31.8.2003

AMATEURS ROUND-UP

University of WA secured a hard fought 2-1 victory in the WAASSA Premier Division game against Shamrock Rovers at McGillivray Oval on Sunday to remain in third place on the ladder. Yet it was Shamrock who started as the livelier side when they were quick to pounce on a poor defensive clearance after 5 minutes and William Lyall took advantage of a deflected cross to put Shamrock 1-0 up. UWA struggled to find an answer and Shamrock had a lot of early possession. Then after 30 minutes UWA's Gavin Dennis played a ball in from the left side of the penalty box to Bryn Griffiths who knocked the ball past a defender and buried a shot into the top left hand corner. Five minutes later UWA's Max Percy found David Berg on the left and he beat one player and played the ball into Frederik Larsen who held the ball up for David Berg to then drive the ball home to make it 2-1 to UWA at half time. The second half saw Shamrock have an early header turned over the bar by UWA keeper Adam Kesacoff for a corner. UWA could have wrapped the game up 10 minutes later when captain Adam Brett hit the bar with a header from a corner and Bryn Griffiths had the goal bound follow up shot well blocked and cleared to safety. Two minutes later Frederik Larsen found himself one on one with Shamrock goalkeeper Ed Schuller and his well struck shot was very well saved by Ed Schuller deflecting the ball around the post for a corner. UWA were rarely troubled defensively thereafter and saw the game out comfortably. Coach Kevin Burton said: "We were rather average early in the first half but we scored two cracking goals to make up for it. We still have an outside chance of finishing in the top two with a league game versus second placed Fremantle next week and this is followed by a cup semi final against the same team a few days later. So we have everything to play for." UWA Reserves defeated leaders Shamrock Rovers Reserves 1-0 with a headed goal from Gareth Briggs and remain in second place on the ladder.

League leaders Hamersley Rovers continued their recent run of good form with a comprehensive 5-0 win at Kelly Park against Kwinana United. The home team were missing a few regulars such as Willars, Caceras, and Cole and used young keeper John Campbell for his first game. However it it debateable whether even with all their regular first choice guys available that they could have withstood the first half blitz by league leaders Hamersley. With second place Fremantle playing at lowly Balga it was vital for Hamersley to put on intense early pressure and this they did all all over ther park to lead at the break by the final score of 5-0. But for some fine saves by debutant Campbell and some over elaboration around the box the score should have been at least 7 or 8 at the break. Goals to Birkinshaw ( 2) Yates, Hendry and Labbate ( pen) were just reward for a fine exhibition of attacking play coupled with some mean defending. In the second half some astute coaching by Kwinana coach Frank Longstaff and more discipline by the Kwinana players resulted in no further addition to the score although in fairness the game was over after the first 45 mins as a contest. In the end 3 more points for Hamersley in their quest for a hat-trick of league titles still hotly pursued by Fremantle (1 point behind) and UWA (4 points behind) with this weeks big game at the port between Fremantle United and University of WA looking like having a big bearing coupled with Hamersley's home game against an in-form Canning International.

In other games Spearwood Dalmatinac defeated Murdoch University 3-1, Canning International beat Forrestfield United 4-2, Fremantle United were big winners away to Balga with a 7-0 win, while North Perth United gained a vital league point on the standings with a 2-2 draw against Perth Azzurri. For a more complete look at the amateurs game in Western Australia, including results for all WAASSA competitions, the latest news and so forth, visit http://waassa.ola.com.au

30.8.2003

MRDJA ON TARGET FOR GLORY

For the second time in three days, Perth Glory have defeated Singapore by a single goal in the state's south-west. There was an early scare for Glory in Mandurah when, with just 2 minutes gone, Noh Alam Shah put the ball in the back of the net for Singapore only to have the goal ruled out for offside. Glory then took control of the game and created the better of the scoring opportunities but Gary Faria, Nick Mrdja and trialist Mark Williams were unable to convert the chances which came their way. A minute from half-time Mrdja's shot hit the back of the net to break the deadlock, although the striker looked suspiciously offside as he broke through on goal. In front of a crowd numbering around 2,500, Glory continued to have most of the ball after the break although Fadzuhasny Juraimi send the ball whizzing just wide of the upright after 64 minutes for the visitors. The win followed Glory's 3-2 triumph over Singapore in Waroona on Thursday. "These were two great workouts for us," said coach Mich d'Avray. "It was also fantastic to see so much enthusiasm for the game in the Peel region. I'd like to thank all of those who worked so hard in Waroona and Mandurah to make the games so much fun to be part of and of course the State Government for making the tour happen under the Country Sport Enrichment Scheme."

30.8.2003

PREMIER LEAGUE, ROUND TWENTY-TWO (Cockburn City vs Sorrento by Lennie Bavich; Swan I.C. vs Bassendean Caledonian by Bill McAllister)

For Stirling Lions and Western Knights their final round Premier League clash at Macedonia Park was an important match, albeit for two very different reasons. Having last taken full points in early May, the Lions were keen to end their first season back in the top flight on a high and, hopefully, move away from the foot of the table. But in order to achieve this the home side would need a big team effort as hard-working pair Adam Rains and Darko Ilmanovski were both absent through injury, although the return from suspension of highly-rated teenage goalkeeper Jordan Conti did balance up the ledger to a degree. Standing in the Lions way was a full-strength Knights side for whom victory would seal a place in the Champion of Champions play-off series. The visitors went into the game undefeated in their past three outings and looking the goods to extend that run.

The match opened quickly with the Knights immediately on the offensive. Having found himself in space inside the area Carl Medica was disappointed to scuff his shot straight at Conti, and minutes later Daniel Trim created room to manoeuvre only to place his shot from 10-metres the wrong side of the post. After twisting past a couple of defenders Medica was again denied by the 'keeper who this time raced off his line to smother at the strikers feet. Next it was the turn of Claus Nielsen when he skillfully brought down a high ball only to drill his shot across the face of goal. A quickly taken free-kick from Media skidded narrowly, and in the 17th minute Nielsen's shot on the turn was brilliantly saved by the ever-alert Conti. The Lions first opening came a minute later as Eugene Singeorzan shrugged off his marker but drove the ball over the crossbar from 18-metres. A few more minutes had elapsed before the Lions embarked on a sweeping attack in which Singeorzan sent Toby Wright clear but his shot didn't require a response from visiting 'keeper Tommi Tomich.

Just as the home team were beginning to find their rhythm, the Knights dealt them a devastating blow. In the 23rd minute Luka Jukic sent a deep free-kick to the back post where Medica made the most of some hesitant defending to knock the ball into the net from close-range. Only some desperate defending prevented the gap from widening five minutes after as Tony Paolino put his body on the line to thwart Paul Cooke, the loose ball came to Jukic but his explosive strike was blocked by Luke Pavlos before the defender scrambled the ball to safety. With Paul McVittie, Jukic, Nielsen and Cooke dominant across the middle of the park the Knights were able to push forward almost at will. In an effort to counter this the home team played it very flat at the back to spring a well-worked offside trap with regularity that resulted in very few opportunities for the visitors to add to the score. Going the other way, the Lions were also encountering stiff resistance although both Singeorzan and Andy Wright got into good positions leading into the break but on both occasions they failed to call Tomich into action.

The second half was only a minute old when Conti produced a superb reflex save after Trim rose above the defence to meet an in-swinging corner from Cooke. Minutes later Trim opened up the defence to send Medica through but the ball bounced awkwardly for the Knights captain and his shot rose over the crossbar. Nielsen benefited when Pavlos lost his footing on an uneven surface and again Conti proved his worth to the club by smothering at the feet of the Danish import. Needing a goal to stay in the game, the home side upped the tempo midway through the period to forced their opponents on to the back foot. Stjepan Beretovac raced onto a ball played over the defence only to be quickly shut down by Evan Wallace and Leon Russell who together snuffed out the danger. Ripples of panic swept through the visiting camp in the 64th minute when Tomich gifted the ball to Singeorzan who from just inside the area swept his shot wide of the far post. With their next attack Christian Debarro slipped the ball through to Harman who made his way into the area only to have Alex Christie take the pace off his shot and Tomich gathered the loose ball with ease.

Having thrown everything that they had left in the tank at the Knights without success, the Lions dropped off over the closing period as the visitors re-established control. Close to the corner flag Trim robbed Pavlos of possession to whip a low cross into the area where Conti reacted quickly to beat the on-rushing John Nicolaou to the ball. With several good moves down both flanks suffering from poor delivery into the area, it was going to take something pretty special for the Knights to add to their tally, and that is exactly what happened in the 83rd minute. Spotting the Lions 'keeper well of his line, Jukic chanced his luck from 35-metres with a fantastic chip that sailed well over Conti and into the top corner to extend the lead and pretty much wrap up the game. But Jukic wasn't yet finished and four minutes into stoppage time the talented young midfielder showed dogged determination in running the ball into the area from wide on the right, forcing his way past two challenges and getting a lucky deflection before lashing a low shot past the advancing 'keeper.

After dominating the game for long periods, it was a just reward that the Knights went home with the points to move up the standings and end the season in third place. The star of the show for the away side was Cooke who made the right flank his own with an electrifying display of skill and pace, closely behind him was fellow midfielder Jukic who set-up one goal and scored two himself, and Nielsen also worked tirelessly in the middle of the park. Out-classed and out-muscled for much of the afternoon, the Lions did well to restrict the Knights on front of goal. Not for the first time this season, Conti turned in a display that underlies just why he is so highly rated on the local scene, while Andy Wright and youngster Pavlos played a key roles at the back for the hosts. In what has been a tough season for the club, if the Lions can learn from the experiences of 2003 then it won't be too long before they are up there challenging for silverware themselves.

Stirling Lions : Jordan Conti, Tony Paolino, Andy Wright, Luke Pavlos, Leo Harman, Stjepan Beretovac, Christian Debarro, Keegan Ashley, Robert Monterosso, Toby Wright, Eugene Singeorzan
Western Knights : Tommi Tomich, Evan Wallace (Stephen Zuvela 83), Alex Christie, David Annall, Leon Russell, Paul Cooke (Scott Devine 77), Claus Nielsen, Luka Jukic, Paul McVittie, Daniel Trim, Carl Medica (John Nicolaou 77)
Cautions : Jukic (13), Pavlos (39), Paolino (45), Beretovac (75), Zuvela (90)
Dismissals : None
Referee : Jeremy Oliphant
Attendance : 175 (approx.)

Chasing a spot in the play-offs, Inglewood United arrived at Dorrien Gardens searching for nothing less than three points while Premier League champions Perth S.C. opted to rest a few of their more regular players and showcase some of the club's upcoming talent. Following a rather uneventful opening period, the first genuine chance on goal arrived in the 20th minute when Mark Pottier shot wide from a Vince Tana cross. Minutes later Tana's final game for Perth was cut drastically short by a mistimed tackle from Jamie Kuzmanovich which had the Perth player stretchered from the field with a serious knee injury. The visitors break the deadlock on the half-hour when Alan MacKenzie's corner found Kuzmanovich whose effort squirted wide to Ryan Newhill and the big striker made no mistake. Five minutes later Inglewood hit the target once again, a defensive bungle by Perth forcing goalkeeper Robert Scarparolo off his line and with an open goal Newhill tucked the ball way to make it 2-0. Perth retaliated with Shane Crampton going close on a couple of occasions but without success as half-time approached. Louis Parkinson twice called Scarparolo into action after the break but otherwise there was little for fans of either team to get excited about. That was until the 77th minute when Perth pulled level through young Damian Catalano who hit an amazing drive from 20-metres which soared into the top left hand corner to breathe new life in the match. Michael Baczynski could have sealed victory for Inglewood shortly after, while down the opposite end Aaron Cole came close to equalising with a diving header which was controversially pulled up for offside. The closing stages saw the stretcher out again after a late tackle by Stephen Willey forced Daniel Kovacevic from the field, the young defender later diagnosed with a chipped bone in his ankle. The 2-1 win elevated Inglewood to fourth and in the finals series.

Cockburn City bounced back from defeat last weekend by triumphing over Sorrento at Dalmatinac Park on Saturday. In a game that will be remembered for missed chances rather than goals scored, Shane McNally spurned the first opportunity of the game by shooting wide after being put through by Mileta Miletic 5 minutes after kick-off. It was a miss that would come back to haunt the host club ten minutes later when Sorrento were awarded a penalty for a handball by defender Josh Pescud and Tony Cumace stepped up with confidence to put the visitors in front. There were several good openings present themselves at both ends of the ground with John Mirco shooting high and wide as did teammate Peter Petkovich as Cockburn sought to equalise. Going the other way a Sean Fallon shot from out wide ended narrowly wide of the upright while a fine effort by Simon Harland met with the same fate. Three minutes from the break the ball was finally put away by John Mirco who leveled the game with a low shot on the turn from just outside a crowded penalty area. With regular defenders Dusan Macura and Boza Erakovic absent due to work commitments and injury respectively, Pescud and Steve Adam proved more than worthy replacements as the hosts found themselves increasingly under pressure in the second half. Midway through the period Adam cleared a goalbound shot off the line and shortly after Pescud willingly conceded a corner when he blocked a powerful close-range strike. Nine minutes from the end of regulation time Pescud turned attacker by swinging the ball in from the flank to Jeff Bright whose shot was blocked on the line by a defender, the loose ball came to Petkovich and the striker made no mistake in slamming it into the roof of the net to give Cockburn maximum points by a 2-1 scoreline. In combination with other weekend results, the loss saw Sorrento tumble from third to fifth on the final standings.

