club and the support you’ve shown to the club throughout the year. We value the youth and future development of the club and I look forward to seeing as many of you around with us for many seasons to come. As I step into this role I am inspired by the families, players, coaches and members that have rallied behind this club and are invested in its success.
“My goal is to build upon what we have around us, to strengthen our bonds as a community and create new opportunities for each member to grow, learn and contribute to our collective success. I believe the success of our club lies in the collective efforts of all of us. There is a depth of talent, ideas and perspectives within the club and together we can achieve great things. Over the coming months I hope to create an environment where every voice is heard and valued, where we can collaborate on exciting initiatives and where we support one another in both our individual and collective goals.”
27.11.2024
BELT-UP AMATEUR LEAGUES SET FOR EXCITING 2025
The Belt Up Amateur Leagues are going from strength to strength, and the last two Premier Division seasons have been the tightest for a long time. With the promotion of East Perth and Wembley Downs in those seasons to the State League, it shows the standard of football is getting better each season. We are expecting another exciting season in 2025, especially with newly promoted Hamersley United and Olympic Kingsway looking to make an impact.
The Premier Division, Division One, Two and three are locked in for the new season, but there are six vacancies remaining in Division Four. Football West are inviting clubs to apply for the places, and applications are open to clubs who would like to enter a new team to fill one of the spots. Clubs do not need to complete the application form for existing teams. Applications close on Friday 10 January 2025. Any queries, please email clubsupport@footballwest.com.au
Premier Division Clubs: Emerald FC, Jaguar FC, Kelmscott Roos, Kingsley Westside, Maccabi SC, Morley Windmills, North Beach, North Perth United, Peel United, South Perth United, Hamersley United, Olympic Kingsway - Division One Clubs: Alkimos FC, Ballajura AFC, Canning City, Cracovia SC, Ellenbrook United, Joondalup United, Kwinana United, Perth AFC, Port Kennedy, Quinns FC, Southern Spirit, Stirling Panthers
Division Two Clubs: Baldivis SC, Bassendean Caledonians, Bayswater City, Belmont Villa, Curtin University, Forrestfield United, Fremantle City, Joondanna Blues, Queens Park, Mandurah City, Northern City, Westnam United – Division Three Clubs: East Perth, La Fiamma, Mindarie FC, MUMFC, Perth Royals, Spearwood Dalmatinac, Subiaco AFC, Swan Valley, Wanneroo City, Wembley Downs, Woodvale FC, UWA Nedlands – Division Four Clubs: Curtin University, Chipolopolo FC, Kalamunda City, MUMFC, Perth Saints, Sporting Warriors plus the six vacancies.
27.11.2024
OXTOBY SAYS NORTHERN IRELAND ALLOWS ME 'TO BE A MUM AND A COACH'
Northern Ireland coach Tanya Oxtoby has revealed her switch from club to international football was driven by family commitments. The 42-year old former Perth Glory Women captain recently guided Northern Ireland to a spot the final play-off stage of Euro 2025 qualifying.
Before taking on the head role with Northern Ireland, Oxtoby spent two seasons coaching alongside Emma Hayes at Chelsea and, prior to that, was in charge of Bristol City for three seasons. She has now explained how motherhood played a key role in her decision to leave club football behind.
"It was a decision that I knew I had to make," Oxtoby said. "I love club football. But you know for my son to not be present and I just felt like club football was getting to that point where I was finding it really difficult to be good at being a mum and whole heartedly be a coach as well."
"I had to make a choice. It was definitely time for me to step away from that because I just felt I didn't have anything left to give. I needed an environment that would allow me to be me, which is a mum and a coach, and it is a marriage made in heaven at this point."
Whilst she can be found juggling the responsibility of parenting her son, Albie, as well as trying to lead Northern Ireland's charge to the country's second successive Euros, Oxtoby shed some light on how she believes her coaching style has adapted since undertaking the new role in 2023.
"It's taken 12 months for the players to realise that actually, whilst I really want perfection and I want more and more and more, I'm quite relaxed most of the time if things are done to the to the highest standard," she said. "At the start it was very much like, oh, I think she's a bit full on all the time. Whereas I think now they see the lighter side of me a little bit."
Football is all about working with people, a sentiment that Oxtoby echoed when reflecting on her personal values as a manager. "You can chase perfection, you can really drive standards, but you don't need to be unapproachable by doing that," she said. "You don't need to be cold, you can still be authentic to yourself. That's probably the balance I like to try and get."
24.11.2024
DALTON GOAL NOT ENOUGH AS GLORY HELD BY CANBERRA
Perth Glory have secured their first point away from home in the Ninja A-League this season, after a 1-1 draw against traditional rivals Canberra United in Sunday’s Unite Round clash at Netstrata Stadium. Skipper Izzy Dalton’s deflected shot gave Stephen Peters side the lead at the break, and they were well worth it. They had chance to increase their lead after half time, but it was United who levelled through a stunner from Mary Stanic-Floody, denying new signing Casey Dumont a clean sheet on her debut for the club.
The Head Coach was delighted for the skipper to get her first goal for the club, and said it feels like two points lost at the end of the day. “I thought Izzy was great today, her work rate for the season has been really high, but the end product has missing from her game, so to score today is the monkey off the back for her,” Peters said post-match.
“It was a great game for us in the first half, but losing Zogg early in the second half, the adjustment was a struggle for us and we gave up territory, and Canberra are a team who are comfortable in that situation. But in the first half I thought we were the better team and deserved the lead, and if we had got that second goal it would’ve been a different game for us. It was a much better performance from us today, we had more possession and chances than the opposition, so to concede late, it feels like two points dropped.”
Peters made three changes to the side that lost against Brisbane Roar last week with Dumont making her debut for the club, replacing Miranda Templeman between the sticks, while Welsh international Megan Wynne came in for the injured Kelli Brown and Onyinyechi Zogg replaced Miku Sunaga, who dropped to the bench. Games between these two sides have produced drama and goals over the years, but it was a quiet start to the game with clear cut chances few and far between.
The hosts were first to go close, a ball over the top by Stanic-Floody sent Matildas striker Michelle Heyman racing clear, she beat Dumont to the ball but Grace Johnston got back to clear the danger. Glory went close themselves on 14 minutes, Dalton’s effort from the edge of the box flew over the top, and moments later they went closer. Former Glory keeper Sally James failed to hold on to a corner, and in the goalmouth scramble Naomi Chinnama and Gabby Hollar both failed to stab the ball home.
James then came to the rescue of the hosts on 26 minutes, Sarah O’Donoghue cut in from the right, and raced into the box, her shot was well saved by the Canberra custodian’s outstretched leg, the ball crashing off the post. But four minutes before the break Glory found the opener, a long clearance down the left channel wasn’t dealt with and a poor pass by Sofia Christopherson was picked off by Hollar and she picked out Dalton whose deflected shot beat a stranded James. They went close to a second in stoppage time, the lively O’Donoghue saw her shot hit the post again, but at the break Glory held a narrow lead.
Glory lost defender Zogg early in the second half, and she was replaced by Ella Abdul Massih, and despite that blow, a few moments later they went close to a second. Johnston sending half time substitute Morgan Roberts behind the Canberra defence, but her shot from the angle was saved by James. Glory was knocking on the door, and they should have doubled their lead on 66 minutes, Abdul Massih finding space down the right, before crossing to Tijan McKenna, but her goalbound shot hit her teammate Miku Sunaga, before hitting the rebound wide of the target.
But three minutes later it was Canberra who levelled, Heyman found Stanic-Floody just outside the penalty area, and her shot flew past Dumont. It set up a frantic last twenty minutes, with both sides pushing for the winner, but both sides held firm. The hot conditions took its toll on both sides and there were to be no further chances of note at either end, and both teams shared the spoils.
Canberra United: GK Sally JAMES, 2 Alex MCKENZIE, 3 Elizabeth ANTON, 10 Mary STANIC-FLOODY (7 Jynaya DOS SANTOS 74'), 11 Emma ROBERS (4 Holly MURRAY 85'), 12 Hayley TAYLOR-YOUNG, 13 Sofia CHRISTOPHERSON (28 Tegan BERTOLISSIO 83'), 17 Maja MARKOVSKI, 20 Lillian SKELLY (21 Aideen KEANE 46'), 23 Michelle HEYMAN, 25 Darcey MALONE - Subs not used: RGK Coco MAJSTOROVIC
Perth Glory: GK Casey DUMONT, 5 Grace JOHNSTON, 6 Tijan MCKENNA, 7 Megan WYNNE (17 Morgan ROBERTS 46'), 8 Georgia CASSIDY, 9 Gabby HOLLAR (14 Miku SUNAGA 57'), 11 Natalie TATHEM, 13 Naomi CHINNAMA, 19 Sarah O’DONOGHUE (2 Mischa ANDERSON 90'), 23 Izzy DALTON, 29 Onyinyechi ZOGG (20 Ella ABDUL MASSIH 57') - Subs not used: RGK Miranda TEMPLEMAN - Referee: Beth Rattray
25.11.2024
A-LEAGUE COMEBACK ON THE HORIZON FOR SAINSBURY
Central Coast Mainers' Trent Sainsbury is adamant he has plenty to achieve as he zeroes in on an A-League return following injury. The 61-time Socceroo watched from the sidelines as Central Coast chalked up their first win of the new campaign on Friday night, a 2-1 come-from-behind victory over rivals Newcastle Jets.
Sainsbury says he is "absolutely flying" in his recovery from the pectoral injury that has delayed his return to Central Coast, the club where he made his professional debut as a teenager in 2010. The 32-year old defender has not set a date for his first A-League appearance since 2014, but feels confident it is fast approaching.
"I'm absolutely flying," Sainsbury commented. "The injury, I'm taking it one day at a time, I'm healing well, healing fast so I'm on track to come back soon. The confidence is always going to be high no matter what, even if I'm injured. I could strap myself up and go out there with one arm. I believe in my ability, so coming back I don't think is going to be an issue."
Sainsbury worked across the world during his decade out of the A-League, notably becoming only the ninth Australian to play in Italy's Serie A while on loan to Inter Milan from Jiangsu Suning in 2017. During his time with the Netherlands-based PEC Zwolle, he won the Dutch Cup and the Dutch Super Cup, and later played club football in Qatar, Israel and Belgium.
A return to Australia had always been on Sainsbury's mind. "I didn't want to come back as the old basket case, I wanted to come back with fight in the belly," said Sainsbury, in the first season of a three-year deal. "The body's in good shape, obviously with the injury to the pec it's going to take a little bit longer but I've come back with a lot still to achieve in the A-League."
24.11.2024
LOWRY INJURY CAPS HORROR WEEKEND FOR MATILDAS HOPEFULS
A knee injury to Hana Lowry has capped a horror weekend for would-be Matildas debutants. The Sydney FC midfielder exited this afternoon's 1-1 draw with Melbourne City midway through the second half. It came in the same 24-hour period that fellow Matilda's hopefuls Isabel Gomez and Natasha Prior also succumbed to injury.
Lowry went down after colliding with Taylor Otto and was attended to by teammates before a member of Sydney's medical staff arrived. The 21-year old was able to walk slowly from the field and was replaced by Shay Hollman in the 72nd minute, with team officials later revealing the midfielder would undergo scans on her knee.
Lowry, Gomez and were three of five players called up to the Matildas for the first time as part of Tom Sermanni's 36-player squad for upcoming friendlies against Brazil and Taiwan. The first of four matches in the international window will be played against Brazil this Thursday night, with the last scheduled for Saturday 7th December.
22.11.2024
MAYNARD-BREWER BACK IN THE FRAME WITH CHARLTON
Ashley Maynard-Brewer is back in goal for Charlton Athletic but without the protective mask he's worn for close to twelve months. The West Australian goalkeeper’s only action had been limited to EFL Trophy appearances this season before a thigh strain to first choice Will Mannion brought him into the side for the 1-0 League One defeat to Exeter City earlier this month.
Maynard-Brewer had been wearing a mask since January 2023 after breaking his nose twice in quick succession. "I was told by the surgeon that it was probably wise to wear it for between six to 12 months," the 25-year old told 'the South London Press'. "When it was broken it was really affecting my sleep and recovery, so I played it safe over a period of time."
"It definitely didn't affect my vision but it was a target for away fans, which was pretty funny. It was the predictable stuff - Zorro or Batman comments. Or at least those were definitely the lighter things that were said. I came into this season feeling fit and healthy and probably thought about the perception of wearing it ... I wanted this season to be a clean slate.
"I broke my jaw at the end of last season and the mask didn't protect that - so the issue is probably I should stay away from diving at people’s feet! I was tuned in and focused during one of the training games, I saw an opportunity to block a ball - threw my face in the way - and copped a backheel. I thought about this season, in training, being a bit more controlled - try not to get in the way of too many with my head.”
Maynard-Brewer's outing at Exeter was his first league appearance under Charlton manager Nathan Jones, who was appointed at the start of February. Jones made it clear in the summer he wanted to bring in two new goalkeepers and was prepared for Harry Isted and Maynard-Brewer to move on. Charlton ended up bringing in only Mannion on a free transfer, Isted moved to Burton Albion but Maynard-Brewer stayed.
"It was communicated pretty early doors that the gaffer was looking at bringing in an experienced number one and Will," recalled Maynard-Brewer. "I'm pretty sure he (Jones) said he wasn't going to stand in my way if there were any opportunities that did come up. But nothing eventuated (and) from the conversations we had, he said he was happy I stayed."
"He told me to get my head down and keep working hard. The feedback I got from (goalkeeping coach) Stephen Henderson was the same. Day to day I was in training and I’d get my work done. I was a Charlton player and I never wanted to leave. I have loved being a part of it the last few years. I was more than happy when the transfer window shut and it was just me and Will."
It's unclear how long Mannion will be sidelined for and, consequently, how long Maynard-Brewer will be part of the starting eleven. "As a goalkeeper I want to be playing every game possible," he said. "I'm just going to do my best in however many games with Will being out and then whatever happens, happens. If I come out of the team again then I'll continue to work just as hard and make sure I put myself in a good place."
22.11.2024
GLORY FAIL TO RE-UNITE
Perth Glory have continued their disappointing start to the Isuzu Ute A-League, after going down 3-1 to Western United in ‘Unite Round’ at the Allianz Stadium on Friday afternoon, a result which puts pressure on new coach David Zdrilic. After a first half, where United dominated but couldn’t convert their chances, Glory found the opener early in the second half with Trent Ostler on target, but United, who were also looking for their first win of the new season hit back, with Dylan Leonard levelling soon after, before Glory nemesis Hiroshi Ibusuki added a brace, making it seven goals in seven games against the Glory since his arrival in the competition.
Zdrilic said the club were in a transitional phase both on and off-field and there was a lot of work in the background fans did not say he was certain would pay dividends. “I was very positive and then the sequence of events that have happened in three of those (last) four games were similar, that goal becomes two and then three very quickly,” Zdrilic said post-game. “We keep conceding and its silly goals very quickly in succession and not staying in the game and having another go.
“We’re trying to fix things. I think this team is going to end up a lot different to where it is now, but at this moment, it’s got to be patience. In the future it’s going to keep changing and evolving. In the background, the owners and the club are doing a lot of things that the fans don’t see. A lot of those changes cause a little bit of instability in terms of getting a good structure on-field and off-field, unfortunately you look at the results but there’s a lot more to it.”
The coach made five changes, to the side that were thrashed by Melbourne City prior to the international break, keeper Cameron Cook coming in for Oli Sail, while Josh Risdon returned from injury for his first start after returning to the club this season. Anas Hamzaoui came in for Zach Lisolajski, Hiroaki Aoyama for Abdul Faisal, while Jarrad Carluccio was dropped from the squad and replaced by youngster Khoa Ngo.
It was the opening game in the 2024 ‘Unite Round’ and it was a Glory home game, with a small pocket of supporters cheering their side on. It was United who started the game well, and they went close to the opener on eight minutes, Noah Botic’s effort was palmed onto the bar by Cook, and his follow up header also crashed off the bar, a lucky escape. Glory settled and started to get a grip of the game, and Nicholas Pennington’s shot from distance flashed wide of the post, before Aoyama’s header was straight at United keeper Matthew Sutton.
Cook came to the rescue again 27 minutes, Glory gave the ball away in the middle of the park, with Ben Garuccio sending Botic into the box, his curling effort was heading for the bottom corner, but the Glory custodian produced a fingertip save to deny him. United continued to dictate terms with Tate Russell shot fizzing over the top, before Leonard’s teasing cross from the left found Ibusuki, who couldn’t guide his header home, and at the break it was all-square.
