30.4.2003

ASIAN COACHING ROLE FOR SORRENTO'S BUTLER

Former Sorrento midfielder Peter Butler is in the running to become Technical Director of Coaching with the Sabah Football Association in Malaysia. Butler, who made close to 450 appearances for the likes of West Ham United, Notts County and West Bromwich Albion before spending two seasons with the Seagulls commencing 2001, watched Sabah's 2-1 weekend win over Melaka in which former Perth S.C. player Robbie Gaspar scored twice. "Sabah has some good players [and] I think I there is a positive attitude in the side," he said following the match.

30.4.2003

JONES STARS FOR AUSTRALIA

Not even the heroics of one-time Bayswater City goalkeeper Brad Jones could prevent Australia's Under-23 team from going down 0-1 to Spain in Lorca yesterday. Following a tentative start to the game by both teams, Jones was tested for the first time midway through the opening half when he kept out a close-range shot from Portillo. Australia's best chance of the half arrived via ex-Perth S.C. attacker Richard Garcia, who replaced Nick Carle after 33 minutes, when his cross found Scott McDonald whose low shot was turned around the post by goalkeeper Victor. Garcia was proving a handful for the home defence and early in the second half made his way past two opponents to shoot from 17-metres only to see Victor save well. Not long after Jones made a good low save to his right to deny Ruben Castro, but there was little the goalkeeper could do when he was left badly exposed by his defence after 64 minutes when Joseba Arriaga made the most of his opportunity to give Spain the lead. Ten minutes from full-time Luke Wilkshire's driving free-kick which went the wrong side of the post was Australia's best chance to even the game. Perth Glory defender David Tarka, who saw out the full game, was the third West Australian who took part in the friendly. "I am pretty pleased with the result in the end, for it was the first time the team had played together as a team," said coach Frank Farina post-match. "I thought Ahmad Elrich, Wayne Srhoj and Brad Jones in goal had very good games." The match is part of the Olyroos' build-up towards the Olympic Games qualifying tournament to be held in January next year.

29.4.2003

FANS TO HAVE A SAY (courtesy of www.perthglory.com.au)

Fans of soccer in West Australian will be given the opportunity this weekend to express their support for the reform of soccer in Australia with Perth Glory fans able to sign up at Saturday nights match at Perth Oval. A 10,000 signature petition from the grass roots of soccer in W.A. will be presented to Soccer Australia to urge them to accept in full the recommendations of the Crawford Report, the independent inquiry into the structure and governance of soccer in Australia. The far reaching recommendations of the Crawford Report call for the complete overhaul of the structure of soccer in Australia, with an independent Soccer Australia board, headed by billionaire businessman and long time soccer fan Frank Lowy. Other recommendations include giving voting rights to the real stakeholders in the game, the hundreds of thousands of participants, the juniors, women, referees, amateurs and professional players, in order to make Soccer Australia truly representative of the whole spectrum of soccer in Australia. Soccer, with over 600,000 participants, is now by far the most popular participation sport in Australia.

28.4.2003

COONEY MAKES SENIOR DEBUT FOR COVENTRY

Former Inglewood United player Sean Cooney made his senior English League debut on the weekend when he came off the bench for the last eleven minutes of Coventry City's scoreless draw with First Division rival Gillingham. "It was great to see Sean get on because we have played together a few times in the reserves this season and he has shown that if you do well there you will get your chance," said Calum Davenport, a teammate of Cooney, after the game. "He hasn't put a foot wrong in recent weeks and now he's had 15 minutes in the first team that will do him the world of good for next season." With the Sky Blues releasing several first team regulars at seasons' end, the 19-year old central defender is expected to become an integral part of Gary McAllister's first team squad next season having spent the current campaign in the reserve and Under-19 ranks.

28.4.2003

LAZARIDIS DELIGHTED WITH NEW OFFER (courtesy of www.tribalfootball.com)

Speaking with the "Evening Mail", Stan Lazaridis says he is delighted with the news that Birmingham City will be offering him a new contract. "Another year, from point of view, is not the greatest thing in terms of how much football I think I've got left in me. I'd love to stay a little bit longer, maybe at least a couple of seasons more. But it's not a case of me having any grudge, not at all. Whatever happens, there's no way I will be leaving next season and that's great. I think the club are saying, in other words, that they're not planning to let me go." 30-year old Lazaridis has had his best season with the Blues since his arrival in 1999. "I have been encouraged by my performances and the team's this season. I've enjoyed it more than any other since I came over here from Australia, on and off the pitch." On the weekend Lazaridis helped guarantee Birmingham's place in the English Premier League next season when he scored their third in the 3-0 win over Middlesbrough.

28.4.2003

GASPAR SPELLS DOUBLE TROUBLE FOR MELAKA

Two wonder goals from midfielder Robbie Gaspar was enough to help Sabah snatch a narrow 2-1 victory over lowly Melaka in Malaysia's Premier I League over the weekend. Five minutes into the clash the former Perth S.C. player unleashed a thunderous long-range shot that flew straight into the back of the Melaka net to send the 3,000 fans at the ground into a frenzy. Sabah could have increased their lead in the 41st minute as Josiah Seton and Gasper were denied by the goalkeeper in quick succession. But two minutes later Gaspar made amends when his low free-kick from 35-metres took a slight deflection on its' way into the net to put Sabah two goals up. Melaka reduced the margin in the 50th minute but were unable to level the score. Sabah are seventh in the thirteen team M-League.

27.4.2003

SCOTLAND STUN THE WORLD! (by Bill McAllister)

The Scotland verses 'the Rest of the World' fundraiser for Derek McKay at Jubilee Reserve this afternoon attracted a good size crowd who were suitably entertained by the stars of yesteryear. All the young players in the state should have been there to see how the simple use of the ball and accurate passing can open up a game. It may have been played at a moderate pace but it was a delight to watch how the players used and worked for each other. The first half saw Willie Kelly score twice for Scotland while down the opposite end Jimmy Coles was on target and a penalty from Leon Plumley made sure the sides went into the break on level terms. Johnny Davidson and Kelly each bagged two second half goals with a youngster Ross Gordon getting Scotland's other to make the final scoreline 7-2. Referee Felix Kelly did a great job in the middle and had no need for cards of any colour, in fact I'm sure he left them at home.

27.4.2003

AMATEURS ROUND-UP

University of W.A. went down 1-2 away to Murdoch University in an action packed WAASSA Premier League fixture on Sunday at Murdoch University. Murdoch adapted to a poor pitch much quicker than their opponents and took the lead after 15 minutes when the lively Heng Ling met a cross from the right to drill the ball past goalkeeper Shayan Young. UWA themselves had a good chance after 20 minutes when Frederik Larsen went clear only to hit the frame of the goal with his shot, and a minute later Robert Benkovic was foiled by the legs of Murdoch custodian Rene Lohier. Roan Albriutsen hit the post as Murdoch sought a second goal, then Alistair Coulthard had two fine shots acrobatically saved by Young. The second half continued in much the same vein and after 53 minutes UWA were back on level terms when a Max Percy corner was headed down by Adam Brett for Benkovic to tap home. Immediately at the other end Brett's clearance was charged down by Coulthard who struck the left hand post before the visitors cleared the danger. On the hour Benkovic was fouled inside the area but the referee awarded a free-kick rather than a penalty, and Percy's shot was pushed over by Lohier. Coulthard gave Murdoch the lead when his shot from just outside the 18-yard box took a wicked deflection off a defender to end up in the opposite corner to its original destination. Murdoch almost scored again but Declan Sharp made an excellent last gasp clearance off the line to deny a certain goal. Close to the end UWA had another penalty appeal turned down after Benkovic was shoved over in the box. "I thought on the chances created Murdoch deserved their win but it was a game that with more fortune we could easily have come away with something," said UWA coach Kevin Burton after the game. "We were simply too slow to adapt to a bumpy, long grassed pitch but obviously it was the same for both sides. Certainly no one could complain about the entertainment value." There was more success for the UWA reserves who claimed victory in their meeting 5-2.

Reigning champions Hamersley Rovers finally kick-started their new campaign with a solid 2-0 defeat of last season's runner- up Forrestfield United. Hamersley welcomed back Welshman Alun Vernals from suspension along with last year's Player of the Year Neil Birkinshaw for this all-important clash. The home side struck after 15 minutes Flavio L'Abbate latched onto a ball touched back from a Forrestfield defender and the striker took his time to score low to the 'keepers left. Soon after Forrestfield had their best chance of the game when on a quick counter-attack Keith Makrell then Wayne Brooks were denied by Aleks Lackovic and his defence. The second half started out in a similar vein with Hamersley holding sway but always on the alert for quick breaks usually instigated by Brooks and Paul Allen. With Simon Kolomyjec leading the home defence, down the opposite end Flavio L'Abbate and Darren Yates were busy in making life difficult for their opponents by creating a string of scoring opportunities. The match slipped from Forrestfield's grip when Flavio L'Abbate poked his second goal in from close-range following another inventive piece of work from Yates. Best on the day for Forrestfield were Kane Gordon-Davidson and Brooks, while for Hamersley it was the L'Abbate brothers, Flavio and Guiseppe, that excelled. Hats off also to referee Ian Cowan who kept the going flowing when other less experience referees would have stopped play missing any advantage the attacking teams may have had.

In other Premier League games, Canning International defeated North Perth United 2-0, and Perth Azzurri were comfortable in victory by a 4-1 scoreline at home against Shamrock Rovers. Spearwood Dalmatinac went down 1-3 to the visiting Fremantle United team, and the points were shared between Kwinana United and Balga, for whom Darren McNally and Craig Dunbar scored, in the 2-2 draw. For a more complete look at the amateurs game in Western Australia, including results for all WAASSA competitions, the latest news and so forth, visit http://waassa.ola.com.au

26.4.2003

PREMIER LEAGUE, ROUND FOUR (Western Knights vs Cockburn City courtesy of www.westernknights.web1000.com; Stirling Lions vs Sorrento by Don Evans; Floreat Athena vs Swan I.C. by Greg Scali)

E.C.U. Joondalup and Perth S.C. were both close to full-strength for their Premier League clash at the Edith Cowan University ground on Saturday, the only notable absentees being John Higgins and Todd Howarth. After a cautious start, Joondalup's Scott Bulloch creating the first opening when he played inside to Garin Collins who touched it past the advancing Robert Scarparolo and Aaron Cole backed up his goalkeeper to concede a corner as the ball rolled towards the line. Perth's first chance came after 11 minutes as David Onoforo's cross from the left was met by a stinging close-range shot from Rob Giorgi that Luke Croxall blocked with his body. Three minutes later Perth cleared a Bulloch corner of the 18-yard box where Derek Cooke cracking first time shot was tipped over the bar by Scarparolo. The opening twenty minutes set the stage for what looked to be a tight encounter, but Perth's experience soon came to the fore against the young home side.

A great ball through the middle by Mark Pottier after 21 minutes sent David Onoforo away with only the 'keeper to beat but Peter Stewart was quick off his line to eliminate the chance to score. Three minutes later Shane Crampton won possession on the right to send a low centring pass to Giorgi who mis-kicked badly from 2-metres and allowed Stewart to gather. Perth were making good use of the full width of the park and after 31 minutes Crampton beat two defenders on the left and slipped the ball into the path of Giorgi whose brilliant first time shot curled just wide of the top corner. Their breakthrough goal arrived in the 34th minute when Onoforo and Crampton combined on the halfway line to send the latter on a weaving run which took him inside the area before planting a low shot past Stewart. With their dominance asserted, Perth continued to attack. Rhys Graham put Onoforo through but his low effort was just wide of the target. A Gareth Naven free-kick caught the Joondalup defence flat-footed and, after controlling well, Pottier blasted high. And in stoppage time Crampton created space for himself but curled the shot wide.

Playing against the wind in the second half, Joondalup started brightly and determined to get back on level terms. Following a strong run down the right flank, Peter Roberts' low cross into the area evaded several defenders and Bulloch crashed his shot into the base of the up-right, then Collins slammed the rebound narrowly wide. Nine minutes into the half Joondalup had better luck when Perth's defence were slow to react to a corner which went to feet, Peter Vukmirovic's close-range effort was blocked and Scott Blackmore was there to bundle the ball over the line for a deserved equaliser. Five minutes later the home side came close to going in front an out-swinging Scott Bulloch corner was solidly met by Vukmirovic whose header was spectacularly tipped over by Scarparolo. But any hopes Joondalup had of going on with the job received a devastating blow in the 62nd minute when Vukmirovic picked up his second yellow card of the day following a crunching late tackle on Giorgi which left the Perth midfielder writhing in pain.

Two minutes after being reduced to ten men Joondalup went a goal down after Aaron Cole's speculative long-range shot took a wide deflection off an opponent to leave Stewart with no chance of saving. From there Perth took control as they piled on the goals. An in-swinging Adam Bunce corner was brilliantly glanced in by Onoforo after 68 minutes. Five minutes later Bunce made his way down the left, drawing the defence out of position before squaring to the unmarked Onoforo who had the time to pick his spot beyond the reach of the 'keeper. It was 5-1 after 77 minutes as Stewart parried Onoforo's shot and Crampton pounced on the loose ball and knocked it into the back of the net. Substitute Paul Natale made a broke away down the left and cross to Onoforo after 94 minutes but the striker slid the ball wide. Two minutes later a dipping volley by Giorgi from the top of the area was just high. Crampton completed his hat-trick - and the 6-1 scoreline - in stoppage time to rub salt into Joondalups' gaping wound.

