30.6.2001

PREMIER LEAGUE, ROUND THIRTEEN (Perth vs Sorrento report provided by Kerry Slater)

A much depleted Floreat Athena side welcomed Swan I.C, who are winless so-far this winter, to the the Litis Stadium on Saturday. Out of action for the home side were long-serving 'keeper John Xiags (knee), midfielders George Tiniakos (knee), Doug Ithier (ankle), and Adrian Spinelli (ankle), and new-signing Dave Evans (hamstring). Even without these players the home side were expected to make light work of Swan after winning eight of their past ten fixtures. In total contrast was Swan's form, twelve games for three points and just ten goals this season. And while these results tend disagree, the black and white's have shown improvement in recent times only to be frustrated by an inability to put the ball past the 'keeper - which, at the end of the day, is what the game is all about.

The home side started the more lively of the two but for all their possession could not do much with the ball. Reliant on breaking quickly on the counter-attack, Swan managed to expose the frailties of the home defence with regularity, but without success. Their best chance came when Brian Robertson ran onto a lobbed ball played over the defence after 7 minutes, going forward with Nigel Aubin and Justin Hugo to his right and Troy Bernard the only defender in sight. But instead of releasing one of his free teammates, the striker took on Bernard who timed his tackle perfectly and goalkeeper Anthony Mori scooped up the loose ball.

The longer the game went the better Swan looked, but despite their increasing dominance the visitors rarely called Mori into action. In the middle Carlo Scali and Ross Holtom controlled the flow of play with some great distribution and reading of the play, while down the right flank Michael Gronnow consistently beat his opponent as the side went forward. After 13 minutes Mori vented his anger at his teammates after they allowed Damian Scali to stroll through the middle without meeting resistance before unleashing a 20-metre bomb which went narrowly wide of the 'keeper's right post.

It took until the quarter-hour mark before Athena created any worry for Swan 'keeper Corey Hugo. In a comical situation, the 'keeper twice muffed a clearance outside the area thanks to pressure from Robyn Dyers, the lanky striker then stole possession only to be forced wide by Justin Everley happily conceded a corner with his 'keeper still well out of position. Twelve minutes later, and completely against the run of play, the home side took the lead with their second attack. Costa Socratous rounded one defender and threw another off with a wiggle of the hips to open up a path to goal, his low drive striking the base of the up-right and in a flash Dyers had whipped it in from close range.

Deflated after dominating only to go a goal behind, Swan kept their heads and pressed hard to get back on level terms for the remainder of the half. Damian Scali lifted the ball over the bar from long range after good lead-up work from Aubin and Gronnow in the 32nd minute. Four minutes later Aubin's low drive was deflected wide by Jason Smith. Shortly after Aubin's chip over Mori was kept out by a desperate Peter Nikoloski clearance on the line. The Scali brothers combined in the 39th minute, Damian rising unchallenged to flick Carlo's in-swinging free-kick narrowly wide of the post. And three minutes before the interval Aubin's low drive saw Mori's reflexes tested courtesy of a Bernard deflection.

Late in the half Swan lost the inspirational Holtom to injury and veteran striker Aubin didn't re-appear after the interval. Neither change interrupted Swan's game play as they continued their offensive. Within a minute of the re-start substitute Paul Borg raced away down the right to sent an inch-perfect cross to Carlo Scali at the far post, but he nodded it wide unaware that he probably had the time to bring it under control before shooting. Sixty seconds later the same two players combined, this time Scali's shot from a tight angle finding the side netting.

Having spent five minutes doing nothing other than defend, Athena turned things around and enjoyed their period in control. Ryan Newhill raced past Everley then danced around Dean Mlinar to open up the angle but skied his close-range shot with only Corey Hugo to beat. In the 52nd minute Adrian Sutton's cross was met solidly by Dyers but Darren Freeman also got a touch as it went out for a corner. The ball was floated into the heart of the area where Newhill rose highest, his header sheering the wrong side of the post. Athena were back in the game and looking dangerous.

The home crowd were vocal in letting their disapproval known after Athena squandered three good chances in quick succession, but in the 55th minute they had nothing but praise for their side when the margin was doubled. An advancing Swan defence was caught flat-footed when Socratous chipped it back over their heads and Dyers' flicked an explosive header past Corey Hugo despite pleas for off-side. Steve Muldoon ignored the calls and allowed the goal to stand, thus making the only mistake in an otherwise faultless performance by the referee.

The goal breathed new life into Athena who knew another goal would kill of the game as a contest. And it would have been 3-0 not long after if not for the agility of Corey Hugo who made a brillant flying save to keep out Newhill's close-range volley. In the 66th minute Dyers weaved past three defenders in a weaving run which took him along the top of the 18-yard box before being halted by a no-nonsense tackle from Everley. It was a clear warning not to under estimate the home strikers, and just a minute later the followed with the killer blow. Newhill out-paced the Swan defence to get to a long ball played from the halfway line, dummied his way past Corey Hugo and blasted it into the back of the net despite the best efforts of a fast backtracking Mlinar.

Conceding two goals in the space of 12 minutes would have left most sides shattered, but knowing their season was very much on the line Swan had no time to entertain such thoughts. The visitors wrestled back control of the game but, try as they may, could not peg a goal back. Carlo Scali's rising shot from 15-metres flew high after some superb footwork from Gronnow. Christian Maroochi then fought hard to retain possession and lay it off to Damian Scali whose shot from 16-metres went straight the Mori. Swan must have known in the 79th minute that, for the thirteenth time this season, it was not to be their day when Carlo Scali's lob over the 'keeper ended up the wrong side of the bar.

As was the case for much of the game, the closing stages were spent in Swan's attacking half but they were unable to capitalise as Athena's well-organised defence effectively shut them down time and time again. It was the story of Swan's day - they dominated possession but when it came to sticking the ball in the back of the net they ran into a brick wall. It was no surprise then that the final attack of the game went to Athena. Corey Hugo parried Miguel Ortin's low shot, Dyers pounced on the loose ball and Mlinar made a desperate clearance off the line.

In an entertaining game Swan showed that their low Premier League ranking is not a true indication of their abilities, only to be consistently let down by a failure to net. Captain Damian Scali put in a man-of-the-match effort, while others deserving of praise were sweeper Mlinar and Gronnow, who gave 100% for the entire 90 minutes. For Athena it was the ever-reliable Bernard who stood out, along with Smith in midfield. While the 3-0 final score may have flattered Athena's performance, the fact remains that they grabbed their chances and made their opponents pay dearly for their misses. Attacking forays may have been scattered, but when they did get forward Athena made evident that the difference between a top three and a bottom three side this season is only a matter of finishing.

Floreat Athena : Anthony Mori, Troy Bernard, Peter Nikoloski, Jamie D'Arcy (Andreas Pantelis 76), Jason Smith, Costa Socratous (Manuel Arapis 79), Miguel Ortin, Adrian Sutton, Peter Coci, Ryan Newhill (Hugh Miller 67), Robyn Dyers
Swan I.C. : Corey Hugo, Dean Mlinar, Justin Everley, Darren Freeman, Michael Gronnow, Justin Hugo (Christian Marocchi 67), Ross Holtom (Paul Borg 41), Damian Scali, Carlo Scali, Brian Robertson, Nigel Aubin (Eddie Mura 46)
Referee : Steve Muldoon
Cautions : None
Dismissals : None
Attendance : 125 (approx.)

Title contenders Perth and Sorrento were evenly matched over the opening period of their game played out on a heavy, bumpy surface at Dorrien Gardens. The visitor's Shaun Bowyer fell victim to a hamstring injury in the 26th minute and was replaced by David Colegate. Two minutes later Perth Glory striker Nick Mrdja, back on loan to Perth, flashed his shot across the face of goal. On 34 minutes, Kevin Murphy blocked Mark Pottier's first attempt at a cross from the left, but his second from the rebound found Mrdja unmarked at the far post and he duly slotted the ball home. Sorrento couldn't find their fellow players and gave the ball away too often. The half time deficit would have been greater if central defenders Scott McLeod and Danny Hill hadn't been on top of their game.

The second half didn't start any better for Sorrento as they struggled to keep up. Neil Young saved the visitors from going further behind when he raced out of his area to tackle at the feet of Robbie Gaspar, preventing a breakaway goal in the 55th minute. The introduction of player/coach Trevor Morgan and young Jared Love in the 62nd minute gave Sorrento a controlling forward influence. On 64 minutes Perth 'keeper Robert Scarparolo did well to hold a Ryan Jeans volley. Five minutes later Ross Greer expertly headed a Colegate cross into the path of Hill and he adjusted to steer he ball in at the far post for Sorrento's equaliser. Worse to come for Perth when Todd Harnwell cut in from the right in the 76th minute and pushed the ball across the edge of the area where Greer's dummy allowed Morgan his solidly shoot into the bottom left corner. Two minutes later Mrdja, Perth's liveliest player, had a fine effort held by Young. Love's attempted chip tested Scarparolo in the 70th minute, the 'keeper stretching to turn it away for a corner. Perth's next attack within a minute had Young beaten, but Gaspar's curling shot was wide of the right post from 20-metres. Four minutes into stoppage time the visitors were enraged when referee Mark Oliphant awarded a dubious penalty after Andreas Oliveira, a former Sorrento junior, looked to have dived as Stuart Banks challenged him inside the box. After a moment's hesitation Oliphant pointed to the spot and Mark Pottier calmly converted the penalty to level the scores at two-each and see the two side shared the championship points.

Two late penalties converted by midfielder Sandy Robertson got ECU Joondalup out of gaol against Cockburn City for whom recent addition Dragon Njegic found the target. At Jubilee Reserve, Bassendean Caledonian went down 4-0 to Fremantle City where Dale Wingell scored a hat-trick and Daniel Trim bagged the other. And the only goal of the game from Inglewood United striker Paul Lincoln saw his side record their second win in as many weeks, and get their season back on track, at the expense of the Western Knights.

30.6.2001

FIRST DIVISION ROUND-UP (Ashfield vs Kingsway Olympic details provided by Craig Culverwell of the Ashfield website ; Armadale vs Queens Park report provided by Michael Di Pietro)

Kingsway Olympic went into Saturday's First Division (North) meeting at Ashfield full of hope after the recent re-signing of Jamie Trandos and Stuart Montgomery from ECU Joondalup. But it was the home side which started the strongest with Steve Goff slamming the ball past Olympic 'keeper Sam Scutti from close range after less than two minutes to give Ashfield the lead. Not to be out-done, the visitors then went straight into attack and a cross from the left saw Trandos steer his header past Phil Jackson in the Ashfield goal to make it 1-1. In a very entertaining match which saw some enterprising play from both sides, Ashfield went into the break when midfielder Steve Gillibrand hooked the ball in from the left and Steve Goff bagged his second of the day from a header.

After the break the visitors applied the pressure and were back on level terms through Montgomery who connected sweetly with the bouncing ball to chip it over the advancing Jackson. Olympic continued to look the better side as the half progressed and took the lead for the first time after Montgomery beat two players before thundering it into the left hand corner of Ashfield's goal from 22-metres. The goal sparked the home team back into action and shortly after Nathan Salisbury's near-perfect header was amazingly turned over by Scutti. But Ashfield wouldn't have to wait long before getting their third goal, star performer Goff presented with the simplest of tap ins to complete his hat-trick. Olympic looked nervous as the clock ticked down and Ashfield pushed strongly for a late winner which did not arrive, the game ending in a fair 3-3 draw.

With six games remaining in the competition, the four play-off places are still wide with six teams in the running. Sitting in the box seat to make the finals are the Stirling Lions (25 points) and Perth City (23) who battled out a tough 0-0 draw on the weekend. Ashfield (21) are third but breathing down their neck is Dianella White Eagles (20) who accounted for Wanneroo City 2-1, Zoran Barovic and Dragan Radojevic the scorers for the home side. With a game in hand on those above them, Olympic (19) must be happy with their position, while sixth-placed Stirling Suns did their chances no harm when they defeated Bayswater City 3-1.

With just three games to go and three points separating fourth-placed South West Phoenix and fifth-placed Morley Windmills, it didn't take a Rhodes Scholar to figure out their First Division (South) meeting in Bunbury was crucial to the play-off hopes of both teams. The home side didn't take long before showing their hand, a flowing move involving four Phoenix players capped by leading scorer Sasa Garic who slipped past two opponents before despatching a trademark left-footer which left the 'keeper grasping at air as it rippled the back of the net. And the margin doubled in the 25th minute, when Garic released Greg Hayes down the left, the midfielder leaving three opponents in his wake before finding the target from 16-metres. Eight minutes later Garic and Hayes combined only for the latter to volleying over the bar.

Phoenix re-appeared after the interval without Garic (injured) and Andrew Cantoni, replaced by Stephen Waycott and Brett Norrie. For much of the half Phoenix sat back and allowed the visitors to come at them, but Windmills chances were few and far between as the home defence held firm and forced them into shooting from outside the 18-yard box. The home side virtually guaranteed their place in the finals 15 minutes from full-time when Chris Gaynor floated the ball to Steve Rodgers, he in turn relayed it Stephen Suttie who showed great skill in lobbing it over the advancing 'keeper from 22-metres to make it 3-0. Post-match, Phoenix coach Joe Kelly said it was very much a team effort while singling midfielder David Suttie and left-sided player Hayes out for praise.

