31.12.2007

COLOSIMO DISAPPOINTED BY BOO-BOYS

Simon Colosimo has pledged his full commitment to Perth Glory for the remainder of the season but admits being booed by his own fans may convince him to leave the A-League club. Reports linking the Glory captain with Sydney F.C. next season resulted in Colosimo receiving a hostile reception from home supporters during last night’s loss to Queensland Roar. “It’s very disappointing,” Colosimo said. “Every player comes out of contract at some stage and no decisions are made yet and to read a press article and assume and do like they did was disappointing. I’m out there working my bum off for Perth and for the purple shirt and there’s purple shirts in the crowd booing me. It was a shock actually because they are good supporters ... but it disappointed most of the boys out there.”

Colosimo said there was bound to be speculation with his contract up at seasons’ end but insists everything is still very much up in the air. “Having interest is one thing and nutting out a contract is another,” Colosimo said of the interest from Sydney. “I’m in a stage at the end of my contract, in negotiations with Perth and whoever - but maybe they (the Perth fans) don’t want me here. It’s obviously tilting me the other way, if that’s the kind of reception I’m going to get from those guys. It’s different if I was to go somewhere else and come back next season with another team and get booed then fine. But I’m wearing their shirt and working hard for them and to get booed was pretty disappointing.”

Regardless of the crowds reaction, Colosimo says he will continue to give his all in Glory’s final three games of the season, two of which are at home. “Why wouldn’t I? I’m a professional football player,” he said. “I’m going to go out there and work for the shirt that I’m wearing. I’m very disappointed and I’m pretty bitter about it but, you know, I’ll have got over it by next weekend and it will be business as usual for me.” Glory, who remain at the foot of the table after the yesterdays loss but can still avoid the wooden spoon, host competition high-flyers Central Coast Mariners this Sunday.

30.12.2007

GLORY NO MATCH FOR LEAGUE LEADER

Perth Glory have paid the ultimate price for lackadaisical defending as a ruthless Queensland Roar claimed a 4-1 victory from this evenings game at Members Equity Stadium. First-half goals to Robbie Kruse and Reinaldo and strikes after the break by Tahj Minniecon and substitute Josh McCloughan sealed all three points for the visitors who jump into joint top spot on the A-League table. Nick Rizzo got the solitary goal for Glory whose play-off aspirations were extinguished in front of 9,614 supporters, their biggest home crowd of the campaign.

The early possession may have been dominated by Glory, however, the hosts created very few genuine chances on goal as Queensland defending desperately. So it was against the run of play that Queensland hit the lead in the 34th minute when Minniecon slipped an inviting ball through for Robbie Kruse who calmly side footed past goalkeeper Tando Velaphi. Although stunned, Glory almost hit back immediately but Billy Celeski fired wide from 9-metres. It would prove a costly miss as with half-time beckoning Minniecon won possession from Hayden Foxe to set up Reinaldo who rifled in goal number two.

Rizzo gave the home crowd hope of a second half revival by sending a low shot past Liam Reddy at the back post from a James Downey cross on 57 minutes. Sasha Ognenovski made sure Queensland maintained the lead a minute later by deflected wide Celeski’s goal bound header. A dreadful error in the 59th minute effectively ended the game as Velaphi’s throw was too strong for Downey and in an instant Minniecon speared a low shot back past the Glory ‘keeper. The final nail in Glory’s coffin came in the 74th minute when Matt McKay’s free-kick from the right was nodded in by an unmarked McLoughhan at close-range.

30.12.2007

PETKOVIC LOOKS TO PLAY ON

Jason Petkovic has revealed he plans to play on next season after being included in the Perth Glory squad that faces Queensland Roar today. Petkovic has missed more than 14 months after breaking his leg in two places in a horrific on-field collision with Simon Colosimo and Damien Mori. But the 35-year old former Socceroo is back and ready to take his place between the posts once again. “I think I’m feeling as good as I have been for the last three years,” Petkovic said. “I think the year off has helped me and after all this hard work I wouldn’t mind seeing another season out. It’s a lot of work for just three or four games.”

David Mitchell plans to ease Petkovic back into playing duties having proved his fitness at the end of an exhaustive rehabilitation program. “Jason is in a situation where he can’t get any fitter by training, so he’s actually got to play now, so the next step is playing,” said the Glory coach. “I’m bringing him into the squad slowly. He’s on the bench, and he’ll be taking part in the warm-up (on Sunday) and getting back into the feel of what it's like to be in the squad and ready to play when called upon."

But with Tando Velaphi performing well between the posts, Petkovic has a fight on his hands to regain the status as the club’s number one ‘keeper. “I haven’t played for 14 months so I can’t expect to walk straight in considering the injury I had and the time I had off,” Petkovic said. “I’ve got to prove to him (Mitchell) I can still do it and once I’ve done that, I think that’s enough to make my point. If he thinks my experience will be handy for the team, he’ll put me in.”

Petkovic admits to feeling a little anxious about being recalled to the starting eleven but has no doubt he’d be able to fulfil his duties when called upon. “I’ve trained a good two months now with the team and I’m ready to give it a go,” he said. “I wouldn’t put myself in this position unless I was feeling comfortable with my movement. I think it’s better than it has been for a long time. In terms of fitness I’ve got to the top level. I need to start playing games to get the sharpness. I’ve already played a game and a half, two games in game matches, but I need to start playing games now to improve that last 10 per cent.”

29.12.2007

LAZARIDIS REMAINS ON HOLD

The comeback of former Socceroo Stan Lazaridis has been delayed by another week. After serving a year-long suspension for taking a banned substance, Lazaridis had hoped to be selected for tomorrow’s home meeting with Queensland Roar. However, coach David Mitchell feels his star winger is still a little off the pace. “Stan won’t be in the squad … Stan’s trained well all week but I just don’t think he’s ready yet,” Mitchell said after training on Friday. ‘The boys did well up in Sydney and I want to be faithful to the boys that played well. It would be hard to leave them out and bring someone in who is probably not fully fit.”

29.12.2007

HULL MUST MAINTAIN UPWARDS MOMENTUM SAYS GARCIA

Richard Garcia says Hull City must remain on the front foot if they want to maintain a push for the end of season play-offs. A three-game unbeaten run is the reward for the Tigers adopting a more pressing style of football in which opponents are not allowed to settle on the ball. “The gaffer’s emphasis has been on us being on the front foot and all about us putting pressure on the opposition instead of soaking it up,” he said. “We’re starting games on the front foot and it’s working positively for us at the moment.”

While Hull’s increased off-the-ball tempo has played its part in the club moving up to eleventh on the English Championship table, Garcia says their strong home record has also been important. “We’re hard to play at the KC (Stadium) and that has been an objective of ours all season,” he said. “We want to win as many as we can at home because that can be important in determining your league season. We’re trying our best to make it a hard place to come to.” Garcia is confident Hull can extend their unbeaten run when Sheffield Wednesday comes knocking on Sunday.

28.12.2007

ANNUAL ALL-STARS NAMED

Each year footballwa.net honours those players who have consistently captured our attention over the winter months with inclusion in the unofficial All-Stars squad. This year's squad includes a number of familiar faces along with thirteen players making their first appearance in our squads. With another year about to tick over the time is ripe to pay tribute to the twenty-two players selected in the 2007 Premier League All-Stars team and shadow squad.

28.12.2007

FLOREAT'S UNBEATEN SEASON THE HIGHLIGHT OF 2007

Floreat Athena lifting the Premier League title without defeat was the highpoint of 2007 according to the readers of footballwa.net. Of almost 300 votes cast in our final poll for the year, 31% were allocated to Floreat who claimed their first championship in a decade by winning eighteen and drawing four of twenty-two games. Lisa DeVanna's goalscoring exploits at the women's World Cup finals (24.2%) was voted into second place. The 23-year old put away four goals in as many games as Australia made the quarter-finals for the first time.

21-year old midfielder Collette McCallum being voted Asia's third best female player (11%) was the third greatest achievement of 2007. Mandurah City's storming First Division title success (8.9%) was followed by the Gold Medal win of Fremantle Spirit veteran Dale Wingell (7.6%). And only a couple of votes behind Wingell was Stirling Lions' back-to-back Cup final victory (7.2%). The 25-goal season of Floreat striker Jerry Karpeh's (5.9%) was voted in ahead of Perth S.C. claiming the Night Series trophy (4.2%).

27.12.2007

LAZARIDIS READY TO ROAR

David Mitchell will have the luxury of a near full strength squad to select from when Perth Glory tackles Queensland Roar at Members Equity Stadium on Sunday. In a massive boost for the home team, Stan Lazaridis is back after serving a twelve-month suspension for a positive drug test and Jason Petkovic returns after over a year out with a broken leg. Captain Simon Colosimo is back after missing two game through injury as is Nikolai Topor-Stanley who returns from suspension.

Lazaridis returned to training late last month and has built his fitness to a level where he believes he can make a positive contribution to the side. “You have to do the yards on the training field and I’ve had a few weeks now … being available to play and being match fit are two different things,” said Lazaridis. “It is great to be back and I feel as though I’m somewhere close but in saying that the boys have been playing really well and I’m not too sure if the team is going to get changed, and nor should it be, if the boys are winning.”

Both teams have plenty to play for on Sunday with Glory fighting to keep alive their slim finals dream whereas Roar are hoping to consolidate a top two placing. “Any team is capable of beating another on any given day, there is nothing really between the teams and it’s a credit to all the clubs,” he said. “We’re obviously building for next year and we can definitely help shape the final four. We have turned the corner and if you look at Dave Mitchell’s record since taking over I think it is as good as any of the top four and if we can carry that into next season we’ll be in good stead.”

Whether or not Lazaridis features on Sunday is down to Mitchell, however, the former Socceroo knows the day is fast approaching when he’ll again pull on the purple shirt. “I just have to prepare well and be fit and available and put my hand up and then it’s up to the coach to make the final decision,” he said. “I have pictured it a couple of times and I just have to take it as it comes. There are a lot of people, friends, family and supporters that have been asking when I’m coming back and I think they’re probably more eager than me sometimes but it’ll definitely be a nice feeling.”

26.12.2007

HEAT CAN’T SPOIL GLORY SPIRITS

It was business as usual for Perth Glory as the West Australian capital sweltered through its hottest December day on record. With the mercury soaring Glory’s players were staking their claim to a spot in the side that faces Queensland Roar on Sunday evening. Although this mornings’ session featured shorter drills and plenty of drinks breaks, Simon Colosimo says the heat hasn’t affected the teams’ preparation. “It is going to be a tough few days and the coaches understand that,” he said. “They have modified what we’re doing so that we don’t overheat and our drills have been set out accordingly but no one is taking it easy as we all want to impress.”

With Glory coming off arguably their best performance of the season coach Dave Mitchell has some tough decisions to make. Should he stick with the same side that collected all three points from Sydney F.C., or does he shuffle the deck and recall star trio Colosimo, Jason Petkovic and Stan Lazaridis. “I don’t know if we’ll get a game,” commented Colosimo. “The boys belted Sydney a few weeks ago and I know that training will be quite intense and everyone wants to be playing.”

After two games out with a hamstring injury Colosimo says he’s fit and ready to return this weekend. “That was always the plan and at this stage, knock on wood, it is looking good,” said the Glory captain. “I tested it today and joined in a little bit with the boys but held back and I’ll take it up another level tomorrow and test it full on. I won’t go out there is it isn’t right, I don’t want to be taking a spot in the team if I can’t contribute in a positive way.”

Glory faces some of the competitions’ top dogs at home over the next three weeks. “I think we’re going to play a big part in the finals race,” Colosimo said. “We want to accumulate as many points as possible, there is still that slight hope of us making it if we win our matches and other results going our way, but regardless of that we want to finish on a high. We owe something to our fans and I’m glad we’ve got three games at home. As a group we owe the supporters nine points in the next three weeks as a do over for the year we’ve had.”

24.12.2007

SCHOOLBOYS CALL-UP PRETORIUS

John Curtin College student Ryan Pretorius will join schoolmate Anthony Fearon as the only two West Australians in the Australian Schoolboys team which will tour the United Kingdom early in the new year. Pretorius was initially named in the shadow squad but a fortnight ago was elevated to the travelling party. Fearon and Pretorius, who play for Western Knights and Fremantle Spirit, respectively, head overseas on 17th January for games against schoolboys teams from England, the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales as well as English colleges. Scouts from some of Britain’s biggest clubs are expected to be watching.

Pretorius was delighted by the news, which is the high point of his decade involvement in the game. “I have been playing organised football since I was seven, I started at Cockburn,” said Pretorius, who was one of the star performers for West Australia at Septembers national championship in Darwin. “I have just been selected for the Fremantle Spirit reserves, and played last season in the under-18’s. My two older brothers play football and my dad played his life and coached as well. I love the game.”