Needing victory over Floreat Athena to keep alive their slim hopes of making the top five play-offs, E.C.U. Joondalup capitulated at home as the visiting team ended their season on an almighty high. Joondalup came out of the blocks flying with Scott Bulloch constantly causing problems down the left top put the pressure on Athena's backline. Somewhat against the run of play, Athena's pressed forward after 20 minutes via Anthony Jones who ran the ball out of defence to combine with Andreas Oliveira whose pass found Sasha Kilibarda and the young attacker cleverly flicked the ball past advancing goalkeeper Peter Stewart. The home side tried desperately to get back on level terms only to be frustrated time and time again by some stubborn defending. Ten minutes from the break Matthew Novatsis swung the ball to the near post where Jones beat his opponent to the ball to net with a classy diving header. Although deflated, Joondalup continued to press go forward after the break although their reliance on playing the long ball game made the jobs of Troy Bernard, Fernado Coron and Jones rather easy. The hosts came close to pulling back the gap through Duncan Willets who stretched goalkeeper Vince Mattasa with a powerful header from a Josh Kamasz corner. But it was Athena that would find the target through substitute Josip Madgic who headed in a cross from Dejan Djukanovic to make it 3-0. With confidence sky-high, Athena attacked without mercy before the gap was increased to four goal when defender Keith Taylor headed into his own net after a tame Novatsis cross. It was left to Oliviera, Athena's leading scorer this season, to complete the route by scoring a superb volley which was again the result of an excellent ball in from out wide by Novatsis cross. Athena's win meant they ended the season with a six-game undefeated run which elevated them to sixth on the final standings, a position only the brave would have predicted mid-year.

After a convincing win over Sorrento seven days earlier, Bassendean Caledonian ended their 2003 campaign by sharing the points with Swan I.C. at the Swan Italian Club. The home side began promisingly with Gary Andrews creative in midfield and attacker Paul Lincoln lively as the side went forward in search of the games opening goal. The breakthrough came via a quick counter-attack by the hosts after Caledonian striker Andy Cornmell mis-hit a shot and the ball was cleared up-field by a defender to Andrews who relayed possession to Christian Marocchi and he made no mistake on netting from close-range after 35 minutes. Both sides came out fired up for the second half by launching several dangerous attacks. Caledonian goalkeeper Alan Dunlop was called upon to make a superb save to deny the hard-working Lincoln, while down the opposite end Cornmell found Cory Hugo up to the task. Ian Griffiths went close for the visitors as they sought to equalise and end what has been a disappointing season with dignity. On the hour the whistle blew for a handball inside Swan's defensive area and the referee immediately pointed top the spot for Cornmell to send Cory Hugo the wrong way for his ninth goal of the home-and-away campaign. With Craig Naven marshalling the defence with aplomb, Swan could find few paths to goal in the remaining time despite their numerous drives into attack. Caledonian on the other hand carved out three good opportunities but on each occasion failed to produce the goods. The best of the visitors chances came in the closing stages when Naven played the ball down the left for Matt Donlevy who streamed into attack but was unable to make the most of the move. Both teams ended the game with ten men as Caledonian captain Kevin Smith was given his marching order for a second yellow card offence in the 82nd minute, and soon after Lincoln followed received his second booking for a dive inside the 18-yard box.

30.8.2003

RESERVES AND UNDER-18'S ROUND-UP

First Division reserves champions Perth S.C. ended their regular season campaign with a 2-0 defeat of third-placed Inglewood United at Dorrien Gardens. Vlado Milasinovic put the home side in front after 38 minutes while a goal ten minutes from full-time by Albert Osei-Tutu put the icing on the cake of a successful season for the Perth youngsters. Sorrento finished in the runners-up spot courtesy of a 4-3 away win over Cockburn City. Goals from Jarrod Smith and Scott Bushby enabled E.C.U. Joondalup to claim fourth on the final standings and a 3-1 win over Floreat Athena for whom Jed Lea Henry found the target. In a tight match at Macedonia Park, Steven Sulenta's 73rd minute strike for Western Knights gave them victory over Stirling Lions. And Bassendean Caledonian ended their winter on a high by downing Swan I.C. 2-0. Cory Bessant opened the scoring after 55 minutes with Leo Perrotta adding to the tally twelve minutes from the end.

Under-18 champions E.C.U. Joondalup suffered their first loss of the home-and-away campaign after Josip Magdic netted on the hour to give fourth-placed Floreat Athena victory by a single goal. Joondalup ended the season two points clear of arch rival Fremantle City to lift the trophy. Perth S.C. thumped Inglewood United 8-1, while Fabio De Oliveira's goal in the 28th minute secured Cockburn City a 1-0 win over Sorrento and a place in the play-offs. Swan I.C. had little difficulty in accounting for strugglers Bassendean Caledonian at the Swan Italian Club. A goal after 14 minutes by Jay Buntin separated the two teams at the break, but four minutes into the new half Ian McCallister drew the sides level. Within five minutes Swan had restored and extended their lead with Brendan Knox and Matt Ullbricht adding to the tally. Western Knights swept aside bottom team Stirling Lions at Macedonia Park where Joe D'Ortona bagged a hat-trick with Andrija Jukic completing the scoreline midway through the second half.

30.8.2003

FIRST DIVISION, ROUND TWENTY-SIX (Dianella White Eagles vs Bayswater City by Adam Rucci; Balcatta vs Mandurah City by Barry Rennie; Canning City vs Ashfield by Phil Unsworth)

Held to a draw last weekend by The City, First Division leader Bayswater City needed to take nothing less than maximum points from Saturdays away clash with near neighbour Dianella White Eagles who were without regulars David Mrdja and Dragan Njegic. With midfielder Andrew O'Neill lurking dangerously on the right, Bayswater took the lead after 5 minutes when a mix-up in the Dianella defence resulted in Goran Bolta putting the ball past his own goalkeeper. With their heads up, Bayswater would go on to control the remainder of the match with a performance that simply out-classed the home team. O'Neill could have doubled the margin but his initial shot was blocked by defender Taki Nicolaides, and the young attacker then scuffed the follow-up over the bar. Dianella tried valiantly to break down the visiting defence but could find no way past a rock-solid backline of Jason Lawton, Michael Kovacevic and Daniel Vangelovski. After the half-time break Bayswater upped the pace, throwing everything at the hosts in an effort to make safe the points. Kevin Henderson finished a sweeping move by scoring his thirteenth goal of the campaign following a great defence-splitting pass from O'Neill. Bayswater's third came three minutes from the end of regulation time after a strong run from midfielder Filipe Xavier to tee-up Bobby Klenkoski whose mis-timed shot beat goalkeeper Steve Partolo. With the final whistle Bayswater edged one step closer to winning promotion, although second-placed Mandurah City look like keeping the pressure up until the final week of competition. Goals by Nick Paone and Pasquale Marrapodi put Bayswater in the driving seat in the reserves only for Dianella to fight back and claim victory by 6-2. The under-18 match ended in a 3-0 win to Dianella.

A strong 4-2 victory away at Balcatta ensured Mandurah City stay in the hunt for promotion to the top flight at seasons' end. Balcatta came out firing on all cylinders to have the Mandurah defence working overtime over the opening 10 minutes, but it was the visitors that created the best of the early moves when Christian Paschewitz broke through the defence only to have his shot deflected wide. The host club responded almost immediately with Scott Broadley sending a well worked free-kick through the defensive wall to give goalkeeper Paul Dixon no chance of making the save. With their season on the line Mandurah regrouped and, following a long throw from John Tranfield, Paschewitz rose high above the defence to slide his header into the net after 28 minutes. The visitors went in front seven minutes later through Jordan Rhodes who coolly turned on the ball and from near the penalty spot scrambled his shot past the goalkeeper. Balcatta drew level early in the second half via another deadball situation, this time Broadley's shot being deflected into the net with Dixon caught going the opposite direction. Mikel Sesma took possession following a long clearance down the right and rounded an opponent only to be fouled inside the area for a penalty from which Jordan Rhodes made no mistake in restoring Mandurah's lead in the 78th minute. The three points were sealed by Paschewitz who bagged his second of the day from close range. Mandurah's reserves stumbled in their quest to win the title when defeated 1-2 by Balcatta who also took out the under-18 fixture by 4-3.

Mid-table Kingsway Olympic had a difficult away trip to Coker Park on the weekend to play fourth placed Queens Park. The visitors were pumped up for Saturday's game with the entire squad out to impress the coaching staff a little over a week out from a semi-final appearance in the Boral Cup. It took just 15 minutes for Olympic to break through as Sota Iwasaki led the home defence on a merry dance only to have his shot parried by the goalkeeper but Ben Roberts was well placed to tuck the loose ball into the back of the net. Not long after a searching Andy Brown ball went over the heads of the defence and Iwasaki volleyed in to extend the margin. Some good lead-up play in midfield resulted in an Olympic free-kick Andy Brown took quickly to send the ball into the back of the net from 25-metres only to have the goal disallowed. Steve Dimitrovich then stepped up and blasted the ball into the top left hand corner to make it 3-0 with 39 minutes gone. The visitors carved out numerous other opportunities to add to their tally before continued Steve Bretti made the most of a defensive error three minutes from the interval. The home team threw men forward after the break in an effort to get back in the game but goalkeeper Kalon Tenakov was rarely troubled thanks largely to the defensive duties of Andy Brown, Alan Henderson, Alan Nanini and Jason Stern. Olympic substitute Shane Fitzpatrick twice had chances to score his sides fifth but on both occasions luck wasn't on his side before the final whistle signaled a comprehensive victory to the visitors. Both the earlier games ended with honours even, the reserves 1-1 and the under-18's 3-3.

In a repeat scoreline of their meeting earlier in the season, Canning City went down 1-5 at home to Ashfield. The hosts went into the game far from full strength, goalkeeper Robby Meyer and talented midfielder Paul Oliver absent due to suspension and Jix Loong out through illness. Ashfield almost scored inside the opening minute when Chris McCullough was allowed an unmarked run on goal but his shot flew over the Canning crossbar. With Canning doing most of the defending and breaking only on the counter-attack, it looked as though they would take the lead in the final minute of the half when awarded a penalty, however, Steve Walker's spot kick was high and the teams went in at nil-all after 45 minutes. Canning got a second chance from the spot early in the second half when Shane Laing was fouled, and this time Ryan Allomes made no mistake in drilling his shot into the roof of the net to give his side the lead. Ashfield pulled level when the ball ricocheted off Alex Crookes and sailed across the Canning defence where it was met by David Mayers who headed the ball in from close-range. The goal lifted the visitors spirits and in a ten minute period Ashfield went on a goalscoring spree. Muhamed Komadric found the net twice with John Monterosso and Daniel Taylor adding to the score to give their side a comprehensive win. Earlier in the day the reserves game ended with honours shared at 1-1, while Canning took outthe under-18 clash by 2-0.

Armadale's slim chances of taking out the First Division title evaporated with a 1-2 away loss to Leeming Strikers who picked up maximum points for the first time in over two months. The match was just 5 minutes old when disaster struck the Reds camp as Gary Murdoch was red carded. Taking full advantage of the extra man, the Strikers took the lead shortly after with Josef Tomancak finding the back of the net. Thirteen minutes after half-time Anthony Natale gave Armadale hope of taking something from the game by equalising, but in the 77th minute a goal from Craig Ruthven ensured the Strikers would claim victory. The City thumped a lacklustre performance from Morley Windmills to register the seventh win of their campaign. After a scoreless first half, The City were reduced to ten men in the 56th minute when Adam Windley received his marching orders. It took until the seven minutes from the end for the games' opening goal which came from Jason Hope, and in quick succession Mark Cox added two to complete the 3-0 win. Stirling Suns scored their first win in over a month by defeating South West Phoenix 5-4. And Glen Hallums was on target for Rockingham City who climbed off the foot of the table with a 1-1 away draw with Southside United for whom Stuart Jones netted.

30.8.2003

WEEKEND IN SUMMARY

In what was the last Premier League outing for Vince Tana, Stephen Willey and Gareth Naven, champions Perth S.C. went down 1-2 at home to Inglewood United who secured themselves a spot in the top five series courtesy of a Ryan Newhill double. Second-placed Cockburn City accounted for Sorrento by 2-1, and Western Knights moved up to third with a 3-0 away over Stirling Lions. E.C.U. Joondalup's winter came to a crashing halt with a 0-5 home mauling from Floreat Athena, and Swan I.C. finsihed their home-and-away commitments with a 1-1 draw against Bassendean Caledonian.

Baswater City cruised to a 3-0 away win over Dianella White Eagles to stay top of the First Division with Mandurah City still nipping at their heels after a 4-2 away defeat of Balcatta. Armadale dropped off the pace with a 2-1 loss at Leeming Strikers, and Queens Park's inconsistent season continued with a 0-4 home loss at the hands of Kingsway Olympic. Ashfield thumped Canning City 5-1, and in a nine-goal thriller Stirling Suns accounted for South West Phoenix 5-4. Rockingham City climb off the foot of the table courtesy of a 1-1 draw at Southside United, and The City won 3-0 at home over Morley Windmills.

