30.6.2007

SOCCEROOS UNCONVINCING IN DEFEATING SINGAPRORE

Two goals from Mark Viduka and a Harry Kewell rocket earned a rusty Australia a 3-0 win in this evenings friendly with Singapore at the Kallang National Stadium. The win, the Socceroos 200th international victory, was the final hit out for the squad in the lead up to the Asian Cup which starts next weekend. It was a far from convincing display from Australia who struggled with the humid conditions and a lack of match practice.

The Socceroos provided some early pressure with Viduka and Jason Culina going close, but it was the host nation, backed by a crowd of 45,000, who had the best of the first half. A 35th minute error by Lucas Neill lead to Singapore captain Indra Sahdan forcing a fine save out of Mark Schwarzer. The Australian goalkeeper was in action again two minutes later, this time padding away the ball after Sahdan again burst into space.

Australia emerged for the second half more attack-minded and it paid off when Culina's looping cross from the right was headed in by Viduka. Singapore kept coming and Khairul Amri crashed a well-struck shot into the woodwork after 56 minutes. Kewell came off the bench on the hour and fifteen minutes later he made no mistake in lashing a shot past the goalkeeper from edge of the 18-yard box. Viduka compelted the scoring four minutes from the end by nodding in a pin-point Kewell cross.

30.6.2007

PREMIER LEAGUE, ROUND ELEVEN (Fremantle Spirit v Stirling Lions by Don Evans)

Western Knights staged a remarkable late recovery to snatch a draw 5-5 with Floreat Athena at Nash Field. Four goals down and with time fast running out, the Knights produced a comeback of Lazarus proportions to earned themselves a point from a pulsating game. Effervescent midfielder Josip Magdic provided the inspiration in the 3rd minute with a terrific low centre to Boima Karpeh who, back to goal, cleverly flicked the ball up and fired into the net on the turn. Karpeh had his and Floreat’s second after 17 minutes by heading in from close-range following great lead-up between Branimir Mikulic and Magdic out on the right. Six minutes from the break Karpeh brought up his hat-trick after Mikulic played him through to slot past the on-coming Kevin Miller. The Knights came out for the second half with more purpose and on 59 minutes reduced deficit after Daniel Trim pumped the ball into the 18-yard box where Anthony Skorich volleyed past Vas Vujacic. However, just seven minutes later James Isaia’s long throw-in found Mikulic who neatly glanced the ball in at the near post. Floreat looked to have made safe the points when Miki Vujacic smashed the ball in from close-range following a repeat of the Isaia-Mikulic long throw routine. The Knights commenced their fightback seven minutes later when Skorich put the ball away in a goal mouth scramble. A swift counter attacking move put the ball at the feet of Stuart Montgomery who advanced to the top of the 18-yard box before hitting a speculative shot over the goalkeeper and into the far corner. The margin became a single goal when Trim’s low centre was lashed through a crowded area by Andrew Jennings. Three minutes into stoppage time an Andrija Jukic cross was brilliantly flicked on by Montgomery to Jennings who fired low across the ‘keeper and into the net to spark wild scenes of jubilation on the field and in the stands.

Perth S.C. narrowed the gap at the top of the table by trouncing Wanneroo City 5-0 in a one-sided affair at Kingsway Sporting Complex. The visitors should have gone ahead with their first attack but Andreas Oliveira's half volley was deflected just wide of the target. A error by new Wanneroo goalkeeper Aaron Olow gifted Perth the lead after 14 minutes when he failed to take cleanly an in-swinging Todd Howarth corner which fell nicely for Oliviera to slot in at from only a couple of metres. Although by far the dominant side, the visitors were prevented from increasing their advantage by poor delivery into the final third as Wanneroo struggled to get over the halfway line . The introduction of Antonio Naglieri and Gary Faria at the break saw Perth step up a gear for the second half, and twelve minutes in a terrific exchange of passes ended with Robbie Puca converting from 10-metres from a Naglieri cut back. Faria got in on the act by expertly volleying into the top corner after Oliveria laid the ball back from a Naglieri corner. Wanneroo momentarily flickered into life through Craig Cheeseman whose strike from 30-metres was tipped onto the crossbar by Gareth Deeg. But Perth were having none of it and the margin was further increased by Faria who was the benefactor of a great exchange between Matt Danskin and Barry Wood down the right. The scoring was completed in the 68th minute when a sweeping move saw Naglieri slide a terrific 40-metre pass to Danksin who in turn played through for Wood to beat the 'keeper. The game ended farcically as Craig Bowman went unpunished for a late challenge on Deeg, only for the Wanneroo player to then be issued his marching orders for foul and abusive language aimed towards the sidelines.

Josh Kamasz struck three times to lead Cockburn City to a 4-1 win over Swan I.C. at the Swan Italian Club. The home supporters were given plenty of early encouragement as Justin Hugo forced a good save from Dino Pacella, and Rory Mouttet who placed disappointingly high of the crossbar from close-range. Cockburn weren’t without their opportunities and Kamasz should have done better than to send his header straight at Corey Hugo on the half hour. However, that matter little as two minutes later Johnny Mirco sent in a deep cross from the left which Kamasz tucked into the net at the back post. The margin was very nearly doubled shortly after when Kamasz flicked Shane Nunes’ throw-in on to Johnny Mirco who fired wide. Swan were reduced to ten men in the 43rd minute with Justin Hugo issued his marching orders by referee Steven Gregory following an off the ball incident with Dom De Felice. The situation worsened for the hosts three minutes into the second half when Carlos Echeverria was sent off for a fairly innocuous challenge on Johnny Mirco. But Swan weren’t about to give up and in the 56th minute were brought back into the game as Brendan Knox flicked on a corner to Damien Catalano who converted in a goal mouth scramble. With the advantage of two additional player, Cockburn soon gained control and in the 68th minute Kamasz had his second of the day after great approach work from Johnny Mirco. Kamasz completed his hat-trick ten minutes later with a clinical finish past the goalkeeper. Joseph Brunetto came on for Kamasz shortly after and in the final minute made his presence known by netting from close-range after Swan failed to sufficiently deal with a corner.

A late penalty converted by captain Kevin Henderson was enough to secure Stirling Lions maximum points against a brave and tenacious Fremantle Spirit line-up at the WA Spanish Club. Quickest out of the blocks were Stirling who controlled play through the central pairing of Keith Brown and Steve Porter. The first real opening came after 25 minutes when David Dugdale's low shot was held by Steve Grant. Stirling pressed threatened again a minute later via an in-swinging Porter corner which Fremantle captain Dale Wingell cleared from off the goal line. A classy exchange between Porter and Dugdale provided Andy Brown with a clear shot on goal only for the big striker to sky his shot from point-blank range. A speedy break lead to an opening for Fremantle as Wingell released Ravi Kuppasamy Barrera whose passage to goal was blocked by a diving Phil Straker. The scrappy nature of the game continued into the second half with both sides battling strong winds and a shifting surface. An innocuous tackle by Andy Brown on Oliver Gillingham lead to the referee issuing the Stirling attacker a red card on 70 minutes, much to the dismay of the visiting supporters. A brilliant piercing run by teenager Callum Roberts took him past a tiring defence and one-on-one with Straker whose superb save kept Stirling in the hunt. The addition of Daniel Micevski and Tom Jones swung the game in the visitors favour and through a series of free-kicks and corners the pressure slowly mounted on the home team. With 89 minutes gone Stirling were awarded a penalty for a seemingly innocent challenge by Mark Darby on Dugdale, and up stepped Henderson to drill the games' only goal past Grant.

E.C.U. Joondalup maintained their unbeaten home record with a hard fought 1-0 win over local rivals Sorrento at the Joondalup campus of Edith Cowan University. The games' solitary goal arrived just before half-time through Marc Anthony, whose performance up front caused constant problems for the visiting defence. A frantic opening saw some crunching tackles put in by players in both teams' colours to set the tone for what would be a bruising encounter. Goalkeepers Aleks Vrteski and Anthony Cochrane found themselves in the thick of the early action as shots on goal were traded. A great chance came the way of Mark Lee following a good exchange with Anthony but the midfielders shot was tipped over by Cochrane. Joondalup eventually established control of proceedings with strike partners Anthony and Darren Quinncroft enjoying the service from midfield, and particularly Tom Amphlett wide on the right. Sorrento were unlucky not to go ahead midway through the half when a sensational free-kick from 30-metres by Gary Lynn cannoned off the upright. The breakthrough came a minute from half-time when Anthony fired in at close-range after a neat exchange down the left between provider Lee and Martin Ashworth. A delightful chip by Anthony early in the second half slammed into the crossbar as the home side set about increasing their advantage. The warm conditions and pace of the game began to take its toll and genuine chances on goal became scarcer at both ends of the park. With Scott Neville, Lewis Flatt and Brodie Martin in terrific form it was Sorrento which looked the more likely to find the net, however, their a well organised defence thwarted their best attempts. A late Gulls attack produced a goalmouth scramble in which Vrteski’s blushes were saved by the frame of the goal as James Morgan poked the ball into the upright.

Inglewood United took out maximum points when they downed Armadale 4-3 in a pulsating encounter at Alfred Skeet Oval. The home team came out of the blocks firing on all cylinders to take a deserved early lead through Ben Howe who expertly chipped goalkeeper Oliver Taseski from the edge of the 18-yard box. Inglewood’s day worsened on 10 minutes when Ryan Pearson stole possession from Sardi Jokanovic and made his way into the area before squaring to Darren Kingston who made no mistake from close-range. The home crowd were in fine voice as they urged the Reds to add a third to their tally. However, it was Inglewood that would next find the net as Greg Sharland’s angled strike was too hot for Cyril Sharrock to handle and in the blink of an eye Daniel Neiderberger had tucked in the loose ball from a few metres. By this stage the visitors had control of the game with experienced duo Bobby Despotovski and Kevin Griffiths dictating terms in the middle of the park, and Alex Stamatiadis and Jason Colli leading the charge down the flanks. The sides were brought level in the 32nd minute when Dean Apelgren unleashed a thunderbolt from 15-metres that gave Sharrock no chance. Inglewood’s dominance was further rewarded shortly before the break when Daniel Kovacevic sent the ball down the right to Danny Stoitis whose back post cross was powerfully headed in by Sharland. Twelve minutes into the second half Armadale found an equaliser through Neal Gawley who marked his home debut with a fine strike from 20-metres. Griffiths provided the ammunition for the deciding goal on 80 minutes by delivering the ball into the area where Neiderberger headed in from 5-metres. The home side thought they’d snatch a late point when Pearson headed the ball in, however, referee Joe Fusari disallowed the effort for the strikers push on Kovacevic.

30.6.2007

FIRST DIVISION, ROUND ELEVEN (Gosnells City v Mandurah City by Kirk O’Connor; South West Phoenix v Ashfield courtesy South West Phoenix; Balcatta v Rockingham City courtesy Rockingham City)

An impressive Morley Windmills moved up the table after defeating Dianella White Eagles 4-1 at Wotton Reserve. The star of the show was striker Farrell Hedges whose hat-trick enabled Morley to leapfrog Dianella into third place. The home team took only four minutes to register their first through new signing Seita Hamamoto who stabbed home from 7-metres after Dianella failed to clear a Scott McIlory corner. Chances were scarce in a defence-minded first half that ended with a terrific save from Pedro Pavez in response to Remo McCann's curling strike. Dianella carved out the first chance of the second period via Dragan Njegic whose shot from 18-metres was well saved by Chris Ramsey. Morley got a deserved second in the 58th minute when Hamamoto headed across the face of goal for Hedges who tapped in from point-blank range. Hedges bagged his second six minutes later with a fine shot on the turn from the edge of the penalty area. Dianella looked to be back in the hunt after Ray Rose redirected David Moschilla's cross into the net on 67 minutes. However, the result was put beyond doubt shortly after when Hedges drifted into the area unchecked to put away a cross from Scott McIlroy.

Mandurah City maintained their three-point lead at the top of the First Division table by sweeping aside Gosnells City 3-0 at Walter Padbury Reserve. The visitors struck early through Christian Paschkewitz who scrambled a loose ball into the net at the second attempt. Brian Cairney worked tirelessly as the lone striker and although he received good support from midfield, Gosnells rarely put the visiting defence under any real pressure. Shane Crampton should have increased Mandurah's advantage midway through the period but shot high of the crossbar when well placed. The second half opened with appeals for a Gosnells penalty turned down after a defender appear to handle the ball following a corner. Gosnells went down to ten men when Craig McGill surprisingly received a straight red card after a verbal dual with the Mandurah bench. Mandurah seized control and soon after a fine cross by substitute Michael Bobridge was rifled into the crossbar by Graham Matthews. The margin became two goals on 79 minutes when Christian Paschewitz’ looping header found the back of the net from a long ball in the 18-yard box. The points were made safe shortly after as Jeff Bright cheekily made his way down the left to set Bobridge up for a deserved goal of his own.

Steve Suttie’s tenth goal of the season earned South West Phoenix a 1-0 win against Ashfield in chilly conditions at Bunbury’s Soccerdome. Ashfield settled the better and should perhaps have gone ahead when Patrick Quinn’s pass was intercepted by Julian Piromalli who surged forward before squaring to Rydeen Botha whose mis-timed shot cleared the crossbar. A couple of positional changes worked a treat for the hosts as Greg Hayes hit the post and Suttie placed narrowly wide. Phoenix’ reward arrived five minutes from the break when Ryan Risdon’s long made it’s way to Suttie who appeared to tame the ball with his hand before slotting past the goalkeeper from just outside the 18-yard box. Goalscoring opportunities were few and far between after the break with both sides effectively negating their opponents attacks. Gary Mayers almost put away the hosts second by firing past Drazen Saric only to have a back-tracking Adam Purcell slide the ball from off the line. Ashfield’s best chance resulted from a Purcell cross which was flicked on by Botha to an unmarked Igor Novakovic who volleyed disappointingly wide from close-range. Phoenix were given another reprieve not long after when neither Novakovic nor Andy O’Neill was able to net a goalmouth scramble.

