30.6.2003

AFKOS REFUTES FIFA REASONING

Perth-based Soccer Australia board member Paul Afkos has rejected the reasons given by FIFA for their decision to reneging on a promise made seven months ago to grant the Oceania Football Confederation direct qualification to the 2006 World Cup Finals. FIFA president Sepp Blatter cited turmoil in Soccer Australia’s administration and New Zealand’s poor performance at the Confederations Cup as why Oceania had lost automatic qualification. “It isn’t any of those,” Afkos told Len Findlay of the “West Australian” newspaper. “It is political. This is all about getting Sepp Blatter elected again to go past the next World Cup. There are plenty of countries in the world where the administration has many more problems than we have - everyone knows that. As for New Zealand’s performance, did FIFA go to Europe and say after the last World Cup
‘France were world champions yet did not score a goal, so you are losing a spot’?” FIFA’s decision to remove automatic qualification from the OFC - and award the spot to the politically powerful South American confederation - came completely out of the blue. “Soccer Australia and Oceania were not even aware this matter was coming up for discussion. If we had been alerted, we would have sent a delegation and canvassed for votes,” added Afkos.

29.6.2003

FIFA BACK-FLIP COSTS OCEANIA (courtesy www.tribalfootball.com)

The Oceania Football Confederation have lost their direct qualifying place for the 2006 World Cup Finals. FIFA chose to renege on their decision by handing the South American Confederation an extra qualifying spot, with Oceania going back again to the qualifying route. The decision was almost unanimous, with only Oceania voting against the move. “In my view, the decision is a disgrace and I think it is politically driven to accommodate the powerful South Americans,” said OFC president Basil Scarsella. “It’s unethical, it’s immoral, call it what you like.” He continued, “The executive committee had overwhelmingly supported them in the past and now they’ve gone 180 degrees. I don’t accept the reasons they are given but in these situations you don’t need reasons just an excuse to revisit it. It was always an option but it doesn’t paint FIFA in a good light in terms of being a respected organization in my view.” FIFA cited as their reasons the disarray of Soccer Australia and New Zealand’s poor on-field showing at the current Confederations Cup.

29.6.2003

AMATEURS ROUND-UP

Not even Sundays torrential rain could prevent reigning champions Hamersley Rovers from easing their way to the top of the WAASSA Premier League for the first time this season. In a thoroughly enjoyable game for the spectators who were brave enough to venture down to McGillvray Oval, a splendid hat-trick from Flavio Labbate enabled Hamersley to account for the University of WA by 3-0. The afternoon started well for Hamersley when a defensive mix-up resulted in a cross from the right being converted from close-range by the in-form Labbate. UWA responded almost immediately with several promising attacks which ended in Adam Brett heading just over the crossbar, and minutes later Robert Benkovic shot high with a fine effort on the turn. Six minutes into the second half Hamersley pounced when a cross was delivered with precision to the near post where Labbate claimed his second of the day. Shortly after the game was effectively over when a cross struck Marc D’Ascanio’s leg and the ball fell to Labbate who found the net with a strong shot from 16-metres. Although UWA were out of the game they never gave up the case with Larsen, Brett and Bryn Griffiths all going close only to be denied by goalkeeper Daryl Benstead. “It was a strange afternoon - we had excellent possession for long periods but failed to convert from seven good opportunities whereas Hamersley had four chances and scored three,” said UWA coach Kevin Burton after the game. “Whilst the difference between the teams was clearly the form of striker Labbate, we still had some positive moments to reflect upon.” Labbate was the games stand-out performer, his three-goal haul taking his season tally to twelve goals from seven starts to make him by far the most lethal attacker in amateur circles. There were also good showing from midfielders Alun Vernals and Peter O’Connell for Hamersley, while for UWA it was Benkovic, Larsen and Max Percy that shone. A late goal gave Hamersley the reserves game by a 1-0 scoreline.

The race for the league title took a dramatic turn as lowly North Perth United won for the third time this season and dumped Fremantle United from top spot courtesy of a 2-1 scoreline. Hamersley’s win pushed them to 22 points and leadfrog Fremantle who have 20 points after ten games. Shamrock Rovers are third on goal difference following a 1-1 home draw with Forrestfield United, narrowly in front of Spearwood Dalmatinac who crushed bottom side Balga 4-1. Kwinana United defeated Murdoch University 2-0, and the points were shared between Canning International and Perth Azzurri where things ended 2-2. For a more complete look at the amateurs game in Western Australia, including results for all WAASSA competitions, the latest news and so forth, visit http://waassa.ola.com.au

29.6.2003

PREMIER LEAGUE, ROUND THIRTEEN (Inglewood United vs E.C.U. Joondalup by Tom McCrisken; Swan I.C. Vs Western Knights courtesy www.westernknights.web1000.com; Bassendean Caledonian vs Stirling Lions by Don Evans; Sorrento vs Fremantle City by Kerry Slater)

Following a torrential downpour earlier in the day, referee Wayne Oldham waited until fifteen minutes before kick-off before giving the go-ahead to Inglewood United's Premier League meeting with E.C.U. Joondalup at the National Stadium on Saturday. With much of the middle third of the pitch under various depths of water, it was clear this was not going to be a game of great skill. In the 4th minute a John Morton a free-kick into the area from the right skimmed the head of an Inglewood defender and bounced invitingly for Scott Bulloch at the back post where he headed it over the line to give the visitors the lead. Having adapted better to the conditions, Joondalup extended their lead after 25 minutes when Anthony Danze sent Peter Vukmirovic down the right, the big striker turning one defender then making his way past a second before finding the net from the top edge of the 18-yard box for the goal of the game. Five minutes from the break Garin Collins played a free-kick low to the near post which Scott Blackmore got the slightest of touches on to turn the ball past goalkeeper Oliver Taseski and make it three-nil. Less than two minutes into the second half Inglewood had reduced the gap through Louis Parkinson who received the ball from Ryan Newhill before picking his spot between goalkeeper Peter Stewart and his near post from a tight angle. The home team began to assert their influence across the middle of the park to have Joondalup under pressure at the back. A fierce shot on goal by Parkinson struck the arm of a defender and the referee hesitated momentarily before awarding a penalty which Alex Josifovski converted to give Inglewood hope with eleven minutes to go. Seven minutes later that hope vanished as substitute Josh Kamasz delivered a fine pass to Abdul Kamara, he in turn knocked the ball on to Vukmirovic who threw off his marker to fire past Taseski and seal three points for Joondalup who stay in the mix for a place in the play-off's.

Cockburn City have continued their excellent recent form with a 1-0 defeat of Floreat Athena at Dalmatinac Park. Starting confidently, Athena went close to scoring in the 5th minute but Anthony Jones headed over the crossbar from an in-swinging Jamie Trandos corner. After repelling the visitors early pressure Cockburn came into the game with flank players John and Michael Mirco influential. The game was blown wide open after 15 minutes when midfielder Domenic De Felice sent a lovely cross-field pass to the unmarked John Mirco whose low shot deceived 18-year old goalkeeper Alex Dunn at the near post. The remainder of the half was a scrappy affair with much of the play taking place in the middle third of the park, Athena shading their opponent in terms of possession with pacey attackers Dejan Djukanovic and Andreas Oliviera held at bay by a Cockburn defence superbly marshaled by Dusan Macura. Twelve minutes into the second half substitute Roberto Colalillo sent a dangerous cross into the Cockburn area which Michael Mirco and Dean Wallace lunged at only to have the ball come back off the upright. Athena picked up the pace in their quest for an equaliser over the final half-hour, and they should have had it when Djukanovic pulled the ball back to Oliveira who unfortunately blasted high from 9-metres. Throwing all caution to the wind, Athena won a series of corners and free-kicks around the penalty area. A well directed free-kick from Matthew Novatsis was deflected narrowly wide of the up-right, and shortly after Adrian Sutton had a towering header cleared off the goal line. But Cockburn rode their luck and held on to claim the points by stretching their unbeaten run to seven games.

Saturday's clash at the Swan Italian Club between Swan I.C. and Western Knights kicked-off despite concerns over whether or not the pitch was indeed fit for play. The Knights hesitation to start the match continued throughout the game as they put in a performance void of the passion and commitment required under the circumstances. The home side came close to taking the lead after 8 minutes when only a Claus Nielsen clearance prevented Paul Lincoln from netting. Two minutes later and down the opposite end a superb pass form Luka Jukic put Stuart Montgomery one-on-one with goalkeeper Corey Hugo who forced the Knights striker into firing wide. Swan gained the upper hand after 28 minutes when Justin Hugo made a surging run into the Knights' 18-yard box only for his shot to strike Alex Christie and the loose ball fell to Paul Lincoln who, with Tommi Tomich stranded, stroked the ball into an empty net. The Knights carved out two more good scoring opportunities in the first half but Corey Hugo saved well from Paul McVittie while John Nicolaou hit his shot straight at the Swan custodian. The second half saw Swan continue to dominate and Paul Lincoln nearly doubled his personal tally in the 65th minute when a superb pass from the tireless Tom Shepheard set him free, but his shot smashed against the crossbar. Five minutes later things went from bad to worse for the Knights as Alex Christie was sent off for a second yellow card offence, a decision that seemed a little harsh in the conditions. Down the ten men, the Knights lifted their game as Montgomery shot wide then, in the 89th minute, substitute Stipan Majic had his effort smothered by Corey Hugo. The final twist came in the fourth minute of stoppage time when Elton Holmes rushed in behind Leon Russell and rifled his shot home to make the final score 2-0.

The points were shared at Jubilee Reserve when Bassendean Caledonian and Stirling Lions fought out a 1-1 draw in wet, wintry conditions. The Lions controlled the early exchanges with Adam Rains and Toby Wright working hard in midfield to supply big striker Eugene Singeorzan with plenty of ammunition. The first opening came the way of Singeorzan who shot wide of the mark after 18 minutes, and shortly after a smashing effort by Keegan Ashley was safely scooped up by Caledonian goalkeeper Alan Dunlop. On the half hour the visitors were awarded a penalty after Danny Carlino was brought down inside the area by Craig Naven, and Toby Wright stepped up to coolly slot home and give his side a deserved lead. A good cross by Ian Griffiths from the right found Andy Cornmell whose effort was cleared off the line by Andy Wright as Caledonian sought to equalise, while the Lions came close to extending the gap just before half-time but Singeorzan placed his shot narrowly off-target. Caledonians' task became all the more difficult in the 63rd minute when midfielder Paul Hickey was sent off for a second yellow card offence. But the home side dug deep to level three minutes later as Kevin Smith's through ball came off the head of Tony Paolino and got stuck in the mud before Cornmell pounced to beat goalkeeper Jordan Conti with a low strike. The Lions responded by piling on the pressure and with 70 minutes gone Singeorzan forced a world-class save from Dunlop. The home team almost stole the points late as Ramon Westerberger went close, and close to the end Eric Ravanel was denied by Conti who made a courageous diving save at the youngster's feet.

Sorrento suffered the pain of foregoing two championship points when they conceded a late goal to draw with Fremantle City at Ken Allen Field. The Seagulls showed their liking for the heavy pitch as early as the 1st minute when Andy Mason's shot flashed wide of the post following a Daniel Stoitis free-kick. Not to be outdone, Fremantle youngster Dean Apelgren tried the delicate chip over goalkeeper Neil Young who did well to prevent the ball from dropping under the crossbar after 5 minutes. It was end-to-end stuff as the sides traded shots on goal. Glen Thomas fired into the body of Fremantle goalkeeper Bobson Karoma and from the resulting counter-attack Neil Young denied Jamie Jorqueira. A shot from Simon Harland cannoned off the body of the Fremantle custodian and Sean Fallon's follow-up header was cleared off the line by Dulio Xavier. The deadlock was broken after 34 minutes when Peter Lord fed a short pass into John Migas whose shot on the turn was wide of the 'keeper and inside the far post. But within seven minutes Sorrento found a response when Stoitis' long throw-in was headed away by Marc Wingell as far as Glen Thomas whose effort was turned in at the far post by Fallon. After the break it was the visiting that were doing much of the attacking as Harland, Jared Love and Andy Mason going close to netting. With 71 minutes gone Sorrento nudged their win in front as Mason volleyed in a pass from Harland. The introduction shortly after of the lively Cisco Jorqueira breathed new life into the home team and with twelve minutes remaining Craig Surtees side-footed into an empty net after the Sorrento backline failed to clear the danger to earn Fremantle a share of the points.

29.6.2003

RESERVES AND UNDER-18’S ROUND-UP

The first half of the reserves clash between Bassendean Caledonian and Stirling Lions looked destined to end scoreless before Craig Wells put the ball in the back of the net shortly before the interval. The lead became two goals early in the second half when a defence splitting pass found Andy Gordon whose rasping drive was well beyond the grasp of the visiting goalkeeper. To their credit the Lions fought their way back into the game and reduced the leeway when a defensive error allowed a one-on-one for Basil Lenzo who rounded goalkeeper Steve Grant before tucking the ball away to make it 2-1 after 81 minutes. Injury and other concerns meant Caledonian were forced to utilise four players under the age of sixteen who had earlier taken part in the under-18 fixture, the quartet performing admirably to help the side to all three premiership points.