Inspired by superstars like Thierry Henry, Ronaldinho, Cristiano Ronaldo and Ruud van Nostelrooy, Pretorius is comfortable playing in the middle of the park or as striker. “My ambition is to play professionally in England, to make a living out of football and live a good life. I would love to play for Australia some day,” said the versatile youngster, who has just finished Year 12 at john Curtin where he was part of the specialist soccer program.

Fremantle under-18’s coach Gelnn Leckenby said Pretorius had developed well over the past three of four years and had a promising future. “He was a strong junior representative in the under-13s and under-14s which were very successful,” said Leckenby. “He is being trialed with the Fremantle under-23s which will be a good development opportunity for him. He has the skills, good ball control and a good head for the game. The potential is there and it’s really in his court in terms of how far he takes it.”

23.12.2007

PETKOVIC CLOSE TO RETURN

Goalkeeper Jason Petkovic has made another giant stride towards an A-League return with a strong showing in Perth Glory’s intra-club match on Thursday night. Petkovic, who suffered a horrific double break to his leg against Central Coast Mariners 14 months ago, moved well in the hit-out and is pressing for a spot in the travelling squad. Coach David Mitchell said the 35-year old former Socceroo looked good in the 60-minute match and was edging closer to a Glory return. “He’s been training very hard to get back and he’s looking fit, so it’s good for him,” Mitchell said.

Although the Glory will not play this weekend, Mitchell has been training the players hard as the club looks to end the season in impressive fashion. “We had a game last night against ourselves. It was good. It was a high-tempo game and it was really beneficial for the boys,” said Mitchell, who has turned around Glory’s season since his appointment seven weeks ago. “It was as much for Stan (Lazaridis) and Jason (Petkovic) than for the other players that haven’t been playing. They both looked good.”

It might be hard for Mitchell to find the pair a spot in the Glory line-up after their superb 4-2 win against Sydney F.C. While the players will be able to enjoy a couple of days off over Christmas it will only be a short break with a crucial match against Queensland Roar looming large. “We’re back on the track on Boxing Day and that will allow plenty of time to fine-tune our preparations against Queensland,” said Mitchell. “It was a good result against Sydney and we’ll use it as a spring board for the next three games at home.”

23.12.2007

TARKA ON THE COMEBACK TRAIL

David Tarka faces a tough decision should Perth Glory win the remaining four games of the season to qualify for the finals. The central defender has been sidelined since injuring his hamstring in Glory’s opening game of the season and has undergone surgery and intense rehabilitation. But Tarka is now back jogging and thinks there is a slight chance he’d be fit enough to play by the end of January when the finals start. “It would be touch and go if I could play finals,” he said. “I’d have to make a hard call. I’ve done this two or three times and would’ve been tempted to push it to play finals.”

Tarka, last seasons’ Most Glorious Player, may not have played in four months but following a long rehabilitation he is fit and close to putting his hand up for selection. “The medical team is happy and I’m happy. Rehab is going to plan,” he said. “I’m doing some jogging and gym work and we’re confident I can make a full recovery. I’ll increase my jogging over the next four or five weeks and hope to be doing warm-ups with the team in the next two or three weeks.” Glory sits in last place on the A-League table but, with four games still to play, are only seven points outside the four.

22.12.2007

PERTH IS WHERE BERTOS WANTS TO BE

He may be a proud New Zealander but Leo Bertos says he’d rather stay with Perth Glory than return home to play for Wellington Phoenix next season. Bertos is one of a large number of Glory players whose contracts are up for renewal at the end of this season, but with coach David Mitchell breathing new life into the side the 26-year old wants to be stick around for 2008/09. “I’m up this year so I’m in the same boat as about 14 or 15 of us [at Glory],” he said. “I’d like to stay for sure. I’m enjoying myself at Perth and Mitch seems to be sorting things out at the club.”

Glory may be stumping up the A-League table but their stunning 4-2 dismantling of Sydney F.C. last week has offered a ray of hope. And with three home games in their final four fixtures of the season, the most improbable story may yet unfold. “It’s still mathematically possible,” Bertos says of Glory’s finals hopes. “We’d have to rely on other results going our way, but we’re not really looking at the bigger picture just yet. We just want to concentrate on our next home game and the one after that. We want to continue our good form and giving our fans something they’ve been missing out on.”

22.12.2007

COLOSIMO SHELVES CONTRACT TALKS

Simon Colosimo will put contract negotiations on the back burner with his immediate focus on recovering from injury and helping Perth Glory continue its late season revival. The Glory captain is in the final stages of a three-year deal but has pushed contract talks to the back of his mind following confirmation David Mitchell will lead the side into 2008/09. “I think it is one of the most pro-active things the club has done since the start of the A-League,” he said of Mitchell’s appointment. “For the guys who are out of contract it gives a chance to know who is going to be here rather than a club minus a coach. The longer the club went without appointing a coach the more unsure I would have been and probably encouraged to look elsewhere, but knowing Mitch is going to be there I have put things on hold and will wait until the end of the season.” Only eight of Glory’s 23 players are contracted beyond the current term.

21.12.2007

CHRISTMAS WISHES

The 'staff' of footballwa.net would like to wish all our readers a very merry Christmas, a joyous New Year and most importantly a safe holiday period. In next week's update - our final one for the year - we plan to honour those players that impressed us the most during the past twelve months with the announcement of the 2007 Premier League All-Stars team and Shadow Squad.

21.12.2007

APELGREN AND FOSTER SIGN UP FOR FLOREAT

Premier League champions Floreat Athena have taken a giant step in the right direction to go back-to-back with the signing of Dean Apelgren and David Foster. Coach Michael Roki has been chasing the influential pair for the past couple of years and could not be happier about finally luring both players to Litis Stadium. “I’ve been delighted with the off-season negotiations and are pleased to confirm Dean and David will be joining us when we commence pre-season training in January,” said Roki. “We’ve had both players in our sights for several years but their loyalty to their respective clubs meant they stayed put - until now.”

Apelgren, winner of the State League’s Rookie of the Year while at Fremantle City in 2003, is seen as a likely replacement for midfield general Bajo Savic, who’ll miss next season after recently undergoing a knee reconstruction. “Deans’ composure, vision and distribution should hold him in good stead to challenge for a central midfield role,” said the Floreat coach. “With Bajo out of action it was a priority for us to acquire another quality midfielder to maintain depth within the squad. Our thoughts are that this talented player will blend smoothly into our style of play and that we are keen to see him take his game to another level.”

A move to Floreat could be just the tonic for Foster who’s been plagued by injury and illness since claiming the 2004 Golden Boot with Swan I.C. “David is keen to freshen up and regenerate his career and hopefully we can assist him to do that, just as we have for several other players,” commented Roki. “Should Jerry Karpeh be offered another season with Perth Glory, David will cement his spot in a strike force that already includes of Garin Collins, Josip Magdic and Bran Mikulic. David exhibits all the awareness and sharpness you would expect of a Golden Boot winner, and his ability to find the net will assist Floreat in applying further pressure to any defence.”

20.12.2007

ROMARIO’S SUSPENSION FLOORS LAZARIDIS

Perth Glory midfielder Stan Lazaridis can not believe the four-month suspension handed out to former Brazil striker Romario for testing positive to finasteride. Lazaridis was astonished to hear that Romario had received a 120-day ban for testing positive to the hair loss treatment - the same drug that cost the former Socceroo twelve months on the sidelines. “You’re joking?” was Lazaridis’ initial reaction when contacted by the ‘West Australian’ newspaper. “It doesn’t seem fair to me, but the whole case wasn’t fair.”

Lazaridis was left frustrated by administrative delays when he tested positive to finasteride - a drug he was taking to combat a scalp condition but one which is banned because it can be used as a masking agent. Although he had applied for exemption to use the drug, Lazaridis started taking the medicine during a long delay in processing his request which was granted only after he returned the positive test. “It’s annoying but at the end of the day it’s in the past and I’ve served my time. I can’t change that,” said Lazaridis, who is expected to make his Glory return against Queensland Roar this weekend.

20.12.2007

HARNWELL BAN TO STAND

Football Federation Australia has dismissed Jamie Harnwell’s appeal against an extra week’s suspension. An FFA disciplinary committee has confirmed a two-match ban for serious foul play against Harnwell stemming from the recent game with Wellington Phoenix. The Perth Glory legend had an extra week added to his automatic one-game suspension by the FFA after being sent off for a late challenge on Vaughan Coveny. He will be eligible to return for Glory’s home clash with Central Coast Mariners on 6th January.

20.12.2007

GLORY TO MOVE UP TABLE TIPS TARKA

Injured defender David Tarka is confident Perth Glory can pick up enough points in the next few weeks to finally climb their way up the A-League table. "With our next three games on home soil, we have a great chance to leap above Wellington Phoenix and struggling defending champions Melbourne Victory," said Tarka, whose season was cut short by a hamstring injury. "It will remain our goal to finish the season strong, avoid the wooden spoon and continue to build for next season."

The fact Glory have won three and drawn one of their six games since David Mitchell took up the coaching reigns bodes well for the club. "Our performances have been much more consistent under Dave Mitchell and the squad is looking forward to the future," he said. "With injuries and suspensions ravaging the squad, our depth was tested (against Sydney F.C.) on the weekend by having to play numerous players out of position. The group showed courage and great resolve to get maximum points away from home. We need to build on these results and string a few games to together, especially at Members Equity."

The expected return of Stan Lazaridis and Jason Petkovic when Glory host Queensland Roar next weekend will provide the side a massive boost for the final weeks of the season according to Tarka. "Both provide a wealth of experience and may be a key factor in our climb up the ladder," he said. "Having both overcome huge personal challenges in the past twelve months, they are an inspiration to the playing group and an asset to the club. Their commitment and dedication to bounce back proves what has made them so successful in their individual careers. We hope they gain some form in the remaining games and play on next season."

18.12.2007

INDIGENOUS YOUTH BENEFIT FROM GLORY EXPERIENCE

Perth Glory are doing their bit to assist the development of indigenous students from Balga Senior High School. New Glory recruit Jerry Karpeh led a training session last week attended by students from the Dare To Dream program run by the Nyoongar Sports Association. The program aims to provide indigenous students from Balga the opportunity to experience a wide range of sports and life skills. Steven Turner, development officer with the Nyoongar Sports Association, said the program is in its first year and has been well received. “The students get to learn a range of skills including football, netball and beauty therapy and there is a health and education component to the program as well,” said Turner. “It also encourages students to stay at school and we have seen their attendance has improved markedly.”

17.12.2007

LENNIE JOINS FOOTBALL WEST

Eddie Lennie, one of Australia’s most decorated referees, will take up the position of Referees Development Manager (RDM) with Football West early in the new year. The newly created role will be responsible for the recruitment, training and retention of referees within the state. “Eddie’s appointment marks a huge step forwards in our commitment towards officiating within the state, and I am confident Eddie will have a dramatic impact on the recruitment, development and retention of our match officials in his new full time role,” said Football West chief executive Garry Chandler.

Lennie, who was last week inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame, can not wait to start his new position. “I am delighted at accepting this very important position within Football West. This additional commitment of a RDM is another opportunity to further our efforts in the recruitment, retention, education and development of our metropolitan officials, and it will also give us the resources to hopefully apply the same initiatives to our country associations,” said Lennie.

Another of Lennie’s priorities is to boost the number of referees in order to accommodate the world games recent growth spurt in Perth. “The need for more referees has never been so essential with the increase participation of players at all levels,” he explained. “I would like to encourage all clubs to work with me on this. I look forward to meet as many of our football family as I can, to share the passion that I have on all matters relating to our wonderful game especially refereeing.”

17.12.2007

COLOSIMO WELCOME TO MOVE ON

Perth Glory will not enter a bidding war in order to keep captain Simon Colosimo at the club next season. Although David Mitchell would not readily discard one of Glory’s highest paid players, the coach conceded he would not fight to retain Colosimo, who has been attracting strong interest from Glory’s A-League rivals Sydney F.C. and Melbourne Victory. “If Simon wants to go to Sydney or Melbourne then there’s nothing I can do,” Mitchell said. “If he wants to go, it’s down to the player. It’s his prerogative because his contract is up.”

Colosimo, who started his second stint with Glory at the inception of the A-League three seasons ago, said he had been approached by Sydney about a possible move come the end of April. The one-time Socceroo midfielder conceded Glory fans might be dubious about his intentions after he walked out on the club in 2003 to join Parramatta Power after leading Perth to National Soccer League success. “I’ll look at the pros and cons of whatever’s on the table from whoever, and go from there,” Colosimo said. “At the end of the day, I’ve still got to weigh up everything. I’m not going to say ‘yes I’m staying’ or ‘no I’m not’.”

16.12.2007

MITCHELL BEAMING AFTER MEMORABLE WIN

There was no wiping the smile off David Mitchell’s face after orchestrating Perth Glory’s 4-2 win against Sydney F.C. yesterday. A Billy Celeski hat-trick and Leo Bertos’ scored his first A-League goal earned Glory all three points to leave Sydney’s play-off dream in tatters. “It was solid performance all over the park, everyone did their job and that was the key to producing a terrific win,” Mitchell commented. “I’m extremely proud of the player’s commitment and let there be no doubt we were up against it tonight, we scaled a huge mountain and can stand proudly on top after 90 minutes of quality football.”

