31.8.2004
CENTURY OF CHAMPIONS ON SALE
The West Australian Soccer Hall of Fame have available for sale a limited number of souvenir book from last months successful Century of Champions ceremony. The glossy book contains profile of all one hundred players honoured on the night along with a brief history of the round ball game in this state. Those interested in purchasing the publication are encouraged to contact Hall of Fame committee Louis Prospero member on 0413 041 942 or via pccd@mbox.com.au. The remaining copies of the Century of Champions book, which at $10.00 each (plus postage) are excellent value, won't last long.
31.8.2004
SOCCEROOS CALLED INTO CAMP
National coach Frank Farina has named a near full strength squad for a four-day training camp in London commencing tomorrow. Amongst the 22-players invited are West Australian Stan lazaridis, who plies his trade for top flight English club Birmingham City, and Perth Glory defender Jade North. With the week set aside for FIFA official competition matches, Farina will have a rare opportunity to view first hand his squad ahead of next month's Confederations Cup qualifying series against the Solomon Islands.
30.8.2004
SWAN YOUNGSTERS STATE THEIR CLAIM (courtesy Swan I.C.)
Seven players from the Swan Valley this year had the honour of representing West Australia at various levels. Over the past few years there's been a gradual improvement in the overall quality of players produced by Swan I.C. and the appointment of Gary Marocchi as senior coach and director of football has considerably strengthened the clubs position. The former Australian captain and inaugural coach of Perth Glory has brought a new level of professionalism throughout the club which has filtered all the way down to the juniors.
After establishing himself as a first team regular, 18-year old defender Danyal Bennett earned selection for the State Under-19 side which twice defeated the Victorian Institute of Sport in late June. Another member of the senior squad, Daniel Simcox, captained the State Schoolboys side which won the silver medal in the Australian Secondary Schools Soccer Championship in Adelaide early this month. Goalkeeper Daniel Agudelo, Scott Lewry and utility Stephen Bettella each won Under-16 representative honours for West Australia this year. Swan have two players in the Under-15 side for the upcoming National Talent Identification Championship in Jovo Pavolic and Phillip Arnold.
"It's great that these players have been selected to play for the State teams," said Swan president John Muriale. "It shows that the quality of players at Swan has improved. It is greatly due to the coach's ability to identify and harness the talent of these players. With Gary at the helm junior and youth players are being given a greatly improved standard of coaching. It's these players who are the future of the club and we hope that the juniors of the local area will strive to follow in their footsteps. Gary has strong views on promoting young players to the first team and we're hopeful that these players will become regulars in the near future."
30.8.2004
LONG SEASON GETS THUMBS UP
The count was close in last week's www.soccerwa.com poll which asked "Is a seven month First Division season to long?" 47.3% of respondents were in the affirmative, saying thirty games is far too many at First Division level. But they were over-shadowed by the No vote which accounted for 52.7% of voters who believe a long season is a good season.
30.8.2004
COYNE GOES DUTCH
Local product Jamie Coyne has joined Dutch club ADO Den Haag. The versatile left sided player impressed the club's coaching staff during trials over the past fortnight and late last week agreed terms on a two-year deal. "I hope can settle in quickly at the club and over the coming years become established as a regular," he said via the clubs official website. Coyne shot to prominence during three seasons with Perth S.C. during which time he won State representative honours and took out the Gold Medal as the Premier League best and fairest player in 2002. He then spent two seasons with Perth Glory, making 33 appearances and part of the club's back-to-back Grand Final wins.
30.8.2004
COACH MISSES KNIGHTS BIG DAY
Celebrations went late into the night after Western Knights clinched their second Premier League crown in six years with Saturday's 2-1 win over E.C.U. Joondalup. But one person who missed out on the party was the clubs long-serving coach Ronnie Campbell who was unfortunately interstate because of work commitments. "I rang before, during and after the games," Campbell said from Sydney. Knights assistant coach Willie Kelly kept Campbell informed throughout the match. "I'm delighted for the players because it was an unbelievable achievement. We haven't been spectacular this season and we've won the games by the odd goal, but winning the league was our target at the start of the season. I think our defence, discipline and desire have been the three things that have got us there."
29.8.2004
WARD TIPPED FOR AWARD
With three games remaining in the Premier League season, Stirling Lions midfielder Nick Ward is favoured to take out the "Sunday Times"/Westwool Carpets Player of the Year award. Ward, an Australian youth international, top the leaderboard with 24 votes at the completion of Round Nineteen. Injured E.C.U. Joondalup defender Jamie Kuzmanovich is five votes behind with Ross Barnes (Bayswater City) and Aaron Cole (Perth S.C.) close behind with 18 votes apiece. Fremantle City's Gary Faria is placed fourth on 17 votes, which is one more than Antonio Naglieri (Cockburn City) and the top flight's leading goalscorer David Foster (Swan I.C.). With 15 votes is Greg Sharland (Inglewood United), and breathing down his neck are John Mirco (Cockburn) and Mark Lee (Western Knights) who have each accumulated 14 votes.
29.8.2004
WOMEN'S WRAP
Balcatta earned their place in the season finale of the Women's Soccer WA Premier League season by defeating Queens Park 2-0 in today's Preliminary Final. Northern Redbacks and Balcatta will meet in the Premier League Grand Final next Sunday under lights at Coulston Road, Ashfield, from 7.00pm. The match will be preceded by the Reserves Grand Final which pits Subiaco B against East Fremantle B from 4.30pm.
Murdoch University booked their place in the First Division Grand Final with a 3-1 defeat of Swan I.C. Murdoch opened their account in the 10th minute when Janni Vigen's long ball found Jo Steer whose shot from the edge of the 18-yard box found the net despite the best efforts of the Swan goalkeeper. The black and whites equalised following a corner, but minutes from half-time Murdoch regained the lead through an unstoppable shot from Steer. Swan pressed after the break but were unable to find many holes in a defence marshalled by Helene Aarstad. With Steph Battista and Petrina Brewer controlling midfield, the result was put beyond doubt midway through the half when Steer completed her hat-trick with a lob over the 'keeper.
In the days other First Division play-off match, Beckenham Angels defeated Noranda 2-1. The Angels take on Murdoch in the First Division Grand Final next Sunday at Hossack Reserve, Lynwood, starting at 1.30pm. There are a host of other Grand Final games preceding the main game - visit the Women's Soccer WA website for further details.
29.8.2004
WAASSA, ROUND NINETEEN
UWA won a quite astonishing match 5-3 after being 3-0 down after 20 minutes against Colo Colo at McGillivray Oval in the WAASSA Autostrada Premier League soccer fixture on Sunday. Colo Colo started with a goal in the first minute when a Colo Colo forward blasted the ball home after a good block by UWA goalkeeper Josh Davenport. UWA replied with a chance of their own when Robert Benkovic was put through by Max Percy only to be denied by the legs of Colo Colo keeper Pedro Pavezs. Despite several other chances UWA then went 2-0 down when a Colo Colo midfield player hit a long speculative shot which dipped under the bar. Colo Colo's John Da Silva then hit a free kick which swirled in the wind and somehow found itself in the UWA goal off the hand of UWA goalkeeper Josh Davenport. UWA immediately hit back when a Paul Dimmock corner was headed in by Robert Benkovic to make it 3-1. Moments later UWA's Max Percy hit a corner to the head of David Berg to make it 3-2. Just before half time a Colo Colo forward was sent off for a second offence against UWA goalkeeper Josh Davenport. After 60 minutes UWA made it 3-3 when David Berg scored with a shot following a Robert Benkovic cross. After 72 minutes UWA's David Berg did well to find Robert Benkovic a yard out from goal and he put UWA 4-3 up. Colo Colo then had another player sent off and UWA made them pay for their poor discipline when Tony Odundo fired home to make the final result 5-3. Coach Kevin Burton said: "It was more like a game of handball than soccer with all the chances for both sides and we could easily of scored 10 goals but for errant finishing. The comeback showed that we have real spirit and determination in the squad." UWA Reserves won 5-0 against Colo Colo Reserves who made it a sad day for soccer when they had 2 players sent off and the referee decided to abandon the game with 5 minutes to go.
Champions Shamrock Rovers travelled down to Hilton Park on Sunday to play relegated Fremantle United and came away with the three points after a 2-1 win on Sunday. Shamrock took the lead with their first real chance after 15 minutes when Rod McMullen scored with a tremendous dipping volley from 25 yards which smacked into the underside of the bar and bounced over the line. The Fremantle defence was well marshalled by Karl Griffiths, Taryn Richmond and Matt Favazzo. It was not until the 65th minute when Shamrock doubled their lead when Mark Kelly scored from close range to score his 12 th goal of a great campaign after a great ren by Pat O'Boyle. Shamrock then sat back and allowed Fremantle to taqke the initiative and it was no surprise when Dom DeFelice scored from ten yards after Shamrock failed to clear the ball. The rest of the game degenerated into a fairly scrappy affair with neither team able to dominate. Coach Nik Silsby said "We were very ordinary today. We did and will take the opportunity to blood our younger players such as Mickie Murray, Glen Brooks and Stephen Roche to give them vital experience for next season - the planning for next season starts here". The reserves remain unbeaten with a 5-0 victory and officially won their respective league. Jamie Silsby scored his 6th Hat-Trick of the season to take his total to 30, (4 short of Christy Lawless's 15 year old club record) with others coming from Dean Carey and first team keeper Ed Schuller on his 'pitch' debut for the season.
In other games, Spearwood Dalmatinac beat Kwinana United 4-2. Forrestfield United thrashed CN Canning International 8-0. Murdoch University defeated Stirling Panthers 4-3 in a 7 goal thriller, while Hamersley Rovers put Perth Azzurri in relegation trouble after their 1-0 win.
28.8.2004
WEEKEND IN SUMMARY
It's official - Western Knights are Premier League champions for 2004! Goals at either of the match by Daniel Trim and John Thornley gave the Knights a 2-1 win over E.C.U. Joondalup and their first championship in six years. Second-placed Cockburn went down 0-1 to Sorrento who've hit peak form at the right time of the year. Fremantle City and Stirling Lions shared six goals at Ken Allen Field, while Inglewood United thumped Bayswater City 4-1. David Onoforo was the scorer in Perth SC's 1-0 win at Bassendean Caledonian. And Floreat Athena secured their top flight status by drawing 1-1 away at Swan I.C.
Armadale's march towards their first ever First Division title continued with a 4-3 away win over Leeming Strikers. Wanneroo City remain seven points behind after thrashing Rockingham City 4-0, and South West Phoenix' 4-1 defeat of Ashfield allows them the sure up third place. Canning City moved up the standings after accounting for Balcatta 3-1. The points were shared between Mandurah City and Queens Park who drew 2-2, and it ended 3-3 when Gosnells City hosted Dianella White Eagles. Kingsway Olympic ran out 5-0 winners over Morley Windmills.
28.8.2004
PREMIER LEAGUE, ROUND TWENTY (Fremantle City vs Stirling Lions by Elliott Leonard; Swan I.C. vs Floreat Athena by Peter Simcox)
Western Knights produced a workmanlike effort to defeat E.C.U. Joondalup 2-1 and secure their first Premier League championship in six years. A dreadful defensive mix-up between Peter Stewart and Peter Roberts gifted the Knights a 3rd minute lead as Daniel Trim walked the ball into an open net. More than happy with situation, the visitors then sat back and soaked up the pressure as Joondalup searched desperately for an equaliser. Goalbound shots from Andy Mason and Alan Henderson were blocked by Jason Williams and Evan Wallace respectively while Tommi Tomich reacted swiftly to thwart Andy Brown at close range. On 25 minutes John Higgins' dipping shot from 22-metres was held by Tomich who, a few minutes later, paddled a close-range header from Andy Brown over the crossbar. As half-time approached Henderson stretched Tomich with a rasping low drive but it wasn't to be and Joondalup went in wondering what they had to do to score. Two minutes after the restart their question was answered when Garin Collins held his nerve to rifle it low past the 'keeper from just inside the 18-yard box having maneuvered his way past a couple of defenders. In the arm wrestle for control which followed both sides locked it down at the back and chances on goal came at a premium. Fifteen minutes from the end the match sparked back into life after Tomich produced a marvelous reflex save to deny Henderson. With word filtering through that nearest rival Cockburn City were trailing Sorrento, the Knights upped the pace. Andrija Jukic curled the ball just the wide of the target, and Ivan Zuvela crashed a free-kick through the defensive wall only to see it deflected wide by a defender. In a dramatic finale, Scott Devine surged through the middle of the park and slipped the ball through to John Thornley who, making the most of some hesitant defending, knocked it past the advancing 'keeper to decide the game with seven minutes to go.
Sorrento are in the hunt to end the season in second place after knocking off Cockburn City 1-0 at Percy Doyle Reserve. Right from the start Cockburn showed why they currently occupy second on the table with some exquisite movement of the ball lead by a lively midfielder Scott Miller. In a tightly contested game on of the genuine highlights was the tussle between Todd Harnwell and the ever-dangerous John Mirco down the flank. Few clear cut chances on presented themselves during the half with the first arriving after 25 minutes when Jamie Harnwell volleyed over the crossbar following a deep corner by Glen Thomas. It was just before half-time that Brad Hassell put Sorrento ahead when he looped a header into the far corner following a superb cross by Todd Harnwell. The margin was very nearly two goals just minutes later but Boza Erakovic made a desperate lunge to deflect Simon Harland's goalbound shot onto the outside of the post. A bruising second half saw both teams produce some great attacking football as play raced from end to end. John Mirco was unlucky not to et Cockburn back on level terms when he flashed the ball just wide from 16-metres, while at the opposite end Jeff Cargill kept out a header from Harland. With fifteen minutes to go the visitors threw caution to the wind and pushed Dean Wallace and Liam Lilly into attack to partner Peter Petkovich. Although they enjoyed the better of play Cockburn were unable to find a path to goal thanks to some solid defending and the great work of goalkeeper Phil Straker.