The top four of the First Division (South) is pretty much decided with two games to go in the home and away season there. Leaders Rockingham City stunned home team Canning City 5-0, Luke Morris bagging a hat-trick with the others coming from Carlos DaCosta and Graham Matthews. Queens Park were held to a thrilling 3-3 draw by mid-table Armadale in the game of the round, while in another high-scoring encounter Leeming Strikers rocked Southside United 7-1. Phoenix' win over Windmills pretty much ensures their place in the play-offs.

30.6.2001

PREMIER LEAGUE, ROUND THIRTEEN (IN BRIEF)

After putting in a man-of-the-match effort, Swan I.C. captain Carlo Scali had reason to be disappointed after his side bowed 3-0 to Floreat Athena at Litis Stadium. The visitors deserved at least an equal share of the points after controlling this game for long periods, but their failure to convert their many chances saw Swan go home empty handed.

Perth and Sorrento played out an entertaining 2-2 draw in their top-of-the-table meeting. ECU Joondalup left it until late to consolidate their place in the top half of the table with a 2-1 win over Cockburn City. Fremantle City thumped four past Bassendean Caledonian without reply, and Inglewood United made it two wins in as many weeks when they defeated the Western Knights 1-0.

29.6.2001

PREMIER LEAGUE PREVIEW

The pick of the bunch this Saturday takes place at Dorrien Gardens where League leaders Sorrento are away to second-placed Perth. The Seagulls have won each of their past five encounters, including last week’s 4-3 victory over high-flyers Cockburn City. Perth last lost in early May, since which time they have scored nineteen goals and conceded five in six outings. If these two sides can produce a match half as entertaining as the 3-3 draw they played out earlier in the season then those that turn up are in for a real treat.

Both Cockburn City and ECU Joondalup will be wanting to consolidate their place in the top half of the table by taking full points when they meet at Dalmatinac Park. Finals contenders the Western Knights will also hope to take home three points from their away fixture with Inglewood United. Fremantle City travel to Jubilee Reserve where they face Bassendean Caledonian who could upset their more fancied but out of form opponents. And Floreat Athena shouldn’t be troubled by the so far winless Swan I.C. who recently recalled veteran striker Nigel Aubin.

28.6.2001

W.A. YOUNGSTERS MAKING AN IMPRESSION ABROAD

Paul Wright, a former junior with Forrestfield United and Fremantle City, has signed Youth Opportunity Scheme papers with English Premier League side Liverpool where he is about to commence his second season.

Louis Parkinson’s time in the UK has borne fruit with English Premier League side Birmingham City formally inviting the State representative back for the pre-season. It is also believed that at least one NSL side are also seeking the services of Parkinson.

Another Inglewood United youngster, Keith Taylor, returned to England last week to attend the pre-season at Sunderland in the top flight. The defender, who played for ECU Joondalup last year, was part of the W.A. squads which competed in the 2000 Lion City Cup tournament and the National Talent Identification Championships.

27.6.2001

2001 KANGA CUP

The Junior Soccer Association of WA are this year sending five State sides to take part in the Kanga Cup, an international youth tournament which is staged annually in Canberra. Played out between 8th and 15th July, W.A. will this year be represented by JSA. Country teams in the Under-17’s, Under-15’s and Under-13’s age groups, along with JSA Metro North and South teams in the Under-14 category. All games will be played at the AIS Multipurpose Fields, AIS Athletics Stadium and the University of Canberra Fields.

The travelling parties for the tournament are -
JSA Metro North, Under-14 : Alexander Bakreski, Stephen Bettella, Cody Bolton, Constandinos Dermedgoglou, Milos Dragic, Dennis Galan, Stuart Hartmann, Robert McDonnell, Adam Morrey, Michael Sfiligoy, Scott Stocks, Tyrone Sutton, Kevin Williams, Rhys Williams and David Wimbridge. The side is coached by Paul Wozny with Greg Hartmann as manager.

JSA Metro South, Under-14 : Alexander Darby, Luke Eoannidis, Joshua Harvey, Daniel Hatley, Simon Hemus, Steven Hesketh, Gerard Keeley, Fraser Marr, Thomas Orme, Byron Page, Oliver Poynter, Lee Radics, Christopher Smith, Alex Waller and Aleksander Zylinski. The team is coached by Stephen Duckworth and managed by Mike Anderton.

JSA Country, Under-13 : Cameron Bond, Todd Dwyer, Matthew Evans Thomson, Lewis Flatt, Joseph George, Matthew Gillespie, Benjamin Hart, David Horton, Kieran Kavanagh, James Monks, Rachan Phanthawee, Patrick Quinn, Andrew Reale, Simon Robinson, Corey Williams and Mohamad Zhody. Gerry McEwan has been appointed coach and will be assisted by managed by Anita Brady.

JSA Country, Under-15 : Darian Anderson, Jaison Bairstow, Joel Davey, Tiago Dugue, Zac Greeve, Matt Maguire, Daniel Morris, Matthew O'Byrne, James Robinson, Jonathon Romeo, Ljupco Taneski, Laze Taneski, Shae Watmore and Matt Waycott. Andy Ross is the coach and Anita Brady manager.

JSA Country, Under-17 : Sebastian Cook, Jarrad Dawson, Gyrall Ganicz, Daniel Howell, Clinton Meyer, John Robertson, Matthew Robinson, Shane Russell, Sebastian Swoboda, Peter Treeby, James Turbitt, Damien Whelan and Clint Yeates. On the officials side of things we have Andy Walsh (coach ) and Anita Brady (Manager)

The 2001 Kanga Cup is sanctioned by Soccer Canberra, Soccer Australia and FIFA. With over 150 teams participating in last years event, it is expected that a similar number will send sides this time around from as far away as the United State, England, Georgia, Fiji, New Zealand, Denmark, South Africa, Russia and, of course, from throughout Australia.

27.6.2001

STANGE LIKELY TO RETURN

If the rumour mill is to be believed, we have not seen the last of one-time Perth Glory coach Bernd Stange in Western Australia. Having been officially released by the club on Monday, it has since been reported that the German will return to Perth to coach in the National Soccer League in 18 months’ time if the Western Lightning consortium is successful in it’s bid for the second NSL licence. One of two Perth-based bidders for the license, the Soccer Administration of W.A. have earmarked Stange for the position of State director of coaching.

Speaking with “Australian and British Soccer Weekly” correspondent Richard Kreider, Stange signalled his intentions to return to Perth after his spell in charge of the Oman national team. “I signed just the one-year contract, which is nothing. After the twelve months is up, I’ll be returning to Perth, although I hope to be back earlier to catch up with friends.” He also was confident that the second license would be granted. “I think a second team will come definitely, but it has to be done for the right reasons. If they do it for personal reasons it won’t work. They must do it for soccer, have decent training facilities, money for marketing, do their homework on the players, and then it will work. Besides, I think Perth Glory needs a competitor in this State to generate added interest.”

26.6.2001

UNDER-16’s TAKE THIRD IN SINGAPORE

The Western Australian Under-16 team have finished third at the 18th annual Lion City Cup tournament which was held in Singapore last week. It was the first time since 1997 that the side didn’t make the final game of the event.

Once again playing under the moniker Perth FC, the local lads were just three minutes away from losing the opening game of this years event to Singapore at the Queenstown Stadium. The hosts played for much of the game with ten men following the dismissal of goalkeeper Muhamad Yunus Mohamed Ali in the 31st minute, red carded for bringing down striker Scott Royal in a one-on-one situation. The sending off had the effect of firing up the Young Lions and four minutes Khairul Amri lost his marker and sent a blistering 20-metre effort past the outstretched arms of Perth custodian Alan Matteucci to give them the lead.

Singapore lost their momentum after the interval when Khairul had to be substituted after pulling a muscle in his right leg. Perth stepped up the pressure and came close to equalising in the 66th minute through Chris Zarricueta and again four minutes later through Royal, but both failed to capitalise on their one-on-one opportunities. The visitors’ persistence paid off in the 77th minute, winger Bryan Hedges finding Zarricueta alone on the top of the box who expertly lobbed the ball over the head of Singaporean replacement ‘keeper Muhamad Azrul Salleh. In the days’ other Under-16 game, Malaysia’s Bukit Jalil Sports School thrashed Hong Kong 4-0 at Hougang Stadium.

The second day of fixtures kicked-off with hosts Singapore going down 3-0 to Bukit Jalil. Perth got over their opening round jitters by thrashing Hong Kong 5-1 at Bedok Stadium, all but assuring themselves a spot in the decider - or so it seemed. With Singapore defeating Hong Kong 4-0 in the early game, even a narrow loss to the so far undefeated Bukit Jaili would put Perth into the final, and things were looking good with the scores tied at nil-all with 15 minutes remaining. But that was when the Malaysian’s kicked into gear, stunning the side from ‘down under’ with four quick goals to send them tumbling to third on the ladder and into Sunday’s place-off for third and fourth.

The Under-16’s play-off for the minor placings was held in Geylang where Perth met a Hong Kong outfit determined to restore pride after being thumped in all three qualifying games. With the scores tied at 2-2 at the end of regulation time, Perth claimed third by winning the resulting penalty shoot-out 4-3. Bukit Jalil comfortably won the final 2-0 over Singapore.

26.6.2001

FORMER SOCCEROO IN CHARGE OF BALCATTA

First Division (North) club Balcatta have appointed former Socceroo Jimmy Pearson as senior coach for the remainder of the season. Scottish born Pearson played for Ayr United before enjoying a successful career in Victoria and New South Wales in the early 1960’s. He was a member of Australia’s first World Cup campaign in 1965 and went on to make 8 appearances for the national team including the 1965 tour of South-East Asia. Pearson has previously spent time at the helm of Inglewood Kiev, amongst others, in the State League.

26.6.2001

COYNE ATTACKS REFEREE AFTER DUNDEE’S EURO EXIT

Dundee centre-half Chris Coyne has blasted the referee that officiated in his team’s 5-2 InterToto Cup defeat against Sartid on the weekend. The Scots European departure at the hands of the Yugoslavian minnows comes amid claims that Bulgarian referee Marinov Svetlozar was bribed before the game. The referee controversially sent off Dundee midfielder Fabian Caballero, cautioned five of his teammates and awarded Sartid two soft penalties during their visit to Serbia.

Speaking to the “Daily Record”, the former Perth Italia player was outraged by the match official. “What happened was a disgrace,” Coyne said. “To be honest, it was diabolical. The decisions the referee made didn’t give us the slightest chance of playing football. As soon as we got the ball the ref would break the play down by giving a free-kick. That meant they would come at us again and again. In the end the scoreline flattered them.”

“I actually said to one of their players, ‘How many dinars did you pay him?’ and he just started laughing. It was so obvious and blatant. He knew exactly what I meant because his English was good and I was looking him straight in the eye when I said it,” Coyne added. “There is no doubt something was going on, there is no way he was impartial. It was not an even wicket to play on. We knew straight away we didn’t have a hope in hell of winning this. In the first few minutes I went up for a header and was elbowed in the face but he gave the foul the other way. I looked at him and wondered what was going on. After that he was just flashing cards everywhere.”

Dundee manager Ivano Bonetti was also critical of the referee and called for an inquiry into his handling of the game. “I have never seen refereeing like that in my life, not even when I was a child,” Bonetti said. “The standard of officiating was a joke … We will make a report which will go to UEFA. I saw things before the match and at half-time. Because of what I saw, I was not confident that we could win this game even before it started, and I told my colleagues Dario Magri and Jim Thomson how I felt at the time.”

26.6.2001

VEST TARGETED BY GLORY

Following the instalment of Mich D’Avray as coach of Perth Glory, chairman Nick Tana has announced his plans to appoint former State team coach Alan Vest as his assistant. It is believed that Tana will approach Vest’s current club, Singapore League side Marine Castle Untied, and request his early release in time for the 2001/02 NSL pre-season. Vest was Director of Coaching with the W.A. Soccer Federation between 1974 and 1976 during which time he doubled as State coach. He later coached Floreat Athena and Perth Italia in the W.A. State League and since 1991 has tasted success with Sarawak (Malaysia) and Geyland United (Singapore) before taking over at Marine Castle this season.

26.6.2001

PREMIER LEAGUE, ROUND TWELVE (Swan I.C. vs Perth report provided by Community Newspapers reporter Mike Hennessey; Sorrento vs Cockburn City report provided by Kerry Slater)

The Premier League clash between Inglewood United and Bassendean Caledonian was crucial to the fortunes both participants as three points would be enough to lift the victors clear of the relegation zone, virtually guaranteeing their top flight status for 2001. Rory Mouttet made his debut for United after signing mid-week from Swan I.C., and they last week received the added boost of striker Paul Lincoln completing his first full game of the year after long-term injury. In the other camp Caledonian were far from full-strength, midfielders Kevin Griffiths and Mark Cox suspended after being sent off last week, and experienced campaigner Martin Woodall was missing for the second consecutive week with a back complaint.

The home side made their intentions clear from the outset, pushing their opponents onto the back foot from virtually the opening kick of the game. In the 4th minute Lincoln clipped the ball into the box from wide on the right, Elton Holmes’ superb volleyed was parried by Tommi Tomich but only as far as Andy Cornwell whose explosive follow-up shot was cleared off the line by Willie Grubb. Four minutes later Cornwell out-stripped the defence to run onto Jamie Goodman’s searching pass, Tomich was quick off his line only to be caught in no man’s land when the winger lobbed the ball over him from 25-metres, the ball bouncing half a metre wide of the far post.