29.8.2003

WEEKEND IN PREVIEW

Perth S.C. may have secured the Premier League title last weekend, but there is still plenty to play going into the final round of the home-and-away season. With both teams having already secured themselves a place in the top five series, it's second verses third at Dalmatinac Park as Cockburn City face off against Sorrento. A draw away at Stirling Lions will be enough for Western Knights to make the play-offs, but at Dorrien Gardens Inglewood United must take maximum points from Perth in order to extend their season. E.C.U. Joondalup and Swan I.C. find themselves in a similar situation, both relying on those above them to slip up while claiming victory themselves at home over Floreat Athena and Bassendean Caledonian respectively. Out of action with the bye are Fremantle City whose Premier League commitments for 2003 are complete.

There is also mounting interest in the First Division as the race for top spot heats up. Topping the table by three points, Bayswater City have a potentially tricky away clash with Dianella White Eagles who have been running hot and cold of late. Second-placed Mandurah City are also on the road but should account for mid-table Balcatta, while third-placed Armadale are favoured to extend their winning run when the meet Leeming Strikers who have the home ground advantage. Queens Park come up against Kingsway Olympic at Coker Park, Ashfield are home to lowly Canning City, and Stirling Suns take on South West Phoenix in what promises to be an tight mid-table meeting. Elsewhere Southside United welcome Rockingham City to Walter Padbury Reserve, and The City are home to Morley Windmills.

29.8.2003

GLORY VISIT MANDURAH

Perth Glory visit Mandurah this weekend as part of the State Government's Country Sport Enrichment Scheme. On Friday morning at Bortolo Reserve, Peelwood Reserve and Laurie Standford Reserve, Glory players will conduct coaching clinics for invited players from 10.00am, and then at 4.00pm there are additions sessions being held at Peelwood Reserve. The following day the reigning National Soccer League champions play the second and final game of the series with the Singapore national team at Peelwood Reserve, kick-off at 3.00pm. The days activities get underway from 11.00am with two junior cup finals to be played prior to the Glory-Singapore friendly.

28.8.2003

GOALS THE KEY TO CHAMPIONSHIP SUCCESS

The Premier League championship will spend another twelve months in the trophy cabinet at Dorrien Gardens following Perth S.C.'s 3-1 mauling of Cockburn City last weekend. Under coach Graham Normanton, the Blues started the season in blistering fashion by taking maximum points from eleven of their opening thirteen games to place them well clear of the chasing pack. "Obviously, you always look at starting the season well to set you up, and after thirteen games I was feeling pretty confident that we could win it from there," said Normanton this week. "It's always difficult to put a run of results down to one particular thing, but there are a number of factors which contributed to our early season form. One was that we knew we had the fittest team in the League, and we certainly had some quality players at the club, both experienced and inexperienced."

"But perhaps the most pleasing aspect of our game early on was our goalscoring," added the Perth coach. "In pre-season I felt that scoring was going to be one of our problem areas so we worked on making better use of the ball and creating more scoring opportunities ... and I guess you could say it worked." The only team to have netted more than fifty Premier League goals this year, Perth have been lead from the front by summer signing Shane Crampton who has found the back of the net in excess of twenty times so far this season. "Even if you take Shane's goals out of the equation we still would have finished only one goal behind Cockburn City. I know Shane has grabbed the headlines, and so he should, but I was really pleased with the contribution of the other players in the goalscoring department. After four games we had scored 20 goals - and a lot of them were quality goals - which really set us up well for the rest of the season."

With the title seemingly wrapped up, successive losses to Western Knights, Floreat Athena and Sorrento allowed Cockburn to close the gap on Perth at the top of the Premier League table. "When we lost those three games on the trot, something that has not happened to me before as a coach, we weren't playing that badly. In all three games, if we had taken our opportunities in front of goal we would have won each of those matches. And that is not looking at the games through rose coloured glasses - it is just a fact. The other thing was that we got punished for making basic errors at the back, we conceded some pretty soft goals during that run which no team can afford to do. Even after those results, we were still very confident in our ability to turn things around. We kept working on our passing and our mobility which we know are our strengths, we kept working at those aspects of our game and in the end it put us in good stead. There is no substitute for quality."

With wins over Swan I.C. and Bassendean Caledonian restoring their confidence, Perth demolished second-placed Cockburn on Saturday to secure the Premier League title. "Cockburn was a game which we had all looked forward to since five o'clock on that Sunday back in June when they won 3-0. We knew we had let ourselves down that day and we wanted to set the record straight. What we didn't know that day was that Cockburn would be undefeated when we next faced them so the game became even more significant to us. Even though we had gone a goal down early on Saturday it didn't really faze me as we'd worked all week on how to break them down and we were doing that at will so it was only a matter of time before we got on the score sheet. I felt that when we stepped on the gas they had no answers to us and the score by the end of the game really could have been a few more in our favour. I was really pleased with our defence, we restricted them to very few goalscoring opportunities and dealt with anything they could throw at us very confidently."

With the regular season trophy safety tucked up at Dorrien Gardens for another twelve months, Normanton praised the level of commitment and quality of football played by Perth's players. "Overall I have been extremely pleased with the standard of our game, but that's no accident as we have worked very hard at our style of play," commented the coach. "I have often said that we sometimes get wrapped up with what is on television in terms of soccer, yet if you had seen our three goals against Cockburn on television everyone would have been talking about them. In Western Australia I feel that we don't give our own players the credit they deserve at times, I'm not saying that it is English Premier League standard but it is certainly worth coming to support and certainly worth writing about. I build the team around teamwork and expect a 100% contribution from every player, and to tell you the truth the players that we have at Perth are a pleasure to coach. I couldn't ask for more from them than I am getting now. My biggest problem will be getting their feet back on the ground after a weekend of celebrations. We are still involved in two very important competitions - the Boral Cup and top five series - and our aim is to do well in both of these also."

28.8.2003

CACERAS STRIKES TWICE FOR GLORY

Perth Glory have continued their pre-season by defeating the Singapore national team 3-2 in a friendly played at Waroona Town Oval this afternoon. In a competitive match Singapore took a surprise lead in the 11th minute a defensive slip by Shaun Murphy allowed Egmar Goncalves in to lob the ball over goalkeeper Vince Matassa and into the back of the net. It wasn't until early in the second half that Glory replied with Caceras netting his first of the day. Tom Pondeljak put Glory in front after 65 minutes when his speculative shot was deflected pas the visiting 'keeper Lionel Lewis. The score became 3-1 when a shot by midfielder Anthony Danze bounced awkwardly in front of Lewis and Caceras hooked in the rebound. The skill and pace of the Singapore players continually caused their opponents problems over the course of the match and in stoppage time substitute Mirko Grabovac was able to reduced the margin. Speaking after the game with "West Australian" correspondent Jonathon Cook, Glory defender Scott Miller said he felt the team were on track in their preparations for the new National Soccer League season which starts at the end of next month. "At this stage I think we are ahead of where we were this time last year," commented Miller. "We probably hesitated a bit too much in the first half but we got better. In the second half, I thought we knocked it around quite well."

28.8.2003

SOCCEROO CALL-UP FOR TARKA?

Former Cockburn City player David Tarka may find himself in line for senior Australian honours next week when the Socceroo's take on Jamaica in London. Injuries to the regular defenders Tony Popovic, Hayden Foxe and Craig Moore could lead national coach Frank Farina to turn to some of the nations talented youngsters which include Tarka, Ljubo Milicevic (F.C. Thun), Patrick Kisnorbo (Hearts), Jade North (Perth Glory) and Iain Fyfe (Adelaide City).

27.8.2003

BASEL EXTEND ERGIC'S CONTRACT

Although he hasn't featured for F.C. Basel in over eight months, former Perth Glory midfielder has had his contract with the Swiss Cup holders extended until July 2005. Having joined Basel in July 2000 in a loan arrangement with Italian giants Juventus, the 22-year old quickly established himself as a regular of the starting eleven and in his second season played an influential role in Basel taking out the Swiss League and Cup double. Ergic was forced onto the sidelines late last year by a niggling groin injury, and has only recently returned to the training track following a particularly nasty bout glandular fever.

26.8.2003

GARCIA CAUGHT OUT BY MANAGER'S SACKING

The termination of Glenn Roeder's contract as manager of West Ham United late last week caught everyone associated with the London club by surprise, including Perth-born attacker Richard Garcia. "It has come as a shock to me, and I am sure it has to a lot of players, that Glenn has been given his marching orders," Garcia recently told the official West Ham United website. "It is always going to be tough on anyone who gets relegated and especially when there was such a good talent base. We had so many good players at the club last season but we needed to get financially stable and of course it was going to be hard losing so many players (over the off-season) and establishing a new team."

With Trevor Brooking taking over first team management in a caretaker capacity, the Australian youth international hopes that whoever is appointed long term will be able to continue nurturing the young talent at the club. "I have no preference about who comes in - we just hope that whoever does will do a great job," Garcia commented. "Maybe the experienced players have a preference but as a young player, I don't - I just hope that the new man can teach me as a player because that is what a young player needs from a manager. I think Glenn has really helped a lot of players at the club develop - he has certainly helped me - and I am sad to see him leave."

25.8.2003

SCOTTISH TRIALS FOR MADASCHI (courtesy www.tribalfootball.com)

Atalanta defender Adrian Madaschi has recently taken up an offer to try out for top flight Scottish club Dundee United. The Australia Under-20 international is hopeful of winning a contract in Scotland before the fall of this month's transfer deadline. Madaschi was offered a short-term deal at Burnley before accepting an offer from Coventry City for trials. However, the Sky Blues' signing of Steve Staunton from Aston Villa ended their interest in the Perth-born defender. Madaschi has been staying with Hearts defender Patrick Kisnorbo and could sign for United after Livingston's Marvin Andrews turned down a Tannadice offer late last week.

25.8.2003

TARKA DELIGHTED WITH FOREST MOVE

Nottingham Forest have completed the signing of former Cockburn City and Perth Glory defender David Tarka, who is widely rated as one of the brightest young prospects in the Australian game. "This a great move for me," Tarka told his new clubs official website. "I've achieved everything I wanted to achieve in Australian football and moving to England really was the next step. I had two weeks with Portsmouth but things didn't really work out there. I jumped at the opportunity when Forest offered me a trial and am delighted to have signed a contract with the club. I'm really looking forward to my time at The City Ground, Forest is a club with a great history and it's a honour to be here." The 20-year old has signed a three-year with Forest who are now waiting to receive international clearance from the international football authorities.

24.8.2003

GLORY TOO STRONG FOR INGLEWOOD

Perth Glory have taken out their fourth pre-season friendly with a come-from-behind to defeat of Inglewood United in a match aimed to raise funds for the Starlight Foundation at National Stadium. The hosts took the lead after 10 minutes when Shaun Kilkelly slid the ball through to Michael Baczynski whose shot crashed into the post and rebounding off the back of goalkeeper Jason Petkovic before crossing between the posts. But Inglewood's lead was short lived as Glory hit back five minutes later when triallist Mark Williams found the back of the net following a Scott Miller corner. The National Soccer League champions went in front midway through the half via local product Nick Mrdja who created space for himself and shot truly from just outside the 18-yard box, and two minutes later recent arrival Shaun Murphy nodded in a Gary Faria corner to extend the margin. The win was sealed three minutes from full-time with a fine goal from Adrian Caceras who side-stepped a defender to drill the ball into the net.

24.8.2003

AMATEURS ROUND-UP

On a fine day at Carine, Hamersley Rovers picked up another valuable 3 points in their quest for a third straight league title in the WAASSA Premier Division. However the 5-2 victory did not come wthout some anxious moments particularly in the first half when Murdoch twice led after some sloppy defending by the champions. Both Nathan Chapman and Ronnie Chong were very busy up front for Murdoch well supported by Jason Dixon and Alistair Coulthard who was playing at the back as the sweeper. Hamersley once they got their normal attacking game going looked very dangerous with both Labbate and Yates prominent up front with good midfield support coming from Hendry, Vernals, O'Connell and Birkinshaw. Afetr an early penalty to Murdoch converted by Chapman, Rovers equalised when a training ground move saw Vernals cross perfectly for Labbate to convert at the far post. By half time it was 2 -1 to Murdoch after a goalmouth scramble saw Chong score close in. After a less than friendly half time talk from coach Mickey Brennan, Hamersley came out and really took the game the game to Murdoch. The attacking options were endless and it was Darren Yates who really came to the forefront with 2 excellent goals characteristic of his style, inventive ,sharp and showing plenty of flair not seen too often at this level . His second was one of pure class when he sidestepped his marker on the edge of the box, looked up and curled his shot just under the crossbar and post with the keeper stranded! Either side of his 2 goals were an equalising header to Neil Birkinshaw and a scrambled first goal for the club to Gavin Hendry. In the end it was Hamersley's attacking options which were too much for a Murdoch side well coached by Alan Taylor but missing the necessary discipline to hold onto a lead and really dig in when it matters. They should avoid the dreaded drop purely on their attacking ability alone.

