28.2.2006

ON THIS DAY ... 1977

Sunday 28th February, 1977, is etched in the memory of all Floreat Athena loyalists as the date their club captured their first major piece of silverware. Floreat's triumph came at the expense of Azzurri who they defeated 3-2 in a thrilling Night Series final at the Lake Monger Velodrome. While the game generally lacked finesse, due in part to the small pitch which made it difficult for players to find space, the crowd of over 4,000 were treated to an exciting game full of twists and turns.

After a scoreless first half, Azzurri went in front on 50 minutes when George McMillan latched on to a long through ball that he guided inside the post. Floreat struck back twenty-one minutes later when defender Gordon Ferguson crashed his downward header into the net following a corner. Both teams threw everything into breaking the deadlock but, with no addition to the scoreless, the match went into what would be a drama filled period of extra-time.

Two minutes after the restart Chris Glennon forced Brent Atherton to concede possession and played a cross to the far post where Martin Pereira headed in Floreat's second of the night. Four minutes later a long through ball caught Azzurri square at the back and Paul Hallum raced through to beat goalkeeper Chris Parfitt and angle the ball into the net. It looked as though it was 'game, set and match'.

The second half was just seconds old when Gary Marocchi scored an amazing - if controversial - goal by clipping the ball over the head of Floreat 'keeper Stephen Martin straight from the kick-off. It was a rare mistake by referee Denis Cooney who had failed to make sure all players were back in position, including Martin who was still walking back towards his goal, before signalling for the second half to commence.

Marocchi's goal sparked an Azzurri onslaught which lasted for the next fifteen minutes but failed to find a way past an experienced defence which kept their shape and focus under relentless pressure. There were stand-out performances on the night for Floreat from Martin, who made numerous matching winning saves in extra-time, Ferguson and G.Byron. The best players for a luckless Azzurri side were Eric Marocchi, McMillan and Aldo Trinca.

27.2.2006

WARD EMBARKS ON ENGLISH TRIALS (courtesy Perth Glory)

Perth Glory midfielder Nick Ward will undertake a week-long trial with English Championship side Leicester City following his recent trip to Bahrain with the Socceroos. Ward signed a new two-year contract with Glory earlier this month and was called into the senior Australian squad for the first time for their Asian Cup qualifiers last Wednesday. The 20-year old former Stirling Lions player was an unused substitute on the night but was due to fly from the Middle East to England to take up the trial with the East Midlands club before returning home.

A clause in Ward's contract allows him one week's trial with an overseas club per season but any club wishing to sign him would be required to pay a transfer fee to Glory. The club's technical manager, Mich d'Avray expects the exciting midfielder to be back in Perth ahead of the 2006/07 A-League season. "We did not re-sign Nick with the intention of losing him before he had kicked a ball for us. I would like to think he will spend a couple more seasons with us before he seriously considers going overseas," d'Avray said. "Another season or two playing in the A-League would benefit Nick and could help his chances of playing for the Socceroos as well."

26.2.2006

NIGHT SERIES, WEEKEND FIVE (Bayswater City vs Inglewood United by Peter Simcox; Swan I.C. vs Stirling Lions by Elliott Leonard; Armadale vs Sorrento by Kerry Slater; Floreat Athena vs Western Knights courtesy Floreat Athena)

Reigning Night Series trophy holder Inglewood United stretched their unbeaten run to three games with a hard fought 2-0 defeat of Bayswater City in Friday's early game at Litis Stadium. It was one-way traffic in a frantic opening spell in which Inglewood was quick to assert their authority as Daniel Niederberger's header had Bobson Koroma at full stretch and Darren Broxton fired wide from distance. Bayswater slowly got into rhythm with Mark Lee and Daniel Micevski holding the balance of power in midfield. In the 20th minute a great run by Micevski saw him provide the ball to Jason Lawton whose cross was headed back across goal by Ben Rogers and Danny Stoitis cleared the danger. There were chances at both ends as the half went on, Louis Parkinson's long-range strike was straight at Koroma and a Micevski shot was held by Jason Razmovski. The best chance of the half came moments from the break when Lee's in-swinging corner found an unmarked Lawton who headed over from close-range. Brodie Martin and Parkinson went close for Inglewood early in the second half while at the opposite end Micevski rifled past Razmovski only to have the ball crash into the upright. The deadlock was finally broken mid way through the half by Broxton whose expertly curled the ball wide of Koroma. Bayswater were hell bent on equalising as Rogers fired over and a free-kick from the edge of the are by Lee had Razmovski scrambling down low. However, when James Hesketh's shot cannoned back off the crossbar you just couldn't but help feel it wasn't going to be Bayswater's night. The result was eventually put beyond their reach with five minutes remaining when Niederberger played through to Albert Osei-Tutu who evaded one challenge then rounded the 'keeper to stroke the ball into an empty net.

Stirling Lions booked themselves a place in the last four of the Night Series for the first time in ten years courtesy of a 2-1 win over Swan I.C. The game could not have started much worse for the black and whites who were a goal behind after just 3 minutes when Damian Scali turned the ball past his own goalkeeper when attempting to clear an in-swinging corner from Steve Porter. From there Stirling didn't looked back and some fine lead up work on the left from Phil Arnold put the ball at the feet of Ryan Jeans whose shot kept out by Louis Lopresti at full stretch. Stirling were in control and a cross from Porter fell nicely for Arnold but his shot was palmed away by Lopresti, and Ludovic Boi sent the follow-up just wide of the post. With Damien Catalano and Miki Vujacic slowly stemming the tide Swan began to see more of the ball but still were unable to really test Phil Straker. Just before half-time the margin became two goals as Arnold pounced on a defensive error by Jonathon Mathers which he then shot low past replacement 'keeper Daniel Agudelo. The game continued in much the same vein in the second half with Jeans shooting wide following another defensive lapse, and minutes later Arnold hit the side netting following another mistake from the Swan backline. Swan slowly settled and were denied a penlaty by referee Joe Fusari when David Foster was bundled over inside the box. With ten minutes left the black and whites pegged a goal back when Catalano's cross was helped on by Foster and Vujacic netted from close in. And while a stunning shot from the edge of the area by Vujacic was narrowly wide it was a case of too little too late for Swan who will surely now bow out of the tournament at the group stage.

Sorrento continued their good Night Series form with a dominant 3-0 win over Armadale in the opening game on Sunday evening. It didn't take long for the northern suburbs' side to take control as shots from Simon Harland and Jared Love were narrowly wide of the target. On 12 minutes Todd Harnwell played a low cross into the area and in the scramble which followed Harland squirted the ball to Love who rammed in over the line much to the delight of the Gulls faithful. Shortly after Harnwell sprinting on to a pass lofted over the defence but as he advanced on goal fired wide of the left post. Armadale goalkeeper Nick Stone made a courageous save at the feet of Love, and Michael Ord's header flashed high as Sorrento looked to kill off the game. On 28 minutes Jason Goodwin had the ball in the net with Armadale's first meaningful attack but the linesman's flag ruled his effort out. A fierce strike from Marlon Ramirez was pushed wide by Neil Young as Armadale forced the pace just before the break, and from the resultant corner Christian Alvarez' blistering shot skimmed the top of crossbar. Five minutes after the re-start Ord sent a free-kick long to Harland who headed it back to Love and with a fine shot he steered in his second of the night. The game was ended as a contest four minutes later when Harland played Glen Thomas through for the classy midfielder to neatly lob Stone from 22-metres. Although clear-cut opportunities were scarce Armadale refused to give up the fight and went continually pushed forward in search of a consolation goal. A long-range effort by Billy Kirkpatrick flew narrowly past the post, while in the final minute a terrific Scott Devine volley produced an equally as impressive response from Young who was happy to concede a corner.

Floreat Athena's second successive clean sheet enabled them to beat Western Knights 1-0 and keep alive their hopes of qualifying for the semi-finals. Sensible use of the ball and some neat movement put Floreat on top early and resulted in a Okwy Diamondstar header skimming the crossbar. New signing Boima Karpeh was impressive on debut and after combining well with the midfield fired wide of the target. The Knights began to get more involved with Stuart Montgomery going close and a Jon Higgins free-kick was tipped away by goalkeeper Vas Vujacic. The referee responded to a number of physical challenges by taking the names of several players from both teams. The best chance of the period came on the half hour when Karpeh's cross was met by an unmarked Diamondstar whose powerful header beat Tommi Tomich but flashed over the bar. Floreat continued their onslaught after the break with Diamondstar shooting straight at Tomich and a long-range effort from Josip Magdic crashed into the bar. Their perseverance was finally rewarded in the 75th minute as a measured pass from Paul Vlachou put Karpeh through and the lively attacker glided past his marker before slotting neatly under the 'keeper. Any hopes of a Knights comeback were effectively dashed by the dismissal of Luka Jukic for a second yellow card offence shortly after they went behind. Not surprisingly, Floreat's dominance continued with Josip Magdic hitting the bar and the upright denying both Branimir Mikulic and Karpeh. The Knights almost snatched a point late in the piece through Montgomery whose curling shot was just beyond the post.

26.2.2006

DESPOTOVSKI PLEAS FOR LOCAL LEAGUE GAME TIME

Bobby Despotovski fears his national league career will be virtually over if he is prevented from playing in the local Premier League during the winter months. The Perth Glory veteran says he could not afford to take a long break and still be expected to perform at his peak when the A-League resumes, possibly as late as September. A-League regulations allow contracted players to compete in local competitions only in special circumstances - such as for players who had little game time during the season.

In order for Glory to get the best out of him Despotovski said it was vital that he be allowed to continue to play in the local competition ahead of what is likely to be his final season at national league level. "I'm very concerned about not being able to play in the (local) league because I'm sure that would help me perform to the best of my ability in the A-League season," said Despotovski, who will be 35 when the next A-League season kicks off. "It's probably going to be six months (before the A-League starts again) which is a hell of a long break."

Despotovski considers a five-week break is long enough for him to recuperate from the season's rigours, and that an extended break would make it virtually impossible for him to return to full fitness while also increasing the risk of injury. "If I come back (to training with Glory) and I get injured, the club won't be able to use me," added Despotovski. Glory technical manager Mich d'Avray said the club was seeking permission for Despotovski and Stuart Young, who made just five appearances last season, to be granted permission to play locally.

26.2.2006

YOUNG SOCCEROOS QUALIFY FOR ASIAN CHAMPIONSHIP

The Australian Under-20 squad is through to the Asian Youth Championship after topping their preliminary qualifying group. Comfortable wins over Turkmenistan and Sri Lanka saw the Young Socceroos cruise through the qualifying tournament and book their place amongst the sixteen nations at the AFC Youth Championship being played in October. They join China, Iran, Iraq, Japan, Jordan, DPR Korea, Kyrgyzstan, Korea Republic, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, Tajikistan, Thailand, the United Arab Emirates, Vietnam and host nation India.

In hot and humid conditions, the Young Socceroos opened their campaign with a solid 3-0 win over Turkmenistan on Wednesday. Troy Hearfield gave Australia a dream start by finding the back of the net inside the first minute. A fierce left footed drive from the edge of the 18-yard box saw Hearfield double the margin on 65 minutes. Victory was confirmed five minutes later when David Williams converted a Jimmy Downey cross at close range. West Australian Tando Velaphi was between the posts for Australia.

Four days later the Young Socceroos cruised to a 4-0 victory over Sri Lanka, who were themselves coming off a 2-1 win over Turkmenistan. Australia created a number of scoring opportunities in the first half but it wasn't until two minutes after the interval that the deadlock was broken when Hearfield headed in a free-kick. Chris Grossman doubled the difference in the 70th minute, and two goal in three minutes by Bruce Djite wrapped up the win. Goalkeeper Aleksander Vrteski played a full game for Australia.

26.2.2006

CANNING STROLL TO NIGHT SERIES VICTORY

Canning City recorded a comprehensive 4-1 victory over Morley Windmills in their re-arranged First Division and Amateur Night Series game this evening. The only goal of the first half came via the head of Simon Versaico after 12 minutes. Morley evened the ledger ten minutes into the second period when Simon Messenger converted a dubious penalty. But just as Morley looked like going on with the job they found themselves behind once again as Shane Laing nodded the ball into the net after the goalkeeper failed to sufficiently deal with a Ryan Allomes free-kick. Morley were twice presented chances to equalise but Messenger shot wide from the spot, and Flavio L'Abbate was thwarted by an alert Jeff Cargill. Julio Barrendilla outpaced two defenders before rounding the 'keeper to score Canning third, and then Versaico rounded out the scoreline with a swift counter-attack in stoppage time.

26.2.2006

WEEKEND IN SUMMARY

Two second half goals earned reigning Night Series trophy holder Inglewood United a 2-0 win over Bayswater City in Friday's opening match. Darren Broxton netted the first goal with Albert Osei-Tutu sealing victory with five minutes left. Stirling Lions are through to the last four after accounting for Swan I.C. Stirling's win came courtesy of an early own goal and a late first half minute strike from teenager Phil Arnold. Miki Vujacic scored a late consolation goal for Swan.

Sorrento continued there good Night Series form with a 3-0 victory over Armadale. Jared Love put the Gulls ahead early, and five minutes into the second half doubled his sides lead. The result was assured by Glen Thomas who lobbed Nick Stone for goal number three. Floreat Athena kept their semi-finals hopes alive by defeating western Knights 1-0 in a physical game. Floreat were on top early but it took until the 75th minute that Boima Karpeh fired in the game's only goal.

