31.10.2005

LAZARIDIS' LAST CHANCE OF WORLD CUP

Stan Lazaridis confident Australia will qualify for their first Wolrd Cup finals appearance since 1974. The 33-year old is one of several Socceroo veteran's looking to erase bitter memories of previous failures when Australia square off with Uruguay in a fortnight's time for a spot at football's holy grail. "It's my fourth campaign. I've spent fourteen or fifteen years with the Aussie team. You set goals in your life and one of mine is to play in a World Cup," said Lazaridis. "I've got this funny feeling we'll qualify because Guus (Hiddink) is just one of these people who brings intelligence and experience and his coaching record speaks for itself. An away goal would be great, a 2-1 loss or a 1-1 draw. But we know what to expect going there; we know their players and Guus has stamped his authority."

Hiddink's appointment as Socceroos coach in July caused a fair degree of unease amongst the playing squad over their international futures. "At some stage it was going to happen. I was always used to starting and I don't really think I've had that many bad games for Australia," said Lazaridis. "I know that if I do play for Australia I will play well, but Guus can only judge on what he sees at training and who he sees playing, and boys like (Scott) Chipperfield and Jason Culina have come in, done very well and deserve to keep their places, so I'll never argue with that. But I know if he did give me a chance, I'd have an impact and I could contribute to the result. So if that means coming off the bench, so be it. The underlying principle is that I want to qualify."

Lazaridis has played 68 times for Australia and, while a regular under previous coaches, is resigned to playing a revised role against Uruguay. The turning point came during September's qualifying series against the Solomon Islands when a toe infection opened the door for Lazaridis' 'opponents'. "I don't know whether you call it rotten luck, but Scott Chipperfield's come in and done very well and deserved his place," he said. "At the moment I don't think I'm in contention to start, but all I can do is get myself right and try to make it difficult for him (Hiddink) to overlook me. Guus has got an idea of how he wants to play away from home and we'll know what result we need in Australia, so he might alter his tactics and it may be a case where Harry Kewell and myself could maybe fit into that."

30.10.2005

JONES CONTENT TO BIDE HIS TIME

Brad Jones knows the day will come when he's playing regular first team football in England. Since his arrival at Middlesbrough in 1998 the talented young shot-stopper has continually impressed the coaching staff to progress from their youth ranks to the senior squad. All that stands between Jones and place in the starting eleven now is the 193cm frame of Australian international Mark Schwarzer. And although Jones has shown a maturity beyond his years when first team opportunities have came his way, the 23-year old is aware that he's got still got some learning to do before taking over between the posts on a permanent basis.

Earlier this year Jones was recalled from a successful loan spell with Blackpool to play the final month of last season with Middlesbrough, and injury to Schwarzer this season has allowed him to get a few more games under his belt. "I've played ten games, I think, and last season they came in a nice little group, " he explained. "It was nice to have a run where it wasn't just a one-off and against good sides, where you can prove yourself and show that you can do it again and again. This year has been similar, albeit a bit shorter, but to come in and get a little group of games is great for a second-choice 'keeper because some 'keepers never play. I've enjoyed coming in and the manager (Steve McLaren) has been happy to put me in."

Although first team opportunities have been few and far between for Jones he feels no pressure when called upon to replace Schwarzer. "It's a funny feeling because I've been here for that long now I know everybody and, apart from Mark, I've probably been here the longest," Jones said. "Mark's one of the longest-serving players at the club, so it's not that big a deal. It's more the pressure I put on myself to do what I'm happy with and so far I think I've done it. Last season was good because in that run that I had, there were a few games where I had a bit to do and it showed the fans and people on the outside, who see me on TV and think 'who's he?'."

Jones' star has continually been on the rise at club level but it wasn't until the 2004 Olympic Games campaign that he wore Australian colours. However, some of the gloss was taken off Jones' selection when he was dropped for Eugene Galekovic on the eve of the tournament. "It wasn't that Eugene was playing - it was that I was playing then I got dropped with no one saying anything to me," he said of the silent treatment by Australian officials. "Any of the management, that's their job. At Middlesbrough, if something happens one of the staff will be there to explain. I was so disappointed at the time, but I didn't want to be seen complaining because it could kill the rest of the boys."

While sitting on the bench for all four of Australia's games in Athens still irks Jones he is determined to rise above the disappointment. "Once it was done and dusted, I just wanted to forget about it," he explained. "But the hardest thing was telling my family and friends, who were all happy for me to go to the Olympics, that I didn't want to talk about it because it wasn't exactly the highlight of my career so far. I've got to get the disappointment out of the way because if I keep going back to it, it will drive me nuts and it's out of my hands. I'd like to play for the Socceroos, but the most important thing for me is doing my job here."

Jones, who is under contract to Middlesbrough until the end of next season, is well aware he must make his mark at club level before looking at the international stage. "I can understand that it's a big jump from the Olyroos to the senior squad and that I'm not playing very often, but the thing I've got in my favour is that when I'm playing it's in the top league," he said. "I've played in the UEFA Cup and I've performed quite well." Such is Jones' growing reputation that he was called up to the England youth squad but knocked back the opportunity in preference by committing himself to Australia.

Schwarzer believes Jones has what it takes to progress to the Socceroos. "I can see him as a natural successor without a doubt at club level, as well as international level," Schwarzer said. "He's got all the physical and mental attributes to get there and if he keeps progressing like he is, I've got no doubt in my mind whatsoever that he'll go on to bigger and better things. I've watched him grow and mature from a young kid into a young man and he's progressed very well. Every opportunity he's had to play, he's stepped up and done well, so it's always good to have good competition for places."

29.10.2005

ROAR UNABLE TO BREAK DOWN GLORY

Queensland Roar were left rueing their luck after drawing nil-all with Perth Glory at Suncorp Stadium this evening. The hosts accumulated in excess of thirty shots at goal but a combination of poor finishing and fine defending would leave coach Miron Bleiberg scratching his head in frustration. Roar made a positive start with Michael Baird and Alex Brosque combining well in attack to cause their opponent all sorts of problems. But the home team were unable to capitalise on their increased possession with Brosque twice calling Jason Petkovic into action during the opening stages. Glory were slow to get into gear and their first chance saw Simon Colosimo rifle narrowly over the crossbar from a Bobby Despotovski cross. With this the match opened up and scattered chances resulted at both ends. Hyuk-Su Seo pounced on a poor pass but his shot on the run was wide of the upright, while an effort from Damian Mori took a deflection and was well held by Tom Willis. Petkovic kept Glory in the hunt just before the break by denying Brosque after he was played in by Chad Gibson.

