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13.5.2026
GRIFFITHS REWARDED WITH A TWO-YEAR DEAL AT GLORY
When Adam Griffiths took over from the sacked David Zdrilic, he became the fourth coach in the space of five years, and the club needed stability. Today the club’s hierarchy have rewarded Griffiths, who they believe has started to turn their fortunes around, with a two-year extension on his contract through to 2028. The clubs’ supporters have had to watch some dire football over the past two years, when the club finished bottom of the table and won the wooden spoon.
But this season there was a glimmer of hope, with Griffiths leading the club to dizzy heights of tenth on the table, and but for long-term injuries to Tom Lawrence and Lachie Wales, and the departure of Rhys Bozinovski to Dutch Eredivisie club Heracles Almelo, a spot in the finals could have been achieved. Griffiths, AKA The Lion, now needs to continue their improvement and push for a spot in the top six, for the first time since 2020 under Tony Popovic.
The 46-year-old said he’s excited by the challenge, and he wants to bring success to the club to thanked their loyal supporters. “The expectations of the fans for us to play finals football is something we need to relish, because if we as a group are not expecting ourselves to get to that level, we may as well quit,” he said. “The Glory supporters have given me everything since I walked through the door, and I feel their passion every single game and I want nothing more than to deliver the success this city is hungry for.
“They are a massive part of what we are building and we are just getting started. I would like to thank the owner, Ross Pelligra and the board for putting their faith in me to take Perth Glory forward. This club means everything to me and I am hungry to take it where it belongs. We have done a lot of the hard work; built the culture, set the standards and created a belief in this group that wasn’t here before.”
Griffiths said the signs are there, but they need to find consistent performances. “With the right preparation and the right planning, bringing in key players that are going to help us evolve and improve from last season, the trajectory is going in the right direction,” the coach explained. “When we evolve, then we become a stronger team, the confidence builds, the fans get behind that, and they believe. We had elements of that throughout this season, but we need consistency throughout this season.”
After being given the interim job after the departure of Zdrilic, it’s been a baptism of fire for Griffiths, but he’s relishing the opportunity to lead the club back to finals football. “When I reflect on the season, there was never a moment to breathe, so as soon as the season finished, and even just prior to the season finishing, I started to reflect on which areas we can improve and take the club to a level that is required to be great again,” he said.
“I took a lot of key understandings of different elements of the football club, and then tried to start setting plans in place, even though I hadn’t been appointed as the new manager. I started putting those things into place because I know if I don’t make those decisions at those critical junctions, then I’m constantly chasing again. You take a lot of learnings from what happened from the season, pre-season sets the foundations of everything in terms of the physicality you require throughout the course of the season, that you can take that physicality and then implement it.
“If you want to be a team that’s on the front foot, that physicality is essential and keeping players on the park for the course of the season, but it also allows you to start to implement all of the areas within your game plan in different time frames within the pre-season. When you come to the season again, you’re not trying to implement stuff on the run, the ideas and the concepts that you’ve implemented in pre-season, then just become the norm.
“We need to have a squad that needs to be available every week, and one of the challenges I had last season is that we’re constantly chasing our tail in terms of players being available and at disposal. We need a couple of players in the front third that are creative and have that dribbling, x-factor type of attribute, so we’re looking at those types of players now. That will give us more depth, so if we were to lose another critical player at a junction within the season, we don’t have to reinvent ourselves. But first we have to sit down with the players we have to get them on board first.”
Glory CEO Anthony Radich said that Griffiths showed he is the right man to drive the team forward, and believes they can be challenging for finals football next season. “The significant progress the team made under Adam’s charge is clear to see. He worked hard to earn his opportunity which came about under difficult circumstances early last season and under his guidance, we have seen something begin to grow,’ Radich said. “Adam has instilled competitiveness, structure and belief into the playing group who have clearly bought in to his approach.
“A number of the young players, in particular, have taken their performances to a new level under his guidance and that ability to develop our emerging talent is integral to our plans for the club going forward. Our members and fans have also warmed to Adam as a person and I believe his ambition to play an entertaining, attacking style of football will resonate strongly with them and reflect this club’s traditions. Having the opportunity to plan and oversee a full pre-season with his own staff will allow Adam to further instil his philosophy into the playing group and provide the stability within the football department which is essential for success. We are confident that under Adam, we will challenge very strongly for a finals berth in 2026/27.”
11.5.2026
JUNIOR MATILDAS SEAL SEMI-FINAL BERTH AT AFC U-17 ASIAN CUP
Australia have booked their place in the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup semi-finals, and confirmed their place at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco later this year, after a 2-0 win against Vietnam in their quarter final at the Suzhou Sports Centre Stadium on Monday, and will now take on Japan in the semifinals on Thursday.
“To see this group achieve something so significant is incredibly special. From the first day we came together, there’s been a real intent in how they have trained, connected and represented their country,” Junior Matildas Head Coach, Michael Cooper said. “They have embraced every challenge along the way and stayed focused on what we are building as a team.
“Earning a place at the U17 FIFA Women’s World Cup is a fantastic reward for their effort and an important step in their development as players and people. We will make sure we take a moment tonight to enjoy what we’ve achieved, but we also remain focused on this tournament with a semi-final ahead and more we want to deliver this campaign.”
Both FW Academy players Sakura Leong and Theo Mouithys were in starting lineup, and it was Australia who seized the early control, and Maeve Nicholas headed just wide of the target after only six minutes. They were in again on 25 minutes, Frideriki Karaberis’ shot from distance was well saved by Vietnam goalkeeper Tran Thi Cam My. Moments later Jugovic was denied by the Vietnam custodian, as Australia increased their tempo.
Australia eventually made the breakthrough on 28 minutes, when Karaberis reacted quickest after Jugovic’s initial shot had been saved, finding the net from close range. The Young Matildas doubled their lead three minutes later, Leyla Hussein collected Claire Corbett’s pass before firing a deft lob over Thi Cam My and into the corner of the net. They went close to a third on 33 minutes, WA’s Leong trying her luck from long range, but the keeper recovered well to make the save.
Vietnam started on the front foot after the break, and went close eight minutes in. Nguyen Thi Minh Anh met Le Thi Hong Thai’s cross inside the box, only to see her effort blocked by the Australian defence. Nguyen Thi Ngoc Anh I then wasted another chance three minutes later after seeing her attempt blocked again before Nguyen Thi Minh Anh broke into the area late, but her rising effort sailed just over the top right corner. They were unable to find a way through as Australia held firm to secure the win.
Australia: GK Dali Gorr Burchmore, 2 Willa Pearson, 5 Liana Luong, 6 Frideriki Karaberis, 7 Claire Corbett (3 Charlotte Bradshaw 85’), 8 Kaya Jugovic, 10 Leyla Hussein (14 Jada Taylor 64’), 13 Maeve Nicholas, 16 Tehya Aspland, 20 Sakura Leong, 21 Theo Mouithys (11 Matilda Dias Wadewitz 77’) – Subs not used: RGK Alyse Oppedisano, RGK Annabelle Croll, 9 Izabella Rako, 15 Tyra Bagiante, 17 Mary Dal Broi, 19 Harper Pell, 23 Abbie Puckett
Vietnam: GK Tr?n Th? C?m My, 3 Hoàng Th? Giang (14 Nguy?n Th? Thanh Lam 62’), 5 Hà Y?n Nhi, 7 Phan Th? Thu Phuong (4 Truong Y?n Linh 62’), 9 Nguy?n Th? Linh Chi, 10 Nguy?n Th? Minh Ánh, 11 Nguy?n Th? Ng?c Ánh I, 17 Lê Th? H?ng Thái, 19 Ð? Th? Hà Vi, 22 Nguy?n Anh Thu, 23 Tr?n Th? An – Subs not used: RGK L? Th? Th?y, RGK Bùi Th? Phuong Th?o, 2 Nguy?n Duong Phuong Nghi, 6 Nguy?n Th? Ng?c Ánh II, 8 Pham Th? Trang, 13 Ngô H?i Y?n, 15 Nguy?n Th? Phuong Th?o, 16 Ðoàn Th? Thu Hu?ng, 18 Ð?ng H? Thanh Phuong, 20 Nguy?n Khánh Ly
11.5.2026
JOEYS SEAL FIFA U-17 WORLD CUP PLACE WITH A GAME TO PLAY
The Joeys have qualified for the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar overnight for the first time since 2019, and they still have a game to play in the AFC U17 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia. They beat India in their opening game, with India losing to Uzbekistan overnight, Carl Veart’s squad have secured their place. This is a critical milestone for the Joeys and gives the next generation of Australian men’s footballers further opportunities to develop and grow against the best in their age group. Joeys Head Coach Carl Veart said it’s a great achievement by the squad.
“This is a fantastic achievement for the group and reward for the hard work they’ve put in throughout the campaign,” the former Adelaide United coach said. “As a group we have been clear about our ambition from the start which is to perform strongly at this Asian Cup and to put ourselves in a position to qualify for a World Cup. Qualifying for a FIFA U-17 World Cup is an important milestone in the development of these players, giving them the opportunity to test themselves against the best young talent in the world. We’re proud of the way the boys have represented Australia so far, and we’re excited to continue building as we prepare for Qatar.”
Football Australia’s Executive Director of Football, Heather Garriock congratulated Veart and the players on their qualification. “This qualification is a significant moment for our Australian football and our development pathway. The FIFA U-17 World Cup provides an invaluable platform for our emerging players to gain international experience and accelerate their growth on the global stage,” Garriock said. “We congratulate the players and staff on this achievement and look forward to supporting them as they continue their journey.” The FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar will run from 19 November to 13 December 2026. The Joey’s focus now turns to Uzbekistan who they play on Thursday 14 May at the King Abdullah Sports City Training Stadium in Jeddah in their next AFC U17 Asian Cup.
10.5.2026
SWAN CLOSE THE GAP ON LEADERS AFTER A NARROW WIN AT WANNEROO
Swan United have maintained their unbeaten start to the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division season, and ended league leaders Wanneroo City’s perfect start, after a 1-0 win in our Week Five ‘Match of the Round’ at Players Place on Sunday afternoon. “Although it’s early in the season it was an important game for us to make sure we came away with a result so the gap between us didn’t end up extending to seven points,” Swan coach Lee Taylor explained.
“The players were excellent today, and they deserve a lot of credit for sticking to the plan and were disciplined defensively throughout. We could have made our lives a little easier by taking some of our chances in the second half, but really happy to come away with a well-deserved three points.” Both these sides were relegated from the State League last season, and both will be trying to return at the first attempt, and it was Swan who scored the decisive goal ten minutes before the break. Some good build up play and run by John Monterosso down the right, before he delivered the ball into the box for Vishal Amunugama to finish neatly first time.
North Perth United remains third after a 4-0 win against Ballajura AFC at Woodville Reserve. “It was a comfortable win and we were well worthy of the three points, four goals and clean sheet,” North Perth coach Chris Batten said. “The game started pretty slowly but we soon found our rhythm and took control and scored four good goals and continued to create chances, so overall, happy with the result and the performance.” United midfielder’s Niall Kennedy and Barry Boggan were influential early, as the hosts searched for the opener, and it came seven minutes from the break.
Good work by Alex Wilde, who got to the by line, and pulled it back for the on-rushing Ben Green, his shot was saved by the keeper, but the rebound fell to Marcus Seydel who made no mistake. They added a second on 50 minutes, a Wilde free kick from the right, picked out Kennedy, whose glancing header found the net. It was 3-0 when Kennedy was brought down in the box, and he picked himself up to score the resulting penalty. They sealed the points with a fourth late, good work by Conor Hartley who beat three players, before squaring to Kennedy, who finished high onto the net to complete his hat trick.
Kwinana United are up to fourth, after a hard fought 2-1 win against Maccabi at Kelly Park. “It was a tough game and I’m delighted that we were able to get it over the line,” Kwinana coach George Mann said. “It was a huge effort all round and a great win. Maccabi are a strong side who made us work hard in a contest which truly could have gone either way.” A tight first half came to life late, and it was Kwinana who opened the scoring ten minutes before the break, with Neal Beveridge’s shot deflecting past the keeper. But Maccabi were level in the shadows of half time, with a fantastic solo goal by Henry Wilkinson-Derums. Both sides had their chances to win it, but it was the hosts who sealed the points just after the hour mark, Maddy Holman’s effort going in via the underside of the bar.
After back-to-back draws, Noranda Emerald are back in the winner’s circle, after a 4-0 win against Olympic Kingsway at Kingsway Reserve. “Delighted to get the three points and a clean sheet was very important to us also,” Noranda Emerald coach Ger Gaughan said. “We started quickly but they nearly caught us on the hop very early on too, but we pushed on a scored two goals before the break. We were a bit disappointed because it should have been more, but the positive is we kicked on in the second half, so glad get the win away from home.” The visitors went into the break in control, with goals from Alex Pomeroy and Shane Hickey in quick succession. Pomeroy added a third after good approach work, before they wrapped up the points late, with a pin-point pass from keeper Ger Doran found Keith Weekes who finished well into bottom corner.
Kingsley Westside have continued the poor start to the season for Jaguar, coming home from the Herb Graham Recreation Centre with a 9-0 win. “Full credit to Jaguar, they gave us a very competitive first half and made things difficult for us. We were a little bit poor with our ball movement and probably not playing the football, we wanted to play,” Kingsley coach Simone Sichel explained. “We still managed to go into halftime with a narrow lead. During the break we adjusted a couple of things and in the second half we went back to playing our football properly. What pleased me the most was the quality of the football after halftime. All nine goals came from really good combination play and collective movement.
We also had two penalties, but even those came after very good attacking combinations and quick football around the box. It was nice to see the boys rewarded for the way they played.” Ryan Fish gave them the lead at half time, but the damage was done after the break. Cameron Bishop converted two penalties to make it 3-0. Substitute Nathan Griffiths bagged five, with Kai Main-Nyckowsky adding the other. “Nathan’s impact from the bench was outstanding and again showed the importance of the whole squad contributing throughout the season,” Sichel added.
“Now the challenge for us is to use this performance and result as momentum going into our next two games against Wanneroo City and Swan United. They will be two very difficult and tough matches, but hopefully we can carry this confidence and intensity into those games.” The final game between Kelmscott Roos and Hamersley Rovers was postponed five minutes into the second half after Edward Chisopa broke his leg, and an ambulance was called. We wish him a speedy recovery.
10.5.2026
WOMEN’S STATE CUP – ROUND OF 16 REVIEW
It was cup weekend in the Women’s competition, with the round of 16 of the Construction Training Fund State Cup taking centre stage this weekend, and we had four all NPL ties, and reigning cup holders Fremantle City moved into the next round after a 6-0 win against Sorrento at Percy Doyle Reserve on Sunday afternoon. Fremantle were four to the good at half time, with a brace from Abbey Green, and others to Sam Brady and Lacey Heys. Leyna Wood added a fifth early in the second half, and Hey’s added her second shortly after to secure the big win.
Perth RedStar have started life without coach Chris Atturo, who left the club last week to seek opportunities overseas, with a hard fought 2-1 win against the Hyundai FW Academy at Sam Kerr Football Centre on Friday evening. It was Conrad McKelvie’s first game in charge, and his side found themselves behind on 25 minutes with Piper Dowe continuing her scoring run. But goal either side of half time from Renee Leota and Jayna Ridley secured the win. In the other two games involving NPL sides, league leaders, and last season’s runners-up, Balcatta Etna beat UWA Nedlands 1-0 in a hard-fought encounter at the Home Group Stadium, Grindleford Reserve on Friday evening, with Jamie-Lee Gale scoring the only goal of the game early.
Meanwhile Perth Azzurri retuned from Rosalie Park on Saturday evening with a 3-2 win. Sam Mathers gave the Azzurri the lead early, but Liana Cook levelled for the hosts on the half hour. Mathers added her second in first half stoppage time, before striker Jessica Flannery added a third shortly after the break. Sara Klott reduced the margin for Subiaco late, but Perth held firm to move into the next round.
In three of the other ties, it went to penalties. Firstly, Mandurah City beat East Perth at the Poolmart Mandurah Stadium on Friday evening, after the game ended 0-0. Also, on Friday evening at Len Packham Park Murdoch University Melville beat Perth AFC in shoot-out, after it was 1-1 after normal time, while Fremantle City Division One side beat Port Kennedy at Wauhop Park on Sunday afternoon, after it ended 3-3 at normal time. In the final game, doubles from Amy Buchanan and Ashley Sabean helped Subiaco AFC to a 5-1 win against fellow Division One side UWA Nedlands at Rosalie Park on Saturday evening.
10.5.2026
IS BENNIE A WORLD CUP BOLTER?
Former Perth Glory winger Daniel Bennie, who has been in good form for English Championship club Queens Park Rangers late in the season, has emerged as a bolter in Tony Popovic’s World Cup squad, after the 20-year-old was selected in a 10-player group, who have travelled to Sarasota to compete for a spot in the larger World Cup squad. It’s a first call-up to the senior national squad for Bennie, who will join fellow WA player and Swansea City defender Cameron Burgess
After a first wave of eight players were announced last week, Bennie and Burgess were joined by Watford winger Nestory Irankunda, Norwich City striker Mohamed Toure, Melbourne City duo Aziz Behich and Patrick Beach, Netherlands-based Ajdin Hrustic, promising Cardiff City midfielder Alex Robertson, Aston Villa goalkeeper Joe Gauci and Coventry City youth international Raphael Borges Rodrigues.