24.2.2006

WEEKEND IN PREVIEW (by Peter Simcox)

Weekend Five of the Night Series gets under way this evening with reigning trophy holder Inglewood United taking on Bayswater City at 6.30pm. Eddy Hodgkinson's Inglewood go into the game undefeated but are expected to meet some stiff opposition from a Bayswater side in need of three points to keep their campaign on track. In the late game at 8.30pm, Group B leader Stirling Lions can all but wrap up a place in the last four with victory over Swan I.C.

On Sunday evening, Sorrento go head-to-head with Armadale from 6.30pm. Peter Murphy's young Armadale squad has displayed a great deal of determination in previous outings but have nothing to show for it, and they'll be aiming to upset the Gulls. The late game should be a close encounter between Floreat Athena and Western Knights teams both needing maximum points to stay in the hunt for the semi-finals. Get along and support your team - entry to the 2006 Night Series is $6 for adults and $4 for concession holders with children under the age of 15 admitted free.

24.2.2006

BAYSWATER LIFE SUITS MICEVSKI

An off-season transfer to Bayswater City has given Daniel Micveski a new lease on life. The attacking midfielder decided to leave Dorrien Gardens last month for the greener pasture of Bayswater and hasn't once looked back. "I'm really enjoying it at Bayswater," said 21-year old Micevski. "We have a very enthusiastic and committed young team, and the coaching staff are very organised, enthusiastic and committed to performing well in 2006. The coaches have a lot of faith in my abilities and I'm looking forward repaying that by performing well and having a solid season."

Luck hasn't been on Bayswater's side during the Night Series to date. After an opening round win over Armadale Bayswater have suffered successive losses to Cockburn City and Perth S.C. which leaves them needing victory over Inglewood United this weekend in order to keep alive their slim play-off hopes. "Inglewood will go into the game feeling confident that they will win it," said Micevski. "But as the underdog we have nothing to lose and I think we'll approach the game a little differently to the counter-attacking game we adopted against Perth last weekend."

Micevski draws a great deal of inspiration from the achievements of brother David who starred for Perth Glory during the closing few weeks of the A-League season and was recently invited into camp with the Australian Olympic team. "Anybody who knows my brother and I knows just how close we are and how much we devote our lives to the game. We have learnt so much from each other and have followed the same footsteps throughout our football careers. David has been given the opportunity and has done well, and I hope that one day I'll get the same opportunity and would relish the chance to play alongside my brother in the A-League."

23.2.2006

QUICK START FOR LOVE

Things have been going well for Sorrento so far in the Night Series and a place in the last four in certainly within their reach. The northerners opened their campaign by drawing with Inglewood United at the start of the month and last weekend scored a resounding 3-0 win over Cockburn City. One of the scorers in that win was Jared Love who, after bagging sixteen goals last year, was glad to open his account for the new year. "I was really pleased to get on the score sheet last week," he commented. "It's always good to get your first goal of the season and if I'm able to put away a couple more in the coming weeks I'll be on course to better my tally of last season."

With Perth S.C. odds-on favourite to win Group A, it's likely Sorrento will battle it out with Inglewood for the second semi-final berth. This weekend Sorrento take on an Armadale side who are yet to register a point after three outings and, while the Gulls are tipped to win, Love playing down talk of a goal avalanche against their young opponent. "We're concentrating on getting a win and keeping the pressure on Inglewood," he said. "I don't think it's important that we beat Armadale by a sizeable margin, but if we can win by three or four goals then that would certainly be a big boost for our chances of making the semis." Sorrento's clash with Armadale takes place on Sunday evening at 6.30pm.

23.2.2006

FIRST DIVISION/AMATEUR NIGHT SERIES, WEEK FIVE (Dianella White Eagles vs Gosnells City by Stefan Jelesic)

A remarkable second half performance earned Dianella White Eagles a 3-2 win over Gosnells City in the First Division and Amateur Night Series at Coker Park on Tuesday evening. Gosnells made a strong start and not surprisingly went ahead in the 20th minute when a defensive error provided Darren Ingham with an easy goal. The second half was seven minutes old when Brian Cairney made the most of another mix-up to put Gosnells two-nil up. It was now that Dianella stepped up a gear and a superb through ball allowed Dragan Njegic to reel in the difference. Njegic was again involved in the 78th minute in combining with Dragisa Volarevic to set-up Dejan Djukanovic for the equaliser. Seven minutes later another Njegic run saw him deliver a superb cross on to the head of Miladin Gligoroski who bagged the deciding goal.

Forrestfield United registered a morale boosting 4-3 win in a pulsating game with Morley Windmills. Jon Greenwood slotted in Forrestfield's opening goal after receiving a flick on from Lucus Whitehouse and beating his marker after 10 minutes. But the game didn't spark to life until Glen Noblet converted from the penalty spot early in the second half. Morley struck back almost immediately through Scott McIlroy who benefitted from a superb cross into the area, and parity was restored when Ray Rose neatly rounded two opponents before flicking the ball over the approaching goalkeeper. Noblet scored his second from the spot ten minutes later, and an exquisite chip by Phil Bell made it four-two. Flavio L'Abbate netted Morley's third goal in a goalmouth scramble six minutes from the end.

Thursday's early game ended with honours shared between Queens Park and South Perth United at 2-2. While both teams were very slow to get going it was South Perth who enjoyed the lions share early possession, and midway through an uneventful first half went ahead when one of their forwards slipped the ball into the net after rounding the goalkeeper. This spurred Queens Park into life and after a series of promising attacks they equalised following a lovely cross into the area by new signing Toby Omenihu. There was a great deal more enterprise shown after the break and South Perth's grip over midfield eventually produced a fine solo goal to regain the lead. Throwing caution to the wind, Queen Park pressed forward over the closing stages and earned a point when Ben Anderton slotted the ball through to Scott Reinsma who finished clinically.

Rockingham City defeated Stirling Panthers 1-0 in an uninspiring late game. The southern suburbs side started well and had their opponent pinned in defence for much of the opening exchanges. The game was turned on its head after 15 minutes when the Stirling goalkeeper was red carded for handling the ball outside his 18-yard box. Even though they had an extra player, it took Rockingham until the second half to really threaten with Terry Flynn twice failing to convert one-on-one opportunities with the stand-in 'keeper. Frustrations got the better of Rockingham midfielder Brian Hastie who received his second yellow card after lashing out at an opponent. The games only goal arrived close to the end when Flynn found himself with space to volley neatly into the net from close-range.

23.2.2006

VUJACIC BACK TO HIS BEST (by Peter Simcox)

All players go through highs and lows in their career but midfielder Miki Vujacic hopes the latter are behind him. After losing his spot in the Swan I.C. first team towards the end of last year Vujacic has responded with an impressive pre-season. "So far this season it's been looking really good," said Vujacic. "Personally it's been one of the hardest pre-seasons I have done for a while and at the same time it has been quite enjoyable. The sessions have been varied very well with a good mix of hard running, gym sessions, boxing and now we are slowly introducing the balls and short dynamic work."

Vujacic admits to being pleasantly surprised by the increased level of commitment from the Swan players. "This year the squad is very young and is looking very fit and determined," he commented. "The introduction of Rory Moutett adds a bit of bite in the midfield and Dom Ando will bring a bit of experience to our defence. Damien Catalano has been looking sharp and Jovo Pavlovic continues to impress and will learn a lot this year under the guidance of coaches Carlo Scali and Michael Di Fulvio. The group as a whole are motivated and looking sharper and fitter than ever."

The talented midfielder almost pulled the pin this season after a drop in motivation, but the 24-year old responded by rolling up his sleeves and getting stuck in. "Last year was a very hot and cold year for me," he explained. "Illness throughout most of the pre-season set me back a little but mainly a lot of frustration and a lack of motivation caused me to dip in form. I love playing football but if I'm not enjoying it then I'm about as useless as Doogsy's distribution at training. Initially I was going to take this year off to concentrate on work and hoping to take an extended holiday through Europe, but the thought of not playing the game I love didn't sit well so I decided to at least to give pre-season a go."

The catalyst for Vujacic's renewed enthusiasm was selection in the 2006 State Futsal team. "That was the main reason why I have decided to play on this year, well that and to play with a great bunch of players at Swan," he commented. "The chance to represent your state is an honour at any level so when this opportunity arose I went for it. Futsal is probably one of the most entertaining sports to play and watch and the benefit it gives any outdoor player is enormous. It speeds up your decision making process and sharpens your ability to limit mistakes and punish any opportunities that may arise."

West Australia was represented by two teams, the Cougars and the Pumas, at the 2006 National Futsal Championship on Queenslands Gold Coast in January. "Our performances were quite outstanding even if the results may not show it," said Vujacic who ended the tournament as the state's highest goalscorer. "Technically and physically we were probably in the top three or four teams but being all outdoor players we struggled with the tactical know-how of the eastern states teams. However we did extremely well to the extent that the Australian coach praised our efforts during the tournament." Vujacic's Cougars team mates included Scott Campbell, Shane McNally, Andre Sarpe and Vas Vujacic.

22.2.2006

SOCCEROOS COME FROM BEHIND TO BEAT BAHRAIN

The Socceroos have come from behind to defeat Bahrain 3-1 in the opening Asian Cup qualifying match at the Bahrain National Stadium in Manama. The home nation were the first to draw blood when, nine minutes from the break, when captain Salman Isa got in behind the defence and centred to Hussein Ali who tucked his shot across Ante Covic and inside the far post. Hussein Ali went within inches of doubling Bahrain's advantage only minutes into the second half but his low effort struck the base of the upright before being cleared. Australia hit back shortly after through Archie Thompson who powerfully headed in Josip Skoko's free-kick into the area. Skoko scored Australia's all-important second goal in the 79th minute with a perfectly-placed shot from the edge of the 18-yard box. Ahmad Elrich rounded out the scoring from the penalty spot in the 88th minute after he was felled by felled by Abdullah Marzooq. Western Australia's two representatives, Michael Petkovic and Nick Ward were unused substitutes.

22.2.2006

DEEG EYES SILVERWARE

It's business as usual at Dorrien Gardens for Goalkeeper of the Year Gareth Deeg. After helping Perth S.C. to the Premier League and Cup double last year the 27-year old is keen to get his hands on further silverware. "Our plan is to win the Night Series and then add another trophy or two later in the year," he said. "There's no secret to our success - our style of play has been the same since Graham Normanton was appointed coach, and our new assistant coach Kenny Lowe is keen for that to continue. Quite simply, we play the best attacking football that we can by passing the ball about and keeping possession until the opportunity arises for a chance on goal."

The off-season departure of David Micevski, to Perth Glory, along with Dino Djulbic, Antonio Naglieri and Andreas Oliveira to Victorian club Frankston Pines will be difficult for Perth to counter. And while the club are sad to see the quartet leave Deeg says it's a ringing endorsement that youth development is being done right at Dorrien Gardens. "All the players are really happy that the boys have gone on with their careers, and the club as the club as a whole can take a lot out of credit the boys have achieved. It's a real buzz to see what's happening for David and it'll be great to see one of our team mates playing at the next level and, hopefully, at the next Olympics."

"The coaches have brought in a number of players to cover out losses and assembled a squad which is pretty solid right across over the park. Only time will tell if we've again got the mix right," Deeg continued. "We have the best defence in the competition with Aaron Cole, Michael Icanovski and Gianfranco Circati and a midfield which includes Robbie Puca, Gary Faria, Peter Lord, Scott Bulloch, Jeff Bright and Matt Danskin along with some good young lads from last year's reserves. David Onoforo was the league's leading goalscorer last season and to partner him we've got Barry Wood and Felim Rugel."

When not keeping goal for Perth Deeg spent a considerable amount of time training with Perth Glory last year. "It worked well for both of us - I got to train full-time and Glory had the use of another 'keeper. I feel it helped my game and for that I thank the coaching staff and players at Glory," he said. While Deeg still harbours dreams of one day playing in the new national competition he says he'd have to carefully weight up his options should such an offer eventuate. "I'd love the opportunity to play in the A-League but it would have to be on my terms now as I've just had a career change and are about to start training as a fireman with FESA."

21.2.2006

LOCAL LADS HOME FROM INTERNATIONAL DUTY (by Peter Simcox)

Five young West Australians have returned home after fulfilling the dream of a life time by representing Australia in Europe. David Houston, Scott Paterson, Andy Pomfret, Brendan Ross and Wesley Ryder were part of the Australian Schoolboys squad which recently completed a whirlwind tour of the United Kingdom and Ireland. "The tour was great," said Paterson who had the added honour of captaining Australia while overseas. "All the WA boys improved our game by playing against quality opposition and the international games were brilliant. But my highlight of the tour was captaining the boys to a win against the Republic of Ireland on Australia day." That win came courtesy of Sorrento youngster Houston who bagged the only goal of the game.

The trip was made all the more memorable for Ryder as it was his first time abroad. "It was very exciting for me as it was my first time overseas," he said. "It was also very tough with so many games at such a high level, but it was a great experience. There are two highlights of the tour for me. The first is playing the Republic of Ireland on Australia Day and winning 1-0 in my first full game on tour, and the other was playing the England Schools team in front of a big and very vocal crowd - it felt like a Champion's League final. The greatest feeling was walking out of the tunnel and singing the national anthem on our national day, it gave us all a big lift, the love for Australia I guess. It's something I'll never forget."