Roar came out for the second half on fire and twice in as many minutes went close. Brosque send the ball past Petkovic only to have Matt Horsley clear the danger, and shortly after Baird's shot was blocked by Horsley and with the follow-up Matt McKay fired into the side netting. With Horsley and Jamie Harnwell outstanding in the middle of Glory's rearguard home Bleiberg was wondering how his troops were ever going to find a way through as Baird again fired wide. Roar were in complete control as a stunning strike from Osvaldo Carro crashed into the bar, Karl Dodd's long-range effort flashed wide and Baird was thwarted by a diving save from Petkovic. A rare Glory attack produced a free-kick which Despotovski curled past the defensive and only inches the wrong side of the post on 66 minutes. The crowd of 13,685 attempted to lift the hosts who were let down by poor finishing with Baird, Brosque, Jonathan Richter and Warren Moon the guilty parties. A dramatic final ten minutes saw both sides go close to grabbing all three points, Baird squandering a great opportunity for Roar while at the other end Billy Celeski volleyed high from close-range.

29.10.2005

SOCCEROO SQUAD NAMED FOR WORLD CUP SHOWDOWN

National coach Guus Hiddink has named a twenty-three-man squad for November's FIFA World Cup qualifiers against uruguay. The only notable absence is that of captain Craig Moore due to a hamstring injury, his place being taken by former Perth Glory defender Ljubo Milicevic. "I've now had the opportunity to work with this group of players a few times and we continue to make improvements," said Hiddink. "We have picked a squad that is flexible and will be able to adapt. This will be important across the two legs." Uruguay host the opening match on 12th November with the return fixture taking place at Telstra Australian in Sydney on 16th November. Both matches will be shown live on SBS Television.

The Australian squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers is John Aloisi (Alaves), Scott Chipperfield (Basel), Stan Lazaridis (Birmingham City), Brett Emerton, Lucas Neill (Blackburn Rovers), Luke Wilkshire (Bristol City), Tony Popovic (Crystal Palace), Jason Culina (PSV Eindhoven), Tim Cahill (Everton), Ahmad Elrich (Fulham), Ante Covic (Hammarby), Harry Kewell (Liverpool), Marco Bresciano, Vince Grella (Parma), Archie Thompson (Melbourne Victory), Mark Schwarzer, Mark Viduka (Middlesbrough), Zeljko Kalac (AC Milan), Tony Vidmar (NAC Breda), Michael Thwaite (National Bucharest), Joel Griffiths (Neuchatel Xamax), Ljubo Milicevic (FC Thun) and Josip Skoko (Wigan Athletic).

28.10.2005

LEE THRILLED WITH GOLD MEDAL SUCCESS

No one was more surprised that Mark Lee when his name was read out as winner of the 2005 Gold Medal at Burswood International Resort Casino on Friday night. The dynamic midfielder came from behind to claim the state's most prestigious individual award ahead of Robbie Puca (Perth S.C.) and Shaun Kilkelly (Inglewood United). "I'm delighted and honoured to win the Gold Medal," commented Lee. "It was a special night for me and the best I have ever had in the game. I've always harboured ambitions to win the Gold Medal after learning Kenny Lowe won it when he played here in the 1980's. There are some fantastic players in this league, some of which should be playing at a much higher standard."

But it was far from smooth sailing for Lee who started the year warming the Western Knights bench. "After winning the double with the Knights last year I was really looking forward to another season with them," he said. "Pre-season went well but after that struggled to get in the starting eleven. I asked to go out on loan but couldn't come to an agreement with the coaches and the board, then on transfer deadline day I received a call from the club who'd agreed a deal with Bayswater City. I figured 'Okay, if the Knights don't want me then it's time to move on'. That night I trained with Bayswater and made my debut for them a few days later."

It was a move that would transform Lee's year. "The second half of the season was really enjoyable," he continued. "The coaching staff of Sal Todaro and Willie Kelly had every confidence in me and this allowed me to express myself in the centre of midfield. I was playing alongside Stuart Fraser and we developed a great understanding. After my debut against Armadale we played the Knights away and I was so determined to do well on my return to Nash Field. Apart from one result - against Perth - the rest of the season went really well. We played some exciting football at times and finished in a respectable place on the ladder. It's a great club to play for and they have made me and my family feel so welcome."

Born and raised in north-east England, Lee honed his skills through spells with Scarborough (England) and Hibernian (Scotland) before being encouraged to head down under in 1999. "Moving to Australia has been the most successful part of my career," Lee explained "I've won something every season I've played in Perth. In 1999 we won promotion at Swan I.C. under Eric Williams, and in 2003 it was the Boral Cup when Gary Marocchi was the coach. Last year with Western Knights we won the Premier League and Top Five play-offs, and now I've won the Gold Medal with Bayswater. With the addition of one or two new players Bayswater can do really well in 2006 and I'm looking forward to many more years' success in this league."

There was hardly time for Lee to saviour his Gold Medal victory before he was back at work on Saturday morning teaching future generations to enjoy their football. When not playing the game himself the 26-year old is immersed in coaching roles with Glory Zone and Jungle Soccer, an innovative program for children as young as three. "It's 24/7 for me, its full-on. Football is passion but I get paid for doing what I love as well," said Lee of his coaching duties. "With the young kids at Jungle Soccer we have a laugh and a joke, but with some of the older kids I'm a bit stricter and more serious. I wouldn't give coaching away for anything - it's a great way to put something back into the game."