Another impressive showing by Sorrento’s in-form reserve team gave them maximum points away at Fremantle City on Sunday. Battling not only the heavy downpour but also a dogged Fremantle line-up, the Seagulls backed up a strong first half display with a ‘never say die’ attitude after the break. Joe Woodin got the ball rolling for the team in blue with a close-range tap-in after 12 minutes, but the port side were back on level terms after 23 minutes when Saul Contera made the most of his opportunity. Sorrento reclaimed the lead just after the half hour mark following some good lead up work from Andrew Brand that lead to Farrell Hedges bundling the ball over the line. Early in the second half Fremantle gave the visitors a fright, however, a unified performance permitted Sorrento to hold on and claim victory in tough conditions.

Cockburn City had a comfortable 6-1 win over Floreat Athena at Dalmatinac Park. Vince Nizich got the home team off on the right foot by netting after 4 minutes, Simon Jonas doubled the lead midway through the first half and shortly after Peter Petkovich got in on the act with Cockburn’s third. The game effectively over as a contest when Nizich added his second to the scoreboard in the 75th minute, but Athena refused to lie down without a fight and Andreas Pantelias reduced the gap ten minutes later. But Simon Jonas had other ideas and bagged two goal in the space of four minutes to complete his hat-trick and the scoreline. The clash between Swan I.C. and Western Knights was called off after 55 minutes with the score at nil-all. And at the National Stadium the game between Inglewood United and E.C.U. Joondalup was abandoned without a ball being kicked.

In the under-18’s, Cockburn City swept aside the visiting Floreat Athena team by a 6-1 scoreline. A goal after 6 minutes by Troy Dott got Athena off to the perfect start but it wasn’t long before the home side hit peak form. Bojan Kovack leveled after 15 minutes, and not long after Luke Eoannidis gave Cockburn the lead. After the break the home team piled on three goals in twelve minute to set up victory, Eoannidis’ double punctuated by a strike from Jason Dos Santos. The win was capped after 73 minutes when Dos Santos netted his second of the day. And the points were also shared between Inglewood United and E.C.U. Joondalup where the final score was 1-1. Abdi Mohamed (Inglewood) and Tommy Ashworth (Joondalup) were the scorers.

The points were shared when Swan I.C. and Western Knights squared off on a rain sodden pitch at the Swan Italian Club. The leadership of captain Kyle Greenaway and his deputy Scott Lewry was noticed in the Swan camp as their opponents quickly established control of the game before taking a deserved lead through Andrija Jukic. The black and whites then lost goalkeeper Daniel Agudelo, who was carried off with a head injury, as Radomir Petrovic took over between the posts. After the half-time break Swan came back into the game with Brendan Knox leveling the score via the penalty spot. With the home team enjoying the better of play, a defensive mistake resulted in a Knights penalty which was converted by Steven Conroy. Showing great determination, Swan bounced back and a great corner found Danyal Bennett who headed in the equalising goal. Minutes later Swan came agonisingly close to snatching the lead from another corner which was again met by Bennett only for the ball to strike the crossbar before being scrambled away by the defence.

Stirling Lions took the lead against home team Bassendean Caledonian after 24 minutes when Anthony Macri’s shot was deflected past goalkeeper Troy Smith. Minutes later Smith was again in the thick of the action, this time making a great save at the near post as the visitors sought to extend their lead. Caledonian came close to leveling late in the half but a strong shot from David Houston was parried by the Lions custodian and Corey Bessant knocked the follow-up wide. There was better luck for Caledonian after the break as a good through ball from Alex Tharby found Leo Perrotta who cut in from the right before rounding the
‘keeper to knock in the equaliser after 68 minutes. Bessant and Houston had opportunities to put the home team in front as the half progressed but in the end a 1-1 draw was a fair result.

On Sunday, a disjointed Sorrento outfit was put to the torch by a slick Fremantle City side who claimed victory by 4-0. It took the port side just 13 minutes before getting on the scoreboard with a swift attacking move that saw Tom D’Souza’s precise cross to the far post volleyed in by Ben Howe. Both teams created some good openings throughout the remainder of the half but failed to convert them into goals. After the break Fremantle picked up the pace with some exquisite passing and in the 52nd minute Chris Smith sent the ball to Andy Pomfret who took full advantage of some hesitant defending to double the margin. The move of the game resulting the margin becoming three goals after 68 minutes as Sebastian Trim found the net from a tight angle. And two minutes later john Thornley was taken down inside the 18-yard box and Mo Atak duly stroked home from the penalty spot his sides fourth of the day. “I was really pleased with the teams performance today,” said Fremantle coach Mike Tetlow. “We have now scored in every round, 49 goals in 12 games, and kept 6 clean sheets. Needless to say that our defence as been excellent all year.”

28.6.2003

FIRST DIVISION, ROUND SIXTEEN (Stirling Suns vs Bayswater city by Adam Rucci; The City vs Mandurah City by Barrie Rennie; Rockingham City vs Ashfield courtesy www.ashfieldsc.com; Leeming Strikers vs Kingsway Olympic courtesy www.leemingstrikers.com)

The First Division clash between competition leaders Bayswater City and third-placed Stirling Suns lived up to it’s pre-game expectations to keep a large crowd entertained for the duration. The game started off very slowly in the wet, slippery conditions and it was the Suns which made the early breakthrough when a long throw-in went to feet and the loose ball was smashed home by midfielder Djoko Cvetanoski to send the home fans into raptures. The equaliser came soon after as Andrew O’Neill swung in a corner which Kevin Henderson met with a solid header which he sent past goalkeeper Nenad Djurasovic. From that stage on the game was very much a one-sided affair with Bayswater having in the proximity of 75% of the ball but unable to convert that dominance into goals. The second half began with Bayswater determined to go in front, stringing together some good attacking moves with their hard-working midfield well on top. Introduced off the bench at the break, Bobby Klenkoski looked the most likely to break the deadlock and was presented with a golden opportunity to do so following a great cross from Sal Marrapodi but his header crashed against the crossbar. Bayswater continued to pressure the Suns who were often forced to defend en masse with only the occasion push forward on the counter-attack. In stoppage time O’Neill squandered a chance to give his side all three points when he blasted over the bar from close-range. This was very much as case of two points lost for Bayswater while their opponents were more than happy with the one they got. The Suns won the reserves by 4-3, while the score was 2-2 in the the under-18 fixture.

Mandurah City eked out an uninspired 2-1 win over The City on Saturday afternoon to go level on points with Bayswater City at the head of the First Division table. Conditions that could only be described as woeful failed to help either side stamp any real authority over the match, although it seemed as if The City would be the first to score after adapting better to the conditions. In a dominant first half, on six occasions the visiting side were put through with only the goalkeeper but each time poor finishing let The City down and kept alive Mandurah’s hopes. Some half-time tactical changes from Mandurah coach Paul O’Brien saw his side take the game up to the home team. With the aid of a strong win, Christian Paschewitz raced away through the middle and, with only the goalkeeper to beat, calmly slotted the ball into the net to give Mandurah the lead ten minutes after the re-start. The goal spurred the visitors into life and they dominated the remainder of the afternoon. So it came as no surprise when the margin became two goals as Paschewitz showed his class by netting from an acute angle on the hour. The City reduced the deficit seven minutes from full-time after a shot from outside the penalty area by Jason Hope took a wicked deflection off Peter Knight before hitting the net. This set up a frenetic end to the game as The City pushed for an equaliser but Mandurah were able to withstand the pressure and take maximum points home with them. In the reserve game Mandurah City fought hard to finish the match with a 2-2 draw after twice coming from behind to equalise, the visitors goals coming from Gary Attrill and Michael Sesma. The under-18 clash ended in a 7-1 thrashing to Mandurah.

An under-strength Morley Windmills recorded their first away win of the campaign by downing Balcatta 4-1 at Graham Burkett Reserve. The start of the game was postponed due to the pitch having to be remarked on a very wet afternoon, Windmills got off to a dream start when Michael Campbell’s bullet-like header crashed into the roof of the net following a well-taken corner by Gary James. Minutes later James was again the provider as Kenny Dunne repeated his goal scoring feat of last week to put the visitors in a commanding position after only 10 minutes. After losing the influential Deeny Botha to injury, Windmills appeared content with their two-goal lead and allowed Balcatta to play themselves back into the game with increased possession but rarely threatened in front of goal. The second half was a tightly fought contest in which Windmills always looked the more likely to trouble the scorers. A moment of magic from Kenny Smith saw him knock the ball over the defence but it flashed wide of the up-right, and shortly after James brought forced a great save from goalkeeper Colin Lees. Windmills added to their tally via a controversial penalty which Marco Schisano converted to pretty much wrap up the points. Balcatta reduced the margin late in the game only for Windmills three-goal buffer to be restored when James finished clinically.

At Dowling Street Reserve, Rockingham City went down 2-3 to the visitors from Ashfield. The home team took just 11 minutes to get on the scoresheet when an uncharacteristic error by Ashfield goalkeeper John Van Der Voet coughed up the ball to Gary Cowan who placed the ball in an exposed goal. Unperturbed at going behind, Ashfield found the perfect response four minutes later via a Matt Pochroj corner which found Wayne Culverwell who converted a simple header from close range. Continually pushing forward and playing some attractive football, Ashfield took the lead after the half hour when Muhamed Komadaric was bundled over just out side the 18-yard box and Dion Florias free-kick was put away by Chris McCullogh. To Rockingham’s credit they never gave up and created numerous scoring opportunities before the break without success. It was a similar story in the second half as chances went begging at both ends of the pitch, but with fifteen minutes to go Rockingham scrambled an equaliser via Jonathon Crawford the visiting team failed to clear the danger inside their 18-yard box. This set up a exciting climax that saw Komadaric shoot over the crossbar from close-range before, in the 85th minute, substitute Tom Gaca scored with practically his first touch by heading in at the back post. Ashfield found the net for a fourth time via Martin Kelly in the final minute o f play but the goal was ruled out for offside. Ashfield took out the reserves 2-1 with second half goals from Billy Robb and Chris Williams, while the under-18 clash ended 2-0 to Rockingham.

Leeming Strikers and Kingsway Olympic fought out a 2-2 in their mid-table clash at John Connell Reserve. The home side opened the scoring when Jeremy Herbert put Joseph Tomchek through to round the goalkeeper before tucking the ball away. Herbert might have increased the lead but twice squandered opportunities before Olympic leveled after a dangerous free-kick into the area caught the home defence napping and Matt Baird duly slotted home. The remainder of the half was fairly even despite the fact Olympic were reduced to ten men after they had a player dismissed for dissent. A minute into the second half Lucas Whitehouse headed home a free kick to put the Strikers back in front. Making the most of the numerical advantage the home team continued to do most of the attacking with Olympic relying on the occasional swift counter attack. The Strikers were left stunned when a debatable penalty was awarded for handball and Olympic’s Brian Hedges equalised from the spot with just under twenty minutes to go. A clever chip by Phil Bell hit the post as the Strikers searched for a late winner which just did not arrive. The reserve fixture also ended in a 2-2 draw, while the under-18 game was taken out by Olympic 2-1.

Dianella White Eagles kept in tact their undefeated home record with a 3-2 defeat of South West Phoenix. In an exciting first half, Phoenix took the lead through Savo Garic after 6 minutes, but goals in quick succession from Dragan Njegic and Filip Smiljanic put Dianella in the box seat. The two teams went into the break on level terms after Garic added his second in the 32nd minute. The winner arrived twelve minutes after the re-start when Jimmy Stoichev found the target. The win moved Dianella into joint third place, level on points with Stirling Suns and three points behind co-leaders Bayswater City and Mandurah City. Armadale extended their run without defeat to eight game with a 2-1 victory over Queens Park at Alfred Skeet Oval. An own goal after 7 minutes put Queens Park in front, but the red mounted a strong second half revival with Jason Goodwin scoring twice in six minutes to claim the win. Southside United moved away from the foot of the table with a 2-0 win over Canning City who drop to last place on the standings. Bobby White put Southside in front early in the second half with Tony Pritchard sealing the points in the 83rd minute.

29.6.2003

WEEKEND IN SUMMARY

Cockburn City continued their excellent run of results with a 1-0 win over Floreat Athena in Round Thirteen of the Premier League season. Having raced to a three goal lead at the break, E.C.U. Joondalup repelled a strong second half performance from Inglewood United to claim maximum points by 4-2 at the National Stadium. Swan I.C. pulled off a shock 2-0 win over Western Knights on a rain-sodden pitch in the Swan Valley, while the points were shared at Jubilee Reserve as Bassendean Caledonian and Stirling Lions battled out a tight one-all draw. On Sunday at Ken Allen Field, Fremantle City and Sorrento drew 2-2.

Bayswater City lead Mandurah City on goal difference following the completion of Round Sixteen of the First Division season. Mandurah moved level on points courtesy of a 2-1 away win over The City while not far down the road Bayswater were held to a 1-1 draw by third-placed Stirling Suns. Dianella White Eagles defeated South West Phoenix by 3-2, Morley Windmills enjoyed a 4-1 win over Balcatta, and Armadale accounted for Queens Park 2-1. Rockingham City went down 2-3 at home to Ashfield, Leeming Strikers and Kingsway Olympic shared the points, and Southside United registered a much needed 2-0 win against Canning City.

27.6.2003

WEEKEND IN PREVIEW

Undefeated in their past six outings, Cockburn City are on a roll and favoured to account for Floreat Athena when Round Twelve of the Premier League season gets underway on Saturday afternoon. A Swan I.C. side which has shown marked improvement over the past month come up against the Western Knights, while Inglewood United are home for the third consecutive week as they play E.C.U. Joondalup. Three very important points are on the line at Jubilee Reserve where Bassendean Caledonian meet Stirling Lions. On Sunday it's second verses third as Fremantle City welcome Sorrento to Ken Allen Field. With the weekend off due to the bye are reigning champions Perth S.C.