The result takes Perth to the top of the Premier League standings after four rounds, the reigning champions having now scored seventeen times in their three league outings. This weeks win was once again orchestrated from midfield where Giorgi, Naven and Pottier worked tirelessly in ensuring Perth would dominant possession and play. The visitors had contributors all over the park in a match that was a team effort in every sense of the phrase. After a poor first 45-minutes, Joondalup came back into the match in the second half as Bulloch and Blackmore stepped up a gear, but once experienced defender Vukmirovic was sent off the home team simply fell apart. "It's would've been really good to see how it might have panned out if we'd had eleven players," said Joondalup coach Stuart Kamasz after the game in reference to Vukmirovic's dismissal. "It wrecked the whole game, and I think 6-1 was a bit unfair on the lads."

E.C.U. Joondalup : Peter Stewart, Peter Vukmirovic, Luke Croxall, Peter Roberts, Daryl Platten, Derek Cooke (Craig Cheesman 73)), Scott Bulloch, Darren Broxton, Scott Blackmore (Abdul Kamara 83), Eugene Singeorzan (Tom Jones 83), Garin Collins
Perth S.C. : Robert Scarparolo, Steve Willey (Dino Djulbic 73), Aaron Cole, Perry Ielati, Michael Icanovski (Rhys Graham 39), Adam Bunce (Paul Natale 73), Mark Pottier, Gareth Naven, Rob Giorgi, David Onoforo, Shane Crampton
Bookings : Blackmore (20), Vukmirovic (41), Croxall (58), Singeorzan (81), Naven (81)
Disnissals : Vukmirovic (62)
Referee: Michael Klaver
Attendance : 250 (approx.)

Despite the heroics of Cockburn City goalkeeper Dino Pacella, the Western Knights registered victory in their clash at Nash Field. The first half was dour affair with only the first and last minutes being memorable. In the opening minute of the game John Nicolaou put Staurt Montgomery through with just the 'keeper to beat but the Knights striker telegraphed his shot and Pacella had no trouble saving. In the final minute of the period Montgomery turned provider, crossing perfectly to Steven Zuvela who powered in a header that Pacella could only push into the net. After the break Pacella was again on hand to deny Montgomery in the 50th minute when he pushed a header that was arrowing for the bottom corner around the post. Five minutes later Montgomery again found himself behind the visiting defence and, having knocked the ball past the advancing Pacella, was body-checked by the 'keeper for what most of the crowd felt was a certain red card - but referee Ron Tully deemed otherwise and Pacella received only a booking. From the ensuing free-kick the Cockburn custodian acrobatically tipped Claus Neilson's rising shot over the crossbar. Pacella again denied Montgomery after 71 minutes when he beat out a volley from close-range following good work by Leon Russell and Carl Medica, and in the final twenty minutes the 'keeper prevented Montgomery from scoring on three further occasions. With three minutes to go the tireless Paul McVittie played a sharp one-two with substitute Stipan Majic who found himself with just the 'keeper to beat, but once again Pacella proved up to the task with a low save to his left. The final margin would have been much greater if not for the heroics of Pacella who, in many people's eyes, was very fortunate to see out the entire match.

In windy conditions at Ken Allen Field a young and fearless Fremantle City hosted an Inglewood United side packed with talent and experience. The first opening came after 6 minutes when Shaun Kilkelly crossed from the left to Ryan Newhill who screw his shot wide of Bobson Koroma's post. Fremantle surged up-field via a mesmerising run from 18-year old John Migas which took him past three opponents before his cross was hit over the bar from close range by Peter Lord. Shortly after Dean Aplegren's shot from 17-metres was well saved by visiting goalkeeper Beni Pietropiccolo. In a competitive match Inglewood created some great chances to open the scoring as Newhill again missed the target from 12-metres, and not long after Alan MacKenzie's cross was nodded wide by Rory Mouttet. Migas hit a shot towards the far post which was miraculously cleared of the line by Jamie Kuzmanovich, while a minute late and down the opposite end Louis Parkinson's left foot effort from an angle skimmed the crossbar. Inglewood started the second half with a surge as Newhill's driving shot at goal was safely captured by Koroma. The ball was quickly turned over by the visitors and Newhill's header was cleared off the line by Alex Cummings then, in a goalmouth scramble, Craig Surtees blocked Parkinson's stab at goal. As the match wore on Fremantle began to hit their stride as Craig Young fired just wide, Branimir Mikulic hit the bar with a fine header, and Anthony Pereira's shot was deflected over the bar. Substitute Llewelyn Bake made his presence felt almost immediately when he surged down the right flank before sending a low cross into the dangerzone which Mikulic controlled then tucked past Pietropiccolo to give Fremantle the lead after 78 minutes. Backed by the home crowd, Fremantle went in search of a second goal which arrived in the 82nd minute via Young who made the most of some poor marking at a corner. The port side were content to run the clock down, although Inglewood did manage once further attack in which Parkinson's shot was smothered by the advancing 'keeper. Few would argue Inglewood's poor finishing cost them today, but it was difficult to deny a spirited Fremantle side which registered their third League win on the run.

Stirling Lions continued their difficult introduction to the state's top flight with a 2-5 defeat at the hands of an experienced and polished Sorrento side at Macedonia Park. The home team were left stunned after 2 minutes of play as Sean Fallon's pass was squeezed in at the near post by David Foster. Sorrento had pace up forward as Todd Harnwell beat his defender near the half way line and before finding Fallon who badly screwed his shot wide of the left post after 10 minutes. The Lions crept back into the game briefly with Keegan Ashley belting a scorcher just over the bar and New Zealander Adam Rains embarking on a penetrating run only to have his shot cleared by a desperate Sorrento defence. The 23rd minute saw Fallon double the visitors lead when he was gifted an easy goal following some good lead-up play from Richard Watson, Tony Cumace and Harnwell. Again the Lions attempted to claw back into the match with Toby Wright, Adam Rains and Danny Carlino coming close but not finishing with effect. The Seagulls were focused on killing off the match and in the 38th minute did just that as Foster crossed the ball perfectly to captain Glen Thomas who rose to head into the top corner of Jordan Conti's net. Some poor defending at a corner resulted in Fallon volleying in his second goal after 41 minute, and the half-time whistle couldn't come quick enough for the Lions as Harnwell tapped in Sorrento's fifth goal two minutes into stoppage time. The Lions were a totally different side in the second half and came out firing with an early own goal from Cumace whose blasted the ball into the roof of the net after some tenacious persistence by Stejpan Beretovac. Unwilling to conceded defeat, the home team earnt their opponents respect with a strong second half performance that was led from midfield by Victor Bogos, Ashley and Beretovac. The better supply from the middle of the park culminated in a fine team goal after 60 minutes which was finished off by Danny Carlino. There were several near misses for both sides over the closing stages of this match but there was no addition to the score as Sorrento claimed maximum points courtesy of a first half blitzkrieg.

Swan I.C. took their improved form to Litis Stadium on Saturday and went home with maximum points courtesy of a deserved 2-1 win over Floreat Athena. With both sides looking for their first win of the league season, the first 15 minutes was dominated by the respective defences with neither side willing to commit players forward. Athena sweeper Troy Bernard created the first chance of the match when he hit the crossbar from a free-kick in the 17th minute following a surging run from inside his own half. A minutes later Swan goalkeeper Corey Hugo made a courageous save at the feet of Sasha Kilibarda as he zeroed in on goal. With Swan lifting their workrate across the entire park, the black and whites dominated the next twenty minutes which started with Christian Marrochi's header going just wide after clever work from Elton Holmes and Tom Shepheard. A minute later the visitors went ahead when Athena's defence coughed up possession to allow Paul Lincoln to score his first of the afternoon with a delicate chip over the 'keeper. Taseski kept out Holmes' effort from the top edge of the 18-yard box as Swan sought a second, and the Athena 'keeper followed this with a fantastic reflex save from close-range to again deny Holmes. Swan were rewarded for their hard work ten minutes from half-time as Holmes' shot came back off Taseski and Lincoln was well-place to knock in his second goal. Against the run of play, Athena reduced the deficit via Andreas Oliveira who showed his class by scoring from close range with the last kick of the half. The home side controlled the tempo after the break with Bernard and Michael Lardis having their best of their chances, but in general Athena found it difficult to break down their opponents defence which was lead by Carlos Echivierra. Down the opposite end Holmes shot wide, Shepheard was denied appeals for a penalty, and substitute Terry Nicolaou could have scored with his first touch but mis-hit from 12-metres. With five minutes remaining Taseski was again at his brilliant best in parrying a Holmes strike and Justin Hugo skied the loose ball from close-range. In stoppage time Bernard had a chance to earn Athena a point but his attempted lob went narrowly over the crossbar. Going on today's performance, Swan are very much on the improve and really should not be underestimated.

26.4.2003

RESERVES AND UNDER-18'S ROUND-UP

Sorrento controlled their away reserves meeting with Stirling Lions from the moment Daniel Cagovski placed his header in the back of the net following a fine corner from man-of-the-match Daniel Stoitis after 4 minutes. Seven minutes into the second half Cagovski lobbed goalkeeper Paul Larkin from a narrow angle to score his and the teams second of the match. And on 79 minutes Jake Harman showed control to step inside and slot home to take his season tally to five goals and complete Sorrento's 3-0 triumph. The win keeps the Seagulls level third with Western Knights and Inglewood United on seven points

Perth S.C. sit undefeated and atop the reserves table after four rounds of action. On Saturday the Blues came home with maximum points from their trip north when they defeated E.C.U. Joondalup by 3-1. Vince Tana gave Perth the lead in the 40th minute, and the margin was doubled four minutes later by Eddie Parra. Steve Beesley reduced the gap early in the second half, and five minutes from the end skillful midfielder Ben Rogers sealed victory of the Blues. Level on points with Perth but having played one game more is Floreat Athena who thrashed bottom team Swan I.C. 8-1 at Litis Stadium. The match was over as a contest by the break by which stage Athena held a five goal lead. Matthew Novatsis (3), Robert Cibesku (2), Christopher Gakis (2) and Theo Xidas where the scorers for the home side, while Swan's lone goal came from Damian Todorovic.

Danny Butler gave the Western Knights the early lead in their home clash with Cockburn City. The match came to life with a flurry of goals shortly before and after the break as Stipan Majic made it two-nil, Miguel Ortin pegged back a goal for the visitors after 41 minutes, and Mileta Miletic levelled the match six minutes in the new half. Butler restored the Knights lead after 73 minutes and five minutes later Majic gave the home team some breathing space to open up a two-goal buffer. Cockburn finished strongly with Richard Lacey netting in the 89th minute, but the Knights held out to record a tough 4-3 win. Fremantle City claimed maximum points for the first time this season with a 4-2 result over the visiting Inglewood United side. A first half double from Jamie Jorqueria and late goals by Daniel Barlow and Joe Liguan got the port side over the line. Lee Haienko and Scott Campbell were on target for Inglewood.

Two teams remain undefeated after four rounds of the Under-18 competition. A goal early in the second half by Troy Dott enabled Floreat Athena to defeat a very young Swan I.C. line-up 1-0 to stay top of the table on goal difference ahead of E.C.U. Joondalup who were held to a 1-1 draw by Perth S.C. Stephen Worthy gave the Blues the lead after 23 minutes and Phillip O'Callaghan earnt the home team a point with the equalising goal on the hour. Fremantle City ran riot at home against Inglewood United to register a 7-2 triumph through goals from Marc Sim (4), Mo Atak (2) and James Rickers, Inglewood's scorers were Demir Arslanoski and Mladen Kovacevic. Cockburn City notched up their first win of the campaign when Justin De Abreu bagged the only goal of their meeting with Western Knights.

At Macedonia Park, Sorrento put three past Stirling Lions without reply to ease their way on to seven points, level with Fremantle. After a scrappy first half, Dennis Galan scored a fine goal by sending his shot into the top left corner to get the Seagulls flying after 61 minutes. Brodie Martin doubled the lead when he found the same spot eight minutes later, and debutant Jay McDonald completed the scoreline with a low strike from in front eight minutes from the end. The result ends a disappointing eight-day period for the young Lions who last weekend were thrashed 13-0 by Perth then, two days later, were dumped from the Boral Cup by First Division club Leeming Strikers.

26.4.2003

FIRST DIVISION, ROUND SIX (Southside United vs Mandurah City by Barrie Rennie; Bayswater City vs Queens Park by Adam Rucci; Stirling Suns vs Armadale by Michael Di Pietro)

Mandurah City traveled to Walter Padbury Reserve for the second time in six days where they out-played Southside United 7-0 to go top of the First Division on goal difference. The visitors dominated the game from start to finish, leading two-nil by half-time before going into overdrive to add a further five goals to their tally after the break. It was a complete team effort by Mandurah whose defence never permitted the opposition forwards a real look at goal with Damien Condo again rock solid at the heart of their backline. Up front the forwards ran riot with Michael Bobridge and Christian Paschewitz scoring twice each and Jordan Rhodes, Andrew Rennie and Alan Fitzmaurice, who was celebrating his 21st birthday, netting one apiece. Star midfielder Rhodes was at his creative best and worked hard to ply the pressure to the Southside rearguard. The goal of the match came when Rhodes passed to Rennie who returned the ball with a clever back-heal from between three defenders, Rhodes then crossed perfectly to Paschewitz to finish. Birthday boy Fitzmaurice left the goalkeeper floundering with a long-range strike, while Rhodes netted from the spot after being brought down inside the area after making a searching run into attack. Goalkeeper Mike Green had a relatively simple days work, called upon just once to deflect the ball over the crossbar. There is little doubt this was Mandurah's best effort so far this season and sets the side up for some interesting home games in the next fortnight against Dianella White Eagles and South West Phoenix.