There was hardly time for Lee to saviour his Gold Medal victory before he was back at work on Saturday morning teaching future generations to enjoy their football. When not playing the game himself the 26-year old is immersed in coaching roles with Glory Zone and Jungle Soccer, an innovative program he has designedfor children as young as three. "It's 24/7 for me, its full-on. Football is passion but I get paid for doing what I love as well," said Lee of his coaching duties. "With the young kids at Jungle Soccer we have a laughand the program is about coaching the parents to coach their kids. Kids learn more when they're having funbut with some of the olderGlory Zone players I'm a bit stricter and more serious."

"At the moment we feel that the Jungle Soccer program is unlike anything seen before here in Australia," added Lee. "I try to coach the way that I play the game, with energy and a smile on my face. Over the past two years these programs have given me a tremendous amount of pride. The feedback we've received has consistently been positive for both Jungle Soccer and the Glory Zone, and at the far end of the scale we've have recently arranged for one of our elite players, 9-year old Jordan Lyden, to trial with an English Premier League club."

28.10.2005

YOUTH TEAM TURNS ON STYLE TO DEFEAT MALAYSIA

A polished display by the Football West Youth team saw them defeat the Malaysian Under-20 squad 2-1 under lights at Arena Joondalup last night. It was the third and final meeting of the friendly series in which the State side claimed victory twice with the remaining match being drawn. "This was our best game of the three match series," said coach Mike Tetlow after the win. "The defence lead, by Dean Apelgren and Dino Djublic, was rock solid, we had some great play coming through midfield and the mobility of our forwards was difficult for Malaysia to handle. I've been impressed with the commitment and attitude of the entire squad throughout this series."

The State side made a positive start with some hard running and swift ball movement causing all sorts of problems for Malaysia. An excellent passage of play resulted in the opening goal on 20 minutes, Brodie Martin threading a pass to Tom Jones who surged into the penalty area only to be brought down by a tackle from behind, and from the spot Peter Lord made no mistake. Jones' also played a key role in the sides second goal just before half-time when he pressured the defence into a poor clearance which Lord seized upon and lashed into the net.

The second half started with Malaysian determined to get back into the game. With both sides playing attractive, attacking football there were good chances created at both ends of the park. Martin and Shaun Kilkelly had a stranglehold over the centre of the park and were behind many of the State sides more promising moves. The only goal of the half came from Malaysia with seven minutes left on the clock. Lord was unfortunate not to complete what would have been a deserved hat-trick by shooting narrowly over the crossbar in stoppage time. The Football West Youth team next outing is against Indonesia's Under-23 side at Litis Stadium on Wednesday, 2nd November (kick-off 7.15pm).

28.10.2005

DEPLETED SQUAD BRINGS DEFENSIVE DILEMA

Perth Glory coach Steve McMahon faces some tough decision with injuries reducing his travelling squad to fourteen fit players for this weekend's visit to Queensland Roar. With Jamie Coyne (abdominal strain), David Tarka (hamstring) and Brian Deane (hamstring) already sidelined, Glory were thrown into disarray yesterday when defender Ante Kovacevic limped out of training. Kovacevic injured his knee and while the extent of the injury is not yet known he will definitely not be making the trip east this weekend. Daniel Vasilevski (calf) and Hiroyuki Ishida (overseas) are also out, while Adrian Caceres will travel with the squad carrying a bruised heel which may yet keep him out of the round ten match.

"I thought we would have had a couple more players available to us but Ante has pulled out," McMahon said. "Adrian will travel, we will give it to the last minute because it is a bruised heel and will have time to recover but we are down to the bare bones and the problem is defensively, that's the major issue. With Tarka out and Ante, Jamie Coyne and Daniel Vasilevski - that's four defenders in the squad. We don't have many defenders in the squad anyway but to have four of them out it is going to be a case of backs to the walls. We will have to reorganise and re-jig, putting square pegs in round holes."

Club captain, Jamie Harnwell, will be the only recognised centre back available this weekend but McMahon insisted there were a number of ways he could address the problem. "It has just struck me this morning and I am thinking 'what do I do now?' I have got to make decisions and there are a number of options. Do we play Simon (Colosimo) there and leave Matty (Horsley) at right back? Do I bring Stephen (McMahon Jnr) into midfield, do I play Stephen at right back - which he can play, do I put Matty at centre back? Everything is going through my mind, there's loads of issues and I will have to sit down over dinner tomorrow night with Vesty (Alan Vest) and throw a few things around the table and see what we come up with."

The Glory coach stressed that there would not be enough time to address their team shape on the training pitch ahead of the match, particularly due to Caceres' late fitness test. But McMahon said his side certainly would not be overcautious in their approach to the match at Suncorp Stadium. "It is the worst situation we have been in for a competitive game. This is a big, big game for us and it is drastic," he admitted. "But we do have confidence, the eleven lads that start the game will give their best and that's all I can ask for. We have got to be men, we have got to stand up and be counted. We know that in the face of adversity comes good things. If we don't get the result I won't be complaining about injuries because the eleven that go out at the start should be good enough and should work hard enough to get a result."

27.10.2005

HALL OF FAME GOES ONLINE!

It promises to be a night to remember when the third round of Hall of Fame inductions are made at the Novotel Langley Hotel on Saturday. Twenty-three players, administrators and officials who've made outstanding contributions to the game will be inducted into the Hall of Champions and the Hall of Recognition, while a four individuals will be honoured into the newly-introduced Hall of Legends. To commemorate the occasion footballwa.net, with the assistance of the Hall of Fame committee, has established a Hall of Fame section as a permanent tribute to those who've made significant contributions to the game in Western Australia.

27.10.2005

MANDURAH LOOKING FORWARD TO NEW SEASON

First Division runner-up Mandurah City is seeking expressions of interest on all coaching positions for season 2006. The club, which celebrated its 35th birthday this year, have become one of the First Division's powerhouse sides with a top five finish in each of their four seasons in the semi-professional ranks. Parties interested in coaching either Mandurah's first, reserve or youth teams next season are invited to submit the resume either by mail to The club secretary, PO Box 101, Mandurah WA 6210; or via email to mandurahsc@hotmail.com. For further information please contact Mandurah coaching coordinator Neil Patten-Williams on 042 1347 010.