Both Paterson and Ryder were surprised by how well the Australian side fared against Britains emerging football talents. "The teams we played against were physically weaker than us,' said Paterson. "But their strength was they were very good at moving the ball forward quickly. I personally believe that, overall, we matched the sides on tour." Ryder echoed the same sentiments of his Australian team mate. "Some of the teams, such as England Schools and England Colleges, were good, there's no doubt about that. But to be honest Wales and Northern Ireland were lucky to beat us and those were games which we could have won if we had taken our chances."

The Australian Schoolboys tour commenced with a narrow 0-1 loss to Welsh Colleges on 20th January. Ramone Close bagged the sides goal in their 1-3 loss to Northern Ireland Schools, and Peter Kotsopoulos found the target when the Schoolboys lost a practice game to 1-2 to St Timothy's School. Their first win resulted from Houston's strike against the Republic of Ireland Schools and which was followed by a 2-2 draw with England Schools against who Ersan Gulum and Ben Spruce scored. Kotsopoulos bagged the goals against England Colleges (1-0 win) and Everton (2-2 draw). February started with a 1-5 loss to Glasgow Rangers which preceded a 2-1 win over Scotland Schools in which Kotsopoulos netted twice. The final game of the tour on 7th February ended in a 1-2 loss to Hamilton Academical Youth with Kotsopoulos against on target.

20.2.2006

WARD READY FOR EUROPE ACCORDING TO DUTCH GREAT

Dutch legend Johan Neeskens has delivered a ringing endorsement of Nick Ward's growing talent, declaring the Perth Glory midfielder is ready to play in Europe. But any such move will have to wait after Ward agreed terms on a new two-year deal with Glory late last week. Neeskens, who played for the Netherlands in the 1974 and 1978 World Cup finals and was recently appointed Socceroos assistant coach, believes the 20-year old has what it takes to play professionally in Europe. "From what I saw, Nicky could play in the Dutch competition," he said. "He's a good midfield player, he's fit, he has a good technique."

Ward's growing influence during a disappointing season for Glory has already earned him a first call-up into the Australian team for this week's Asia Cup qualifier against Bahrain in Manama. Glory's failure to reach the A-League finals forced the super-fit midfielder into an intense individual program, set by Australia's overseas-based strength and conditioning coach Anthony Crea and supervised in Perth by Socceroos goalkeeper coach Tony Franken. The gruelling program has given Ward the best possible chance of impressing against Bahrain and earning a place at a Dutch-based camp immediately after the upcoming game to be supervised by coach Guus Hiddink.

Neeskens and assistant coach Graham Arnold will take charge of the under-strength Socceroos for the Bahrain match due to Hiddink's commitments with Dutch club PSV Eindhoven. If Ward can force himself into the training camp he could yet make a late bid to be part of Australia's twenty-three player World Cup squad. "Players like (Tim) Cahill, (Marco) Bresciano and (Jason) Culina are very good players, so it will be hard to get in the squad," Ward admits. "I'm just thinking that if I get a chance against Bahrain and I do well, there's a possibility that I could go to the camp in Holland."

20.2.2006

OLIVIERA OPENS VPL ACCOUNT

Andreas Oliveira has struck his first Victoria Premier League goal following a summer move from Perth S.C. Oliviera and former Blues' teammates Dino Djulbic and Antonio Naglieri joined Frankston Pines last month and the trio have wasted no time in establishing themselves as part of the match day line-up. All three have featured prominently in Frankston opening three games of the season with a stunning first minute strike by Oliviera earning the club a 1-0 win over Green Gully on the weekend. With three games played Frankston are place sixth but only three points behind unbeaten leader Oakleigh Cannons.

19.2.2006

NIGHT SERIES, WEEKEND FOUR (Cockburn City vs Sorrento by Kerry Slater; E.C.U. Joondalup vs Stirling Lions by Elliott Leonard)

Sorrento remain in the mix for a semi-final berth after defeating Cockburn City 3-0 in their Group A Night Series match at Litis Stadium on Friday evening. A timely interception by Jason Godfrey thwarted Michael Ord as he lined up the target early on while that the other end Paul Oliver's long-range strike flashed wide. Cockburn were forced to re-shuffle their deck after just 9 minutes when Dean Gartside was harshly red carded for clattering in to the back of James Morgan when contesting possession. Not surprisingly, Sorrento capitalised thirteen minutes later when Jared Love converted from the penalty spot after goalkeeper Ken Fytengionous was judged to have impeded Todd Harnwell. Glen Thomas then had the ball in the net but an upraised assistant's flag disallowed his effort. Having taken time to adjust Cockburn eventually got into rhythm and stormed their way back into the game. A poorly defended corner saw Peter Petkovich denied by the razor sharp reflexes of Neil Young. John Mirco's 36th minute free-kick was paddled away by the Gulls custodian, and from the resulting corner Young was again called upon to keep out a John Mirco strike. The second half started slowly and neither side looked all that threatening. The game burst back into life midway through when Michael Mirco's shot on the run rose just over the crossbar, and minutes later a blistering strike by Love was turned wide by Fytengionous. Sorrento went down to ten men in the 74th minute after Danny Hill was issued his second booking of the night. But this only spurred the northerners on and they bagged two rapid fire goals to kill the game off. A darting run and cutback from Harnwell allowed Harland to pick his spot past Fytengionous in the 78th minute, and sixty seconds later swift movement of the ball ended with substitute Lewis Flatt drilling in his sides third.

Western Knights opened their Night Series account with a lacklustre 2-0 win over Wanneroo City in Friday's late game. It was clear that Knights coach Ronnie Campbell had nothing but victory on his mind by naming a dangerous three-man attack in which Stuart Montgomery was partnered with the effervescence of Paul Cooke and Greg Montenegro. Wanneroo custodian Gary Kent, making his first start of the year, was called into action early to batter away a quickly taken free-kick from Ivan Zuvela. Not long after Cooke pounced on a poor clearance but was unable to capitalise by steering the ball just wide of the upright. Scott Evans created Wanneroo's first real chance with a long cross-field pass to an unmarked Sota Iwasaki who was thwarted by the ever-alert Tommi Tomich. Montgomery was unfortunate not to have put his side ahead with a rasping shot from the top of the 18-yard box which flashed narrowly past the outside of the post. Wanneroo's lone striker Craig Bowman worked hard but was offered little support as his sides best moves were continually broken down by a defence in which Evan Wallace and David Annall were outstanding. The Knights domination continued after the break and on the hour they were rewarded as Evan Wallace rose highest in a crowded area to head in Jon Higgins deep corner. And five minutes later the result was put beyond doubt as Cooke jinxed his way past three defenders before squaring to substitute Andrew Jennings who fired past Kent to score his first goal at senior level. However, Wanneroo refused to give up and good work down the left by Scott Evans set up hard-working midfielder Phil O'Callaghan whose effort was narrowly off-target. The Knights were unlucky not to add a third goal close to the final whistle through Jennings but he placed wide when well-positioned.

Stirling Lions stretched their unbeaten run three games with a 3-0 trouncing of E.C.U. Joondalup in the early game on Sunday. It was a deserved win for Stirling who controlled the game for long periods and limited their opponent to only scattered half chances during the ninety minutes. Joondalup made a positive start and in the 8th minute Tom Jones threaded a pass into the path of Garin Collins who side-stepped the defence but placed his shot wide of the target. Within minutes Stirling had won a corner which Steve Porter sent into the heart of a crowded 18-yard box where Darko Ilomanoski poked the ball into the net for the night's first goal. Ian McMillan forced a superb fingertip save from Phil Straker on the quarter hour as Joondalup sought to get back on level terms. McMillan then turned provider with a cross which picked out an unmarked Tom Jones but his close-range effort was directed straight at the 'keeper. These misses would haunt the northerners after Stirling increased their hold over teh game with a second goal on 32 minutes from Phil Arnold who ran nearly half the length of the pitch to chip Peter Stewart as he attempted to narrow angle. The non-stop efforts of Porter and Ludovic Boi in midfield were the cornerstone of Stirling's dominance while at the back Ilomanoski and Riste Stefoski gave the opposition forwards little room to manoeuvre. Chances on goal after the break were scarce although Ryan Jeans went close to adding to his sides tally from a 63rd minute Porter free-kick. It wasn't until the last minute that Stirling netted their third and final goal as Arnold rammed the ball past Stewart from a deep cross by substitute Peter Koidis.

Perth S.C. defeated old foes Bayswater City 1-0 when their Group A concluded the weekend's Night Series schedule. A clash of shorts delayed kick-off by twenty, who was at fault depended on who you spoke to but the lack of information relayed to the awaiting large crowd was totally unacceptable. However, once play did get commence Perth were quick to seized the initiative and took the game up to their supposedly revitalised opponents. A Matt Danksin free-kick was plucked from under the crossbar by goalkeeper Bobson Koroma, Gianfranco Circata headed just high at a corner, and a superb crossfield ball from Peter Lord saw Danskin beat two defenders before crashing a shot into the bar. Bayswater's first effort came after 16 minutes when Daniel Micevski's drive was deflected for a corner. But this was only a short aberration and the assault continued at the other end with Scott Bulloch firing just wide from 20-metres. While the majority of play took place in Bayswater's defensive half a fine move involving Micevski and Mark Lee teed-up Ben Rogers who fired just past the post from 15-metres. Perth's reward arrived five minutes from the break when good lead-up work by Robert Sciascia allowed Gary Faria to break the deadlock with a spectacular overhead kick. The second half started with Ben Rogers shooting wide from 15-metres and an effort from Scott Bulloch from a similar distance ended in the same outcome. Bayswater's best move of the night came on the hour when Lee, after combining with Igor Novakovic and Rogers, fed a pass to Micevski whose shot had Gareth Deeg at full stretch. If Bayswater wanted anything from this game then they needed to attack but instead they remained defensively minded as Perth carved out chance after chance. David Onoforo, Lord and Bulloch all tested Koroma as the minutes ticked by while efforts by Felim Rugel and Faria were just off-target.

18.2.2006

YOUNG MATILDA'S MAKE CLEAN SWEEP OF NEW ZEALAND SERIES

The Young Matildas have completed preparations for next month's FIFA Under-20 Women's World Championship qualifying tournament with back-to-back victories over New Zealand. The Australian team eased their way to 3-1 and 4-0 wins over their Trans-Tasman rival at the Australian Institute of Sport in Canberra. West Australian Collette McCallum played every minute of both games for Australia and captained the side in the opening fixture.

On Wednesday, the Young Matilda's cruised to a 3-1 win over the Kiwi's. Midfielder Amy Jackson starred with two superbly-taken goals in the opening 12 minutes to set the scene. New Zealand rallied to score in the 65th minute through Renee Leota following a goalmouth scramble. However the result for the home team was rarely in doubt and Leena Khamis ensured victory with a well executed volley thirteen minutes from the end.

Three days later Australian were rarely troubled in defeating New Zealand 4-0. The opening goal didn't arrive until nine minutes into the second half when Jenna Tristram found the target. Further strikes by Sasha McDonnell, McCallum and Khamis ensured Australia made a clean sweep of the friendly series. The final margin could have been even greater with McCallum striking the post and Tristram having a goal disallowed in the dying minutes.

18.2.2006

WORLD CUP SPOT BECKONS FOR ERGIC

A World Cup berth for Serbia and Montenegro is not out of the question for Ivan Ergic. The former Perth Glory midfielder has fended off illness and injury to re-establish himself at Swiss club F.C. Basel and is on track to gain his first senior international call-up. "I didn't play any qualification games but the coach (Ilija Petkovic) said he's followed how I've been playing and as long as I'm playing regularly and in good form there's a good chance that I will be in the squad," Ergic told Jonathon Cook of the "West Australian".

It is just the boost the 25-year old needs after his career was struck down by injury followed by a battle against depression in 2004. "When I was sick I didn't have any targets. I wasn't even thinking about playing football," Ergic admits. "I'm still not a regular player (for Basel) but I've had a few games where I've played from the start and I feel good mentally and physically. Things are starting to fall back into place."

Ergic, who came off the bench in Basel's 1-0 win over Monaco in the UEFA Cup on Wednesday, might well have been in contention for the Socceroo's World Cup squad had Australian authorities acted quickly when he burst on to the scene with Glory in 1999/2000. Despite being named that seasons' young player of the year, Ergic, who was born in Yugoslavia but spent almost four years in W.A., was initially overlooked for selection in the Australian youth teams before being called into the Yugoslavia national team set-up.

18.2.2006

GLORY SECURE WARD'S SERVICES

Perth Glory is pleased to announce that one of the A-League's brightest young stars, Nick Ward, has re-signed for his hometown club for another two seasons. Ward scored five goals from thirteen starts in the 2005/06 season and was one of Glory's most consistent players throughout his run in the first eleven. The 20-year old put pen to paper on the deal just hours before flying to Bahrain where he'll be part of the senior Australian national team for the first time.

Despite firm interest from rival A-League clubs, Glory were always confident of retaining the young prospect's services, and Ward is delighted with the opportunity to further his career with the club he grew up watching from the stands at Members Equity Stadium. "I am very happy to have signed another contract with Perth Glory and knowing that my deal was up at the end of the season, there was nowhere else I wanted to go," he said.

"Although the season was disappointing on a team level, with everyone here gutted that we didn't reach the finals, I was pleased with my personal performances once I got into the starting line-up," the Australian Institute of Sport graduate added. "Now I want to build on my first full season with the Glory and try to make sure we get into the finals next season. It has been a great experience to play in the first season of the Hyundai A-League and I am looking forward to the next campaign already."