The City won the first game of their short history by out-playing Kingsway Olympic, who led the First Division table going into the weekend, at Kingsway Sporting Complex. Olympic took the lead early on after Barry McLeod brought down Sota Iwasaki inside the area and Steve Bretti converted from the penalty spot. Midway through the half a well directed header from John Wyeth saw the two teams go into the break on level terms. Five minutes into the new half Olympic again went in front via the penalty spot as Bretti bagged his eighth goal of the campaign. The City made an equalising goal mysteriously disallowed after the two sides had returned to the center to restart the game, the referee's decision leading to a heated argument which resulted in The City's Rod McMullen being dismissed for dissent. Showing great spirit and determination, The City battled on and were rewarded when Matt Deddie scored midway through the second half. Unfortunately, Deddie would take no further part in the game as he was stretchered from the playing surface as he collided with the post and tore his cruciate ligament in the process of scoring. Ten minutes from full-time Scott Wyeth capped a memorable day for the home side when he netted from the penalty spot to give The City a hard-fought victory. "It was a great local derby played in front of a very large vocal crowd," said The City coach Stuart Currie after the game. "We deserved the win, we're playing well and we will climb the table."

It was a big game at Frank Drago Reserve where Bayswater City came up against a confident Queens Park side who were looking to take home maximum points. The match started slowly with both sides trying to get on top of the other and it was the home team that settle the better as Gareth Healy and Kevin Henderson began to dominate midfield. The first chance of the afternoon came the way of Boima Karpeh who superbly rounded a defender only to hit his shot wide of Darren William's goals. Not long after Bayswater pushed forward again and this time created a good chance through Sal Marrapodi who let himself down with a poor finish. The visitors first opening came through midfielder Adrian McBride whose shot hit the outside of the post. Like in recent weeks, Bayswater came out firing on all cylinders for the second period and ten minutes in Nick Stojanovski marked his debut in the starting line-up by bagging the teams opening goal by expertly putting the ball past Williams. Bayswater then attacked seemingly at will and soon went two-nil up via Kevin Henderson who scored his fourth goal of the season. The final nail in Queens Park's coffin arrived ten minutes from full-time when Andrew O'Neill's corner was met by Dario Pellicciotti whose header went flew directly into the back of the net. Shortly after Queens Park went down to ten men with the dismissal of substitute Jodi Henderson following a confrontation with the referee. The win moves Bayswater into joint third spot, one point behind leaders Mandurah and Olympic, after six games. The Unde-18 game ended in a 5-0 win to Queens Park, while the Under-18 clash finished 4-1 in favour of Bayswater.

An interesting weekend of results meant Armadale could be relatively content at taking away just a single point from their away meeting with Stirling Suns. On a small and bumpy pitch it was the respective goalkeepers that were the stand-out performers, both making some important saves throughout the match to keep the teams on a level footing. The Reds had a few injury concerns ahead of the match and, with a reshuffled line-up, were happy with taking home a point. After six games Armadale find themsleves in fifth spot, only two points adrift joint leaders Mandurah City and Kingsway Olympic, while the Suns sit joint second on a congested First Division table. Despite goals from Greg Newcombe, Matt Bennion and Cameron Richens, it was a lacklustre performance from Armadale's reserves who claimed victory by 3-2. The Reds Under-18 side cruised to a comfortable 4-1 win with first half goals from Omar Mohammed and Peter Taylor, while after the interval goalkeeper Robbie Easton made some great saves before Taylor added to his tally by completing his hat-trick.

The points were shared at John Connell Reserve where Leeming Strikers and Ashfield played out an entertaining 2-2 draw in windy conditions. The visiting team took the lead midway through the first half via the experienced David Mayers whose shot had the pace taken off it by Strikers custodian Phil De Souza. Sparked into life at conceding, the home side responded with several good attacking raids before Angelo Porrovechio slotted in the equaliser. Minutes after Porrovechio earnt his side a penalty which was converted by Lucas Whitehouse to give the Strikers the lead going into the break. With a strong wind at their back, Ashfield pressed hard for an equaliser that should have come from the penalty spot but the effort was pushed wide of the target. But the visitors didn't have to wait too much longer before Matt Pochroj brought them back into the game following an error in defence by the Strikers. The home team suffered a body blow with the dismissal of Phil Bell for a second yellow card offence, the midfielders departure forcing the Strikers to defend in numbers until the final whistle. Ashfield claimed the reserves meeting by a 4-2 scoreline, Martin Kelly (2), Winter Ngyun and Ricardo Garzon the scorers, while the Under-18 match ended 4-0 in favour of the Strikers.

Canning City travelled north to Dianella Reserve where they met a confident Dianella White Eagles side fresh from 2-2 draw with then league leaders Kingsway Olympic. It was a flat performance from the visitors who were playing their third game in eight days and it came as no surprise when Dianella took the lead through striker Dragan Njegic after 35 minutes. Philip Smiljanic completed the 2-0 scoreline after the break when he converted from the penalty spot after a foul on Zelko Savic. South West Phoenix picked up a crucial away point when they held Morley Windmills 1-1 at Wotton Reserve. And Rockingham City defeated the visiting Balcatta team 3-2 to record their second win of the home-and-away campaign.

26.4.2003

SPIRITED PERFORMANCE FROM GLORY

Perth Glory have moved a step closer to a third home Grand Final with a 3-0 defeat of Northern Spirit at North Sydney Oval tonight. Australian international Damian Mori headed Glory in front after 12 minutes following a superb cross-field pass from Scott Miller to an unmarked Matt Horsley who found Mori in front of goal. Spirit won a succession of corners towards the end of the first half but could not level the score. A clinical pass thirteen minutes after the re-start led to Glory's second goal, Brad Hassell carving open the home defence to allow Andre Gumprecht a clear shot from close-range. Simon Colosimo rounded off an excellent match eleven minutes from full-time when he did the lead up run to provide Bobby Despotovski with his eighth goal of the play-off series. For their part, Spirit were let down by an inability to score, the home team often displaying good control and some slick passing only to fall apart when within scoring range. "Perth is the best team in the competition and it will be hard for anyone to beat them," said Spirit coach Lawrie McKinna after the game.

26.4.2003

INGLEWOOD 'KEEPER SIDELINED

Inglewood United with be without Nick Stone for the next few months after the goalkeeper broke his leg on the training track on Thursday night. United coach Jimmy Pearson said 23-year old had fallen awkwardly when his studs caught in the ground as he turned to chase a ball. It was initially thought the former Bournemouth 'keeper had dislocated his ankle but he has since had an operation to repair the break. With State representative Oliver Taseski having recently signed with Floreat Athena, Pearson will call up 19-year old Beni Pietropiccolo for Saturday's clash with Fremantle City.

26.4.2003

WEEKEND IN SUMMARY

Perth S.C. have continued their perfect start to the season with a 6-1 mauling of E.C.U. Joondalup. With the game evenly poised, it was the dismissal of Peter Vukmirovic that proved the turning point as Perth piled on five goal in the last 26 minutes to claim maximum points. Fremantle City won their third game on the run by defeating Inglewood United 2-0, while there were goals aplenty at Macedonia Park where Sorrento emerged 5-2 victors over Stirling Lions. Western Knights downed Cockburn City 1-0, and Swan I.C. registered their first win of the campaign by 2-1 away at Floreat Athena.

A 7-0 away thrashing of Southside United has elevated Mandurah City to top spot in the First Division after six rounds of fixtures. Previous leaders Kingsway Olympic went down 3-2 to The City who collected maximum points for the first time this season, while Bayswater City accounted for Queens Park 3-0 at Frank Drago Reserve. Stirling Suns and Armadale played out a scoreless draw, and the points were also shared between Leeming Strikers and Ashfield as well as Morley Windmills and South West Phoenix. Dianella White Eagles defeated Canning City 2-0, and Rockingham City proved too strong for Balcatta by 3-2.

25.4.2003

WEEKEND IN PREVIEW

A congested Premier League table after three rounds has paved the way for some very important games this weekend. With one win from three starts, both Western Knights and Cockburn City will be desperate for maximum points to lift them into the upper reaches of the table when they meet at Nash Field. Fremantle City have had a good start to the new campaign and will view their home clash with Inglewood United as a measuring stick of their potential. In the northern suburbs E.C.U. Joondalup's young team take on the might of Perth S.C. who are coming off two big wins last weekend. Stirling Lions are home to Sorrento in what promises to be another cracker, and three crucial points are on the line at Litis Stadium where both Floreat Athena and Swan I.C. are aiming to register their first win of the season. The bye this week goes to Bassendean Caledonian.

First Division leaders Kingsway Olympic this week make what is one of the shortest away trips in the world when they take on bottom side The City at the Kingsway Sporting Complex. Stirling Suns have a difficult home fixture with an Armadale side on the improve, and Southside United will be out to avenge Monday's Cup loss to Mandurah City when they meet for the second time in six days at Walter Padbury Reserve. Leeming Strikers and Ashfield, two of the competition's youngest teams, go head-to-head at John Connell Reserve, Bayswater City host Queens Park, and Morley Windmills are home to South West Phoenix. Canning City travel to play Dianella White Eagles, struggling Rockingham City have home ground advantage over Balcatta.

25.4.2003

BENEFIT DISCO AT WINDMILLS

Morley Windmills will be having a benefit disco for first team player Justin Jensen, who seriously broke his leg in two places in a friendly game against Swan I.C. in March. The disco will be held at the Morley Windmills Soccer Club at Wotten Reserve on Saturday 3rd May starting at 7:30pm. Entry is only $15 with all money raised to help Justin's recovery. Anyone interested in buying tickets can contact Gary James on 93775651 or 0403 310 141.

25.4.2003

PAST STARS RE-LIVE GLORY DAYS

The stars of yesterday year will be pulling on their playing boots this Sunday at Jubilee Reserve in a benefit match for Derek McKay. The former Aberdeen legend recently suffered serious injuries as a result of being knocked over by a car and looks like being unable to work for up to twelve months. To assist with making ends meet, the local soccer community has pulled together for a Scotland verses 'the Rest of the World' match at the home of Bassendean Caledonian, kick-off at 3.00pm with all proceeds going to MacKay. Amongst those who are set to play are Johnny Davidson, Ronnie Campbell, Ray Ilott, Ernie Hannigan, Mick Palmer, Steven Sceats, Paul Middleton, Tommy Maras, Bill Murray, Peter Holt, Jim Crone, Jimmy Coles, Hugh Robertson, Len Dundo, Peter Holt, Jack Kennedy, John Sydenham and Keith Mitchell.

24.4.2003

MICEVSKI STARS IN BIG WEEKEND FOR PERTH

It was a huge weekend for the Under-18 side at Perth S.C. The young Blues side belted their Stirling Lions counterparts 13-0 in Saturday's League meeting and two days later bettered that result with a 19-0 thrashing of Queens Park in the second round of the Boral Cup. "The wins against Stirling Lions and Queens Park were quite remarkable," said 17-year old David Micevski this week. "I think the reason behind those big scores is that at Perth we play as a unit, work as a team and I would say are better organised than the teams we played on Saturday and Monday. We move off the ball for each other which makes life easier for the rest of the team. However, I think there is always room for improvement and we'll just have to wait and see this weekend when we play top of the table E.C.U. Joondalup ... they should be a test for us!"

Micevski played a key role in both scorelines over the Easter long weekend, scoring six goals in each of Perth's outings. "I was pretty pleased with my performances in the two matches although I certainly wasn't expecting to score six goals in both games, especially coming from midfield," said Micevski who started out playing junior football for Stirling. "I thought six against the Lions was a pretty good achievement, but it turned out to be my Easter weekend with another double hat-trick against Queens Park. From the twelve goals I scored in those two games there were some memorable ones and there's little doubt that I'd rate these games as the ones that would stand-out in my career." With much of the Perth Under-18 team drawn from the clubs highly successful youth development program, it seems the future of the club is in very safe hands.

24.4.2003

START DOESN'T SURPRISE OLYMPIC'S STERN

Few would have been brave enough to predict in pre-season that, after the first month of competition, Kingsway Olympic would be undefeated and two points clear of their nearest rival at the top of the First Division table. But the clubs promising start to the new season comes as no surprise to centre-half Jason Stern. "I'm not really surprised with the way we have started 2003," the 20-year old commented. "We had a good run at the end of last year which really put us in good stead for this season. We have a tremendous team spirit down at Kingsway which is a carry over from last year and, while all of the club are extremely pleased with the early results, we feel that we haven't yet played to our full potential."

There are several key differences between the Olympic side which ended last season in the bottom half of the table and this years model according to Stern. "Last year we really struggled to score goals but at the same time we conceded very few," he said. "This season we are banging them in with new signing Steve Bretti playing brilliantly and getting amongst the goals. Also, our midfield and defensive players are popping up with goals which really helps out. And several of our younger lads have stepped up to the senior squad as a result of the experience they've gained. In fact a big part of our start has been the impact of the reserves who are making competition for places very intense - they are certainly keeping us first teamers on our toes!"

Olympic underlined their strength over the Easter long weekend by dumping Premier League side Stirling Lions from the Boral Cup. "It was an absolutely brilliant team effort," commented Stern. "Two-nil up after 20 minutes or so and we were buzzing until Kaylon Tsenov, our goalkeeper, was harshly sent off. We defended brilliantly as a team and Stirling hardly had a decent chance in the first term. We just dug in for the second half until Stirling were awarded a penalty, which they scored from, but the spirit and willingness to put our body on the lines for our mates pulled us through. It was a massive confidence boost as we went into the game with no expectations and coach Sean Lynch just said to go out and enjoy ourselves, which we did."

