30.6.2002

AMATEURS ROUND-UP

A four-goal haul by Finnish striker Teemu Sihvola secured University of W.A. a resounding 4-1 win at Balga in Sunday’s W.A.A.S.S.A. Premier League fixture. Starting brightly, Sihvola beat his marker to cross for Robert Benkovic whose shot was parried by Balga’s stand-in goalkeeper Dean Ravapinto. In the 9th minute Matt Hill picked out Sihvola who made his way past two opponents and side-footed the ball into the corner of the net to put University one-up. The home side came more into the game after falling behind and worked hard to find an equaliser over the next 15 minutes without success. On the half-hour a deep cross from University’s Steve Padbury found Christian Tribe whose header flew narrowly over the crosbar. Three minutes from the interval Balga won a free-kick which was taken with a minimum of fuss and Willie Lyall equalised with a well-placed header. The second half saw University come out with all guns ablaze and within three minutes their lead had been restored, Sihvola netting after Adam Brett was unsuccessful. A lovely move in the 63rd minute lead to University’s third goal, a Max Percy cross found Matt Hill who released Benkovic and his pass to Sihvola saw the striker complete his hat-trick. In the games most bizarre moment, a corner from Hill struck the near post and found the net via a defenders foot but assistant referee signalled that the ball had gone out of play and the goal was disallowed. University continued to attack and some good teammate between Benkovic and Sihvola saw the latter chip the ball over the ‘keeper and into the top corner for his, and his teams, fourth. As if a 4-1 drubbing wasn’t enough, Balga saw out the final ten minutes with ten men, the fifth week in succession that the side have failed to complete the match with eleven players! Post-match, University coach Kevin Burton was pleased with the result that lifts his side into second place on the table. “We took our foot off the gas in the middle of the first half after scoring early on, but the pleasing thing was we were able to step up for the second half and turn in a pretty clinical performance. We have finished the first round of fixtures in second spot at both first and reserve team level and this has surpassed our goals. It will be really interesting to see if we can continue to improve.” University reserves defeated Balga 2-1 with goals from Josh Davenport and Ben McVeigh. Balga’s scorer was Denny Murfit.

Hamersley Rovers to hold a four-point lead over the rest of the field after being pushed all the way by Murdoch University, the final score being 3-2 in Hamersley’s favour. In third place are Spearwood Dalmatinac who condemned Subiaco United to their ninth loss in eleven games by 5-0. Perth Azzurri defeated Kwinana United 4-1 at Dorrien Gardens, Fremantle United and Shamrock Rovers ended in a 1-1 draw. The result of the E.C.U. Joondalup-Forrestfield United match is currently unknown.

30.6.2002

PREMIER LEAGUE, ROUND TEN (Floreat Athena vs Sorrento by Christian Galapolous; Western Knights vs Inglewood United by Mike Hennessey; Cockburn City vs E.C.U. Joondalup by Lennie Bavich; Bassendean Caledonian vs Swan I.C by Bill MacAllister)

Following entertaining matches in the Under-18’s and reserves competitions, Ashfield and Future Glory were greeted by near-perfect conditions when they emerged from the changerooms at the start of their Premier League clash at Ashfield Reserve. With his side sitting at the foot of the table, Ashfield coach Tom Kilkelly made four changes to the team which last week lost at Swan I.C. Phil Jackson took Johnathon Van DerVoet’s spot between the posts, while Jamie D’Arcy, Martin Kelly and 15-year old debutant Carlo Cuscuna replaced Brad Pochroj, Darren Yates and Shane Fuhr respectively. Confidence in the Future camp was sky-high following their defeat of a strong Western Knights outfit six days earlier, Frank Arok showing faith in his players by naming an unchanged starting eleven.

The match started with Ashfield well in control, the home side wasting no time in showing that they meant business by taking proceedings up to their young opponents. Making good use of the flanks, the home side relentlessly pressed forward but managed only scattered shots from distance courtesy of strong resistance by the Future backline. D’Arcy broke free wide on the right to hit a stunning shot from a tight angle that goalkeeper Jordan Conti paddled around the up-right for a corner. Not long after, Ashfield new-comer Scott Bailey tried his luck from 20-metres but his rising shot didn’t trouble the ‘keeper as it flew over the crossbar. Otherwise it was only through the steely determination of Future’s defensive core of Shaun Kilkelly, Daniel Arias and Admir Mehic that the dominant Ashfield side didn’t snatch an early lead.

It wasn’t until after the quarter hour that Future started to show signs of life with their first goalscoring opportunity arriving in the 21st minute. Peter Lord went on a weaving run before playing a clever one-two with Robert Cibesku that opened up the defence, but Jackson was quick off his line to smother at the midfielder’s feet before he could shoot. Eight minutes later an Ashfield corner played to the far post saw Bailey rise high above the defence only to send his powerful header over the bar. With much of the play taking part in the middle third of the pitch, the final fifteen minutes of the period were a drab affair in which neither goalkeeper was really troubled due to a combination of solid defending and some very ordinary finishing.

The second half started in more promising fashion with both sides swiftly moving the ball around the park. A superb long pass out of defence by Arias in the 53rd minute send Lord into the opposing 18-yard box where Ashfield happily conceded the corner. Three minutes later the home again found themselves under pressure at the back, somehow emerging unscathed from a goalmouth scramble in which Mileta Miletic and Cibesku both had their shots blocked. On the hour Ashfield produced a quick attacking move of their own as Martin Kelly out-manoeuvred Kilkelly for possession but with only the ‘keeper to beat Kelly hit the ball wide of the up-right. The home side squandered another golden opportunity after 65 minutes when Steve Gillibrand’s free-kick from the right found Martin Sherwin in space but, with only Conti between him and the net, the young defender’s shot skewed off-target.

After flickering into life for some twenty minutes, the match then slipped back into the pattern that dominated the first forty-five minutes. For much of the time play was bottled up in the middle of the park where the respective midfielders battle unsuccessfully to take control of the game. Future were simply unable to penetrate their opponents defence, while on those occasions Ashfield found a way through they couldn’t get the ball in the net. As both sides sought a late winner, the match opened up a little with Ashfield having the better of the opportunities. Bailey skipped away down the right flank after 83 minutes only to see his low, powerful shot from a decreasing angle knocked wide by Conti. And in stoppage time Gillibrand attempted to break the deadlock with a fantastic long-range effort that dipped at the last moment only to be pushed over the bar by the Future custodian.

At the end of 90 minutes Ashfield would no doubt have been pleased to take a point from what was a lifeless match with few moments of true inspiration. While they may have created the better opportunities, a distinct lack of sharpness in front of goal prevented Ashfield from claiming their second win of the season. For the home side it was Sherwin, Mark Donnelly and David Mayers that shone with a superb defensive performance which effectively snuffed out their opponents attacking forays, while down the other end Kelly worked tirelessly in attack. It was only during the opening stages of the second half that Future actually got out of first gear, otherwise the visitors rode their luck and should consider themselves very fortunate not to end the game a couple of goals down. Arias, Mehic and birthday boy Kilkelly formed a solid unit at the back, while in goal Conti made what proved to be several very important saves.

Ashfield : Phil Jackson, Martin Sherwin, Mark Donnelly, David Mayers, Scott Brisley (Ben Kelly 83), Jamie D’Arcy, Steve Gillibrand, Carlo Cuscuna, Karl Atley, Scott Bailey, Martin Kelly
Future Glory: Jordan Conti, Shaun Kilkelly, Daniel Arias, Admir Mehic, Nicholas Ward (Chris Ritson 60), Robert Monterosso, Peter Lord, Damir Kuduzovic, Miki Vujacic, Robert Cibesku (James Hesketh 75), Kostadin Manolev (Mileta Miletic 45)
Referee :
Cautions : Lord (42), Cibesku (75)
Dismissals : None
Attendance : 200 (approx.)

Floreat Athena solidified their place in the top half of the Premier League table with a 2-1 victory over Sorrento at Litis Stadium. The match got of to a busy start with a mix-up in the Athena defence nearly gifting Sorrento the opening goal, while down the other end Ryan Newhill and Costa Socratous went close for the home team. After the early flurry of chances, the contest tightened up as Athena’s defence, led by Jamie Trandos and Adrian Sutton, got on top of the visiting attack. Opening the second half the stronger of the two sides, Athena went on the attack with confidence and after only five minutes Socratous supplied a perfect through ball to in-form striker Robin Dyers whose shot flew past Sorrento goalkeeper Gareth Deeg. One goal up, Athena continued to press forward with some superb movement of the ball which was rewarded in the 62nd minute when Kosta Kalavrouziotis took the ball down the right flank before hitting a low cross into penalty area that Ryan Newhill headed home to double the lead. The home side were unlucky not to have gone further ahead with the pick of the chances falling to Newhill, the big striker deflecting Sutton’s pass wide from close range. Kevin Murphy scored a late goal for Sorrento but it was little consolation as referee Patrick McCaffrey blew full time only seconds later.

Inglewood United marked their return to form with a scintillating 4-2 win over Western Knights at Nash Field. In a game of much passion and skill, the visitors dented the Knights’ title hopes while keeping themselves in line for a top four spot at the end of the season. The game could have started disastrously for Inglewood after coming close to conceding a penalty in the 1st minute, but after that settled down to be the better side. In the 10th minute the persistent Alan Mackenzie won the ball in midfield, swept a pass out to Andy Cornmell on the left wing then raced in to meet a pinpoint cross at the far post to put Inglewood into the lead. Things flowed from end to end with the visitors looking the more likely to score, and after a couple of near misses Elton Holmes got clear down the right to cut the ball back for Cornmell who doubled his sides advantage. The Knights came back and were allowed to take a free kick well in advance of where the offence occurred, Paul McVittie reducing the arrears before the sides went into the break. Nine minutes into the second half Cornmell was adjudged to have been brought down in the area, the midfielder taking the spot kick himself to restore Inglewood’s two-goal buffer. Again the Knights fought back, this time John Nicolaou the scorer in a crowded goalmouth. Inglewood’s Michael Bushby was carried off with a serious knee injury late in the match, and as the Knights strove to take advantage and get back on level terms before Scott Campbell’s defence-splitting pass saw Holmes coolly round Tommi Tomich and wrap-up the three points on offer.

Cockburn City lost 3-0 E.C.U. Joondalup in their Round Ten clash at Dalmatinac Park. Inept springs to mind if pushed to describe the performance of Cockburn’s midfield who, when not pumping high balls to the visitors’ tall defenders, got in each others way or defended so deep got under foot of their own backline. Neither side could string together their passes over the opening quarter hour but when Joondalup finally did manage to do just that it resulted in the opening goal with Garin Collins at the end of the chain and finding little resistance from Jeff Cargill in the Cockburn goal. And as is their custom of late, Cockburn’s midfield trio of Shane McNally, Joshua Pescud and Dean Wallace all received cautions from the referee before Joondalup doubled the lead through Collins before the interval. Jeff Bright caught the midfield malaise and was yellow carded for a loose tackle, but the home side created a string of good chances in the second half. The first came the way of Branimir Mikulic who was slow to pull the trigger and the opportunity was lost. Striker Christian Paschkewitz had a stinging shot blocked, Mikulic hit the crossbar after 70 minutes and visiting goalkeeper Peter Stewart saved Bright’s effort. 22-year old Collins bagged his hat-trick, and Joondalup’s third, from the penalty spot after Dusan Macura was judged to have handled the ball inside the 18-yard box.

Swan I.C. went into their Premier League clash with Bassendean Caledonian at Jubilee Reserve with high hopes only to have them dented in a spiteful, niggling game which went to the home side 3-1. Needing maximum points in order to lift themselves out of the relegation zone, Swan start smartly with Damian Scali heading a corner over the bar. With Swan pressing forward at every opportunity, Caledonian defenders Kevin Smith and Craig Naven proved effective in protecting the home goal. Swan custodian Guy Gibson produced a great save to deny Jason Van Rooy, but midway through the half there was little Gibson could do to as Ramon Westerberger rose above the visiting defence to head home Van Rooy’s cross from the right. Minutes later Paul Strudwick and Craig Naven combined with the latter going on a magical run before splitting the defence wide open and sending Graeme Matthews through on goal, the attacker making no mistake and doubling the margin. Caledonian were slow to start the second half, Swan enjoying the better of possession and capitalising on this in the 70th minute with a Damian Scali piledriver which reduced the gap and set up a tense closing period. Five minutes later Swan saw their appeals for a penalty waved away for what appeared to be a deliberate handball inside the 18-yard box. Glenn McCormick slotted into the Caledonian line-up with Strudwick was carried off with rib damage as the home side re-discovered their rhythm. Late in the match Westerberger ended Swan’s hopes of snatching a point when he headed in to make the final score 3-1. Post-match, Caledonian coach Alan Weir sent out a warning to teams yet to make the trip to Jubilee Reserve this year. “I am really proud of the way the players are rising to the occasion and look forward to them staying focused and to our first away win at Ashfield next week. This sends out a message to all other teams that Calies home ground is a ‘cauldron’ and with seven more home games to go they can get their hopes burnt here.”

Fremantle City left Dorrien Gardens on Sunday with little to show for holding leaders Perth S.C. for much of their Premier League clash. In a match that ran hot and cold all afternoon, Fremantle’s defence stood firm against the onslaught. Perth came close to hitting the front in the 59th minute when Gareth Naven, on his Dorrien Gardens return, saw his shot saved by Robert Zabica. Sixteen minutes later Zabica was at it again, this time denying teenager Rhys Graham. With the clock ticking down and a scoreless draw looking the most likely outcome, a well-worked free-kick between Andres Oliveira and Mark Pottier saw the latter hit a low drive past Zabica to give the home team maximum points. The win moves Perth four points clear at the top of the leaderboard and with a home game - against Floreat Athena on Wednesday 10th July - in hand.

