Archived News : September-October 2004

31.10.2004

YOUNG MATILDAS' SINGAPORE GOALFEST

The Australian women's youth team commenced their final preparations for the upcoming Under-19 Women's World Championship with a 10-0 mauling of the Singapore senior national side in Singapore last night. Australia completely outclassed the host nation and if not for the heroics of their goalkeeper and the help of the woodwork the final margin would have been much greater. The goals were shared between seven players with Leena Khamis, Selin Kuralay and Collette McCallum each netting twice along with singles from Briony Holcombe, Kim Carroll, Catherine Cannuli and Alannah Reed. McCallum, the wests sole representative in the Young Matilda's squad, played a full game on the left side of midfield.

31.10.2004

GLORY LURES DESPOTOVSKI OUT OF RETIREMENT

Bobby Despotovski will lead Perth Glory's attack when the new national league commences next year. The former Australian international was convinced to postponed his retirement plans after attending a meeting last week between the clubs locally based talent, chairman Nick Tana and chief executive Jeff Dennis. "It's a new era for Australian soccer and I want to be a part of it," Despotovski said. "I had a good think about it and, whether it's for one year or three years, I will be back playing with the Glory." Despotovski will use a two-month stint with New South Wales Premier League club Bonnyrigg White Eagles, which starts in a fortnight, as preparation for the new league.

The signing of Despotovski, a veteran of 236 National Soccer League games and scorer of 112 goals, is a welcome boost for the Glory who have lost over half their playing roster since the previous competition came to an end. "Clearly, Bobby has always been an intricate part of the club," commented Dennis on the strikers decision to play on. "He's always been on our hit list and he adds weight to the new era that we're about to embark on. Finally soccer in this country has come of age and we can now fulfil the potential that we have shown. Bobby will be a big part of that." The new season expected to begin in August 2005 and will be preceded by a month-long warm-up tournament.

While Glory were yet to re-negotiated any player contracts, Dennis said the club were hoping of tempting back to Perth a number of former players. "The wages will come down, but there will be other benefits of playing in this competition," he added. "We believe the lifestyle that Australia has to offer, the fact it is home to so many overseas-based players, and the prospect of being part of a better competition will draw some players back, not all of them." Of last seasons championship winning squad Anthony Danze, Adrian Caceres (England), Mark Byrnes (Finland), Jamie Coyne (the Netherlands), Wayne Srhoj (Romania), Nick Mrdja (Sweden) and Jason Petkovic (Turkey) are currently playing abroad.

31.10.2004

WARD TAKES OUT SECOND TROPHY

Talented teenager Nick Ward has taken out the "Sunday Times" Player of the Year award. The Stirling Lions midfielder ended the regular season top of the pile by three votes over Gary Faria and Antonio Naglieri of Fremantle City and Cockburn City respectively. It's the second award this season for Ward who was voted the www.soccerwa.com Premier League Player of the Year at the start of the month. Ward, rated as one of the local scenes brighter young stars, settled quickly into his role as the Lions playmaker and was a key reason in the club's first finals appearance in seven years. The 19-year old's efforts at club level have also earned him a place in the Australian Under-20 side who leave tomorrow for a tour of South America where they'll come up the national teams of Uruguay, Argentina and Chile.

In winning the award Ward accumulated 24 votes to edge out Faria and Naglieri on 21 votes. E.C.U. Joondalup defender Jamie Kuzmanovich was next on 19 votes, one more than Ross Barnes (Bayswater City) and Aaron Cole (Perth S.C.) and two ahead of David Foster (Swan I.C.) and Simon Harland (Sorrento). Another Joondalup player, John Higgins, came in sixth place on 16 votes and was trailed by one by Greg Sharland (Inglewood United) and Mark Lee (Western Knights). Cockburn City duo John Mirco and Jason Dos Santos polled 14 votes each with Kevin Correia of Fremantle City close behind on 13 votes. In joint tenth place and with 12 votes were Andreas Oliveria (Floreat Athena), Robbie Puca (Perth), Andrija Jukic (Knights), and Dale McCulloch (Joondalup).

30.10.2004

ATHENA FAREWELL BERNARD

Floreat Athena have defeated a Soccer West Coast President's XI in an entertaining match honouring the late Troy Bernard. The friendly was in tribute to Bernard, an Athena regular for close to a decade, who passed away earlier this year in tragic circumstances. Played at Litis Stadium, the match started at a brisk pace as the teams traded attacks. The Presidents XI were the first to strike with Antonio Naglieri netting the opener and John Mirco doubling their lead. Athena, whose side featured both current and former players, went into the break a single goal down after a blistering shot from Jason Smith found the target.

The pace dropped off in the second half as both teams enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere. In keeping with the fun aspect of the occasion Athena pushed goalkeepers Anthony Mori and Vas Vujacic into attack where they were marked by Golden Boot winner David Foster who showed remarkable skill as a centre back. The Presidents XI looked set for victory when Greg Sharland made it 3-1, but Athena had another plans and shortly after Bobby Despotovski reduced the gap. The home team then equalised and with only minutes to play Robin Dyers bagged the deciding goal of the 4-3 win.

Following the game Bernard's family were presented with his old playing shirts in the Athena clubhouse, and the sweeper's cherished No.7 officially retired. "The day was a fitting tribute to a wonderful player and I thank everyone involved in the day, from players, referees, spectators, administrators and volunteers," said Athena captain Adrian Sutton. "Full credit to the young lads who made up the Presidents' team and who showed great respect in providing a terrific spectacle. We will never forget Bernie and may we all go forward living life to the fullest like he did."

30.10.2004

WOMEN'S SOCCER SALUTES THEIR BEST

Women's Soccer Western Australia brought the curtain down on season 2004 last weekend with their annual presentation evening. The full house signs went up early at Members Equity Stadium as the past, present and future of women's soccer in this state came together for the gala ceremony. Along with the presentation of the annual awards and trophies, the association bestowed long service medals on 29 individuals for their playing, coaching and administrative contributions to the women's game.

19-year old Queens Park defender Stacey Woodfin was the recipient of the Premier League's highest individual award, the Fairest and Best player. The honour of the competition's Leading Goalscorer went to Australian international Lisa DeVanna who joined Northern Redbacks mid-season after completing her commitments with the Australian Olympic team. It capped a remarkable year for the Redbacks who made a clean sweep of the trophies on offer. Their success began with victory over Queens Park in the Night Series Final, and an undefeated regular season campaign saw the club take out the championship. Redbacks then made it three from three with a 2-1 defeat of Balcatta in the Premier League Grand Final.

Northern Redbacks' Monica De Bono was named the Premier League Reserves Fairest and Best player for 2004. Kamila Ambrozewicz of East Fremantle collected the trophy as the Leading Goalscorer. Subiaco United were crowned Premier League Reserves champions ahead of runner-up East Fremantle. It was a night to remember for Murdoch University attacker Joanne Steer who went home with the First Division Fairest and Best and Leading Goalscorer awards. Noranda lifted the regular season title by going undefeated over the winter months. Murdoch University beat Beckenham Angels 3-0 in the First Division Grand Final.