27.10.2005

LAZARIDIS WON'T MISS WORLD CUP QUALIFIERS

A hamstring strain won't end Stan Lazaridis' hopes of playing in Australia's World Cup qualifying play-off series against Uruguay next month. The 33-year old left-sided player limped out of Birmingham City's Premier League loss to Blackburn Rovers on the weekend and was expected to be sidelined for up to three weeks. However, recents tests have brought good news for the Socceroo's with Lazaridis' injury being not as bad as initially thought. Australia plays Uruguay in Montevideo on Saturday 12th November (Sunday 13th November, Australia time) with the return leg to be played in Sydney four days later.

26.10.2005

ATAK MAKES MOST OF EUROPEAN OPPORTUNITY (by Peter Simcox)

The chance to play abroad is something that every Australian youngster aspires to, and for Mo Atak that dream has become reality. Following a successful winter campaign with Armadale the 18-year old jumped at the opportunity to link up with Turkish Second Division side Ego Spor. "The level of the game in Turkey is very competitive, and the games and its' players are much quicker than in WA," commented Atak. "The club has a greater discipline, more than any other club I've been involved with, which you would expect for a professional outfit, but that's the club and more importantly the coaches demands."

Training on a full-time basis makes for ling days but that's something Atak is prepared for as he seeks a professional contract. "I'm working hard and my goal is to sign a professional contract in Europe and to play at national level," he explained. "For three days a week we have double training sessions, and the other two days we have single," he explained. "The double sessions begin at 8.30am with breakfast, and we then rest in our rooms until training at 11.00am. After a two and a half hour session it's lunch and then another break until two hour training session starting at 6.00pm. On the other two days we train from 6.00pm until 8.00pm."

When asked who has had the greatest influence on his career to date Atak doesn't hesitate. "My dad - Ahmet - has been great to me and without him being there I wouldn't be where I'm today. Also my number one coach, Mike Tetlow, who I thank for all his hard work on my game." A talented left-sided midfielder, Atak enjoyed spells with Fremantle City, Mandurah City and Armadale but it was while playing for the State that his fondest memories lies. "It has to be scoring the winning goal in for the WA Under-14's South Ddevelopment squad in the final against Singapore in 2001. It was in the last minute and it's something I'll always remember."

25.10.2005

BAYSWATER'S LEE SNATCHES GOLD MEDAL

Mark Lee etched himself into the history books on Friday night when named the 2005 Gold Medal winner. Back-to-back best on ground performances in Bayswater City's end of season fixtures with Swan I.C. and Floreat Athena enabled the 26-year old midfielder to leapfrog Robbie Puca (Perth S.C.) and Shaun Kilkelly (Inglewood United) and claim the award as the state's best and fairest player. It was a remarkable achievement by Lee who, having played off the bench for Western Knights during the first half of the year, turned on the style over the tail end of the campaign while wearing Bayswater colours.

It was tight at the top as the referee's votes for the final month of competition were read aloud. With four games to play Kilkelly lead the way with 16votes, Puca had 15 votes with Kevin Griffiths (Inglewood) and Aaron Cole (Perth) a further vote off the pace. Kilkelly increased his lead to two following the Round Nineteen clash with Stirling Lions. But that margin was trimmed to a single vote as Lee, Griffiths and Paul McMullan (Sorrento) all moved to 16 votes with two games remaining. Lee surged to the front with a best on ground display against Floreat in Round Twenty-One, while Puca reclaimed second with a similar performance against the Lions. Five players were in contention for top honours going into the final round but, with all failing to poll, it was Lee who was invited on stage to collect the 2005 Gold Medal.

At the end of counting just four votes separated the top six players. Lee stormed home to claim top honours with 19 votes which was one more than Puca, and two ahead of Kilkelly. Level in forth place with 16 votes each were Griffiths, McMullan and eye-catching midfielder Bajo Savic (Floreat Athena). Andreas Oliveira (Perth), who lead the field at the halfway stage, end with 15 votes alongside teammate Antonio Naglieri and Western Knights defender Claus Neilsen. Sorrento strike partners Jared Love and Todd Harnwell, Perth captain Aaron Cole, Liam Lilly (Cockburn City) and Darren Broxton (Inglewood) were joint tenth with 14 votes apiece. Download all the Gold Medal votes (xls, 164kb).

The honour of Goalkeeper of the Year was shared between Gareth Deeg and Corey Hugo. Deeg's ten clean sheets were a key ingredient in a successful season for Perth in which they claimed the League and Cup double. At the opposite end of the table Hugo stood up when called upon to ensure Swan I.C. retained their place in the top flight. Twenty-three goals earned Perth striker David Onoforo the Golden Boot as the Premier League's top goalscorer. Association Cup final referee Steve Muldoon went home with the Golden Whistle Award. Also nominated for the referee's highest individual honour were the experienced trio of Ton Klaver, Angelo Nardi and Jeremy Oliphant.

E.C.U. Joondalup attacker Phil Arnold was named the Youth Best and Fairest player for 2005. A sensational second half of the season, which included five best on ground performances in six weeks, earned the teenager the award with 27 votes. Four votes behind was teammate Tom Amphlett with State Under-18 goalkeeper Tom Langley (Cockburn) third on 19 votes. Goran Babac (Perth) ended with 17 votes, one more than Michael Johnson (Sorrento) and three ahead of Callum Roberts (Fremantle City) and Kyle DeSouza (Western Knights). Scott Neville (Sorrento) tallied 13 votes while State Under-15 representative Ramon Amorganda (Stirling Lions) gathered 12 votes. Inglewood goalkeeper Alex Sutton and teammate James Warner ended level with 11 votes apiece.

The First Division's Most Valuable Player went to 26-year old Christian Paschewitz. The Mandurah City attacker lead counting at the halfway stage and ended the season with 25 votes after polling in eleven games. Joint second and six votes behind were Glen Hallums (Rockingham City) and Paul Van Dongen (Canning City) with Steve Suttie (South West Phoenix) a further vote off the pace. 17 votes earned Scott Bulloch (Wanneroo City) fifth place, John Cassidy (Gosnells City) was next with 16 votes and one behind him was Adam Rains (Balcatta). Steve Dimitrovich (Kingsway Olympic) and David Moschilla (Balcatta) shared 12 votes, which was one more than the trio of Jason Van Rooy (Bassendean Caledonain), Derek Cooke (Kingsway Olympic) and Glen Noblett (Forrestfield). Download all the Most Valuable Player votes (xls, 164kb).