With captain Simon Colosimo and fellow midfielder Mitchell Prentice unavailable, Mitchell shifted Jamie Coyne and James Robinson in the middle of the park and handed new recruit Jerry Karpeh his first A-League start. “I was very worried because Sydney have a lot of movement up front and dropping into midfield,” explained the Glory coach. “With Simon and Mitchell missing, both who have been playing very well for us, I just wanted to block it up a little bit. They played fantastically. Jerry Karpeh led the line well in what is a big step up for him.”

The Glory coach admitted to a few pre-match nerves about meeting Sydney minus the services of so many key players. “Everyone had written us off and thought we weren’t going to get a result … I was a bit worried myself with the line-up we had going into the game,” said Mitchell. “But we tried a couple of things and they paid off handsomely in the way we played. To get a win off the back of last week’s result was credit to the boys. It wasn’t just the win, it was the way we played football. There was a lot of skill and flair in a convincing win.”

15.12.2007

CELESKI STUNS SYDNEY

Perth Glory inflicted upon Sydney F.C. their first defeat under John Kosmina with a shock 4-2 win at the Sydney Football Stadium this evening. Midfielder Billy Celeski capitalised on a succession of defensive errors to net a hat-trick while Leo Bertos was also on the scoresheet to secure Glory’s third win of the year in front of 12,402 fans. Sydney veteran Steve Corica gave the hosts a faint hope early in the second half with Michael Bridges getting a late consolation. Although missing several key players through injury and suspension, Glory dominated possession in what was arguably their most accomplished performance of the campaign.

The early signs were ominous for Sydney as a poorly hit clearance by goalkeeper Clint Bolton deflected off Bertos and bounced on to the roof of the net. The hosts regained their composure and went close through Tony Popovic and Alex Brosque but neither could find the target. However, Sydney lost some momentum when Robbie Middleby was stretchered off with a shin injury midway through the half. Glory pounced in the 34th minute when Mark Milligan coughed up the ball to Celeski who waltzed through to rifle into the top corner. A minute later Celeski had the small band of travelling supporters celebrating again after robbing possession from Terry McFlynn and unleashing a powerful left-footer which was too good for Bolton.

Glory could not have wished for a better start to the second half which was four minutes old when Nick Rizzo’s cross from the right found Bertos who expertly weaved through three opponents before netting at close-range. A quick reply was what Sydney wanted and Corica delivered with a crisp volley from 15-metres past a stranded Tommi Tomich. This breathed new life into the home side but Brosque and David Zdrilic fired wide when well positioned. Hayden Foxe and Dino Djulbic dealt confidently with a succession of corners, while Brosque should have done much better than shoot straight at the ‘keeper after being sent through by Corica.

The game was put beyond Sydney’s reach in the 77th minute when Celeski completed his hat-trick by converting from the spot following Iain Fyfe’s foul on James Downey. Substitute Naum Sekulovski could have further extended the visitors lead after getting on the end of a Bertos free-kick which he lifted high at close-range. Sydney threw everything into bringing some respectability to the scoreline as Mark Rudan headed against the crossbar from a corner, and Adam Biddle cutting past his marker before arrowing a low shot just past the upright. Their reward came in the final minute of regulation time when Biddle won possession from Foxe and played through for Bridges to slot past Tomich.

15.12.2007

BEIJING IS THE TARGET FOR WARD

Melbourne Victory's new signing Nick Ward wants to use his time back in the A-League to sharpen himself up for Australia’s Beijing Olympic Games campaign, experience Asian Champions League football and get back into the sort of shape to play in Europe once more. And if he can help Victory ignite its flickering finals hopes in the process, that would be a welcome bonus. The 22-year old only arrived back in Australia from England this week so it might be expecting a lot for him to have a huge impact in the must-win game against Newcastle United on Sunday evening.

Ward played on 22 games during an 18-month spell with London club Queens Park Rangers but rather than be disillusioned by his lack of success the midfielder says he’s now a much tougher person and player. “Everybody wants to go back to Europe, that’s where I want to be playing, but I have got to get right (and) get back playing,” he said. “I haven’t totally said that I am staying for six months and then I am gone, I am going to get match fit and see how it goes. The main focus at the moment is to make the top four. If I can help that would be great.”

A string of managerial changes during his time at Loftus Road combined with the fact he was regularly on duty with the Australian Olympic team did Ward no favours in England. “I had a bit of a tough time in England with QPR - there were about four managers in the time I was there,’ he explained. “I have definitely developed as a player. You can’t buy the experience you get over there. It’s cut-throat - you might have a manager that signs you and then a new manager comes in and he wants his own player. I don’t think it was a mistake (going to Rangers), I just think I had a bit of bad luck. Coming back is a great opportunity to get playing again and become involved with the Olympics … the only time I was really playing was when I was going away with the Australian team.”

15.12.2007

GLORY SET TO SURPRISE SYDNEY

Perth Glory are preparing to spring a selection surprise against Sydney F.C. today with the intention of upsetting a side shooting for the finals. Coach David Mitchell has experimented in training this week and is set to make some significant tactical changes, including switching defender Jamie Coyne into a midfield role. With captain Simon Colosimo sidelined by a hamstring injury and Mitchell Prentice suspended, Coyne is preparing to be deployed as a holding midfielder to steady the Glory ship.

Although Coyne shot to prominence with Perth S.C. as a midfielder, in recent years he has become accustomed to playing at right back with a few spells in the heart of defence. “I’m looking forward to it. Sydney are still trying to get into the finals and we’re not going to make it easy for them,” he said. Mitchell concedes Glory is out of the finals race and is using the remainder of the season to test several players in different roles.

14.12.2007

YOUNG CONSIDERS INTERSTATE OPTION

The chance of playing in the Victorian State League could be just around the corner for Sorrento shot-stopper Neil Young. Last seasons’ Goalkeeper of the Year is one of three local players who’ll be given a shot at glory when he trials with former national league club South Melbourne early in the New Year. “South Melbourne are looking for a couple of players and thanks to some kind words from a few well respected coaches and club men from opposition teams my name was put forward,” explained Young.

Accompanying Young on the trip will be his Sorrento teammate Steve MacDonald, a former Motherwell player, and State representative Shane Nunes, who currently plies his trade with Cockburn City. If the South Melbourne coaching staff like what they see in the trip, Young, MacDonald and Nunes will be hoping to emulate the achievements of Dino Djulbic, Antonio Naglieri and Andreas Oliveira who helped the club win the Victorian championship in 2006.

The recent season was a source of much frustration for Young who missed a sizeable part of the campaign through suspension and injury. “The suspension I received was a little harsh, the tribunal got it wrong and that cost me,” Young said of missing seven games after being sent off against Perth S.C. “Injuries happen and you have to work hard with the physio off the park to get back to playing as soon as you can. It was extremely hard watching Sorrento lose as bad as we did last year but I think that experience will help us be a stronger team in 2008.”

Young has absolutely no doubts that 2008 will see a return to form for Sorrento who are determined to leave behind the disappointments of last season. “We blooded a lot of young kids this year and they will be better off for having a tough season,” he said. “The signing of Shaun Kilkelly will help bring stability and experience to the back line, and there’s a strong possibility that a few other signings will add depth to Sorrento. Plus Steve Neville is in charge again and there is no way he’ll let us have another season like the one we just had.”

14.12.2007

PERTH MOVE HAS JUKIC EXCITED

New Perth S.C. recruit Andrija Jukic is up for the challenge offered by his move to Dorrien Gardens. The spring-heeled attacker hopes his decision to end a lengthy association with Western Knights will have long term benefits for his career. “I’d been at the Knights for a long time and feel I’d learnt as much as I can with the club,” said 20-year old Jukic. “Moving to Perth gives me an opportunity to look at things a bit differently, to add something more to my game and maybe make that move up to the next level.”

Jukic is excitingly looking forward to his first season wearing his new clubs’ trademark azzurri shirt. “I’ve heard a lot of really good things about the set-up at Perth,” he explained. “They are arguably the best club in the league and the facilities at Dorrien Gardens reflect that. Something that really appeals to me is being coached by Graham Normanton, he has a reputation for getting the best out of player and I feel he can teach me a few new things which will help improve my game. The pre-season starts later this month and I can’t wait.”

Like any player Jukic would like nothing more than to play a key role in his teams’ successes. But for his first season at Perth the young attacker has set his sights on a far more modest target. “I’d love to win as many trophies as possible with Perth, but first of all I have to earn and hold a spot in the starting eleven and that won’t be easy amongst a very strong squad,” he said. “So proving myself at Perth and getting into the starting line-up is my first priority. After that I just want to improve on last season and, hopefully, help Perth win a few things.”

Leaving the Knights, the club where he first played football, was not a decision Jukic made lightly. “I have been at the club since I began playing as a junior and made my way up through to the first team so I have a strong connection to the Knights. I’m Croatian and my brother is still at the club so to leave was a very hard decision to make,” he explained. “The boys at the club are great and have been a pleasure to play and train with, and Ronnie Campbell and Willie Kelly are both good coaches who I have the utmost respect for. I’ll miss everyone at the club and wish them all the best for next season … except when they play Perth!”

13.12.2007

GLORY FEEL THE PINCH

David Mitchell may be forced to go into Saturday's game at Sydney F.C. without a full complement of players after being hit by a spate of suspensions and injuries. After bracing for the absence of suspended trio Jamie Harnwell, Nikolai Topor-Stanley and Mitchell Prentice along with injured captain Simon Colosimo, the Perth Glory coach is now sweating on Dino Djulbic (adductor) and goalkeeper Tando Velaphi (ankle) shaking off their injuries to complete the 15-man travelling party.

Velaphi rolled his right ankle during training on Tuesday and failed to complete yesterday's session. "He's come off as a bit of a precaution and hopefully it's not too bad, but we'll see how it goes," Mitchell said. Velaphi's injury could pave the way for Tommi Tomich's return to the starting line-up, while veteran goalkeeper Jason Petkovic, who has been sidelined since breaking a leg last October, has indicated he is prepared to travel as a back-up goalkeeper if necessary.

13.12.2007

DANZE DEPARTS

Perth Glory have mutually agreed to part company with and midfielder Anthony Danze. Danze joined Glory at the start of the season but a series of niggling injuries forced him to play catch-up with his fitness and limited his opportunities. "Anthony has a wonderful talent and in the structure we've been playing I don't think we were able to see the best of it," said coach David Mitchell. "We discussed his options and Anthony came to the conclusion that it would be best for him to take a break from the game." Danze played just eight games, four of those off the bench, in his second spell with Glory.

12.12.2007

SHEPHEARD TO DECIDE HIS FUTURE

Swan I.C. striker Tom Shepheard faces one of the toughest decision of his young career this festive season. The lanky 24-year old has matured greatly during his eight years with Swan but an approach by a rival club has given him plenty of food for thought. "I've been honest with the club by letting coach Paul Lincoln know that I'd spoken to a club and they were keen on signing me," Shepheard said. "I'll sit down over the break and make a decision. Swan have been great to me during my time here and the lads are great ... but we'll see what happens."

Lincoln, who took charge of Swan only two months back, considers Shepheard a key member of the side. "I'm aware that a club is interested in Tommy, and I've spoken to him and made him aware he is a required player and it would be a big loss should he decide to move," said Lincoln. "He has grown within the ranks of our club and showed last season what he can do at both ends of the park. It goes without sayng that we will do what we can to keep him at Francis Street for the future."

Shepheard has developed into one of the State League's most sought after attackers in recent years and last season was arguably the best of his career to date. Although happy with his form in 2007, Shepheard was surprised to win the black and whites top individual award. "I thought I had quite a good consistent season and my body held up for a change," he said with a wry smile. "But I believed Coley (Aaron Cole) would win the award because he was great for us last season. That said, to win the clubs' Fairest and Best is something I'll always cherish."

Further recognition of Shepheard's talents came in the way of his selection in the Football West Select XI that recently played three games against visiting Malaysian side Selangor. "It was a good learning curve for me and playing with the best players in the State was great experience for me, and I also managed to score a couple of goals which was a great thrill," he said. "Selangor were a lot smaller than us but were very quick and played the ball around well, but I thought we matched them in all the games."

12.12.2007

AUSTRALIAN HALL OF FAME SALUTES LENNIE

Western Australia’s most decorated referee, Eddie Lennie, has been inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame. Lennie, the only Australian referee to have officiated at both Olympic Games and World Cup finals tournaments, was amongst nine players and officials who were recognised for their contribution to football at a ceremony today in Sydney. “It is a great honor for me to be inducted into the hall of Fame after more than thirty years as a referee and now working as a referees coach, the timing couldn’t have been better,” said Lennie.