Inglewood United produced one of their best performances of the year in defeating Bayswater City 4-1 at the National Stadium. The home team dominated from the opening exchanges and never looked like taking anything less than maximum points over a Bayswater side which had one once in seven previous outings. A delightful interchange between Greg Sharland and Bobby Despotovski after 13 minutes saw the former race past a static defence before finishing clinically to give Inglewood the lead. Having retained possession despite several challenges on the right flank, Despotovski delivered a superb cross to the far post which was pushed over the line by Jason Colli who'd timed his run to perfection on the half hour. For their part Bayswater defended well but rarely threatened on goal as they struggled to match the home side for creativity. Just before the break Despotovski appeared to have added Inglewood's third after combining with Sharland but the goal was disallowed by the referee. It was more of the same in the second half as Inglewood worked towards suring up their place in the end of season finals. In the 69th minute teenager Michael Baczynski put the game beyond Bayswater when he sent the ball past goalkeeper Gianni Papalia. And Shaun Kilkelly finished off the visitors when he found the back of the net four minutes later. In the final minute of play Bayswater bagged themselves a consolation goal through Ross Barnes whose speculative effort from well outside the 18-yard box drifted into the corner of the goal. With sixteen goals in their past three outings, Inglewood coach Eddy Hodgkinson was left pondering what might have been after the game. "Things may have panned out differently for us this season if the goals we've scored in our recent games had been evenly distributed throughout the season, " Hodgkinson said. "A win or draw next weekend will guarantee us a spot in the top five series."
Stirling Lions threw away a two-goal lead with fifteen minutes remaining and allowed Fremantle City to steal a point with a thrilling 3-3 draw at Ken Allen Field. The game burst into life inside the opening minute when Gary Faria picked up the ball outside the area and curled his shot past Vince Matassa and into the top corner to hand the hosts the lead. On 15 minutes the score should have levelled after teenager Dennis McRoberts won the Lions a penalty which was disappointingly sent wide by Jake Harman. Rob Crerar was twice his sides saviour as Fremantle sought to add to their advantage, the defender thwarting Simon Elton Bott after he broke though on goal and moments later Crerar cleared Faria's effort off the line. Eight minutes from half-time Rob Monterosso's corner was met by Muhamed Komaderic who headed it past Bobsom Koroma to make it one-each. The Lions then went ahead through Monterosso who tapped in from close-range following Nick Ward's clever chip into the box. Fremantle opened the second half determined to restore parity as Faria hit the crossbar with a great shot from 17-metres. Midway through the half Komaderic raced away down the left to cross to Harman who in turn set-up McRoberts and the teenager made no mistake in doubling the visitors lead. But if the Lions thought the points were in the bag then they had another thing coming. With twelve minutes to go Kevin Correia managed to go past the offside trap and then beat Matassa in a one-on-one to reduce the margin. Fremantle's equaliser resulted from a goalmouth scramble five minutes from full-time in which Correia poked the ball past Matassa to complete a memorable fightback. In a staggering six minutes of stoppage time the port side laid siege on their opponents goal but were unable to sneak a late winner.
Swan I.C. and Floreat Athena played out a 1-1 draw in the Swan Valley. It was visitors who went closest in an evenly opening with Costa Socratous stretching goalkeeper Cory Hugo with a superb striker from distance, and moments later Peter Coci's shot was narrowly wide after good lead-up work from Andreas Oliviera. Swan began to find their rhythm and on 14 minutes went ahead as Carlo Echeverria surged forward to lay the ball off to David Foster who confidently eased his shot past advancing goalkeeper Vas Vujacic. Oliveira was proving a handful for the Swan backline and his cross into the dangerzone picked out Coci who was denied by the sharp reflexes of Hugo. Shortly after Oliveira worked hard in setting up Josip Magdic but he too was unable to beat the Swan custodian. Against the run of play the home team almost doubled their lead by Echeverria whose long-range effort was tipped over the crossbar by an alert Vujacic. The second half was only minutes old when Vujacic again kept his side in the game by making a low save to thwart Foster in a one-on-one. The game was still very much alive, and with Adrian Sutton and Julian Madaschi both outstanding at the heart of the Athena defence, it was the visitors who looked the more likely to net. Coci sent the ball past Hugo only to have it cleared off the line by Echeverria. Athena's persistence was finally rewarded in the 65th minute when Magdic's great approach work was finished off by a rare headed goal from Oliveira. The visitors continued to ply the pressure as Coci and Oliveira went close in quick succession. With time running out Athena had a penalty claim turned down by referee Tom Klaver after Coci went down under a challenge from Damian Scali. A final minute corner was sent in by Oliveira but neither Coci not Anthony Jones could get enough of a touch to knock it into the net.
Perth S.C. kept alive their slim hopes of a fifth successive finals campaign by edging out Bassendean Caledonian 1-0 at Jubilee Reserve. Opportunities on goal were few and far between in a tight match played on a muddy surface which was not conducive to elegant football. Caledonian shaded Perth for possession during the first half but as has been the story of their season the home team were unable to put the ball in the back of the net. The best chance of the period came the way of Graeme Mathews who was put through one-on-one with Alan Matteucci only to fire his shot into the Perth custodian. There were also opportunities for Glen McCormick and Ian Griffiths who shot wide and high respectively. Perth's main danger came from deadball situations with David Micevski and Todd Howarth causing a few nervous moments on the opposing defence. Fired up by a half-time spray from coach Graham Normanton, Perth showed more focus after the break with their central midfield trio of Mark Pottier, James Isaia and Micevski quick to stamp authority over proceedings. But the hosts were left frustrated by some lacklustre finishing with only a header from Aaron Cole testing goalkeeper Alan Dunlop. Midway through the half Pottier did beat the 'keeper when he put away a fantastic cross from the right by Micevski but the goal was disallowed for offside. The match seemingly destined to end with honours even, Robbie Puca's knock-on from midfield caught the home defence flat-footed and substitute David Onoforo launching a great volley from an acute into the top corner to decide the game.
28.8.2004
FIRST DIVISION, ROUND TWENTY-TWO (South West Phoenix vs Ashfield courtesy South West Phoenix; Leeming Strikers vs Armadale by Mike Hennessey; Gosnells City vs Dianella White Eagles courtesy Gosnells City)
Leeming Strikers were unlucky to lose 3-4 at home to First Division leaders Armadale. The Reds took an early 1-0 lead when Dean Gartside headed home at the far post. Five minutes later the Strikers drew level when a foul on Phil Bell resulted in a penalty which was stroked home from the spot by the midfielder. The game developed into a tough, physical encounter with both goalkeepers called upon to make some important saves. A free-kick after 35 minutes enabled Michael Vaz to hammer a hard, low shot into the bottom corner to the Strikers 2-1 up. As half-time approached Armadale broke through the middle and Jason Goodwin levelled the score. But almost immediately the hosts hit back and, in the best move of the game, and attack down the right was coolly converted by Garth Lecky as the Strikers went into the break with the advantage. Eight minutes into the second half it became three-all as Gartside fastened on to a long through ball from Fraser Brown to score. The deciding goal came via substitute Darren Kingston ten minutes from full-time.
Wanneroo City returned home from Dowling Street Reserve with the points after knocking off Rockingham City 4-0. Oliver Hilton gave the visitors an early lead by pouncing on a loose ball which was spilled by goalkeeper Michael Kelly at a corner. Rockingham worked hard to get back on level terms but with the opposing defence quick to respond few genuine openings resulted. Great ball control by Scott Bulloch took him inside the 18-yard box where he was brought down, and from the resulting penalty Scott Wyeth doubled the northerners advantage. Wanneroo 'keeper Alan Young was called into action for the first time just before the break by making a fine save to deny Luke Collins. The margin became three-nil midway through the second half when Bulloch chased the ball into attack which he played across the box to Gareth Davies who slid it into the net under pressure. John Dixon completed the route when he stole in between 'keeper and defence to lob into the net. The final margin should have been much greater but Wanneroo were guilty of wasted opportunities. Wyeth was denied another goal by Kelly who kept out his effort from the spot and Bulloch steered the rebound wide.
Steve Suttie scored his third hat-trick in as many games to lead South West Phoenix to a 4-1 victory over arch rival Ashfield at Bunbury's Soccerdrome. The goal spree began after 8 minutes when Suttie ran on to a pass from Dave Murphy to crisply hot the ball past goalkeeper Peter Treeby. Phoenix attacks continued as David Gordon was called upon to clear David Rodgers' header off the line, a Murphy drive cannoned off the crossbar and Treeby made a sensational save to keep out Rodgers' well struck free-kick. But there was little the Ashfield custodian could do as Greg Hayes floated in a cross which Suttie rose above the defence to met and head in his second of the day. Nine minutes from the break Dion Florias pulled one back for the visitors, but three minutes later Phoenix restored their two-goal buffer with Suttie completing his hat-trick. The second half proved much tougher for Phoenix who met with strong resistance from the opposing defence and in particular Matt Pochroj. The final goal came after 81 minutes when Rodgers produced some great individual skill to work his way through the defence before stroking the ball past Treeby.
Canning City made it three wins in as many weeks when they accounted for Balcatta 3-1 in sunny conditions at Willetton Sports Club. But the outcome could have been much different had Adrian Zonato's early shot not hit the upright and ricocheted to safety. As it was the opening goal came on 15 minutes when a dreadful defensive mix-up between goalkeeper Colin Lees and Tony Paolino presented Canning's Daniel Trevisiol with a simple tap. The hosts continued to press and went further ahead on the half hour as Mick Van Dongen's shot from a narrow angle was parried by Lees Alex Seed knocked in the follow-up despite calls for offside. Not long after Seed squandered a golden opportunity by amazingly ballooning over the crossbar from 4-metres. Balcatta showed more composure after the break and in the 55th minute pulled a goal back through Danny Carlino. The visitors worked tirelessly to get back on level terms but it wasn't their day as Adrian Caliero and Alley Di Nuzzo went close. Seven minutes from the end Canning sealed victory with a fine counter-attack which was orchestrated and clinically finished by Mick Van Dongen.
The points were shared at Peelwood Parade where Mandurah City and Queens Park played out a tense 2-2 draw. The day could not have started better for Mandurah who went ahead in the 1st minute when youngster Neil Connor sent the ball past goalkeeper Phil Chapman. The visitors rallied and on 32 minutes restored parity through mid-season signing Ray Rose. The second half was fifteen minutes old when Mandurah reclaimed the lead courtesy of a Christian Paschewitz goal. Queens Park's chances of getting back in the game were dented with the dismissal of Grant Learmont in the 78th minute. But the visitors refused to give up the chase and five minutes from full-time Mandurah custodian Mike Greene was unable to prevent Shirash Sasikumar from leveling the game.
Gosnells City and Dianella White Eagles shared six goals at Walter Padbury Reserve. Both sides began the match brightly but could managed few genuine shots on goal over a tight opening stages. The deadlock was broken on 7 minutes when Mark Ronald's free-kick crashed into the post and Tony Lang was on hand to tap the rebound into an unguarded net. Gosnells added a second to their tally shortly after when Adam Bremner's scorching shot from outside the 18-yard box flew past the goalkeeper and into the top corner. Just as Gosnells looked set to take the game beyond their opponents reach Dianella where awarded a controversial penalty which was converted by Danco Jovanoski. This sparked Dianella into life and after wrestling control of the game equalised via another disputed penalty which was again put away by Jovanoski. The second half provided much of the same passion and determination by both teams as was shown in the first. In the 54th minute Gosnells regained the lead via a blistering strike from Ronald who five minutes was dismissed for two yellow cards in quick success. Dianella stole a point when Miladin Gugoroski scrambled the ball over the line after the home defence failed to clear a cross into the box close to the final whistle.
Kingsway Olympic ended a month of losses by toppling Morley Windmills 5-0 in the northern suburbs. Scott Evans started the romp after 3 minutes with a spectacular drive from 18-metres that soared into the top corner of the goal. Windmills custodian Matt Darling lost his footing as he attempted a clearance on top of his area, the ball went straight to Danny Trandos who lobbed it back over the stranded goalkeeper from distance to double the margin shorlty after. Evans added to the hosts tally by cutting in from the right and blasting past Darling from 28-metres. Olympic pretty much wrapped up the game shortly before the break as Michael Borromei took possession and slammed in goal number four. The second half continued in much the same fashion with the crowd entertained by some great passages of play from the Green Machine. The final goal of the afternoon came on 50 minutes when Steven Beasley was sent past the defence and the youngster kept his composure to neatly lobbed over the 'keeper and into the net. The win, Olympic's fifth of the winter, lifted them into eleventh place as Windmills slip to twelfth.
27.8.2004
WEEKEND IN PREVIEW
Weather permitting, there should be a number of top match-ups in Saturday's round of Premier League fixtures. One game that needs no talking up is E.C.U. Joondalup's important home meeting with table topping Western Knights. Cockburn City will be out to end Sorrento's nine game undefeated run when they visit the northern suburbs. Inglewood United are in red hot form at the moment and should take maximum points over Bayswater City, while Stirling Lions are in need of victory away at Fremantle City to keep their play-off dream alive. Swan I.C. will find the going tough despite home ground advantage against a focused Floreat Athena. Perth S.C. head to Jubilee Reserve to play Bassendean Caledonian.
There are away games for the top two teams in the First Division. Leader Armadale travel to Leeming Strikers and Rockingham City provide the opposition and venue for second-placed Wanneroo City. There's a derby of sorts in Bunbury where South West Phoenix go head-to-head with Ashfield. Mandurah City and Queens Park have both lacked consistency this year and they met at Peelwood Parade. Little will separate Canning City and Balcatta, likewise Gosnells City against Dianella White Eagles. Kingsway Olympic welcome Morley Windmills to the northern suburbs, and Stirling Suns welcome the bye following a disastrous run of results.