The 30-game First Division season is going to be a very long slog for some clubs and, recognising the need depth, Olympic made some important signings over the summer. "We brought in Steve Bretti (Stirling Lions), Sota Iwasaki, Stuart Corr (both Wanneroo City), Scott Evans (Perth City) and Danny Taylor returned from England," said Stern. "You never know what may happen over a long season but with the strength and depth that we have I think we can be there or thereabouts. When a player gets injured or suspended we have someone just as good to come in and replace them at the moment. If I had to single out a top five I think I'd go for Kingsway, Mandurah City, Bayswater City, Armadale and Queens Park that's keeping in mind that I've not seen all the teams yet."

23.4.2003

LAZARIDIS CHASES TWO YEAR DEAL (courtest of www.tribalfootball.com)

Stan Lazaridis says he is still keen to seal a new contract with top flight English club Birmingham City. "I'd like to stay for another two years as I feel I could do a job for the team, but obviously it depends on whether the club want me to stay. We'll have to wait and see as it rests in their hands, but Birmingham is a good club and I want to be part of it," the midfielder said this week. "It has been a really good season for me and if we stay up then it will be a good reflection on both me and the team - hopefully I will have contributed towards it."

"When I first came here, there was huge expectation on me," Lazaridis continued. "The club had invested a lot of money in me and at times you do feel the pressure, especially when things aren't going so well. Fans will automatically look at their No.1 signings and think 'what's he doing?'. But this season there have been a number of big names coming in and in some ways I was forgotten at the start of the campaign. That wasn't necessarily a bad thing as it allowed me to concentrate on my football and took a lot of weight off my shoulders. It allowed me a lot more freedom and just to play football. I feel really confident now in every game that I play and try to contribute to the team's performance by providing chances. The fans have been good to me and I always feel as though something is going to happen when I get the ball."

23.4.2003

FIVE LEAVE INGLEWOOD

The season may only be a few weeks old but already there has been considerable movement out of the Inglewood United camp. The signing of former Bournemouth goalkeeper Nick Stone resulted in Oliver Taseski seeking greener pastures, the State number two taking up an offer to spent the home-and-away season with Floreat Athena. State Under-19 representative Admir Mehic, who played last season with Future Glory, has opted to take 12-months off for study reasons, while there are unconfirmed rumours that talented left wing-back Andy Cornmell has parted company with Inglewood. 22-year old Michael Di Fulvio, who established himself as a first team regular last year, has ended his lengthy association with Inglewood by strengthening the defensive stocks at Swan I.C. The black-and-whites are also the new club for teenager Scott Patterson who made his senior debut in last weekend's Boral Cup tie over Cockburn City.

22.4.2003

GLORY BACK ON TV (courtesy of www.perthglory.com.au)

Perth Glory matches will again be seen on free-to-air television thanks to the support of Channel 7, Access 31 and FST Media Services. Channel 7, rights holders to the National Soccer League, has agreed to release the free-to-air rights for Glory's remaining Championship Series games and at least three games will now be shown on Access 31. "This is great gesture by Channel 7," said FST Media Services' Bob Figg, who is executive producer and host of the West Coast Soccer program which airs each Thursday on Access 31. "It means Perth Glory fans can now see the away game against Northern Spirit live on free to air television in Perth via Access 31." The Spirit game will go to air at 5.25pm W.A. time on Anzac Day.

The two remaining Glory home finals, against title rivals Parramatta Power and Olympic Sharks, will receive a delayed broadcast on Access 31. "We have been fortunate in securing financial support from Western QBE, Chicken Treat and Harvey Fresh" said Figg. "It is the good will of Channel Seven in releasing the rights and of Access 31, who have made air-time available, which has made this possible. The W.A. Trotting Association has also been most cooperative in allowing us to take up some of their air-time though we will still feature live pacing races from the Anzac Day meeting during the soccer. The coverage of the away game will be supplied by Expo Channel, which has done a great job of televising Sydney games in the series so far. Media Release Productions will provide coverage of the home games with a five camera shoot planned." Channel 7 will retain all rights to the 2003 N.S.L. Grand Final.

22.4.2003

GLORY TO MISS TARKA

David Tarka will miss Perth Glory's National Soccer League clash with Northern Spirit on Friday night due to international commitments. The young defender had hoped to be available for the Glory's championship series game in Sydney before joining the Australian Under-23 squad for the friendly with Spain next Tuesday. But the 20-year-old, who has been a key figure in the heart of Glory's defence this season, will fly out of Perth on Thursday for the Spanish town of Lorca. "I'll miss a finals game but this is an opportunity I had to take," Tarka said. He will return to Perth early on Friday 2nd May and will be considered for selection for the following evenings' home fixture against Parramatta Power.

21.4.2003

BORAL CUP, ROUND TWO (Sorrento vs Inglewood United by Kerry Slater; Cockburn City vs Swan I.C. by Greg Scali; E.C.U. Joondalup vs Canning City by Tom Crisken)

First Division club Queens Park made the daunting trip to Dorrien Gardens on Easter Monday for a Second Round Boral Cup showdown with reigning trophy holders Perth S.C. The home side settled the quicker and launched several unsuccessful attacking raids courtesy of some good movement of the ball, while Queens Park showed they would be no pushover with a number of dangerous forward thrusts of their own. Perth took the lead after 15 minutes when a low ball into the area from wide on the left by Adam Bunce avoided the visiting defence to present Shane Crampton with a simple tap-in at the back post. The match was effectively over seven minutes later as Crampton dribbled the ball along the top edge of the 18-yard box before hitting a low shot beyond the out-stretched gloves of goalkeeper Darren Williams. From then on Perth were the only side in this match as central midfielders Gareth Naven and Rob Giorgi took control. The home team were unlucky not to add to their tally shortly before half-time as a stinging Naven drive from 22-metres was defelcted wide, and moments later Albert Osei-Tutu was brilliantly kept out by Williams. Four minutes into the second half Bunce snuck in behind the defence to meet a Rhys Graham free-kick but steered his header narrowly high. Queens Park managed their first real chance on goal via substitute Steve Sauzier after 52 minutes but his effort was blocked by Perry Ielati after good lead-up work by Brian Robertson. Bunce made the margin three goals in the 56th minute after playing a clever one-two with Crampton to go inside the area where he curled the ball around Williams for the goal of the match. Crampton twice squandered one-on-one opportunities with the 'keeper before completing his hat-trick seven minutes from full-time via the penalty spot after Graham had been brought down. While the 4-0 scoreline indicates this was a one-sided game, the truth of the matter is the margin does not truly reflect the enormous gulf that existed between Perth and Queens Park this afternoon.

Simon Harland turned in a man of the match performance to inspire Sorrento to a thrilling 3-2 win over Inglewood United at Percy Doyle Reserve. A Dale McCulloch free-kick from the left found Harland who devastated the visitors by powering home his header from 8-metres to give Sorrento the lead with just 5 minutes elapsed. The home side came close to doubling the margin in the 20th minute Sean Fallon's low cross was turned goalward by Andy Mason only to be deflected wide by Jamie Kuzmanovich. Eight minute later the Seagulls got the result they were after as Todd Harnwell's in-swinging corner was nodded through a crowd of players and over the line by Steven McDonald to make it two-nil. Close to the end of the half Sorrento came close to a third goal when Tony Cumace's low kick came off Inglewood's Alex Josifovski and goalkeeper Nick Stone was forced into a reflex save to keep out the deflection. Seven minutes into the second half and Inglewood pulled a goal back when Louis Parkinson showed his skill to cut inside his marker and dispatch a fine shot into the top corner of Gareth Deeg's net. Minutes later Daniel Harrop unleashed a volley that seemed destined for the same corner until it took a deflection of Fallon and looped over Deeg's crossbar. The visitors drew level after 58 minutes via Shaun Kilkelly who reach a loose ball before Deeg to slot under the body of the 'keeper from a narrow angle. The contest was alive and some enterprising passages of play thrilled the reasonable crowd. With ten minutes remaining Harland's persistence saw him get the better of two defenders before squaring to Fallon who placed his shot beyond Stone's reach to restore Sorrento's lead. Inglewood fought desperately and unsuccessfully to send the game into extra-time only to constantly have their attacking moves break down, although Ryan Newhill's header from a Scott Campbell free-kick did cause some concern on the home bench.

At the opposite end of the city Rockingham City hosted a powerful Western Knights side at Dowling Street Reserve. The visitors should have taken the lead inside the opening minute when Daniel Trim rounded the goalkeeper to cut the ball back to Stuart Montgomery who chip his effort over the crossbar. It was a sign of things to come as the Knights dominated possession but were unable to convert their many chances in front of goal. A thundering drive by captain Carl Medica was deflected wide by a defender, and from the resultant corner Paul McVittie's goal bound header was cleared off the line. Montgomery squandered two opportunities in quick succession after being set-up by Paul Cooke and Leon Russell, the striker rushing both shots past the up-right. After 19 minutes the Knights finally took the lead when Evan Wallace rose above the defence to head home the sides sixth corner. Within two minutes the margin was doubled by Cooke following a nice one-two with Trim before the midfielder knocked the ball under the 'keeper. The goal spurred what had been until now a listless Rockingham performance but, against one of the local game's better defences, they rarely looked like scoring. A long, surging run by Claus Nielsen ended with an inch-perfect cross to Montgomery who tap into a empty net after 32 minutes to make it three-nil. Tommi Tomich was forced into his first real save of the match shortly after the break when a Rockingham forward before a flat-footed defence to go through one-on-one with the 'keeper. But it wasn't long before the visiting side reasserted their control and Medica beat four players before cutting the ball back to Montgomery who scored from 7-metres after 55 minutes. With Trim, Medica and Scott Devine all going close to adding to the tally, Cooke headed in a far post cross by Neilsen for the Knights fifth after 71 minutes. Three minutes from full-time time Montgomery completed his hat-trick following a delightful ball from Alex Christie which put the striker through to round the 'keeper and make the final score 6-0.

Both Cockburn City and Swan I.C. were missing key players due to suspension, injury or unavailability when they met at Dalmatinac Park where the fans were treated to a goal feast. Swan came out of the blocks firing to have their opponents on the back foot from the start. In the 2nd minute Dean Nicolaou's long-range bomb hit the upright, and a minute later Elton Holmes shot wide with only the 'keeper to beat. Holmes got behind the defence in the 10th minute and sent the ball into the path of Nicolaou who made no mistake from close range. Cockburn's first forward movement almost produced a goal but Jeff Bright couldn't make the most of John Mirco's good lead-up. The margin blew out to three-nil very quickly as Nicolaou bagged his second after some clever work by Tom Shepheard, them Holmes got on the end of a Damian Scali through ball to chip the oncoming Dino Pacella. Cockburn reduced the deficit before the break as John Mirco's persistence paid off with a goal from 22-metres. The second continued in the same fashion with Swan adding to there lead after 48 minutes, veteran sweeper Carlo Scali making a penetrating run through midfield before placing his shot into the corner of the net. Although three goals down, Cockburn refused to concede defeat and pulled a goal back through midfielder Domenic De Felice. But it proved to be all in vein as Holmes put the result beyond doubt when he got on the end of a Tom Shepheard cross and headed home from close range, making the final score 5-2 to the visiting team.

Canning City travelled north for Monday's Cup clash with E.C.U. Joondalup. The game started very lively and it looked as though a high scoring affair was on the cards as Joondalup went ahead after 2 minutes through a fine move which was finished off by Scott Bulloch who slotted home from 12-metres. Joondalup rained down on their opponents with wave after wave of attacks that were repelled by a solid Canning backline. The home side began to get frustrated at their lack of penetration as the game wore on, but with five minutes the win was sealed by striker Garin Collins when he converted with a well taken goal. Well done to Canning for a very gutsy display, their youngsters never gave up and ran until the final whistle blew. Despite their lower league status, Canning proved they are able to match it with teams from the top flight and today gave a very spirited account of themselves. For Joondalup, new signing Peter Vukmirovic was the stand-out performer with a superb display at the back.

Kingsway Olympic started their Cup clash with Stirling Lions on the right note after Stuart Corr gave them the lead after 5 minutes. And the home side's lead was doubled shortly after by Danny Trandos whose free-kick came to nestle in the back of the Lions net. Olympic continued to press forward at will with Steve Bretti and Jason Stern both denied in one-on-one situations by young goalkeeper Jordan Conti. The dismissal of Olympic goalkeeper Kaylon Tesonov for handball outside the 18-yard box after half an hour gave the visiting team hope for a come back. Rarely in the game over the opening 45 minutes, the Lions dominated the second period but managed only scattered shots on goal for all their possession. With time running out, the Lions came back into contention when awarded an 76th minute penalty which was converted by Toby Wright to make the score 2-1. Minutes later Olympic's replacement goalkeeper Aidan Hayes was his side's saviour, making a superb reflex save to keep out a goal bound shot by Danny Carlino to ensure the home side progressed to the next stage of the knock-out competition.

In other second round Boral Cup action, Fremantle City defeated Floreat Athena 3-2 at Ken Allen Reserve. Striker Craig Young gave Fremantle the lead after 6 minutes and Branimir Mikulic doubled the margin twenty minutes later as the port side looked to run away with the game. Andreas Oliveira pegged back the deficit after 32 minutes, then levelled the score eleven minutes into the second half. In a tense finish to the match Young bagged his second of the day, and the match winner, three minutes from the end of regulation time. At Walter Padbury Reserve Southside United dipped out of the knock-out competition at the expense of First Division rivals Mandurah City. A penalty converted by Jordan Rhodes and an excellent volley from Christian Paschkewitz midway through the first half set Mandurah down the path to victory in a one-sided match. The home team reduced the margin in the 62nd minute when Brian Murphy pounced on a defensive error to round goalkeeper Mike Green before slotting home. Mandurah played out the match with ten men following the dismissal of Steve Adams for a second bookable offence, while late in the match Southside also had a player sent off.