Balcatta condemned Rockingham City to their tenth loss of the campaign by out-shooting their hosts 2-0 at Dowling Street Reserve. Played in great spirits, the game started at cracking pace and early chances for both teams. Goalkeeper Craig Olenjik made a fantastic save to deny Christian Debarro in the 3rd minute, and shortly after Andrew Keary’s searching cross provided the impetus for Rockingham’s first serious attack. The first goal arrived via a 16th minute corner from Marc D'Ascanio which went to the feet of Ben Rogers before being tucked over the line by Debarro. Balcatta increased their lead a few minutes out from the break when Adrian Caloiero’s speculative shot from distance came to rest in the net. A solid start to the second half from Rockingham had Keary fire narrowly wide, and shortly after an Anthony Harris thunderbolt met with the same result. Rockingham lost some of their momentum, and to a degree control of the game, when hard-working striker Rob Olnaar was forced from the field by injury. This allowed Balcatta back in and only the brilliance of Olenjik prevented Daniel Franklin from adding a third to the visitors tally.

Canning City thumped Forrestfield United 4-0 at Willetton Sportsman Club. Dave Mickler scored a halt-trick and Kyle Mitsopoulos once for Canning who had Daniel Trevisiol red carded after 84 minutes. Queens Park produced something of an upset by defeating Bayswater City 3-2 at Coker Park. R.Simpson, I.McKean and D.Taneski found the net for the home side with Bayswater’s goals coming via R.Grant and Sal Marrapodi. Further details of these two games were not forthcoming from any of the four participating clubs.

29.6.2007

WEEKEND IN PREVIEW

Tomorrow marks the halfway stage of the Premier League season and the www.footballwa.net Match of the Week pits Western Knights and Floreat Athena at Nash Field. The past month has been tough on the Knights who’ve managed just a single win with a seemingly ever-changing line-up. Stuart Montgomery spearheads the attack with support coming through the middle from Daniel Trim and Andrija Jukic. Ronnie Campbell’s new-look backline brings together Cormac Dawson, Scottish import Michael Johnson and goalkeeper Kevin Miller who’ll be keen to keep a clean sheet in their first outing together.

Floreat are riding high at the top of the table, unbeaten in ten games and three points clear of their nearest rival. The visitors boast an impressive line-up which is lead from the front by Boima Karpeh and Branimir Mikulic, who’ve been finding the back of the net with startling regularity. Josip Magdic and Miki Vujacic run the show across the middle of the park for Michael Roki’s side which as Ante Kovacevic and Julian Madaschi providing the muscle at the back. This game bears all the hallmarks of being an absolute classic and should not be missed.

It’s been a year of contrasting fortunes for northern neighbours E.C.U. Joondalup and Sorrento who come face-to-face at the Joondalup campus of Edith Cowan University. Joondalup, currently fifth, are unbeaten on home soil this term and it’s difficult to see that changing with the likes of Marc Anthony, Craig Young and rising star Tom Amphlett in terrific form. Second from last Sorrento are coming off just their second win of the campaign and will need Lewis Flatt, Jared Love and Chris Boyle to be on top of their game for the visitors to nick a point.

Perth S.C. head to Wanneroo City where the only question being asked is ‘ow many will the Blues score?’ Cockburn City are tipped to take the points from their away meeting with Swan I.C. who are without Aaron Cole, Paul Baczynski, Tom Shepheard and David Foster, amongst others. A tough test awaits Fremantle Spirit’s young side who take on an uncompromising Stirling Lions at the WA Spanish Club. Inglewood United have turned their season around with some good recent results but this week meet an Armadale side in desperate need of points to pull away from the relegation zone.

Morley Windmills host Dianella White Eagles in what is sure to be an entertaining battle in the First Division at Wotton Reserve. Morley will be desperate to get back in the winners circle after three successive losses which have seen them fall seven points behind table-topping Mandurah City. Dianella, competitions leaders just a few weeks ago, have slipped to third after suffering their own form crisis which Jimmy Pearson's men will be determined to halt.

First Division leaders Mandurah City head to Walter Padbury Reserve where they’re expected to account for Gosnells City. Canning City are unbeaten at home this season and should extend that run when Forrestfield United come calling. Ashfield make the long journey to Bunbury where they take on South West Phoenix, while Queens Park have home ground advantage against Bayswater City. Balcatta have run hot and cold so far this term but are tipped to take the points over bottom side Rockingham City.

29.6.2007

COCKBURN CAPTAIN EYES TOP HONOURS

Club captain Jason Godfrey has every confidence Cockburn City will continue their climb up the Premier League table. The 24-year old is a strongly believer that confidence breeds confidence and can see no reason why his team won’t be challenging for top honours come the pointy end of the season. “The team is performing well and I think like every team we would be disappointed with second,” he said. “The plan has always been for Cockburn to win the League, and if you don’t go out trying to achieve that target when you step on the field each week, then you can’t expect to achieve a positive result.”

The start of Godfrey’s season was interrupted by a knee injury that kept him out of action for six weeks. “It’s always hard watching your team play from the sideline, but it does make you even more determined to get fit to fight for your spot back,” he explained. “It’s hard to come back from injury and expect to be at the top of your game, but as each week goes by, and my fitness and strength improves, I feel I’m getting closer to the playing level I would like to achieve. It makes it a lot earlier when you do have a good team and coaching group around you.”

There’s doubt about the quality of Cockburn’s defence which, at various times this season, has featured the likes of Shane Nunes, Liam Lilly, Paul Natale, Peter Kuzet and Godfrey. Not surprisingly, competition for starting berths is red-hot. “There are some excellent players at Cockburn, especially in defence, and I have to be honest in saying I feel honoured to be playing alongside them,” Godfrey commented. “It’s good to know that when it comes down to game time, any of these players have the ability, versatility and strength to get the job done.”

It’s this competition for spots that has provided the foundation for Cockburn’s early season success. “We’re all there to play and train as a unit, and we need to feel confident in each other’s abilities in every position on the park,” Godfrey explained. “There’s always someone just as good as yourself that can take your spot on the starting line-up. It not only means you have to train harder and play better, but there’s no time to slack off or lose focus. And it’s not only the defenders who need to fight for their spots as we have a lot of young talent coming through who can step into any position.”

Cockburn make the trip to Swan I.C. this weekend and although that club’s record this year is nothing to write home about, Godfrey says the game won’t be taken lightly. “Home ground advantage always helps lift a team’s spirit but we’ll be approaching this game like any other and that is to work hard for each other and play our own game,” said the Cockburn captain. “Swan work well as a unit and if goalkeeper Cory Hugo is on his game then it’s going to be tough match. I’ve heard that if there’s rain the Swan pitch can be tricky to play on, so if it rains the fans can expect to see a hard, tight, close game.”

With the season nearing the halfway stage Cockburn are well positioned in third place, unbeaten on home soil and through to the last eight of the Cup. “We need to stay positive and work even harder to achieve the goal which everyone at Cockburn wants - ‘the winners trophy’. The team has shown tremendous strength of character in the last few weeks. We’ve not played as well as we’d like to have in some of those games but at the end of the day three points are three points and the main thing is we’ve got the result we wanted. We know we can play better and I think we are starting to get to where we want to be as a team.”

28.6.2007

GLORY LEAVE PENANG SHELL-SHOCKED

A stunning twenty minute burst early in the second half secured Perth Glory a 5-1 win over Penang this evening in Malaysia. With score deadlocked at one-all after 45 minutes, coach Ron Smith made several tactical moves which delivered four goals in quick succession. Nikita Rukavytsya took his tour tally to six goals with a couple of quality finishes which earned the praise of coach Ron Smith. "Nikita was in outstanding form for Perth S.C. in the State League and he has definitely brought that hunger and eye for goal with him to Malaysia," said the coach.

It looked as though Glory were in for a tough night when they went behind after just 3 minutes. However, in the 25th minute Steve Hesketh delivered a deep corner which was put away by Croatian striker Mate Dragicevic to bring the team level. Rukavytsya scored twice in three minutes at the start of the second half to put Glory in a commanding position. A brilliant strike from distance by Nick Rizzo further increased the margin before Anthony Danze completed the rout with a towering header in the 64th minute.

28.6.2007

PERTH STARLETS HEAD TO EUROPE

Thirty-two of our brightest young talents will match skills with some of Europe’s finest next month. The Under-14 and Under-15 squads of Perth S.C. head off to tour Italy and Spain on Friday on what former Australian international Gary Marocchi promises will be the experience of a lifetime. “This trip will be of enormous benefit to the players, both in terms of sporting, cultural and personal experiences,” explained Marocchi. “Mixing and participating with players from all over the world will be a great learning experience for the boys.”

Marocchi, chairman of the tour committee, feels strongly that participation in overseas tournaments is a great way of further developing Western Australia’s emerging talents. “We as a club firmly believe we are contributing greatly to the games’ future in WA,” Marocchi commented. “Our youth players need to experience the different skills, training attitudes and playing styles of overseas teams. We feel that if we are able to promote some of the players to a higher standard of competition then our club will be remembered for its contribution to the code.”

While serving to provide the Perth youngsters with the best possible development path, the tour will also help prepare several of the club’s players for State honours. “We selected the Under 14 and 15 squads for the tour as these players will benefit most from the experience, and to prepare them for the national championships in early October,” said Marocchi. “Perth has ten touring players in contention for the national championship squads and we believe the players selected for the national championships will be far better prepared for their first interstate competition after the tour.”

A lot of hard work has gone into seeing the tour come to fruition for the Perth youngsters. “The trip is the culmination of six months of planning and six months fundraising,” explained Marocchi. “A total of $280,000 has been raised to send 32 players from two teams, coaches, officials, physiotherapist and accompanying family members overseas. In total 56 people will be going on the tour. I’d like to say a special thank you to all the sponsors who have contributed in giving these players a trip of a lifetime.”

The Perth juniors will take part in two tournaments while abroad, starting with the Italy Cup at Cesenatico that commences on 2nd July. The Under-14 side will take on FB Kobenhavn (Denmark), Elhurst (United States), Richmond Hill (Canada) and French teams AS Templeuve, US Marquette and US Pont S Maxence with the top two teams playing off for the silverware. The Under-15’s are grouped alongside Sasfeszek (Hungary), Enskede IK (Sweden), and Elhurst (United States) with the top two progressing to the knock-out stage.

On 7th July the touring party head to Barcelona for the Copa Catalunya. The Under-14’s get to pit skills with FC Fondi (Italy), Akarps IF (Sweden) and Asteras Varis (Greece) in the initial phase. The top two sides go through to the quarter-finals. The Under-15’s meet AS Beauvais (France), AC Passirano (Italy) and FC Koronida (Greece) in the group phase. A spot in the play-off stage will go to the top two ranked teams.

The Perth Under-14 squad features Raffael Accurso, Mitchell Allen, Vid Amidzic, Marc De Francesch, Joseph De Luca, Tim Doyle, Allessandro Gismondi, Matthew Izzo, Aaron Jeffrey, James Marocchi, Jason Marsden, Ben Meredith, Massimo Salamone, Dylan Tombides, Milan Vulin and Joshua Wilkins. The team is coached by Bruno Marocchi, and managed by Tony Izzo.

The Perth Under-15 squad consists of Thomas Black, Liam Boland, Kaiden Boksich, Denis Botvenev, Luke Bower, Million Butshiire, Matthew Hill, Jayden Lombardi, Luka Njegich, Joshua Pereira, Curtis Prior, Joseph Pullella, Robert Rixer, Michael Salsano, Corey Woods and Nathan Woods. Eric Marocchi is coach of the side and Dusan Njegich the team manager.

28.6.2007

SOCCEROOS ON THE BIG SCREEN!

Football West has teamed up with the Leederville Hotel and the Greenwood Hotel to showcase the Socceroos Asian Cup debut. Australia have been allocated a place in Group A alongside Oman, Iraq and Thailand with whom they'll battle it out for the right to progress to the tournament final on Sunday 29th July. Don't miss the Socceroos make history against Oman (8th July, 6.20pm), Iraq (13th July, 6.20pm), and Thailand (16th July, 8.35pm) on the big screen at the Leederville Hotel and the Greenwood Hotel.

27.6.2007

SHORT PASSES

Western Knights have bolstered their goalkeeping stocks with the recruitment of Kevin Miller, formerly of Wanneroo City. The one-time Scotland youth international takes the gloves from 17-year old Adam Guthridge, who was impressive on debut against Cockburn City last week. The Knights are hopeful Miller will be cleared in time for this weekend's clash with Floreat Athena.

Josip Magdic will officially become a Floreat Athena player at the end of the month. The talented midfielder has been playing for Floreat under the terms of a loan agreement with Perth Glory, who have indicated his existing contract will not be extended. Magdic will remain with Floreat for the rest of the season while considering his playing options which include interest from Asia and Europe as well as Australia.

The midfield at Dorrien Gardens has been strengthened by the return of a couple of familiar faces. Antonio Naglieri is back from a five-week family holiday in Italy and could be a surprise inclusion in the squad for Saturday’s game at Wanneroo City. Peter Lord is also back with the club and champing at the bit after seeing out the full ninety minutes of the Reserves big win over his former club, Fremantle Spirit, on the weekend.