Having weather the early storm, and with coach Barry Smith less than impressed on the sidelines, Caledonian slowly made their way into the game and began to push forward themselves. Although wingers Jason Van Rooy and Anthony Jones worked hard to get the ball forward, it wasn’t until the 16th minute that the visitors managed to do anything which caused concern for the United backline. Mark Cox seized upon some sloppy passing and skilfully threw Shaun Kilkelly off the scent before sending a low ball low into the path of Lee Burns, only for home ‘keeper Oliver Taseski to intercept just as the midfielder was lining up his shot.

The biggest problem Caledonian had to overcome was not posed by their opponents but by their central players who were conspicuous by their absence, especially when the sides went forward. Almost every time Cox and strike partner Gary James gained possession they were immediately set upon by United’s well-organised defence, and with the midfielders nowhere to be seen, the ball was turned before the pair so much as sighted goal. In addition to that, the supply line through the middle was virtually non-existent, at times forcing Cox and James well of position in order see action.

In the middle of the park it was the United trio of Daniel Harrop, Alex Cummings and Scott Campbell that were having the greater influence over proceedings, while wide on the right Mouttet was increasingly causing problems for the defence. In the 22nd minute the new recruit opted to try his luck from long range which forced Tomich into a sprawling save, finger-tipping the ball round the post. Ten minutes later his penetrating cross was brought down by Lincoln and Cornwell’s 16-metre drive brought out another spectacular save from the Caledonian ‘keeper. Nine minutes from the interval Tomich came to his sides rescue once again, making a great reflex save from close range to deny Godfrey after a United corner was poorly dealt by the defence.

With the half time break fast approaching, Caledonians frustrations started to get the better of them. Moschopoulos was cautioned for clattering into the back of Lincoln, and less than a minute later Cox should consider himself lucky not be have been carded for unnecessarily taking the legs from under Godfrey. Perhaps looking forward to a 15 minute break, United allowed their opponents back into the game and were lucky to go into the interval at nil-all. In the 42nd minute the home defence were slow to respond to a deep throw-in which James brought down just outside the 6-yard box, only for the striker to lose his footing as he shot. Two minutes later Cox ran onto a Burns pass and hit a vicious first time shot on the run diagonally across Taseski who required to grabs at before bringing it under control.

The second half continued the theme of the first with a lot of unforced errors being made by players in both shirts, and scrappy play the order of the day. Five minutes into the period Caledonian got the ball into the net but the goal wouldn’t stand. Taseski punched a dangerous cross clear of Cox, who then landed in a heap on top of the goalkeeper, the ball fell to James just inside the penalty area and he quickly chipped it into the open goal but the referee ruled Cox to have impeded Taseski after their initial challenge. United immediately went on the counter-attack Campbell skipping past a stagnant defence but unable to find a way past Tomich.

The next ten minutes were all United, forcing the opponents into making some desperate clearances from well inside their defensive area. Encouraged to push forward, veteran Alex Cummings slipped the ball to Cornwell in the 54th minute who in turn found Lincoln, his low drive from 10-metres was blocked and Harrop’s follow-up went wide. Three minutes later the home teams’ persistence paid off. Cummings broke down the right and clipped the ball into the 6-yard box where Cornwell sent Tomich the wrong way with an angling header that crashed against the up-right before crossing the line

Sniffing there was a second goal in the making, Elton Holmes sent Lincoln racing clear of the defence but rather than shoot himself the striker laid it into the path of Harrop where Grubb intercepted. In the 63rd minute United had players lining up to shoot from the top of the 18-yard box - Lincoln, Holmes then Cornwell all seeing their shots either blocked or deflected as Caledonian stacked their defence. Three minutes later Taki Nicolaides was slow to release the ball out of defence and former teammate Lincoln robbed him of possession and squared to Cummings whose grubber failed to prove a problem for Tomich.

Earlier in the half Caledonian’s brought on teenager Derek Cooke in place of Cox who was having an ineffective afternoon. The impact of the change was near instant, the partnership between Cooke and James showing early signs of promise as the visitors sought an equaliser. Twelve minutes after coming on Cooke connected with Keith Shortall’s cross but Kilkelly managed just enough of a touch to send the volley wide. Six minutes later Shortall again provided Cooke with the ammunition, this time his shot from 14-metres was deflected for a corner off the shin of Godfrey. And with 15 minutes remaining Jones sent James down the right wing before making his way to the near post, only for James’ cross to go deep, over Jones and Cooke to Harrop who had all the time in the world to walk the ball out of the dangerzone.

For the second time in as many weeks Caledonian went to sleep in the final ten minutes and effectively handed the game to their opponents. In the 80th minute Lincoln turned his marker and found Cummings pushing forward down the right, he swung the ball into the area and Harrop slammed the ball past Tomich at the far post after it evaded a pack of players in the middle. With the ball rarely crossing the half-way line, Cummings picked out Ryan Fredericks who skewed his shot across the face of goal, and Lincoln hit the rolling ball high. It was very nearly 3-0 in the 89th minute when Fredericks volleyed Campbell’s corner on target only for Grubb to block it on the line. A minute into stoppage time Fredericks pumped the ball into the box, Harrop skilfully brought it under control and Lincoln lashed it into the roof of the net from close-range to ensure three points to the home side.

United controlled this game from the opening kick but in reality it was a far from convincing performance by either side this afternoon. In a man-of-the-match effort, United midfielder Cummings was superb, setting-up two goals and providing the inspiration for many of their second half attacks. Others that impressed for the home side were Harrop and new signing Mouttet. For much of this game Caledonian were unable to get out of first gear - they were second to the ball with regularity, had far too many passengers and were hampered by a midfield that went A.W.O.L. for long periods. Only James, who worked tirelessly in attack, and goalkeeper Tomich showed reason why they should be automatic selections for next week.

Inglewood United : Oliver Taseski, Jason Godfrey, Jamie Goodman, Shaun Kilkelly, Andy Cornwell, Rory Mouttet (Ryan Fredericks 72), Alex Cummings, Scott Campbell, Daniel Harrop, Paul Lincoln, Elton Holmes (Greg Sharland 66)
Bassendean Caledonian : Tommi Tomich, Taki Nicolaides, Aaron Moschopoulos, Willie Grubb, Anthony Jones, Jason Van Rooy, Keith Shortall, George Ramm, Lee Burns (Ian Griffiths 76), Gary James, Mark Cox (Derek Cooke 56)
Referee : Ronnie More(?)
Cautions : Holmes (14), Moschopoulos (40), Cornwell (71), Ramm (77), Godfrey (82)
Dismissals : None
Attendance : 175 (approx.)

Sorrento and Cockburn put on a thrilling, value for money performance at Percy Doyle Reserve where the Premier League’s top two teams battled it out for supremacy. The home side was the quicker out of the blocks and, with the crowd still settling in, Todd Harnwell powered a low shot pass Dino Pacella for the opener in the 2nd minute. City found their rhythm and on 12 minutes had their first opportunity, Joshua Pescud’s free-kick into the area created confusion and Neil Young was brave to gather as the competition’s leading marksman, Branimir Mikulic, moved in to pounce. Todd Harnwell won a free-kick deep on the left in the 19th minute which Michael Garcia swung to the far post Kevin Murphy, the younger brother of Australia’s Shaun, powered his header off the bar and Grant Holt was well placed to head in the rebound to double Sorrento’s lead. Two minutes later the home side coughed up the ball in midfield for City to mount a swift attacking move which ended with Mikulic finally squeezing the ball in at the second attempt after Young had blocked his initial shot. Holt almost scored a stunning goal in the 24th minute but his volley after a Danny Hill header flashed wide of the left post. Five minutes later City were level from the penalty spot, Murphy’s tackle brought down Mikulic and he duly got up to place his shot to Young’s left as the ‘keeper went the other way. The visitors lifted a notch and their quick passing in midfield had Sorrento chasing shadows at times. However, Sorrento put the ball to better effect when they had it at their feet with Garcia’s cross from the left met by Ross Greer whose glancing header flew past Pacella for his eight goal of the season. At half-time Sorrento were forced to replace Shaun Bowyer with teenager Jared Love after the former suffered severe cramps just before the break.

Seven minutes after the re-start and Sorrento once again found the net when Scott McLeod scored from a narrow angle, however, an off-side on Greer ruled out the fine effort. Ten minutes later Love had time on the right to pick his spot and, with Pacella expecting a cross, the ‘keeper came off his line only for Love to lift the ball over him and into the far corner. Again two goals to the good, the match seemed to be Sorrento’s. But City were not reading from the same script and they continued to press for a way back into this game. With 15 minutes remaining Garry Numan got in behind the Sorrento defence and cut back for Mikulic to blast home his third hat-trick of the Premier League season. Chances came at both ends with Sorrento’s best to Holt who showed his skills by turning two defenders but, alas, his shot was wide of the left post after 81 minutes. Sorrento’s leading scorer Ryan Jeans entered the contest and within minutes had Pacella at full-stretch to turn around the up-right the strikers sterling shot. Three minutes into stoppage time Numan broke through and it was only a perfectly timed tackle from man of the match Hill as he pulled the trigger that denied City a share of the points. The two coaches might not have been happy with their respective side’s performances, but those in attendance were treated to an entertaining match that either team could have won. In a match that produced seven goals - the same as when the side’s met earlier in the season - Sorrento did well to hold off a determined City side that fought for the entire 90 minutes, allowing them to hold on to top spot with six rounds remaining.

At Ken Allen Field, Fremantle City were in desperate need of maximum points to keep alive their play-offs dream when they hosted Floreat Athena. But it would be a day the home side would much rather forget as Robyn Dyers marked his return to first team action with two goals, while others by Peter Coci and Ryan Newhill, his ninth for the season, saw Athena comfortably over the line 4-0. ECU Joondalup would rue a stack of missed first half opportunities when they played host to Western Knights. Claus Neilson gave the visitors the lead, Sean Fallon put the two side’s back level terms only for John Nicolaou’s second half strike to see the home side go without at the end of 90 minutes.

In the Italian derby Perth retained the Spring In The Valley Cup and gained three valuable Premier League points when they downed Swan I.C. 2-0 at the Italian Club on Sunday. The game was decided in three minutes midway through the first half when Swan squandered two golden chances to open the scoring before Perth broke away to go into a 1-0 lead. The game opened brightly with end-to-end football to keep the good crowd entertained. Both goalkeepers, Rob Scarparolo for Perth and Corey Hugo for Swan, were kept busy. In the 17th minute Swan had their best chance, Brian Robertson gained possession in front of goal and took his time with a low drive but Scarparolo saved brilliantly. A minute later Eddie Mura was wide with another effort when well-placed. Perth were quick on the break and Andreas Oliviera gained possession on the right to slot the ball past the advancing Hugo to give his side a 1-0 lead. Swan had their chances to equalise before half-time. Nigel Aubin brilliant work on the right set up a great chance as he squared the ball across the goal but not for the first time the hardworking forward lacked the necessary support. The second half belonged largely to Swan - they did most of the attacking and ended with some twenty attempts on goal to Perth’s eight, but all too often the ball went sailing high over the bar for the home side. Perth were always threatening on the break. Jamie Coyne’s header brought a great save from Hugo. As the game neared its end a quickly taken throw-in sent Mark Pottier down the right, his pass set up Coyne who made no mistake as he placed his shot into the bottom far corner to give his side a 2-0 win.

23.6.2001

PREMIER LEAGUE, UNDER-18’S ROUND-UP

After eleven rounds of the Under-18’s competition, Perth and Cockburn City look to be sure bets to make the end of season play-offs as five other sides battle it out for the remaining spots. ECU Joondalup made it three wins in as many weeks with a two goals by Tom Jones and another from Craig Cheesman as the home side won 3-2 against fellow finals contenders the Western Knights. Sorrento would have been hoping for more than the one point they took home from their clash with second-placed Cockburn City. Cockburn found the net through Omar Lemzouri after just 8 minutes, but their lead last only 14 minutes before Joe Woodin bagged his first goal for Sorrento to see the points shared. Fremantle City and Floreat Athena are also in the hunt, their fixture postponed due to a number of players from the port side being overseas with the W.A. Under-16’s. Well out of the race are Inglewood United, they notched up win No.3 by thrashing the visitors from Bassendean Caledonian 4-0. In the Sunday game, the undefeated Perth side were held to a surprise 1-1 away draw by struggling Swan I.C.

23.6.2001

FIRST DIVISION ROUND-UP

Armadale’s away trip to Rockingham City was an important clash for the Reds in their quest for a berth in the end of season play-offs. And things got off on the right foot for the visitors, Dennis Lee making his way past several opponents before finding Jason Goodwin who had the simple task of taping it home in the 5th minute. And 19 minutes later the game got better for Armadale, Rockingham reduced to ten men when Rob Crerar was sent off for retaliation. With yellow cards being dished out left, right and centre, it was Armadale’s turn to have a player sent off in the 26th minute - goalkeeper Justin Peroni dismissed after bringing down an opponent when challenging for possession. Shortly after the home side drew level from a corner converted by Luke Wood. Then, in the 32nd minute, a superb cross from the left by Emlyn Whetnall found Gary Murdoch just inside the box, he beat one opponent only for his initial shot to be parried by Adrian Rawlings, but from the follow-up he made no mistake in restoring Armadale’s lead.

The bewildering sending off of Armadale’s sweeper six minutes into the second half changed the entire complexion of the game - the player being issued his second yellow card for time wasting at a throw in when an instruction to “hurry up” would have been more appropriate. With the visitors now down to nine players and in total disarray at the back, it came as no surprise when Luke Morris put Rockingham back on level terms in the 84th minute. A minute into stoppage time the referee effectively decided the game when he awarded a very dubious penalty to Rockingham, Graeme Matthews slotting home from the spot to give his side the three points. It wasn’t so much the final 3-2 scoreline, but more the way in which it was handed out that left the Armadale side wondering if today’s inconsistent refereeing had cost them a chance playing in this seasons play-offs.