19.4.2003

GLORY ROUT NEWCASTLE (courtesy of www.tribalfootball.com)

Bobby Despotovski's controversial double-strike ensured that Perth Glory would remain top of the National Soccer League's finals table for another weekend as they defeated Newcastle United 4-0 at Perth Oval on Saturday night. Despotovski scored in the 26th minute in an effort where the linesman's off-side flag mysteriously remained down to give the home side what was otherwise a deserved half-time lead. The Australian international then doubled the margin with another disputed goal in the 69th minute after strike partner Damian Mori appeared to hit his cross from over the byline. Second-half substitute Mark Byrnes added an insurance goal in the 82nd minute, his first in Glory colours, and Mori added a fourth goal in stoppage time. But there was no doubt as to Glory's overall attacking dominance in this match, as Despotovski's clinical finishing and midfielder Simon Colosimo's ubiquitous influence propelled he home team to victory. The result means Newcastle are eliminated from Grand Final contention while Glory's third win on the run moves them to the top of the pile, five points clear of their nearest rivals.

19.4.2003

PREMIER LEAGUE, ROUND THREE (Sorrento vs E.C.U. Joondalup by Kerry Slater and Tom McCrisken; Inglewood United vs Western Knights courtesy of www.westernknights.web1000.com ; Bassendean Caledonian vs Sorrento by Bill McAllister)

The long awaited northern suburbs derby between Sorrento and E.C.U. Joondalup at Percy Doyle Reserve was undoubtedly the Premier League match of the round. Over the years the two clubs have developed a very healthy rivalry and this season is no different. But adding spice to this years match was the fact Sorrento fielded no less than five former Joondalup players - Gareth Deeg, Richard Watson, Dale McCulloch, Andy Mason and Sean Fallon - in their starting line-up. Last weekend the teams experienced contrasting fortunes - Joondalup humbling a highly rated Inglewood United outfit 5-2, while Sorrento were surprise losers at home to Fremantle City. A good crowd gathered on a warm day for what promised to be an entertaining game.

The opening minutes were a racy affair with little in the way of structure to either sides play but plenty in terms of chances on goal. Joondalup should have been a goal to the good after 2 minutes when a good ball over the top presented Garin Collins with the first opportunity but his lob over the advancing Gareth Deeg was wide of the left post. Four minutes later Scott Bulloch weaved his magic inside the area, beating Steve McDonald only to be hauled down by the big defender and referee Jeremy Oliphant had no option but to award a penalty. Darren Broxton stepped up confidently to send the ball for the bottom corner, Deeg guessing the right way and diving full length to get his glove on the ball but unable to prevent it from bobbling over the line to put Joondalup in front. Within a minute the home side should have been level as McCulloch found Todd Harnwell but his lob of Peter Stewart went the same path as Collin's earlier effort.

The home side continued to go on the offensive only to find Stewart in fine form, blocking a powerful blast on goal from Fallon and shortly after hold onto a left footed effort by Harnwell. The goalmouth action continued minutes later as Stewart failed to hold Glen Thomas's shot and defender Peter Roberts made a desperate clearance of the loose ball after the Joondalup 'keeper and Simon Harland collided. Harnwell was good sped inside his marker after 18 minutes and sent the ball past Stewart only to have it go the wrong side of the left post from an angle. Joondalup managed one of their infrequent attacks through the troublesome Collins in the 28th minute, his skill permitting him to kept possession before Richard Watson made a timely interception. The closing stages of the half saw Sorrento up the pace and after 39 minutes they found an equaliser. Tony Cumace clipped a free-kick dangerously into the area from the left to Harland who got the faintest of headers on the ball but it just enough to take it away from Peter Stewart and into the far corner of the net.

Following the half-time break during which the players had time to catch their breath and the spectators the opportunity to reflect on what had been an entertaining period, the second half began as the first had ended with Sorrento pressuring the Joondalup rearguard at every opportunity. A well worked free kick four minutes in ended with Andy Mason's attempt deflecting off Daryl Platten's thigh for a corner to the home team. The home side launched a series of attacking raids in their quest to take the lead but found the opposing backline up to the task with the experienced Peter Vukmirovic and youngster Luke Croxall rock solid between Platten and Scott Blackmore. Not wanting to give the wrong impression, Joondalup also created several chances on goal but the second half was one that belonged to the respective goalkeepers with Deeg and Stewart always well positioned to prevent the opposition from taking the lead.

On 60 minutes Harnwell pounced on a rare defensive error by Joondalup and, from the byline, cut the ball back to Mason who mis-hit horribly from in front. Four minutes later a curling Cumace free-kick tested Stewart and the visitor's custodian held low down. Not wanting to upset the rhythm of their teams' coaches Steve Neville and Stuart Kamasz left it until late before making any substitutions with David Foster the first player used off the bench in the 72nd minute to replace an injured Harland. Sorrento finished the fast-paced match strongly as Harnwell switched play to Foster whose low effort was wide of the right upright after 81 minutes. Shortly after McCulloch crossed from the left and Love's volley sped across the face of the goal. In a tense finish to the game Joondalup conceded a penalty in the 88th minute after Fallon was fouled by Vukmirovic, Cumace stepped forward to take the spot-kick which Stewart guessed right to parry and from the follow-up Cumace lashed the ball high.

Minutes later the final whistle signalled the end of what had been a passionate and entertaining game which, while the play may not have always been pretty, it kept the fans on the edge of their seat. Sorrento would view the result as two points lost rather than one gained after squandering so many opportunities to seal maximum points after the break. For the home side there were stand-out performances from hard-working midfielder Cumace and defensive strongman Watson, while Joondalup's best on the day included Vukmirovic and goalkeeper Stewart. Few could begrudge the visitors a point from their solid overall team performance, but at the end of the day it was Sorrento that were left disappointed.

Sorrento : Gareth Deeg, Daniel Cain (Daniel Stoitis 86), Richard Watson, Tony Cumace, Steven McDonald, Glen Thomas, Dale McCulloch, Sean Fallon, Todd Harnwell, Simon Harland (David Foster 72), Andy Mason (Jared Love 78) E.C.U. Joondalup : Peter Stewart, Peter Roberts, Darren Broxton, Daryl Platten, Luke Croxall, Scott Blackmore, Derek Cooke, Scott Bulloch, Peter Vukmirovic, Eugene Singeorzan, Garin Collins (Craig Cheesman 89) Bookings : Singeorzan, Cain, Roberts, Blackmore Disnissals : None Referee: Jeremy Oliphant Attendance : 400 (approx.)

The stands were full at Dorrien Gardens as Perth S.C. took on Stirling Lions in what was tipped to be the clash of the round. The action started all too soon in what proved to be an exciting first half as Perth's Albert Osei-Tutu took the games opening shot at goal inside the 1st minute then, seconds later and down the opposite end, Robert Milevski saw his effort well saved by goalkeeper Robert Scarparolo. The action flowed quick from end to end with good scoring opportunities created by both teams before the deadlock was broken by the home side when Todd Howarth's cross was converted by Shane Crampton after 20 minutes. The Lions constant pressure and pace had the home team unsettled and in the 25th minute Stefoski again proved a danger but his shot ended narrowly wide. Perth doubled the margin via Rob Giorgi who slid the ball past Jordan Conti following a fine cross by Shane Crampton. Minutes later Conti was again put to the test when he brilliantly tapping Howarth's free-kick over the crossbar. As the half ticked down Toby Wright put sent the ball long to Milevski who, with Scarparolo caught out of position, shot on target only to have it cleared for a corner. Minutes later a Naven corner supplied Perth with their third goal which Howarth happily converted. The new half was just minutes old when Adam Bunce claimed Perth's fourth after Giorgi's initial shot was blocked by the Lions defence. Both teams made a rash of substitutions around the hour mark with the Lions changes producing immediate result, a long cross allowing Robert Monterosso to fire past Scarparolo and give the visitors some hope of a late fight-back. But those hopes were extinguished by substitute David Onoforo who headed in Rhys Graham's cross, and shortly after the pair combined again for Onoforo to score his second of the match and ease Perth to the top of the Premier League table with a comfortable 7-1 win.

At the National Stadium, Western Knights fielded a team that on paper looked strong but came unstuck against Inglewood United. The visitors took a long time to settle and in the 10th minute conceded when a poor clearance resulted in a Inglewood coming straight back at their opponents and a cross from the right found Louis Parkinson who made no mistake in slotting last goalkeeper Tommi Tomich. The Knights came into the match as the half progressed and it appeared only a matter of time before they equalised. Paul McVittie's header crashed into the crossbar following a Stuart Montgomery corner, and late in the period Leon Russell pushed forward before squaring into the 6-yard box where Carl Medica's effort was blocked on the line by Inglewood custodian Nick Stone. Inglewood came out firing on all cylinders for the second half and soon found themselves two goals the better as Alan MacKenzie turned Evan Wallace before sending a superb cross to Ryan Newell who, sneaking in from behind his marker, volleyed precisely to give Tomich no chance. The visiting side now had no option but to throw caution to the wind and their reward came ten minutes from the end when Leon Russell surged into attack only to be dispossessed as he was about to shoot, the loose ball spinning luckily to Stuart Montgomery who blasted it past Stone. Inglewood looked to seal the win with several late chances, but they'd already done enough to ensure maximum points against a Knights side which was well below par.

At Ken Allen Field, Fremantle City and Cockburn City contested a pulsating local derby witnessed by a crowd which numbered close to 500. In an fact slowing match, Cockburn were unlucky not to take the lead via John Mirco who hit the bar then the post with shots within minutes of eachother. While the first half ended scoreless, the talking point was the dismissal of Cockburn captain Josh Pescud who received his marching orders after being issued two yellow cards by referee Tom Klaver. Seven minutes after the interval Fremantle nudged ahead through Craig Young who ran onto a through ball and, although forced wide, slotted the ball between 'keeper and post after 58 minutes. A minute later the home crowd were silenced by exciting young midfielder Jeff Bright who raced in unmarked to coolly knock the ball past Bobson Karoma for the equaliser. With the tackles flying, Fremantle's Peter Lord was dismissed for a late challenge on Dean Wallace, and shortly after Cockburn went down to ten men with the red carding of Boza Erakovic. John Migas sent Branimir Mikulic through in the 70th minute and the big striker wriggled past several defenders before placing the ball under the 'keeper for the match winner. The win moves Fremantle to third place on the Premier league table, level on points but with a poorer goal difference than leaders Perth S.C. and Inglewood United.

Both Bassendean Caledonian and Floreat Athena left it until very late before making their move at Jubilee Reserve. In an exciting and entertaining match, the action flowed quickly from end to end with both goalkeepers in top form with numerous timely saves. Just 15 minutes into the clash and Ian Griffiths cross found brother Kevin Griffiths whose well directed header was brilliantly kept out by Oliver Taseski. Minutes later home custodian Alan Dunlop made an equally impressive save to deny Costa Socratous from giving Athena the lead. The second half saw both defences continue to dominate. In his first team debut, 16-year old Jonathon Mathers was superb and combined well with fellow defenders Kevin Smith and Jamie D'Arcy for Caledonian, while down the opposite end State defender Adrian Sutton was resolute in marshaling the visiting backline. A blistering shot by Ramon Westerberger was spilled by Taseski but was scrambled to safety by the Athena defence, and shortly after Dean Gartside missed a good opportunity to put the home side in front following a Craig Wells cross. At the other end Andreas Oliveira's fine shot was turned round the up-right by Dunlop. With five minutes left on the clock Athena substitute Rodrigo Aguirre headed the ball to Oliveira whose spectacular scissor-kick flew past Dunlop and into the back of the net. Facing defeat in the face, Caledonian picked up the pace and responded with a goal of their own after Graeme Matthews' cross caused Athena to concede a penalty which Kevin Griffiths dispatched beyond the reach of Taseski to level the game at 1-1.

19.4.2003

RESERVES AND UNDER-18'S ROUND-UP

With Scott Campbell, Jason Godfrey and Kosta Kalavroutziotis amongst their number, it was a strong Inglewood United reserve side which took to the field for their clash with Western Knights at the National Stadium. The home side took the lead after 17 minutes when Lee Haienko bundled the ball over the line after two teammates' hit the woodwork in a goalmouth scramble. Spurred into action, the Knights controlled the remainder of the half and were back on level terms shortly before the break via Danny Butler. Inglewood started the new period on the attack but found Knights custodian Robert Pedri in excellent form. The visitors took the lead after being awarded a very soft penalty which Stipan Majic converted mid-way through the half. It took Inglewood until the very last minute of play to equalise, Haienk bagging his second of the day to earn his side a share of the points.

Sorrento took the lead against E.C.U. Joondalup after 17 minutes with a fine flowing move that ended with Jake Harman scoring a lucky goal which went in off his shin. The home side controlled much of this match and should have added to their tally well before Jared Love wrapped up all three points nine minutes from the end. Two late goals from Floreat Athena gave them a 3-1 away win over Bassendean Caledonian to move into equal second spot Perth S.C. who downed Stirling Lions 4-0. On target for the Blues were Paul Natale, Jason Colli, Damian Catalano and Craig Simpson. Fremantle City and Cockburn City played out a 1-1 draw at Dalmatinac Park.