Glory started brightly after the break, Adam Taggart fired over the top, and moments later they found the opener. A quick break from Ngo sent Taggart racing down the left channel, his low ball across the penalty area found Ostler, whose shot was blocked by Sutton, but the assistant’s flag was up to say the ball had crossed the line, much to the delight of the Glory faithful in the sparse crowd. It was a third Glory goal for the midfielder, and was this the platform they needed to seal a first win of the season.
It turned out not be, and eight minutes later United levelled. Garuccio’s corner wasn’t cleared, and teenage defender Leonard rifled home past Cook. That goal lifted United and they were ahead just after the hour mark, a long ball wasn’t dealt with by Luis Canga and Botic got in behind the Glory defender, and cut the ball back to an unmarked Ibusuki who finished neatly past Cook. Glory looked hit back and Taggart dragged a shot wide of the target moments later, but 15 minutes from time United sealed the points.
It a goal similar to the second, Botic again made space down the right, picking out Ibusuki, who neat touch left three Glory defenders in his wake, before finishing clinically past Cook. Glory huffed and puffed but were unable to get back into this one, while United finished the game with ten men after Leonard pulled back Glory substitute Cristian Caicedo and was sent off by referee Alireza Faghani. It continues Glory’s poor form, and It has now been more than nine months since Glory’s last victory, a run of 15 league games, and they have conceded 49 goals in their last 12 competitive matches, something has to change.
Perth Glory: GK Cameron COOK, 3 Anas HAMZAOUI (15 Zach LISOLAJSKI 87'), 5 Lachlan BARR, 7 Nicholas PENNINGTON, 11 Hiroaki AOYAMA (16 Adam BUGARIJA 46'), 12 Taras GOMULKA (6 Brandon O’NEILL 84'), 19 Josh RISDON (23 Cristian CAICEDO 84'), 20 Trent OSTLER, 22 Adam TAGGART, 26 Khoa NGO (21 Abdul FAISAL 63'), 33 Luis CANGA - Subs not used: RGK Oli SAIL, 9 David WILLIAMS
Western United: GK Matthew SUTTON, 9 Hiroshi IBUSUKI, 10 Matthew GRIMALDI (20 Abel WALATEE 77'), 13 Tate RUSSELL (29 Charbel SHAMOON 77'), 17 Ben GARUCCIO, 19 Noah BOTIC (14 Jake NAJDOVSKI 82'), 21 Sebastian PASQUALI (23 Rhys BOZINOVSKI 43'), 22 Kane VIDMAR, 30 Dylan LEONARD, 32 Angus THURGATE, 77 Riku DANZAKI (7 Ramy NAJJARINE, 82') - Subs not used: RGK Thomas HEWARD-BELLEE, 24 Michael RUHS - Red Cards: Leonard 90+1’ – Referee: Alireza Faghani
21.11.2024
ROCKINGHAM TURN TO RHODES IN 2024
After relegation last season to Division Two, Rockingham City have turned to Jordan Rhodes to turn their fortunes around, the 39-year-old becoming head coach of the Lark Hill Sportsplex club on a two-year contract. The former Charlton Athletic trainee, who also played for Mandurah City, Subiaco and Stirling Lions in WA, said he can’t wait to get started. “I believe this region has a great baseline of young local talent, 20–24-year-olds, and we will be looking to develop and grow with these boys and supplement where we need too with players that fit the culture we are looking to establish,” he explained.
“I am supported by a President, Vice president and committee who are all very focused on Rockingham being a centre of excellence and community for local football talent. We certainly won't lack ambition in doing this, our aim is to win games of football, but that will be the primary focus. I have a C-licence, which I worked on about seven years ago, and did coach at under 18 level. I have always wanted to challenge myself further but family life has been busy and now a great opportunity presents itself and I’m looking forward to the challenge.”
New Rockingham President Fraser Marr emphasised the significance of this appointment. “Since the new committee started, our goal was to ensure that RCFC is being pushed forward by good football people in every department, and Jordan certainly fits the bill for our Saturday set-up,” he said. “From a football pedigree perspective, you will struggle to find many better in the area, so I’m over the moon he has agreed to two years where we can ensure our state league squad goes from strength to strength.”
Rhodes will take over from Rob Crerar, who has moved into an off-field role at the club, and the Vice President echoed Fraser’s sentiments. “I’m excited to have Jordan as head coach. He is local to the region, which was key for us. He has high standards on and off the pitch and, most importantly, we believe he will further develop the playing group. We’re confident his expertise and dedication will have a lasting impact on our team and community as we look forward to a successful and bright future together.”
Rhodes remembers fondly his time at Charlton in the UK as a youngster, and has a great deal of memories, and some of the characters he has met along the way. “I had some special moments and memories playing EPL Youth with Charlton Athletic and playing at venue like Stamford Bridge (Chelsea) and White Hart Lane (Tottenham Hotspur), is was a special time in my development as a kid,” he explained. “The other highlight for me came in 2000, when we beat Manchester City in the Milk Cup Final in Northen Ireland, a great memory at a special club.
“I’ve also had some great times in WA football, but to be honest, as you get older what you really remember is less the individual stuff and more the characters and the people you meet along the journey. I have been lucky enough to have some local success in some really great changerooms at Stirling, Mandurah and Subiaco. This is what you remember now and no better feeling winning something with a bunch of guys you respect and have worked hard with.”
The talented striker re-found his passion for the game last season, after joined Peel United late in the Amateur Premier Division and helped keep them clear of the relegation zone, but he said his playing days are behind him, and he will be doing all he can to gain promotion back to Division One. “Peel asked me down for the last three games of the season, and I enjoyed it,” Rhodes explained. “The club is local to me and I really like their story and the people, they certainly punch above their weight and so was happy to help out at a time of need. But my time is past now, it is over to this next generation to write their own story, and I will be guiding that on track and touchline.”
21.11.2024
KNIGHT AIMING HIGH IN HIS NEW ROLE IN FOOTBALL
It was a disappointing 2024 for Joondalup United, stepping away from State League football and their amateur side were relegated from the Premier Division. But they are hoping that all changers in 2025, and the first part of their revival came after appointing Gavin Knight as their Head Coach for the new season. For Knight, who played for Morley Windmills last season, it’s a first senior coaching role, and it’s something he can’t wait to get started.
“It’s a new challenge for me, but I’m definitely looking forward to it,” Knight said. “It is something I have wanting to do in the last few seasons, and yes, it’s a little bit of pressure but I can handle it. I’ve spoken to a few players to come down next season and hopefully they commit. Also looking forward to meeting new faces on the first couple of pre-season training sessions in December. I’ve worked under a number of experience coaches, and learnt a great deal from them. It is my first senior coaching job, but I’ve coached a couple of NPL junior teams a few years ago, and I have my C licence at moment.”
Knight, who came over from the UK to play for Joondalup, also played for Bayswater City, Sorrento, Gwelup Croatia, Swan United, Balcatta Etna, Stirling Macedonia, Fremantle City, Subiaco AFC and Morley Windmills. The striker has had so many highlights on the pitch in his career in WA football, and will cherish all of them, but when asked if he will continue playing next season, as Joondalup look to get back into the Premier Division, he was quick to answer. “I will be doing a player/coach role this season, but will only play when needed, then I will see at the end of the season if I’ll continue, we’ll have to wait and see,” Knight said.
“For me playing football was a passion, and when Rudy Proctor asked me to come over to WA to join Joondalup, I jumped at the chance, and the rest as they say is history, I have so many highlights. Winning leagues, cups, representing states and country and winning the gold medal. But one that will always stick out is scoring the winning goal against Western Knights when I was at Stirling. We were pushing for promotion from Division One, and we were 2-1 down with seven minutes left, and Fergie (Stirling coach Ian Ferguson), brought me on, and I ended up getting two goal to seal a 3-2 win, that put Stirling one step closer to being promoted to the NPL.”
He has another good reason to move away from Saturday football, with his two sons Alfie and Henri following in his dad’s footsteps, both being a part of the Perth Glory academy, and Knight said it will be great to go and cheers them on. “Yes, I’m super proud of my boys, so giving up Saturday football to watch them play for Glory in NPL is worth it,” he explained. “To be fair, they both are a better talent that I was at their age (15&17), so it will be good to watch them again in the Glory U23 and first team next season.” The clubs pre-season starts next month, get along and meet the new coach - Tuesday 10th of December - 6pm registration with a 6:30pm start at Forrest Park Padbury - Any queries email: Admin@jufc.com.au or text or mobile 0451 800 872.
21.11.2024
GLORY HOPING TO UNITE IN SYDNEY
We head into the second year of the ‘Unite Round’ this weekend in Sydney, with every Isuzu Ute A-League round five games to be played in harbour city. Perth Glory will be looking to unite, and bounce back from their heavy defeat against Melbourne City last week, when they take on Western United on Friday afternoon at Allianz Stadium (kick-off at 2:30pm WST). It is a Glory home game in fixtures, and Head Coach David Zdrilic is confident his side will ready for a tough game, and he said the international break has given them time to regroup, after their worse performance of the season against City.
The coach believes his side is ready for a big game, against a United side, who are also searching for their first win of the season, and said the break came at the right time for them. “It’s been a good international break to get a lot of good training in,” he said. “After the first four games, it was a big reset. There were two results there that were not acceptable for us and the group knows that. The reaction from the guys after that loss to City was very positive and it doesn’t always go that way. The training week has been excellent, everyone is putting their hand up to go again and fight again, so that’s very positive. We need that positive week in training to become a positive performance.
The injuries that have hampered the club this season, are slowly clearing up, and Josh Risdon will come into contention to face his former club after several weeks on the sidelines. Zdrilic said they now need to find the right balance. “We’ve pretty much got the whole group back, except for [Mustafa] Amini and [Nikola] Mileusnic and everyone is back at a reasonable level where they can be selected for the squad,” he explained. “The group is now getting to the level where everyone can compete the way we should. We’re still adapting and changing things and that was a good break for us in which to try and find the right mix. We’re still trying to find that right balance and we have options there now.”
The last Unite Round game for Glory ended in a thrilling 3-4 defeat against Wellington Phoenix, and the last time we played Western United also ended in a 3-4 defeat in round 25 at HBF Park. Matthew Grimaldi gave United the lead early, but Adam Taggart levelled, and the Socceroos striker gave them the lead early in the second half. Japanese midfielder Riku Danzaki restored parity for the visitors, and Adel Walatee had them ahead with 16 minutes remaining. Oliver Lavale added a fourth for United in the second minute of stoppage time, and despite David Williams pulling one back the visitors took home the points.
United sit one point and one place ahead of Glory on the ladder, and while not underestimating them, Zdrilic said that he would love to give Glory’s travelling and NSW-based Members and fans something to celebrate at the final whistle. “Our fans have been fantastic, they travel very well, and there are fans who go everywhere and they’ll be there for Unite Round,” Zdrilic said. “It’s such a loyal fanbase and we really want to reward them. Western United have got a very solid base, and they’ve been playing a similar way for multiple years now and have had a similar line-up, so they know the mechanisms and they’re very comfortable in their structure. They’re a very good team that also needs a win, so it’s going to be a tough challenge.
Perth Glory squad: GK Oli SAIL, GK Cameron COOK, 3 Anas HAMZAOUI, 5 Lachlan BARR, 6 Brandon O’NEILL, 7 Nicholas PENNINGTON, 9 David WILLIAMS, 12 Taras GOMULKA, 14 Nathanael BLAIR, 15 Zach LISOLAJSKI, 16 Adam BUGARIJA, 17 Jarrod CARLUCCIO, 19 Josh RISDON, 20 Trent OSTLER, 21 Abdul FAISAL, 22 Adam TAGGART, 23 Cristian CAICEDO, 24 Andriano LEBIB, 26 Khoa NGO, 33 Luis CANGA - *Two to be omitted* - Ins: HAMZAOUI, WILLIAMS, AOYAMA, RISDON - Unavailable: 8 Mustafa AMINI (injured), 10 Nikola MILEUSNIC (injured)
Western United squad: GK Tom HEWARD-BELLE, GK Matthew SUTTON, 5 Oliver LAVALE, 7 Ramy NAJJARINE, 9 Hiroshi IBUSUKI, 10 Matthew GRIMALDI, 13 Tate RUSSELL, 14 Jake NAJDOVSKI, 17 Ben GARUCCIO, 19 Noah BOTIC, 20 Abel WALATEE, 21 Sebastian PASQUALI, 22 Kane VIDMAR, 23 Rhys BOZINOVSKI, 24 Michael RUHS, 29 Charbel SHAMOON, 30 Dylan LEONARD, 32 Angus THURGATE, 34 James YORK, 77 Riku DANZAKI - *Two to be omitted* - Ins: 7 Ramy NAJJARINE (returns from injury), 24 Michael RUHS (promoted) - Unavailable: 4 James DONACHIE (injured), 43 Khoder KADDOUR (injured)
21.11.2024
GLORY WOMEN READY FOR CANBERRA CHALLENGE
Perth Glory hit the road this weekend, when they travel to Sydney to take on Canberra United in the Ninja A-League ‘Unite Round’ at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium on Sunday afternoon, a game you can watch live and free on 10Play. (kick-off at 10:30am WST. The round four clash sees Stephen Peters side take on their old rivals, with the pair playing some thrilling games over the years, and they will be searching for there first points on the road this season, after defeats against Melbourne City and last week against Brisban Roar.
Peters said his side were second-best in the 0-3 loss at Perry Park, but he feels they have plenty of room for improvement, but he held his hand up and said they were beaten by a better side. “Sometimes you’ve just got to acknowledge when a team is better on the night and Brisbane were certainly that,” he said. “It was a hard one to take, but a valuable lesson for us. We need to be more confident and control the ball a little more. Friday’s game was the highest percentage of possession that we’ve had out of the three games so far, so that is a positive. We’ve just got to keep building those combinations with the players.”
The coach is hoping for some good news on the injury front heading into Sunday’s game, but he does have a few concerns. “We’re getting more and more players available,” Peters said, “although there is an injury cloud over Kelli [Brown] with her ankle from the Jets game. She played through that on Friday; she was quite a warrior there. We’ll do what’s best for her and the team this Sunday. Megan [Wynne] trained today and is in good spirits and we’re looking forward to welcoming her back. Casey Dumont will be here this week, so that’s a massive plus for us. Whether she’s in the position to play the match and start the match I’m not sure, obviously Casey and I will discuss that, and we’ll go from there.”
The last ‘Unite Round’ saw Glory draw 1-1 with Melbourne Victory, an own goal from Jamilla Rankin on the hour giving Glory a share of the spoils at Leichhardt Oval. The last time Glory played Canberra on the road they came home with a 3-2 win in round three last season. Skipper Natasha Rigby gave Glory lead on 12 minutes, but American defender Barrie Clough levelled four minutes later. Kiwi striker Grace Jale regained the lead for Glory five minutes before the break, but United restored parity in first half stoppage time, Vesna Milivojevic converting from the spot. But it was Glory who sealed the points early in the second half with Sofia Sakalis also scoring from the spot.
The last five games between the teams have been goal fests, an aggregate of 24 goals, so there should be plenty of goals in this one. United sit fifth, three points ahead of Peters’ side, but are coming off a big loss against Melbourne Victory last week. They will be led from the front by the league’s all-time leading goalscorer, Michelle Heyman and Peters is aware of the quality the 36-year-old Matildas striker brings.
“Michelle is a massive name in the league and a huge threat for them, so obviously we need to be mindful of that,” he said. “They’re very unified as a team They’ve defended as a unit for the three games that they’ve played and had back-to-back wins to start the season. I think they probably wouldn’t have liked their performance last week, so we need to be wary of what Canberra we’re coming up against on Sunday.”