In other First Division (South) games, Queens Park suffered their first loss of 2001 when they went down 0-1 at home to third-placed Leeming Strikers. Having looked to have made fourth spot theirs just seven days ago, South West Phoenix surprised all by going down 1-3 to bottom side Canning City for their first win of the season. And Morley Windmills kept alive their slim hopes of making the finals with a difficult 1-0 win over Southside United.

Starting the weekend on top of the First Division (North) ladder, Perth City dropped one place after losing 0-1 away to the Dianella White Eagles, who kept alive their play-offs hopes courtesy of Zelko Savic’s goal on the hour mark. At Macedonia Park, the Stirling Lions reclaimed top spot in the First Division (North) by downing Ashfield 2-0. Kingsway Olympic effectively ended Stirling Suns’ seasons with a 1-0 away victory, while Wanneroo City belted Balcatta 4-0. Bayswater City had the bye.

23.6.2001

PREMIER LEAGUE, ROUND TWELVE (IN BRIEF)

Inglewood United claimed three vital Premiership points when the defeated Bassendean Caledonian 3-0, lifting themselves clear of the Premier League relegation zone. After an uninspired first half, Andy Cornwell's 57th minute header brought the game to life, with late goals by Daniel Harrop and Paul Lincoln capping a dominant display by the home side.

At the top, Sorrento pulled two points clear of the chasing pack by downing second placed Cockburn City by the odd goal in a match that produced seven. ECU Joondalup failed to convert their earlier dominance at home to end on the wrong side of a 2-1 scoreline against the Western Knights, while Floreat Athena's 4-0 win over Fremantle City looks to have brought the port sides' season to a premature end. On Sunday Perth accounted for Swan I.C. 2-0.

22.6.2001

PREMIER LEAGUE PREVIEW

It's first verses second at Percy Doyle Reserve on Saturday when Sorrento take on Cockburn City. The home side have lead the way for much of the Premier League season with just one loss in ten games, while the visitors are the surprise packet of 2001 and proved last week that it's not just Branimir Mikulic that can find the target. At the other end of the ladder, Inglewood United's youngsters host Bassendean Caledonian at Kiev Sports Ground where both sides will be seeking maximum points to put some breathing space between themselves and the single relegation spot.

Andy Mason is on fire for ECU Joondalup, bagging five of their past eight goals and he'll be looking to add to that tally when the play the Western Knights, who have won once in five weeks and are quickly losing ground on the top half of the table. In the rounds other key contest, Fremantle City will be desperate for a win to keep alive their play-off dream when they play an in-form Floreat Athena side at Ken Allen Field. The Sunday game this week should see Perth comfortably win the Italian derby with Swan I.C.

22.6.2001

STANGE LOST TO W.A.

It looks as though the talents of coach Bernd Stange have been lost to Western Australia following his departure for the middle east yesterday. Stange, formerly coach of the East German national team and more recently Perth Glory, is believed to be finalising negotiations to take over the reigns of Oman as they press for a place at next years World Cup Finals. It had recently been rumoured that Stange would link up with the Soccer Association of W.A. in a non-coaching capacity.

22.6.2001

INGLEWOOD GAMES DEFERRED AGAIN

Inglewood United's three postponed fixtures against Fremantle City and Sorrento have been put off until late in the season. The round seven clash with City, originally scheduled for 19th May, was due to be played on Tuesday of this week but was pushed back until a date yet to be agreed upon by the two clubs.

The round nine League clash with Sorrento was expected to go ahead next Tuesday, but that too has been switched for reasons unknown. The senior game is now due to be played on Wednesday 18th July starting at 8.15pm, and following the friendly between the W.A. Under-19 side and Indonesia's Under-23's which gets underway at 6.30pm. The Reserves and Under-18 games are due to be played a week earlier at Kiev Sports Ground.

United's delayed Boral Cup quarter-final clash with Sorrento is currently scheduled for Sunday 5th August which, if you look at your fixture book, is just twenty-four hours after the two sides meet in the final Premier League game of the home-and-away season! Both of these games will be played at Percy Doyle Reserve. With all that cleared up, we have been informed that some of these dates are not yet set in concrete and could well change again.

21.6.2001

NSL LICENCE DECISION SOON?

There have been some very strong rumours circulating in Perth this week that the second local National Soccer League licence might be as close to being announcing as next week! With Premier League outfit Fremantle City and Soccer West Coast's Western Lightning in the running, we'll just have to wait and see what develops over the next seven or so days.

On a related topic, it has been suggested that former Swan I.C. coach Eric Williams could be in line to take on the assistant coaching position with Perth Glory next season. Current assistant Mich D'Avray expected to be named as Bernd Stange's successor on Monday and Williams is believed to be in the running as his 'right hand man'.

21.6.2001

NEW HARVEY FRESH CLINICS

The Junior Soccer Association of W.A. are conducting a - series of clinics during the July school holidays designed to promote the fun and enjoyment aspects of soccer. The Harvey Fresh Soccer Experience programs will include activities designed to promote maximum participation in an atmosphere of maximum fun. These activities will focus on an understanding of game-play, strategy, positioning and field movement.

The clinics are for players of all skill levels aged between 6 and 13 with the main focus being fun through skills and techniques activities. Conducted by JSA accredited coaches at six locations across the metropolitan area, there will be appearances from 'Beat The Keeper' and lots of great prizes and giveaways. For further information contact Glenn Morley on 9271 7677.

21.6.2001

YOUNG PANTHERS PLANNING FOR TOP FLIGHT RETURN

It might not happen over night, but it will happen. That is the message coming loud and clear from Bayswater City coach Salv Todaro who hopes to lead the club back into the Premier League in the next few years. After the disaster that was last season, 2001 has not been that much kinder to the club focused on re-building from the ground up. "The committee has been working tirelessly and putting in long hours in order to get the club re-established, and they should be congratulated on their hard work," Todaro said this week. "The long term aims of the club are to develop a team that is capable of getting back into the Premier League and being competitive; to create an environment for developing players; to become financially secure; and to have a thriving social club."

This season has not been one that they will look back on with great fondness, the Panthers wuinless after eleven games and stumping up the First Division (North) ladder. But Todaro is not overly concerned by these facts. "We lost nine players from last season including several with a lot of experience behind them. We started this season with the average age of the first team being twenty years, six months old and with only two players having played more than ten first team games … and four players were making their first senior appearance. We have recently picked up the experienced Ian Ballantyne and he has been a steadying influence."

"On the whole I have been pleased with the attitude and endeavors of the players and they are learning the hard way," Todaro said. "We have played some good soccer and at times we have been our own worst enemy letting in some soft goals, but other times we have been crucified by some inept refereeing, so this is making the season a little frustrating for everyone. However, it is also exciting knowing that the experience that the young players are getting is priceless. The team is improving every week and the position that we currently find ourselves in is not a true indication of what we are capable of. As a club we will continue to focus on our goals and continue to improve our standard of play and we will be out to score a few wins before the season is over."

Todaro took over as coach of Bayswater mid-2000 at a stage when the club's fate had already been decided. With the Panthers facing certain relegation from the Premier League, Todaro set about sorting out the problems of the playing staff. "The first thing that we did was to set some short term goals for ourselves, this included playing and non-playing issues. I wanted to bring back some fun and enjoyment at training and the games, have a game plan to work to and get the players settled down into the system without chopping and changing the team each week. We also worked on team spirit which had been lacking, and finally I decided to give the young players that were in the Under-21's an opportunity to see what they could do and start to plan for the following year (2001). We finished the season with two wins and draw in the last four games which was quite pleasing and gave us hope for this year."

20.6.2001

MORE INJURY CONCERNS FOR ATHENA

Despite turning their season around after a disappointing first month, Floreat Athena have continued to be hampered by a string of injuries and absences. The club have been without influential midfielder Doug Ithier for the past nine weeks, and it's believed he is still several weeks away from making his return. The news isn't so good for the in-form George Tiniakos who has been ruled out for the remainder of the season after rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament against ECU Joondalup, a knee reconstruction might be on the cards for the midfielder. Coming back into the team this week is lively forward Robyn Dyers who returns from two weeks overseas, while recent signings Jamie D'Arcy (from Inglewood United) and Dave Evans (Fremantle City) have strengthened Athena's playing stocks.

20.6.2001

GOING GETS TOUGH AT FREMANTLE

Nothing seems to be going right for Fremantle City of late, just as coach Stuart Kamasz predicted when his sides' round seven clash with Inglewood United was controversially re-scheduled. Kamasz said at the time that delaying the fixture would upset the port side's rhythm, and never has a truer word been spoken - undefeated in the month leading up to the original date, City's form has since plummetted, taking just one point from the twelve on offer.

"We've had no luck recently, we've been in a position to win our recent games but things just haven't gone our way," Kamasz said this week. "In our last few games we've had the opportunity to take the lead inside the first minute but we've not been able to put the ball in the net. Against Cockburn we could have scored in the first thirty seconds but missed an open goal, and the following week at Swan we dominated the game but they bottled up the defence and we couldn't find a way through. John Mirco had two chances to net in the first minute against Sorrento but both were saved, and we controlled play for the rest of the half without success. And on Saturday against Perth we had our chances only to go behind after an error at the back."

But an inability to capitalise on their chances has not been the only problem Kamasz has had to contend with, a string of injuries wreaking havoc with the playing squad. "A knee ligament injury to Anthony Perreira will keep him out of action for at least the next four weeks and Paul McVittie has been struggling to overcome a niggling calf problem for much of the season. Daniel Trim broke his cheek against Cockburn City and has only had the stitches removed this week, he'll probably be sidelined for several weeks yet. When you look at it that's basically our entire midfield gone, so our injury problems have left us a bit thin across the middle."

In an effort to spur the side into action Kamasz has tried several combinations in attack in recent times. On Saturday it was 16-year old Cisco Jorqueira and State representative Trim Morgan up-front, and while they didn't find the target against Perth their coach was encouraged by the partnership which he hinted might be used in this weeks crucial home clash with fifth-placed Floreat Athena. "At the moment we've got to focus on doing the job and that starts this week against Athena, which is going to be a tough game. We can't afford to lose to them, if we can win then we jump back into contention for the play-offs. At this stage I really don't think we can win the League - Sorrento are nine points ahead of us, and while we have a game in hand there aren't a lot of games remaining. But if we can get a few wins under our belt, and hold onto a top five position, then come the play-offs you never know what can happen."

19.6.2001

HEADING OVERSEAS

Perth defender Aaron Cole is believed to be heading to England within the next few weeks for trials with a number of clubs. The 1999 W.A. Premier League Player of the Year was part of Perth Glory's apprenticeship program until he pulled the plug early in the New Year after it became clear that a long-term contract was not in the offering. Cole is been rated as one of the best young talents in the state.

16-year-old Kristofer Haxton will be bound for Scotland at the end of this month for a second set of trials with Premier League club Heart of Midlothian. Currently in Singapore with the W.A. Lion City Cup squad, Haxton tried out with Hearts in March and April and impressed it the extent that he was asked back for pre-season training. The Swan I.C. defender said he didn't notice a great difference between the standard of the game in Scotland and locally, "I don't think there was much in it at the skill level," he said. "But it is a lot quicker. I reckon they have to run faster to keep warm."

Not heading for trials, but recently returned from overseas is Inglewood United striker Louis Parkinson. He has recently spent several weeks in the U.K. trialing with a number of clubs including Premier League Charlton Athletic, home of Perth youngster Jordan Rhodes.

19.6.2001

PHOENIX SURPRISE EVEN COACH!

South West Phoenix have surprised many in their debut State League season, last week defeating Armadale 3-1 on the road to put themselves in the box seat for a play-off berth going into the closing stages of the First Division (South) regular season. And coach Joe Kelly is just as surprised by his teams performance as anyone. "To be honest I didn't know what to expect," Kelly said this week.

"My recognised first grade team at the moment has only four regulars from the Ashfield/Bunbury team of last year, and many of them spent the second half of the season playing in the reserves" Kelly said. "Whilst we may not match the other teams in skill content at times, we more than make up for this in team spirit, commitment and playing to our strengths. When you have moulded a team together like this you are always in with a chance and I believe our best is still yet to come."

With Phoenix sitting comfortably in fourth place, six points clear of nearest rival Morley Windmills, Kelly has been impressed with the way his players have 'earned their stripes' this season. "We have been gaining respect from the other clubs who know they'll have a fight on their hands for 91 minutes if they want to take any points off us. We don't lie down for anyone, we work hard for each other on, and off, the park."

And while it has been very much a team effort, a couple of players have stood heads and shoulders above the rest. "Sasa Garic is class personified, he must have been some player four or five years ago as he is now 32 and still brilliant. I would say he has at least another 10 years in this grade," Kelly said. "Chris Gaynor is another, he has made two mistakes all season - unfortunately they both cost us goals - but he's got a tough, no-nonsense approach and the skill to match his tenacity." It seems the future of the Bunbury-based club is assured with goalkeeper Francis Allan (17-years old) - "the best young keeper I have seen" - skillful midfielder Elliot Gibson (18), centre forward Stephen Suttie (19) and classy ball player Stephen Waycott (17) all coming up through the ranks.

