31.8.2001

CHAMPION OF CHAMPIONS PREVIEW

The Champion of Champions series switches to Sunday from this weekend as Sorrento and Floreat Athena play off for the right to take on Perth in the end-of-season decider on 16th September. Sorrento were comprehensively beaten by Perth 3-0 last Saturday and coach Steve Neville will be looking for a much improved performance from the Premier League champions. Wide players Michael Garcia and Jared Love are the ones Athena will need to watch when the Seagulls go forward. Midfield general Peter Butler has only improved as the season has progressed, while in defence Danny Hill, Scott McLeod and Kevin Murphy are always a tough nut to crack. Athena have been Sorrento's bogey team this season, twice defeating them in the home-and-away series. Robyn Dyers and Ryan Newhill have been lethal in attack and will made sure Sorrento's backline don't have a moment to themselves this weekend. But the biggest threat will come from the central combination of Doug Ithier, Jason Smith and Costa Socratous - if they can get an early hold on the game then Sorrento can kiss their chances goodbye.

31.8.2001

SINGAPORE IN TOWN THIS WEEK

The Junior Soccer Association's Under-13 Development Squads will this week play a series of friendlies against the touring Hong Kah Secondary School. The Hong Kah side will be in Perth from 1st September for a cultural and training tour of Western Australia. The matches will allow the two JSA sides to reform for the first time since the Kange Cup tournament in Canberra earlier in the year. Both matches should be fiercely competitive and provide an excellent showcase for junior soccer in Western Australia.

The first game features the Under-13 North team with the game taking place at Coker Park, which can be found on Wharf Street, Cannington, this Wednesday with kick-off scheduled for 6.00pm. The following evening the Under-13 South squad take on the Hong Kah Secondary School at the same venue, kick-off against 6.00pm. The JSA encourage all interested persons to come down and cheer on Perth's soccer stars of the future.

31.8.2001

IELATI OUT FOR REST OF SEASON

Perth will go into the Boral Cup Final and Champion of Champions decider without recognised defender Perry Ielati, who has been ruled out for the remainder of the season with a knee injury. The former State junior representative damaged his left knee in a tackle several weeks ago, and while it didn't look serious at the time, recent tests have revealed substantial damage. MRI scans next week will determine whether or not the defender will require a full reconstruction of his left knee. If surgery is the outcome, it will be the second time the 23-year old Ielati has gone under the knife in the recent times, three years ago he required a reconstruction of his right knee.

31.8.2001

SWAN AIM FOR END OF SEASON GLORY

While the 2001 Premier League season was probably one that Swan I.C. would rather forget, the club are hopeful of going out with a bang when they take on NSL side Perth Glory at the Swan Italian Club this Saturday. Although they finished the winter in tenth place and have not played for four weeks, the black and whites are still keyed up for the clash. "We're all pretty excited at the prospect of playing Glory but being realistic we obviously know its going to be a tough battle," said defender Justin Everley.

Coach Paul Wozny will use the friendly as a pointer towards next season and is expected to include guest players Gary Andrews of Sorrento, and Mirco brothers John and Michael who spent the recent season with Fremantle City. And talented goalkeeper Corey Hugo will be out to impress those from the NSL club after spending the past three weeks trialling with them. Unfortunately influential skipper Carlo Scali is unavailable due to travels overseas, while veteran forward Nigel Aubin will also miss the clash.

For Glory it will be the first competitive hit-out of their pre-season campaign, and new coach Mich D'Avray has vowed to give fringe players Todd Harnwell (ex-Sorrento), Nick Mrdja (ex-Perth) and Antonio Naglieri (ex-Cockburn City) an opportunity to show that they can do. However, a couple of other local products will out through injury including captain Gareth Naven and young midfielder Garia Faria. There is also some doubt over Jamie Harnwell who is suffering a hamstring complaint.

30.8.2001

SQUADS NAMED FOR NATIONALS

The Junior Soccer Association have announced the State Under-15 and 16 squads that will compete in next months National Talent Identification Championships in New South Wales. Both sides will be aiming to better the achievements of the West Australian teams of 2000 when the 15's finished ninth and the 16's fifth.

Coached by Frank Longstaff, the Under-15's travelling party is Michael Smerilli (Cockburn City), Joshua Kamasz (Fremantle City), Michael Baczynski (Inglewood United), Scott Blackmore, Clive Fondyke, Adam Gangemi, Daniel Hendley, Michael Lawson, Jake Lennox, John Morton, Daryl Platten (ECU Joondalup), Carmelo Genovese (Perth), Benjamin Rogers (Swan I.C.), Alex Crookes (Forrestfield United), Michael Filippou (Stirling Lions) and Jonathan Mathers (Balcatta).

The Under-16's are under the watchful eye of former Chelsea and West Ham United player Ron Tindall whose squad includes no less than 13 players that were part of the side that competed in June's Lion City Cup tournament in Singapore. Heading east are Alan Matteucci (Bassendean Caledonian), Jeffrey Bright (Cockburn City), Dean Apelgren, Matthew Danskin, John Migas, Chris Zarricueta (Fremantle City), Jordan Conti (Inglewood United), Bryan Hedges, Nicholas Ward (ECU Joondalup), Damir Kuduzovic, Scott Royal, Jan Zablocki (Perth), William Greathead (Rockingham City), Paul Oliver (Canning City), Paul Wright (Morley Windmills) and Liam Lilly.

30.8.2001

SWC TO CONSIDER GLORY PROPOSAL

Soccer West Coast are reportedly considering a proposal from Perth Glory which would see the NSL club field an Under-19 team in the W.A. Premier League next season. The submission was discussed at a SWC board meeting on Tuesday night and will be put to the clubs shortly. "Our clubs must approve any new member and we want to see what their reactions are to this proposal," SWC president David Schrandt told "West Australian" newspaper reporter Mel Moffat. "We will put certain recommendations to our clubs and, depending on how they react, will then possibly negotiate with Perth Glory, but there's still a long way to go," he added.

Jeff Dennis, acting Chief Executive Officer of Perth Glory, said the move was a positive one. "I am pleased Soccer West Coast is giving the proposal due consideration and trust this is a sign that the soccer community in Western Australia can work together to offer supporters and players the best possible level of soccer to enjoy," he said. "The clubs would certainly benefit because I am sure a large number of our supporters would follow a Perth Glory team in the competition. Glory would be happy to play all its games on opposition grounds meaning each club would get two big pay-days a season. Based on the enormous interest in the friendly match we played at Fremantle last season, and in the excitement generated by our up-coming visit to Swan I.C. this weekend, I would say crowds of at least 1,000 would not be unexpected even for a junior team. The revenue raised at the gate and through sales of food and beverages would be of assistance to clubs in the State League."

30.8.2001

CLUB, PLAYERS SUSPENDED

First Division club Dianella White Eagles have been kicked out of the Major Play-off series for their part in the fracas which resulted in their game against Queens Park being abandoned after an hours play. Referee Ray Archibald was assaulted during the incident which lead to a life ban for White Eagles player Predrag Jovanovic. The suspensions of Ranko Cokorac (6 weeks) and Vesko Zmukic (2 weeks) are expected to be carried over into season 2002.

In other news from the tribunal, Western Knights defender Alex Christie has been suspended for four weeks after being found guilty of intimidating referee Derek Minett at the end of his club's Champion of Champions loss to Cockburn City a fortnight ago.

30.8.2001

JONES RETURNS FROM U.S. ADVENTURE

Bassendean Caledonian defender Anthony Jones has recently returned from the United States of America where he helped out run a training camp for junior players. "I was in Blacksburg, Virginia, helping Rick Slade coaching on his New River United soccer camp. Rick has been running the camp for the last eleven years and hires coaches for two weeks to teach the local kids the basics as well as developing them into senior players. This year we had 414 kids turn up for two weeks - there were six coaches - which was the highest ever turn-out and shows the growing interest in the sport in America. I personally had a great time coaching the children and found it to be very rewarding work. Hopefully I'll get to go again next year."

2001 was an unsettled year for the talented teenager who started the season with Swan I.C. and made the move to Caledonian mid-year. "The main reason I switched camps was that I was being played in the wrong position at Swan. My performances were getting below par and I felt that if I didn't play where I was best suited I would be letting myself down. The only problem with Swan was that we had numerous centre backs and the chance of me playing there was slim. I also knew Calies assistant coach Terry Goddard and, with the way things were at Swan, I decided to move on."

But Jones' time with Caledonian wasn't entirely a success, especially after the departure of coach Barry Smith and Goddard. "I was disappointed when they left, but they had their reasons so you just have to accept it. When Alan Weir took over the job I found it harder to get in the team, partly through a lack of form but also because Alan's view of the game was different to mine. Personally, this has been the worst season of my life - I'm glad that it's over and feel lucky not to have been in a relegated team. I felt that I wasn't fit or strong enough this year and it showed in my performances."

The former Floreat Athena junior is looking to work on these aspects of his game over the off-season and get his career back on track in 2002. "During the summer I will be doing a lot of gym work and trying to maintain my fitness, as well as doing some extra skill work to prepare me for next year. And as for cementing a regular spot, I hope that wherever I'm at I can show the coach that I always give 100% and I can do the business out on the park. I'm looking to improve my heading and concentration mostly and feel that these will assist me in becoming a more consistent and solid defender."

29.8.2001

IT'S NOT LOOKING GOOD FOR THAT SECOND LICENSE

One-time Perth Glory general manager Roger Lefort hopes to present Western Australia's case for a second NSL team to Soccer Australia come mid-October. But Lefort is well aware that he faces a tough task convincing Ian Knop, who was recently appointed chairman of the national body.

Knop has gone on record as saying a second Perth-based team in the national competition is not high on Soccer Australia's list of priorities. "Let's be honest and say "is having a second team in Perth a priority?" The answer is no, emphatically no," Knop said on Monday. "I actually think there are other locations in this country that in my gut feeling have more priority to launch another team than Perth." The chairman added that he was not against a second team from the west entering the NSL, but that the timing had to be right. "In the fullness of time there could well be another team in Perth."

According to Lefort, preliminary research suggests that a second team would help the growth of soccer in this state, but he recognised more investigation is needed. "We don't want to take anything away from Perth Glory but we want to capitalise on the good work the club has done over the years," he said. "We want to help the game grow and I am convinced a second team would help that. There are only 13 games a season in Perth and to take the sport to the next level there has to be more than that."

29.8.2001

PHOENIX COACH SAYS FAREWELL

South West Phoenix will see out their debut State League season without coach Joe Kelly who is shortly leave the state due to work commitments. "It is with great regret that I'm leaving Phoenix as I'm sure the club will be a force to be reckoned with next year," Kelly said this week. "With several new players becoming available, coupled with the current crop of youngsters that are getting better with each week, the future augurs well for Phoenix."

The Bunbury-based club surprised many this season, including Kelly, by being a competitive force in the First Division (South) competition where they finished the regular season in fourth place - not a bad effort for a team that had not played together 12 months ago. "I feel that we have built a team to be proud of," Kelly said before praising his players. "The teams that went out on that park fought for themselves, Phoenix and South West Soccer as a whole, and they have done us extremely proud. Next year they will take it that step further. Thanks very much lads for making a very hard job (politically) most enjoyable. Even when we lost we never gave up until the final whistle, don't ever lose that quality, this is what makes you a team."

And it wasn't just the players that Kelly wanted to thank. "To the supporters - thanks very much to you who braved the elements and traveled to support us, we needed it. There is an elderly couple from Perth who watch us in every away game, I don't know their names but they are right behind us all the way and I make sure I speak with them every week. And to all those who thought or hoped we would not make it, I am sorry for spoiling your day," he joked. Kelly's last game in charge will be this Saturday when Phoenix are away to Leeming Strikers at John Connell Reserve.

28.8.2001

JUNIOR TOURNAMENT PLANNED FOR NEXT YEAR

The Junior Soccer Association of W.A. are in the process of scheduling next years program for the State junior teams which includes a proposal to stage a mini-tournament in Perth. "Next year we will be looking at holding probably an Under-13's competition, bringing in a couple of teams from Singapore and maybe two teams from South Australia," said JSA vice-president Steve Coppack this week. "Obviously there's a lot of planning and a lot of work to be done, teams always want to come to Australia but the cost is the biggest obstacle because of where we are situated."

28.8.2001

THREE INDUCTED BY SOCCER AUSTRALIA

Soccer Australia have added 24 players and administrators to the Soccer Australia Hall of Fame, including three from the west. Former Socceroo Robbie Dunn, who played 38 times for Australia, and awarded the Award of Distinction. The Roll Of Honour (Meritorious) went to Rob McShane whose contribution to the local game spanned over 60 years as a player, referee and administrator. Our third recipient was Patricia O'Connor who received the Medal of Excellence.

Other West Australian's that have been inducted into the Hall of Fame in the past include former Australian captains Gary Marocchi and Ron Adair, and Soccer Federation of W.A. co-founder Julius Re. The quartet were all part of the inaugural induction in late 1999.

27.8.2001

SVIRAC LOOKS TO 2002

Croatian-born Davorin Svirac has settled into life in Perth quickly after immigrating to Australia little over 12 months ago. The solidly built central defender spent the tail end of the 2000 season playing for the Dianella White Eagles and this year transferred to Premier League outfit Cockburn City where he wasted no time in established himself as a regular fixture of Laslo Koroknai's starting eleven. With the club's season coming to an end with last Sunday's Champion of Champions loss to Floreat Athena, the now out-of-contract Svirac is looking forward toward to season 2002.