The First Division's big game this weekend has third-placed Stirling Suns up against leaders Bayswater City. The City will be well tested by a strong Mandurah City side, Dianella White Eagles are expected to overcome South West Phoenix, while the mid-table clash between Leeming Strikers and Kingsway Olympic promises to be a very tight affair. Armadale and Queens Park will both be desperate to take full points from their meeting at Alfred Skeet Oval where a loss could mean losing touch with leading pack, and Balcatta have a great chance to pick up some much-needed points when they host an injury depleted Morley Windmills. Elsewhere, Southside United are home Canning City and Rockingham City welcome Ashfield.

27.6.2003

BROKEN LEG SCUPPERS TEENAGER'S DREAM

For the second time in the space of 12 months the hopes of promising young attacker Tom Jones have been brought to a shuddering halt by serious injury. While preparing to trial in England on the weekend, the E.C.U. Joondalup teenager broke his leg in a friendly organised by former Saints Academy boss Mike Lyons. "I broke me leg on Sunday playing in a five-a-side outdoor competition in Brunei," said Jones, who was prevented from playing for the State at last years' National Talent Identification Championships by a break to the same leg. "I had shinpads on so it was such a shock to break the leg again. To be honest I am still in shock - I had trials with Southampton lined up for the first Monday in July." Jones made his way back to Perth on Tuesday evening and was immediately taken to hospital by family for treatment. "I went straight to Joondalup hospital where they x-rayed my leg. I have a clean break of my tibia, but it's displaced so my leg has been put in a plaster cast and the plan is that I'll go back to the hospital on Monday for an operation to get my leg straightened. It's the same leg that I broke last year but this time it's below the previous fracture."

27.6.2003

GOALS GOALS GOALS

Shane Crampton may not have scored last weekend by he still heads the Premier League leading scorers table. To date the Perth S.C. striker has netted 13 times, but closing in fast is Western Knights attacker Stuart Montgomery whose red-hot form has brought him five goals in the past fortnight to take his season tally to 9. Andy Mason (Sorrento), Golden Boot recipient for the past two years Branimir Mikulic (Fremantle City) and Louis Parkinson (Inglewood United) have each scored 6 times, which is one more than Elton Holmes, Paul Lincoln (both Swan I.C.), John Nicolaou (Knights), Andreas Oliveira (Floreat Athena) and Eugene Singeorzan (Stirling Lions/E.C.U. Joondalup).

With nine goals to his credit Sorrento's Jake Harman leads the way in the Premier League reserves. Hot on Harman's tail and two goals off the pace are Vlad Milasinovic, Damien Catalano (both Perth S.C.) and Petar Mrdja (Cockburn City). A further goal behind we find Western Knights' Stipan Majic, big Inglewood United striker Lee Haienko and John Greenwood of E.C.U. Joondalup. A rash of players make up the chasing pack with 5 goals each, namely Michael Baczynski (Inglewood United), Joe Liguan (Fremantle City), Jason Dos Santos (Cockburn City), Daniel Butler (Knights) and Floreat Athena pair Robert Cibesku and Mathew Novatsis.

The leading goalscorer of the Premier League under-18 competition after 12 rounds is Marc Sim whose 14 goals came for Fremantle City and prior to his recent move north to E.C.U. Joondalup. Two goals behind Sim is his former Fremantle strike-partner Mo Atak, while Perth S.C. attacker David Micevski is third with 11 goals. Talented E.C.U. Joondalup youngster Phillip O'Callaghan is a further goal behind and followed by Troy Dott (Floreat Athena) and Rostyn Griffiths (Joondalup) on 9 and Steven Worthy (Perth) with 8. Another Perth player, Cormac Dawson has found the net 7 times with teammate Jan Zablocki, Gerald O'Brien (Floreat Athena) and Demir Arslanoski (Inglewood United) on 6 goals.

Two goals in front at the head of the First Division scorers table is Mandurah City striker Michael Bobridge with 14 goals who leads from Lucas Whitehouse (Leeming Strikers) and Brian Robertson (Queens Park). Kingsway Olympic's Steven Bretti is currently in third place on 13 goals, Steven Suttie (South West Phoenix) has 10, and Bayswater City teammates Sal Marrapodi and Boima Karpeh have scored 9 each. At the half way stage of the season five players sit bunched on 8 goals - Zelko Savic, Dragan Njegic (both Dianella White Eagles), Scott Broadley (Balcatta), Greg Newcombe (Armadale) and Christian Paschkewitz (Mandurah City)

Julio Barrendilla of First Division reserves leader Canning City tops that competitions scorers table with 17 goals, four ahead of Dianella White Eagles' striker Stevica Petrovic. Kingsway Olympic's Hill Regan is placed third with 12 and is followed closely on 11 by teammates Steven Rhodes and Steven Choate from Mandurah City, who sit level on points with Canning. Pour players make up the chasing pack with 7 goals apiece - Pat Roberts (South West Phoenix), Mark Cox (The City), Jonathon Cook (Southside United), and Christian Dolva (Canning City)

John Thornley, who last week transferred from Southside United to Fremantle City, is streets ahead of the field on the First Division under-18 scorers table with 35 goals. With Southside undefeated from fifteen starts, Thornley's former teammate Simon El Chami is a distant second on 22 goals, and two behind him sits Simon Versaico of Leeming Strikers. With 15 goals is Dianella White Eagles attacker Daniel Narandzic who is followed by Shirash Sasikumar (Leeming Strikers) and John Aitken (Balcatta) on 12. Zorgan Alsamani (Bayswater City), Jason Maiola (Southside) and Gino Comito (South West Phoenix) have each tallied 11 goals so far this season, which is one more than Canning City's Daniel Trevisiol.

26.6.2003

THE SKYS THE LIMIT FOR TARKA

Australian coach Frank Farina is keeping a close eye on local product David Tarka whom he rates as one of the nations best young players. Speaking with Jonathan Cook of the "West Australian" this week, Farina said Tarka's dedication and commitment would determine just how far his career would take him. "I see David as a potential Socceroo - sooner rather than later," Farina commented. "But he's learning his trade. He's still quite young. He's still got a lot to learn and I think he would be the first to admit that. The sky is the limit for him but it depends how devoted, how dedicated, how much ambition he has. From what I've seen, he's a young lad who really wants to do well." The 20-year old defender will shortly trial in England where the like of Aston Villa, Nottingham Forest and West Ham United have expressed an interest in taking a look at Tarka.

26.6.2003

INCONSISTENCY COSTS SWAN

The performances of Swan I.C. over the opening three months of the Premier League season have been much better than their position in the lower half of the table suggests. But while the black-and-whites have shown that they are more than capable of matching it with the competition's strongest teams, they have let slip some valuable points with poor showings against the lower ranked sides. "Our inconsistency has come about for a variety of reasons," explained club coach Gary Marocchi this week. "We have not been able to put the same team out two weeks in a row as a few long term injuries in combination with players' work commitments has tested our depth. Discipline has also been a problem, we've picked up a few red cards and they obviously make things difficult for the ten men remaining on the field. But the main reason is that we have conceded too many soft goals. Barring the first game of the season, we've played well enough to get results but haven't defended well as a team."

Last weekend's display against Inglewood United was prime example of Swan losing their focus at the wrong time. Having dominated the game the black-and-whites looked destined to register their third win of the campaign, only to concede a stoppage time equaliser in a goalmouth scramble. "We played very well and we were bitterly disappointed with the result as we should have come away with three points," commented Swan's long-serving player Carlo Scali. "We were more disappointed with conceding the late goal than with missing two penalties as we had more players around the ball than Inglewood. As a team we were not desperate enough in wanting to clear the danger at a critical period of the match. Gary mentioned at half-time that all he wanted out of the second half was not to concede a goal as we were susceptible to the opposition raising their game."

While the results may not have gone in Swan's favour so far this season, Marocchi is confident the side will fare better over the next few months. "We have the capabilities to improve," said the coach. "We think we are a better team than last year so we expect to finish higher than last seasons position. We are aiming for a spot in the Boral Cup final, and victory in the final would be a huge boost for soccer in the Swan Valley and be a catalyst for promising players to join the club - something we have found to be a stumbling block this year. But we need to have our full squad available each week to maintain that competitive edge. We're also aiming to get more points at home - our away record is very good with only one defeat from eight matches counting the Cup - but we need to give our supporters some joy at home, not just high scoring but heart-breaking results."

25.6.2003

FARINA WANTS OLYMPIC QUALIFIERS IN PERTH

If national coach Frank Farina could have his way, Perth would host next years' Oceania qualifiers for the 2006 Olympic Games. But while Farina has floated the idea with Soccer Australia, the final decision as to where the January qualifiers are played lies with the Oceania Football Confederation and the national body. "Fingers crossed for everyone here. There's a big chance it will," Farina told Jonathon Cook of the "West Australian" newspaper. "Perth have been a leading light in terms of Australian soccer over I would say the past three or four years," he commented. "It's been proven that they are soccer mad over here. They will go to games." Australia have been confirmed as host of the Group A qualifying tournament which will also feature Samoa, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands and Fiji. Group B matches will take place in New Zealand between the host nation, Cook Islands, American Samoa, Tonga and Vanuatu.

25.6.2003

STRIKERS SNARE EX-SOCCEROO (courtesy www.leemingstrikers.com)

Leeming Strikers have secured the services of former Australian international Tony Franken as their goalkeeping coach for the remainder of season 2003. Franken will work on a weekly basis with the Strikers goalkeeping stocks which features youngsters Michael Smerilli, De Souza, Tae Phillips and Luke Rotondella to improve their technique and general skills. "We are truly delighted to have recruited such a famous name into our club and consider ourselves very fortunate to have someone of Tony's ability guiding our young keepers," said club president Alan Thraves. "This is a player who has been there and done it all and his experience is considered a tremendous boost to our coaching programs." Franken arrives at the club with a wealth of experience having played in the National Soccer League for Perth Glory, Olympic Sharks, Parramatta Eagles, Sydney United, Leichhardt and Canberra City during his successful career.

24.6.2003

INJURY AGAIN HITS WINDMILLS

For the second time this season Morley Windmills small squad have been hit heavily by injury which will leave them light on players over the next few weeks. John Pfaff has missed the past month due to a foot injury, last seasons' Player of the Year Simon Messenger has been absent for the past three weeks with a calf complaint, while an ankle injury has sidelined Chris Kahil. In additional Drew Carruthers and Steve Waycott are currently unavailable due to personal commitments, while the clubs' leading goalscorer Phil Russie has joined Dianella White Eagles becoming the third player this season to move to Windmills' First Division neighbour. In other club news, after two successful seasons in charge of the reserves James Herbert has stepped up to become assistant to John Castrelli in coaching the senior side. Justy Jensen, who broke his leg while playing for Windmills earlier in the opening weeks of the current season, has been appointed coach of the reserve side. To keep up to date with all the latest happenings from the Windmills camp visit http://www.geocities.com/morley_windmills

24.6.2003

JONES EYES OLYMPICS

When the Australia head to the Athens Olympic Games next year it's likely the goalkeeping duties will be carried out by the safe hands of 21-year old Brad Jones. Earlier this year he was one of four West Australians in the Australian Under-23 squad for the friendly with Spain, and now the young goalkeeper has his sights firmly set on a berth in the national side at the 2004 Olympics. "When you start playing football you want to play for your country, so to play in an Olympics would be unreal," Jones recently told Channel 9 reporter Bob Harnett said. As a teenager playing for Bayswater City, Jones was scouted by and subsequently signed for English Premier League club Middlesbrough. "I'd been watched by a few clubs that I knew of, and I always wanted to go to England to play, so when the chance came about I went for it straight away." Since moving to England Jones has progressed up through the youth ranks at 'Boro and ended last season as back-up to Australian No.1 Mark Schwarzer.

23.6.2003

MALAYSIAN TRIALS FOR MIKULIC

Fremantle City' and State striker Branimir Mikulic heads to Malaysia this week for trials with top flight club Sabah. The M-League side, who are fast developing ties with Western Australia, is currently home to goalscoring midfielder Robbie Gaspar, formerly of Perth S.C., while one-time Sorrento player Peter Butler recently took up a coaching position with the club. 23-year old Mikulic will be one of two Australians to try his luck with Sabah this week, the other being Sydney-born attacker Paul Harries who most recently played in England for Exeter City.

23.6.2003

DEANS AGREES TERMS WITH NEWCASTLE

Perth Glory defender Craig Deans has agreed terms with National Soccer League rival Newcastle United. Following talks last week with coach Ian Crook, Deans signed a one-year deal with United with the option of another 12 months. The former Western Knights centre-half will leave Perth in time for Newcastle's pre-season training which commences in August. In total Deans turned out on 55 occasions during this two spells with Glory which was punctuated by an 18-month stay with Carlton for whom he played 36 times.