E.C.U. Joondalup maintained their 100% win record and stay top of the Under-18 table following a 2-0 win over neighbouring Sorrento. In a match of high quality, the difference between the two sets of exciting youngsters provided to be the visitors' ability to put the ball in the back of the net. Following an even first half Joondalup went ahead eight minutes after the break through Daniel Waind. Joondalup waited until the very last minute of normal time before sealing maximum points when Phillip O'Callaghan doubled their lead.

Floreat Athena's 7-0 thumping of Bassendean Caledonian elevates them into second place, two points behind the competition leaders. Gerald O'Brien and Jarryd Campher both scored doubles for Athena with Troy Dott, Rodrigo Agguire and Paul Vatistas also amongst the goals. Western Knights stay third despite a 4-0 away thrashing by Inglewood United for whom Mladen Kovacevic scored a hat-trick with Abdi Mohamed netting their other goal. Perth S.C. recorded a massive 13-0 win over Stirling Lions at Dorrien Gardens, while Fremantle City accounted for Cockburn City 4-0.

19.4.2003

FIRST DIVISION, ROUND FIVE (Armadale vs South West Phoenix by Michael Di Pietro; Bayswater City vs Mandurah City by Adam Rucci; Morley Windmills vs Ashfield courtesy of www.ashfieldsc.com)

Things are definitely looking up at Alfred Skeet Oval after Armadale demolished South West Phoenix in Round Five of the First Division season on Saturday. In what was expected to be a close match, Armadale dominated from the outset with a great team performance that saw them finally make the most of their chances in front of goal. Nick Twyman opened the scoring for the Reds and Greg Newcombe was their other solitary goalscorer, while Luke Morris capped a great day out scoring a hat-trick. The result moves Armadale back into the top half of the table after a decidedly rocky start to their home-and-away campaign. The reserves match ended in a scoreless draw, although one bright spot for the home team was the impressive debut of 15-year old Brett Wheatley. Phoenix' have produced some exception talent in their short time in the league which was underlined on Saturday by the Under-18's 5-1 thrashing of Armadale.

The pressure was on Bayswater City to get a positive result from their home clash with Mandurah City. The visitors started the better with young attacker Jordan Rhodes in blistering form. Bayswater goalkeeper Adam Ashworth had his reflexes tested early on by teammate Daniel Naumovski whose mis-kick was kept out by the athletic Ashworth. Soon after Andrew Rennie was denied by the Bayswater 'keeper, and late in the half a Mandurah free-kick taken by Steven Rhodes crashed into the crossbar. But it wasn't to be for the visiting team as the two sides went into the break on level terms. Bayswater attacked from the start of the new half and they should have gone in front via midfielder Gareth Healy who was sent through on goal only for a poor touch to let him down. Just after the hour Mandurah took the lead through Jordan Rhodes following some slack defending which left the teenager unmarked and able to slot the ball past Ashworth. The home side then threw everything at their opponents and bagged a deserved equaliser through Andrew O'Neill whose deflected shot went past the out-stretched glove of Mike Green. With the very net play Bayswater should have taken the lead as Boima Karpeh expertly rounded Green but, with an open goal at his mercy, the striker scuffed his shot wide of the target from 2-metres. Not long after Sal Marrapodi also beat Green only to see his effort crash into the side netting. In the end the 1-1 draw was a fair outcome with both sides satisfied with a point apiece. Mandurah won both the earlier games, the reserves by 2-1 and the Under-18's by 2-0.

Leeming Strikers found themselves under the pump from early on when they hosted Queens Park at John Connell Reserve. The visitors created numerous opportunities to take the lead over the opening 45 minutes with clear cut chances coming the way of Brian Robertson and Glen Noblett who were denied by the brilliant goalkeeping of which Strikers youngster Michael Smerilli. The second half saw some good chances at both ends with neither team able to put the ball in the back of the net. With the match seeming destined to end scoreless, Queens Park mounted a late charge in an effort to steal all three points on offer. A fine shot by Paul Dundo was cleared off the goalline, then Billy Robb saw his effort saved. In the 88th minute the visitors were awarded a penalty for handball and Noblett confidently dispatched the ball into the net to break the deadlock. The Strikers then threw everything at their opponents and would have equalised if not for the outstanding form of goalkeeper Darren Williams. "The last couple of weeks have been all over the place for us in terms of putting the same team on the park for two consecutive weeks," said Queens Park coach Mike Brazil. "Richard Hatton has been out with a knee complaint, and Grant Learmont and striker Glen Noblett have only recently returned from injury. I am very grateful that we have the points that we have considering the players we've had out in recent times, and its' a great credit to this young side to be where we are at present. But, as many coaches will agree, it's very early days in a very long season and I don't think we'll get an honest indication of the front-runners until the second half of the season."

Ashfield traveled to Wootton Reserve for a derby meeting with Morley Windmills keen to go home with all three points. The first half of the game was a relatively even affair with Ashfield having the better of goalscoring opportunities but unable to convert. A spirited half time pep talk from coach Tom Kilkelly sparked life into the visitors and 30 seconds after the resumption of play Ashfield bagged their opening goal when Muhamed Komadaric took the ball to the left of goalkeeper Matt Darling before slotting it into the net. With their tales up, Ashfield doubled their lead two minutes later through Komadaric who again rounded the 'keeper before scoring. The visitors continued to play the better football with Windmills rarely calling opposing goalkeeper Eldin Ibrisimovic into action. With around 10 minutes to go the home side were awarded a dubious penalty that Simon Messenger hit to the left of Ibrisimovic who got a hand to the shot but couldn't do enough to prevent it from crossing the line. Komadaric came close to completing a hat-trick shortly after only to be denied by the Windmills 'keeper. With minutes to go Ashfield substitute Wayne Culverwell should of scored but again it was a brilliant save by Darling which kept the score at 2-1.

Dianella White Eagles and Kingsway Olympic played out deserved 2-2 draw at Dianella Reserve. The visitors looked set for a comfortable win after racing to a two-goal lead after half an hour, but that margin was reduced by Dragan Njegic who headed in a cross from Dragan Radojevic. Midway through the second half Dianella drew level through David Mrdja. In other games, Rockingham City went down 2-4 at home to Canning City, Southside United also lost at home to Balcatta by a 0-2 scoreline, and Stirling Suns defeated The City 2-1.

19.4.2003

SPORTS MINISTER BACKS REFORM

Via a written media release, West Australian Sport and Recreation Minister Alan Carpenter has backed the Crawford Report saying the document complemented the good work already being undertaken to reform the way soccer is managed in Western Australia. Carpenter said the proposed restructure model for W.A. dovetailed with key elements of the Crawford Report. "Soccer in W.A. has already been through the painful process of looking at its administration, factional divisions and internal politics and has decided that there must be change," Carpenter commented. "A soccer forum made up of key representatives of the soccer community have been meeting since May last year and has been responsible for the incredible momentum that has gathered since," the Minister added. "I am confident that as a result, soccer in W.A. will be ready to be part of the development of the new national structure recommended by chairman David Crawford's committee."

The proposed restructure of the local game would take place in two stages. The first would see the Soccer Administration W.A. replaced with an independent commission, a chief executive officer and support staff who'd work closely with current associations to unify the management and development of the sport at all levels. Once this had been achieved, there would be a merger all off existing associations into the commission with all clubs and regional associations affiliating directly to it. The Department of Sport and Recreation is working with the W.A. Soccer Forum to finalise a proposal for Government support to implement stage one of the restructure. The proposal will also take into account the recommendations of the Crawford Report to ensure the restructure of soccer in W.A. complemented the national restructure. "I urge all those involved in soccer in Western Austrlaia to get behind these reforms," Carpenter said. "We have more evidence than ever before that the current status of soccer must change, and there are now clear pathways for this to occur."

19.4.2003

WEEKEND IN SUMMARY

Perth S.C. have roared to the top of the Premier League table with a 7-1 home mauling of newly promoted Stirling Lions in Saturday's third round of competition. There were also wins for Fremantle City and Inglewood United, both by 2-1 scorelines, over Cockburn City and Western Knights respectively. The points were shared between Bassendean Caledonian and Floreat Athena at Jubilee Reserve where the match ended one-all, and that was also the result in the northern suburbs derby between Sorrento and E.C.U. Joondalup.

Kingsway Olympic still lead the First Division by two points despite being held to a 2-2 draw at Dianella White Eagles. Stirling Suns' 2-1 win over The City moves them into second place after five games. Armadale put five past South West Phoenix without reply, Morley Windmills went down 1-2 at home to Ashfield, and there was also an away win for Queens Park over Leeming Strikers. Bayswater City and Mandurah City drew 1-1, Balcatta accounted for Southside United 2-0, and Canning City proved too strong for Rockingham City by 4-2.

There were big wins to Western Knights and Perth S.C., over Rockingham City and Queens Park respectively, in Monday Second Round of the Boral Cup. In the rounds three all Premier League showdowns, Sorrento defeated Inglewood United 3-2, Cockburn City crashed 2-5 at home to Swan I.C., and Fremantle City completed a miserable weekend for Floreat Athena with a 3-2 home win. The surprise of the day came from First Division leaders Kingsway Olympic who toppled the top flights Stirling Lions 2-1. Elsewhere, E.C.U. Joondalup eliminated Canning City by 2-0, and Southside United lost 1-2 at home to Mandurah City.

18.4.2003

WEEKEND IN PREVIEW

A big weekend of local action starts on Saturday with two derby clashes as Sorrento and E.C.U. Joondalup meet at Percy Doyle Reserve, while at Ken Allen Field Fremantle City and Cockburn City go head to head. Inglewood United have home ground advantage over Western Knights, and both Bassendean Caledonian and Floreat Athena will be eager to take our maximum points when they clash at Jubilee Reserve. At Dorrien Gardens the Premier League's only two teams with a 100% win record - Perth S.C. and Stirling Lions - come up against eachother. Swan I.C. have the bye.

First Division leaders Kingsway Olympic will be out to maintain their undefeated record when they teavel to play Dianella White Eagles. Morley Windmills are at home to neighbouring Ashfield, Southside United are favoured to take the points over Balcatta, and Leeming Strikers host a Queens Park side who have so far failed to live up to pre-season expectations. South West Phoenix, the competitions only other undefeated team, travel to Armadale, and Bayswater City have a home date with Mandurah City. Rockingham City and Canning City clash at Dowling Street Reserve, while Stirling Suns take on bottom side The City.

On Monday it's the Second Round of the Boral Cup and the pick of the games has to be at Percy Doyle Reserve where Sorrento and Inglewood United are thrown together. In other all Premier League games, Cockburn City host Swan I.C., while Fremantle City are home for the second time in three days when they meet Floreat Athena. Reigning Cup holders Perth S.C. are expected to account for Queens Park, likewise Western Knights when they travel south to play Rockingham City. Up north E.C.U. Joondalup have home ground advantage over Canning City, and Kingsway Olympic meet local rivals Stirling Lions. The only all First Division game takes place at Walter Padbury Reserve where Southside United play Mandurah City. It was originally planned that those First Division clubs not involved in the Cup would feature in League, however, this decision has been reversed with those games originally scheduled for Easter Monday now postponed until Monday 29th September.

18.4.2003

GLORY FAVOURED FOR VICTORY

Perth Glory can consolidate their place at the top of the National Soccer League Championship Series with victory over Newcastle United on Saturday night at Perth Oval. Last weekend Glory gave their chances of hosting a third national league Grand Final a huge boost with a 2-1 win over Olympic Sharks, a result that has without a doubt swamped the camp with confidence. Australian international Simon Colosimo has been in sensational form since stepping up to the first eleven, while wide players Matt Horsley and Scott Miller will be sure to keep the visiting defence on their toes. Four games into the ten round series and Newcastle have just a single point to their credit, that from last weekend's scoreless draw at Northern Spirit. Compounding coach Ian Crookes' woes is the fact they will be without first choice goalkeeper Daniel Beltrame, who was sent off against Spirit, against Glory.

17.4.2003

CLUBS DECISION LEAVES TEENAGER REELING

Many players seem to come up against the clubs verses country issue in their careers, especially in Europe where clubs believe they have the right to tell dictate to players, who are paid good wages, when and where they can play for their nation. But you wouldn't expect a player to be asked to chose between playing for his club or taking up an offer to better himself by trialling with a national organisation. That is exactly the situation 16-year Scott Patterson finds himself in after Premier League club Inglewood United told him he was no longer required because he would miss to or three games while trying out for the Australian Institute of Sport in Canberra.

Patterson, who plays for Inglewood's Under-21 team, was recently invited to trials with the A.I.S. for their 2004 intake. The teenager is rated one of the state's hottest young prospects and spent part of the summer in England where he impressed the coaching staff at Premier League club Chelsea. Asked to attend a two-week trial in Canberra, Patterson was told by Inglewood that, should he take up the offer and miss up to three games for the club, he would be required to return his club shirt and kit bag back as his services would no longer be required. This the teenager was told following Inglewood's recent clash with Swan I.C., leaving Patterson and his family understandably stunned. The A.I.S. has a fantastic record of bringing out the best in young players but, with attitudes like that shown by Inglewood, one wonders what we have to do to encourage quality players to stay in Australia?