Popovic is using the camp to assess an extended number of players before naming his final 26-man squad on June 1, with Popovic quick to point out last week selection in the Sarasota camp did not guarantee anyone a berth. But the inclusion of Bennie, who won Glory’s young player of the year award in 2024, is rich reward after a breakout season at Loftus Road. After playing for Australia at the under-20 World Cup, Bennie played 17 of QPR’s last 20 league games, starting five of them. His strong form attracted the attention of Scotland, the birthplace of Bennie’s parents who the forward is also eligible for.
Perth-raised centre-back Burgess, along with forwards Irankunda and Toure, is expected to have strong claims on a starting berth in North America when the Socceroos take on Turkiye, USA and Paraguay in Group D when the World Cup begins in a month’s time. More players will be added to the training squad in coming weeks, before the squad flies to Los Angeles to face Mexico in a pre-World Cup friendly on May 30. The Socceroos will then journey to Oakland, their home base for the tournament, before one final warm-up game against Switzerland in San Diego ahead of their June 13 (Pacific Standard Time) opener against Turkiye in Vancouver.
Socceroos squad currently in Sarasota, Florida - Goalkeepers: Patrick Beach (Melbourne City), Joe Gauci (Aston Villa, on loan at Port Vale) - Defenders: Aziz Behich (Melbourne City), Cameron Burgess (Swansea City), Hayden Matthews (Portsmouth), Harry Souttar (Leicester City) - Midfielders: Anthony Caceres (Macarthur FC), Ajdin Hrustic (Heracles Almelo), Mathew Leckie (Melbourne City), Alex Robertson (Cardiff City) - Forwards: Daniel Bennie (QPR), Raphael Borges Rodrigues (Coventry City on loan at Wigan), Brandon Borrello (Western Sydney Wanderers), Nick D’Agostino (Viking FC), Mitchell Duke (Macarthur) Nestory Irankunda (Watford), Mohamed Toure (Norwich City), Nishan Velupillay (Melbourne Victory).
9.5.2026
MATHET HAT-TRICK GIVES ARMADALE FIRST WIN – NPLWA – MEN’S REVIEW
Armadale have leapfrogged Balcatta Etna at the bottom of the New Balance NPLWA – Men’s table after a 5-0 win in the Week Nine clash at Alfred Skeet Reserve on Saturday afternoon. It was John Baird’s first win as senior coach at Armadale, and it also sent Balcatta to the foot of the table, and Baird said he was delighted with the performance. “The players deserved that result. The way the group has stuck together through a difficult period has been outstanding and Saturday was a reward for all their hard work and belief, I’ve said for a few weeks now that the performances were improving and against Balcatta everything came together for us,” Baird explained. “
“The attitude, commitment and quality from the players was excellent from start to finish. Abraham Mathet was outstanding. His movement, energy and finishing were top class and a hat-trick was fully deserved. He’s worked extremely hard and it was great to see him get rewarded for that effort. I also want to mention everyone around the club because they’ve been different class. The support behind the scenes from staff, volunteers and supporters has been massive, and Saturday’s win was for the whole club.”
The host were ahead on 11 minutes, Abraham Mathet raced into the box and was brought down by Riley Stephenson, and the referee pointed straight to the spot. Mathet picked himself up and sent the keeper the wrong way from the resulting penalty. Then on 25 minutes the visitors were reduced to ten, Stephenson again bringing down Mathet who raced onto a Luke Desmond through ball, the referee awarded the penalty and sent the keeper off. The unfortunate Edward Wilcock was sacrificed, with substitute keeper Chase Manning coming on. The first thing Manning had to do was pick the ball out of the net, with Mathet finding the bottom corner with his penalty.
The hosts added a third early in the second half, Mathet the supplier this time finding Desmond on the edge of the box, who turned past his marker and fired home. Mathet completed his hat-trick just after the hour, when Armadale won a third penalty, Charlie Garnham cross hit the arm of James Fanelli, and Mathet sent Manning the wrong way from the spot. Armadale wrapped up the scoring on 71 minutes, Cherno Bah sent substitute Zachary Pentony down the left, and his cross was turned into his own net by the unfortunate Chris Tilson.
Dianella White Eagles coach Ian Ferguson has returned to his former club Stirling Macedonia and left with all three points after a thrilling 4-3 win at Macedonia Park. “It was a great game for both sets of fans, going 2-0 up then 3-2 down as Stirling had the upper hand,” Ferguson said. “We then made three changes and I thought all the substitutes made a massive contribution to the game, that swung it in our favour. The lads showed character and didn’t give up when 3-2 down and got the result in the end.”
The visitors were ahead on 19 minutes, Cory McNelis raced down the right, and got to the by-line and crossed to Luwi, who headed home. They doubled their lead four minutes later, skipper Sasa Njegic shot on the run flew past Liam Hattersley. Stirling pulled one back just after the half hour mark, Calvin Whitney sent Pacifique Dufitimukiza down the right and he squared the ball to Callum McKenzie, who made no mistake. The hosts took the lead five minutes into the second half, when Euan Cameron’s corner was turned home by Joshua Bilaloski. But Dianella restored parity 16 minutes later, Njegic’s free kick found the unmarked Franc Gamiz Quer at the back post, who fired home.
It was game on, and both sides looked for the winner, but it was Dianella who found it ten minutes from time. Daniel Zivkovic made space down the right and crossed to fellow substitute Asher Nelson, who scored against his former club. “Definitely an entertaining game for the fans on each side for sure,” Eagles striker Albert Luwi said. “We started the game very well and was probably our best start to a game this season but credit to Stirling they capitalised on some lack of concentration from us and put away their chances. They are a top team so it was never going to be an easy game, but I feel we did play a hand in helping them get back into the game. But ultimately very pleased in the end we dug deep and reacted brilliantly to such a poor start to the second half and got the win in the end.”
In the final game Perth Glory have secured their second win of the season, after a 3-1 win against Western Knights at the Sam Kerr Football Centre. Glory hit the front on 21 minutes, a cross into the box found Louis Sollitt, whose shot deflected off a Knights defender and into the net. It was 2-0, when Sollitt was sent clear, and he finished clinically past Robert Sinclair. The Knights pulled one back in the shadows of half time, a long throw into the box wasn’t dealt with, and Jesse Lazzaro swept the ball home from close-range. But it would be Glory who took all three points, when they added a third early in the second half. Maxim Uvarov cross picked out Shaun Mutyavaviri, who got in between two Knights defenders to head home.
9.5.2026
UWA BEAT CURTIN TO KEEP PRESSURE ON LEADERS – STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE REVIEW
UWA Nedlands have kept the pressure on State League Division One league leaders Floreat Athena after a 3-0 win against Curtin University in our Week Seven ‘Match of the Round’ at the Green Promo Park, Edinburgh Oval on Saturday afternoon. “Another solid, disciplined all round team performance against a very competitive Curtin team,” UWA coach Mark Reid said. “Pleasing to keep another clean sheet and couldn’t have asked for more, in the effort the boys gave again.”
Both sides went into this one in good form, but it was the visitors who made the breakthrough on six minutes, Dean Hurley’s cross from the right was turned home by Joe McInnes. They doubled their advantage on 19 minutes, Nicolas Falco sent Hurley into the penalty area, and he was brought down by Mighael Muller, and the referee pointed straight to the spot, and McInnes sent Alex Radonich the wrong way from the resulting penalty. They sealed the points nine minutes from time, Antony Dolan sent fellow substitute Hugo Perez into the box and he finished with aplomb.
Joondalup City have made it three wins on the bounce, after a 2-1 win against Kingsley Westside at Iluka Park. “I thought it was a great performance from the boys,” Joondalup coach Guy McDonald said. “I thought we were superb in the first half and then showed a will to defend in the second along with creating multiple chances throughout the game.” The host were ahead on 20 minutes, Jaxon Temata shot from the edge of the box was saved, but Louis Hadfield scored from the rebound. They sealed the points in stoppage time at the end of the game, Luke Steer burst into the box on the left, he was brought down by Isaac Driessen, but the referee paid a good advantage and the ball fell to Phoenix Lee, who swept the ball home. Kingsley hit back in stoppage time, Luke Doyle’s free kick was bundled home by Elliot Tattersall, but it was just a consolation goal.
Gwelup Croatia remain fourth, after a late goal from substitute Sam Wilkinson gave them a 2-2 draw against Murdoch University Melville at the Croatian Sporting Complex Wishart Street. “If I’m honest, despite going one nil up MUM executed their game plan better than us in the first half and deserved to be leading at half time,” Gwelup coach Toby Wright explained. “However, we came out in the second half more organised and got the point we deserved for an improved second half performance. A special shout out to 18-year-old Sam Wilkinson who got his debut Wednesday and then came on and scored the equaliser, and another youngster James Philips who also got his debut.”
Gwelup found the opener on 11 minutes, Ben Cambell was sent down the left channel, and his low shot beat Duncan Lennon-Black and found the bottom corner. But their lead only lasted three minutes, Gustavo Giron Marulanda found Seagh Harris on the right, and he cut inside and finished clinically past Rocco Liberti. Then four minutes later MUM FC, Giron Marulanda saw his shot well saved by Liberti, but from the resulting Adrian Ciampini’s corner, Sam Gallagher headed home at the near post. But Gwelup would find the equaliser four minutes from time, Jeremie Mba saw his effort saved by Lennon-Black, but Wilkinson was on hand to fire home the rebound.
The hosts ended the game with ten men after Shaun McDermott was shown two quick yellow cards and sent off. “It was a game of two halves, I thought we were excellent and well worth our lead at half time after going behind against the run of play, but we never came out second half and allowed Gwelup to play the game on their terms and eventually it came back to bite us late in the game,” MUM FC coach Marc Anthony explained. “But a draw was a fair result. Moving forward, we need to start turning these draws in to wins otherwise we will be at the wrong end of the table.”
Inglewood United have won their second game of the season, with a 2-1 win against Mandurah City at the Proto DPS Inglewood Stadium. “It was a hard-fought win yesterday especially in the second half of the game,” Inglewood defender Ciaran Salinger said. “First half I thought we dominated the ball and dictated possession, as the game stretched out, they caused a bit more chaos and played a bit more direct. I thought we weathered the storm quite well and defended resiliently as a team. Full credit to the whole squad who worked their socks off for and got the three points.”
The hosts, who were coming off back-to-back defeats, were ahead on the half hour Liam Hudson crossing from the left and Jake Nicholson rose highest to head home. They added a second ten minutes later, Declan Hudson finding Nicholson who dinked home neatly over Mandurah keeper Josiah Godfrey. Mandurah found a lifeline just before the hour mark, half time substitute Lachlan Hannah’s cross from the right was finished well by Jordan Callaghan. The visitors pressed late looking for an equaliser, and the referee was busy with a number of yellow cards, but the hosts held firm to take the points.
In the final game Quinns have beaten a ten-man Cockburn city 2-0 at Dalmatinac Park. “Cockburn are a quality young side, so to come away with a 2–0 win was a really pleasing performance,” Quinns coach Nick Jennings said. “I thought the players showed great discipline, work ethic, and composure throughout the game.” The visitors were ahead on four minutes, a corner from the right was recycled by Chad Samuels on the left, and his ball found its way to Shaun Doherty on the edge of the box and his first time shot found the bottom corner of the net past Ben Radonich. The host chances of a comeback were dented when skipper Euen Grant was sent off for a last man challenge on Tyler Holden. Quinns sealed the points with a second on the half hour, when the referee spotted a handball by Charles Young. Samuels stepped up and scored the resulting penalty, despite Radonich getting a hand to it.
9.5.2026
WEMBLEY HIT MORLEY FOR SIX – STATE LEAGUE DIVISION TWO REVIEW
Wembley Downs have continued their good start to the State League Division Two season, with a big 6-1 win in our Week Six ‘Match of the Round’ at Butlers Reserve on Saturday evening. “Obviously very happy with the result and we were finally more clinical in the final third,” Wembley coach Luke Thompson explained. “The first half, Morley were the better side and didn't deserve to go in two down, we only had a few attacks the whole half and happened to be clinical. But second half we adapted and played very well and kept up being clinical in front of goal.”
Wembley were ahead on 28 minutes, Takudzwa Chisunga sent Toby Robertson down the right, his cross found Callum McLeod, who finished clinically past Luke Martino. They doubled their lead five minutes before half time, a ball over the top sent Toby Robertson clear and he finished well. Wembley went on with it after the break, and made it 3-0 on 69 minutes, a long throw wasn’t dealt with, and Hayden Boffey finished with aplomb from the edge of the box. They added a fourth moment later, a ball over the top found Billy Templeton-Knight, who held off his marker before firing home.
It was 5-0 five minutes later, a clearance from keeper Casey Robertson was headed on and Mella Loding cut inside his marker and finished clinically past Martino. They added a sixth shortly after, Robertson sent clear, and with Morley looking for the offside flag, that never came, he rounded Martino and rolled the ball home. Morley found a consolation goal on 78 minutes, Wembley turned the ball over in the middle of the park and the ball was slipped through to Isaac Toah Ntow, who made no mistake, but it was too little too late for the visitors.
League leaders Rockingham City have dropped their first points of the season, but salvaged a 2-2 draw with a late goal against Forrestfield United at the Endeavour Homes Stadium, Larkhill Sportsplex. “Disappointing game in the end for us, we definitely came off with feeling like a loss,” Forrestfield defender Shaydon Passalacqua said. “We gave a poor goal away early which was disappointing but came out firing after half time. Credit to Rocky they didn’t let off and pushed all the way to the finish and saved a point. It’s hard to win this league and to be undefeated through the first six games shows they are serious contenders, but so are we” Rockingham found the opener after only 11 minutes, with striker Shaun Mukwevho on target, and they led by that goal at the break.
But Forrestfield were on the front foot after the break and levelled three minutes in, a long throw wasn’t dealt with and Matthew Evans finished well. Then shortly after Rockingham defender Graham Tough was shown a second yellow card for a foul in the box, and Lucas Reid fired home the resulting penalty. Forrestfield had a number of chances to extend their lead but failed to take them, and 15 minutes from time there was a tussle and the referee sent of Rockingham’s Regan Davidson and Forrestfield’s Joshua Gardner. It looked like Forrestfield would leave with the points but three minutes from time Rockingham levelled. Substitute Ryan Kennedy’s cross was headed home by Joseph Moss.
Kalamunda City have closed the gap on the leaders to four points, after a 3-1 win against Canning City at the Spanish Club of WA on Saturday evening. “First half today we were in complete control our keeper didn’t really have a save to make in the opening 45 minutes. We moved the ball well, controlled territory and created a number of good moments, but football can be a funny game because it doesn’t matter how much possession you have if you don’t put your chances away,” Kalamunda coach Kyle Robertson said.
“Credit to Canning City though, they kept competing and managed to get their break just before half time which changed the feel of the game a little. From what I saw today they continued to work hard, stayed organised and I’m sure they’ll start climbing the table as the year goes on. For us, it’s another important win and another step forward for the group. The competition is very tight already and every result matters. The players can enjoy the win tonight, but myself and Kris have already switched our focus to a tough challenge against Balga next weekend.”
Kalamunda were coming off a big win against North Beach last week, and were ahead in this one on 20 minutes, Angel Andres playing in Andrea Erbetta who made no mistake. But Canning hit back immediately, with Brian Mashingaidze scoring. The referee signalled for handball initially, but after a chat with his assistant the goal stood. But Kalamunda sealed the points with two quick goals after the break. First on the hour Andres shot was saved by the keeper, and skipper Nicolas Roca slotted home the rebound, before Andres fired home a penalty three minutes later.
Carramar Shamrock Rovers are up to fourth, after a 5-1 win against North Beach at Charles Riley Memorial Reserve. “I thought it was a fantastic team effort to keep momentum going heading into the Rockingham game,” Rovers’ coach Adam Walsh said. “We scored the first, probably against the run of play, and added another before the break. We had a bit of a wake-up call when North Beach scored but re-focused and sealed the win.”
The visitors hit the front on 31 minutes, a great switch by Josh Reid picked out Jack Reilly, who played in Nathan Diaz, who slid the ball home. They added a second moments later, Aidan Donnelly finishing neatly at the back post, and went into the break in control. They added a third early in the second half, with Reilly added his second. North Beach found a lifeline on the hour, with B Reynolds on target, but nine minutes later Rovers made sure of the points, with Lewis Jones finishing off a good move down the right. Dean Cowbrough rounded off a fantastic day for Rovers, grabbing a fifth in final minute, heading home a Connor Cleary cross.
Balga have scored late to share the spoils with East Perth, after a 2-2 draw at Hudson Park. “East Perth is a physical strong side with good defensive organisation and it was clear to us that we need patience to score,” Balga coach Gerhard Janssen said. “The team came back twice, which shows that we are not only believe in our system because we never stopped playing our football, even in the last minute. We should've scored more goals that is the only thing we all look at and the team is not very lucky. The picture shows that we scored a regular goal in the second half, when, unfortunately, the linesman decided against us. By the way, no criticism against a top referee team, but our boys did not complain and kept fighting till the end and were rewarded.”