22.6.2003

AMATEURS ROUND-UP

Reigning WAASSA Premier League champions Hamersley Rovers finally got some goals on the board with an emphatic 7-0 win over a hapless Balga side at Carine. Having accepted a late invitation to remain in the top flight despite being relegated last season, Balga have had a very difficult season to date with many players moving on at the end of last year and the club winless in the current campaign. Despite missing four first team regulars, Hamersley dominated from the opening kick and goals from Nick Cianci, Joe Wright and a two converted penalties by Flavio Labbate put them in an unbeatable position at the break. Midfielder Alun Vernals was involved in nearly all the moves which leads to the home teams goals and is nearing the best form of his career. Hamersley made full use of their bench after in the second half as they eased their way to a comfortable victory. Cianci made it 5-0 ten minutes after the re-start, Wright bagged his first ever hat-trick for the club, and substitute Gary Mills completed the route by netting a dangerous corner played in by Vernals. For Balga there were good performances from goalkeeper Chris Harvey, who prevented the final margin from being larger, and young attacker Hien Tran.

University of WA returned to winning ways with a fine defeat of Forrestfield United at Hartfield Park. The first genuine chance on goal arrived after 20 minutes when the ball fell to Marc D'Ascanio whose close-range strike was brilliantly pushed wide for a corner by Forrestfield goalkeeper Scott Kessner. Just before half-time Kessner was again in the thick of the action when he denied Adam Brett a goal from a fine header. The ball was quickly raced to the opposite end as Wayne Brooks sharp shot scraped the outside of the up-right. The second half saw a more determined approach from UWA as an alert Kessner kept out a good effort from D'Ascanio. The deadlock was broken by State representative Robert Benkovic who beat a defender before crossing to Frederik Larsen who volleyed into the roof of the net after 65 minutes. UWA doubled their advantage not long after when Larsen's hot cannoned back off the up-right and the ball fell to Bryn Griffiths whose shot was turned in by Benkovic. With ten minutes remaining Andy Hart broke free down the left flank and his cross landed at the feet of Griffiths who side-stepped an opponent to drive in the visitors third of the afternoon. "It was pretty tight in the first half but we lifted a gear in the second half, got hold of the midfield and came away with three deserved points," said UWA coach Kevin Burton. Forrestfield's reserves inflicted the first loss of the season on UWA by a 3-2 margin.

In other weekend action, Fremantle United took maximum points from their home fixture with Shamrock Rovers by 2-1, Perth Azzurri and Kwinana United drew 2-2, and the points were also shared as Murdoch University and North Perth United ended 1-1. The result of the Spearwood Dalmatinac-Canning International clash is currently unknown.For a more complete look at the amateurs game in Western Australia, including results for all WAASSA competitions, the latest news and so forth, visit http://waassa.ola.com.au

21.6.2003

PREMIER LEAGUE, ROUND TWELVE (E.C.U. Joondalup vs Cockburn City by Lennie Bavich and Tom McCrisken; Western Knights vs Bassendean Caledonian courtesy www.westernknights.web1000.com)

Gloomy conditions greeted the players as they made their way into the field for the Premier League clash between Inglewood United and Swan I.C. at the National Stadium. Sitting mid-table at the half way stage of the season and coming off a home loss to competition leaders Perth S.C., Inglewood went into this game in need to maximum points to keep on track their plans of making the end of season play-off series. State representative Jamie Kuzmanovich was the only notable absentee for the home side although there was only a place on the bench for hard-working midfield pair Scott Campbell and Alan MacKenzie. Some strong recent showing indicate Swan's lowly placing in the standings is by far from a true reflection of their potential, and following last weeks away defeat of Bassendean Caledonian were in a confident mood of upsetting their more fancied opponent.

Determined to unsettle their opponents, Swan came out of the blocks firing on all cylinders and very nearly took the lead after 2 minutes when Mark Lee curled a free-kick past the defensive and just wide of the top corner. Taken aback by their opponents attacking approach, the home team found it difficult to string together their passes going forward with the end result being the ball was all too often conceded well before within sight of goal. Down the other end, however, it was a much different story. An in-swinging Lee corner was met solidly at the back post by Michael Di Fulvio whose header rocketed the wrong side of the up-right. Swan won themselves another free-kick just outside the 18-yard box after 13 minutes and this time Elton Holmes sent the ball over Oliver Taseski's crossbar. Five minutes later Lee played a corner short to Damian Todorovic who whipped the ball into the area where it was allowed to run deep and Holmes' first time shot flashed across the face of a crowded goalmouth.

Inglewood were living dangerously and didn't the know it. In the 25th minute Taseski was pressured into hoofing a sloppy backpass which landed at the feet of Damian Scali who, with the 'keeper out of position, shot disappointingly wide. It seemed only a matter of time before Swan would take the lead, so when they did so three minutes later it surprised no one. Holmes and Todorovic combined on the right flank with the latter sending a dangerous cross into the box which Kosta Kalavroutziotis had the misfortune of turning past his own 'keeper in an attempt to clear. Finally sparked into life, Inglewood lifted their game and dominated the remainder of the period. Ryan Newhill raced onto a defence splitting pass and drew the defence out of position before squaring to Kalavroutziotis but his shot flew straight into the arms of Corey Hugo. Finding himself in the thick of the action again, Newhill sent a deep cross to Louis Parkinson after 37 minutes but the young striker hurried his shot to sent the ball wide. Another promising attack was snuffed out by Corey Hugo minutes later when he raced off his line to take the ball off the boot of Newhill following brilliant delivery by Kalavroutziotis.

The home team made a promising start to the second half with Rory Mouttet providing plenty of penetration down the left wing and, six minutes in, Shaun Kilkelly surged forward only to have his shot deflected wide for a corner. But by and large Inglewood found it difficult to break down a Swan backline marshaled by club captain Carlo Scali and the hard-working Justin Hugo. Following a period on the back foot Swan re-discovered their rhythm and to re-gain control. After 55 minutes Tom Shepheard was brought down inside the area following a weaving run down the right, but Taseski made a fine save to deny Holmes from penalty spot. Within minutes the Inglewood 'keeper knocked wide a Paul Lincoln drive after he skipped past his marker, and Taseski was well-placed to kept out Dean Nicolaou's shot from 15-metres. In the 68th minute Swan were given a second chance from the penalty spot after Shepheard crumpled under minimal contact from Kilkelly who was duly sent off by referee Hugh Best for his second yellow card offence. With golden opportunity to seal victory, Lincoln sent Taseski the wrong way only to scoop his effort over the crossbar.

A Damian Scali strike from 18-metres was tipped around the post by Taseski who was forced to five full-length along his line after 74 minutes. Shortly after Lincoln, Holmes and Damian Scali combined to open up the defence and this time Daniel Harrop came to the rescue of the home side by thwarting Lincoln from 8-metres. Swan dominated a tightly contested closing stages but were unable to add to their score as Inglewood sought a late equaliser with some quick breaks on the counter-attack. It wasn't until substitutes MacKeznie and Campbell began to find their measure that Inglewood started to look threatening. There were more than a few nervous moments when Swan failed to clear a corner and Michael Baczynski's shot on the turn whizzed over the crossbar close to the end of regulation time. Inglewood left it until the very last attack of the afternoon to level the game as Alex Josifovski nodded down another corner and Parkinson got the decisive touch in the ensuing goalmouth scramble four minutes into stoppage time.

Having worked so hard to dominate play for almost the entire game, to concede such a late goal was a cruel blow for Swan. No one would have begrudged the visitors all three points on a day when they completely out-played their opponent, but their inability to kill of the game really did cost them dearly. Holmes was a constant menace in attack while in the middle of the park Lee and Damian Scali controlled play and effectively negated the influence of their opposite numbers. In a generally flat display from Inglewood there were few highlights with only the defensive core of Daniel Kovacevic, Jason Godfrey and Kilkelly performing up to standard. On senses that new coach Eddie Hodgkinson, who takes over the Inglewood this week, will have his work cut out in making the side the power they can be.

Inglewood United : Oliver Taseski, Shaun Kilkelly, Jason Godfrey, Daniel Kovacevic, Daniel Harrop, Rory Mouttet, Scott Cassie (Scott Campbell 78), Kosta Kalavroutziotis (Alan MacKenzie 56), Alex Josifovski, Louis Parkinson, Ryan Newhill (Michael Baczynski 85)
Swan I.C. : Corey Hugo, Carlo Scali, Justin Hugo, Damian Todorovic (Dean Nicolaou 66), Michael Di Fulvio, Gary Andrews, Tom Shepheard, Mark Lee, Damian Scali, Elton Holmes, Paul Lincoln
Bookings : Kilkelly (65), Kovacevic (68), Shepheard (87)
Dismissals : Kilkelly (68)
Referee : Hugh Best
Attendance : 175 (approx.)

Perth S.C. extended their lead with a 2-1 win over Fremantle City in the top-of-the-table clash at Ken Allen Field. Played in cold and windy conditions, the visitors took the lead after 7 minutes when the Fremantle defence failed to respond to a Todd Howarth corner which found Mark Pottier who has presented with the time to pick his place in the back of the net. Fremantle fought back strongly over the remainder of the half but were continually thwarted by Perth custodian Robert Scarparolo who kept out a number of good strikes on goals to keep Perth in front at half-time. The port side continued to threaten after the interval and were rewarded six minutes in when a dangerous comer resulted in Anthony Pereira converting to level the game. A further six minutes elapsed before Perth re-claimed the upper hand following a controversial off the ball incident that had the home fans calling for the dismissal of Perth striker Shane Crampton. From the free-kick Gareth Naven picked out Crampton who relayed the ball to Todd Howarth and the talented left flanker made no mistake with a stinging shot which flew through the hands of Fremantle goalkeeper Bobson Karoma. Ther remainder of the game produced numerous scoring opportunities which went unconverted at both ends of the park as Perth held on to claim victory.

Sorrento edged closer to the top of the table with a well deserved win over Floreat Athena at Percy Doyle Reserve. With Richard Watson absent due to injury, the home defence was tested early on as goalkeeper Neil Young produced a great double save to thwart Andreas Oliviera then Aaron Moschopoulo to keep things on an even footing. Taking up the challenge Sorrento slowly tipped the scales in their favour. In the 31st minute Jared Love produced a final push to win through and his lightning volley from just inside the area rocketed past Anthony Mori to balloon out the back of the net. Shortly after Simon Harland had a shot that was headed off the line by Anthony Jones, but there was little the visitors could do in the 36th minute as Sean Fallon's cross from the left was powerfully headed in by Harland. Sorrento almost had a third two minutes from the break but Glen Thomas' smashing right foot drive came back off the crossbar. The home side continued to ply the pressure in the second half as Thomas fired just over then and three minutes later Dale McCulloch also sprayed the ball high. After 52 minutes Love pulled his shot across the face of goal, and a minute further on Harland was smothered by a fast reacting Mori. With the clock ticking down a searching clearance by Steve McDonald reached Harland who beat his marker to cut the ball back to Andy Mason but his effort bobbled over the bar. And in the final a long throw from Daniel Stoitis traveled through to Harland who toe-poked wide of the target. The secures Sorrento's place in the upper reaches of the table and sets the scene perfectly for next weekend's away trip to second-placed Fremantle City.

Cockburn City extended their run without loss to six games by defeating E.C.U. Joondalup 2-0 in the northern suburbs on Saturday. Despite starting well and coming close to scoring inside the opening 5 minutes, Joondalup struggled to match the work rate of their opponents midfield with Michael and John Mirco and Shane McNally dominant across the middle with some excellent movement on and off the ball. After winning a string of corners, Cockburn broke the deadlock after 37 minutes as Jeff Bright floated the ball deep from the right to Dean Wallace who headed it back across the face of goal and Michael Mirco made no mistake in finding the target with a first time strike. Joondalup pressed hard to equalise before the interval but attackers John Greenwood and Josh Kamasz found little room to manouver against a well organised defence featuring Mario De Felice, Boza Erakovic, Dusan Macura and Bright. The pattern of play after the break was much the same as first half although Joondalup were much more productive only to be let down by poor delivery to their forwards. The result was put beyond doubt when Dean Wallace, who was a constant menace to the opposing side, sent a powerful diving header past Peter Stewart following a good run down the left flank by John Mirco.

Stuart Montgomery tookhis season tally to nine goals with a double for the Western Knights in their defeat of struggling Bassendean Caledonians at Nash Field. The home side dominated the first half with some scintillating football, taking a deserved lead after 13 minutes as Luka Jukic played an exquisite cross-field ball to Carl Medica who send a well-weighted pass into the path of Montgomery and the striker lifted his shot over goalkeeper Alan Dunlop. Just prior to the Knights' second goal came the move of the match when Medica played a one-two with David Annall then dribbled the ball across the Caledonian penalty box, playing another one-two with Montgomery then unleashing a shot that looked a certain goal only for Dunlop to produce a top shelf save. The Knights second goal came from a similar slick passage of play, as Paul McVittie, Jukic and John Nicolaou combined with the latters cross to the far post rifled home by the Montgomery. The second half saw the Knights dominance slip as they started to over elaborate, however the visiting team rarely threatened Tommi Tomich in goal. Montgomery had several chances to complete his second hat-trick in consecutive games but the striker's shot cannoned off the post after being put through by Claus Nielsen after 48 minutes. And nine minutes from the end Montgomery spurned another opportunity after substitute Scott Devine and Medica combined well wide on the left, but his shot flew wide of the mark. Despite the 2-0 scoreline, Knights coach Ronnie Campbell has reason for concern over his sides the inability to kill off the opposition - had Caledonian sneaked a goal this would have been a very different game and a test of the Knights mettle.