Born in Glasgow in 1959, Lennie officiated 165 Scottish league games before immigrating to Perth in 1991. He rose quickly up through the ranks in Australia and within two years of arrival had refereed the first of his 195 national league games. He jointly holds the record of four national league Grand Finals, was awarded the Australian Referee of the Year three times and on five occasions collected the West Australian Referee of the Year.

Lennie refereed 27 ‘A’ international games, including two games at the 1998 World Cup in France, and had the whistle for a further 22 FIFA recognised internationals. Since hanging up his whistle in 2004 Lennie has served as a FIFA referees instructor for the Oceania region and worked tirelessly to develop and enhance refereeing at state levels through a variety of roles. He is the seventh West Australia to be recognised by the national Hall of Fame, joining players Ron Adair, Robbie Dunn, Gary Marocchi and Robbie Zabica, and administrators Julius Re and Bob McShane.

Australia’s most-capped player, Alex Tobin, was the only induction into the Hall of Champions. Tobin played 87 ‘A’ internationals for the Socceroos and amassed 522 games in a 20-year club career with Adelaide City, Parramatta Power and Northern Spirit. Long-serving Matilda’s defender Anissa Tann, Socceroo goalkeeper Terry Greedy and defender Steve Blair were awarded the Medal of Excellence. Added to the non-playing category alongside Lennie were administrators Heather Reid, John Barclay, Ted Rowley and Trixie Tagg.

12.12.2007

GLORY STUNNED BY HARNWELL BAN

Jamie Harnwell has been handed an additional one-match suspension on top of his mandatory week on the sidelines after being red carded against Wellington Phoenix. The acting Perth Glory captain received an automatic one-game ban for his late challenge on Vaughan Coveny, but the A-League match review panel considered the tackle serious enough to warrant extending the suspension by another week. Harnwell, Glory’s top scorer this season, had been surprised even to have received a red card for a foul he felt was deserving of a yellow. “I was a bit shocked when I was told it was two weeks,” he said. Glory officials will review video footage of the tackle before deciding whether to appeal the additional week ban.

11.12.2007

FOXE CLEARS FIRST HURDLE

A loss to Wellington Phoenix wasn’t the type of start Hayden Foxe had planned for his A-League career. It was a tough night in Wellington Phoenix for Glory, left to nine men and on the bottom of the table, but Foxe got through unscathed after a pre-season knee injury. “Unfortunately, the result didn’t go our way but it was fantastic to get out there with the boys," said the one-time Socceroo. “I pulled up a little stiff and sore, but that’s to be expected given how long it has been since I’ve played.”

Foxe says Glory’s roller-coaster ride of a season is all part and parcel of the game. “As a footballer, or in any type of work you’re doing, you want to do your job and we’ve endured plenty of ups and downs this season but that’s the nature of the game. I’ve always believed you have to go through the hard times to really appreciate the good ones,” he said. “We’re building for next year and in the process we can hopefully have a good finish to this season as well.”

Even though Glory have been anchored to the foot of the A-League table for much of the campaign, Foxe won’t rule out a late charge to qualify for the play-offs. “Even though the results haven’t been going for us, we have played some good football. Our guys have lots of potential, and we still had the better of the game when we were down to ten men, so there’s positives to take out of it,” he said. “If results go our way and all of a sudden we win five in a row, it can happen in this league, but we have a massive hill to climb.”

Foxe has been won over by the standard of the new national competition and believes it will prove a fertile ground for young and old players alike to ply their trade. “I didn’t see much of the A-League overseas, but coming back the standard is quite high and it’s a good league,” he said. “Generations going forward we will see more and more players coming back here to finish their careers. Even some young players that are trying to make their way in England or other parts of Europe, can come back here to get some experience and playing time.”

11.12.2007

JUNIORS PLAY VITAL ROLE ON PHOENIX’ FUTURE

South West Phoenix are happy with how things are progressing for their entry into next years metropolitan juniors competitions. Football West granted the Bunbury-based club approval to field teams in the under-13, 14 and 15 age groups last month and trials for the three sides have been a roaring success. “Future Phoenix trials started a fortnight ago with over forty players strutting their stuff for the coaches,” said players’ representative Steve Suttie. “The turn out was better that expected considering many players were unable to attend due to school commitments, and in recent weeks the competition for places has certainly intensified.”

Suttie views the development of Phoenix’ three junior sides as vital to the on-going viability and success of the club as a semi-professional entity. “Junior players from the South West have always competed well with their metropolitan counterparts up to around under-12 level, but then the gap widens due to the stronger competition the metro area,” he said. Phoenix players will now have play in those same leagues giving them a chance to improve their skills and progress from the junior sides through to our youth team and eventually the senior squad.”

10.12.2007

FONDYKE AND BIRIGHITTI INVITED TO AIS

Howard Fondyke and Mark Birighitti have been offered scholarships at the Australian Institute of Sport. A strong season in the local competition has set both players down the path to a professional career in the game as well as put the in the frame for national youth team selection. Fondyke broke into the senior line-up at E.C.U. Joondalup towards the end of the winter to partner Ian McMurray in attack, while Birighitti honed his skills with the National Training Centre in between keeping goal for the reserves at Perth S.C. “The selection of Howard and Mark continues a strong year for football within WA following the selection of five WA players in the Joeys and five female athletes in their respective national teams,” commented Football West chief executive Garry Chandler. The A.I.S. team competes in the Victorian State League and embarks on an annual overseas trip to further player develop and experience.

9.12.2007

AUSTRALIAN RETURN ONLY TEMPORARY SAYS WARD

Melbourne Victory’s latest recruit, Nick Ward, is already plotting a return to Europe after being released by English Championship struggler Queens Park Rangers. The Olyroos midfielder is expected to make his Victory debut next weekend but views his return home as little more than a stopover before returning to Europe. “I haven’t given up on making it in Europe, quite the opposite,” Ward said. “The truth is I need to be playing games and that just wasn’t happening at Queens Park Rangers. Joining Melbourne gives me the chance to get my match fitness up to where it should be and to get back a bit of lost confidence. I hope I can help them reach the finals, but it looks a bit of a struggle at the moment.”

Although he played a pivotal role in Australia’s qualification for next year’s Beijing Olympic Games, he was played either played out of position or not at all by coach John Gregory while at Loftus Road. And when Gregory was sacked, Ward’s opportunities were non-existent under caretaker coach Mick Harford and then Italian Luigi Di Canio. “It’s been a frustrating period for me, but the dream is still alive,” Ward said. “I know that I need to come back home for the time being. I’ve spoken to (Olyroos coach) Graham Arnold and that’s his advice. I also want to show the Melbourne people what I can do. They are a brilliantly supported club and they deserve even more success.”

8.12.2007

NIGHT SERIES GROUPS DRAWN

The opening salvo in season 2008, the McInerney Ford sponsored Night Series, has taken shape followin the drawing of groups by Football west chief executive Garry Chandler. The Premier league and First Division competitions both commence mid-February with two qualifying groups from which four teams progress to the knock-out stage. Games will be played every every Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening with hosting shared between Litis Stadium and Dorrien Gardens.

The twelve Premier League clubs have been split into two groups for the initial qualifying stage. Group A is made up of Armadale, Cockburn City, Premier League champion Floreat, Fremantle Spirit, newly promoted Mandurah City and Sorrento. Pitted together in Group B are Inglewood United, E.C.U. Joondalup, Night Series trophy holder Perth, Cup winner Stirling Lions, Swan I.C. and Western Knights.

For the first time all twelve second tier clubs will participate in the First Division Night Series which opens with two qualifying groups. Group A consists of Balcatta, Canning City, Dianella White Eagles, Queens Park, Rockingham City and Wanneroo City. Allocated a place in Group B are Ashfield, Bayswater City, Forrestfield United, Gosnells City, Morley Windmills and South West Phoenix.

The 2008 Night Series kicks off on Friday 15th February with double-headers scheduled across the opening five weeks. The top two ranked teams from each of the qualifying groups progress to the round of four which is scheduled for Dorrien Gardens on Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd March. The pre-season competition concludes with the final under lights at Litis Stadium on Saturday 29th March.

8.12.2007

GLORY SELF-DESTRUCT IN WELLINGTON

Perth Glory slumped back to the foot of the A-League table with last nights’ disastrous 3-0 loss to Wellington Phoenix at Westpac Stadium. Shane Smeltz scored twice and Brazilian import Felipe once to earn Phoenix the points on a night when Glory pair Nikolai Topor-Stanley and Jamie Harnwell were shown red cards. “When you have nine men against eleven it makes it pretty hard. Having two guys sent off is very disappointing,” said coach David Mitchell. “There are five games left and we will be doing everything we can to win those while also looking at what we need for next season. The players know they’re playing for their future and it’s up to them whether they’ll be at the club next season or not.”

Leo Bertos led Glory’s charge with several penetrating breaks down the flanks in a frenetic start to proceedings. However, the home team created the better chances and in the 2nd minute Tony Lochead’s cross came off the near post and Dino Djulbic’s attempt to clear ricocheted off Smeltz and over the crossbar. Ahmad Elrich squandered a great chance for the hosts by firing wide shortly after, and in the 20th minute Lochead’s rasping drive sailed high of Tando Velaphi’s bar. A defensive error by Vince Lia presented Glory with a way in but Mitchell Prentice’s neat flick bounced off the upright.

Things went dramatically downhill for Glory in the 26th minute when Topor-Stanley was red carded for illegally halting Vaughan Coveny’s run into the box. Smeltz confidently strode up to the spot and sent Velaphi the wrong way much to the delight of the Phoenix supporters. Three minutes later Elrich created space for Smeltz who squared the ball across the face of goal for Felipe to bundle goal number two into the net at close-range. Glory came close to pegging a goal back just before the break when awarded an indirect free-kick inside the area which Bertos touched to Harnwell whose fierce strike cannoned off the bar.

Glory gave a much better account of themselves in the second half which was only a few minutes when Nikita Rukavytsya forced a fine diving save from Moss. Rukavytsya again went close a minute later with a strike from 18-metres that was deflected wide for a corner. Glory were unlucky not to pull a goal back through substitute Jerry Karpeh who poked just wide in a one-on-one with Moss. The hosts brought up their third on 72 minutes when Lia’s superb cross was nodded by Smeltz beyond the reach of Velaphi. Harnwell was issued his straight red card with seventeen minutes remaining a tackle from behind on Coveny. Bertos nearly bagged a late consolation for the visitors but Moss tipped the shot over the bar just minutes from the final whistle.

8.12.2007

VERBEEK TO LEAD SOCCEROOS TO WORLD CUP

Dutchman Pim Verbeek has been confirmed as the new coach of Australia through to the end of the 2010 World Cup campaign. The former South Korea boss will have two months with the Socceroos before their qualifying campaign begin against Qatar in early February. Verbeek, 51, guided South Korea to the Asian Cup semi-finals this year and has coached Dutch clubs Sparta Rotterdam, Feyenoord Rotterdam and Fortuna Sittard. Verbeek takes over from Graham Arnold and Rob Baan, who both worked as interim coaches in the time since Hiddink left the post following the 2006 World Cup.

Verbeek is excited about the challenge that lies ahead and is very confident he can secure Australia’s safe passage into the 2010 World Cup. “I’m very proud and very happy that I’m the national team coach of the Socceroos,” said Verbeek. “I am looking forward to the challenge ahead of qualifying for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. I intend to become as familiar as possible with football in Australia and I will be based in Australia and intend to relocate immediately.”

7.12.2007

PLATTEN COMMITTED TO ARMADALE

The past few seasons have been difficult for Armadale by anyone’s measure, however, defender Darryl Platten is showing no signs of feeling any strain. The Reds have done well to keep their heads above water since stepping up to the top flight and go into 2008 with their third change of coach in as many years. Platten has come up with the goods through thick and thin for Armadale to establish himself as the Premier League’s most accomplished - and most sought after - young defender.

Platten has been a regular fixture of the first eleven since being lured to the club by Peter Murphy in 2006. He enjoyed playing under Billy Russell and Tom Kilkelly last season and is looking forward to learning from new coach Brad Hassell next year. “It was a big surprise when I heard Billy and Tom were leaving as they had the whole team working for each other, but that’s football as they say,” said Platten. “I’ve spoken to Brad a few times and we’re heading forward as a club. He’s got everything set up for next season and I’m looking forward to working with him.”

There are some big plans afoot at Alfred Skeet Oval that will assist Armadale in their quest to move away from the bottom of the Premier League table. “The club is very ambitious and there is talk of a couple of imports coming in to strengthen the squad,” explained Platten. “Last season had the potential of being a good season for us - Bill and Tom had us working as a strong unit and we need to build on that. We weren’t the most talented football team, but we were well organised and very hard to break down.”

While Platten admits he has met with representatives from a number of rival clubs during the off-season he is also quick to dismiss suggestions he is about to leave Alfred Skeet Oval. “I’ve spoken with a couple of clubs but Armadale are aware of that and are okay with it,” said the 22-year old defender. “I thought long and hard about my future after listening to what other clubs had to offer and have decided to stay at Armadale. The club have been great to me since I joined them and this is my way of saying thanks for that.”