South West Phoenix sharp-shooter Steve Suttie went home with the First Division Golden Boot, his winter tally being twenty-four goals. The First Division Youth Best and Fairest was taken out by Kyle Mitsopolous of Queens Park. The promising youngster pulled away from the rest of the field during the final months of the season to claim the award by a comfortable margin. Mitsopolous tallied 24 votes to be well ahead of joint runners-up Darren Mathurine (Rockingham) and Jordan Hart (Forrestfield) on 17 votes. With 14 each were Kevin Lim (Canning) and Jake Watson (Ashfield), with John Hunter (Forrestfield) and Alieu Kamara (Dianella White Eagles) just one behind. Adam Kulavac (Morley Windmills), Strahinza Banovic (Dianella) and Darren Francis (Gosnells) completed the leaderboard on 12 votes.

25.10.2005

RULES ARE RULES ... APPARENTLY (courtesy the "West Australian")

David Beckham and Thierry Henry can wear a ring while strutting his stuff for Real Madrid and Arsenal respectively, but not Perth Glory's Damian Mori. Football Federation Australia's insistence on sticking to FIFA guidelines means Mori, a veteran of over 400 national league games, cannot wear his wedding band while playing for Glory in the A-League. Even though Mori was allowed to tape over his wedding band in four previous matches, World Cup referee Mark Shield refused to let the former Australian international take part in Glory's 2-1 win over Melbourne Victory on Sunday unless he removed the offending item. Due to an over-sized knuckle, Mori was unable to oblige and will have the ring cut off this week so that he can see out the remainder of his short-term contract.

According to FIFA rules, Shield was right. And yet, law four, which states that the wearing or taping of jewellery is not allowed, is routinely ignored by the governors of some of the world's best leagues. FFA enforced the new law, announced by FIFA in July, for consistency's sake. Though Beckham, Henry and company can play in domestic competitions with their jewellery covered, they will not be able to do so when they play for their respective countries at next year's World Cup in Germany because it is FIFA controlled. Mori was furious that Shield would not bend the rules, just as Matthew Breeze, Neil Fox, James Lewis and Ben Williams had earlier in the season. "I've been robbed of a game. At 35 you don't get games back," said Mori, who has three games left on his short-term loan deal.

25.10.2005

GOVERNMENT GIVES 'NEW' ASSOCIATION TICK OF APPROVAL

The State Government's three-year funding commitment of $700,000 for Football West was a vote of confidence in the sport. Football West chief executive officer Michelle Phillips thanked the State Government for the commitment which included $100,000 to finalise the sport's restructure. "This funding will ensure we can move beyond the restructure and lay solid foundations for the development of the game across Western Australia," Phillips said.

The Government investment is an indication that the local game is finally receiving the recognition and attention it deserves under a unified body. "Football West will continue to drive the game in WA and support the Football Family and its burgeoning expansion at all levels of the sport in future years," Phillips added. "This investment will allow new programs and initiatives to be kicked off to progress the pathway for players, coaches and officials in all aspects of the game."

24.10.2005

YOUTH TEAM COMES FROM BEHIND TO DRAW WITH MALAYSIA

A 1-1 draw was the outcome of this evening's second friendly between the Football West Youth team and Malaysia's Under-20 squad at Arena Joondalup. In a fiery encounter, the visiting team were reduced to ten men before going ahead midway through the second half but the State side responded quickly and were unlucky not to snatch a late winner. "We worked hard to achieve the draw," said coach Mike Tetlow whose side came from behind to level the match. "We lacked the quality to go on and win the game but in all fairness to all the boys it's only the second time they've played together." The two teams meet in the third and final game of the series on Thursday evening.

Few genuine goalscoring opportunities presented themselves in a scrappy first half. The local lads enjoyed by far the better of possession but could find few holes in a watertight four-man Malaysian defence. The first chance of the evening resulted from an in-swinging corner which Dino Djulbic met solidly but headed just wide of the target. John Thornley was the victim of a number of reckless tackles which in turn lead to his replacement by Jason Dos Santos midway through the half. In the lead-up to the break a long-range effort from Antonio Naglieri was well saved by the goalkeeper who was also tested by a Scott Bulloch header. For their part, Malaysia was content to sit back and soak up the pressure and only occasionally pressed forward on the counter-attack.

The second half started with a couple of over-zealous challenges from Malaysia which resulted in bookings for two of their number. Football West continued to dictate terms as Peter Lord and Dos Santos each went close to breaking the deadlock. Tensions boiled over after 64 minutes when Mohd Nasriq Baharom was sent off for lashing out at John Higgins behind play, and within a couple of minutes the visitors were issued two further yellow cards. All this unsettled the hosts who shortly after went a goal down via a penalty awarded for handball against Jonathon Mathers. With this that State side stepped up a gear and with ten minutes to go they equalised as Bulloch squeezed between two opponents and threaded the ball to Djulbic who sent it past the visiting 'keeper.

24.10.2005

MATILDA'S UNDEFEATED IN AMERICA

The Australian women's team will return home from their three-match tour of the United States of America without loss after defeating semi-professional outfit Sacramento Storm 2-0 overnight. The result follows last weekends scoreless draw with the United States, the current Olympic champion, and the mid-week 2-0 win over Mexico. "It has been a valuable trip for us being able to spend time together as a unit and playing against quality opposition," said Matildas coach Tom Sermanni. "The most pleasing aspect of the tour was that we didn't concede any goals which is something we can build on, and the fact that we finished each match strongly is also a major positive." The tour is part of the side's on-going preparation for the 2007 FIFA Women's World Cup qualifying tournament in mid-2006.