21.6.2003

RESERVES AND UNDER-18'S ROUND-UP

The opening half-hour of the reserves meeting between Inglewood United and Swan I.C. at the National Stadium was dominated by the home side with the ball rarely crossing the half way line. A goal after 16 minutes by Lee Haienko put the home side in the driving seat, and when Dinko Ahmetanovic made it 2-0 eight minutes later it looked like being a very one-sided contest. But to their credit Swan fought back with their best chance coming David Mahon whose powerful drive was forced wide by goalkeeper Beni Pietropiccolo. After the break it was a much more evenly contested affair in which the respective 'keeper's were frequently called into action with Swan's Chris Ramsey the busier of the two. The gap was reduced by Matt Allbricht who cleverly flicked the ball past Jamie Goodman to drill it low past the 'keeper midway through the half. Inglewood sealed the points five minutes from the end when Haienko found the net while Swan were down to ten men with Danayal Bennett off receiving treatment for an ankle injury. In the final minute Renato Rechichi almost added the hosts' fourth but volleyed wide a deep cross from Jay McEvoy.

The crucial clash between Fremantle City and League leader Perth S.C. at Ken Allen Field proved to be a very tight affair that remained scoreless until the 63rd minute when Albert Osei-Tutu popped up to put the visiting side in front. Fourteen minutes later Osei-Tutu doubled the margin and Vlado Milasinovic rounded out the 3-0 scoreline when he netted in the final minute of play. Second-placed Sorrento took early control of their home clash with Floreat Athena and were rewarded for some enterprising play when the move of the match resulted in James Morgan blasting an exquisite pass from Jake Harman into an empty net. Back after a week's suspensions, Farrell Hedges put the Gulls further ahead before the visitors got on the board through Michael Lardis who placed the ball wide of goalkeeper Gareth Deeg from the penalty spot. The home team put the points in the bag with a headed effort from Hedges following a cross from the by-line by Harman.

A goal after 10 minutes from Dwayne Sadja gave E.C.U. Joondalup the perfect start to their home clash with Cockburn City. But the visitors headed into the break in front after Davo Banjac and Simon Jonas found the net within three minutes of eachother late in the half. Jason Dos Santos made it 3-1 ten minutes after the re-start and when Daniel Palermo found the net after 74 minutes the game was over as a contest. Bassendean Caledonian registered their third win of the season with a 2-1 defeat of the Western Knights at Nash Field. Jim Houston converted from the penalty spot to give the visitors the lead, but the Knights were back on level terms when Steven Sulenta scored his third goal in as many weeks. A well hit shot from Gareth Wright restored Caledonians lead before the visitors found themselves under all the pressure as the Knights mounted a strong late charge to equalise. But Caldonian defenders Houston, Phil Lunt and Matt Gow along with goalkeeper Steve Grant performed heroically to ensure their team went home with all three points.

Making good use of the full width of the park with some quick attacking moves, Fremantle City gained the upper hand early on in their under-18 Premier League meeting with a talented Perth S.C. outfit at Ken Allen Field. The port side got on the scoreboard after 13 minutes when central midfielder Sebastian Trim played an inch-perfect pass into the box where new signing John Thornley was brought down for a penalty, and Mo Atak made no mistake from the spot. The port side created numerous opportunities to exxtend their lead but were thwarted by some deperate defending from Perth and the frame of the goal. The fifteen minutes immediately after the break saw both sides with an even share of possession with good openings coming at both end of the field. On the hour a great six-pass move saw Fremantle turn defence into attack as Thornley netted his sides second of the day. The introduction on Ben Kelly, who had replaced Jason Barrarea, had almost immediate impact as he made it 3-0 after 65 minutes with a strike from close-range. "This team played with no fear, good movment, good awareness and the will to play," said Fremante coach Mike Tetlow after the game.

Bassendean Caledonian recorded their second win of the season with a 3-1 defeat of the Western Knights at Nash Field. The visitors took the lead when Ciarian Mullin put a great through ball to Leo Perrotta who beat a defender before slotting past the goalkeeper. Caledonian doubled their advantage after being awarded a penalty, with Ryan Frisina successful from the spot after 24 minutes. On the half hour the Knights' Jared Kay pegged back the gap when he found the back of the net with a well taken free-kick. But immediately from the re-start Caledonian went on the attack through Ian McAllister whose brilliant cross was headed in by Frisina to restore the two-goal buffer. With little over half an hour to go the visiting side were reduced to ten men with the dismissal of John Barker, and not long after they became nine when Frisina succumbed to injury with Caledonian having already made use of their bench players. But Leigh Barlow, Thomas Koprowitz, Alex Tharby, David Houston and McAllister defended well during the final minutes in which goalkeeper Troy Smith made a timely save to ensure Caledonian went home with maximum points.

Daniel De Fazio gave E.C.U. Joondalup the perfect start by netting after 2 minutes against Cockburn City, and four minutes later the lead was doubled as Rostyn Griffiths tucked the ball home. With a cricket score on the cards, Cockburn tightened up defensively to prevent their opponent from adding to the tally for the remainder of the game. Joondalups' 2-0 win keeps them at the top of the under-18 standings, three points ahead of second-placed Fremantle. Sorrento went down 0-1 at home to Floreat Athena for whom Jarryd Campher netted after 72 minutes. And Swan I.C. continued their brilliant run of recent results with a 2-0 defeat of Inglewood United at the National Stadium where both goals came from the boot of Matt Ullbricht.

21.6.2003

FIRST DIVISION, ROUND FIFTEEN (Canning City vs Bayswater City by Adam Rucci; Mandurah City vs Armadale by Michael Di Pietro)

Bayswater City went into their weekend away clash with Canning City sitting atop the First Division table but with several teams breathing down their neck. The first half saw very few chances on goal created as the two teams played some sub-standard football with the visitors having the upper hand but unable to make much of their dominance. On his return to Bayswater Bobbi Klenkoski was partner in attack with Ian Davidson while Boima Karpeh watched from the sideline. After the interval Bayswater continued to control the game with some much improved passages that lead to several chances on goal. After 67 minutes Davidson made way for Karpeh in a switch that was to prove fateful for the home team. Shortly after Karpeh accelerated past four Canning players with ease before crossing to Klenkoski who nodded the ball on to Andrew O'Neill and he made no mistake in scoring from close range. Bayswater then put immense pressure on the Canning rearguard and created chances to extend the gap through Klenkoski and Karpeh but neither could find a way past Canning goalkeeper Robby Meyer. The point clinching goal came three minutes from full-time as Klenkoski was sent through only to have Meyer parry his shot, but Sal Marrapodi was on hand to tuck the ball in and make the final score 2-0. A double from Nick Paone gave Bayswater's reserves a 2-0 victory, and Luke O'Neill scored in the Under-18s but could not prevent Canning from claiming maximum points through a 4-1 scoreline.

A poor refereeing decision cost Armadale a share in the points in a tightly fought match with Mandurah City at Peelwood Reserve on the weekend. The Reds started the game with a few changes to their line-up as Steve Cramphorn, Emlyn Whetnall and Jason Goodwin were promoted to the starting line-up at the expense of Jason Hardie, Dennis Lee and Darren Ingham. Mandurah came close to scoring early on as Christian Paschewitz headed wide, but it was the travelling fans who were celebrating not long after when Lawrence Bruce found the back of the net to give the visitors the lead. The remainder of the opening half was a pretty even affair with Armadale doing enough to maintain it's lead after 45 minutes. The Reds came out firing after the interval but it was the hosts that scored early this time as Jordan Rhodes' cross into the area was met by Paschewitz who rose high in a crowded goalmouth to level the game after 48 minutes. Mandurah then began the search for a winning goal only to find defenders Nick Twyman and Laurence Bruce working hard to ensure it wasn't going to be easy for the home side to score a second. That was until the 87th minute when, with Bruce off receiving treatment for badly gashed head, the referee had judged Tsallis to have tripped Andrew Rennie inside the 18-yard box - an occurrence that no one else had captured - and Rhodes netted the deciding goal from the spot. In the reserves, Mandurah raced to a two-goal lead thanks to Gary Attrill and Jake Loreto but went into the break on level terms after Armadale's Dave Forsythe and Darren Kingston netted. Mandurah added to their tally in the second half through Attrill and Mikel Sesma to register a 4-2 win. The under-18 game ended 5-0 in favour of Mandurah.

The clash between Stirling Suns and Southside United produced nine goals and a see-sawing lead over the early stages. Southside went in front after 7 minutes through the experienced Stewart Inge only to have youngster Stefan Stoleski level the score within 60-seconds. Lee McEvoy re-stored the visitors lead in the 10th minute and again the Suns responded quickly as Alex Jankulovski found the back of the net to score the games fourth goal with only 20 minutes elapsed. With neither side able to add to the scoreboard before half-time, the two sides headed into the break with the promising of plenty more goals to come. Seven minutes into the new half Jankulovski bagged his second of the day before completing his hat-trick just after the hour mark. The Suns looked like running away with the game when Miladin Gliguroski made it 5-1 in the 64th minute, but the visiting team were not yet finished with Bobby White reeling in the gap after 75 minutes. But it was the Suns that were finishing the stronger of the two teams and Dancho Jovanovski killed off Southside's feint hopes of stealing a point by scoring his sides sixth after 81 minutes. The win keeps the Suns in touch with the competition leaders, three points behind Bayswater City and one behind Mandurah City. The two earlier games went the other with Southside claiming the points by 4-3 in the reserves and 2-1 in the under-18's.

In an even opening half there were few chances on goal as Morley Windmills and Kingsway Olympic battled hard to gain the upper hand in their clash at Wootton Reserve. Midway through the period Windmills attacker Rydeen Botha was denied a goal despite appearing to be well onside when the ball was played to him, while the only other genuine opportunity came shortly after as Ben Hedley crashed the ball into the crossbar with a stinging strike. The second half began with Olympic doing all the attacking and they were rewarded six minute in when Stuart Corr broke free down the left to set-up Steve Bretti who headed home to give the visitors the lead. The introduction of Michael Campbell off the Windmills bench brought almost instant result, his presence causing panic in the opposing defence and Nigel Comito was on hand to head the ball home from close range after 74 minutes. With both teams attempting to assert their influence over the flow of play, a rash of yellow cards from the referee not only broke up the game but also ruined it as a spectacle. Twelve minutes from the end Olympic went down to ten men with the dismissal of Alan Henderson with a straight red card following a challenge on Ali Bektic, and almost immediately after teammate Andy Brown received his marching orders for a second bookable offence. Playing with a two man advantage Windmills were now well on top and, with the clock ticking down, secured maximum points as Kenny Dunne powered a corner into the net despite the best defensive efforts of Alan Nanini.

In a tough, fast paced game Ashfield started brightly away to Dianella White Eagles by being the more creative side over the opening spell. Relying on quick counter-attacks, Dianella opening the scoring after 21 minutes through Dragan Njegic and six minutes into the second half that margin ballooned out to two goals as Jimmy Stoichev found the target. To their credit the visiting Ashfield youngsters fought their way back into the game and reduced the margin with a bit of brilliance from Matt Pochroj who beat two players before slipping the ball past the goalkeeper. With their confidence boosted, Ashfield created the better of the openings over the closing stages but some good defending from the home side allowed all three point to go in Dianella's favour. Both the early games were also taken out by Dianella. Martin Kelly, Andrew McRay and new signing Billy Robb were on target for Ashfield's reserves when they went down 4-3, while the under-18 clash ended 1-0.

Queens Park recorded a narrow 1-0 win over a fast improving The City at Coker Park. There were few clear-cut chances in a scrappy opening half with neither side able to make the most of their opportunities. The second half was a much different proposition with The City taking the game up to their opponents to totally dominate the game. On three occasions the visitors hit the frame of the goal as Gary Murray, Adam Batchelor and Ben Yates all went close, while on another four occasions the home defence scrambled the ball to safety off the goal line. But, is so often is the case, Queens Park rode their luck and with just their second attack of the half Brian Robertson scored with a wonder strike six minutes into stoppage time to decide the game. The City claimed victory in the reserves with a 5-1 mauling of the home team, while the under-18 game also ended in favour of the visitors by a 2-1 scoreline.

Balcatta took the lead 16 minutes into their home clash with Leeming Strikers courtesy of Michael Chiari, but goals either side of the break by Dale Wingell enabled the visitors to go home with the points. And in the southern derby South West Phoenix and Rockingham City played out a one-all draw in a game that three players received their marching orders. Glen Hallums put Rockingham in front after 36 minutes, but the sides went into the break on level terms following a goal from James Bergin three minutes from half-time. Phoenix player Andrew Cantoni was the first to be red carded in the 64th minute, and late in the game Rockingham went down to nine men with the dismissal of Luke Rennie (83rd minute) and Ryan Cattermole (88th minute).

21.6.2003

WEEKEND IN SUMMARY

Two unconverted second half penalties cost Swan I.C. dearly as Inglewood United scored a dramatic stoppage time equaliser to earn a share of the points at the National Stadium. The visitors took the lead through an own goal after 28 minutes but, reduced to ten men midway through the second period, Inglewood leveled via Louis Parkinson. On a weekend when there was no movement on the table, Fremantle City went down 1-2 to Perth S.C. in the top of the table clash. Sorrento defeated Floreat Athena, Western Knights were too strong for Bassendean Caledonian, and Cockburn City accounted for E.C.U. Joondalup - all by 2-0 scorelines.

Bayswater City remain top of the First Division following a 2-0 away defeat of Canning City. Mandurah City and Stirling Suns keep the heat on the competition leader courtesy of wins over Armadale (2-1) and Southside United (6-3) respectively. Dianella White Eagles continued their good run of results with a 2-1 home win over Ashfield, while Queens Park scored the only goal of the game against The City. Kingsway Olympic's woes continued with a 1-2 loss at Morley Windmills, Leeming Strikers were too strong for Balcatta by 2-1, and the points were shared by South West Phoenix and Rockingham City who battled out a 1-1 draw.