19.2.2006

WEEKEND IN SUMMARY

Perth S.C. remain as the only team with a 100% win record at the conclusion of the fourth weekend of Night Series action. The Blues edged a step closer to a semi-finals berth after a spectacular bicycle kick from Gary Faria earned a 1-0 win over Bayswater City in Sunday's late game. Earlier in the night Stirling Lions turned in an impressive display to defeat E.C.U. Joondalup 3-0.

Sorrento thumped Cockburn City 3-0 in the opening game on Friday. Cockburn were behind the eight ball after just 10 minutes when Dean Gartside was sent off. Not long after Jared Love bagged the Gulls first goal from the penalty spot, and second half strikes from Simon Harland and Lewis Flatt completed the scoreline. Evan Wallace and Andrew Jennings were on target in Western Knights' 2-0 victory over Wanneroo City later in the evening.

17.2.2006

WEEKEND IN PREVIEW

Things are starting to warm up as the McInerny Ford sponsored Night Series. This weekends fixtures commence with Sorrento verses Cockburn City at 6.30pm on Friday. Billy Russell's side showed great improvement in their last outing and will be keen to continue that form against Sorrento who are coming off a weeks break. The late game has both Western Knights and Wanneroo City seeking their first win of the pre-season tournament.

The action on Sunday starts at 6.30pm with E.C.U. Joondalup looking for a third successive victory when they meet Stirling Lions in the top of the table Group B showdown. It's a similar story in the late game in which an unbeaten Perth S.C. come face-to-face with traditional rival Bayswater City from 8.30pm. Entry to the 2006 Night Series is $6 for adults and $4 for concession holders with children under the age of 15 admitted free.

16.2.2006

FIRST DIVISION/AMATEUR NIGHT SERIES, WEEK FOUR (Canning City vs Stirling Panthers courtesy Canning City; Balcatta vs South Perth United courtesy Balcatta; Fremantle United vs Morley Windmills courtesy Morley Windmills)

Canning City picked up their second win in the First Division and Amateur Night Series by accounting for a dogged Stirling Panthers outfit at Coker Park on Tuesday evening. It was another slow start from Canning who found themselves a goal down after just 2 minutes following a defensive mix-up. Having taken their time to get into gear, Canning responded on the half hour when a quality strike from 22-metres by Simon Versaico levelled the game. Two minutes later Shane Laing converted a good cross from the left by Jeevan Krishnan, and a terrific exchange down the left flank involving Patrick Fitzgerald and Paul Van Dongen ended with Laing slotting in from 8-metres to make it three-one at the break. The result was put beyond doubt by Versaico who put away his second of the night following good lead-up work from Ryan Allomes.

David Moschilla found the target four times as Balcatta crushed a gallant South Perth United 6-0 in Tuesday's late game. It didn't take long for Balcatta to gain the ascendency and midway through the half Moschilla got in behind the defence to convert a pass from Scott Broadley. Alley Di Nuzzo split the defence on the half hour for Carmelo Gumina to slot past the 'keeper, then Moschilla put his second on the board just before half-time. Early in the new half Moschilla completed his hat-trick from a Broadley cross, and with 65 minutes played the Balcatta striker bagged his fourth of the evening. Although the game was now beyond them, South Perth continued to press forward but simply could find no way past a watertight opposing defence. The scoreline was rounded out by 17-year old Daniel Franklin who outpaced the defence before finishing clinically in the 88th minute.

A late penalty handed Morley Windmills a 2-1 win over Fremantle United in Thursday's late game. The opening stages were dominated by Fremantle who launched wave after wave of attack but couldn't find the avenue to goal. The closest they came was a brilliantly taken free-kick that beat the defensive wall and goalkeeper Matt Darling only to come back off the woodwork. Morley made a more positive start to the second half and went ahead through a fine header from Paul Dundo. Jamie Lattapiat's handball inside the 18-yard box saw Morley reduced to ten men, and Fremantle get back on level terms when the spot kick was converted by Andre Rossi. Just when it appeared the game would end in a draw, a foul on Flavio L'Abbate drew a penalty for Morley which the nippy forward slammed into the back of the net to decide the game.

Floreat Athena amateurs defeated Gosnells City 2-1 in Thursday’s opening match. Details of this game will be added as they become available.

16.2.2006

GLORY FAVOURITES LINE UP FOR TESTIMONIAL

Loyalty is a rare quality in sport these days but Scott Miller and Bobby Despotovski have bucked the trend with a decade of service to Perth Glory. The national league club will honour their two longest serving players with a testimonial game featuring past and present Glory players on the afternoon of Sunday 12th March at Members Equity Stadium. Amongst the stars already confirmed to strap on their boots are Con Boutsianis, Vinko Buljubasic, Danny Hay, Vas Kalogeracos, Brad Maloney, Tommy Maras, Danny Milosevic, Damian Mori, Shaun Murphy, Gareth Naven, Rob Trajkovski, Paul Strudwick and Robbie Zabica.

The game has already attracted enormous interest with the sold out signs already up for a testimonial dinner on Friday 10th March, and which will incorporate the clubs Most Glorious Player Awards. Corporate boxes for the game are also selling fast. "We want to leave fans with a smile on their face after a tough season and we hope the return to Members Equity Stadium of the Glory legends will help do that," said Despotovski. "We want people to join us on a fun trip down memory lane." Tickets for the testimonial game are selling fast and can be purchased from Ticketmaster on 136 100 or www.ticketmaster.com.au

15.2.2006

TEENAGE PAIR STEP UP FOR VILLA

It's been an eventful past week for Chris Herd and Shane Lowry. The teenage pair headed to England last year to accept offers to join the youth academy at Premier League club Aston Villa. Having successfully established themselves in the Youth team, Herd and Lowry have recently featured prominently for Villa's second string who are currently placed third on the Premiership Reserve League North table.

Herd scored a last-gasp equaliser to earn Villa a 2-2 draw at Blackburn Rovers last Monday, 6th February. Goals from Matt Derbyshire and Jermal Johnson put Rovers on course for victory before Gabriel Agbonlahor reduced the arrears. Five minutes into stoppage time Herd rifled past the goalkeeper to snatch Villa a share of the points. Both Herd and Lowry saw out the full 90 minutes.

Three days later, a first half hat-trick from Agbonlahor was behind Villa's 3-0 away win over a star-studded Manchester United. Lowry played a full game for what was a very young Villa line-up while Herd was introduced with ten minutes remaining. Herd again came off the bench, this time in the 78th minute, as Villa played out an uninspired scoreless draw with Bolton Wanderers last night.

15.2.2006

VELAPHI AND VRTESKI KEEP GOAL FOR YOUNG SOCCEROOS

Goalkeepers Tando Velaphi and Aleksander Vrteski will fly the flag for West Australian when the national youth team begin their arduous route to the 2007 FIFA World Youth Championship. The pair, currently attending the Australian Institute of Sport, have been included in the Australian Under-20 squad for next week's opening Asian qualifying matches. W.A. has a long-held reputation for producing quality goalkeepers and Velaphi and Vrteski join Tony Franken, Robbie Zabica, Tommy Maras, Vince Matassa, Michael Petkovic, Jason Petkovic and Brad Jones to have donned national team colours.

Australia head to Sri Lanka on the weekend for the first stage of qualifiers for the 2007 World Youth Championship. Their opening match is against Turkmenistan on Wednesday 22nd February which is followed by two games in three days against Sri Lanka, on Friday 24th and Sunday 26th February. The winner of the group will compete in the Asian Football Confederation Under-20 Championship in India during October. The top teams from that event qualify for the finals tournament being hosted by Canada in mid 2007.

The twenty player Australian Under-20 squad is Evan Berger, Foad Comandari, Bruce Djite, Jimmy Downey, Peter Eleftherakis, Chris Grossman, Troy Hearfield, Greg King, Michael Marrone, Stephen O'dor, Shaun Ontong, Matthew Spiranovic, Tando Velaphi, Dario Vidosic, Aleksander Vrteski (Australian Institute of Sport), Mitchell Langerak (Across the Waves), Kaz Patafta (Benfica), Tarek Elrich (Newcastle Jets), David Williams (Queensland Roar) and Wade Oostendorp (Sydney F.C.).

14.2.2006

CACERES SIGNS ON FOR VICTORY

Melbourne Victory has announced Adrian Caceres as the first addition to its playing roster for the 2006/07 A-League season. The exciting 24-year old has agreed to a two-year contract with the club and is considered a ready made solution to Victory's short-comings on the left side of midfield. "Adrian is a very gifted young player who could slot into our team without any trouble," said coach Ernie Merrick. "He's a very attack-minded player and is also an excellent finisher. If you look at what we need to add to our squad in that left-sided position, Adrian ticks all the boxes. He's a player of real pedigree and promise and he's young enough to grow with the rest of our talented squad."

Caceres is thrilled to be joinnig Victory, citing the professional setup of the club as one of the key determinants of his decision to cross the country. "Out of all the A-League clubs, Melbourne has perhaps the best reputation among all the players in the league," Caceres said. "All the players talk amongst themselves and it's clear the facilities and setup in Melbourne rival those at bigger clubs in Europe. I'm sure my game will improve under the guidance of Ernie Merrick and ... I look forward to playing in front of the big crowds at Olympic Park."

After establishing himself as a regular starter for Perth S.C., Caceres accpeted an offer to join English side Southampton in 2000. Although he played regularly for the Saints Reserves Caceres found first team opportunities scarce and turned out for Brentford and Hull City. He returned to Perth in 2002 and was part of Perth Glory's back-to-back championship winning squads of 2002/03 and 2003/04. Caceres again headed abroad for a year in which he played at Yeovil Town, Aldershot Town and Wycombe Wanderers in England. He was drafted back to Glory for the inaugural A-League season as replacement for import Neil Taggart.

14.2.2006

MCCALLUM AWARDED YOUNG MATILDA'S VICE-CAPTAINCY

Collette McCallum has been named vice-captain of the Australian national team that commences their campaign to qualify for the 2006 FIFA Under-20 Women's World Championship next month. Highly rated 18-year old Sally Shipard will lead the Young Matilda's into the upcoming tournament with McCallum and Kylie Ledbrook as her deputies. McCallum, 19, is no stranger to international football. A regular part of the Australian youth team since 2001, the attacking midfielder made her senior debut last January and has already made a dozen appearances for the Matilda's.

The Young Matildas are currently in camp in Canberra and play two matches this week against New Zealand as preparation for next month's tournament. Commencing 5th March, the side plays off against Singapore, Myanmar and host nation Thailand in the preliminary qualifying tournament. If the successfully negotiate that event they'll gain entry to the final stage of qualifying being hosted by Malaysia the following month. The 2006 FIFA Under-20 Women's World Championship will be played in Russia in September.

The twenty-three player Australian Under-20 squad is Grace Gill, Nicole Somi, Lydia Williams (Australian Capital Territory), Danielle Brogan, Renee Cartwright, Caitlin Cooper, Briony Holcombe, Olivia Kennedy, Leena Khamis, Kylie Ledbrook, Sally Shipard, Servet Uzunlar (New South Wales), Elizabeth Kermode, Alison Logue, Jenna Tristram (Northern New South Wales), Kim Carroll, Sasha McDonnell, Clare Polkinghorne, Alannah Reed, Kate Stewart (Queensland), Vicki Balomenos (South Australia), Amy Jackson (Victoria) and Collette McCallum (West Australia).

13.2.2006

KNEE INJURY SIDELINES CAMPBELL

The Night Series may be over for one-time State representative Scott Campbell. The Swan I.C. midfielder will be out of action for up to six weeks after damaging knee ligaments in his sides recent win over Western Knights. "It was bad challenge that caused the injury, I got caught between two players and I knew straight away that I'd done some damage," said the talented 25-year old. "The doctors initial report wasn't good but once the swelling went down the news was better as it was only a grade one or two ligament tear. It's disappointing for me as I had been working hard, and it was the first pre-season for a couple of years that I've been fit and rearing to go."

12.2.2006

NIGHT SERIES, WEEKEND THREE (Stirling Lions vs Wanneroo City by Kirk O'Connor; Bayswater City vs Cockburn City by Lennie Bavich; Floreat Athena vs Swan I.C. courtesy Floreat Athena)

Wanneroo City slumped to their second loss of the pre-season when beaten 2-1 by Stirling Lions in Friday's opening Night Series fixture at Litis Stadium. But the result would have been so much different had the northern suburbs side been able to make more of their numerous opportunities in front of goal. Wanneroo could have gone ahead as early as the 1st minute when Derek Cooke sped down the right and sent a low cross to the top of the 6-yard box only to find no one there to finish off the move. Young striker Phil Arnold was featuring prominently for Joondalup as they set about carving out a handful of chances without being able to beat goalkeeper Kevin Miller. Phil Straker was called into action at the other end to keep out a solid header from Craig Bowman which came about from a well directed Phil O'Callaghan free-kick. Stirling should have taken the lead midway through the half when Leo Harman found himself with only the 'keeper to beat but disappointingly sent the shot over the crossbar. The final chance of the period came via a Stirling counter-attack which ended with Arnold pulling the ball wide of the upright. The deadlock was broken shortly after the re-start when sloppy defending presented Arnold with a golden opportunity which he accepted with glee. But the lead was short-lived as not long after a speculative free-kick from O'Callaghan squeezed through the outstretched arms of Straker and into the net. As the clock ticked down further chances came at both ends with Arnold unable to convert in a goalmouth scramble, and Cooke clipping the wrong side of the bar with a neat effort. The closing stages were dominated by Stirling and, after their fourth successive corner, Ryan Jeans pounced at close-range to snare the deciding goal.