Carlo Scali and the coaching staff of Swan I.C. must be feeling under a bit of pressure these days. With the Premier League season nearing the halfway point the black and whites find themselves languishing near the foot of the table with only two wins to their credit - and a far cry from their pre-season target of a top five placing. In the past twelve months Swan have emerged victorious from just seven of their thirty games.

Highly rated goalkeeper Kenny Ftynohiannis is looking the goods to play his first game in five months. Ftynohiannis signed for Ashfield over the summer but, just days after debuting in the pre-season Night Series, suffered a broken leg while playing indoor soccer. The much-travelled 23-year old is expected to take his place between the posts when Ashfield's Reserves come up against South West Phoenix this weekend.

Bayswater City has welcomed the arrival of Scottish striker Rory Grant. The 24-year old marked his State League debut by scoring all three goals in Saturday’s 3-1 win against Gosnells City. Grant was the highest goalscorer for Scottish non-League outfit Bathgate Thistle last season, and scored his teams’ only goal in the St. Michael Cup final loss to Boness United. The towering forward counts Livingston United and Glenrothes amongst his former clubs.

26.6.2007

TWO FROM TWO FOR GLORY

Perth Glory continued on their winning way in Malaysia with a big 4-0 victory against Super League outfit Perak this evening. A first half double to young striker Nikita Rukavytsya gave Glory the perfect opening before Jamie Harnwell finished the job with two quality finishes close to the end. Glory dominated from the opening whistle and could have had a few more goals if not for a pitch made heavily by a week of persistent rain. "It wasn't the prettiest game of football you'll ever see but I was happy that we were able to put together several good periods where we dominated possession and took our chances to score," said coach Ron Smith. Twenty players were used by Smith in combating the stifling conditions with defender David Tarka and goalkeeper Tando Velaphi the only players to see out the full 90 minutes.

25.6.2007

HULL MOVE TEMPTS GARCIA

Richard Garcia is likely to leave Colchester United when his contract expires at the end of this month. The 25-year old has been linked with a move to Hull City who are looking to make an impact on the Championship next season. "It's just nice knowing there is interest" said Garcia. "Hull are one of a number of clubs who are showing interest. And from what I've heard the Tigers are trying to be ambitious. They have a new chairman who has come in to succeed. They are clearly a club that is looking forward and are obviously planning for promotion. I would like to be a part of that."

25.6.2007

GLORY TO TACKLE WA'S BEST

Perth Glory supporters can see how their team is shaping up for the coming A-League season through a series of friendlies against State League opposition next July. Perth S.C. will be the first local club to face Glory when they meet on Tuesday 3rd July at Dorrien Gardens. A week later it'll be Floreat Athena who put Glory to the test under lights at Litis Stadium, and on Tuesday 17th July Inglewood United get the chance to match skills with the A-League club at Clipsal Stadium. All three friendlies kick-off at 7.00pm. With Glory scheduled to play their entire pre-season Cup campaign interstate, these three games will be the only opportunity to catch the side in action before the start of the regular season in late August.

24.6.2007

AMATEUR PREMIER LEAGUE, ROUND TEN (Murdoch University v Fremantle United courtesy Football West)

Murdoch University held a heavily favoured Fremantle United to a 1-1 draw in the Amateur Premier League clash at Winthrop Reserve. It took only 4 minutes for Murdoch to take the lead through a penalty awarded for Jon De Felice’s foul on Michael Jennings, after dusting himself off, lashed the spot kick past Joe Princi. David Onoforo brought Fremantle level in the 9th minute with a trademark free-kick from 17-metres that gave Andrew Barrett no chance. The port side almost went ahead six minutes later through Michael Hoenselaars who was played in behind the defence but had his shot brilliantly saved by Barrett.

Fremantle continued to threaten after the break and a clever back-heel by Josh Sithole forced a sharp response from Barrett. The remainder of the half was tight and genuine goalscoring opportunities limited. With eight minutes to go Jason Smith picked out Hoenselaars with a free-kick but the Fremantle midfielder headed narrowly over from 5-metres. Murdoch had a great chance to snatch victory shortly after when Jacob King’s free-kick fell to Jennings who shot narrowly wide at close-range. There was still time for Fremantle to mount one last charge through Smith whose fiercely struck shot from the edge of the box was kept out by Barrett.

Conference B leader Shamrock Rovers suffered their first loss of the season when downed 0-1 by the visitors from Perth Azzurri. Lynwood Colts collected maximum points courtesy of a 1-0 scoreline at CN Canning International, while there was a 2-0 home win for Southern Spirit over last placed Suburbs United. Hamersley Rovers defeated WA Maccabi 2-0 in an important mid-table fixture. The points were shared between South Perth United and Subiaco United where it ended 1-1. Stirling Panthers defeated University of WA 4-2, and Kingsway Olympic were no match for Spearwood Dalmatinac who ran out 3-0 winners.

24.6.2007

GLORIOUS START IN MALAYSIA

Perth Glory recorded an emphatic 3-0 victory against Selangor PKNS in the first game of the Malaysian tour last night. In hot and humid conditions it was the visitors that started the brighter and deservedly went ahead on 8 minutes via David Tarka's header from a Steve Hesketh corner. The margin was doubled early in the second half by Naum Sekulovski who shot truly from the edge of the 18-yard box. Glory put the result beyond doubt in the 84th minute when Simon Colosimo's ball over the defence found Mate Dragicevic who drew the goalkeeper before squaring to an unmarked Anthony Danze to tap in.

23.6.2007

PREMIER LEAGUE, ROUND TEN

Floreat Athena opened up a three points buffer to their nearest rival after clinically despatching Armadale 4-0 at Litis Stadium. The tone was set early with John Migas’ rising highest to glance Miki Vujacic’s in-swinging corner narrowly high of the crossbar. Poor defending gifted Floreat the lead after 5 minutes as Branimir Mukilic somehow maintained possession after stumbling his way through a crowded 18-yard box to tuck a low shot inside the near post from 9-metres. The margin was doubled on 21 minutes when Miki Vujacic won possession near the halfway line and looped a superb long pass over the defence for Boima Karpeh to latch on to and round goalkeeper Cyril Sharrock before tapping into an empty net. Four minutes later the game Miki Vujacic threaded a terrific pass to Mikulic who waltzed past three challenges and angled his neat finish across Sharrock and inside the far post. A rare Armadale attack just before the break should have produced a goal as Simon El Chami fended off Ante Kovacevic and squared to an unmarked Ryan Pearson who sprayed wide with only the ‘keeper to beat. A dull start to the second half had the two teams slugging it out in midfield and rarely pushing into their final third. That changed in the 68th minute when Adam Bachillor’s swerving free-kick flew just past the top corner. Floreat stepped up the pace and in quick succession Bajo Savic forced a classy save from Sharrock, and Mikulic shot across the face of goal from a tight angle. Armadale were exposed four a fourth time on 81 minutes when Kovacevic’s vicious drive was parried by a full-stretch Sharrock who was helpless as Stefan Smiljanic netted the follow-up unchallenged from a couple of metres. Poor finishing denied the visitors a late consolation as Pearson shot straight at Vas Vujacic after going past a couple of opponents.

The days surprise result came from Dorrien Gardens where Perth S.C. were held to a 1-1 draw by Fremantle Spirit. Dale Wingell was the architect of Fremantle taking a 10th minute lead by clipping a terrific pass over the defence for Ravi Kuppusamy to run on to and calmly lob on-coming goalkeeper Gareth Deeg. The hosts responded by piling on the pressure and only a dubious offside decision denied Andreas Oliviera the equaliser after good lead-up work from Todd Howarth and Gary Faria. Parity was restored on 25 minutes by Faria who wriggled his way past a number of opponents before rifling into the top corner from 14-metres. The wet and windy conditions made the going difficult for both teams and, not surprisingly, passes into the final third either failed to find their mark or were intercepted by the defence. Shortly before the interval Kuppusamy unleashed a blistering shot that flew narrowly past the post. The second half was six minutes old when Steve Grant spectacularly tipped over the crossbar a long-range pile-driver by Faria. The game then developed into a dour affair with Perth struggling to open up their opponents defence, and Fremantle going forward only on the counterattack. Perth carved out a couple of good openings and Robbie Puca's diving header was cleared off the line by Tom Straker from Matt Danskin's delivery after 67 minutes. Not long after it was Howarth who provided the ammuntion for Faria whose stinging shot was turned wide by Grant. Fremantle almost stole victory close to the end when Wingell's cross to the near post intended for Callum Roberts deflected off defender Michael Icanovski who was glad to see the ball clear the bar.

Josh Kamasz' late strike earned Cockburn City victory by 2-1 against Western Knights at Dalmatinac Park. It was the third win on the trot for Cockburn who were forced to play the last half hour with ten men following the dubious dismissal of substitute Marko Aleksic. Dino Pacella was in the thick of the early action with a number of quality saves, most notably from Jon Higgins whose long-range strike was brilliantly tipped over the crossbar. Cockburn looked particularly dangerous at set pieces and from such a move Johnny Mirco sent a cleverly worked free-kick just past the target. The deadlock was broken just after the half hour when Andrija Jukic's speculative effort from wide on the right made it's way under the crossbar. Within ten minutes the teams were back on level terms as Johnny Mirco surged past the defence and flashed a fierce shot beyond the reach of teenage debutant Adam Guthridge. The second half opened promisingly for the Knights as David Price won possession and threaded a fine pass into the path of Stuart Montgomery whose first time shot fizzed just the wrong side of the post. A misplaced challenge on Jon Mathers earned Aleksic a red card just eight minutes after replacing an injured Michael Mirco. As so often happens, Cockburn lifted after being reduced to ten men and on 74 minutes Paul Natale and Johnny Mirco combined to set-up Kamasz who evaded his marker before firing into the net, much to the delight of the home crowd. There were chances for Cockburn to make the points secure but neither Johnny Mirco nor Giovanni Di Bartolo could capitalise when opportunities presented. The Knights threw everything into getting a late equaliser only to be turned away time and time again by a defence marshalled superbly by Jason Godfrey.

Stirling Lions picked up three vital points with a hard fought 1-0 defeat of E.C.U. Joondalup at Macedonia Park. An 80th minute header from young defender Michael Pugliese secured the win in a scrappy, error-strewn game played in wet and windy conditions. A torrential downpour shortly before kick-off made for a slippery surface to which both teams took their time to adjust. Stirling looked the more likely to score early and on the quarter-hour Andy Brown cannoned the ball into the upright after being set-up by Vas Kalogeracos. The only other opening of note in a tight first half came through the creativity if teenager Danny Richman who on 33 minutes set-up Daniel Micevski but his tame effort fell into the arms of Aleks Vrteski. The second half opened with Stirling determined to breakthrough and good opportunities came the way of Micevski and Kalogeracos who both shot too close to Vrteski. Scott Blackmore came off the bench for Joondalup at the break and made his presence felt with a 30-metre rocket which Phil Straker finger-tipped away. But otherwise the visitors opened up very few holes in a Stirling defence under the command of the ever-reliable Kevin Henderson and star in the making Pugliese. With neither side giving an inch and the game seemingly destined for a scoreless draw, Pugliese made a hero of himself by rising high to head a Ludovic Boi corner past Vrteski.

A second half goal bonanza saw Sorrento take the points by a 4-1 scoreline over Swan I.C. at Percy Doyle Reserve. In wintry condition it was the visitors who settled the better as Brendan Knox' curling shot from the left went narrowly wide. Sorrento responded in kind five minutes later when Gary Lynn's effort was well saved by Cory Hugo. With 10 minutes elapsed Swan went ahead as Anthony McStea's cross fell kindly to Justin Hugo who fired low past young goalkeeper Anthony Cochrane. The black and whites stepped up the pace in their search for a second goal as Knox placed high at close-range and Cochrane moved sharply to keep out a shot from Rory Mouttet. The margin really should have been doubled in the 20th minute but Knox somehow blazing over the crossbar from point blank range. After this Sorrento began to get more involved as Steve McDonald and Brodie Martin both placed high, while Chris Boyle's shot flashed just past the post. The score was levelled ten minutes after the re-start with Martin's low strike from the edge of the 18-yard box beating Cory Hugo. Hesitant defending on Swan's behalf in the 68th minute allowed Boyle to crash a stunning shot from 15-metres into the top corner. The Gulls were on fire and five minutes later Jared Love's cross from the right was stabbed home by substitute Dejan Gurovski. A defensive mix-up almost gifted Swan a way back into the game with McDonald's back pass going past Cochrane whose blushes were saved by an alert Lynn. Shortly after the points were made safe by Lewis Flatt whose shot on the turn soared into the top corner with Cory Hugo stranded.

Inglewood United continued their climb up the Premier League table with a 6-0 whipping of lowly Wanneroo City at Clipsal Stadium. The match began in sunshine and both sides had chances to take an early lead in what was an open and attacking affair. With the game delicately poised, Inglewood took the lead after a smart pass by Bobby Despotovski released Greg Sharland whose inch perfect cross was nodded in by Mladen Kovacevic from 5-metres. Heads in the Wanneroo camp dropped and, not surprisingly, they found themselves another go down after 26 minutes when Despotovski’s low curling free-kick from 18-metres found the back of the net. The hosts third goal arrived courtesy of Daniel Niederberger’s tenacity in chasing down a long ball and his cross from near the corner flag was flicked on by Sharland to Kevin Griffiths who made no mistake at close-range. Craig Cheeseman was the visitors’ only threat and after shimmying past the defence his goalbound strike was brilliantly parried by Oliver Taseski. Kevin Miller was in the thick of the action as half-time approached to deny Sharland and Dean Aplegren. The second half began with a bang for Inglewood as a superb cross from Jason Colli found Sharland who expertly directed his header into the top corner from 8-meres. Two minutes later Niederberger provided the ammunition for Sharland but this time his close-range header cannoned off the crossbar and Miller thwarted Griffiths’ at the follow-up. The margin became five goal in the 49th minutes with Griffiths volleying over the ‘keeper from 18-metres. Inglewood continued to press and Aplegren was denied by Miller, then Griffiths curled wide what could have been his hat-trick. With three minutes to go Aplegren stormed into the area where substitute ‘keeper Lee Mackie blocked his shot, but this time the loose ball ricocheted off the leg of defender Mark Donnelly and into the net for the game’s final goal.