All games this weekend will be preceded by a one minute silence to honour Floreat Athena and State defender Troy Bernard who sadly passed away on Tuesday.
26.8.2004
VALE, TROY BERNARD
The West Australian soccer community is in mourning following the tragic death of Floreat Athena stalwart Troy Bernard. The 25-year old was electrocuted early on Tuesday morning while attempting to repair downed power lines with a Western Power colleague in Carlisle. For ten years Bernard proudly wore Athena colours during which time his silky skills, tirelessly work ethic and on-field leadership made him one of the scene's best and most respected players. In honouring his passing Athena have chosen to retire Bernard's cherished No.7 shirt which will now be framed and hung in the clubrooms in a permanent memorial to one of their favourite sons.
"Troy was one of our most loved and his presence around the club will be sorely missed," said Athena vice-president Peter Koulizos. "When I arrived at the club in 1999 Troy was already a household name, not only at our club but within the wide WA soccer community. He was one of the best sweepers that I have ever seen, his reading of the game was excellent and one-on-one he could not be bettered. Troy's influence and leadership was so great that, whether playing for Athena or the State team, the defence was always worked around him. I can't image what our club will be like without Troy being there." There will be one minute silence prior to all games this weekend in remembrance of Bernard.
Spotted at a young age, Bernard earned State junior representative honours before quickly rising up through the ranks at club level. As a teenager he became established as an integral part of the Athena first team and played a key role in their treble winning season of 1997 which saw them claim the Night Series, Premier League championship and Boral Cup. A strong work ethic and his trademark runs though midfield resulted in Bernard's call-up to the senior State side the following year with appearances against National Soccer League outfits Perth Glory, whom he'd already spent a lengthy period on trial, and Parramatta Power.
Bernard's reputation was further enhanced by a sparkling performance in the 1999 Boral Cup Final for which he was named Man of the Match despite Athena's narrow loss to Inglewood United. The following season was filled with highlights for the hard-working defender - in March Athena claimed another Night Series title, there were further outings for the State team and come seasons' end Bernard was named the "Sunday Times" Player of the Year. Established as an automatic choice for State honours, Bernard became one of the youngest players ever to captain West Australia when, aged 22, he lead the side into battle against South Australia in early 2002. Rest In Peace, Troy Bernard.
26.8.2004
NEW WOMEN'S SEASON AT LOFTUS
Loftus Recreation Centre are calling for nominations for a new ladies indoor soccer competition. The league will be played on Wednesday evenings commencing 15th September and running through until March of next year. The competition will provide players with a great opportunity to brush up on their skills over the summer months. Games are to be played under rebound rules which allows five players on the court at any one time and continuous substitutions. Places in the new competition are limited and will be taken on a 'first come first served' basis with team nominations closing on 10th September. Whether you require further information on the upcoming women's competition or wish to nominate a team, contact the Sports Manager on 9227 6526. Loftus Recreation Centre is centrally located on the corner of Loftus Street and Vincent Street in Leederville.
25.8.2004
GARCIA HITS HAT-TRICK ON COMEBACK TRAIL
Richard Garcia continued down the comeback trail from a ligament second cruciate injury by scoring three goals in West Ham United's friendly defeat of Peterborough United. "We won quite convincingly, 3-1, with Richard Garcia scoring a hat trick - we are delighted, because it has been a long seven months for him," said Hammers assistant coach Peter Grant. "We are pleased to see him return, and that is only his second game back. It is a credit to the boy and he is reaping the rewards for the hard work he is putting in. His attitude has been first class."
Although he's scored three times in two Reserve team games, Garcia is well aware that he'll most likely be moving on once back to full fitness. "We will just wait and see what happens," Garcia commented. "I will keep playing in the reserves until I am fully fit. At the moment I have been training two or three days then having a day off then training another two or three days. I am just trying to get back into it slowly, slowly and see how the knee progresses ... It is good to know that all your hard work has come to something, it would be a bit of a shame if you did all that and nothing came of it so it is good that I am back on the pitch."
25.8.2004
KINGS OF THE STATE (courtesy www.kingsacademy.com.au)
The Kings Academy will remember season 2004 as they year in which they developed more players for State teams than any other. No less than seventeen youngsters from the Kings ranks earned State representative honours this year. Cameron Carruthers was the first to pull on State colours by appearing in the Under-16 squad at Singapore's Lion City Cup during June. The following month Ramon Amorganda, Ric Champion, Keith Clevenger, Dean Evans, Matthew Italiano, Ben Senior, Tom Senior and Dannie Richman turned out for the State Under-14's at the Friendship Games, while Daniele Bradshaw, Brynn Hindley, Chris Quinn, Paul Rechichi and John Tancredi were part of the Under-13 Capital Cup squad. Travelling to the National Talent Idenitification Championship shortly with the State Under-15 side are Damien Houston and Jerome Vallet.
"We have a number of strategic focuses as a club and the development of the individual player is a high priority," explained coaching director Mitch Doherty. "All our squads are competitive in their own right, however, the number of State players we have produced this season is an outstanding achievement for a club which is less than four years old. This success vindicates our policy of giving players an opportunity to prove themselves in higher age groups, all of our squads have players who we are playing above their own age in order to challenge their progression."
"As an academy we are in the fortunate position to be able to deliver programs to our players that are based on those used by Manchester United," Doherty added. "Through our affiliation with United we are following worlds best practice training methodologies and players at the academy are kept up to date with the latest innovative sessions. All our coaching and playing staff are exposed to a skills video featuring United's own academy players who are taken through a number of drills and practices by first team players including Ryan Giggs, Ruud Van Nistelrooy and Roy Keane. The video was one of many mementos from the highly inspirational tour of Europe undertaken by the Academy Under-15's this year."
The Kings Academy are already making plans for next year with a number of tours on the drawing board. "The kind of exposure the Under-15's received when they played against youth teams in the Netherlands, Germany and England was a huge benefit to the players and their development," continued Doherty. "Next season will prove to be an even bigger challenge for the Kings. We have an exciting invitation on the table for one of the younger squads to travel to the United States to play, next years Under-15 team will be looking to following in the footsteps of this years squad with another trip to Europe, and we're also considering sending a squad interstate to take part in a pre-season tournament. All of these exciting projects are aimed at moving the club closer to our vision of becoming the most valued soccer academy in Western Australia."
24.8.2004
COCKBURN SEEK JCL COACHES
Cockburn City are seeking expressions of interest on coaching positions for
their Junior Champions League teams of 2005. The club are also keen to
hear from individuals suitable for the roles of Director of juniors, Sports
trainer (physiotherapist), Womens team coach, and Goalkeeper coach for next
season. Anyone interested in applying for any of these positions is
invited to submit their details by emailing
24.8.2004
YOUR SATURDAY MORNING SOCCER FIX
The Austwest Fencing Saturday Morning Soccer Show returns to Perth's
airwaves this weekend. The program, which has been a stable in the diet
of the local soccer community for many a year now, goes out from 10.00am on
Radio Fremantle (107.9 FM) on Saturday morning. The regular panel of
Martin Wells, Dennis Gedling and Penny Hoath has been expanded for the new
season with the recruitment of Mo Kaplin.
23.8.2004
TOUGH TIME FOR SCHOOLGIRLS
The West Australia Schoolgirls claimed sixth place at the recent Australian
Secondary Schools Soccer Championships which were held in Adelaide. The
Schoolgirls plans were thrown into disarray prior to the week-long event
with injury to a number of key players leaving the squad's resources
stretched to the limit. "We played catch-up soccer for most of the games
and this means you have to gamble as players and as a coach," commented
coach Wayne Baseden. "But this can only work if consistency and passion
for the result are evident and unfortunately bother were lacking from our
games in Adelaide."
The tournament could not have started much worse for Western Australia who
found themselves two-goals down to a strong Queensland line-up at
half-time. Needing to find the net themselves in order to get back in the
game, the West attacked in numbers after the break only to be caught short
at the back as Queensland added another four goals to their tally. The
final margin would have been much greater if not for the heroics of Renee
Forth between the posts for Western Australia.
Western Australia rebounded on Monday afternoon by putting five goals
without reply past the Australia Capital Territory. Nerves were settled in
the west camp on 12 minutes as Carys Hawkins put away the day's first
goal. Hawkins doubled the lead only for Helen Bremer to further widen the
gap before half-time. The introduction of Lilly Billson had immediate
impact as the attacker showed great composure in netting twice to complete
the 5-0 win.
Day Three of action saw Western Australia in action twice. The busy day
commenced with a 12-0 thrashing of the Northern Territory, the opening goal
arriving inside the 1st minute with Carys Hawkins scrambling it over the
line to open the floodgates. Brid Dawson ended the day with four goals,
Lilly Billson and Jasmina Markovic netted two apiece with Leigh Kelly,
Stephanie Grant and Helen Bremer also getting on the scoresheet. The pick
of the goals was Grant's scorching drive from 25-metres that found the top
corner.
That win was tempered later in the day when West Australia were overpowered
by tournament favourite New South Wales 4-0. The girls from the west
coast matched their more fancied opponent for much of the first half only
to concede twice in the lead-up to half time. After the break the two sides
tussled for control before New South Wales struck with two more goals in
quick succession to kill of their opponent's hopes to taking a point from
the game.
With two games remaining West Australia were still in with a chance of
taking out the silver medal, but they'd need to take maximum points from
both games in order to finish in second place. Unfortunately that dream
came to a crashing halt as South Australia ran out victors by 2-1 on
Thursday. A goal down at the break, Brid Dawson put the sides on level
terms early in the second half by heading in a superb cross from Ciara
Conway. But Western Australia then took their foot off the gas and
conceded a soft goal from by not applying a tackle to cost them the game.
The week ended with a showdown again and it was Victoria who showed the
greater composure to take an early lead. Midway through the first half
Ciara Conway restored parity only for Victoria to gain the upper hand with
a second goal right on the stroke of half-time. The west started the new
half with increased desire and some good movement of the ball when going
forward. But against the run of play Victoria all but sealed victory by
making the most of a defensive lapse to net for the third time. Amy
Thorpe brought some respectability to the 3-2 scoreline when she converted
a free-kick with a cracking shot from 20-metres.
22.8.2004
WOMEN'S WRAP (Northern Redbacks vs Balcatta courtesy Balcatta; Subiaco
vs Queens Park courtesy Subiaco; East Fremantle vs Kingsley courtesy East Fremantle)
Northern Redbacks are through to the Premier League Grand Final after
accounting for Balcatta 2-1 in the
Women's Soccer WA play-offs. Balcatta were the first to get on the
scoresheet after 10 minutes as Elisa D'Ovidio's perfect cross was put away
by Kylie Chatto. The Redbacks came back strongly but were unable to break
down the opponents defence to go into the break a goal behind. It was
more of the same in the second half with the Redbacks pressure finally
rewarded with an equalising goal through Collette McCallum. Balcatta
could have regain the lead from the penalty spot but Ashley Kane's effort
was saved by goalkeeper Ashley Bennett. The deciding goal arrived five
minutes into extra-time when a speculative shot from McCallum cleared
Bennett and came to nestle in the net.
Subiaco went down 2-0 to Queens Park in howling wind and driving
rains. The opening half was fiercely contested with neither side giving
an inch and pushing forward endlessly in search of the games first
goal. The conditions remained abysmal upon the restart which had Queens
Park firing on all cylinders. A swift counter attacking move ten minutes
into the period resulted in the visitors gaining the lead after the Subiaco
'keeper lost her footing on a slippery surface. The match was ended as a
contest shortly after when a Queens Park player bundled the ball over the
line in a goalmouth scramble despite what appeared a clear foul on the
opposing 'keeper. Queens Park face Balcatta next weekend for the right to
play Northern Redbacks in the season finale.
An understrength East Fremantle defeated Kingsley 4-1 at Chichester
Park. Although able to field only ten players due to the large number of
injuries within the squad, the port side were competitive from the opening
kick and hit the front through Jasmina Markovic whose low shot flew past
the goalkeeper and into the bottom corner. Recent recruit Kylie Woodhouse
then scored twice as East Fremantle threatened to completely run away with
the game. Kingsley were able to reduce the margin only for East Fremantle
to find the net for a fourth and final time.
Noranda ended the First Division season by being held to a 2-2 draw by
University of WA. The northern suburbs side finished the campaign
undefeated and on top of the table by a five-point margin from Murdoch
University who accounted for Subiaco by 3-1 at Rosalie Park. Swan I.C.
claimed third on the final standing after leapfrogging over Beckenham
Angels who they defeated 3-2. In other weekend action, Rockingham City
triumphed over Cockburn City 2-1, and Northern Redbacks C collected the 3-0
'bye win'.
22.8.2004
WAASSA, ROUND EIGHTEEN
UWA returned to winning ways with a 3-2 away win at Spearwood Dalmatinac in
the WAASSA Autostrada Premier Division fixture on Sunday. Spearwood
started with an early chance when a near post corner was almost turned in
but UWA's Shin Kuruma blocked the effort well. UWA then took the lead after
11 minutes when a throw was headed on by David Berg to Tony Odundo and he in
turn headed the ball over the keeper's head to make it 1-0. UWA kept up the
pressure and a superb pass by Paul Dimmock was made to Tony Odundo's head
and unfortunately for UWA the header hit the bar with the goalkeeper beaten
and the ball was cleared to safety. At the other end Spearwood's Dave Palin
had a speculative shot from well outside the penalty box which skidded on
the wet surface and went through the legs of UWA keeper Josh Davenport to
make it 1-1. UWA were awarded a penalty after 31 minutes when David Berg
was fouled from behind and Bryn Griffiths stepped up to the spot and made it
2-1 to UWA. After 20 minutes in the second half Max Percy had a free kick
acrobatically turned over the crossbar by Spearwood goalkeeper S.Forzatti.