The Matildas got their tour off on the right note by holding the United States to a nil-all draw at Titan Stadium, Fullarton, California last Sunday. It was the first time the United States had been kept scoreless in forty internationals and brought to an end a run of eight successive victories. Australia started brightly as Collette McCallum and Alicia Ferguson fired wide while Sarah Walsh was denied by the goalkeeper. Kristine Lilly went closest for the host nation with a 75th minute free-kick that clipped the crossbar. The closing minutes saw the American's increase the pressure with a goal-line clearance by Ferguson ensuring the game ended level. McCallum, the only West Australian in the Matilda's squad, was replaced after 69 minutes.

Three days later the Matilda's claimed a 2-0 victory over Mexico at Patriots Stadium in El Paso, Texas. It was a much changed Australian line-up which dominated the first half and midway through the period Joanne Peters forced a fine save from the Mexican goalkeeper. Further chances came the way of Kate Gill and Thea Slatyer but Mexico clung on to go into the break on level terms. The South America's increased the tempo in the second half but it was Australian who looked the more likely to score. The breakthrough finally arrived with four minutes remaining when substitute Walsh headed over an advancing goalkeeper. Sally Shipard scored from close-range in the final minute to celebrating her 18th birthday with her first goal for the national team. McCallum was an unused substitute for the match.

The national women's team wrapped up their tour by defeating leading semi-professional side Sacramento Storm 2-0 at the Home Depot Centre, Los Angeles. It was a frustrating match for the Matilda's who had the ball in the net three times - through Jo Burgess, Kylie Ledbrook and McCallum - only to have each disallowed for offside. The sides luck changed in the 73rd minute as the 'keeper slipped a low shot from Ledbrook and Shipard was positioned to net at close-range. The Australians doubled their lead in injury time with Walsh setting up Lana Harch who broke clear of the defence and finished smartly lifting her shot over the on-coming 'keeper. McCallum saw out the full 90 minutes.

23.10.2005

CONTROVERSIAL GOAL EARNS GLORY THE POINTS

Perth Glory bounced back from last weeks drubbing on the east coast by toppling A-League leader Melbourne Victory 2-1 at Members Equity Stadium. Kick-off was delayed after Damian Mori was asked to remove is wedding ring by referee Mark Shield, the Glory striker was unable to comply and with Shield standing firm Glory had no choice but to substitute Mori. Glory didn't let this sidetrack them as Adrian Caceres and Hiroyuki Ishida caused problems down the flanks and Simon Colosimo and Nick Ward seized control of midfield. The home team gained the lead on 22 minutes when Ward's cross to the back post was nodded across goal by Caceres to Brian Deane who scored his first goal for the club. The Ward-Colosimo partnership was working a treat for the hosts as Deane, Caceres and Ishida all went close to adding to the tally. Victory showed little purpose in attack but an under-hit back pass by Jamie Harnwell in the 39th minute gifted the visitors an equaliser as Archie Thompson flashed his shot past Jason Petkovic from 17-metres.

The introduction of Naum Sekulovski at the break to partner Bobby Despotovski in attack made sure the Victory rearguard was kept on high alert. Ten minutes after the re-start Glory regained the advantage, albeit in controversial circumstances. An attempted clearance by Eugene Galekovic struck the hand of the oncoming Sekulovski and ricocheted past the stranded 'keeper and rolled into an empty net, Shields consulted his assistant on the line after which he allowed the goal to stand. Although Victory increased their workrate and started to get on top they found it difficult to break down the home defence and were limited chiefly to shooting from distance. The best move saw Thompson break the offside trap midway through the period but he sprayed his wide. A Glory free-kick in the closing minutes went within inches of securing victory with Despotovski curling his shot around the defensive wall only to come back off the upright.

23.10.2005

FARCICAL SCENES OVERSHADOW GLORY WIN

It's already being described as one of the most farcical situations you'll ever see in Australian football. Perth Glory's Damian Mori was denied entry to the playing arena at Members Equity Stadium this afternoon by referee Mark Shield because he was wearing his wedding ring. Glory were forced to start the game with ten men as Mori struggled to remove his ring on the sidelines. Due to previous finger injuries there was no chance of Mori removing the ring, and coach Steve McMahon had little choice but to substitute the veteran striker who hadn't even stepped on the pitch.

FIFA regulations may state a player is not allowed to play while wearing any item of jewellery, Mori has played over 400 national league games - including four in the A-League - with the ring taped up. "I have been wearing my wedding ring for eleven years in national competition and I played the last four matches wearing it taped up," Mori said. "There is no way I can take it off so it seemed like a ridiculous situation at the beginning of the match. It just seems that the authorities could show a bit of common sense in these situations. The worst thing was that I missed a game so I only have three games left now."

McMahon, who pleaded at length with Shield before replacing Mori, expressed his disappointment regarding the situation following the match. "It was quite farcical," said the Glory boss. "He would have had to get a hacksaw to cut his finger off and Damian was nearly prepared to do that. I have never known anything like it and Damian is going to have to get his ring cut off now so his wife probably won't be happy but that is just the way it is. We understand the rules are there, but to be told two minutes before the game was not on."

22.10.2005

STRIKERS BRING HOME ANOTHER MEDAL

Perth Strikers added yet another medal to their already impressive haul by claiming third place at the Australian Masters Games in Adelaide last week. The women's representative side won four and drew one of seven group stage fixtures before being edged out by Putney Ravens who lost only one qualifying game. "It was a great achievement from the Perth girls who played fantastically throughout the week," commented team captain Penny TannerHoath. Formed in 1994, the Strikers record includes gold medals at the 1997, 1999 and 2003 Australian Masters Games as well as first place at the 2000 Asia Pacific Games.

Playing nine games in the space of a week is going to test the metal of even the best sides, let alone one whose numbers were reduced by injury. "It was a pretty tough week," explained TannerHoath, who tore her knee ligaments in the Strikers second match. "We only had a squad of fourteen so we only had two substitutes after I was forced to be a spectator. Some days we were playing two games and tiredness kicked in pretty quick even though we rotated players to give everyone a rest."

The Strikers campaign kicked off with a 3-2 win over Adelaide All-Stars on Monday morning, followed that afternoon by a 0-1 loss to Putney Ravens. Bocs provided little resistance on the second day of competition with the side from the west coast running out comfortable 4-0 winners. A scoreless draw with New South Wales Ladies started Wednesday, while a 3-0 defeat of Striking Banshees kept side on track for a semi-final berth.