23.6.2007

FIRST DIVISION, ROUND TEN (Ashfield v Morley Windmills courtesy Morley Windmills)

Mandurah City cemented their place at the head of the First Division table by defeating southern rivals South West Phoenix 2-1 at the new Hyundai Stadium. In conditions that can only be described as difficult, both teams battled hard against unforgiving winds and ceaseless rain. The home team were the first on the board mid way through the first half when Stuart Francis was the benefactor of poor marking at a Jeff Bright corner which was volleyed in by the Mandurah defender. Phoenix were unfortunate not to have levelled before the break with both Steve Suttie and Greg Hayes hitting the crossbar. The gap was widened shortly after the break when Graeme Matthews beat the Phoenix 'keeper from just inside the 18-yard box after chesting down a James Hesketh clearance. With twenty minutes remaining Phoenix pulled a goal back via Suttie's free-kick which wrong-footed Mike Green after taking a deflection off the defensive wall. This set up a tense finish in which the two teams traded attacks but managed few genuine shots thanks to some resilient defending.

The points were shared at Dianella Reserve where Dianella White Eagles and Canning City played out an enthralling 3-3 draw. Canning opened the scoring after 5 minutes with Daniel Trevisol converting from the penalty spot after Paul Van Dongen was brought down inside the box. David Moschilla's centring pass was fired in by Michael Mayne from just inside the 18-yard box to level procedings on 13 minutes. The home side claimed the lead seven minutes later when Paul Hickey headed firmly past the goalkeeper from a corner. The score became two-each in the 26th minute as Paul Van Dongen tapped into an unguarded net after Pedro Pavez spilt a Trevisol shot. Dianella went into the break with the upper hand courtesy of Ray Rose who capitalised on poor defending by heading past the 'keeper. Simon Versaico brought the teams level for a third time when he was allowed to run some 30-metres unchallenged and beat the 'keeper after 62 minutes. A tense final few minutes saw an Aaron Moschopoulos effort disallowed for handball, and down the other end Pavez saved a stoppage time penalty kick by Trevisol.

Ashfield emerged 3-2 winners over Morley Windmills on a wet afternoon at Ashfield Reserve. The home team settled the quicker and deservedly went ahead on 19 minutes through Rydeen Botha who made no mistake from the penalty spot after being impeded by Andrew Bowyer. It should have two-nil not long before half-time when Morley goalkeeper Chris Ramsey failed to take a cross and the ball fell kindly for Botha who placed high of the crossbar from 6-metres. Morley showed a lot more composure after the break and parity was restored by Farrell Hedges who seized upon a defensive mishap by Tom Gaca and shot over goalkeeper Drazen Saric. Four minutes later the visitors had the lead courtesy of another mistake at the back which allowed Hedges in to round the 'keeper before tucking the ball away. Ramsey was caught off-guard in the 71st minute by a back header which Julian Piromalli got to first and knocked into the net. The decider came six minutes from the end when Igor Novakovic floated a free-kick into the area where the ball slipped from Ramsey's grip and in a flash Damien Todorovic had it in the net.

Bayswater City took the points over a determined Gosnells City 3-1 in atrocious conditions at Frank Drago Reserve. Each team carved out a handful of early chances while battling to overcome driving rain and howling winds. The breakthrough came on 13 minutes when new Bayswater signing Rory Grant headed in a deep cross from Damir Kudozovic. Twenty minutes later the gap was widened as Andre Sarpe delivered the ball into the area where Grant nodded past goalkeeper Jade Thorpe for a second time. The home side looked to be cruising when Bobby Klenkoski was issued his marching orders in the 34th minute for dissent. Playing with an extra man and with the wind at their backs, Gosnells pretty much set up camp in their opponents half following the break. A neat move down the right featuring Ian Maguire in the 50th minute had the desired effect with Brian Cairney calmly slotting in to reduce the deficit. Chances continued to flow for Gosnells with Cairney and Ken Scott-Leembruggen skidding shots wide of the target. Playing on the counterattack, Bayswater secured victory three minutes from the end when Grant’s firm shot from outside of the 18-yard box evaded the 'keeper.

Balcatta and Queens Park played out a 2-2 draw at Graham Burkett Reserve. John Nicolaou and Christian De Barro were the hosts’ scorers with D.Taneski bagging a double for Queens Park. Forrestfield United won their third game of the campaign by out-shooting Rockingham City 4-3 at Hartfield Park. Craig Ruthven, Jordan Hart, Ashley Otte and Phil Bell were on target for Forrestfield, and Michael Vaz got two for Rockingham whose third came via R.Clackett. Further details of these two games were not forthcoming from any of the four participating clubs.

22.6.2007

WEEKEND IN PREVIEW

This week’s www.footballwa.net Match of the Week is the important meeting of Sorrento and Swan I.C. at Percy Doyle Reserve. Steve Neville has struggled to field a consistent starting line-up during the first three months of the season with injury and suspension hampering the Gulls progress. Steve McDonald, Stuart Banks and Brodie Martin are bound to feature prominently along with new arrivals Gary Boyle and Gary Lynn when Sorrento searching for just their second win of the campaign.

Swan head into the game still kicking themselves for letting slip a two-goal lead at Joondalup last week. Like his counterpart, Carlo Scali has also had to deal with a seemingly endless string of absences caused by injury and suspension. Tom Shepheard has risen to the challenge with some terrific form while the experience of Cory Hugo, Aaron Cole, Dom Ando and Anthony McStea will also play a major role in deciding who wins on Staurday. With both teams needing three points in order to move clear of the relegation zone, this should be a cracking encounter.

Floreat Athena are widely expected to be too strong for Armadale when they visit Litis Stadium. Perth S.C. sit just a single point behind the leaders and this weekend welcome Fremantle Spirit to Dorrien Gardens. Both Cockburn City and Western Knights are coming off big wins and a lot if expected of their clash at Dalmatinac Park. Stirling Lions have a difficult home encounter with E.C.U. Joondalup. Cellar dweller Wanneroo City make the journey to Clipsal Stadium where they face Inglewood United.

It’s second verses third in the First Division as an as yet undefeated Canning City square off with Dianella White Eagles at Dianella Reserve. Competition pacesetter Mandurah City have home ground advantage against a South West Phoenix side that is coming on in leaps and bounds. Ashfield are home to Morley Windmills in the local derby, while just down the road Bayswater City welcome Gosnells City to Frank Drago Reserve. Balcatta take on Queens Park at Graham Burkett Reserve, and Rockingham City go looking for their first win of the season at Forrestfield United.

Fremantle United is away to Murdoch University in the pick of the Amateur Premier League games. Shamrock Rovers welcome Perth Azzurri to Harold Rossiter Reserve, and South Perth United take on Subiaco United at the Challenger Reserve. Stirling Panthers are home to University of WA, Kingsway Olympic host Spearwood Dalmatinac, and WA Maccabi make the trip to Hamersley Rovers. CN Canning International come face to face with Lynwood Colts at Wilson Park, while at Watsons Reserve it’s Southern Spirit against Suburbs United.

22.6.2007

FLOREAT MOVE SUITS ISAIA

One of the unsung heroes of Floreat Athena's terrific start to the new season is James Isaia. The versatile 21-year old relocated to Litis Stadium during the summer and through a series of commanding performances has cemented his spot in the first eleven. "I'm enjoying my football at Floreat," commented Isaia, who joined the club from Armadale. "I played juniors with a majority of the boys and we're all good friends. I'm used to playing in midfield but Roks (coach Michael Roki) has handed me a new challenge of playing in an unfamiliar role in the back line, to which I feel I've adjusted well."

Isaia has played under several coaches, each with varying approaches to the game, through spells at Perth S.C., Armadale and now Floreat, and it's this variety which has helped him slot into the Floreat line-up. "Each club has been different in many ways," he explained. "It's your technical skills and match strategies that become well-drilled at Perth, whereas Armadale like to play a more physical brand of game. At Floreat, Roks and Taki (Nicolaides) like us the play the ball around, try to dictate play and have us control to pace of the game. Both the Floreat coaches are very dedicated to the team and the club, and they tend to bounce off each other when it comes to training drills and match tactics."

Nine games into the home and away series and Floreat remains the only unbeaten side in the Premier League. It's a record Isaia says the player group are proud of, and they plan to extend. "There's a really feeling inside the camp at the moment and we'll be doing everything possible to keep the unbeaten run going," he said. "We know we'll have to keep on winning if we want to be serious title contenders. The team has started the season playing some outstanding football and I feel we can carry it out until the end. Suspensions and injuries will play a toll but we have a strong squad that can fill positions all over the park."

Although top of the table, the pressure is on Floreat who have several championship rivals breathing down their necks. Not surprisingly, it's one of his former clubs that Isaia fears the most as the season nears the halfway stage. "Perth are a class team who are right on our tail. We know that they won't slip up very often and that we need to take our chances," he said. "Joondalup are a side that will surprise many teams, just as they showed against Perth and will right up there this season. Stirling and Cockburn are also strong teams and will win a lot of games to keep the pressure on."

This weekend Floreat welcome Isaia's former club, Armadale, to Litis Stadium. "I'm expecting a bit of a spray from the Brunch Club, and to tell the truth I'm actually looking forward to it!," he commented. "We're expecting Saturday's game to be a very physical match. Armadale took a defensive approach against us in the Night Series and relied on quick counterattacks on the break. We will approach the game like we do any other, we hold all our opposition in high regard and know Armadale battle hard all over the park. I'm looking forward to tough clash with my old team."

21.6.2007

RUKAVYTSYA THE GOLDEN BOOT FAVOURITE

Recently departed Perth S.C. striker Nikita Rukavytsya has been voted the player who'll score the most goals this season. Rukavytsya, who was on loan to Perth from Perth Glory, was the runaway winner of the footballwa.net poll which questioned 'Who will win the 2007 Golden Boot as the Premier Leagues' highest goalscorer?' Rukavytsya's 27.5% of the votes cast put him on top of the pile ahead of Floreat Athena's Boima Karpeh (18.8%). David Dugdale (Stirling Lions) and Stuart Montgomery (Western Knights) were equal third having polled 14.6% of the vote. The field was rounded out by E.C.U. Joondalup's Ian McMurray (9.3%), Cockburn City livewire Johnny Mirco (8.3%) and Barry Wood (6.9%) of Perth.

21.6.2007

COYNE SIGNALS HIS GLORY DAYS

Luton Town stalwart Chris Coyne intends to end his playing days at Perth Glory. Back in town during the English off-season, the 28-year old has made it his goal to turn out for his hometown club. "It's definitely one of my ambitions in football to come back and play for Perth Glory," Coyne said. "I've always said to my friends and family that I want to come back and play for my local team because every local by should aspire to play for their local club. It will be sooner rather than later [as] I want to come back when I'm still fresh enough and I'm still hungry enough to give me all for my hometown club."

Coyne's career began with Kingsway Olympic and Perth S.C., gaining State and Australia representative honours along the way, before signing apprentice papers with London club West Ham United in 1996. First team chances were few and far between and, following loan periods at Brentford and Southend United, he played eighteen months in Scotland for Dundee. Coyne arrived at Kenilworth Road in September 2001 and quickly established himself as Luton's first choice centre back, making 227 appearances for the Hatters and helping the club to the 2004/05 League One Championship.

In recent years State team football has all but vanished from the radar but Coyne feels its time the games' authorities to revive the concept. "When I was growing up playing State League, to get in the State team was for me the next step - it was a progression that you could aim to achieve," he explained. "It's something the football association have to have a look at it and say 'lets give these players something to strive for'. It's not always about winning the league, it's also about avoiding relegation and there are players who should be rewarded with the State shirt on their back at the end of the season."

Last season was difficult for Luton, who were relegated from the English Championship, as well as Coyne who missed a large chunk of the campaign following a knee operation. "It was a clean out (of the knee) which can happen when you play X amount of games, and the original surgeon didn't take out enough of the cartilage," he said. "Structurally the knee is perfect, it was just a matter of cleaning out the rubbish. I still managed to get 25 or 26 games in but it was disappointing that the season ended in relegation."

Luton commences their pre-season later this month and Coyne for one can not wait to get started under the clubs new management hierarchy. "The new chairman, David Pinkney, has got a good few quid behind him and he's brought in a manager, Kevin Blackwell, who's very ambitious," Coyne said. "Kevin is into his fitness and he's brought in three fitness instructors to monitor everything .... it's gone from one extreme to another but I'm looking forward to getting back into it."

Coyne still harbours a burning desire to gain a senior Australian call-up before his playing days come to an end. "I've always said that the one thing I'd like to do before I end my career is to wear the green and gold again," he said. "It's something I've been fortunate enough to do it all through the junior levels and the only shirt I've not had on my back is the full Socceroos. I'll keep plugging away and if I keep doing my job well then it'll get recognised and, hopefully, that will end with an international call-up."