Looking into the crystal ball, the Phoenix coach believes it's a two-horse race for the First Division (South) trophy, but when it comes to the play-offs it'll be a much different story. "I think Queens Park will just edge out Rockingham City especially considering they've added well to their squad since their Boral Cup exit at our hands. They now have great depth in their squad but there isn't much between both teams in my mind. Phoenix won't win the League but be very wary of dismissing us with no chance in the final four play-offs."

19.6.2001

SCHOOL ACADEMY FOR KELMSCOTT

Kelmscott Senior High School will be holding trials during third term for boys and girls interested in joining in their soccer academy. The program, which has been coordinated by Chris Burgoyne, will cater for around twenty Year 8 students enrolled at the school on a full-time basis with the opportunity to continue on through upper school should they be able to maintain a minimum of C-grades in their academic studies.

Burgoyne plans to introduce a flexible coaching program that will see regular and guest coaches training the side both during and after school hours. The school also has ties with local clubs Armadale, Kelmscott, Gosnells, and Sutherland Park which Burgoyne said will assist the participants. "This provides such strong links that the development of young players involved with the soccer program can be assured."

At lower school level the main focus will be on skills development, ball control and theory. In their senior years the students will be required to make a firmer commitment to theoretical enhancement and emphasise soccer skills development through practical sessions. There will also be the opportunity to study for coaching and refereeing qualifications.

18.6.2001

COYNE STARTS NEW SEASON IN STYLE

Just 18 days after ending the 2000/01 season, West Australian Chris Coyne has kicked-off a new season with Dundee by being named best afield as his club made their first European appearance in 27 years on the weekend. The First Leg Intertoto Cup clash with Yugoslav side FK Sartid ended in a nil-all draw, and it was the the 22-year old defender who came closest to breaking the deadlock just after the hour mark, his header flying agonisingly wide of the mark.

It was Coyne's second excursion into European competition, his first coming while he was on the books of Londoners West Ham United. "I was in the West Ham squad which enjoyed success in the Intertoto Cup in 1999. It was a great experience, especially as it meant we had won a place in the UEFA Cup. I picked up a knee injury against Jokerit of Finland in an earlier round, but the lads still went on to win the trophy and it was a great achievement. I want a similar experience with Dundee, although the road to success will be longer as West Ham only entered the tournament at the Third Round."

Coyne has only recently returned to Scotland after making a 12,000-mile return journey to Perth. "If you take away the two days travelling, I only got 13 days in Australia," the defender said prior to the Sartid clash. "I hadn't seen my family for nearly a year and it would have been nice to stay longer, but it's definitely worthwhile coming back to Scotland early. Normally, pre-season entails facing six or seven friendlies and building things up from there. This time, however, there's a sharper edge to the proceedings and I think that can work out well for us."

16.6.2001

PREMIER LEAGUE, ROUND ELEVEN (Perth vs Fremantle City report provided by Community Newspapers reporter Mike Hennessey; Sorrento vs Swan I.C. report provided by Kerry Slater)

Bassendean Caledonian went into Saturday's home clash with ECU Joondalup full of optimism, but shortly before kick-off their chances received a jolt when key player Martin Woodall pulled up injured during the pre-match warm-up, forcing coach Barry Smith to hastily reshuffle his line-up at short notice. The visitors utilised much the same line-up that defeated Floreat Athena seven days earlier, their only changes being State defender Scott Broadley, controversially dropped to the bench, and teenager Andre Sarpe who was rested.

The game got underway at a frantic pace with both sides making good use of the ball to mount some promising but ultimately unrewarding attacks. Joondalup had the better of the early chances, getting into their final third with great frequency but unable to find ways past an alert defence. With Tommi Tomich caught unsighted on the line, Gerry McEwan came close to scoring in the 3rd minute when he curled a free-kick from the top of the 18-yard box just beyond the up-right. Five minutes later it was left winger Steve White who created the danger with weaving run only to slam the ball into the side netting from 11-metres.

The home side eventually settled and began to penetrate deep into their attacking half where their best moves were snuffed out by central defenders McEwan and Richard Watson. Caledonian's only real opportunity came after 20 minutes, Mark Cox rising unchallenged to Mark Lennon's corner but his header kissed the wrong side of the crossbar. Relying almost exclusively on breaking on the counter-attack, Caledonian focused on hitting the ball long for strikers Cox and Gary James to race after but the pair were caught time and time again by a very well-organised off-side trap.

Joondalup continued to go forward in waves and it looked only a matter of time before they took the lead. In the 17th minute White found himself in space after going past Kevin Griffiths, crossing to the far post where Mark Benbow was unable to direct his header under the bar. Four minutes later Sean Fallon tried his luck from distance, his dipping shot landing squarely on the chest of Tomich. And shortly after Andy Mason seized upon a defensive error to curl the ball just wide of Tomich's right post from 15-metres. The breakthrough finally came after 34 minutes - White's low centring ball saw a mad scramble for possession inside the area which Carl McDarby knocked past Tomich, Keith Shortall blocked it on and Mason drove the rebound through the congestion and into the back of the net.

That sparked the Caledonian side into life and they went on the attack almost immediately. Cox came close to putting his side back on a level footing in the 38th minute with a low drive from 16-metres that Peter Stewart couldn't hold, but unfortunately no one on hand for the home side to knock in the loose ball. As though things weren't already difficult enough for Caledonian, they were about to get much tougher. Three minutes before the interval Lennon received his marching orders for a needless studs-up tackle on Jamie Kuzmanovich which earned him his second yellow card in the space of sixty seconds. It was the last thing the home side needed and right on the stroke of half time came a warning of things to come as Tomich made a brilliant reflex save to tip Mason's bullet-like close-range header over.

Two minutes after the interval Joondalup should have doubled their lead. From the middle of the park White flicked the ball to Dale McCulloch who ran it into attack and expertly drew the defence before sending Mason clear, only for the striker to disappointingly lift it onto the chest of Tomich from 10-metres. The home side spent much of the second half fending off wave after wave of attack which saw their defence working overtime as a cohesive unit to limit their opponents to shots from distance for extended periods.

Benbow's 59th minute cross into the area flicked the head of Mason and, racing in at the far post, McCulloch a squandered golden opportunity by sliding the ball past the up-right from close-range. Two minutes later McCulloch was involved again, making a darting run into attack which was halted by a defender, the ball rolling to Stuart Montgomery who unleashed a thunderbolt from 16-metres for which Tomich produced a top-class save. After the turn-around, all the pressure was always going to be on the Caledonian backline who were standing firm in the face of Joondalup's relentless onslaught.

Much of the visitors forward thrust was coming from wide players Benbow and White, and in the 64th minute the latter teed up goal number two. White capped a fine run by centring the ball low into the 6-yard box where, back to goal, Abdul Kamara's clever back-heel bounced up off the foot of Tomich and Mason was there to head it into the net from close in. Six minutes later it was very nearly 3-0 after McCulloch held the ball up in attack before slipping it past the defence and into the path of White who made no mistake, only for his effort to be disallowed for off-side.

The introduction of Sandy Robertson with just under 20 minutes remaining added some style and flair to Joondalup's attacks. Two minutes after being introduced the midfielder sent an inch-perfect, 40-metre plus ball into the path of Fallon who was denied from 12-metres by Tomich's reflexes. Two minutes later Montgomery beat the off-side trap to send White inside the area, the winger placing his shot wide of the up-right. And in the 77th minute Montgomery didn't break stride when he ran onto another long Robertson pass to thunder the ball on target, Tomich taking the pace off the shot but unable to hold the ball and young Anthony Jones came in behind to prevent it from crossing the line.

The closing stages are best forgotten from the Caledonian point of view. Ten minutes from time Willie Grubb was fortunate not to be red carded for a very late tackle from behind on Robertson. In the 87th minute a dreadful error by Grubb saw him concede possession deep in his sides defensive half and Mason wasted no time in flashing it in the net of a badly exposed Tomich. Two minutes later the visitors found the target once again, albeit amidst some very convincing appeals for off-side, with Montgomery looping his shot over Tomich and into the far side of the goal from an acute angle. Caledonian winger Kevin Griffiths was stupidly dismissed for retaliation in the 90th minute, and sixty seconds later only Tomich stood between Montgomery and a five-nil final scoreline.

Post-match, visiting coach Paul Simmons was happy with the result and the fact his side limited Caledonian to just one shot all afternoon. "We were very disciplined and committed to our method of play and despite Bassendean attempting to out-muscle us we were just to strong, to quick and to good for them," Simmons said. In reality, this game was over as a contest the moment Lennon was dismissed - it was just too difficult a task for Caledonian to come back into the game a man and a goal down, and Joondalup's second half dominance saw Stewart rarely called upon. For the visitors it was Mason that was the hero, bagging a hat-trick to take his tally to five goals in eight days, while defender McEwan and wingers White and Benbow also played their part in the win. Grubb was without a doubt Caledonian's best player with a non-stop performance that a player half his age would have been proud of. George Ramm man-marked McDarby out of the game to the point that he was eventually substituted, and between the posts Tomich pulled off some crucial, and at times spectacular, saves.

Bassendean Caledonian : Tommi Tomich, Anthony Jones, Aaron Moschopoulos, George Ramm, Keith Shortall, Kevin Griffiths, Willie Grubb, Lee Burns (Ian Griffiths 85), Mark Lennon, Mark Cox (Derek Cooke 71), Gary James
ECU Joondalup : Peter Stewart, Gery McEwan, Richard Watson, Jamie Kuzmanovich (Scott Braodley 46), Mark Benbow, Steve White, Abdul Kamara (Sandy Robertson 71), Dale McCulloch, Sean Fallon, Andy Mason, Carl McDarby (Stuart Montgomery 59)
Referee : Derek Minett
Cautions : Cox (1), Kamara (35), Lennon (41), Shortall (52), McDarby (59), Grubb (80), McEwan (91)
Dismissals : Lennon (42), Griffiths (90)
Attendance : 250 (approx.)

Sorrento had super-sub Ross Greer to thank for extending their winning streak to four games when they faced bottom club Swan I.C. at Percy Doyle Reserve. There was blunted action until the 14th minute when Sorrento carved out first opportunity, Michael Garcia's corner from the right found Danny Hill but he headed high. Four minutes later a Garcia free-kick from the left was met by a glancing Grant Holt header which found the back of the net, Holt scoring his first goal for the senior side and on his full home debut! Another corner by Garcia after 27 minutes was met by Hill at full-pace, but this time Corey Hugo was good enough to batter the ball away and Todd Harnwell was wide with his shot from the rebound. Hill finally had the ball in the net after 31 minutes, but referee Steve Muldoon ruled the effort off-side. Seven minutes later Hill again met a Garcia corner only to have it cleared off the line by Christian Marocchi.

The start of the second half saw a marked change in the Swan side who now seemed the hungrier for the ball, but they were unable to deliver the telling blow. That was until the 75th minute when poor control released the ball to Swan substitute Adrian Robertson who still had work to do before he clipped it in off the crossbar for the equaliser. Greer had just entered the game before the goal, but soon started controlling play in the Sorrento's attacking area. Hill's afternoon was complete other than not being able to add his name to the scoresheet and in the 82nd minute his header to a Harnwell free-kick came back off the left up-right. Three minutes later Sorrento re-took the lead - Kevin Murphy found Holt on the right, he rounded Hugo and squared the ball to Greer who partially mis-hit his shot and Paul Borg missed his attempt at a goal line clearance. In the 86th minute Sorrento went two goals in front when Garcia swung another corner to the edge of the area where Hill headed the ball goalward, Greer pivoting to slide it home in a crowded goal mouth. Four minutes into stoppage time Garcia's shot from an angle flashed just wide of Hugo's left post.

Perth maintained their position in the top three of the Premier League by beating arch rivals Fremantle City 3-1 at Dorrien Gardens. The first half saw both sides far too ready to give the ball away in a tightly, congested game. Perth opened the scoring in the 17th minute when David Onoforo crossed the ball and a defensive slip by Evan Wallace allowed Nick Mrdja to slide the ball past goalkeeper Rob Zabica. The second half produced similar fare to the first but City did equalise in the 57th minute. A questionable corner was not cleared and Craig Surtees was able to fire home the equaliser. Perth were unlucky not to have regained the lead when clever play by Mrdja gave Mark Pottier an open goal - his first attempt was well blocked by Zabica and his follow-up shot hit the far post and rebounded clear. City then missed a similar opportunity when Joe Liguan put Surtees through but he could not repeat his earlier effort and the scores seemed locked at 1-1. Coach Graham Normanton then brought on Andreas Oliveira and this soon produced the desired result. Jamie Coyne found Oliveira unmarked in front of goal and he calmly beat Zabica to give Perth a 2-1 lead. Minutes later he again went through the centre, his shot hit the post but the teenager was able to slot the rebound into the bottom corner to give Perth a comfortable 3-1 lead and the three points.

In a scrappy match, Inglewood United started the stronger against visitors Floreat Athena but squandered a handful of first half chances to take the lead. Athena introduced Costa Socratous at the break and his influence was near-immediate, breaking down the right and creating all manner of problems for the opposition defence. It was from a Socratous that the only goal of the game came - his low cross resulted in a goal mouth scramble which former United striker Ryan Newhill put in from a couple of metres. The visitors missed several opportunities to kill off the game with Alex Cummings outstanding in the centre of a solid home defence. Having made some telling saves in the opening half, John Xigas came to Athena's rescue in the final minute when he showed great reflexes to turn over a close-range effort on the line.

In the rounds other game, goals from midfielders Paul Cooke and Antonio Naglieri saw Cockburn City defeat the Western Knights 1-2 at Dalmatinac Park, John Nicolaou scoring for the visitors.