Top honours in the Second Division went to Kristina Antonic whose teammate at Fremantle United, Sarah Franco, won the Leading Goalscorer award. Bassendean ended the regular season level on points with Balga but ahead on goal difference to be crowned champions. The Second Division Grand Final was taken out by Fremantle United by 3-1 over Northern Redbacks D. In the Third Division, Clair Dickson (Wembley Downs) was recipient of the Fairest and Best player with the honour of Leading Goalscorer going to Bethanie Melis (Ballajura). Ballajura claimed the regular season title by going the winter undefeated. Kwinana United lifted silverware in the Third Division Grand Final by fending off Armadale 3-1.

CN Canning International striker Carol Howes will long remember the awards night after taking out the trophies for Fairest and Best player and Leading Goalscorer in the Fourth Division. Gosnells City edged out North Beach to top the regular season standings. The roles were reversed in the Grand Final which saw North Beach emerged victorious 2-1 over Gosnells. Jennifer Homes, of Melville, also did the double when named the Fifth Division's Fairest and Best player and Leading Goalscorer. Melville City lifted the home-and-away season title when they finished well clear of North Beach. The Fifth Division Grand Final was won 4-2 by Subiaco United against Melville.

Five players were the proud recipients of Gold medals for twenty plus years service to the women's game. 2004 was the 29th season as a player for former Australian international Jude Pettitt and her Subiaco United teammate Sandra Szopski. Penelope Tanner-Hoath has been playing for 22 years during which time she's represented Australia and been a regular fixture of the State squad. Rita Berry first played at senior level in 1982 in a career that includes spells with Curtin University, Sorrento and Northern Redbacks. And Jill Mateljan's chalked up her 20th season as a player when she pulled on Subiaco United colours this winter.

Recipients of Silver medals for between fifteen and nineteen years service to women's soccer were Luciana Colangelo, Kerrie Corbett, Melissa Dewson, Ann Lehane, Tom Plesa, Lee Tarrant and Lynda Woodfin. Bronze medals (ten to fourteen years service) were awarded to Jessine Bonzas, Lynette Dunbar-Golder, John Francis, Lesley Francis, Eileen Hadida, Belinda Hayward, Peta Hayward, Louise Hinchcliffe, Debbie Larson, Vicky Richards, Sylvia Robins, Sally Sanigar, Niamh Scull, Kylie Thomas, Jackie Wheeler, Tracey Wheeler, and Michelle Whitney.

30.10.2004

TECHNICAL ROLE FOR D'AVRAY?

Mich d'Avray looks set to have a new with Perth Glory when the new national competition kicks off next year. D'Avray has been in discussion with Glory chairman Nick Tana as to his future with both a coaching and technical director position in the offering. "I'd like to remain at the club," said d'Avray. "We've just got to make sure we're on the same wavelength. It's something that may take a little while because we've got to thrash a few things out." Early indications are the former Ipswich Town striker will turn down the coaching role in favour of the newly created position of technical director.

Jeff Dennis, Glory's chief executive officer, hopes d'Avray's role can be finalised next week. "We are very confident Mich will stay on board," he commented. "He is an accomplished coach and has offered us great benefit in the past and we are obviously keen to retain his services." D'Avray spent three seasons with Glory as assistant to Bernd Stage before being appointed coach in 2001. Under d'Avray Glory topped the National Soccer League table in 2001/02 and 2003/04, won back-to-back Grand Finals in 2002/03 and 2003/04. Should d'Avray turn down the coaching position Glory are expected to appoint a high profile coach from overseas.

30.10.2004

MCCALLUM IN WORLD CUP SQUAD

Western Waves' Collette McCallum will be aiming for World Cup glory following selection in the Young Matilda's squad for the upcoming Under-19 World Championship in Thailand. The call-up is a fitting reward for the creative midfielder who worked her way back to full fitness following a second knee reconstruction to spent the winter wearing Northern Redbacks colours. Selected in the inaugural Waves squad, McCallum emphasised her importance at both club and national levels with some sparkling performances in the recent three-game series with China.

Australia have been drawn in Group A alongside Canada, Germany and Thailand in the preliminary stage of the tournament which kicks-off on 10th November. The complete Australian Under-19 squad is Nicole Somi (Canberra Eclipse), Julia Bazi, Leah Blayney, Danielle Brogan, Catherine Cannuli, Caitlin Coooper, Briony Holcombe, Monique Jackson, Leena Khamis, Kylie Ledbrook, Sally Shiphard (New South Wales Sapphires), Lauren Colthorpe, Alison Logue, Jenna Tristham (Northern New South Wales Pride), Ellen Beaumont, Kim Carroll, Emma Davidson, Selin Kuralay, Alannah Reed (Queensland Sting), Collette McCallum (Western Waves) and Yasmin Favretti.

29.10.2004

SOCCER PAYS TRIBUTE TO ATHENA GREAT

The West Australian soccer community will pay its respects to one of the local scenes favourite sons, Floreat Athena sweeper Troy Bernard, with a memorial match this weekend. Bernard's life was tragically cut short in late August when electrocuted while working on downed power lines for Western Power. In honour of the popular 25-year old, Athena take on the Soccer West Coast President's XI at Litis Stadium on Sunday afternoon from 3.30pm.

Bernard was a key component of the Athena team which claimed the Night Series, Premier League and Boral Cup treble in 1997. Senior State honours came the following year, and a man-of-the-match performance in the 1999 Boral Cup Final further enhances his already glowing reputation. Another Night Series title started 2000 and at the other end of the season he was named the "Sunday Times" Player of the Year.

At the age of 22 Bernard became one of the youngest ever State team captains when he lead the side out against South Australia in early 2002. Although he missed the final weeks of the season, the hard-working midfielder was posthumously named Athena's Best and Fairest player for season 2003 at his clubs annual awards night. In honouring his passing Athena have retired Bernard's cherished No.7 shirt which will now form a permanent memorial in the Litis Stadium clubroom.

Confirmed as turning out for the President's XI are Liam Lilly, John Mirco, Antonio Naglieri (Cockburn City), Michael Baczyncki, Greg Sharland (Inglewood United), Daryl Platten (E.C.U. Joondalup), David Micevski, Robert Puca (Perth S.C.), Shaun Murphy (Perth Glory), Brodie Martin, Glen Thomas (Sorrento), Danyal Bennett, David Foster, Cory Hugo (Swan I.C.) and John Thornley (Western Knights). Entry is by donation with all monies raised going to the Bernard family.

29.10.2004

COACHING IN WA - IT IS 'A FORGOTTEN ART'?

If our game is to continue to evolve then support is urgently needed to improve the situation for local coaches. Concern is already echoing around West Australia that we are lagging behind the rest of the nation and no one seems willing to address a problem which will certainly impact upon future player development and the credibility of the league's in this state.

For the game to progress we need to produce better players and teams who have been taught the basic skills in a club environment, and the people tasked with this are the coaches. But first coaches must be provided with the opportunity to develop and enhance their own skills which will allow them to build coaching capability and keep up-to-date with coaching developments and techniques from around the globe.

In the past five years there have been numerous youth academies spring up in Perth which have produced players thanks to better than average training and coaching. The high number of players who are under the age of twenty and which are now progressing to the next level, which includes first team football in the local Premier League, is evidence enough of this.

But what sort of continuous learning do players receive when they move from junior to senior level? This question may best be answered when selection processes commence for players and coaches in the new Australian national league. How many players under the age of twenty-three currently playing in the State League will be selected? And of the eight teams it's looking as though only two will have a coach that holds an Australian licence.