Then after 38 minutes somewhat against the run of play a good break by
Spearwood down the right flank saw the ball crossed to the far post and a
late running Spearwood player beat three UWA players to the ball and scored
with a fine effort off the inside of the right post to make it 2-2. UWA hit
back immediately when a throw was headed on by Robert Benkovic and the ball
fell to Paul Dimmock who drove the ball home to make it 3-2 to UWA and seal
the victory. The win moves UWA up to fifth spot on the ladder. UWA
Reserves also defeated Spearwood Dalmatinac 3-1. Coach Kevin Burton said,
"Games against Spearwood are always tough physical affairs and despite
allowing Spearwood back into the game we came away with 3 deserved points."
Shamrock Rovers became WAASSA Premier Division Champions on Sunday at Harold Rossiter
Reserve against Kwinana United after a long seven year wait. Shamrock took an early
lead after seven minutes when a lovely cross from Dylan Browne found Wayne Brooks and
with his left foot smacked a volley into the bottom corner from 18 yards. A further
15 minutes elapsed when John McCarthy set off on a jinking run skipping past three
challenges before laying the back to Mark Kelly who smashed the ball in from 10 yards. With
ten minutes to go in the half Kwinana got a goal back with a great volley from Andrew Drury.
The game was wrapped up in the second half when Captain for the day Donal O'Brien shot
from fully 30 yards into the bottom corner in his last game for the club before returning
to Ireland. The game ended in sour note when Shamrock's Mark Kelly was taken to
hospital after a clash of heads which required fifteen stitches.
As the final whistle blew mass celebrations began and it was the start of a long
night of partying for the hoops and their supporters.
The Reserves wrapped up the title after an 8-0 win with goals from Sean White (3), Jamie
Silsby (2), Matt Webb (2) and Glen Brooks.
Coach Nik Silsby said after the game "I am proud of every single player in both
squads. To win both leagues is a major achievement but to win with four games to go
and be 17 points clear after dropping only five points is simply outstanding.
We are a good footballing side and despite our critics have had an unbelievable season. Major
Credit is also due to the reserves team coach, Christy Lawless and Assistant Watty Young.
I would also like to thank Donal O' Brien in his short time with the club. He has
been an inspiration to his team mates and myself and lifted us to another level."
In other games, former WAASSA champions Fremantle United have been relegated to the First
Division after they could only manage a 1-1 draw to CN Canning International. Forrestfield
United are now 1 point clear of the relegation zone following their 1-1 result to second
placed Stirling Panthers. Murdoch University beat Perth Azzurri 2-0 to stay in the top four,
while Colo Colo were too good for Hamersley Rovers winning by 2 goals to 1.
21.8.2004
WASTED CHANCES COST OLYROO'S
Iraq scored the goal of the tournament to eliminate the Australia Men's
team from the Athens Olympic Games. On the balance of play the Olyroo's
should have taken out the game but it wasn't to be as several clear cut
opportunities were missed. Australia's best chance of the opening half
came via Anthony Danze who forced a crucial low save from goalkeeper Sabri
Nour with his far post header. In the minutes later followed John Aloisi
and Shane Cansdell-Sherriff also came close to giving their side the lead
with headers that caused concern to the Iraqi defence. For the greater
part Iraq were forced to shoot from distance with Eugene Galekovic seldomly
threatened in the Australian goal. Some well struck free-kicks provided
their best avenue to goal although Salih Sadir and Hawar Mulla Mohammed
rarely looked like getting the ball past Galekovic.
The second half was three minutes old when Anthony Danze poked a loose ball
over the line after Nour brilliantly denied Alex Brosque but the Australian
goal was rightly disallowed for offside. The games deciding goal arrived
on 63 minutes when Mohammed Emad scored from a spectacular bicycle kick
following a header from the edge of the box by midfielder Karim
Mahdi. Australia responded within minutes through Luke Wilkshire whose
stunning drive from 30-metres crashed into the crossbar with the 'keeper
beaten. Iraq should have locked up the match in the 74th minute but
Farhan Razzaq was denied in a one-on-one with Galekovic after he'd skinned
Adrian Madaschi. Ryan Griffiths should have found the target late on but
failed to convert with an open goal in front of him as Australia campaign
came to a close. Madaschi saw out the full game, Danze was replaced after
77 minutes while Brad Jones and David Tarka were unused substitutes.
21.8.2004
PREMIER LEAGUE, ROUND NINETEEN (Western Knights vs Bassendean Caledonian courtesy
Western Knights; Cockburn City vs E.C.U. Joondalup by Lennie Bavich; Swan I.C. vs Inglewood
United by Peter Simcox; Stirling Lions vs Sorrento by Elliott Leonard)
Western Knights continued their excellent home form by hitting three goals
without reply against Bassendean Caledonian in picturesque conditions at
Nash Field. Although missing four regulars through injury and suspension,
the Knights welcomed back star striker Stuart Montgomery from a seven week
absence due to a leg injury. The opening half proved a constant
frustration for the home team who were held at bay by an aggressive and
defence-minded Caledonian line-up that appeared to be playing for a
draw. The Knights looked more than a little apprehensive as they headed
to the changerooms at the end of a dour half in which they produced few
genuine chances on goal. The second half was moments old when
Montgomery's left-foot connected sweetly with the ball which flew into the
bottom corner of the net to give the hosts a welcome lead. The goal
lifted the Knights who now began to knock the ball around with confidence
and opening up the opposing defence. Caledonian on the other hand were
getting frustrated as was evidenced by Peter Vukmirovic's dismissal for a
second bookable offence after 68 minutes. Opportunities were beckoning
for the Knights and it was Carl Medica who doubled their advantage on 70th
minutes. The goal of the day came three minutes later when teenage
sensation Andrija Jukic evaded three tackles before sending a blistering
shot past the goalkeeper from outside the 18-yard box. Chances continued
to flow for the home team and Josh Kamasz came close to upstaging Jukic
with a rasping volley which flew narrowly over the crossbar. The win puts
the Knights six points clear at the top of the standings and on course for
the championship with three games remaining. It's a much different story
for Caledonian who have been cut five points adrift at the foot of the
table and now look set to end the season in last place.
Cockburn City remain an outside of catching the Knights after fending off
E.C.U. Joondalup 3-1 at Dalmatinac Park. With just 3 minutes elapsed the
home side gained the upper hand after John Mirco and goalkeeper Peter
Stewart competed for a high ball which fell to Peter Petkovich who swept it
into the back of the net from 15-metres. Jeff Cargill was at his sharpest
to turn away a good shot on the quarter hour, but the Cockburn custodian
was less successful a minute later when Andy Brown's strike on goal looped
into the net via the leg of a defender to level the score. Joondalup were
denied a second goal in the minutes leading into the break as Garin Collins
goalbound shot from 12-metres slammed into the back of teammate Andy
Brown. The visitors continued to force the pace at the start of the
second half with Cockburn's defensive combination of Dusan Macura, Dean
Wallace and Liam Lilly forced into conceding a string of corners. Having
soaked up the pressure, Cockburn began to carve out some promising moves
and on 73 minutes regained the lead, John Mirco playing a neat one-two with
Antonio Naglieri wide on the left before unleashing a thunder bolt from
20-metres which found the far corner of the net. Six minutes later the
hosts could have wrapped up the game when awarded a penalty for a foul on
Scott Miller but Stewart brilliantly saved John Mirco's spot kick to keep
his side in the hunt. But the game was put beyond Joondalup's reach a
minute from the end when substitute Mileta Miletic darted down the right
flank to cross to Simon Jonas who expertly held of a defender and sent a
low shot past the 'keeper from 15-metres.
Inglewood United went home from the Swan Valley with all three points
courtesy of a 4-2 triumph over Swan I.C. The visitors settled the better
and called Corey Hugo into action on a number of occasions, the Swan
custodian pushing away an early strike from Greg Sharland then hastily
back-tracking to keep out Bobby Despotovski's chip from 16-metres. It was
against the run that Swans gained the lead on 15 minutes when Damian
Scali's free-kick was flicked on by Damien Todorovic and with Inglewood at
sea in defence David Foster knocked it in from close-range. Within two
minutes the visitors had replied as Despotovski played in Michael Bazsynski
who finished by placing the ball beyond Hugo. Inglewood continued to go
on the attack with Shaun Kilkelly, Despotovski and Sharland each going
close to added to their teams tally. Six minutes from half-time the
visitors dominance paid off by turning the ball over in midfield and
Kilkelly send a delightful pass to Despotovski who made no mistake. But
the teams went into the break on level terms after Renato Rechichi's cross
from the left was moved on by Todorovic and Miki Vujacic sent it to the
right of goalkeeper Oliver Taseski. Swan came close to going back in
front early in the second half via a Miki Vujacic free-kick which curled
past the defensive wall and inches the wrong side of the post. Inglewood
were having none of it though and on 54 minutes Scott Campbell's free-kick
went to feet and in the ensuing scramble Despotovski bagged his second of
the day. Campbell then shot wide after being set-up by Despotovski who
shortly after was denied at close-range by Hugo. But it was only a matter
of time before Inglewood sealed the win and Jason Colli combined with
Kilkelly whose inch-perfect cross was headed in by Despotovski to complete
his second hat-trick in as many weeks.
Stirling Lions dream of a top five finish were dealt a massive blow when
they went down 1-3 on home soil to Sorrento. The hosts were simply no
match for Sorrento whose dominance proved why consistency is all so
important during the latter part of the season. The first half saw the
Gulls seize the early initial with some good team work and distribution
only to for Vince Matassa to deny them of the lead after making good saves
from Brad Hassell and Thomas Straker. With 20 minutes gone Sorrento
finally found a way through as Todd Harnwell delivered a pin point ball in
to Straker who converted from close-range. In the 35th minute the margin
was increased as some good movement down the right ended with Glen Thomas
crossing to Hassell who netted from 10-metres. A long-range free-kick
from Nick Ward that sailed just over the crossbar was the closest the Lions
came to scoring in the first half. Sorrento went looking to kill of the
game after the interval as Harnwell and Hassell combined with the latter
wrong-footing Matassa only to have his shot from a tight angle hit the
post. With 65 minutes gone Lions super sub Dennis McRoberts won his team
a penalty when brought down by Danny Hill, and from the spot Jake Harman
sent Phil Straker the wrong way to reduce the deficit. It seemed that the
Lions have edged themselves back into the match but just two minutes later
Sorrento restored their two-goal cushion as Jared Love send a tantalising
cross in to Thomas who scored from close-range. The three points lift
Sorrento to third place on the Premier League table as the Lions slip from
the upper reaches for the first time in months.
As the nil-all scoreline suggests, there were few goalscoring opportunities
for Bayswater City and Fremantle City at Frank Drago Reserve. Much of the
match action took place in the middle of the park with both teams working
hard at the back to repel their opponents attacking urges. Through a
dominant midfield Fremantle were able to dictate play throughout the first
half but could find few holes in a home defence which was underpinned by
Wes Mitchell. It came as a surprise then that the game's first genuine
opening came the way of Bayswater for whom Michael Kovacevic prised open
the defence by finding Ross Barnes whose goalbound shot was deflected wide
by a defender. It took until the 37th minute for Fremantle to find a way
through with a quick counterattack that saw Kevin Correia transfer
possession to Tyrone Fenwick who was unable to make the most of his
close-range opportunity. The second half may have seen Bayswater drop off
the pace but Fremantle's attempts to take the lead were hampered by some
poor passing in their final third. It wasn't until the closing stages
that the visitors began to threaten. On 78 minutes Jeff Bright unleashed
a vicious shot from 14-metres which rocketed just wide of the target. And
shortly after Correia was denied by the sharp reflexes of goalkeeper Gianni
Papalia in a one-on-one situation. On the overall balance of play
Fremantle were deserving of more than the single point they gained but the
port side will be comforted by the knowledge they they've not gone three
games without defeat.
Floreat Athena picked up their first home points of the campaign with a 1-0
defeat of Perth S.C. Needing victory to keep their play-off hopes alive,
Perth came out firing on all cylinders and choosing to more direct route to
goal. But with Athena determined to make amends for last weeks
humiliating loss their only chance on goal was a fierce drive from David
Micevski which was marginally wide of the target. Athena slowly found
their rhythm and looked dangerous with Josip Magdic and Anthony Jones the
architects of the best attacks. Their first opportunity came midway
through the half when Costa Socratous sent the ball into the dangerzone
where Jones headed wide. It was a warning Perth should have heeded as
three minutes from the break Peter Coci robbed Dino Djubilic and fed
possession to Socratous who whipped the ball to the back post where Jones
rose highest to power his header past goalkeeper Alan Mattecucci. Perth
enjoyed the lions share of the ball after in the second half as Athena
soaked up the pressure and defending stubbornly. Shane Crampton came
close to leveling after receiving the ball from Robbie Puca but his shot
was deflected wide youngster Julian Madaschi. With Perth pushing forward
in numbers they were often caught short on the counter attack and Andreas
Oliveira should have doubled Athena's lead when set-up by Coci but the
striker scuffed it wide. Midway through the half Vas Vujacic smothered at
the feet of David Onoforo, and Puca's shot from distance just cleared the
crossbar as Perth worked hard to get back on level terms. Genuine chances
on goal were scarce over the closing stages with both teams locking it down
defensively by springing the offside trap. Adrian Sutton's header forced
a sharp response from Mattecucci just minutes before the referee's final
whistle signalled a much needed win for Athena that moves them five points
clear of last placed Bassendean Caledonian.