30.6.2002

RESERVES AND UNDER-18’S ROUND-UP (Ashfield vs Future Glory by ShinyChef)

Future Glory’s reserve team continues to go from strength to strength, this week defeating home side Ashfield 2-1. After 25 minutes of tight play in which Ashfield goalkeeper Johnathon Van der Voet made a string of fine saves, Stjepan Beretovac latched onto a superb pass from Linden Pywell to break the deadlock. The home side emerged stronger after the break and an error in the Future defence allowed Sam Denesh to put away an opportunist equaliser on the hour. The winner came midway through the second half after Sol Contera’s cross from the right was headed on by Sasa Kilibarda and Jarrad Smith ghosted in at the back post to finish the move.

Floreat Athena got off to a good start when Mathew Novatsis opened the scoring against Sorrento. The Seagulls quick response was surprisingly ruled out for off side when all looked okay. Twelve minutes into the second half, Craig Wells seized an opportunity to show his dribbling skills when he skipped through the entire home backline then had presence of mind to angle his shot past goalkeeper Vas Vujacic. Then, with 69 minutes elapsed, Wells teed-up Sorrento’s winner as he sped down the right to arrow his cross to Jake Harman who headed truly.

Ian Griffiths bagged a hat-trick and Luke Croxall scored his first of the season as Bassendean Caledonian came from two goals down to defeat Swan I.C. 4-2. Rhys Britton bagged a double for the visiting side. Cockburn City defeated E.C.U. Joondalup 3-2, Roberto Colalillo netting twice and Paul Wright once for Cockburn while John Greenwood and Adam Bachiller found the net for the away team. A Paul Lincoln double couldn’t prevent Inglewood United from going down 3-2 at the hands of Western Knights for whom Ciaran Allen (2) and Daisaky Suematsu scored. And in Sunday’s game Albert Osei-(2) Tutu and Jason Colli scored the goals which enabled Perth S.C. to knock off Fremantle City 3-2.

In a competitive match, the Under-18 teams from Ashfield and Future created some good scoring opportunities as their match swung from one end of the ground to the other. Future took the lead minutes before half-time when a well-worked free-kick from 25-metres involving Alex Crookes and Marlon Ramires resulted in Michael Park shooting low, the Ashfield goalkeeper misjudging the shot and the ball rolled between his legs and over the line. Both sides created chances after the interval but poor finishing let both teams down. Future ‘keeper Alex Vrteski and sweeper David Whiteside capped off what was a workman-like Future win that seals them fourth place on the table.

Sorrento battled hard after going behind to Athena after only six minutes when Christopher Gakas found the target at Litis Stadium. But the Seagulls stuck to their guns and were rewarded by a Brain Hedges strike after 32 minutes. While the scoreboard didn’t alter for the remainder of the match, Athena did have a very confident penalty appeal turned away in the second half by referee Ivan Perkov.

Under-18 competition leaders Joondalup were held to a one-all draw by Cockburn at Dalmatinac Park, Daryl Platten (Joondalup) and Omar Lemzouri (Cockburn) the scorers. Inglewood won for just the third time this season, 2-1 over the Knights thanks to goals from Shaun Box and Jarrad Parks, Blazen Zoric the scorer for the home side. Bassendean slumped to their tenth consecutive defeat when they went down 2-0 to Swan at Jubilee Reserve. On the mark for the visitors were Hayden Darcy and Damian Coniglio, while the home side gave a debut to 13-year old Christy McGrath. At Dorrien Gardens on Sunday, Perth whittled Joondalup’s lead down to one point after Zaltid Babac’s goal proved the difference against third-placed Fremantle.

29.6.2002

FIRST DIVISION WRAP (Armadale vs Leeming Strikers courtesy of www.leemingstrikers.com)

Stirling Lions turned in stellar first half performance against Bayswater City to run out 4-2 winners at Frank Drago Reserve in their First Division clash on Saturday. Bobbi Klenkoski scored his first hat-trick of the 2002 season as the Lions jumped Bayswater in the 2nd minute of play with the striker providing an awesome finish from Keegan Ashley’s corner. The visiting team then continually opened up a young home defence with Klenkoski, Rob Milevski and Toby Wright proving to be a constant headache, Klenkoski finishing an excellent 12th minute move in make it 2-0. Ten minutes later Leo Harman received a reverse pass from Toby Wright to calmly slot the ball home and extend the margin, and Klenkoski finished another fine move to blow the gap out to four goals after 35 minutes. Bayswater were lucky not to go further behind as Klenkoski and Toby Wright missed a few simple chances. After the break the home side came out as a new team and with the introduction of the experienced Gerry McEwan and striker Dario Pelliciotti clawed their way back into the match. The visitors responded by bringing on talented 16-year old Michael Filippou, however it was Bayswater that found the net through substitute Pelliciotti who caught the opposing backline napping in the hour. Taking the match up to the League leaders, Bayswater continued to push forward which had the effect of opening the game up. But both teams were guilty of missing some golden opportunities, most notably Klenkoski who headed high from close-range. After 84th minutes Pelliciotti reduced the deficit when he provided a world-class finish with a superb volley from 27-metres to make the final score 4-2. In the reserves, early goals from Pasquale Marrapodi and Kristian Ottolin saw Bayswater lead until close to the end when the Lions fought back to win 5-2. An entertaining Under-18 match ended in a 1-1 draw, Tony Casellea scoring for Bayswater who collected their first point from nine games.

Leeming Strikers blew a two-goal lead against promotion-chasing Armadale to draw for the first time this season at Alfred Skeet Reserve. Second-placed Armadale got the ball rolling after just 7 minutes when Jason Goodwin scored with the home side in disarray. Strikers goalkeeper Mark Wiseman was forced into action on a couple of occasions before the visitors equalised through Sean Cowman in the 18th minute. The goal sparked the Strikers into action and Martin Donoghue fired over, then Ryan Hunt’s shot was just off-target. But they eventually got the reward when Jonathan Cook flicked on a long ball and Hunt crossed for Kelvin Herbert to finish off a good attacking move. There was more before the break when Cook turned in the box before Hunt lashed in from close-range and make it 3-0 at half-time. Armadale started the second half as they had the first and piled on the pressure. Reds substitute Mark Craft earned his side a dubious penalty in the 82nd minute when he collided with Wiseman in the box, the goalkeeper getting a hand to Dennis Lee’s spot-kick but unable to keep the ball out. Hunt was unfortunate not to score after darting away down the right but his shot was parried by goalkeeper Craig Olejnik. An entertaining battle was ended in the final seconds of stoppage time when Lawrence Bruce’s shot hit a post and trickled over the line to earn the home team a 3-3 draw. The reserves ended 2-1 in favour of the Strikers, despite new-signing Ian Knight giving Armadale the lead after 65 minutes. The home side levelled the score after 75 minutes from the penalty spot, and shortly after went ahead. The high-flying Armadale Under-18 side continued their good recent with goals from Oliver Crockford (2), Steve Flynn (2) and Peter Taylor in achieving a 5-1 win.

Mandurah City’s home match against Kingsway Olympic ended in controversial fashion after the referee called a halt to proceedings with over 10 minutes left on the clock. The referee stopped the match after his assistant had been constantly threatened by members of the Olympic bench, the assistant referee saying that the taunts were far more than the ‘usual banter’ that normally takes place. Prior to that the crowd at Peelwood Parade Reserve were treated to what was Mandurah’s best performance this season. Pacey strike partners Andrew Rennie and Michael Bobridge totally exploited the slow visiting defence to create chance after chance, Rennie finishing the afternoon with a hat-trick, Bobridge scored two of his own and Danny Moore chimed in with a brilliant 25-metre volley. Olympic tried hard to get back in the home defence but again a lack of pace proved the difference, their only goal being a spectacular long-range effort that gave goalkeeper Mike Green absolutely no chance. Mandurah coach Paul O’Brien was disappointed that the game was abandoned as he felt that there was a real opportunity for his side to extend their goal difference. Soccer West Coast have decreed that the 6-1 will stand and an investigation carried out in the premature end to the match. Mandurah’s reserves continued their good form with a solid 4-2 win through goals by Steve Choate, Steve Rhodes, Matt Ferguson and Carlos Almieda. The Mandurah Under-18 team also continued on their winning ways to eventually overcome a tenacious Olympic 4-3, Jake Loreto (2), Alex Agnew and Jack Kearns the scorers.

In other matches, at Rockingham City defeated high-flying Queens Park through goals by Shane Nunes and Peter Kuzet. Rydeen Botha was in sensational form as he bagged a hat-trick in Stirling Suns 3-2 win over Perth City for whom brothers John and Scott Wyeth found the net. Brian Cairney, Gary Jamieson and Chris Kemp were on target as Southside United took full points form their clash with South West Phoenix, Chris Normanton and Adam Cole the scorers for Phoenix. A Sota Iwasaki double saw bottom side Wanneroo City defeat Balcatta 2-0, while Dianella White Eagles enjoyed a 3-1 home win over Canning City. Morley Windmills this week had the bye.

28.6.2002

WEEKEND IN PREVIEW

The Premier League field is fast closing on early leaders Perth S.C. and Western Knights. Future Glory, who defeated the Knights last weekend to move into third place, are expected to come away with full points from their meeting with bottom of the table Ashfield. With just four points separating fourth and ninth, Floreat Athena are home to Sorrento, and Cockburn City host E.C.U. Joondalup, and Bassendean Caledonian come up against Swan I.C. side at Jubilee Reserve. Having conceded just one goal at home so far this season, Western Knights are tipped to collect full points from their clash with an Inglewood United side who’ve lost twice in as many weeks. And on Sunday at Dorrien Gardens, it’s Perth S.C. verses Fremantle City.

The match of Round Twelve of the First Division season takes place at Frank Drago Reserve when Bayswater City, undefeated at home in 2002, take on high-scoring League leaders Stirling Lions. Armadale host Leeming Strikers in another tantalising fixture, Queens Park are on the road to Rockingham City, while Mandurah City are expected to take full points from their home clash with Kingsway Olympic. Canning City’s youngsters are favoured against an inconsistent Dianella White Eagles side, while Perth City meet Stirling Suns. Towards the foot of the table, Southside United met South West Phoenix at Walter Padbury Reserve, and Wanneroo City have the home ground advantage against Balcatta. Morley Windmills have the bye.

28.6.2002

BORAL CUP SEMI'S DRAWN

The semi-final draw for the Boral Cup took place last night on Access 31's "Soccer W.A." segment. With all games in the round of four set down for Monday 30th September, Inglewood United have home ground advantage over the youngsters from Future Glory, while in the northern suburbs E.C.U. Joondalup host either Perth S.C. or Sorrento. The delayed quarter-final clash between Perth and Sorrento has been confirmed as taking place at Dorrien Gardens on Wednesday 17th July.

In the reserves Cup, Inglewood United is at home against Mandurah City with Fremantle City taking on either Perth or Sorrento in Joondalup. The Under-18 competition pits Canning City with Floreat Athena (at National Stadium) and Fremantle City face either Perth or Sorrento (Edith Cowan University, Joondalup).

28.6.2002

KNEE RECONSTRUCTION FOR ATHENA’S MILLER

Floreat Athena will be without the on-field services of reliable defender Hugh Miller for the remainder of the year, and most likely the early part of next season, after recent scans revealed the seriousness of a knee injury. “I found out after an M.R.I. scan last week that I have ruptured my anterior cruciate ligament, torn my medial and will require a knee reconstruction. So I will be out of action for the best part of a year,” Miller said this week. But while Miller’s loss will be greatly felt by his teammates, he won’t be lost entirely to the club with hopes to remain on in a support role of some form. And the Athena captain has wasted no time in planning his recovery either, “I’ve been in touch with Danny Stoitis from Sorrento and we have decided to start training together and will also do rehab together once we have both had surgery.”

27.6.2002

BECKHAM TO HELP STATE WOMEN’S PLAYERS

Queens Park Thunder are holding a fundraising screening of the new release movie “Bent It Like Beckham” to help their players that have been chosen to represent the State women’s teams over the next month. The event is being held at Hoyts Southlands (Burrendah Boulevarde, Willeton) on Wednesday 3rd July from 6.30pm and, with tickets expected to sell fast, those interested in attending are advised to contact Lynda Woodfin on 9459 8489 to book in advance. Queens Park have seven players in the senior State squad which heads to Malaysia next month for the Australasian Championship, as well as a host of players in the Schoolgirls and Junior State teams who will be in action both locally and interstate throughout July.

“Bend It Like Beckham” is comedy which explores the world of women’s football, from kickabouts in the local park to free-kicks in the season decider. Set in London and Hamburg, the film follows two 18-year olds who have their hearts set on a future in professional soccer. But all the talent in the world isn’t necessarily enough when your parents want you to hang up your football boots, find a nice boyfriend and learn to cook the perfect chapatti! The film, winner of the Best European Film and the Most Popular Film at the 2002 Sydney Film Festival, opened across Britain last month and grossed £2 million - that’s close to AU$5.5 - in it’s first week.

In other club news, Thunder are riding high in the women’s Premier League after a successful fortnight. “Our Premier League side beat Floreat recently, which is something were really proud of as they have been the top team in the Premier League for some time,” said manager Lynda Woodfin. “The first team are currently in second or third place on the table, while the Thunder B side is in second place in the First Division.” Last weekend the first team thrashed to Murdoch Lightning 6-1, while the B team were held to a 2-2 draw at Mundaring. This Sunday both Queens Park sides are at home, Thunder A up against Subiaco United (kick-off 3.00pm) with the B team taking on Mundaring (1.00pm) at Coker Park. Next Sunday (7th July) in the quarter-final stage of the Anna Senjuschenko Memorial Cup Thunder A face Lynwood B at Britannia Road Reserve from 2.30pm

27.6.2002

BLADES TRIALS FOR MURPHY

Sorrento defender Kevin Murphy is set to join older brother Shaun at Sheffield United after accepting an invitation to trials with the English First Division club later in the year. Having first played for Sorrento at the age of six, Kevin has risen up through the clubs ranks to establish himself as a first team regular over recent seasons and was earlier this year appointment club captain. The 21-year old will break off playing with the reigning Premier League champions early in August to travel to England for a trial period. With 20 appearances at senior international level for Australia to his credit, Shaun will shortly commence his fourth season at Bramall Lane after agreeing to a one-year contract extension with the Blades.