20.6.2007

SHORT PASSES

Prolific goalscorer Nikita Rukavytsya brought his time with Perth S.C. to an end by scoring twice in Sunday’s big win at Stirling Lions. The striker’s double took his season tally to sixteen goals - eleven of which have been struck in the opening nine rounds of the League campaign. The soon to be 20-year old leaves Dorrien Gardens to continue his A-League career with Perth Glory.

Sorrento custodian Neil Young has been slapped with a seven week suspension after being sent off recently at Dorrien Gardens. The Gulls captain received his marching orders after throwing the ball in frustration at Nikita Rukavytsya, whom he was judged to have fouled for a Perth penalty. Young’s behaviour left the referee with no option but to dismiss the 2006 Goalkeeper of the Year.

Former Australian youth international and Leeds United goalkeeper Danny Milosevic has joined Inglewood United. Milosevic, who spent a season with Perth Glory before heading overseas, will vie for the gloves with Oliver Taseski and Jason Razmovski. He becomes the sixth former Glory player at Inglewood which is already home to player/coach Bobby Despotovski, Shane Pryce, Greg Sharland, Dean Apelgren and Shaun Kilkelly.

Stirling Lions have added to their foreign legion with the recruitment of 21-year old Scotsman Alan Muir. The former St Mirren and Elgin City player will bolster a midfield that’s been depleted of late by injury to Steve Porter and Daniel Micevski. Muir, who made his Stirling debut in Sunday’s home fixture with Perth S.C., joins fellow ‘imports’ David Dugdale, Keith Brown and Porter at Macedonia Park.

Wanneroo City’s season appears to have taken a further turn for the worse following the on-field bust-up between Luke Croxall and Okwy Diamondstar. Rumour has it Croxall has parted company with the club after being red carded for lashing out at his teammate during last week’s loss at Cockburn City. It’s understood this is the second time in four weeks that Wanneroo players have come to blows either during or immediately following a game.

Internal politics have prevented Rockingham City from strengthening their playing stocks. The southern suburbs outfit may be winless and six points adrift of their nearest rival at the foot of the First Division table, but that didn’t stopped them from denying experienced pair Alex Smith and Danny Turner a return to the club when they fronted for training last week.

19.6.2007

NICE ONE CYRIL

The summer recruitment of Cyril Sharrock was a masterstroke on behalf of the Armadale administration. The Englishman has been a pillar of strength between the posts and provided a young Reds line-up with some much needed experience at the back. Sharrock, who joined Armadale from Rockingham City, admits to enjoying life at Alfred Skeet Oval. “It’s been a great move for me to come down here,” he explained. “I still live in the Rockingham area so it means a little bit of travelling but the lads have been great and the whole club have me feel really welcome.

Armadale boast one of the top flights youngest squads and, as such, many of the players are relatively new to senior football. And although they’ve won just one of nine home and away games to date, Sharrock has absolutely no doubt Armadale will start pulling away from the relegation zone in the not too distant future. “It’s a young side and the boys are digging deep and trying to get some points on the board,” he explained. “If we take a few errors out of our game we will start to get some good results.”

When Billy Russell was appointed senior coach of Armadale late last year he made it a priority to bring Sharrock and seasoned campaigner Dusan Macura, formerly of Cockburn City, to the club. Russell has been delighted with the early season form of both Sharrock and Macura who he considers to key figures at the club. “I believe the signing off Cyril and Dusan are the best two signings Armadale have ever made,” Russell said. “They have both been quality and you know your going to get 100% and that all I can ask of any player.”

Sharrock played in England's non-League with Chorley, Lancaster City, Kendal Town, Fleetwood Town and Bamber Bridge before heading down under last year. He’s been impressed by the standard of the local competition, in particular it’s goalkeeping stocks. “It’s a good standard over here. You get a little bit more time on the ball in Perth, in the UK you are closed down a lot quicker,” he said. “I’m surprised people say there aren’t a lot of good ‘keepers in the Premier League - all the clubs have got a decent ‘keeper and that’s good for the League.”

Regardless of where Armadale are playing, they can always rely on their loyal supporters being in the stands and in full voice urging their team on to greater heights. It’s often been commented that the ‘Army boys’ are the clubs’ twelfth man and the lift they provide the players is second to none. “The fans here have been absolutely awesome,” said Sharrock. “You hear them every Saturday, home and away, and it really drives you on. Even when we’re down they're in full voice, it’s excellent.”

19.6.2007

SAQ TEAMS UP WITH FOOTBALL WEST

Football West has joined forces with renowned SAQ International to promote and deliver the Football Specific Program to clubs within Western Australia. SAQ provides nationally recognised awards, specialised equipment, resources and consultancy to clubs, associations and organisations throughout the United Kingdom, Ireland, Europe, America and Australia. Some of the worlds most successful clubs - amongst them Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal, Real Madrid, Barcelona, Glasgow Rangers, Glasgow Celtic and Bayern Munich - have recevied training, educational resources and equipment from SAQ.

The introduction of the SAQ program is expected to have a positive effect on all the local game. "Football West has teamed with SAQ to further develop the skills and knowledge of our coaches within WA, as part of our ongoing commitment to coach development through the Coaching Hub Program," said Garry Chandler, Football West's chief executive. "SAQ has an enviable reputation and are market leaders when it comes to coach development and I am delighted to be able to utilise their experience in supporting our coaches in WA."

Alan Pearson, SAQ's managing director, is keen to improve the standard of coaching in WA by offering football coaches the opportunity to learn and put into practice the most successful football specific movement program in Europe. "No longer can we take for granted that children know how to run, jump and generally move. Coaches who include SAQ movement skills as part of their football sessions have seen dramatic improvements in players' football ability, skills, results and players’ enjoyment and motivation," he explained.

Pearson will be in Perth next month to conduct a series of courses in the areas of health and fitness and sports performance. Recognised as the world over as an expert in this field, Pearson regularly features on television and radio in the UK and Europe. For information on the up-coming Football Specific P-Awards for Football Coaches and the Special Educational Needs (SEN) Award courses, including how to register your interest, visit the Football West website.

18.6.2007

RED CARD FOR ‘UGLY PARENTS’

While some junior players this winter may catch the flu, some spectators are likely to be struck down by a much more dangerous affliction - ‘ugly parents’ syndrome! The Australian Sports Commission reminds parents and spectators alike that poor behaviour, often coined ‘ugly parents’ syndrome, and the abuse of match officials such as umpires and referees is not acceptable. The vast majority of parents and spectators are supportive and provide positive encouragement to all participants but it only takes one person to make children’s sport an unpleasant experience for everyone - children, officials, coaches, parents and other spectators.

The Australian Government, through the ASC, and state governments are working hard to help sports eradicate poor spectator and player behaviour from their games and provide sporting experiences for young Australians that are safe, fun and rewarding. The ASC, state governments and sports themselves have a number of excellent programs and initiatives in the community to help sports manage the issue of poor spectator behaviour. This sort of behaviour and negative experience is often cited as one of the reasons children drop out of sport.

Everyone has a role in acting as good role models for children playing sport but the role of parents is particularly crucial. Children model their behaviour on that of their parents. Amongst the initiatives already making a difference to spectator behaviour at community level are junior referees wearing brightly coloured vests to make it clear they are learning how to officiate, and nominated officials issuing yellow and red cards to spectators not behaving appropriately.

18.6.2007

SIX PLAYERS SELECTED IN AUSTRALIAN U17 SQUAD

Six of the State's top emerging talents have been invited to attend next month's Australian Under-17 training camp in Canberra. Cameron Edwards and Alex Pearson of Cockburn City along with the National Training Centre quartet Eli Babalj, Jack Clisby, Josh Risdon and Trent Sainsbury have been called up based upon their performances at last years' National Youth Championship and the recent four-State tournament in Adelaide.

Andrew Bettell, education and development manager for Football West, says the call-up is great news for West Australian football. "It is a long time since WA had six representatives in a National camp ­ we register about one-tenth of players nationally and this figure represents one-fifth!," he said. "We also believe a couple of other players will push hard at the Institute Challenge for recognition after making real strides in the NTC program over recent months."

Babalj, Clisby, Edwards, Pearson, Risdon and Sainsbury will spend four days in camp which will be followed by the Australian Institute of Sports' Institute Challenge from which a squad to tour Japan in August will be selected. The sextet are expected to represent the State at October's National Under-15 Youth Championships in Coffs Harbour, and will be in line for further duty when Australia commence their Youth World Cup qualifying campaign later that month.

18.6.2007

GLORY DEPART FOR MALAYSIAN CAMP

Perth Glory's pre-season preparations took-off on Monday afternoon with players and coaches departing for a thirteen day camp in Malaysia. There was quite a buzz amongst the assembled group, which included 17 of the clubs' 20 contracted players, ahead of the trip which includes games against Super League sides Selangor PKNS, Perak, Penang and Police FC.

New recruit Nikolai Topor-Stanley said the camp will be a great chance to get to know his new team mates. "There are a few new faces around the team, including me, so getting to know the boys on and off the pitch will be good," Topor-Stanley said. "I play my best football once I'm comfortable around my team mates and this will help speed up that process."

Five trialing players, amongst them Stirling Lions pair Steve Hesketh and Phil Arnold, were invited to be part of Glory's squad in Malaysia. Not making the trip were contracted trip Stan Lazaridis (suspended), Jason Petkovic (injury) and Aleks Vrteski who has signed a short-term contract with E.C.U. Joondalup to ensure he receives some much needed game time ahead of Glory's pre-season cup campaign in mid-July.

17.6.2007

AMATEUR PREMIER LEAGUE, ROUND NINE

Lynwood Colts and Southern Spirit played out a tight 1-1 draw in this afternoon’s Amateur Premier League fixture at Hossack Reserve. It wasn’t until the 34th minute that the first genuine chance on goal was created with Albert Hornby’s fiercely struck shot from distance flashing narrowly over the crossbar. Three minutes later Lynwood took the lead through Scott Quayle who made his way into the 18-yard box where made no mistake in beating goalkeeper Bobson Koroma.

Two minutes after the restart Damien Pescud drew Spirit level by tapping into an empty net after a teammate collided with the Lynwood goalkeeper. Carlos Ferreira had his free-kick spilt by Koroma in the 71st minute, but Quayle squandered the opportunity by placing narrowly wide of the upright. D.Palin almost pinched the points late for Lynwood when he drifted free of his marker but, having tamed a cross, a defender instinctively raced in to block his shot.

Shamrock Rovers scored their ninth straight victory by out-shooting Suburbs United 5-2. CN Canning International became the first team to take points off Fremantle United this year by drawing 2-2. The points were also shared between WA Maccabi and Murdoch University where the game ended scoreless. Spearwood Dalmatinac went down 0-4 at home to Hamersley Rovers, and Subiaco United were 3-1 too good for Stirling Panthers. University of WA defeated Kingsway Olympic 1-0, while South Perth United scored their second win of the campaign by downing Perth Azzurri 3-1.

17.6.2007

PREMIER LEAGUE, ROUND NINE (Wanneroo City v Floreat Athena courtesy Floreat Athena; Armadale v Cockburn City courtesy Football West)

The championship credentials of Perth S.C. were flying at full mast as they demolished Stirling Lions 5-0 in the Sunday fixture at Macedonia Park. The travelling supporters had to wait just 10 minutes before the commencement of celebration as Robbie Puca scored from the penalty spot after Barry Wood was impeded by Steve Hesketh. Perth continued their domination of the game with Wood firing high from close-range after a great build-up down the right featuring Scott Bulloch and Costa Socratous. Rukavytsya netted the visitors second of the afternoon on 18 minute after combining with Wood to great effect. Two minutes later the margin was further increased courtesy of a defence splitting pass from Socratous which allowed Nikita Rukavytsya to race through and rifle past goalkeeper Phil Straker. Stirling thought they’d pulled a goal back when Phil Arnold netted from a Keith Brown free-kick, however, the goal was ruled out for hand ball and Arnold yellow carded for his misdemeanour. Perth was in no mood for compromise and Wood headed in a Todd Howarth far post corner for goal number four. As the half came to a close both Wood and Rukavysta shot wide with only the ‘keeper to beat. The second period was a far more even affair with Ludovic Boi firing wide early as Stirling sought for a way back into the game. At the opposite end Rukavytsya fired past Straker only to have youngster Dannie Richman prevent the ball from crossing the line. Stirling hopes were effectively dashed in the 57th minute when the dismissal of Keith Brown for a late challenge on Bulloch. Wood put the icing on Perth’s cake in the 68th minute when he converted at close range after being found unmarked inside the area by Howarth. Gary Faria should have further increased the difference late on but placed high of the crossbar from Matt Danskin’s cut back.

Floreat Athena encountered little resistance as they brushed aside a Wanneroo City 5-1 when they faced off at Kingsway Sporting Complex. Josip Magdic, John Migas and Adam Bachiller featured prominently in the early exchanges as Floreat flexed their midfield muscle and piled pressure on the home defence. With 28 minutes gone Floreat got a deserved breakthrough with Boima Karpeh converting from the penalty spot after Josip Magdic’s surging run into the area was brought to a halt by Peter Vukmirovic. After this the game opened up somewhat and Wanneroo created their best chance of the period in which Gary Andrews weaved past two opponents only to shoot wide. The second half was 10 minutes old when John Migas and Adam Bachiller combined down the left with the former delivering an inch-perfect cross that Karpeh headed past goalkeeper Kevin Miller. A terrific move down the opposite flank between Branimir Mikulic and Miki Vujacic ended with the latter angling a fine shot into the top corner on the hour. Wanneroo were given a glimmer of hope when teenager Jack Watts played an exquisite cross field ball into the path of Andrews whose cross was headed in by Craig Bowman. However, that was soon extinguished by Karpeh who worked his way past a couple of defenders before calmly slotting his third of the afternoon into the net on 63 minutes. Miki Vujacic delivered a superb curling cross four minutes later which beat the defensive line and Mikulic cleverly volleyed over the advancing ‘keeper. The final margin could have been much greater but neither Magdic, Karpeh nor Mikulic could capitalise on late opportunities.