The South Australian Women's Association 'elite' side brushed aside the Strikers 0-4 on Thursday, but the team from the west bounced back the following day by downing Newmarket Masters 3-0 to ensure their place in the medal round. Two second half goals took South Australia through to the decider courtesy of 2-0 scoreline in a hard fought semi-final. The minor place play-off was taken out by Putney Ravens who triumphed 1-0 over the Strikers. Adelaide All-Stars claimed the gold over the South Australian Women's Association 'elite' squad which was ineligible for a medal.

22.10.2005

HORSLEY SET TO START

Crowd favourite Matt Horsley is expected to make his first starting appearance in the A-League when Perth Glory clash with Melbourne Victory tomorrow. Horsley has made only two substitute appearances to date but is likely to join the first eleven with Jamie Coyne to miss the match due to injury. Glory are coming off a heavy loss to Central Coast mariners and coach Steve McMahon says there'll be changes for this weekend's game. "I am certainly thinking about it (making changes) that's for sure," he said. "It's the opposite from last week because after a great result I think the team almost picked itself and now this week it is the opposite. If you go on the back of a 4-0 defeat it's my job to look at the situation and, if it needs changing, change it."

"I want to send messages to everybody," McMahon continued. "With a small scale squad you can't make wholesale changes because of the squad system but it is certainly something that I am considering very strongly. All of those players should have had a few sleepless nights, as I have over the last few days. It's not nice to come home on the back of a defeat like that. I hope the players have thought about a few issues and how they could have done better. I certainly have and I don't think anybody would be surprised if they were left out."

22.10.2005

LEE CLAIMS TOP HONOURS IN GOLD MEDAL

A late charge has earned Bayswater City's Mark Lee the state's highest individual honour - the Gold Medal. Lee won the award with 19 votes, one ahead of Perth S.C. midfielder Robbie Puca and two more than Shaun Kilkelly, captain of Inglewood United. Goalkeeper of the Year was shared between Gareth Deeg (Perth) and Corey Hugo (Swan I.C.), with referee Steve Muldoon going home with the Golden Whistle Award. Phil Arnold (E.C.U. Joondalup) collect the Youth Best and Fairest for 2005. The First Division's Most Valuable Player was awarded to Mandurah City sharp-shooter Christian Paschewitz, with Kyle Mitsopolous (Queens Park) taking out the league's Youth Most Valuable Player. We hope to carry a more comprehensive round-up of the Gold Medal Awards night in next Friday's update.

21.10.2005

OUR BEST HONOURED IN FOOTBALLS NIGHT OF NIGHTS

The inaugural Football West season officially comes to a close this evening with the 44th Gold Medal Awards ceremony. Indications are there’ll be a bumper turnout for the gala event being held in the Grand Ballroom of the Burswood International Resort Casino. “We are very pleased to announce that we will have over five hundred football family guests at the first Football West Gold Medal Awards night,” said Michelle Phillips, chief executive officer of Football West. “We are proud to be continuing this tradition of over forty years and after the success of our first season see the Gold Medal Awards night as a great way to celebrate. This night is for all involved in the game - players, coaches, referees, club officials and volunteers who make our sport the success it is today.”

The centrepiece of the evening will be the local games’ top individual honour. “We are very much looking forward to announcing the 2005 McInerney Gold Medal winner,” added Phillips. “This is the most prestigious football award in WA and this player represents the true spirit of the game and a professional quality we should all strive for.” Amongst the favourites for this year’s award are Perth S.C. teammates Antonio Naglieri and Robbie Puca, Floreat Athena midfielder Bajo Savic, Kevin Griffiths of Inglewood United and Scottish import Paul McMullan who played the winter with Sorrento. Shaun Kilkelly (Inglewood) and Danny Hill (Sorrento) are also tipped to poll strongly with Mark Lee (Bayswater City) and Darko Ilmanovski (Stirling Lions) rated as outside chances.

And it’s not just the Gold Medal that is being awarded this evening. Gareth Deeg is the favourite for the Goalkeeper of the Year but will have to fend off Corey Hugo (Swan I.C.), Peter Stewart (E.C.U. Joondalup) and Oliver Taseski (Inglewood) in order to take out the award. The Golden Whistle Award is expected to go home with either Ton Klaver, Steve Muldoon, Angelo Nardi or Jeremy Oliphant. And the front-runners for the Youth Best and Fairest are Goran Babac (Perth), Michael Johnson (Sorrento), goalkeeper Tom Langley (Cockburn City), Callum Roberts (Fremantle City) and Joondalup teammates Tom Amphlett and Phil Arnold.

There should be little separating the leaders when the final round of votes are counted in the First Division’s Most Valuable Player award. South West Phoenix sharp-shooter Steve Suttie and State representative Scott Bulloch (Wanneroo City) are tipped to be amongst the leaders of a highly competitive field which also includes Paul Van Dongen (Canning), Christian Paschewitz (Mandurah City), Adam Raines (Balcatta) and Glen Hallums (Rockingham). The First Division’s Youth Most Valuable Player is expected to be fought out between Jordan Hart (Forrestfield United), Kevin Lim (Canning City), Darren Mathurine (Rockingham City), Kyle Mitsopoulos (Queens Park) and Jake Watson (Ashfield). We hope to carry a complete round-up of who took out what as part of next Friday’s update.

21.10.2005

YOUTH SIDE DOWN MALAYSIA

The Football West Youth team opened their friendly series against the Malaysian Under-20 squad with a 2-1 victory last night. Played under lights at Arena Joondalup, the State side recovered from being a goal down to overcome the visiting side who in town as preparation for next months Asian Football Confederation qualifiers. The opening exchanges were fast and furious with a number of good opportunities carved out at both ends. John Thornley and Jason Dos Santos went close early on for the hosts while Jon Higgins headed narrowly at a corner. Sloppy defending allowed Malaysia to go ahead ten minutes from half-time when Mohammad Zaquan Adha Abdul Razak raced clear to slot past the 'keeper.