17.4.2003

CLUBS DECIDE NEXT SEASON'S NSL (reproduced with permission from www.tribalfootball.com)

The National Soccer League will kick-off next season on the first weekend of August after the thirteen clubs met yesterday to discuss the next 12 months. It was decided that the competition would retain thirteen teams for next season and also revert to a five-week finals series run on a knock-out basis, with the top two teams having the double chance. Clubs for the new competition would be announced in April 2004, giving all participants the opportunity to prepare for the re-launched league six months out from an October kickoff. Perth Glory chairman Nick Tana was pleased with the meeting and having earlier endorsed the PFA's Australian Premier League model, also confirmed support for the clubs' plans. "They endorsed the integrity of the Crawford report and are pushing for autonomy," Tana told the "Herald-Sun". "They're accepting the need for change and I'm happy with the outcome."

16.4.2003

VUKMIROVIC PAYS FOR HIS OWN TRANSFER! (courtesy of www.ecujoondalup.com)

Journeyman Peter Vukmirovic signed with E.C.U. Joondalup last night after proving his loyalty to the club by buying out his own contract with Cockburn City. Late last week Steve Wheatley, president of the northern suburbs club, stated that there would be no way Joondalup would pay out the remainder of Vukmirovic's contract after he had been granted a free transfer by Cockburn. But Vukmirovic came to his own rescue late on Tuesday by paying Cockburn's asking fee out of his own pocket to proving has the drive and ambition to want to continue his career in the north. "Obviously we are very pleased," Wheatley commented. Joondalup officials said Vukmirovic had proved his passion for the game with his very generous offer.

16.4.2003

JUNIOR STATE PROGRAM CONFIRMED

The Junior Soccer Association have confirmed their schedule of activities for the various State junior teams for the coming year. The Under-14 Development Teams, coached by Steve Duckworth (North) and Paul Wozny (South), will compete in the Friendship Games between 4th-10th July. Shortly after, the Country Development Teams head to Canberra for the Kanga Cup which is being held between 7th-13th July. The September/October school holidays will see the State Under-15 and Under-16 squads take part in the National Talent Identification Championships under coaches Mike Tetlow (Under-15) and Peter Bliss (Under-16). And during that same holiday period the Under-13 Development Squads will play off in the Champions Cup.

16.4.2003

REFORM TEETERS

The reform of Australian soccer appears in danger of collapse with Soccer Australia stakeholders angered by proposals for interim board chairman Frank Lowy to pick his own commissioners. It understood those with voting rights under the current structure are not happy with the prospect of having no say in the make-up of the new independent six-person board, recommended by the Crawford Report. Serving board member Paul Afkos, who has been strongly linked with a position on the interim board, said he has been inundated with phone calls from concerned stakeholders. "It is the view of the stakeholders that they have some say on the make-up of the interim board," Afkos said. "It would be naive of the (federal) Government and the Australian Sports Commission to ignore the wishes of the stakeholders."

15.4.2003

TARKA OFFERED TRIALS AT WEST HAM

Young defender David Tarka has turned down an offer to trial with English Premier League side West Ham United in order to focus on Perth Glory's National Soccer League finals campaign. Hammers boss Glenn Roeder invited Tarka to spend a week with the London outfit but after much consideration the 20-year-old decided against the move. "I had a good think about it and a chat with Mich (coach d'Avray) and decided it would be better that I see out the season," Tarka told "West Australian" reporter Jonathon Cook. "It would've been too disruptive for me and also for my teammates, so I chose to stay." With the offer to trial left open, Tarka looks likely to try his luck with West Ham at the end of the N.S.L. season.

It's been a big week for Tarka who, just days after delaying the Hammers offer, he received a surprise call-up to the Australian Under-23 squad for their friendly with Spain on 29th April. "I have to be playing regularly to get a look in for the Olympics, which is another reason why if I go overseas it has to be the right time," Tarka commented. The Olyroos squad named by Frank Farina has a distinctly West Australian flavour with Tarka one of four local products in the travelling party, the others being Brad Jones (Middlesbrough), Adrian Madaschi (Pistoiese/ Atalanta), and Richard Garcia (West Ham United). Tarka is expected to be available for Glory's away clash with Northern Spirit on Friday week before he departs for Spain. And the defender may not miss a game for his club should he return from his trip to Europe in time for Glory's home meeting with Parramatta Power on 3rd May.

14.4.2003

COACHES AGONY OVER MURPHY

Sheffield United manager Neil Warnock has admitted the decision to drop Shaun Murphy from the weekend's F.A. Cup semi-final clash with Arsenal was the toughest decision he has made. Murphy, who has played 49 of the Blades 51 games this season, was a surprise omission from the starting line-up with his place was at the back taken by Phil Jagielka. "Obviously it was a big disappointment for Shaun, but I thought that Arsenal don't play to his strengths and we would be better served with Jags in there," said Warnock. "Arsenal are not a team to pump balls in the box or put in too many high crosses ... it was one of the toughest decisions I have made in 20 years of management." However, Warnock believes Murphy still has a major role to play as the club challenge for a spot in the Premier league next season. "We have got some tough games coming up which we need to win to cement our play-off place and Shaun has a part to play."

13.4.2003

GLORY BEAT SHARKS - AND HOODOO

Perth Glory have moved a step closer to a third National Soccer League grand final after an 2-1 win over arch-rivals Olympic Sharks in Sydney this evening. Damian Mori opened Glory's account after 35 seconds when he made the most of some slack defending by Olympic defender Jade North. The goal spurred the home side into action but for all their dominance the Sharks were unable to penetration their opponents solid backline. Japanese import Hiro Ishida won the Sharks a penalty after 56 minutes when Scott Miller was ruled to have fouled him inside the area, and Ante Milicic sent Jason Petkovic the wrong way from the spot to equalise. Glory upped the pace over the closing stages with Nick Mrdja's 69th minute shot knocked into the crossbar by goalkeeper Clint Bolton, and shortly after Matt Horsley sent his diagonal shot wide. Two minutes from full-time Horsley embarked on a long run which took him into the area when he teed-up Mrdja for a simple tap-in. The win will be a major boost for Glory who had lost their previous three matches to the Sharks, and may yet go head-to-head with Olympic in the grand final. "Possibly if we had lost tonight there might have been a problem," said Glory coach Mich d'Avray after the game. Glory now move to the top of the finals table with 12 points with the Sharks on nine and Parramatta Power, Adelaide City Force and Northern Spirit on seven each.

13.4.2003

AMATEURS ROUND-UP

The University of W.A. were held to a 2-2 draw by Perth Azzurri at McGillivray Oval in Sunday's second round of WAASSA Premier League action. UWA had an excellent chance to take the lead after 2 minutes when Max Percy beat three players in running half the length of the pitch only for the Azzurri goalkeeper to deny him. The home side took the lead after 30 minutes when an Adam Brett header found the target following a fine cross from Gareth Briggs. Charlie Jensen went close for Azzurri five minutes later but his volley was just off-target. Right on the stroke of half-time UWA doubled their lead as Percy won possession on the half way line before sending Marc D'Asconier through to stroke the ball home. After a slow start to the second half the pace picked up as an Azzurri counter-attack ended with Robert Celeste slamming the ball into the roof of the net. UWA substitute Frederik Larsen twice hit the frame of the goal in the last ten minutes as the home side attempted to kill off the match. But in the last minute of play Azzurri were awarded a penalty for a dubious handball decision and Stuart Cardley converted from the spot to claim a share of the points. "We have been the better side in both our opening games against Spearwood and Perth Azzurri and only come away with two draws," commented U.W.A. coach Kevin Burton after the game. "To say we are disappointed not to have won easily today is an understatement but the quality of our football and the chances we are consistently creating are very positive signs and we will get it right." U.W.A. reserves had a comfortable 6-1 victory over Azzurri in the early game.

Fremantle United erased their opening round loss to Forrestfield United with a 2-0 win over Hamersley Rovers who have been crowned Premier League champions for the past two seasons. Neither side would consider this one of their better performances but at least Fremantle can take heart that they are at least on the board with a early win. Rovers, after an excellent performance last week, were never really in the game and produced as lacklustre performance with midfield partners Alun Vernals and Neil Birkinshaw absent. With Michael Dilapena, Johnny De Felice and Jason Smith back in Fremantle's ranks, they took the lead after 25 minutes Nick Marchesani found a way past his opponent and inside the 18-yard box from where he sent the ball low and to the left of goalkeeper Aleks Lackovic. The referee cautioned several players from both sides but the match official should have taken a much firmer line as a handful of off the ball incidents were allowed to go unpunished. After the interval neither side was able to establish any sort of superiority and the match deteriorated into a quite scrappy affair. Fremantle made the points safe when a mistake by Rovers defender Nick Cianci on the edge of his own penalty box presented Smith with the simplest of chances with Lackovic caught out of position. "We have not played this bad during my term in charge," said Rovers coach Mickey Brennan post-match. "We've some work to do to lift our work-rate, concentration and urgency to have any chance of a hat-trick of titles."

Murdoch University dominated the opening quarter hour of their clash with Balga but were unable to create any clear cut chances on goal. Then, just as Balga started to find their rhythm, Murdoch scored twice in quick succession to put the home side well and truly on the back foot. Balga pulled a goal back but shortly before half-time conceded two further goals following some abysmal defending. The second half was a more even affair with Murdoch adding to their taly to make the final score 6-1. After two rounds, Azzurri top the table on goal difference ahead of Canning International and Kwinana United, who also sit on four points, after their 3-3 draw on Sunday. North Perth United accounted for Forrestfield United 3-2, while the result of the Shamrock Rovers-Spearwood Dalmatinac game is currently unknown. For a more complete look at the amateurs game in Western Australia, including results for all WAASSA competitions, the latest news and so forth, visit http://waassa.ola.com.au

13.4.2003

KARP OPENS INTERNATIONAL ACCOUNT

The Oceania Football Confederation qualifying tournament for the up-coming Womens' World Cup are over and 21-year old West Australian Tal Karp was right in the thick of the action. Having watched from the bench as the Matilda's demolish Samoa 19-0 in their opening game, Karp stepped up to the starting eleven for Monday afternoons' clash with the Cook Islands. And the midfielder didn't disappoint, scoring her first goal for the senior national team after 37 minutes before adding to her international tally in the 81th minute as Australia triumphed 11-0. Karp was rested on Wednesday evening when the Matilda's strolled to a 13-0 win over Papua New Guinea to secure themselves a place in today's final. Australia took out the series - and booked their place at the World Cup Finals - with a 2-0 win over New Zealand in the deciding game, Karp coming off the bench 81 minutes into the final with victory already assured.

12.4.2003

PREMIER LEAGUE, ROUND TWO (E.C.U. Joondalup vs Inglewood United courtesy www.ecujoondalup.com; Sorrento vs Fremantle City by Kerry Slater; Western Knights vs Swan I.C. by Greg Scali)

Round Two of the 2003 Premier League season pitted together Floreat Athena and Cockburn City in what had been billed as the match of the round at Litis Stadium. The visitors were brimming with confidence after making the final of the Night Series then kicking off the home-and-away campaign with a come-from-behind win over E.C.U. Joondalup seven days earlier. Athena were eager to erase their opening round home loss to Sorrento, a task made all the more difficult with five first team regulars - Robin Dyers, James Afkos, Costa Socratous, Anthony Jones and Troy Bernard - out for a variety of reasons and coach Taki Lambetsos banished from the sidelines after being red carded last weekend.

It was tame opening with both teams taking their time to settle and unwilling to over commit themselves when going forward. The visiting side suffered a body blow after 5 minutes when attacker Denis Stojanovic was stretchered off an took no further part in the game following an awkward fall in the 18-yard box. Five minutes later Athena's new goalkeeper Oliver Taseski made a timely interception after Jeff Bright skipped away down the left to cross into the area from the by-line. Unforced errors saw the ball turned over with regularity as much of the play took place in the middle third of the park. It wasn't until the 17th minute that the small crowd were treated to a shot on goal as Josh Pescud raced past the Athena defence and onto a long pass before firing on target from 14-metres only to see Taseski paddle his rising shot over the crossbar. It was a warning Athena failed to take notice of, and two minutes later they paid the price. Bright created space for himself before sending a high ball to Dean Wallace who, completely unmarked on top of the 6-yard box, had little trouble in heading past Taseski for the games opening goal.

The remainder of the half was a largely uninspired period of play in which Cockburn dominated possession but were unable to penetrate their opponents backline. Time and time again Bright used his explosive pace to push forward down the left only to have his crosses cut out, while in the engine room Wallace and Michael Mirco worked tirelessly without result. For their part the home side lacked drive and creativity. Athena struggled to get the ball in their attacking half and on those occasions that they did strikers Andres Oliveira, who was their only player showing any desire to score, and Sasa Kilibarda lacked support. As the half came to a close Cockburn started to find way past their opponents defence. A superb through ball by Wallace found Peter Petkovich after 40 minutes but his powerful drive was deflected wide off the boot by Adrian Sutton. And minutes later Michael Mirco went on a jinxing run into the area only to have the ball cleared by some desperate defending.

Athena began the second half in more convincing fashion and found an equaliser four minutes after the resumption of play. From wide on the left Jamie Trandos crossed into the area where Kilibarda's weak header caught Dino Pacella by surprise, the goalkeeper fumbled the ball twice before it bounced over the line for the softest of goals. Four minutes later the home side should have taken the lead but Kilibarda struck the crossbar from 13-metres when it seemed easier to find the back of the net. The visitors responded with a fine move of their own that featured Bright and Dom De Felice and ended with Wallace rifling his shot narrowly over the top. Trandos skillfully brought down a high ball that he played to the feet of Michael Lardis who shot high on the hour. With the two side trading shots on goal, De Felice unleashed a dipping drive which Taseski did well to knock over the top after 71 minutes.