The 24-year old arrived in Perth last May with considerable European experience under his belt that lead to him trialling with National Soccer League side Perth Glory late last winter. After learning his trade as a junior at FC Borovo in Croatia, Svirac found himself part of the FC Becij that finished mid-table in Yugoslavia's Premier League in 1995/96. Twelve months with First Division FC Solunac followed, after which time he moved back to Croatia to play with FC Sindjelic. It was at Sindjelic that Svirac was talent spotted by Premier League outfit FC Cibalija, who are better known in the west under their former moniker of Dinamo. But the youngster never got to take up their offer due to his migration down under.

27.8.2001

CLEARANCE TRIBUNAL MEETS

The Soccer West Coast's tribunal set-up to look into the issue of clubs fielding ineligible players this season sat for the first time last Wednesday evening. With a number of clubs presenting their case to the panel on the night, suggestions are that the process could be a very long one as those given the authority to get to the bottom of the mess sort through the various associated issues.

27.8.2001

OLIVIERA STATE'S TOP YOUNGSTER

Perth teenager Andreas Oliviera has taken out "the Sunday Times"-Oceanus Player of the Year award. The attacking midfielder won the award, which was open to players under the age of 21 this season, by picking up three votes in his clubs final Premier League fixture to end the year on 20. By doing so Oliveira overhauled joint-leaders Dale McCulloch (ECU Joondalup) and David Annall (Western Knights), who finished equal second with Scott Campbell of Inglewood United on 19 votes.

A further vote off the pace was Todd Howarth (Perth) and Premier League leading scorer Branimir Mikulic (Cockburn City). Daniel Trim (Fremantle City) and Oliver Taseski (Inglewood) ended with 17 votes, while Kevin Murphy (Sorrento) on 16 and Robbie Gaspar (Perth) on 15 made up the front-runners.

26.8.2001

COACH PLEASED WITH STATE UNDER-14'S

Speaking on the Junior Soccer Review on Sunday night, Mick Tetlow, coach of the Under-14 South Development Squad, said he was over the moon with his team's performance at last week's international tournament in Singapore. "It was excellent, a really good competition for the boys," he said. "As the week went on we seemed to get better. We were obviously tired at the end of the week because five games in five days is a big ask in the humidity and the heat over there, but we accepted the conditions and just got on with it. In the last game as we needed to win while the Singapore national team only needed a draw, although we were both on the same points they had a superior goal average. And we ended up winning 1-0 by scoring with about three minutes to go, it was really good."

Going on what he witnessed in Singapore, Tetlow has every confidence that W.A. will continue it's fine tradition of producing young players capable of competing on the world stage. "I always hope that there's a couple of them that go on and get a career in football," the State junior coach said. "If I go back to the 1999 State team there's a couple of boys there that have done really well. Clint Davies whose at Birmingham City and Sean Cooney who is still with Coventry City. Antonio Naglieri, who in my opinion was probably the best player in that squad is with Perth Glory. David Tarka has just recently joined Glory, and Johnny Dixon is up at Falkirk in Scotland, and I'm sure there'll be more good players come out of the west over the next five or six years."

26.8.2001

LATEST HAPPENINGS FROM JOONDLAUP

ECU Joondalup currently have five players on trial at various ports around the globe. In addition to teenagers Bryan Hedges and Nicholas Ward who are currently with English club Notts County, 15-year old John Higgins is trying his luck with Southampton. And, contrary to last week's report, Chris Hurd has not signed with the Saints although he has spent time trialling with the club. On the local front, talented right wing-back Andre Sarpe has been training with Perth Glory for the past couple of weeks where he has recently been joined by 26-year old Lee Stratford who spent five years in England with Nottingham Forest.

And it's not just the players from the northern suburbs club that have been keeping busy. A regular for Joondalup's amateur side, coach Paul Simmons came off the bench late in their Mitre Cup semi-final clash with Cockburn City on Wednesday night which went into extra-time with the scores tied at one-all after 90 minutes. Six minutes into the golden-goal period the big forward struck, sending a thundering header past the 'keeper to put his side in the decider. According to our source at the game "the crowd of 17 went berserk and Simmons was mobbed" after he scored!

26.8.2001

UNDER 18's ROUND-UP

Fremantle City are through to the Final of this season's Under-18's play-off series after a comfortable 3-0 win over Perth at the Kiev Sports Ground on Saturday. The port side dominated the first half and took the lead after 13 minutes when Josh Kamasz' header flew past 'keeper Ivan Ruvinski. Perth conceded a needless penalty 11 minutes after the break, Ruvinski guessing the right way but Simon Eltin-Bott's shot was too close to the up-right for him to get. With City clearly the hungier side on the park, the result was put beyond doubt 14 minutes from full-time when Matt Danskin slotted home from 4-metres after Dean Apelgren hit the post and crossbar with successive shots.

An under-strength ECU Joondalup slugged it out with Cockburn City in Sunday's First Semi-Final which saw neither side find the target during regulation time. Going straight to penalties, Joondalup progressed to the last three courtesy of a 5-4 margin with Tom Jones, John Morton, Craig Simpson, Mark Ristovski and Adam Gangemi converting from the spot.

26.8.2001

CHAMPION OF CHAMPIONS, WEEKEND TWO

Weekend two of the Champion of Champions series saw Sorrento back in action after an enforced three week lay-off. Coach Steve Neville fielded a full-strength team which included the return of central defenders Scott McLeod and Danny Hill who missed their last League fixture. Today's opponents Perth went into the game with the same line-up that last week defeated Floreat Athena in extra-time. Their only notable absence was defender Perry Ielati who has been ruled out for the rest of the season due to a knee injury.

The opening quarter of an hour saw some great end-to-end action in which both sides created, and missed, some good goal-scoring opportunities. Sorrento were the first to have a go, Ryan Jeans darting run after 7 minutes saw him round Perth sweeper Stephen Willey only for Robert Scarparolo to parry his explosive shot, Willey recovering to clear the loose ball.. Two minutes later Boni Botha sent the ball over the crossbar after being afforded time by the Sorrento defence. With Perth beginning to flex their considerable muscle in midfield, Jamie Coyne welcomed the opportunity to push forward and, after 11 minutes, his long-range effort skidded narrowly wide of the up-right.

Perth were showing signs on getting on top via a hard-working midfield who fed the ball into their 18-yard box with regularity. A 19th minute error by McLeod was pounced upon by Andreas Oliveira who needed no second invitation, but he powered it wide from 20-metres. Sorrento's supply through the middle was slowly being eroded and their best chances came through individual efforts. In the 23rd minute Glenn Thomas spotted Scarparolo off his line and clipped a speculative shot over the 'keeper who back-pedalled at pace to keep it out of his net. Sixty seconds later Michael Garcia went on a stirring run from deep in defence only to finish by shooting high from 16-metres.

For the rest of the half it was all one way traffic as Perth stepped up a notch. Going forward in numbers, Mark Pottier and Robbie Gaspar dominated the centre along with Jamie Coyne who chimed in with some inspired breaks down the right. Oliviera stepped past Thomas after 30 minutes to send a blistering shot on target from 17-metres which 'keeper Neil Young saved comfortably. Botha's 41st minute cross fell to Coyne at the far post but the midfielder volleyed the difficult ball wide. The breakthrough came four minutes later. Young hesitated to come for Pottier's curling ball into the box and Botha timed his run to perfection, nodding it past the 'keeper at the far post to give Perth a deserved lead going into the break.

Five minutes after the interval Sorrento had what appeared to be a legitimate claim for a penalty turned down when Thomas' shot cannoned off the hand of Willey. Still smarting from that, the Seagulls suffered a knock out blow just two minutes later. Oliviera's weaving run from midfield saw him draw the defence before slotting wide to the unmarked Botha, his low shot was blocked by Young and Oliviera, who continued his run into the box unchecked, slammed the loose ball beyond the reach of the stranded 'keeper. Two-nil.

Part of Sorrento's problem was a distinct lack of support for their strikers who were often alone in their attacking half. The side pushed into attack with regularity, but once there Jeans and Ross Greer were expected to do too much with too little assistance from those around them. On the few occasions the pair found the sort of support they needed, especially from the wide players, Sorrento did look dangerous. In the 54th minute Greer chased a long ball down the left before looping it into the box, Thomas' solid header from 7-metres being paddled over the bar by Scaraparolo. Unfortunately, such moves were far too rare for the northern suburbs' team.

While the Seagulls struggled to maintain a presence in their attacking half, Perth had no such problems. Coyne tested Young on the hour mark with a scorching grass-cutter that the young 'keeper had to stretch full-length to tip around the post. Shortly after Willey dashed down the right and sent the ball deep to Pottier, his stunning volley whizzing narrowly wide. It seemed only a matter of time before Perth tucked away goal number three, which is exactly what happened in the 73rd minute. Cutting in from the left, Coyne capped a fine move with a low shot from 15-metres that bounced awkwardly in front of Young and snuck in at the far post. If Sorrento thought they were still in with a chance then that hope was well and truly erased now.

Sorrento were sadly mistaken if they thought Perth would be happy with the 3-0 margin. Good lead up work by Coyne saw Botha blaze his shot high after 76 minutes, coach Graham Normanton using the break in play to make a triple substitution with the introduction of attacking players Rhys Graham, Rob Giorgi and David Onoforo. A few minutes later Oliviera forced Young into a sprawling low save as the side went in search of goal number four. And an 84th minute counter-attacking move saw Onoforo's curling shot from 18-metres was destined for the top corner until Young launched himself at the ball. The final chance after the afternoon came the way of Sorrento, Jake Harman slotting into the path of Greer whose explosive shot from 10-metres was parried by Scarparolo and Michael Icanovski ran the ball to safety.

They may have finished the Premier League season as champions, but Sorrento were quite simply out-classed today. With too many players seemingly along for the ride, Thomas worked hard to inspire his teammates along with midfield partner Peter Butler, but other than that pair there were few other contributors for Sorrento. Perth on the other hand had performers all over the park. The backline of Willey, Icanovski and Aaron Cole oozed confidence, Gaspar and Coyne were outstanding in the middle while up-front Botha never gave the Sorrento defence a moments rest. Few would argue that Perth deservedly progressed to the series final which will be played on 16th September.

Perth : Robert Scarparolo, Stephen Willey, Michael Icanovski, Aaron Cole, Vince Tana (Rhys Graham 76), Todd Howarth, Mark Pottier, Robbie Gaspar (Rob Giorgi 76), Jamie Coyne, Andreas Oliviera, Boni Botha (David Onoforo 76)
Sorrento : Neil Young, Danny Hill (Richard Turnbull 63), Scott McLeod, Kevin Murphy, Stuart Banks, Jared Love (Jake Harman 45), Michael Garcia, Glenn Butler (David Colegate 82), Glenn Thomas, Ryan Jeans, Ross Greer
Referee : Wayne Oldham
Cautions : None
Dismissals : None
Attendance : 400 (approx.)

In Sunday's Champion of Champions fixture, Floreat Athena booked themselves a date in the Preliminary Final with Sorrento next Sunday after defeating Cockburn City in a penalty shoot-out at the Kiev Sports Ground. Against the run of play, an 11th minute penalty awarded against City defender Dusan Macura saw Athena took the lead through Ryan Newhill who made no mistake from the spot. But their lead was short-lived, 13 minutes later young wing-back Gary Numan capped a blistering run by placing his right-footer from 18-metres out of the reach of goalkeeper Anthony Mori. In the 56th minute, Numan's refusal to give up saw State representative Paul Cooke put City in front. Costa Socratous made it 2-2 after 70 minutes with a low shot that deceived 'keeper Dino Pacella and spun into the net off the up-right. Neither side was able to get the required golden-goal, although City did come close a few minutes from the end of the second period when Cooke's curling shot was fingertipped wide by Mori. The Athena custodian was the hero in the resulting shoot-out, saving Boza Erakovic's spot kick to give the game to his side 5-4.

26.8.2001

FIRST DIVISION ROUND-UP (Armadale vs Morley Windmills report provided by Michael Di Pietro)

Ashfield stay on top of the First Division Major Play-offs table after defeating strugglers the Leeming Strikers 3-2 on Saturday, Gary Spinks, Karl Atley and Shane Fuhr the scorers for the home side. Keeping pace with them are Perth City who downed Rockingham City 2-1 in a fast and physical game down south, Glen Hallums scoring the lone goal for the home side. Stirling Lions 0-0 home draw with Queens Park sees them slip to third. The fixture between the Dianella White Eagles and South West Phoenix was postponed at late notice.

With four games remaining until the end of the First Division Minor Play-off series, Armadale are still in with a chance to retain their First Division status in season 2002. On Saturday the reds hosted Morley Windmills with a much changed line-up, five regular starters absent either due to injury or suspension. The replacements played adequately and gave an indication that there is some depth in the younger squads coming through. The match was tight with no great chances falling at either end, but either side could have pinched the points at any time. Coach Billy Russell was pleased with the way the team battled for the duration of the match, hoping that this commitment starts to show through more with the remaining games.

Kingsway Olympic continue to lead the way, extending their undefeated run to three games by thumping Balcatta 5-2 at home. Dominant from the opening kick, it was a stroll in the park for Olympic for whom Kevin Morris and Stuart Montgomery bagged a double each with Jason Gull scoring the other. Second-placed Canning City hit four past Bayswater City without reply, and Southside United move into third on goal difference after accounting for Wanneroo City 2-0.