16.6.2001

PREMIER LEAGUE, RESERVES ROUND-UP

In the Premier League reserves', Perth stretched their run without a loss to eleven games by thrashing Fremantle City 7-1 at Dorrien Gardens on Saturday. Eight points off the pace and in second place are Sorrento who accounted for Swan I.C. 3-0, Jake Harman scoring his 22nd goal of the season with Toby Wright and Gary Andrews bagging the others. Western Knights downed Cockburn City 3-0 away from home, Bassendean Caledonian ran riot after the interval to hit four past E.C.U. Joondalup without reply, and Inglewood United drew 2-2 with Floreat Athena.

Perth (27 points) and Sorrento (19) sit well clear at the top of the reserves ladder with the Knights and Fremantle (14 each) sharing third place. From there down it's pretty tight with just three points separating the remaining six teams - Athena (12), Caledonian (12), Inglewood (11), Joondalup (11), Cockburn (10) and Swan (9).

16.6.2001

PREMIER LEAGUE, UNDER-18'S ROUND-UP

Perth have lead the Under-18's ladder since day one, taking 28 points from a possible 30 so far this season. With their weekend fixture against Fremantle City postponed due to a number of players from both teams being in Singapore with the W.A. Under-16 team, it offered the opportunity for some of the other clubs to step into the limelight. Joondalup seized that chance with both hands by hammering Caledonian 5-1 away from home. Sorrento downed Swan 2-0 thanks to goals from Michael McGrath and Mark Findlay, and Athena came home with the points by defeating Inglewood 3-2. Despite being held 2-2 by the Knights on the weekend, second-placed Cockburn (22) have managed to open up a big gap between themselves and the rest of their field. But there's little separating Joondalup (16), Sorrento (15), Athena (14), Fremantle (13) and the Knights (13) as they all shape up to battle it out for the remaining three play-off spots over coming weeks. At this stage there's not a lot left to play for other than pride for the likes of Swan (9), Inglewood (7) and Caledonian, who have managed just three points from eleven outings.

16.6.2001

FIRST DIVISION ROUND-UP

The Dianella White Eagles were at home to Ashfield in what would be a very physical First Division (North) encounter. White Eagles controlled the game from the outset but had to wait until the 30th minute when Zelko Savic was brought down inside the area and Barovic converted from the spot. Five minutes before the break Savic was again involved, awarded a penalty after tangling with Gene Wyllie - who was red carded - but this time Barovic's spot-kick crashed into the crossbar and came back into play. The second half saw the home side dominant, creating chance after chance before new-signing Scott Halpin was brought down by the Ashfield goalkeeper. This time Peter Vukmirovic took the responsibility and made it 2-0. Despite being reduced to nine players, Nathan Salisbury also receiving his marching orders for the visitors, Ashfield continued to go on the offensive and pegged back a goal with nine minutes remaining through Steve Goff to make the final score 2-1. The result means the White Eagles keep alive their play-off dream as Ashfield's form slump continues.

The Stirling Suns also kept alive their chances of making the end-of-season play-offs by defeating rivals Stirling Lions 4-3, who slip to second as a result. The new leaders are surprise packet Perth City who downed Balcatta 3-2 at home, and comes hot on the heels of their 3-2 win over White Eagles on Foundation Day. Bayswater City's woes continued, thumped 4-1 by Kingsway Olympic who remain fourth.

South West Phoenix traveled to Alfred Skeet Oval on Saturday eager to avenge their 3-1 home loss at the hands of Armadale earlier in the First Division (South) season. It was a vital clash for both teams - Armadale needing full points to peg back the gap between themselves and fourth-place Phoenix, while a win to the visitors would see them put some daylight between themselves and the bottom half of the ladder. Phoenix made their intentions clear after just 5 minutes, Stephen Waycott's shot was deflected to Jack Grabowski who hammered it from the top of the box, Armadale's Maikol Taseski parried the shot and the ever-alert David Suttie was on hand to slip it home from 5-metres. Stephen Suttie should have made it 2-0 shortly after when Steve Rodgers freed him down the right, but his stunning shot grazed the outside of the up-right.

This woke Armadale up and they went on the attack for much of the next ten minutes, Phoenix forced to defend very deep much to their coach's discomfort. The home side earned themselves five corners in succession but were unable to convert any of the opportunities due to some solid defending. Then, in the 20th minute, the Phoenix defence was caught ball-watching as Darren Ingham's cross from the right was converted from close range by Dennis Lee to make it one-all. The visitors regained the lead in the 27th minute, the referee awarding a penalty after Steve Rodgers was hauled down by David Twigg and Sasa Garic coolly fired home from the spot. Phoenix continued to plug away and came close on a couple of occasions - Rodgers' header coming back into play off the underside of the bar, and not long after the same player scraped the top of the crossbar with a delicate shot.

The visitors started the second half in spectacular style. Garic out-jumped the defence on the edge of the area to nod the ball backwards to Grabowski who, spotting the 'keeper off his line, lobbed it into the top right hand corner from 22-metres. Two a comfortable two goal lead, Phoenix eased off and allowed the reds back into the game, but try as hard as they could Armadale were continually thwarted by the visiting defence. Their best chance came in the 67th minute when new-signing Emlin Whetnall found himself on the end of a cross but placed his shot wide of the target. A lack of penetration led to some frustrations in the Armadale camp and 20 minutes from full-time they went down to ten men. Now on cruise control, Phoenix confidently played out the remaining time to go home with the three very valuable points.

Queens Park stay on top, and three points ahead of nearest rivals Rockingham City, courtesy of a hard-fought 2-1 away win over Southside United. It was second verses third when the Leeming Strikers hosted Rockingham, the side from down south winning the seven-goal thriller by the odd goal. Phoenix consolidated fourth place, while Morley Windmills' season could have come to a premature end after they were held to a scoreless draw by struggling Canning City.

16.6.2001

PREMIER LEAGUE, ROUND ELEVEN (IN BRIEF)

Nothing changes at the top of the W.A. Premier League ladder with the top three sides all taking maximum points from their weekend fixtures. Sorrento remain first after cruising to a 3-1 win over Swan I.C, Cockburn City stay one point behind as a result of downing Western Knights, and Perth triumph over visiting Fremantle City keeps them third.

A hat-trick by Andy Mason did most of the damage at Jubilee Reserve where ECU Joondalup thumped four past Bassendean Caledonian without reply. Floreat Athena make up the top five courtesy of Ryan Newhill's lone strike of the game against Inglewood United.

15.6.2001

PREMIER LEAGUE PREVIEW

The most enticing game this weekend takes place at Jubilee Reserve where Bassendean Caledonian is at home to ECU Joondalup. Coach Barry Smith has introduced several new faces over the past month that has seen them push some of the competitions high-flyers all the way, and they'll be further buoyed by the fact they've already beaten their opponents once this season - 3-0 at Joondalup. Currently in fourth place, their visitors have had an inconsistent season but with good results against Perth and Floreat Athena in recent weeks Joondalup are beginning to show their best form.

Fourteen goals in the past month has put Perth back in the top half of the ladder, but they'll need to be on top of their game when they face a Fremantle City outfit looking to get over a month of poor results. Having won five of their past six outings, home side Cockburn City are expected to easily account for the Western Knights who ended a dreadful run of results last week when the defeated Bassendean Caledonian 3-2. At the Kiev Sports Ground, Inglewood United will find the going tough against Floreat Athena, while Sorrento should take full points when they host Swan I.C.

15.6.2001

SINGAPORE HERE WE COME!

The West Australian Under-16 team head to Singapore this weekend to take their place in the Lion City Cup tournament. W.A. have a proud history of achievement at the event, last taking home the trophy in 1994 while making the final on every occasion since 1997. The State side kicks-off their campaign next Monday against hosts Singapore, followed by games with Hong Kong (Wednesday) and Bukit Jalil SS. (Friday). The finals will be staged on Sunday afternoon at Tampines Stadium, home of S-League outfit Tampines Rovers.

The 16-man playing squad is Alan Matteucci (Balcatta), Jeff Bright (Cockburn City), Dean Apelgren, Matthew Danskin, John Migas, Chris Zarricueta (Fremantle City), Jordan Conti (Inglewood United), Bryan Hedges, Nicholas Ward (ECU Joondalup), Damir Kudozovic, Josip Magdic, Scott Royal, Jan Zablocki (Perth), Blake Greathead (Rockingham City), Kris Haxton and Adrian McBride (Swan I.C.). Travelling with the side are Ron Tindall (coach), Steve Coppack (tour manager), Bill Oddy (tour official) and Philippa Byrne (physiotherapist).

15.6.2001

W.A. IN NATIONAL REVOLT

Soccer Australia will face new elections within the month following the withdrawal of support for the national body's commission by four key state federations, including Western Australia. In the past the four states involved - the Australian Capital Territory, Queensland, Tasmania and W.A. - had all been strong allies of Soccer Australia chairman Tony Labbozzetta. But following recent decision made by the commission, which includes the axing of Brisbane Strikers and Canberra Cosmos from the National Soccer League, that support has waned. The federations will apply dissolve the board of Soccer Australia immediately and instigate fresh elections next month, the first step being an extraordinary general meeting which has been called for 30th June.

In the wake of these developments Senator Chris Schacht has urged the Federal Government to hold an independent inquiry into the future of soccer in Australia. "Today's call by some State soccer associations for a spill of the board of Australian soccer further demonstrates that something is seriously amiss in the administration of Australia soccer," Schacht said via a press release today. "The administration of soccer is an important issue because this coming year it will be receiving 1.8 million dollars of Federal funding to develop the sport in Australia. It must be very frustrating for soccer fans in Australia that when our national team has just achieved great success at the Confederation Cup and is about to enter the next stage of qualification for the World Cup, the administration of Australian soccer seems to be falling apart." Since raising the issue at the Senate Estimates hearing on 4th June, Schacht said he had received many messages of support from fans of the game in Australian.

14.6.2001

IN CONVERSATION WITH OLIVER HILTON

One-time Sorrento junior Oliver Hilton has recently signed up with English league side Stockport County after spending a number of years in the youth system at Crewe Alexandra. Born in England, he emigrated to Western Australia with his family in 1993 and wracked up a stack of achievements before returning to the U.K. five years later. During the week we caught up with the now 16-year old Hilton to get the run-down on his career to date.

14.6.2001

TRANSFER NEWS

For the third time this season, Peter Vukmirovic has switched clubs with the latest move taking him back to the Dianella White Eagles. The versatile big man started 2001 at Swan I.C, leaving them for Floreat Athena just weeks into their Premier League campaign. Former State defender Dave Evans has left Fremantle City after little over 12 months with the club to sign with Athena. ECU Joondalup have signed 22-year old midfielder Mark Benbow who has previously played in England with Hereford United, Worcester City and Merthyr Tydfil.

There has been plenty of movement at Bassendean Caledonian since the season proper got underway. In recent times they have secured the services of experienced defender Taki Nicoladias from Inglewood United, along with promising youngster Anthony Jones who started 2001 at Swan I.C. Mark Lennon has finally been allowed to play for the club after hold-ups with his international clearance while another import, Lee Burns, has wasted no time in settling in at the club as was evidence by his two goals against Cockburn City a fortnight ago.

As reported some weeks back, former Socceroo custodian Robert Zabica has signed with Fremantle, while Perth have picked up Robbie Gaspar following a spell with NSL outfit Sydney Olympic. After spending the pre-season with Swan, young defender Davorin Svirac has agreed terms with Cockburn. And veteran goalkeeper Willie McNally is now part of the set-up at Sorrento along with one-time State striker Kevin Correia, who spent 2000 with Fremantle.

13.6.2001

THIRD TIME LUCKY FOR WILSON AT CHELSEA?

Sorrento's rising star Fred Wilson will be heading to London come July for trials with Premier League club Chelsea. The skilful central midfielder Wilson spent three weeks with Leeds United as a 13-year old, but it was at last years National Talent Identification Championship that he really shot to prominence as the Under-15's vice-captain. Within three months he was invited to Stamford Bridge for an initial trial period, returning in February 2001 for an eight week stay when he was 'taken under the wing' of club captain Dennis Wise. "Things went very well," Wilson said this week. "I was told if I did well they would invite me back, which is what has happened."

13.6.2001

WOMEN'S ROUND-UP

Floreat Athena continue to lead the way in the Womens' Premier League having conceded just three goals in six outings this season. On the weekend they demolished Lynwood 10-0 to go three points clear of Murdoch A, who had the bye this week. Third-placed Queens Park followed up last weeks 8-0 thrashing of Lynwood by hitting five past cellar-dwellers Claremont/Nedlands without reply. Stirling Reds 6-0 win over Sorrento Breakers sees them hold onto fourth place with University A breathing down their neck after a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Curtin/South Perth.

13.6.2001

MORE FROM FRANCE

With the W.A. Under-19 representatives now back with their local clubs, we have been able to gleam a few more details from their adventures at the Tournai De Croix. The teams' first game upon arriving in France was a friendly with Croix which ended in a 4-2 win to the State side, a double from Andre Sarpe and singles by Andreas Oliviera and Derek Cooke making sure the tour got off on the right foot.

Goalkeeper Oliver Taseski was the star of the physical opening fixture with Vitoria Guimaraës that ended in a scoreless draw. W.A. were still recovering from the effects of a physical encounter with the Portuguese side when they faced Lens the following day. Sarpe became the first Australian to score in the tournament, but shortly after missed a penalty with the scores at 1-2 in favour of the French who ran out eventual winners 1-4.