21.8.2004
FIRST DIVISION, ROUND TWENTY-ONE (Canning City vs Gosnells City by Phil
Unsworth; Ashfield vs Balcatta courtesy Balcatta; Morley Windmills vs Leeming Strikers
courtesy Morley Windmills)
Wanneroo City's hopes of catching First Division leader Armadale received a
major dent when held 1-1 at home by Mandurah City. The hosts were quick
to find their rhythm and could have gone in front early but Scott Bulloch
shot narrowly high and John Dixon sent the ball wide not long
after. However, it was Mandurah who made the most of their chances and on
24 minutes an unchallenged Jake Loreto headed in from a Jordan Rhodes
corner. Wanneroo hit back after 44 minutes as Bulloch's centring pass
from the right found Stuart Collins who rammed the ball past goalkeeper
Michael Green. Mandurah's Neil Connor was lucky to stay in the park for a
terrible tackle from behind on Brian Robertson who had to be stretchered
from the field. Play was evenly distributed in a tense second half affair
that saw Bulloch denied by a great save from Green, while Christian
Pascherwitz and Jordan Rhodes went close to nudging Mandurah in
front. With the final whistle looming Wanneroo threw everything forward
but couldn't find a way through as Green again thwarted Bulloch and Dixon's
lob over the 'keeper was cleared off the line by Dean Rodgers. Mandurah
came close to stealing the points in stoppage time when Rhodes blazed past
a static defence only to balloon his shot high.
Stirling Suns were outplayed on home soil by a rampant South West Phoenix
side who ran out winners by 8-2. Phoenix were quick to assert their
authority over play but it took until the 35th minute for them to break
through via Steve Suttie, and five minutes later Gary Mayers twisted and
turned his way past the defence to double the margin. The Suns reeled in
the gap early in the second half through Bobby Risteski, but further goals
from Mayers and Suttie took the score to four-one after 53 minutes. David
Tanevski lead a Suns revival with two goals to set up a tense finish to the
day. But Phoenix were having none of it and four minutes from the end
Suttie completed his hat-trick to kill off the hosts chances. The
visitors then rammed home their advantage as Patrick Roberts hit the target
twice in rapid succession, and the attacker could have taken his haul to
three had he make more of an open goal in stoppage time. Phoenix move up
the table into outright third as a result of the win but still trail second
placed Wanneroo City by eight points.
Canning City took out the points by a 3-1 scoreline when Gosnells City
visited Willetton Sports Club. Gosnells goalkeeper Jason Mehnert was
called into action inside the opening minute to push a header from Alex
Seed wide of the target. Seven minutes later Gosnells were caught square
at the back and Daniel Trevisiol took full advantage by racing on to a
lofted pass from Mick Van Dongen which he slotted past the 'keeper. The
visitors waited just five minutes before getting back on level terms
through Jonathon Cook who forced the ball over the line at the far post
following a cross from Adam Bremner. Robby Meyer denied Bremner a few
minutes later after Canning's defence failed to deal the danger, while just
before the break and down the opposite end David Mahon hit the upright from
the top of the box. Five minutes into the second half Canning regained
their lead as a loose ball fell to Seed who drilled into the roof of the
net from some 25-metres. From there Canning took control, however, it
wasn't until the final minute of regulation time that they secured victory
with a spectacular scissor kick by Jix Loong which looped over Mehnert from
a very tight angle. The win enabled Canning to leapfrog over Gosnells
into fifth place.
An excellent second half performance by Balcatta allowed them to score a
3-0 away win over Ashfield. The visitors struggled in a scrappy opening
period and could well have gone in at half-time a goal or two down if a
wonderful strike by Alex Crookes hadn't been tipped over the bar by Colin
Lees who also pushed away a powerful shot from Wayne Culverwell. Some
tactical changes during the break refreshed the Balcatta line-up and
immediately upon the resumption of play they put Ashfield under immense
pressure at
the back. With Joe Cinquina running the show from midfield the visitors
were able to take the lead early in the half through Adrian Zonato. The
gap was doubled when Ashfield defender Joe Kendall had the misfortune of
turning the ball past his own goalkeeper. The hard-working Danny Carlino
put the icing on Balcatta's cake by scoring their third and final goal
close to the final whistle. Ashfield should have got one back but Matt
Pochroj again failed in what looked a easy effort. The win, Balcatta's
fifth in six outings, elevates the club to seventh on the First Division
table and just four points behind third-placed South West Phoenix.
A Rydeen Botha hat-trick gave Morley Windmills a surprise 3-2 win over
Leeming Strikers at Wotton Reserve. Coming off successive losses,
Windmills were looking to get things back on track with a positive showing
on home soil. The hosts started well and on 12 minutes Willy Lyall was
played through only to be halted in his tracks by an incorrect offside call
from the line. Slowly the visitors settled into a rhythm but could find
no way past goalkeeper Matt Darling who was in fine form. The best chance
came just before the interval when on offside call went in the Strikers
favour but Lucas Whitehouse was unable to capitalise with only the 'keeper
to beat. Five minutes into the second half substitute Simon Verersaso
slotted the ball to Dale Wingell who put the Strikers one-nil up. That
lead last all of the three minutes before Botha equalised by beating the
'keeper from a tight angle. Windmills gained the upper hand soon after as
Botha found the target for a second time. Determined to get points out of
the game, the Strikers hit back with fifteen minutes to go via Leroy
Goodwin. But Windmills desire was the greater and in the 87th minute Ryan
Fitzgerald set-up Botha who completed his haul and gave the home team
maximum points.
At Coker Park, Queens Park swept aside the visiting Kingsway Olympic by a
4-1 scoreline. Adrian McBride, Paul Dundo, Gary Abraham and Ray Rose
found the net for the hosts with Nigel Comito netting Olympic's sole
response. Dianella White Eagles were held 1-1 at home by a focused
Rockingham City line-up. Dragan Njegic put Dianella ahead on the half
hour only to have Glen Hallums level the score nineteen minutes from
full-time. On Sunday Ashfield and Armadale played out a scoreless draw in
a match brought forward from Round Thirty.
21.8.2004
LUCKLESS MATILDA'S DIP OUT
The Australian Women's Olympic team have bowed out of the Athens Games by
going down 1-2 to world number four Sweden in the quarter-finals at
Panthessaliko Stadium. It wasn't for a want of trying though as the
Matildas came home with a head of steam to almost sent the tie into
extra-time. Sweden dominated possession throughout the opening half with
thier first goal arriving on 25 minutes when Hanna Ljungberg pounced on a
sloppy pass and made her way between two defenders before slotting the ball
past goalkeeper Cassandra Kell from 16-metres. Five minutes later the
margin was doubled as Kristin Bengtsson's deep corner was headed across the
face of goal by Ljunberg and Sara Larsson looped it over Kell. Lisa De
Vanna was brought into the fray in the 36th minute and immediately her
presence ignited a spark into the Australian attack as Heather Garriock's
first time effort flew over the crossbar.
Australia were fired up to get themselves back in the contest upon
resumption of play with Sarah Walsh and De Vanna both causing headaches for
the Swedish backline. De Vanna and Garricok were thwarted by 'keeper
Caroline Joensson and Cheryl Salisbury's header was deflected over. Not
to be outdone, Ljungberg got in behind the Australian defence in the 65th
minute but her attempt flew wide of the target. Eleven minutes from
full-time the Matilda's pulled a goal back through De Vanna who out-paced a
defender to the ball before placing it low past the 'keeper. This
reignited Australia's hopes of going through to the round of four but some
stubborn defending blocked shots by Selin Kuralay and Garriock while Walsh
headed wide. De Vanna came on in the 36th minute for the Matilda's and
netted after 79 minutes, and fellow West Australian Tal Karp was an unused
substitute for the fourth successive match.
21.8.2004
WEEKEND IN SUMMARY
Bassendean Caledonian look set to be relegated after going down 0-3 to
Premier League leader Western Knights in picturesque conditions at Nash
Field. Compounding the loss was Floreat Athena's 1-0 win over Perth S.C.
which moves them five points clear of the drop zone. Cockburn City
accounted for E.C.U. Joondalup 3-1 to keep the pressure on the
Knights. Sorrento moved to third with a 3-1 away defeat of Stirling
Lions, and Bobby Despotovski's second halt-trick in as many weeks allowed
Inglewood United to beat Swan I.C. 4-2. It ended scoreless at Frank Drago
Reserve between Bayswater City and Fremantle City.
Wanneroo City were held to a 1-1 draw by Mandurah City in a physical First
Division match in the northern suburbs. South West Phoenix regained third
place on the table with an 8-2 away thrashing of Stirling Suns. Canning
City outclassed Gosnells City by 3-1, and Ashfield proved little match for
Balcatta who took out the points 3-0. In the upset of the round, Morley
Windmills ended Leeming Strikers' undefeated run by triumphing 3-2 at
Wotton Reserve. In other games Queens Park dumped Kingsway Olympic 4-1,
and Dianella White Eagles played out a 1-1 draw with Rockingham City. On Sunday,
Ashfield held league leaders Armadale to a 0-0 draw at Ashfield Reserve.
20.8.2004
WEEKEND IN PREVIEW
The pick of this weekend’s Premier League action takes place at Dalmatinac Park where
second-placed Cockburn City come up against third-placed E.C.U. Joondalup. Running that match
a close second is Stirling Lions home fixture with Sorrento. Leader Western Knights are expected
to claim the points at home over Bassendean Caledonian, while inner city rivals Floreat Athena
and Perth S.C. clash at Litis Stadium. Swan I.C. have dropped off the pace of late and on Saturday
meet an Inglewood United side looking to add some consistency to their game in the lead-up to the
finals. Coming off two consecutive wins Fremantle City are expected to take the points home from
Bayswater City.
Wanneroo City have home ground advantage over Mandurah City in the twenty-first round of First
Division fixtures. South West Phoenix are tipped widely to score a big win at Stirling Suns,
while Leeming Strikers are away at Morley Windmills. There’ll be little between Canning City
and Gosnells City when they clash at Willetton Sports Club. Queens Park welcome Kingsway
Olympic to Coker Park, and Dianella White Eagles are home to a fast improving Rockingham
City. Ashfield are down on luck at the moment and this weekend have a difficult home date
with Balcatta. On Sunday First Division leader Armadale take on Ashfield in a match brought
forward from the end of the season due to ground unavailability.
20.8.2004
RACE INTENSIFIES FOR GOLDEN BOOT
With four games remaining in the Premier League season over half a dozen
players are in contention for the Golden Boot as the competition's leading
goalscorer. Level on 12 goals are David Foster (Swan I.C.) and Carl
Medica (Western Knights) who were both held scoreless on the
weekend. Cockburn City playmaker Antonio Naglieri scored the winner
against Bassendean Caledonian on Saturday to move to second on 11 goals,
one more than Stuart Montgomery (Knights) who has missed the past few weeks
through injury. Five players are gathered on 9 goals, namely E.C.U.
Joondalup's makeshift striker Andy Brown, Kevin Corriera (Fremantle City),
John Mirco (Cockburn), Andreas Oliveira (Floreat Athena) and Inglewood
United's Bobby Despotovski. With 8 goals are Peter Coci (Athena), who
missed the opening part of the season through injury, and Peter Petkovich
(Cockburn).
It's a much different story in the Reserve and Under-18 competitions where
the leading goalscorer awards are pretty much sewn up. Perth S.C. striker
Nikita Ruravytsya has scored at a rate of more than a goal a game this year
and holds a massive lead over his nearest rival. Ruravytsya's 23 goals is
sure to earn him the Reserves award with Simon El Chami (Cockburn City)
next on 10 goals. The trio of Joshua Kamasz (Western Knights), David
Houston (Sorrento) and Luke Myburg (Fremantle City) are next with 9 goals
each. E.C.U. Joondalup's Jonathan Greenwood has 8 goals to his name which
is one more than Peter Petkov (Inglewood United), Mileta Miletic (Cockburn)
and Matt Ullbricht (Swan I.C.). With 6 goals for the season to date are
Jerome Vallet (Stirling Lions), Matthew Novatsis (Floreat Athena), Roberto
Colalillo (Cockburn) and Scott Cooper (Bassendean Caledonian).
Leading the way in the Under-18 stakes is Michael Johnson who clearly
enjoying his first season with northern suburbs outfit Sorrento. Johnson
has found the back of the net 19 times so far during the winter months and
holds a big lead over Kevin Carmona (E.C.U. Joondalup) who currently has 12
goals. In joint third place with 10 goals a piece are Chris Socratous
(Perth S.C.) and E.C.U. Joondalup teammates Rhys Williams and John
Aitken. Cockburn City striker Dragan Milankovic is next on 9 goals. Six
players - Radivoje Pelemis (Swan I.C.), Ben Howe (Fremantle City), Jason
Chatzopoulos (Floreat Athena), Sam Coolican (Joondalup), David Araya
(Cockburn) and Luke O'Neill (Bayswater City) - are grouped on 8 goals.
20.8.2004
MASTERS TEAM SEEKS PLAYERS
The West Australian Masters team are heading to Queensland’s Gold Coast in November and are
looking to strengthen their squad. The State over-35 team are set to compete the Pan Pacific
Masters Games, an annual event which alternates between the Gold Coast and the Californian
city of Sacramento, with this years tournament running eleven days commencing 4th November. The
cost to be part of the State side is in the vicinity of $1,150 which includes flights,
accommodation, registration fee’s and apparel. Players interested in representing West
Australia at the Pan Pacific Masters Games are asked to contact either Charlie (ph 043 3171 057)
or Stuart Currie (ph 041 8942 443).
20.8.2004
MADASCHI IN SUPERSTAR COMPANY
Adrian Madaschi is making the most of his Olympic experience. The 22 year-old defender has played
every minute of Australia's three group stage games and will provide the cornerstone of the Olyroo's
defence in Saturday's quarter-final showdown with Iraq. "I am enjoying every minute here and I
think against Argentina we showed we can mix it in any company," commented the tall defender. "Playing
against a guy like (Kily) Gonzalez, who is playing Champions League football and is a star at Inter is
helping my game enormously. I can only learn by playing against players of that calibre and from
playing with guys like Craig Moore. The experience is priceless - I didn't know him even though
we both play in Glasgow. I first really met him at the end of the season when we were playing
Oceania World Cup qualifiers and to play with him is a big learning experience. I'm loving it."