Cockburn City moved up the table to third after out-shining Armadale 1-0 at Alfred Skeet Oval. It was a masterful opening half by Scott Miller’s side for whom Josh Kamasz, Jason Dos Santos and Johnny Mirco caused the home team no end of trouble. Kamasz hit the post with a grass cutter from 15-metres after only a few minutes, and not long after turned provider for Michael Mirco whose header flashed wide of the target. For their part, Armadale created little of substance as their best efforts were turned away by a well organised backline composed of Liam Lilly, Shane Nunes and Jason Godfrey. Five minutes from the break Cockburn found an avenue to goal through Jason Dos Santos who received a Giovanni De Bartolo throw and in one elegant move turned his marker to hit a low centre which was deflected into the net by a defender. Whatever Billy Russell said to his troops during the break certainly worked as Armadale began the new half by applying pressure to the visiting defence for the first time. Scott Paterson should have equaliser on the hour after being played through by Darren Kingston but blasted narrowly wide. Dino Pacella was forced into a save for the first time shortly after when Darren Kingston unleashed a fierce volley from 15-metres. Sandwiched between these was a terrific fingertip save by Cyril Sharrock which denied Jason Dos Santos a second goal after he skipped past three opponents. Further chances to seal victory came the way of Shane Nunes and Johnny Mirco but the former headed high and the latter placed wide. Armadale twice went close to snatching a late equaliser but Paterson crashed a free-kick into the upright, and in a goalmouth scramble Kingston sliced the ball over the crossbar.

E.C.U. Joondalup recovered from being two goals down to earn a 3-3 draw with Swan I.C. in an action packed game in the northern suburbs. Justin Hugo prevented the home side from taking an early lead by clearing off the line after Marc Anthony beat Cory Hugo. With their first attack Swan found the net as David Perich and John Monterosso combined for Tom Shepheard to send a low shot past veteran shot-stopper Alan Young. Play streamed from one end of the park to the other before Rory Mouttet's foul on Tom Amphlett resulted in a Joondalup penalty which was converted by Anthony on 19 minutes. Amphlett causing Swan a lot of problems with his darting runs down the flank and on the half-hour Anthony acrobatically volleyed wide from the teenagers' delivery. Swan reclaimed the lead in the 36th minute when Anthony McStea curled the ball over Young and into the net from a free-kick wide on the left. The second half was only minutes old when Aaron Cole embarked on a lung-bursting 50-metre run which took him past three opponents before firing past Young for Swan's third goal. However, the complexion of the game changed in the 66th minute when referee Jeremy Oliphant issued David Perich a straight red card for his push on Anthony inside the area, and from the spot the Joondalup midfielder sent Cory Hugo the wrong way for a second time. Joondalup now took control and didn't wait long before levelling as an inch-perfect cross by Anthony was headed in by defender David Abel. Both sides had late chances to snatch victory before Oliphant brought proceedings to a close and the points were shared.

Western Knights chalked up four unanswered second half goals to run out 6-2 winners when they faced off with Sorrento at Nash Field. Although slow to get going, the Knights would enjoy the better of early possession before being justifiably rewarded on 32 minutes when a ricocheted shot fell to the feet of Andrija Jukic who tucked the ball in at close-range. Parity was restored just minutes later when a collision between Jared Love, Brodie Martin and Cormac Dawson resulted in a bizarre Sorrento penalty which was converted by Scottish recruit Gary Lynn. The Gulls hit the front four minutes from the break when Gary Boyle's brilliant curling shot from 22-metres beat Tommi Tomich. Within a minute though the Knights were back on level terms courtesy of a dazzling run through the penalty area by Andrija Jukic who unselfishly slotted to substitute Andrew Jennings to bend into the far top corner. It was pretty much one-way traffic after the break as Jon Higgins and David Price were both denied the hosts third goal by the upright. The floodgates were prised open on 61 minutes by Stuart Montgomery who tucked the ball into an empty net after Jennings' effort was saved by the feet of goalkeeper Anthony Cochrane. Five minutes later Montgomery converted from the penalty spot after Jennings was judged to have been impeded by Cochrane. Sorrento's hopes to getting back in the game were dashed on 80 minutes when midfielder Glen Thomas was issued a straight red card for unsportsmanlike behaviour. Youngster Matt Allen hit the post just minutes after coming off the bench as the Knights looked to add to their tally. It would be Montgomery who added their fifth by converting from the spot after a handball decision against Danny Taylor. The scoring was completed in the 85th minute by Andrija Jukic who rifled into the bottom corner after bedazzling the defence with a weaving run.

Inglewood United returned to the winners circle by out-gunning Fremantle Spirit 3-1 at the WA Spanish Club. An even opening was interrupted in the 7th minute by Dean Apelgren who sent a crisp shot through a crowded 18-yard box and into the back of the net to put hand Inglewood the lead. This set the tone for the remainder of the period with the visiting team enjoying the better of possession through neat passing and movement off the ball. As the minutes ticked by Fremantle worked their way back into the match as supporters of both teams were treated to some fine end-to-end football and good openings on goal. In the 43rd minute the port side drew level through hard-working midfielder Jason Barrera whose stunning volley from 25-metres gave Oliver Taseski no chance. the introduction of Callum Roberts at the break provided Fremantle with a new avenue to attack and shortly after the re-start his cross was disappointingly headed wide by an unmarked Tom Straker. However, Inglewood regained the upper hand in the 59th minute through Bobby Despotovski who brilliantly evaded several challenges on top of the area before coolly stroking past Steve Grant. From this point Inglewood dominated and if not for some wayward finishing and resilient defending by Straker and Mark Darby the margin could have really blown out. Greg Sharland was sent through one-on-one with Grant who produced a top class save to thwart his opponent. The result was finally put beyond doubt after 75 minutes when Sharland wriggled his way down the left before centring for Kevin Griffiths to knock in his sides' third goal from close-range.

16.6.2007

FIRST DIVISION, ROUND NINE (Canning City v Rockingham City by Phil Unsworth; Gosnells City v Balcatta courtesy Balcatta; South West Phoenix v Bayswater City courtesy South West Phoenix)

Mandurah City moved to the top of the First Division table by downing Morley Windmills 3-1 in this afternoon’s key fixture at Wotton Reserve. After a tight opening spell was punctuated on 19 minutes by Jordan Rhodes who put the visitors ahead with a neat chip over goalkeeper Chris Ramsey from 12-metres. Morley went agonizingly close to levelling in the 28th minute when Remo McCann delivered the ball to Brad Hassell who wasted the opportunity. Graeme Matthews earned Mandurah a penalty ten minutes from the break but Rhodes spot kick was blocked by Ramsey, and with the follow-up Andy Brown sprayed the ball wide. The home team stepped things up a gear for the second half which opened Mike Green denying Andy Bowyer and Scott McIlroy. However, there was nothing the Mandurah custodian could do when McIlroy brought the teams level on 61 minutes by tucking the ball away at close-range. Matthews restored the visitors lead two minutes later after picking up the ball near the halfway line and charging into the 18-yard box before rifling past the ‘keeper. The points were made safe in the 71st minute when Ramsey spilt a cross to which Shane Crampton reacted by whipping the ball over the line.

Canning City extended their unbeaten run to nine games, and in the process moved up into second position by knocking over Rockingham City 4-1 at Willetton Sportsman Club. The home team dominated the early exchanges and on 6 minutes Paul Van Dongen opened the scoring by placing wide of Craig Olenjik after latching on to a header from Dave Mickler. Ten minutes later Simon Versaico went close to doubling the margin but his shot from a tight angle cannoned off the base of upright. There was more than a touch of controversy in the 25th minute when Andrew Keary received possession in what appeared to be an offside position and after accelerating down the right to deliver a pin-point cross that Michael Vaz headed in to bring the sides level. Canning quickly got on with the job of restoring their lead and just four minutes later Ryan Allomes brilliantly curled a free-kick inside the top corner from 30-metres. Ten minutes before the break Kyle Mitsopoulos dribbling into the area before driving the ball into the roof of the net and established a two-goal buffer for the hosts. The second period was a scrappy affair with the games final goal arriving in the 90th minute when Paul Van Dongen netted his second of the afternoon.

Balcatta returned from Walter Padbury Reserve with all three points and a hard fought 1-0 victory against Gosnells City. In a game where chances were scarce it was match referee Vince Trimboli who took centre stage by issuing over a dozen cautions and a couple of late red cards. It was an arm wrestle from the outset with both sides displaying a clear desire to claim victory and move up the table. Balcatta looked the goods early with Toby Wright and Peter Koidis going close with headers. The visitors' enterprise was rewarded on 18 minutes when Tony Cumace's classy free-kick from 22-metres came to nestle in the back of the net. Gosnells only clear cut opening of the period fell to Mark Edwards who fired wide of the upright few minutes out from the interval. The second half began with Balcatta again on top and Wright was denied their second goal by goalkeeper Jade Thorpe after making his way past several opponents. Both sides were reduced to ten men late in the piece for second bookings to Christian Melo and Arthur Majewski. The closing minutes saw Gosnells work desperately to snatch a point but teenager Lewis Italiano remained focused between the posts to ensure an away win.

Andrew Cowley celebrated his 100th appearance for South West Phoenix by scoring the only goal of their 1-0 win over Bayswater City at Bunbury’s Soccerdrome. Phoenix were the quicker to settle with Steve Suttie hitting the post, and Kris Braeckmans found the side netting after going past Giannia Papalia. The game’s solitary goal arrived in the 18th minute when Gary Mayers’ shot was parried on to the post by Papalia and Cowley netted the rebound from 7-metres. Bayswater may have seen a lot of the ball but had very few genuine chances on goal to show for it. The second half saw Gino Comito and Mayers go close to adding to the hosts tally. Bayswater steadied the ship midway through the period and began to take control with Jason Lawton and Jamie Kumkar leading the charge. The dismissal of Lawrence Endersby for a second bookable offence with seven minutes remaining gave the visitors renewed hope to snatching a point. And not long after a defensive mishap allowed in Damir Kudozovic who shot into the side netting from an acute angle. In stoppage time Bayswater also went down to ten men when Papalia was red carded for dissent. A terrific diving save by Ryan Montgomery which thwarted Riste Stefoski ensured the points would go to the home side.

Ashfield left Dianella Reserve with maximum points courtesy of a 3-1 win against Dianella White Eagles. Oliver Langdale, Igor Novakovic and Damien Todorovic put Ashfield in a commanding position before Aaron Moschopoulos netted a late consolation for the home side. The points were shared at Coker Park where a 1-1 draw was the results between Queens Park and Forrestfield United. Both goals arrived shortly before half-time when R.Simpson cancelled out and earlier strike by Matt Harold. Further details of these two games were not forthcoming from any of the four participating clubs.

15.6.2007

WEEKEND IN PREVIEW

Fremantle Spirit have been the surprise packet of the season to date and tomorrow they welcome Inglewood United at the WA Spanish Club in the www.footballwa.net Match of the Week. Marc Wingell's side were widely tipped to struggle on their top flight return but after two months of competition sit well clear of the drop zone. They were denied victory at Floreat Athena last week by a last gasp goal and head into Saturday's game confident of extending their four game unbeaten streak.

By contrast, Inglewood haven't gained a single point from their last five League outings during which they've worryingly conceded 15 times and scored just three. But strong recent performances against high flyers Perth S.C. and Stirling Lions are evidence Inglewood's lowly position does not in any way reflect their talent pool. Buoyed by a recent Cup win over Fremantle, victory on the weekend could be just the catalyst for Inglewood to get their season back on track.

Floreat Athena will be without star quartet Ante Kovacevic, Bajo Savic, Josip Magdic and Paul Vatistas for their trip to Wanneroo City. E.C.U. Joondalup have home ground advantage and are tipped to take the points when Swan I.C. visits the northern suburbs. The Army boys are sure to be in full voice when Armadale take on the might of Cockburn City at Alfred Skeet Oval. Western Knights have hosting rights against a Sorrento line-up that is minus suspended goalkeeper Neil Young.

Stirling Lions take on Perth S.C. in Sunday's blockbuster fixture at Macedonia Park. The key to the game will be who asserts the greatest control in midfield where Ludovic Boi, Daniel Micevski, Dannie Richman and Keith Brown come up against the creativity of Gary Faria, Robbie Puca, Michael Ord and Todd Howarth. If you're planning to attend then get to the ground early as big crowd is expected for the 3.30pm kick-off.

Morley Windmills host Mandurah City at Wotton Reserve in a game important to both clubs. It's tight at the top of the First Division table and another three points could well take the victors to top spot at the completion of the round. Brad Hassell has molded Morley into a difficult opponent by blending new recruits with faces familiar to the clubs' faithful. Mandurah's good form have elevated them to second place and firmed the club as one of the favourites to win promotion.

There are a number of other vital match-ups in this weekends round of First Division games, none more so than Dianella White Eagles home clash with Ashfield. Canning City are expect to take all three points at home against a Rockingham City side which is seeking their first win of the campaign. Bayswater City make the long journey to Bunbury where South West Phoenix are the hosts. Gosnells City play Balcatta at Walter Padbury Reserve, and Coker Park is the venue for Queens Park against Forrestfield United.