A couple of second half strikes from Mileta Miletic inspired Cockburn City to a 2-1 defeat of Bayswater City in the late game on Friday. Bayswater settled the better and created the games first genuine shot on goal through Daniel Micevski whose long-range effort drifted wide in the 10th minute. Dean Gartside twice came to Cockburn's rescue with last gasp tackles to thwart Ben Rogers and Sean Brooks as they lined up the target. With 26 minutes played Bayswater's perseverance paid off as Damir Kuduzovic jinxed his way past two defenders and delivered a tantalising ball into the penalty area where Brooks slammed it past goalkeeper Alan Dunlop. It was only now that Cockburn began to find ways past the opposing defence as Dom De Felice rifled wide and Jason Dos Santos sliced his shot after being set up by Anthony Pereira. Bayswater should have been awarded a penalty shortly before the break when Marko Aleksic clearly handled the ball, but the referee thought otherwise and allowed play to continue. The second half started with a bang as a fierce drive from John Mirco stung the hands of Bobson Koroma, and within a minute Rogers crashed the ball into the upright at the opposite end. Cockburn slowly took hold of the game and drew level midway through the half when Johnny Mirco stripped Tony Cumace of possession and threaded a pass to Miletic whose low shot beat the 'keeper. The dismissal of Aaron Dos Santos following a fracas with Tony Cumace initially looked to have subdued Cockburn, but with Michael Mirco and De Felice spurring the side on they continued to press forward. The decisive blow arrived with nine minutes left as Michael Mirco drew the defence before slotting to Miletic who beat Koroma at the second attempt.

Floreat Athena got their Night Series campaign back on track with an impressive 2-0 defeat of Swan I.C. at the end of a very hot Sunday afternoon in Perth. Anything less than all three points would almost certainly end Floreat's play-off hopes and so it came as no surprise that Michael Roki's young side started the game at full pace. Floreat were quick to establish control over the centre of the park where Bajo Savic and Josip Magdic operated with menace. Savic forced an early save from debutant goalkeeper Daniel Agudelo and not long after the midfielder set up Saul Contera who fired wide. With John Migas and Paul Vlachou in commanding form chances were scarce for Swan although Miki Vujacic did curl the ball just beyond the far post on 15 minutes. Great work in the lead up by Costa Socratous saw Adam Bachiller volley high from close-range. Moments later it was one-nil as Bachiller's sweetly stuck shot from 27-metres flew beyond Agudelo's reach and into the top left hand corner. The margin was doubled a minute from the break as Okwy Diamondstar cleverly beat his man and centred to Contera who confidently powered the ball into the net from 15-metres. Swan started the second half with more drive but could find few ways past a well-organised defence. But as the game worse on Floreat regained the upper hand and Diamondstar tested the reflexes of Agudelo with a terrific shot on the turn. In an effort to salvage something from the game Swan threw everything forward in the closing stages. But Floreat weren't about to let victory slip from their grip and Vas Vujacic moved sharply to keep out a header from David Foster, and in the final minute Jovo Pavlovic's shot from didn't cause too much trouble for the 'keeper.

Inglewood United claimed victory in the final game of the weekend by a 2-0 scoreline against a young Armadale side. A first half double from Albert Osei-Tutu earned Inglewood maximum points to keep them on course for back-to-back Night Series titles. Unfortunately, neither Inglewood nor Armadale found it necessary to provide further details of this game.

12.2.2006

MAJOR SPONSOR QUITS GLORY

Still reeling from a disappointing season, Perth Glory has been dealt another blow with major sponsor Western QBE ending an eight-year partnership with the club. The insurance company has terminated the agreement worth about $300,000 to sponsor the club next season after Football Federation Australia secured a three-year arrangement with rival insurance firm Zurich Australia for the A-League.

Western QBE general manager Jules di Bartolomeo said the company was disappointed it had not been given the opportunity to discuss with FFA the possibility of sponsoring the league. "One of the things we always had was exclusivity in relation to insurance. We obviously didn't want any other insurance company to have a presence at Perth Glory games," he said.

During their eight-year sponsorship Western QBE poured least $1.5 million into the Glory coffers, and this season invested around $600,000 on sponsorship and Glory-related advertising. Glory's chief executive officer Jeff Dennis said the club would work closely with FFA to seek a new major sponsor. The national body have confirmed it's set 30th April to extricate Nick Tana from his Glory obligations even if a new owner has not been finalised.

12.2.2006

WEEKEND IN SUMMARY

There were few surprises on the third weekend of Night Series fixtures. Ryan Jeans' fourth goal of the tournament earned Stirling Lions a 2-1 win over Wanneroo City on Friday evening. Phil Arnold had earlier put Stirling ahead only to have Phil O'Callaghan equalise shortly after. In the late game, Cockburn City recorded their first win under new coach Billy Russell by coming from behind to down Bayswater City 2-1. Sean Brooks' first half strike for Bayswater was cancelled out after the break by a Mileta Miletic double.

Floreat Athena got their campaign back on track with a 2-0 win over Swan I.C. on Sunday evening. A stunning strike by Adam Bachiller from 20-metres set Floreat down the path to victory, and Saul Contera completed a sweeping move by putting away his side's second of the night just before the break. Inglewood United continued their quest for back-to-back Night Series titles by triumphing 2-0 over a young Armadale side. Albert Osei-Tutu orchestrated Inglewood's win by scoring twice in the first half.

10.2.2006

WEEKEND IN PREVIEW

The Night Series continues at Litis Stadium this weekend with the third round of group stage fixtures. Wanneroo City showed great promise in their opening match a fortnight ago but will need to be on top of their form when they square off with Stirling Lions tonight from 6.30pm. The late game pits Bayswater City against a Cockburn City side that is itching to register their first win of the pre-season tournament.

Anything less than victory is likely to spell disaster for Floreat Athena go head-to-head with Swan I.C. on Sunday from 6.30pm. Inglewood United are hotly tipped to make it two wins from as many starts when they meet a luckless Armadale in the late game. Entry fees for the 2006 Night Series are $6 for adults and $4 for concession holders with children under the age of 15 admitted free.

10.2.2006

WARD RECEIVES SOCCEROO CALL-UP

Perth Glory midfielder Nick Ward has been called up to the Socceroos squad for the upcoming Asian Cup qualifier against Bahrain. It's the 20-year old's first call-up to the senior Australian team and comes hot on the heels of his appearance for the Young Socceroos at last years World Youth Championships. Ward has been one of the stand-out players of the inaugural A-League season, scoring five times from thirteen starts. The attacking midfield player has featured in every game for Perth Glory this season although he was only used as a substitute during the early part of the campaign.

"When I was told I was over the moon, I couldn't believe it, I did have a sort of an inkling that I may be involved but it was still a big surprise to be told that I would be in the Socceroos squad," Ward said of his inclusion in the squad. "I was actually told when I was in camp (with the Under-23 squad this week), Graham Arnold and Johan Neeskens called me into their office and I was buzzing!" Australia's match in Bahrain on Wednesday, 22nd February, is the country's first qualifying match for the 2007 Asian Cup competition being co-hosted by Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam and Indonesia.

With Australia's World Cup squad yet to be settled, Ward is determined to make the most of his opportunity. "I think I am capable of playing for the national team and it is a great opportunity to show what I can do," he enthused. "I want to make sure I don't take it for granted and I just want to do my best if I get an appearance. In training I will be doing my best to try and cement a spot for the future ... With the World Cup a few months away there could be opportunities so I will have to work hard because there are some very good players around."

The Australian squad to play Bahrain is Michael Valkanis (Adelaide United), Luke Wilkshire (Bristol City), Michael Beauchamp (Central Coast Mariners), Brett Holman (Excelsior), Ahmad Elrich (Fulham), Ante Covic (Hammarby), Scott McDonald (Motherwell), Tony Vidmar (NAC Breda), Michael Thwaite (FC National), Jade North (Newcastle United Jets), Nick Ward (Perth Glory), Alex Brosque, Spase Dilevski (Queensland Roar), Michael Petkovic (Sivasspor), Josip Skoko (Stoke City), David Carney, Alvin Ceccoli (Sydney F.C.) and Jon McKain (Timosoara Politechnica).

10.2.2006

PERTH AND KNIGHTS ARE TOPS WITH PUNTERS

Perth S.C. and Western Knights have been installed as the red-hot favourites to finish top of their respective Night Series qualifying group. The two clubs, who between them have won four of the past five pre-season tournaments, received top billing in footballwa.net polls conducted during the past fortnight which asked who would finish top of the two Night Series groups.

Perth accumulated an unprecedented 51.1% of the Group A vote to emerge as the hands-down favourite. A distance second was Inglewood United (15.4%) who edged out Sorrento (13.8%) by a very slender margin. Few gave Bayswater City (9.0%), Armadale (7.4%) or Cockburn City (3.2%) much opportunity of progressing beyond the tournament's initial phase.

It was a similar story in Group B which the Knights won with a 40.0% majority. E.C.U. Joondalup (16.9%) are expected to be the Knights major challenger followed by Floreat Athena (12.9%) and Swan I.C. (11.9%). Not even a revamped squad could prevent Stirling Lions (10.0%) from being well down the list which was stumped up by recently promoted Wanneroo City (8.8%).

9.2.2006

OUR BEST IS YET TO COME SAYS BAYSWATER CAPTAIN

Bayswater City will be seeking back-to-back wins when they take on Cockburn City in their second Night Series match this Friday. The club made a confident start to their pre-season campaign a fortnight ago when they defeated Armadale 2-0 with a performance that captain Mark Lee says augers well for the year ahead. "Although we didn't start as well as we'd have liked, we were able to relax after scoring the first goal and at times showed exactly what we are aiming to play like on a more regular basis this year," he said. "If we can build on the result against Armadale and carry it through the Night Series and into the regular season we'll be in for a very good year."

There was a lot of change at Bayswater during the summer, and not just in terms of the playing staff. Gerry Maio was voted in as president, a new board appointed and former Australian youth international Frank Faraone named as first team coach for 2006. "The club is going through a time of change, all of which has been very impressive," commented Lee, who admits to being impressed by the new coaching team of Faraone and Eric Bambaci. "The training is well planned and specific to what is expected of us in matches. They're always stressing the importance of playing the ball on the floor and maintaining possession. Everybody clearly understands their role in the side and we have built up a very good team spirit."

The playing staff has also been the subject of a major overhaul with no less than six players making their Bayswater debut against Armadale. Lending their experience to the side are Tony Cumace, Bobson Koroma and Sean Brooks who complement the emerging talents of Goce Dilevski, Stefan Smiljanic, Edin Mehic, Daniel Micevski and Rob Icanovski. "The new players have settled in well and everybody gets along with each other," commented Lee. "We have lost a few players but I think we can still improve on last seasons' placing." In the debit column are star imports Ross Barnes and Stuart Fraser, who've returned to Scotland, Andy O'Neill (Ashfield) and Cormac Dawson (Western Knights).

Lee, who came out of contract at the end of last season, was also called upon by several clubs but knocked back all offers to honour a verbal agreement with Bayswater. "It's been really enjoyable at Bayswater and I've been made to feel a part of the set-up since day one. I built up an excellent rapport with the coaching staff and, although I was shocked at their dismissal, I believed that we had a good nucleus of players to build upon. Now with the new coaching team in place I'm very excited about the season and impressed with the work they have done with us so far. The other major factor in my decision to stay is that we live close to the ground and I now get home at a reasonable time on training nights!"

9.2.2006

FIRST DIVISION/AMATEUR NIGHT SERIES, WEEK THREE

The abandonment of both games in the First Division and Amateur Night Series on Tuesday evening caused more than a few red faces at Coker Park. A lighting failure early in the second half of the opening clash between Balcatta and Gosnells City lead to the referee bringing the game to a premature end on safety grounds. And when the problem hadn't been rectified by the fixtured start time of the late game in which Canning City were due to meet Morley Windmills, match officials were left with no option but to send both teams home early. It is understood Football West are in discussion with all four clubs as to the possibility of re-scheduling the games.

But before the lights went out Balcatta and Gosnells managed to get in just under an hour of play which came to a close with the former holding a 2-0 advantage. The early exchanges saw the majority of the play took place in the middle third of the park. As the game opened up Gosnells pair Darren Ingham and Brian Cairney failed to make the most of some good opportunities. Not far out from the break Balcatta went ahead when a throw-in was flicked on and David Moschilla nipped in to slot past teenage goalkeeper Greg Simmonds. Balcatta continued their assault in the second half and after a period of sustained pressure a foul on Moschilla resulted in a penalty which was duly converted by Goce Nikoloski. That was pretty much the last play of the night as three minutes later the ground was plunged into darkness and the game abandoned.

Thursday evening's activities commenced with Dianella White Eagles registering a 2-0 win over host club Queens Park. There was entertainment aplenty in the first half as both sides strung together some very promising moves, however, neither goalkeeper was seriously troubled as crosses and through balls were intercept by a couple of alert defences. Dianella stepped up the pace in the second half and were rewarded when experienced striker Dragan Njegic put away the first goal of the evening. Queens Park's attempts to get back on level terms were hampered as they all too often failed to make the most of the ball when in possession. The result was put beyond doubt close to the final whistle by Nik Culum who crashed a fine shot into the back of the net.