The hosts were ahead on the 11 minutes, with Ryan McCready on target, although Balga thought keeper Noah Boulaye had been fouled, but the goal stood. But Balga were level on the half hour, Ivwan Simbile was fouled in the box and Jose Zuniga made no mistake from the spot. It looked like East Perth had won it ten minutes from time, with McCready added his second, turning home after a ball in from the right. But in three minutes into stoppage time Balga restored parity, Bleron Mamudi played the ball into the box to onrushing Samir Ramos, who rounded East Perth keeper Azarl Tanveer to score.
In the final game, Gosnells City search for a first win of the season goes on, but they did pick up a point after a 0-0 draw against Ashfield at Walter Padbury Reserve. Gosnells coach Peter Allen said his young side are showing improvement. “We knew we were in for a tough game against Ashfield they’ve had a good start to the season and Malcom has them well organised, but we’ve been competitive in games just not finding the back of the net and so it proved again,” he explained. “Both teams had great chances and credit to both keepers for pulling off great saves. At the end of the day no complaints, a draw was the right result, we take the point and try build from it going forward, I believe these young lads will click and the results will follow.”
8.5.2026
FLOREAT SCORE LATE TO BEAT SUBIACO
Floreat Athena remain on top of the State League Division One, and remain unbeaten to start the season, but only just, scoring deep into stoppage time to beat Subiaco AFC 5-4 in a thriller at E&D Litis Stadium on Friday evening. Floreat coach Alun Vernals said a good performance was almost spoilt after giving up a 4-1 lead, and he is well aware there is plenty of improvement from his side. “It was a comfortable night for us that nearly went horribly wrong,” he explained. “You can’t take your foot of the pedal in any game in this league, and we did that tonight, and credit to Subiaco for never giving in. In the end, pleased we managed to get the winner, but we have plenty to work on next week.”
It looked like being a comfortable night for the hosts, racing to a 3-0 lead inside the first 26 minutes. The club celebrating their 75th anniversary, and wearing a special heritage kick on the night, while new Korean signing Hee-Jun Kim made his debut. They found the opener on nine minutes, when Harry Lewis’ corner was powerfully headed home by Jacon Young. They added a second six minutes later, Lewis crossing from the right and Jordan Langley lost his marker to head home. It was soon 3-0, with Tom Wassholm on target. It looked like being a long night for Marc Wingell’s side, but they found a lifeline two minutes later, Kaleb Morrison scoring.
The game looked over on the hour mark when Floreat added a fourth, Joshua Willis’ cross picking out Lewis, who finished clinically. Subiaco weren’t finished, and remarkably scored three late goals to restore parity. They scored their second three minutes from time, Tomas Despotovski pounced on a loose ball and racing in on goal and finishing neatly. It was 4-3 sixty seconds later, Robert Petkov sending Despotovski clear, and he outpaced his marker before finishing with aplomb. Then amazingly it was all-square on 89 minutes, Jack Steele crossing from the right and Isaac Scellier fired home at the back post.
It looked like the points would be shared, but four minutes into stoppage time, the hosts won it, keeper Max Winton made a great save to deny Luis Adlard’s shot, but the rebound fell to Mohammed Al-Zaidy who drilled his shot home, to set off wild celebrations on and off the pitch, and left Subiaco devastated. “It was very disappointing to not come away with a point after that last five minutes to get three goals,” Subiaco’s Tomas Despotovski explained. “We know we have the fighting spirit and desire, but just a shame we haven’t been able to get results recently.”
8.5.2026
REDSTAR MOVED TOP OF THE TABLE AFTER WIN IN LOCAL DERBY – NPLWA - FRIDAY REVIEW
Perth RedStar have moved three points clear at the top of the New Balance NPLWA – Men’s competition, after a 4-1 win against local rivals Sorrento, in our Week Nine ‘Match of the Round’ at the RedStar Arena on Friday evening. RedStar coach Callum Salmon said his side continue to improve, and he was pleased with the performance in the local derby. “Proud of the boys, it was a great result against tough opposition,” Salmon said post-match. “I’m happy with where the team is and how we’re playing, and a special mention to Teddi Curran, scoring fantastic goal last night, and we’re looking forward next week.”
The hosts hit the front on five minutes, Matthew George sent Aaron Black racing down the left, and he cut into the box and his low cross was turned into his own net by the unfortunate Manolo Veneracion. They doubled their advantage eight minutes before the break. Nick Walsh finding Gordon Smith down the left, who rolled his marker and laid the ball off to Black, whose shot was saved by Ben Ratajczak, but Liam Murray turned home the rebound.
The visitors were back in the game six minutes into the second half, Tim Hill finding Dean Cummings on the left, who picked out Kyunghwan Kim, who shot found the bottom corner past Liam Reddy. But RedStar regained their two-goal advantage 19 minutes later, George’s cross field pass found Jacob Evans, and his cross found it’s way to Black, who made no mistake. They sealed the points late, George ball found Curran, who outmuscled his marker before finishing clinically for the teenagers first NPL goal in the first team.
Bayswater City have moved to second, and beaten former league leaders Olympic Kingsway after a 3-2 win at Frank Drago Reserve. Bayswater coach Matthew Sparrow said his side showed character to fight back after conceding early. “Superb win and performance from the group against a top side. To go 1-0 down after a couple of minutes could easily have knocked us, but I thought the players showed real character and personality to respond the way they did,” he said post-match.
“We stayed calm, kept believing in ourselves and I felt our intensity and quality on the ball grew as the half went on and led at the break. Once again, they pegged us back, but I thought the mentality from the players was outstanding. To go on and win it at the death was really pleasing and, overall, I felt we deserved it on the night for the way we approached the game and the chances we created. It was also a great advert for football in WA with a fantastic crowd under the lights at Frank Drago Reserve. The atmosphere was brilliant and the players certainly fed off that energy throughout the night. It’s a massive three points for us, but we’ll enjoy the win, recover properly and then turn our attention to another big week ahead.”
The visitors made a perfect start, and were ahead on two minutes, Tyler Garner’s through ball sent Rob Harker clear, and the striker finished clinically past Lewis Italiano. But Bayswater were level 16 minutes later, a great ball from Daniel Stynes picked out Brent Quick on the right, who got in front of Ollie Annis and finished low past Adrian Sinagra. Chris Jackson was then denied by Sinagra as Bayswater pressed for a second, but the home side did hit the front on the half hour. Declan Hughes’ cross into the box picked out Chris Jackson, who stooped to head home, and they led at the break.
Olympic hit back after the break, and restored parity on 76 minutes. Annis’ cross from the left was headed clear by Luke Palmateer, but it fell to substitute Will Ferson, and the former Perth Glory Youth midfielder fired low past Italiano. It was game on, with both sides pressing for the winner, but it was Bayswater who would find it. Quick raced out from the back and his ball over the top found Sean McManus, and with the Olympic players looking for the offside flag, that never came, the winger raced into goal and dinked the ball over the oncoming Sinagra. The action wasn’t over there, Olympic were reduced to ten men, with skipper Mitch Oxborrow shown a straight red card by referee Steven Gregory for a tackle on BorBor Sam.
In other game on night, the points were shared with Perth Azzurri coming from behind at the break to draw 1-1 with Fremantle City at Dorrien Gardens. “It’s always been a tough place for us to come and get a result so we knew we had to be at it,” Fremantle skipper Charlie Chechlacz said. “We had some good chances despite them having a good amount of possession, so taking a point away from home is a positive.” Fremantle new signing Josh Risdon made his debut for the club, after his retirement from professional football with Perth Glory, and it was the port side who found the opener on five minutes. Perth turned the ball over in the middle of the park, and Chechlacz played Chad Nilson in down the left, and his low cross was turned home by Iljas Ahmedov.
The hosts found the equaliser just before the hour mark, with three substitutes involved. David Ninkovich picked the ball up in his own half and raced forward and found Jackson Morgan, who slipped neat ball onto Gordon Perkins, who made no mistake past Luke Radonich, to give both sides a share of the spoils. “It was a frustrating game with a mistake from me early on to give away a goal,” Perth striker Jamie McNelis said. “But I felt we dominated the second half in possession and created a lot of chances and deserved at least a point out of the game.”
8.5.2026
JUNIOR MATILDAS WELL BEATEN BY JAPAN, BUT MOVE THROUGH TO KNOCK OUT STAGE
The Junior Matildas have been well beaten in their final AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup Group B game, with Japan proving to strong, running out convincing 5-0 winners at the Suzhou Taihu Football Sports Centre on Friday. It means Japan have topped the group with a perfect three wins, and will face the Group C runners-up in the quarter-finals on Monday, while Australia also advanced after finishing second, and they will play Group A runners-up Vietnam.
Head Coach Michael Cooper made six changes to the team that drew 1-1 with Lebanon in the previous fixture. Annabelle Croll came in between the sticks, while Liana Luong, Kaya Jugovic, Leyla Hussein, Maeve Nicholas and Tyra Bagiante came into the starting eleven. Maeve Nicholas wore the captain's armband. WA’s Sakura Leong kept her place in the side, but Theo Mouithys, who had scored in both of their group games, was on the bench.
Despite having already confirmed their last eight spot, Japan went on the offensive from the start with Harura Matsushita's third minute effort from outside the box forcing a smart save from Australia custodian Croll. Japan was rampant, and Australia were struggling them and conceded the opener on 16 minutes, with Mei Hanashiro heading home a corner. The setback sparked Australia into immediate action with Nicholas's left footed shot requiring a save from Kou Kadowaki.
That, however, proved to be the only shot on target for the Junior Matildas in the first half as Japan widened their lead on 22 minutes, after Arisu Ota dispossessed Charlotte Bradshaw and relayed the ball to Mino Tamamura who, in turn, released Hanashiro to finish clinically. It was 3-0 on 35 minutes, with Tamamura getting her name on the scoresheet with a well-placed finish.
The Australian custodian was also busy in the second half, Croll denied Rei Kitamura and Mino Tamamura in the opening minutes, but failed to cleanly save the latter's shot from distance on 52 minutes, with Nanami Kurita slotting the spilled ball home from close range. Australia was on the back foot, as Japan pressed for another, and it duly arrived on 73 minutes, substitute Rara Higuchi's long-range shot beating Croll to seal a 5-0 victory.
Australia: GK Annabelle Croll, 3 Charlotte Bradshaw, 4 Keira Sarris, 5 Liana Luong, 6 Frida Karaberis, 8 Kaya Jugovic (11 Matilda Dias Wadewitz 74'), 10 Leyla Hussein (9 Izabella Rako 63'), 13 Maeve Nicholas, 15 Tyra Bagiante (19 Harper Pell 46'), 16 Tehya Aspland (17 Mary Dal Broi 46'), 20 Sakura Leong (14 Jada Taylor 46') – Sub not used: RGK Alyse Oppedisano. RGK Dali Gorr Burchmore, 23 Abbie Puckett, 2 Willa Pearson, 7 Claire Corbett, 21 Theo Mouithys
Japan: GK Kou Kadowaki, 2 Wara Shimizu, 5 Misato Maeda (3 Anri Ito 46'), 6 Misaya Takeda, 8 Harura Matsushita (4 Rei Kitamura 46'), 10 Arisu Ota, 14 Mei Hanashiro (7 Rara Higuchi 46'), 17 Mino Tamamura, 19 Yumi Hayashi, 20 Nanami Kurita (9 Yuzuha Ikeda 68'), 22 Akina Masaki (21 Asuka Tanaka 79') – Subs not used: RGK Mikan Yamanaka, RGK Ayaka Miyaji, 11 Futaba Noda, 13 Runa Sumiya, 15 Keiko Kitajima, 16 Maho Kubota, 18 Mashiro Yamaji
8.5.2026
TOP OF THE TABLE CLASH IN AMATEUR PREMIER DIVISION
It’s week five of the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division, and our ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to Players Place, Wanneroo Reserve, where league leaders Wanneroo City host second placed Swan United. (All games kick off at 3:00pm) The hosts have taken all before them this season, winning all of their opening four games, sitting four points clear at the top, the latest a 6-0 win in the local derby against Olympic. The visitors are also unbeaten, and after drawing the opening two games have won the last two, the latest a 7-1 win against Jaguar. So with both sides in good form, and both hoping to get back to the State League after relegation last season, this should be a cracker.
The last the two teams played at the venue, was last season in week 14 in Division Two, with Swan come home with all three points after a 2-1 win. It was Wanneroo who led at the break, with Kane Fitch converting from the spot, after referee Ollie Clark spotted a handball in the box. But ten minutes into the second half the Swans were level. A corner from Nicholas Burmej, was turned back to him and his deep cross to the back post was headed down by Yousif Toto and substitute Brennan Borzecki turned the ball home from close-range. It was the visitors who won it 13 minutes from time, Burmei’s corner was headed home by Borzecki.
Swan coach Lee Taylor said it’s been a good start for the new look side, but knows is still early days, but he’s pleased with their start to the season. “It’s still early in the season and there’s a long way to go, but the signs have been positive so far. The group is working hard, buying into what we’re trying to build, and there’s a good hunger within the squad to keep improving week by week,” he explained.
“I’ve been really pleased with the attitude and commitment from the players. Bringing together a new squad always takes time, but the group is starting to develop strong connections both on and off the pitch. Back-to-back wins have helped us build some confidence but there is still plenty we can improve on, but the players deserve credit for the way they’ve approached the season so far.”
Taylor knows the challenge that lies ahead of them on Sunday, but he said it’s challenge they are looking forward to. “Wanneroo City away will be a great test for us they are a strong side. These are the types of games you want to be involved in and it should be a good challenge for both teams,” he said. “For us, the focus will remain on our own performance and making sure we approach the game with the right mentality.”
With Wanneroo sitting top of the table, many believe the title is theirs, but coach Jason Winter said that’s the furthest thing from his mind, the only thing he is focusing on is Swan United on Sunday. “I haven’t really thought about promotion to be honest, ideally that’s what everyone at the club would want, but it’s only Round Five, and all I’m thinking about is Swan on Sunday,” he explained.
“I’ve been pleased with the squad, the main thing when we started was trying to build a squad and good culture and I believe we have that, and this weekend we have three of last years under 18s in the squad which is great to see. The game against Swan on Sunday, is a bit of an unknown as there a new squad also and new coach. But we both sides still unbeaten and in good form, it should be a cracking game.”
In other games this weekend, third placed Hamersley Rovers make the trip to Frye Park to take on Kelmscott Roos, with both looking to build on big wins last week, while North Perth United welcome Ballajura AFC to Woodville Reserve. Jaguar will go in search of a first win of the season when they host Kingsley Westside at the Herb Grahan Recreation Centre, Noranda Emerald head to Kingsway Reserve to meet Olympic Kingsway, while in the final game Kwinana United entertain Maccabi at Kelly Park.
8.5.2026
NPLWA – MEN’S WEEK NINE – FRIDAY PREVIEW
We are back into league action in the New Balance NPLWA – Men’s competition, after last week’s Hahn Australia Cup ties, and we have three blockbusters on Friday evening, with Perth Azzurri entertaining Fremantle City at Dorrien Gardens, while league leaders Olympic Kingsway host Bayswater City at the Madman Arena. It’s a huge game for Bayswater defender Sam Mitchinson, who will play his 250th game for the club. He arrived Bayswater City in 2014, and has helped the club to 4 NPL titles, 3 Night Series titles, 2 Top Four titles, and won 2 Rocco D’Orazio Medallist. Club President Oriano Colli said he has been a great servant to the Frank Drago Reserve club.
“In his very first season at the club, Sam took out our highest individual honour — the Rocco D’Orazio Medal — and a decade later, won it again in 2024. A remarkable reflection of his consistency, professionalism, and love for the club,” Colli explained. “But Sam represents far more than trophies and accolades, his loyalty, his leadership, his passion, and that is what Bayswater City stands for. Congratulations Sammy on 250 outstanding games, you are a true Baysie legend through and through.”
Meanwhile our Friday evening, Week Nine ‘Match of the Round’ is the City of Joondalup Derby, where Perth RedStar welcome Sorrento to the RedStar Arena. (All games kick off at 7:00pm) The Gulls go into the game on the back of four straight wins, which has moved them up to sixth, while RedStar are joint-leaders, and unbeaten in their last three league games, so it sets up a thriller under lights at the campus.
The last time the two sides met at the venue was in the final game of last season, with Callum Salmon’s side winning 1-0. It was a typical derby game, with chances at both ends, but it looked like the points would be shared, but in stoppage time the hosts won it with a fine team goal. Sam Pollard found Taj Filipe on the left, he cut inside and played a neat give and go with fellow substitute Liam Murray, Filipe racing into the box and squaring the ball to Sonny O’Shea who fired low past Ben Ratajczak.
The Gulls came home from Hilton Park with the points last time out, and coach Andres Oliveira was delighted with his side. “Fremantle are a good team, and Scott Miller got them playing really well, so to come away with a clean sheet and three points says a lot about the character of the group. I thought defensively we were disciplined, organised, and willing to do the hard work for each other, as a coach is a great thing to see,” Oliveira said. “We’re really pleased with the run we’re on. The performances have been consistent, the group is growing every week, and you can see the belief building across the squad.”
Oliveira said any local derby is a challenge, but it’s one the players are relishing. “The players have worked hard to create this momentum, and the pleasing part is that we still feel there’s more improvement in us,” he explained. “Both teams coming off wins, and in good form, it sets up a great occasion. RedStar have quality all over the pitch, so we know we’ll need to be at our best. For us, it’s another opportunity to show our identity, compete, and keep building. It should be a fantastic game under lights.”