25.8.2001

SORRENTO WELCOME BACK DEFENDERS

A month after breaking his left arm against ECU Joondalup, defender Scott McLeod is poised to make his comeback for Premier League champions Sorrento in today's Champion of Champions Second Semi-Final against Perth. "Scotty has been training well lately and he wants to play in this match," coach Steve Neville said yesterday. "The plaster's been removed and he's wearing a wrist support, so there shouldn't be any real problem. But I'll make a late decision." Another defender, Danny Hill, blocked from playing in July because of an international clearance confusion, has now got permanent residency and is also back in the Seagulls squad.

25.8.2001

CHAMPION OF CHAMPIONS WEEKEND TWO (IN BRIEF)

Perth gave Sorrento a lesson in how the game is played on Saturday to progress to the Final of this years Champion of Champions series. Dominant over the opening half, Perth had to wait until the stroke of half-time before taking the lead, Boni Botha heading in Mark Pottier's deep cross. Andreas Oliviera made it 2-0 seven minutes after the interval, and Jamie Coyne booked his sides place in the decider in the 73rd minute with a low shot which bounced awkwardly for 'keeper Neil Young.

Sunday's First Semi-Final saw an uninspired affair between Floreat Athena and Cockburn City that was eventually decided on penalties, Athena triumphing 5-4 after the scores were deadlocked at 2-2 after 120 minutes of football.

25.8.2001

DUNDEE TO SELL COYNE (by Jeremy Lowe - reproduced with permission from the tribalfootball.com website.)

Dundee and Australian centre-back Chris Coyne is set to sign with English Third Division side Luton Town. Coyne, who moved to Dundee from West Ham in search of first team football, has struggled to cement himself in the starting eleven but a move to the Hatters is a chance to rebuild his career.

Luton Town manager Joe Kinnear is desperate to strengthen his defence and said on Friday, "I have already agreed to buy one player. We shook hands with the club over the phone but he will probably be on the substitutes' bench (for Dundee) against Glasgow Rangers on Saturday. The club need him on Saturday and it's sods law that it is Bank Holiday Monday this weekend so he won't come until Tuesday."

24.8.2001

CHAMPION OF CHAMPIONS PREVIEW

Some of the State's brightest young prospects will be on show at the Kiev Sports Ground on Saturday when Sorrento play Perth in the semi-final of the Champion of Champions series. 180 minutes of Premier League football this season hasn't produced a winner from these sides and, with a place in the Final up for grabs, another tight clash is on the cards. Sorrento goalkeeper Neil Young has been staying sharp by trialling with Perth Glory over the past few weeks, as has influential midfielder Michael Garcia who has enjoyed possibly his best season to date. Skillful teenager Andreas Oliviera has a knack of scoring at just the right time for Perth, while midfielder Robbie Gaspar has been a guiding light in the middle of the park.

It's make or break time for Floreat Athena and Cockburn City when they face off in Sunday's first semi-final. Despite being outclassed last week by the Western Knights, City fell over the line courtesy of an extra-time winner and they might need the same sort of luck to defeat this week's opponents. Just a fortnight ago they bowed out of the Boral Cup at the semi-final stage when Athena dominated all over the park, particularly the central core of Jason Smith, Costa Socratous and Doug Ithier. Youngsters Joshua Pescud and Gary Numan are the ones to watch for City, while the possible return of striker Branimir Mikulic will raise the hopes of their supporters.

24.8.2001

PERTH YOUNGSTERS TRY LUCK IN ENGLAND

With the local season coming to a close, several teenagers have headed to the England in the hope of furthering their football careers that might one day see them playing in one of Europe's top leagues. ECU Joondalup junior Chris Hurd is the latest local product to be offered a contract overseas, the 13-year old having recently agreed terms on a 3-year deal with Premier League side Southampton. Hurd is the son of Willie Hurd who spent time on the books of Scottish outfit Kilmarnock.

Also overseas at the current time are two other Joondalup players, Bryan Hedges and Nicholas Ward who are trying their luck with Nott County. The pair were part of the West Australian Under-16 squad that took part in this year's Lion City Cup tournament and both have been named in the State side that will compete in the National Talent Identification Championships in New South Wales next month. Former State Under-16 captain Shaun Kilkelly, who spent the winter with Inglewood United, is at the current time with First Division side Sheffield Wednesday.

Several other players have trialled overseas in recent times. One-time State Under-16 representative and Sorrento midfielder Fred Wilson spent time with London club Chelsea, Joondalup defender John Higgins has been with First Division side Birmingham City, and Swan I.C. defender Kristofer Haxton tried out for Scottish club Heart of Midlothian.

23.8.2001

DIANELLA TRIO BANNED

Dianella White Eagles player Predrag Jovanovic has been banned for life after being found guilty of assaulting referee Ray Archibald during last week's First Division play-off fixture with Queens Park. Soccer West Coast have also suspended his teammate Ranko Cokorac for six weeks and first team coach Vesko Zmukic for two. There was a belief that White Eagles may have been expelled from SWC ranks after the game was abandoned at one-all. This weekend clash between the Dianella club and South West Phoenix, which was scheduled for Saturday, has been postponed.

23.8.2001

W.A. PAIR CAUGHT UP IN PAYMENT ROW

West Australian's Stan Lazaridis and Shaun Murphy are believed to be among a group of Socceroo's owed up to $50,000 each by governing body Soccer Australia. Lazaridis and Murphy, who play for English First Division rivals Birmingham City and Sheffield United respectively, have reportedly not been paid since the Oceania Nations Cup finals in Tahiti last year and includes June's successful Confederations Cup campaign. Other players at the centre of the allegations include Australian captain Paul Okon (Middlesbrough), Brett Emerton (Feyenoord), Kevin Muscat (Wolverhampton Wanderers) and David Zrillic (Unterhaching).

With the distinct possibility of boycott action being taken by the players, Soccer Australia is confident November's friendly against world champion France and, more importantly, World Cup qualifiers against a South American team will not be affected. Ian Knop, who recently became chairman of the controlling body, has pledged to sort out the mess within two weeks. "It should not occur and will not be occurring in the future to the best of my ability," he said

23.8.2001

PREMIER LEAGUE SIDES PART OF GLORY'S PRE-SEASON

Premier League champions Sorrento and their top flight rivals Swan I.C. and Inglewood United will get the opportunity to strut their stuff against Perth Glory in coming weeks the National Soccer League club gears up for the 2001/02 season. Swan are Glory's first cab off the rank when they meet at the Swan Italian Club in Midland on Saturday 1st September, kick-off 3.00pm. The NSL side fly to Adelaide the following weekend to participate in a mini-tournament which will also feature South Australian state league side the Adelaide Blue Eagles and NSL rival Parramatta Power. On Friday 14th September Inglewood are Glory's opponent and the following Wednesday they begin a three-game challenge series with Northern Spirit. Glory's final pre-season hit-out is against Sorrento at Percy Doyle Reserve on Sunday 30th September 30 when proceeds will go towards the Asthma Research Foundation.

22.8.2001

CLUB GUILTY OF FAILING HEATH ACT

Bunbury United, the first club prosecuted under new W.A. Health Act regulations, has pleaded guilty in Bunbury Magistrate's Court to two counts of allowing people to smoke in an enclosed public area during it's bingo nights. The South-West soccer club were fined $2,500, effectively putting their future in jeopardy. Magistrate Kelvin Fisher said the club had failed to embrace obligations to the regulations, introduced in March 1999, despite receiving several written and verbal warnings from the Health Department.

But Bunbury general manager Ivan Garic said outside the court that the club's weekly bingo nights had been unfairly singled out. He believes they should be entitled to similar exemptions on smoking enjoyed by W.A. hotels, the Burswood Casino and the Royal Institute for the Blind Bingo Centre. Quit W.A. manager Peter Zeroni said ill-effects of passive smoking were well documented and that they had little option but to push for prosecution. This action was taken after the Health Department sent two written warnings to the club in 1999 following a complaint from a bingo player.

21.8.2001

JSA TEAMS DO WELL IN SINGAPORE

Last week the Junior Soccer Association of W.A. sent their Under-14 North and South Development Squads to Singapore where they participated in week-long tournament which also featured teams from Singapore and South Australia. Both sides came home with some impressive performances under their belts, JSA North (playing as Perth North) losing just once in five outings to finish a credible fourth, while the team from the South (Perth South) went undefeated and brought home the silverware.

Things kicked-off on Monday with Singapore A and Perth North battling out a tense 1-1 draw. Perth South got their campaign off on the right foot by defeating Adelaide B 2-1, while Adelaide A went down 2-0 to Singapore B. The following day the two J.S.A. sides met with Perth South coming out on top 1-0. Singapore B also maintained their 100% record with a 3-1 triumph over Adelaide B, while Singapore A and Adelaide A drew 1-1.

While Singapore's humidity was a new experience for many of the boys, the sides also had to contend with some playing surfaces that were less than desirable, but full credit to all the Australian sides who adapted well to both. Wednesday saw both J.S.A. teams involved in scoreless draws, Perth North with Adelaide B and Perth South with Adelaide A. In the derby between the hosts, Singapore B came out victors 4-1. Perth South kept alive their hopes of winning the event the following day with a commanding 3-1 win over Singapore A. Perth North ended the perfect record of Singapore B by holding them 2-2, and Adelaide A beat Adelaide B 3-0.

The final day of competition started with two draws, Singapore A and Adelaide B ending 2-2 while it was 0-0 between Perth North and Adelaide A. As it turned out the last scheduled fixture would decide the winner of the mini-tournament, Perth South scoring the only goal of the game - in the final minute of play - to edge in front of Singapore B who finished in second place. For Daniel Simcox, a member of the Perth South squad, the tour was something to cherish. "I hope that I can do it all over again in 2002 and have the same success," the Swan I.C. junior said. "Playing for your State is the greatest honour you could have."

20.8.2001

FOUR LOCALS MAKE NATIONAL SQUADS

Congratulations go out to those players named to represent Australian at Schools level after last weeks Australian Schools Championships in New South Wales. Gemma Langley, Lisa DeVanna and Nadia Poulsen were named in the 16-player national Schoolgirls squad, while Stacey Woodfin was included in stand-by squad. Making the cut for the Schoolboys was defender Shane Nunes, who plays locally for Rockingham City.

19.8.2001

UNDER 18's ROUND-UP

ECU Joondalup ended Sorrento's season in the Under-18's play-offs with a 2-0 triumph at the Kiev Sports ground on Saturday. After a scoreless opening 45 minutes, Joondalup took the lead six minutes into the new half when Mark Ristovski found Tom Jones whose spectacular volley from 12-metres looped over goalkeeper Matthew Pirga and into the top right hand corner of his goal. This spurred Sorrento into life, their midfield seizing control of the game but up front they were unable to find the target. The result was put beyond doubt 11 minutes from full-time, Jones flicking the ball over the defence for Clive Fordyke to run on to and slot past Pirga from a decreasing angle.

In Sunday's Qualifying Final, Cockburn City went down on penalties to Fremantle City. With the scores tied at 2-2 after 90 minutes, the port side fell over the line 3-2 in a penalty shoot-out. Next weekend the Under-18 series will be reduced to three with either Cockburn or Joondalup bowing out, while a place in the decider is up for grabs when regular season champions Perth take on Fremantle.

19.8.2001

CHAMPION OF CHAMPIONS, WEEKEND ONE

Neither Cockburn City nor the Western Knights had the luxury of taking their strongest possible line-up into Saturday's Elimination Final. Missing for the Knights through illness was no-nonsense defender Leon Russell, while coach Ronnie Campbell gambled on the inclusion of Darren Williams, Carl Medica and Claus Nielsen in the starting line-up, all having come down with the flu during the week. City coach Laslo Koroknai welcomed the return of Davorin Svirac and Dragan Njegic but absent were the skillful Scott Bailey and Premier League leading scorer Branimir Mikulic. Although without this pair, Koroknai opted to name only one out-field player on the City bench in what must rate as one of the strangest coaching decisions in recent years!

Under a sunny, cloudless sky, City may have got the ball rolling but it was their opponents that controlled the opening stages of this match. After four minutes Nielsen created space and sprinted the ball down the right flank before finding Medica just inside the box, he laid it off to Scott Devine whose rising shot deceived Dino Pacella, the City custodian pushing it desperately over the bar. Four minutes later it was Nielsen again that did all the hard work, Medica this time shooting from close-range only to find Pacella up to the task. Shane McNally twice went close after 10 minutes, his initial shot from a tight angle beat the 'keeper but scuttled across the face of goal, Medica collected the loose ball close to the corner flag and sent a superb cross to the midfielder whose glancing header ended just wide of the far post.

The Knights persistence paid off on the quarter hour mark when Aaron Nadine's free-kick saw Pacella misjudge the high ball and Scott Devine was lurking at the far post to nod it between two defenders and the up-right to give his side the lead. With their wide players - McNally on the left and Nielsen on the opposite side - providing much of the impetus to attack, the Knights were not satisfied with a one goal advantage. Three minutes after putting them in front, Devine pumped a free-kick into the box which was poorly dealt with and Eugene Singeorzan half-volleyed the loose ball high. And in the 24th minute John Nicolaou spotted Pacella well off his line, his chip from distance clearing the 'keeper but also the crossbar.