In other games Forrestfield United defeated Kwinana United 1-0, Fremantle United beat Canning International at home with the same score line. Spearwood Dalmatinac drew 1-1 with Perth Azzurri. While Balga suffered their worst loss in their history after a 9-0 demolition away to Shamrock Rovers. The club's previous record loss was 8-0 to Swan IC in the first round of the 1994 D'Orsogna Cup. University of WA defeated North Perth United 3-0, with Frederik Larsen scoring 2 goals, and Bryn Griffiths getting the other. For a more complete look at the amateurs game in Western Australia, including results for all WAASSA competitions, the latest news and so forth, visit http://waassa.ola.com.au

23.8.2003

PREMIER LEAGUE, ROUND TWENTY-ONE (Bassendean Caledonian vs Sorrento by Bill McAllister; E.C.U. Joondalup vs Fremantle City by Tom McCrisken; Western Knights vs Floreat Athena courtesy www.westernknights.web1000.com; Swan I.C. vs Stirling Lions by Don Evans)

Just three points separated Perth S.C. and Cockburn City prior to Saturday's top-of-the-table Premier League clash at Dorrien Gardens. Although missing a wealth of talent in Mark Pottier (suspended), Perry Ielati, Robbie Puca and Vince Tana (all injured), it was a strong home team which took to the field requiring just a single point to claim their second championship in as many years. Shane Crampton has been a revelation in attack for the club since his arrival during the summer, while in the middle of the park Gareth Naven has shown that, even at the age of 34, he is still one of the best players on the local scene. Cockburn headed in the clash as the competition's form side, undefeated in thirteen games - including a 3-0 defeat of Perth in June - and needing victory today to have any hope of over-taking Perth at the top of the standings. One of the strengths of Cockburn over the home-and-away series has been a rock-solid defence who have conceded goals at a rate of less than one a game. Coach Mirko Jelicic made just a single change to his side which knocked off Inglewood United 4-1 seven days earlier, Boza Erakovic coming into the starting eleven for Dusan Macura.

In a quick opening period it may have been Perth that were pushing forward with more confidence and conviction, but it was the visitors that drew first blood in the 6th minute. Jeff Bright's cross from the left was trapped by Peter Petkovich whose mistimed shot fell perfectly for Erakovic to drill low and beyond the reach of a diving Robert Scarparolo from 12-metres. Unperturbed, Perth continued to stamp their authority over proceedings with a string of attacking raids down both flanks, while a powerful Todd Howarth header from Adam Bunce's corner kissed the wrong side of the crossbar. The Blues dominance was rewarded after 16 minutes when Crampton timed his run to perfection in meeting a low cross from the right by Rhys Graham to level the game. Graham was involved two minutes later when he took the defence with him to the near post only to step over Howarth's low pass and present Crampton with an open goal from which there was no mistake. Crampton bagged his third goal in seven minutes when Rob Giorgi played him down the left, the Perth striker holding off Josh Pescud before calmly slotting past goalkeeper Dino Pacella to send the home fans into seventh heaven.

Having opened up a sizeable lead, Perth eased off the pace and took time to re-assess the situation. With Giorgi and Naven playing key roles in the middle of the park, the Blues were able to tightly control the supply to Cockburn's forwards who only occasionally threatened to break through. Petkovich opened up the Perth backline with an ingenious flick past the last defender that Mileta Miletic was quick to race on to but, sensing the move early, Scaraparolo came of his line to smother at the feet of his opponent. In the minutes leading up to half-time Dean Wallace made a determined run into attack in which he combined to great effect with John Mirco and Miletic only to drill an explosive shot from 13-metres over the crossbar. There were several other promising passages of play from Cockburn who threw everything forward in order to reduce the margin before the break, but on each occasion these attacks were meet with strong resistence from defensive trio Aaron Cole, Michael Icanovski and Dino Djulic who were well in control of their third of the field.

Cockburn began the new period by forcing the home team on to the back foot as they set about restoring balance to the ledger. A 48th minute corner by Bright skimmed heads in the 6-yard box and fell to Miletic whose explosive volley beyond the far post forced a sharp response from Scarparolo. Perth tightened things up considerably following the early scare to allow the visiting forwards little time or space to manoeuver, or even consider their options when on the ball. Chances on goal were few and far between for the visitors despite the best efforts of Petkovich, Michael Mirco and Shane McNally who worked tirelessly in the engine room. Their next chance came after 61 minutes and again resulted from a corner, this time Perth clearing the danger to the top of the box where a first-time snap on goal from substitute Roberto Colalillo whizzed inches high. Breaking immediately on the counter-attack, Graham was put through with only Pacella to beat but, with Pescud nipping at his heels, the youngster hesitated and was eventually forced wide before crossing to Crampton who should have done much better than to sky his effort. Not long after Pescud played a searching ball from the back which Petkovich raced onto only for his rising shot to be wide of the target.

Having sat back and soaked up the pressure, Perth stepped up a gear going into the last twenty minutes. Howarth swung a free-kick in from the left after 72 minutes which Wallace partially cleared and Colli was thwarted by a fantastic reflex save from Pacella. Graham wriggled free of his marker to whip in a cross that caught the Cockburn defence flat-footed and which Colli pulled agonisingly wide of the far post. With the game - and the championship - within grasp most teams would have been content to see out the remaining time and hold their, but that's not Perth's style. Time and time again the home team pushed forward in an attempt to extend their lead and make clear that they will be the team to beat in the up-coming finals series. A powerful drive by Naven was pushed onto the upright by Pacella before the defence scrambled it to safety. A minute later Cole's rising shot crashed against the underside of the bar and came back into play. Having twisted past his marker, Crampton open up a path to goal but again Pacella was up to the task and prevented the ball from crossing the line. And well into stoppage time Pacella again denied Perth with a spectacular flying save to tip over Damian Catalano's fierce shot from the top of the 18-yard box.

The final whistle was greeted by scenes of wild celebration from the Perth camp as the realisation set in that the Premier League trophy was going to spend another twelve at Dorrien Gardens. "It's nice to win the League and we've got two more competitions to have a go at before we finish," said Naven whose work rate in the centre was a key component in today's victory, while Crampton's seven minute hat-trick was the perfect response to Cockburn's early goal. With contributors in every position Perth completely out-classed Cockburn to sound a very loud warning to the remainder of the field that they are back in peak form on the eve of the finals. Although they took the lead, Cockburn coach Jelicic said after the game that his side had taken too long to get going. "I don't think we fired early enough," he said to Jonathon Cook of the "West Australian". "We've held 1-0 leads at times throughout the season and I was disappointed we dropped off." Central defender Pescud worked tirelessly for the visitors, but it was Pacella who was the stand-out performer with several important saves, especially late in the game, which prevented the final margin from blowing out.

Perth S.C. : Robert Scarparolo, Dino Djulbic, Aaron Cole, Michael Icanovski, Todd Howarth, Jason Colli (Michael Catalano 79), Gareth Naven (Stephen Willey 89), Rob Giorgi, Adam Bunce (Daniel Micevski 53), Rhys Graham, Shane Crampton
Cockburn City : Dino Pacella, Jeff Bright, Boza Erakovic, Josh Pescud (Steve Adam 79), Mario De Felice, Michael Mirco, Shane McNally, Peter Petkovich, John Mirco (Roberto Colalillo 45), Mileta Miletic (Simon Jonas 75), Evan Wallace
Bookings : None
Dismissals : None
Referee : Steve Muldoon
Attendance : 450 (approx.)

Even with veteran defender Craig Naven missing, Bassendean Caledonian proved they can be a very competitive force by toppling third-placed Sorrento at Jubilee Reserve. The northern suburbs side started well with Jared Love finding Simon Harland who headed over the crossbar from close-range, then Sean Fallon laid it on for Todd Harnwell but he blasted high from 6-metres. Caledonian broke the deadlock after 20 minutes when a corner from the right was partially cleared and the hard-working Ian Griffiths set-up Andy Cornmell to make it 1-0. But that lead disappeared a minute later when a clearance fell kindly to Sean Fallon who slammed the ball back over goalkeeper Alan Dunlop and in to the back of the home net. Shortly after Sorrento were thwarted by Dunlop after Love flicked a pass on to Harland whose shot was brilliantly saved by the Caledonian 'keeper. The home side upped the pace ahead of the break with a fine Kevin Griffiths strike skimming the bar, and Ramon Westerberger finding the side netting. They persistence was rewarded through Cornmell who worked hard to win possession before slotting to Ian Griffiths who netted a stunning goal from 30-metres that gave Sorrento custodian Gareth Deeg no chance of making a save. The second half saw a titanic struggle with the home team creating several more goalscoring opportunities without success. With time running out, Sorrento threw everything into finding an equaliser as Richard Watson had his shot blocked, Steve McDonald's effort was desperately hacked clear only to be sent back in and Harland this time headed the ball over the top. Near the end Caledonian almost conjured up a third goal as Cornmell robbed Tony Cumace and went one-on-one with Deeg who managed to foil the striker. On a day when it was an overall team performance that allowed Caledonian to take out maximum points for only the season time this season, there were strong showing from captain for the day Kevin Smith and attack-minded Ian Griffiths. Losers for the first time in thirteen starts, Sorrento remain in third place on the standings while Caledonian climb off the bottom of the table for the first time this year.

E.C.U. Joondalup and Fremantle City met at Edith Cowan University in a game both sides needed to take maximum points from in order to maintain their push for a place in the top five series. The host club got off to the best possible start when, straight from the kick-off, a neat exchange of passes between Garin Collins, Duncan Willets and Peter Vukmirovic resulted in a lovely through ball to Scott Bulloch who blasted in from 10-metres with barely a minute elapsed. A shell-shocked Fremantle took some time to get back into the game and it wasn't until midway through the half that home goalkeeper Peter Stewart had a shot of any substance to save thanks largely to some fine defending from Peter Roberts and Darren Broxton. Joondalup's lead was doubled after 25 minutes when Willets played through to Vukmirovic who controlled in an instant before picking his spot beyond the reach of the Fremantle goalkeeper. The port side created a few chances late in the half via set-pieces but Fremantle could not put the ball away when it matter most. A half-time re-shuffled saw Fremantle emerge after the break more attack minded and the visitors began to test the opposing defence with more regularity. Twenty minutes into the period a free-kick from the left caught Joondalup ball-watching at the back and Branimir Mikulic was on hand to blast the ball into the net from close-range. Shortly after Fremantle squandered a golden opportunity to level the game from the penalty spot when Mikulic's spot kick hit the post before being scrambled to safety by the home defence. With the clock ticking down, Joondalup were reduced to ten men with the dismissal of Roberts. Taking the game up to their opponents Fremantle continually applied pressure to the Joondalup backline who were finally breached well into stoppage when Joe Liguan leveled the game and stole a point for the visitors.

Western Knights final home game of the 2003 season saw them share the points with Floreat Athena who were gifted a two-goal lead. The opener came from the penalty spot after Leon Russell brought down Costas Socratous, the referee's assistant felt that the Athena player had dived but referee Tom Klaver had no doubts and Troy Bernard stepped up to convert from the spot. Athena's lead was doubled in the 65th minute when substitute Andreas Oliviera rounded Evan Wallace and pulled the ball back to an unmarked Sasa Kalibarda who, at the second attempt, forced the ball past goalkeeper Tommi Tomich. Both goals came against the run of play as the Knights peppered the visiting goal only to either missed the target completely or find Athena goalkeeper Vince Matassa positioned well to save. The second goal stung the Knights and four minutes later pulled a goal back when Daniel Trim's firm cross into the box was deflected in by defender Filipos Pakioufakised who wrong-footed Matassa. Carl Medica and Claus Neilsen both squandered opportunities in quick succession, then a fantastic move started by Tomich and involving Luka Jukic and Russell was snuffed out as Matassa saved at the feet of Medica and Fernando Coron cleared the danger. In the final minute of play Paul Cooke turned sharply inside the box only to be brought down by Jamie Trandos, Medica placing the resultant penalty just out of Matassa's reach to equalise for the Knights. The Knights had three clear chances to snatch victory in stoppage but Medica and Trim were thwarted at Matassa within the space of a minute, while an unmarked Cooke placed the ball wide of the target from close-range with Matassa nowhere in sight. The win has the Knights move up a place to fourth but needing victory next weekend over Stirling Lions to be assured of a finals berth.

Stirling Lions winless run continued with another nail-biting defeat, this time going down 2-3 to home team Swan I.C. The visitors may have welcomed trusty defender Andy Wright back to the fray, but they went into the match without key trio Darko Ilomanoski, Adam Rains (both injured) and Jordan Conti (suspended). Despite this, the Lions started with great promise as Toby Wright combined with Christian Debarro whose cross found Keegan Ashley but his shot was well saved by goalkeeper Cory Hugo. Although playing with a stiff breeze in their favour, Swan found themselves on the back foot as Eugene Singeorzan was denied by the home 'keeper and then Debarro's shot grazed the outside of the upright. Midway through the half Swan hit a purple patch that would change the outcome of the game. Nippy forward Paul Lincoln continually carved open the visiting defence to providing teammate Damien Scali with a hat trick of goals in the 25th, 27th and 37th minutes. A faint glimmer of hope came for the Lions in the 44th minute when Debarro was awarded a penalty following a foul by Gary Williams and Singeorzan sent Hugo the wrong way from the spot. A half-time tactical change by Lions coach Wayne Thorpe paid dividends with Ashley bringing a finger tip save from Hugo in the 55th minute. Two minutes later Stjepan Beretovac's perfect pass allowed Singeorzan to smash a scorcher into the net and reduce the deficit. The goal opened up the game as the visiting team sought to equalise. A dazzling run from Andy Wright teed-up Toby Wright whose shot was brilliantly kept out by Cory Hugo, and shortly after Leo Harman crashed the ball into the underside of the crossbar. The Lions threw everything at Swan who battled manfully through tireless midfielders Dean Nicolaou and Carlo Scali. Another shot by Harman ricocheted off the post, and Singeozean headed over the bar in the dying minutes as Swan hold on to keep their faint play-off hopes alive.