A convincing 4-1 defeat of Forrestfield United has given Rockingham City their first win of the tournament. However, Forrestfield were the side which started confidently and after 7 minutes had the lead as Glen Noblett whipped in a dangerous cross which Brian Robertson put away 6-metres. It took Rockingham only a matter of minutes to response with Steve Cramphorn running on to a pass lofted over the defence and beating the goalkeeper in a one-on-one. Rockingham began to dominate proceedings after the break and midway through the period they deservedly went ahead via a penalty converted by Cramphorn. Terry Flynn volleyed past the 'keeper for goal number three and a low strike by substitute Jason Carmichael completed the scoreline.

8.2.2006

PAVLOVIC AIMS FOR FIRST TEAM SPOT

Teenager Jovo Pavlovic has made it his goal to be playing regular first team football by years' end. The talented midfielder has risen through Swan I.C. ranks over the few seasons and last year forced his way into the starting line-up for his clubs final three games of the campaign. This year Pavlovic has set himself the challenge of becoming established in Swan's first eleven. "I'm really looking forward to the season and show the coaches that I'm ready for first team football," he said. "The club has been great to me over the past two years and I hope I can repay some of the faith they have showed in me."

Pavlovic has come on in leaps and bounds since taking up an offer to join Swan's youth development squad last season. As well as making his first team debut in 2005, the teenager wore State Under-16 colours at the National Talent Identification Champions in Sydney. And he's primed himself for a strong start to 2006 by taking part in a recent training camp conducted by coaches from the Australian Institute of Sport. "The camp was great," he commented. "We had the opportunity to be trained by A.I.S. coaches and hope I can go on with it for the rest of the season."

Swan coach Carlo Scali has been delighted with Pavlovic's progress and can see no reason why the midfielder won't be in the mix to be playing week in, week out this year. "Jovo's got the goods and he will progress to a first team regular, how soon that will be will be up to him," said Scali. "He is capable of playing regular first team now and will be given the opportunity to cement his place with some games in the Night Series. He will be a very good player for us this year and an excellent prospect for the club in the future."

8.2.2006

MAKE OR BREAK GAME FOR FLOREAT

Anything other than a win this weekend against Swan I.C. will spell disaster for Floreat Athena's Night Series. The inner city club are facing the very real possibility of having their tournament come to an early end after disappointing results in their opening two Group B fixtures. A draw with Stirling Lions and last Sunday's spiritless loss to E.C.U. Joondalup puts Floreat in the desperate situation of needing victory over Swan in order to keep alive any hope of qualifying for the semi-finals.

Floreat's disappointing start to the campaign has left coach Michael Roki to seriously consider his next move. "Every game is so important in a short tournament like the Night Series, and having a 'shocker' like we did against Joondalup last week really puts a dent in our campaign," said the Floreat boss. "Now the pressure is on the players to stand up and be counted as we need three straight wins to stay in the race for the semi-finals. Nevertheless, fighting for survival can sometimes bring about the best in a team, and I'm sure Swan can expect a much more focused and determined Floreat when we meet on Sunday."

Although the Night Series hasn't so far been kind to Floreat, Roki remains upbeat for the coming season. "We are aiming for a decent showing in all competitions this year but the focus is on the Premier League. At this stage I'm happy about where our fitness levels are at, but there is still some work to be done in the tactical area once the squad is bedded down a bit further. I believe the additions to our squad will more than cover the losses. Even though Floreat are now one of the smaller wage paying clubs, the team we field will be very competitive and will figure amongst the top five."

7.2.2006

LAW 4 : THE PLAYER'S EQUIPMENT

All clubs are reminded that FIFA have updated the Law concerning player safety and the wearing of jewellery. This very issue made headlines around the globe in October when A-League referee Mark Shield refused to allow Perth Glory's Damian Mori to take the field against Melbourne Victory because he was wearing a wedding ring.

The amended 'Law 4.1 - The Players Equipment' states "A player must not use equipment or wear anything that is dangerous to himself or another player (including any kind of jewellery) :

• All items of jewellery are potentially dangerous. The term 'dangerous' can sometimes be ambiguous and controversial, therefore in order to be uniform and consistent any kind of jewellery has to be forbidden.
• Players are not allowed to use tape to cover jewellery. Taping jewellery is not adequate protection.
• Rings, earrings, leather or rubber bands are not necessary to play and the only thing they can bring about is injury."

The Laws of the Game can be viewed in their entirety online via the FIFA website.

6.2.2006

COLCHESTER MAKE HISTORY COURTESY OF GARCIA DOUBLE

Another two goal haul from Richard Garcia has enabled Colchester United to set a new club record of nine consecutive victories. The 24-year old scored twice, and was denied a third by the goalkeeper, in the U's 3-1 League One defeat of Bradford City on Saturday. It's been a memorable fortnight for Garcia whose tally stands at six goals from four games. "I'm feeling fitter and sharper with every game," he said. "I'm benefiting from playing in my best position, as a striker, rather than having to play wide on the right of midfield."

"We all want to win promotion this season," continued Garcia. "For that to happen, we need to keep winning matches. We were a bit flat in the first half today, and my first goal stemmed from our first good move of the match ... we didn't look back after that. Perhaps all the games we had played recently, took its toll on us in the first half. But we raised our game in the second-half, and I could have ended up scoring a hat-trick. Their 'keeper made a good save to deny me."

6.2.2006

500-GAME VETERAN HOWELLS CALLS TIME

Fremantle-born Lee Howells has brought the curtain down on his playing career at the age of 37. A veteran of over 500 senior games in England, the versatile midfielder hung up his playing boots after being offered the assistant manager role with non-League outfit Mangotsfield United. Howells enjoyed a long and successful career with Cheltenham Town where he became their longest serving player. In his thirteen seasons with the Robins Howells made over 450 first team appearances, gained F.A. Trophy winners and Nationwide Conference champions medals, and won four semi-professional caps for England. He moved into the non-League in early 2004 by joining Merthyr Tydfil for whom he'd play over 40 times, the majority as captain, before short spells at Mangotsfield and Clevedon Town.

6.2.2006

WARD IN CONTENTION FOR SOCCEROOS

Perth Glory midfielder Nick Ward improved his chances of being called into the Socceroos squad for this month's Asia Cup qualifier against Bahrain with an stand-out performance in front of Australia's assistant coaches Graham Arnold and Johan Neeskens yesterday. "He's definitely knocking on the door," said Arnold, who will be acting coach for the Bahrain fixture in Guus Hiddink's absence. "He's done very well and gets one or two goal-scoring opportunities every game."

Another player that's caught Arnold's eye is 19-year old David Micevski who hasn't looked out of place since being loaned to Glory from local champion Perth S.C. "He's come from nowhere really," Arnold said. "He's very neat and tidy but very aggressive as well. I think he's got a great future." Arnold has implored Glory to quickly re-sign Ward, Micevski and Young Socceroo midfielder Billy Celeski, who he feels offer the club a very bright future.

5.2.2006

DESPOTOVSKI TAKES OUT AWARD

Perth Glory striker Bobby Despotovski has taken out the 990 Information Radio Bic Most Valuable Player award in the 2005/06 A-League season. Votes were cast by the 990 Information Radio commentary team on a 3-2-1 system from the twenty-one Perth Glory home and away matches broadcast by the station. Despotovski opened up a substantial lead early in the season after gaining maximum votes in four of the first seven games. Nick Ward took out the runner-Up award after polling votes consistently in the second half of the season with his first votes coming from the round nine win over Melbourne Victory. The comprehensive broadcast of all Perth Glory home and away games in the inaugural A-League season was produced and presented by Wisdom Sports Media through 990 Information Radio.

5.2.2006

JETS DOWNED AS GLORY CLAIM FIFTH

Perth Glory finished their season on a positive note with a 3-1 win over Newcastle united Jets at EnergyAustralia Stadium this afternoon. The win elevated Glory to fifth on the final A-League table, two points adrift of finals-bound Newcastle. The day could not have started much better for Glory who went ahead after 7 minutes when Nick Ward instinctively side-footed into the top corner after David Micevski's rasping drive cannoned back off the crossbar. This stung the Jets action and, after several close calls, they drew level on 33 minutes when a partially cleared corner fell to Nick Carle's whose shot from 15-metres was deflected in off the knee of Vaughan Coveny. The home side were getting on top and Jason Petkovic made a fine save to thwart Stuart Musialik. On the stroke of half time the Jets were denied claims for a penalty by referee Matthew Breeze when Carle's shot struck the arm of Ryan Townsend.

The Jets threatened to score early in the second half with Matthew Thompson and Stuart Musialik both firing shots over the bar. Twelve minutes into the second half Glory struck for a second time as Despotovski sent in a low cross which narrowly evaded a diving Ryan Townsend and deflected in off the leg of Allan Picken. The result should have been put beyond doubt ten minutes later when Despotovski headed across the face of goal to Damian Mori who, with the goalkeeper nowhere to be seen, somehow failed to make contact with the ball from all of two metres. Some good lead-up work from Scott Miller and Ward put the ball at Mori's feet in the 72nd minute and this time there was no mistake as the veteran striker powered a low shot into the far corner. The Jets refused to give up hope but could find few holes in a well organised back four underpinned by captain Jamie Harnwell and Townsend. Their best opportunity saw Petkovic smother at the feet of Carle, while close to the final whistle both Carle and Labinot Haliti fired wide.

5.2.2006

NIGHT SERIES, WEEKEND TWO (Swan I.C. vs Western Knights by Peter Simcox; Inglewood United vs Sorrento by Kerry Slater)

A dramatic last minute goal from Damien Catalano earned Swan I.C. a 2-1 win over Western Knights in Friday's early Night Series fixture. Just five minutes had elapsed when the black and whites went ahead through a long ball from Justin Hugo which picked out Catalano who held off the last defender before stroking the ball past Tommi Tomich. Andrew Jennings and Stuart Montgomery were causing all sorts of problems for the Swan defence and it was the latter who went closest to equalising with a volley that was just off target. Further chances came and went at both ends of the park leading into half-time. Tom Shepheard headed Rory Mouttet's cross wide, and good lead-up work from Jon Higgins ended with Montgomery shooting wide. The second half commenced with the Knights piling on the pressure and Ivan Zuvela failed to make the most of a golden opportunity when goalkeeper Louis Lopresti was caught out of position. Swan were denied a second goal by Tomich who produced a stunning save to keep out a terrific strike from Catalano on the counter attack. Parity was restored on the hour when Montgomery caught out the defence with a quickly taken free-kick which curled into the top corner. Things got worse for Swan when, two minutes later, Mouttet was sent off for a second bookable offence. Next it was the Knights turn to go down to ten men with the dismissal of Luka Jukic on 75 minutes, and shortly after the referee had little option but to dismiss Danyal Bennett for dissent. Claus Nielsen and Paul Cooke sent shots goalward in an attempt to put the Knights ahead without success. With time fast running out Catalano latched on to Shepheard's pass through the middle which he lashed low past Tomich to decide the game.

Honours were shared between Inglewood United and Sorrento who played out an entertaining 1-1 draw in the late game on Friday. But the outcome could have been so much different had the Gulls made more of their numerous opportunities on goal. The match was far from the disjointed affair expected of a first competitive outing of a new season. Kevin Griffiths fired the first shot in anger after 7 minutes only to have Neil Young paddle his volley to safety, and shortly after Glen Thomas' attempted chip of Oliver Taseski was gathered at the second attempt. Sorrento controlled the opening phase through the hard work of Thomas, James Morgan and debutant Lewis Flatt in midfield. Simon Harland shot wide, Harnwell was denied by Taseski and Thomas should have done better in a one-on-one situation with the goalkeeper. It took until midway through the half for Inglewood to sparked into life. Daniel Niederberger was thwarted by the combined efforts of Richard Watson and Chris Smith, then Albert Osei-Tutu's header was kept out by Young. The second half opened with a couple of sensational saves as Young denied Osei-Tutu, and Flatt's thunderbolt had Taseski at full stretch. Louis Parkinson twice went close for Inglewood but his first shot flashed across the face of goal and a few minutes later his downward header from a Griffiths' cross was held by Young. The deadlock was finally broken on 78 minutes when Taseski made a hash of collecting a long clearance by Young and Harnwell stroked the ball into an empty net. With that Inglewood upped the tempo and Young was tested by goalbound efforts from Niederberger, Osei-Tutu and Dean Aplegren. With just minutes left Inglewood got their reward via a lightning raid down the left by Jason Colli whose low cross was put away by Osie-Tutu.