City finally began to show signs of settling and carved out some enterprising passages of play, but generally they were finding the Knights four-man defence too strong to contend with. Their first chance on goal came in the 27th minute, Joshua Pescud making a diagonal run into attack but Williams never looked troubled as the low shot came in from 20-metres. Dusan Macura made a darting run out of defence four minutes later, his explosive long-range effort kissing the wrong side of the bar with Williams in the belief that it was going well high. As the half wore on the southerners made some determined pushes forward but were constantly forced into shooting from outside the 18-yard box by a defence that was quick to shut them down.

If not for the efforts of Pacella, City would have gone into the interval two goals down. Nielsen played a clever one-two with John Nicolaou in the 40th minute which sliced wide open up the defence behind which Pacella was well-positioned to block Nielsen's close-range blast. John Nicolaou followed-up but he too was denied by the 'keeper from close-in, Pacella diving on the loose ball before Nicolaou could rattle off another shot. The one-nil half-time score line didn't do justice to the dominance enjoyed by the Knights. City were rarely in the game and it was difficult to see how they'd find a way back into it.

The pattern of the first half continued after the break, McNally, Devine and Singeorzan all sending half-chances high in the opening few minutes as the Knights searched for the goal that would effectively kill off the game. But ten minutes into the new half a moment of hesitancy at the back cost them dearly. Paul Cooke's cross from wide on the left evaded three Knights players and, from 2-metres, Gary Numan bundled the ball over the line at the far post. There looked to be a touch of handball in the goal, but that didn't worry the City camp who had just revitalised their chances.

A 60th minute free-kick came close to the Knights restoring the lead, Singeorzan sending it in from just outside the area and Medica volleying just inches high. Three minutes later Pacella pulled off a spectacular flying save to keep out McNally's superb drive on the run from 14-metres. Not to be out-done, Dean Gartside met Cooke's ball high into the area but his header was directed narrowly wide. And in the 71st minute McNally swung a corner deep which was not properly dealt with and, from the top corner of the box, Singeorzan half-volleyed it over the top much to his disappointment.

The remainder of the half was dominated by the respective defences who worked hard to restrict the opposition into shooting from distance. Under the hammer for much of the game, Macura, Svirac and second-half replacement Steve Adam were the heart and soul of City's backline, stepping up a gear over the closing stages to dominate their third of the pitch. Down the other end it was central defenders Alex Christie and David Annall that were in charge, ably supported by Gavin Tait and Aaron Nadine.

After leading the way for much of the game, the Knights faded as the clock ticked down. Going forward they were running out of not only ideas but also legs, while at the back they were the ones coming under fire as City's midfield steered the game in their favour. Thirteen minutes from full-time Gartside lobbed the ball over the defence and Mileta Miletic was narrowly beaten to the ball by Williams who was quick off his line. Numan was proving a danger on the right with some jinxing runs, and in the 82nd minute his low drive from 13-metres was kept out by Williams. Not long after Williams was again his sides saviour, keeping out Miletic's low shot after a superb through ball from Pescud.

With little over a minute left in regulation time, Medica surged forward in a last-ditch to settle the game. A one-two with Singeorzan took him past the defence, Pacella raced off his line and dived at the strikers feet, getting enough of a touch on the ball to break Medica's stride and his shot from a very tight angle rocketing into the side netting. Derek Minett's whistle shortly after signaled that the first to score in extra-time would see their season extended by at least one week.

Two minutes into extra-time Numan sent Miletic inside the box, he out-paced the defence only to be denied by the quick-thinking Williams who saved from close-range. Sixty second later Medica pulled his shot wide much to the disapproval of the Knights vocal supporters. In the 95th minute John Nicolaou's shot on the turn from 14-metres flew just wide of Pacella's left up-right. Two minutes later the game came to a controversial end two to game. Williams spectacularly blocked Gartside's close-range shot, the City captain then blatantly pushed Nadine out of the way and blasted the loose ball into the back of the net - and, amazingly, Derek Minett allowed the goal to stand! The ensuing melee threatened to boil over with several spectators jumping the fence to get involved in the shoving match, but thankfully common sense prevailed and calm was restored.

The Knights were left to rue missed first-half chances which should have seen them go into the break a couple of goals in front. Always a player that gives 100%, Devine was an inspiration in midfield while on the right flank Nielsen teased the defence with his silky skills. Out of the game for long periods, City never gave up the chase and had to rely on two dubious goals to progress to the next stage of the play-offs. Between the posts Pacella was a highlight with several crucial saves, the pace and skills of Numan caused the opposition problems and Gartside's performance was somewhat over-shadowed by a dodgy extra-time winner.

Cockburn City : Dino Pacella, Dusan Macura, Davorin Svirac, Craig Anderson (Mileta Miletic 45), Joshua Pescud, Gary Numan, Steve Adam, Boza Erakovic, Dean Gartside, Paul Cooke, Dragan Njegic
Western Knights : Darren Williams, Gavin Tait, David Annall, Alex Christie, Aaron Nadine, Shane McNally (Andy Lawson 71), Scott Devine, Claus Nielsen (Dean Nicolaou 82), Eugene Singeorzan, John Nicolaou, Carl Medica
Referee : Derek Minnet
Cautions : Pescud (18), Adam (80), Singeorzan (81)
Dismissals : None
Attendance : 250 (approx.)

Perth began the defence of their Champion of Champions crown on Sunday with a seven-goal thriller against local rivals Floreat Athena. Both sides created some good chances in the opening period which saw play alternate from one end of the ground to the other with regularity. Perth opted for the more attractive approach via a creative midfield, while their opponents preferred to play it long over the defence. The pre-match gamble of Athena coach John Hunter to play captain Jason Smith didn't pay off, the midfielder replaced midway through the half suffering the effects of flu. In the 31st minute Perth took the lead when Athena 'keeper Anthony Mori parried a hard shot and Mark Pottier was on hand to knock the loose ball into the net from a narrow angle. Not long after it was 2-0, Robbie Gaspar slotting home. Athena got a much-needed lifeline seconds from the interval when Costa Socratous' speculative shot from 30-metres slipped through the fingers of Perth 'keeper Robert Scarparolo and dropped across the line.

Within three minutes of the resumption of play Athena were back in the game, sweeper Troy Bernard surging forward to hit a superb curling shot from just outside the area which left Scarparolo with no chance. Six minutes later Athena took the lead, Doug Ithier spearing a trademark free-kick home from 20-metres. Perth re-grouped with experienced campaigners Stephen Willey and Pottier leading the way from midfield, and they were deservedly back on level terms after 69 minutes when Boni Botha finished off a fine move to find the bottom corner of Mori's goal. With neither side able to add to their tally in the remaining time, for the second time this weekend a game went into golden-goal extra-time. Andreas Oliviera stepped up six minutes into the first period to make it 4-3 in Perth's favour, the 19-year old breaking from midfield before drilling his long-range effort past Mori to leave Athena shattered. "The lads were very dejected after the game especially because we had come from behind," Athena defender Jamie D'Arcy said post-match. "We felt that we had played very well and that we had done enough to win the game. To their credit Perth are extremely fit and seemed to always have plenty of men going forward. We now have to pick ourselves up for the game against Cockburn, who will be out for revenge after we beat them in the Boral Cup semi-final. We're also looking forward to inflicting our revenge on Perth in the Boral Cup Final."

18.8.2001

FIRST DIVISION ROUND-UP (Kingsway Olympic vs Armadale report provided by Michael Di Pietro)

Three clubs share equal points at the top of the First Division Major Play-off series after two games. Ashfield claim first place with a 6-2 thrashing of Rockingham City, Perth City are second after thumping the Leeming Strikers 3-0, and the Stirling Lions 2-1 win over South West Phoenix keeps them third. Queens Park's home fixture with Dianella White Eagles was abandoned after 60 minutes with the scores ties at one-all after the referee was assaulted.

Armadale travelled to Kingsway Olympic expecting a hard game on Saturday after their opponents finished the season in fifth place on the First Division (North) ladder. Both sides were evenly matched, with both defences working hard throughout the first 30 minutes. Up until then the referee had dished out some five yellow cards, some of those being a little unnecessary. In the 31st minute Kingsway took the lead when a through ball found one of their strikers unmarked. The real fun started six minutes later when Armadale's Steve Cann contested possession with an opponent, both appeared to hold each other back and that was needed was for the referee to decide which way the free-kick was to go. Instead the referee dished out two red cards to two Armadale players not involved in the incident, while the original offenders got a yellow each! It goes without saying that this totally changed the complexion of the game. The second half was an uphill battle for the Reds, who also lost David Twigg through injury, as the game deteriorated into a spiteful clash which saw some unnecessary tackles made by both sides. The final 4-0 score line in Olympic's favour was not a true reflection of what could have been a close game if it had been controlled by a 'stronger' referee.

Olympic's win sees them as the only side with a 100% record after two rounds of the First Division Minor Play-off series. Bayswater City stay second despite losing 0-2 at Wanneroo City who move into third. Morley Windmills needed two late goals to stave off a determined fight-back by Balcatta at Wootton Reserve where the final score was 4-1, while Canning City proved too strong for Southside United 2-1. Stirling Suns have opted not to participate in the play-offs, instead they are believed to be focusing their energies on preparing for season 2002.

18.8.2001

ILLNESS A PROBLEM FOR KNIGHTS

The Western Knights go into today's Champion of Champions clash with Cockburn City with the very real possibility that they will be without five key players. Struggling to overcome flu are goalkeeper Darren Williams, defender Leon Russell and midfield trio Claus Nielsen, Dean Nicolaou and Carl Medica who have barely stepped outside their front doors this week. Coach Ronnie Campbell reckons it could be a case of first come, first served when he decides on his line-up for the Elimination Final. "We'll obviously wait until the last possible moment before making a decision, but it's not the ideal way to prepare for such a big game," Campbell said. "Cockburn has already beaten us three times this year, so we're definitely going in as underdogs. But we'll have a go. We've got a proud record to protect, for we've made the final of the last three Champion of Champions events."

19.8.2001

CHAMPION OF CHAMPIONS WEEKEND ONE (IN BRIEF)

Cockburn City are through to the next stage of the Top Five play-off series after captain Dean Gartside scored a controversial extra-time golden goal against the Western Knights on Saturday. The Knights domination of the first half saw Scott Devine head them into the lead after 15 minutes. Young wingback Gary Numan brought City back into the game with a 55th minute equaliser, but neither side was able to find the all important second goal in regulation time.

Perth began their defence of the Champion of Champions trophy on Sunday when the defeated arch-rivals Floreat Athena 4-3. Like the previous days contest, this was also decided in golden-goal extra-time with teenager Andreas Oliviera bagging he winner.

17.8.2001

CHAMPION OF CHAMPIONS PREVIEW

The Champion of Champions series kicks-off on Saturday at the Kiev Sports Ground with the with do-or-die Elimination Final between Cockburn City and the Western Knights. City go into the clash as favourites having twice defeated the Knights during the home-and-away season, 2-1 on both occasions. They will be looking for another big effort from captain Dean Gartside, and hoping that striker Branimir Mikulic has brought along his scoring boots. But the Knights are never one to underestimate, Scott Devine has been in sensational form this season while up-front Eugene Singeorzan always poses a threat to opposing defences.

The following afternoon at the same venue Perth and Floreat Athena go at it in the Qualifying Final. Both sides are strong all over the park and this game is expected to be decided in midfield where experienced campaigners Doug Ithier and Jason Smith will battle for control with Perth youngsters Robbie Gaspar and Jamie Coyne. Athena have the wood on their opponents this year, defeating them 3-0 and 4-3 in the regular season, although Perth did pip their long-time rivals in the final of the Night Series. With the winner meeting Sorrento next weekend, this will not be a game for the faint-hearted.

The First Division Major Play-offs continue on Saturday with the pick of the bunch being Ashfield and Rockingham City at Ashfield Reserve. In other games, Leeming Strikers are at home to leaders Perth City, Stirling Lions host South West Phoenix, and the Dianella White Eagles are on the road to Queens Park.

17.8.2001

PUCA HOPING TO BE FIT FOR TRIALS (Reproduced with permission from the tribalfootball.com website)

One-time Perth and Eastern Pride midfielder Robbie Puca is hoping to be fully fit when he turns out in a practice game for South Melbourne this coming Saturday. Puca joined pre-season at South on Tuesday but is yet to fully recover from a winter operation. Puca has been treated by South medico's and is responding well. A talented left winger - a scarce commodity in Australian soccer - even if Puca is unable to play Saturday's game, it is expected that South will give him sufficient time to prove himself.

16.8.2001

KILKELLY TRIALS IN ENGLAND

Young Inglewood United defender Shaun Kilkelly is currently in the UK where he has been invited to attend the pre-season with English First Division outfit Sheffield Wednesday. Kilkelly, widely regarded as one of the State's rising stars, spent time in England at the conclusion of last years' W.A. season when he impressed coaching staff at both Barnsley and Wallsall. The State Under-19 representative has been a regular fixture at the back for his club this winter and has been earmarked for bigger things.

16.8.2001

MCCALLUM SHINES FOR YOUNG MATILDA'S

One-time Joondalup midfielder Collette McCallum was thrilled to pull on the green and gold of the national women's youth team last week in a four-team tournament held in New South Wales. "It was a good feeling," said the teenager who was rated as one of the stars of the Under-19 side. "I wasn't nervous for the first game against Singapore at Pluim Park, but the game against Vietnam was at North Power Stadium and I felt really nervous at that one, especially when they played the national anthems."