23.8.2003

RESERVES AND UNDER-18'S ROUND-UP

Crowned champions of the First Division reserves weeks ago, Perth S.C. were surprisingly held to a scoreless draw by Cockburn City when they met at Dorrien Gardens on the weekend. Sorrento came away from Jubilee Reserve with all three points as a result of their 4-1 defeat of Bassendean Caledonian. Goals midway through the first half from Joe Woodin and Jake Harman gave the northerners a comfortable buffer by the interval. Six minutes into the second period Graeme Matthews pegged back the margin, but Daniel Cagorski and Trevor Morgan netted in the closing stages to have Sorrento emerge victorious.

Fremantle City finished their season with a 3-3 draw at E.C.U. Joondalup where Saul Contera gave the port side the advantage after 6 minutes. Steve Petrig leveled eight minutes later but Fremantle continued to go on the offensive and Joe Liguan restored their lead in the 27th minute. The match reached flash point after 34 minutes when Fremantle went down to ten men with the dismissal of Carl Page, and a minute later Joondalup did likewise as Craig Stephenson received his marching orders. The visitors looked set to record victory after Daniel Baker found the target seven minutes later the interval, but Joondalup refused to lie down and Scott Bushby and Jarrod Smith during the closing stages meant the points were shared.

Western Knights went down 1-2 to Floreat Athena at Nash Field. Steve Nauer and midfielder Andreas Pantelias were on target for the visiting team while Ivan Zuvela, who has only recently returned from a lengthy spell out through injury, netted for the Knights. The clash between the two bottom clubs at the Swan Italian Club ended with honours even as Swan I.C. and Stirling Lions drew 1-1. Jerome Vallett gave the Lions the lead three minutes into the second half but the visitors lead was short-lived as Mark Donnelly equaliser in the 50th minute.

E.C.U. Joondalup's 1-1 draw with Fremantle City in the under-18 competition was enough for the northern suburbs to secure the trophy for the second time in as many years. Phillip O'Callaghan put Joondalup a goal up by hitting the target in the 1st minute, but it was all hands on deck for the home side following the dismissal of Matt Maxted midway through the second half. Fremantle had to wait until ten minutes from the end for the equaliser which arrived via Jason Barrera. Having completed their League commitments, Fremantle will end the season as runners-up.

Already assured of a finals berth, Perth S.C. went down 1-2 to Cockburn City at Dorrien Gardens where all three goal came in a fourteen minute burst. Carlo Cardosa put Cockburn in front after 34 minutes, Jan Zablocki gave the hosts the lead right on half-time, and eight minutes into the second period Andrew Jennings netted what would be the deciding goal. Trailing Cockburn by one point in the race for the fifth and final play-off spot are Sorrento who comfortably swept aside home team Bassendean Caledonian. Seagulls striker Dejan Gurovski found the net in the opening minute, and shortly before half-time Ryan Frisina brought Caledonian back into the match. But after the break the visitors ran away with the game with Gurovski adding three more to the tally.

Phil Clarke struck in the 55th and 73rd minutes for Floreat Athena as they downed Western Knights 2-0 to stay in fourth place. Swan I.C. ran out 4-2 winners over Stirling Lions despite going a goal down in the 2nd minute from Michael Puglese. Connor Mahady equalised after 17 minute, Brendan Knox put the black and whites in front shortly after and ten minutes from the interval Matt Ullbricht made it 3-1. Robert Campos added to Swan's tally early in the second half before Thomas Mifsuio reduced the deficit after 52 minutes.

23.8.2003

FIRST DIVISION, ROUND TWENTY FIVE (Bayswater City vs The City by Adam Rucci; Mandurah City vs Stirling Suns by Barry Rennie; Canning City vs Queens Park by Phil Unsworth; Kingsway Olympic vs Ashfield courtesy www.ashfieldsc.com)

First Division leaders Bayswater City welcomed to Frank Drago Reserve a The City side brimming with confidence following last weekends five-goal mauling of Dianella White Eagles. The home side started with a bang as Andrew O'Neill was sent through one-on-one with goalkeeper Paul Roseburgh and the young attacker made no mistake in giving the Bayswater faithful something to cheer about. Not to be denied, The City fought back and quickly leveled the score after Alex Grindley conceded a needless free-kick just outside the 18-yard box which Scott Wyeth took quickly to send the ball into the top corner of Dusan Martinovic's net. Boima Karpeh came close to restoring the hosts lead but his chip over the 'keeper crashed into the crossbar. The second half was a scrappy affair with neither side able to establish control. Bayswater were awarded a dubious penalty after Bobby Klenkoski was sent crashing to the floor, and Kevin Henderson stepped up to put his side in front with twenty minutes remaining. The City continually applied the pressure to the hosts in their quest for an equalise, but it wasn't until the dying minutes that they breached the home backline. A dangerous throw-in into The City area saw Grindley commit a foul for which the referee immediately pointed to the spot, Scott Wyeth converting to give the visitors a deserved point. Bayswater's reserves kept their good run going with a gutsy victory 2-0 courtesy of goals from Pasquale Marrapodi and Nick Paone, while the under-18 game ended in a 5-3 scoreline to the hosts for whom Zorgan Alsahmi (3) and Chris Herd (2) were the scorers.

Without Christian Paschewitz (suspended) and Mick Bobridge (injured), second-placed Mandurah City squandered a golden opportunity to make up ground on the league leaders by playing out a disappointing 1-1 draw with Stirling Suns at Peelwood Parade. In a match that was completely dominated by the home team, it was the Suns who drew first blood by scoring with their first attack after 29 minutes. After conceding possession unnecessarily in midfield, some sloppy defending on Mandurah's behalf allowed attacker David Moschilla to find the back of the net with a perfectly struck shot that gave goalkeeper Paul Dixon no chance. After going in front the Suns failed to create another chance on goal over the remainder of the afternoon, but it was a much different story for Mandurah who were unable to convert the numerous opportunities which came their way. Early in the second half the hosts were awarded a penalty after Andrew Rennie was brought down inside the area and youngster Jordan Rhodes was denied from the spot by Suns goalkeeper who was judged to have moved too early and Rhodes made no mistake with his second attempt. Mandurah then pushed desperately for the match winner but as was the case in the opening period luck was on the side f the visitors and the Suns managed to hold out for a well-earned point, despite the dismissal of Orkun Ozturk after 86 minutes. In the reserves, Mandurah continued their winning ways with a strong 5-1 victory that has kept them well on the way to taking out the league title. The hosts under-18 side also claimed maximum points but did so without kicking a ball as the Suns forfeited 3-0.

In clear, cool conditions, lowly Canning City hosted fourth-placed Queens Park at Willetton Sports Club on Saturday. The game started at a frenetic pace with Canning settling the earlier of the two sides. Ryan Allomes made an early threat on the visitors goal when Matt Santich crossed from the right and Allomes' headed over the visitors crossbar. Twenty minutes in Queens park attacker Brian Robertson came close to opening the score when he tried his luck from 20-metres only to hit the base of the post. The home team opened their account after 24 minutes when Mick Van Dongen's low strike from the edge of the 18-yard box tucked itself inside the far post. Just three minutes later Queens Park responded with a delightful display of crisp one-touch passing between Lynden Pywell and Robertson that opened up the opposing defence before Robertson drove the ball in off the far post from an acute angle. The two sides went into the half time break on level terms, but Queens Park had been able to settle into their preferred style of play rather than being rushed by Canning's pressing game. Six minutes into the second half Robertson scored his and Queens Parks second goal of the day with a low diagonal shot past goalkeeper Robby Meyer. Queens Park secured maximum points midway through the period via Glen Nobblett who dribbled into the dangerzone and hot a low shot inside the far post. Canning ended the game with ten men following the dismissal of Meyer in the 77th minute. Earlier in the day, Queens Park took out the reserve by 2-1 while the under-18 game ended in an 8-1 win to Canning.

It took Ashfield just 4 minutes before taking the lead over Kingsway Olympic when the two teams met at Kingsway Sporting Complex. The visitors got off to a flying start when John Monterosso beat his marker to cross deep for Muhamed Komadaric who out jumped two defender to head the ball over the goalkeeper and into the back of the net. From that point on Ashfield controlled proceedings but it was Olympic that scored after 43 minutes when the unmarked Steve Dimitrovich headed in a corner. Dion Florias and Alex Crookes then took the game into their own hands for the visitors by taking the ball straight into attack from the re-start with Florias blasting into the top corner from just inside the penalty area to made it 2-1. Ashfield came out firing on all cylinders after the interval and would have wrapped up the game if not for some brilliant goalkeeping from the Olympic custodian. The hosts got themselves back in the game through former Ashfield player Steven Bretti who leveled the score. With Ashfield stepping up their search for a winning goal, Wayne Culverwell had a close-range header pushed into the crossbar by the 'keeper who then denied Chris McCullough before the danger was cleared. The game looked destined to end drawn until the 89th minute when Wayne Culverwell intercepted a clearance by the 'keeper to cut the ball back to substitute Bradman Wilkinson who tapped in from close-range to send the Ashfield supporters and coaching staff into celebration mode. The reserves game was taken out by Olympic whose winner arrived in the final minute, while the under-18 fixture ended in victory to the hosts by 2-1. The youth team clash ended on a sour note with Ashfield defender Zac Jones suffering a suspected broken ankle.

Struggling Rockingham City made the trip to John Connell Reserve on Saturday for the First Division clash with Leeming Strikers. The home got off to a perfect start when Josef Tomancak was sent clear of the defence and chipped the advancing goalkeeper to open the Strikers account after 6 minutes. It took Rockingham just nine minutes to reply via Glen Hallums who brought the two teams back on level terms. Chances came and went at both ends of the park as both sides looked to go into the break with the lead. A minute before half-time the complexion of the game changed with the dismissal of Strikers player Dave Harken for a foul inside the area, and Hallums stepped up to convert the penalty to put Rockingham 2-1 up. Early in the second half the visitors added to their tally through Daniel Sirca who made the most of some stagnant defending at a corner. The Strikers pegged the gap back to a single goal after Carlo Di Toro headed in from a corner, but Rockingham could sniff victory in the air and weren't about to let the opportunity slip. With ten minutes to go Hallums completed his hat-trick by beating the offside trap and knocking the ball into Michael Smerilli's net, and Robert Crerar made it 5-2 after holding off a challenge from his marker. Shortly before the final whistle Di Toro again reduced the margin as Rockingham registered just their fourth win of the campaign to move level on points with Canning City as the season draws to a close.

Armadale made up ground on the top two with a 2-0 home win over strugglers Southside United. Jason Goodwin put the hosts in front after 20 minutes, and shortly before the interval both teams were reduced to ten men as Steven Tsallis (Armadale) and Tommy Drummond (Southside) were red carded. Three minutes into the new half Dennis Lee added to the Reds tally. Morley Windmills ended a five game losing streak with a 2-0 away defeat of a Dianella White Eagles side who have struggled for consistency this season. Simon Messenger scored in the 41st and 75th minutes for Windmills, while in the final minute the hosts had Mario Lucic sent off. Balcatta registered their fifth home win of the winter by thumping South West Phoenix 4-0. First half goals from Adrian Caloiero, Oriano Lapalombara and Scott Broadley set up the win which was completed when Carmelo Gumina netted after 55 minutes.

23.8.2003

STATE SPLIT OVER SELECTION OF GRIFFITHS (courtesy www.tribalfootball.com)

Local fans are still debating the merits of the State selection of 15-year old Rostyn Griffiths. The teenage midfielder hasn't yet played senior football for E.C.U. Joondalup, yet has been called up to a provisional 34-man State squad by coach Steve Simmons. Griffiths, who has spent time at Blackburn Rovers and Ipswich Town earlier this year, told the "West Australian" newspaper, "I think I do feel ready. I've been to England a few times and I'm sort of used to it. I feel like if I can play there, I can play here. It's an honour really." Simmons backed the youngsters selection. "He's got great vision, reads the game well, he's good in the air and he's got a great engine. If you're good enough, it doesn't matter how old you are." Griffiths, a regular for Joondalup's Under-18 side, could be part of the State squad for the challenge match with National Soccer League champion Perth Glory at Litis Stadium on 7th September.

23.8.2003

WEEKEND IN SUMMARY

Perth S.C. have made it back-to-back Premier League championships with a 3-1 defeat of second-placed Cockburn City at Dorrien Gardens. The visitors may have gone ahead via Boza Erakovic, but three goals in a blistering seven minute period by star striker Shane Crampton gave the Blues the trophy. Western Knights ended the top five hopes of Floreat Athena by holding them to a 2-2 draw, and Fremantle City are also out of contention for a play-off berth following their 2-2 away draw at E.C.U. Joondalup. Swan I.C. are still in with a mathematical chance of playing finals football following a 3-2 win over Stirling Lions. And Bassendean Caledonian have moved off the bottom of the table for the first time this winter after a surprise 2-1 defeat of third-placed Sorrento.

Armadale's 2-0 home defeat of neighbouring Southside United has brought them back into contention for promotion as the top two in the First Division falter. With six games remaining in the home-and-away season, leader Bayswater City were held to a 2-2 draw at home by The City, while Mandurah City drew 1-1 with the visiting Stirling Suns. Queens Park stay fourth courtesy of a 3-1 win at Canning City, and Ashfield stretched their unbeaten run to six games with a 3-2 result against Kingsway Olympic. Leeming Strikers went down 3-5 at home to Rockingham City, Dianella White Eagles lost 0-2 to Morley Windmills, and Balcatta thumped South West Phoenix 4-0.