26.6.2002

NEW GLORY DEAL FOR GARCIA

Former Australian youth international Michael Garcia has agreed terms on a new one-year deal with Perth Glory. The 24-year old midfielder made 18 appearances in the National Soccer League last season after a sensational 2001 winter in the local competition with Sorrento. Garcia started out as a junior with Perth Italia (as they were then known) and played senior football with Kingsway Olympic before spending two seasons with Canberra Cosmos. A year with Glory was followed by spells with Inglewood United, Marine Castle United in Singapore, E.C.U. Joondalup and Sorrento before he re-joined Glory.

25.6.2002

CACERAS AIMS FOR ENGLISH RETURN

Former Perth S.C. player Adrian Caceras is back in Perth on holiday and training with his former club. Perth are believed to have expressed an interest in re-signing the 20-year old striker, but Caceras is said to be keen on returning to England and kick-starting his career. Argentine-born Caceras burst on to the local scene with a dazzling debut season at senior level for Perth before being signed by English Premier League side Southampton in August 2000. While he was unsuccessful in breaking into the Saints first team, Caceras made four appearances for Brentford while on loan at the start of the 2001/02 campaign, and played five times for Hull City towards the end of the recent season while on a short-term contract.

25.6.2002

“WE’VE PROVED THEM WRONG” SAYS QUEENS PARK PRESIDENT

First Division club Queens Park may have lost a wealth of experienced players over the past few months but, with the first team sitting comfortably in third place, club president Dave Woodfin isn’t that concerned by the departures. “A lot of people thought we’d drop down the ladder but we’ve proved them wrong,” Woodfin said this week. “We’re doing better than a lot of people expected and, with a few games to go, we’re looking good to finish the season in the top eight.”

“I think we would have won the League with the squad we started the season with, but those plans will now go on hold for a couple of years while we re-build,” Woodfin added. “We’re very pleased with our performances at all three levels this year. At the moment the League side are the second highest scoring team and sit in third place, the reserves are sixth and I think the Under-18 team are somewhere mid-table. Overall, things are going well for us and with the players here at the moment everything is pointing towards a very bright future for the Queens Park club.”

Coached by Mike Brazil, a U.E.F.A. qualified coach and brother of former Scotland international Alan Brazil, Queens Park boast one of the youngest squads in the State League with an average age of around 20 years and 6 months. In the past month the club have proved their detractors wrong and held their place in the top half of the ladder. There have been good wins over Perth City and Wanneroo City, while last weekend’s one-all home draw with second-placed Armadale shows the quality and character of the youngsters coming up through the club’s ranks.

25.6.2002

COCKBURN “GETTING THERE” SAYS COACH (reproduced with permission from the West Coast Bugle)

Cockburn City coach Mark Jackson is delighted with his club’s recent hot form - successive wins over Western Knights and Inglewood United - but admits it’s not been easy in his first year as coach. “It’s like a league of nations there with so many boys from different backgrounds - and so many personality clashes, but we’re getting there,” said the Cockburn coach. Jackson hopes to have Peter Petkovic back in the line-up shortly after he recently returned from holidaying in Europe as well as a stop-off at the World Cup on the way home. Talented midfielder Paul Cook could also be back in the running for a spot soon after shaking off groin and achilles problems.

25.6.2002

14-YEAR OLD FITZPATRICK A STAR AT KINGSWAY (reproduced with permission from the West Coast Bugle)

Kingsway Olympic claim to have one of the youngest teams in the First Division - and certainly the youngest player in 14-year-old Shane Fitzpatrick, who has been playing in the centre of the first team’s defence. The youngster, who stands at over six feet, joined the northern suburbs club this year with the hope of playing in the Under-18’s, but quickly made a huge impression on coach Gordon McCulloch who recruited him for the first team. Olympic has developed some exciting youngsters in recent years, including Stan Lazaridis (Birmingham City) and Richard Garcia (West Ham United). The pair, both currently on holiday in Perth, could be clashing in the English Premier League this coming season.

24.6.2002

GARETH NAVEN BACK WITH PERTH

One-time State representative Gareth Naven has returned to where it all started by re-signing with Perth S.C., the club he helped lift numerous local trophies during the early 1990’s. “I am very pleased … Perth is a good club with good people,” said Naven, who turned out for the Blues against Sorrento on Saturday. Under the terms of Naven’s contract he can leave Perth at short notice should he receive an offer to resume his career either interstate or overseas. Singapore club Marine Castle United, coach by former Sorrento boss Trevor Morgan, are understood to be interested in signing Naven for next season. The 33-year old was recently released by National Soccer League club Perth Glory who he captained for six seasons.

24.6.2002

TOMICH READY TO MAKE N.S.L. MARK (reproduced with permission from www.tribalfootball.com)

Young Western Knights goalkeeper Tommi Tomich (right) is ready to jump back into the National Soccer League. The former Perth Glory number two has enjoyed an outstanding season to date with Premier League club and is now rated by most judges as the best keeper outside the national competition. Already a number of N.S.L. clubs have had scouts looking at Tomich over the last few games. Tomich served a two-year apprenticeship with Glory but never had a senior opportunity due to the fantastic performances of Socceroo ‘keeper Jason Petkovic. After leaving Glory, the 22 year-old Tomich has gained valuable senior football experience with the Knights. Tomich is a massive 194cm and incredibly fast, clocking just on seven seconds for 60-metres.

23.6.2002

AMATEURS ROUND-UP

The University of W.A. became the first team to defeat Hamersley Rovers this season when they triumphed 4-2 at McGillivray Oval in Sunday’s W.A.A.S.S.A. Premier League showdown. Teemu Sihvola who took advantage of a defensive error in the 3rd minute to open the scoring amid appeals from the Hamersley players that the ball had not crossed the line. Three minutes later University extended the margin as Adam Brett fed a pass to Sihvola who turned sharply to hit the ball into the far corner and make it 2-0. Robert Benkovic and Chris Shelburne came close to making adding their side third before Hamersley won a penalty which was converted by Neil Birkinshaw. Sihvola completed his hat-trick with a well-placed header on the hour mark, but four minutes later a Peter O’Connell free-kick skimmed the head of a defender and flew past goalkeeper Shayan Young to reduce the deficit. The visiting side saw their best efforts repelled by the University defence before Sihvola slipped away down the right to deliver an inch-perfect pass for Christian Tribbe who crashed the ball home from close range to make it 4-2. “This clearly was one of the best U.W.A. performances ever seen at McGillivary,” said coach Kevin Burton post-match. “The effort and commitment shown by the entire team against a very competitive Hamersley side was simply a pleasure to be a part of. Everyone at the club is absolutely elated to have achieved such a significant victory because Hamersley were unbeaten for 17-odd games. Excitement aside, our challenge is now to take this performance on and realise our potential for the rest of the season.” University reserves went down 2-0 after Gary Birkinshaw and Daniel Scudder found the target for Hamersley.

Balga slumped to their second defeat in as many weeks after playing with ten men for almost the entire match against Shamrock Rovers. With only seconds elapsed, Balga goalkeeper Ronny Longkeek brought down an opposing forward as he raced into the area and was somewhat harshly shown a red carded by the referee before the resulting penalty was converted. It was hardly surprising then that Shamrock would go on to dominate the early exchanges and before too long had doubled their lead. A superb individual goal soon made it 3-0 to the home side as a very long afternoon loomed for Balga. The visitors kicked into life midway through the half, Scott Wilson coming close to pegging a goal back with a blistering shot from long-range which hit the crossbar. The second half saw Balga force the pace, winning several corners with their best chance falling to Anthony Banham whose shot was cleared off the line. Shamrock were reduced to ten men with 15 minutes remaining as the match threatened to boil over, but both sides kept their calm as the home side recorded a 3-0 win to move into fifth place on the table.

In other Premier League games, Forrestfield United made up ground on Hamersley by thumping four past Perth Azzurri without reply, narrowing the gap between first and second to four points. University moved into third after Spearwood Dalmatinac were held to a 2-2 draw by local rivals Kwinana United. E.C.U. Joondalup came out 4-3 winners away to Murdoch University, while Subiaco United lost 3-1 at home to Fremantle United. Hamersley teammates Neil Birkinshaw and Flavio L’Abbatte are joint leading scorers after Round Ten with ten goals apiece, more than half their teams overall total. Spearwood’s Damien Pescud is second with 7 goals, with Matthew Alcock (Forrestfield) and Steve McCabe (Joondalup) a further goal off the pace.

CN Canning International have gone to the top of the First Division table after defeating previous leaders North Perth United 2-1 at home on Sunday. Belmont Villa missed out on moving up the table after being defeated 3-0 away at W.A. Maccabi, while North Beach stay within striking distance of the leaders after accounting for Cockburn City 4-0. Morley Windmills and Geraldton La Fiamma ended in a 2-2 draw, and Colo Colo proved too strong for Carlisle 5-2. The result of the Cloverdale Chindits-Suburbs United match is currently unknown. North Perth’s Jeremy Fontanille leads the way with 18 goals so far this season, five more than Luke Myburg of Suburbs United. Fontanille’s strike partner Jeffery Drury is third with 11 goals, followed closely by Tino Bruzzse (Maccabi) and Jaime Jorquera (Colo Colo) who have each found the net 10 times.

23.6.2002

PREMIER LEAGUE, ROUND EIGHT (Sorrento vs Perth S.C. by Kerry Slater; Swan I.C. vs Ashfield by Mike Hennessey; Fremantle City vs Bassendean Caledonian by Christian Galapolous)

Inglewood United and Cockburn City went into Saturday's Premier League clash at the National Stadium after contrasting fortunes last weekend. The home side was desperate to erase the memory of a disappointing away loss to local rivals Floreat Athena, while for Cockburn the aim was to record back-to-back victories after a convincing 4-1 win over high-flying Western Knights. With both sides missing key players through injury or suspension, the match got off to a scrappy start in which neither was able to do much with the ball. Cockburn settled the quicker and enjoyed the better of possession but, other than a 7th minute shot by Branimir Mikulic which was smothered by goalkeeper Oliver Taseski, there was little for the small crowd to get excited about.

Cockburn lost experienced defender Peter Vukmirovic to a thigh injury after 16 minutes, and three minutes later a clever exchange between Mikulic and Bryn Griffiths exposed some defensive frailties as the formers thunderbolt from 17-metres whizzed narrowly wide of the target. With Cockburn by this stage well in control of the proceedings, Joshua Pescud then combined with Mikulic who unleashed a fierce shot that was knocked around the up-right by Taseski. Inglewood won their first corner after 25 minutes, and s60-seconds later an Alan MacKenzie free-kick to the back post saw Elton Holmes volley wide. The home side were beginning to find their rhythm and another free-kick into the area, this time from Andy Cornmell, was nodded back across the face of goal by Holmes in the direction of Michael Bushby only for Dusan Macura to intercept and clear. In the 38th minute it was Mikulic that again caused the home defence problems, out-pacing Michael Di Fulvio down the left but his low shot from a narrow angle was tipped wide by Taseski.

With the match seemingly destined to remain scoreless going into the break, the match coughed up two goals as the result of some sloppy defending in the space of three minutes. A MacKenzie cross from the left after 42 minutes caught the Cockburn backline flat-footed and Holmes popped up between Macura and Boza Erakovic to roll the ball past Jeff Cargill from 6-metres. But the visitors responded near immediately. A dreadful defensive error allowed the ever-alert Mikulic to waltz into the 18-yard box, round the 'keeper and knock the ball into the exposed goal for the equaliser. It was an amazing end to a largely uninspiring half which was, for the better part, played out in the middle third of the pitch.

Four minutes into the new half Mikulic bagged his second goal of the afternoon after a darting run which took him past Djukan Tesic and Jamie Goodman before the striker calmly placed his shot over the advancing Taseski, the ball crossing the line despite Rory Mouttet's desperate attempt to clear. The goal had the effect of breathing new life into the match, the next 20 minutes seeing good opportunities created at both ends in a see-sawing battle. In the 55th minute Cargill knocked wide a close range shot from MacKenzie, and from the resulting corner Mouttet's glancing header ended just wide of the up-right. Dean Wallace's blistering drive from 20-metres produced a brilliant flying save from Taseski to tip the shot over the bar. Christian Paschewitz teamed up with Mikulic on the hour to provide Pescud with a simple tap-in that was ruled out for off-side. And shortly after MacKenzie found the net after Cargill parried a Cornmell shot, but it too was disallowed by the referee.

The visiting side upped the pace over the final 20 minutes in their search for a third goal, which arrived after 72 minutes. Mikulic displayed some fancy footwork to throw off Paul Baczynski but his shot crashed into the base of the post and ricocheted across the face of goal where, under pressure from Paschewitz, Di Fulvio had the misfortune of turning the ball into his own net (referee Jeremy Oliphant actually credited the goal to Paschewitz). Not content with a two-goal buffer, Cockburn continue to ply pressure to the Inglewood defence. Taseski produced another top-draw save to deny Mikulic his hat-trick shortly after, and with ten minutes to go Wallace nodded wide a dangerous in-swinging Pescud free-kick. With things slipping from their grip, the home side mounted a late charge, Scott Campbell's low shot was blocked on the line by a defender but Michael Baczynski made no mistake with the rebound to reduce the deficit in the 86th minute. Sensing a point was within reach, Inglewood threw everything into finding a late equaliser only to be thwarted by some desperate Cockburn defending as close-range efforts by Di Fulvio and MacKenzie were cleared off the line.