Fremantle United can extend their lead at the head of the Amatuer Conference A with a home win over CN Canning International. Conference B leaders Shamrock Rovers travel to Centenary Park to meet Suburbs United. Lynwood Colts are home to Southern Spirit, WA Maccabi host Murdoch University, and Hamersley Rovers travel to Spearwood Dalmatinac. Perth Azzurri host South Perth United, Subiaco United meet Stirling Panthers at Rosalie Park, and University of WA welcome Kingsway Olympic to McGillivray Oval.

15.6.2007

ON THIS DAY … 1975

Manchester United started their second tour of Australia with a hard-fought 2-1 win over the State team before a crowd of around 15,000 at Perry Lakes Stadium on the afternoon of 15th June, 1975. Western Australia’s spirited opposition to the star-studded touring side gave the big crowd plenty of value for the high $4.30 admission charge. Under coach Alan Vest, WA football at State level has matured considerably, though it is obvious that the skills of local players, particularly in the midfield, suffer in comparison with clubs like Manchester United.

Red Devils goalkeeper Alex Stepney, the only surviving member of the 1967 side that beat the State 7-0, confirmed that WA had come a long way. “In the first twenty minutes I thought your boys hadn’t improved at all, but once they settled down I quickly changed my mind,” Stepney told David Andrews of the ‘West Australian’ after the game. “They use the ball more intelligently, they are better at running off the ball and are not afraid to get stuck in.”

WA could have got away to a flying start had they accepted an unexpected opportunity in the 3rd minute, but Ken Morton succeeded only in flipping a cross into Stepney’s arms from two-metres out. Taking heed of this escape, United took control and in the 8th minute winger Steve Coppell accepted a perfect though-pass from Stuart Pearson and beat goalkeeper Tony Witschge inside the far post. In the 21st minute Coppell hit a superb shot that missed the top corner by inches.

At this stage WA looked completely at sea, lacking confidence in their build-ups and looking shaky in defence. In the 24th minute Ray Ilott changed all that with a fine run down the right wing to deliver a testing cross that John O’Connell just failed to divert into the net. This near miss galvanised WA into positive action. In the 30th minute a bad back-pass fell for Morton but with only Stepney to beat he tried to score with a powerful shot that the ‘keeper palmed away for a corner. Two minutes later WA had a let off when Sammy McIlroy was brought down inside the area and referee Barry Harwood waved play on.

Another good piece of fortune fell the hosts way when both linesman and referee failed to see two WA players in an offside position to receive a long through ball from the defence. Morton picked up possession but again was unable to beat Stepney, trying to round him instead of stroking the ball past his legs. In trying to retrieve the situation George McMillan moved in fast and had the ball in the net just as Harwood whistled for a penalty. In view of the offside fiasco, it was only justified that Stepney saved McMillan’s poorly taken spot kick.

United started the second half in a determined frame of mind. In the 49th minute a short corner to the near post by Coppell found McIlroy whose glancing header flew across Witschge and inside the far post. In the space of two minutes United forced three corners and Witschge fully justified his selection by his calm application under pressure. In the 55th minute the stadium erupted when WA finally gained the break they had been striving for. A terrific 40-metre pass by Ilott split the defence and McMillan turned Martin Buchan the wrong way before slamming home from 12-metres.

United continued to dominate territorially but found WA’s defence equal to the task, although there were one or two close calls. Steve Stacey did a superb job of marshalling the home defence with Witschge while there were also stand-out performances by midfielder Dave Brooks and Ilott in attack. For United it was Coppell who played the starring role along with Pearson, Alex Forsythe, Lou Macari

Western Australia (squad) - Tony Witschge, Saverio Madaschi, Steve Pateman, Bob Taylor, T.Giuffre, Denis Barstow, Steve Stacey, Frank Bibby, Dave Brooks, Stephen Sceats, Aldo Trinca, Ken Morton, George McMillan, Ray Ilott, Bert Kirkpatrick, Dave O’Callaghan, John O’Connell
Manchester United (squad) - Alex Stepney, Alex Forsyth, Jim Holton, Martin Buchan, Stewart Houston, Brian Greenhoff, P.Loughnane, Sammy McIlroy, Lou Macari, Steve Coppell, Stuart Pearson, Gerry Daly, Steve James, Tony Young, Paddy Roche, Jimmy Nicholl, Arthur Albiston, David McCreery, Tony Grimshaw

14.6.2007

HESKETH TO JOIN GLORY

The good early season form of Steven Hesketh has earned him a spot in Perth Glory’s pre-season trip to Malaysia. The 18-year old defender caught the eye of coach Ron Smith while playing for Stirling Lions and was recently invited to train, and go on tour with A-League club. “I’m really looking forward to the tour, we will be playing four games over there, and hopefully I’ll do alright,” said Hesketh. “I’ve really enjoyed the training sessions with Glory on Tuesday and Thursday mornings, the lads made me feel welcome and it’s a fantastic opportunity for me.”

Since moving from Fremantle City two years ago Hesketh has made his way up through the ranks to become an established member of the first eleven. “Stirling is an excellent club with a great atmosphere,” Hesketh said. “Mike Lyons, Paul
‘Geordie’ Simmons, Gary Williams and Don Evans are 100% behind the young players - we are given every opportunity to play at our highest level. I have learnt so much in a short period of time from all the coaching staff, and the advice the senior players have given me has been invaluable.”

14.6.2007

THREE CHEERS FOR FOOTBALL WEST! (by ‘The Insider’)

Football West deserve a hearty round of applause for realising the value of scheduling the State League match of the week on Sunday afternoon. For years there have been calls out for the weekends centrepiece fixture to be played on a Sunday as way of showcasing the beautiful game. But for just as long we've been told 'no, it's too hard to organise and, besides, the clubs don't want it.'

So, after much coaxing, Football West finally agreed to test the waters a few weeks back with the Stirling-Floreat match. Lo and behold, the game was an absolute cracker and attracted one of the biggest crowds seen at a regular season fixture in years. And it's likely that success will be replicated when Stirling host Perth in Sunday's top of the table encounter at Macedonia Park. One can only hope Football West heed the wake-up call and schedule a regular Sunday game next season.

13.6.2007

A CENTURY OF GOALS FOR SUTTIE

When Steve Suttie put away the first of his two goals against Balcatta on the weekend he became the first player to score one hundred goals for South West Phoenix. While the 25-year old is proud of reaching the century milestone he says it’s not something he set out to achieve. “It’s good to get to one hundred goals but it’s not something I thought about when I started playing for Phoenix,” Suttie said, whose been with the Bunbury-based club since day one. “Around the end of 2005 I was sitting on 79 goals and figured I could get to one hundred in the next season or so, so yeah, it’s nice to get there.”

Most strikers would be thrilled to bring up their one hundredth goal in just their 143rd appearance but not Suttie who says he could have got their sooner. “I probably should have reached it quicker,” he said modestly. “I always get good service and into scoring positions but there have been many a sleepless Saturday night pondering the chances I blew when we lost. I’ve been lucky enough to play with some wonderfully creative attacking players who have been able to read my movements well, players such as Savo Garic, David Rodgers and Gary Mayers, who I owe a lot to over the years.”

After playing junior football, Suttie looked to be lost to the game when he chose to pursue a career in golf as a teenager. The formation of Phoenix in 2001 reignited his passion for the world game and Suttie made his debut - and scored his first goal - in the clubs’ inaugural game, a 4-2 Cup win over Queens Park. Since then the lively striker has become an established member of the starting eleven and a thorn in the side of the opposition. His crowning achievement was season 2005 when Suttie’s 25 goals earned him the First Division Golden Boot award along with Phoenix’ Fairest and Best, and Players’ Player of the Year trophies.

Suttie has plenty of fond memories from his time with Phoenix. “My personal highlight was scoring a hat-trick at Mandurah City in 2005 when we won 4-3,” he explained. “The quality of goals may not have been the greatest but it was still a hat-trick, the game was a beauty and the win was fantastic. I also recall us knocking Kingsway Olympic off the top of the ladder in 2003 with late goals from David Rodgers and myself making that an awesome day for us. Our best season was 2005 when we were placed third at the end of the regular season, even though we then fell to fourth after the play-offs.”

But with the smooth comes the crunchy and, unfortunately, Phoenix have experienced more of the latter than the former. “The lowlights probably outweighed the highlights,” said Suttie. “2002 as a whole was very disappointing, we had a good debut season but really went backwards in our second season. And last year was obviously was a disaster for us in terms of league performance, and it was more the result of bad management off the field in the previous three years that lead to us falling in a hole. To finish bottom and avoid relegation via a boardroom decision was a definite low.”

Phoenix has set themselves the achievable goal of establishing themselves as a respected First Division opponent and a top four proposition in the next few years. “I believe we play good football, we always try to play a passing game rather than long balls or negative defensive styles,” Suttie commented. “If you look back on our results, in 150 games there are no scoreless draws and only two games where there was a single goal scored, so at least spectators are guaranteed action and goals either way!”

The club are sitting comfortably in sixth place two months into the season, clear of the relegation zone and within striking distance of the leading pack. “We have been up and down a bit this season,” he said. “We always seem to play to the level of our opponents - we lost to Queens Park and Balcatta but drew with Dianella and Canning so we are hard to predict. Over the next five weeks we have a very tough run with games against five of the top seven teams and I think that after that we’ll really know where we’re at.”

This weekend Phoenix plays host to a strong but inconsistent Bayswater City line-up. “Bayswater’s results have been very up and down so far this year but I think they are a better side than their seventh placing indicates,” he said. “We had a good win against Forrestfield United in our last home game but we know this week will be much tougher. We approach every game knowing if we are off our game then we won’t win - it’s that simple. It’s interesting to note that in Phoenix’ short history we are yet to beat Bayswater … but there is always a first time.”

13.6.2007

KNIGHTS STRIPPED OF POINTS

Western Knights have been deducted three Premiership points by Football West. A recent Disciplinary and Grievance Committee hearing found the Knights guilty of signing a player on a contract that did not comply with Football Federation Australia's 'National Registration Regulations', and contained clauses that were incompatible with said regulations. The Knights have been fined $500 for breaching sections 3.1 (c), 4.4 (a) and 6.1 (i) of the National Registration Regulations, the players registration cancelled by Football West who've declared the player ineligible for any games he'd played for the Knights. The result of the Knights opening round fixture with Inglewood United has been overturned accordingly and the game awarded to Inglewood by 3-0. The Knights have lodged an appeal against the ruling which may be heard as soon as next week.

12.6.2007

SHORT PASSES

Tommi Tomich may well play his last game for Western Knights this weekend. The imposing 27-year old will be between the posts for the Knights home clash with Sorrento after which he commences a new posting with Perth Glory. He joins the A-League club as cover for injured goalkeeper Jason Petkovic, and will be vying for the gloves with up and coming 'keepers Aleks Vrteski and Tando Velaphi. Tomich will have his fingers crossed that all goes well and a longer-term deal is forthcoming.

Dale McCulloch's transfer to Wanneroo City has become tied up in red tape. Under section 4.9 (c) of the 'National Registration Regulations' a player may register with a maximum of three clubs during the period from 1 January until 31 December, however, that player is eligible to play for only two of those clubs. McCulloch made one substitute appearance for E.C.U. Joondalup in the Night Series, and came off the bench three times for Stirling Lions earlier in the season. Wanneroo are understood to be pursuing the matter further.

Sorrento's bid to move away from the foot of the Premier League table has gained momentum with the arrival of a couple of Scotsmen. 25-year old Chris Boyle, who made over 100 appearances for Dumbarton, has strengthened the Gulls attack while former Forfar Athletic player Gary Lynn, 27, adds to the defensive options. Heading in the opposite direction is Carl Poore who, after a handful of appearances for northern suburbs club, has joined English outfit Wimborne Town.

Goalkeeper Alan Young became one of the State League’s oldest players when he turned out for E.C.U. Joondalup last weekend. The 43-year old was drafted into the starting line-up for Saturday’s game at Dorrien Gardens after regular shot-stopper Andy Petterson was forced to watch from the sidelines by injury. Young is likely to resume his more familiar role as Joondalup’s goalkeeping coach this weekend.

There were more than a few raised eyebrows at Morley Windmills when news filtered through that Ray Rose made joined Dianella White Eagles. Reports from Wotton Reserve indicate Rose was on the verge of agreeing terms with Morley when an eleventh hour bid from Dianella came to fruition. It was a cruel blow for Morley who just days earlier lost the services of bustling striker Damien Todorovic to Ashfield.

Former State player and current Balcatta midfield dynamo Rob Giorgi is set to miss the remainder of 2007 due to a knee injury. Giorgi, 26, has been out of action with a ligament strain which was originally meant to put him on the sidelines for up two eight weeks. However, the injury appears to be worse than initially thought and unless there's significant improvement in the next fortnight Giorgi will Balcatta's push for promotion

12.6.2007

HAIL THE FEMALE TRENDSETTERS (courtesy the ‘The Fame Game’ (pdf, 443kb))

It’s been thirty years since the West Australian women’s team became the first female State representative side from Australia to dip their toes in Asia. The State women’s team played seven games during a hectic two-week spell in October, 1977 - winning six and drawing the other contest. Six of the games were in Malaysia and included a 7-1 thrashing of the Malaysian national team in a contest in Penang. The drawn game was a 0-0 deadlock with Singapore, when WA blew a chance to maintain their 100% record when they missed a penalty.

“It was a wonderful tour. We received great treatment everywhere we went and I think everyone was impressed with the standard of our play,” recalled Peter Dimopolous, who was president and State coach of the WA women’s association at the time. “The only unfortunate note was that Jessie Rosebury went down with appendicitis when we were in Johor and was hospitalised. We managed to get her transferred to Singapore, where her appendix was removed.”