Canberra United squad: GK Sally JAMES, 2 Alex MCKENZIE, 3 Elizabeth ANTON, 4 Holly MURRAY, 7 Jynaya DOS SANTOS, 9 Ruby NATHAN, 10 Mary STANIC-FLOODY, 11 Emma ROBERS, 12 Hayley TAYLOR-YOUNG, 13 Sofia CHRISTOPHERSON, 17 Maja MARKOVSKI, 18 Coco MAJSTORIVIC, 19 Jaya BOWMAN, 20 Lillian SKELLY, 23 Michelle HEYMAN, 25 Darcey MALONE, 28 Tegan BERTOLISSIO - *One to be omitted* - Unavailable: 32 Bethany GORDON (injured)
Perth Glory squad: GK Miranda TEMPLEMAN, GK Jessica SKINNER, 2 Mischa ANDERSON, 5 Grace JOHNSTON, 6 Tijan MCKENNA, 7 Megan WYNNE, 8 Georgia CASSIDY, 9 Gabby HOLLAR, 11 Natalie TATHEM, 13 Naomi CHINNAMA, 14 Miku SUNAGA, 17 Morgan ROBERTS, 18 Isabella FOLETTA, 19 Sarah O’DONOGHUE, 20 Ella ABDUL MASSIH, 23 Izzy DALTON, 29 Onyinyechi ZOGG, 44 Kelli BROWN - *Two to be omitted* - Ins: ANDERSON, WYNNE, FOLETTA - Unavailable: GK Casey DUMONT (not yet available), 10 Susan PHONSONGKHAM (injured), 16 Bella WALLHEAD (injured)
19.11.2024
ZDRILIC NOT FEELING PRESSURED
David Zdrlic feels and acknowledges the pressure but says he does not feel it overbearing as Perth Glory hunt their first win of the season. After a week off due to the international break, the Glory coach says his squad are in a good space as they prepare to face a similarly winless Western United in Sydney for the A-League’s Unite Round.
But another Glory defeat, coupled with an uncompetitive performance, would make it one the club’s worst starts in history and pile more pressure on Zdrilic in his first stint as a head coach. “The pressure has always been there in any role that I’ve had, it’s just that I’m standing here talking about it,” he said. “But behind the scenes, everybody is feeling the same. I’m obviously very aware of our situation and we’ve spoken at length about how we’ve got here.”
Zdrilic says the 12-day break brought has proved valuable. “For us, it’s been a good international break to get a lot of quality training in there. We’ve pretty much got the whole group back, except for Mustafa Amini (knee) and Nikola Mileusnic (hamstring),” he said. “Everyone’s back at a reasonable level that they can now be selected for the squad. That was a great moment for us to really train hard.
“After the first four games, for us, it was a big reset and there were two results there that are definitely not acceptable for us. The group know that we’re still adapting things, changing things, and that was a great international break for us to keep trying to find the right mix. The group in general is now getting to the level where everybody can compete the way we should.”
Former World Cup Socceroo Josh Risdon, who hurt his knee on the eve of the season, is pushing for his first game in his second stint with is hometown club. “He was one of the guys that played every game and did every training session, pretty much in the whole pre-season, and then before the first game, a couple of days before, he got injured,” Zdrilic said. “It’s great to have him back and available for selection and we’ve got another couple days, so we’ll see how it goes.”
18.11.2024
YENGI AT THE DOUBLE TO EARN SOCCEROOS A POINT
Kusini Yengi scored a stoppage time equaliser to rescue a point for the Socceroos against Bahrain in Riffa on Wednesday morning. The Portsmouth striker had given Australia the lead in the first minutes of the game, but defence errors allowed the host to hit the front with 13 minutes remaining, with substitute Mahdi Abduljabbar bagging a brace. It looked like the points would be lost, but Yengi rifled home in the sixth minute of stoppage time, to earn Tony Popovic’s side a valuable point, which keeps them in second place in Group C, this after Indonesia upset Saudi Arabia. The Socceroos were once again wasteful in front of goal, with Yengi in particular guilty of a number of missed chances, that eventually came back to bite them.
But the striker made emends late, and Popovic said it was an important point. “There were a couple of really good of chances to make it 2-0 in the second half that we didn't capitalise on," Tony Popovic said post-match. "I would have liked [Yengi] to have scored that one at 1-0 when the ball was cut back because I think that would have been game over. We gave away a couple of goals quickly and then showed great character to get back It's an important point, keeps us in second place and we move forward to the next window."
The coach made six changes to the team that drew with Saudi Arabia, with only Cameron Burgess, Harry Souttar, Riley McGree, Jackson Irvine and Lewis Miller starting again. Skipper Maty Ryan returned in goal, with Sydney defender Hayden Matthews earning his debut for the Socceroos and Aziz Behich returning to the team. Anthony Caceres also picked up his first start for his country, with Kusini Yengi and Craig Goodwin introduced to the team.
The Socceroos have been guilty of slow starts in games recently, but not in this one, ahead after only 38 seconds. Matthews long-ball wasn’t dealt with by Sayed Baqer, his back pass was short, leaving Bahrain keeper Ebrahim Lutfalla stranded, and Yengi raced onto the ball rounded the keeper and slotted the ball home to silence the big crowd. It was a perfect start, but the hosts hit back, and pressed for a quick response, but the Socceroos held firm.
Australia went close again on 24 minutes, a crunching tackle in the middle of the park by Caceres won possession, the ball falling to Goodwin, who sent McGree down the left, he squared the ball to Yengi, but Lutfalla was out smartly to deny the big striker. Bahrain was struggling in the final third, while the Socceroos continued to create the better chances, and Goodwin’s shot flashed the wrong side of the upright, but at the break the hosts had it all to do.
The home side were out of the blocks fast after half time, but the Socceroos weathered the early spell, and went close to a second on the hour. McGree was the supplier, the Middlesbrough midfielder teasing cross from the left was met by Yengi, who lost his marker and he chested it towards goal, beating Lutfalla, but the crossbar came to the rescue of the Bahrain custodian. Bahrain lifted and Ibrahim Al-Khatal saw his goalbound shot well blocked by Burgess moments later.
But on 75 minutes the hosts levelled. A long clearance looked comfortable for Burgess, but a poor first touch saw the ball go straight to Abduljabbar, who spotted Ryan off his line and lobbed the keeper from distance. It got worse for Australia, and two minutes later the hosts hit the front. Mahdi Al-Humaidan’s cross from the left flicked off the head of Matthews, the ball beating Ryan and crashing off the post, but Abduljabbar was quickest to the rebound to fire home much to the delight of the home faithful. It was a bitter blow for Australia, and it looked like the three points slipping away, but with time running out they levelled.
Substitute Brendan Borrello won a huge tackle in the middle of the park, and fellow substitute Ajdin Hrustic’s ball ended up with O’Neill on the left. His cross to the back post was headed into a Bahrain defender by Borrello, the ball falling for Yengi, who swept the ball home. The drama wasn’t over there, as VAR checked for a hand ball on Borrello, but after a lengthy wait the goal stood, which didn’t go down well with Bahrain coach Dragan Talajic who shown a yellow card for his troubles. The result keeps the Socceroos second in Group C behind runaway leaders Japan, and they will host Indonesia next time in March 2025.
Bahrain: GK Ebrahim Lutfalla, 2 Amine Benaddi, 5 Hamad Al-Shamsan, 4 Sayed Saeed, 8 Mohamed Marhoon (3 Waleed Al Emmanuel 90+1’), 14 Al Abdulla Haram (20 Mahdi Al-Humaidan 45’), 23 Abdulla El Khalassy, 16 Sayed Baqer (6 Ahmed Nabeel 90+1’), 19 Kamil Al-Aswad, 11 Ibrahim Al-Khatal (12 Mahdi Abduljabba 66’), 7 Ali Madan (16 Ahmed Al Sherooqi 66’) – Subs not used: RGK Ammar Ahmed, RGK Sayed Jaafar, 17 Hazaa Ali, 15 Abbas Fadhel, 13 Moses Jona, 9 Husain Abdulaziz, 10 Sayed Ahmed
Australia GK Maty Ryan, 3 Lewis Miller (8 Jason Geria 63’), 17 Hayden Matthews, 19 Harry Souttar, 21 Cameron Burgess, 16 Aziz Behich (5 Jordan Bos 68’), 7 Anthony Caceres, 22 Jackson Irvine (13 Aiden O’Neil 63’), 23 Craig Goodwin (10 Ajdin Hrustic 68’), 14 Riley McGree (11 Brandon Borrello 81’), 9 Kusini Yengi – Subs not used: RGK Joe Gauci, RGK Paul Izzo, 2 Milos Degenek, 4 Rhyan Grant, 20 Max Balard, 6 Martin Boyle, 15 Mitch Duke
16.11.2024
WA AMATEURS EDGED OUT BY PDRM FC
It was another gutsy performance from the Gold Fields WA Men's State Amateur, playing two days after their loss to Selangor, they were edged out 2-1 by another Malaysian Super League side in PDRMFC at the MP Selayang Stadium on Friday evening. Nigerian striker Ifedayo Olusegun and midfielder Amirul Hakimi were on target for the hosts, while Jonah Froman scored for WA, but Head Coach Ein Eric said it was another quality performance from the WA side. “We’ve played two professional Malaysian Super League sides in two days and showed against Selangor and PDRMFC the character we have in the squad,” he said. “Overall, the team fought very hard against a strong opponent and did us proud with their spirit and commitment.”
On a hot and humid Malaysian evening, it was a tight opening, with WA holding their own against a strong PDRMFC side. The side showed incredible resilience and organization, with Morley Windmills Ollie Naughton and Emerald’s Steve Kinsella anchoring the backline, while Jaguar goalkeeper Michael Dudek made several key saves to keep them in the game. WA best chance of the half fell to Kelmscott Roo’s Issac Koomson was denied by the home keeper. But in the final minute it was the hosts who found the opener with Olusegun on target, after a long-range shot had cannoned back off the post, and at the break the hosts led by the only goal.
The home side doubled their lead early in the second half, with Hakimi beating Dudek after the ball was squared to him on the edge of the box. Dudek was having an outstanding game, and he continued to deny the hosts, while WA hit back with Koomson and Maccabi’s Jonah Froman a constant threat. WA continued to press and were rewarded 15 minutes from time. A throw in found North Perth United’s Zak Thomas, who found his club team mate Eamonn Kelly, he flicked the ball onto Froman, who beat his marker superbly and finished clinically into the corner of the net. It was game on and WA were now in the ascendency, creating a number of chances.
First the dangerous Froman raced down the left, before cutting the ball back to Morley Windmills Oliver Simpson, but his shot was well blocked by the PDRMFC keeper. Then late Simpson had another opportunity to equalise, getting on the end of an Emerald’s Jamie McLaughlin corner, but his effort flashed wide. “It was a tough game against PDRM, who are in the middle of their season, and the weather certainly didn’t make things easier. However, the boys were more acclimatized after having played Selangor recently,” Dean Gordon said. “In the first half, we created more chances and looked the better side overall. Despite their peak fitness, we went toe-to-toe with them, and all the players gave a tremendous effort. The game ended 2-1, but it definitely doesn’t reflect our performance, and we had far more chances, and we didn’t really get the rub of the green.”
Jaguar custodian Michael Dudek was in sparkling form on the night, but he said they really took the game to their hosts, and were unlucky not to come away with a draw. “Very proud of the effort from us WA boys, and to go toe-to-toe with full-time professionals for 90 minutes, and control the game for large parts, is a testament to the quality we have in the Sunday League back home,” Dudek explained. “After the game against Selangor on Wednesday, the coach made some tactical changes to account for the heat and humidity in Malaysia. And the discipline from the team to stick to the game plan throughout almost paid off. With us pushing very hard for an equaliser at the end, I think PDRM FC were probably relieved to hear the final whistle.”
The Gold Fields WA Men's State Amateur Squad: GK Gerard Crehan (Emerald FC), GK Michael Dudek (Jaguar FC), Jonah Froman (Maccabi SC), Dean Gordon (Maccabi SC), Shane Hickey (Emerald FC), Eamonn Kelly (North Perth United), Stephen Kinsella (Emerald FC), Isaac Koomson (Kelmscott Roos), Joshua Marocchi (North Beach SC), Jamie McLaughlin (Emerald FC), Ryan Morris (Wembley Downs), Oliver Naughton (Morley Windmills), Ngunar Ngunar (Jaguar FC), Samuel Richardson (North Beach SC), Oliver Simpson (Morley Windmills), Zak Thomas (North Perth United)
15.11.2024
ROAR TOO STRONG FOR GLORY
Perth Glory hopes of building on last week’s win against Newcastle Jets came unstuck, when they were well beaten by Brisbane Roar in Friday’s Ninja A-League Round three clash at Perry Park. The Glory, who were coming off a first win of the season last week, came up against the form team of the competition at the moment, with Matildas midfielder Tameka Yallop scoring two of the home side’s goals. The first a superb solo effort, before tucking away a second half penalty either side of a long-range lob from Tamar Nevin.
The result leaves Stephen Peters’ side three points from three games, two of which have been on the road, ahead of next week’s Unite Round meeting with Canberra United in Sydney. The Roar, who were coming off a 1-0 win against Sydney FC last week, were on the front foot early, and Glory keeper Miranda Templeman got down well to thwart Tamar Levin after only four minutes. But there was little the Glory custodian could do three minutes later when the Roar found the opener.
Yallop, who was named in the Matildas squad for the upcoming games against Brazil and Chinese Taipei, took possession on the left, before cutting inside his marker and picking out the top corner. The hosts doubled their lead on 13 minutes, Nevin turned her marker in the middle of the park, and spotted Templeman off her line, and she superbly lobbed the ball home. Glory looked for a response and skipper Izzy Dalton saw her low shot flash wide, while the Roar started to dominate possession and Naomi Chinnama almost handed them a third six minutes before the break. The defender’s header was going in, but Templeman got back in the nick of time, to spare her blushes, but Glory needed a lift in the second half.
Peters made a change at the break, with Onyinyechi Zogg coming on for Miku Sunaga, and they made a better start, with Kelli Brown firing wide in a goalmouth scramble. But on 57 minutes the Roar added to their lead, Sharn Freier was caught by Templeman, and the referee pointed straight to the spot and booked the Glory keeper, before Yallop kept her nerve and converted from the resulting penalty. Templeman then saved well from Alica Woods, as the Roar looked for a fourth, but the referee was busy in an ill-tempered game, booking six players. Glory looked for a consolation goal late, but they struggled to breakdown a well-organised Roar outfit, who ran out convincing 3-0 winners.
Brisbane Roar: GK Olivia SEKANY, 2 Leia VARLEY, 3 Deborah-Anne DE LA HARPE 6 Holly MCQUEEN, 7 Momo HAYASHI (14 Zara KRUGER 81'), 12 Tamar LEVIN (8 Mariel HECHER 59'), 13 Tameka YALLOP, 16 Chelsea BLISSETT, 17 Evdokia POPADINOVA (10 Grace KUILAMU 77'), 18 Emily PRINGLE (11 Sharn FREIER 46'), 32 Alicia WOODS - Subs not used: RGK Keeley RICHARDS
Perth Glory: GK Miranda TEMPLEMAN, 5 Grace JOHNSTON, 6 Tijan MCKENNA, 8 Georgia CASSIDY, 9 Gabby HOLLAR (17 Morgan ROBERTS 70'), 11 Natalie TATHEM, 13 Naomi CHINNAMA, 14 Miku SUNAGA (29 Onyinyechi ZOGG 46'), 19 Sarah O’DONOGHUE (20 Ella ABDUL MASSIH 80'), 23 Izzy DALTON, 44 Kelli BROWN - Subs not used: RGK Jessica SKINNER - Referee: Georgia Ghirardello
15.11.2024
LOWRY AND AQUINO NAMED IN MATILDAS SQUAD
Hana Lowry and Morgan Aquino could become the first West Australians to debut for the Matildas since Samantha Kerr 15 years ago. The local pair were today named in interim coach Tom Sermanni’s extended, 36-woman squad for a upcoming four-game series against Brazil and Chinese Taipei.
Kerr and now-retired goalkeeper Lydia Williams have flown the flag for WA in the Matildas set-up for the past decade and a half, however, no Sandgroper has debuted since the former made her international bow under Sermanni in his first stint in charge.
Both Lowry and Aquino departed Perth Glory in the off-season after enjoying final seasons with their hometown club. Lowry won the club’s Most Glorious Player award before signing for Sydney FC, while Aquino earned a well-deserved move to DC Power in the new USL Super League in the United States.
Australia's squad to play Brazil and Chinese Taipei is Morgan Aquino, Mackenzie Arnold, Ellie Carpenter, Steph Catley, Alex Chidiac, Kyra Cooney-Cross, Leah Davidson, Caitlin Foord, Mary Fowler, Sharn Freier, Daniela Galic, Emily Gielnik, Isabel Gomez, Katrina Gorr, Charlotte Grant, Winonah Heatley, Bryleeh Henry, Michelle Heyman, Clare Hunt, Alanna Kennedy, Chloe Lincoln, Chloe Logarzo, Hana Lowry, Matilda McNamara, Teagan Micah, Jessika Nash, Courtney Nevin, Clare Polkinghorne, Natasha Prior, Hayley Raso, Jamilla Rankin, Karly Roestbakken, Remy Siemsen, Emily Van Egmond , Clare Wheeler and Tameka Yallop.