It is interesting to note that many local coaches wanting to develop their skills and knowledge are forced to head abroad to maintain their qualifications rather than pursue an Australian licence. There are two main reasons for this. The first is that there currently exists no such course in Australia. The second half of the equation harks back to previous coaching courses which were of poor quality with the content of little relevance or currency.

Locally, the facts speaks for themselves and raise a number of pertinent questions. The average age of coaches working in the semi-professional (ie Soccer West coast) ranks is 46 - where is the young coaching talent hiding in WA? And only three of twelve Premier League coaches hold a Level Three qualification - so when was the last senior coaching licence course conducted in WA?

When the new structure hits the local scene the coaches need to be recognised as playing an integral role in the 'Learning and Development' process. There are numerous initiatives which could be undertaken to help bring coach education back into focus. Of the utmost importance is the appointment of a full-time State director of coaching whose task it would be to oversee all aspects of coaching and coach development. There is also clearly a need to fast-track a coaching education program which would go some way to filling the current void.

It would also be appropriate to align the local coaching programs with an association whose programs are already held in high regard. There is the need for all team and academy coaches to hold appropriate coaching qualifications. The perhaps the time has come for local administrators to consider running the State League season parallel to the new national competition, thus giving Perth Glory better opportunity to draw upon and enhance local resources.

There is no doubt that plenty of coaching experience exists in West Australia. And many local coaches would be more than happy to throw their hats into the ring to assist in putting together an action plan on behalf of the new structure. While various groups and committee's have been formed to look into at particular aspects of our game there still has been little movement on the coaching front.

28.10.2004

YOUTH TEAM COACH WANTED BY BAYSWATER

Premier League outfit Bayswater City invite applications for the position of Under-18's coach for season 2005. Bayswater, last years' First Division champions, have a proud tradition as one of the state's oldest clubs and are in the process of revamping their youth structure to ensure their continued success. Interested coaches are asked to submit their application and resume to Bayswater City S.C., Under-18's Coach, 74B Riseley Street, Ardross WA 6153. Applications for the position of Under-18 coach close Friday 12th November, 2004.

27.10.2004

A-LEAGUE SET FOR LAUNCH

Australia's new national league will be called the A-League and not the Australian Premier League as had been widely expected. The APL was registered by the Professional Footballer's Association, however, the Australian Soccer Association is understood to have been unwilling to pay for the right to use that name. The A-League was the ASA's preferred name of thirteen alternatives. The league will be officially named the eight successful teams - Queensland Lions, Central Coast Mariners, Newcastle United, Sydney FC, Melbourne Victory, Adelaide United, Perth Glory, NZ Kingz - and also announce sponsorship and television deals early next week.

27.10.2004

WARD AND DANSKIN CALLED UP FOR SOUTH AMERICAN ADVENTURE

Australia will take an impressive Under-20 squad on tour to South America next month. The Young Soceroo's will play five matches over the course of the 19-day trip which includes international fixtures with Uruguay, Argentina and Chile. Named in the twenty player travelling party are local midfielder Nick Ward and Matt Danskin who spend the winter months with Stirling Lions and Fremantle City respectively. In addition to the three international matches, Australia will take on the Under-20 teams of leading Chilean clubs Colo Colo and Universidad Catolica. The trip has been organised as part of Australia's preparation to qualify for next year's Under-20 World Youth Championships.

The 20-player squad heading to South America is Nikolai Topor-Stanley (Belconnen), Mark Milligan, Chris Tadrosse (Blacktown City), Justin Pasfield (Bray Wanderers), Billy Celeski (Bulleen Zebras), Aaron Downes (Chesterfield), Matt Danskin (Fremantle City), Mark Bridge (Parramatta Eagles), Nick Ward (Stirling Lions), Nick Stavroulakis (Sydney Olympic), Spase Dilevski (Tottenham Hotspur), Adrian Leijer, Kristian Sarkies (Victorian Institute of Sport), Trent McClenahan (West Ham United), Stuart Musialik (Weston Bears) and out of contract quintet Adam Federeci, Frank Lagana, Vince Lia, Jay Lucas and Jacob Timpano.

27.10.2004

THE SOUTH RISES

Season 2004 will go down as the year the south became the dominant force in First Division football. Of this seasons' seven top ranked sides six were drawn from south of the Swan River - Armadale, Canning City, Mandurah City, South West Phoenix, Gosnells City and Queens Park - with the only team from the north being Wanneroo City. By contrast, six of the eight teams who made up the bottom half of the table are based north of the divide. This is a marked difference on final standings of previous seasons when the top half of the table has been evenly populated by clubs from both north and south of the divide.

Armadale set the pace from early on and come seasons' end were deservedly promoted to the top flight having finished eleven points ahead of their nearest rival, Wanneroo. The Reds were one of three teams from the south-east corridor to make their mark this year. Written off in pre-season, Gosnells proved they are back in business with a solid home record that allowed them to take sixth on the final table - the club's best finish in seven years. Brian Robertson lead the way in attack for seventh-placed Queens Park who continue to be one of the competitions most consistent performers.

In his first year at the helm Frank Longstaff worked wonders with a young Canning squad who surpassed pre-season expectations by finishing the campaign in third place. Mandurah and Phoenix, two of the league's newest clubs and it's only regional representatives, claimed fourth and fifth respectively. Mandurah recovered from an indifferent start and an early change of coach start to motor their way up the standings over the second half of the year. Phoenix' number includes the First Division's leading goalscorer, David Rodgers, and although they performed better than expected there will be some disappoint with the way they dropped off the pace over the final weeks.

26.10.2004

STRIKERS GO UNDEFEATED

It's not often that a team goes an entire season undefeated but that is exactly what Leeming Strikers youth squad achieved this year to be crowned First Division Under-18's champions. In establishing themselves as the team by which all others are measured by, the Strikers romped their way to the title with twenty-four wins and four draws to take home the silverware sixteen points ahead of second-placed Mandurah City. It's now been sixteen months and 41 games since the Strikers Under-18's last lost a league match.

Between them Simon Versaico, Daniel Capperllaro and Daniale U'Lisse accounted for over half their teams 133 goals, and defensively the side were as tight as they come with just 15 goals conceded. The 2004 Strikers Under-18 squad consists of Iman Ali, Adrian Brown, Daniel Capperllaro, Byron Castel, Adam Comty, Lee Glieford, Simon Halliwell, Adam Horsley, Josh Italiano, Garth Lecky, Kyle Mitsopoulos, Gavin Oakes, Aaron Oxenham, Tae Phillips, Ciaran Summerton, Jarryd Thraves, Daniale U'Lisse and Simon Versaico.

It is the second time in three years that the First Division Under-18 champions have ended the winter without loss. In 2002 South West Phoenix' youth team won twenty-three of twenty-four games to finish well ahead of southern rival and runner-up Rockingham City. An undefeated season has only been attained on five occasions in the state's top flight with Tricolore (1964), Azzurri (1967, 1981), Spearwood Dalmatinac (1982) and Floreat Athena (1990) the proud achievers.