22.8.2003

WEEKEND IN PREVIEW

The Premier League title could be decided on Saturday at Dorrien Gardens where Perth S.C. need only a single point from their clash with second-placed Cockburn City to make it back-to-back championships. A Sorrento win against bottom side Bassendean Caledonian will secure their place in the play-off series, while Western Knights can also make themselves safe with victory at home over Floreat Athena. Level on points and sitting just outside the five are E.C.U. Joondalup and Fremantle City who meet in the northern suburbs. Swan I.C. are home to Stirling Lions with the bye this week going to Inglewood United.

First Division leader Bayswater City this weekend come up against a The City side growing in confidence and coming off a 5-0 thrashing of Dianella White Eagles. Mandurah City are home to Stirling Suns, as third-placed Armadale welcome local rival Southside United to Alfred Skeet Oval. Canning City will find the going tough against Queens Park, and Kingsway Olympic verses Ashfield should be an interesting tussle between two very evenly matched sides. Dianella White Eagles take on the visiting Morley Windmills, Leeming Strikers are home to Rockingham City, and South West Phoenix travel to Balcatta.

22.8.2003

WOMEN'S TEAM TEST THEIR SKILLS

The women's State team flew to the eastern states this morning to test the waters as to the possible entry of a West Australian team in the Women's National Soccer League. "The squad is travelling to the east for the express reason of gauging our quality against a couple of N.S.L. teams with the end goal being to enter the competition the following season," said squad member Penny Hoath. "The powers to be have already given the green light to a West Australian team coming into the national league subject to funding, and coach Alistair Edwards is working very hard to encourage sponsors to back us. From our perspective, we will have to perform well to even consider being a part of the N.S.L. even if funding should become available."

The nine-day tour begins with a two-match series against W.N.S.L. side Adelaide Sensation and concludes in Melbourne late next week when the State team twice meets Victoria Vision who also play in the national competition. To help prepare for the trip the State team have played a series of recent friendlies with promising results. "We have a kick-ass team," added Hoath, a former Australian international. "I've been playing senior State soccer since 1987 and this is the best bonded and skilled team I have been privilege to be a part of. Alistair has been able to impart his wealth of experience on the players and given us tips as to how we can use them quickly and effectively against competent opponents. The way he has taught us has worked well against the local boys teams we played and I'm sure will overcome the lack of experience against better women opposition."

The West Australian women's squad boasts an incredible array of local talent. Five players from Floreat have been included in the 16-player squad including respected State captain Jessine Bonzas and highly rated defenderr Tanya Oxtoby who recently trialed with W.N.S.L. champion Queensland Sting. Joining the pair from the inner city club are former Australian Schoolgirls representatives Lisa Tana and Deb Gorton as well as Canadian import and recipient of the 2002 Premier League Fairest and Best award Sarah Cunningham. Balcatta's Helen Carroll is the only goalkeeper making the journey and is joined by Northern Redbacks teammates Amanda Tana, Nicola Williams and Luciana Colangelo. Also drawn from the Redbacks camp are Lisa DeVanna and Collette McCallum, both recently short-listed for the Australia Olympic squad. Former Australian international Penelope Hoath and 18-year old Joanne Allen hail from Lynwood, Lisa Ward has been turning on the style in the south of the state for Bunbury, and Queens Park are represented by former Australian Schoolgirls representatives Nadia Poulsen and Stacey Woodfin.

21.8.2003

BACZYNSKI REFLECTS ON SCHOOLBOYS TOURNAMENT

One of the star performers for the State Schoolboys at the recent national championships in Melbourne was Inglewood United's Michael Baczynski. Having stepped up to the senior ranks at club level earlier this year, the 16-year old attacker turned on the style in the eastern states and come tournaments' end was one of three West Australian players put forward for Australian Schoolboys honours. "I was pretty happy with the way I played," said Baczynski this week. "I played in midfield for the majority of the tournament which was something different for me and an experience that I learnt a lot from. I'm pleased that I was able to play well consistently over the week and it was nice to be named in the shadow squad, although I was a little disappointed to miss out on full selection. Special congratulations must go to Scott Blackmore for making the Australian Schoolboys team after trialling in England, and to Ben Rogers for also making the shadow team after traumatic personal circumstances ... well done lads."

The Schoolboys may have ended the tournament in fifth place with just one win to their credit, but there wasn't a great different between the West Australian side and those form the other states according to Basczynski. "It was a good tournament for all the W.A. boys, everyone played reasonably well and we were a bit unlucky not to get some better results in Melbourne," he commented. "Unfortunately we just didn't get that luck that you sometimes need in those sorts of tournaments. I think that we were pretty much on a par with the other states, but we made a few mistakes at crucial times and were punished for them whereas we were unable to capitalise on their errors. The players from the other states were a lot bigger than us physically and that might have intimidated a few of our boys at different times. In general though it was a very even competition and any of the states really could have taken away the honours. Our coaches Damon Atthowe and Kevin Griffiths did a great job and it was just a shame that a few more things couldn't have gone our way on the park."

21.8.2003

MURPHY ON DECK FOR GLORY

After an eleven-year career in England, Australian international Shaun Murphy this week touched down in Perth to commence a two-year contract with National Soccer League champions Perth Glory. One of the state's most successful soccer exports, Murphy turned down another season with First Division side Sheffield United to return home for personal reasons. "My wife ... she's been suffering with breast cancer for the last two years so it was a joint decision between us that we would come home and seek the support of our families," he said. The 32-year old defender is unlikely to have any regrets about leaving England. "I basically called time on that part of my career," he added said. "I'll miss it. It was hard to leave but I've moved on from that now and I'm focused on being here." Having played abroad for Notts County, West Bromwich Albion, Crystal Palace and Sheffield United, Murphy is now looking forward to the big game atmosphere of finals matches in Perth, something that was a far-off thought when he left western Australia in 1992. "When I was growing up and playing football here I never expected to see 40,000 people watching a game," he commented in reference to the record breaking crowds Glory has drawn to Subiaco Oval in recent years.

21.8.2003

NEW ERA OPENS FOR LOCAL SOCCER (by Mike Hennessey)

At the compulsory Soccer West Coast League of Management meeting held at Dorrien Gardens on Wednesday 20th August, clubs voted unanimously to indicate they were in favour of Soccer West Coast signing the Memoranum of Understanding (MOU) in relation to the restructure of the local game. With other soccer organisations having already agreed to sign, this means the code can move forward towards Stage One of a process that will see the establishment of a new Soccer Commission. The meeting was addressed by Ron Alexander and Kevin Watts of the Department of Sport and Recreation (DSR). They outlined the process forward that will provide soccer with the possibility of substantial funding as a top five sport - as the recent Morgan Gallop Poll Research showed soccer is, by a large margin, the biggest team participation sport in Western Australia and in Australia as a whole. Ron Alexander, in his first statement, made it plain that "the Sport will run the Sport."

The proposed seven member Commission will have three independent members, one each from Soccer West Coast, the Junior Soccer Association and WAASSA, and one appointed by the government. Stage One should take about two years in which the status quo will be maintained. As the new Commission prepares for the future it will have the advice of a Soccer Advisory Council that will be open to all areas of the sport to express their views. The Commission will have a chief excutive officer and a developmental officer, the former responsible for finance, administration, marketing, sponsorship and promotion while the latter will be developing an overall plan for the sport covering coaches, referees, sport medicine and adminsistration. John Quigley, a member of the S.W.C. board, spoke of the need to have a soccer commission that will have the clout that will enable the largest team participation sport in Australia (1.218million) to claim the funding its position warrants. He also emphasised the Government's goodwill towards soccer and its backing of the reform process.

The DSR will assist in the opening of new offices for the administration of the sport although Mr. Alexander mentioned that soccer might be selling itself short if it were to accept $200,000 to redevelop the seven-room cottage at Perth Oval. Clubs should note the services offered by the DSR. Its' club development scheme covers help with the starting and running of a club, the roles of president, secretary and treasurer, conducting a meeting and other administration functions. The signing of the MOU should open the door for government funding that, for example, could see the appointment of a full-time director of coaching. It was pointed out that clubs concerned at any aspect of the reforms have the two year period of Stage One to voice their concerns. In general business the need for all Premier League clubs from season 2004 to have their own teams in the junior champions league was discussed. The overall tone of the meeting was one of goodwill. The firm desire to move the game forward was evident throughout the meeting.

20.8.2003

IRISH COME FROM BEHIND TO DEFEAT SOCCEROOS

The Republic of Ireland have come from behind to defeat Australia 2-1 in the international friendly played at Lansdowne Road in Dublin overnight. The Socceroos began brightly with Marco Bresciano's 12th minute volley cannoning back off the underside off the crossbar. Minutes later a vicious low shot from Danny Tiatto was paddled wide by goalkeeper Nick Colgan, while down the opposite end Lucas Neil was influential in stifling Ireland's strike force lead by the dangerous Damien Duff. It wasn't until a minute before the break that the home nation threatened as Robbie Keane was denied by a smart reflex save by Mark Schwarzer. Australia took the lead early in the second half when Perth-born Stan Lazaridis coasted down the left flank and his centre found Mark Viduka who killed the ball with his thigh and slammed it into the net from close-range. Viduka was denied his second on the hour when he was played clear only to be denied by a fine low save from the advancing Golgan who also kept out Bresciano's follow-up. Ireland leveled the game in the 74th minute after a free-kick from Ian Harte was knocked past Schwarzer by John O'Shea. Buoyed by the goal, the Irish pressed for the winner which arrived seven minutes later via substitute Clinton Morrison after he raced onto a long pass played over the Australian defence by Harte.

20.8.2003

TARKA DEAL FINALISED (courtesy www.tribalfootball.com)

Perth Glory have accepted a $250,000 bid from English First Division club Nottingham Forest for promising young defender David Tarka. "We are disappointed with what was put on the table but that's reflective of the international soccer market," Glory chief Jeff Dennis told the "West Australian". Tarka accepted personal terms with Forest almost two weeks ago but the deal was delayed as the two clubs finalised the conditions of his transfer. The Australia Under-23 international chose to forgo a 10% cent slice of the transfer to smooth the deal in which Glory will net $180,000, with Soccer Australia to pick up around $30,000. Cockburn City, whom Tarka made his Premier League debut for at the age of 16, are entitled to about $25,000 of the transfer fee while the Australian Institute of Sport collecting in the vicinity of $12,000.

20.8.2003

SPONSORSHIP SOUGHT WOMEN'S TEAM

Western Australia may be represented in the Women's National Soccer League as early as next year according to Women's Soccer W.A. president Janette Spencer. The organisation have been given provisional approval to take part in the 2004 competition but requires financial backing to get it off the ground. "The board needs to get out and talk real dollars with potential sponsors. That's our job now," Spencer told Jonathon Cook of the "West Australian" newspaper. "We need at least a $20,000 a year sponsor for a three-year term." The women's game in this state has never been healthier with Lisa DeVanna, Collette McCallum, Candice Townsend, Ashley Bennett and Tal Karp, who plays in the W.S.N.L. for Canberra Eclipse, all in line for national honours in coming months. "In the history of our game, this has to be the most successful we've been," Spencer said. "If we had a (W.N.S.L.) team in Perth the chances are we could attract the likes of Tal Karp back here to play under our banner. The reason players have gone across there is because they were looking for opportunities at a time when they weren't being offered here."

19.8.2003

NEW LOOK FOR J.S.A. WEBSITE

With the Junior Soccer Association's Top Four finals series about to get underway, the association this week launched a new-look website at their regular http://www.jsawa.org.au address. The website has undergone a major overhaul and new includes all J.S.A. latest results, fixtures and tables, news on the various State teams and Junior Champions League, details of development programs and up-coming coaching courses, competition rules and regulations, and an exchange board through which clubs and players can advertise their wares. "Our aim is for the site to provide as much information as possible for all of those interested in the game and involved in the J.S.A.'s activities," said Lisa Bradock, the association's general manager. "The upgrade also coincides with the launch of a new format for the iScore website, which hosts our fixtures and results."

19.8.2003

GLORY TOO STRONG FOR ATHENA

Perth Glory have continued their preparations for the 2003/04 National Soccer League season with a 3-0 defeat of local club Floreat Athena on a chilly evening at Litis Stadium. The opening goal came midway through the first half when Tom Pondeljak's cross from deep on the right was brilliantly controlled by Damian Mori before blasting the ball past goalkeeper Vince Matassa. With Glory dominant across the middle of the park Mori doubled the margin shortly before the break by converting another Pondeljak cross. The icing was put on the cake in the second half by local product Gary Faria who finished brilliantly to wrap up the friendly win. There were strong performances from midfielders Wayne Shroj and Pondeljak along with former Rotherham United defender Mark Williams who is currently on trial with Glory.

18.8.2003

DRAW MADE FOR CUP SEMI-FINALS

The semi-final draw for the Boral Cup has produced two intriguing clashes to be staged to Litis Stadium in early September. On Saturday 6th September traditional rivals Perth S.C. meet Western Knights in what is sure to be a blockbluster. Perth also feature in the reserves where they take on Bassendean Caledonian, while in the under-18's it's Inglewood United against E.C.U. Joondalup. On Sunday 7th September the top flight's Swan I.C. come up against First Division outfit Kingsway Olympic for the right to play off for silverware. Cockburn City meet Stirling Lions in the reserves, and in the youth game it's Cockburn verses Fremantle City.

18.8.2003

AMATEURS ROUND-UP

Former Soccer West Coast clubs Balga and University of WA played in an important WAASSA Premier League game on Sunday, with UWA getting the win to keep them in the title hunt. University started off brightly going 1-0 up early in the game, but not before Anthony Banham, who has been injured for most of the season, equalising for Balga and putting them back into the game. UWA made it 2-1 before the break and it was all to play for after the interval. However, it was a different story in the second half, with University making the most of their opportunities and getting the goals they wanted. The final score being 7-1 to University of WA.