In a match that saw moments of great promise but never really reached any great heights as a spectacle, Cockburn deservedly went home with all three points and avenged April's Boral Cup loss to Inglewood. The match was won and lost across the centre of the park where Griffiths, Jeff Bright and Pescud stifled Inglewood's normally creative midfield, while Mikulic and Macura were dominate at opposite ends of the ground. For much of the 90 minutes Inglewood had great difficulty in penetrating the opposing backline. 35-year old midfielder MacKenzie worked tirelessly for the duration, while between the posts Taseski kept the his side in the hunt with a number of very important saves.

Inglewood United : Oliver Taseski, Jamie Goodman, Michael Di Fulvio, Djukan Tesic (Michael Baczynski 64), Rory Mouttet, Andy Cornmell, Michael Bushby (Paul Baczynski 64), Daniel Harrop, Scott Campbell, Alan MacKenzie, Elton Holmes
Cockburn City : Jeff Cargill, Dusan Macura, Steve Adam, Peter Vukmirovic (Boza Erakovic 16), Bryn Griffiths, Jeff Bright, Devid Vitale, Dean Wallace, Joshua Pescud, Christian Paschewitz, Branimir Mikulic (Paul Wright 90)
Referee : Jeremy Oliphant
Cautions : Pescud (56), Holmes (61), Wallace (69), Cornmell (83)
Dismissals : None
Attendance : 200 (approx.)

Sorrento dug their way out of a three-goal grave by powering back in the final 22 minutes of their home fixture against Perth S.C. League leaders Perth got off to a prefect opening when Sorrento failed to clear a shot by Robert Gaspar who was able to shoot home the rebound after only 3 minutes. Sorrento struggled to get over the early setback and were not helped when Ryan Jeans fired high after 8 minutes, and then two minutes later David Foster's header came back off the crossbar. Perth was gifted a second goal on 36 minutes, Gaspar's corner from the right taking a slight deflection off the leg of Steve MacDonald before rolling across the line at the near post. A minute before half-time Gaspar turned provider when he got behind the home defence to pull the ball back into the danger area where Andreas Oliveira stabbed home from 3-metres in the confusion. The half-time address by coach Steve Neville didn't seem to have any immediate effect on the Sorrento players, but that changed on 68 minutes when Michael Ord's free-kick saw MacDonald rise highest to head the ball in off the far post. Six minutes later the visitors could have put the match beyond their opponents but Albert Osei-Tutu smashed his shot against the cross bar from 8-metres. The Seagulls found a second in the 78th minute when Ord beat all to a Tony Cumace corner and powered the ball into the roof of the net. And within a minute Sorrento were level. A poorly cleared Cumace came to Jeans who swung the ball back into the area where MacDonald's downward header bounced over the line to leave the visiting team stunned. Sorrento had their chances to take maximum points over the closing stages, Crampton smacking his shot into Robert Scarparolo when he had only the 'keeper to beat, then Scarparolo's quick reflexes battered away a Foster bullet from a tight angle to save the day for Perth.

Fresh from a confidence-boosting win over Inglewood United last weekend, Floreat Athena came out firing against E.C.U. Joondalup when those sides met in the northern suburbs on Saturday. Controlling play through hard working midfielders Jamie Trandos, Peter Coci and Costa Socratous, Athena went in to the break two goals up after striker Robin Dyers twice found the net. The home side were reduced to ten men late in the first half after Scott Bulloch received his second yellow card of the afternoon. Vas Vujacic replaced regular Athena custodian John Xigas at the break and found himself under pressure early in the second half as Joondalup searched desperately for a way back into the game, but when Dyers completed his hat-trick the match was over as a contest. Athena caught their opponents short at the back as the match came to a close and could have added to their score if luck was on the side of Ryan Newhill who is going through a lean patch. In what was a true team effort, Dyers was the hero for the visitors while Joondalup defender Richard Watson showed his class while operating under what was at time red-hot pressure.

Swan I.C. defeated Ashfield 3-1 as Damian Scali's three-goal haul lifted his side four points clear of Ashfield who remain rooted at the foot of the Premier League table. With five first team players absent for a variety of reasons, Swan looked to their youth ranks which resulted in teenage midfielder Rob Shepheard turning in a sparkling performance in the left flank. The home side opened the scoring in the 13th minute when a smart exchange enabled Damian Scali to slot home. Swan continued to have the better of possession but were unable to add further to their score until the 33rd minute when Damian Scali again popped up in front of goal to score his and his side's second. Five minutes before half-time Swan added their third when Rob Shepheard's perfectly flighted corner was headed home by Damian Scali to complete a memorable hat-trick. Ashfield came out for the new half a much different proposition and had Swan on the defensive for much of the second period, but it wasn't until five minutes from the end when, in a goalmouth scramble, substitute Martin Kelly reduced the arrears. Post-match, Ashfield coach Tom Kilkelly said the match should have been all over by half-time - in his club's favour. "We missed five sitters and handed them three goals from defensive errors."

Fremantle City temporarily moved into fourth spot after their 2-1 win over Bassendean Caledonian at Ken Allen Field. The home side were awarded a soft penalty in the 19th minute after David Rodgers was judged to have been fouled in side the box, Dale Wingell stepping up to drive the ball inside goalkeeper Alan Dunlop's right post. With a one-goal buffer, Fremantle controlled play but their attacking players were unable to convert that dominance on the scoreboard. Joe Liguan looked set to double the margin before an alert Dunlop raced off his line to save at the attacker's feet. Caledonian midfielder Dean Gartside missed a chance to equalise late in the half when his attempted chip sailed over Fremantle goalkeeper Rob Zabica's crossbar. Gartside's effort was one of few times the visitors managed to penetrate Fremantle's watertight defence that was led by the experienced duo of Craig Surtees and Alex Cummings. Ten minutes into the new half and Caledonian had a penalty appeal turned down after Jason Van Rooy was brought down. Shortly after Rodgers won Fremantle their second penalty of the afternoon, Dale Wingell this time hitting his spot-kick to Dunlop's left. Not wanting their undefeated run to end Caledonian went in search of a goal and would have got one goal back had it not been for Surtees' superb clearance in the 80th minute. Paul Strudwick sent a free-kick narrowly wide of the up-right, and late in the game striker Ramon Westerberger finally got Caledonian in the board, finishing a brilliant solo run by coolly slotting the ball past a diving Zabica. But the goal came to late for the visitors for whom Westerberger and Jimmy Merkouris stood out, while For Fremantle it was Surtees, Alex Cummings and Daniel Trim who lead the way.

Western Knights blew their opportunity to go back to the top of the Premier League table on Sunday when they crashed to a youthful Future Glory line-up 3-2 at Nash Field. With all Perth Glory players unavailable, Future promoted goalkeeper Jordan Conti and midfielder Damir Kuduzovic to the starting line-up with Under-17 teammates Stjepan Beretovac and Ashley Otte on the bench. In a first half totally dominated by the home side, it was 17-year old Conti that stood in the Knights way with a string of magnificent saves to keep the scores level at the interval. Four minutes after the re-start State Under-19 midfielder Miki Vujacic drilled home a wicked low shot to open the scoring with Future's first threatening attack of the game, and five minutes later shot truly from 15-metres to double the margin. Conti enhanced his reputation on the hour when he kept out a Eugene Singeorzan penalty kick. The Knights pegged a goal back two minutes later through John Nicolaou, and were back on level terms with 19 minutes remaining when a glorious drive saw Singeorzan make it. With the match heading for a draw, some sloppy marking at the back by the Knights allowed Vujacic's cross to be headed in by substitute Beretovac for an 85th minute winner as Future move to within two points of League leaders Perth.

23.6.2002

RESERVES AND UNDER-18'S ROUND-UP (Sorrento vs Perth S.C by Kerry Slater; Western Knights vs Future Glory by ShinyChef)

Sorrento and Perth S.C. contested a lively, but scoreless first half in their reserves clash at Percy Doyle Reserve. While the second period didn't match the first for excitement, Perth took the lead through Nick Zumaran. Sparked into life, Sorrento levelled via Farrell Hedges and with three minutes remaining Craig Wells advanced on goal, side-stepped a defender placed his left-foot shot into the bottom right corner of Gianni Papalia's net. The win moves Sorrento into third place on the League table.

Inglewood United's 3-1 home win over Cockburn City enabled them to go top of the reserves table, Louis Parkinson, Stefan Soleski and Daniel Giorgi the scorers with Fabio Fusari netting Cockburn's lone goal. Three points behind the leaders are E.C.U. Joondalup for whom Daniel De Fazio (2), John Greenwood, Jimmy Taneski and Carmello Genovese scored in the 5-2 defeated of Floreat Athena 5-2. Eugene Tan and Alex Novatsis hit the target for Athena. Goals by Johnny Ferreira and Michael Vaz enabled Fremantle City down Bassendean Caledonian 2-1 and hold onto fourth place. In an evenly-contested fixture, Swan I.C. and Ashfield shared the points when their match ended one-all.

A well-placed header by Adam Quinn gave the visiting Ashfield Under-18 side an early lead over Swan. With Ashfield's midfield in control of play, Dinko Ahmetanovic found the net twice to give his side a thee-goal buffer going into half-time. There was more of the same after the break, Dion Florias teeing-up Ahmetanovic for his hat-trick and a superb pass from Benny Matei saw the in-form Ashfield striker bag his fourth goal of the afternoon, and his sixteenth of the season. Ashfield continued to press forward, Quinn completing his hat-trick with the visitors running out victors 7-0.

Future's youngsters turned in another excellent passing display to which the Knights had no answers as they ran out 7-1 victors at Nash Field. Hat-tricks by Michael Park and Wesley Ryder were the highlights of a fine attacking performance that was capped off by another well-taken penalty by Future goalkeeper Alex Vrteski. The win takes Future to fourth spot on the table in what is turning out to be a very distinguished debut season in the competition for the side which consists of players under the age of 16.

David Michevski gave Perth the lead midway through the second half of their clash with Sorrento, and when Simon Trinca converted from the penalty spot short after the match was effectively over. The match ended on a low when Perth's Craig Simpson was taken off to hospital with a broken ankle. A 3-1 win by Joondalup over Athena keeps them four-points clear at the head of the Under-18's table. Fremantle remain second after goals from Mark Sim (3), John Migas and Daniel Barlow saw them trounce Bassendean 5-0, while Inglewood and Cockburn found out a one-all draw.

22.6.2002

FIRST DIVISION WRAP (Queens Park vs Armadale by Michael Di Pietro; Balcatta vs Bayswater City by Adam Rucci; South West Phoenix vs Leeming Strikers courtesy of www.leemingstrikers.com)

Stirling Lions have increased their lead at the top of the First Division with an impressive 4-0 home win over bottom side Wanneroo City. Dominant over an opening quarter-hour in which they twice found the net but had both goals disallowed, a scorching shot from 24-metres by Toby Wright in the 17th minute gave the Lions the lead they were looking for. Wannerro were very unlucky not to get on the scoresheet with a thunder bolt of a free-kick from around 35-metres that had left the Lions 'keeper stranded, however the shot hit the crossbar and the follow-up was well off-target. The scare woke up the home side who responded by playing some attractive football that, in the space of five minutes, saw them add to their match tally twice through Leo Harman and Bobbi Klenkoski. The second half was a very dull affair for most of the spectators who decided that the Spain-Korea match was a far more appealing prospect and many moved inside the clubhouse to the watch the World Cup clash. The Lions conjured up a fourth goal after a sensational cross from new-signing was knocked in by Harmann two minutes from the end of regulation time. Both the early match went the way of the Lions, the reserves 3-1 and the Under-18's 7-0.

Armadale were away on Saturday to a 'newly' rebuilt Queens Park side which had a great deal of youth on its' side. The Reds had several chances in the opening period but it took them until the 37th minute to find the net through striker Greg Newcombe. To their credit Queens Park never gave up and their persistence was rewarded after 65 minutes with an equaliser via Jodi Henderson. Armadale once again shared the missed opportunities around and would rue not taking all three points on offer. The Reds reserves were unlucky to come away without any points after pressuring the Queens Park goal throughout the game, and a missed penalty after 15 minutes was a clear sign of things to come for the visitors. Five minutes into the second half Queens Park got the ball in the back of the net for the only goal of the game, although defender Michael O'Neill was unfortunate not to score with a late run. Armadale's Under-18 side keep marching on, this week another solid team performance all but wrapping up the match in the first half with great goals by Steve Flynn (2nd, 15th and 40th minutes), who replaced the suspended Darren Kingston in the starting line-up, and Peter Taylor (25th minute).

Mandurah City had a successful day with wins' at all three levels against Morley Windmills at Wootton Reserve. The visitors started in total control with their midfield of Mikel Sesma, Damian Condo and veteran Sean Kearns running the show to send Mandurah into attack. A vicious shot by Mick Bobridge crashed into the crossbar after 17 minutes, and nine minutes later the same player raced clear of the defence to unselfishly play the ball into the path of Andrew Rennie who made no mistake in giving Mandurah the lead. Rather continue on with the job, Mandurah eased off and allowed the home side back into the match which saw them equalise four minutes from half-time when the unmarked Ray Rose thumped the ball past goalkeeper Mike Green. A very scrappy start to the second half saw neither side able to dominate, but Mandurah re-claimed the lead after 62 minutes when Bobridge drew the 'keeper out of position before squaring to Rennie who bagged his and Mandurah's second goal of the day. Windmills could have equalised five minutes later but Ian Ballantyne's spot-kick flew wide of the target. Mandurah's reserve side won 4-2, Scott Clugston scoring his first goal since joining the club, Carlos Almeida continued his good form in scoring the second, and Steve Choate bagged a double. The visitors Under-18 team came out victors 4-0 courtesy of a Jake Loreto hat-trick and a single from Clint Brown.