E.C.U. Joondalup put themselves in a good position to qualify for the Night Series semi-finals by steamrolling Floreat Athena 3-1 in the early game on Sunday. The win was Joondalup's second from as many starts and sends them to the top of the Group A standings. Floreat were left under no illusions that this was going to be a difficult night as the team from the far north set about stamping their authority over proceedings. Joondalup's aggressive approach unsettled their opponent who were afforded little time to think when in possession. Midway through the opening half Joondalup snared the lead courtesy of a superb strike from distance by Scott Bushby which gave goalkeeper Alex Dunn as it soared into the top corner. Anthony Jones crashed a shot into the cross and a rasping volley from brother Tom Jones was narrowly off target as Joondalup looked to increase their advantage. The margin was doubled early in the second half by an Anthony Jones who was allowed a free header at the back post from a Garin Collins free-kick. Offering little resistance in midfield, Floreat all too often conceded possession. And it was on such an occasion that the result was put beyond doubt as Scott Blackmore fed the ball to Collins who arrowed his a shot past the 'keeper. It wasn't until now that Floreat began to knock together a few passes and threaten when going forward. Their consolation goal was orchestrated by the hard-working Chris Wylie whose cross to the far post was sent back across the face of goal by Okwy Diamondstar and Saul Contera tapped in from close-range. The result leaves Floreat's hopes of qualifying for the semi-finals stage of the pre-season competition hanging by a thread.

Perth S.C., who were without seven of last year's regulars, defeated a young and inexperienced Armadale 2-0 on a balmy summers evening. The game took a while to settle as Perth struggled to string their passes together and a resolute Armadale worked on trying to get out of their defensive half. It appeared only a matter of time before the floodgates would open as Gary Faria, Peter Lord and Scott Bulloch took control over the centre of midfield, and Matt Danskin and Jeff Bright began to make inroads down the flanks. However, Armadale goalkeeper Nick Stone had other thoughts and produced a string of fine saves to deny Faria, Bulloch, Danskin and Lord. For their part Armadale could muster little of significance as their strikers inability to hold the ball up until support arrived continually saw their attacks unfurl. A well-flighted corner from Danskin produced a powerful header from Aaron Cole which Stone tipped over the crossbar, and from the very next corner the 'keeper reacted sharply to get his hands on a fine drive by Faria. The second half was four minutes old when a rare error by Stone saw him misjudge a Faria cross and David Onoforo was positioned to head into an empty net. An inch-perfect cross from Cole led to further frustration for Perth when Lord headed over, and then lively striker Felim Rugel nodded high from a Danskin free-kick. Whilst not having too much impact in an attacking sense, Armadale coach Peter Murphy would have been impressed by the work ethic from young trio Daryl Platten, Matt Bennion and Ben Howe. Victory was finally secured on 78 minutes when Onoforo held his nerve under pressure from Stone and, with his back to goal, cleverly hooked the ball over his shoulder and into the net.

5.2.2006

LAZARIDIS ITCHNG FOR WORLD CUP ROLE

Stan Lazaridis has every right to feel justifiably rewarded by gaining selection in Australia's squad for June's World Cup finals tournament. Since debuting for the national team against Kuwait in April 1993 Lazaridis has been a regular on the left side of the park, be it in an attacking midfield or defence capacity. His 57 'A' appearances is the eighth greatest for an Australian, and put him second to Tony Vidmar (75 games) in the current squad. Even as he approaches his 34th birthday, no one would begrudge Lazaridis his chance to fulfil his dream.

But if you think Lazaridis will be content with just being part of the squad in Germany then you're mistaken. "I think you know me well enough to understand I'm not one to sit back and accept hurdles thrown my way," Lazaridis told Ray Gatt of "the Australian" newspaper. "I've never been one to settle for second best. Of couse, first I have to be picked as part of the 23-man squad which is a tough proposition given the huge talent base Australian soccer has, but I won't be content to be a second-stringer or tourist in Germany."

An unfortunate injury and some bad luck has seen Lazaridis slip down the pecking order as far as Socceroos boss Guus Hiddink and first team selection is concerned. A toe infection forced him out of September's World Cup qualifiers against the Solomon Islands and allowed Scott Chipperfield to stake his claim with a couple of impressive performances. "To pick up a toe infection just before the match was a real blow," he said. "I was feeling great. I felt fit and strong. Had the infection come twenty-four hours earlier I would have been right to play against the Solomons."

While Lazaridis made the squad for October's friendly with Jamaica along with the two World Cup qualifiers against Uruguay the following month, he was limited to watching all three games from the bench. The Birmingham City stalwart admits Chipperfield had done everything right and deserved the opportunity. "To be honest, Scott did very well and deserves to be in the side. He is a terrific player and earned the right to play in those games," he said.

"But it is now up to me to show what I can do," continued Lazaridis. "Football is a funny business. You never know what is around the comer. I don't really know what Guus is thinking. So there is always a chance of breaking back in. Look what happened to me before the Solomons match. It can happen to anyone ... a suspension, an injury, loss of form - not that I would wish that on any of my team-mates."

While the World Cup is always in the back of his mind, Lazaridis says his focus is with Birmingham's battle to avoid relegation. An veteran of eleven-years of English football, Lazaridis' future could depend on whether Birmingham can maintain their place in the Premier League. "I don't know what I will be doing at this stage," he said. "There is a lot going on at the moment and I just want to concentrate on helping Birmingham avoid relegation. I don't think anything will happen until after the World Cup."

A return to Australia to finish his career and give something back to the game that has been so good to him is very much on the cards. "I'm feeling great, possibly the best I've ever felt I'm injury free. I think I have one more good season left in me in the Premier League or even the Championship," Lazaridis said. "Failing that, there has been interest from a number of clubs in the A-League back home which I would seriously consider. I have had three clubs get in touch with me and Perth Glory rang the other day." Either way, Lazaridis is confident he has two or three more seasons left in him.

5.2.2006

OLYMPIC HOPEFULS TAKE FIRST STEPS TOWARDS BEIJING

The long road to the 2008 Beijing Olympics will commence next week when a preliminary squad of home-based players are put through their paces at the Australian Institute of Sport. Eighteen players have been invited to Canberra where the primary focus will be on fitness, physiology and medical testing. Perth Glory quartet Billy Celeski, David Micevski, Ryan Townsend and Nick Ward will be amongst those put through their paces by national team assistant coaches Graham Arnold and Johan Neeskens during the three-day camp which commences tomorrow.

"This camp is the first stage in the identification process of players as we commence the long road towards next year's Olympic qualifiers," said Football Federation Australia's John Boultbee. "Next week's camp will not include overseas-based players, nor Hyundai A-League players that are involved in the finals series. There will be a similar camp in March for a separate group with further players called in over the coming months allowing us the opportunity to develop a large pool of players eligible for Beijing."

The eighteen players called into camp at the AIS this week are Frank Lagana (Heidelberg United), Matt Deegan, Nikolai Topor-Stanley (Manly Warringah), Jay Lucas (Marconi Stallions), Vince Lia, Adrian Leijer, Kristian Sarkies (Melbourne Victory), Billy Celeski, David Micevski, Ryan Townsend, Nick Ward (Perth Glory), Spase Dilevski, Ben Griffin, Tyler Simpson (Queensland Roar), Nick Crossley (Richmond), Keegan Wolfenden (South Cardiff), Nathan Hughes (Sutherland Sharks) and Jordan Simpson (uncontracted).

5.2.2006

MURPHY TAKES AIM AT D'AVRAY

Former Perth Glory captain Shaun Murphy has slammed the club and questioned whether Mich d'Avray is the solution to its coaching problems. Murphy launched a verbal barrage at Glory officials via the "Sunday Times", describing the club as shoddy, arrogant and short-changing local players. Businessman David Rodwell, who is negotiating to purchase Nick Tana's majority shareholding in the club, last week threatened to abandon the take over deal unless d'Avray replaced Alan Vest as coach next season.

However, Murphy says d'Avray must shoulder much of the blame for this season's failures. "Glory needs fresh faces and Mich is definitely not the answer," Murphy told David Davutovic. "The sign of a good manager is when he doesn't have a big budget and succeeds and I don't think they'll have a lot of money to throw around like Mich did in the NSL. Mich must be held responsible for most of the signings. He recruited a lot of interstate players, but didn't do his homework and I don't think he bought the right ones."

"The club needs a huge shake-up and I can't see it getting any better if he's going to be there," added Murphy, who has dropped the threat of legal action after being axed by Glory midway through a two-year deal. "They're already behind the eight-ball in signing players. There's so much arrogance there which stems from (chief executive) Jeff Dennis and d'Avray - the Stan Lazaridis situation is a classic example."

The former Socceroo also lashed the club over spending big dollars on attracting players from interstate while those drawn from the local ranks are offered a pittance in comparison. "The only money they've spent is probably on Colosimo and they ripped off the local players this season and forced them into signing cheap contracts, yet they're the ones that have performed," he said.

"It's about time they respected what boys like Bobby Despotovski, Scotty Miller and Jamie Harnwell have done for Glory and paid them what they deserve," continued the former Socceroo. "The interstate players have been paid most of the wages and that's probably why there hasn't been a great camaraderie. Players talk and it's not a harmonious set-up when that happens."

4.2.2006

GARCIA CATCHES GLORY'S GAZE

Former Australian under-23 striker Richard Garcia is being targeted to spearhead Perth Glory's attack next season. The club's technical manager Mich d'Avray said the search was on for a striker to complement veteran campaigner Bobby Despotovski and Garcia was one of those being considered. "This is not a club point of view, but I think, personally, we need to target la good striker for next season to play alongside Bobby," d'Avray commented. D'Avray added that the best strikers in Australia were already contracted to A-League clubs and Glory would have to be creative in their attempts to bolster the attack.

Garcia, who left Perth as a 15-year old to join West Ham United's youth academy in 1997, has hit form for English League One side Colchester United recently with four goals in his last three games. Glory have made contact with Garcia but their chances of securing the versatile striker, who is out of contract at seasons' end, are slim. Garcia will be tempted to stay with Colchester should they gain a spot in the Championship next season. Garcia has overcome a knee injury, which robbed him of a place at the 2004 Olympics, and recent hip problems to play a leading role as Colchester chase promotion to England's second tier.

4.2.2006

FULL DEBUT FOR TOWNSEND

Young defender Ryan Townsend is in line to make his starting debut on Sunday in Perth Glory's final outing of the inaugural A-League season. Townsend, an Australian youth international, signed a short term deal with the club last month and following the expiration of Danny Hay's contract Glory are likely to give him an opportunity to show what he can offer this weekend. "There is a good chance of Ryan starting a match for the first time so it will be interesting to see how he gets on because, despite training with us for some time, we haven't had much opportunity to see him in a game," commented coach Alan Vest.

The news was not so positive for Jamie Coyne who has been struggled with a persistence groin injury for the past few months. The defender has been omitted from the travelling party along with Simon Colosimo who Vest says has been distracted by recent speculation about a move overseas. "I don't think Simon is in the right frame of mind to play this weekend so he is not in the squad for the game at Newcastle," the coach said. Adrian Caceres is also a serious doubt for the match after missing training on Thursday and Friday due to illness. Vest could be forced to make the journey east with 14 players if he does not recover in time.

3.2.2006

DESPOTOVSKI SIGNS ON FOR TENTH SEASON

Perth Glory has commenced the process of putting together a squad for the summer of 2006/07 by re-signing start striker Bobby Despotovski. The most prolific goalscorer in the club's ten-year history, Despotovski was made a Glory life member last weekend alongside Scott Miller. The 34-year-old has proven that he is still a huge favourite with the Glory faithful and heads into the final game of the A-League season as the competition's joint highest goalscorer alongside Archie Thompson.

"Despite a couple of minor injuries I have been really pleased with my form this season and I have felt my fitness level has been pretty good in general," Despotovski said. "I have proven to myself that I can play in the new A-League and I still feel I have a lot to offer Perth Glory. Although it has been disappointing not to reach the finals this year the club have shown they are determined to turn things around and I did not hesitate in signing a new contract because I believe Perth Glory can be successful in this league next season." On average, Despotovski has scored a goal nearly every other game throughout his Glory career.

4.2.2006

WEEKEND IN SUMMARY

Inglewood United began their defence of the Night Series title by drawing 1-1 with Sorrento in Friday’s early game. Todd Harnwell gave the Gulls the upper hand only to have Albert Osei-Tutu earn Inglewood a share of the points. Swan I.C. may have ended with nine players but they still managed to defeat Western Knights 2-1. Damien Catalano bagged a double for the black and whites while Stuart Montgomery was on target for the Knights.

E.C.U. Joondalup trounced Floreat Athena 3-1 on Sunday evening. Scott Bushby opened the scoring with a shot from long-range, Anthony Jones doubled the margin via a second half header and the margin became three goals when Garin Collins found the target. Floreat’s consolation came via Saul Contera late in the piece. Perth S.C. were rarely troubled as they ran out 2-0 victors over a young Armadale line-up. David Onoforo, recipient of last year’s Golden Boot, was the Blues hero with both goals.

3.2.2006

WEEKEND IN PREVIEW

There are some big games in the second round of the McInerny Ford sponsored Night Series at Litis Stadium this weekend. From 6.30pm tonight Swan I.C. challenge a Western Knights outfit keen to make amends for a surprise loss to the black and whites in the group phase of last year's tournament. The late game, which starts at 8.30pm, features Night Series trophy holder Inglewood United up against Sorrento. The northern suburbs will looking to reverse last year's 1-4 semi-final loss to Inglewood.

Floreat Athena are likely to be without Bajo Savic, Peter Coci and Costa Socratous through injury when they square off with E.C.U. Joondalup in Sunday's opening fixture. At 8.30pm, Peter Murphy's Armadale will need an almighty effort to get over the line against the might of Perth S.C. The Reds will be without defenders Craig Anderson and Richard Lacey who were sent off in the loss to Bayswater City last week. Entry fees for the 2006 Night Series are $6 for adults and $4 for concession holders with children under the age of 15 admitted free.