15.11.2024
KERR STILL A WAY OFF SAYS SERMANNI
Matildas coach Tom Sermanni says Samantha Kerr is unlikely to return to action this year after he named an expanded Australian squad for four home friendly matches starting later this month. The Chelsea striker injured her knee in January and there were faint hopes her return was imminent but, as expected, she wasn’t one of the 36 players named by Sermanni.
“Her rehab is going really, really, really well,” Sermanni said. “Things are getting a little bit better in rehab, but in reality it’s still probably a 12-month injury, and Sam’s taking that time to come back to ensure that hopefully, when she comes back, she’s going to be completely fit and healthy.”
14.11.2024
MISSED CHANCES COST SOCCEROOS IN WORLD CUP QUALIFIER
The Socceroos have been left to rue missed chances after being held to a scoreless draw by Saudi Arabia at AAMI Park, which has their FIFA World Cup qualification chances hanging in the balance. But it could have been worse after the visitors had a goal disallowed on 93 minutes, Sultan Al-Ghannam’s shot was deemed offside by VAR. “It was a really difficult game; a tough match,” Socceroos Head Coach Tony Popovic said post-match. “They brought a lot of energy in the first half. I don’t think we coped with that very well. We weren’t very good with the ball and we looked a little bit heavy and lethargic in the first half.
“We’ve played against a very deep block against China. We’ve had to defend deep against Japan – and now tonight, almost a man-against-man kind of style game from the Saudis. We’re facing a totally different ways of football, but we’re still sticking to what we’re trying to do, and we’re finding solutions – good enough solutions that probably should have won us the game. There are a lot of positives to take. But it doesn’t take away from feeling that we should have won it.”
Tony Popovic made just one change to the line-up from last month's draw with Japan, with Aiden O’Neill replacing Luke Brattan in midfield, while Joe Gauci kept his place in goal ahead of captain Mat Ryan, with Jackson Irvine wearing the armband. It was the visitors who controlled possession early on, but it was the Socceroos Australia who were creating the better chances. A handball outside the box gave Ajdin Hrustic a free kick, but his strike hit the wall, then they were awarded a penalty after Saudi keeper Ahmed Al-Kassar brought challenge on Mitch Duke was overturned after a VAR review, and a yellow card was issued to the keeper.
The Socceroos were guilty of turning the ball over on a number of occasions, much to the frustration of Popovic and the majority of the 27,491 crowd, but they continued to have chances. First Ajdin Hrustic's free-kick lead to a scramble in the box, but Harry Souttar's half-volley soared over the bar. Then just before half-time, Irvine’s counter-attack saw him shoot over the bar from close range, a missed chance that left the teams level at the break.
Popovic made a change at the break with Nishan Velupillay coming on for Hrustic at half-time and had an immediate impact, setting up Riley McGree for a shot that was blocked. Velupillay was later substituted after an ankle injury, with Brandon Borrello and 32-year-old debutant Anthony Caceres replacing him and Mitch Duke. Caceres became cap #647 in what was a proud moment for the Sydney FC midfielder. Veteran left-back Aziz Behich also came on late for Jordy Bos in a straight swap. As the clock wound down, Australia searched for that elusive goal.
Borrello had a golden opportunity when he found himself one-on-one with the Saudi goalkeeper. He could have shot himself, but instead opted to draw the keeper in and pass to McGree. However, just as McGree was about to finish, a last-ditch challenge from the Saudi defender slid in and cleared the ball away. It was a good chance for the Socceroos, but credit must go to the Saudi defending. Kusini Yengi then came on for the last five minutes, replacing Aiden O’Neill. Despite Australia’s numerous chances, it looked as though Saudi Arabia had stolen the win late in the game. A shot from Al Ghannam had rocketed in off the left post after a free kick was headed out, sending the large Saudi contingent into wild celebration.
However, the linesman immediately raised his flag, signalling for offside or possible interference. The drama wasn’t over yet, as VAR was called into action to review the decision. After a tense few moments, it was confirmed that the trailing foot of a Saudi player was offside, denying them what would have been a late match-winning goal. It was a massive moment in this game and could have huge implications for the group. But the action wasn’t over with the last kick of the game McGree came close to snatching a dramatic goal, launching himself at a bicycle kick, but the ball flew just wide of the post, both sides were forced to settle for a point, with the match ending in a 0-0 draw.
“Obviously we had a lot of chances, myself included in the first half, I had to score. We had a number of chances,” Socceroos defender Harry Souttar said post-match. “We worked on it and we know they like to play and take some risks. And then obviously a couple of chances in the second half. The last 5-10 minutes was a bit manic with the offside goal and the overhead kick. I saw it and I thought it was going in. Just one of frustration and another one to build on. Another point on the board I guess.”
The Socceroos attention now turns to Wednesday in Bahrain. The 0-0 draw puts pressure on Australia to snare a result against in Riffa on Tuesday night (Wednesday morning AEDT). The top two teams in group C secure direct qualification for the 2026 World Cup while third and fourth place go into the next round of qualifying. The Socceroos currently sit second in group C, on six points behind leaders Japan (10 points), and ahead of the Saudis on goal difference, while Bahrain (five points) play China (three) later on Thursday. Japan play Indonesia (three points) on Friday.
Australia: GK Joe Gauci, 3 Lewis Miller, 8 Jason Geria, 19 Harry Souttar, 21 Cameron Burgess, 5 Jordy Bos (16 Aziz Behich 82'), 13 Aiden O’Neill (9 Kusini Yengi 91'), 22 Jackson Irvine, 10 Ajdin Hrustic (7 Nishan Velupillay 46') (6 Anthony Caceres 74'), 14 Riley McGree, 15 Mitch Duke (11 Brandon Borrello 74') – Subs not used: RGK Mat Ryan, RGK Paul Izzo, 2 Milos Degenek, 4 Kye Rowles, 17 Patrick Yazbeck, 20 Max Balard, 23 Ryan Grant
Saudi Arabia line-up: GK Ahmed Al-Kassar, 12 Saud Abdulhamid, 17 Hassan Al-Tambakti, 5 Ali Al-Bulahi, 13 Yasser Al-Shahrani, 6 Nasser Al-Dawsari, 10 Musab Al-Juwayr (15 Abdullah Al-Khaibari 57'), 16 Faisal Al Ghamdi (2 Sultan Al Ghannam 88'), 8 Marwan Al-Sahafi (3 Awn Al-Saluli 88'), 9 Firas Al-Buraikan (20 Abdullah Radif 97'), 11 Saleh Al-Shehri (14 Abdullah Al-Hamdan 57’) – Subs not used: RGK Hamed Al-Shanqiti, RGK Mohammed Al Yami, 4 Ali Lajami, 18 Saad Fahad Al Nasser, 19 Mohammed Al-Qahtani, 23 Ayman Fallatah
14.11.2024
WA AMATEUR BEATEN IN OPENER
The WA Gold Fields State Amateur side have put up a gallant fight before going down 1-5 against a full-strength Malaysian Super League side Selangor FC, who are currently competing in the Asian Champions League and sit second in the Malaysian Super League. The hosts, who are preparing for their crucial ACL Group H game against Thailand club Muangthong, proved too strong, but despite the scoreline Head Coach Ein Eric said it was a great experience for the players.
“Our lads rose to the challenge, showing moments of tactical parity despite the intense humidity and expansive pitch, which tested our endurance, and credit to Selangor for fielding a top squad in this friendly,” he said. “The facilities were truly world-class, boasting two outdoor pitches, an impressive undercover training pitch, and a 5,000-seat stand. Our players thoroughly enjoyed the whole football experience, making the most of this opportunity. A sincere thank you to Selangor FC for their warm hospitality and for hosting us in such a memorable setting.”
The host, who were coming off a narrow 0-1 defeat against K-League side Jeonbuk Motors in week four of the ACL, were in the ascendency from the start, and WA had to work extremely hard to keep them at bay, but their pressure finally told, and they lead 4-0. But on 65 minutes WA pulled one back. Jaguars John Nugunar made a crucial interception, stopping a Selangor player who was through on goal with a perfectly timed sliding tackle.
Quickly transitioning, Nugunar found Maccabi’s Dean Gordon who won possession down the right, raced forward before a precise cross found Kelmscott’s Isaac Koomson who finished clinically. (Kelmscott), who finished confidently. They had the ball in the net again later, Emerald’s Shane Hickey’s cross from the right was met by Maccabi’s Jonah Froman, his header was saved and North Beach’s Samuel Richardson swept the ball home, but the referee had spotted a foul on the keeper and the goal was disallowed. The hosts added a fifth late to seal the result, but it was a great performance from the WA Amateur side.
14.11.2024
PETERS LOOKING TO BUILD ON FIRST WIN OF THE SEASON
Perth Glory coach Stephen Peters says his side must improve on Friday when they take on Brisbane Roar in week three of the Ninja A-League at Perry Park. (kick-off at 4pm, watch live and FREE on 10Play). Peters admitted he was pleased to get off the mark, his first win in the top flight as the Glory held off Newcastle Jets 3-2 at HBF Park on Sunday, despite the Jets setting up an interesting finish with a late goal.
“Monkey off the back, so that’s nice. I can’t fault the effort, but we’ve got to tidy up certain aspects,” he said. “Defensively, making sure we’ve always got pressure on the ball. When we put pressure on the ball, we force the opposition into mistakes and we create opportunities off the back of that. We’re very kamikaze on the back foot, so we need to be better at that. Yes, the weekend was pleasing, it was nice to see the game out. There were a few things we weren’t happy about, but we’re not going to put holes in a three-point performance yet.
“I think we’re growing as a group, particularly defensively. We’ve still got to improve in terms of how much higher up the field we defend. That’s some stuff that we’ve got to continuously work on and obviously we would love to have a bit more possession and that’s also something that we’re working on. But the most important thing for us is that we seem quite unified and on the same page and those are the kind of performances that we want to be putting in to build that base, it’s been really good so far.”
Friday’s opponents are coming off a 1-0 win against Sydney FC last week, with Chelsea Blissett on target, and they have a strong squad, including Matildas representatives Tameka Yallop and Sharn Freier, but Peters is looking for another solid performance, especially after the quick turnaround. “They have some really experienced players and I think Tameka is going to be a very difficult proposition, Sharn as well,” he said.
“But although it’s a bit of a cliche, we’re concentrating on ourselves and trying to generate a higher level of performance each week. It’s a short turnaround, but we’re looking to generate some more momentum this week. The results will look after themselves if we’re putting in the type of performance that we want to be putting in.” The last time Glory headed to the Queensland capital they were beaten 2-0 at the same venue. The Roar found the opener just after the half hour with Kijah Stephenson on target, and they sealed the points in the shadows of half time with Freier scoring.
In team news for Friday, Peters has hinted that co-captain Onyinyechi Zogg could make her first start of the season after coming off the bench in the win over the Jets, and Sarah O’Donoghue is also pushing for a spot in the starting line-up, but Megan Wynne, Izzy Foletta, Susan Phonsongkham and Bella Wallhead all remain sidelined by injury. “When you’ve got someone of the calibre of Onyi on the bench, you want to try get her in there and she was probably only ready for 20 minutes but I decided to play her for 45, so I’ll probably get a slap on the wrist from the medical team,” he said.
“Sarah’s been training really well. The things you saw there, where she won the tackle for the goal and her finish, we know she’s got it in her locker. We know she’s probably not a 90-minute player yet, so that’s her development point.” Peters said there was a lot of experience to come back into the side. “That’s what we want: 22 players fighting for 11 spots,” he said. “That’s every coach’s dream. Once we get to a full bill of health, we’ll be a tough nut to crack for most teams.”
Brisbane Roar squad: GK Olivia SEKANY, GK Keeley RICHARDS, 2 Leia VARLEY, 3 Deborah-Anne DE LA HARPE 6 Holly MCQUEEN, 7 Momo HAYASHI, 8 Mariel HECHER, 10 Grace KUILAMU, 11 Sharn FREIER, 12 Tamar LEVIN, 13 Tameka YALLOP, 14 Zara KRUGER, 16 Chelsea BLISSETT, 17 Evdokia POPADINOVA, 18 Emily PRINGLE, 20 Tanaye MORRIS, 23 Isabela HOYOS, 32 Alicia WOODS - *Two to be omitted* - Ins: RICHARDS, FREIER, MORRIS - Outs: 99 Emma GIBBON - Unavailable: 4 Kijah STEPHENSON (ACL), 9 Danelle TAN (knee), 19 Laini FREIER (leg), 22 Ruby CUTHBERT (leg)
Perth Glory squad: GK Miranda TEMPLEMAN, GK Jessica SKINNER, 2 Mischa ANDERSON, 5 Grace JOHNSTON, 6 Tijan MCKENNA, 8 Georgia CASSIDY, 9 Gabby HOLLAR, 11 Natalie TATHEM, 13 Naomi CHINNAMA, 14 Miku SUNAGA, 17 Morgan ROBERTS, 19 Sarah O’DONOGHUE, 20 Ella ABDUL MASSIH, 23 Izzy DALTON, 26 Tanika LALA, 27 Charli WAINWRIGHT, 29 Onyinyechi ZOGG, 44 Kelli BROWN - *Two to be omitted* - Ins: ROBERTS, WAINWRIGHT - Unavailable: GK Casey DUMONT (not yet available), 7 Megan WYNNE (injured), 10 Susan PHONSONGKHAM (injured), 16 Bella WALLHEAD (injured), 18 Izzy FOLETTA (injured)
13.11.2024
BURGESS' BIG WIN AFTER EPL PROMOTION
Mere days after helping Ipswich Town bring Ange Postecoglou's Tottenham Hotspur undone, Cameron Burgess is ready to stand up when the Socceroos need him. Towering central defender Burgess, 29, is the only member of the current Socceroos squad playing regularly in the Premier League.
After being overlooked early in the season at Ipswich, who he helped secure promotion to the top flight last year, Burgess has started the Tractor Boys' past four games. That included playing the whole game in Sunday's 2-1 comeback win over Tottenham which delivered Ipswich's first win in England's top flight since April 2002.
"These are the little things you dream of when you're a kid, to want to play in the Premier League, and then to win your first game in it," Burgess said. "It's pretty special and maybe a moment for reflection at some point down the line. It's special for the club, special for the fans, and you can really see the difference it makes in people's lives in the Ipswich area. It's special to be able to do that."
While the result piled pressure on Postecoglou's Spurs, the former Socceroos boss caught up with Burgess. "He would've been disappointed with the result from his perspective, but I got the chance to speak to him a little bit after the game," Burgess said. "He just obviously had a message of congratulations and to keep working hard, just a nice message. So it was good to come across him."
A confident Burgess has his sights set on shutting out Saudi Arabia tonight and putting direct World Cup qualification firmly within Australia's reach. The towering centre-back is relishing playing a crucial role at club level, and in Tony Popovic's back three. "That's football. You have to deal with peaks and troughs at times," he said. "To be able to play games at this level, both at club and for the national team, is special and I don't take it for granted."
13.11.2024
MATILDAS LIKELY TO RETURN TO PERTH IN THE WOMEN’S ASIAN CUP
Football Australia have confirmed Optus Stadium and Perth Oval as venues for the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup. Perth will be one of three host cities for the event, alongside Sydney and the Gold Coast, which could see them host a Matildas game after missing out during the 2023 Women’s World Cup.
Subject to ratification from the AFC Executive Committee, the Women’s Asian Cup will take place from March 1-21 and Perth’s two stadiums will get a significant slice of the action. The city’s two biggest venues will be known as Perth Stadium (Optus) and Perth Rectangular Stadium (Perth Oval) for the duration of the tournament.
Perth Stadium is the second-biggest venue in the 12-team tournament, behind Stadium Australia in Sydney, putting Perth in line to potentially host several major games including the knockout stages. The 2022 iteration of the Women’s Asian Cup featured three groups of four, meaning each team played three games in the opening phase.
11.11.2024
WA AMATEURS HEAD TO MALAYSIA
The WA Amateur State Team will head to Malaysia today, for the first time since 2019, and will play three games. First up on Wednesday they play Selangor FC, who sit second in the Malaysian Super League, before other games against PDRM FC and the KL Amateur All Stars. The squad will be led by coach Ein Eric, who has had the tough task of selecting the 16-player squad from a competition which has been so competitive over the last two seasons, but he said the players are really looking forward to the trip.