Bayswater City went into their derby match with Balcatta as clear favorites having recorded victory in each of their past three outings. The match started with a bang as, in the 6th minute, Bayswater's Nick Stojanovski darted down the left before crossing to unmarked striker Sal Marrapodi who tapped the ball into the back of the net to give Bayswater the lead. Stojanovski could have extended their lead but couldn't make the most of his opportunity, and Balcatta levelled the scores after 16 minutes when a loose ball saw Marco Muccarione smash the ball home from 25-metres. The momentum then shifted in favour of Balcatta who took a deserved in the 32nd minute when a Michael Lagana header hit the bar and David Moschilla pounced to send the ball into the open net. Both sides emerged for the second half in a fiery mood and contested every ball to the fullest. In the 73rd minute a great run by Daniel Naumovski down the right saw his cross turned in by Balcatta defender David Marshall for the equaliser. The match was decided five minutes from full-time when man-of-the-match Naumovski turned inside the area to hit a first time shot which crashed into the roof of Simon Madaschi's net. The win sends Bayswater into fifth place on the table, while Balcatta were condemned to their fourth home loss this season. Balcatta's reserves came out on top 3-1, substitute Kristian Ottolini netting for Bayswater, while the Under-18 match went the way of the home side by 2-1, Tony Casella Bayswater's scorer.

It was a case of a long way for nothing for Leeming Strikers when they lost 3-2 to South West Phoenix. After a two-hour trip to Bunbury, the visiting side were left pointless after a physical encounter in which they could not match the commitment of the previously struggling home team. Phoenix hit the front after 38 minutes when Brett Norrie scrambled the ball home to send his side into the break with the advantage. Strikers started the second half well but were unable to capitalise until Stuart Indge pounced in the 72nd minute after Paul Gibson's effort was not dealt with by Phoenix goalkeeper Joe Mularczyk. But the visitors lost momentum before a lively finish which started when Phoenix's Chris Gaynor scored a spectacular goal six minutes from full-time. Sixty-seconds later the Strikers levelled through substitute David Sherington's tap-in after a Tony Hall header, but the visitors hope of a point was dashed when Steve Rogers won the match with two minutes to go.

Goal by Mick Van Dongen and Paul Daly saw Canning City win 2-0 against Perth City and leapfrog that club to move into seventh place on the First Division table. Kingsway Olympic won for just the second time this season, 3-1 over the visiting Dianella White Eagles side. John Doherty, Alan Henderson and 16-year old Mark Purcell found the net for Olympic while Dianella's one goal came from Boima Karpex. Stirling Suns claimed maximum points by defeating Southside United 3-0, Vlad Beretovac, Rydeon Botha and Gareth Banfield their scorers. Rockingham City this week had the bye.

21.6.2002

WEEKEND IN PREVIEW

With five points separating eight clubs, there are some important mid-table clashes this weekend as the Premier League season nears its halfway stage. Inglewood United host Cockburn City, E.C.U. Joondalup are home to Floreat Athena, and Bassendean Caledonian are on the road to Fremantle City with all of those sides keen on establishing themselves in the top half of the table before the second round of fixtures get underway. The bottom two - Swan I.C. and Ashfield - meet at the Swan Italian Club in a match that could go a long way to deciding who picks up the wooden spoon at seasons' end. Premier League leaders Perth S.C. have scored 19 times away from home so far this season and are hotly tipped to collect all three points from their clash at Percy Doyle reserve with Sorrento. On Sunday Western Knights entertain the youngsters of Future Glory.

New First Division leaders Stirling Lions have scored fourteen and conceded just once in their past four outings and are expected to continue that form when they play bottom side Wanneroo City at Macedonia Park on Saturday. Armadale have the tough task of taking on a Queens Park side that battered in five goals last week at Coker Park in what is shaping up to be the game of Round Twelve. Morley Windmills host Mandurah City in another potential blockbuster, while the mid-table clash between Canning City and Perth City should also keep the crowd entertained until the final whistle. Bayswater City are on the road where they face a Balcatta side who had found the net just fourteen times in eleven outings. Elsewhere, South West Phoenix host Leeming Strikers, strugglers Kingsway Olympic play Dianella White Eagles, Stirling Suns are home to Southside United, and Rockingham City have the weekend off.

21.6.2002

GOALS FLOWING FOR OLIVEIRA

It's been a high scoring start to the 2002 Premier League season with the ball hitting the back of the net a grand total of 187 time in 47 games - that's an average of almost four games a game! And leading the way is none other than Perth S.C. and State Under-19 scoring sensation Andreas Oliveira who has really hit his straps in recent weeks by bagging eleven goals in six games, a haul which includes hat-tricks against Cockburn City and Future Glory. Keeping pace with Oliveira has been difficult but last seasons' Golden Boot winner, Branimir Mikulic (Cockburn) is hot on his trail with seven goals to date.

Bobby Despotovski (Future Glory) has found the net six times in his last two appearances to share third place on the scorers tables with Western Knights' Carl Medica. Mikulic's striker partner at Cockburn, Christian Paschekwitz, has five goals to his credit, as does Perth's Mark Pottier and Inglewood United wingback Andy Cornmell. There are a host of players sitting just another goal off the pace, namely Jamie Coyne (Perth), Garin Collins (E.C.U. Joondalup), Elton Holmes (Inglewood United), David Foster, Ryan Jeans (Sorrento), Josh Kamasz (Fremantle City), Mileta Miletic, Nick Mrdja (Future), Brian Robertson (Swan I.C.) and Eugene Singeorzan (Knights).

21.6.2002

SOCCEROOS HONOURS FOR GLORY TRIO

Three of Perth Glory's star players will go into camp with the Australian national team this weekend ahead of the 2002 Oceania Nations Cup which is being held in New Zealand next month. Former Floreat Atehna striker Bobby Depotovski, one-time Cockburn City goalkeeper Jason Petkovic, and the National Soccer league's all-time leading goalscorer Damian Mori have been named in Frank Farina's national squad for the up-coming tournament.

Jeff Dennis, Chief Executive Officer with Perth Glory, said the call-ups were an honour for Western Australian sport. "This is great news for the players, for the club and for W.A. sport. Bobby was Glory's Most Valuable Player for a second year in the row, Damian topped the N.S.L. goal-scoring charts and Jason is regarded as one of the best keepers in the national league. Everyone at the club is delighted for them."

20.6.2002

WOMEN'S STATE TEAM HEADING OVERSEAS

With preparations for the women's State team's visit to Malaysia in full swing, coach Alistair Edwards spoke with the crew from Access 31's "Soccer W.A." segment tonight about the up-coming trip. "We've got a State women's team going to Malaysia on July 19th to play in the Australasian Championship where we'll be playing against sides from Thailand, Singapore, Queensland, New Zealand and Malaysia," Edwards explained. "What we're trying to do is build a relationship with our relatives in Asia, try to establish links and make this an annual event. It is in Malaysia this time, maybe the next time we can bring it down to Perth."

Edwards, a former Australia international whose career saw him play professionally in Australia, England, Singapore and Malaysia, explained how he came to land the coaching role with the State women's team. "I retired from Perth Glory at the end of the season and I got a phone call from Jill Mateljan, the State team manager and whose got a connection with Glory, asking if I wanted to coach the team. I want to keep involved in soccer and I though it was a good idea to see if I could have some kind of success of the field as well." Nicola Williams, a member of the State squad, gave the coach the thumbs-up. "He's great. He makes playing very enjoyable, he's got some good advice for us and encourages good teamwork."

20.6.2002

TWO ON DEBUT FOR ELLIS

New signing Tony Ellis wasted little no time in making an impression on E.C.U. Joondalup coach Paul Simmons, the striker scoring twice on debut but unable to prevent his side from going down 4-2 to League leaders Perth S.C. on the weekend. The 37-year old arrives in Western Australia at the end of a lengthy career in England in which he made over 600 League and Cup appearance and brought him in excess of 200 goals. Spotted as a 21-year old playing for Northwich Victoria when he was picked up by Oldham Athletic. Over the next sixteen years Ellis would pull on the club colours of Preston North End, Stoke City, Blackpool, Bury, Stockport County, Rochdale and most recently Burnley before heading down under to link up with Joondalup in the Premier League. During his time in England Ellis was named his club's Player of the Year on three occasions (Preston 92/93, 93/94 and Blackpool 94/95) and Leading Goalscorer seven times (Preston 88/89, 92/93, 93/94, Blackpool 94/95, 95/96, 96/97, Rochdale 99/00).

20.6.2002

AFKOS MOVING ON

One-time West Australian Schoolboy representative James Afkos will start the 2002/03 season with his third National Soccer League club having recently parting company with Marconi Stallions. The 24-year old midfielder is believed to be in discussion with South Melbourne and reigning N.S.L. champions Sydney Sharks. Afkos, who started out locally with Kingsway Olympic and Floreat Athena, spent three seasons on the books of Perth Glory and the past two with Marconi for a total of 70 appearances in the nations' top flight.

19.6.2002

CENTENARY CUP, SECOND ROUND

Floreat Athena are through to the last four of the Edith Cowan University sponsored Centenary Challenge Cup after accounting for Stirling Lions at Macedonia Park on Wednesday evening. Making his return from suspension, striker Robin Dyers gave the visiting team the lead with Dejan Djukanovic making it 2-0 before the break. The second half saw the Lions desperate for a way back into the match, but Athena effectively soaked up the pressure and held on to record a two-goal victory of the First Division leaders.

19.6.2002

LARDIS LOOKS FOR ATHENA RETURN

The talented Michael Lardis could be back playing in the Premier League with Floreat Athena within the next few weeks. Rated as one of the State's hottest young properties when he chose to pursue a career in Greece three years ago, Lardis has recently returned to Perth and has been training with Athena over the past few weeks. The club are currently awaiting clearance from Lardis' previous club in Crete before registering him to play.

Lardis was one of several youngsters that then Athena coach Jim Prygolios brought into the first team when the club last lifted the Premier League title in 1997, a year in which they completed the treble by winning the Divella-sponsored Cup and pre-season Night Series. Others youngsters that came up through the clubs ranks that season include State sweeper Troy Bernard, former Perth Glory and Marconi Stallions midfielder James Afkos, and current Athena first teamers Costa Socratous, Andreas Pantelis, Anthony Jones and Terry Georganis.

18.6.2002

S.W.C. CALL FOR EASING OF VISA LAWS (reproduced with permission from the West Coast Bugle)

The thorny issue of visa players will come under the microscope when Soccer Australia's new general manager, Phillip Jessop, visits Perth within the next two weeks. Soccer West Coast is pushing hard for regulations on visa players to be relaxed for players taking part in leagues outside the National Soccer League.

18.6.2002

LAZARIDIS ENJOYS ATHENA RETURN (reproduced with permission from the West Coast Bugle)

Former Floreat Athena star Stan Lazaridis returned to the Premier League club on the weekend, but only to officially kick off the game against Inglewood United at Litis Stadium. Lazaridis will be back playing in the English Premier League next season with newly promoted Birmingham City. "In a way it will be a relief to be back in the Premier, for the English First Division is a very competitive league and very hard to get out of," said Lazaridis, who previously played in England's top flight with West Ham United. The midfielder will spend another week or so in Perth with his family before returning to the United Kingdom.

17.6.2002

SORRENTO LOSE STOITIS

Sorrento look like being without State Under-19 defender Daniel Stoitis for the remainder for the 2002 season due to injury. The teenager damaged ligaments when challenging for a ball in the Premier League clash at Swan I.C. early this month and is facing time under the surgeon's knife for a knee reconstruction. Stoitis, who captained the State at Under-16 level and had trials with English club Middlesbrough a few years ago, joined the northern suburbs club this season after taking out the First Division's Fairest and Best award with Kingsway Olympic last year.

16.6.2002

AMATEURS ROUND-UP

The University of W.A. returned to their winning ways with a solid 4-2 win at Murdoch University in the W.A.A.S.S.A. Premier League on Sunday. The home side started brightly but it was the opposition that scored first with Robert Benkovic intercepting a poor back pass before sliding the ball home from wide on the left after 20 minutes. Shortly after Murdoch were denied an equaliser by athletic goalkeeper Shayan Young. University extended their lead after 35 minutes when a good run down the right by Marc D'Ascanio resulted in Matt Hill converting from close range. The second half saw Murdoch score after only five minutes when Neil McClure found himself unmarked in the box. A mazy run by Teemu Sihvola saw him beat two defenders then cross to Christian Tribe who powerfully head home to make it 3-1. Further pressure from the visitors saw Benkovic run at the Murdoch defence before finishing a fine move by drilling the ball into the roof of the net. McClure bagged a late consolation for Murdoch after evading three defenders to slot the ball into the right hand corner. "Whilst Murdoch had some regular players missing we also made four changes including two young guys who made their Premiership debuts," said University coach Kevin Burton post-match. "We also changed our playing system and I have nothing but praise for the way in which the U.W.A. players adapted and competed with a Murdoch side who lose very few games." University cemented second spot on the reserves table by beating Murdoch 1-0 courtesy of a well-executed chip from Tom Muirhead.

Fremantle United won their fourth consecutive match in the W.A.A.S.S.A. Premier League on Sunday by crushing Kwinana United 6-0 at Hilton Reserve. After an even opening spell, the home team took the lead after 16 minutes when Danny Collova put through Darryl Rich who successfully found the net. Kwinana's job was made al the harder in the 27th minute when Tony Walker was sent off, and three minutes later Collova made his way down the left before curling the ball into the top corner to double Fremantle's lead. The port side went into the break three goals up after Rich again netted. It was more of the same in the second half with Fremantle comfortably in control. Dave Evans' rasping drive flew past goalkeeper Scott Brenzi early in the half, Rob Santich added Fremantle's fifth in the 75th minute, and the route was completed seven minutes later when Rich was brought down inside the area and Mel Bosco converted from the penalty spot. The reserves match was taken out by Kwinana, 4-1.