Sorrento's David Foster scored our lone goal against the Tunisia National Team who triumphed 1-3, setting-up an 11th/12th place play-off match against the Province of Chengdu (China). A hat-trick by lively Andreas Oliveira and further strikes by Sarpe and midfielder Antonio Naglieri seeing W.A. end their visit with a comfortable 5-0 victory. In addition to Taseski, who took home the Best Goalkeeper trophy, W.A. coach Eric Williams named Daniel Stoitis, Todd Howarth, Antonio Naglieri and Greg Sharland as the State's best performers.

12.6.2001

LOCAL BODIES UNHAPPY WITH RE-FORM DOCUMENT

Officials from both the Junior Soccer Association of W.A. and Womens' Soccer Western Australia have spoken publicly against the latest draft of the soccer re-structure which is currently in circulation. The document - "Soccer restructure for the new millennium" - was commissioned under the direction of the Soccer Association of W.A. and is believed to be set for review mid-month.

Speaking on the Junior Soccer Review with John O'Connell on the weekend, JSA president Bill Oddy said the JSA clubs had decided unanimously to reject the draft at a meeting on Saturday. "The clubs have voiced their concerns with the existing document which is in place * to be honest, it was difficult to find any supporters," he said. "There was a motion that we go back and advise the delegates that this is not an acceptable document in its current format and should be rejected. The document currently presented by S.A.W.A. in relation to the restructure does not meet the Fielding recommendations, or the requirements for soccer in the next millennium."

WSWA vice-president Jeanette Spencer expressed her alarm over the constitution several weeks ago on Radio Fremantle (100FM). "Basically, the constitution gives power to the board to change the constitution from time to time, which is very unusual as far as constitutions go," the WSWA spokesperson said. Spencer urged all parties involved in the re-structure to make their opinions and concerns known. "We can't, through just not being interested in the business end of our sport, allow a constitution that doesn't serve its members adequately," Spencer said. "All the associations have a really big responsibility here because they could be binding themselves to something that, in the end, is not a workable document."

12.6.2001

FANS PASSION WILL KEEP ME AT BIRMINGHAM SAYS LAZARIDIS (Reproduced with permission from the tribalfootball.com website)

Birmingham City winger Stan Lazaridis has moved to deny reports he is ready to quit the club in the summer. The Australia international was outstanding against Brazil on Saturday night and spoke with Birmingham fans of his future this week. "Without sounding fake, there is some unfinished business here. If you ask me 'do I want to leave because we did not get promoted,' the answer is 'no.' Like any player I want to play in the Premiership and I believe that this club can get there and do well."

"I am quite happy to go again next season to try and be part of something successful. I feel as though myself and a number of others are capable of performing in the Premiership and that is what really hurts. We should be up there already. I am wrapped up in the passion of Birmingham and, having gone so close, it is as if there is a hold on me to stay here and help us to achieve our aim of winning promotion." Lazaridis has been linked with Middlesbrough, Glasgow Rangers and Aston Villa since the end of the season.

12.6.2001

AMATEURS UNLUCKY IN NATIONALS

The 2001 National Amateur Championships were staged over the weekend in Melbourne with South Australia taking home the silverware after defeating New South Wales on the final day of competition. Western Australia started the four-team tournament sluggishly, trailing South Australia by the break but came back strongly in the second half and snatching a point when Graeme Bramwell found the net in the 91st minute.

The following day it was NSW that lead 1-0 after 45 minutes. W.A. fought back and within 15 minutes of the re-start two well-worked goals by Mark Kelly put them ahead, only for W.A. to go to sleep late in the contest and come out with a 2-2 draw. Going into the final day of competition only two points separated the top three - S.A, N.S.W. and W.A. - with only Victoria out of contention. As it was S.A. defeated N.S.W. to lift the trophy, while W.A. snuck into the runners-up spot with a convincing 2-0 victory over Victoria, the goals coming from Christian Paschewitz and Andrew Willards.

11.6.2001

CUP SUCCESS FOR OUR SOCCEROOS

Australia has finished third in the 2001 Confederations Cup tournament which was played out in South Korea and Japan over the past fortnight. While France claimed the final 1-0 against Japan, the Socceroos showed the world that they are no longer to be considered also-rans with victories over highly-fancied France, Brazil and Mexico. And two West Australians - Stan Lazaridis and Shaun Murphy - were right in the thick of the action.

On the first day of competition Australia faced Mexico, ranked 13th in the world. "Left wing ower" was how the official FIFA match report described Lazardis' non-stop performance which eventually saw him replaced with 11 minutes remaining. Murphy also played a key role in the 2-0 win, heading home Steve Corica's cross to the far post after 20 minutes to give the Socceroos the lead. "I just closed my eyes, as always," the 30-year old central defender joked post-match when asked about his goal.

Unfortunately, Murphy was ruled out of the hard-earnt 1-0 win over reigning world champions France a couple of days later. Lazaridis saw out the full 90 minutes and again was impressive, but picked up his second yellow in as many games to miss the final group stage match. Assured of a semi-final berth after two convincing wins, the Socceroos went down 0-1 to the Korean Republic with Murphy playing a full game at the back. And there wasn't much joy for the side against Japan in the round of four, the co-hosts winning 0-1 with Murphy an unused substitute against Japan while Lazaridis played a full game.

The Socceroos surprised the world for the second time in nine days when they downed Brazil, the world's No.2 ranked nation, in the play-off for third and fourth by ending triumphant 1-0. And both West Australians featured in the matches only goal - Lazaridis' curling a deep free-kick into the box where Murphy's header left the Brazilian 'keeper with no chance in the 83rd minute of play. But the former Sorrento defender played down the goal which was rated by many as one of the best of the tournament, "We send the tall timber up for the set-pieces, and if you can get on the end of it then you get on the end of it." The goal meant Murphy finished Confederation Cup as equal top scorer, sharing the honour with French trio Robert Pires, Eric Carriera and Sylvain Wiltord, Takayuki Suzuki (Japan) and Sun Hong Hwang (Korea).

11.6.2001

DEANS TO TRIAL IN SCOTLAND

Perth Glory defender Craig Deans is set for trials with newly-promoted Scottish Premier League outfit Livingston. Currently on loan to Premier League side Western Knights, the centre-half is expected to join Livingston for pre-season training in a bid to win a European contract. Deans spent last season trialling with English First Division side Preston North End and came away disappointed that he didn't do himself justice after arriving in the country injured.

10.6.2001

WEST AUSSIES SHINE IN THE NSL

It's been a big year in the National Soccer League with nineteen West Australians taking to the park in a playing capacity, while another nine took on roles as match officials. Perth-born Michael Petkovic took out top honours at the end-of-season NSL awards night, winning the Goalkeeper of the Year title with brother Jason Petkovic (Perth Glory) coming in third. First choice 'keeper at South Melbourne, Michael Petkovic took his career tally to 133 games, missing only one game due to international commitments with the Socceroos. Also at South's was well-travelled striker Vas Kalogeracos who found the net six times in 25 games for the minor premiers.

Not surprisingly, the largest contingent of West Aussies in the NSL is at Perth Glory where three players chalked up their 150th NSL appearance. With 28 games and 17 goals this season, Bobby Despotovski took his career tally to 153 games on his way to second place in the NSL Players' Player of the Year poll. Scott Miller made his international debut in March's friendly with Colombia, while at club level the wing-back scored five times in 25 appearances to end 2000/01 with 190 appearances in the competition. And captain Gareth Naven saw action on 23 occasions to take his all-time total to 150.

The only player to feature in all 30 games for Glory was goalkeeper Jason Petkovic, whose 214 NSL games makes him one of the clubs most experienced players. Jamie Harnwell (28 games) and Gary Faria (26 games) were other two local products that were regular features of the side in 2000/01. Alistair Edwards made 19 outings as he closes in on 150 games at this level, while Craig Deans' 12 games saw him end the campaign with 57 NSL appearances spread between Glory and the now-defunct Carlton.

John Carbone was little more than a fringe player and was released at season's end, most of his 20 appearances in 2000/01 being off the bench. Defender Aaron Cole didn't wait that long to show his hand, he quit the club in March after spending just 14 minutes on the park, that against Sydney United in February. Todd Harnwell and Nick Mrdja showed they would be pushing for first team spots next season in the short time they spent on the park this year.

Midfielder Anthony Danze is yet to made his debut for the club, but did made seven appearances - and scored four goals - for the Joeys who will compete in the 2001 Under-17 World Championship in Trinidad and Tobago this September. Other players on Glory's books who didn't make a senior appearance this season were teenager Antonio Naglieri, and back-up goalkeepers Tony Franken and Tommi Tomich, the latter has subsequently been released by the club.

Over at Eastern Pride Robbie Puca's season ended on a sour note when the club was forced to called off its last four games due to a mass player walk-out over the non-payment of wages. The midfielder made 22 appearances for his club before things took a turn for the worst, taking his career total to 69 games and 5 goals since joining the then-Gippsland Falcons in 1998.

In the referees corner, FIFA recognised Eddie Lennie and Angelo Nardi were put in charge of several top level games over the summer. Lennie in particular ended the season in a high, adjudicating the Grand Final for the second consecutive year while being named the Referee of the Year for the fourth time in seven years. Patrick McCaffrey, Stephen Muldoon, Frank Moretti and Michael Nugus ran the line during the season while the local match inspectors were Keith Davies, Jim Sharp and Ahmed Ismail.

10.6.2001

JSA TO PARTNER GLORY

Nick Tana's plans for a youth development scheme are again back on track as revealed at a meeting with representatives from the Junior Soccer Association of W.A. clubs on Saturday at Perth Oval. With the blessing of JSA president Bill Oddy, Tana and Glory youth development manager Frank Arok outlined their plans which, according to a document handed out at the meeting, "will be undertaken for the benefit of all clubs and players."

The program will see the metropolitan area split into four geographic zones - north, south, east and central Metropolitan. In total, 128 players will be "put through a unique program of skills drawn up by Frank Arok and executed by highly qualified coaches every week for 46 weeks in the year," read the handout. These sessions will be conducted in addition to the players' club training and will be provided at no cost to the player, his parents/guardians or club.

The idea behind the program is to identify talented soccer players at an early age and give them the opportunity to improve their level of skill. The goal is to nurture young talent in W.A. and assist them in having the best possible chance of becoming a professional player, either in the NSL or overseas.

10.6.2001

PREMIER LEAGUE, ROUND TEN (Cockburn City vs Swan I.C. report provided by Community Newspapers reporter Mike Hennessey; Sorrento vs Fremantle City by Kerry Slater)

The first game of the season at Kiev Sports Ground pitted local rivals Inglewood United and Perth. The two clubs have had contrasting season to date, United struggling towards the foot of the table with just seven points from eight outings while their opponents have spent much of the campaign firmly ensconsed in the top half of the ladder. Despite a heavy downpour earlier in the day a big crowd turned up for the unveiling of the grounds new 800 seat stand, with somewhere in the vacinity of 350 spectators in attendance by the time the senior clash kicked-off at 3.00pm.

It was a young and comparatively inexperienced United side that took to the park and not surprisingly the visitors took the upper hand to force their opponents into a lot of defending over the opening quarter-hour. But for all Perth's possession they could not find a way through United's stubborn back four of Jamie Goodman, Jason Godfrey, Ryan Fredericks and Drew Carruthers who were quick to snuff out any danger. The visitors continued to come forward in waves and within minutes of one another Robbie Gaspar, Nick Mrdja and Mark Pottier all had opportunities to put Perth on the board score, but all failed to bring United custodian Oliver Taseski into the action.

United eventually found their rhythm and began to get deep into their opponents half with some enterprising play of their own. A well-worked free-kick on the left saw Greg Sharland send Scott Campbell to the by-line, his over-hit cross almost sneaking into the far top corner. A few minutes later the home team strung together a lovely flowing move featuring six players that ended with Goodman rifling the ball narrowly wide from long-range. It was largely through some brilliant first time passing and great movement down the flanks that United were causing their opponents the most concern but, with the Perth backline in top form, they were unable to get the sort of penetration needed really to test Robert Scarparolo.

Perth should have taken the lead in the 20th minute after Mrdja shrugged off his man and found Gaspar, but his shot from 9-metres skidded disappointingly wide. Six minutes later it was the home side that were denied the lead through a combination of bad luck and alert goalkeeping. Andy Cornwall brought under control a long ball from the middle before blasting it under a diving Scarparolo, only to see the ball come back into play off the base of the left post. Sharland was onto the rebound in a flash, slamming it towards the opposite corner but Scarparolo amazingly got back on his feet in time to launch himself at the ball and tip it out for a corner.

With both sides having enjoyed their share of possession over the first half hour, Perth stepped up a gear in the final 15 minutes but squandered some of the clearest chances of the afternoon. Pottier knew he should have at least tested the 'keeper when he nodded Vince Tana's cross well wide in the 31st minute. Sixty second later Mrdja left the defence in his wake only to spray the ball closer to the corner flag and the goal from 12-metres. After 36 minutes Gaspar carved open the defence but his weak shot didn't trouble Taseski. And six minutes from the break Jamie Coyne sent his shot straight to the 'keeper after a long weaving run.

For much of the period United's defence managed to keep a tight reign on visiting strikers Mrdja and David Onoforo but, with the break fast approaching, the former only needed a second to show just why he is so highly rated. Scarparolo's long clearance was controlled by Mrdja on top of the 18-yard box and, in one calculated move, the striker turned Goodman, held off Fredericks and drove it under the advancing Taseski to give Perth the lead with three minutes left in the half.