25.10.2004

SCOUTS TRACK DANZE (courtesy www.tribalfootball.com)

Crystal Palace midfielder Anthony Danze is attracting interest from a number of clubs from England's Football League. The 21-year-old Australian youth international has impressed in Palace's reserves since his international clearance came through last month and several clubs want to take him on-loan. Palace boss Iain Dowie has confirmed he will be seeking to loan out several of his reserve players, though may want to hold onto Danze to bed him down at Selhurst Park before sending him to another club. The former Perth Glory midfielder played in last week's 1-0 win at Norwich City in front of scouts from Sheffield United, Ipswich Town and Colchester United.

25.10.2004

LAZARIDIS CLOSE TO COMEBACK

Birmingham City's Stan Lazardis has returned to the training track following a two month spell on the sidelines nursing a thigh injury. "Stan has trained the last two or three days," said Blues manager Steve Bruce. "This weekend just gone was too early for him as he has been eight weeks out. We need for him to be possibly involved at the end of this week. Ideally it would be nice for him to get a couple of games under his belt to see if he is okay - he might have a game behind closed doors." Birmingham will find themselves flush with options in midfield when Lazaridis, who has also performed well at left-back, and Muzzy Izzet return from injury.

25.10.2004

RECORD WIN FOR STRIKERS

Leeming Strikers have ended their season by setting a new record for the greatest winning margin in a State League match at senior level. The Strikers 17-0 mauling of Stirling Suns at Robinson Reserve on Saturday eclipses by one goal the previous record margin set in 1992 by Ferndale United over Western Yugal.

Phil Bell found the net on eight occasions, Craig Ruthven bagged a hat-trick, Jarryd Thraves and Daniel Capperllaro each got two and Kyle Mitsopoulos and Simon Versaico one in the Strikers final round thrashing which arrived just seven days after First Division champions Armadale put fourteen goals without reply past the Suns.

24.10.2004

WAVES RECORD FIRST WIN

Western Waves celebrated their debut home appearance in the Women's Nationals Soccer League by taking maximum points over Canberra Eclipse at Members Equity Stadium this afternoon. The win was the Waves first in the competition and elevates the side to fourth on the table. A vocal crowd of just under 1,000 turned out to cheer on the local side who made a tentative start. The best opportunity of the half had Nicola Williams one-on-one with goalkeeper Amy Beattie but the Waves player shot wide of the target. Eight minutes from the break Eclipse went close to going ahead via a blistering strike from Gill Foster which cannoned back off the upright.

The complexion of the match was altered nine minutes into the second half with the addition of Lisa De Vanna to the Waves attack. The Australian international wasted no time in getting involved and proved to be a constant headache for the opposition each time she gained possession. The deadlock was broken on 63 minutes when Tal Karp's caused confusion in the visiting defence which 19-year old Stacey Woodfin capitalised on to walk the loose ball into an empty goal. Further chances came the Waves way but some tame shooting prevented them from increasing the margin, while at the opposite end Eclipse struggled to break down a well organised defence.

24.10.2004

CHAMPION OF CHAMPIONS, GRAND FINAL

Western Knights completed the Premier League and Champion of Champions double by defeating Sorrento 1-0 at Litis Stadium this afternoon. Going into the match as the red hot favourite, coach Ronnie Campbell had a full squad of players to choose from which meant Paul Cooke and teenage sensation Andrija Jukic had to be content with spots on the bench. It was a much different story for Gulls' boss Trevor Morgan who was minus several of this stars, namely Jamie Harnwell and Neil Young (suspended), Danny Hill (work commitments) and Brad Hassell (injury), while James Morgan, Andrew Bowyer and Simon Harland were included the matchday squad although less than fully fit. Even so, the Sorrento coach was confident as the two teams made their way out onto a pitch bathed in sunshine.

Much of the early running came from the Gulls who made good use of both flanks to throw the pressure on their opponent. Glen Thomas adapted best to the bouncy surface by displaying some neat touches as he and James Morgan established control on the centre of midfield over the experienced duo of Alex Christie and Scott Devine. The first genuine opportunity of the day came via a 13th minute free-kick from just outside the area which Thomas rocketed past the defensive wall and just to the right of the target. Although enjoying the better of possession, Sorrento were finding it difficult to break down the Knights defence and shots on goal were accordingly scarce. Chris Smith played a terrific diagonal ball into the path of Thomas but Tommi Tomich spotted the move early and was quickly off his line to snuff out the danger.

For their part of the Knights spent much of the opening half hour on the back foot with only the occasion foray into attack. But as the period came to a close the Knights suddenly sparked into life and began to menace the Gulls rearguard. Goalkeeper Phil Straker had to be on guard in the 33rd minute to pluck the ball off the head of Evan Wallace who rose highest in a crowded 6-yard box following an in-swinging Mark Lee corner. Shortly after Carl Medica showed terrific skill in throwing off his marker to cross into the dangerzone where Daniel Cain edged in ahead of Stuart Montgomery to nod it to safety. Three minutes from the break Chris Smith put his body on the line to block an explosive close-range strike by Medica following a surging run down the right by David Annall.

Sorrento began the second half positively with Thomas' low cross into the area that caught the opposing defence ball-watching, but with no-one on hand to convert the opportunity went begging. Montgomery should have put his side ahead in the 58th minute when he was sent through with only the 'keeper to beat but Straker produced a marvelous reflex save to deny. By this stage the pendulum had swung in the Knights favour and it seemed only a matter of time before they claimed the lead. From just outside the area Ivan Zuvela rolled a free-kick to Montgomery whose blistering strike was deflected wide by a defender. With 67 minutes gone Montgomery turned provider with a fine cross to the top of the 6-yard box where Daniel Trim snuck in front of his marker to put his downward header past Straker and break the deadlock. Eight minutes later Trim very nearly increased the gap with a rasping shot that cleared the crossbar.

With nothing to lose and time running out, Sorrento threw caution to the wind by adopting a four-man forward line and a more physical approach in an effort to squeeze their way back into the match. Having created space for himself Todd Harnwell laid the ball at the feet of Steve MacDonald who scooped his shot from 20-metres into the awaiting arms of Tomich. The Gulls were earned themselves a free-kick just outside the 18-yard box and while Thomas did find a hole in the wall Tomich was again well placed to prevent the shot from going in. Just minutes after coming off the bench Carlos Vega turned sharply inside the box to rifle off a shot but he too was unable to beat the Knights 'keeper. Sorrento's frustrations were none more evident than when Morgan became the only player booked following a late tackle from behind on Christie close to the end of regulation time.

Following a couple of tense minutes of stoppage time referee Angelo Nardi sent the Knights faithful into riotous celebration in honour of their team completing a much sought after double. Trim, the hero of the hour, said the Knights considered their recent League championship success as the pinnacle achievement but that they had been determined to end the season with another trophy. "As far as we were concerned the League it is - that's the one you want," said the 24-year old. "But there was no way we were going to lose this today." Campbell said the Knights' decision to push Trim into a more attacking role had paid off handsomely. "We wanted to put him on the right and give him the licence to become a third attacker. That was the game plan today and we've obviously got the result. We've shown a lot of character to win the Grand Final, having only played two games in six weeks and the credit has to go to the players."

Sorrento: Phil Straker, Daniel Cain, Richard Watson, Andrew Bowyer, Chris Smith, Brodie Martin (Simon Harland 52 (Carlos Vega 79)), Glen Thomas, James Morgan, Todd Harnwell, Steve MacDonald, Jared Love
Western Knights: Tommi Tomich, David Annall, Jason Williams, Evan Wallace, Ivan Zuvela, Daniel Trim, Alex Christie, Scott Devine, Mark Lee, Carl Medica (John Thornley 79), Stuart Montgomery
Bookings: Morgan (88)
Dismissals: None
Referee: Angelo Nardi
Attendance: 1,800 (approx.)