Balga's hot and cold season continued at Brian Burke Reserve when they crashed 3-2 to Subiaco United, who won for the first time this season. Despite being played in picture-perfect conditions, both sides lacked cohesion and struggled to create any notable chances in the opening period. And there was further frustration for the big crowd when Balga's Steve Hill was red carded for dissent midway through the half. From then on in it was a case of backs to the wall for Balga who dropped Anthony Banham and Gary James back into midfield in an effort to stem Subiaco's dominance. The game didn't come to life until the 59th minute when James skipped away from the defence to win a corner that was headed home by Scott Wilson to give the home side a surprise lead. Four minutes later it was 2-0 courtesy of some classy football when Martin McShane charged through to smash the ball past the stranded visiting goalkeeper. Two goals up, Balga then lost their momentum as Subiaco made better use of the full width of the park. A deflected shot after 74 minutes saw the ball fly past home custodian Paul Cunningham to reduce the margin. A defensive error lead to the visitors equalising two minutes from full-time, and with just seconds left on the clock a long ball into attack produced the winning goal for Subiaco.

In other W.A.A.S.S.A. Premier League action, table-toppers Hamersley Rovers were held to a scoreless draw by the visiting Shamrock Rovers side, and it the same score when second-placed Spearwood Dalmatinac hosted third-placed Forrestfield United. Perth Azzurri registered their second win of the campaign by knocking over E.C.U. Joondalup 4-3.

15.6.2002

PREMIER LEAGUE, ROUND EIGHT (Perth S.C. vs E.C.U. Joondalup by Christian Galapolous; Cockburn City vs Western Knights by Lennie Bavich; Swan I.C. vs Future Glory by Mike Hennessey)

The Premier League clash between Bassendean Caledonian and reigning champions Sorrento at Jubilee Reserve opened with some attractive, attacking football played by both teams as they sought the early advantage. Ryan Jeans should have at least tested goalkeeper Alan Dunlop when he received a smart pass from Tony Cumace in the 1st minute but the striker screwed his shot wide of the up-right. The home team saw most of their early chances cut out by an alert defence, but in the 10th minute Ramon Westerberger found enough space only for his close-range effort to be comfortably saved by Gareth Deeg. Shortly after, Lee Burns controlled a high ball and rounded a defender only to see Dunlop knock his powerful shot wide. With Peter Butler and Cumace working hard in midfield, Sorrento gained the upper hand and increasingly had the home defence under pressure. Cumace sent David Foster through on goal but the State Under-19 player placed his shot wide of the target just after the quarter-hour mark.

Having withstood the early onslaught, Caledonian started to find their rhythm with Jason Van Rooy and Jimmy Merkouris forming a dangerous partnership down the right flank while in midfield it was Paul Strudwick who was making inroads. And with their first meaningful attack of the afternoon, the home side took the lead. A darting run by Van Rooy saw him release Graeme Matthews wide on the right, the striker's cross into the area met by Dean Gartside who'd timed his run to perfection, heading powerfully to leave Deeg grasping at air as the ball slammed into the back of the net. The 20th minute goal had the effect of dulling Sorrento's attacking instincts and, while Butler, Cumace and Burns had a stranglehold on the middle of the park, there was very little for the visiting fans to get excited about. Love saw a fine header comfortably saved by Dunlop, but otherwise it was a well-drilled Caledonian defence who were dominant in their third of the pitch and broke down their opponents attacking forays with relative ease.

It was a far more organised and confident Sorrento side that emerged for the second half and immediately they let their intentions be known, going on the attack from the re-start. But both teams were guilty of missing some guilt-edged chances in front of goal early in the new half. In the 54th minute Love curled a free-kick from just outside the 18-yard box around the defensive wall, Dunlop blocked it on the line and Foster skied the loose ball from close-range. The home side should have extended their lead three minutes later when Michael Ord lost his footing as he chased a long ball into defence, Matthews seized upon the defender's misfortune and beat the 'keeper to the ball only to knock it wide of the open goal. Shortly after Steven MacDonald squandered another golden opportunity to get Sorrento back on level terms, a cross by substitute Ross Greer catching the home defence flat-footed but the tall defender's header found the crossbar rather than the net.

With action flowing freely from end to end, Caledonian sensed a second goal was their's for the taking. Breaking quickly on counter-attack, the home side caught their opponents short at the back in the 61st minute and punished them by doubling the margin. In a swift move, Kevin Smith relayed the ball to Paul Strudwick whose defence-splitting pass found Westerburger streaming forward, Deeg advanced off his line to parry Westerberger's fierce drive but there was little the 'keeper could do as Matthews poked the loose ball over the line from close range. Two minutes later Sorrento were fortunate not to go another goal behind when Strudwick pumped a free-kick into the 18-yard box and Westerberger's well-timed half-volley deflected ever-so-slightly off a defenders boot and wide for a corner.

Two goals down and desperate for a way back into the match, Sorrento threw everything they had forward in the final 20 minutes. A Jeans' corner was cleared of the 18-yard box as far as Butler whose blistering first time shot flew narrowly over the bar. Greer volleyed wide with just the 'keeper to beat, and Shane Crampton under hit his effort not long after as the clock ticked down. Ord met an in-swinging corner eight minutes from full-time but he failed to call Dunlop into action as it ended high. Under all the pressure, the Caledonian defence of Smith, Craig Naven and George Ramm were faultless in the face of the endless onslaught, making numerous timely interceptions and tackles, while behind them Dunlop marshalled his back-three with aplomb. It wasn't until the final minute that the pressure valve was released, the home side mounting another quick counter-attack which resulted in Deeg making a good save down low to keep out Matthews goal-bound strike.

The final whistle was greeted by much hooting and hollering from the home crowd who had watched their side maintain their perfect home record this season (the loss to Future Glory was technically an away game for Caledonian) by defeating the reigning Premier League champions. In what was a true team performance, Caledonian were lead from the back by former State goalkeeper Dunlop who made several good saves and made sure his defence never once lost focus. The performances of Smith, Merkouris and Strudwick also deserve of praise. Sorrento, on the other hand, had far too many passengers. Their best chances came from the right where Kevin Murphy and Jeans combined to great effect while Butler turned in a consistently good 90 minutes. Mention need also be made of referee Angelo Nardi whose control of proceedings was superb, letting the game take its natural course and only getting involved when it was absolutely necessary.

Bassendean Caledonian : Alan Dunlop, Kevin Smith, Craig Naven, George Ramm, Aaron Moschopoulos, Jason Van Rooy (Raphael Mahony 78), Jimmy Merkouris (Ian Griffiths 82), Paul Strudwick, Dean Gartside, Ramon Westerberger (Eric Ravanal 89), Graeme Matthews
Sorrento : Gareth Deeg, Steven MacDonald, Michael Ord, Kevin Murphy, Stuart Banks, Ryan Jeans, Tony Cumace (Shane Crampton 61), Peter Butler, Lee Burns, David Foster (Ross Greer 56), Jared Love
Referee : Angelo Nardi
Cautions : Gartside (13), Butler (43), Strudwick (58), Murphy (80), Westerberger (83), Crampton (90+)
Dismissals : None
Attendance : 200 (approx.)

Perth S.C. regained top spot in the Premier League with a 4-2 victory over E.C.U. Joondalup at Dorrien Gardens. In an action-packed match, referee Athanasios Paraskevis gave three players their marching orders and incurred the wrath of Perth coach Graham Normanton. Joondalup star defender Richard Watson had a prolific opening to the match, saving a goal bound effort down one end then teeing up the opener at the other. A shot by Watson in a goalmouth scramble was chested over the line by recent signing Tony Ellis in the 26th minute to give the northerners' a surprise early lead. But that lead was short lived as Rhys Graham, who's been a pleasant surprise in his debut season in the Perth first team, rounded stranded goalkeeper Peter Stewart before crossing to Jamie Coyne at the far post where he headed truly. Just before the break dynamic striker Andreas Oliveira continued his scoring run when he coolly slotted the ball past the visiting 'keeper to give Perth the advantage after 45 minutes. Perth suffered a blow late in the half when Graham received his second yellow card, and was sent off, for a rash tackle on Watson. It wasn't long into the second half before Joondalup capitalized on its man advantage, Ellis turning in a cross to level the scores once again. The match took another twist in the 65th minute when referee Paraskevis sent off Joondalup goalkeeper Stewart and Perth forward Mark Pottier after a clash on the edge of the 18-yard box. This decision infuriated Perth coach Graham Normanton who had to be sent to the back of the dugout. The dismissal of Stewart unsettled the visiting team and in the 73rd minute Coyne scored his second with a 25-yard bullet that flew past replacement goalkeeper Ronnie Moore. Only four minutes later Moore was picking the ball out of the back of his net again, this time it was Oliveira's superb free-kick from the edge of the area that did the damage. The tireless efforts of Adam Bunce and Rob Gaspar in midfield was notable for Perth, while Joondalup's better performers where youngster Scott Bulloch and the experienced Watson.

Cockburn City defeated Western Knights 4-1 in an exciting Round Eight fixture at Dalmatinac Park. Last seasons' leading scorer, Branimir Mikulic, opened the scoring when he found the net after 33 minutes following some strong pressure being applied to the Knight's backline. Cockburn midfielders Josh Pescud, Shane McNally and Dean Wallace worked tirelessly throughout the afternoon for their team as both sides threw themselves into the fray. The Knights were back on level terms when a defence-splitting pass from Stuart Montgomery released striker Eugene Singeorzan who gave young goalkeeper Jeff Cargill no chance seven minutes from half-time. In the second half Shane McNally worked is way up the left flank before sending the ball into the box where Mikulic flicked it on to strike-partner Christian Paschkewitz who restored the home teams lead. Cockburn were forced to concede a corner after Joe Reale put Steve Adam under pressure, but the home side cleared their lines to send the ball to the other end where Mikulic waltzed past the defence before drawing goalkeeper Tommi Tomich out of position to make it 3-1. A minute later Paschkewitz increased Cockburn's lead to complete a frenzied five minute period in which four goals were scored. Referee Ray Archibald deserves praise for his handling of the match, his man management skills evident in application of the rules.

Floreat Athena picked up maximum points for the first time in over a month when they defeated Inglewood United 2-1 at Litis Stadium. With Robyn Dyers and Doug Ithier absent through suspension and injury respectively, Athena coach Taki Lambetsos handed starting spots to youngsters Anthony Jones and Dejan Djukanovic in what would prove to be a tightly contested game. Man-of-the-match Peter Coci gave the home team a first half lead, but wingback Andy Cornmell put the visitors back on a level footing early in the second period after some great lead-up work by Louis Parkinson. Searching for a second goal, Inglewood pushed three up front as the home team opted to play man-for-man at the back with the end result being a lot of spurned opportunities at both ends of the park. With the match balancing on a knives edge, former Inglewood striker Ryan Newhill popped up four minutes from the end of regulation time to settle the game in Athena's favour.

Winless in their opening five matches of the 2002 season, Fremantle City look to have sorted out their problems with the side claiming maximum points for the third week running by downing Ashfield 3-0 at Ashfield Reserve. Teenage striker Josh Kamasz bagged a double for the second time in three weeks to set up the win, while Michael Mirco scored his first League goal of the campaign. The home side created very few chances over the course of the first forty-five minutes, Tom Kilkelly's half-time re-shuffle seeing Ashfield take to the field for the second period a much stronger proposition but still unable to find a way past former Australian goalkeeper Robert Zabica. For Fremantle, the win moves them clear of the drop zone and into what has become a very congested mid-table where eight clubs are separated by five points. But things are looking grim for Ashfield who, along with Swan I.C., are quickly losing ground on the rest of the Premier League field.

In a sparkling game at the Swan Italian Club on Sunday, Swan I.C. went down 5-7 to Future Glory. The large crowd were treated to the best of Bobby Despotovski and Nick Mrdja who scored six goals between them in a fantastic game of soccer. The game flowed from end-to-end right from the start and it was Future who found the net with Despotovski scoring twice and Mrdja once. Damian Scali reduced the arrears when he scored from the penalty spot. 3-1 down at half-time, Swan staged a fighting comeback early in the second period with Brian Robertson scoring twice and he might have had a third as Swan drew level at 3-3. The home side were unlucky not to take the lead with several chances going astray, misses that Future would punish them severely for. Despotovski completed his hat-trick as Future re-gained the lead, and further goals to Mrdja and Miletic saw the margin blow out to 6-3. Swan, however, were not finished and they staged another comeback as Robertson added a fourth then completed his hat-trick before Eddie Mura made it 6-5. Inevitable, it was Despotovski who had the last word when he scored his fourth of the afternoon to make it 7-5 and clinch the three points for the visitors. Both sides were applauded off the pitch in a game that provided entertainment of a rare value.

16.6.2002

RESERVES AND UNDER-18'S ROUND-UP (Bassendean Caledonian vs Sorrento by Kerry Slater; Swan I.C. vs Future Glory by ShinyChef)

Sorrento's reserves made hard yakka of their away win over Bassendean Caledonian on Saturday. Craig Wells set up what would be the only the goal of the 90 minutes when he advanced forward to cross to Gareth Phillips, who did well to steer the ball in pass the on-rushing Frankie Ternel. Sorrento then struggled to exert their dominance further on the score board. In the second half a penalty for a blatant push on Ben Coppack couldn't be converted by Phillips as Ternel guess right and saved low down. A dour contest ensured to the end, but the win now has Sorrento move to fifth place on the table.