Madaschi says he and his Olyroo teammates have drawn inspiration from Australia's other Olympic
athletes. "I look at guys like Ian Thorpe and I am knocked out by how well he has done - he's
the same age as me, yet he's won all these gold medals. I'm obviously in a different sport but
for these two weeks my ambition is the same as his - to go home with an Olympic gold medal. I
know it won't be easy but we have a chance. We are here to achieve the same things that Thorpe
is and having reached the last eight, nobody can count us out. We are now going back to Crete
for the quarter final. Obviously, we'd love to come back to Athens for the semi-final and
experience more of the Olympic atmosphere. We honestly believe we can leave with a medal,
on our day we can compete with any team."
19.8.2004
FOCUSED MATILDA'S CAN GO ALL THE WAY
The Matilda's have what it takes to progress to the medal round of the
Athens Olympic Games according to their Fremantle-born striker Lisa De
Vanna. "We are focused and if we do our jobs then we can do anything,"
said the 19-year old following Australia's historic draw with world number
two the United States of America. The Australian Women's Olympic team
meet Sweden, runners-up at last years Women's World Cup, on Friday for a
place in the last four of the tournament. Some eye-catching performances
off the bench by De Vanna in the Matilda's three group stage games has
given coach Adrian Santrac plenty to think about in the lead-up to the
quarter-final fixture. "I will play the best I can, I am here to do a job
and I play from the heart," the lively attacker commented.
19.8.2004
COACH LAVISHES PRAISE ON SCHOOLBOYS
Damon Atthowe, coach of the West Australian Schoolboys, heaped praise on
his squad following their strong performance at the Australian Secondary
Schools Soccer Championships in Adelaide last week. The side took out the
silver medal at the week long event to become the state's most successful
ever Schoolboys team. "This is a remarkable achievement," commented
Atthowe this week. "Our previous best performance at the nationals was
third place which we've achieved three times. So to come second is a
tribute to the talent that we have in this state and goes to show what we
as a state are capable of."
"The boys dedication, commitment and passion was a major contributing
factor to our placing," the coach added. "Their attitude towards pre-game
preparation and post-match recovery enabled us to maintain our edge
throughout the tournament. They worked for each other to shut down
opposition teams with the boys putting themselves second to the teams
interests. It was this total commitment to the team that really stood out
for me over the week. We also played a very mature game tactically which
enabled us to create opportunities and deny the opposition the same chances."
"As in previous years, the standard of the other teams was very high," said
Atthowe. "The boys who were in last years State Under-16 squad commented
on the step-up in competition which is to be expected with National Youth
Soccer League players and Australian Under-17 internationals competing at
these championships. We held and matched New South Wales - who won the
tournament - for 35 minutes and in fact were the only team to get within
two goals of them. When you consider that the majority of their squad
train together in Institute programs and tour together two or three other
times during the year this is a remarkable result for us."
"If we are to better this result in any age group in the future we need to
instigate a similar system to that in New South Wales where players are
released from club duty for Institute and State training," Atthowe
added. "The clubs need to recognise their State players and provide them
with extra support and not punish them for playing for WA. I think that
as a sport need to look at the big picture more often, and School Sport
needs to be seen as a partner rather than as a competitor for the players
time. If we are to further develop our young players then the need also
exists to re-establish an Institute program or programs in West Australia."
18.8.2004
GARCIA RETURNS FROM INJURY
Richard Garcia made his return from a serious knee injury by helping West
Ham United's Reserves to their first win of the new English season. The
22-year old attacker played the opening 65 minutes for the Hammers second
string when they defeated Norwich City 2-1 at Carrow Road this
evening. The match was Garcia's first competitive outing since tearing
cartilage while training with the Australian Olympic team in January.
18.8.2004
WHO FOR THE DROP?
Bassendean Caledonian and Floreat Athena are locked in a battle to avoid
relegation with just four games remaining in the home-and-away season. At
the completion of Saturday's round it was Caledonian that were stumping up
the table with Athena just two points ahead. Caledonian took the lead
against Cockburn City but were unable to hold as they went down 1-2 on home
soil. And Athena's goal difference suffered enormously when they crashed
0-8 at Inglewood United. Fremantle City, although mathematically still in
the relegation equation, now look likely to retain their top flight status
after registering their second win in as many weeks.
Of the two clubs it's Bassendean Caledonian that have the more difficult
final month of fixtures. This weekend they're on the road to title
favourite Western Knights who'll be smarting from a shock loss last
Saturday. This is followed by a difficult home clash with a Perth S.C.
side striving hard to make the play-offs. However, it'll most likely be
on the afternoon of Saturday 4th September that Caledonian's fate will be
decided when they take on Athena at Litis Stadium. Their 2004 campaign
come to a close the next weekend with a home date against E.C.U. Joondalup.
Floreat Athena play three of their last four games on home soil, although
looking at their record at Litis Stadium this year that doesn't mean a
great deal. It's difficult to see them taking anything away from Perth
S.C. this Saturday despite the home ground 'advantage'. But the following
week they stand a good chance of picking up a point or three by visiting
Swan I.C. Next up is the all-important home meeting with Caledonian which
is likely to determined in which division each club spends next
season. Athena end their season on home soil against a Bayswater City
side that have really struggled over the second half of the year.
17.8.2004
OLYROO'S THROUGH DESPITE LOSS
The Olyroo's have made the last eight of the Olympic games for the first
time since 1992 despite going down 0-1 to Argentina in their final group
stage match. The only goal of an engaging match arrived after 9 minutes
when a loose ball on the edge of the box came the way of Andres
D'Alessandro whose shot skimmed past the despairing dive of Eugene
Galekovic and inside the far post. Although Argentina domainated
possession they were unable to kill the game off with a second goal thanks
largely to some determined defending from their opponent. Australia also
created numerous openings with their best effort coming from Jade North
whose long-range effort after 17 minutes was narrowly wide.
Having spend much of the first half on the defensive, the Olyroos opened
the game up after the break but were unable to find a passage to
goal. Argentina continued to push forward in numbers with Carlos Tevez
the lynchpin in the centre of the park. Late in the game Brett Holman
almost equalised with a solid shot that forced Argentina goalkeeper German
Lux into a fine low save. While Australia are delighted to progress,
their enthusiasm will be tempered by the fact they'll be missing the
influential trio of Craig Moore, Tim Cahill and Ahmed Elrich through
suspension for their knock-out stage clash with Iraq. Defender Adrian
Madaschi played a full game and Anthony Danze came on after 73 minutes for
Australia, while David Tarka and Brad Jones were unused substitutes.
17.8.2004
MATILDA'S HOLD U.S. TO HISTORIC DRAW
Midfielder Joanne Peters fired the Matilda's into the last eight of the
Athens Olympic Games by scoring a late equalise against the United States
at the Kaftanzoglio Stadium in Greece. The 1-1 draw is the first time
Australia have taken a point off the United States who've emerged
victorious in each of the sixteen previous meetings between the two
nations. America opened the scoring in the 19th minute when Julie Foudy
played a delicate chip into the area which Kristine Lilly volleyed into the
roof of the net from 6-metres. Undeterred by the goal, Australia remained
positive as shots from Dianne Alagich and Sally Shipard were blocked by the
defence. The Americans came close just before the break with Mia Hamm
threading through to Cindy Parlow only to have Cheryl Salisbury block her
effort.
Chances came at both ends of the field in the second half with Foudy
heading just wide and Peters' volley hit straight at the 'keeper. As in
previous games, Lisa De Vanna added life to the Australian attack when she
came off the bench as Shipard, De Vanna and Gill Foster went close in an
amazing four-minute period. With eight minutes to go Peters secured
Australia a draw by climbing above the defence to loop a header into the
top corner from Heather Garriock's cross. Australia then defended with
renewed vigour to protect their point at all costs and had to endure an
added three minutes of stoppage time. De Vanna was introduced in the 62nd
minute, while Tal Karp watched the entire game from the bench. Australia
will meet Sweden, ranked fourth in the world, in their first ever Olympic
Games quarter-final match on Friday.
17.8.2004
DAVIES JOINS BRISTOL
Following a short trial with the club, Clint Davies has signed a one-year
contract with English side Bristol City. The 21-year old, who spent three
seasons honing his skills in Birmingham City's academy, will put pressure
on first choice goalkeeper Steve Phillips. Davies made his debut for the
City Reserves in today's Pontin's Holidays Combination game at Swindon Town.
16.8.2004
EIGHT HONOURED WITH NATIONAL SELECTION
No less than eight West Australian's were awarded national honours at the
completion of the Australian Secondary Schools Soccer Championships in
Adelaide last week. Northern Redbacks attacker Ciara Conway has been
selected in the Australian Schoolgirls squad to tour the United Kingdom in
December of this year. In addition East Fremantle midfielder Laura
Turnbull and Carys Hawkins of the Redbacks were included in the shadow
squad for the Australian Schoolgirls. Five members of the State
Schoolboys side which claimed the silver medal were named in the Australian
Schoolboys shadow squad. The successful quintet were Carlo Cardozo
(Cockburn City), goalkeeper Alex Dunn (Floreat Athena), Scott Patterson
(E.C.U. Joondalup) and Forrestfield United pair Jarrod Smith and Wesley Ryder.
16.8.2004
GLORY CONFIDENT OF RE-BUILDING SQUAD
Perth Glory will look interstate and overseas in a bid to maintain its
status as Australia's number team. The club's back-to-back championship
winning squad has fragmented since the national league came to a close in
May. With the Australian Soccer Association last week confirming a new
replacement competition would commence next August, and which will itself
by preceded by two-week competition in May, Glory are now starting to
consider their playing options.
Although many of Glory's players have headed overseas, chief executive
officer Jeff Dennis is confident they can be lured back. "Many of them
have gone on short-term arrangements because they needed to, and we support
them," Dennis said. "They will be the first players that we'll be trying
to get back ... we are hopeful most of them will return." Locally
produced Glory trio Adrian Caceras, Nick Mrdja and Jason Petkovic have
picked up deals in England, Sweden and Turkey respectively while Mark
Byrnes (Finland), Wayne Srhoj (Romania) Matt Bingley and Tom Pondeljak
(Malaysia) have also moved abroad to further their careers.
According to Dennis, Glory will wait until after next month's Australian
Soccer Association board meeting before casting its recruiting net to the
eastern states and overseas. "We will be looking far and wide to attract
the strongest squad possible," he commented. "It would be improper to
begin making offers to players now when we don't know what the salary cap
will be. There's no question there will be one (salary cap). Hopefully
we'll find out what that is shortly after September 29." Glory are
virtually guaranteed to be one of the successful bidders who'll make up the
new eight-team Australian Premier League.
15.8.2004
WOMEN'S WRAP (Northern Redbacks vs Balcatta courtesy Northern Redbacks; Cockburn City
vs Subiaco courtesy Subiaco; Northern Redbacks vs Murdoch University courtesy Murdoch University)
Northern Redbacks secured their second Women's Soccer WA Premier League
title in as many years by beating nearest rival Balcatta 3-0 in the
penultimate game of the season. In an entertaining match that produced
good opening at both ends of the field, Collette McCallum's perfectly
weighted pass provided Ciara Conway with the days opening goal. After the
break McCallum doubled her teams lead with a stunning strike from 22-metres
which gave the goalkeeper absolutely no chance as it soared into the top
corner. 16-year old Justine White completed what was a memorable day for
the Redbacks by scoring the sealer late in the second half.
In the first round of Premier League play-offs, Lynwood came from behind to
claim an 8-2 victory over a Kingsley side that had eight players also turn
out for their reserves earlier in the day. Kingsley started brightly with
Shenade Unicomb and Adele Coxal finding the net to give them a two-goal
buffer at the break. But Kingsley simply ran out of legs in the second
half as Lynwood seized control, Emily Angwin and Lauren Quinlan finding the
target to put the sides back on level terms. Angwin went on to completed
her hat-trick, Quinlan ended the day with a double with Penny Hoath,
Vanessa Sakalidis and an unfortunate own goal completing the
scoreline. Queens Park and Subiaco played out a scoreless draw at Coker Park.
In the First Division, Subiaco took the points courtesy of a 3-0 scoreline
over Cockburn City. Both goalkeepers were busy from the start and showed
great form with some telling saves to keep the opposing forwards at
bay. The only goal of the first half came via Camilla Qvist whose
sensational left foot drive was beyond the reach of the Cockburn 'keeper
at full-stretch. A handball inside the 18-yard box gave Subiaco a penalty
which Ying Ong confidently stepped up to blast in Subiaco's second of the
day. Bec Reynell helped out goalkeeper Megan Jenyns with some
quick-thinking clearances off the line to leave the home team
frustrated. Julia Horncastle scored the sealer by sending the ball into
the top corner from just outside the penalty box.
Murdoch University scored a 2-0 away win over Northern Redbacks C. The
visiting side created a bagful of opportunities in the first half only to
be denied the opened by the frame of the goal and some great work by the
Redbacks 'keeper. They eventually broke the deadlock with Steph Battista
sending a beautiful long-range shot in the net. Murdoch began the second
half in similar fashion and were very nearly two goals the better as
Petrina Brewer met Jo Steer's corner only for her shot to hit the
upright. Opportunities were few and far between for the Redbacks with
Helene Aarstad marshalling the Murdoch defence. Murdoch secured the win
fifteen minutes from full-time as Steer beat the Redbacks 'keeper following
a long ball into attack.
First Division leader Noranda were rarely troubled as they ran out 7-1
victors on home soil against Swan I.C. The win moves Noranda five points
clear at the top of the table. Beckenham Angels 3-0 'bye win' moves them
into second place, two points ahead of Swan and Murdoch. The result of
the match at Dowling Street Reserve between Rockingham City and the
University of WA is currently unknown.