20.6.2003

WEEKEND IN PREVIEW

The second half of the local season gets underway on Saturday with the top of the table showdown between Fremantle City and Perth S.C. at Ken Allen Field. When the clubs met on the opening weeks of the 2003 winter Perth emerged triumphant 4-0, but the port side have matured a great deal since that game and will prove a much different proposition for the competition leaders. With six clubs separated by four points, there are crucial mid-table clashes in the northern suburbs for E.C.U. Joondalup and Cockburn City, as well as Sorrento and Floreat Athena. Western Knights should emerge from their home encounter with bottom side Bassendean Caledonian as winners by a comfortable margin, and Inglewood United are favoured to bounce back from last weeks loss when they take on Swan I.C. at the National Stadium. Stirling Lions have the bye.

In the First Division, Canning City are home to top side Bayswater City who will be under pressure to win from Mandurah City who meet Armadale at Peelwood Parade. Stirling Suns are tipped to account for struggling Southside United, while an inconsistent Queens Park are have home ground advantage over The City who have come on in leaps and bounds over the past month. Morley Windmills and Kingsway Olympic go head-to-head at Wotton Reserve, and there's another intriguing mid-table clash at Dianella Reserve between Dianella White Eagles and Ashfield. Elsewhere, Balcatta are home to Leeming Strikers, and South West Phoenix welcome Rockingham City to Bunbury.

20.6.2003

GARCIA BOYS REFLECT ON 2003

The break in the European league has given West Ham United's Richard Garcia the opportunity to come home to Perth and spent time with elder brother Michael (right), whose career was ended in February by injury. Confirmation that Michael's playing days were over due to an arthritic condition, which had contributed to the deterioration of cartilage in his left knee, came as a bitter blow to the 26-year old. "I knew a few years ago there were only a certain number of kilometres left in the knee," the Perth Glory midfielder told "West Australian" reporter Jonathon Cook. "I knew it was bad, but I didn't think it would be the end of my career." It will be up to 12 months before Michael is able to walk normally after a recent operation that he hopes will avert the need for a knee replacement later in life.

Richard says his older brother has been one of the biggest influences on his decision to take up the round ball game. "When I was younger he would come back from the Institute of Sport and teach me the stuff he was learning there," said the 21-year old. Although a regular fixture for the Hammers' reserves last season, Richard was restricted to appearances on the bench for the first team as they struggled to climb away from the foot of the Premier League table. "I never got a chance last season because we were always in the relegation zone," he commented. "We never got out of the hole." The attacker twice made it onto the park but he'd much rather forget both occasions which ended in the Hammers' elimination from the Worthington Cup by Oldham Athletic and the F.A. Cup at the hands of Manchester United. Following West Ham's demotion to the Division, Garcia is hopeful manager Glenn Roeder will make more use of his services in 2003/04.

19.6.2003

MID-TERM PREMIER LEAGUE REPORT

Last weekend's round of fixtures marked the halfway stage of the Premier League season, each club having now taken to the field of play on ten occasions. And while there are already some noticeable gaps opening up at either end of the table, bunched in the middle of the standings are six clubs separated by just a handful of points. In what promises to be a tight and entertaining finish to the regular season, with many more thrills and spills yet to come, we take a look at what has transpired so far in the winter of 2003 and evaluate each clubs chances over the remaining months of the campaign.

Flying high at the top of the Premier League table are reigning champions Perth S.C. Having the enviable record of being the competition's highest scoring side, and with just a single loss to their name, Perth are shaping up as odds on favourite to make it back-to-back regular season crowns. While striker Shane Crampton leads the way on thirteen goals, Perth have plenty of attacking options with no less than eleven other players also getting themselves on the scoresheet. Defensively the side are rock-solid, in fact coach Graham Normanton has such an abundance of talent at his disposal that he's recently introduced a rotational system in order to keep players match sharp. In the centre of midfield Adam Bunce and veteran Gareth Naven have formed a sound partnership from which to launch attacks, and much under-rated goalkeeper Robert Scarparolo is enjoying some of the best form of his career. Tough to beat regardless of whether they play, Perth are without doubt the side all others will measure themselves against.

Still going through a re-building process, little was expected from Fremantle City club prior to the season's commencement. But the port side have been the big surprise of 2003 and, at the halfway stage, are placed well in second and four points clear of their nearest rival. In his second year with the club, coach Greg Kazmer has instilled a sound work and team ethic in his players who have claimed victory from seven of their ten starts. Summer signings Branimir Mikulic and Craig Young have combined with great effect with teenager John Migas to provide the side with numerous avenues to goal. And defensively Fremantle have been served well by experienced campaigner Craig Surtees and rising stars Dean Aplegren and Shane Nunes. Whether Fremantle can maintain their winning ways will be revealed in the fullness of time - they themselves are under no illusions as to how difficult the job to make the finals will be - but with some many young players filling out their ranks the future is looking very bright indeed for the club.

Currently third and undefeated in their past four games, Sorrento are hotly tipped to finish near the top of the table and with a berth in the Champion of Champions play-off series. The only top flight side to have scored in every game so far this season, the northern suburbs side have tallied up twenty-four goals in total with the pleasing aspect for coach Steve Neville being that those goals have come from eight different players. Attacking midfielders Todd Harnwell and Simon Harland have been instrumental in Sorrento's high conversion rate that has led to Andy Mason finding the target on six occasions. At the opposite end of the park Richard Watson has been in fine form and competition for the position between the up-rights has been intense between Neil Young and Gareth Deeg. Make no doubt about it, Sorrento will be up there come seasons' end - the only question is how close can they come to knocking Perth S.C. from top spot.

Winners of the Night Series in pre-season, Western Knights' inconsistency over the first three months of the home-and-away series is reflected by their mid-table standing. Although undefeated on home soil, they have been less than impressive on the road while a couple of recent losses have cast doubt over their ability to break down opposing defences. Last year the Knights went the second half of the season undefeated and, with Claus Nielsen and Paul McVittie running the engineroom, it would surprise few if they repeat that achievement in 2003. In goalkeeper Tommi Tomich they have some of the safest hands in the League, while hard-working defender Leon Russell is currently producing some of the best form of his career. Injury permitting, the Knights will finish the season strongly and continue their amazing run of play-off appearances under Ronnie Campbell.

After a lacklustre start Cockburn City have been able to consistently produce the goods following the return of Dusan Macura and Antonio Naglieri from abroad, and the signing of attacking midfielder Michael Mirco. The goals may not have exactly flowed for the club but Cockburn have dug deep to carve out some good results which has them going into the second half of the season unbeaten in their past five outings, including a 3-0 demolishion of leaders Perth S.C. The adoption of a 4-4-2 formation by coach Mirko Jelicic has added stability to the backline while giving youngsters Jeff Bright and Domenic De Felice the opportunity to shine across the centre of the park. Although injury and inexperience has at times costs the side, all the signs are pointing towards a strong finish to the regular season for Cockburn who have their sights firmly set on a place in the finals series.

To say Inglewood United's season to date has been disappointing would be a gross understatement. Following a major recruitment drive over the summer that completely re-shaped the senior squad, Inglewood have failed to live up to expectations and after ten rounds are placed in the lower half of the table. Veteran Alan MacKenzie has been a steadying influence in an ever-changing midfield, while a dangerous forward line featuring Alex Josifovski, Ryan Newhill and the lively Louis Parkinson ensures opposing teams have no time to relax. And although they possess some of the local games' best defenders, some sloppy work at the back has proved their undoing on several occasions and is sure to give newly appointed coach Eddie Hodgkinson food for thought. A place in the finals certainly isn't out of the question but Inglewood will really need to pull their socks up if they want to be considered as serious contenders.

In a dreadful start to the season Floreat Athena managed just one win in the first six weeks and were wallowing towards the foot of the table. Step in Chile-born Julio Moreno who, in the space of four games, has re-vitalised the clubs flagging fortunes. Wins over Fremantle City and Western Knights and shared points with Stirling Lions have boosted confidence within the camp and, although the football hasn't been the best, Athena now have something upon which to build should they wish to participate in September's play-offs. Goalkeeper Anthony Mori has seized the opportunity for regular first team with both hands and has been the pick of the players along with Adrian Sutton, Jamie Trandos and the clubs leading goalscorer Andreas Oliveira. With a poor home record, Athena's cause has not been helped by a crippling injury list which has kept the majority of the senior list sidelined at one time or another. It's going to take a lot of luck for Athena to make their way up the table and something just outside the top five will be the best they can hope for.

Brilliant one week, disappointing the next - that would about sum up the season of E.C.U. Joondalup. Amongst their scalps the northern suburbs side can count Fremantle City and Inglewood United, but tempering their triumphs have been some sub-standard performances that have seen them concede four or more goals on four occasions. Coach Stuart Kamasz has the difficult job of adding some semblence of consistency to what is still a very young team in which Scott Bulloch, Peter Vukmirovic, Darryl Platten and Peter Roberts have been the stand-out performers. With eleven players sharing the 23 goals for, Joondalup have proven they do have the ability to rise to the occasion but at the end of the day their season hinges on how badly the players want to succeed. Regardless of what happens between now and September, Joondalup's focus is on future campaigns when trophies are bound to come the way of the ambitious club.

Swan I.C. are another side that have played to their potential against some of the League's top clubs, only to turn around the net week and drop points to teams they had on the ropes only to fail to go on with the job. Of particular concern to the coaching staff must be Swan's very real inability to get results at home, the five games played in Middle Swan may have produced eleven goals for the black-and-whites but, with eighteen going in at the opposite end, the end result has been one solitary point. Since the season proper kicked-off the club have made some astute signings who have made telling contributions, amongst them Mark Lee and Michael Di Fulvio, while long-serving captain Carlo Scali, State goalkeeper Cory Hugo and striker Elton Holmes also rate as amongst their best. How Swan fare from here on in may depend on them staying injury free as, with a very young reserves team, there isn't a great deal of depth or experience to fall back on.

Promoted last season as champions of the First Division, Stirling Lions are currently finding out just how tough life in the top flight can be. Winless since Round Five and haven taken only two points from their last six outings, injuries to key players and a lack of quality finishing has allowed vital points to slip from the Lions grasp on more than one occasion already this year. The form of experienced defender Andy Wright and creative midfielders Stjepan Beretovac and Toby Wright will be crucial in the Lions quest to climb away from foot of table, while the recent capture of Eugene Singeorzan will provide them with a much needed targetman up-front. With some talented individuals in their playing list, the Lions should do better over the final months of the campaign and one gets the feeling they would be more than happy with a mid-table finish.

Finalists for the first time in club history last season, 2003 has Bassendean Caledonian sitting rock bottom last after ten games and with a very deep hole to dig themselves out of. Five points adrift of Stirling Lions, Caledonian will have to overcome their appalling record at Jubilee Reserve where, in six games, they have scored four times with the end result being two points. Good performances between the posts by Alan Dunlop has prevented the club from some suffering some much heavier losses, while the experience of Craig Naven, Kevin Griffiths and Ian Griffiths has been invaluable. Questions over whether or not they will become the first team since 1991 to go the home-and-away series without victory have already been raised - it's now up to the players to knuckle down and prevent speculation from becoming reality.

19.6.2003

STRIKERS SEEK CENTRAL DEFENDER

First Division outfit Leeming Strikers are looking to strengthen their playing stocks with the acquisition of a quality central defender for their senior squad. "We are very close to where we want to be now," said club president Alan Thraves recently. "Our results are very encouraging when we have a full player list available, injuries are still hurting us but we are becoming very competitive in all three squads. But we are missing a leader at centre-back to complete the picture and would love to hear from anyone interested in joining our club that feels they can do a job for us". Interested players can apply for the position via the Strikers website - http://www.leemingstrikers.com - or by contacting Thraves on 9332 2665.

18.6.2003

FREMANTLE SECURE PROMISING GOAL SNEAK

Fremantle City coach Mike Tetlow has reacted quickly to the departure of talented teenager Marc Sim by snapping up Southside United striker and State Under-16 squad member John Thornley. A prolific goalscorer, Thornley is a product of the Forrestfield United junior set-up and counts being a member of the Leeds United Development Centre as amongst his achievements. His arrival comes hot on the heels of Sim, who is the leader goalscorer in the Under-18 competition this year, leaving the port side for the new challenge offered by northern suburbs club E.C.U. Joondalup. "We wish Mark the best wishes in his future career and thank him for his efforts for Fremantle City," said club representative Andrew Danskin this week.

17.6.2003

TANA PAYS TRIBUTE TO DEPARTING COACH (courtesy www.perthglory.com.au)

Perth Glory chairman Nick Tana has thanked former Australian coach Frank Arok for a job well done in Western Australia. Arok has retired from coaching the world game and opted to return to Yugoslavia after a lengthy spell in Australia which ended with a two-year stint in charge of Glory's youth development program. "Frank's contribution has been incredible," said Tana this week. "When the concept of youth development program for Perth Glory was discussed many were openly cynical but Frank proved them wrong. Thanks to his efforts some 200 young players have had free skills coaching over the past two years and the effects of the program will be seen throughout Western Australia in years to come. All of that was developed from nothing and deserves the utmost praise. Frank also coached Future Glory to the Boral Cup Final in its only season, and I am sure he would have been even more successful if events elsewhere in the game had allowed the concept to be taken further. The base Frank has created will be one on which to build when the game is in a condition which allows the process to be restarted. On a personal level it has been a great privilege to work with Frank, one of the biggest and most positive influences Australian soccer has ever seen."