7.12.2007

PERTH STRENGTHEN ATTACKING OPTIONS

Graham Normanton's plan of returning the Premier League trophy to Dorrien Gardens has gathered momentum with the recruitment of Andrija Jukic and Greg Sharland. The attack minded pair are viewed as a vital ingredients in Perth S.C. going one better than the runner-up spot gained last season. "Both players add creativity to the squad and provide us with another avenue to goal, which is something we lacked last season," said Normanton. "And I'm still looking at further strengthening the squad so there could be one or two more signings made before too long."

Jukic announced himself on the local stage by winning the 2004 Rookie of the Year with Western Knights. "Andrija is the type of player who can create goalscoring opportunities through his off the ball awareness and ability to make the seemingly impossible pass," said Normanton. "I wanted Andrija at Perth because I regard him as one of the best, if not the best up and coming young player in the league. His style of play fits the mould of how I like my team to play, so his transition to Perth should be quite smooth and I'm looking forward to working with him."

Luring Sharland to Dorrien Gardens hasn't been easy for Normanton. "I've been chasing Greg for about three years and are pleased to say he's finally a Perth player," explained the Perth boss. "Greg has gained some valuable experience at a higher level and I consider him to be one of the top five players in the league. He's got good vision, is a fine passer and has the on the ball strength to play as a striker if required. Like Andrija, the way he plays fits the Perth mould and if he comes through the pre-season injury free he'll make a major impact on the league this coming season."

6.12.2007

CHANDLER APPOINTED CEO

Football West have appointed Garry Chandler to the role of chief executive officer. Chandler steps into the position on a permanent basis having been acting chief executive officer since the departure of Michelle Phillips in July 2006. "My Board colleagues and I have been extremely pleased with Mr Chandler's performance and are confident in making this appointment that we have the best candidate possible for the role" said Football West chairman Kevin Campbell.

Chandler could not be happier about leading West Australian football into the future. "The sport has made significant progress since Football West's inception in 2004, and whilst we have achieved much within the game over this past season, I am conscious of the challenges that lay ahead and look forward to driving the sport to greater heights in the coming years," he said. "It is a great time to be involved in football in this country and my primary focus will be on maximizing the incredible potential of the game here in Western Australia."

6.12.2007

EDWARDS IN LINE FOR KEY GLORY ROLE

Alistair Edwards is poised to join the Perth Glory board after acting as an adviser in the reappointment of coach David Mitchell. Co-owners Tony Sage and Brett McKeon announced yesterday that Mitchell had been re-signed for next season and revealed their intention to appoint a director with football experience. “We are about to put a very qualified football director on our board and a lot of consultation has one on with that particular individual,” said Sage, who declined to reveal the name of the new director. Edwards, who resigned from his role as coach of the women’s National Training Centre program at the start of last month, helped the owners in considering the coach for next season before the one-year offer was put to Mitchell.

6.12.2007

VICTORY SWOOP TO SIGN WARD

Melbourne Victory has moved quickly to sign Olyroo midfielder Nick Ward following his release from English Championship outfit Queens Park Rangers. Ward’s 18-month stay at Loftus Road came to an abrupt end this week with player and club agreeing to a mutual termination of his contract, paving the way for a return to Australia. It’s a stunning backflip by Ward who less than a week ago vowed to stick it out in Europe. The 22-year old will play out the A-League season with Victory and remain on board for their AFC Champions League campaign.

Ward developed his game at E.C.U. Joondalup, Future Glory and the Australian Institute of Sport before joining Perth Glory in 2004. Loaned out to Stirling Lions for the winter months, he scooped the Gold Medal with a series of sparkling performances in between helping Australia qualify for the 2005 FIFA World Youth Championship. Ward collected the inaugural A-League young player of the year award before joining Rangers for whom he made 22 appearances, while he played another eight games while on loan to Brighton and Hove Albion.

5.12.2007

JOONDALUP SNAP UP MONTGOMERY

E.C.U. Joondalup have signalled their intentions to challenge for top honours in 2008 by signing State striker Stuart Montgomery. After being courted by a number of clubs it was Joondalup's desire for success that put them on top of Montgomery's list and, ultimately, lead him to ending a six-year association with Western Knights. "The thing that swayed me towards Joondalup was the vision shown by the club," he explained. "The players, coaches and the board have a clear ambition for the club to be successful and to win trophies."

Montgomery is eagerly waiting to pull on a Joondalup shirt for the new season and the challenge of moving the club move up the Premier League table. "Joondalup will be looking to improve on last season and really give the top teams a shake," he said. "On a personal front, I'm really looking forward to playing alongside a quality striker like Ian McMurray, I hope I can learn a few things off him and that we can form a potent strike force for the club."

Family commitments are the primary motivation behind Montgomery's decision to part company with the Knights. "It was a difficult decision as I love the club, but my family has to be my priority," he explained. "I have a young family and all the travel to Nash Field for training and games meant I wasn't spending as much time with my family as I would have liked. So to move five minutes up the road gives me the time I want to be with my wife and kids."

Montgomery leaves the Knights on amicable terms having openly discussed his reasons with the club. "I have the utmost respect for the coaches, Ronnie Campbell and Willie Kelly, and club president George Grasso and they all understand totally my decision," he said. "Ronnie and Willie have had a big influence on my career and if it wasn't for them I wouldn't be playing State League. I'm going to miss both of them, it'll be weird rocking up to training and not having Ronnie cracking his jokes and being all hypo on coca-cola or coffee."

As he embarks on the next stage of his career Montgomery says there is a lot he'll miss about the club at which he's played the past six years. "The supporters are great, they've backed me all along and I'd like to thank them for that," he explained. "I'll miss all the players at the club, they're a terrific bunch and the young guys who have come through in the last few years will do the club proud. And it was a great honour to captain such a great club and follow in the footsteps of Paul McVittie, Carl Medica and Scott Devine."

5.12.2007

MITCHELL CONFIRMED AS GLORY COACH

Former Socceroo David Mitchell will coach Perth Glory through to the end of the 2008/09 season. Mitchell was installed in a caretaker capacity last month, but an excellent run of results lead club owners to secure the 45-year olds services on a long-term basis. Since Mitchell took up the reigns Glory have won two and drawn one of their four outings to end what had been an 18 game winless streak. Last weekend’s 3-1 upset win over reigning champion Melbourne Victory convinced co-owners Tony Sage, John Spence and Brett McKeon that Mitchell was the man for the job.

Sage said recent on-field results were only a small part of why the owners wanted to secure the signature of Mitchell sooner rather than later. “When we installed Dave as caretaker coach we had enormous faith in his ability to get the job done and that has been obvious watching the team’s performances in just a short space of time,” Sage said. “We think Dave has all the right ingredients to take Perth to the next level and the announcement of his coaching tenure has been timed as such to allow him ample opportunity to retain and recruit players for next season.”

A number of well-credentialled coaches expressed their interest in the Glory job, however, the owners feel they have secured the right man in Mitchell. “Dave has shown a deep passion for Perth and the future success of the team. He has spoken to us on numerous occasions about his plans for the future and we wholeheartedly share in his vision of building this club into a powerhouse,” said McKeon. Mitchell has already proven he can get the best out of players and his strong network of contacts throughout world football placed him above other contenders.

Mitchell is delighted to secure the head coach role for next season and is confident the recent gains on the pitch are just the start of good things to come for the club. “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed working at the club during the past 18 months. The last four weeks as caretaker coach have been challenging yet ultimately rewarding for not just myself but the players, staff and fans,” Mitchell said. “The owners have made a significant commitment and I’m looking forward to cementing my plans for the future and delivering on the ultimate aim of playing finals football and winning a championship.”

Mitchell is keen to keep the current coaching team of himself, Robbie Dunn and Kenny Lowe in place. “It hasn’t been confirmed as yet but it’s a situation where I’ve been happy and it has worked very well,” said Mitchell. “They’re both local lads and have had a really positive influence on the team. The recent results are not just down to me, Robbie and Kenny have come on board and given a huge helping hand as well.” The coaching trio will have virtually a blank canvas when it comes to putting together a squad for next season with only eight of Glory’s 23 players contracted beyond the current term.

4.12.2007

COLOSIMO GROUNDED

Perth Glory captain Simon Colosimo will miss the club’s next two matches after a scans today revealed a small tear in his hamstring. Colosimo was forced from the pitch 57 minutes into Sunday’s home win Melbourne Victory after feeling a twinge in his right leg while taking Glory into attack. “It’s unfortunate because Simon had been doing exceptionally well and playing a real leaders role for us,” said coach Dave Mitchell. “It’s bad timing for him because he has been playing very well and obviously for the club also to loose an influential player and leader for a couple of vital away matches.” Colosimo will miss the upcoming games against Wellington Phoenix and Sydney F.C.

3.12.2007

HULL STILL LEARNING : GARCIA

Richard Garcia feels Hull City's lack of experience cost them victory against Cariff City on the weekend. The West Australian's third goal of the season looked like earning the Tigers another three points only for Roger Johnson to equalise with the last kick of the game. Although Hull extended their unbeaten streak to five games, successive draws with Bristol City and Cardiff have seen them slip to tenth on the Championship table.

Garcia says it's important Hull learn to close out games if they want to stay in the hunt for the end of season play-offs. "It's a learning experience that we're all on," Garcia said. "There's a lot of young players in the team and I'm sure the next time a situation like it comes up, we'll deal with it better. I thought we were comfy as the game went on but it's taken a wonder-strike for them to take a point ... It's hard to come away from a game thinking we've got three points and then to only take one."

From a personal point of view, Garcia was delighted to be back in the starting line-up after missing Hull's past three games. "It was good to be back in the side and it was good to be back on the scoresheet again," he said. "I feel fresh - I've had a little break, which is something the other lads haven't had a chance to have. It's a busy time of year, but we've got enough players wanting to play every game for that not to be a problem."

3.12.2007

WARD VOWS TO STAY IN EUROPE

Queens Park Rangers midfielder Nick Ward has dismissed suggestions he’s considering a return to Australia. Ward has only played twice for Rangers in an injury-interrupted season but, despite the setbacks, he remains determined as ever to stay in Europe. “I’ve only been over here a year and a half and, apart from the first few months when I was playing well, I haven’t really played much,” he told Jonathon Cook of the ‘West Australian’ newspaper. “I’ve had a few offers from A-League clubs but I don’t want to go back. I need to stick it out and do it tough a bit longer. It’s not about instant success - you’ve got to grind it out."”

It’s understood a number of A-League clubs, including Perth Glory, Melbourne Victory and Sydney F.C., have made known their interest in bringing the exciting 22-year old back to Australia. But if Ward is to move from Loftus Road, the Netherlands is most likely to be his next port of call. “I’ve always wanted to play there,” said the inaugural A-League young player of the year. “I’ve heard some good things and it’s supposed to be a good place to learn your trade.”

Already, though, Ward has a solid grounding in the treacherous nature of the professional game in England. “What I’ve learnt is unbelievable,” he said. “I’ve learnt how it works in Europe and it’s not a nice place sometimes. It’s not like in Australia where people give you a pat on the back and pump you up, and you’ve got the Football Federation behind you. Over here you’re just another player and if you’re not doing well, or you’re not playing, you can get forgotten.”

Ward said him involvement in the Olyroos qualifying campaign had helped him stay positive despite a lack of game time at club level. “The Olympics has been the shining light,” he said. “With the qualification we had, we went to eight different countries, playing in 35 degrees in one match and then minus three the next. It’s a great achievement for the boys.” In a sign of his commitment to the green and gold, Ward took just two weeks to bounce back from a hernia operation and play in the last two qualifiers against Iraq and DPR (North) Korea.

2.12.2007

CHAMPIONS NO MATCH FOR RAMPANT GLORY

Perth Glory moved off the bottom of the A-League table courtesy of a resounding 3-1 defeat of reigning champion Melbourne Victory. A brace from emerging talent Nikita Rukavytsya plus Jamie Harnwell's sixth goal of the campaign thrilled the 8,030 fans who cheered Glory on to victory. Melbourne's reply in a largely ones-sided encounter came via a superb strike from former Glory boy Adrian Caceres. Glory's first win at Members Equity Stadium in over a year dragged the once benchmark club of Australian football off the bottom of the table for the first time since September.

The action came thick and fast in a frantic opening twenty minutes in which both goalkeepers featured heavily. Michael Theoklitos was forced into a desperate block from Nikolai Topor-Stanley’s thumping strike, and just a minute later it was Tando Velaphi who was called upon to react smartly to a low shot by Archie Thompson. James Robinson had a shot blocked on the line by Roddy Vargas, and Jamie Harnwell's spectacular overhead was deflected high by Steve Pantelidis. Glory continued their assault through Rukavytsya fired into the body of Theoklitos after racing on to Simon Colosimo's through ball.