15.8.2004
WAASSA, ROUND SEVENTEEN
Shamrock Rovers are now only one point away from winning their first
Championship in seven seasons after beating UWA on Sunday. This result plus
the WAASSA's board decision to award the game played recently against
Canning International to 2-0 for Shamrock after Canning played two unregistered
players leaves them a single point from glory.
Shamrock started the game well in the hope of ending UWA's eight match
unbeaten run and as early as the sixth minute
John McCarthy made a darting run through the centre only for UWA keeper Josh
Davenport to make a good save to his left. UWA slowly worked their way
into the game and a Robert Benkovic cross found Bryn Griffith's' head but
the ball went just past the left hand post. A Marc D'Ascanio cross then
fell to Paul Dimmock but his shot was well saved by the outstretched boot of
Shamrock keeper Ed Schuller. In the 35th minute David Berg beat Shamrock
keeper Ed Schuller in the air but his goal bound header unfortunately hit
Robert Benkovic on the back of the head At the other end a Mark Kelly cross
was met by John McCarthy but his header wend over the bar. UWA's Bryn
Griffiths nearly scored at the near post but Shamrock keeper Ed Schuller was
alert and blocked the shot.
The second half began at an even pace with both chances creating some half
chances. Shamrock were indebted to keeper Ed Schuller who made several good
saves. Then after 55 minutes a superb turn and cross from Sean Brooks found
the head of 18 year old Dylan Browne and his header smacked against the
crossbar only to ricochet against the keepers foot and into the net to give
Shamrock a 1-0 lead.
The influential Paul Dimmock was finding more space as UWA searched for an
equaliser as Shamrock began to give the ball away on countless occaisions
but the defence stood firm.
The relieved Shamrock Coach, Nik Silsby, said after the game, "UWA are a good side
and it is never easy against them. This is the first time we have won here
and it was a very important result for us. We now need one point to win the
league, which would be a fitting result in our 20th anniversary year. I am
hoping for a big crowd when we take on Kwinana this week but we will be
taking nothing for granted as Kwinana are battling for every point. The
first thirty minutes we were superb and the quality of passing and movement
was outstanding - we then fell into a little bit of a hole but overall we
deserved the three points today." UWA coach Kevin Burton said,"We congratulate Shamrock on
their excellent season in both grades. I felt given the number of times we
got past Shamrock's left full back and the fact that Ed Schuller was forced
to make several good saves that we were a little hard done by with the
result today but that is soccer." UWA Reserves held Shamrock Rovers who had
previously won every game this season to a 2-2 draw.
In Other games, Stirling Panthers remain in second place after their
3-1 win over bottom side Fremantle United. CN Canning International
accounted for Kwinana United with the same score-line. Forrestfield
United are determined to avoid relegation with a 2-1 win against Perth Azzurri,
while Murdoch University thrashed reigning champions Hamersley Rovers 5-1. The
result of Spearwood Dalmatinac vs Colo Fixture is currently unknown.
14.8.2004
CONVINCING WIN FOR OLYROO'S
A place in the last eight of the Olympic Games beckons for the Australian
Olympic Men's team after crushing Serbia and Montenegro 5-1 at Pankritio
Stadium in Crete. Australia went ahead in the 11th minute when an
unmarked Tim Cahill headed Alex Brosque's corner into the back of the
net. On 25 minutes Serbia and Montenegro were presented with a golden
opportunity to equalise but Australian goalkeeper Eugene Galekovic kept out
Simon Vukcevic's penalty kick. John Aloisi made it two-nil in injury time
by placing his shot between 'keeper Nikola Milojevic and a defender.
Thirteen minutes into the second half Aloisi added to the tally after
Adrian Madaschi's header was parried by the 'keeper. Three minutes later
Luke Wilkshire's cross was deflected into the path of Ahmad Elrich who gave
the 'keeper no chance with his first time shot. Serbia and Montenegro
scored a consolation goal through Srdan Radonjic in the 72nd minute. In
the closing minutes Elrich's shot trickled through the legs of Milojevic to
complete the scoreline. Madaschi played a full game, Anthony Danze came
on in the 64th minute while David Tarka and Brad Jones were unused
substitutes. The other Group C match saw Argentina defeat Tunisia 2-0.
14.8.2004
MATILDA'S EYE QUARTERFINALS
The Matilda's have all but qualified for the quarter-finals of the Olympic
Games after a convincing 1-0 defeat of host nation Greece. It was the
first major tournament win for the Australian Women's team who are now in
the box seat to advance to the round of eight. Australia took control
soon after kick-off, dominating possession but unable to convert it into
many clear cut chances on goal, Greece on the other hand relied chiefly
on long-range efforts which rarely tested goalkeeper Cassandra Kell. A
defensive error in the 27th minute by Konstantina Katsaiti conceded
possession to Sarah Walsh whose low cross into the path of Heather Garriock
was put away with a minimum of fuss.
Australia continued to dominate after the break but couldn't kill off the
game with a second goal. Perth-born striker Lisa De Vanna put the ball in
the net after 64th minutes only to be judged offside in a questionable
decision. Selin Kuralay went wide with a volley, Cheryl Salisbury missed
the mark with a header, and Gill Foster had her shot blocked by a defender
as the Matilda's pressed to increase their advantage. Goalkeeper Maria
Giatrakis produced good saves to deny Danielle Small, De vanna and Kuralay
in the final ten minutes. De Vanna came on at half-time for Rhian Davies,
while fellow West Australian Tal Karp was an unused substitute.
14.8.2004
WEEKEND IN SUMMARY
Reigning champions Perth S.C. kept their faint final hopes alive with a 2-0
home defeat of Premier Leaue leader Western Knights this
afternoon. Cockburn City trimmed the leaders advantage to six points by
accounting for Bassendean Caledonian 2-1. E.C.U. Joondalup collected
maximum points for the first time in over a month by a 1-0 scoreline
against Stirling Lions. Sorrento moved to fourth with a 2-1 home defeat
of Bayswater City. Inglewood United, who thrashed Floreat Athena 8-0,
make up the top five. Fremantle City eased away from the drop zone by
beating Swan I.C. 2-1.
Armadale had little trouble in sweeping aside Morley Windmills 7-1 to
stretch their unbeaten run to thirteen games. Seven points behind the
First Division leader sit Wanneroo City who triumphed 4-1 over northern
neighbour Kingsway Olympic. In the surprise of the round, Mandurah City
crashed 0-2 at home to Dianella White Eagles. There were 2-1 wins for
Gosnells City and Canning city over Ashfield and Rockingham City
respectively. Balcatta controlled the home clash with Stirling Suns to
run out winners by 4-1. And Leeming Strikers came from behind to share
the points 3-3 with Queens Park.
14.8.2004
PREMIER LEAGUE, ROUND EIGHTEEN (Perth S.C. vs Western Knights by Mike Hennessey;
E.C.U. Joondalup vs Stirling Lions by Don Evans; Sorrento vs Bayswater City by Kerry Slater;
Fremantle City vs Swan I.C. by Peter Simcox)
Perth S.C. kept alive their slim chances of a final football by defeating
Premier League leader Western Knights 2-0 at Dorrien Gardens. A
determined Perth side had a hard struggle initially before running away
with the game in the closing stages. Perth were in attack from the start
with Shane Crampton breaking through the visiting defence but goalkeeper
Tommi Tomich was off his line quickly to smoother. The Knights retaliated
through Mark Lee whose cross found Andrija Jukic but his shot came back off
the post. Play swung from end to end in the match of the round which
provided plenty to keep the small crowd entertained. Crampton was causing
problems for the Knights rearguard and again found a way through only to
have his shot on goal deflected into the arms of Tomich. Down the
opposite end Alan Mattecucci moved sharply to keep out a great free-kick
from Daniel Trim. The Knights looked dangerous on the break but Perth's
defence was solid and had their opponents measure. Five minutes into the
second half David Micevski's cross from the right was met solidly at the
far post by Aaron Cole who headed in the games opening goal. Seven
minutes later Perth were awarded a free-kick wide on the left which David
Micevski played deep and once again it was Cole that rose above the defence
to nod in Perth's second. The home side were now well on top and Cole was
unlucky not to complete his hat-trick when his deflection from a David
Micevski corner flashed just wide of the upright. In an attempt to get
back in the game the Knights strung together some promising moves but could
find no way past Mattecucci and his defence. By the time of the final
fifteen minutes the visitors had run out of steam as Perth keep possession
for lengthy periods to run out deserved winners.
A depleted Cockburn City came from behind to take the points over
Bassendean Caledonians by 2-1 at Jubilee Reserve. Missing Michael Mirco,
Peter Petkovich and Liam Lilly due to suspension as well as injured pair
Scott Miller and Dino Pacella, the visitors' depth was put to the test as
they attempted keeping pace with table-topping Western Knights. Cockburn
were unlucky not to go ahead early on after Jason Dos Santos slipped the
ball past goalkeeper Alan Dunlop only for it to come back into play off the
inside of the post. Thirteen minutes from the break Graeme Matthews
earned the home team a penalty when he was bundled over in the box by Dean
Wallace and Peter Kuzet following a great cross from Kevin Griffiths, and
the latter made no mistake from the spot in sending Jeff Cargill the wrong
way. Jason Van Rooy almost doubled Caledonian's advantage when went past
the defence but Cargill was quick off his line to deny his opponent. It
took Cockburn seven minutes into the second half to restore parity when
Dunlop made an uncharacteristic blunder and was robbed of the ball by Marko
Aleksic who was presented with the simple task of stroking the ball into a
vacant net. Cockburn took the game by the scruff of the neck and twelve
minutes later went ahead as Dunlop was left exposed by his defence and
could only manage to take some of the pace off Antonio Naglieri's low shot
which crept slowly over the line. Never one to give up, Caledonian worked
tirelessly to get back on level terms but were turned away time and time
again but a well organised Cockburn rearguard. Caledonian almost snuck an
equaliser close to the final whistle when Kevin Griffiths' cross from the
left caught the visitors unaware and defender Boza Erakovic headed the ball
goalward but was denied an own goal by the quick reflexes of Cargill who
somehow turned it around the post.
Stirling Lions were far from disgraced in their narrow 0-1 loss to a
determined E.C.U. Joondalup in the northern suburbs. On a slippery, mud
splattered pitch there would be no room for 'pretty' football with long
balls and tough tackling the order of the day. The Lions made the early
running by exerting pressure on the home goal with midfielders Nick Ward,
Adam Rains and Derek Cooke all menace the opposing defence. Joondalup
soon settled and had an early chance to go ahead through Dale McCulloch
whose shot on goal was blocked by a desperate defence. The Lions won a
couple of free-kicks in quick succession midway through the period, both of
which lead to goalscoring opportunities. The first whizzed past the post
via the boot of Ward, while the second was met by the head of an unmarked
Muhamed Komaderic who really should have made more of the
chance. Joondalup's set piece plays were troubling the visiting
goalkeeper Vince Matassa and in the 28th minute an Andy Brown header
skimmed the top of the crossbar. It was a sign of things to come as
Joondalup attacked almost at will to have Matassa and his defence working
overtime. The half time whistle gave the combatants a well earned rest,
but upon the resumption of play it was a case of more of the same as
neither side was willing to take too many risks on the shifting
surface. The games only goal arrived in the 68th minute when Andy Brown
rose majestically above the Lions defence to head an in-swinging corner
past a diving Matassa. Tom Leeman brought on teenager Dennis McRoberts,
whose scored a later winner twice in as many weeks, in the closing stages
but it was all to no avail as the home team held on to register their first
win in over a month.
Sorrento recovered from the early setback of having a player sent off to
defeat Bayswater City 2-1 at Percy Doyle Reserve. With the wind at their
backs the Gulls started brightly and should have taken the lead on 4
minutes when Jared Love's shot was parried by goalkeeper Gianni Papalia to
Todd Harnwell who with the goal at his mercy somehow scooped it over the
crossbar. Six minutes Sorrento were reduced to ten men with the red
carding of Daniel Cain for handling Ross Barnes' goalbound shot on the
line, and from the resulting penalty Barnes sent Phil Straker the wrong way
to put Bayswater ahead. Some tactical and positional changes by coach
Trevor Morgan enable Sorrento quickly regain control of the game and with
25 minutes gone they were able to draw level as Harland's effort was
blocked by Papalia but Brad Hassell made no mistake with the
follow-up. It wasn't long before the home team took the lead with Love
converting from the penalty spot after he was brought down by Scottish
import Wes Mitchell. Sorrento continued on in the same vein after the
interval with Harland playing a neat pass into Glen Thomas whose cracking
drive was brilliantly saved by Papalia. Although playing with an extra
man, Bayswater were constantly harassed when in possession and rarely
threatened as a result. Harnwell and Harland were both presented with
opportunities to put the game beyond doubt for the Gulls but neither was
able to get the better of Papalia who was rock solid between the
posts. The win extended the Gulls unbeaten run to eight games as they
climb top fourth place and well in the running for a spot in the finals
come September.