McCallum shone in Australia's opening round 10-0 thrashing of Singapore. "The Young Matilda's destroyed the opposition from out wide with Collette McCallum outstanding up the left flank and providing excellent service to the front line" beemed the match report from the Matilda's official website (www.matilda's.org.au). McCallum came off the bench 58 minutes in the 2-5 loss to the N.S.W. Institute of Sport team, but featured heavily a few days later against Vietnam when the Australian side ran out victors 2-0. Playing her second full game in national colours in the space of five days, the young midfielder provided the cross for Catherine Cannuli to open the scoring after just six minutes. Starting on the bench in Saturday's final, McCallum came on after 69 minutes but was unable to turn things around, the Young Matilda's going down 1-2 to the NSWIS.

"I thought we were the better team overall, but because this was our first games together we made some mistakes which cost us goals," the 15-year old said this week. Pleased with the way the team played, McCallum was also happy with her own performances at the tournament. "I felt I played really well against Singapore and Vietnam but I was on the bench against the N.S.W. Institute of Sport. I got a good report from the lady at the Australian and British Soccer Weekly newspaper so I think I played well!"

After her first taste of football for the national team, McCallum said there were plenty of highlights from the week-long event. "Meeting the rest of the players from the other States, training and playing soccer every day, playing at North Power Stadium, there's probably lots more but I can't think of them at the moment." And the ride doesn't stop there, the talented midfielder has a very busy end of the year lined up. "The National Under-17 Championships are at Coffs Harbour in September then I'm going back to Scotland for a holiday in October. The Women's National League starts in November and I hope to play for the New South Wales Sapphires again in that."

16.8.2001

AMERICA CALLS FOR SKENDER

Stirling Lions youngster Roko Skender will head to the United States at the end of the year where he will take up a soccer scholarship with either Harvard or Central University in Kentucky. "Soccer in the U.S. has taken off big time, so you never know what might happen if I do well on a scholarship," Skender told Mel Moffat of the "West Australian" this week. The 21-year old midfielder was initially scheduled to touch-down in the U.S. next month, but he has requested that his arrival be delayed until January to allow him to turn out for Murdoch University at next months the Australian University Games in Sydney.

Murdoch recently announced a 13-man squad - which included Skender - to participate in what has become Australia's biggest annual sporting event. It will be the third time the university has taken part in the games which attracts around 6,500 participants. But it was touch and go whether the students would get the funding required to take part. "The Murdoch Guild and the Vice Chancellor played a big part in getting us get there, paying the entry fee, helping us to get the money for the air fares and assisting with fundraising events," Skender said.

Croatian born, Skender came W.A. at the age of six when his parents emigrated to the north-west town of Newman. A few years later the family moved to Perth and Skender spent several years in the Western Knights fertile youth system where he came to the attention of National Soccer League side Melbourne Knights. But his hopes of a career in the NSL were dashed by a cruciate knee ligament injury and he signed on with the Lions for the 2001 winter.

The Murdoch travelling party of the games is - Neil McClure, Rowan Cross, Tom Kroyer, Dominic Pitt, Kelvin Tan, Clayton Kendall, Sasa Gojic (Murdoch University), Roko Skender (Stirling Lions), Michael Hill, Alan Fitzmaurice, Cory Smits, Jason Auci and Dave Hodgeson.

15.8.2001

DOES ANYONE KNOW WHAT IS HAPPENING?

With increasing uncertainty over the number of clubs that will make up the W.A. Premier League next season, spare a thought for those in the First Division who are currently involved in a play-off series that could prove a fruitless task. There are currently several theories as to the structure of the State League in 2002 doing the rounds at the moment, some of which are -

* a 10-team Premier League where the First Division Major Series winners replace the lowest ranked Premier League club. This was Soccer West Coast's initial plan as announced mid-season, but which is rumoured to have since gone out the window.

* a 12-team Premier League where the top two Major Series finishers are promoted and no-one relegated. The First Division would consist of the remaining 15 clubs plus one newcomer.

* a 14-team Premier League with the top four Major Series finishers promoted and no-one relegated. The First Division would consist of the remaining 13 clubs plus one newcomer.

* a 10-team Premier League where the Major Series winners replace the lowest ranked Premier League club. The First Division would then be split into two conferences - north and south - of 10-teams each with two additional sides in the south and one in the north.

* a 10-team Premier League where the Major Series winners replace the lowest ranked Premier League club. A First Division made up of the relegated Premier League side, the remaining seven Major Series clubs plus the top two First Division Minor Series finishers for a 10-team First Division. The remaining seven clubs plus three newcomers would make up a new Second Division.

There have also been suggestions that SWC will not admit any new teams for season 2002 so, just to confuse matters even more, figure in those options above that include newcomers only remove the new clubs from the equation. All this has lead one state league coach to remark "I've heard so many stories it makes my head spin."

15.8.2001

CLUBS LINE UP FOR PERTH'S COLE

Perth defender Aaron Cole looks likely to break into the ranks of the National Soccer League with several clubs currently courting the talented 20-year old. Cole, who walked out on Perth Glory in March, has reportedly been approached by Canberra Cosmos, Adelaide City and Newcastle United for the up-coming NSL season.

14.8.2001

FULL STEAM AHEAD FOR INGLEWOOD

While Inglewood United failed to meet their pre-season goals of making the top five play-offs and the Boral Cup Final, coach Steve Parkinson was impressed by the way his young side performed over the winter months. In his first season as a coach in the State's top flight, Parkinson took the club to eighth in the Premier League, while they were losing semi-finalists in both the Night Series and Boral Cup. Parkinson is confident that this season saw the laying of some strong foundations that will serve the club well in the years to come.

"I consider this season to have been acceptable and it should provide a great launching pad for season 2002," Parkinson said this week. "The year has been one of transition which will continue and be completed by the end of next year's Night Series. Planning for 2002 has already started with three new senior players being targeted to strengthen the existing squad. We've also got additional improvements to the training facilities in the pipeline, and there will be a greater focus on next seasons Under-18 team, all of which will be in place by the time pre-season training commences on the 28th December."

14.8.2001

GLORY INVITES HOWARTH TO TRY OUT

Perth Glory have invited Perth teenager Todd Howarth to spend this week trailing with the NSL club. The 18-year old left wing-back, who started out with Bayswater City, has had a rapid rise to the top since turning out for the West Australian Schoolboys in 1999. Later that year he represented Australia in the two-game Schoolboys series with New Zealand, while in May this year Howarth was part of the W.A. Under-19 squad that travelled to France to take part in the prestigious Tournai de Croix. At club level Howarth has been one of Perth's most consistent performers over the past couple of seasons, playing a vital role in the club taking out the Champion of Champions play-offs last year and the 2001 Night Series.

13.8.2001

GARCIA TOUTED AS THE NEXT BIG THING

West Ham United youngster Richard Garcia is hoping to pick up where he left off last season as he approaches full fitness. The attacking midfielder missed the second half of last season through injury after an impressive period on loan to Leyton Orient where O's boss Tommy Taylor was singing his praises. And the indications are that Garcia could be the next youngster to break into the senior ranks at Upton Park.

Having spent the English summer regaining his fitness, Garcia last week completed is first full game for the Hammers senior side in the 3-1 friendly win over Rushden and Diamonds. "It was great, my first game in the full squad," he says. "You have to start at the bottom and work your way up and especially after my injury my fitness has not been the best. But the physios have got me back to scratch and hopefully I can keep going."

More recently the former Australian junior representative saw out the full 90 minutes for a West Ham XI who cruised to victory at Farnborough Town. Garcia scored twice in the 3-1 triumph which lead reserves boss Roger Cross to comment: "The performance was very pleasing - there was good passing and movement, and we could have scored a lot more. The goals were good, and Richard's second was fantastic." That goal was a stunning right-foot drive which rocketed into the far corner from Garcia's position wide on the right flank.

13.8.2001

SCHOOLS TEAMS PRODUCE THE GOODS

The Central Coast Soccer Association was the host of this year's Australian Schools Championships which took place last week in Pluim Park, Lisarow, and North Power Stadium, Gosford. Once again all states and territories were represented in the championships that featured both Schoolboys and Schoolgirls events over the week commencing Sunday 5th August.

The Schoolboys kicked-off their tournament at Pluim Park with a fighting 1-2 loss to New South Wales on Sunday. The boys from the west got their campaign back on track the following afternoon when they took maximum points from the clash with Victoria which ended 1-0. At the end of Day Three of competition, the Australian Capital Territory and New South Wales were tied at the top of the ladder, both yet to lose a game. Breathing down their necks were Western Australian who continued to improve, this time too strong for South Australia by a 2-0 margin.

After a day off, the Schoolboys tournament re-commenced on Thursday at North Power Stadium where Western Australia were held 2-2 by Queensland, effectively ending their slim hopes of taking out the title. The final day of action saw the teams return to Pluim where the Australian Capital Territory wrapped up the trophy with a resounding 4-0 win over Western Australia. New South Wales claimed second by defeating South Australia 3-1 and Victoria finished third after a 1-0 win over Queensland.

The opening match of the Schoolgirls tournament saw Western Australia account for the Northern Territory 3-0 at Pluim Park. Monday was a busy day for the girls from the west, in the morning they accounted for South Australia 3-0, following this with a victory over Queensland by the same margin later in the day. After having Tuesday off, the girls side hammered seven past the Australian Capital Territory without reply to shoot to the top of the table.

Western Australia continued on their winning way on Thursday, thrashing Victoria 6-0. But New South Wales kept the pressure on, downing South Australia 6-0 and Victoria 4-0 to also remain undefeated going into the final day. This set up the trophy deciding showdown between New South Wales and Western Australia in which only one goal separated the side after 90 minutes, that being scored by New South Wales. The girls from the west finished the tournament as runners-up with Queensland coming in third.

11.8.2001

BORAL CUP SEMI-FINALS (Inglewood United vs Perth report provided by Community Newspapers reporter Mike Hennessey)

The weekend saw the semi-finals of the Boral Cup take place, Saturday's game pitting Floreat Athena against Cockburn City at the Kiev Sports Ground. Disappointing in their final three games of the home-and-away season, Athena were looking for a big improvement in form and the return of experienced campaigner Doug Ithier from long-term injury was just the tonic coach John Hunter ordered. But for his counterpart Laslo Koroknai, there was plenty to be concerned about. Key players Dragan Njegic and Davorin Svirac were out, Cup-tied to the Dianella White Eagles and Swan I.C. respectively, while Craig Anderson and Paul Cooke went into the fixture carrying minor injuries.

City started the game with only one thing in mind and that was to grab the lead as early as possible. Inside the opening four minutes they'd won as many corners and it was the second of these, a dipping in-swinger from Joshua Pescud, that the came closest, Athena 'keeper Anthony Mori finger-tipping the attempt over the top. A 6th minute Pescud free-kick was punched clear of Boza Erakovic by Mori, the ball came back to Pescud who again swung into the box and this time the Athena 'keeper took it cleanly as Branimir Mikulic bore down on him. On the left flank Gary Numan was proving a difficult customer with some darting runs, in the 8th minute leaving Hugh Miller for dead before seeing defender Troy Bernard come close to turning his low ball past Mori.

Numan again found himself in space after 10 minutes only for Miller to happily concede a corner. Pescud knocked it high into the dangerzone where Anderson's explosive header flew narrowly the wrong side of the up-right. With their opponents showing obvious signs of being rattled, City were unfortunately unable to maintain their opening onslaught and slowed the pace down. Rather than going hell-for-leather down the flanks, the southerners were now able to control play via intelligent use of the ball coming out of the centre where Pescud and captain Dean Gartside were shaping up as key figures.

Mori came to Athena's rescue in the 19th minute when he made a courageous diving save at the feet of Numan after he pounced on a ball which ricocheted off a defender. Shortly after Athena lost Miller to a thigh injury after he was heavily taken down by Gartside when contesting possession. Dave Evans then clumsily brought down Cooke and was lucky not to be booked. Likewise Costa Socratous who came in very late on Numan. City 'keeper Dino Pacella also escaped unscathed when he was pulled up for handball after 24 minutes, Jason Smith sent his sides clearest shot yet wide of the six-man City wall and the target.

Although much of the play was in their favour, City were finding clear chances on goal hard to come by as the opposing backline stood firm. But their persistence finally paid dividends in the 25th minute. Scott Bailey turned the ball over in midfield and made his way between three defenders before unleashing a powerful drive which Mori could only parry and, never one to need a second invitation, Cooke sprinted in and slotted the loose ball over the line from close-range to make it one-nil.

The effect of going a goal behind was near instantaneous on Athena. Their no-nonsense midfielders stepped up a gear when challenging for possession, and wingbacks Socratous and Miguel Ortin pushed forward with new found determination to provide their attackers with plenty of ammunition. Ortin's looping cross was headed just over by Ryan Newhill. Smith sent a hopeful long-range effort straight onto the chest of Pacella, who was also called upon to keep Ortin's volley from crossing the line. Six minutes from the interval Athena got their result - Socratous' corner saw Ithier denied from close-range by Pacella's sharp reflexes but there was little the 'keeper could do as Dyers tucked away the rebound.