The home crowd were finally given reason to celebrate in the 18th minute when James Downey delivered a pinpoint cross on to the head of Harnwell who arrowed the ball between Theoklitos' out-stretched glove and the corner of the net. Glory's dominance was further rewarded nine minutes later when Rukavytsya cut inside from the right to curl a superb shot past Theoklitos from 15-metres. Melbourne looked nothing like the side that won the championship last season, but on 37 minutes were handed a lifeline as Grant Brebner squared the ball to Caceres whose rocket-like drive from 26-metres flew into the top corner of the net with Velaphi grasping at air.

Substitute Jerry Karpeh wasted no time in making his presence known as less than a minute after the re-start he played the ball to the feet of Rukavytsya who clipped a neat shot over Theoklitos to restore Glory's two-goal buffer. The visitors worked tirelessly to reel in the margin but could open few holes in a defence under the command of Dino Djulbic and Harnwell. Jamie Coyne came to the rescue with a goal line clearance after Velaphi spilled a 77th minute Carlos Hernandez corner, and three minutes from the end Danny Allsopp curled his shot from 15-metres just past the upright with the Glory custodian well beaten.

2.12.2007

LAZARIDIS AIMS TO RETURN BY END OF THE MONTH

Perth Glory midfielder Stan Lazaridis has delayed his comeback for at least another fortnight. The former Socceroo had hoped to make his much-anticipated return to football against Melbourne Victory this afternoon, however, those plans have been shelved by a lack of match fitness. “After nearly one year out of the game, two and a half sessions back with the boys just wasn’t enough to sharpen up,” said Lazaridis. “If I was to play this week, or the next, I would probably be limited to only ten or twenty minutes, coming off the bench. It now looks as if I might wait another two or three weeks to make my long-awaited comeback.” Lazaridis is now planning to resume his playing career on 30th December when Glory host Queensland Roar.

1.12.2007

SCORING GOALS AT TAFE

The next big thing in Australian football could be a product of Central TAFE who’ve gone into partnership with Football West to establish a football development centre. Based at the Leederville campus, the centre provides students the opportunity to combine football training with Certificate IV qualifications in Sport (Development) and Athlete Support Services. “We want to offer students the opportunity to carry on with their football development after leaving school - and we want to make sure that they have recognised qualifications to fall back on,” said lecturer Dave Evans, a qualified coach who has experience in similar schemes in the U.K. “It is a system which can produce talented athletes able to combine the rigors of training with academic work.”

The course will run over one year, commencing February 2008, and be integrated into the academic timetable. Students will also have the chance to gain coaching qualifications, opening further career opportunities. “There is a concern that we lose good footballers when they leave school so the Central TAFE Development Centre is an ideal way of keeping young people involved, giving them a chance to extend their skill development and education,” said Garry Chandler, chief executive of Football West. “If we can also produce a number of high-quality new coaches in the process, that can only be good for the sport in WA.” Students interested in joining the course should contact Dave Evans on 9202 4920 / 4349.

1.12.2007

NO DEAL FOR DADI

Perth Glory’s late attempt to secure striker Eugene Dadi for the remainder of the season have failed at the final hurdle. Glory chiefs are furious Dadi’s Isreali club, Hapoel Acre, did not release the one-time Ivory Coast international before the close of the A-League transfer window yesterday. “Perth Glory is extremely disappointed at the failure of Hapoel Acre to assist Eugene continue his career in the Hyundai A-League,” said chief executive officer Scott Gooch. “It’s a frustrating situation because both the Glory and Eugene wanted to extend his stay in WA but that isn’t feasible now this season. He certainly left a favourable impression and will remain a player of interest in our recruiting for next season.” David Mitchell was keen to add the experienced striker to his squad following an impressive week-long trial with Glory.

1.12.2007

MITCHELL TOLD TO PLAN FOR NEXT SEASON

Tony Sage has given the strongest indication yet that David Mitchell will lead Perth Glory into next season. Mitchell’s tenure is guaranteed only until the end of the current campaign but Sage, who owns the club in partnership with John Spence and Brett McKeon, has reveal the coach has been asked to beginning planning for 2008/09. “With Mitch in charge, you will see a completely different look to the squad next year,” Sage said. “He’s been given permission to start looking (at players) now.”

Glory’s ownership group have been impressed by Mitchell’s first few weeks in charge. Despite being without a number of key players, Glory registered their first win of the season under Mitchell as well as a draw and one loss. “We’ve been happy with the way he’s conducted himself and the way the team is going,” Sage added. “We’re happy to let him move forward and get the squad ready for next year in his image.” Sage confirmed the coach for next season was yet to be finalised but that Mitchell’s early performances were a “big tick for him when it comes to announcing the coaching position.”

30.11.2007

ADMINISTRATION NOTHING NEW TO LUTON'S COYNE

Luton Town's players are sticking together despite being hit with a 10-point penalty that plunged them to the bottom of League One. The Football League applied the 10-point penalty as a consequence of the Hatters slip into administration last week due to decreasing revenue and mounting liabilities. Club captain Chris Coyne says the players are determined to do everything possible to make the points deduction irrelevant to their season. "The goalposts have been moved, but as a group of players you just want to win every game," he said. "You don't set yourselves any goals."

Financial problems are nothing new to Luton as the long-serving trio of Coyne, Steve Robinson and Matthew Spring know all too well. "We've been through it before and it's something that happened for whatever reason and it's not down to our own doing," said Coyne. "I don't understand the total financial implications as regards the administration - it does mean the budget strings are tightened. All you want to do as a player is go out and play football."

The former Perth S.C. defender said it was still too early to talk about the players deferring their wages, but indicated that they would be prepared to take that step if it was in everybody's best interests. "If it's a short term solution to get the club back on to a sound footing it's something we've got to look at, otherwise we could be unemployed footballers rather than footballers playing for Luton Town," said Coyne, a veteran of close to 250 games for Luton. "It's great when Saturday comes, because you can forget about it and just focus on football."

30.11.2007

RUKAVYTSYA SETS OLYMPIC GOAL

Nikita Rukavytsya wants to force his way into the Australian squad for next year's Beijing Olympic Games. Having been drafted into the Olyroos squad at the last minute for the recent qualifiers with Iraq and DPR (North) Korea, the Ukraine-born striker hopes he can make his mark in Perth Glory's remaining seven A-League games. "If I can keep playing well, doing my best in training and performing on the pitch I might get a chance," said the 20-year old. "It's a one in a lifetime opportunity. It's a dream of every player." Rukavytsya scored twice in his last outing for Glory, a 4-1 defeat of Newcastle Jets three weeks ago, and will get a chance to reprise that performance in Sunday's home clash with Melbourne Victory.

28.11.2007

LAZARIDIS BACK IN THE MIX

After a year in football’s wilderness Perth Glory star Stan Lazaridis made his long awaited return to training yesterday and immediately set about staking his claim for a place in the line-up for Sunday’s home game with Melbourne Victory. The presence of Glory’s most experienced player gave the session a noticeable lift while the assembled media pack and coaching staff couldn’t help but be impressed as the winger made several searing runs down the left.

Lazaridis is delighted to be back amongst his team mates and is desperate to be a part of the club’s revival over the final seven games of the regular season. “It was really nice to get back into the changerooms and take part in the banter with the lads,” said Western Australia’s best known footballer. “It felt like coming home today, the last year was very lonely and now to be back amongst my team mates and playing the game I love is fantastic.”

Although in good shape, Lazaridis admits he’s not match fit but feels he could play some role for the team this weekend. “I still have a lot of work to do to get back into the team,” he said. “I don’t think I’m far off to be honest, but at the same time I still need some heavy sessions with plenty of challenges to simulate real time play. The answer to being match fit is no. I’ve been running on my own just about every day, so my general fitness is going to be pretty good.”

A year out of the game comes with a silver lining for Lazaridis who declared he had fully recovered from a groin injury that curtailed his impact during his first season back in Perth. “Today was just easing in, and the guys were kind of protective of me,” he said. “By the end of the week I will have a much better idea of how I’m shaping up and I’m sure there won’t be any hesitation on their part to lunge in with a few tackles to see where I am at.”

28.11.2007

OLDFIELD LEAVES STAFFORD RANGERS

Football Conference strugglers Stafford Rangers have released assistant manager David Oldfield as part of a round of cost cutting measures. Oldfield, 39, had been with the club for the 18 months and had come out of retirement to make 22 appearances for Rangers. "We have had to look everywhere we can to make savings and, yes, Dave Oldfield is part of the cost cutting," said secretary and financial director Mike Hughes. "It was a painful thing to have to let Dave go, because he is a likeable chap. But the fact is he is a luxury we cannot afford at the moment - we have a manager and we can't afford both him and an assistant." Rangers are currently second-from-bottom in the Blue Square Premier with just nine points from 20 matches.

27.11.2007

GLORY TEST EXPERIENCED STRIKER

Triallist Eugine Dadi has impressed in his first training run with Perth Glory. The former Ivory Coast international paid his own way to Perth and, fresh from a spell with Israeli club Hapoel Acre, is hoping to play out the season with Glory. "I'm happy to be here, happy with what I've seen and it's a good club," Dadi said. "Glory gave me the opportunity, I heard about the league and football here and really want to be part of the team and do something good. I was playing in Israel three weeks ago and I'm free now."

Coach David Mitchell has been after a proven goalscorer since taking over from Ron Smith earlier this month and feels Dadi could fit the bill. "He wanted to look at where we train, the boys and the club, we wanted to have a look at him, and something could happen at the end of the week," Mitchell said. "Because he becomes a visa player there's regulations you have to go through, so we will have to sort that out before he can play."

Dadi will spend this week reinforcing his goal-scoring credentials in training before Mitchell decides whether to bid for him. "The opportunity came before the season that we could have looked at him, but unfortunately, we weren't quick enough," Mitchell said. "The opportunity has arisen again, he said he wanted to come over and heard the A-League is a good league and wanted to try out. As we were still looking for someone, it could be a perfect match."

Dadi began his career by joining the football academy at French club Sochaux at the age of 15. Spells at Stade Lavallois (France), LASK Linz (Austria) and Toulouse (France) followed before a season with each Aberdeen and Livingston in Scotland's top flight. In 2003 he joined English League One outfit Tranmere Rovers where he'd play 86 games and scored 32 goals over two seasons. Time at Nottingham Forest and Notts County preceded his move to Hapoel Acre.

27.11.2007

GARCIA PREPARED TO SCRAP FOR PLACE

Hull City striker Richard Garcia admits he “faces a fight” to get back into Phil Brown's starting eleven after returning from Australia. Garcia was an ever-present in the Tigers starting line-up this season until a fortnight ago when he headed back to Perth to visit his unwell father. While away his place was taken by Stephen McPhee, but now he’s back at the KC Stadium Garcia is ready to battle for his shirt after playing off the bench against Scunthorpe on the weekend. “I face a fight to get back into the team, but it’s a good fight,” he said. “It’s good to know that other players are waiting, desperate to come into the side and play. Macca has come in and done really well and now it’s my turn to do the same and fight my way back into the team. Despite coming off the bench, I enjoyed the win on Saturday all the same. It was just nice to be back playing again, even though it was really cold!”

27.11.2007

LAZARIDIS REJOINS TEAM MATES

Stan Lazaridis will finally return to training today following the Football Federation Australia imposed twelve-month ban for testing positive to the hair loss drug finasteride. Prevented from training as well as playing, Lazaridis has been limited to social kickabouts with former players to attempt to keep his fitness up. And while Glory fans will be desperate for Lazaridis' immediate return against Melbourne Victory this weekend, coach David Mitchell is keeping his options open.

Mitchell admitted to feeling some pressure to pick his star recruit straight away, however, Lazaridis' fitness levels will determine whether he plays any role against Melbourne. "A player of his quality coming back into the side will be great. We have just to see how Stan is fitness wise, because he hasn't trained with us," Mitchell said. "Whether he will be fit enough to take part this weekend, I am not sure, it will be great to have him in the squad."

26.11.2007

DE VANNA CROWNED SPORTSWOMAN OF THE YEAR

Australian international Lisa De Vanna capped a stellar year by becoming the first footballer to be crowned the ‘West Australian’ Sportswoman of the Year. De Vanna, the star of the Matildas World Cup campaign in China, joins an illustrious list of Olympic and world champions which includes Rechelle Hawkes, Elspeth Denning, Jill McIntosh and Shelley Taylor-Smith to have won the much sought after award.

Only days after celebrating her 23rd birthday, De Vanna edged out Matildas team mate Collette McCallum on the strength of her place in the FIFA’s All-Stars team and nomination for the World Player of the Year. De Vanna and McCallum both played key roles in Australia’s historic World Cup appearance that took the national women’s through to the quarter-final stage for the first time.

De Vanna, who has represented Australia on 48 occasions, says her achievement was attributable to Australia’s success in China. “The team has now been together for a few years and is finally starting to see the reward of their hard work,” she said. “We went tot he World Cup determined to win and showed for the first time that Australia has the ability to be a force in world football.”