RedStar also came home with three points last week, after a 4-2 win against Balcatta, and coach Callum Salmon said the hosts were tough opponents, and they need some quality goals to take the points. “I thought Balcatta were one of the best teams we’ve played so far,” Salmon explained. “But we scored some excellent goals to win it, but they never gave up and pushed us all the way to the end. Riley (Warland) and Liam (Murray) goals in particular were incredible and Aaron Black has been on fire every game so far. Long may it continue
Salmon said they go into the game in a confident mood, but he knows there is still room for improvement. “Yes, so far so good, but we’re not getting ahead of ourselves as it’s very early doors and the quality of the league things can turn if you turn up expecting to win without earning it. The Group is pushing each other, and the senior players set the standards for the younger players to follow and achieve,” he said. “We’re all excited for the game and looking forward to Friday night game against Sorrento under lights. We will be relying on the team leaders Ryan (Finnie), Blair (Govan), Rocket (Liam Reddy) to keep the standards high and we’ll pick the best team we can to ideally keep the wins coming, as league is tight and you can’t afford to slip up to achieve our goals.”
8.5.2026
NPLWA – MEN’S WEEK NINE – SATURDAY PREVIEW
In Saturday’s New Balance NPLWA – Men’s games (All kick off at 3:00pm) Perth Glory welcome Western Knights to the Sam Kerr Football Centre, with both sides looking to get back to winning ways, while third placed Stirling Macedonia entertain Dianella White Eagles at Macedonia Park. In the final game we have a real six pointer at the foot of the table, when Armadale host Balcatta Etna at Alfred Skeet Reserve.
The hosts are still searching for their first win of the season, but have been close in the last few weeks, but bad discipline has cost them three out of the last four games, going down to ten men when they have been in a winning position, and coach John Baird said it has been frustrating, but he believes they are growing as a team, and he hopes to end their winless drought on Saturday.
“Yes, it has been frustrating, there’s no hiding from that. In a number of games, we’ve been in control and the red cards have really shifted the momentum against us. That said, the performances have definitely improved week on week, and the group is showing the right attitude and commitment “If we keep playing the way we are with 11 on the pitch, I’m confident the results will turn and that win isn’t far away,” Baird explained.
“We know it’s a big game for both sides on Saturday, and Balcatta are in a similar position and will be just as determined to get their season going, so we’re expecting a tough, competitive match. For us, it’s about focusing on our own performance, maintaining discipline, and building on the positives we’ve shown. If we do that, we give ourselves every chance to get the result we’re after.”
Balcatta won their first game under new coach Basil Lenzo, but have been edged out in their last two games, but the improvement is there, and he said Saturday is a huge game, and one they are looking forward too. “Since our arrival, the players have been awesome and we are encouraged by the improvements to date. We have played some good football and we have really worked hard but the game has a way to keep us very grounded and keep us working harder. We are can only focus on what we can control and whilst we genuinely should have achieved a few positive results in two games, and all we got is greyer hair, so everyone knows what’s at stake,” Lenzo explained.
“Over the years, Armadale at home is always a tough opponent. We do need to keep bringing the work ethic and ensure we do the simple things really well but let’s be honest, it’s a big game for both teams. Armadale have been scoring goals and that makes for a good encounter. I think what’s important though is that whilst its big for both teams, both teams have some time to get this right to pull some consecutive wins. Every game is going to require our everything.”
8.5.2026
CURTIN AND UWA LOOK TO KEEP GOOD FORM GOING
It’s been a busy week in the State League Division One, with most teams playing games in midweek, and two of them meet in our Week Seven ‘Match of the Round’, with Curtin University hosting UWA Nedlands at Green Promo Park, Edinburgh Oval. (all games kick off at 3:00pm, unless stated) Both sides were in action on Wednesday evening in Week Six games, and both had victories. Curtin travelled to the Poolmart Mandurah Stadium and returned with a 1-0 win, with Jason Stewart scoring the only goal on the hour mark. Meanwhile, UWA moved into second place after a 4-0 win against Inglewood United at the UWA Sports Park. Joe McInnes gave the hosts the lead early, and Hugo Martin Perez doubled their advantage on be quarter hour. McInnes added his second midway through the second half, before former Inglewood striker Dean Hurley added a fourth late.
The other game on the night was an eight-goal thriller with Gwelup Croatia and Cockburn City playing out a 4-4 draw at Macedonia Park. Ben Campbell gave the home side the lead early, but Andrew Rankin leveled for City. They went on to score two quick goals in the second half to take control, with Matthew Bowen and Rory McGrath on target. But Gwelup hit back with substitute Callum Stocks and Jeremie Mba restoring parity. It looked like Gwelup had won it when Mba added his second three minutes from time, but in stoppage time Bowen added his second on the night to give both sides a share of the spoils in a entertaining clash.
The last time Curtin hosted UWA was in week ten last season, when UWA won a seven-goal thriller. The visitors were ahead on 32 minutes, with a strike from distance from Roberto Soares, and they added another four minutes later, the unfortunate Mighael Muller heading into his own net. They led by three at the break, Mark Bauersachs crossing to Joseph McInnes who scored from close-range. It looked game over on the hour when UWA added a fourth, Soares scoring his second of the game. But Curtin hit back, and Rowan Steed reduced the margin 15 minutes from time, and it was 4-2 when Bauersachs back pass went into his own net. They added a third two minutes from time, with Nathan Smith converting from the spot to set up a tense final few minutes, but UWA held firm to take the points.
Curtin skipper Jeffrey Ledwith said it’s been tough, but successful week for the club, with a big win at Western Knights in the cup, and their win at Mandurah in midweek. “The cup game at Nash Field was a great result for us, and I’m super proud of the boys for the fight they showed. We were knocked out of the cup by Western Knights last year, so it’s good to come back, get the win, and progress further in the cup,” he explained.
The win at Mandurah was their first of the season, and lifted them off the bottom of the table, and Ledwith said it is a confidence booster for them. “Yes, it was a huge result for us and our first win of the season. We have been playing good football lately, and it’s a confidence booster when we are able to get the results to match,” the skipper said. “It’s always a difficult matchup against Mandurah, especially in Mandurah. They were physical and kept the pressure on us, but luckily for us, our striker Jason Stewart was able to put the ball in the back of the net. He has been working hard for us and coming back from injury, and he has been a massive help for us.”
Ledwith said Saturday game is another test for them, but they go into it in a confident mood. “UWA are on top of the ladder for a reason, and we know they have quality players. It’s definitely going to be a tough battle for both sides, but we feel confident in the team and the players we have to perform,” the defender said. “If there is one thing I have learnt in this league, it is that any team can beat any team on their day. We look to prepare for the game ahead and will bring our best effort to get a good result.”
UWA have continued their form from last season, which saw them finish second, the highest they have finished since their return to the State League in 2012, and assistant coach Mark Reid said Wednesday’s performance was top draw, and the new look side are starting to hit their straps, and they will look to continue it on Saturday at Curtin, but he knows there is more to come from them. “I thought it was a very solid performance against a very well organised Inglewood side,” he explained.
“Our defence was strong and it was pleasing to see all our goals coming from some good football being played. We have made various additions to the squad this season, and the more games we play the better we are gelling. We still have things to work on, but just taking it one game at a time. Curtin have had two great wins in their last two outings, so we know we are going to be in for a very tough game. We just need to stick to our game plan and let’s see how we go.”
The round kicks off on Friday evening, with league leaders Floreat Athena hosting Subiaco AFC at the E&D Litis Stadium (7:00pm) The home side moved three points clear after last week’s 1-0 win at Quinns (Match was abandoned at half time due to floodlight problems, but with the game having reached half-time, the result stands as per competition rules), while Subiaco sit second bottom after a narrow loss at Kingsley. Joondalup City entertain Kingsley Westside at Iluka Park, while Mandurah City and Inglewood United will look to bounce back from back-to-back defeats, when they meet at the Proto DPS Inglewood Stadium. Murdoch University Melville head to the Croatian Sporting Complex, Wishart Street, to meet Gwelup Croatia, while in the final game Cockburn City host Quinns at Dalmatinac Park.
8.5.2026
WEMBLEY HOST MORLEY IN DIVISION TWO ‘MATCH OF THE ROUND’
After a bye-round last week, we head into Week Six of the State League Division Two, and our ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to Butlers Reserve, where Wembley Downs host Morley Windmills. (5:00pm) Both sides are coming off narrow defeats in the last round, with the hosts losing 1-2 against league leaders Rockingham City, while the visitors were beaten 2-3 at Forrestfield, so both will be looking to bounce back on Saturday, especially with only two points separating the two sides. The last time Wembley hosted Morley in a league game was in Week 18 in 2024, when the pair met in the Amateur Premier Division, with Morley leaving with all three points after a 3-2 win.
It was the hosts who found the opener on 18 minutes, with Harry Browne firing across Nick Stone from the angle, and they held the lead until twenty minutes from time, when Morley levelled. Ali Gholami whipped in a free kick and Oliver Simpson rose highest to head home. The visitors were ahead ten minutes later, Vincente Olavarria crossing to the back post where Travis Taylor headed against the post, but Gavin Knight was quickest to the rebound to score. But Wembley weren’t finished and restored parity two minutes later, with Browne adding his second, racing through from a defensive splitting pass, and finishing neatly. It looked like the points would be shared, but three minutes later Morley won it, Knight found space on the edge of the box, and his shot found the bottom corner of the net to seal the points.
Wembley coach Luke Thompson has been pleased with the performances this week, in the cup and league, losing narrowly to Fremantle and league leaders Rockingham, but he knows they have to improve in the final third. “Fremantle City last week in the cup and Rockingham the week before in the league were exactly the same type of game, and I thought we played really well, and caused the opposition problems and deserved more from the game, if it was solely based on performances,” Thompson explained. “But we haven't been good enough in the final third and made the most of our chances or field position, and unfortunately its cost us results.”
Thompson said Morley will be another stern test, especially after their cup win last week, and they need to keep an eye on striker Luke Salmon. “We are looking at this week as a chance to start turning those strong performances into wins, but know it won’t be easy,” he said. “Any side coached by John (O’Reilly) are always well organised and tough to beat. They are in a good space at the moment and are performing well and have a proven goal scorer in Luke (Salmon), so we know we will be in for a tough game.”
Morley assistant coach Jesse Bridgeman said the win in the cup was well deserved, and a good response from their loss at Forrestfield in the league. “Yes, the result again Cockburn was great for the club,” he said. “it showed how when we apply ourselves properly, we have a side that can compete with the teams a division above, we worked hard for the full 90 minutes and deserved the win.
“But the last match in the league was disappointing, leading 2-0 at Forrestfield at half time, and we were quite comfortable, and to lose 3-2 due to not being focused until the end and drop all three points was a real wake up call. We know Saturday at Wembley will be a good test, and they have had a good start to the season so that will be a good challenge for our side. The group is working hard week in week out and focusing on our consistency.’
In other games this week (All games kick off at 3:00pm, unless stated), leaders Rockingham City welcome Forrestfield United to Endeavour Homes Stadium, Larkhill Sportsplex, looking to maintain their perfect start to the season, and their five-point lead at the top. Second-placed Ashfield will look to bounce back from their first defeat of the season, when they visit Walter Padbury Reserve to take on Gosnells City, while North Beach host Carramar Shamrock Rovers to Charles Riley Memorial Reserve. East Perth entertains Balga at Hudson Park, while in the final game Kalamunda City take on Canning City at the Spanish Club of WA (5:00pm)
8.5.2026
JOEYS START U-17’S ASIAN CUP WITH A BIG WIN
The Australian Joeys were at their clinical best to secure a 4-0 win against India in their opening AFC U17 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026 in Jeddah on Wednesday. The goals were shared amongst the group with Luke Becvinovki, Max Court, Luka Demuth and Henrique Oliveira on target, the win puts Australia in a comfortable position in the three-team Group D with India needing victory against Uzbekistan on Sunday to stay in contention for a knockout stage spot.
Head Coach Carl Veart named a strong side for the first game of the all-important tournament. The top eight teams qualify for the FIFA U-17 World Cup 2026, meaning that passage out of the three-team group will secure the Joeys’ place at the showpiece event for the first time since 2019.
Australia could not have asked for a better start as they opened the scoring in the fifth minute when Archie Mitchell’s low cross from the left trickled to the centre to be swept home by Becvinovski. India had a chance to restore parity just two minutes later when Azlaan Shah was put through into the box but could not find the composure in his effort, sending the ball into the side netting.
Indian keeper Rajrup Sarkar then pulled out two fantastic acrobatic saves to push away Oliver O’Carroll’s strike from range before tipping away Emile Katrib’s header with a reflex save to his left. But he could do little to prevent a second on the half hour, when Max Court converted from the spot after Moosa Ashiq had tripped Akeem Gerald in the box.
There was more attacking intent from India at the start of the second half with Gunleiba Wangkheirakpam heading wide from close range before Denny Singh forced a save off Charlie Wilson-Papps. At the other end, Becvinovski’s wicked free-kick from the right just after the hour, saw Miles Milliner rising highest to get his head to the ball but the defender’s effort sailed just over the bar.
Another chance went begging for India when Raj Wahengbam nodded a rebound wide after Wilson-Papps had saved Azlaan’s initial strike. The miss came back to haunt India, when 16 minutes from time the Joeys went further ahead through a deflected Demuth shot from the edge of the box that wrong-footed Rajrup, with Henrique Oliveira completing the emphatic win late, following a mazy run from the right.
Joeys: GK Charlie Wilson-Papps, 3 Besian Kutleshi, 5 Miles Milliner (4 Marcus Savic 84’), 6 Sajjad Nasiri, 8 Oliver O'Carroll, 9 Luke Becvinovski (20 Georgio Hassarati 78?'), 11 Max Court (7 Aston Reid 63?'?), 13 Arnie Mitchell, 15 Emile Katrib (2 Winston Ashburner 78’), 16 Akeem Gerald (21 Luka Demuth 63’)?, 17 Henrique Oliveira – Subs not used: RGK Lachlan Allen, RGK H. Yien-Li Ng, 10 Paul Lombardi, 14 Fraser Brown, 18 Stevan Rujak, 22 Harrison Bond, 23 Corey Da Cruz
India: GK Rajrup Sarkar, 4 Shubham Poonia, 5 Korou Konthoujam, 6 Moosa Ashiq, 7 Azian. Shah (15 Yuvraj Kadam 82?'), 9 Ngangom Washington (12 Raj Wahengbam 46?')?, 10 Dallalmuon Gangte, 13 Lawmsangzuala, 16 Md Aimaan Bin (3 Indra Magar 46?')?, 20 Gunleiba Wangkheirakpam, 23 Denny Singh (17 Rahan Ahmed 87?') - Subs not used: RGK Manashjyoti Baruah, RGK Alok Nishad, 2 Lesvin Rebelo, 8 Nitishkumar Yengkhom, 11 Diamond Singh, 14 Abhishek Kumar, 18 Adithi Alungal, 19 Heerangamba Seram
8.5.2026
HBF PARK TOPS THE A-LEAGUE BEST PITCH VOTING
Perth Glory’s HBF Park have been voted by the players as the PFA A-League Men Stadiums of the Season for the second straight year. HBF Park and Go Media Stadium received the highest average rating by the players for atmosphere and pitch quality, respectively. HBF Park received the best pitch quality on average for consecutive seasons, scoring 4.7 from the 12 games surveyed by the players. This score reflects a slight increase on last year’s average score of 4.4.
“We’re delighted to see the venue that we proudly call home recognised as the best in the country for pitch quality for a second consecutive season,” Perth Glory Chief Executive Officer Anthony Radich said. “This honour is deserved recognition of the outstanding work of the HBF Park venue management and grounds team, whose dedication and attention to detail has set a benchmark for excellence across the industry. We are very grateful for their great care and professionalism and wish to congratulate all concerned”
A Venues West spokesperson added: “Venues West is thrilled that HBF Park has again been recognised by A-League Men’s players for its outstanding pitch quality. These are professional athletes who demand the highest standards, and we are proud they see that reflected in the consistency and quality delivered by our team at HBF Park and our turf managers Green by Nature, particularly at a multi-purpose venue that balances elite sport with a busy events calendar.”
Stadiums with capacities of 25,000 or less, typically referred to as ‘boutique venues’ scored well in the atmosphere stakes. These included the 17,000 capacity Adelaide’s Coopers Stadium (pitch: 4.4, atmosphere: 4.3), Sydney’s Leichhardt Oval (pitch 4.3, atmosphere 4.3), and Brisbane’s Kayo Stadum (pitch 4.3, atmosphere 4.3). Melbourne’s AAMI Park also scored strongly receiving a 3.8 for pitch quality and an average of 3.5 for atmosphere across Melbourne Victory and Melbourne City matches.
Victory’s home games scored markedly stronger than City’s averaging 4.1 while City averaged 2.8. Meanwhile, Apollo Projects Stadium in Christchurch also scored strongly in the one match played there in April, receiving 4.0 for both pitch quality and atmosphere. Brisbane Roar’s solitary game in the Sunshine Coast received a strong score for atmosphere of 4.0, but a slightly slower score for pitch quality with 3.0. These contrast with the results of Roar’s main stadium, Suncorp, which had an average pitch quality rating of 2.8 across eight matches surveyed, and a 2.5 atmosphere rating. This was an improvement on the 1.8 atmosphere rating the previous season.