Under-18 Champion of Champions, Sorrento (photograph by Brett Klucznik)

The Under-18 Grand final was taken out by Sorrento who required penalties to claim the trophy over Swan I.C. Both teams were eager to impress early but the energy sapping conditions combined with a poor standard pitch soon influenced the match tempo. A great run after 8 minutes by Stephen Bettella brought about the games first opportunity but Gulls goalkeeper Aleksander Vrteski dived to deflect the low shot to safety. Sorrento went close a few minutes later when Andrew Brand's free-kick picked out Dejan Gurovski who showed skill in hooking it goalward only to clear the crossbar. Midway through the half Steven Worthy was brought down inside the 18-yard box for what seemed a clear penalty but referee Vince Trimboli waived away appeals for a spot kick and allowed play to continue. As the half came to a close the Gulls carved out several good chances but were unable to find a way past goalkeeper Daniel Agudelo who reacted smartly to keep out a fine volley at the far post by Worthy. Ben Coppack beat two defenders but was also thwarted by the Swan 'keeper, and in stoppage time Lewis Flatt opened up the defence by threading the ball to David Wimbridge whose shot curled wide of the right.

There were some good chances at both ends of the ground at the start of the second half. Gurovski headed the ball goalward only to find Agudelo well positioned to make the save, and shortly after David Perich beat the 'keeper but his header sailed over the crossbar. Perich played in substitute Jay Bunton who looked set to score before Vrteski came to the Gulls rescue by narrowing the angle and bravely dived at his opponents feet to smother. Despite tiring legs, both sides upped their workrate as the minutes slowly ticked by. On 64 minute Dennis Galan unleashed a terrific shot from outside the area which was destined for the top corner until Agudelo produced the save of the match by tipping the ball over the bar. Agudelo produced the good a few minutes later when he somehow kept out an in-swinging corner from the left by Worthy. The end to end action continued right up to the final whistle, Sorrento showing great composure in putting together their attacks while Swan displayed the greater desire to win possession put quickly forward. But by the end of regulation time neither side was able to find a passage to goal and so it was to the lottery which is the penalty shoot-out.

The best of five sequence began with Liam McCallum converting to put Sorrento in the box seat. Wacey Brown found out just why Vrteski is rated as the State best young shot-stopper by keeping out Swan's opening spot-kick. Andrew Brand slotted home the Gulls second before David Perich's effort crossed the line via Vrteski's glove and the upright. Worthy made it three-one, and Ben Anderton sent Vrteski the wrong to score with Swan's third penalty. Ozren Galan was next up and maintained Sorrento's perfect conversion rate, then with Swan's next effort Agudelo fired wide of the target to give the Gulls victory by 4-2. The win completed a remarkable turnaround in the season of Sorrento who timed their run to perfection by winning each of the last eleven games to lift silverware.

Sorrento: Aleksander Vrteski, Paul Box, Liam McCallum, Stephen McLaughlin, Andrew Brand, Lewis Flatt, Ben Coppack (Matthew Libardi 79), Michael Galan, Steven Worthy, David Wimbridge (Ozren Kotur 63), Dejan Gurovski.
Swan I.C.: Daniel Agudelo, Glen Bennett (Jay Bunton 52 (Wacey Brown 80)), Radivoja Pelemis, Ben Anderton (Jovo Pavlovic 73), Phillip Arnold, David Perich, David Paone, Stephen Hanley, Scott Lewry, Conor Mahady, Stephen Bettella
Bookings: Worthy, Gurovski
Dismissals: None
Referee: Vince Trimboli

23.10.2004

FIRST DIVISION, ROUND THIRTY (Canning City vs Morley Windmills by Phil Unsworth; Rockingham City vs Gosnells City courtesy Gosnells City; Queens Park vs Dianella White Eagles courtesy Dianella White Eagles)

Canning City completed their 2004 campaign with a hard-fought and at times acrimonious 1-0 win over Morley Windmills at Weir Park. Playing for the third time in seven days and at the end of a long twenty-eight game season, Canning had good reason to look a little flat as they attempted to secure third spot on the final First Division table ahead of rivals Mandurah City, South West Phoenix and Gosnells City. The match looked destined to end scoreless until, with seventeen minutes remaining, Mick Van Dongen's corner from the right was met solidly at the near post by Paul Oliver whose header flashed past goalkeeper Matt Darling who barely had time to react before the ball hit the net. "Everyone at the club is ecstatic with how our season panned out," said first team coach Frank Longstaff. "Our aim was to establish ourselves mid-table then gradually improve next season but we had to re-assess our goals mid-season as we where more than competitive than expected. The goal for next season is it to retain this years squad and added a couple of experienced players." Earlier in the day Canning's Reserves ground out a 4-2 win to end the season in second place, while the clubs Under-18's took fifth courtesy of a 3-0 forfeit win.

Gosnells City claimed sixth on the final standings after accounting for Rockingham City 3-1 at Dowling Street Reserve. Both sides worked hard to break down the opposing defence during the opening exchanges using a variety of options, but it took a moment of brilliance to break the deadlock midway through the period. Having collected the ball outside the 18-yard box, Andy Daffin embarked on a mazey run which ended with the attacker slotting it by the Rockingham goalkeeper after his initial shot was blocked by a defender. The second half was 17 minutes old when Adam Bremner put away Gosnells second goal by converting from the penalty spot after he was fouled inside the area. And minutes later Bremner made it three-nil with a fantastic free-kick that gave the goalkeeper no chance as it soared into the top corner. Rockingham were then reduced to ten men when a player was red carded for a late tackle from behind on Mark Ronald. However, the hosts refused to take a backwards step and where rewarded for their endeavour when Gavin McIlveen finished clinically with a minute remaining. The closing stages saw several minor scuffles break out before Alex Grindley and a second Rockingham player were both sent off following an off the ball incident in the final minute.

Dianella White Eagles ended their season by thumping long-time rival Queens Park 4-0 at Coker Park. In a physical match there were chances at both ends during the first half but neither side looked like breaking through thanks largely to some fine goalkeeping. But five minutes from the break the visitors broke through via Dragan Njegic who tapped in from close-range in an over-crowded goalmouth. Dianella extended their advantage in the 72nd minute when 16-year old Slobodan Blagojevic met a diagonal cross from Miladin Guroski which he knocked past goalkeeper Phil Chapman. Ten minutes later Blagojevic turned provider with a smart flick on for Robert Cibesku who raced through on goal and sent the ball past Chapman after the 'keeper had twice blocked previous efforts. Only a few more minutes had elapsed when Cibesku advanced on goal again and this time hit a superb shot from 16-metres to snare his sides fourth and final goal. In all honesty Queens Park had their fair share of chances but with their strikers unable to convert it simply wasn't the hosts day. Shiraz Sasikuar worked tirelessly for the hosts without success but it was talented teenager Blagojevic who determined the outcome with a strong 90 minute performance.