26.11.2007

TOUGH DRAW FOR SOCCEROOS

Australia have been handed no favours in the preliminary draw for the 2010 World Cup after being placed in the Asian confederation's 'group of death' for the initial stage of qualifiers. The Socceroos were slotted into the toughest of the region's five groups alongside Asian Cup champions Iraq, China and Qatar. All four Group One teams are ranked in the Asian region's top ten.

The four nations meet each other twice next year, both home and away, with Australia's campaign commencing on 6th February. Twenty nations contest the third stage, with that number whittled down to ten for the fourth stage which begins in October 2007. Only the top four Asian teams gain direct qualification to the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, with the fifth-best team to play off against the winner of Oceania for the final spot in the 32-team tournament.

25.11.2007

GLORY REVEAL DETAILS OF MANCHESTER LINK

The on and off field benefits of Perth Glory’s unique partnership deal with English Premier League side Manchester City will be far reaching for the West Australian club according to co-owner John Spence. “I passionately believe that alliances like this will become commonplace if clubs want to take full advantage of their place in the world game,” said Spence, who played a vital role in ensuring Glory was part of the seven-club alliance. “Football is growing so rapidly that only by sharing skills, resources and expertise will clubs be able to realise their full potential.”

Spence identified eight key areas in which Glory will benefit from the worldwide alliance. These include the loan of players amongst the seven clubs, player trials, friendlies and pre-season games, cross marketing opportunities, the establishment of academies, sharing of coaching and administration resources and expertise, and global credibility. Other than Glory, the alliance clubs are Manchester City (England), Shanghai Shenhua (China), Thanda Royal Zulu (South Africa), FC Moscow (Russia), Grasshoppers (Switzerland) and Chonburi FC (Thailand).

The loan of players will assist the alliance clubs fill gaps in playing rosters caused by injury, suspension and national team duty. “There are three Thai Internationals that are free agents for the next few weeks and we’re looking to possibly bring one or two of them down to Perth,” said Spence. “Going forward we’ll be able to get more players, including some who are vying for first team spots with Man City.”

The network of clubs gives Glory’s players an avenue to trial and showcase their talents to clubs from abroad. “This is a wonderful opportunity for our current players and also will be a key selling point when attracting new players to the club,” Spence said. “I believe it will be a great catalyst in the decision making process when a player is looking to sign. In the short term Man City representatives will be coming to Perth to look at what we’re doing and the players we have on our books.”

All seven clubs in the alliance are committed to playing friendly and pre-season games against each other, including some in Perth. “Manchester City is keen to bring a team to Western Australia and it will be a terrific for all football fans in Perth to see an English Premier League team in their own back yard,” Spence said. “Also under discussion is an opportunity to hold a competition against the other teams in the alliance.”

Cross marketing opportunities will provide each club in the alliance to further opportunities build their football brand. Manchester City chairman Thaksin Shinawatra has revealed his desire to see his club take a position as one of the world’s biggest football brands and he is determined to ensure that all clubs in the alliance are part of that winning football culture. “The A-League has a strong presence in Asia through the Asian Champions League and our links with clubs in that part of the world will be a bonus for us to promote our brand,” Spence said.

Development academies have already been announced in Thailand and China. The next academy will be in Goa, India, in collaboration between Manchester City, Glory and Spence’s company Karma Resorts. “India is a largely untapped football development area and with their massive population there will be many exciting prospects from the country,” Spence said. “Closer to home we’re expecting an academy to be running in Perth in the future and Perth Glory will be a major beneficiary of the emerging talent to come through that program.”

Glory will tap into the coaching and administrative resources and expertise of Manchester City to ensure best practice is used in Western Australia. “One of the problems with a relatively small set-up like Perth is that you have a limited budget and resources,” Spence said. “On a coaching front a team like Manchester City has a terrific set-up with state of the art sports science facilities which enable them to develop techniques to aid in performance and recovery and we will have access to this information.”

Glory will be seen as the team of choice in Australia as supporters of each of the seven alliance clubs become exposed to the Glory brand. “I can’t tell you how proud it made me to log onto the Manchester City website and see the Perth Glory name there with details about the club,” Spence said. “I’ve also had the opportunity to talk with Sven-Goran Eriksson and he is genuinely excited about the prospects of this alliance.”

25.11.2007

MCCALLUM HELPS NEWCASTLE TO VICTORY

Newcastle have won the opening match of the inaugural women’s A-League Challenge with a 4-2 win over Sydney F.C. in an entertaining clash at EnergyAustralia Stadium. West Australian midfielder Collette McCallum, one of eleven Matildas on show, was amongst the goals for Newcastle. A good crowd was on hand in perfect sunny conditions to see Sydney go ahead after just 3 minutes via Heather Garriock’s superb chip from 25-metres. Newcastle equalised with an equally impressive long-range effort from Caitlin Munoz in the 15th minute, then McCallum swung the ball into the bottom corner from 25-metres. Katie Gill put Newcastle’s third on the board early in the second half, then added a fourth to the tally on 71 minutes. Leena Khamis brought some respectability to the score line from a Sydney perspective with a late strike.

25.11.2007

I ALMOST QUIT : LAZARIDIS

Stan Lazaridis came within a whisker of walking away from football during his enforced twelve months out of the game. A Football Federation Australian imposed ban prevented Lazaridis from playing and training after he returned a positive test for finasteride, a hair loss treatment which is also considered a masking agent by the World Anti Doping Agency. And while he returns to the training track this week, the former Socceroo says he was tempted to call it quits. “There was a period about four months ago when I seriously considered giving the game away,” he said. “I was concentrating on other things in life and I was forced to consider whether professional football was still for me.”

Thankfully, Lazaridis decided he did not want a glittering career to end that way and is now leaning towards playing on again next season. “Ultimately, the desire to finish some unfinished business and make a contribution to this football club drove me. It’s really hurt having the game you love, and have played for almost every day for the past 20 years, taken away so suddenly,” he explained. “I’m champing at the bit to get out there, and I’m feeling as if I want to play on next season. Some may think it’s a big call, at 35 years of age, but the fire still burns inside me. In fact, the personal motivation to perform is as high as it’s been for a long time.”

24.11.2007

HARNWELL TO THE RESCUE

A second half header by man of the moment Jamie Harnwell earned Perth Glory a fighting 1-1 draw with Adelaide United in last night’s A-League meeting at Hindmarsh Stadium. Harnwell’s fifth goal of the season was a fitting reward on a night he wore the captain’s armband in recognition of his 200th game for the club. And he complemented a typically passionate performance by rising highest to head in a Mitchell Prentice free-kick midway through the second half. “I guess fate was on my side and I managed to get a head to the ball at the right time and it went in,” said Harnwell, whose family made a surprise trip to Adelaide for his milestone match. “I thought to myself before the match that a goal would be a great way to remember my 200th game and I’m delighted it worked out that way. It’s nice to get a point because the boys worked their socks off tonight and we had plenty of good opportunities in the second half. I think we’re unlucky not to be coming away with all three points.”

A physical first half belonged to Adelaide who weathered an early Glory onslaught before establishing control. But as has been the recent trend, the Reds struggled to win the aerial contests despite getting plenty of quality balls into the 18-yard box. Travis Dodd’s delivery from the left found Paul Agostino whose shot was desperately blocked by Harnwell, while Lucas Pantelis headed high from an Agostino cross. Dez Giraldi then did his best to inspire his team mates with a spectacular overhead kick which forced a save from Tommi Tomich. Dino Djulbic and Ante Kovacevic were outstanding at the back for Glory, but six minutes from the break that partnership was broken when Kovacevic was forced off the field suffering a hamstring injury. Adelaide had the lead within a minute as Robert Cornthwaite fed the ball into the path of Alagich who waltzed past Naum Sekulovski before stroking his shot across Tomich and into the net off the far post.

Glory emerged for the second half firing on all cylinders as Nikita Rukavytsya volleyed high from a James Robinson flick on. James Downey was proving a handful for the home side with a string of crosses, one of which was met at the far post by Mark Lee who, unfortunately, dragged his shot wide. Adelaide went close on 67 minutes with a neat one-two between Agostino and Shaun Ontong after which the latter blasted high from 9-metres. Glory deservedly equalised on 69 minutes when Harnwell got in between Milan Susak and Angelo Costanzo to head over the outstretched gloves of Eugene Galekovic. Adelaide were almost handed the lead a couple of minutes later when Giraldi’s cross was cut out by Lee who headed just wide of his own goal. Simon Colosimo lifted a shot high from 15-metres as Glory sniffed a chance of victory. However, it was the hosts which had the better late chances as Tomich kept out strikes from Pantelis and Alagich, while substitute Issy Erdogan found the net only for referee Peter O’Leary to rule it out for an earlier foul.

23.11.2007

HARNWELL JOINS 200 GAME CLUB

Jamie Harnwell will become only the third Perth Glory player to make 200 appearances for the club when he runs onto Hindmarsh Stadium this evening. Few players can claim to have put more passion and pride into their performances for the club than Harnwell, who joined Glory in 1998. Now in his ninth season, Harnwell is just hours away from joining Scott Miller (227 games) and Bobby Despotovski (241 games) in an elite group of Glory champions. "They're legends of the club and I don't know if I can claim to be quite at that status," commented Harnwell humbly. "They have both achieved so much in the game and I'm honoured to be in their company but I consider myself just a step below them."

A Glory fans could forget Harnwell's long-range bomb against arch rivals Wollongong Wolves in 2001, however, for the 30-year old the highlights of a glittering career come in the form of back-to-back championships. "Holding the championship trophy is a magnificent feeling and definitely the key moments in my career so far," Harnwell said. "The Glory had a fantastic team, a great bunch of fans and to play in front of more than 40,000 of them at Subiaco Oval was a very special occasion. It's the kind of thing that stays with you forever and I hope that the new group of players here at Glory are able to experience that as well, I'd certainly like to be part of it with them again."

While championships and captaincy have been his reward, there has also been tough times including a battle for a regular berth in the starting line-up this season. "I suppose at the start of the season I wasn't sure if I would achieve 200 games, so to be playing this game is going to be fantastic and I'm really looking forward to it," Harnwell said. "When you're not playing or coming in and out of the side you don't know what is going to happen. I just set about making the most of my opportunities and putting in the hard work at training and was confident the rewards would come and it has done."

The defender turned striker confident of adding to his games tally for several seasons to come. "Physically I feel fantastic and I'd hope that I could play for another three years at least. I'll sit down with the club in the next month or two and sort out a future plan," he said. Harnwell made a name for himself on the local scene with Sorrento and Kingsway Olympic before signing with Glory. Since 1998 he's figured in three National Soccer League premierships and savoured the taste of Grand Final victory on two occasions. Having played his entire career in defence, Harnwell has adapted well to his new role as a goalscorer in recent years.

23.11.2007

CHANCE FOR MATILDAS DUO TO SCORE DECISIVE GOAL

Lisa De Vanna and Collette McCallum will be hoping to create history when the 'West Australian' Sportswoman of the Year is announced today. The Matilda's duo are amongst eight finalists for the award being presented today at the Esplanade Hotel in Fremantle. Former winners include Olympic and world champions from a wide representation of sports, but no footballer has come close - until now.

At just 21, McCallum represents the future of the women's game in Australia. Her creativity in midfield played a major role in Australia's qualifying for the quarterfinals of the Women's World Cup during September. McCallum, capped 35 times for Australia, scored one of the goals of the tournament with a stunning free-kick from 25-metres against Canada. Earlier this month she was named second runner-up in the Asian Football Confederation Player of the Year.

De Vanna spearheaded the Australian attack in China, scoring four goals in as many outings. The 22-year old's ability to take on and beat opposing players as well as a keen eye for goal were rewarded at tournaments' end with a place in the FIFA Women's World Cup All-Stars team. De Vanna, capped 48 times by Australia, is the only Australian in contention for the FIFA World Player of the Year which is being presented late next month.

22.11.2007

KARPEH EARNS HIS SHOT AT GLORY

Golden Boot winner Boima ‘Jerry’ Karpeh completed a remarkable transformation from refugee to professional footballer when he signed a contract to play for Perth Glory for the rest of the 2007/08 season. Karpeh’s appearance for Glory against Central Coast Mariners last Sunday marked the high point on a long road that started in Liberia, where he was born, and took him through refugee camps in Nigeria before his family arrived in Australia seven years ago. “I just want to prove myself,” said the 23-year old. “I’m ready and focused. I’ll just work my guts out and try to get something out of it.”

In seven years the muscular striker has climbed through the tans of the local scene, starting in the reserves with Perth S.C. before moving to Dianella White Eagles, Bayswater City, Fremantle City and finally Floreat Athena, who benefited from his 25 goals to land the Premier League title. Before he arrived in Perth, Karpeh, who was six when he moved to Nigeria with his dad Bill, mum Meatta and sister Patience, immersed himself in the world game. “We used to play on really hard rough ground,” he said. “Some of the time we played barefoot and just get a ball to play with was very hard”

Things have been easier since the arrival in WA, though recognition has been had to come by. Still, Karpeh was unable to land a Glory contract and recently had an unsuccessful trial with Newcastle Jets. But his luck changed when David Mitchell replaced Ron Smith as coach of Glory. “I’m training every day now and it means I can just concentrate on football,” he said. “I’m home and playing in front of the people I know.”