17.6.2003

KNIGHTS COACH BACKS MONTGOMERY

According to Western Knights coach Ronnie Campbell, striker Stuart Montgomery is good enough to play in the National Soccer League and could be as good a player as Perth Glory's Bobby Despotovski. "He is a class player," Campbell told the "West Australian" over the weekend. "He has two good feet, he's intelligent and I think he could play at the national level." Campbells' comments came after Montgomery's hat-trick on Saturday against Cockburn City paved the way for a 4-2 triumph to the Knights. In praising the 24-year old striker, the Knights coach drew comparisons Despotovski, Glory's all-time leading goalscorer and success of the local game. "I played with Bobby at Athena in 1993/94 at the end of my playing career," Campbell said. "Then I was assistant coach to Eric Williams when Bobby was still there and I can see similarities between him and Stuart." Montgomery joined the Knights last season when, in all competitions, he found the net fourteen times - a tally he has already leveled in 2003 with the League season at it's halfway mark.

16.6.2003

STAKEHOLDERS HAVE NO CONFIDENCE IN BOARD

A third attempt to elect Frank Lowy and his reform team has ended like the previous two in farcical failure. A meeting of Soccer Australia stakeholders in Sydney on Saturday was adjourned after only a few minutes because of legal threats from the national body's existing board. Instead, the stakeholders held an informal meeting at which two resolutions were passed - a 'no confidence' vote in the Soccer Australia board and the support of the election of Frank Lowy and his team. Both resolutions were passed by a massive 97.5% - the only stakeholders who didn't vote in support were Nother Spirit (abstained) and Adelaide City (non-attendance). "It is ironic for the simple reason that you've got 100% support now for Lowy," commented Perth Glory chairman Nick Tana following the meeting. "As far as I'm concerned it's all constitutional glitches, it's basically people hanging on to power for no reason whatsoever." The vote to out the existing board and install the Lowy-led team will now have to wait at last another month.

16.6.2003

STRIKERS CONTINUE TO EXPAND (courtesy www.leemingstrikers.com)

Leeming Strikers celebrated the opening of their new Dimond Court function rooms late last week by confirming the arrival of yet another former Premier League player in Brendon Barnes. A former State Schoolboys representative, the 20-year old attacker made his way up through the youth ranks at Cockburn City prior to agreeing terms with the Strikers. "Brendon was pointed out to us by a close friend of both myself and the Strikers," said club president Alan Thraves. "We are very pleased he has chosen to join us, competition for places can only make us stronger".

Thraves' comments came at the opening of the clubs new $1.8m facilities that completez a five-year development plan begun by the previous club board. "Previous members efforts with the new premises have us in a great position for the future, we owe them a huge debt for their efforts over the last five years", he said. "We are making a great impact in our local area now and crowds are stronger each week, the facility will only enhance our market appeal. We have a three-year plan that is travelling well in front of schedule at present and of course we are pleased about that but we're mindful there is still much to achieve and improve."

15.6.2003

AMATEURS ROUND-UP

After a two-week lay-off due to the National Soccer League Grand Final and last weekend's National Championships, WAASSA's Premier League resumed on Sunday as Canning International welcomed reigning champions Hamersley Rovers to the picturesque Weir Park. Flavio Labbate marked his return to league action after a four game suspension with a brace of goals that took his season tally to seven goals from just five games and up amongst the competitions leading scorers. Labbate's first came via the penalty spot after good approach work by Craig Dingley and Alun Vernals who was up-ended inside the box. The margin became two as Daniel Scudder and Vernals combined to slot the ball to Dingley who cut play across for Labbate who converted easily to his side in the box seat at the break. Canning continued to work hard with the skillful Julio Moreno a key figure in the middle of the park, but for all their enterprise the home team found it difficult to breach a sound Hamersley defence led by Gary Elwell and Nich Cianci. Hamersley themselves had several opportunities to build on the two-goal buffer only to miss several good openings before Canning scored a consolation goal from the spot after referee Steve Lewis awarded a very dubious penalty. The 2-1 scoreline means Hamersley hold onto second place in their quest for a hat-trick of League titles.

University of W.A.'s excellent four game winning streak was brought to an abrupt end by League leaders Fremantle United at McGillivray Oval. The first half was a fairly tight and physical affair with UWA goalkeeper Shayan Young making three sharp saves to deny the visiting strikers. Right on the stroke of half-time Frederik Larsen put UWA ahead after being send down the left by State representative Robert Benkovic. Fremantle got back in the game with a controversial second half goal when a visiting players' shot stuck the hand of a teammate and deflected past Young. The visitors continued to plug away and eventually took the lead with a shot from inside the box. Five minutes from the end Benkovic was hauled down from behind for a free-kick on top of the 18-yard box which Percy converted from 20-metres to level the score. But the game was far from over as Fremantle mounted a final minute attack which saw a mis-hit cross lob over the unlucky Young and under the cross bar for the match decider. "Few neutrals would say that we were not worth a draw today," said UWA coach Kevin Burton. "I am pleased with the composure we showed in the face of extreme provocation." The reserves fixture ended in a 1-1 draw.

Balga stormed out of the blocks against Forrestfield United to claim the lead after 3 minutes as some excellent lead-up work resulted in Hien Tran lobbing the goalkeeper. Having stunned their opponents, Balga failed to capitalise and five minutes later the two sides were back on level terms when Matthew Hilcock was allowed to run at the defence and drive the ball into the top corner of the goal. With Tran prominent, Balga took the initiative and after a fine run from Tran ended with the home team being awarded a free-kick which Gary Shorto eased the past the 'keeper to make it 2-1. Although Forrestfield have struggled for results this season they demonstrated their abilities by responding just minutes later with a great long-range strike which again found the top corner. From this point the game deteriorated for Balga whose confidence dipped noticeably to allow the visitors gain the upper hand. Having been denied on several occasions by the home defence, Forrestfield eventually found a way through to score their third. The introduction at half-time of Wayne Brooks was all the impetus Forrestfield needed as they piled on four additional goals to have the margin blow out to 7-2 and a deserved three points.

In other top flight WAASSA games, Shamrock Rovers enjoyed a 4-1 win over lowly North Perth United to consolidate third place, and Murdoch University went down 1-2 on home soil to Perth Azzurri. The result of the Kwinana United-Spearwood Dalmatinac game is unknown. For a more complete look at the amateurs game in Western Australia, including results for all WAASSA competitions, the latest news and so forth, visit http://waassa.ola.com.au

14.6.2003

PREMIER LEAGUE, ROUND ELEVEN (Sorrento vs Cockburn City by Kerry Slater and Lennie Bavich; Western Knights vs Stirling Lions by Don Evans; Floreat Athena vs E.C.U. Joondalup by Tom McCrisken; Bassendean Caledonian vs Swan I.C. by Bill McAllister)

The National Stadium was the venue for the important showdown between local rivals Inglewood United and Perth S.C. as the Premier League reached the half-way mark on Saturday. Having had last weekend off due to the bye, the home team went into the game without influential midfielder Alan MacKenzie due to injury for their first game under caretaker coach Paddy Morris. In the opposite corner were a Perth side who six days earlier suffered their first loss of the season, a result they were eager to erase from memory and extend the gap between themselves and the rest of the Premier League field on a crisp but sunny afternoon.

Both sides set about trying to establish control over proceedings in a quick opening spell in which the respective defences proved they were more than capable to matching anything the opposition threw at them. A 6th minute corner to Inglewood saw Alex Josifovski rise above a stagnant Perth rearguard and goalkeeper Robert Scarparolo made an acrobatic save to turn his downward header over the crossbar. Not long after Ryan Newhill showed great control in bringing down a high pass on top of the box then laying it into the path of Louis Parkinson whose shot from a narrowing angle was given safe passage across the face of goal by Scarparolo. It took Perth until the 23rd minute to mount their first serious challenge on goal as Gareth Naven brilliantly slotted to Mark Pottier who, with the target within range, had the ball cleared off his boot by Shaun Kilkelly. A minute later and with is back to goal, Adam Bunce chanced his luck from inside the area and flicked the ball over goalkeeper Oliver Taseski only to have Daniel Kovacevic to knock it wide for a corner.

With the game in desperate need of a goal in breathe new life into proceedings, Perth took the lead after 32 minutes when Rob Giorgi's deep corner was nodded down by Aaron Cole and in the ensuing goalmouth scramble Bunce ram the ball over the line. Buoyed by the goal, the next ten minutes were all one-way as Perth sought to make the most of their advantage. In a quick counter-attacking move, Cole played the ball long to Pottier whose diagonal cross to the top of the penalty area was met by Michael Icanovski and his first time drive flew narrowly wide of the far post. Three minutes later Naven clipped a pass over the defence for Pottier to run on to and the attacker's powerful, low strike forced a fantastic reflex save from Taseski. Inglewood saw more of the ball in the final few minutes when Jamie Kuzmanovich out-jumped a flat-footed defence at a corner but failed to test Scarparolo. But the visitors failed to heed the warning and in stoppage time a dangerous cross by Kosta Kalavroutziotis saw Josifovski send a looping header over the Perth 'keeper to level the score.

It was a confident Inglewood that emerged for the second half and immediately went on the attack. Parkinson ran onto a pass clipped over the visiting defence but his attempted lob over Scarparolo was held on the line. Minutes later Josifovski sent a clever pass into the box where Newhill allowed the ball to run to Daniel Harrop whose explosive drive from a narrow angle was high. Perth launched their first attack of the half through Graham after 53 minutes, the young attacker held off an opponent to make his way inside the area only to have Taseski parry his shot and Shane Crampton was placed well to convert the loose ball and re-store the visitors lead. Although stunned by the goal, Inglewood continued to plug away and ten minutes later Parkinson beat the defence to a long pass from Newhill and evaded two defenders but his shot from 16-metres failed to test Scarparolo. With the two sides trading shots on goal Pottier really should have extended Perth's lead in the 66th minute but the striker lifted his shot over the crossbar after good lead-up work from Crampton.

With Inglewood now showing signs of not only tiring but also running out of ideas, Perth upped the tempo. A lung-bursting run from Naven saw him go past the defence courtesy of a neat one-two with Crampton but the veteran's shot from close to the by-line was brilliantly saved by Taseski. The visitors then had a legitimate appeal for a penalty turned down after substitute Paul Natale's shot appeared to strike the arm of Kovacevic. A rare Inglewood attack saw Scarparolo make an easy save from Parkinson's low strike. With four minutes left in regulation time, Todd Howarth made his was past a couple of opponents before hitting a rising shot from 15-metres for which Taseski produced a fine save. Another sterling run into attack from Naven ended with Stephen Willey crashing the ball into the up-right as Perth looked to kill off the contest. And in the final minute Graham's free-kick into the area was expertly brought down by Crampton whose initial shot was parried by the 'keeper and, with an open goal at his mercy, the striker sent the follow-up wide of the target.

After an evenly contested first half in which neither side found top gear, the game really picked up after the break with some great attacking football which kept the small but vocal crowd on the edge of their seats. At the end of 90 minutes Perth were deservedly winners thanks to a hard-working midfield in which Naven's vision and distribution was first class and was matched by a non-stop performance by the attack-minded Bunce. For the home side Josifovski proved the central figure as Inglewood pushed forward, his goal on the stroke of half-time just reward for a solid display. And, playing as sweeper, Kilkelly chimed in with another mature performance that underlined just why he is rated one of the state's hottest young talents.

Inglewood United : Oliver Taseski, Shaun Kilkelly, Daniel Kovacevic, Jamie Kuzmanovich, Daniel Harrop, Rory Mouttet (Scott Campbell 66), Scott Cassie, Kosta Kalavroutziotis (Michael Baczynski 88), Alex Josifovski, Louis Parkinson, Ryan Newhill
Perth S.C. : Robert Scarparolo, Perry Ielati, Aaron Cole, Michael Icanovski, Todd Howarth, Rhys Graham, Gareth Naven, Rob Giorgi (Stephen Willey 70), Adam Bunce (Paul Natale 74), Mark Pottier, Shane Crampton Bookings : Kuzmanovich, Cassie (64), Mouttet, Crampton (77)
Dismissals : None
Referee : Tom Klaver
Attendance : 200 (approx.)

Coming off a solid win over Premier League leaders Perth S.C., Cockburn City made the trip north to Percy Doyle Reserve when they faced a Sorrento undefeated in their past three outings. As befitting two teams near the top of the table, the early play was enterprising and Cockburn should have drawn first blood but Dean Wallace headed wide after 4 minutes. Two minutes later the home side were into their stride as Andy Mason had a fine shot from distance saved by Dino Pacella. Neil Young came to Sorrento's rescue after 41 minutes by deflecting a Dean Wallace over the bar. With the half seemingly destined to end scoreless, John Mirco was the recipient of a sloppy Sorrento clearance to rifle the ball past the home custodian minutes from the interval. Early in the second half the home team responded through Simon Harland who, after tangling with goalkeeper Dino Pacella, chipped the ball into the net to draw the teams level. Harman almost put Sorrento in front after 53 minutes but had his effort hacked off the line by Jeff Bright. Brothers Domenic and Mario De Felice brilliantly combined to put Wallace through on goal only for the Sorrento rearguard to concede a corner as the clock ticked down. Bright then floated the ball into the dangerzone where Wallace rose to head powerfully on target as Young moved sharply to fist the ball away. In the final ten minutes it was Sorrento that did all the attacking as Mason, Gareth Phillips and Glen Thomas went close to scoring the decider but Cockburn held on for a share of the points.