Mandurah City rebounded from going behind early to take the points over Balcatta by 2-1 at Graham Burkett Reserve. Mark Gentile gave the hosts the advantage after 8 minutes only to have Christian Paschewicz equalise within six minutes. Paschewicz was on target again three minutes from the break to give the visitors the lead. And shortly after Balcatta's chances of a comeback were dented with the dismissal of Joe Cinquina. Despite some good opportunities there was not addition to the score in the second half. For the second successive week Stirling Suns have been thrashed, this time 17-0 by Leeming Strikers. Hard-working Phil Bell found the target times time for the Strikers, Craig Ruthven snared a hat-trick, Jarryd Thraves and Daniel Capperllaro each bagged two and Kyle Mitsopoulos and Simon Versaico one each in the State League's biggest ever win. South West Phoenix were surprised on home soil by Kingsway Olympic by triumphed 3-2 at Bunbury's Soccerdrome.

24.10.2004

WASA APPOINTS EXECUTIVE

The Western Australian Soccer Association, the state's new governing body, has appointed Michelle Phillips as its inaugural chief executive officer. Michelle Phillips has been handed the responsibility of leading the association during the process of unification. WASA chairman Kevin Campbell said Phillips, one of over fifty applicants for the position, was ideally suited to the position and had been the unanimous choice of the interview panel. Phillips has an accountancy background and worked in business development for Sport England before accepting the post with WASA which commences next month.

Campbell admits the pace of reform had not progressed as quickly as he had hoped since he was named WASA chairman in June, but that he hoped with Phillips' appointment the process would be accelerated. "It's probably taken a month longer than I hoped but we had to go through the processes," he told Jonathon Cook of the "West Australian". In related news, WASA has invited the boards of the existing soccer bodies, including Soccer West Coast and WAASSA, to act as interim standing committees in the new structure for the next twelve months.

24.10.2004

WEEKEND IN SUMMARY

Western Knights completed the Premier League and Champions of Champions double by defeating a determined Sorrento 1-0 in this afternoon's Grand Final at Litis Stadium. The game's only goal was a well directed header by man-of-the-match Daniel Trim from a Stuart Montgomery cross after 67 minutes. Sorrento took out the Under-18's Grand Final 5-2 on penalties over Swan I.C. after the game was locked at nil-all at the end of regulation time.

Leeming Strikers have made West Australian soccer history by thrashing Stirling Suns 17-0 and registering the greatest winning margin at senior level in the final game of the First Division season. Canning City's 1-0 win over Morley Windmills ensures they'll end the season in third place which is the club's best ever placing. It was a good day for the visiting teams as Mandurah won 2-1 at Balcatta, and Kingsway Olympic triumphed 3-2 at South West Phoenix. Rockingham City went down 1-3 on home soil to Gosnells City, and Queens Park crashed 0-4 to Dianella White Eagles at Coker Park.

22.10.2004

WEEKEND IN PREVIEW

The season comes to a close on Sunday with the playing of the Champion of Champions series Grand Final. Fighting it out for the last piece of silverware on offer are regular season champion Western Knights and northern suburbs outfit Sorrento. The clubs have already met on three occasions this year, the Knights winning twice and the remaining game ending level. the most recent encounter was a fortnight ago when Sorrento surrendered a two-goal lead and were forced to take the long route to the season finale. The Knights have been installed as the pre-match favourite but, as anyone will tell you, it all comes down to what happens on the day.

Competition for places in Sunday's matchday squad is red-hot at Nash Field where Ronnie Campbell has a full complement of players at his disposal. However, the long-serving coach is sure to have some concerns over the Knights lack of serious match practice with the team having played just once in six weeks. Sorrento have a long list of players unavailable for selection, amongst them Jamie Harnwell, Neil Young (both suspended), Danny Hill (work commitments), Brad Hassell and James Morgan (injured). Even so, there is a quiet confidence amongst the Gulls ranks that they can upset their more fancied opponent to claim the clubs first trophy in three years. The action gets underway from 3.00pm at Litis Stadium.

Preceding the main game is the decider of the Under-18's Champion of Champions series that sees Sorrento come up against Swan I.C. The Gulls are pre-match favourite having already twice defeated Swan during a regular season in which they ended runner-up to E.C.U. Joondalup. But the black-and-whites aren't to be taken lightly as in the past three weeks they've claimed the scalps of Joondalup, Perth S.C. and Fremantle City to qualify for the Grand Final. Rising stars Aleksander Vrtski (Sorrento) and Daniel Agudelo (Swan) will feature prominently between the posts for their teams in what is expected to be a very close encounter. The Under-18 Grand Final kicks-off at 1.00pm.

Armadale may have won the title and Wanneroo City installed as runner-up, but places three through six are up for grabs in Saturday's final round of First Division fixtures. Dependent upon how the final round of games pan out - South West Phoenix, Mandurah City, Canning City or Gosnells City - could end the winter in third place. South West Phoenix are home to Kingsway Olympic, and Mandurah City make the journey to Balcatta. Canning City should prove too strong for Morley Windmills, while Gosnells City are expected to triumph at Rockingham City. Queens Park are home to Dianella White Eagles, and Stirling Suns take on the visitors from Leeming Strikers.

22.10.2004

WAVES ROLL IN TO PERTH

The state�s newest national league team, the Western Waves, make their historic home debut this weekend. After three outings on the eastern seaboard the Women's National Soccer League newcomers are anxious to show off their skills in front of an appreciative home crowd. Unfortunately the Waves without some of its star players. Hayley Crawford is out for the season due to a knee injury, Collette McCallum is on international duty with the Australian Under-19 team, and there's also doubt Lisa De Vanna and Ciara Conway who are struggling to overcome minor injuries. Boasting numerous Australian internationals amongst their number, Eclipse have made a positive start to the season which has them looking for their second win in three outings. Watch history in the making and - more importantly - to cheer on the Waves, make sure you are at Member�s Equity Stadium on Sunday for the 4.00pm kick-off.

21.10.2004

ON THIS DAY ... 1967

In a match widely regarded as the best ever local Cup final, Cracovia came from three goals down to claim victory over East Fremantle Tricolore in the decider of the 1967 D'Orsogna Cup on Saturday 21st October. Having won the prestigous knock-out competition twelve months earlier by thumping Cracovia 4-1, Tricolore looked set to make it back-to-back Cup successes courtesy of a classy first half performance. State striker John Montagu gave Tricolore the lead before, Alex Napier added a second goal and rising star Nick Pelliciotti made it three-nil as half-time approached to put Tricolore in the box seat.

Three minutes into the second half Cracovia reduced the gap through veteran coach Ziggy Pieda when he scored from the penalty spot. Within seven minutes the match was back on level terms as George Cairns and Henry Lukoszek found the back of the net in quick succession. Stunned by events Tricolore's players lost their composure and rhythm to surrender the initiative to a Cracovia side that now sensed victory. As Tricolore began to lose focus and arguments broke out amongst their players, Pieda, a former Poland international, seized control of midfield to carve open Tricolore with an display of exquisite skill.

In the 69th minute Cracovia were awarded a second penalty after Cairns was fouled by Malcolm Bancroft. Referee Roy Stedman pointed to the spot immediately and Pieda made no mistake in blasting his shot low past goalkeeper Kevin Hills, who had replaced the injured Pipo Crifo at the start of the second half. Now in full cry Cracovia continued to press forward and the outcome was sealed eleven minutes from regulation time when Frank Alberts surged into attack to combine with Lukoszek before hitting a stinging drive from 25-yards beyond the reach of the Tricolore 'keeper.