6.5.2026
SCOTTISH SIDE SIGN RAWLINS
Scottish side Dundee United have completed an A-League hat-trick by signing Melbourne Victory defender Josh Rawlins on a two-year deal overnight. The 22-year old becomes the third A-League player to sign with the Tangerines ahead of next season, joining Newcastle Jets’ Lachie Rose and Auckland FC’s Jesse Randall.
“It has been a privilege to represent Melbourne Victory over the last two seasons, pushing me to better myself as a footballer and a young person, and I want to thank everyone at the Club for supporting and accelerating my development,” Rawlins told Victory’s official website. “I am looking forward to a new opportunity and environment, but I will never forget this period in my career.”
Rawlins has signed a pre-contract, arriving at Dundee United on a two-year deal with a club option for an additional season. A Perth Glory junior, he played a prominent role in each of the last two campaigns with Victory having returned to Australia following a spell in the Netherlands with FC Utrecht, where he made 24 appearances for the youth team.
Rawlins, who has represented Australia at Under-23 level, featured over 50 times in the A-League across the last four seasons. The full-back made his senior debut at just 16 years of age, first appearing for Glory in 2021. It wasn’t long before international interest materialised and now he’s heading to Europe for a second spell.
5.5.2026
'MOST SPECIAL': SAM KERR SAVOURS HISTORIC CHELSEA GOAL
Samanatha Kerr has been left savouring a goal she believes may be the most special of her garlanded career as she became Chelsea's all-time leading scorer in England's Women's Super League. Kerr's 64th goal in the WSL ignited Chelsea's 3-1 win at Leicester City on Sunday and ensured the Blues will be playing Champions League football again next season.
Kerr, whose future at Chelsea after this season is still in doubt, sounded quite emotional about the 13th minute expertly taken header that took her past former teammate Fran Kirby's club landmark. "There have been some pretty special goals in my career, but I don't know if it gets more special than this," the the 32-year old said.
Kerr is finishing this season strong, increasingly looking as if she's returning to her best after her long-standing absence through the ACL injury. She would have broken the record last week if myopic officials hadn't missed her header that crossed the line for what would have completed a hat-trick against Everton.
But no-one was left in any doubt this time as she nodded home Niamh Charles's cross from the left to score 2296 days after her first goal for Chelsea. "I've not scored as many in the league as I'd have liked but to come back from an ACL and still be top scorer in the league for a club like Chelsea is great," said Kerr.
5.5.2026
SURGERY FOR MAYNARD-BREWER
Dundee United goalkeeper Ashley Maynard-Brewer has gone under the knife today to address a season-ending shoulder injury. The 26-year old is targeting the Scottish pre-season for his return to action having not featured since dislocating his shoulder in last month’s loss to Rangers. Although out of contact at the end of the month, Maynard-Brewer is hoping the club take up the option to extend his agreement for another 12 months.
2.5.2026
VETERAN LUIK CREATES EUROPEAN HISTORY WITH HACKEN
Veteran defender Aivi Luik has etched her name into European football history after helping BK Hacken completed a 4-2 aggregate victory over Hammarby in the final of the inaugural UEFA Women’s Europa Cup. At 41 years and 44 days, Luik became the oldest female player to win a UEFA club competition, breaking the record previous held by Brazilian legend Formiga (38 years, 90 days).
Luik, a 45-time Matilda, played every single minute of both legs of the decider, which Hacken won 1-0 and 3-2 respectively, as her club became the first Swedish side to win a European trophy in 22 years. 19-year old striker Felicia Schroder was the hero, scoring a hat-trick in the second leg and finishing as the competition's top scorer with eight goals overall.
For Luik, this is another sensational moment in a career that has spanned over two decades. The Perth-born defender has claimed league titles in Australia, Denmark and Sweden and now adds a European trophy to her collection. Her late career renaissance is particularly special, given Luik's successful fight to clear her name after being handed a three-month ban for doping offenses in 2024.
Luik fought for seven months against the Italian anti-doping authority who had served the ban after she was given a cortisone injection by her Naples-based club, Pomigliano. The club eventually admitted there was no wrongdoing on her part, but only after she was forced to pull out of contention to represent Australia at the Paris Olympic Games.
3.5.2026
JUNIOR MATILDAS HELD BY LEBANON
The Junior Matildas have failed to back up their win in the opening game of the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup game against India, after being held to a 1-1 draw by Lebanon in Suzhou on Tuesday afternoon. Lebanon was well beaten in their opening game by Japan, and it looked like Australia would take the points, especially after Hyundai FW Academy striker Theo Mouithys gave them the lead, but it was cancelled out by Sara Karnib, to give Lebanon their first point of the competition, and Australia now meet Japan in the final Group B game.
Head Coach Michael Cooper made three changes to the side that recorded a 2-0 win over India in the opening game, with Frida Karaberis, Izabella Rako and Jada Taylor coming into the starting side, with Frida Karaberis, Leyla Hussain and Abbie Puckett dropping to the bench. Australia was on the front foot early, pinning Lebanon deep in the opening exchanges with Claire Corbett testing Marie Joe Chebly from distance on three minutes, before the Lebanon keeper pulled off a fine save to deny FW Academy midfielder Sakura Leong’s rasping shot from inside the box.
Another chance went begging in the eighth minute when Claire Corbett pounced on a loose ball off Chebly’s clearance to set up for Tehya Aspland, who hit her powerful effort straight into the arms of the Lebanese custodian. The sustained pressure resulted in the opening goal at the half hour mark when Mouithys timed her run to perfection to latch onto Keira Sarris’s through ball before lobbing over the advancing Chebly and into the back of the net.
Lebanon came close to leveling five minutes before the half-time whistle when Anabel Zihenni charged into the box and tried to squeeze the ball past Australian keeper Dali Gorr Burchmore, who reacted well to smother the effort. Australia continued their attacking approach in the second half with Willa Pearson angling her header wide in the 49th minute before Maeve Nicholas and Kaya Jugovic came close from inside the box.
However, Lebanon equalised against the run of play just before the hour mark with Yara Geitani releasing the ball to Sara Karnib who slotted home past Burchmore. Australia tried to respond but Chebly denied Leyla Hussein from distance on 77 minutes, before foiling Kaya Jugovic from a tight angle as the teams took home a share of the spoils. Attention turns towards their final group stage game against Japan on Friday night, looking to advance to the knockout stages.
Australia U-17: GK Dali Gorr Burchmore, 2 Willa Pearson, 3 Charlotte Bradshaw, 4 Keira Sarris (13 Maeve Nicholas 46'), 6 Frida Karaberis (8 Kaya Jugovic 46'), 7 Claire Corbett, 9 Izabella Rako (10 Leyla Hussain 46'), 14 Jada Taylor (15 Tyra Bagiante 77'), 16 Tehya Aspland, 20 Sakura Leong, 21 Theo Mouithys – Subs not used: RGK Annabelle Croll, RGK Alyse Oppedisano, 5 Liana Luong, 11 Matilda Dias Wadewitz, 17 Mary Dal Broi, 19 Harper Pell, 23 Abbie Puckett
Lebanon U-17: GK Marie Joe Chebly, 2 Yasmina Nassar, 3 Christina Chebly, 4 Joya Bou Assaf, 5 Gia Frangieh, 6 Gaelle Abou Malhab (8 Sara Karnib 56'), 9 Sara Issa (11 Yasmin El Habbal (90+1'), 10 Yara Geitani, 16 Marita Chebly, 17 Anabel Zihenni (7 Calina Osman 85'), 19 Avy Douaihy – Subs not used: RGK Ghinwa Karam, RGK Nourhan Rafeh, 12 Yara Abi Fadel, 13 Rama Kharroubi, 14 Zahra Asaad, 15 Layane Kalkas, 18 Angy Boustany, 20 Esraa Hamzeh, 21 Rama Moghrabi
3.5.2026
GOALS GALORE IN WEEK FOUR OF THE AMATEUR PREMIER DIVISION
The goals were flowing in Week Four of the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division, with 41 scored on the day, and in our ‘Match of the Road’ Hamersley Rovers made it back-to-back wins and moved up to third on the table, after a 7-1 win against Maccabi at Carine Open Space on Sunday afternoon. “Really very pleased with the result today and to get back-to-back league wins,” Rovers’ coach Antony Benetti explained. “There is real belief in this group and they showed it with such a dominant start. We've been looking for that consistency over 90 minutes and I felt today we were able to dominate most of the game.”
It was a blistering start to the game for the hosts, with two goals in the opening four minutes. They were ahead on two minutes, Callum Duguid was able to beat his marker and drive a low cross in for Bradley Dean to slam home. They added the second shortly after, a great individual goal from Duguid, cutting in and finishing clinically into the bottom corner from a tight angle. It was 3-0 early in the second half, with Ryan Charles getting up highest from a corner and heading home. The visitors were shell shocked, but the goals kept coming, and it was 4-0 on 53 minutes, a neat one two released Duguid who raced in on goal and slipped it past the keeper.
Then five minutes later they added a fifth, Ryan Charles and Timothy Higgins combined to find Duguid who beat his marker and finished with aplomb, to complete his hat-trick. Bryan Nobles added the sixth just after the hour, his long-range shot found the top corner, before Maccabi scored a consolation goal late, with Dion Berman on target. “It was nice to see a few boys hit the back of the net and that just increased the level of confidence in the group,” Benetti added. “It's very early days and it’s a tough league, so we'll look to focus forward and continue the aim in building momentum.”
We had a six-goal thriller at the Noranda Sporting Complex, with Noranda Emerald and North Perth United playing out a thrilling 3-3 draw. “Very disappointed not to take the three points, to be in full control of the game but ten minutes of madness cost us,” Noranda Emerald coach Ger Gaughan said. “We’ll learn from it, but full credit to Chris and the lads for coming back into it. They have a never say die attitude that will keep them near the top again, this season.”
The hosts found the opener after a great strike from Connor Gormley was parried away and quick thinking by Andrew Wood set up Jack McClelland for the finish, and they added a second when Wood bravely headed home, after a high looping cross into the box, and they lead 2-0 at the break. North Perth made a triple change at the break, it had the desired effect, and they pulled one back, a great diagonal ball over the top Conor Hartley, whose first touch took him clear of his marker, and he lobbed the on-coming keeper from distance.
The visitors were soon level, a corner from the left from new signing Conor Butler beat the keeper and nestled into the top corner. The comeback was complete with North Perth hitting the front, some nice interchange at the back, saw a defence splitting pass from Tom Fowler, which sent Conor Hartley racing through on goal who finished expertly. But the hosts hit back to take a point, with a cracking volley from Connor Jordon.
“We started off really slow and lethargic. We didn’t create much at all and it was a pretty scrappy affair, but we found ourself 2-0 down at half time,” North Perth coach Chris Batten said. “We had a discussion at half time and the boys know they hadn’t turned up and that they had to do better, and we made three changes and switched a couple of players which luckily worked out. We were on the front foot without really playing our best football., but in the end a draw was probably a fair result but certainly had us scratching our heads wondering what we’d just witnessed.”
Wanneroo City have continued their winning start to the season, with a 6-0 win in the local derby against Olympic Kingsway at Kingsway Reserve. “I was very pleased with our performance today always nice to win a local derby which got physical at times with some tough challenges going in but thankfully our lads stuck to the game plan and focused on playing some great football and got the result they deserved,” Wanneroo assistant coach Kevin Flavin explained. “Getting the clean sheet also is enjoyable, but our attacking players were on fire today in the second half especially Ross Buckley who had a MOTM performance.”
City found the opener 15 minutes from the break, Alan Reidy was put through one-on-one with the keeper, but he then squared it to Sam Gammock coming through on the left to finish first time. They added a second early in the second half, Zak Thomas with a cross into the box and the header by Ross Buckley was going wide but Reidy came in at back post to turn the ball home. The home side were then reduced to ten men with Charlie Bandeira was shown a straight red card.
It was 3-0 on 56 minutes, when a cross from Reidy found Buckley, who scored a screamer, and they added a fourth shortly after, a pinpoint pass from Jordan Cook into Buckley who made no mistake. It was 5-0 on 85 minutes, some great build up play in the middle of the park where Michael Berlingeri was put through, and he found Charlie Read who volleyed it home. The icing was put on the cake in the final minutes with a sixth, a scramble in the box, and the ball fell to Frankie Stammers who finished low across the keeper into the far corner.
Swan United moved up to second after a 7-1 win against bottom of the table Jaguar at the Swan Italian Club, Francis Street. “Pleased with the performance, we are playing some really good football in periods of games and got our rewards today,” Swan coach Lee Taylor said. “So, we’re happy to take the three points and move on to next week.” The hosts were ahead seven minutes before the break, with Dami Afolabi finished well after the ball dropped to him in the box. They doubled their advantage in first half stoppage time, a cross from the right from Mehrab Rahimi, was taken down well by John Monterosso who finished into the bottom corner.
Jaguars were back in the game early in the second half, with Mawien Mawein scoring, but Swan soon regained their two-goal lead with Tyler Buckley getting on the end of a free kick. But any hopes of a comeback for Jagaur were dented on 67 minutes, after Chol Maper was shown a red card. Swan made their numerical advantage count, adding a fourth seven minutes from time, good work from Dami Afolabi on the right, before cutting the ball back for Liam Merigan. Swan went on with it, Merigan adding a fifth, before he completed his hat-trick from the spot in the final minute. He wasn’t finished there, making it 7-1 with a nice turn on the edge of the box and finding the top corner.
Kelmscott Roos are back in the winning circle, coming home from Kingfisher Park with the points, after 5-3 win against Ballajura AFC. “It was a good performance and one that we can take a lot of positives out of,’ Kelmscott keeper Taylor Warwick said. “We scored some good goals and had a lot of joy in the midfield. But we let our guard down too much. Going 5-0 up was good, but we let Ballajura back in the game with some sloppy stuff late on. A good result but a lot to improve on still going into and more tough game next week.”
The visitors were ahead on 20 minutes, Kingsley Nteng picked the ball up on the right, beating his man and playing a great ball across the box, and Ben Bolt got in front of his marker and finished well. They added a second when Nteng eased past his marker, and his cross shot from the bye-line beat the Ballajura keeper at the far post. It was 3-0 in the shadows of half time, Callum Husain played a great through ball splitting the centre backs and sending Isaac Koomson one on one with the keeper, he around him and finished into an empty net.
Kelmscott made it 4-0 early in the second half, after the referee spotted a handball in the box, and pointed to the spot, with Koomson converting the resulting penalty. The points looked save when Kelmscott added a fifth on 69 minutes, Amos Doegolia picked the ball up on the right and played a neat ball into the middle of the park to find Gerard McGahey, who found Nteng in the box, and he finished clinically. The hosts pulled one back nine minutes from time, with Davor Pavic scoring, and they added a second two minutes later, with Daniel Clarkson on target. The comeback was on, when Pavic scored from the spot moments later, but that’s as good as it got, Kelmscott holding firm to take home the points.
In the final game we had six goals, with Kwinana United beating Kingsley Westside 4-2 at Chichester Park. ‘It was great game for the neutrals,” Kwinana coach George Mann said. “The play was back and forth, but at the end we’re really pleased to come home with the win.” The home side were ahead midway through the first half with Kai Main-Nyckowski scoring, but United were level seven minutes before the break, with Thomas Walsh on target. Kingsley were ahead again six minutes into the second half with Nathan Griffiths scoring. But again, the visitors hit back and restored parity just after the hour, Cam Hewitt firing home, after Kingsley keeper Thomas Bull had a saved a penalty. They were awarded another penalty 12 minutes from time, but once again Bull saved, but Maddy Holman fired home the rebound to give the visitors the lead. The points were secured late with Mitchel Gruin scoring.
3.5.2026
BALCATTA MOVE CLEAR ON TOP OF NPLWA – WOMEN’S LADDER
Balcatta Etna have moved two points clear at the top of the New Balance NPLWA - Women’s table, but were made to work hard to beat Sorrento 3-0 at Percy Doyle Reserve on Sunday afternoon. “It was a frustrating game for us, with Sorrento sitting very deep and making it difficult to break them down, so we had to remain patient,” Balcatta skipper Abbey Meakins explained. “In the first half we didn’t quite play the way we wanted, but it was a positive response from the group to come out in the second half and take a few of our chances. Overall, it was pleasing to come away with a win, even if it wasn’t our best performance.”
The hosts, who were coming off their first win of the season at Subiaco last week, had a good early opportunity in this one, Isla Edwards sending Daisy Snowden in on goal, but she couldn’t find the target, firing into the side netting. Peter Rakic’s team hit back, but found Gulls Amalia Caceres in good form, denying Meakins and Caitlin Doeglas, before the lively Meakins’ shot clipped the outside of the post. It was more of the same after the break, Sorrento keeping a good shape, and holding the league leaders at bay, but on the hour mark, Sorrento resistance ended.
A corner from Jaime Duncanson picked out Frankie Murray at the back post, and the defender lost her marker and headed low into the net. They added a second 13 minutes later, Meakins won a challenge on the right of the penalty area, and fired a powerful shot which beat Caceres at her near post. The points were sealed three minutes from time, when Balcatta found a third. A clearance out of defence struck Lucy Hope, the ball running kindly for Doeglas, and the former Perth Glory striker found the bottom corner past Caceres from the edge of the box. She went close to a second in stoppage time, her shot coming back off the post.