“The squad is genuinely excited for this journey. They’re coming together well, with a natural chemistry and supportive attitude toward each other. Each player brings their own strengths, and together, they really complement one another,’ the coach explained. “The competition has indeed been very strong, and I’ve seen a lot of talented players emerge. Since my appointment, I’ve been attending games, and it’s been a privilege to watch so many determined players and dedicated coaches, with fans who are incredibly passionate. Having played in the Amateur leagues back in the 2000s, it’s also been a pleasure to revisit those grounds.”
It’s a return to Malaysia for Eric, who started playing there as a youth player, before moving to Perth to study at UWA, where he played as a goalkeeper for Subiaco in the early 2000s, but injury curtailed his playing career. “Unfortunately, a knee injury cut my playing career short at 23, but I was fortunate to begin coaching at Western Knights in 2007, covering all age groups, including the Juniors, Women’s and Reserve Men’s teams, until 2016,” he explained. “Then I headed to Victoria, where I coached NPL U23s with Port Melbourne, Box Hill, and Manningham Blues before returning to the Knights in 2023 as Technical Director and U20s head coach in 2024. I recently completed my A Diploma with Football Australia in 2023, and I credit the Knights for helping me grow as a coach and refine my approach, both mentally and technically.”
Eric is also delighted to have two experience football people with him on the trip, with Jerome Wilson as an assistant and Alex Novatsis as the team manager, both who have great knowledge and well respected in the game in WA. “Delighted to have the pair alongside my for the trip,” Eric said. “I’ve known Jerome for a long time, and his experience is a great asset to me as a head coach. Alex is a real pleasure to work with; he’s one of the highest respected people in the game in WA he gives me the tools and trust I need. We have open discussions, which are essential for me as a coach.”
Novatsis said it was exciting to be returning to Malaysia. “It is great for the Amateur players to represent the state once more following Covid,” said the Football West Football Projects Manager. “We have always been well received on our trips to Malaysia, but we are under no illusions about how strong the opposition will be. The trip is in line with Football West’s Asian Engagement Strategy, which is supported by the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries and we thank the DLGSC for its support. We would like to thank the State Team name sponsor Gold Fields Australia.”
The Gold Fields WA Men's State Amateur Team – GK Gerard Crehan (Emerald FC), GK Michael Dudek (Jaguar FC), Jonah Froman (Maccabi SC), Dean Gordon (Maccabi SC), Shane Hickey (Emerald FC), Eamonn Kelly (North Perth United), Stephen Kinsella (Emerald FC), Isaac Koomson (Kelmscott Roos), Joshua Marocchi (North Beach SC), Jamie McLaughlin (Emerald FC), Ryan Morris (Wembley Downs), Oliver Naughton (Morley Windmills), Ngunar Ngunar (Jaguar FC), Samuel Richardson (North Beach SC), Oliver Simpson (Morley Windmills), Zak Thomas (North Perth United)
11.11.2024
PETERS HAPPY WITH FIRST WIN
Perth Glory coach Stephen Peters says his side must improve but admitted he was pleased to get off the mark for the A-League Women’s season. Peters celebrated his first win in the top flight as Glory held off a ten-woman Newcastle Jets 3-2 at Perth Oval yesterday, despite the visitors setting up an interesting finish with a late goal.
“Monkey off the back, so that’s nice. I can’t fault the effort, but we’ve got to tidy up certain aspects,” he said. “Defensively, making sure we’ve always got pressure on the ball. When we put pressure on the ball, we force the opposition into mistakes and we create opportunities off the back of that. We’re very kamikaze on the back foot, so we need to be better at that.”
After Josie Allan had cancelled out Georgia Cassidy’s opening minute opener, Peters brought on Nigerian defender Onyinyechi Zogg and midfielder Sarah O’Donoghue at half-time. While Zogg shored up the defence, O’Donoghue’s energy proved pivotal as she put Glory ahead shortly after her arrival, and her pressing led to Kelli Brown’s long-range strike to make it 3-1.
“The balance wasn’t quite there in the first half,” Peters said. “When you’ve got someone of the calibre of Onyi on the bench, you want to try get her in there and she was probably only ready for 20 minutes but I decided to play her for 45, so I’ll probably get a slap on the wrist from the medical team,” he said.
“Sarah’s been training really well. The things you saw there, where she won the tackle for the goal and her finish, we know she’s got it in her locker. We know she’s probably not a 90 minute player yet, so that’s her development point.”
11.11.2024
GLORY CREATE UNWANTED HISTORY AFTER HORROR LOSS
Embattled Perth Glory coach David Zdrilic says the looming international break will be crucial to get underdone players up to full speed after yet another horror defeat. It comes as Zdrilic, in his first head coaching job, watched on as Glory created a piece of unwanted history in their 5-0 home thrashing from Melbourne City.
While Glory are not the first team in the A-League Men era to not win one of their opening four games, no other team in the history of the competition have conceded 13 goals in their first four matches. Glory have not won an A-League Men’s match since February 17 - ironically, the first game watched by chairman Ross Pelligra after his takeover of the club - which stretches across 14 games.
In Glory’s past 11 competitive games dating back to last season and including their Australia Cup run, they have conceded an astounding 46 goals. With Glory torn through by a rampant City side, Zdrilic once again blamed the scoreline blowing out on players suffering injuries in pre-season, affecting their fitness over the past month.
“We’re in a position where the main group is not fit enough, and I have to try and get them fit during games,” he said. “The first thing for us is we’ve got to get the whole group fit. Now we’ve got an international break, so we have to come out of that and make sure that whoever plays is is fit enough to compete at the minimum and then we go from there.”
Entering the season, much was made of Zdrilic’s tactical pressing philosohpy, but Glory have almost completely abandoned it early in the season, which the coach again blamed on the fitness. “We will be pressing, but it wasn’t sustainable. The players that we have at the moment, are not fit enough to sustain it,” he said.
Zdrilic labelled their defensive effort as “terrible” as Perth found themselves 2-0 down at half time and then a further goal down within 20 seconds of the restart thanks to an Oli Sail error. “The first one went in and the second one went in and then obviously coming out of the break and conceding a goal like that, just so early and so easily,” he said.
“But from then, you’ve still got to manage the game and not let it get away from you. You’ve seen it many times in the A-League, that it can be very transitional and obviously for us trying to go forward and score a goal when we’re 3-0 down, we obviously left the door open, and a team like that, they don’t take many chances to score. It’s not good enough.”
10.11.2024
GLORY GIVEN FIVE OF THE BEST BY CITY
Perth Glory have slumped to an embarrassing 0-5 defeat against Melbourne City in week four of the Isuzu Ute A-League on Sunday afternoon. Fresh off picking up their first points of the season against the Mariners last week, optimism was high going into this one, but first half goals from Steven Ugarkovic, and goals after the break from Andreas Kuen, Yonatan Cohen and Medin Memeti sealed a comprehensive win for Aurelio Vidmar’s side. “Very disappointed, and after last week when we took a massive step forward, we were hoping to continued it at home, and I thought we started well, but when we got the ball, we just gave it away and then we’re chasing the game,” Glory Head Coach David Zdrilic said post-match.
“Their first goal was good, but the second was just terrible defending, and they were winning the 50/50 balls and dominated possession, which is their strengthen. We had a chat at the break and made a couple of changers, but conceded straight away, but then the lads had a go and we had a few chances, but they are not falling our way at the moment. Our squad is thin at the moment, and we have a number of senior players who are not available, and players coming in who are not match fit, and Nikola Mileusnic came on again and left the field injured, so it’s a difficult one to manage.”
Zdrilic made three changers to the side from the draw on the Central Coast, with Nicholas Pennington coming in for his first start for the club, also Cristian Caicedo and Trent Ostler. In a surprise move, Brandon O’Neill dropped to the bench, with David Williams and Hiroaki Aoyama not selected in the squad, while there was a return for Mileusnic on the bench. The hosts opened brightly and Ostler’s ball found Caicedo, but he couldn’t find the target.
City settled and Oil Sail produced a smart save to deny Ugarkovic moments later, and the Glory custodian denied the same player on 11 minutes, getting down well to save his glancing header. City were dominating possession, which was helped by Glory turning the ball over too much. City looked dangerous, and Kuen should have done better on 33 minutes, scooping the ball over from close-range, but six minutes later their dominance was rewarded with the opener, a stunning strike from the edge of the box by Ugarkovic. They doubled their lead five minutes later, when the Glory defence was opened up, with Ugarkovic waltzing through a static backline to finish low past Sail.
Glory made a double change at the break with O’Neill replacing Ostler, while Mileusnic came on for Abdul Faisal. The hosts needed a good start after the break to get back into the game, but moments after the restart City added a third. Sail raced out to clear a ball, and it fell straight to Kuen, who fired home from distance, despite an attempted clearance from Luis Canga. It looked like being a long night for the Glory faithful, but Adam Taggart went close to reducing the arrears just after the hour mark, his shot flashing wide of the target.
City continued to dictate terms, and Harry Politidis shot whistled just wide of the post, but with Glory chasing the game, holes began to appear at the back again, and City was ruthless. They added a fourth seven minutes from time, Cohen was given far too much space down the right and cut inside his marker before curling home superbly. They completed the rout five minutes later, a cross from the left to the unmarked Memeti who made no mistake. It’s been a horror start to the season, but it does go back a while, and Glory’s last win came in February, they have now gone 14 matches without a victory and have scored just once and conceded 13 goals in their first four matches, something that needs to change, sooner rather than later.
Perth Glory: GK Oli SAIL, 5 Lachlan BARR, 7 Nicholas PENNINGTON, 12 Taras GOMULKA, 15 Zach LISOLAJSKI, 17 Jarrod CARLUCCIO, 20 Trent OSTLER (6 Brandon O’NEILL 46'), 21 Abdul FAISAL (10 Nikola MILEUSNIC 46') (14 Nathanael BLAIR 61'), 22 Adam TAGGART, 23 Cristian CAICEDO (26 Khoa NGO 79'), 33 Luis CANGA - Subs not used: RGK Cameron COOK, 16 Adam BUGARIJA, 24 Andriano LEBIB
Melbourne City: GK Patrick BEACH, 2 Callum TALBOT, 6 Steven UGARKOVIC, 10 Yonatan COHEN, 13 Nathaniel ATKINSON, 19 Zane SCHREIBER (42 Ben DUNBAR 79'), 26 Samuel SOUPRAYEN (22 Germán FERREYRA 87'), 27 Kai TREWIN, 30 Andreas KUEN (7 Mathew LECKIE 72'), 35 Medin MEMETI, 38 Harry POLITIDIS (47 Kavian RAHMANI 87') - Subs not used: RGK Jamie YOUNG, 8 James JEGGO, 46 Ben MAZZEO - Referee: Daniel Cook - Attendance: 7,338
10.11.2024
GLORY KICK START THEIR SEASON BY BRINGING DOWN THE JETS
Perth Glory have won their first game in the 2024-25 Ninja A-League season, downing the Newcastle Jets 3-2 at HBF Park on Sunday afternoon. Georgia Cassidy gave the hosts a perfect start in the opening minute, her first goal for the club, before Josie Allan levelled for the visitors. Sarah O’Donoghue regained the lead early in the second half, also her first goal in purple, before Kelli Brown added a third just after the hour. The Jets were reduced to ten when keeper Danielle Krzyzaniak was shown a red card, and despite Sheridan Gallagher’s long-range strike late, Glory held firm to seal the three points.
Glory Head Coach Stephen Peters made the one change from the side that were beating by Melbourne City in week one, with Ella Abdul Massih coming into the side for her debut, replacing former NTC striker Tanika Lala, who dropped to the bench. His side made the best possible start, and were ahead in the first sixty seconds. Jets keeper Krzyzaniak poor pass to Libby Copus-Brown was nicked by Cassidy, and the midfielder fired home, with many supporters still finding their seats.
Brown went close again nine minutes later, but the New Zealand striker couldn’t keep her effort down. But the Jets, who were coming off a 2-2 draw against Western Sydney Wanderers hit back, and levelled 12 minutes later. Allan picked the ball up just inside her half, and ran at the Glory defence, before unleashing a rocket from distance that gave Glory keeper Miranda Templeman no chance. Glory lifted and created a number of chances, but found Krzyzaniak in top form, after here mistake, making three good saves, the best a strong hand to tip Gabby Hollar’s header over the top on 25 minutes.
The hosts made a double change at half time, with O’Donoghue and new Nigerian defender Onyinyechi Zogg coming on for Naomi Chinnama and Abdul Massih. Glory made another good start after the break, Johnston and Hollar were denied by Krzyzaniak, but five minutes in they regained the lead. Brown and skipper Izzy Dalton combined on the edge of the box, the ball falling to O’Donoghue, who fired home, much to the delight of the Shed and active area.
It was 3-1 on 65 minutes, with O’Donoghue in the thick of the action again. The former Brisbane Roar midfielder won a 50/50 tackle in the middle of the park, and chased down the rebound, her challenge on Krzyzaniak saw the ball fall to Brown, who made no mistake into an empty net. The Jets were down to ten, three minutes later, a long ball sent Brown clear, and keeper Krzyzaniak raced well outside her area, and Brown’s lob was handled by the keeper, and referee Isabella Mossin had no hesitation in sending her off.
Deven Jackson was the unlucky one to come off for the visitors for substitute keeper Tiahna Robertson, as the Glory looked to finish off the game. They thought they had a fourth three minutes from time, but whistle had already gone for a foul in the lead up and Brown’s celebrations were cut short, before Robertson then produced a finger-tip save to deny Brown in the final minute. The Jets weren’t finished and pulled one back in the fourth minute of stoppage time, Cassidy Davis finding substitute Gallagher, whose long-range shot dipped over Templeman, but it was too little too late.
Perth Glory: GK Miranda TEMPLEMAN, 5 Grace JOHNSTON, 6 Tijan MCKENNA, 8 Georgia CASSIDY, 9 Gabby HOLLAR (2 Mischa ANDERSON 71'), 11 Natalie TATHEM, 13 Naomi CHINNAMA (29 Onyinyechi ZOGG 46'), 14 Miku SUNAGA (26 Tanika LALA 88'), 20 Ella ABDUL MASSIH (19 Sarah O’DONOGHUE 46'), 23 Izzy DALTON, 44 Kelli BROWN - Subs not used: RGK Jessica SKINNER
Newcastle Jets: GK Danielle KRZYZANIAK, 2 Josie WILSON (8 Emma DUNDAS 82'), 3 Claudia CICCO, 6 Cassidy DAVIS, 10 Libby COPUS-BROWN, 11 Deven JACKSON (30 Tiahna ROBERTSON 70'), 13 Lauren ALLAN (7 India BREIER 82'), 18 Sophie HOBAN, 22 Lorena BAUMANN, 26 Josie ALLAN (25 Lara GOOCH 60'), 39 Alexis COLLINS (17 Sheridan GALLAGHER 60') - Subs not used: None - Red Cards: Krzyzaniak 68’ - Referee: Isabella Mossin - Attendance: 1,873
9.11.2024
GLORY FULL-BACK JOHNSTON NOT RESTING ON LAURELS
Emerging defender Grace Johnston says she is not taking her place in Perth Glory's starting eleven for granted as she enters her sophomore season in the A-League Women. The 19 year old played 15 games in her debut campaign and caught the eye as an attacking left-back - a role she reprised against Melbourne City in Glory’s opening game of the new season.
But as Glory prepare for their home opener against Newcastle Jets on Sunday, Johnston said she was not getting too complacent in her second season. “I would say I’m a bit more comfortable, a bit more settled in, but obviously, I can’t take my foot off the gas,” she said. “That’s a big thing for myself and a lot of the young girls; you can’t stand still for any point in time because someone’s going to take your position and you always want to improve.”
With a swell of experience gone from last season in the form of Tash Rigby, Hana Lowry, Morgan Aquino, Millie Farrow and Jessika Cowart, Johnston said this season had been an adjustment for the entire group. “It definitely is a bit of a different team from last season. We’ve got a whole new look to the squad,” she said. “You can’t come into a team and expect everyone knows what everyone does, but we’re learning each other on the pitch as well as off the pitch, and that’s best way to do it.”
Johnston credited new co-captains Isobel Dalton and Onyinyechi Zogg for helping smooth the transition process, but said some of the young players also had shown leadership potential. “Dalts obviously stepped up and is one of our captains, she’s a great role model for us young players and the team in general,” she said.
“We’ve also got Zoggy in there, who’s new to the team and new to the country, but she’s another great role model. You’ve got some of the youthful players as well, who can be those leaders to speak out on the pitch and offer their opinion, but with those older players, all we can do is learn from them and just continue to grow.”