Athena came out after the break a more focused side with Socratous taking up a central midfield position and Ithier replacing him on the wing. Their attacks over the opening 15 minutes relied largely on clipping the ball over the opposing defence for Dyers and Newhill to run on to, but with Pacella quick off his line and an ever alert back-three, there was little for City to be concerned. It was a similar story down the other end where wingers Numan and Pescud sent the ball into the area with frequency only to find an Athena player on almost every occasion.

As the half progressed Athena took hold of the game. In the 58th minute Bernard ran the ball out of defence and, with the defence backing off, his searing drive ended a metre wide of Pacella's left post. Three minutes later there was real panic in the City backline. Smith flicked the ball over the defence to Newhill whose poorly directed shot spilled into the 6-yard box, presenting Dyers with an open goal but his effort was blocked by Anderson, and Pacella dived on the ball as Newhill lined up for a second bite. Not long after Dyers teed-up Newhill, his powerful shot skimming the playing surface and skidding just wide.

The outcome of the game was decided in a four minute spell midway through the half. Anderson was pulled up for obstruction on Socratous in the 73rd minute and Ithier drilled the resulting free-kick from 18-metres against the underside of the crossbar and into the back of the net. Breaking into the area in the 77th minute, Smith's attempted cross struck Adam on the hand and, somewhat harshly, referee Wayne Oldham pointed to the spot. Ithier confidently stepped up and sent the 'keeper the wrong way for his second goal of the afternoon.

Two goals down, City refused to concede the game and would trade attacks with Athena in the time remaining. Gartside was twice denied from close-range, the midfielders initial shot was blocked by Mori and he couldn't find a way through a sea of legs with the follow-up. Newhill rocketed the ball narrowly high after being released by Socratous in the 82nd minute, and 60-seconds later Adam made a desperate goal line clearance when Dyers' header lobbed over Pacella, bound for the top corner. The ball was quickly relayed to Pescud at the other end, his cross found Simon Henderson whose header flicked inches high. A minute from full-time Henderson knocked the ball into the path of Bailey but he scooped it over the bar from 15-metres. And in the final move of the afternoon Ithier put Newhill through with only the 'keeper to beat, Pacella showing great composure to smother at his feet.

Although they rarely featured in the opening half-hour, the final 3-1 margin in favour of Athena was deserved. They came back into the game through the midfield muscle of Smith, Socratous and Ithier who effectively steered control away from their opponents and pretty much cut City's central players out of the game after the interval. Pescud showed a lot of early promise but was unable to carry that into the second half, and young winger Numan could not have failed to catch the eye Frank Arok, Glory's youth development manager, who was in the crowd.

Cockburn City : Dino Pacella, Dusan Macura, Steve Adam, Craig Anderson (Jason Faria 81), Scott Bailey, Gary Numan, Boza Erakovic (Simon Henderson 81), Dean Gartside (Mileta Miletic 81), Joshua Pescud, Paul Cooke, Branimir Mikulic
Floreat Athena : Anthony Mori, Troy Bernard, Dave Evans, Hugh Miller (Peter Nikoloski 21), Miguel Ortin (Jamie D'Arcy 85), Costa Socratous (Andrew Afkos 85), Adrian Sutton, Jason Smith, Doug Ithier, Robyn Dyers, Ryan Newhill
Referee : Wayne Oldham
Cautions : Adam (73)
Dismissals : None
Attendance : 450 (approx.)

At the Litis Stadium on Sunday Perth faced local rivals Inglewood United in the other semi-final. It was United's fourth game in eight days, and their task was made all the more difficult with four regulars - Elton Holmes, Sean Kilkelly, Rory Moutett and Daniel Harrop - absent for a variety of reasons. Perth went on the attack from the outset but the best of the early chances came the way of their opponents, a fierce drive by midfielder Scott Campbell forcing goalkeeper Robert Scarporolo to save superbly after 17 minutes. Twelve minutes later Perth took the lead when Boni Botha headed Vince Tana's corner back across goal and defender Aaron Cole nodded it over the line. Robbie Gaspar had a great opportunity to put his side two goal up when he went through with only the 'keeper to beat, Oliver Taseski coming off his line quickly to rescue his team. United suffered a further blow when striker Paul Lincoln didn't return for the second half due to injury.

Perth had the better of play after the interval which saw Taseski by far the busier of the two 'keepers, the teenager producing another great save to deny Jamie Coyne. For their part, United were restricted to only scattered chances in the second half as their opponent's defence stood firm. Their best move of the game saw State Schoolboy representative Daniel Arias's blistering drive whistle past the upright. "Our fourth game in eight days finally caught up with us," United coach Steve Parkinson said at the end of the day. "It was a little disappointing that we just did not play to our potential against Perth, especially after so many good performances over the last couple of months. But, still, to play so poorly against a strong Perth team and only lose one-nil."

11.8.2001

FIRST DIVISION ROUND-UP

The First Division Major Play-off series got underway on Saturday with the ultimate prize a spot in the top flight come season 2002. At Kingsway Sporting Complex, First Divison (North) champions Perth City hosted a South West Phoenix side missing First Division (South) leading scorer Savo Garic who was ruled out through work commitments. Out to show they weren't in the finals just to make up the numbers, Phoenix effectively restricted their opponents over the opening 15 minutes only to go a goal down with City's first push into the 18-yard box. Jason Hope was denied by the sharp reflexes of goalkeeper Reece Braithwaite, but the visiting defence were not quite as quick to the loose ball and Hope quickly found David Fyfe who made it one-nil. Phoenix up the tempo to control play and were back on level terms in the 30th minute. Stephen Waycott knocked it wide to David Suttie whose low ball across the top of the 6-yard box evaded Stephen Suttie but not Greg Hayes who tucked it past Mark Wiseman in the City goal. Ten minutes later Phoenix could have taken the lead, Brett Norrie and David Suttie teeing-up Waycott whose rising shot went over the crossbar.

City started the second half with more aggression but constantly turned back by Phoenix' strong backline. A dubious penalty decision against Damien Trim saw the home side restore their lead, Jamie Hopkis making no mistake from the spot after 50 minutes. The introduction of Jacob Fewster and Adam Spinelli saw the pendulum swing back in favour of the visitors. Mid-way through the half City had a golden opportunity to seal the game only to hit the post when it looked an easier task to find the target. With ten minutes remaining Norrie, who had a great afternoon up-front, sent a blistering long-range free-kick narrowly high. Phoenix had to wait until the 85th minute to get their second equaliser of the day. Substitute Andrew Cowley breaking down the left before crossing to the far post where captain Stephen Rodgers timed his run to perfection and headed it into the back of Wiseman's net. A few minutes later Stephen Suttie latched onto a searching pass and cut the ball inside to Cowley whose first time shot flew straight to the 'keeper. The final two-all score line sounded a clear warning to the rest of the Major Series field that Phoenix will be pushing very hard to spend their second season in Soccer West Coast ranks in the Premier League.

Rockingham City had little trouble in accounting for the Dianella White Eagles 4-0 at home, Graham Matthews bagging a hat-trick and Bryan Hastie completing the route. In other games the Stirling Lions drew 1-1 with the Leeming Strikers, while honours were also shared at Queens Park where they drew 2-2 with Ashfield.

One down, six to go. That's what Armadale should be thinking after defeating Wanneroo City at home in the opening round of the Minor Play-offs on Saturday. It didn't take the reds long to assert their dominance over their opponents from up north and in the 21st minute a great one-two combination between Darren Ingham and Jason Goodwin gave the former the simplest of goals to give the home side the lead. Wanneroo rarely troubled the home defence over the course of the game, while at the other end of the park the visitors were thankful of Armadale's wasteful finishing as they pressed to extend the margin. It was the same story after the break with Armadale laying seige on their opponents goal but unable to get the ball in the net. While the final whistle signaled a home win, the Reds may rue their missed chances should the final standings come down to goal difference.

At Frank Drago Reserve, Bayswater City dumped Morley Windmills 5-1 in the local derby. A tense opening half ended with both teams scoring in the dying minutes to go in even at the break. Three minutes into the new half and Bayswater were reduced to ten men which saw Windmills dominate possession for the rest of the game but unable to convert their chances. The home side on the other hand made the most of their limited opportunities to run out victors 5-1, Michael Catalano bagging a double with Paul Da San Martino, Matthew Novatsis and Nick Tartaglia also finding the target. Bayswater Coach Salv Todoro was pleased as punch with his troops after the game. "We had a player sent off early in the second half when the score was still 1-1, so with 10 players we kept to our game plan and everyone pulled together to make it hard for Morley. It was a very pleasing result," Todoro said. "It's good to finally get some reward for all the hard work that the boys put in at training. After a frustrating season we are looking to finish it off with some good results."

In other Minor series results, Canning City lost 1-3 at home to a powerful Kingsway Olympic outfit, Armadale downed Wanneroo City 1-0, and Balcatta drew with Southside United 1-1. Stirling Suns had the bye.

12.8.2001

BORAL CUP SEMI-FINALS (IN BRIEF)

Floreat Athena are through to this years Boral Cup Final after defeating Cockburn City 3-1 on Saturday. Paul Cooke gave the southerner's the lead after 25 minutes only for Robyn Dyers to put Athena back on level terms shortly before the interval. Doug Ithier booked Athena's place in the decider when he found the net twice in the space of four minutes midway through the second half.

Their opponents in the 9th September final will be Perth who knocked out Inglewood United in Sunday's other semi-final, 20-year old defender Aaron Cole heading in the only goal of the afternoon after 28 minutes.

11.8.2001

ATHENA MAKE CUP FINAL

Floreat Athena are through to this years Boral Cup Final after defeating Cockburn City 3-1 on Saturday. Paul Cooke gave the southerner's the lead after 25 minutes only for Robyn Dyers to put Athena back on level terms shortly before the interval. Doug Ithier booked Athena's place in the decider when he found the net twice in the space of four minutes midway through the second half.

11.8.2001

DON'T BELIEVE THE TYPE

Despite what you may have read, Sunday's Boral Cup semi-final clash between Inglewood United and Perth SC will take place at Litis Stadium, NOT Kiev Sports Ground as widely publicised. It appears that fixture was switched to Litis Stadium at very late notice, and the powers that be have once again failed to notify the local soccer community of the change.

10.8.2001

YOUR PLAYER OF THE YEAR IS *

A big thank you to everyone that cast a vote in the 2001 W.A. Soccer Website Player of the Year. We received an overwhelming response to the poll that opened three weeks ago in which our readers were asked to nominate their top three performers over the recently completed Premier League season. It can now be revealed that the 2001 W.A. Soccer Website Player of the Year - as voted by the players , coaches and supporters of the local game - is Cockburn City striker Branimir Mikulic.

Mikulic, who also ended the season as the Premier League's leading scorer, finished well clear of the rest of the field with 30 votes. In his first season with Floreat Athena, striker Ryan Newhill came in a distant second on 17 and was closely followed by Western Knights skipper Scott Devine on 16 and Sorrento's Michael Garcia with 14 votes. Troy Bernard (Athena) and Andreas Oliviera (Perth) tied for sixth place with 10 votes apiece, while a further vote behind them was Robyn Dyers (Athena) and Antonio Naglieri (Cockburn City/Perth Glory).

10.8.2001

BORAL CUP SEMI-FINAL PREVIEW

This weekend sees the semi-finals of the Boral Cup. Things get underway on Saturday when Floreat Athena and Cockburn City meet at the Kiev Sports Ground, kick-off at 3.00pm. After strong performances during the winter, both sides dropped off the pace towards the end of the regular season, something they'll be looking to reserve on Saturday. Cockburn go into the clash as favourites having twice defeated their opponents in the League this year, but Athena are never a team to underestimate. The Reserves game pits Fremantle City against ECU Joondalup (kick-off 1.00pm) while the same two clubs meet in the Under-18's which gets underway at 11.15am.

The following afternoon at the Litis Stadium Inglewood United take on against Perth in the local derby. Perth are favoured to progress to the decider having run out victorious twice over United in the Premier League and the club are undefeated over the past month. United last week knocked League champions Sorrento out of the competition and will be hoping to add Perth to their list of scalps. The Reserves game features Sorrento and Perth, while in the Under-18's First Division Perth City take on strong Perth.

10.8.2001

SORRY FIRST DIVISIONER'S

We'd like to take this opportunity to apologise for our lack of coverage on the First Division play-off series' which get underway this weekend. Twice in recent weeks we have contacted Soccer West Coast and requested the fixtures for the major and minor finals, as well as details on how they will impact upon next season's competition. Unfortunately, on both occasions our plea for information appears to have fallen on deaf ears. As a consequence we are unable to provide our planned preview of this weekend's First Division play-off games.

9.8.2001

SWAN CAPTAIN REFLECTS ON SEASON

After a successful top flight return in 2000, things didn't quite go according to plan this year for Swan I.C, finishing the regular season in tenth place and relegated from the Premier League. A feature of the Swan first team since the age of sixteen, club captain Carlo Scali spoke to us this week about the 2001 campaign. "Obviously the season has been disappointing," Scali told us. "Last year I think we won our first six games and this year we didn't win one until round fourteen. We had a bad start to the season and we just couldn't turn it around. We changed coaches during the year, lost quite a few players from the previous year and we really needed to rebuild all over again."

In reality Swan were never that far off the pace this season, but their stumbling block was a continued inability to punish opponents by tucking the ball into the back of the net. "That has been the case for the whole year," the 30-year midfielder said. "We have played very well at times and not been able to convert that into goals, and you can't win games if you don't score. An example - I had a perfect opportunity to score against Perth when it was nil-all, I missed, Perth went forward, had a half-chance and scored. That happened to us too often this season. We also let ourselves down defensively, when I say defensively I mean the whole team as a defensive unit not our defence. We gave away too many silly goals, you have to make teams earn their goals."