Michael Baczynski (4) and Matt Donlevy were the scorers for Inglewood United as they notched up a 5-2 away win over Floreat Athena to go three points clear at the top of reserves table, Josip Madgic and Jonathan Palmer hitting the net for Athena. E.C.U. Joondalup lost ground on Inglewood when they slipped 4-1 away at Perth S.C. Cockburn City notched up a resounding 6-0 win over Western Knights through goals from Colin Copperwaite (2), Simon Jonas (2), Savo Banjac and Domenic de Felice. Gary Spinks and Mark Donnelly found the net for Ashfield when their side went down 2-5 to Fremantle City, John Ferreira bagging a hat-trick and Michael Vaz and Kevin Correia singles for the port side. And Future Glory won for just the second time this season when they defeated Swan I.C. 4-3.

Despite another very good first half performance by the Sorrento Under-18's, they were unable to find the net against Bassendean on Saturday morning. Then, referee Glynn Moore awarded the Seagulls a penalty out of nowhere and Brian Hedges, who was the one supposed to have been fouled, stepped up to place the spot kick into Troy Smith's left bottom corner. In quick time Bassendean were level through former Sorrento player Gareth Wright. The home team would have went ahead except for poor finishing. Late in the match Michael Stefanovski received the ball in midfield and advanced on goal before slipping the ball to the left where Robbie McCann shot truly to give Sorrento a 2-1 win.

Future went on a first half scoring spree against home side Swan with Goce Dilevski opening the floodgates after 15 minutes. With chances coming thick and fast, Ashley Otte volleyed truly after 25 minutes, Micheal Park's low drive made it 3-0, and when Alex Crookes fierce drive from 30-metres rocketed into the top corner the match was over as a contest. A fine solo run by Ben Rogers saw him put away goal number five with a hard low shot. In the 40th minute 13-year old goalkeeper Alex Vrteski blasted into the roof from the penalty spot, and just before half time Park took his second of the day after a good cross from Otte. The second half saw a more resistant Swan performance but Future continued to dominate play, unfortunately many of their chances only damaging the trees behind the Swan goal until Rogers bagged his second and Future's eight of the match.

Joondalup opened up a four point gap at the top of the table courtesy of a 4-2 away win at Perth. Ross Griffiths (2), Tom Jones and Steve Worthy got their names in the scorecard for Joondalup while for Perth the goals came via Cosi Cavalaro and Craig Simpson. Ashfield fought back gallantly from being 4-1 down just after half time to share the points with Fremantle City, Dinko Ahmetanovic's hat-trick taking his season tally to twelve with Adam Quinn getting the home teams' other goal. Athena defeated Inglewood 2-0, and goals by Omar Lemzouri (2), Justin de Abreu and Carlo Cardoso enabled Cockburn to topple the Knights 4-2.

15.6.2002

FIRST DIVISION WRAP (Armadale vs Stirling Lions by Michael Di Pietro; Bayswater City vs Rockingham City by Adam Rucci)

In the First Division, a top-of-the-table clash at Alfred Skeet Oval plus the evening World Cup game on the big screen in the clubrooms that night was a soccer fan's ideal Saturday. Second-placed Stirling Lions were the visitors and they did not make the trip south of the river with the intent of sharing the points. Both sides played a hard and stirring first half without troubling the referee's match card. The Lions came out with a little more intensity in the second half and in the 55th minute took the lead through Victor Bogs. Armadale showed why they are a force this season and made several forward moves in an attempt to level the scores but found themselves up against a well-composed visiting defence. Bobbi Klenkoski rounded out the scoreline in the 80th minute to send the Lions to the top of the table. In an action packed clash, the Lions were lead from midfield by Tony Wright, recent signing Darko Ilmanovski, and the experienced Andy Wright. In the reserves, the Lions took just 5 minutes to get on the board, but goals from Dave Williams (2), Terry Flynn, Paul Caulkin and Lawrence Bruce saw the margin blow out on a day former State player Allan Pottier made his debut for the Reds. An entertaining Under-18 match saw Darren Kingston give Armadale an early lead which was pegged back five minutes later. Five minutes into the second half Kingston again put the reds in front, and again the Lions equalised, this time shortly before full-time.

Mandurah City dropped to fourth position in the First Division table after conceding a late goal at home to draw 1-1 with Balcatta. Welcoming club captain Steve Adams back after a seven-week spell on the sidelines due to injury, Mandurah gained the upper hand in the 8th minute after Andrew Rennie found a way behind the defence to cross to Mick Bobridge who headed the ball into the net. The home team should have extended their lead before half-time but missed a couple of gilt-edged chances that would prove costly. After the break Mandurah seemed to lose a bit of shape in the middle of the park, allowing Balcatta to slowly come into the match. After eighty-three minutes Balcatta got the equaliser they were chasing when the ball was played to the right side of the area where goalkeeper Paul Dixon was caught out of position and Michael Lagana leveled the scores with a well executed chip. Both sides had chances to win the game in the dying minutes, Mandurah's chance came when Damian Condo played a low ball across the Balcatta penalty area that narrowly eluded a lunging Bobridge with an empty net beckoning. The visitors could have stolen full points in the final minute of play but Dixon saved a powerful volley after a well-planned corner.

Bayswater City went into their home fixture against lowly Rockingham City with two successive victories under their belt and aiming to make it three in a row. The game started slowly with only scattered chances until the 17th minute when a great through ball saw Andrew O'Neill covert a one-on-one opportunity to give the home side the lead. The two sides emerged for the second half and immediately picked up the pace, Rockingham rewarded after 55 minutes when in-form striker Glen Hallams made the most of his chance after going through with only the 'keeper to beat. In a tight contest, Bayswater responded five minutes later when Gareth Healey's through ball was rounded off with a great finish from youngster Julien Coci. Bayswater sealed the win six minutes from full-time, nippy forward Sal Marrapodi scoring the sides eighteenth goal of the season to send the home crowd into raptures. The win puts Bayswater securely in sixth place on the First Division table, three points behind Mandurah but three ahead of Perth City. "I was pleased with the commitment and endeavour of the team especially in the last thirty minutes of the game when they really started to knock they ball around. The boys in the squad are working really hard at training and during the games, ensuring that they get the results that they deserve," said Bayswater coach Salv Todaro post-match. Rockingham took out both the earlier matches, 2-1 in the reserves where Ray Bellerini scored for Bayswater, and 5-0 in the Under-18's.

A depleted Morley Windmills side made their way to Bunbury on Saturday to play South West Phoenix in a match both teams were wanting to take full points from. Missing six first team regulars through either injury or suspension, the visitors got off to a great start when a free-kick played in from the left was headed against the up-right by Keith Hopwood and stand-in striker Simon Messenger was on hand to stab home the rebound. Windmills extended the lead when Messenger was hauled down inside the area by the Phoenix goalkeeper, and 44-year old Ian Ballantyne put the ball into the roof of the net from the spot. With midfielder Steve Rogers dangerous on the ball, the home team pegged a goal back via a goalmouth scramble, but Windmills' two-goal buffer was re-stored before the break by Messenger. Phoenix came out for the second half a revitalised side to dominate play but it wasn't until late in the piece that they were rewarded by a second goal. But a combination of some desperate defending and poor finishing would keep the score at 3-2 in favour of the visiting team. Special mention need be made of the Windmills reserve team players who stepped up to the senior ranks and performed so admirably on the day.

Queens Park enjoyed a stirring 5-2 away win over Wanneroo City where Glen Noblet and 16-year old Daniel Bush each found the net for the visitors with Grant Learmont grabbing a single, Kevin Murray the scorer of both Wanneroo's goal. Jerry Boima gave Dianella White Eagles the lead early in the second half of their clash with Stirling Suns who equalised shortly after to earn a share of the points. Perth City and Kingsway Olympic fought out a nil-all draw, Southside United were too strong for Canning City 3-1, and Leeming Strikers this week had the bye.

14.6.2002

WEEKEND IN PREVIEW

Round Eight of the Premier League season kicks-off on Saturday with leaders Western Knights favoured to collect full points from their away clash with Cockburn City. With 23 goals in six games, Perth S.C. come up against an E.C.U. Joondalup side struggling for consistency at the moment. Third-place Inglewood United travel to play Floreat Athena who have picked up just two points from their past four League fixtures. Bassendean Caledonian, undefeated at home so far this season, host Sorrento and Ashfield should prove strong opposition for Fremantle City. At the Swan Italian Club on Sunday, Swan I.C. play Future Glory.

The pick of the First Division games is undoubtedly at Alfred Skreet Reserve when leaders Armadale are home to second-placed Stirling Lions, a win to the visitors will put both sides on level points. Queens Park play cellar-dwellers Wanneroo City, Mandurah City should collect full points from their home meeting with Balcatta, likewise Morley Windmills when they travel to Bunbury to take on South West Phoenix. Sixth-placed Bayswater City face Rockingham City, and Perth City play struggling Kingsway Olympic. Dianella White Eagles are home to Stirling Suns, Southside United should give Canning City a run for their money, and Leeming Strikers have the bye.

14.6.2002

ON THE MOVE …

The Premier League may have been underway for a couple of months but that doesn't mean club squad are settled for the winter ahead. Reigning champions Sorrento have been active on the transfer market with the signing of several new players. Striker Shane Crampton has joined the club after playing in New South Wales with Picton Rangers, while former Australian Schoolboys goalkeeper Robert Pedri has left Western Knights to link up with the Seagulls. Also strengthening Steve Neville's options are one-time State representatives Steve MacDonald (ex-Western Knights) and Willie Grubb (Bassendean Caledonian), Michael Ord, who arrived via Kingsway Olympic from English non-League side Harrogate Town, and midfielder Tony Cumace (Perth S.C.).

Bassendean Caledonian have re-signed Scottish-born Mark Lennon, but will be without the midfielders' services for the next few weeks after he suffered a knee injury against E.C.U. Joondalup last week. Former Queens Park goalkeeper Adam Ashforth has joined Steve Parkinson's squad at Inglewood United along with 2000 Gold Medal winner Alan MacKenzie who spent the early part of the season with Bayswater City. Former Perth Glory utility player Peter Vukmirovic has joined his sixth club in three years by signing with Cockburn City after being released by Perth S.C. recently. Floreat Athena have departed ways with Lucas Gobbi who has returned to Argentina due to an illness in the family, but the door has been left open for his return later in the season.

13.6.2002

SIX MORE LEAVE QUEENS PARK

Despite sitting in third place on the First Division table, a spanner has been thrown in Queens Park's works with the departure of a further six first team players. Former State representative Alan Pottier vacated the position of player-coach for contractual reasons on the eve of the weekend fixture with Perth City. And, following a meeting of the playing squad prior to that game, Nicky Dyer, Scott Daley, Mark Brown, Darren D'Mello and Matt Tilbury have all opted to end their association with Queens Park. With the transfer deadline expiring in three weeks, all six players are now on the lookout for new clubs. The departures come hot on the heels of a mass exodus in April when a dozen players, as well as coaches Tony Hall and Mark Donohue, left the club citing on-going contractual problems as the reason.

13.6.2002

UP CLOSE WITH DAVID FOSTER (reproduced with permission from the "Onside" magazine)

Anyone who arrived a couple of minutes late at Percy Doyle Reserve for last weekend's match between Sorrento and Ashfield would have missed David Foster's spectacular opener for the Seagulls. But the way Foster is playing at the moment, there are sure to be plenty more goals this season for the youngster who started the campaign in midfield, before recently being pushed up front, a move he is relishing. His early strike against Ashfield was his fourth of the season and as well as being the best of the lot, it gave Sorrento a kick-start in what was potentially a danger game against the League's cellar-dwellers.

"Yeah, it was a big game for us," Foster said. "We needed three points but you never know what's going to happen. We went to Swan last week and it was hard but we got the draw there. It was a hard game against Ashfield as well but we got the early goal and went from there." With other results going their way, the win propelled the reigning League Champions from ninth place to sixth, their highest position this term after a slow start. "We had a few draws and losses but we're getting there now," Foster said. "We're just working harder at training, every training session's good and it's starting to show on Saturday."

After struggling to find the net in the opening weeks of the season, Sorrento have now scored fourteen goals in their last three outings and Foster's efforts have had a lot to do with that - whether it be scoring himself or creating chances for teammates. In fact his form has been excellent from the opening day of the season and he was rewarded for a string of impressive performances by being selected in the Future W.A. side that recently took part in the Tournoi Croix Cup in France. "I did quite well this year and as a team we did quite well," he reflected. "We came sixth out of twelve and I scored four goals all up."

Whether or not he played well enough to attract the attention of the many talent scouts over there remains to be seen, but at this stage, the level-headed 18-year old isn't pre-occupied with thoughts of a move overseas. "No, I just went out there and played, tried to do the best I could and whatever happens, happens," he said. "If I get picked up, I get picked up." That's not to say he doesn't have ambitions to one day take the next step. "I want to go to the next level and even higher. That's what I'm looking for," he said. "But (at the moment) I just want to keep it going, keep my fitness and form up."

Foster has already had a couple of trials in England. As a 15-year old he spent six months at Derby County, then the following season he had a spell at Bolton Wanderers, but although he did well nothing eventuated. But like he says, time is on his side and for now, the talented goalscorer is focussing solely on helping Sorrento continue their climb back up the table where he feels they belong - and that can only spell trouble for the rest of the Premier League.