Hamersley Rovers bounced back from last weeks defeat by Spearwood Dalmatinac with a solid 4 -1 win against a difficult opponent in Perth Azzurri in a game played at the tiny Beatty Park ground on Sunday. However with Fremantle also gaining three points from an excellent win at Kwinana and a big win for UWA against bottom side Balga the race for this years title remains wide open. The first half was all Hamersley and they took the lead when Darren Yates turned sweetly on the edge of the box to fire into the top stanction with the keeper nowhere. They were then awarded a penalty which was turned around the post for a corner, from the ensuing corner Martin Ireland rose high to head home after a near post flick on by Peter O'Connell. Azzurri were not getting much headway from midfield and it was a complete surprise when they scored after a break and attempted offside failed for the half time score to be 2 -1 in favour of Hamersley. The second half was much the same as the first with Hamersley generally in control and they were soon on the scoreboard again when Yates beat the offside trap to cooly round the keeper and then Ireland got his second from another corner and far post header. Azzurri lost Nikolovski after his second bookable offence picked up trying to keep tabs on leading scorer Labbate. No further goals were added although Labbate and Yates went close. There is along way still to go in the league but Hamersley's squad is getting stronger all the time and they will be there or thereabouts come the end of the season.

Fremantle United remain one point behind league leaders Hamersley, after a solid 4-0 win away to Kwinana United. Murdoch University still have the possibility of relegation hanging over their shoulders after a 2-1 loss at home to Forrestfield United, while Spearwood Dalmatinac thrashed North Perth United 9-0. Canning International continued their good season with a 2-1 victory over Shamrock Rovers. For a more complete look at the amateurs game in Western Australia, including results for all WAASSA competitions, the latest news and so forth, visit http://waassa.ola.com.au

16.8.2003

COMFORTABLE HIT-OUT FOR GLORY

Off-season recruit Tom Pondeljak bagged his first goals for Perth Glory when they defeated First Division opponent Armadale 9-0 in a pre-season friendly at Alfred Skeet Oval. It was another useful work-out for Glory as they prepare to defend their National Soccer League championship. Played out in front of a healthy crowd on a sunny afternoon, Damian Mori opened the scoring after 12 minutes when he headed home a Mark Byrnes cross. Eight minutes later Tom Pondeljak opened his account with a low right foot drive, and Glory went to the break with a three goal cushion thanks to Brad Hassell's simple finish. Pondeljak's crossbar-rattling effort and a fine shot from Hassell which forced a good save from the Armadale goalkeeper were clear signs that there were more goals to come for the N.S.L. side. Their fourth came three minutes in to the second half when Pondeljak finished a neat move by chipping into the net. Adrian Caceres hit the woodwork and Hassell had an effort cleared off the line as Glory not unexpectedly dominated possession. A brace from Nick Mrdja was the reward, then Anthony Danze headed home to make it 7-0 before Mori scored from the spot. Mrdja completed his hat-trick and the scoring seven minutes from full-time.

16.8.2003

PREMIER LEAGUE, ROUND TWENTY (Bassendean Caledonian vs Perth S.C. by Bill McAllister; Western Knights vs Fremantle City courtesy www.westernknights.web1000.com ; Floreat Athena vs Stirling Lions by Don Evans)

The Premier League clash at National Stadium on Saturday between Inglewood United and Cockburn City had a lot to offer both clubs. Out of action next weekend with the bye, the hosts knew that victory today would put them in god stead for a spot in the top five play-off series. Following a dramatic come-from-behind draw with Sorrento seven days earlier, coach Eddy Hodgkinson made just one change to his side with State Schoolboys striker Michael Baczynski coming into the line-up in place of Renato Rechichi. Cockburn have had a brilliant season under debutant coach Mirko Jelicic, the side going into the match undefeated in 13 starts to be placed second behind competition heavyweights Perth S.C. with the regular campaign fast drawing to a close. Today the southerners would have to do without experienced defender Boza Erakovic due to injury while hard-working Steve Adam had to make do with a place on the bench. With the sun streaming down from a blue sky as the sides took to the park, the stage was set for an entertaining afternoon's football.

The crowd were still settling into their seats when Cockburn went in front, John Mirco making the most of some poor defending to work the ball to the byline from where he played it low to the near post and Michael Mirco did the rest, tucking his shot under goalkeeper Oliver Taseski with just a minute gone. In a very quick opening to the game John Mirco slammed a low shot into the side netting following a darting run down the left flank, and minutes later at the opposite end Ryan Newhill waltzed past Dusan Macura but the big striker's low cross narrowly evaded the outstretched leg of Louis Parkinson. Inglewood's day went from bad to worse as Mileta Miletic slotted the ball to the top corner of the box where Peter Petkovich shrugged off a challenge by Shaun Kilkelly and drove his shot under the advancing 'keeper to make it 2-0 after 10 minutes. Rory Mouttet called Dino Pacella into action for the first time with a rocket from the top of the area which the Cockburn custodian tipped over the crossbar. And in the 21st minute Scott Campbell's curling cross from the right was met solidly by Alan MacKenzie whose downward header was spectacularly kept out by Pacella.

Although two goals down Inglewood very still very much in the game, the home team continually matching their opponent but finding ways past a well-organised defence hard to come by. A succession of corners produced little to cause Pacella any great concern, then on the half hour a long-range shot from Parkinson curled narrowly wide of the far post. A minute later John Mirco, who appeared suspiciously offside, raced on to a long ball played over the defence to go inside the 18-yard box and hammer an unstoppable shot past Taseski and inside the far post. Ten minutes from the break Kosta Kalavroutziotis found the back of the net after Pacella was unable to hold a fierce drive from Michael Baczynski but after consulting with his assistant on the line referee Eddie Lennie disallowed the goal. Bad luck continued to plague Inglewood as Kalavroutziotis limped from the ground with a leg injury to force coach Hodgkinson into a couple of unplanned positional changes. The hosts pushed forward with regularity but, unable to penetrate Cockburn's backline, were forced to shoot from distance with a powerful Kilkelly drive from 18-metres which rose over Pacella's goal the closest Inglewood came to scoring.

Some stern words from Hodgkinson at the break saw Inglewood emerge for the new half fired up and within four minutes of the re-start they'd opened their account for the afternoon. Michael Baczynski fended off a challenge from Macura to go inside the 18-yard box and draw Pacella out of position before squaring to the unmarked Parkinson who gleefully slammed the ball into an unguarded net. Buoyed by the goal, Inglewood went in search of a second but like earlier in the game were unable to find a way past their opponents defence in which Macura and Josh Pescud were the lynch pins. In the 57th minute John Mirco benefitted from an Inglewood mistake in the centre circle, evaded three challenges as he made his way into the penalty area and drilled his shot past the advancing 'keeper to score Cockburn's fourth goal. Another error in midfield by the host club two minutes later permitted John Mirco to again run with the ball into attack, drawing the defence before squaring to Miletic whose powerful strike from 15-metres produced a great diving save from Taseski. With their three goal buffer restored, any thoughts Cockburn may have entertained that Inglewood would give up the chase were quickly proved wrong as Kilkelly played a delicate ball into the path of Parkinson who scuffed his shot on goal and Pacella gathered comfortably.

It was all one-way traffic over the final half-hour as Inglewood lifted in intensity. Michael Baczynski used his muscle to shoulder Macura off the ball and play a low centring pass to Parkinson who was unable to make the most of the opportunity from 10-metres. A free-kick played in by MacKenzie was solidly met at the back post by Kilkelly whose header crashed into the side netting. Mouttet made his way past an opponent wide on the left and his mis-cued cross forced Pacella into a desperate save as the ball headed for the far top corner of his goal. Inglewood's dominance was evident as their corner count climbed to in excess of twenty five, but still they were unable to stick the ball in the net. A defensive slip-up allowed Michael Baczynski in but Pacella was quick off his line to smother at the feet of the young striker after 85 minutes. Pacella was called into action two minutes later to push a strong header by Jamie Kuzmanovich around the post following a lovely cross from the right by MacKenzie. The final shot of the match came in stoppage time when Michael Baczynski tried his luck from distance and Pacella watched his effort sail harmlessly over the crossbar.

The final three-goal margin in Cockburn's favour suggests their win was a comfortable one, but the reality was anything but that. Apart from a busy opening period in which the visitors scored twice, it was Inglewood that looked the more confident on the ball and had the majority of possession only to be let down by some unforced errors - that resulted in three goals - and woefully inadequate finishing. Right wingback Campbell ran himself into the ground for the hosts before being replaced late in the game, while the performance of defender Kuzmanovich was also deserving of praise. Relying chiefly on catching their opponent with quick counter attacks, Cockburn were well served by experienced sweeper Macura and there were also lively displays from rising stars Miletic and Jeff Bright. The win sets up a potential championship decider next weekend when Cockburn travel to Dorrien Gardens where they'll meet leaders Perth S.C. who sit three points above them on the table with just two rounds remaining in the home and away series.

Inglewood United : Oliver Taseski, Shaun Kilkelly, Daniel Kovacevic (Paul Baczynski 75), Jamie Kuzmanovich, Scott Campbell (Renato Rechichi 76), Kosta Kalavroutziotis (Jamie Goodman 40), Rory Mouttet, Alan MacKenzie, Ryan Newhill, Louis Parkinson, Michael Baczynski
Cockburn City : Dino Pacella, Dusan Macura, Josh Pescud, Mario De Felice, Jeff Bright, Michael Mirco, Evan Wallace (Roberto Colalillo 78), Shane McNally, John Mirco, Peter Petkovich (Jason Dos Santos 84), Mileta Miletic (Steve Adam 78)
Bookings : Kilkelly (71)
Dismissals : None
Referee : Eddie Lennie
Attendance : 200 (approx.)

It was bottom verses top at Jubilee Reserves where Bassendean Caledonian took on Premier League leader Perth S.C. in picture perfect conditions on Saturday afternoon. The home side started with an impressive move in which Kevin Smith relayed possession to Matt Donlevy, the midfielder played the ball through to Andy Cornmell who was brought down by goalkeeper Robert Scarparolo and the referee hesitated not moment in pointing to the spot. Cornmell stepped up and dispatched the penalty past Scarparolo to give the home team the lead with just 2 minutes played. Perth's first opening came not long after but Aaron Cole's strike on goal was just wide of the target. But the dominant side over the opening period were Caledonian who continually forced Perth into performing defensive duties. A exchange between Ramon Westerberger and Cornmell resulted in Kevin Griffiths heading the latter's cross just over the crossbar. In the 25th minute a Perth corner was cleared by goalkeeper Steve Grant to Donlevy who quickly streamed into attack with Ian Griffiths but defender Vince Tana was able to eliminate the danger. Perth leveled seven minutes later as Rhys Graham, who appeared to be in an offside position, allowed to unleash from just outside the penalty box. With half-time approaching, a long free-kick into attack by Smith was flicked on by Westerberger for Cornmell to score his and the teams second goal. Perth reduced the chances of an upset six minutes after the interval when Mark Pottier equalised to set up an intriguing second half. Grant was alert to keep out a fine free-kick by Todd Howarth free kick, and later in the period Cornmell slipped the ball the wrong side of the upright. With five minutes remaining Howarth swung the ball into the area from the left and Shane Crampton was placed to head in what would be the winning goal. Perth came close to extending their lead in the closing stages when Tana was through with only the 'keeper to beat but Grant reacted smartly to thwart.

The top five aspirations of Swan I.C. have all but vanished following Saturday's 2-2 draw with Sorrento at Percy Doyle Reserve. The black and whites took the lead with a goal in the last minute of the first half from Paul Lincoln who benefitted from some great work by Elton Holmes. Lincoln scored his second of the day, and his tenth of the season, midway through the second period after being set-up by young attacker Tom Shepheard. With a two-goal advantage, Swan let three valuable points slip from their grasp as goals from Jared Love and defender Steven MacDonald in the space of four minutes allowed the northern suburbs side to draw level and extend their undefeated run to twelve games. A more comprehensive report of this game will appear once further details come to hand.

Ronnie Campbell's Western Knights need to win their remaining two fixtures to guarantee themselves a finals berth for the sixth successive season following the weekend's 3-2 defeat of Fremantle City at Nash Field. The first half saw very few scoring opportunities, however, Knights goalkeeper Tom Tomich had to be on his toes while Bobson Karoma made one terrific save early on to keep out a thunderous Claus Neilsen shot. Neilsen had Karoma again scrambling five minutes into the second half when he unleashed a powerful long-range effort that whistled past the upright. It was therefore no surprise when Neilsen opened the scoring on the hour, Carl Medica rolling a free-kick to the Danish import who chose guile rather than power to curl his low shot to the left of Karoma's outstretched hands. Five minutes later the Knights had the ball in the back of the Fremantle net again, via of Paul Cooke, but the goal was disallowed as Trim Morgan had impeded a defender in the lead-up. Fremantle took the free-kick quickly and a hopeful long ball appeared harmless enough until an error by Evan Wallace which allowed former Cowdenbeath player Craig Young to accelerate into the box before blasting past a helpless Tomich. Four minutes later Young doubled his and Fremantle's tally, Tomich blocking the strikers initial shot but unable to recover in time to keep out the follow-up which Young hammered it into the roof of the net. In the 79th minute the Knights were back on level terms as Leon Russell's over-hit cross was collected by Paul McVittie who showed sublime skill to control the ball, swivel and hit the perfect cross for Daniel Trim to power his header past Karoma and in off the underside of the crossbar. A minute later the Fremantle goalkeeper self-destructed. Trim's weak effort was straight at the big Ghanaian who ran to the edge of his area and thrust the ball and his shoulder into the face of Paul Cooke, leaving referee Patrick McCaffrey with no option but to red card Koroma. After a lengthy delay Medica calmly slotted the resultant spot kick past replacement 'keeper Michael Basilio to return the lead to the home side. With two minutes to go Medica had the chance to put the icing on the cake as Morgan lost his marker to sent an inch-perfect cross to the Knight's captain whose volley was sadly high.