Glory find themselves at the bottom of the ladder after their 5-2 loss to Melbourne City, but Johnston said the message from coach Stephen Peters had been to move on quickly. “We learn from that, and we take points from that, but we don’t let that game define us and we look ahead to the next game,” she said. “We can’t live in the past, and we take what we can, but we just look to how we can improve from that loss.”
8.11.2024
ZDRILIC WANTS TO GET CAPTAIN TAGGART INVOLVED MORE
Perth Glory coach David Zdrilic has accepted his side needs to get captain Adam Taggart more involved, but is not worried about the star striker’s form. After netting 20 goals in 25 games for last season’s wooden spoon-winners, Taggart is yet to find the net in his first three A-League Men games this season ahead of a meeting with Melbourne City at Perth Oval on Sunday.
But goal-scoring has been an issue for the entire side, with just one goal scored this season and Zdrilic said it was a team issue rather than a lack of form for the fringe Socceroos forward. Taggart has taken 10 shots this season with only three finding the target, and he has registered just 0.37 expected goals (a stat which measures the quality of a goalscoring chance).
Taggart, who was not named in Tony Popovic’s national team squad for the second successive international camp, cut a frustrated figure in the Glory’s 0-0 draw away to Central Coast last weekend as his teammates struggled to find him in the final third. Zdrilic said he was more than satisfied Taggart’s overall play outside of finishing, and pointed out he had two goals narrowly ruled out for offside against Macarthur.
“In general, Tags for me has been outstanding. Take away the fact that he hasn’t scored, even though, in that first game, he finished a couple of excellent goals and he’s had chances in every game,” Zdrilic said. “The moments where he’s on and the ball hasn’t got to him for whatever reason, that’s obviously something why we’re changing it around, we’re trying to find the right structure around him.”
Zdrilic said that as players returned to fitness from pre-season injuries, he was confident they would start to connect better with Taggart. “We’ve progressed in terms of the structure of the team,” he said. “That’s something we need to be better at. Tags is there, he’s always available, we need to find him, so it’s another constant little battle that we’ve got at the moment to find the right mix.”
Taggart may have some reinforcements in the final third this weekend, as Zdrilic said off-season signings Nikola Mileusnic and Cristian Caicedo were in the mix to play some part against City. While City stars Andrew Nabbout (ACL) and Marco Tilio (hamstring) suffered injuries in their 1-0 win against Western United this weekend, Zdrilic said the approach would not change from Glory.
“They’re big players to be missing, but they’ve got quality everywhere. That’s a squad that’s not going to change much just because they’ve got a couple guys out,” he said. “They’ve got a strong squad, good mentality, a winning mentality, so I don’t think that’s going to affect anything. Our approach for the game doesn’t change if they were in or they weren’t in; they’re the same team, they play the same way.”
8.11.2024
GLORY LOOKING TO BUILD ON LAST WEEK AGAINST CITY
Perth Glory Head Coach David Zdrilic is looking for his chargers to build on last week’s first point of the Isuzu-Ute A-League season against Central Coast Mariners, and he is backing his side to take the game to Melbourne City when the two sides meet at HBF Park in Sunday’s ALW/ALM double-header (kick-off at 5:45pm) His side had to dig deep to secure a point against the reigning champions in Gosford, but Zdrilic is confident they can secure their first win of the season, in front of their supporters. “I think the progression from week to week has been really good, especially after the first game,” he said in his pre-game press conference.
“We’re starting to get to a point where I can draw on nearly all the players, not so much starting, but at least having some involvement in the game. I think that’s really important for us, as is taking the positives out of the point that we picked up against Central Coast. The younger guys are growing in each game and getting hard tests very quickly in the A-League, but I think they’ve learned their lessons and hopefully we’ll see another big step of progression in this game against City. We’ve got the foundation to really have a good go at home.”
City arrive in the west with several of their big names out injured, but Zdrilic will certainly not be underestimating the threat posed by Aurelio Vidmar’s side, who will be missing the likes of Andrew Nabbout and Marco Tilio, along with suspended Socceroos defender Aziz Behich. “They (Melbourne City) have a fantastic squad, they’ve got quality everywhere,” he said.
“They have a strong mentality, a winning mentality. Our approach to the game doesn’t change if they [Nabbout, Tilio and Behich] were in or weren’t in. They play the same way and it was exactly the same situation in the [Australia] Cup. All the good players were there, but we didn’t care. We went and played our game and it’ll be the same at the weekend.”
Glory midfielder Taras Gomulka will come up against his former club on Sunday, after playing 34 games for City, but he said the players are looking forward to playing in front of their own fans again, and he will be doing all he can to give them three points. “It’s a very important game for us, as a club, as the start of the season hasn’t been what had wished for but it’s been a big improvement in the last couple of weeks, including a clean sheet against Central Coast Mariners, in a game that could’ve had both ways,” he explained.
“But everyone in the changing room is buzzing for Sunday and we can’t wait to get out there. Like I said we’ve made good steps in the last two games, and it’s all about putting it into action on Sunday in front of our home fans. Playing against your former team, you want to go out there and do well and beat them and get one on them, but I’ll be doing all I can to send our fans home happy on Sunday evening with three points.”
The last time Glory met City in WA it was the hosts who took the points after a 4-2 win at HBF Park in front of 5,494 fans. German midfielder Tolgay Arslan gave City a 1-0 lead, but Mustafa Amini levelled from the spot in first half stoppage time. Arslan regained the lead for the visitors on the hour, but an own goal from WA-born Scott Galloway and another from Adam Taggart had Glory in front. Then in stoppage time youngster Joel Anasmo scored his first goal A-League goal for the club, to seal the 4-2 win.
Zdrilic had some good news on the injury front for a change, with Nikola Mileusnic and Cristian Caicedo will both be available for selection, but Josh Risdon is not quite fit enough to return. The visitors arrive having won both of their away games so far this season, downing the Jets 1-0 in Round One and repeating that scoreline against Western United last weekend, so it should be a great game, so get along and support the lads!
Perth Glory squad: GK Oli SAIL, GK Cameron COOK, 5 Lachlan BARR, 6 Brandon O’NEILL, 7 Nicholas PENNINGTON, 9 David WILLIAMS, 10 Nikola MILEUSNIC, 11 Hiroaki AOYAMA, 12 Taras GOMULKA, 14 Nathanael BLAIR, 15 Zach LISOLAJSKI, 16 Adam BUGARIJA, 17 Jarrod CARLUCCIO, 20 Trent OSTLER, 21 Abdul FAISAL, 22 Adam TAGGART, 23 Cristian CAICEDO, 24 Andriano LEBIB, 26 Khoa NGO, 33 Luis CANGA Two to be omitted - Ins: MILEUSNIC, CAICEDO - Unavailable: 8 Mustafa AMINI (injured), 19 Josh RISDON (injured),
Melbourne City squad: GK Patrick BEACH, GK Jamie YOUNG, 2 Callum TALBOT, 6 Steven UGARKOVIC, 7 Mathew LECKIE, 8 James JEGGO, 10 Yonatan COHEN, 13 Nathaniel ATKINSON, 19 Zane SCHREIBER, 22 Germán FERREYRA, 26 Samuel SOUPRAYEN, 27 Kai TREWIN, 30 Andreas KUEN, 35 Medin MEMETI, 38 Harry POLITIDIS, 40 James NIEUWENHUIZEN, 41 Lawrence WONG, 42 Ben DUNBAR, 46 Ben MAZZEO, 47 Kavian RAHMANI - Two to be omitted - Ins: JEGGO (returns from suspension), NIEUWENHUIZEN, WONG, MAZZEO (all promoted) - Unavailable: 15 Andrew NABBOUT (knee), 16 Aziz BEHICH (suspension), 17 Max CAPUTO (leg), 20 Arion SULEMANI (calf), 21 Alessandro LOPANE (knee), 23 Marco TILIO (hamstring), 34 Jayden NECOVSKI (knee), 36 Harry SHILLINGTON (ankle), 37 Peter ANTONIOU (ankle), 39 Emin DURAKOVIC (hamstring)
8.11.2024
PETERS HOPES LESSONS HAVE BEEN LEARNT AHEAD OF JETS CHALLENGE
Perth Glory will play their first home game in the Ninja A-League for the season, when they welcome Newcastle Jets to HBF Park on Sunday afternoon, in the first part of the double header on the day. (Kick off 3.00pm) Glory are coming off a first up defeat against reigning champions Melbourne City last week, this after taking a two-goal lead early in the second half, but Head Coach Stephen Peters is keen for his chargers to learn lessons from the defeat, and he knows the Jets, who drew their opening game against Western Sydney Wanderers last week, will provide a very different challenge to that posed by City last week.
“I think Newcastle are an interesting team, they’re very robust and very direct,’ Peters said. “I know the manager [Ryan Campbell] pretty well and he’s a very jovial character who’ll have them fit and primed for it, for sure. I think he’s looking to get more bodies forward in order to cause some unrest and confusion for the opposition and if you watch their game on the weekend, it did cause Wanderers some problems and we’re going to have to be aware of that.
“It’s a completely different task to the Melbourne City task. If we’re brave enough, I think there’ll be opportunities for us definitely on the counter-attack and in the spaces they leave vacant. We had 55 very good minutes and 35 not-so-good minutes. However, given that it was our first hit-out against A-League opposition, I thought there were some really good positives for us.
“I don’t think anyone would have expected us to be 2-0 up at any stage of the game, so to be there was good. But in terms of the fallout from the rest of the game, there’s a lot to dissect and learn from. When there was an opportunity for us to sit in a low block and absorb pressure, I think that’s probably where we failed ourselves and something we need to improve on.”
The last time Glory hosted the Jets was in round two last season, when they ran out 1-0 winners, with Susan Phonsongkham grabbing the winning five minutes into the season half, unfortunately the exciting winger will miss Sunday’s game due to injury. The game forms part of an A-League double-header, with the men taking on Melbourne City later, and Peters is really looking forward to a bumper day of football.
“I think it’s super-exciting for us,” he said. “Double-headers are a great opportunity for the club to represent itself as a whole and we’re looking forward to that. The pitch is in good condition, so we’re looking forward to playing on that and hopefully seeing a good crowd out there.”
Kelli Brown and Miku Sunaga both scored on their Glory debuts against City, and they will look for more of the same in their home debuts. In good news, they did not sustain any further injuries during the loss, but Sunday’s game may still come too soon for co-captain Onyinyechi Zogg to make her debut, while Izzy Foletta, Bella Wallhead and Megan Wynne are also yet to return to full fitness and Phonsongkham remains a long-term absentee, while former Western Sydney Wanderers midfielder Ella Abdul Massih is in line for a first start for the club after being named in the squad, along with former Perth SC striker Ella Lincoln.
Perth Glory squad: GK Miranda TEMPLEMAN, GK Jessica SKINNER, 2 Mischa ANDERSON, 5 Grace JOHNSTON, 6 Tijan MCKENNA, 8 Georgia CASSIDY, 9 Gabby HOLLAR, 11 Natalie TATHEM, 13 Naomi CHINNAMA, 14 Miku SUNAGA, 17 Morgan ROBERTS, 19 Sarah O’DONOGHUE, 20 Ella ABDUL MASSIH, 22 Ischia BROOKING, 23 Izzy DALTON, 25 Ella LINCOLN, 26 Tanika LALA, 44 Kelli BROWN - Two to be omitted - Ins: ABDUL MASSIH, LINCOLN - Unavailable: GK Casey DUMONT (not yet available), 7 Megan WYNNE (injured), 10 Susan PHONSONGKHAM (injured), 16 Bella WALLHEAD (injured), 18 Izzy FOLETTA (injured), 29 Onyinyechi ZOGG (injured)
Newcastle Jets squad: GK Danielle KRZYZANIAK, GK Tiahna ROBERTSON, 2 Josie WILSON, 3 Claudia CICCO, 6 Cassidy DAVIS, 7 India BREIER, 8 Emma DUNDAS, 10 Libby COPUS-BROWN, 11 Deven JACKSON, 13 Lauren ALLAN, 17 Sheridan GALLAGHER, 18 Sophie HOBAN, 22 Lorena BAUMANN, 23 Gia VICARI, 25 Lara GOOCH, 26 Josie ALLAN, 32 Claire ADAMS, 39 Alexis COLLINS - Two to be omitted - Outs: 4 Natasha PRIOR, 19 Ava PIAZZA, 27 Chloe WALANDOUW - Unavailable: 9 Bel ROLLEY, 24 Milan HAMMOND
6.11.2024
HOCKING IMPRESSES IN UK TRIALS
Armadale SC keeper Sam Hocking has impressed in the UK, after trials at Middlesbrough, Blackpool, Wigan, Fleetwood, Preston and Stockport. The 17-year-old enjoyed his time in England, and was pleased with how he went. “The trials went incredibly well. Over six weeks, I trained nearly every day, often twice daily, with additional gym and strength conditioning sessions afterward,” the keeper explained. “We'd arrive in the morning and usually wouldn't leave until around 5pm. We were fed like kings, with nutritionists ensuring we received everything needed to perform at our best. If you haven’t experienced football in England, you’re missing out, the facilities, staff, and communication are top-notch.
“I started with Middlesbrough in the first week, then moved on to Blackpool FC, Wigan, Fleetwood, Preston, and Stockport, before heading back to Middlesbrough. Since the season had already begun, I wasn't able to play in league games, but I did get plenty of inter-squad matches, giving scouts and high-profile coaches a chance to evaluate me. Every game and training session was filmed and analyzed afterward, which was incredibly beneficial.”
Hocking said working with some of the best keeper coaching in UK football was a huge experience, and he had some good feedback from all the clubs. “The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, and standing at just over 6'2", I can cover the goal with pace and accuracy, and my hand-eye coordination helps me stand out, thanks to years of playing handling games,” he said. “I also got to train with top-tier goalkeepers like Sam Tickle (first team GK at Wigan), Jay Lynch (Fleetwood), and Andy Lonergan (retired Liverpool GK and current GK coach at Wigan) just to name a few. These experiences have taught me so much, and I hope to bring this knowledge back to WA. Plus, I’ve now connected with many high-profile individuals in the football community.”
The talented keeper said his football journey has been vital in his devolvement, and said each club have played their part. “I started at Joondalup City, where I realized I wanted to pursue football seriously. By age 10, I joined the Perth Glory Academy, where I developed my skills in a professional setting,” Hocking explained. “At 14, I moved to Perth SC, where I played under-18 games in my first year and was a regular starter in my second year, occasionally playing under-20s games. On my 16th birthday (29 July), I made my first team debut for Perth SC, keeping a clean sheet and helping us win 1-0 against Floreat Athena under Danny Hay, the former New Zealand head coach. From there, I moved to Armadale SC, where I secured regular first-team starts during the 2024 season.”
Hocking is enjoying the ride at the moment, on and off the pitch, but he thanks Armadale for their trust in him last season. “Last season was something special, and I’m even more motivated for next season. Joel (Driscoll) and I shared the net, and he’s been a fantastic mentor, guiding me and helping me improve,” he said. “The healthy competition between us has driven my performance every week. Coach Alun Vernals took a chance on me, and I’m grateful for the doors he’s opened. I know he and the club committee have big plans, and I’m excited to see what’s next.
“Personally, I have ambitious goals that extend beyond just being a professional footballer, and I’m committed to reaching them through hard work and dedication. I’ll apply the experience I’ve gained here both on and off the pitch. My approach is to take one step at a time, grab every opportunity with both hands, and never let go. Big thanks to Lee Bamber and Armadale SC for their support along the way—it’s been invaluable in helping me reach this level.”
6.11.2024
JONES RETURNS FOR BOLTON RESERVES
Gethin Jones continued his recovery from injury when Bolton Wanderers’ B team were beaten by Huddersfield Town in the Central League Cup. The Socceroos defender played the opening 45 minutes at Lostock as he steps up his return from a knee injury suffered at the start of pre-season. Unfortunately, Bolton were beaten 5-2 defeat despite goals from Ajay Weston and Ben Andreucci during the second half.
Coach Andy Taylor confirmed after the final whistle that the plan for Jones was always to come off after 45 minutes. “Early on they put one in behind and he had a good 30, 40 yard sprint to test himself,” Taylor explained. “That is good and because it was a decent level game, it is better for him.”
“It would have been no good for him to play in a game at a friendly pace, it was a high tempo and great to see him back after a while. He has come through it unscathed which is the main thing and hopefully that puts him in good stead to start threatening the first team squad sooner rather than later.”