Perth Azzurri lost ground on the leaders after they were held to a 1-1 draw by Perth RedStar at Dorrien Gardens on Saturday evening. “I thought it was a good game from both teams, we are a little bit frustrated to come away with another draw, but are still happy with the result,” Azzurri’s Jessica Flannery explained. “I think everyone is just wanting to continue working on the things that need improvement, and we know that the results we continue to come if we do that.” It was another tight game between the past two NPL-Women’s champions, the best chance in the first half fell to the hosts, with Daisy McAllister denied by RedStar keeper Gabby Dal Busco.
The Azzurri introduced Charli Wainwright at half time, after her stint in the A-League with Perth Glory, but it was the visitor who went close to the opener, with Jayna Ridley shot from outside the box hitting the post. But on 56 minutes it was the hosts who hit the front. A neat move saw Grace Warburton send McAllister down the right channel, and she crossed to Flannery, who made no mistake. But Chris Aturo’s side earned a point 18 minutes from time, substitute Jasmine Gray raced down the left, and outpaced her marker before finishing with aplomb past Dayle Schroeder.
The Hyundai FW Academy are back in the winner’s circle after a late goal from Piper Dowe sealed a 1-0 win against Fremantle City at Hilton Park. Both sides had their chances in a tight first half, Leyna Wood’s long-range shot was saved by Academy keeper Daisy McGreadie-Cole, while Savanna Glavovic’s effort was blocked and cleared. Both sides struggled in the final third, the best for the visitors fell to Ella Lange, her shot from distance flashed over the top, before the alert McGreadie-Cole made a smart save to deny Mia Yeo.
But the winner went to the Academy three minutes from time, Cate McAuliffe won possession in the middle of the park and her pass sent Dowe clear, who outpaced her marker, before finishing low past Fremantle custodian Cassia Souza. New coach Andrew Ord said it’s been a tough couple of weeks for the players, but the win was a real team effort. “It’s been an emotional couple of weeks for the girls with many of them tasting success after making history at the Emerging Championships then coming back down to earth with a bump last week at Balcatta,” Ord explained. “They also had to deal with Stephen (Walmsley) deciding to take a break from football when he was such a popular figure around the girls.
“I just want to pay tribute to the work he did for the program in the last couple of years, raising the bar to new heights and working in a coordinated way with Football West to put long term development above everything. I am so proud of the response against Fremantle who are flying high at the moment. With the Junior Matildas away opportunities have come to many U16 players all at once and they were really well led by Daniella Santich and Cate McAuliffe who were the only older players on the pitch and the responsibility has elevated their game to new heights.”
In the final game Subiaco AFC have secured their second win of the season, after a 3-0 victory against UWA Nedlands at Rosalie Park. “We are very pleased with the result and performance today, it was a very important win for us,” Subiaco midfielder Ella Mastrantonio said. “Hopefully this can give us the confidence going into an important next couple of weeks. Very proud of the team today.” The visitors went close early, Emily Dinsdale was sent in on goal, but Subiaco keeper Briana O’Dell stood tall to save.
But it was the home side who found the opener seven minutes from half time. A short corner caught UWA napping, and Mastrantonio’s cross beat everyone and found the back of the net. They doubled their lead on the hour, with a stunning strike. Mastrantonio found Niamh Taylor-Hughes, who wasn’t closed down and she rifled home from the edge of the box, despite Janina Sauer getting a hand to it. They sealed the points ten minutes from time, Taylor-Hughes was brought down in the box by Alyssa Kinkaid and Sara Klott converted the resulting penalty.
3.5.2026
STATE LEAGUE CUP 18’S AND RESERVES ROUND OF 16 REVIEW
It was State League Cup Day in the Under18’s and Reserves on Saturday, and two NPL sides were knocked out by lower league opposition in the Reserves Cup. Firstly, at Iluka Park Joondalup City have beaten Bayswater City 4-3 on penalties, after the game ended 2-2 after normal time. Bayswater were ahead 2-0 at the break, with goals from Cian Sheridan and Castel Brandli, but two quick goals from Jamie Martin and Zac Pattison levelling things up for the hosts. Bayswater had Jack Morre sent off, before the game went to penalties, and Joondalup prevailed.
“The first half saw Bayswater capitalise on our mistakes, and went into the break 2-0 up. We approached the second half knowing that we needed a quick goal and then go back to playing football and dominating the midfield battle which we hadn’t in the first half.’ Joondalup coach Darren Veness said. “The lads responded with a quick goal and then an equaliser. To their credit Bayswater came back at us even though they were down to nine men and looked dangerous. We held out, moving into the dreaded penalty shootout. Bayswater were clinical with their first three penalties, but missed the last two, giving us a chance after missing our first one. Going to sudden death Teddy (O'Shea) calmly slotted the 5th penalty giving us a deserved win.”
The other upset came at Nash Field, where Forrestfield United beat Western Knights 3-1. Both sides scored early, Copper Holland for the visitors after six minutes, before the Knights levelled seven minutes later. Anthony Lerino gave Forrestfield the lead before half time, and despite going down to ten men, with Raphael Mahony being sent off, a goal four minutes from time from Torsten Tode sealed the win for Forrestfield. We had two all NPL clashes, and firstly at the RedStar Arena, Perth RedStar beat local neighbours Sorrento 1-0, with the only goal of the game come 16 minutes from time from Odan Okich. Meanwhile at the Home Group Stadium Olympic Kingsway beat Balcatta Etna 1-0, with Thomas Sallis scoring the only goal of the game late on.
In the other games, a brace from Liam McGarvie helped Fremantle City to a 6-1 win against Subiaco AFC at Hilton Park, while doubles from Achnaff Sayon and Hudson Burn has seen Perth Glory move into the quarter-finals, after a 6-2 win against Gwelup Croatia at Wotton Reserve. Stirling Macedonia needed penalties to beat UWA Nedlands at Dianella Reserve 5-4, after the game ended 2-2 after normal time, while in the final game between Ashfield and Quinns at Ashfield Arena was abandoned at half time after a light fault, the score at the time was 1-1, but it will be replayed at a later date.
In the under 18’s State League Cup, Perth Glory needed a late equaliser in their game against Gwelup Croatia at Wotton Reserve, before prevailing on penalties. Adrian Gooding had given Gwelup the lead just after half time, but Samuel Hatzaw levelled on the hour. It looked like Gwelup had won it after Jaxon Chakley scored six minutes from time, but a stoppage time equaliser from Leandro Jesus sent the game to penalties, where Glory won 5-4.
We had three all NPL ties, and two first half goals from Kaleb Jacobs and Munaf Alrumayid gave Perth RedStar a 2-1 win against Sorrento at the RedStar Arena, and goals from Orlando Ricciardello, Tarran McQueen, Sebastian Aquilia and an own goal gave Perth Azzurri a 4-0 win against Balcatta Etna at the Home Group Stadium, while Stirling Macedonia beat Dianella White Eagles 5-4 on penalties, after the game ended 1-1.
In other games, goals from Thandolwami Tshuma, Jordan Salim and Kiros Hannam have given Forrestfield United a 3-1 win against Kalamunda City at Nash Field, Carramar Shamrock Rovers beat Subiaco 4-2 on penalties at Hilton Park, while penalties were also needed, with Joondalup City beating Murdoch University Melville 3-1 in the shoot-out. In the final game doubles from Harvey Park and Isreal Dima, has helped Quinns to a 6-1 win against Balga AFC at Princess Road Reserve.
2.5.2026
CURTIN STUN THE KNIGHTS IN CUP UPSET
We will have three State League teams in the Hahn Australia Cup (WA) Quarter-Finals, after an action-packed round of 16 this weekend. The big upset came at Nash Field, with Division One Curtin University beating NPL side Western Knights 3-2 after extra time. “Really proud of the boys for the grit and determination they showed today. After absorbing a bit of pressure in the first half and restricting Knights to chances from distance, we made a few changes at half time, but we gave them a gift of a goal at the start of the first half, and to the boys’ credit they responded well,” Curtin coach Troy Reid explained.
“We had chances to win it in normal time, but we found another gear in extra time and got the job done in the first half. I’ve been told this is the first time the club has beaten an NPL side, so that’s a huge credit to the boys and the trajectory the club has been on over recent years.” It was the hosts who found the opener in the first minute of the second half, with Aaron Pike on target, but the visitors were level on 58 minutes. Jude Baillie, who had just come on to the pitch, saw his through ball misjudged by the Knights defender, the ball finding Gasper Becerra, who fired home. There was no more goal in normal time, so we were off to extra time, and it was Curtin who hit the front eight minutes into the first period.
Jai Coker and Becerra combined down the right, the latter crossed to Baillie, whose shot on the turn flew past Anthony Lance. It was 3-1 to Curtin six minutes later, a long clearance from Alec Radonich wasn’t dealt with, the ball falling to Jason Stewart who raced into goal and finished with aplomb past Lance. The Knights did pull one back in the final minute, with Luke Hewings scoring, but it was too little too late, Curtin taking their place in the next round. “Really proud of the boys for the performance today, it was a really tough game as everyone knows the quality Western Knights possess,” Curtin midfielder Nathan Smith said. “We rode our luck at times, but got the result, and our goal scorers took their moments very well and that got us the win.”
The round started on Friday evening, with Perth RedStar beating Inglewood United 3-0 at the RedStar Arena. “Good to get the win and progress into the quarter finals. I thought we controlled most of the game and limited them to chances,” RedStar’s Gordon Smith said. “It’s great to see young Jacob get a couple of goals and we now wait for the draw.” The hosts found the opener on the half hour, when Aaron Black raced down the left and his low cross was turned home by Jacob Evans from close-range. The tie wasn’t decided till late, and two minutes from time the hosts added a second, Black sending Evans down the right, and the youngster finished with aplomb. The icing was added to the cake in stoppage time when RedStar added a third. Black’s shot was spilled by Jordan Barbas and Matthew George was on hand to turn the ball home.
The other game on Friday was a seven-goal thriller, with Rockingham City beating Ashfield 4-3 at the Ashfield Arena. “We started the game very well taking an early lead, but for the next 60 minutes we’re not at our best. Credit to Ashfield they played well and made it difficult for us,” Rockingham coach Matthew Brook said post-match. “As the game stretched a little and we played with some greater quality we were able to create and take a number of our chances which was pleasing. The end of the game was sloppy on our part and made it closer than it needed to be but we move on and look forward to the next round.” The visitors found the opener on three minutes, with Brian Patterson winning possession in midfield and drove forward and slotted it clinically past the keeper.
But the hosts levelled just after the hour mark, with Kian Durant scoring. It was game on, but on 69 minutes Rockingham regained the lead, Ryan Kennedy’s free kick to the back post was headed home by Graham Tough. City increased their lead six minutes later with Mitchell Foley scoring, after some neat build up, and the game looked over two minutes from time with Shaun Mukwevho played through and he made no mistake from the edge of the box to make it 4-1. But Ashfield hit back with Robert Toto pulling one back in the first minute of stoppage time, before Oleksandr Pozhar added another sixty seconds later, which set up a frantic end to the tie, but Rockingham held firm to move in to the quarter-finals.
The other State league side into the next round is Division Two side Morley Windmills, who beat Division One side Cockburn City 3-1 at Wotton Reserve. “After recent results our focus, was our focus,” Windmills coach John O’Reilly said. “We needed to perform with a consistent level for the full 90 minutes and that’s exactly what the players did today.” It was the visitors who found the opener on 38 minutes, with Oliver Carr scoring. But Morley hit back and levelled two minutes later, with Gino Hampshire scoring from the spot after the referee spotted a handball.
The hosts then hit the front early in the second half, with Gabriel Vasques receiving the ball outside the box, before glided past the challenge and finishing into the far corner. It was a typical cup-tie with both sides pushing for the next goal, but it went to John O’Reilly’s side on 65 minutes, with Hampshire adding his second, rising highest to head home, after a ball into the mixer, to seal the win and move the Windmills into the hat for the next round.
In the other games, East Perth giant-killing run has come to an end, after beating NPL side Stirling Macedonia in the last round, they couldn’t repeat that result, going down 7-1 against Dianella White Eagles at Dianella Reserve on Saturday evening. “Tonight was a very good performance from the boys - from the first to the last whistle. We knew coming into the game that it wouldn’t be easy as East Perth have been very good in their respective leagues in the last few years and had also beaten Macedonia in the game before,” Dianella skipper Saša Njegic said post-match. “I think we made an emphasis in the locker room to keep the ball moving at all times and it paid dividends with a 7-1 score line.
“Also, I would just like to give credit to the East Perth boys, never gave up and I’m sure they’ll be making a run for promotion this year. So apart from the score, we were happy with the performance of all the boys and hope to carry the momentum into the upcoming game against Stirling Macedonia.” The hosts raced to a two-goal lead early, with goals from Franc Gamiz Quer and Daniel Zivkovic, and they led by that score at the break. But they burst the game wide open with two early goals in the second half, Njegic added the third, before Ben Hinshelwood made it 4-0. Ryan McCready pulled one back for East Perth, but the hosts finished the game off in style, Cory McNelis making 5-1, before two late goals from Hinshelwood, to complete his hat-trick, and sealed the comprehensive win.
In the only all NPL tie, Olympic Kingsway have narrowly beaten Balcatta Etna 1-0 at the Home Group Stadium, Grindleford Reserve on Saturday night. “Pleased for the boys to be moving into the last eight,” Olympic assistant coach Ross Edwards said. “The game was very tight and Balcatta are a good side. We could have scored a few more throughout the night but couldn’t finish the game off, and in the end like exiting cup ties the last 5 minutes was frantic and end to end, but we held firm to progress.” The only goal came eight minutes before half time, Will Ferson's cross was turned into his own net by the unfortunate Balcatta skipper Jesse Fuller.
Fremantle City have moved into the quarter-finals, after a 3-1 win against Wembley Downs at Hilton Park. “We created plenty of opportunities in the first half but were not clinical enough to finish them off. We struggled to come to terms with their formation and as the game continued without us adding it put us at risk of conceding,” Fremantle assistant coach Dale Wingell explained. “Wembley got the goal they deserved and that made the last 20 interesting. Luke Radonich pulled off a number of crucial saves to keep us in the game and our subs made an instant difference.
“A little bit of composure and quality enabled us to get two near the end. We knew it would be a tough game and credit to Luke. He has the team set up well and I can why they have had success of late. For us its job done and we progress on to the next round.” Fremantle were ahead on 20 minutes, Nick Ambrogio firing home a penalty after Chad Nilson was brought down. But Wembley weren’t finished and levelled 14 minutes from time with substitute Billy Templeton-Knight scoring, just after coming off the bench. It looked like we were heading to extra time, but Fremantle regained the lead late. First on 83 minutes Paul Zimarino found the net, and deep into stoppage time skipper Charlie Chechlacz sealed the tie.
Bayswater City were made to work hard to progress into the next round, coming home from Iluka Park with a narrow 1-0 win against Joondalup City. “A really pleasing result and an important win for us in a cup game. Joondalup made it difficult, they were organised and competitive, so we had to be patient and disciplined throughout,” Bayswater coach Matthew Sparrow explained post-match. “I thought we controlled large parts of the game, limited them to very little and looked very solid defensively, which is always a big positive.
“It probably wasn’t our most fluent performance going forward, but in cup football it’s about finding a way to win and the boys did that. Credit to the group, they stuck at it, showed good character and got the job done. We’re delighted to be through to the quarter finals and now our focus quickly turns back to the league.” The only goal of the tie came on 24 minutes, when Ollie La Galia bulldozed his way through and held off his marker before finishing past Joe Smith.
2.5.2026
LIGHTS OUT AT QUINNS AS KINGSLEY KEEP PRESSURE ON THE LEADERS – STATE LEAGUE REVIEW
We only had two State League Division One games on Saturday, and both games ended 1-0, with Kingsley Westside beating Subiaco AFC 1-0 at Chichester Park, while the game between league leaders Floreat Athena and Quinns at Stylish Park, Gumblossom Reserve was 1-0 to Floreat before the lights went out at the break, and the game was abandoned, but with the game having reached half-time, the result stands as per competition rules.
At Chichester Park the hosts hit the front on ten minutes. Good work by Raezz Pandor and Noah Leasor in the middle of the park sent Ben Ford down the right, he found Pandor just inside the penalty area, and his first time shot went in via the far post. The visitors looked for a quick response Tomas Despotovski firing over the top, before Phil Arnold’s long-range shot was saved low by Isaac Driessen. Pander went close to a second on 20 minutes, his shot from the edge of the box flashed inches past the post, and four minutes later Jack Robinson’s shot was well saved by Max Winton. Both sides had late chances, Ivan Skorich’s deflected shot drifted just wide of the post as Subiaco pressed for the equaliser, before Pandor went close again just before half time, bursting into the box, but Jeremy Tshongo got back with a great last-ditch tackle.
Subiaco were on the front foot after the break, and from Despotovski’s corner, Arnold headed just wide. But clear-cut chances were few and far between, but Kingsley substitute Paul Stewart’s cross shot was well claimed by Winton. The hosts went even closer moments later, Max Adamson rounded the keeper, but his shot from the angle was cleared off the line by the alert Tshongo. The hosts went close to a second in stoppage time, Stewart sending Elliot Tattersall into the box, he beat his marker and cut inside Christopher Harradine, but his shot was well saved by Winton, but the hosts had done enough to maintain their unbeaten home record.