At Litis Stadium, Floreat Athena needed to take maximum points from their derby meeting with traditional rival Stirling Lions in order to keep alive their slim chances of participating in the end of season play-offs. The visitors showed their desire to win for just the third time this season from early on with Keegan Ashley leading the charge, the midfielder firing on goal in the opening minutes. Happy to sit back and soak up the pressure, Athena's first attack came after 16 minutes with James Trandos' shot forcing young goalkeeper Jordan Conti into a great reflex save. In a game where defence became the order of the day, it was clear that the scorer of the first goal was likely to be the conquerer. Athena came close in the 22nd minute when a curling corner from Matthew Novatsis was cleared off the line by vigilant defence from Leo Harman. The Lions brightest chance fell to Eugene Singeorzan seven minutes from half-time when he found himself through on goal only to have goalkeeper Vince Matassa make an instinctive body save. The half-time whistle came with both sides right in the mix for maximum points. After a very even start to the second period an error in defensive from the visitors allowed Sasa Kalibarda to ghost in and rifle the ball into the bottom corner past the outstretched hands of Conti after 60 minutes. With the Lions fighting valiantly to restore equality on the scoreboard, the ball was scrambled wide of the target then Ashley had a fine shot held by Matassa in quick succession. Andreas Oliviera showed his class late in the game by turning sharply to hit a smashing shot from outside the area to seal the win for Athena.

16.8.2003

RESERVES AND UNDER-18'S ROUND-UP

Reserve competition leader Perth S.C. thumped lowly Bassendean Caledonian 10-1 at Jubilee Reserve. The pattern of the game was established early on as Vlado Milasinovic, Jason Colli and Damien Catalano found the back of the net inside the opening ten minutes, and a goal from Albert Osei-Tutu after 19 minutes effectively killed off the match as a contest. Caledonian goalkeeper Alan Dunlop made numerous important saves to prevent the margin from blowing out even further prior to the break. Perth went on the rampage early in the new half with further goals coming from Catalano, Osei-Tutu and Cosimo Cavalaro before Graeme Matthews netted the home teams solitary goal. Osei-Tutu completed his hat-trick in the 70th minute with Craig Simpson completing the scoreline nine minutes later. Inglewood recorded a convincing 5-1 home win over Cockburn City to stay in second place. Inglewood's goals came from Fahid Albunajim, who scored a hat-trick, Jason Godfrey and Lee Haienko while Roberto Colalillo netted for Cockburn midway through the second half.

Third-placed Sorrento registered a 2-1 come-from-behind win over Swan I.C. who ended the game with nine players. The game started badly for Swan with Robert Shepheard being sent off after 26 minutes, but to their credit the visitors held firm to go into the break on level terms. Ten minutes into the second half Scott Patterson gave Swan the lead as an upset looked on the cards. The turning point came after 69 minutes with the dismissal of Kyle Greenaway, three minutes later Sorrento level via Jake Harman and in the 76th minute Trevor Morgan popped up to bag the winner. Western Knights went down 0-2 at home to Fremantle City whose goals came either side of the break via Saul Contera and Michael Cutri. At Litis Stadium, Floreat Athena were held to a 1-1 draw by Stirling Lions in a match that both sides finished with ten men. Jerome Vallett gave the Lions the lead after 38 minutes but Gerald O'Brien equalised in the 66th minute. Chris Gakis (Athena) and Danny Carlino (Lions) were the players dismissed.

Fremantle City squandered a golden opportunity to go level on points at the top of the under-18 table with E.C.U. Joondalup, who were out of action with the bye, when held 1-1 by Western Knights at Nash Field. Sebastian Trim got the port side off on the right foot by netting after 1 minute but his goal was cancelled out shortly before the break by Ryan Fitzgerald. Third-placed Perth S.C. hit eight without reply from a luckless Bassendean Caledonian at Jubilee Reserve. Cormac Dawson got the ball rolling for the visitors inside the opening minute, Chris Socratous doubled the margin midway through the half, and Nikita Ruravytsya made it 3-0 after 29 minutes. A minute in the second half Jan Zablocki added to the tally before Dean Sinagra scored three times in the space of eleven minutes. Zablocki completed the scoreline after 75 minutes.

Floreat Athena assured themselves of berth in the finals series with a 3-0 defeat of Stirling Lions at Litis Stadium. Cockburn City held on to fifth place courtesy of their 4-0 win at Inglewood United. First half goals from Luke Eoannidis and Jason De Abreu set the southerners on course for maximum points, but it wasn't until the final ten minutes that victory was confirmed when Carlo Cardosa and De Abreu found the back of the net. One point behind and keeping the pressure on Cockburn are Sorrento who won 2-1 at Percy Doyle Reserve over Swan I.C. Dejan Gurovski gave the Seagulls the lead after 15 minutes but early in the second half Jay Bunton brought the teams back on a level footing. Two minutes from full-time Sorrento wrapped up a tight game with the winning goal coming from Jay MacDonald.

16.8.2003

FIRST DIVISION, ROUND TWENTY FOUR (Morley Windmills vs Bayswater City by Adam Rucci; South West Phoenix vs Mandurah City by Barry Rennie; Rockingham City vs Armadale by Michael Di Pietro; Ashfield vs Queens Park courtesy www.ashfieldsc.com; Canning City vs Kingsway Olympic by Phil Unsworth)

Bayswater City made the short trip to Wotton Reserve on Saturday to face neighbouring Morley Windmills in Round Twenty Four of the First Division season. With striker Ray Rose back following time in the eastern states Windmills were confident of toppling the competition leaders who were without Daniel Vangelovski (school camp) and Sean Cowman (suspension). The game started scrappily with both sides playing shocking football over the opening half. The visitors created scattered chances chances with Andrew O'Neill going closest, while Daniel Naumovski was well placed to give them the lead only to mis-kick. The second half began in much the same fashion as the first with Bayswater unsuccessful in their attempts to break down a resilient Windmills backline. But their persistence was eventually rewarded after Kevin Henderson played the ball out wide to O'Neill whose fantastic cross found striker Boima Karpeh and he made no mistake in making it 1-0. A couple of substitutions from Windmills has the effect of putting Bayswater under pressure as the hosts went in search of an equalising goal which finally arrived two minutes from full-time when Rydeen Botha's shot hit the post and the rebound was put away by substitute Zoran Petreski from close-range. With time very much against them Bayswater immediately set about adding to their tally as Windmills goalkeeper Matt Darling paddled a deflected shot over the crossbar. The resultant corner produced a scramble for possession in which Bobby Klenkoski netted to send the Bayswater faithful into raptures with pretty much the last kick of the game. The reserves meeting ended in a 1-1 draw while the under-18 game saw Bayswater victors by 13-1.

Mandurah City bounced back from a disappointing loss last weekend by defeating South West Phoenix at Bunbury's Soccerdrome on Saturday afternoon. The visitors were in control from the start and were never in serious danger as their push for promotion regained momentum. Making good use of the wide playing surface, Mandurah wreaked havoc on the Phoenix defence with an attacking style that suited their hard running forwards. The scoring was opened after Andrew Rennie took on the defence to run the ball to the goal line from he turned sharply onto the brought down by a reckless tackle which resulted in a penalty that Jordan Rhodes converted. The margin was stretched when some solid defensive work produced an quick attack in which Rennie was on hand the finish from close-range. Phoenix' only real opportunities in reducing the deficit came through former Mandurah player Pat Roberts but these were repelled through some excellent work from defensive trio Peter Knight, Gary Collins and Damian Condo. The second half was controlled by Mandurah but the visitors were able to translate that dominance on the scoreboard only once, that through a thundering strike from Steven Rhodes. Mandurah had the opportunity to further close the goal difference gap on leader Bayswater in the dying seconds however Jordan Rhodes failed to convert a second penalty after Rennie had beaten the last defender. Both Mandurah's reserve and under-18 teams got back to winning ways with 1-0 and 2-1 results respectively.

Third-placed Armadale travelled to Dowling Street reserve on Sunday knowing that victory over Rockingham City would to them in step with leaders Bayswater City and Mandurah City. Perhaps feeling the effects of the previous days friendly with Perth Glory, the Reds turned in their worst first half performance of the season to trail 0-1 at the break after Marc Hornby netted for the hosts after 28 minutes. Stern words from coach Billy Russell in the changing room and some positional changes completely turned the game around as Armadale emerged for the second half charged up. Dennis Lee converted from the penalty spot to level the game nine minutes into the second, substitute Steve Tsalis gave the Reds the lead before Lee bagged his second in the 76th minute as the visitors set their sights on taking maximum points. There were numerous additional opportunities for Armadale to carry on their goalscoring but it never eventuated as Rockingham pegged back the margin in the closing stages through Glen Hallums. The win - Armadale's seventh in eight weeks - firmed up their place near the top of the table but they'll have to rely upon both Bayswater and Mandurah to drop points over the final weeks of the season to have any hope to winning promotion to the top flight. There was an upset in the reserves with Rockingham winning 1-0 courtesy of a penalty converted by Scott Stephens in the second half. Rockingham claimed all three points in the under-18 fixture, also by a 1-0 scoreline.

Ashfield's 1-1 home drew with fourth-placed Queens Park kept them in seventh on the First Division table at the completion of the round. The visitors started confidently by making having the better of possession and knocking the ball round the park to good effect but unable to break down their opponent defensive core of Daniel Taylor, David Mayers and Edin Mehic. It wasn't until the last ten minutes of the first half that Ashfield began to get forward with any degree of menace but, like Queens Park, there was little which really tested the goalkeeper. Ashfield continued the control play after the break only to fall a goal behind on the hour when Linden Pywell made a great zigzagging run before rifling the ball into the back of the net. The home side looked destined to suffer their first loss in four weeks until the 73rd minute when Wayne Culverwell slammed in from close-range following a low corner from Alex Crookes. The were further chances at both ends but with neither side able to add to their tally the game ended with honours even. Ashfield claimed victory from a tight reserves meeting in which the games only game arrived after 75 minutes via Terry Arapis. But it was Ashfield's defensive unit of Eldin Ibrisimovic, Martin Kelly, Craig Culverwell, Arapis and 16-year old Steven Pearse that they had to thank for the victory after holding a determined at bay for the entire 90 minutes. The under-18 match ended in a 2-0 win to the home side whose goals came from James Barker and substitute Hussain Atekhis.

Having defeated Kingsway Olympic earlier in the season, Canning City were quietly confident going into Saturday's meeting at Willetton Sports Club despite several recent changes to the playing staff. There were no significant, on target, attempts on goal over the opening period as the two sides sized eachother up. The first incident of note occurred after 9 minutes when Canning's Paul Oliver was shown a red card by referee Glynn Moore. Although a man down with the vast majority of the match to be played, Canning stuck to their game plan as Shane Laing became the lone target man in attack. Indeed, the only two opportunities in the half came the way of the home side but neither Ryan Alomes nor Laing were able to make the most of their chances. After the half time break Canning had a great opportunity to take the lead when Laing neatly rounded Olympic defender Scott Evans to make his way into the 18-yard box where he was brought down and a penalty awarded. Laing stepped up to take the spot kick himself but his shot towards the centre of goal cannoned off the legs of goalkeeper Matt Battigelli. After this incident Olympic seemed to gain a greater appetite to win the game and they took the lead when substitute Louis Elliott volleyed the ball into the roof of the net following an impressive display of one-touch passing as they went forward. The hosts pressed hard for an equaliser with Laing coming close with a long-range strike which Battigelli pushed wide of the target. In the end Olympic ground out a win but the result must have been cold comfort against a very gallant ten man Canning side. The win make it a clean-sweep for Olympic who took out the reserves 5-0 and the under-18 match 3-2.

At Kingsway Sporting Complex, The City had little trouble in accounting for a lacklustre Dianella White Eagles side. The home team went into the break holding a one-goal advantage courtesy of Ben Yates' goal after 16 minutes. Five minutes into the second half Scott Wyeth doubled the margin as The City sought to kill off the game. But it wasn't until the closing stages that they really hit peak form. In the 72nd minute Adam Bachiller made it 3-0, Scott Wyeth added his second four minutes later, and the scoreline was completed in the 83rd minute by Adam Windley. "This result has been coming for a while," said The City coach Stuart Currie following his sides victory. "In fact it could have been double this score if it had not been for some poor finishing on our behind. With six 16-year olds in our starting line-up, it was great to see such a young team play with so much authority against a very good opponent from the top half of the table. I'm sure that many people who made up what was a very large crowd today will return to watch The City again."

Elsewhere, Southside United registered their third win at Walter Padbury Reserve when they accounted for Leeming Strikers 2-1. Tommy Drummond and Ian Maguire got themselves on the scoresheet for the home team while the Strikers, who had Craig Ruthven sent off shortly