Another obstacle Swan had to overcome was several changes in personnel, not just in terms of players. "Coaching changes obviously effect teams," Scali said in reference to Swan having gone through three coaches in the past ten months. "Coaches have their own styles and also like different types of players. So when a change of coach occurs some players will be brought in by the coach, and other players will leave - some to follow the old coach and others that don't fit in to the new coaches plans. Players then need to adapt to the new coaches techniques, while he needs to become accustomed to the type of players he has available. All this takes time and we ran out of time this year. The number of changes in players we had this year was considerable and directly effected our stability and our squad depth. Without a strong squad - at least 17 players - any team will struggle, especially with injuries and suspensions."

Few would disagree that Scali was one of the stand-out players for Swan in 2001 with a number of man-of-the-match performances, but the midfielder refuses to look at his season through the same rose-tinted glasses. "I certainly was not happy with my season," he said. "I think that a player in my position and with my experience should be able to affect the result of a game. I have played well at times - like the team - but not well enough to turn games and score goals. I scored one goal this year and we did win that game, so had I scored a few more goals I like to think that we would have won more games. Also, due to a lack of personnel, I have played in positions not best suited to my game, it may be time to retire or change."

9.8.2001

GLORY TARGET LOCALS

NSL powerhouse Perth Glory this week invited five players from the ranks of the W.A. Premier League to participate in their pre-season activities. The players are Sorrento pair Micheal Garcia and Neil Young, Cockburn City striker Branimir Mikulic, Gareth Deeg (ECU Joondalup and Corey Hugo (Swan I.C.). It is believed that several others will also be invited to try out with the club over coming weeks.

Garcia, who trained with Glory this week, previously spent two years on the books with the club but left at the end of the 1998/99 season to pursue his career in Europe when a series of injuries prevented him from joining English club Barnsley. After a short spell with Marine Castle United in Singapore, was followed by time with ECU Joondalup and Sorrento on the local scene. "I always rated Michael, and if he's hungry this might just be the perfect opportunity for him," new Glory coach Mich D'Avray said early in the week.

20-year old Mikulic, whose club face Floreat Athena in the semi-finals of the Boral Cup on Saturday, also spent time with Glory this week. In his second season with Cockburn, Mikulic has been in inspirational form and ended the home-and-away series in top of the local scoring charts. "Branimir is big, strong, aggressive and young, so we'll have a good look at him," the Glory coach told Mel Moffat of the "West Australian".

Goalkeepers Young, Deeg and Hugo are expected to trial next week. With the possibility that both Jason Petkovic and Tony Franken will be involved with the national team during the season, the NSL side are keen to add to their goalkeeping stocks. 21-year old Young played a key role in Sorrento's first Premier League championship this year, while Deeg and Hugo, who are both 22, have also impressed at their respective clubs. "Whoever does get signed won't just be coming in to make up the numbers - I'll be expecting them to push hard and be competitive for the top job," D'Avray said.

8.8.2001

INGLEWOOD-FREMANTLE ENDS EVEN

The honours were shared at the Kiev Sports Ground on Wednesday night when Inglewood United hosted a young Fremantle City outfit in the final game of the 2001 Premier League season. In a game postponed from Round Seven, the home side started the stronger and could have been three goals to the better after creating a string of first half chances. Midfielder Scott Campbell squandered a golden opportunity by missing an open goal from close-range, and not long after Robert Zabica made a world-class save to keep out a superb Andy Cornmell volley. United's Louis Parkinson got his name on the scoresheet for the second time in three weeks, but his effort was canceled out when an error by goalkeeper Oliver Taseski saw Jason Godfrey hook the ball into his own net when attempting a desperate goal line clearance. City had their chances to take the game after the interval but were unable to make the most of their opportunities, and at the end of the night the one-all score line was a fair result for both sides.

8.8.2001

CHAMPIONS GO FOR GLORY

Recently crowned Premier League champions Sorrento will play NSL side Perth Glory in a charity match at Percy Doyle Reserve on Sunday 30th September. It will be Glory's final warm-up game before they commence the 2001/02 NSL season the following week. All proceeds from the day will go towards the Asthma Research Program at Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital.

8.8.2001

CLEARANCES COME THROUGH

Those players caught up in the 'clearance scandal' which rocked the local game this season have finally been given the green light to resume playing for their respective clubs. According to several club insiders, Soccer West Coast have now received confirmation from Soccer Australia that the players' international clearances have come through and that their registration will stand for the remainder of the season.

8.8.2001

TANA WANTS UNIFIED APPROACH

In the light of Ian Knop's appointment as Soccer Australia chairman on the weekend, Perth Glory co-owner Nick Tana has pleaded for an end to the constant bickering within the game which has held back it's development and called for a unified approach to within the code. "There is so much good in the game that has been buried under political in-fighting," said Tana. "Now it is time to concentrate on the positives. Soccer is the biggest junior code in Australia, it is the biggest sport in the world."

Tana said he was ready to sit down and discuss the game at all levels with the aim being to take soccer to a new level of success. The Glory chairman stated the club is prepared to help Western Australian soccer in any way it could and made it clear that in the right climate a new home for Glory could also be a new home for soccer in the State. "I can say now that if the Leederville Stadium project gets the go-ahead then Perth Glory will offer the facilities for use by local soccer. It will not be just Perth Glory but the code across the State that will reap the benefits."

"The same is true of new Perth Glory Development Program under Frank Arok, where 180 or so young players will get top class skills coaching to complement the existing work they are doing with established clubs. If we produce 180 better players then that raises standards across all competitions in W.A. Perth Glory has shown a real commitment to Western Australian soccer and will continue to do so. Those who share a common vision for the common good of the game will find us willing partners. I am not interested in old grudges. Now is the time to move forward together to the next level."

7.8.2001

CARBONE JOINS STRIKERS

Former Perth Glory wing-back John Carbone has joined the Brisbane Strikers on a two-year deal. The recently turned 24-year old was released by Glory at the end of last season after making 49 appearances for the club since his signing in August 1998. A graduate of the Australian Institute of Sport and member of Australia's 1997 Under-17 World Championship squad, Carbone has played locally for Perth and Floreat Athena.

7.8.2001

BALGA CELEBRATE 30 YEARS

Balga Soccer Club are set to celebrate their 30th Anniversary with a big dinner and dance night at the club. Taking place on Friday 24th August, the club extend an invitation to players past and present to join in a night to remember. With tickets priced at just $15.00 each, those interested in attending are asked to book and paid for them by Sunday 19th. More information can be found via Balga's new website - http://balgasc.tripod.com/news.html - or by phoning 9342 9587.

7.8.2001

RHODES STARTS IN STYLE

Having spent the off-season staying fit by training with Cambridge Harriers, 15-year old Jordan Rhodes this week goes into his second week of Charlton Athletic's pre-season schedule. Last week Rhodes saw out the full 90 minutes of both the Academy teams friendlies. On Wednesday (01/08) he was part of the side that defeated a touring New South Wales 6-1 team, and two days later was involved in a tight 1-0 win over the American Superclub team.

6.8.2001

SPINELLI CLOSE TO ATHENA RETURN

Bunbury-born Adrian Spinelli has not had an up and down debut season for Floreat Athena. A former State junior representative who has spent time with Fiorentina in Italy before spells with Perth and Ashfield/Bunbury locally, Spinelli's season has been interrupted by a series of niggling injuries. "At the moment I'm getting over an ankle injury but I'm hoping to be fully fit within one to two weeks," the young midfielder said. "I'm hoping to get involved in the finals and really looking forward to playing the full season next year."

Athena were at one stage shaping up to challenge for the regular season title after an amazing mid-season run of results, but they dropped off the pace over the final few weeks of the season to finish in third place. "We're satisfied with our position, it's a vast improvement on last season for the club," Spinelli said. "John Hunter is a great coach and, considering the number of injuries that we had throughout the year, to end in third is a fair result. Unfortunately the last three results proved to be the difference between first and third for us."

6.8.2001

TWO MAKE JOEYS SQUAD

Perth lads Anthony Danze and Darren Broxton have made the 20-man Australian squad for the up-coming Under-17 World Championship which is being staged in Trinidad and Tobago next month. Danze, who is currently on the books with Perth Glory, has spent much of this year at the Australian Institute of Sport while Broxton is about to enter his second season with English Premier League side Southampton.

6.8.2001

THERE'S HOPE FOR US SAYS SCHRANDT

West Australia's bid to get a second team in the National Soccer League is still alive despite the removal of Tony Labbozetta from the board of Soccer Australia on the weekend. In-coming chairman Ian Knop told representatives of the Soccer Administration of W.A. that if it could be shown a second team would succeed in Perth the national body would look carefully at the proposition.

"What's been relayed to us is that he has asked for more market research to be carried out," Soccer West Coast president David Schrandt told Mel Moffat of the "West Australian". "Our own research indicates it can work, so if we can satisfy these new demands maybe there's hope for us. I don't know. I thought at first it was a setback and I'm still stunned. But you've got to be positive and maybe some good will come out of it. I still believe, despite what some people say, there is a good demand for a second team to give our State clubs a direct link to the NSL."

6.8.2001

ADELAIDE CITY LINKED WITH MATASSA (Reproduced with permission from the tribalfootball.com website)

With first-choice goalkeeper Adrian Cagalj trialling in Europe with Sheffield United, Adelaide City have been linked with former Australia youth international keeper Vince Matassa. The one-time Gippsland Falcons and Perth Glory shot-stopper has been playing in England for the past two years in the competitive Conference League with Basingstoke and more recently Woking. Adelaide media reports suggest City are ready to bring the big West Australian back to the National League. Such was Matassa's form last season that he was considered for the England squad for an international against Holland last March.

5.8.2001

TRIBUNAL TO DECIDE SEASON?

The W.A. Premier League season could be thrown into turmoil if current rumblings are any indication. It is believed that Swan I.C., who ended the season in 10th place, have begun proceedings which could force Soccer West Coast into setting-up a tribunal to investigate allegations that several top flight clubs fielded ineligible players during the 2001 campaign. Suggestions are that, based on precedents set in Europe, the four teams the accusations have been levelled at - Sorrento, Western Knights, ECU Joondalup and Bassendean Caledonian - could all be deducted Premiership points if found guilty. Such an outcome would radically change this season's final standings, potentially stripping Sorrento of their first regular season title and turning the Top Five play-offs into little more than an end-of-season farce.

5.8.2001

SOCCER AUSTRALIA ELECT NEW CHAIRMAN

In a move that has taken Australia's soccer community by surprise, Tony Labbozzetta has been dumped from the chairman's position on the board of Soccer Australia and replaced by Ian Knop who was previously chairman of Canberra Cosmos and a member of the NSL Executive. The vote to remove Labbozzetta was taken at Saturday's extraordinary general meeting that was recently called by games stakeholders.

It is believed that the vote against Labbozzetta, who was widely favoured to be retained as chairman, was 39 to 20 with one abstention. He lost the majority of support of the New South Wales delegates, along with those from Victoria, South Australia, Queensland and the Australian Capital Territory as well as the votes of the referees and West Australian amateurs. Only six of the fourteen NSL clubs were for Labbozzetta. The stakeholders that did remain with him were two delegates from N.S.W., four from W.A. and five Tasmanians, along with the solitary votes of the Northern Territory delegate and the N.S.W. amateurs.

5.8.2001

INGLEWOOD MAKE CUP SEMI'S

Inglewood United have progressed to the last four of this season's Boral Cup after defeating Sorrento 3-1 at Percy Doyle Reserve on Sunday. Just 24 hours earlier, the two clubs fought out an entertaining one-all draw at the ground that saw Sorrento crowned League champions for the first time. Paul Lincoln gave the visitors the lead after 10 minutes with a clever glancing header that caught 'keeper Neil Young by surprise. Six minutes later Kevin Murphy put Sorrento back on level terms when he superbly headed Michael Garcia's cross past Oliver Taseski. The home side struggled to re-discover the drive they showed in the League clash and two converted penalties from midfielder Andy Cornmell - in the 36th and 55th minutes - saw United book a place in the semi-finals next weekend.

5.8.2001

TANA DISMISSED

Perth Glory chairman Nick Tana has lost his seat as the affiliates representative on the Soccer Administration of W.A. board, his place taken by referees' representative Louis Prospero. Glory's continued refusal to pay affiliation fees to the State body is believed to be the reason for his departure.

4.8.2001

PREMIER LEAGUE, ROUND EIGHTEEN (Perth vs ECU Joondalup report provided by Community Newspapers reporter Mike Hennessey)

One point was all Sorrento needed from Saturday's final round clash with Inglewood United to win the Premier League championship for the first time in their history. But a Sorrento loss, coupled with a win by Perth, would see all the celebrations take place at Dorrien Gardens. The Seagulls had a couple of notable absentees going into the game, namely key defenders Danny Hill and Scott McLeod, who broke his arm against ECU Joondalup seven days earlier. With the two sides going at it again 24 hours later in the Boral Cup semi-finals, United coach Steve Parkinson opted to leave talented youngsters Ryan Fredericks, Greg Sharland and Louis Parkinson on the bench for this fixture.