Inglewood United did their play-off chances the world of good by trouncing
Floreat Athena 8-0 at the National Stadium. The crowd had barely time to
settle into their seats when Scott Campbell's corner went to feet and Louis
Parkinson lashed the loose ball into the net from close range to put the
hosts in front after just 53 seconds. Athena came close to hitting back
within minutes through Andreas Oliveira whose brilliant free-kick beat
Oliver Taseski only to come back off the crossbar. As the half progressed
the visitors slowly grew in stature but with Inglewood quick to shut them
down at the back shots on goal were hard to come by. Midway through the
half Stephen Guest slotted through to Oliveira who was denied by a fine
diving save from Taseski, while with half time approaching Oliveira drilled
a free-kick low past the defensive wall only to again find the Inglewood
'keeper well placed. The match was changed forever shortly after the
break as Inglewood bagged two controversial goals which left Athena
shell-shocked. Despotovski converted a hotly disputed penalty awarded
after Michael Baczynski's drive flew into Adrian Sutton who was deemed to
have handled the ball. And in the 56th minute another shot from Baczynski
was heading wide before Shaun Kilkelly deflected it between the poss from
an offside position. With Athena's spirit broken the home side simply ran
riot. The margin became four goals when Despotovski again converted from
the spot after being tripped by Guest after 63 minutes, then Colli got
himself on the scoresheet after combining brilliantly with Despotovski and
Kilkelly. Anthony Mori denied Despotovski his hat-trick in a one-on-one,
but just a minute later the Athena 'keeper was left badly exposed by his
defence as Greg Sharland headed in goal number six. Sharland hit the
crossbar in the 81st minute before bundling the rebound over the line, and
six minutes from full-time Despotovski completed the route by side-footing
in from 3-metres following a nice exchange between Campbell and Sharland.
Fremantle City eased themselves clear of the drop zone with a last gasp 2-1
win over Swan I.C. at Ken Allen Field. In very breezy conditions the home
side had the better of early play with Matt Danskin in particular causing
problems for the Swan rearguard. In an all-action start Danskin and
Tyrone Fenwick both tested goalkeeper Cory Hugo, Kevin Correia headed over
when well-placed and a free-kick from Jeff Bright ended narrowly wide on
the target. Swan were struggling to get into the game but went close
twice in as many minutes as David Foster's header was saved by goalkeeper
Nick Stone and Damien Todorovic flashed the ball just past the
upright. Hugo pushed wide a free-kick from Correia before the Fremantle
striker finally broke through on 41 minutes by blasting the ball into the
top corner. Swan looked more composed after the break and soon won a
corner which was swung in by Miki Vujacic who forced Stone to tip the ball
over the bar under pressure in a crowded goalmouth. The hosts were
dangerous on the counterattack as Abdul Kamara beat Hugo onto to see Carlos
Echeverria clear the danger off the line. Gary Faria's was then denied by
the reflexes of Hugo, and from the resulting corner Anthony Pereira crashed
the ball into the upright. The introduction of Tom Shepheard brought
almost immediate dividends for Swan as he headed a Damian Scali free-kick
past Stone just two minutes after coming on. The points were now up for
grabs and the next chance came the way of Swan attacker Elton Holmes whose
effort was pushed away by the 'keeper following a mazy run. With the
final whistle looming Fremantle launched one last desperate attack in which
Faria played a neat one-two with Correia before tucking the ball past the
advancing 'keeper for the winning goal.
14.8.2004
FIRST DIVISION, ROUND TWENTY (Canning City vs Rockingham City by Phil Unsworth;
Balcatta vs Stirling Suns courtesy Balcatta; Leeming Strikers vs Queens Park courtesy
Leeming Strikers)
Armadale scored a comfortable 7-1 win over Morley Windmills whose resources
were stretched to the limits at Alfred Skeet Oval. Jason Goodwin opened
the scoring after 4 minutes with Greg Newcombe adding the hosts second a
minute later. Armdale took a five goal lead into the break courtesy two
goals in three minutes from Dean Gartside and Goodwin's second of the
afternoon just before the half-time whistle. Further goals in the second
half from Goodwin and Gartside enabled each player to end the day with a
hat-trick. "Things started going wrong for us before the game with three
players from the starting line-up pulling out less than hour before
kick-off," said Windmills coach James Herbert. "At five down at half-time
I really felt for the lads because the first few goals were so
early. However, I was pleased with our second half display because it
would have been so easy to throw in the towel. To the lads credit they
showed a lot of character and fought to the end. We all knew this season
would be tough but we have set ourselves a goal for the remainder of the
season and are determined to reach it."
On a cold and blustery afternoon, Wanneroo City proved 4-1 too strong for
neighbour Kingsway Olympic at Kingsway Sporting Complex. It took Wanneroo
just 6 minutes to edge ahead as Chris Currie's quickly taken free-kick came
to nestle in the net while the opposing side were still disputing the
foul. Chances on goal were scarce as the two sides battled it out for
control with neither able to gain the upper hand. On 25 minutes Olympic
got back on level terms when a foul on Nigel Comito resulted in a penalty
which was duly converted by Phil Russie. Following a fairly stale opening
to the second half, Wanneroo slowly began to assert some authority over
proceedings. A jinxing weaving from the left by Scott Bulloch took him
past two defenders before calmly rolling the ball wide of goalkeeper Steve
Dimitrovic to restore the visitors advantage on 65 minutes. Craig
Cheesman made it three-one when his shot hit the underside of the crossbar
and ricocheted over the goal line. Wanneroo's day was completed by Scott
Wyeth who converted from the penalty spot after Oliver Hilton teased a foul
out of an opponent.
Some recent high scoring by Mandurah City accounted for nought as they
crashed 0-2 on home soil to Dianella White Eagles. The only goal of a
tight opening half arrived two minutes from the break when Jimmy Stoichev
put the ball in the back of the net. The second half was much as case of
the same story with few chances on goal thanks to a couple of dominant
defences. Mandurah's chances of sneaking a late equaliser evaporated with
the 85th minute dismissal of youngster Mo Atack. Four minutes later
Dianella made the most of the numeric advantage with Miladin Gugoroski
bagging their second of the afternoon to secure maximum points.
In a match of attrition, Gosnells City overcame Ashfield 2-1 at Walter
Padbury Reserve. The opening spell produced few highlights of note with
both teams bypassing midfield. As the game wore on Gosnells began to find
their rhythm and increase their possession before Adam Bremner opened the
scoring on 42 minutes by finishing a neat exchange of passes down the right
wing. Ashfield responded by forcing Gosnells into defensive duties and
just before the interval they were unlucky not to equalise when Dion
Florias' thunderous shot from long-range rocketed past goalkeeper Jason
Mehnert only to smash into the crossbar. Both teams came out attacking
for the start of the second half as Ashfield set about getting back on
level terms while Gosnells were keen to kill off the contest. A front
post header from Andy Daffin put Gosnells two-goals up and seemed to have
secured all maximum points for the hosts in a game where shots on goal
where at a premium. Ashfield though provided a late scare when Matt
Pochroj's drive deceived the 'keeper to peg back the gap. But Ashfield
had left their run a little too late and Gosnells held firm to claim victory.
Canning City survived a late Rockingham City fight back to claim a 2-1
victory at Dowling Street Reserve. Danny Trevisiol was handed his starting
debut for Canning and it took the 16-year old only a minute to have an
impact by forcing a loose ball into the net after Rockingham goalkeeper
Michael Kelly had parried a shot from Paul Van Dongen. There were few
opening in a tight opening half although Rockingham did come close to
leveling after 15 minutes when Luke Collins' fierce shot struck the
underside of the crossbar but came back into play. Midway though the half
Canning increased their advantage through Paul Van Dongen who from just
inside the 18-yard box drove the ball to the right of Kelly. In the
second half Rockingham applied increasing pressure to the visiting defence
through some nice work in midfield. With seven minutes remaining
Rockingham halved the deficit through Collins whose corner incredibly swung
into the net with the aid of the strong breeze. In the closing minutes
Trevisiol came close to poaching his second goal by intercepting Marc
Hornby's back-pass only to be foiled by an alert Kelly who charged off his
line to deflect the youngsters shot wide.
Balcatta returned to the winner's list with a strong 4-1 victory over local
rival Stirling Suns at Graham Burkett Reserve. The home side should have
won the match by a much greater margin but hit the woodwork on nine
occasions throughout the ninety minutes. Midfielder Scott Broadley opened
the scoring in the early minutes of the match with a rasping left-foot
strike from just inside the penalty box. A minute later another super
shot from Broadley rattled the crossbar and teammate Mark Wilson powered
home the rebound to give Balcatta a commanding early lead. Alley Di Nuzzo
went close to netting the goal of the year after 15 minutes but his vicious
right foot volley from outside the 18-yard box crashed into the
crossbar. Henry Freeman capitalised on an error by Di Nuzzo in defence to
pull a goal back against the run of play in the 21st minute. Any chance
of a comeback by the Suns were dashed in the 55th minute when a handball
inside the box resulted in a penalty to Balcatta which David Moschilla
converted. Victor Bogos finished a solid performance in midfield with a
goal in the 84th minute after a lovely through ball from substitute Oriano
La Palombra.
The points ended being shared by Leeming Strikers and Queens Park who
played out a see-sawing 3-3 draw at John Connell Reserve. The only goal
of the opening half came via Queens Park striker Ray Rose who beat
goalkeeper Phil De Souza after 17 minutes. Although the visitors were by
far the dominant side they were unable to make the most of their chances
and had to be content with just the single goal advantage after forty-five
minutes. Queens Park continued on where they left after the interval with
Rose striking again to double his side's lead on 56 minutes. The turning
point came when De Souza made a fine save to deny Queens Park a third goal
from the penalty spot which seemingly inspired the Strikers into a
sensational comeback. In the 67th minute young gun Garth Lecky reduced
the deficit by beating the offside trap and rounding the goalkeeper. Phil
Bell brought the game back on a level footing with a well placed shot five
minutes later. And Lecky put the hosts in front by nodding in Simon
Versaico's inch-perfect cross. In their desire to increase the gap the
Strikers were caught short at the back and in the dying minutes Rose
completed his hat-trick via a swift counterattack.
13.8.2004
SCHOOLBOYS CLAIM SILVER MEDAL
The West Australian Schoolboys recorded their best ever performance by
finishing second at the 2004 Australian Secondary Schools Soccer
Championships staged in Adelaide this week. A strong start to the
tournament laid the groundwork for the team to return to Perth with the
silver medal, but it wasn't all plain sailing with a couple of mid-week
losses meaning the Schoolboys were sweat it out on the final day of
competition and hope that other results went in their favour. As it was
they did and a great big congratulations to the 2004 Schoolboys squad and
team officials Damon Atthowe (coach), Neil Neil Alweyn (manager) and Alan
Dunlop (goalkeeping coach).
The Schoolboys began their campaign with a hard fought 1-0 victory over
South Australia last Sunday. Both teams looked a little nervous over the
opening half in which goalkeeper Alex Dunn made two fantastic saves to keep
the west in the game. After the break West Australia upped the pace as
Wes Ryder was denied in a one-on-one with the goalkeeper while Chris Currie
had a header cleared off the line. The outcome was determined midway
through the half when Andy Pomfret and Dejan Gurovski combined to put the
ball at the feet of Ryder who danced past three opponents before crossing
to Rodrigo Aguirre who tapped in from close-range. "The boys showed a lot
of character, especially in the first half when Alex Dunn kept us alive
with some outstanding saves," said coach Damon Atthowe. "We made a few
changes at the break and totally dominated the second half. The whole
side stood up and played with great passion."
The Schoolboys made it two wins in as many days by accounting for a strong
Queensland line-up 3-2 the following morning. West Australia were quick
to assert their authority and went ahead through Carlo Cardoza who rose
high to head in Wesley Ryder's corner. The gap became two goals as
Rodrigo Aguirre's volley from just inside the 18-yard box found the
target. Queensland reduced the deficit early in the second half when
Cardoza had the misfortunate of deflecting the ball past his own
goalkeeper. But some magic from Ryder took him past three defenders and
the 'keeper to restore the wests two-goal buffer. Queensland scored a
late consolation goal via a well struck free-kick that gave Jacob Chudy no
chance. "It was very much a team effort from the boys today," commented
coach Damon Atthowe. "Queensland are a quality side - they beat Victoria
7-1 - but prevented them from playing. The side is playing really well
and are getting better with each game."
Tuesday morning threw together West Australia and New South Wales in what
was one of the games of the tournament. New South Wales got the
all-important first goal late in the first half following a neat exchange
in midfield. Scott Patterson almost immediately put the west back on
level terms but his explosive effort was tipped over the crossbar by the
goalkeeper. A defensive error midway through the second half allowed New
South Wales to increase their lead. Although two goals down West
Australia refuse to concede defeat and three times in the final ten minutes
forced good saves from the opposing 'keeper while Rodrigo Aguirre had a
shot cleared off the line. "New South Wales are a very good side and have
been beating teams by four or five goals," said Damon Atthowe after the
game. "We matched them and the boys gave a good account of themselves."
Following Wednesday's rest day, West Australian met Victoria on their
return to the playing arena the following morning. Strong winds and
driving rain made it difficult for either side to take control of the
opening half. Despite the difficult conditions, the west created some
good chances which strike partners Dejan Gurovski and Rodrigo Aguirre were
unable to made the most of. Wesley Ryder shot into the side netting after
the break as the boys from the west coast sought to take the upper
hand. But West Australia's failure to convert chances into goals came
back to haunt them as Victoria delivered a fatal blow by finding the back
of the net twice in as many minutes. The Schoolboys threw everything into
getting back into the match but were unable to reduced the margin before
the final whistle.
New South Wales had first placed wrapped even before a ball was kicked on
the final day of competition, but the minor places were still very much up
for grabs. Knowing they needed at least a point against the Australian
Capital Territory, the west made the best possible as Carlo Cardoza
delicately chipped the goalkeeper from the edge of the 18-yard box to put
the west in front. But the territorians were having none of it, restoring
parity just before the break then ten minutes into the second half they
claimed the lead with a second goal. West Australia threw everything
forward in their search for an equaliser as shots by Rodrigo Aguirre, Scott
Paterson and Dejan Gurovski were all kept out. With fifteen minutes to go
Wesley Ryder stepped up to the plate and slammed a low drive into the
corner of the net to end it square at two-all. With Queensland going down
1-4 to New South Wales and South Australia drawing 1-1 with Victoria, west
Australia grabbed second place and their richly deserved si