It was Dimopolous, along with women’s association secretary Barbara Gibson and team manager George Crow, who organised the tour. “Anna Senjushenko was the main attraction. The Malaysians were fascinated by her blonde hair and tall physique. They kept wanting to touch her,” said Dimopolous. Senjushenko, who tragically died in a car accident when only 17, went on to represent Australia in the Women’s World Cup in Taiwan in 1978, as did her State team mates Sharon Loveless and Sandra Brentnall.

Dimopolous said it was hoped that the thirtieth anniversary of the Asian breakthrough could be marked by some sort of get together later this year. “It would be nice if the relevant body decided to stage a celebration, for it really was a significant event,” he said. The WA women also made history in 1980 when they became the first State side to be invited to compete in the Asian Championships in India, finishing a very commendable third in that event.

The team that toured Asia in 1977 was Sharon Loveless (captain), Julie Clayton (vice-captain), Chris Barter, Sandra Brentnall, Marilyn Crow, Heather Dunbar, Theresa Kozak, Linda Lewis, Donna Pendreigh, Judy Pettit, Ann Prowse, Jessie Rosebury, Martha Ryan, Anna Senjushenko, Maxine Sullivan, Jill Syson. Such was the quality of that State team that they scooped the Australian national title in Newcastle in 1978.

11.6.2007

ARNOLD SHORT-LISTED FOR AUSTRALIA

Phil Arnold is over the moon following his inclusion in the Australian Under-20 training squad for the upcoming tour to China. The 19-year old, who played a starring role in Stirling Lions’ dramatic Cup final victory last season, will fly to Canberra tomorrow to meet the rest of the squad. “I’m wrapped with the call up, my form has been okay for the Lions and I’ve been scoring a few goals,” he said. “I’ll see how I go in camp and, hopefully, I can make the squad for the tour of China.”

Recently appointed Australian youth team coach Steve O’Connor called Arnold in to camp on the recommendation of Perth Glory boss Ron Smith. Arnold has been training with the A-League club for the past few weeks and wouldn’t waste a moment if given the opportunity to step up to the next level. “I’d like to play in the A-League, and I’ve had a taste by training with Glory for the past fortnight,” he said. “If the opportunity arises I’d jump at the chance to play in the top league competition in Australia for sure.”

A State junior and youth team representative while playing at Swan I.C. and E.C.U. Joondalup, Arnold made a sensation start to his time at Macedonia Park with some sparkling form in last years Night Series competition. He spent several months trialing overseas before returning to help Stirling to Cup glory. While he still harbours dreams of playing in Europe, Arnold is content to remain in Australia for the time being. “I’ll see how everything goes in Australia before I look at any moves, and then I can sit down and see if any opportunities come my way,” he said.

Arnold is focused on ensuring Stirling continue their superb start to 2007. “We’ve been playing well and are currently unbeaten in the League and Cup. We’ve drawn games when we really should have won them but we are gelling well,” he said. “We’ve had a number of players under nineteen in the side this season [and] we’re kept on our toes on the park by the senior players, Darko (Ilmanoski), Hendo (Kevin Henderson) and Brownie (Keith Brown), and also off it by coaches Mick (Lyons) and Paul (Simmons). Both coaches are great to work with and they have given the younger players a chance and they’ve not been let down.”

11.6.2007

ROUND OF EIGHT CUP DRAW

The quarter-finals of the 2007 Soccer Pools sponsored Cup have produced some tantalising match-ups. Night Series champions Perth S.C. have been allocated a home showdown with Cup holder Stirling Lions. Premier League leaders Floreat Athena are to face Cockburn City in the blockbuster fixture at Dalmatinac Park. First Division outfit Mandurah City head to the city determined to upset Inglewood United. Armadale will fancy their chances when Swan I.C. journey to Alfred Skeet Oval. The round of eight takes place on Saturday 28th July.

11.6.2007

TARKA FOCUSED ON MAKING UP FOR LOST TIME

David Tarka has made it his mission to restore Perth Glory’s championship credentials as well as revive his international career during the coming A-League season. The central defender has begun his first pain-free pre-season in more than five years after finally beating a debilitating hamstring problem. Tarka was joint winner of the club’s Most Glorious Player award last season, despite conceding he could hardly walk some days from the tightness in the back of his legs.

The 24-year old has put injury behind him and is keen to make up for lost time. “Although I was getting through games last season at the back of my mind I was always fighting my hamstring,” he explained. “I could work hard for 30 seconds, but then I’d have to recuperate and rest the hamstring for the next few minutes, whereas now I can really rebound. And for me, to do a pre-season is so important and now that I’ve got miles in my legs, I’ve got no doubt this season will be better than the last.”

A graduate of the Australian Institute of Sport, Tarka last played for the Socceroos in 2004 but is poised to come back into contention for the national teams’ series of friendlies later this year. “It’s nice to know they (the selectors) are looking at me again,” he said. “And I know at the back of my mind, because I’m feeling a mot more pain-free now, there’s definitely an opportunity there for me. My primary focus is on Glory [and] as long as I keep my head down and improve on last season then a chance should come.”

10.6.2007

OLYMPIC DREAM ENDS FOR MATILDAS

The Matildas hopes of qualifying for the 2008 Olympic Games are all but over following today’s 2-0 defeat at the hands of DPR (North) Korea in Coffs Harbour. After a tight first half DPR Korea snuck ahead on the hour with a close-range header by Ri Kum Suk. The result was put beyond doubt nine minutes later when Kim Kyong Hwa unleashed an unstoppable shot from outside the penalty area which was beyond the reach of goalkeeper Melissa Barbieri. The loss leaves the Matildas six points behind DPR Korea who require only a from their two remaining two qualifying games to progress to the Olympic tournament. Collette McCallum played a full game for the Matilda’s while Lisa De Vanna came on at half-time.

10.6.2007

AMATEUR PREMIER LEAGUE, ROUND EIGHT

A dominant Fremantle United powered past Southern Spirit 5-1 in the Amateur Premier League fixture at Hilton Park. The star of the show was Fremantle striker David Onoforo who contributed four of the hosts' five goals. Fremantle brushed aside a slow start to take the lead on 21 minutes when a cross from the right found Onoforo who was afforded space to fire past Spirit goalkeeper Bobson Koroma. Although the more creative of the two teams, the port side had to be content with a slender one-goal advantage at the break.

The home team put their stamp on the game four minutes into the second half when Onoforo curled a free-kick into the net from 22-metres. Six minutes later Onoforo had his hat-trick by running on to a through pass from Josh Sithole and lifting his shot over the 'keeper. Matthew Hoenselaars put his name on the score sheet twenty minutes into the period by powerfully heading in at a corner. Onoforo put away his fourth in the 74th minute with another superbly struck free-kick from well beyond the 18-yard box which went in off the upright. Spirit's consolation goal arrived shortly after through Damien Pescud.

Fremantle and Shamrock Rovers remain on top of the table with both yet to drop a point this season. Shamrock collected their eighth successive win by thumping Lynwood Colts 6-0. Murdoch University lost ground on the leaders when dumped 2-3 at home by Spearwood Dalmatinac. WA Maccabi overcame CN Canning International 3-2, and Olympic Kingsway were too good for Subiaco United by 2-0. Hamersley Rovers crushed University of UWA 5-0, while Stirling Panthers accounted for Perth Azzurri 1-0. South Perth United won their first game of the season with a 2-1 defeat of Suburbs United who slip to the foot of the table.

10.6.2007

DUTCH ACE ON PATH TO GLORY

Perth Glory is on the verge of securing the prized signature of former Dutch international Michael Mols for the coming A-League season. The 36-year old striker will arrive in Perth late next week as Glory step up their bid to secure him for the new season's kick-off in August. The Glory coaching staff have been in close contact with Mols over the past few months and while he has received offers to play in Europe and the Middle East, he is keen to explore the option of playing in Australia.

Ron Smith said bringing Mols and his family to Perth and letting them see first hand what was on offer could be the deciding factor in getting Mols to commit to the Australian club. "Michael hasn't made a firm decision about where he'd like to play next season but he is very interested in Perth Glory," Smith said. "We have been proactive in our efforts to sign a player of his quality and think he'll be impressed with what Perth can offer in terms of both lifestyle and football." Mols scored 38 goals in 79 league appearances for Rangers in a five-year stint in Glasgow up to 2004 and played six times for the Netherlands.

9.6.2007

PREMIER LEAGUE, ROUND EIGHT (Floreat Athena v Fremantle Spirit courtesy Floreat Athena; Inglewood United v Stirling Lions by Don Evans; Cockburn City v Wanneroo City courtesy Football West)

A late strike by James Isaia snatched Premier League leader Floreat Athena a 2-2 draw with Fremantle Spirit at Litis Stadium. The early momentum was with Floreat who built patiently from the back and were driven through midfield by Bajo Savic, Jovo Pavlovic and Miki Vujacic. However, the hosts found it difficult to penetrate far into the final or create any profitable strikes on goal thanks to Fremantle's defensive approach through which they flooded the backline. The result was an uninteresting and frustrating opening 45 minutes for those in the stands. The game was awoken from its' slumber five minutes into the second half when Callum Roberts, introduced at the break by Marc Wingell, broke away down the left to send in a cross which Sebastian Booysen headed strongly past Vas Vujacic at the back post. Unperturbed at going a goal down, Floreat continued to push into their opponents half only to be met by strong resistance from a defence brilliantly led by veteran Alex Christie. The pressure valve was finally released when Isaia delivered a cross from the left which Branimir Mikulic flicked in at the near post to bring the teams level. Fremantle responded by adding a second goal to their tally when a partially cleared corner was sent back into the dangerzone and an unmarked Roberts glanced the ball in off the base of the upright. Mikulic should have brought the teams level on 68 minutes but his penalty kick was hit too close to goalkeeper Steve Grant who deflected the shot away with his feet. This opened up the game as Floreat threw caution to the wind and attacked in increasing numbers, while Fremantle remained a threat on the counterattack. The game was well into stoppage time when Isaia latched onto a loose ball and drilled an unstoppable shot low into the corner from 15-metres to keep Floreat's unbeaten record in tact.

Perth S.C shared the spoils with E.C.U. Joondalup in a pulsating 3-3 draw at Dorrien Gardens. The spectators were still settling into the seats when Ian McMurray robbed Trent Kay of possession to send a low cross to the near post where Marc Anthony tucked the ball under Gareth Deeg at close-range. Opportunities then become scarce for the next twenty or so minutes as the two sides attempted to assert their control in midfield. In the 33rd minute Anthony played an exquisite pass through the defence for Tom Amphlett whose centring pass was side-footed in by McMurray. As half-time neared Perth stepped up the tempo and on 44 minutes gained a goal of their own as Scott Bulloch’s cross to the far post was knocked down by Barry Wood to Todd Howarth who found the gap between ‘keeper and upright. McMurray squandered a guilt-edged chance to increase Joondalup’s lead shortly after the break when he seized upon an under-hit back pass but with only Deeg to beat he placed wide of the target. Perth quickly regained control as Rukavystya and Wood had good shots saved by Alan Young while Howarth fizzled a free-kick just past the top corner. The teams were brought level on 63 minutes when Scott Bulloch reached to a long ball ahead of the ‘keeper to centred for Wood to blast into an empty net. Perth continued to pressure and the dismissal of Craig Young for a second yellow card only added to Joondalup’s woes. With three minutes left Gary Faria scored one of the goals of the season, a rasping half-volley on the run which flashed over Alan Young and into the roof of the net. However, three minutes later Joondalup gained a controversial penalty for Michael Icanovski’s infringement on McMurray, and from the spot Mark Lee calmly sent the equaliser past Deeg.

Swan I.C. turned in their best performance of the year to beat Western Knights 2-0 in the Premier League clash at the Swan Italian Club. The opening spell produced chances for both teams on which neither John Monterosso nor Daniel Trim could capitalise. Scott Buhsby was unlucky not to put the Knights ahead after 10 minutes with a shot that Robert Monterosso cleared off the line. With play evenly shared between the two sides, Cory Hugo held a shot from Stuart Montgomery, and John Monterosso fired just past the post after being sent clear by Rory Mouttet. The deadlock was broken in the 20th minute via an Anthony McStea corner fell kindly to Brendan Knox who lashed the ball in at close-range. It should have been two-nil shortly after when an error by Jonathon Mathers allowed in Tom Shepheard who disappointingly fired wide. The Knights pressed late in the half with Anthony Skorich shooting high in the visitors attempt to get back on level terms. The second half began with the Knights seeking a goal and David Price’s shot was kept out by Hugo, then a cracking first time strike by Montgomery whistled narrowly wide. However, in the 62nd minute Swan struck a second goal when Mathers brought down Shepheard for a penalty, and while Dom Ando’s spot kick was saved by Tommi Tomich there was no stopping John Monterosso who quickly netted the rebound. Skorich should have reduced the deficit not long after but fired high when well placed. Chances would become scarce for the visitors following this as Aaron Cole and Robert Monterosso tightened things up at the back for Swan. Montgomery got on the end of a superb Jon Higgins cross but Hugo proved up to the task with a tremendous save. The Knights frustration was compounded by the dismissal of Mathers with three minutes remaining.

A smashing half volley by teenage whiz-kid Ludovic Boi earned Stirling Lions a 1-0 win against Inglewood United from a tight encounter at Clipsal Stadium. The early passages were dominated by the visiting side for whom Keith Brown and Boi were in a menacing mood. Stirling's first chance came after 10 minutes when Kevin Henderson snatched wide at close-range after Daniel Micevski's free-kick went to feet. Soon after, Micevski swung in a corner which was met by David Dugdale whose header deflected to safety off the upright. A swift c