Sorrento's nerves were in abundance from the opening kick, permitting United to control the opening stages with wide players John Bartolomei and Andy Cornmell featuring heavily. But for all their possession and enterprise, the visitors never really looked like opening the scoring with their clearest opportunities best described as half-chances. In the 5th minute Rory Mouttet managed to out-muscle an opponent and head the ball weakly into the arms of an expectant Neil Young, and not long after Bartolomei's hopeful long-range effort didn't require a response from the Sorrento custodian.

The home team eventually got over their jitters and began to knock the ball around with growing confidence. Shaun Bowyer and Peter Butler slowly started to assert some authority in the middle as the side went forward via some elegant one- and two-touch moves, and it wasn't long before the United defence found themselves under pressure. Butler fended off an opponent just outside the 18-yard box in the 10th minute and slotted to Ross Greer, the striker finishing poorly by placing his shot wide. Four minutes later Ryan Jeans squared to Greer who this time got it on target only to find Oliver Taseski well-placed to make the save. And on the quarter hour mark two defenders clashed when challenging for a long clearance by Young, Jared Love raced away with only Taseski to beat but the teenage 'kept out Love's low shot with an effective but none to pretty save.

With the pendulum having now swung firmly in Sorrento's favour, the home team would dominate possession for the remainder of the half only to find the United backline, in particular Taseski, on top of their game. After 24 minutes Butler's high ball out of the middle was superbly chested down by Greer just outside the area, his rocketing shot catching Taseski unsighted until the last moment when he pulled out a spectacular diving save. Six minutes later Kevin Murphy was presented with a golden opportunity to break the deadlock but he skied the ball over the bar. Michael Garcia was a key feature for Sorrento on the wing, and in the 33rd minute latched onto a long searching pass which he sent across the face of goal after Jamie Goodman and Jason Godfrey forced him wide.

Although the better chances came the way of the home side, United continued to push forward only to be turned away time and time again by Sorrento's defensive combination of Richard Turnbull, Stuart Banks and Murphy. But in the 40th minute that trio was breached. Breaking on the counter-attack, Elton Holmes low drive was tipped around the post by a diving Young. Scott Campbell floated the resulting corner in and, in a goalmouth scramble, Paul Lincoln was denied by the quick reflexes of the Sorrento 'keeper who was then powerless as Holmes rammed the loose ball over the line. The goal came completely against the flow of play and Sorrento's players were left stunned going into the break.

Steve Neville obviously had some stern words for his side in the changerooms and Sorrento started the second half fired up and in search of an equalising goal. Two minutes into the new half Glenn Thomas was sent down the right by Butler, his mis-hit cross catching Taseski by surprise as it slammed into the base of his near post. Sixty seconds later Murphy rose high above a crowd of players inside the 6-yard box to meet Garcia's free-kick, the defender nodding it past Taseski and inside the far post to bring the home team back into the game.

Being level was not enough for Sorrento and in the 56th minute they had a great chance to take the lead. Jeans rounded teenager Shaun Kilkelly, drew another defender then laid it off to Garcia whose low shot flew past the 'keeper only to rocket back into play off the post. For the next 20 minutes United were forced onto the back foot as the Seagulls searched for the goal that would clinch their first title. However, Goodman, Kilkelly and Jason Godfrey were in no mood to hand the game to their opponents and worked hard to cut Sorrento's forwards out of the game with some timely interceptions, and by limiting manoeuvrability in their third of the pitch.

It wasn't until late in the game that Sorrento were allowed a clear look at goal. Substitute David Foster looked sure to make it 2-1 when he beat Goodman to a long ball played over the defence in the 78th minute, but Taseski again kept his side in the game with another stunning save. A minute later Love evaded a lunging Greg Sharland tackle and looped the ball to the near post where Greer's flying header went narrowly wide. But with it seeming like only a matter of time before they scored, Sorrento backed off and went on the defensive, safe in the knowledge that they didn't need another goal to make the trophy theirs.

This easing off saw United seize the initiative once again. In the 84th minute Goodman made a strong run out of defence only for his drive to be deflected wide for a corner. Four minutes later another United corner caught Sorrento ball-watching but Alex Cummings' free header flew straight to Young. In between, there were several hacking clearances made from inside the 18-yard box by the home side, but the reality is that they were focused 100% on the task at hand and did exactly what needed to be done to see out the game.

After several tense minutes of stoppage time, the final whistle of referee Angelo Nardi was greeted by hysteria. The Sorrento players, who had controlled this game for much of the 90 minutes, danced in joy in front of a jubilant home crowd before club captain Banks was handed the trophy. While the final score suggests an even game, it was largely through the efforts of Taseski that the game ended with points shared. Others that impressed for the visitors were Campbell and Goodman. Sorrento's dominance of the game was down to the hard work of midfielders Butler and Bowyer, while down the right flank Garcia proved much of the ammunition in attack. Today belonged entirely to Sorrento who finish the season one point clear of Perth to lift their first ever regular season trophy.

Sorrento. : Neil Young, Richard Turnbull, Stuart Banks, Kevin Murphy, Jared Love, Michael Garcia, Peter Butler, Glenn Thomas, Shaun Bowyer, Ross Greer, Ryan Jeans (David Foster 72)
Inglewood United : Oliver Taseski, Jamie Goodman, Jason Godfrey, Shaun Kilkelly, John Bartolomei (Drew Carruthers 63), Andy Cornmell (Greg Sharland 70), Alex Cummings, Scott Campbell, Rory Mouttet, Paul Lincoln, Elton Holmes (Louis Parkinson 70)
Referee : Angelo Nardi
Cautions : Bartolomei (51), Bowyer (54)
Dismissals : None
Attendance : 300 (approx.)

Perth swept aside ECU Joondalup at Dorrien Gardens winning 4-1 in the last round of the Premier League home-and-away season. The first half started tamely enough with neither side very threatening. It was not until the 29th minute that clever play by Oliviera enabled him to slot home and give Perth a 1-0 lead. Jamie Coyne broke through a few minutes later to hit a post before Perth received a setback when able defender Perry Ielati had to be carried off. Perth adjusted well to retain their lead at half-time. Joondalup were able to get back on level terms early in the second half with a disputed penalty, Sandy Robertson making no mistake from the spot. Andy Mason went close but Perth gradually began to assert their authority. The last 15 minutes were all Perth. Rob Giorgi took Steve Willey's pass to go through the centre, round the goalkeeper and tap home to give his side a 2-1 lead. Oliviera then stepped up with cool competency to score twice and only fine work by goalkeeper Gareth Deeg prevented Perth extending their lead beyond 4-1.

At the Italian Club Swan I.C. ended their season in disastrous style with a 6-2 trashing at the hands of Fremantle City. The opening half saw an even contest and things were looking good for Swan when veteran striker Nigel Aubin opened the scoring to give them a 1-0 lead. But poor defending cost the home team and City pounced, Daniel Trim, Joe Liguan and Jamie Jorquerez all finding the net before Damian Scali pulled one back for Swan late in the half. Swan had little to offer after the turnaround as their opponents stepped up the tempo to dominate proceedings. The home team's miserable afternoon was compounded ten minutes from full-time when goalkeeper Corey Hugo was dismissed, City coasting to an easy victory with second half goals coming from Trim, Liguan and Johnny Ferreira. "We have finished off well and a win at Cockburn would have put us into the play-offs," said City coach Stuart Kamasz after the game. "Once again Cisco Jorquerez was outstanding for a 16-year old and Daniel Trim just keeps gets better."

Floreat Athena and the Western Knights fought out a tense nil-all draw at the Litis Stadium, enough to see both sides go through to the finals series. After a disappointing season, Bassendean Caledonian veteran Willie Grubb made sure his club ended the season on a high by netting the only goal of the afternoon against fourth-placed Cockburn City

4.8.2001

FIRST DIVISION ROUND-UP

Perth City managed to claim the First Division (North) title without kicking a ball over the weekend. Second placed Stirling Lions handed City the trophy by going down 1-4 away to Kingsway Olympic, who narrowly failed to make the play-off series. Ashfield took third after thrashing Wanneroo City 7-0, while goals from Zelko Savic and Zoran Barovic weren't enough to prevent fourth-place Dianella White Eagles against Bayswater City, the final score being 4-2 to City. The Stirling Suns won 3-0 at home against bottom team Balcatta.

4.8.2001

MCLEOD OUT FOR SORRENTO

Premier League leaders Sorrento will be without key defender Scott McLeod for today's championship decider against Inglewood United at Percy Doyle Reserve after breaking his arm against ECU Joondalup last weekend. "It's a big blow to lose Scott," said coach Steve Neville on the eve of the game. "He showed tremendous courage last week. He thought at first he had broken his wrist, got it strapped up at half-time and went out to play again. It was only when he went for an X-ray that it was discovered his arm was broken. It's that sort of never-say-die attitude we'll need if we are to take the title. I'm sure the lads will be up for it. And they'll want to do it in style with a win."

Bizarrely, Sorrento will also take on Inglewood in a catch-up Boral Cup quarter final fixture at the same venue on Sunday. The tie was postponed two months ago because United had players on State team duty. United are languishing third from bottom of the League and advancement in the Cup is their only hope of taking some glory from the season. But coach Steve Parkinson has pledged his side will be going at full throttle in the League meeting also. "We aren't going to just hand the title to Sorrento," he said. "We'll be at full strength and, if they beat us, they'll have earned the crown. There's a bit of pride at stake. We had a great battle with them a few weeks ago when they just pipped us and we want revenge."

4.8.2001

PREMIER LEAGUE, ROUND EIGHTEEN (IN BRIEF)

Sorrento have been crowned W.A. Premier League champions for the first time after taking the one point needed from their home clash with Inglewood United. Again the run of play, Elton Holmes put the visitors ahead shortly before half-time to open the game up. The Seagulls came out firing on all cylinders after the break and three minutes in Kevin Murphy nodded in Michael Garcia's corner to make it one-all, which was how it was at the final whistle.

Perth secured the runners-up spot with by defeating ECU Joondalup 4-1 at home. Western Knights and Floreat Athena also booked their places in the play-offs with a nil-all draw. Cockburn City make up the top five despite losing to Bassendean Caledonian for the second time this season. Fremantle City condemned Swan I.C. to the First Division next year with a 6-2 hammering.

3.8.2001

PREMIER LEAGUE PREVIEW

There's a lot riding on the final round of Premier League fixtures with four sides in the running for the three remaining play-off spots, while at the other end both Swan I.C. and Bassendean Caledonian are in need of maximum points to avoid relegation. Bottom-side Swan can overhaul Caledonian should they triumph over the visitors from Fremantle City. But that hinges on Caledonian, who comprehensively defeated Floreat Athena last week, losing away to Cockburn City who are themselves in the running for a place in the finals.

A draw with Inglewood United will be enough for Sorrento to lift the regular season title for the first time at Percy Doyle Reserve. The slim chance of Perth winning the championship rests on them defeating ECU Joondalup at home and Sorrento going down to United, but Joondalup will be no push-over as a result in their favour will put the northerners into the play-off's. Floreat Athena (3rd) take on the Western Knights (5th) at the Litis Stadium and, depending on other results, anything less than three points could see the losers season end.

If that's not enough excitement for you, Sorrento and Inglewood United go at it again on Sunday when they meet in their postponed Boral Cup quarter-final game at Percy Doyle Reserve. Proceedings get underway at 3.00pm.

3.8.2001

TOMICH TRIALS WITH KNIGHTS

Bassendean Caledonian will be without former 21-year old goalkeeper Tommi Tomich for their vital Premier League fixture with Cockburn City on Saturday. The former Western Knights and Cockburn City custodian flew east this week where he linked up with NSL side Melbourne Knights for their pre-season, which includes a two week training camp in Vietnam. The Knights recently lost last season's first choice 'keeper Lupce Acevski to Northern Spirit.

3.8.2001

FIRST DIVISION TOP FOUR COMES DOWN TO THE WIRE

There's still plenty to play for going into the final round of fixtures in the First Division (North). The most important game takes place at Kingsway Sporting Complex where Kingsway Olympic play Stirling Lions. A home win could see Olympic slip into the top four series depending on other results, while victory to the Lions will see them crowned as regular season champions with current leaders Perth City out of action with the bye. The Dianella White Eagles can sneak into top spot should they be able to overcome Bayswater City by a large enough margin - and if the Lions lose heavily. An Ashfield victory at home over Wanneroo City will book their place in the play-offs. The remaining fixture pits Stirling Suns, who have had a disappointing season, with bottom-side Balcatta.

3.8.2001

FUTURE IN THE BALANCE SAYS TANA

Perth Glory majority owner Nick Tana has pleaded with the stakeholders of the game in Australia to carefully consider where they place ther votes at Soccer Australia extraordinary general meeting on Saturday. Tana made the request after chairman Tony Labbozzetta revealed plans to introduce a second Perth team into the National Soccer League in the near future.

"Many people in corporate Australia are watching this weekend's events with great interest. If they see a governing body which makes mature decisions and signals a clear desire to move the sport forward to the next level in Australia then I am confident the world game can attract the support it needs, Tana said via a written press release. "However, if the on-lookers see decisions driven by political expediency and backroom deals and made on the grounds of self-interest then the game will be ignored and will end up nothing but a junior nursery for European clubs."

Turning his attention's to the granting of W.A.'s second N.S.L. licence, Tana said this decision would be a barometer of the decision-making process. "There is simply no logical reason t