As reward for his inspirational performance Pieda was named winner of the D'Orsogna Medal as the best on ground in the Cup Final. Lukoszek, Gil Nobbs and Richard Kuzimski were also singled out for praise from the winning side, while for Tricolore the plaudits went to Napier, Pelliciotti, Gary Taylor, Montagu. Cracovia's win ended something of a hoodoo for the club who had been beaten in the decider of the two previous D'Orsogna Cups by Azzurri (1965) and Tricolore (1966). It was the clubs second trophy of the season, the other being the summer Night Series competition.

21.10.2004

KNIGHTS TIPPED FOR GRAND FINAL SUCCESS

It seems there'll be no stopping the Western Knights from adding the Champion of Champions trophy to the Premier League crown they already have in residence at Nash Field. The Knights take on Sorrento in the Grand Final of the play-off series this weekend and have deservedly been installed as firm favourite to emerge victorious. In fact it's been difficult to find someone, anyone, willing to predict an upset and hedge their bets in Sorrento's favour.

Fremantle City coach Steve Parkinson expects Sunday's match to be a close encounter. "The Knights will open strongly and if they can get a goal in the first twenty minutes they will be very hard to beat. They have too many players capable of winning the game, and having already won the League it would be a fitting outcome if they went on to win the Grand Final. Sorrento have a great fighting spirit and sometimes the team that want it most win on the day, but I think they have too many key players unavailable to beat the Knights who will win 2-1."

One of the Grand Final's key match-ups will take place in the middle of the park according to Floreat Athena and State defender Adrian Sutton. "Daniel Trim and Glen Thomas are the players to watch," said Sutton. "Trim is the most underestimated player in the league and he'll be hugely influential on the outcome if Sorrento don't control him. It's a similar story for Thomas whose the driving force for Sorrento and their pivotal player ... it should be a good battle in midfield. The Knights are a bit short on game time of late but I'm going for them to win 2-1 in extra-time."

Swan I.C. midfielder Miki Vujacic, scorer of the deciding goal in last months Boral Cup Final, is tipping the Knights to win by 2-1. "The Knights have got great depth all the way down the park and their defensive capabilities are second to none. They'll have to deal with the direct brand of football played by Sorrento play and limit the effectiveness of Sorrento's aerial ability by winning key defensive battles against the likes of Steve MacDonald and Jared Love. But for me Sorrento's game is too one dimensional, and with Carl Medica and Stuart Montgomery firing in attack the Knights will be the better team."

Paul Simmons, coach of E.C.U. Joondalup, is also going for a Knights victory. "I feel the Knights ability to play as a team and work hard for each other will get them over the line. They use the ball well on the ground and create a lot of chances by getting it wide and using the finishing skills of Stuart Montgomery and Carl Medica. Sorrento's strength is that their team is big and physical, and it has been by playing to these strengths with the long ball game that they have done so well this year. The Knights must defend well against their opponents height and my tip is the Knights by 3-1."

20.10.2004

CANNING TAKE THIRD (by Phil Unsworth)

Canning City moved into outright third on the First Division table with a 5-0 demolition of Dianella White Eagles 5-0 under lights this evening at Alfred Skeet Oval. Dianella were quick to apply pressure to a Canning defence which was well marshaled by Chris Atkins and debutant goalkeeper Alex MacLean-Black. As the minutes ticked Canning found their feet and on the quarter hour took the lead when Daniel Trevisiol brought down a deep corner before squeezing it through a gaggle of legs to Alex Seed who made no mistake from close-range. The visitors had barely recovered from this setback when Canning launched a swift counter attack that saw Mick Van Dongen play a superb pass to Trevisiol who drilled it past 'keeper Drazon Zaric. The second half had barely began when Canning put the match result beyond doubt as Mick Van Dongen glided past the defence and shot the ball past the advancing 'keeper to make it three-nil. To the Dianella never gave up and for the next half hour put Canning under a lot of pressure at the back. Another counter-attack lead to Canning's four goal scored by 16-year old Trevisiol with seven minutes to go. Right on the stroke of full time Patrick Fitzgerald met a precisely angled free-kick from Paul Oliver which he nodded into the roof of the net to complete the scoring. Dianella proved no match in the Reserves clash which ended in a 10-0 walkover to Canning.

20.10.2004

GLORY NOT YET SIGNED UP

Perth Glory are yet to confirm their place in the new national competition because of concerns over aspects of the model proposed by the Australian Soccer Association. Glory, the country's benchmark team for close to a decade, remain in discussion with the national body and are generally in agreeance as to the new league's structure. "We haven't signed at this point in time," Jeff Dennis, the clubs chief executive officer, told "West Australian" reporter Jonathon Cook. "There are some outstanding issues and we are working through those with the ASA. We believe the issues are not insurmountable and we trust they will be resolved shortly." While Glory is unwilling to publicly reveal their concerns, it is understood the club want the new league to be run autonomously of the ASA as recommended by the Crawford Report of last year.

20.10.2004

RECORD WIN CLOSES REDS YEAR

You've got to hand it to them - Armadale know how to celebrate in style. Seven days after securing their place in next seasons' top flight and the Reds ended an already memorable year by chalking up the second largest State League victory ever! Alfred Skeet Oval was the venue as Greg Newcombe bagged four goals, Gary Murdoch hit a hat-trick, Dean Gartside, Frazer Brown and Dennis Lee each netted twice and Jason Goodwin once to help Armadale to a thrashing of Stirling Suns. The fourteen-goal divide was just two short of the biggest ever winning margin which was achieved by Ferndale United in mid-1992 over Western Yugal. The result brought to a close an amazing few years for Armadale who were clearly always destined to gain promotion.

There is little doubt that the Reds have been the First Division's most consistent performer over the past three seasons. During that period Armadale have played 81 games from which they've taken maximum points on 53 occasions with 21 draws and just 7 losses. It's no surprise that their rise to power coincided with the appointment of Billy Russell as first team coach. The club lost just a single game in 2002 but were amazingly pipped at the post for a place in the top flight on goal difference by Stirling Lions. Last year Armadale kept pace with the leading pack for much of the campaign only to come in third behind champion Bayswater City and runner-up Mandurah City.

It was clear from the ending weeks of 2004 that Armadale were going to be the benchmark team. They started the winter with five successive wins before suffering their seasons' only blemish, a 1-2 loss to Leeming Strikers in mid-May. From this they rebounded in style with another eight runs on the trot to top the standings at the seasons half way point by seven points. The second half of their campaign was equally as impressive as Armadale's unbeaten run blew out to 22 games as the eastern corridor club secured the first major trophy in their 32 year history. Armadale's season was littered with big wins, none more so that Saturday's 14-0 thrashing of the Suns. In addition to this the Reds thumped Queens Park 8-2, brushed aside Morley Windmills 7-1, and registered five goal margins over Balcatta and the Suns.

There were heroes the full length and breadth of the park for Armadale this year. Ken Fytnogiannis, a season-long loan from Stirling Lions, rarely put a foot wrong all winter and his consistency between the posts is borne out by the nine clean sheets he kept. Youngster Matthew Bennion and veteran Nick Twyman worked hard to ensure things were kept tight at the back, while in the centre of the park Paul Colkin has been a tower of strength. The way in attack was lead by Greg Newcombe who netted 24 times over the winter and formed an impressive free-scoring partnership with versatile veteran Dean Gartside, who contributed 18 goals, and Jason Goodwin whose end of season tally was 14 goals.