22.11.2007

TODARO APPOINTED TO BALCATTA TOP JOB

Respected coach Salv Todaro has taken the helm of First Division outfit Balcatta. Todaro guided Bayswater City to the First Division championship in 2003 and took Ashfield to second place in each of the past two seasons. He takes over from Basil Lenzo who cited business and family commitments for his recent decision to step aside.

Todaro, who spent seven seasons with Balcatta as a player, is exciting by the prospect of returning to Graham Burkett Reserve. “The direction, goals and ambition of the club for the next couple of years and beyond was very appealing,” he explained. “The committee have a three-to-five year development plan which sounds very exciting and the opportunity to be part of this was too simply too much for me to turn down.”

Balcatta completed the recent season near the foot of the table and Todaro is looking forward to the job ahead. “One of the major area needing work is to bring confidence back to the club and the players after a season where is took a bit of a battering,” he said. “Although very early days, we will be looking at finishing in the top half of table next year and also push some of the younger players through into the first team.”

22.11.2007

LINCOLN UP FOR THE CHALLENGE

Paul Lincoln will draw on his vast knowledge of the game in attempting to guide Swan I.C. into rarely chartered waters next year. Swan have hardly set the league on fire since re-entering the top flight in 2000, finishing in the bottom half of the table on seven occasions, but that record doesn’t phase Lincoln who is excitedly looking forward to his first senior coaching appointment. “I’m really looking forward to the new challenge and I believe I’ve a lot to offer the club,” said the new Swan boss.

Lincoln will have the familiar face of Carlo Scali, who stepped aside recently for work reason, by his side during this first senior coaching appointment. “With Carlo remaining at the club as my assistant it will make it an easier transition for me as he has a good understanding of the first team players,” explained Lincoln. “We’ve also appointed former-Swan player Gary Mateljan as the under-18’s coach, he’s been in football a long time and will add experience to the group. Mick Da Re, who was outstanding with the 18’s last season, will takeover the under-23’s.”

With the new season fast approaching, Lincoln has been busy formulating his plans for 2008. “I’ve spoken to a number of players who I believe will strength our squad,” he commented. “We hope to retain most of last season’s squad, and we’ll welcome back the likes of David Foster, Geoff Mason and Danyal Bennett who missed most of last season due to injuries. We have an intense fitness routine in place for the pre-season - I want players to be able to run out games next year - and I believe we’ll have a squad that’ll be competitive. I’m confident you’ll see a much-improved Swan side in 2008.”

21.11.2007

OLYROOS SEAL OLYMPIC SPOT WITH DRAW

Australia booked their place at next year's Olympic Games with a 1-1 draw against DPR (North) Korea in Pyongyang this evening. The point was enough to guarantee Australia top spot in Group A regardless of the outcome of Iraq's game with Lebanon tonight. The Olyroos showed plenty of character in coming from a goal down with captain Mark Milligan scoring the vital equaliser midway through the second period. Qualification for Beijing maintained Australia's impressive appearance record of playing at all six Oylmpic tournaments since 1988.

It was obvious early that it was going to be a long night for Australia who struggled to get to grips with the artificial, icy playing surface. North Korea's focus on playing a long ball game paid dividends on 10 minutes when Pak Chol Min edged in between Mark Milligan and Danny Vukovic to neatly lob the home side into the lead. Shots rained down on the Australian goal for the remainder of the half, however, wasteful finishing in and around the 18-yard box would prove costly for North Korea. The Olyroos best chance came on 35 minutes when James Troisi's stinging shot was parried by the 'keeper.

Australia came back into the game after the interval, holding possession for lengthy periods and applying sustained pressure to a tiring opponent. The equaliser arrived on 67 minutes when Kristian Sarkies floated a free-kick to the back post where Milligan headed the ball back across goal where it struck the upright and crossed the line. Clearly deflated, North Korea threw caution to the wind by attacking at every opportunity, but Australia were having none of it and by slowing the pace maintained control until the final whistle.

21.11.2007

GLORY TO WIDEN TIES WITH GIANT

English Premier League side’s Manchester City could play pre-season games in Perth as part of their affiliation with Perth Glory. The Manchester club last week confirmed they had forged links with six clubs, including Glory, to extend their global reach through player exchange, sharing of marketing and sponsorship opportunities and establishing regional academies. Also in partnership with City are Shanghai Shenhua (China), Thanda Royal Zulu (South Africa), FC Moscow (Russia), Grasshoppers (Switzerland) and Chonburi FC (Thailand).

Glory co-owner John Spence said it was likely matches would be hosted by one or two of the alliance clubs each year on a rotational basis. “One of the key parts of the deal is they are very keen on coming and playing individual warm-up games and also as part of a pre-season Cup type competition with the various clubs that form the partnerships,” he commented. However, Spence added that it was too early to say when local fans could expect to see Glory in action against City, with the other clubs also keen to host the Premier League giants.

21.11.2007

KILKELLY TAKES UP MORLEY POSTING

Morley Windmills have installed former Leicester City player Tom Kilkelly as first team coach for 2008. Kilkelly will be looking to build on the successes of last year when Brad Hassell, who last week accepted an offer to coach Armadale, took the club to a respectable mid-table placing. “I can’t wait to get my teeth in to the job at Morley,” said Kilkelly. “They did well last season under Brad finishing sixth, and I hope to carry on the good work he achieved.

While he’s been in the job little over a week, Kilkelly has jumped head first into his new position. “I’ve spoken to most of the Morley players from last season and they all seem very enthusiastic,” commented Kilkelly, who’ll be assisted next year by former Morley player James Herbert. “We’ve had no defections as yet, but I’m sure Brad will talk to a number of players to join him at Armadale, which is fair enough. And I’ve spoken to a number of players for next season and are hopeful they will join us.”

It’s been a long time since Morley last graced the top flight, and even longer since their last trophy capture, but Kilkelly will be pulling out all the stops to see them reclaim their place amongst the State’s elite. “I’ll be doing my best to get the club heading in the right direction and that’s back to the Premier League,” he said. “When I arrived from the UK Morley were a big club, winning the Premier League and Cups, but they have been through the bad times and thankfully they have come out of that. I hope to be able to help them move forward.”

Kilkelly spent last season at Armadale where he was assistant to Billy Russell. The pair dramatically resigned their posts only last month in response to ‘outside interference’ which came to a head after Reserve team coach Byron Wood was asked to leave. “Someone in the club had interfered in our space,” explained Kilkelly. “Billy and I pondered our decision for a number of weeks and thought if we didn’t make a stand then it might happen again next season so we both decided to leave. It was sad to leave Armadale but at the end of the day it was a matter of principle.”

Although only at Alfred Skeet Oval for only a year, Kilkelly says he has plenty of fond memories from his short stay with the club. “It was a great crack at Armadale and the people down there were really down to earth and we had some really good times,” he commented. “It was great on a Thursday night after training, sitting on the veranda with a beer watching the stars in the sky, and watching Billy, Mark Culverwell and Bully (Byron Wood) demolish the clubs famous BFC, it truly was something to behold.”

Kilkelly had nothing but praise for Armadale’s players who worked tirelessly in a difficult year. “The players were great, and one thing that will definitely go in my memoirs is I was at Armadale when Darryl Platten scored a goal,” joked Kilkelly. “It was also terrific to see some of the younger lads grow up through the season. Stephen Skilandis and Marlon Ramirez were quiet as door mouses at the start but by the end they were taking the mickey out of the senior players, both those boys matured a lot last season and were great for us late on.”

20.11.2007

GLORY BOSS OUT FOR ONE GAME

David Mitchell will have to make his tactical moves from the stands this Friday after being handed a one-game touchline suspension by the A-League match review panel. The Perth Glory coach received the mandatory suspension after accidentally kicking a water bottle onto the pitch during the first half of the weekend loss to Central Coast Mariners. “I’ll cop it on the chin and move on,” Mitchell said. “I actually thought the bottle was full but it was empty and went a bit further than I expected and I certainly didn’t mean for it to go on the pitch.”

Mitchell will be forced to sit in the stands for the upcoming clash with Adelaide United at Hindmarsh Stadium. He’ll take a birds-eye view of the action and maintain in constant contact with assistants Robbie Dunn and Kenny Lowe on the bench by using a walkie-talkie. “I don’t think it’ll be a major disadvantage and I’m just concentrating on preparing the team for what will be a big game against Adelaide,” Mitchell said. Although Glory will be without five players still on international duty with the Australian Olympic team, they do welcome back Leo Bertos from playing for New Zealand as well as Jamie Coyne after serving a two week suspension.

20.11.2007

LOCAL TALENT DOES THE JOB

The introduction of David Micevski midway through the second half of Perth Glory’s home game with Central Coast Mariners on Sunday took the number of local players on the pitch to seven. In fact, Glory played the final half hour with a backline consisting of players drawn from the local ranks - Tommi Tomich, Mark Lee, Ante Kovacevic, Dino Djulbic and Micevski. And with Jamie Harnwell partnering Boima Karpeh up front, Glory had the greatest number of local players on the field since their debut season.

David Mitchell admits to being impressed by the standard of State League players after inviting a dozen of its’ finest to train with Glory last week. “I have made an effort to watch Football West Premier League games at every chance I get and there are some very good players coming through that I’m sure will make the step to the Glory in the future,” commented the Perth Glory coach. With his side stretched by injury, suspension and international duties, Mitchell had Kovacevic, Lee and Karpeh registered in time for the Mariners game.

Kovacevic and Lee slotted nicely into the starting line-up while Karpeh ruffled a few feathers when added late in the game. “Ante added some experience in our defence, particularly with Jamie Harnwell playing up front, and he marshaled the defence well against the dangerous attacking line-up of Central Coast,” Mitchell said. “Mark is a hard worker and enjoyed another good season in the local league. He fitted well into the team which is critical in achieving that understanding with his team mates on the pitch at short notice.”

19.11.2007

KOVACEVIC CONSIDERS A-LEAGUE OPTION

Perth Glory will consider extending the contract of Ante Kovacevic after the veteran defender's stellar display in Sunday's loss to Central Coast Mariners. Kovacevic retired from national league football at the end of last season after being told his services were no longer required by Glory, only to be lured back after a spate of injuries, suspensions and international call-ups left the club with just eleven players. And the 33-year old returned in grand style, quelling the influence of goalscoring machines John Aloisi and Sasho Petrovski in a full 90 minutes on the pitch.

Glory coach David Mitchell said that with five players away on international duty next week the club would look at retaining Kovacevic in the side, possibly for the remainder of the season. "He's the ultimate professional," Mitchell said. "He's had an outstanding season playing in the State League and it was unfortunate for us to let him go at the start of the year. When Ron (Smith) and I were looking at the side we had to make openings available and unfortunately Ante was one. But you just saw his class today and his composure and his communication skills were first class, and he's been sorely missed really."

Kovacevic, who helped Floreat Athena to the Premier League title during the winter, said he was eager to play out the season with the Glory. "Well physically I feel I can," he said. "I hate seeing the club in the predicament it's in at the moment and if I can do my part I would play on. I'd love to and once again it depends on who's available and who's not. It's a wait and see game I suppose. I suppose there's eight games left and if we can work out an arrangement for the next eight weeks it might be a possibility. I've had a full season under my belt in the State League. I still love playing the game and if it was up to me I'd still be playing professionally."

19.11.2007

FOXE BACK IN THE HUNT

Former English Premier League defender Hayden Foxe has set his sights on making his long-awaited A-League debut in Perth Glory's home meeting with Melbourne Victory on 2nd December. Foxe’s target date coincides with the first game Stan Lazaridis is eligible to play after his 12-month ban for testing positive to a drug he was later cleared to take. And in a further boost for Glory, goalkeeper Jason Petkovic could also be available for the Victory clash after his long absence recovering from a broken leg.

Foxe, was frustrated by foot injuries in the latter part of his eight-year overseas career, made just one pre-season Cup appearance for Glory before damaging knee ligaments in a training mishap early in August. But he has slowly worked his way back to fitness and hopes to begin full training with the squad this week. "I want to get a couple of weeks of full training under my belt, see how it goes, and I hope to be ready for the Melbourne game," Foxe said.

The past few months have been tough going for Foxe who returned to Australia hoping to start a fresh chapter in an injury-hampered career. "I've had plenty of experience at this type of thing," he said. "And there are always people a lot worse off. At the end of the day it's an injury and it's going to get better. Some people are different and if they're injured or suspended they can't stand watching games. But I like to be around the place and to keep in touch with the boys and with what’s going on."

Foxe's presence had a positive effect on the players around him during training and the 73 minutes he played in his only Glory