5.11.2024
GLORY ADD NEW SPONSOR AND NEW SIGNING
Perth Glory’s Ninja A-League season has only just started, but the club have already dipped into the transfer market bringing in winger Morgan Roberts from NSW Spirit, as an injury-replacement, after the news of Susan Phonsongkham long-term injury. The 29-year-old was a key member of the NWS Spirit side which secured a top-six finish in last season’s NSW NPLW competition. The Speedy winger, who came off the bench in the opening defeat against Melbourne City, made more than 150 appearances during her time with Spirit, topping their goalscoring chart in 2023 and played alongside fellow-Glory new recruit Ella Abdul Massih last term.
Glory Head Coach Stephen Peters believes that the club’s latest signing is more than capable of making the step up. “Morgan’s pace makes her a real threat in wide areas,” he said, “and she also has a keen eye for goal. “She has been one of the most effective forwards in the NSW NPLW for some time and has definitely earned this opportunity to take her game to the next level. We look forward to seeing her make an impact for us in the coming weeks.”
Meanwhile the club announced a new major sponsor for its Women’s team and coaching staff for the 2024/25 season, with Boom Logistics coming on board. Operating from 17 depots around the country, six of which are located in Western Australia, Boom Logistics provides lifting solutions as part of a complete project service which includes cranes, travel towers, access equipment, heavy haulage and engineering services. Glory CEO Anthony Radich believes that the partnership is a perfect fit for both parties.
“Boom Logistics are a highly-successful and progressive organisation who are also passionate about supporting women’s sport and it is great to have them joining the Glory family this season,” he said. “As a club, we share their values of teamwork, developing people and working together to achieve our best. We would like to sincerely thank them for their support which will have a meaningful and valuable impact upon our Women’s program. “We look forward to working with the team from Boom and building this partnership for this season and beyond.”
5.11.2024
NTC UNDER 13’S TAKE OUT THE BORNEO 14’S CUP IN MALAYSIA
Teams from Malaysia, Australia, Philippines and Indonesia took part in the inaugural 2024 Malaysia Borneo under 14’s Girls Cup, and it was the Salv Todaro’s WA Hyundai NTC U13’s coming out on top in the eight-team competition. It was a successful trip all round for the WA sides with the Football West Gold Fields Regional State U14’s Black and Gold playing out in the third and fourth playoff.
In round one in Group A the NTC secured a 6-0 win against JJFC Tenom, the FW Black team also won by the same scoreline against Miruru FC, while the FW Gold were narrowly beaten 2-1 by SSM Sabah in Group B. In round two, the NTC were far too strong for Miruru FC, racing to a 11-0 win in Group A, and the FW Black also continued their winning start, beating JJFC Tenom 3-0, while the FW Gold picked up their first win in Group B, beating MMT Junior 4-1.
In round three the two WA sides met in Group A, with the NTC running out 8-2 winners against FW Black, while FW Gold picked up their second win, downing Mirriam College 3-1. In the Semi-Finals the NTC beat FW Gold 6-1, to take their place in the final, while FW Black were beaten 3-1 by SSM Sabah, which meant they would play FW Gold in the third and fourth playoff.
So, on the final day, JJFC Tenom beat Miruru FC 3-0 in the playoff for seventh and eighth, Mirriam College beat MMT Junior 3-1 in the fifth and sixth playoff, while in the all, Football West third and fourth playoff, FW Black and FW Gold. FW Black raced into a 3-0 half-time lead and despite a second-half rally from FW ‘Gold’, it was FW ‘Black’ who ran out 3-2 winners. That set up the Final, between the NTC and SSM Sabah, and it was a tight game, but late goals from Savanna Glavovic and Ciara Upton gave the WA girls a 2-0 win.
Salv Todaro’s side went through the tournament unbeaten, winning their group and semi-final before defeating Malaysian side SSM Sabah in the decider, and the coach was delighted the way his side performance in the tournament. “What an experience the girls had both on and off the pitch,” he said. “Playing two games a day for the first two days in hot, humid conditions really challenged the team. Also taking into account that my squad plays in the U12’s Mini-Roos boy’s blue division on a modified pitch, they were being challenged on a number of fronts, and they took this in their stride and dealt with it in a wonderful manner.
“Our games progressively became more competitive as we went deeper into the tournament, and the other Football West teams, black and gold, really pushed us hard and gave us the opportunity to work on our structure and the way we wanted to play. The final was a fantastic game, Sabbah playing on their home soil and conditions that suited them more than us, really pushed us hard, and supported by their home supporters pushed and pushed. All credit to my team, after a drinks break allowed us to have a little chat, refocus on the tasks that we had spoken about.
“We settled down and we got into our rhythm and started to play our style of football moving the ball around and started to create some good opportunities. Their keeper was outstanding and made a couple of excellent saves and interventions, but we were knocking on the door and late in the half we scored a well-deserved goal and icing on the cake was a penalty in the last minute of the game. We just got stronger as the game went on and put them under lots of pressure. The girls were tested and full credit to them to find the solutions they needed to overcome them and play an entertaining brand of football, and they were deserved winners.” The Malaysia Borneo Cup trip aligns with the Football West Asian Engagement Strategy.
Football West NTC squad - Evelyn Bullock, Lily Jujnovich, Maddie Cooke, Angie Mofflin, Olivia King, Emily Guerds, Ellashaye Adamos, Ciara Upton, Ella Lange, Gracie Kendrick, Maddison Navias, Lily Sunderland, Savanna Glavovic, Halle Snowden, Mackenzie Decent, Miah Adams, Milla Tangey, Mia Davies – Coach Salv Todaro, Assistant Coach Kirsty Fraser
Football West Gold Fields Regional State U14s Black - Ebony Bu, Hayley Griffiths, Klaire Wohling, Jessica Baines, Jorja Best, Georgia Whitelaw, Sophie Meerman, Ziva Casey, Ellessia Newland, Zoe Mitchell, Addison Brickwood, Dianna Vavianos, Savannah Nicholson, Georgia Willock, Rhian Patel, Katie Bebbington, Holly Rowland
Football West Gold Fields Regional State U14s Gold - Rose Viskovich, Zara Blagaich, Flo Fulton, Laycie Wiggers, Stella Cuthbert, Paige Roffey, Siofra Lynch, Georgia Monson, Ruby Willsher, Arabella Azhar, Ariah Bartlett, Lily Ridout, Fern Woods, Jessica Glennon, Bronte Lathwell, Chloe Willsher, Ammerah Tullock
5.11.2024
BURGESS FOCUSES ON POSITIVES FROM LEICESTER DRAW
Ipswich Town defender Cameron Burgess is keen to look at the positives from his side’s 1-1 draw against Leicester City, but admitted that the result is a painful one given the circumstances. The Blues were 1-0 up and clearly the better team going into the latter stages of the match when a dubious penalty call changed the momentum and allowed the Foxes to equalise.
“It was harsh, but that’s football, I suppose,” Burgess said after the match. “I guess the positive side of that is that we put in a good performance, but it does feel like a loss when you end up with a draw there. We’ll take the positives and move on. It’s one to build on.”
Asked whether Town were frustrated by what happened, Burgess replied: “I guess so, but that’s football. I get too caught up in playing the game to see what happens. Sometimes that’s how it goes. I’ll have to watch it back. I’ll get a chance to do that and see what went on. It’s a bit of a disappointing one when things don’t go your way.”
“It’s not for me to make decisions, but you can feel that way a little bit. It’s tough, but it’s something we have to look at and go away from. My take is that it’s nothing to do with me, I’ve got to do my job. I’ve got too much to focus on to worry about that sort of stuff.”
“I don’t see everything how it plays out, I’m focused on what I have to do. It’s something I can maybe look at when I get home. I’ve had a few games with the national team that have VAR. I’m well used to it and I think we’re used to it as a group now. It’s part of football. We just have to deal with it and look at what we can control. Every team does.”
Most fans thought that Burgess’ heroics were enough to seal a first English Premier League victory, with the 29-year old making a block on the line to deny Leicester right at the end. The wait for that maiden victory continues as a result, but Burgess believes that his side have shown enough games in the first 10 games of the season to be confident. “It’s not for the want of doing the right things, for the most part,” he reasoned.
“I think we’ve been in a lot of games. It’s a difficult league – we knew that coming in. We’ve put in a good number of performances now, so there’s positives to take and we have to build on that. We know the job at hand, which is to put points on the board, so hopefully when we can get that first win, it’ll just be the start.”
The national narrative is that Ipswich are destined for relegation, even if that’s an extreme conclusion to reach in November. “My view is that football, it’s tough to get results, especially at this level when we’ve just come up. I think it’s a case of controlling what we can control and building on what we’ve built so far,” Burgess said.
“Urgency is probably the wrong word. We’re desperate for the first win, but not for the wrong reasons. It’s not that we’re in a desperate state, but we’re still learning the league and still in a process of developing and improving. I think that’s what we have to look at and keep on with that at this moment in time. It’ll stand us in good stead.”
Its been a tough few weeks for Ipswich, who went down to West Ham United, Everton and Brentford. And while a draw against Leicester stops the rot, it leaves Town in the relegation zone heading into games against Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester United and in-form Nottingham Forest.
“They’re all tough, every single game has different its challenges,” Burgess said. “You can only have 20 teams in the Premier League and that’s where everyone wants to get to. Every challenge is just as hard as each other for different reasons. Every game is exciting, every game is a challenge and every game has something you have to overcome.”
4.11.2024
NEW GLORY RECRUIT LOVING WA
It’s not been the start new Welsh striker Megan Wynee would have liked, since joining Perth Glory from English Championship club Southampton, the striker missing the opener against Melbourne City last week with injury. But the 31-year-old is loving life in WA, and hopes to be back soon to help her new teammates out, as they look to improve on last season. “Obviously things like the weather here are far better than in England, but the lifestyle is a little hectic,” the winger told Y Clwb Pêl-droed website. “At Southampton, it was a busy schedule, so speaking to some of the girls here, there is a better work-life balance, so overall, I’m in a really good place.”
Wynne has spent the last two seasons at Southampton, and it’s been a rollercoaster journey for the Saints, who have become a settled Championship side since they were promoted in 2022. While for many it’s been a happy period at St. Mary’s, for Wynne, the latter part of her stint there posed plenty of questions. “It was mixed emotions for me at the end of the season,” she said. “I really enjoyed my time at Southampton, but with the formation that we played, it didn’t particular suit my style and as a result, I didn’t play as much as I wanted to and didn’t make the impact that I wanted too either. I was ready for something new at the end of the season and wanted a new challenge after spending so much time in the Championship.”
After the Saints finished fourth, Wynne was ready to seek a new challenge, and she had plenty of offers to ponder over, but a move to Australia was one that really appealed. “I had a couple of offers to stay in England, but I was at a point in my career where I had been in the Championship for so long and been around football in the UK for a long time,” she explained. “Mentally and physically, I needed to do something a little different. When the offer came in to go to Australia, I jumped on it straight away.”
The 31-year-old had a long checklist that her next club needed to match, and it’s fair to say the Western Australia based side was the ideal landing spot. “I know a couple of girls who have moved over to Australia, and they had enjoyed the lifestyle and the competitiveness of the league. The Championship is competitive, but in the WSL, there is that gap between teams,” Wynne said. “The A-League last season, however, was very competitive, and that was something that appealed to me. Perth is also a team with a lot of young players, so I also wanted to move somewhere where I would be one of the more experienced players where I could bring all the things I’ve learned in my career into and help the younger ones push on.
“We’ve had a lot of new signings and a new manager too, so there’s been a lot of gelling together during preseason. With where we are in Australia, it’s been hard to get competitive friendlies. We’ve played a couple of games against the state team, but the system is different over here. Things do take a while when a lot of new people come in, but the manager’s system does suit my style being an aggressive, high-pressing winger. I’ve been really impressed with the girls so far and there’s a lot of young talent coming through.”
While a lot of Welsh players are getting to grasp with new languages with their different clubs, Wynne doesn’t have that issue and doesn’t have to battle with Duo-lingo on a daily basis. However, Australia does bring about its challenges on and off the pitch. An eight-hour time difference makes communication with those in the UK harder, while training on Christmas Day and being away from family will be tough. Yet, Wynne has been made to feel right at home in Perth and is enjoying getting to know the squad day by day, and is determined to help the club to finals this season. “We want to take it game by game this season. Last season the team missed out on the end of season finals, but we are a team that want to push and get back there,” Wynne explained. “Maybe last season was a bit of a disappointment, but we want to put things right this campaign.”
While the former Watford, Millwall, Tottenham, Charlton and Saints winger is rediscovering her joy for football in Australia, her heart is still very much set on Wales. The winger has 24 caps to her name and was last involved with the squad in last year’s Nations League game against Germany. She has not been selected for a squad in the Rhian Wilkinson era but was on standby for the games against Slovakia. The national coach has been in close contact with Wynne, and the forward is delighted that the manager still has her in her thoughts.
“I’ve been in good contact with Rhian. She reaches out every now and then, and we have a good chat and keep in touch. I’m really hoping I can get back involved with the team,” she explained. “I am missing being around the girls, but hopefully with game time and regular minutes, I can get myself back in there. It’s massive to know I have Rhian’s support and to know that she’s keeping an eye on what I’m doing. It’s really nice to know I haven’t been completely cut-out of the national team frame. I know what I need to be doing to get back in there, and it’s nice to have that belief from someone like her.”
All footballers, however, want to play for their country, and Wynne admitted it has been difficult watching the team from afar, but hopes to don the Welsh shirt again sooner rather than later. Yet, she is proud of what they’re achieving and believes this tournament could be the one for Wales. “It’s tough watching on, but I am so proud of all the girls for what they’re doing. When you miss out, it is disappointing, especially because I’ve been involved for a long time, but what this time has done is given me the extra motivation to want to stay involved with Wales,” she said. “The main thing for me is that I want to bring that enjoyment back into my football. I feel very lucky to be in Perth and to be with this group of players; this is an experience not many people in their careers will get to have. I want to play my best football and bring everything I’ve learned in my career to this team.”
4.11.2024
GLORY TRIO SELECTED IN YOUNG SOCCEROOS
Perth Glory trio Adam Bugarija, Abdul Faisal and Jaylan Pearman, and former Glory winger Daniel Bennie have all been named in the Young Socceroos squad for the Panda Cup International Tournament 2024 which will be played during this month’s FIFA international window in the Chinese city of Chengdu. Both midfielder Bugarija and attacker Faisal have both made their A-League debuts for Glory this season, with the former opening his goalscoring account against Macarthur FC in Round One, while Pearman was a standout performer in the Glory NPLWA team last season, and is expected to continue to press his claim for A-League minutes as the season progresses.
Bennie moved to English Championship side Queens Park Rangers from Glory at the end of last season, and he is one of eight overseas players in the squad, joined by Sebastian Esposito (US Lecce), Paul Okon-Englstler (S.L. Benfica), Musa Toure (Clermont Foot 63), Dimitri Valkanis (AEK Athens), Marcus Younis (PSV Eindhoven), Liam Bonetig (Celtic FC) and Steven Hall (Brighton & Hove Albion FC). The squad will assemble in Chengdu from November 10, with the young Aussies set to face U19 sides from China PR, Kyrgyzstan and Mongolia in a round-robin format.
The tournament will act as preparation for the AFC U20 Asian Cup China PR 2025, which in turn serves as qualifying for the FIFA U-20 World Cup Chile 2025 – to be played from 12 February to 1 March. Head Coach Trevor Morgan believes that the Panda Cup experience will prove invaluable for his young charges. “The ability to familiarise ourselves with conditions in the host nation of the Asian Cup and play competitive games in a tournament format will be extremely beneficial for the players and staff,” he said. “While it’s an opportunity to take some great learnings for our ongoing planning for next February, we’re also continuing to broaden the depth of players available for selection in the way we’ve structured this squad – creating competitive pressure for places is key to our success in the Asian Cup.