12.6.2002

CENTENARY CUP, QUARTER-FINALS (Sorrento vs Western Knights by Kerry Slater)

Sorrento's young gun David Foster played a staring role in his sides exciting 2-1 win over the Western Knights in the quarter-final stage of the Edith Cowan University sponsored Centenary Challenge Cup tonight. The first attack of note came after 3 minutes when Sorrento left full-back Stuart Banks ventured forward, crossing to Foster who controlled the ball well before slipping it to Lee Burns who mis-hit his shot thanks to the close attention of Evan Wallace. The Knights mounted their first effort on 10 minutes when Stuart Montgomery's cross was headed straight to goalkeeper Gareth Deeg by Paul McVittie. Within a minute Sorrento grabbed the lead with a good move started by Michael Ord who swung the ball wide to Foster and his low cross was turned in by Ryan Jeans. The Knights came close to leveling immediately after but Eugene Singeorzan's free-kick cannoned off the up-right and Alex Christie's follow-up from 20-metres was deflected away by Deeg. On 16 minutes Jared Love's low shot was kept out by a full-stretch Tommi Tomich, and two minutes later Singeorzan's first time effort was just over the bar. In the 31st minutes Singeorzan put a good through ball to Carl Medica, but he pulled his shot across goal. Sorrento's next attack saw Love with only the 'keeper to beat after a penetrating run, but he fired straight to Tomich. On 43 minutes Love was put through by Banks only to again be denied by Tomich, Ross Greer fairing in better with the rebound.

Seven minutes into the second half and John Nicolaou had the ball in the net only to have it ruled off-side. On the hour John Nicolaou and Singeorzan made way for Dean Nicolaou and David Annall, and two minutes later Knights coach Ronnie Campbell was forced to use his third substitute, Luka Jukic, when Wallace went down with a hamstring injury. In the 64th minute Deeg had to be alert to hold former Sorrento player Leon Russell's diving header from crossing the line. Sorrento were gaining more control, but it was an error by the Knights defence that presented Foster with his chance when Ivan Zuvela missed Jeans's cross from the right and Foster had time to pick his spot and make it 2-0 after 76 minutes. Eight minutes later the Knights should have been back in the match by Montgomery headed wide a McVittie free-kick. Then, in the final minute of regulation match time, the Knights were awarded a penalty by referee Patrick McCaffree who judged Jeans to have fouled Dean Nicolaou, Carl Medica converting from the spot. But it too little too late as Sorrento expertly controlled the four minutes of stoppage time to run out victors.

The nights other quarter-final fixture took place at Dorrien Gardens where Perth S.C. bounced back from their weekend loss by thumping Future Glory 3-0. Adam Bunce, David Onoforo and Todd Howarth found the net for the home team who now proceed to the last four of the Challenge Cup.

12.6.2002

HALL OF FAME RESURRECTED (reproduced with permission from the "Onside" magazine)

The Soccer Administration of Western Australia has recently re-activated the Hall of Fame, the sport's tribute to the greats of the game in this State. The Hall of Fame, which encompasses the Hall of Champions and the Hall of Recognition, will have an intake of new members at a glamour function to be held in Perth later this year. It will be the first time in six years that the two categories of the Hall of Fame have been re-visited.

Twenty-nine players were inducted into the Hall of Champions and a total of seventeen administrators, which included coaches and referees, were admitted to the Hall of Recognition when the history-making project was launched in November, 1996. The initial intake included playing greats Gary Marocchi (a former Australian captain) and Ron Adair, Ray lIlot and David Jones, who also played for the Socceroos. Three female players were also honoured - Sandra Bentnall, Sharon Mateljan and Anna Senjushenko.

W.A. was the first State in Australia to introduce a Soccer Hall of Fame and even beat the nation's ruling body, Soccer Australia, in setting up a system that celebrates the achievements of the legends of the sport. This time the public are being invited to make nominations in both categories - and clubs and associations all over the State are also being circulated with a request for their input. Nominations for the Hall of Champions must have retired from playing for at least five years and representation at National or State team level would boost their status. Also successes in championships and cups would be a distinct advantage. For the Hall of Recognition, dedicated service to the game from the juniors through the amateur ranks to the most senior level in both men's and women's areas will be a major factor for consideration.

A committee, which includes former coaches, administrators and members of the media, has been set up under the chairmanship of S.A.W.A. President Louis Prospero to consider and research the nominations. In addition, with 2002 being the 100th anniversary of the first game involving the State soccer team, a State Team of the Century will be nominated. The committee will also investigate the possibility of establishing a Museum of W.A. Soccer, to be set up at a permanent venue. The public can lodge their Hall of Fame nominations (in-depth detail is required) by post to: John O'Connell at 257 Crimea St, Nolanda, 6062 or by email to John at soccerwest1@bigpond.com. They can also contact S.A.W.A. at W.A. Soccer Headquarters, Perry LakeS Stadium, Meagher Drive, Floreat 6014. For more information on the Hall of Fame, contact Louis Prospero on 0413 041 942 or John O'Connell on 9275 5329 or 0413 973 846.

11.6.2002

HUGO INJURY A BLOW FOR SWAN

Swan I.C. will have to do without the services of Corey Hugo for the next month and a half after the goalkeeper chipped a bone in his right ankle during the club's recent Boral Cup reserve match against Sorrento. While acknowledging that the loss of Hugo will be heavily felt at Swan, player-coach Carlo Scali is confident that his replacement is up to the task. "Obviously losing any quality player is a setback to the side," said Scali this week. "When that quality player is a goalkeeper of Corey's abilities, that leaves some pretty big shoes to fill. He is one of the best 'keepers in the State and will be missed. But we have a good replacement in Guy Gibson, he has played some exceptional games for reserves and has kept for the first team in the last couple of games and done well. The more games Guy plays the better he will be."

10.6.2002

DUTCH TRIALS FOR COCKBURN'S BRIGHT (reproduced with permission from the West Coast Bugle)

Cockburn City's eye-catching 17-year old left back Jeff Bright has returned to Western Australia after a trial spell with Dutch giant Feyenoord … but the former State junior representative won't be sticking around for long. Bright played in an under-17 tournament while in the Netherlands against some of Europe's top clubs and will head back there again in September, this time for a three-month stint at Feyenoord.

9.6.2002

AMATEURS ROUND-UP

The University of W.A. went down 1-4 to E.C.U. Joondalup in their W.A.A.S.S.A. Premier League fixture at the Edith Cowan University ground on Sunday afternoon. University took an early lead when Matt Hill powerfully drove home a Marc D'Ascanio cross after 3 minutes, and they could have doubled the lead shortly after but Dave Holley's shot struck the crossbar. The visitors did find the net on two occasions but both were ruled out for off-side before Joondalup hit back with a chip over the defence which John Greenwood scrambled over the line. The home side struck again shortly after when the University 'keeper parried a shot into the path of Dave Rowe who didn't waste the opportunity. The second half saw a confident Joondalup side add two further goals to their tally through Oliver Marshall and Rowe. University had their chances in the second half including a Teemu Shivola shot which hit the post but Joondalup ended up comfortable winners. "It was a real Jeckyll and Hyde performance," said University coach Kevin Burton post-match. "We dominated much of the opening half, ran at the E.C.U. goal freely through the midfield and flanks and should have been three or four up at half time - instead we conceded two very soft goals. In the second half our passing was simply not good enough and we are clearly going to need to change a few things around." The reserve fixture ended in a 2-2 draw with University twice coming from behind through goals from Mark Adam and Tim Grose.

Spearwood Dalmatinac started their away match with Perth Azzurri on the attack and found the net inside the opening 2 minutes through a fine header by Glenn Pesich. They came close to adding a second minutes later but Leo Surjan's shot went straight into the arms of home goalkeeper Aaron Garbon. Although they dominated play, Dalmatinac were unable to increase the margin before Azzurri came back late in the half. Charlie Jenson fired a warning shot when he headed over the bar, but Adrian Scaffidi made no mistake when put through to power the ball low past Luke Smith for the equaliser. The opening period of the second half was a carbon copy of the first with the visitors in control, Surjan restoring their lead in the 47th minute when he raced through from the right to beat the 'keeper. Dalmatinac continued to apply the pressure with Surjan, Damien Pescud and Joel Thomas all going close. Eleven minutes from full-time and a mistake at the back allowed Pescud in to slot home Dalmatinac's third and final goal of the afternoon.

Balga demolished Kwinana United 3-1 in an action-packed encounter at Kelly Park. Starting brightly, Willy Lyall was denied by the 'keeper early on as Balga's hard-working midfield created numerous scoring opportunities. The breakthrough came in the 22nd minute, a through ball piercing the home back four and Scott Wilson burst into the area only to be hauled down and a penalty awarded which was duly converted by Steve Hill. At this stage Kwinana upped the tempo to come back into the contest and, after wasting several good chances, they were back on level terms from a free-kick which was deflected past the goalkeeper. Balga started the second half strongly but unable to make much headway in their attacking third of the pitch. Eventually Wilson popped up to restore Balga's lead through a fine header, and with minutes to go a long ball from the back found Wilson who raced away down the flank before centring to Hill who side-footed home despite the close attention of the home defence.

It was top verses bottom when Subiaco United hosted Hamersley Rovers, the League leaders running out winners by a 3-1 scoreline. Shamrock Rovers drew 2-2 with Murdoch University, while the result of the Forrestfield United-Fremantle United is currently unknown.

8.6.2002

PREMIER LEAGUE, ROUND SEVEN (Sorrento vs Ashfield by Kerry Slater; Western Knights vs Floreat Athena by Christian Galapolous; E.C.U. Joondalup vs Bassendean Caledonian by Bill MacAllister; Fremantle City vs Swan I.C. by Mike Hennessey; Cockburn City vs Future Glory by Lennie Bavich)

Picture perfect conditions greeted the players as they walked onto the pitch at the National Stadium on Saturday for the Premier League clash between Inglewood United and table-toppers Perth S.C., undefeated in five starts this year. Inglewood coach Steve Parkinson made three changes to the side which lost last weekend to Bassendean Caledonian, State Under-19 goalkeeper Oliver Taseski and midfielders Scott Campbell and Michael Bushby coming into the side at the expense of Adam Ashforth, Gerry McEwan and Paul Lincoln. Graeme Normanton, coach of Perth, also made a couple of changes to his side, defenders Aaron Cole and Stephen Willey absent through injury with their places taken by youngsters Dino Djublic and Paul Natale.

Pre-match expectations of a tight, even contest between these long-time foes were proven correct as both teams early moves were competently broken down by the respective defences. The first shot in anger came from Perth midfielder Jamie Coyne in the 6th minute after he beat two defenders only to see his powerful strike knocked wide by Taseski. With neither side able to take control of the match, both Inglewood and Perth made good use of the full width of the park when going forward but, by and large, shots on goals were scarce. On the quarter-hour, a fantastic in-swinging free-kick from Robbie Gaspar was met by Andreas Oliveria whose downward header was stopped just inches from the line by Taseski. And minutes later Todd Howarth was sent clear of the defence down the left only to pull his low shot across the face of goal. Inglewood's attacking formation saw Elton Homes as the targetman with Alan MacKenzie and Campbell taking up roles just behind him, but for all their enterprise there was little which troubled opposing goalkeeper Robert Scarparolo.

Perth tightened their grip across the middle of the park as the half progressed and really should have taken the lead after 23 minutes, Rob Giorgi's near-post pass to Oliveira drew Taseski out of position and the quick-thinking striker back-heeled into the path of Djulbic who somehow scooped his shot over the bar. Five minutes later a great solo run by Rhys Graham took him past two opponents wide on the right but his chip cleared not only the 'keeper but also the bar. The match really came to life in the final ten minutes with three quick goals scored. Inglewood nudged in front with their first meaningful attack of the afternoon after 36 minutes, Rory Mouttet centring to Michael Bushby who slotted the ball into the path of captain Daniel Harrop and his close-range effort crashed into the roof of the net off the foot of a defender. Two minutes later Bushby doubled the margin by pounced upon a defensive error, beating goalkeeper Scarparolo to a loose ball on top of the 18-yard box and getting enough of a touch to send it over the line. And Perth hit back a minute from the interval when some Coyne's silky footwork saw him evade several challenges before ripping the ball past Taseski from 16-metres.

The second half saw some great attacking, end-to-end football that kept the healthy crowd in the edge of their seats. Graham spotted Taseski off his line and tried his luck from out wide, the youngsters' delicate chip skimming the wrong side of the bar. Holmes out-paced two defenders in the 54th minute to go inside the box where he was denied by Scarparolo who produced a superb diving save to concede a corner. Perth defender Michael Icanovski pushed forward but his long-range effort cleared the bar after 63 minutes. A few minutes later Howarth skipped clear of Mouttet to break away down the left, his shot from 25-metres on-target but comfortably saved by the 'keeper. With the visiting team being the more creative in attack, they received a major body blow in the 68th minute when midfield play-maker Gaspar was sent off after being issued his second yellow of the day.

With things looking grim, Normanton made a couple of quick substitutions which saw Pottier and Oliveira drop into midfield with Graham and David Onoforo taking over up-front, a move which produced a 76th minute equaliser. Onoforo played a ball low into the area from the left which saw Graham hold off his opponent before relaying it to Oliveira who, unmarked, had little trouble in knocking the ball past Taseski from 10-metres. Two minutes later and Perth were unfortunate not to be ahead when some good lead-up work from Graham lead to Onoforo hitting the bar from 14-metres. In an action packed ending to what was an entertaining match, Inglewood went ahead eight minutes from full-time when MacKenzie released Andy Cornmell down the left, the skilful wingback drawing the defence before sending the ball low into the 6-yard box and Holmes rammed it over the line from close-range. There were further chances at both ends before the final whistle, a looping Djulbic header kissing the wrong side of the bar and Holmes' low shot saved by an alert Scarparolo, but it was the home fans that were cheering at the end of 90 minutes.

Having outshot their opponents twelve to five, Perth would feel a little aggrieved not to have taken something from this match. Their central midfield combination of Coyne, Giorgi and Gaspar worked hard all day in conjuring up another sparkling performance, but it was Inglewood that took their chances in front of goal and were rewarded with the three points on offer. In a thrilling derby game, Jason Godfrey was outstandin