“A really hard-fought win, the lads dug in and showed plenty of character. We’ve watched a fair bit of Subiaco over the last few weeks and knew they would be a tough test despite their recent results,” Kingsley assistant coach Jason Stern said. “I thought we defended superbly well again as a team and nullified most of what Subiaco threw at us, but we feel like we should’ve made more of the chances we created. In saying that we are really happy to pick up the three points to continue our decent start.”
In the late game, Floreat made a good start, and Joshua Wilis’ shot from the edge of the box drifted inches wide early. But on six minutes the hosts hit the front, a ball down the line found Harvey Tomlinson, who cut on to his left foot and drilled his shot from the edge of the box into the top corner of the net, giving Quinns keeper James Bosdet no chance. They went close again moments later Tomlinson found Tom Wassholm, but his shot on the run flew wide of the target, before Jordan Langley was sent in on goal, but Bosdet stood tall to deny him.
Quinns hit back and Jordan Allen-Rana deep cross was pushed away by Joshua Hunter with Joshua Allum ready to head it home. The chances kept coming for the visitors, Harry Lewis’ snap shot was saved by Bosdet, as Floreat looked for a second. But Quinns were making inroads, and Chad Samuels bicycle kick flew wide. Quinns went close again just after the half hour, Samuels raced into goal, but Linus Persson got back with a crucial last-ditch tackle to deny him. Both sides had late chances, Bosdet was alert to tip Jacob Young header over the top, before Paul Grant goalbound header was cleared by Tomlinson, but at the break, the floodlights failed, and the game was abandoned.
In the only State League Division Two game on Saturday, was the Week Five catch up game between Canning City and Carramar Shamrock Rovers at Burrendah Park, and it was the visitors who claimed the three points, after a 3-0 win. “It was a scrappy start to the game, with Canning having most of the possession, but we managed to get a break away and won a penalty. We didn't take that chance, and Canning were unlucky, hitting the post twice,” Rovers’ coach Adam Walsh explained. “But we took some control of the game and started creating some chances, and the second half was a better performance from us and managed to take the points.”
The visitors missed an early penalty, Nathan Diaz was fouled in the box, but Kieran Harrison missed the resulting spot kick. But Rovers did find the opener on 23 minutes, Aidan O’Donnell heading home a free kick, and they went into the break with a narrow advantage. The visitors doubled their lead just after the hour, Harry Bisset taking advantage of another quality set piece, before substitute Connor Cleary came on and had an immediate impact grabbing third, turning the ball home after a flick on from Bisset, to seal the win for Rovers.
2.5.2026
WA YOUNGSTER ON TARGET FOR JUNIOR MATILDAS
The Junior Matildas have started their AFC U-17 Women’s Asian Cup campaign in China with a 2-0 win against India in Group B at the Suzhou Taihu Football Sports Centre on Saturday evening. Hyundai Football West Academy striker Theo Mouithys gave the youngsters the lead midway through the first half, before an own goal from Abhista Basnett on the hour secured the win for Michael Cooper's side.
FW Academy midfielder Sakura Leong was also in the starting line-up, as the Matildas looked to start their first game on a high, and on a wet and humid evening in Suzhou they started brightly. Leong dispossessing Redima Devi Chingkhamayum in the sixth minute before drilling a low shot straight at India goalkeeper Munni Bhambhu, and eight minutes later Sydney FC defender Willa Pearson’s effort from a corner flashed wide of the target.
But on 25 minutes, their pressure was rewarded with the lead. Mouithys’ forced a poor clearance from keeper Munni Bhambhu, which was pounced on by Claire Corbett, who played the ball back to Mouithys, who curled home from the edge of the box. The striker thought she was offside, but the flag stayed down. Australia threatened to double their lead in the closing stages of the first half, with Pearson and Kaya Jugovic missing the target from inside the box, while Mouithys saw her low effort parried by Munni before Leong fired the rebound over the bar.
It was more of the same after the break, with Australia pressing for a second, but India almost levelled ten minutes in, Joya Joya’s through pass finding Pritika Barman clear on the right, only for the Indian midfielder to send her long-range effort wide. But just before the hour mark, the Matildas did double their advantage. Kaya Jugovic's cross from the left Indian centre-back Basnett, attempted clearance looped over her own goalkeeper and into the back of the net.
India almost reduced the margin moments later, skipper Julan Nongmaithem pounced on some hesitation in the matildas defence, but her shot was saved low by Dali Gorr Burchmore. It was the Matildas looking the more dangerous in the later stages, Corbett was on the end of a neat buildup, the midfielder’s shot on the run skimmed the top of the crossbar. They had the ball in the net again ten minutes later, Kaya Jugovic found herself on the end of a cross from Sakura Leong, who headed home, but her celebrations were cut short, with Jugovic was judged to be offside.
They were in again 18 minutes from time, Abbie Puckett raced through on goal, rounding the goalkeeper, but as she was about to shot a combination of surface and tackle from a defender saw her fire wide. She injured her leg in the incident, and was replaced. A great start for the youngsters, who now have a short turnaround heading into their second Group B fixture against Lebanon at the same venue hoping to secure a knockout berth on Tuesday afternoon (3:30pm WA Time).
Australia U-17: GK Dali Gorr Burchmore, 2 Willa Pearson, 3 Charlotte Bradshaw, 4 Keira Sarris (13 Maeve Nicholas 62'), 7 Claire Corbett, 8 Kaya Jugovic (9 Izabella Rako 88'), 10 Leyla Hussain (22 Hayley Muir 62'), 16 Tehya Aspland, 20 Sakura Leong, 21 Theo Mouithys (14 Jada Taylor 72'), 23 Abbie Puckett (6 Frida Karaberis 72') – Subs not used: RGK Annabelle Croll, RGK Alyse Oppedisano, 5 Liana Luong 11 Matilda Dias Wadewitz, 15 Tyra Bagiante, 17 Mary Dal Broi, 19 Harper Pell
India U-17: GK Munni Bhambhu, 4 Elizabed Lakra, 5 Divyani Linda, 6 Thandamoni Baskey (22 Bonifilia Shullai 88'), 7 Julan Nongmaithem (9 Pearl Fernandes 80'), 11 Ritu Badaik (19 Alisha Lyngdoh 66'), 12 Pritika Barman, 16 Redima Devi Chingkhamayum, 17 Abhista Basnett, 18 Alva Devi Senjam, 21 Joya (8. Anushka Kumari 66') – Subs not used: RGK Tamphasana Devi, 2 Alena Devi Sarangthem, 3 Taniya Devi Tonambam, 10 Olivia Chanu Ningthoujam, 14 Valaina Jada, 15 Joyshini Chanu, 20 Anwita Raghuraman
1.5.2026
OXTOBY REFLECTS ON LIFE AND FOOTBALL
Newcastle United manager Tanya Oxtoby recently discussed her football journey to date and the things that have shaped her as a person. "It was very simple. A simple life," Oxtoby told newcastleunited.com of her upbringing in Wickham, a tiny country town in the Pilbara region of Western Australia.
"There'd be cyclones and all of that type of thing. But it was pretty cool. In the '80s, it had a very small population, everybody knew everybody. I had the best life growing up. We had a boat and we'd go fishing every weekend. I was driving at ten, on the beaches and stuff. When I look back at my childhood, those types of experiences are crazy, thinking where I am now."
Oxtoby became manager of Newcastle United Women in November 2025 after leaving her post with Northern Ireland Women. In the relative privacy of her office at Cochrane Park she looks back with fondness on a former life down under as the first of two children born to Steve and Rhonda, who comes from an Aboriginal background.
"It's a massive part of who I am. There were no real visible role models of an indigenous background when I was playing. I was really, really conscious of that," Oxtoby says. "For me, it was about not only being female at that point - even then, I knew I was gay. So all of those different pockets, if you like, I knew I was representing."
"It was important to be visible in that space and being Aboriginal was part of that too. If you're authentic to yourself, it's manageable. I don't ever try to be someone I'm not. I am who I am. You either love that or you hate it. I can't apologise for it. I always want to be the best version of myself. I always want to be visibly showing others that it can be done."
The 43-year-old is speaking unreservedly and with a rawness that doesn't diminish when the conversation turns to her older brother, Michael. He was born with a chromosome disorder and was non-verbal, so she learned sign language as a child. At a time when there was less understanding around special educational needs, the tight-knit community of Wickham helped.
"He was the most special person ever," Oxtoby says gently. "He was my biggest supporter. Whenever I played, I could always hear him in the crowd. While he couldn't communicate with words, he could scream and he could yell. When I was on the ball, I could hear him cheering and getting excited. If someone tackled me, I could see him pointing his finger as if to say, 'that's not OK! That's my sister!'"
Michael died from sarcoma in 2018. A tumour had been found in his hip. The family chose to fill his final months with joy and Oxtoby recalls dressing up as Santa at Christmas, only for her watch to give her away. She recalls her brother's knowing look, "as if to say, I know it's you!" she smiles as grief begins to sound like strength.
"When he left us, you can look at it one of two ways. It's really sad. But he lived an amazing life for 39 years - probably more amazing than some of us live in a whole lifetime. I think the people he touched and the way he affected people's lives... that's his legacy. I know he's around. I see him every day in Albie, in his little mannerisms, the way he is. I'm like, 'oh, wow - that is too close to home'."
Albie is Oxtoby and her partner Alice's five-year old son. The Newcastle boss is one of few mothers working in the top two tiers of the women's game in England and says her club have been supportive of her finely. "The girls entertain him no end," she smiles. "It's nice for the players, too, to see a different side of me as well. They probably think I'm quite blunt, to the point, direct. And then, obviously I'm a massive big softy underneath, but I just don't show it."
Oxtoby left Wickham at the age of 12 to take up a football scholarship in Perth. A decade or so later she completed a double major in Psychology at university. There are elements of her studies that have proved applicable in dealing with players. "But that's also a two-way street. It's them trying to also understand me and know, I suppose, how to get the best outcome when we’re chatting as well," she said.
Some managers have little desire to be understood whereas others simply want their authority to be respected. "If you want an environment that has got a good culture and is respectful, that has to be two-way. It has to be," she counters. "There are non-negotiables and things that we're not going to agree on, and that's OK. But at the end of the day, you've got to have the capacity to have a bit of back-and-forth."
"Otherwise, what's the point? That, to me, is more of a dictatorship, it's not necessarily a partnership. The best cultures I've been a part of, there is certainly an element of, 'I'm not budging on that', but the rest of it is collaboration and trying to get the best out of ourselves, because what fits one player doesn't always fit another and everyone's circumstances are really different."
Between 2021 and 2023 Oxtoby was assistant to Emma Hayes at Chelsea. She says her time in West London, which brought back-to-back Women's Super League titles and three successive FA Cups, influenced her tactical approach. "If you have a very distinctive way that you want to play, you better have the best players in the world to be able to execute that every single time," she says.
"In my opinion, football is fluid and you need the ability to be flexible. I always say I want the players to feel confident they can make decisions. We want them to be decision-makers. If you're at Wembley in front of 80,000, they're not going to hear me. If I want them to play a certain way, they have to be able to make decisions for themselves and I think that's when you get the utopia and the best out of people."
"They (the players) - rightly or wrongly - make a decision, take accountability for that choice whether it came off or it didn't, and we move on from it and it's a learning. Everyone has their own style. We have principles, we have a certain way that we want to play, but what that looks like week to week may vary a bit, because that's the challenge. It keeps players on their toes as well."
Oxtoby followed the Magpies' rise to the second tier from afar. And since her appointment they have lost just twice in WSL2. "I think it's not about changing everything all at once - that's really clear. I've never done that, whether it was Northern Ireland or Bristol City. It's staging it and thinking about what's going to give us the biggest bang for our buck right now."
"How do we have the biggest impact, and what area is that in? And making sure that we nail that down first, then slowly layer on top. I think if you come in and just blow it up... maybe the staff in the building feel like I have! But for me, I've just gone, 'these are the main things we need to go after' ... It's trying to do it in a way that's sustainable. If you rip it all apart, you're bound to have to take five steps back."
"Having people around you that shape the way you are authentic is important. Sometimes, just knowing you're enough being you is key. That, for me, is probably the piece now. We've got great leaders here and they're all very different. But I want them to be different, because I don't want them to be anything that they're not. The way they influence every single person in the group differently is what it's about. We don't want robots. The world is robotic enough, I think."
Those in her profession are not always given to reflection but Oxtoby recounts two significant memories. The first is of taking her dad to Wembley for Manchester City 3-0 Women's FA Cup final win over West Ham United in 2019. "We were sat watching. He was like, 'one day, that will be you'. I laughed. I just thought, 'good one, nice one mate'. But he had tears in his eyes," she said.
"He reminded me of it in the Chelsea era when we won three FA Cups in a row. That was a real opening of the door into my world, and he got to see what we get to experience here (in women's football in England) and the support we have. It was a pretty special moment."
The other is from 2018. She was at Perth Airport preparing to fly back to England after Michael's funeral - for which she'd put together a soundtracked slideshow of photos and videos of the two siblings and their family - when her phone rang. The 40-minute call ultimately led to her taking the Bristol City job, her first managerial post in the WSL.
Oxtoby's career flowed from there without much time to grieve and she admits some emotions were compartmentalised. "Normalising some of those feelings is my way of coping with it," she said. "The rest of the time I kind of park that and pop it there. There are times when Albie will smack me in the face with it, which is good - it's a reminder. He'll say stuff like, 'do you miss your brother?'"
"Those little comments when you're not prepared for it... or he'll get sad and he'll go, 'I wish I'd met my uncle Mike - why is he in heaven?' Then you're having a whole conversation with a child about that. It's those moments you can't control, and you have to allow yourself to feel it."
Albie, whose middle name is Michael, has a photo of his uncle on his bedside table. Last Christmas, while her parents were over from Australia, Oxtoby sat with Albie and put the slideshow on. "It was the first time I'd watched it back since the funeral. That's a long time ago. That's how long grief takes, to allow yourself to feel that. It was the right time: 'do you want to see your uncle Mike?'
"He's got real innocence in his eyes, so he was like, 'is that you, mummy, when you were a kid?' It's nice. But it's just taking those moments when you feel ready to deal with them," she says. "There's no timeframe on that. Everybody does it differently."
1.5.2026
BELT-UP AMATEUR PREMIER DIVISION – WEEK FOUR PREVIEW
After last week’s cup round, we are back into league action in the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division, and our Week Four ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to Carine Open Space, where Hamersley Rovers entertain Maccabi. (All games kick off at 3:00pm, unless stated) Both sides progressed in the Amateur League Cup, with wins against Spearwood Dalmatinac and Curtin University respectively, and they will both look to continue their solid starts to the new season, with both coming off wins in the last round. They played out two tight games last season, a 0-0 draw at Hamersley in week ten, before a goal from Callum Duguid gave Rovers a 1-0 win the return fixture in week 21.
Rovers secured their first win of the season against Kingsley last time out, and coach Antony Benetti said it was good to get a win on the board. “We've had an interesting start to the season and definitely feel like we had opportunities to have picked up a few more points leading into round four,” he said. “As a new group the challenge was always going to be to find consistency but what I'm proud of is we've always been competitive and that's largely due to the players commitment and belief in the direction we are aiming for. Now it’s a focus on turning effort into reward and with some players returning its added more competitiveness in our preparations. It's still very early into the season and we will be aiming to now build momentum.”
Benetti said Sunday’s clash soon be competitive, and one they are looking forward too. “Maccabi have started the year well and picked up important points. We know this weekend is a challenge and we are definitely up for it,” he explained. “Building a winning run in any competition is important and changes the landscape of the league very quickly. As usual our focus is on how we can impact the game and get maximum points. The league is tough and that always makes for competitive games, but we have confidence in what we need to do.”
Maccabi bounced back from their first defeat of the season at Noranda Emerald in week two, with a win against Ballajura, and coach Ricky Berelowitz said they need to build on it. “Yes, we are pleased so far but we started in a similar way last year and then lost six in a row,” he explained. “So, we’re not really looking at the table, we’re just trying to focus week by week and try and win every time we step out onto the pitch.”
They make the trip to Hamersley on Sunday, and with them winning last week, Berelowitz is expecting another stern test. “Hamersley are always difficult to play against so it will be a tough game as usual, but we’re confident going into every game that we can beat anyone on our day,” he said. “So hopefully the boys show up with the right attitude and desire and we can keep picking up points.”
In other games on Sunday, Olympic Kingsway host league leaders Wanneroo City at Kingsway Reserve, the visitors are still the only team in league to win all three opening games. Kingsley Westside entertain Kwinana United at Chichester Park, while Kelmscott Ross head to Kingfisher Park to meet Ballajura AFC. Swan United will look to bounce back after their defeat in the cup and build on their last league win against Kwinana, when they host bottom of the table Jaguar at the Swan Italian Club, Francis Street.
In the early game fourth placed Noranda Emerald welcome second placed North Perth United to the Noranda Sporting complex (1:00pm) The hosts were held to a draw at Kelmscott last week, and coach Ger Gaughan said it’s a game they are all looking forward too. “North Perth are still one of the best teams in this league and there’s a great mutual respect which definitely adds to the rivalry,” he said. “I know Chris will have the lads well up for this one, but we are feeling good in our new home and excited for the challenge.”