“Given this tournament falls within a FIFA Window, we’ve been able to bring in European-based players who have missed recent camps due to clashes with their club schedule. We feel it’s important we keep them connected with our pathway and give them every chance to stake their claim for Asian Cup selection. We’ve also provided opportunities to several players from the A-League Men competition – with some joining the program for the first time – and we’re looking forward to welcoming them into the environment.” Match Details: Game One v Kyrgyzstan - Wednesday 13 November - Chengdu Shuangliu Sports Centre Stadium, Chengdu - Kick-off: 3.30pm local / 3.30pm WST. Game Two v China PR - Saturday 16 November - Chengdu Shuangliu Sports Centre Stadium, Chengdu - Kick-off: 7.35pm local / 7.35pm WST. Game Three v Mongolia - Tuesday 19 November 2024 - Chengdu Shuangliu Sports Centre Stadium, Chengdu - Kick-off: 2.00pm local / 2.00pm AEDT
Young Socceroos Squad: GK Steven HALL (Brighton, UK), GK Gus HOEFSLOOT (Sydney FC), GK Alexander ROBINSON (Macarthur FC), Nathan AMANATIDIS (Sydney FC), Daniel BENNIE (Queens Park Rangers, UK), Liam BONETIG (Celtic FC, Scotland), Dean BOSNJAK (Macarthur FC), Adam BUGARJIA (Perth Glory FC), Jesse CAMERON (Western Sydney Wanderers FC), Sebastian ESPOSITO (US Lecce, Italy), Abdul FAISAL (Perth Glory FC), Jesse HOEY (Melbourne Victory FC), Bailey O’NEIL (Adelaide United FC), Paul OKON-ENGSTLER (S.L. Benfica, Portugal), Jaylan PEARMAN (Perth Glory FC), Tiago QUINTAL (Sydney FC), Kayne RAZMOVSKI (Melbourne Victory FC), Fabian TALLADIRA (Adelaide United FC), Musa TOURE (Clermont Foot 63, France), Dimitri VALKANIS (AEK Athens, Greece), Ryan WHITE (Adelaide United FC), Tyler WILLIAMS (Sydney FC), Marcus YOUNIS (PSV Eindhoven, Holland)
4.11.2024
LOCALS BENNIE AND PEARMAN CALLED UP FOR AUSTRALIA
Queens Park Rangers attacker Daniel Bennie and Perth Glory midfielder Jaylan Pearman have been called up by Australia for this month's China Panda Cup International Tournament. Young Socceroos coach Trevor Morgan named the local due in his squad for the tournament in which Australia will meet Kyrgyzstan (13 November), China (16 November) and Mongolia (19 November).
Bennie and Pearman, who both played juniors with Sorrento, will go into camp with the Young Socceroos next weekend in Chengdu, China. Also in the squad are Pearman’s Glory teammates Adam Bugarija and Abdul Faisal. The upcoming tournament will serve as preparation for Australia’s campaign win lift the Under-20 Asian Cup, which is being hosted by Chile in February next year.
The Australia Under-20 squad for the Panda Cup is Nathan Amanatidis, Daniel Bennie, Liam Bonetig, Dean Bosnjak, Adam Bugarija, Jesse Cameron, Sebastian Esposito, Abdul Faisal, Steven Hall, Gus Hoefsloot, Jesse Hoey, Bailey O’Neil, Paul Okon-Engstler, Jaylan Pearman, Tiago Quintal, Kayne Razmovski, Alexander Robinson, Fabian Talladira, Musa Toure, Dimitri Valkanis, Ryan White, Tyler Williams and Marcus Younis.
3.11.2024
ZDRILIC PUT HIGH-PRESSING APPROACH ON HOLD
Coach David Zdrilic has conceded Perth Glory need to be more restrained when pressing. Glory were rewarded for sitting deeper in Saturday's clash at Central Coast Mariners with their first point of the A-League Men season by holding the back-to-back champions to a scoreless draw.
Zdrilic arrived at the club with a reputation of being the mastermind of Sydney FC’s high-pressing game last season, and Glory’s Australia Cup games showed how effective the press can be when it is firing. But after conceding eight goals in his first two games in charge, Zdrilic said their press had become less effective the fitter their opponents were.
“In the cup games early on, we were really high pressing, but I just think our level was in front of the teams that we were playing at the time,” Zdrilic said. “The bulk of our players have not completed the whole preseason. You can see with some of the changes, the legs are not there just to take that next step and not get away from someone and then push away.”
“Obviously, we want to start playing that style of football where we’re much more aggressive, much more on the front foot. At the same time, if we need to have the balance, we can do both. You can see a clear difference between the pre-season to when the A-League starts; it’s a big jump in the physicality and something that we’re now getting to a good point.”
“Our football is going to evolve into something very different, but to be able to manage a situation like that, which we haven’t really done in the first two games, I thought that (the performance against Central Coast) was a big step for us and coming here is not easy... They’re very fluid, very confident at home. They’ve got a winning culture here.”
3.11.2024
GLORY LET THE LEAD SLIP IN SEASON OPENER
Perth Glory have let a two-goal lead slip to lose 5-2 to reigning champions Melbourne City in their opening Ninja A-League game of the season. It started so well for Stephen Peters side with Kelli Brown scoring a contender for goal of the season early, and they doubled their lead early in the second half through Miku Sunaga. But the hosts hit back with Rhianna Pollicina scoring moments later, and they never looked back from there, with Kathryn Harvey bagging a brace, with Pollicina adding another, before Laura Hughes rounded out the scoring late.
It was the hosts who had the first opportunity on six minutes, Leah Davidson’s snap shot over the top after a poor clearance from Miranda Templeman. But sixty seconds later it was Glory who found the opener, a quick break saw Grace Johnston race clear, before finding Brown, and the Kiwi striker looked up and saw Malena Mieres off her line and her long-range shot beat the back-pedalling City custodian, for one of the goals of the season. Brown went close to a second nine minutes later, her shot on the run was saved by Mieres.
City lifted and Leticia McKenna went close, the former Glory midfielder cut in from the left, her low shot was saved at her near post by Templeman. McKenna went close again soon after, indecision by the Glory defence saw the ball fall to the midfielder, but she skied her shot when well placed. The visitors were defending well and closing down the space, making it difficult for the home side. But City did go close five minutes before the break, a short corner caught Glory napping, but Pollicina’s effort flashed wide. Brown almost napped a second in stoppage time, but her lob went just wide.
Peters made a change at the break with youngster Tanika Lala replaced by new signing Morgan Roberts, but it was City fast out of the blocks and Templeton saved low to deny Hughes early. But five minutes in Glory doubled their advantage. A poor pass across the edge of the box by Karly Roestbakken, the ball falling to Sunaga, whose first time chip beat Mieres, much to the delight of the Glory supporters behind the goal. But City reduced the margin three minutes later, McKenna’s shot was parried by Templeton, and Pollicina was quickest to the rebound to fire home the loose ball.
It was game on, and ten minutes later City were level. A corner was turned home at the back post by Harvey, after her first effort was blocked on the line by Naomi Chinnama. The host’s comeback was completed six minutes later, Pollicina was given far too much room and she curled home into the top corner from just outside the box. It was 4-2 on 72 minutes, great work down the left by Lourdes Bosch, saw her skip past two Glory defenders before finding Harvey, whose shot on the turn beat Templeton. The scoring was completed in stoppage time, neat lead up play ended with Pollicina on the right her low cross was turned home neatly by Hughes. Glory are back in action next Sunday, when they host Newcastle Jets at HBF Park (3.00pm).
Melbourne City: GK Malena MIERES, 5 Taylor OTTO, 6 Leticia McKENNA (7 Kathryn HARVEY 61'), 8 Alexia APOSTOLAKIS, 10 Rhianna POLLICINA, 14 Laura HUGHES, 16 Karly ROESTBAKKEN, 17 Mariana SPECKMAIER (27 Tyla-Jay VLAJNIC 62'), 18 Leah DAVIDSON, 19 Lourdes BOSCH, 22 Bryleeh HENRY (15 Kiera MEYERS 90+4') – Subs not used: RGK Melissa BARBIERI, 21 Isabella ACCARDO
Perth Glory: GK Miranda TEMPLEMAN, 5 Grace JOHNSTON, 6 Tijan MCKENNA, 8 Georgia CASSIDY (22 Ischia BROOKING 85'), 9 Gabby HOLLAR, 11 Natalie TATHEM, 13 Naomi CHINNAMA (2 Mischa ANDERSON 74'), 14 Miku SUNAGA (19 Sarah O’DONOGHUE 70'), 23 Izzy DALTON, 26 Tanika LALA (17 Morgan ROBERTS 46'), 44 Kelli BROWN – Subs not used: RGK Jessica SKINNER - Referee: Rebecca Durcau - Attendance: 582
2.11.2024
BATTLING GLORY HOLD FIRM TO TAKE A POINT AT GOSFORD
Perth Glory have secured their first points of the Isuzu Ute A-League season, after a battling 0-0 draw against reigning champions Central Coast Mariners at the Industree Group Stadium in Gosford. After a disappointing start to the new campaign, David Zdrilic’s side will take a great deal from their performance, and look forward to next week’s home game against Melbourne City.
“I was very pleased with the reaction from the first two games, also in this game, you could see in the first five minutes some of the guys were nervous. We’ve got a blend of youth and experience, but we managed to get back into the game, and take the sting out of it, and it was a big step moving forward for us,” Glory coach David Zdrilic said post-match. “Coming here is never easy, they have a winning culture here and you can feel it, I was pleased we took the sting out of it and created some good chances of our own, so I’m happy with the point. We have made good improvement, but we want to take the next step and play our style of football, but today happy to leave with a point, against a good Mariners side.”
Glory was under the pump from the kick off and almost conceded on three minutes, Alfie McMalmont eased past his marker on the left, and squared the ball to Sasha Kuzevski whose late run caught Glory napping, but his shot was somehow blocked by a combination of Lachlan Barr and Oli Sail. It was a huge let off, but Glory hit back and went close themselves seven minutes later, Taras Gomulka sent David Williams down the right and his first time ball sent Adam Taggart in on goal, but Dylan Peraic-Cullen was out quickly to deny the Glory skipper.
Moments later Glory almost gave away the lead, Zach Lisolajski was almost caught in possession on the edge of the box, and his back pass beat Sail, but luckily for the young defender it rolled inches wide of the post. The visitors were having the better of the game now, and after a poor clearance from Peraic-Cullen went to Hiroaki Aoyama, the ball then broke for Brandon O’Neill, but he couldn’t find the target. They went close again soon after, Jarrad Carluccio and O’Neill combined to send Abdul Faisal down the left, the speedy winger cut inside his marker and his shot on the run was tipped over the top by the Mariners custodian.
Then from the resulting corner Taggart headed over, but after a difficult start to the season, it was good to see Glory taking the game to the hosts. Faisal was in again on the half hour, again he cut inside his marker, but his shot whistled wide. The Mariners settled and almost took the lead into the break, when Alou Kuel flicked on a corner and found defender Nathan Paul, who arrived late at the back post, but he couldn’t turn the ball home so at the break it was all to play for.
Glory made a change at the break with Adam Bugarija replacing Aoyama, but it was the Mariners on the front foot, dominating possession but they struggled to breakdown a well marshalled Glory defence, well led by Luis Canga and Lachlan Barr. They did create half chances, Kuzevski’s low cross was inches away from Kuol in the box, before Canga did well to bloke Mikael Doka’s goalbound shot. David Zdrilic went to his bench again just after the hour, with Nathanael Blair and Khoa Ngo replacing Williams and Faisal.
The visitors were struggling in the final third, Taggart a lonely figure up top, starved of opportunities, but he did have a glimpse on 72 minutes. The Socceroos striker was sent clear down the right, he did have Taras Gomulka to his left, but he went for goal, but failed to find the target. Then four minutes later the Mariners were awarded a penalty, referee Nathan Shakespear pointing to the spot after a handball by Canga. The Ecuadorian defender was convinced Doka’s cross hit his shoulder, and after being told by VAR to check the monitor, the decision was overturned.
The decision didn’t go down well with the home supporters, but the small Glory contingent, including Big Red were happy with it. The points were still up for grabs going into stoppage time, and both sides had chances to take them. First on 91 minutes, Ngo found Taggart in space, and the skipper played in Blair, but his shot was saved low by Peraic-Cullen. The Mariners had the final chance to win it moments later, Lukas Mauragis’ long-range shot was saved low by Sail. Glory held firm to take their first point of the season, and next meet Melbourne City at HBF Park next Sunday.
Central Coast Mariners: GK Dylan PERAIC-CULLEN, 3 Brian KALTAK, 8. Alfie MCCALMONT, 9 Alou KUOL (99 Ryan EDMONDSON 57’), 10 Mikael DOKA, 12 Lucas MAURAGIS, 16 Harry STEELE (36 Haine EAMES 82’), 26 Brad TAPP, 27 Sasha KUZEVSKI (17 Sabit NGOR 82’), 33 Nathan PAULL, 37 Bailey BRANDTMAN (11 Vitor FEIJAO 57’) – Subs not used: RGK Adam PAVLESIC, 15 Storm ROUX, 24 Diesel HERRINGTON
Perth Glory: Oli SAIL, 5 Lachlan BARR, 6 Brandon O’NEILL (7 Nicholas PENNINGTON 70’), 9 David WILLIAMS (14 Nathanael BLAIR 66’), 11 Hiroaki AOYAMA (16 Adam BUGARIJA 46’), 12 Taras GOMULKA, 15 Zach LISOLAJSKI, 17 Jarrod CARLUCCIO, 21 Abdel FAISAL (28 Khoa NGO 66’), 22 Adam TAGGART, 33 Luis CANGA – Subs not used: RGK Cameron COOK, 10 Trent OSTLER, 24 Andriano LEBIB – Referee: Nathan Shakespear – Attendance: 7,718
2.11.2024
DALTON CONFIDENT OF GLORY WOMEN REVIVAL, DESPITE LOSS OF LOWRY
Izzy Dalton understands why homegrown talent Hana Lowry left the club but the Perth Glory co-captain is confident her team will prove they are headed in the right direction. Lowry, who won the club’s Most Glorious Player award last season, left the Glory in the off-season after 72 games and 11 goals at her hometown club.
Lowry switched to Sydney FC in the off-season, saying the move east was spurred by a desire to win trophies and push for Matildas selection. But ahead of Glory’s season-opening clash away to Melbourne City tomorrow, Dalton said there was no ill-will towards her former midfield running mate for leaving.
“At the end of the day, any team and any club in this league can win a trophy,” Dalton said. “I don’t blame Hana for leaving. She’s young in her career, and there’s exciting opportunities for her to be in Sydney. But I think at the same time, we can do the exact same here at this club, if we’ve got the right mentality and we get off to a good start.”
Lowry was not the only key figure to leave, with Millie Farrow, captain Tash Rigby, Morgan Aquino and centre-back pair Jessika Cowart and Liz Anton the main departures. Dalton, who will lead the side alongside new defender Onyinyechi Zogg, said creating a positive culture would be at the forefront of their plans.
“It’s obviously been tough having an overhaul of the squad, there’s a lot of young players that have come through,” Dalton said. “But for the few of us that stuck around from last year, it’s about taking what what we know about the club and what we want the culture to look like, and addressing that with the players and creating something special at the club.”
Born in England and raised in Queensland, Dalton started her career with Brisbane Roar and turned out for Bristol City (England), Napoli (Italy) and Lewes (England) before arriving at Glory last season. With 19 appearances under her belt on purple, the 27-year old midfielder says Perth already feels like home.
“I felt a lot more comfortable coming in this year, knowing the place, the people, the stuff that were involved,” she said. “I love Perth. It’s the first club that I’ve been at my career where I feel like it’s home for me. I’m happy to be here, and I love representing Glory. It’s a club I feel special to be a part.”
Dalton is looking forward to what Glory can achieve under new coach Stephen Peters. “There’s obviously new approaches to the way that he wants us to play. Naturally, we’ve had to take new things on board and adapt to the way that he wants us to play,” she said. “You’ll definitely see a lot of changes across the board, in defence and in possession as to how we want to play.”
1.11.2024
WEST AUSTRALIAN PREMIERS TO COMPETE IN NATIONAL SECOND TIER
Australian football is moving a step closer to a fully-fledged national second tier after a start date and competition format was finally released. Football Australia have confirmed that the long-awaited tournament will feature 16 clubs from each state as well as the Australian Capital Territory.
The national second tier will kick-off in October 2025 in a structure similar to the Champions League, with teams split across four groups of four and playing home-and-away group fixtures. The top two sides will advance to a knockout stage that culminates in a final in early December.
Eight clubs from New South Wales and Victoria will be recognised as foundation members. They will be joined by the National Premier League winners from New South Wales, Northern NSW, Victoria, South Australia, Western Australia the Australian Capital Territory, Tasmania and Queensland.
The competition's name and trophy will be unveiled in the run-up to the start date. Football Australia maintains the long-term aim is for the second tier to move away from the Champions League style structure and into a proper home-and-away season. It remains unclear how, when or if promotion to the A-League may be introduced.
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