Stirling Lions found themselves on the wrong end of a six-goal shoot-out against the Western Knights in an intriguing contest at Nash Field. Played in bright, sunny conditions, the game kicked-off with the Knights gaining the upper hand from early on as their experienced midfield combination of Paul McVittie and Claus Nielsen set about putting the Lions defence under the pump. Having kept their shape and held firm over the opening period, the visitors backline was breached after 18 minutes when a Luka Jukic cross from the right found Stuart Montgomery who was allowed time and space to whack it in at the near post. Minutes later Montgomery turned provider with a neat chip that was headed in by strike partner John Nicolaou to double the lead. The Lions showed great character by bouncing back from their opponents early goal blitz and a fast break resulted in evergreen attacker Rob Milevski come out the better in a one-on-one with goalkeeper Tommi Tomich after 31 minutes. Shortly before the break Montgomery restored his teams two-goal advantage with a free-kick which found a hole in the Lions defensive wall. After the break the Lions came out fighting and reduced the gap after 55 minutes when Toby Wright's cross was mis-hit by Steven Zuvela who had the misfortune of sending the ball past Tomich. Lions custodian Jordan Conti came to the rescue with a series of reflex saves that frustrated the Knights time and time again, while down the opposite end Adam Rains was denied by a fantastic save from Tomich after 70 minutes. New signing Eugene Singeorzan was introduced off the bench and set about feeding the ball to the Lions attackers as Milevski and Rains both came close to bagging an equaliser. But it was to be the Knights afternoon as man-of-the-match Montgomery completed his hat-trick with a close-range shot in the final minute of play.

The clash at Litis Stadium between Floreat Athena and E.C.U. Joondalup proved to be a dour occasion which failed to live up to pre-match expectations. In one of the poorest games in recent memory, for some seventy five minutes there was so little quality on the park that the most entertaining aspect of the game came from the spectators sitting in the stands. Only in the final fifteeen minutes did things on the park pick up with several good moves being put together by both teams that resulted in some good scoring opportunities. In the end it was Joondalup that would go home happy as a free-kick on the edge of the area was fired low into the corner of the goal by Garin Collins. For much of the afternoon the home side seemed more concerned with not conceding than winning this game. Even when a goal behind, Athena lacked ideas, maintained a packed midfield, and opted to play with a lone striker with the end result being a string of long-range shots which visiting goalkeeper Peter Stewart had little difficulty in keeping out. John Greenwood could have made the scoreline more respectable for Joondalup with a couple of one-on-one's with goalkeeper Anthony Mori who came out on top both times. On a day when there were no real stand out performances from either team, this will be a game most will want to forget.

Winless after ten rounds, it was a confident Bassendean Caledonian side which met Swan I.C. at Jubilee Reserve. And the home side started off on the right foot by taking the lead after 10 minutes following a nice passage of play in which Kevin Smith, Ryan Jeans and Dean Gartside combined to set-up Andy Cornmell who made no mistake in slotting past goalkeeper Cory Hugo. Cornmell went close to doubling the lead a few minutes later as Caledonian's dominated play but were unable to convert their chances. As the game progressed Swan became more involved in proceedings as Elton Holmes, Tom Shepheard and Paul Lincoln all brought fine saves out of goalkeeper Alan Dunlop who made sure things stayed as they were on the scoreboard for the interval. At the start of the second half Caledonian forced a couple of corners and twice went close to extending their lead before the Swan midfield again took control. Dunlop was called upon to make timely saves from Lincoln and Mark Lee before a desperate challenge felled Shepeard in the penalty area and Holmes gave the home 'keeper no chance from the spot to level the game. Three minutes later it was Holmes again whose shot from just outside the 18-yard box deflected off the boot of defender Jamie d'Arcy to take it past Dunlop and put Swan into a 2-1 lead. With around half an hour to go the visitors were reduced to ten men with the dismissal of Carlos Echeverria for his second bookable offence. But despite the extra player Caledonian were unable to break down their opponents although Gartside headed over from in-front, and Jimmy Merkouris' fine effort from 25-metres ended just over the crossbar. The 2-1 win lifts Swan to within striking distance of those above them on the table, while Caledonian are still to register their first win of the campaign.

14.6.2003

RESERVES AND UNDER-18'S ROUND-UP

Premier League reserves leader Perth S.C. continued on their merry way with a 3-1 away result over Inglewood United. Robbie Puca put the Blues in front after 11 minutes before goals early in the second half from Vlado Milasinovic and Albert Osei Tutu wrapped up the game. Inglewood's consolation goal came from defender Jason Godfrey in the 67th minute. Second placed Sorrento lost ground on Perth by going down to Cockburn City at Percy Doyle Reserve. Robert Colalillo put the visitors in front twelve minutes into the second half and Marko Aleksic doubled the lead with little over a quarter-hour to play. Daniel Gagorski reduced the margin shortly after by heading past goalkeeper Jeff Cargill, but it wasn't enough as Cockburn move to within striking distance of a place in the top five.

Goals from Kenji Urabe, Steven Sulenta and Brett Colombera enabled Western Knights to account for Stirling Lions by a 3-2 scoreline, the Lions scorers being Carmelo Gumina and Christian Debarro. Steve Petric put E.C.U. Joondalup a goal up after 20 minutes away to Floreat Athena, and shortly before the interval that margin was doubled by Steve Beesley as the northerners claimed victory by 2-0. And both goals in the bottom of the table clash at Jubilee Reserve came from the penalty spot. Scott Patterson put Swan I.C. in front on the hour only to have Jimmy Houston level the game with eight minutes remaining.

E.C.U. Joondalup came from behind away at Floreat Athena to stay top of the under-18 competition. An 11th minute goal from Troy Dott got the home side off to the perfect start but Joondalup responded with two of their own after the break via Daniel Waind and Rostyn Griffiths to take home all three points. Perth S.C. kept the pressure on the leaders with a 6-0 thrashing of Inglewood United at the National Stadium. Stephen Worthy got the ball rolling for Perth by netting after 38 minutes, but it was after the break that the floodgates opened. Worthy bagged, two minutes later James Isaia made it 3-0, then Brendan Ross sealed victory by scoring after 57 minutes. Cormac Dawson added the sides fifth before Chris Socratous completed the route ten minutes from time.

Sorrento looked impressive after the first few minutes of their home clash with Cockburn City, but took until 36 minutes before they found a way past goalkeeper Luigi Lopresti. The goal came from the best move of the match and which started in the home sides defensive line and ended with Josh Kitchen delivering the telling cross to Steven Kruit who made no mistake. The second half turned into a scrappy affair where neither team rose to any great height, both 'keepers holding firm as Sorrento won the day through a worthy goal.

Swan I.C. won for the third time this season with a 3-1 away defeat of fellow strugglers Bassendean Caledonian. The black and whites were forced to come from behind after conceding an early goal, but a great run and finish from Glenn Bennett leveled the game after 30 minutes. 14-year old goalkeeper Daniel Agudelo prevented the home team from re-storing their lead by keeping out a penalty close to the break. Second half strikes from Matt Ullbricht and Brendan Knox ensured the visitors would go home with maximum points. The fixture between Western Knights and Stirling Lions ended scoreless.

14.6.2003

FIRST DIVISION, ROUND FOURTEEN (Bayswater City vs Rockingham City by Adam Rucci; Mandurah City vs Kingsway Olympic by Barry Rennie; South West Phoenix vs Canning City by Phil Unsworth)

A late change of venue meant Bayswater City were home for the third consecutive week when they took on struggling Rockingham City in Saturday's round of First Division action. The home side were without regulars Daniel Vangelovski, Dusan Martinovic (both injured) and Alex Grindley (suspended) for this important meeting, while young goalkeeper Francis Allen stepped up to make his senior debut having recently joined the club on loan from Perth S.C. Bayswater started off very brightly by controlling the early play and after 5 minutes took the lead as Andrew O'Neill's corner was converted by midfielder Kevin Henderson. Against the run of play Rockingham leveled through Glen Hallums who great chip left Allen stranded. But from then on it was the home side that dominated and in a blistering twenty minute spell sealed maximum points. A fine cross by Bradley McGagh resulted in Boima Karpeh restoring Bayswater's lead, and the margin became two goals as O'Neill expertly headed home a cross from Ian Davidson. Bayswater then made the score 4-1 as striker Boima Karpeh let fly a stunning volley from 22-metres which left the Rockingham goalkeeper with absolutely no chance of saving. It was a much quieter second half as Bayswater continued to dictate the pattern of play through their hard working midfield in which captain Gareth Healy was the linchpin. Credit must be given to Rockingham who never threw in the towel and saw out the full 90 minutes with a positive attitude and eager to score. The win takes Bayswater back to the top of the table, two points ahead of Mandurah City who could only manage a draw on the weekend. The reserves game was taken out 1-0 by Rockingham, while the under-18 game was awarded to Bayswater 3-0 on forfeit.

Mandurah City fought out a physical 2-2 draw with Kingsway Olympic at Peelwood Parade. In a game that was pivotal to Mandurah retaining a strong position at the top of the league, they went into the game without key players Chris Paschewitz (suspended) and John Transfield (study commitments). The home side made a flying start when in-form striker Michael Bobridge got the finest of touches to slide the ball past the Olympic goalkeeper and into the net after 9 minutes. Well in control of the game but unable to break down their opponents defence, Mandurah once again gave away a penalty when Damian Condo unnecessarily bundled over an Olympic forward and Andy Brown made no mistake from the spot after 20 minutes. Shortly afterwards the home side lost the services of Bobridge after suffering a thigh injury and the already depleted Mandurah forward line were always going to struggle for the remainder of the game. A highly entertaining game continued after the break with Mandurah regaining the lead, this time Jordan Rhodes converting from the penalty spot to set the scene for an exciting finish. Olympic drew level for the second time this afternoon after being awarded a free-kick on the edge of the 18-yard box which Brown took quickly to place in the back of the net. The best opportunity for Mandurah to snatch victory came when a long pass from Andrew Rennie found Steven Rhodes who was through with only the 'keeper to beat but was unable to make the most of the chance. Once again home custodian Mike Green stood out with several great saves and deft anticipation to shut down Olympic's best attacking plays as the game ended with honours even. Mandurah won both the earlier games, a very young reserves side by 4-1 and the under-18's 1-0.

Undefeated in their past three outings, the youngsters from Ashfield were brimming with confidence ahead of their home encounter with third-placed Stirling Suns. A minute before the end of an entertaining half-time Alex Jankulovski popped up to put the Suns in front and set up an intriguing remainder of the match. The second half started with a flurry as Muhammed Komadaric leveled after six minutes of play only to have the Suns re-store their lead through Orkun Osturk who found the back of the net with 53 minutes gone. Ashfield continually pushed forward in search of a second goal which finally arrived seven minutes from the end via Wayne Culverwell. A share of the points was enough for the Suns to remain in third on the standings after the completion of round fifteen, while for Ashfield they stay mid-table and just seven points behind leaders Bayswater City.

The game at Alfred Skeet Oval between Armadale and Morley Windmills get underway at a cracking pace with both teams eager to be the first on the scoreboard. Playing the more direct football, the home side relied heavily on spraying the ball wide to their flank players who would then run the side in attack with Dennis Lee the target man in the middle. Windmills on the other hand opted to play things through the middle of the park where Steve Waycott and Ali Bektic controlled play and set about patiently building the teams attacking forays. Finishing the first half the stronger side, Armadale were unlucky not to go into the break a goal the better after finding the back of the net only to have it ruled out for what was a marginal offside call. The start of the new half saw the visitors take control with an endless stream of attacks putting the Armadale backline under pressure. But against the run of play Armadale took the lead after a corner was cleared of the 18-yard box and a well stuck shot by Jason Hardie flew back into the dangerzone and past the goalkeeper. Within minutes Windmills responded when Leith Hinds' attempt on goal was headed in by Rydeen Botha. The visitors continued to press forward in search of a winner and, despite some off the rough ball tactics from their opponent, Windmills unlucky not to go home with all three points after hitting the crossbar and Botha screwing a shot wide with just the 'keeper to beat.

Dianella White Eagles side welcomed an out-of-form Southside United side to Dianella Reserve. In a fairly even opening half that produced few clear chances on goal, the visitors gave themselves reason for cheer by taking a 1-0 lead ten minutes from the break courtesy of Bobby White. Dianella coach Petar Drca made several changes at the interval, bringing Filip Smiljanic, Zelko Savic and Stevica Petrovic off the bench in an attempt to re-vitalise his sides flat performance. The move paid off shortly after the re-start as young striker Petrovic robbed an opponent of possession before sending a cross into the area where the ball was deflected into the net via a Southside player to level the game. With their confidence boosted, Dianella began to play with more composure and a surging run down the right flank by Dragan Radojevic ended with his cross being slotted home Savic from close range after 69 minutes. The home team extended their lead twelve minutes later as a corner from Savic was brilliantly headed in by David Mrdja. With the clock ticking down, Dianella sealed victory when Petrovic bagged his first goal at senior level by rounding the goalkeeper after being put through by Dragan Njegic. The 4-1 win was the perfect way for Dianella to send off Savic, the club's leading goalscorer with eight goals so far this season, who headed to Europe within h