Providing Armadale with twice the reason to celebrate was the runaway success of their Reserve team who also took topped the regular season standings with a team whose average age was nineteen. Underpinning the Reserves championship was an amazing defensive record which saw Armadale keep eleven clean sheets and concede just 26 goal in 28 games. This was down to the solid performances of stalwart goalkeeper Gavin Goodwin and defensive partners Luke Wood, Adam Hatton and Troy Clarke. At the opposite end of the park Darren Kingston's 34 goals gave him the competitions leading goalscorer award with fantastic support provided by exciting prospect Peter Taylor who contributed 22 goals. The Reserves made sure they'd be the ones lifting silverware at seasons end by going unbeaten in their last 18 games .

20.10.2004

BONNYRIGG LURES DESPOTOVSKI

Bobby Despotovski has joined New South Wales club Bonnyrigg White Eagles. The 33-year old striker has signed on for the 2004/05 Premier League season with the end goal of turning out for Perth Glory when the new national competition gets underway next year. "I'll see how I go when the season gets going," said Despotovski who announced his retirement following Glory's Grand Final win in April. "But if I feel okay it is most likely that I will try to get back in the new league with Glory."

Having spent the winter playing locally for Inglewood United, scoring fourteen goals in nine games, the offer for Despotovski to join Bonnyrigg came out of the blue. The striker will contiue to live in Perth with Bonnyrigg agreeing to fly Despotovski to Sydney each weekend for the 22-game season. "The plan is for me to train here in Perth from Monday to Wednesday, then fly over on Thursday, train with the team that night and Friday, play Saturday and fly home on Sunday morning."

19.10.2004

GAME ON THE RISE IN SWAN VALLEY (by Peter Simcox)

As season 2004 comes to an end Swan I.C. can look back at a successful season both on and off the field of play. "For the club this season has been excellent and, in fact, it has been the most successful year in Swan's short history," explained president John Muriale. "Not only because the first team has won the Boral Cup back-to-back but also as Under-18 side coached by Mauro Marchione have shown that we are on the right track to having depth at the club. The Under-21's have also shown a great deal of improvement, considering the amount of injuries we have had for most of the year. The juniors performed better than last season with Sue Howard and the committee working hard, and the inaugural season for our women's team was a success with them finishing second in the league."

First team coach Gary Marocchi said that while the club had improved greatly in 2004, they weren't about to rest on their laurels. "A thank you to all the coaches and players this year for their contributions in improving the club's overall standing in the league. Our Under-18 team were big improvers in 2004, making the top five Grand Final under the direction of Mauro Marchione and we wish them good luck for the game this weekend. The aims of the club for next season are to defend our Boral Cup title and to ensure that all three senior grades make the top five. Injuries to senior players allowed youngsters like Danyal Bennett, Brendan Knox, Matt Ullbricht, Scott Lewry and David Perich to play in the first team which definitely augers well for next year."

"The major plus for the club this year was the signing of David Foster," commented Marocchi. "David became the youngest ever winner of the Golden Boot award and his success this year resulted in increased media attention for Swan leading up to the Boral Cup semi-final and final. We are always on the lookout for more players like David, young players with technical ability but who are not given an opportunity to play regularly at their current club." In his first season at the Swan Valley club Foster won the leading goalscorer award with a 16 goal haul to which he added another 9 goals in the Boral Cup. The 21-year old joined the black-and-whites last summer from Sorrento and became only the second Swan player to win the Golden Boot after Peter Murphy who collected the award in 1995 when he also netted 16 times.

Seven Swan youngster gained State representative honours in season 2004. Danyal Bennett featured for the West Australian Under-19 side which twice defeated the Victorian Institute of Sport, and Daniel Simcox captained the Schoolboys team who claimed the silver medal at the annual national championship in Adelaide. The trio of Daniel Agudelo, Scott Lewry and Stephen Bettella played their part in the Under-16's taking out silver medal at the National Talent Identification Championships at which Jovo Pavolvic and Phillip Arnold were part of the Under-15 squad. "It's great that these players have been selected to play for the State teams", said Muriale. "It shows that the quality of players at Swan has improved and this is due to greatly to the coach's ability to identify and harness these players talent."

"It's these players who are the future of the club and we hope that the juniors of our local area will strive to follow in their footsteps," added the Swan president. In planning for next year, Swan are moving towards the appointment of a new director of football for their Junior Champions League teams ahead of the opening round of trials early next month. Sessions for the Under-11, Under-12 and Under-13 squads are being held on 1st, 3rd, 8th and 10th November at Swan's home ground of Francis Street, Middle Swan, starting at 6.30pm. Under-14 and Under-15 trials will be conducted on 2nd, 4th, 9th and 11th November at the same venue and time. For further details on the JCL trials contact the club via 043 1886 065 or log on to the Swan I.C. website.

19.10.2004

STUFF-UP CATCHES PHOENIX OUT

South West Phoenix were not impressed about being given the run around prior to Saturday's First Division match with Leeming Strikers. With the Strikers regular ground unavailable the fixture was switched to Watson Reserve, but somewhere along the way Phoenix weren't informed of the change. "It's tough taking three teams to Perth every second week against one trip to Bunbury a season nu the oposition, but when they pull this on you it's just not cricket," said Phoenix coach Jimmy Mayers. "We arrived at Leeming's home ground, John Connell Reserve, and there was a cricket match in progress. We were diverted to a Fremantle venue and so the phones started ringing hot to divert people who travelled up from Bunbury in private transport to the new venue." It all ended well enough for a committed Phoenix side who returned home with maximum points courtesy of a 4-2 scoreline.

19.10.2004

SUPER-SUB MRDJA EARNS SOLNA VALUABLE POINT

Nick Mrdja was AIK Solna's saviour yesterday when he scored three minutes after coming off the bench to earn his side a 1-1 draw with Hammarby. The powerfully built striker replaced Benjamin Kibebe in the 74th minute and made an impression near instantly by putting the ball away from close range. It was Mrdja's second goal in ten appearances for Solna who are currently battling to avoid relegation from Sweden's top flight. Winless since August, Solna are three points adrift of Orgryte IS, Orebro SK and Landskrona BoIS with four games remaining.

18.10.2004

TABLE TOPPERS ARE NUMBER ONE

The West Australian soccer community rank the teams who top the home-and-away table as the State's best. That is the outcome of last week's www.soccerwa.com poll which queried 'Who should be considered WA's number one team?' 87.1% of respondants cast their vote in favour of the Premier League champion in contrast to just 12.9% who opted for the winner of the Top Five play-offs. In light of this result, perhaps the time has come for local authorities to seriously consider the relevance and role played by the finals series.

18.10.2004

DELAY TO LAUNCH OF NEW NATIONAL LEAGUE

The Australian Soccer Association have scrapped plans to unveil the clubs in its new eight-team national competition later this week. The association had hoped to reveal the names of the teams, the people behind them and flesh out full details of the new competition's sponsors and structure on Friday. But concerns over the Melbourne bid's funding, as well as issues in Sydney and Perth, have lead to the ASA's postponing what it had hoped would be an attention-grabbing event.