3.2.2006

INGLEWOOD KEEN FOR BACK-TO-BACK TITLES (by Peter Simcox)

Even though most clubs approach the Night Series as little more than preparation for the season proper, everyone agrees that there's nothing better than a good run in the competition. Just ask trophy holder Inglewood United who, after a successful Night Series campaign, went on to take fourth place in the league and qualified for the association Cup final. "The Night Series gives us an opportunity to get our players fit, organise ourselves and prepare for the coming season," said coach Eddie Hodgkinson. "Having only three trophies up for grabs in our season it makes the Night Series a viable competition. Any kind of success in any football competition breeds confidence into the players and gives them the belief that they can win things. I believe the only way to approach any game or competition is with the view of winning it. There is a strong chance that I will give some of our young players an opportunity but I would also like to say that it makes no difference what age they are - if they deserve the opportunity they will get it."

2.2.2006

FIRST DIVISION/AMATEUR NIGHT SERIES, WEEK TWO (Forrestfield United vs Stirling Panthers courtesy Forrestfield United; Dianella White Eagles vs South Perth United by Stefan Jelesic)

Forrestfield United started their First Division and Amateur Night Series campaign with an entertaining 4-2 win over amateur outfit Stirling Panthers at Coker Park on Tuesday. Forrestfield were out of the blocks fast as Phil Bell's superb through ball between two defenders allowed Glenn Noblet to calmly slot home in the 5th minute. The score was doubled after 10 minutes when a Noblet corner was headed in at the back post by an unmarked Carlo Di Toro. Kayne Gordon-Davidson made it three-nil on the half-hour when he blasted in a cutback from Noblet. Stirling's hard work was rewarded by a goal on the stroke of half-time. The second half saw a more concerted effort from Stirling, however, it was Forrestfield who scored next through Bell. The game's final goal was a beautiful long-range effort from Stirling which left Forrestfield goalkeeper Scott Radford helpless.

South Perth United pulled off a major surprise by toppling Dianella White Eagles 3-2 in the late game on Tuesday evening. In what wasn't a particularly attractive game of football, Dianella were quickly into stride and would have been a couple of goals up inside ten minutes if only for better finishing. Midway through the first half South Perth gained the lead via a well crafted goal which was struck from just inside the 18-yard box. Following this South Perth took control but were unable to increase their advantage. Dianella looked dangerous after the break, particularly in the counter-attack, but it was South Perth who found the back of the net to make it two-nil. Two goals in quick succession brought Dianella back into the game and set up a tense finish. The decider came with just minutes to play when a South Perth counter-attack produced a goal of pure brilliance.

Rockingham City squandered the lead to crash 2-3 to Fremantle United in Thursday's early Night Series fixture. Fremantle were given the perfect start as a dangerous ball into the 18-yard box was lashed home by Rocky Vasile. It took Rockingham until the second half to get back in the game with Terry Flynn drawing them level with a fine shot from 14-metres. Rob Crerar and Fraser Brown went close in quick succession as Rockingham sought the lead which eventually arrived via Erik Kuzmar whose show squirmed under the goalkeepers’ body. Fremantle upped the tempo and equalised through a looping header which found the top corner. With only minutes left on the clock Mike Tripi sprung the offisde trap to race clear and slot in the deciding goal.

Controversy reigned in the late game as Floreat Athena amateurs had three players sent off in their 1-1 draw with Queens Park. It was a bright start from Floreat who controlled the opening exchanges but didn't create a great deal that troubled the Queens Park goalkeeper. Even so, Floreat went into the break with the advantage courtesy of an own goal which resulted from a poorly defended corner. The second half was a lot more balanced with both sides going close on several occasions. The game disintegrated into farce midway through the half when a rash of red cards reduced Floreat to eight players. Terry Georganis was the first to be ordered from the field, Theo Christou joined him shortly after and with ten minutes to go Steve Litas was also issued his marching orders. This allowed Queens Park back into the game and a good solo goal from Kyle Mitsopolous earned the hosts a share of the points.

2.2.2006

KNIGHTS' HOPES ARE HIGH (by Peter Simcox)

Western Knights have high hopes for their ninth Night Series campaign under dual championship winning coach Ronnie Campbell. "We look forward to the Night Series and, like most coaches, I want to win the competition," commented Campbell this week. "The boys have trained well although we haven't pushed them early as some clubs have done. We'll use the tournament to build up for the season proper." In recent years the Knights have been one of the local scenes most consistent and attractive sides and Campbell says those qualities will carry over into 2006. "Willie Kelly and I try to attract the sort of players who play the ball around, and we'll continue to try and bring in these players to our club. We've got a number of talented youngsters at the Knights and they will get their opportunity to shine in the Night Series." The Knights begin the new season at 6.30pm on Friday against last year's finalists Swan I.C.

2.2.2006

RODWELL WANTS D'AVRAY AS COACH

David Rodwell has threatened to pull out of a deal to purchase Nick Tana's majority share of Perth Glory unless technical manager Mich d'Avray agrees to coach the side. Speaking with Jonathon Cook of the "West Australian", Rodwell said his efforts to resurrect Glory's flagging fortunes hinged on d'Avray agreeing to return to the helm of the club he guided to National Soccer League championships in 2002/03 and 2003/04.

"Chelsea have Jose Mourinho, who is the special one in England. I think I have the special one in Australia," said Rodwell, who owned South African team Cape Town Spurs when d'Avray won the league as coach in the mid-90's. "Look at Mich's record. I can sit in the background and he can get results. If he doesn't play pretty football sometimes, that's fine. If we have to grind out results, okay. But we've got to be in the top four."

Rodwell, who currently owns 25% of Glory, said he was confident a deal with d'Avray would be reached. "The only reason I got involved in Glory is because of Mich. I didn't invest in the club, I invested in my jockey, Mich d'Avray," said Rodwell. "I knew I'd lose money but I knew we'd be successful on the field. And I can honestly say that I made a mistake last year. When Mich was not going to be coach, I should never have been part of it."

"In Mich's coaching career three years in South Africa and three years here he has never been out of the top two," Rodwell added. "I don't care what coach comes in. He can have the best credentials I'm not interested. I've got faith in the one man I can work with; a man I can trust. I'm not saying in the first season we're going to do it again, but funny things happen."

Rodwell paid tribute to Glory chairman Tana, who founded the club in 1995 and has personally invested around $6 million on it. "I salute Nick Tana. He put his money where his mouth is," Rodwell said. "If there was no Nick Tana there would've been no Perth Glory. And he was hugely instrumental in the transformation of the league." Any potential buy-out of Glory won't be finalised for at least two months due to on-going talks between Tana and Football Federation Australia.

2.2.2006

NEVILLE LOOKS FORWARD TO CHALLENGE (by Peter Simcox)

Sorrento go into the Night Series buoyed by a successful 2005. The Gulls first team ended the League campaign as runner-up to Perth S.C. while their reserves took out the League and Cup double. Steve Neville, appointed as coach following Trevor Morgan's departure for Singapore, says his players are raring to go after a tough pre-season. "We began just before Christmas and have held three sessions a week since," the coach explained. "The boys have worked hard and are looking forward to the challenges ahead."

Neville remains unperturbed at the prospect of going into the Night Series without a few of his more experienced players. "Unfortunately we picked up a couple of injuries in the last scratch match we had and we have lost a couple of our senior players. But it times like this when you look at the younger lads and Louis Flatt and Jessie Higgins, both members of our successful reserves side, will get their opportunity sooner rather than later due to the injuries amongst our senior players."

There are a few personnel changes for the Gulls in 2006. Scottish imports David McGeown and Paul McMullan have returned home, and youngster Brodie Martin has joined Inglewood United. "The two Scottish lads will be a big loss. They were good quality and had a great attitude, which I believe improved our group of players, they talked to the boys and were very professional," commented Neville. "Brodie's departure wasn't a complete shock but disappointing. We were aware he was unhappy not getting regular football last season, but we wish him good luck."

1.2.2006

GLORY READY TO REBUILD (courtesy Perth Glory)

Perth Glory's chief executive, Jeff Dennis, has given his assurances that the club will use the disappointment of missing out on finals football for the first time in eight years as an opportunity to rebuild for the future. Since the club's entry into the old national league in 1996, Glory has continually set the highest of standards both on and off the pitch. The rare instance of the club not qualifying for the finals this season will lead to a comprehensive review of all club operations in the quest to return to the pinnacle of football in Australia.

While discussions continue with Football Federation Australia regarding Glory's ownership, club officials are committed to the task of rejuvenating the club with the focus of excellence in football. And Dennis is confident that the club can create a stepping stone for a return to winning ways. "All clubs go through highs and lows and unfortunately it has been Perth Glory's turn to experience a low this season," Dennis said. "The test is how we respond to this challenge and I'm confident we can turn things around for the second season of the Hyundai A-League. We have already started a full and comprehensive review of all club operations and if we need to make wholesale changes we will."

With club operations at all levels to be addressed in coming weeks, Dennis insists that the thrust of this process would be to revitalise on-pitch performance. "We see this as a valuable opportunity to start from a clean slate and develop a new vision for the future," he explained. "This will include strengthening our football structure and the development of a new playing squad for next year. It's vitally important that we build a squad of loyal and committed players, something that we have been used to in previous seasons. We will look to finalise negotiations with our local players as soon as possible and build a competitive squad around them ahead of the next season.."

Dennis expects the issue of Glory's ownership to be finalised by the end of March. "We have been working closely with Football Australia and everything is progressing well," he commented. "Indications are that the whole process will take a further six to eight weeks to complete and this will bring a welcome injection of new enthusiasm and drive to Perth Glory. There is no question that mistakes have been made this season. We are not making excuses for these and are committed to addressing all the issues that need addressing head on. It's essential that during this challenging time for the club that we continue to have the support of our loyal supporters to help us rebuild the club to again reach the heights achieved in previous seasons."

1.2.2006

SWAN PUT FAITH IN YOUTH (by Peter Simcox)

Last season's Night Series runner-up Swan I.C. go into this season's tournament determined to give the youngsters in their ranks a chance to show what they're made of. "We've named a few of our youth development squad to play in the Night Series" explained coach Carlo Scali. "We'll use the pre-season competition to try out some formations and to give our youngsters at the club an early opportunity to impress for first team selection. We feel the youngsters within the club are more than capable of stepping up to play senior football this year."

Swan's completed preparations for the pre-season competition last weekend with their annual camp in Sorrento "The weekend was packed with various fitness tasks and games that were both physically demanding and enjoyable for the players," said Scali. "It also gave us a chance to get all three teams, coaches, committee members and sponsors in the same place to make themselves known, and basically get the entire club involved. We set goals for the season for all teams, and covered what the clubs' expectations and responsibilities for all the players throughout the year are both on and off the field." Swan's campaign starts with a 6.30pm meeting with Western Knights on Friday.

31.1.2006

GARCIA EYES WORLD CUP SPOT

In-form striker Richard Garcia would love to wear the green and gold of Australia at this year's World Cup. The Colchester United player is not currently in the plans of national selectors but he aims to turn a few heads by regularly finding the back of the net during the second half of the English League One season. Garcia swept home his fourth goal in the last three games to seal Colchester a 3-1 F.A. Cup fifth round win over Derby County in Saturday. This followed a late brace which secured a 2-1 home win over Port Vale the previous weekend, and a mid-week winner at Cheltenham Town.

In emerging as one of Colchester's key contributors 24-year old Garcia has one eye on being a late inclusion in the Socceroos squad for Germany. "The World Cup is in the back of my mind, but the main thing is to keep doing well for Colchester," insisted Garcia. "Firstly, I'm just trying to play as many games as I can for Colchester. Then who knows whether the selectors will come and watch me or not? I believe that they are watching my progress. I've been scoring some goals lately, so maybe they might start paying me some more attention. It certainly won't do my chances any harm."

A spate of niggling injuries has seen Garcia move in and out of Colchester's line-up since joining the club in September 2004. But he is now fully fit and excited about the months ahead as the U's prepare for a hectic schedule of League and Cup fixtures. "There's no reason why we can't keep winning. I think we can go on and win promotion this season," remarked Garcia. "The F.A. Cup is always something to get excited about. I don't mind who we draw in the next round, though I suppose I'd like to play against my old team West Ham. Some people made us the favourites against Derby, but we were really the underdogs - we just have a lot of belief about us. I guess that this has been my best week since I've been at Colchester."

30.1.2006

GLORY BEGIN CONTRACT TALKS

Perth Glory is expected to open negotiations with a handful of players coming out of contract within the next few days. Its understood talented young midfielder Nick Ward, who has attracted the attention of several A-League rivals, is at the top of Glory's most wanted list. Also expected to be offered new deals are team captain Jamie Harnwell, Bobby Despotovski, David Tarka, Jamie Coyne, Billy Celeski and Naum Sekulovski. At the current time only five players - Simon Colosimo, Jason Petkovic, Hiroyuki Ishida, Ante Kovacevic and Stuart Young - are under contract for the summer of 2006/07.

30.1.2006

VEST PREPARED TO WALK

An angry Alan Vest has called for a complete overhaul of Perth Glory after its season came to a premature end when beaten 1-2 at home by Sydney F.C. yesterday. Speaking at the post-match press conference, Vest made it clear he wanted no involvement next season unless the club sorted out the internal strife that ruined their chances of a top-four finish. Vest questioned the commitment of some players and revealed the extent of the problems within a fractured squad. "I was disappointed with a few individuals all year - I h