United were made to work for their win against Olympic Kingsway, and coach Chris Batten said it continued their good start, but knows they need to be on their game on Sunday. “The lads are looking forward to it. We had a pretty tough game last week against Ellenbrook in the cup on the Astro turf, and we gave the lads Tuesday off due to some knocks and niggles but they trained well last night,” he explained. “When the fixtures come out Noranda Emerald are always the first match you look for. They’re a very good team and as I’ve said previously there’s a really healthy rivalry between the sides.
“Ger and Shane are top coaches and any team they have been involved in are always well trained and drilled so we know we will be up against it on Sunday. We managed to get over the line in the night series tie, taking them to penalties after being 2-0 down so we do take some confidence out of that but I’m sure they’ll be out for revenge. Both teams are in good form so I’m expecting another very good game against them. We have a full squad to pick from apart from Barry Boggan who is suspended for the game, so there’s no excuses for Sunday.”
1.5.2026
HAHN AUSTRALIA CUP WA – ROUND OF 16 PREVIEW
The last 16 of the Hahn Australia Cup WA takes centre stage this weekend, as clubs battle it out to advance to the quarter-finals. (All games kick off at 3:00pm, unless stated) East Perth were the giant-killers in the last round, knocking out cup holders Stirling Macedonia, and they face another NPL side in this round, when they visit Dianella Reserve to meet Dianella White Eagles on Saturday evening. (5:30pm) East Perth skipper Chris Smith said the club is buzzing after the win against Stirling, and knows they face another stern test at Dianella.
“Always great for the club and as a team playing against a NPL club as you want to test yourself against the best. We were confident we could get some sort of result that day and credit to everyone we came away with a deserved win,” he explained. “We’ll go again on Saturday against another NPL team and we have nothing to lose going into the game. Dianella will be another big test and after only getting promoted they are already proving they are good enough to compete against the best in the NPL. As a club we look forward to another big day and hopefully we can do ourselves proud and see what happens at the end of the game.”
Dianella striker Albert Luwi was on target in their win at UWA Nedlands in the last round, and he knows cup games are a great leveller, so they need to be on their game from the first whistle, something they weren’t in the last round. “The win at UWA was a good result, although it was a bit of a slow to start the game, but once we got the first goal, we took control of the game and created a nice cushion for the second half and ultimately for the win,” the striker said. “We definitely know we going into a match that’s going to come with its challenges, and I guess we can use their last result as a reminder to approach this game with intent and focus if we do that, I’m confident we will walk away winners.”
The other Saturday evening game is an all-NPL tie, with Balcatta Etna hosting last seasons beaten finalists Olympic Kingsway at the Home Group Stadium, Grindleford Reserve. (5:15pm) Olympic arrive into this one top of the league, while Balcatta sit second bottom, but in the cup, anything can happen. We will have at least two State League sides into the quarter-finals, with Morley Windmills hosting Cockburn City at Wotton Reserve on Saturday afternoon, while Division Two league leaders Rockingham City head to the Ashfield Arena to take on Ashfield on Friday evening. (7:00pm)
A brace from Luke Salmon, gave Morley and upset win against Gwelup Croatia in the last round, and coach John O’Reilly said it was a deserved win, and he’s looking for more of the same against Rockingham. “The Gwelup game was special, and we played well in the first half and then second half I just let the boys play off the leash and they excelled,” he said. “This week we will take the challenge seriously from Cockburn, who have been strong contenders over the last two seasons.”
Rockingham were pushed all the way at Ellenbrook in the last round, and midfielder Chris Thackrey said they had to work hard to win the tie. “It was a great contest against Ellenbrook, they were very well organised and disciplined, with some quality players in the attacking areas. I am sure they will have a very good season this year with the playing group they have,” he explained. “For us, it was another game on the road, and we knew it would be a challenge, as those cup games most often are, and we put in a professional performance and got the job done “
Thackrey said it said be a great tie under lights at Ashfield, and they head into the game looking to keep building their momentum. “We expect another hard-fought contest at Ashfield in another game on the road against a team that has also started the league campaign very well,” he said. “It has the potential to be a fantastic cup clash under the lights at Ashfield. We will be looking to put in another professional performance with the same energy and hard work that has got us to this round and keep building the momentum.”
The other ties see NPL teams taking on State League sides. First on Friday evening Inglewood United head to the RedStar Arena to meet Perth RedStar. (7:00pm) Inglewood caused an upset in the last round, beating RedStar neighbours Sorrento, and defender Ciaran Salinger said it’s another test, but one they are looking forward too. “Yes, it was a very hard fought win the last round against Sorrento. Always a tough side to break down and your always guaranteed a physical game. Luckily, we had our finishing boots on that night and got the win,” Salinger said. “Always looking forward to playing another NPL side. Really give you a perspective into the character of our squad what levels we can push for. RedStar is a tough game for any team in the state, so it should definitely be an entertaining one.”
The RedStar eased into the last 16, with a come-from-behind win at Armadale, and skipper Blair Govan knows they will be in for a tough encounter. “Yes, we are expecting a tough game against Inglewood, I don’t think they’re league position gives a true reflection of their team and Glenn always organises his team really well so we know we are in for a tough one,” the defender explained. “But we have to focus on ourselves. This is an important part of the season for us and we will be looking to continue our good form this week.”
Bayswater City face a tough trip to meet Joondalup City at Iluka District Open Space. Joondalup were too strong for Gosnells City in the last round to set up this tie, and skipper Liam Peacock said the lads are up for this one. “The boys are looking forward to the test against Bayswater City,” he said. “It’s cup football, and we’ll be looking to shock a few.” Bayswater edged out MUMFC in the last round in a tough game, and coach Matthew Sparrow said it will be another tough test on Saturday.”
“It’s always a tough trip away to Joondalup City, they’re a well-organised side and cup games always have that extra edge, so we’re expecting a real challenge on Saturday,” he said. “For us, it’s about building on the momentum we’ve created over the last few weeks. We’ve shown good character in recent games, but we know there are still areas we can tighten up, particularly in both boxes. We’ll go there with the right mentality, respect the opposition, but also look to impose ourselves on the game. The cup is something we take seriously, so we’re looking forward to it and hopefully progressing to the next round.
In the other ties, Fremantle City welcome Wembley Downs to Hilton Park on Saturday. (2:30pm) Wembley upset Subiaco in the last round, but coach Luke Thompson knows this is a huge challenge, but one they are looking forward to. “We are under no illusions on how tough a challenge Fremantle will be, but we are looking forward to it and hope to continue playing well,” he said. “As East Perth proved last round, anything can happen.” The final game sees Curtin University head to Nash Field to take on Western Knights. (2:30pm).
1.5.2026
STATE LEAGUE PREVIEW
We have a truncated Week Six in the State League Division One due to the cup games, with only two games being played on Saturday, and our ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to Stylish Park, Grindleford Road, where Quinns host league leaders Floreat Athena. (5:00pm) Floreat moved three points clear at the summit after a 3-1 come from behind win against Curtin University on Monday, and Joshua Willis was on target just before half time to get them back in the game and they went on with it, and he said they were slow out of the blocks and were punished on the day, something they need to address. “We started the game poorly, and got punished, this is something as a group we need to improve on,” he said. “My goal was needed, and I’m glad I could help the team but we increased the standard in the second half and got our rewards. Every game in this league will be tough as we’ve seen, and Quinns will be no different. But as a group I feel we are more determined than ever to put it right in terms of our performance.”
It's been a good start to life in Division One for Quinns after promotion last season, but last week suffered their first defeat on the road at UWA Nedlands, and midfielder Elliot Ireland said they never got going on the day, and will be looking to bounce back on Saturday. “Yes, it was a tough game, UWA are a good side and playing mid-week definitely had an effect on us, but in saying that for the standards we set we simply didn’t get going, and ultimately UWA deserved the win,” the midfielder said. “Floreat are another good side who have shown their intent to go right back up after their relegation. It’s definitely a challenge we look forward to, it’s the perfect game and opportunity for us to bounce back after the UWA result.”
The other game on Saturday sees Kingsley Westside host Subiaco AFC at Chichester Park. (3:00pm) Kingsley sit second on the table, and are unbeaten at home, while Subiaco sit 11th, and will be looking for a second win on the road, the last coming at Joondalup City in Week Three. The hosts beat Cockburn City 3-1 last week, with Raeez Pandor on the scoresheet, and he said they had to work hard for the points, and knows it will be the same on Saturday. “It was a tough fought game against Cockburn, but the team played as a unit,” he said.
“I thought we stayed disciplined, and kept the attacking pressure we were able to dominate through key periods until the end. Getting that win was important for us—not just for the points, but for building back a winning atmosphere within the squad. We’ve been solid at home, and we’re looking to continue that form this week. Subiaco may not have had the best start to the season, but they’re a side we expect a competitive match. Yet I’m confident in our quality and ability to perform. Pushing on toes for the top spots and keeping the pressure on Floreat.”
Subiaco were edged out 2-1 at MUMFC last week, and midfielder Tomas Despotovski thoughts they deserved something from the game. “It was disappointing to finish that game without taking anything from it, similar to our previous matches against Quinns and Inglewood. We played some good football in those games but unfortunately weren’t able to turn our performances into points,” he said. “We know it will be a difficult challenge playing away at Kingsley’s ground. They are in good form, which is reflected by their position in second on the table, but the boys and coaches are ready for the challenge. We’ve been putting in the hard yards at training and working hard to turn these recent results around.”
The other games in Week Six will be played on Wednesday evening (May 6) Gwelup Croatia meet Cockburn City at Macedonia Park, Mandurah City welcome Curtin University to the Poolmart Mandurah Stadium, Inglewood United head to the UWA Sports Park to meet UWA Nedlands, while Murdoch University Melville welcome Joondalup City to Len Shearer Reserve on May 20.
In Division Two, with the cup taking place, there isn’t any game with Week Six taking place next weekend. But we do have a Week Five catch up game when Canning City host Carramar Shamrock Rovers at Burrendah Park on Saturday afternoon (3;00pm) The hosts are still searching for a first win this campaign, and will be looking to bounce back from a heavy defeat at East Perth in the last round. Meanwhile, Rovers are unbeaten this season, and are coming off a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Wembley Downs, and skipper Kieran Harrison said they will be looking to get back in the winner’s circle on Saturday.
“I thought the Wembley game was a well-earned draw. They’re a good side, very well setup and I think they’ll have a good season. They were probably the better team in the first half but the second half was a lot more even once we got to grips with how they wanted to play. A draw was probably a fair result in the end,” Harrison explained. “You always know what you’ll get down at Canning, it will be a tough afternoon, I’m sure. I think anyone can beat anyone in this league regardless of form so the fact they’re yet to win doesn’t really matter. It will be a good game and we will do all we can to get the win.”
Canning coach Lee Hayward said the loss at East Perth was tough, but they have had two weeks to get it out of their system, and he’s looking forward to Saturday’s game. “Yes, it was a tough game out in our last game against East Perth. We actually had a better share of the possession but possession doesn’t win you games, and East Perth were ruthless in front of goal, and we struggled to deal with the directness of the game,” he said. “The boys have had two weeks of training to get ready for Carramar, and we are confident if we can dominate the ball and take our chances the wins will come, and hopefully that’s this week.”
1.5.2026
KALTAK AND MCKENNA TAKE OUT ‘MOST GLORIOUS PLAYER OF THE YEAR’
It was a successful night for Perth Glory defender Brain Kaltak, making a clean sweep of the awards at the clubs Most Glorious Players night at Perth’s Westin Hotel on Tuesday evening, while Tijan McKenna won the Women’s Most Glorious Player of the Year. The big defender won the 2025-26 Most Glorious Player of the Year, and also won the Members/Supporters and Players’ Player of the Year in what was his debut season with the club after moving from Central Coast Mariners.
The 32-year-old struggled early in his time at the club, but the Vanuatu international defender blossomed under the tenure of Adam Griffiths, and he thanked the coach for his improvement. “I thought I had a really good season, despite the slow start, but then I picked myself up, and I’ve been killing it ever since,” Kaltak told The West Australian. “A turning point was when Griff stepped in and he expected more from us.
“Big players they step up, lead the way, show the example of what we want to be like as a team. That changed the way I think, and it changed me as a senior player, there to lead by an example, and I think I did. He demanded more from us as senior players and he spoke clearly when it came to all the senior players. It’s been a big change, a shift from not just myself and my performance, but the other boys as well.” By seasons end, the defender ranked second in the league for clearances (173) and equal seventh for both blocks (22) and interceptions (33) and had helped Perth’s defence concede 17 fewer goals this season.
He believes Glory can move further up the table next season, and with the entirety of this year’s back four and goalkeeper Matt Sutton contracted for next year. Griffiths is out of contract, but Kaltak hailed the job he had done, and hopes he’s around next season. “It means a lot to have a good, supportive coaching staff and the players as well, where they push you forward, and they always, look after you,” he said. “When you have a good environment, it helps everyone to achieve their goals, or whatever we want to achieve.”
In other awards for the Men’s side, Young Socceroos Gio De Abreu won the DT38 Young Player of the Season, the 19-year-old midfielder, was outstanding in maiden year of senior football. Jaiden Kucharski won the Goal of the Year Award, for his stunning match-winner against Auckland FC in Round 15, although Seb Despotovski was unlucky with his stunner against Brisbane Roar in the final game of the season, while Tom Lawrence, Nicholas Pennington and Adam Taggart all shared the Bobby Despotovski A-League Men’s Golden Boot. The club also paid a special tribute to club legend Josh Risdon to mark his retirement from the professional game after an illustrious 16-year career in which he became Glory’s all-time A-League record appearances holder.
Perth-local local McKenna, was rewarded for a fantastic season, where she became Stephen Peters fix it player, excelling in several different positions and established herself as one of the most consistent performers in the squad. In other awards, keeper Teresa Morrissey was named Members’ Player of the Year and Players’ Player of the Year, and Rola Badawiya took out the Golden Boot and also won Goal of the Year for her fantastic Round Two strike against Brisbane Roar at HBF Park. While former Perth Azzurri player, Grace Johnston was named the Women’s Best Young Player Award.
1.5.2026
SUCCESSFUL NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS FOR WA BOYS
It was another successful National Championships for the West Australian teams, with both the Under 15’s and 16’s topping their respective 2026 Emerging Socceroos Championship tables. The 15’s were beaten in the Quarter-Finals by Victoria Blue, while 16’s reached the Champions Final, before losing narrowly also to NSW Navy. The under 16’s coach Neil Kilkenny said it was a great tournament and he was pleased with the boy’s attitude and character throughout.
“The boys did well to reach the final, but if I’m honest, at the same time I wanted to win it,” Kilkenny said. “I thought the boys showed real character to reach the final, in tight quarter and semi-final wins against Victoria Blue and South Australia. I was happy for Jack (English), who scored the winner in the semi-final, but to get past Victoria in the quarter-finals, who were one of the best two teams in tournament was brilliant, and it was a great squad effort.”
Kilkenny believes football in WA is up the up, and thanked Garth Naven for his support along the journey. “We are putting on high demands on the boys, and they are thriving, which is fantastic for WA football,” the former Socceroos, Leeds United and Perth Glory midfielder said. “It’s good signs, and hopefully we can keep pushing the levels, and I think I’m making a difference in WA football, obviously I have decent experience in the professional game, and hopefully I can pass on some detail to the younger generation. At the same time, I’ve got ambitions to coach as high I can, and I’m learning a great deal at Football West under Gareth (Naven), who has been brilliant to me and I can’t speak highly enough of him.”
The Under 16’s topped Group D, and started the group stage with a 3-0 win against NSW Reginal. Sorrento’s Saul Monger gave them the lead early, before Perth Glory’s Daniel Reilly doubled the advantage on the half hour, before his Glory teammate Samual Hatzaw sealed the game after the break. They played Queensland White in game two, and Perth Glory’s Dhaniel Brown scored the only goal in a 1-0 win. In the final game they needed a draw to top the group, and they found it after a 0-0 draw against Victoria Country.
They played one of the best teams in the competition in the quarter finals, and in a tight contest they played out another 0-0 draw, but the WA youngsters held their nerves to win the penalty shoot-out. That set up a semi-final against South Australia, and an early goal from Perth RedStar’s Jack English won it. In the Championship Final they played NSW Navy, and a brace from Dimitri Staveris, proved enough for the NSW outfit to win the title.
The under 15’s, who were coached by John Walmsley, and he was delighted with the squad’s performance. “Great effort from the team overall. To top the group without conceding a goal was a strong achievement and reflects how organised and difficult to play against we were. Preparation was a challenge this year with the April start and limited games leading in, but the players adapted really well,” Walmsley explained. “Winning four of six games, including some strong performances against quality opposition, was very pleasing. Hopefully it provides a platform for more of our players to be identified for national team opportunities this year.”
The 15’s topped Group C, and in game one an early goal from Perth RedStar’s Frankie Inzalaco, gave them a 1-0 win against NSW Reginal, and in game two goals from South West Phoenix’s Alex Sawyer, and FW Academy’s John Leonidas gave them a 2-0 win against Queensland White. They topped the group in style, with a 5-0 win in the final group game against Victoria Country. FW Academy’s Freddie Smith was the hero bagging a hat-trick, with his FW Academy team mates Adam Ikhlef and Jayden Dube also on the scoreboard. It set up a quarter final against Victoria Blue, and in a hard-fought game they were beaten 3-0. They played the 5th / 6thplay off against NSW Navy, and were beaten 1-0, with Noah Miladinovic goal early in the second half giving them the win.
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