The final ten minutes produced a flurry of attacking activity from both teams as they sought to take full points from the game. Wallace shot over the top after Petkovich pulled the ball back from close to the by-line. After 83 minutes of play, referee Jeremy Oliphant noticed one corner flag was shorter than the regulation length and delayed play for four minutes while the offending flag was replaced, much to the dismay of players and fans alike. Upon the resumption of play, Cockburn substitute Roberto Colalillo stretched Taseski with a rising effort following good lead-up work by Bright. Breaking immediately on the counter-attack, Athena hit the side netting via Josip Magdic. Some sloppy defensive work saw the ball quickly turned over and Trandos' bullet-like shot flew marginally high. Three minutes into stoppage time Pacella made up for his earlier error by keeping out a stinging close-range effort from Oliviera, then denying Trandos who was quick to pounce on the loose ball.

At the end of what was a scrappy match, both sides would be disappointed to have not scored more, but a share of the points was a fair result from a game that failed to live up to pre-match expectations. Cockburn dominated the first half but for all their possession were unable to break down their opponents' defence, despite the best efforts of flank players Bright and Pescud. After the break Athena picked up the slack and pulled together to work their way back into the match but, other than in stoppage time, failed to really test Pacella. Oliveira worked tirelessly up-front for the home team while down the opposite end of the park Sutton marshalled the defence superbly.

Floreat Athena : Oliver Taseski, Adrian Sutton, Eugene Tan (Aaron Moschopoulos 58), Andreas Pantelis, Dejan Djukanovic, Josip Magdic, Fernando Coron, Michael Lardis, Jamie Trandos, Sasa Kilibarda (Jimmy Christopoulos 83), Andreas Oliveira
Cockburn City : Dino Pacella, Alan Pottier, Steve Adam, Boza Erakovic, Josh Pescud, Jeff Bright, Dom De Felice, Dean Wallace, Michael Mirco (Roberto Colalillo 74), Denis Stojanovic (John Mirco 7 (Mileta Miletic 60)), Peter Petkovich
Bookings : Wallace (45), Coron (45), Pescud (51), Christopoulos (90+)
Dismissals : None
Referee : Jeremy Oliphant
Attendance : 125 (approx.)

At Macedonia Park, Stirling Lions celebrated their return to the top flight with a hard-fought 2-1 win over visiting Bassendean Caledonian. The home side started the match on the right foot and took the lead after 10 minutes when Keegan Ashley's high cross was headed in by Robert Milevski. The Lions continued to ply the pressure with young midfielder Stjepan Beretovac a never-ending problem for the visiting defence who held firm for the remainder of the half. After the interval Caledonian took the game up to their opponents as Craig Naven, Dean Gartside and Kevin Griffiths combined well. The visitors came close to leveling on several occasions only to be foiled by some superb goalkeeping by Jordan Conti. The Lions added their second goal on the counter-attack when a fine through ball found the Beretovac who made no mistake in knocking it past Alan Dunlop from 10-metres. Caledonian bagged a late consolation goal via substitute Ramon Westerberger who converted a cross from Naven to round out the scoreline.

E.C.U. Joondalup hosted Inglewood United, a side widely touted as a real contenders for the Premier league title this year, on Saturday. And the visitors started as if they meant to live up to that reputation by immediately putting the pressure on the home defence with Peter Stewart pulling of a fine point blank save in the 3rd minute. Joondalup slowly worked their way into the game and in the 15th minute their persistence paid off as Scott Bulloch rifled home a great strike from 18-metres to make it 1-0. Inglewood were the next to find the back of the net as Ryan Newhill steered the ball home following a good cross from the right. In the 40th minute a long clearance found Joondalup newcomer Eugene Singeorzan who brilliantly turned his marker inside out before slotting the ball past the goalkeeper to restore the home teams' lead. Starting the second half with more confidence, Joondalup extended the margin when a fine passage of play wide on the left saw Shaun Kilkelly turn the resulting cross past his own goalkeeper. Five minutes later Luke Croxall rose above the Inglewood defence to make it 4-1 with a solid header as the game slipped away from the visiting team. Scott Bulloch grabbed his second of the match with another fine strike that was deflected past the 'keeper after 80 minutes. Louis Parkinson pulled one back for Inglewood with five minutes to go but it was little too late as Joondalup claimed maximum points with an excellent all-round performance that belied their tender years.

It was Sorrento against Fremantle City at Percy Doyle Reserve where the home side were strongly favoured to take out the points. And Steve Neville's side looked as good as the pundits words by taking the lead after 18 minutes when Glen Thomas' throw-in found Todd Harnwell who quickly fired in a low cross that caught the Fremantle defence out as Sean Fallon speared the ball home with his left foot. Both goalkeepers were kept busy as some enterprising end-to-end action gave the crowd something to cheer about. Cisco Jorquiera's corner was headed just over by Peter Lord after 27 minutes, and shortly after James Hesketh swung in a free-kick which Lord connected with only to have Gareth Deeg prevent the ball from crossing the line. Andy Mason mis-hit wide after a good move involving Thomas and Fallon. Steve McDonald prevented Craig Surtees from equalising, then a Fallon free-kick from 18-metres rose narrowly over Bobson Korama's crossbar on 40 minutes. Dale McCulloch cleared another Lord header off the line, but there was little Sorrento could do a minute into stoppage time when Branimir Mikulic converted Hesketh's free-kick played into the area. Mikulic was the provider of the visitors second goal six minutes into the second, slotting the ball to John Migas who turned his marker before rifling his shot past Deeg to give the port side the lead. Korama was impressive as he battered away a Harnwell shot on 63 minutes and, as Sorrento sought to level the game, the 'keeper denied Harnwell, McCulloch and Thomas with a string of fine saves. Moments before the final whistle came the Seagulls last effort as Harnwell crossed to Fallon who rose high but headed the ball over the bar.

It took two first class finishes for Western Knights and Swan I.C. to split the points in what was a entertaining game played in difficult conditions at Nash Field. Swan started keenly and the exciting Tom Shepheard found himself in behind the Knights defence twice in the first ten minutes but on neither occasion was he able to trouble goalkeeper Tommi Tomich. The home side weren't without their chances also as captain Carl found John Nicolaou after 24 minutes but his header went wide of the up-right. The deadlock was broken when Daniel Trim spread the ball wide to the ever-dangerous Medica who, quick to spot Cory Hugo off his line, masterfully chipped the ball into the back of the net from 20-metres. Four minutes later Medica could of made it two but skied his chance, and both Luka Jukic and Montgomery could have added to the home teams' tally leading up to half-time. Swan maintained the pressure at the opposite end as Damian Scali headed over from close range, then Dean Nicolaou forced Tomich to save sharply. The second period started positively for Swan, an exchange on the edge of the box between Christian Marrochi, Dean Nicolaou and Tom Shepheard saw Elton Holmes give Tomich no chance with a cool finish from 17-metres. The final quarter-hour saw chances come the way of both sides without success. Hugo was called on to save from Trim then the goalkeeper superbly turned over a Stipan Majic flick, and Tomich kept out a header from Damian Scali and halted a long-range strike from the same played close to the final whistle. Although both sides probably felt they should have won this game, the balance of play would suggest that a draw was a fair outcome.

12.4.2003

RESERVES AND UNDER-18'S ROUND-UP

E.C.U. Joondalup's reserves suffered a humbling 2-5 loss to Inglewood United on the second weekend of top flight fixtures. Some excellent early attacking play resulted in the home side taking a two goal lead via John Greenwood who netted twice inside a minute. But Joondalup then eased off and allowed their opponents back into the game as Inglewood made the most of some slack defending to go into the break on level terms. The half-time team talk failed to stimulate Joondalup and, apart from the odd attacking foray and some good efforts from Greenwood, there was little for the home fans to get excited about. With Michael Baczynski continually tormenting the home defence, Inglewood piled on further goals in the 65th, 82nd, and 90th minute to run out deserved winners.

Plagued by injury and illness, Bassendean Caledonian's reserve team were forced to utilise 17-year old outfield player Philip Lunt in goal. Although beaten 4-1 by Stirling Lions, Caledonian could hold their head high with goalscorer Ian Dennis and teenagers Jonathon Mathers and David Gordon the pick of their players. For the home side Bobbi Klenkoski bagged a hat-trick with Dimce Taneski scoring their other goal. Cockburn City had little troubled in accounting for home side Floreat Athena as Peter Mrdja found the net four times and Fabio Fusari and Roberto Colalillo once each in making the final score 6-1 at Litis Stadium.

Western Knights claimed third place on goal difference ahead of a host of other sides following their 6-0 demolition of Swan I.C. Stipan Majic netted three for the Knights for whom Paul Cooke, Daniel Butler and Arthur Stefanovski also got on the scoresheet. Farrell Hedges and Joe Liguan were on target for Sorrento and Fremantle City respectively as they shared the points with a 1-1 draw.

E.C.U. Joondalup went to the top of the Under-18 table after two rounds as a result of their 7-2 home win over Inglewood United. Level on points with the northern suburbs club is Western Knights for whom Reggie Ram (2) and Kris Hansen scored inside the opening 20 minutes to give the home side a 3-0 win over Swan I.C. Floreat Athena move into third on goal difference after a 6-0 trouncing of Cockburn City, the goals coming from Troy Dott (3), Nick Struder, Johnathon Davite and Gerald O'Brien. Brodie Martin gave Sorrento the early lead against Fremantle City before Marc Sim pulled the visitors level after 36 minutes. Dejan Curovski restored the home teams' lead in the second half, Mo Atak equalised for the port side, and Ozren Kotur bagged his first goal in Sorrento colours to secure maximum points for the boys in blue.

It was an exciting clash between the Under-18 teams of Stirling Lions and Bassendean Caledonian who clawed their way back into the match from two goals down after Etienne Sharp and Jermone Vallet found the back of the net for the home team. Caeldonian's Danni Progri scored twice to level the game before the visitors squandered a golden opportunity to take the lead from close range. Sharp, on off-season recruit from South West Phoenix, bagged his second of the day late in the match to start the Lions home-and-away season on a positive note.

12.4.2003

FIRST DIVISION, ROUND FOUR (Kingsway Olympic vs Bayswater City by Adam Rucci; Mandurah City vs Rockingham City by Barrie Rennie; Ashfield vs Armadale by Michael Di Pietro; Canning City vs Leeming Strikers by Phil Unsworth)

It was a sad afternoon for Bayswater City who lost at all three levels away at Kingsway Olympic in the fourth round of First Division competition on Saturday. The senior clash started brightly for Bayswater with Boima Karpeh giving them the lead after 20 minutes. But disaster struck for the visitors just two minutes later when midfielder Filipe Xavier was sent off for dissent, putting his team on the back foot and under pressure for the remainder of the game. Olympic leveled the score after 27 minutes through Sota Iwasaki, went a goal up from a superb Ryan Lickers free-kick from 40-metres which flew over goalkeeper Adam Ashworth, and extended their lead to 3-1 via an own goal before the half-time break. Bayswater came out firing after the interval and, with just twenty-three seconds gone, the visitors were back in the match as Karpeh set-up Sal Marrapodi who made no mistake. Minutes later midfielder Kevin Henderson connected sweetly with a corner to put Bayswater on level terms. But from there the match slipped from the visitors grip as Bretti scored twice in quick succession to ensure maximum points for Olympic and open up a three-point lead at he top of the First Division table. Olympic took out the two earlier games as well, winning the reserves by a massive 7-1 and the Under-18's 1-0.

Mandurah City met local rivals Rockingham City at Peelwood Parade in blustery, wet conditions. The home side started the better but were dealt a severe blow after 15 minutes when Gary Collins was red carded after what appeared to be a strong but fair tackle then, reacting to comments from the Mandurah bench, the referee then sent off coach Paul O'Brien. The opening goal arrived on the half-hour mark when John Crawford's long ball into the area caught the Mandurah defence by surprise and, with young goalkeeper Nick Archer stranded amongst the pack of defenders, the ball drifted into the back of the net to give Rockingham the lead. Mandurah made a couple of changes to their game at the start of the second half with the end result being several shots go narrowly wide and crosses just failing to find their targets. With Mandurah throwing at their opponents, Rockingham sealed victory with seven minutes remaining when the home side failed several times to clear the danger and a Rockingham doubled their lead with a good shot from the top of the 18-yard box by Marko Aleksic. The only positives Mandurah could take from the game was a stirring midfield display by Jordan Rhodes and the non-stop performance of debutante Adam Boone. Mandurah won both the earlier games, the reserves by a 2-1 scoreline with Steven Rhodes bagging both goals, and the Under-18's by 1-0 with Garry Attrill scoring the games only goal.

It was another case of Armadale not making the most of those chances that came their way when the Reds hosted a young Ashfield line-up on the weekend. A dominant home side really should have come away with maximum points but simply could not bury an Ashfiled side that didn't have that much to show. Craig Anderson gave Armadale the lead after 70 minute, but the visitors replied soon after via a corner which was converted by David Mayers. At the end of the day some very average finishing meant Armadale miss out on two valuable points that were theirs for the taking. The reserves clash saw Armadale control proceedings from the outset with Bryan Wood, Emlyn Whetnall, Darren Ingham and Oliver Crockford all missing chances to give the Reds the lead. With two minutes remaining Ashfield broke the deadlock through Nermin Srndic to leave the home side rueing their string of missed opportunities. Ashfield also claimed the Under-18 clash with goals from Alex Crookes and Robbie Anderson (2) before David Hall bagged a late consolation goal for Armadale.

South West Phoenix remain as one of only two undefeated teams in the competition following their comfortable 4-1 home win over The City at Bunbury's Soccerdrome. With star striker Savo Garic absen