United went straight into attack after the interval with Sharland releasing Andy Cornwell whose bullet-like shot rose narrowly over the bar. But it didn't take long for Perth steer control of the game back in their direction and in the 49th minute Gaspar's free-kick rocketed through a poorly organised wall, catching Taseski flat-footed as it crashed into this right post. Shortly after Perry Ielati hit a long-range effort straight to Taseski. And in the 59th minute the United custodian produced a fine reflex save from close-in after Mrdja beat Goodman just outside the 6-yard box.

That should have been enough to suggest to United that it was time to watch Mrdja more closely, but they failed to heed the warning and two minutes later he struck a devastating blow from which the home side would not recover. From just outside the area on the right, Onoforo clipped the ball to the opposite side of the box where Mrdja collected the high ball and, in one lightning-fast move, turned sharply to throw off Fredericks before hammering it past Taseski from 10-metres. Two-nil.

Not content to ease off the throttle a little, Perth continued to attack by channelling the ball through the midfield where Coyne, Gaspar and Pottier dictated play. In the 63rd minute Stephen Willey, who was having an quiet day, played it low to the near post where Onoforo surprised Taseski by flicking it narrowly wide with the outside of his foot and back to goal. Four minutes later it was that man Mrdja who again caused panic in the home defence, this time slipping past Godfrey to open a path to goal only to shoot disappointingly high.

For their part United were well on top out wide, Campbell and Cornwell proving particularly effective, but the side really struggled once they got into their final third. Ielati, Aaron Cole and Michael Icanovski were virtually impregnable at the back for Perth, and behind them Scarparolo was quick off his line to cut out any deep crosses into his area. With his side well out-played, United coach Steve Parkinson introduced the experienced heads of Alex Cummings, Dom Ando and Paul Lincoln midway through the half in an attempt to reel in Perth's dominance.

And six minutes after coming on Lincoln almost pegged back a goal - the striker meeting Cornwell's cross and re-directing it past Scarparolo and towards his top corner only for Ielati headed it over from on the line. It was by far the closest United had come to scoring this half and it looked as though Parkinson's changes might yet bear fruit. But his Perth counterpart Graham Normanton had other ideas, bringing on the attacking trio of Boni Botha, Todd Howarth and Andreas Oliviera which caused the home side to take their focus off going forward for the time being.

Oliviera was a particularly inspired substitution, the teenager injecting renewed life into Perth's attacking forays. Tana and Botha sliced their way through the United backline in the 83rd minute before the latter's pass to Mrdja was intercepted by Godfrey. But no sooner had the ball been cleared than Perth came forward again, this time Mrdja doing all the hard work by keeping possession despite the best efforts of two defenders before laying it off to Oliviera who made no mistake from 7-metres. In the final minute of play Perth would have extended their margin even further if not for a spectacular save by Taseski who dived full-length to keep Mrdja's volley from crossing the line.

A third of the way through this game and United were looking every bit as good as their more fancied opponents, but their inability to break down a well-organised Perth defence would prove a hurdle to big to overcome. The visitors dominated the final hour of this contest through some thoughtful movement both on and off the ball and if not for the heroics of young 'keeper Taseski the final margin might have been much larger. Perth's chief destroyer was once again Mrdja whose close ball control and deadly accuracy inside the 18-yard box proved to be the deciding factor.

Inglewood United : Oliver Taseski, Jason Godfrey, Jamie Goodman, Drew Carruthers, Ryan Fredericks (Alex Cummings 61), Scott Campbell, Andy Cornwell, Shaun Kilkelly (Dom Ando 70), Daniel Harrop, Greg Sharland (Paul Lincoln 70), Elton Holmes
Perth : Robert Scarparolo, Perry Ielati, Aaron Cole, Michael Icanovski, Stephen Willey (Andreas Oliveria 72), Vince Tana, Jamie Coyne, Robbie Gaspar, Mark Pottier (Todd Howarth 67), David Onoforo,(Boni Botha 67) Nick Mrdja
Referee : Steve Muldoon
Cautions : None
Dismissals : None
Attendance : 350 (approx.)

The opening minutes of the ECU Joondalup-Floreat Athena clash were played at a frenetic pace as the home side went searching for an early goal. And Joondalup found what they were after in the 8th minute when Hugh Miller's partial clearance fell to Steve White who quickly released it back into the area where Andy Mason sent it past John Xigas to make it 1-0. From the re-start Abdul Kamara robbed Jason Smith and sent new-signing Joondalup Mark Benbow away down the right, his perfectly weighted cross met by Mason whose header slammed against the crossbar. Carl McDarby pounced upon the rebound only to see it come back off the inside of the post before Adrian Sutton scrambled the ball to safety. In the 14th minute Jamie Kuzmanovich conceded a penalty when he brought down Ryan Newhill, the big striker converting to put the visitors back on a level footing. Ten minutes later Athena took the lead against the run of play when defender Dave Evans nodded home Smith's free-kick, and that was the way things stayed going into the break.

Joondalup continued to dominate after the interval with White and Benbow in fine form out wide and creating all sorts of headaches for the opposing defenders. Having been frustrated by the woodwork, Xigas and some desperate defending, the home team drew level on the hour mark when Dale McCulloch and Kamara combined to send Benbow down the flank where he beat his man before whipping a low ball into the box which Mason thumped home. The visitors didn't have much time to re-group before they found themselves a goal down, White's 65th minute corner was flicked on by Sean Fallon and Scott Broadley knocked it over the line in the ensuing goalmouth scramble. Athena plugged away and lookde to have grabbed a point-saving goal when, in the 87th minute, Sutton collected Miller's long clearance before spiriting it to Peter Coci, his cross picking out substitute Adrian Spinelli who made no mistake from inside the 18-yard box. With referee Angelo Nardi playing some eight minutes of stoppage time, Joondalup nabbed the winner with just seconds to spare, but it wasn't without it's controversy. A long ball from Fallon was run onto by Andre Sarpe, who appeared to be in a clear off-side position, the teenager not waiting for the flag to round Xigas before calmly slotting the ball into the back of the net.

Swan I.C. went down 1-4 Cockburn City on Saturday at the Italian Club. It was a disastrous day for Swan with Justin Everley sent off in the 22nd minute. A 10-man Swan were always going to struggle against the in-form Cockburn. Swan gave away two penalties in the first 22 minutes. Branimir Mikulic made no mistake from the spot leaving Cory Hugo with no chance with either kick. Everley was sent off for the second time in three weeks again for a second bookable offence. His handball in the penalty area provided Cockburn with their second goal. Swan worked hard to get back into the game and had a good, gutsy spell in the second half. Paul Borg fired home to reduce the arrears to 2-1 in the 75th minute. For the ten minutes that followed Swan were on top. They hit a post but could not manage to equalise. Cockburn broke away in the final five minutes to score twice through Peter Petkovich and Mikulic with his third goal to make Swan pay dearly for their early indiscretions.

Western Knights struggled to overcome a pumped up Bassendean Caledonian side when the two teams met at Nash Field on Saturday. In the end it took a double from Eugene Singeorzan and another from Andy Lawson to get the home side over the line 3-2, goals from Willie Grubb and Gary James seeing the game go down to the wire.

Sorrento, despite being reduced to ten men, overcame Fremantle City in with a tough and thrilling victory at Ken Allen Field on Sunday. But the result could have been so different had Fremantle capitalized on their early opportunities. In the 1st minute John Mirco was clear with only Neil Young to beat, however, the Sorrento custodian did excellent to block the first attempt and from the rebound Mirco had his effort cleared from the line by Kevin Murphy. Michael Mirco was as dominant on his flank, the Mirco brothers flashing several low crosses into the penalty area only to find no one there to finish off the good work. On 12 minutes John Mirco's drive was only just wide of the right post from 20-metres. Sorrento's first and only real chance of the half came after 20 minutes, Jeans' good cross from the left finding striker Kevin Corriea who blasted into the body of Robert Zabica. In the 39th minute Michael Mirco had the frustration of seeing his shot clip off the cross bar, and a minute into stoppage time Young again saved Sorrento when he blocked an Evan Wallace shot from inside the area.

Sorrento made two changes at the break, Shaun Bowyer and Grant Holt coming on for Ross Greer and Corriea. Any improvement was not immediate and Young was well placed to stop Trim Morgan giving Fremantle the lead after 58 minutes. The arm wrestling that was the midfield battle was little more than a stalemate. The turning point came in the 67th minute when Sorrento's leading scorer Ryan Jeans was dismissed for taking a swing at Cesare De Bartolo. From that point on the visiting team proved their strength of character and quickly adjusted their formation to stun their hosts. Four minutes later De Bartolo conceded a free-kick for a crude tackle on Michael Garcia, the midfielder curled the ball to the far post where Danny Hill directed his header in off the left post. An identical situation on the right a few minutes later almost produced the same result but this time Hill's header was just over the bar. The home side made a number of substitutions in an attempt to get something from the match, but they received a set-back when on 79 minutes De Bartolo was given his marching orders for another vicious foul on Garcia. With the numbers again even, Sorrento controlled play and in the 88th minute Todd Harnwell was denied by the good positioning of Zabica. Then two minutes later Sorrento landed a knock out blow - Holt held up a long clearance before releasing the ball into the path of Glen Thomas, who comprehensibly beat the exposed Zabica. A minute into stoppage time Craig Surtees almost reduced the deficit, but the defender couldn't get enough on his header. The three championship points went to Sorrento who reclaimed top spot from Cockburn City, who had held the position for just twenty-four hours.

9.6.2001

FIRST DIVISION ROUND-UP (Armadale vs Canning City report provided by Michael Di Pietro)

With only five rounds left in the regular season it’s looking increasingly as though there is only one spot up for grabs in the First Divison (South) play-off series. Armadale maintained its challenge for that spot with a solid demolition of newly formed Canning City on Saturday. The Reds found plenty of room to knock the ball around and the game was all over after 30 minutes with goals from Jason Goodwin (19th, 33rd), Darren Ingham (24th) and Dennis Lee (29th). Before the end of a very good half by the Reds Goodwin put the icing on the cake with a well deserved hat-trick in the 41st minute. After the break the Reds tried to carry on from where they left off, but the goal number six didn't arrive until the 64th minute when Darren Clark found himself one-on-one with the ‘keeper to slip it past him, but unfortunately Clark was stretchered off after colliding with the ‘keeper. Canning scored in the 68th minute thanks to defensive error. Nick Twyman restored the six goal buffer in the 74th minute and Darren Ingham got his second for the match in the 83rd minute to conclude the scoring festivities at 8-1.

Third-placed Leeming Strikers went into their away clash with fifth-placed South West Phoenix as clear favourites after defeating their opponents 3-0 earlier in the season, Phoenix coming off a 6-1 Boral Cup loss just five days earlier. But Phoenix had other ideas and the first half saw the sides slug out a highly entertaining match in which the respective defences stood head and shoulders above the rest. The Strikers started the second half with a bang but failed to convert their opportunities. The home sounded their intentions in the 53rd minute when Steve Rodgers first time shot whistled narrowly wide. Five minutes later Elliot Gibson and Sasa Garic combined to send Stephen Suttie on his way between two defenders, only to be hauled down from behind - Garic took the resulting free-kick and picked his spot from 18-metres to put Phoenix 1-0. Seven minutes later Striker were back on a level footing when they charged down the left and were allowed to charge unchallenged into the box and Reece Braithwaite was left with no chance from 5-metres. The introduction of young Steven Waycott had an immediate effect on the Phoenix midfield, and with 20 minutes remaining they retook the lead. Damien Trim spent the ball to Steve Rodgers who immediately released Stephen Suttie with another well-weighted pass and this time he gave the defence no chance, drawing the ‘keeper before slotting it past home from the top of the 18-yard box. The goal deflated the visitors chances and five minutes later the result was out beyond any doubt when Garic latched on to Steve Rodgers defence splitting pass then hammered the ball into the top right hand corner of the goal to make it 3-1.

Elsewhere, Morley Windmills made Queens Park fight hard for maximum points at Wootton Reserve, the visitors running out 2-1 to stay three points clear at the top of the ladder. Second-placed Rockingham City struggled but finally overcame Southside United 1-0 thanks to a goal from Graeme Matthews. Phoenix stay fourth with Armadale just three points behind.

The surprise of the First Division (North) games took place at Frank Drago Reserve where bottom side Bayswater City, who are yet to win this season, held leaders the Stirling Lions to a two-all draw. Ashfield let slip the opportunity to go overhaul the Lions when the best they could do against eighth-placed Balcatta was a one-all draw. Perth City continued to make ground on the leaders by defeating Wanneroo City 2-1 away from home. Kingsway Olympic remain fourth despite having the bye, while Dianella White Eagles’ 3-2 win over Stirling Suns lifts them to fifth place.

10.6.2001

PREMIER LEAGUE, ROUND TEN (IN BRIEF)

Perth spoilt the opening of the new stand at Kiev Sports Ground when they defeated Inglewood United 3-0 on Saturday. Nick Mrdja gave the visitors the lead close to the end of an even first half, then proved the inspiration after the break as Perth ran away with the match. Mrdja grabbed his second in the 61st, minute and substitute Andreas Oliveira wrapped up the three points seven minutes from full-time.

It took a late strike to separate ECU Joondalup and Floreat Athena, the former winning a seven-goal thriller. Branimir Mikulic's hat-trick saw Cockburn City easy winners over a ten-man Swan I.C., while the Western Knights struggled to a 3-2 against the visiting Bassendean Caledonian. Sorrento re-claimed top spot on Sunday when they defeated Fremantle City 2-0 away from home.

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