The State Youth team emerged for the second half firing on all cylinders and within three minutes were back on level terms. An excellent passage of play down the left drew a foul just outside the 18-yard box from where Dos Santos crashed the ball past the 'keeper with a fine strike. The hosts continued to apply the pressure and not long after gained the lead as strong work from Chris Smith on the right wing resulted in another free-kick which this time swung into the net via the left boot of Higgins. Substitute Damian Catalano could have made the final margin greater but was unable to make the most of a couple of late chances that came his way.

21.10.2005

FIFA TO GUEST AT HALL OF FAME CEREMONY

FIFA referees instructor Gary Power will be one of many celebrity guests at the Football Hall of Fame Western Australia induction ceremony on Saturday 29th October at Novotel Langley Hotel. Power will make a special presentation to former World Cup referee Eddie Lennie, who will be one of twenty-seven inductees into the Hall of Fame, which is sponsored by Reinforced Concrete Pipes. A former Australian Referees Director of Coaching, Power is the FIFA Instructor to the Asian Confederation of Referees and is based in Singapore.

Apart from referees, former players, coaches and administrators will be appointed into the Hall of Fame. There will also be an historic touch with the first inductees into the newly-formed Hall of Legends, an exclusive category which celebrates the achievements of some very special champion players by elevating them to legendary status. The cost includes a sumptuous three-course dinner, drinks, a collectors' item programme, entertainment and the chance to obtain some highly-prized memorabilia in a grand auction. Tickets for the gala event are priced at $100 and are available by contacting Barbara Gibson (0429 943 830) or John O'Connell (0413 973 846).

20.10.2005

NATIONAL COACH CALLS FOR WARD'S PROMOTION

Australian youth international Nick Ward, denied a spot in Perth Glory's starting eleven, is good enough to make an impact in the A-League according to one of the country's best judges of young talent. Ange Postecoglou, coach of the national Under-20 side, believes Ward possesses the skill and ability to flourish in the centre of the park for Glory. "I think he's up to it," Postecoglou told Jonathon Cook of the "West Australian" newspaper. "Because of his fitness levels he could just about play any midfield role, with some adjustment. He's also a very good finisher."

Opportunities have been scarce for Ward who's been limited to playing off the bench and averaged just twenty minutes in Glory's eight matches. Currently ahead of creative 20-year old are Australian international Simon Colosimo, Young Socceroo Billy Celeveski and Steve McMahon Junior, son of coach Steve McMahon. Ward would relish the chance to go head-to-head with national teammate Kristian Sarkies when Glory meet Melbourne Victory at Members Equity Stadium on Sunday. However, it's likely Colosimo will come back into the line up after missing last week's game through injury.

Ward, rated as one of the nations most exciting prospects, admits his lack of game time has been frustrating but knows his time will come. "Everybody wants to play," he said. "It's frustrating coming off the bench but I've got to wait for my chance and take it when it comes." Ward, a graduate of the Australian Institute of Sport, was part of Glory's 2003/2004 championship winning squad. He's been a regular for the Australian Under-20 side since debuting in early 2004, and that same year won the Gold Medal as the Premier League's best and fairest player while wearing the colours of Stirling Lions.

20.10.2005

STATE TEAM SQUARE OFF WITH MALAYSIA

A youthful West Australian squad play the first of three games against the visiting Malaysia Under-20 side this evening in the northern suburbs. The Malaysian youth team will face off with the State's best as part of their preparations for the upcoming Asian Football Confederation qualifiers. "There hasn't been a lot of time to organise things but we've put together a competitive squad at short-notice," explained coach Mike Tetlow. In addition to this evenings match, the State side meet the Malaysian Under-20's on Monday (24th October) and Thursday (27th October) of next week at the Arena Joondalup, kick-off for both games being 7.00pm. It is understood negotiations are taking place for the State team to also play the Indonesian Under-23's in early October.

Twenty-nine players have been selected for the Malaysia series. The squad is Scott Patterson (Armadale), Jason Dos Santos (Cockburn City), Jason Barrera, Tim De Souza, Shane Nunes, Marlon Ramirez (Fremantle City), Dean Apelgren, Shaun Kilkelly (Inglewood United), John Morton (E.C.U. Joondalup), Jeff Bright, Matt Danskin, Dino Djulbic, Peter Lord, Antonio Naglieri (Perth S.C.), Aleksander Vrteski (Stirling Lions), Daniel Cain, Brodie Martin, Chris Ramsey, Chris Smith (Sorrento), Daniel Agudelo, Daniel Catalano, David Foster, Jonathon Mathers, Miki Vujacic (Swan I.C.), Scott Bulloch, Craig Cheesman, Chris Currie (Wanneroo City), John Higgins and John Thornley (Western Knights). Team officials are Tetlow (coach), Willie Mcnally (assistant coach) and Steve Coppack (manager).

19.10.2005

NO WIN SITUATION (by Peter Simcox)

In any organisation's inaugural year the end goal is to meet the needs of all clients to the best of your ability and make the right decisions. In 2005 Football West has found that learning curve can be steep and pleasing all stakeholders is much harder than it appears - as the saying goes, "Damned if they do, damned if they don't". The game's peak body has made great strides to bring into alignment football at all levels in Western Australia, and after a year at the helm Football West have asked the clubs to sit down and discuss the past twelve months.

It's understood some clubs are not happy with a number of Football West decisions, however, it needs to be stressed the organisation has the interests of all clubs in mind and must remain impartial. They have shown great integrity across the board and, regardless of what any individual or club has to say on the matter, the fact is Football West are working hard to improve the world's most popular sport in this state.

Over the years the clubs in Western Australia have run football - for good or bad, this had to change. Football West has began to put in place procedures that will allow the game to prosper. I hear the clubs saying 'Yes, but why don't they listen to us?' They are listening but it's the interests of all clubs that they serve. If the organisation makes changes for one club and not the other we'd be back to where we started.

We all agree the game has to change and the implementation of new ideas, though not always popular with all clubs, is vital for the game to go forward. We must work together, clubs need to talk to Football West and understand that they only have the improvement of our great game in their sights and to go forward we need work together.

19.10.2005

FIRED-UP GLORY SET TO BOUNCE BACK

Perth Glory will be looking to regain some lost pride this Sunday when they host Melbourne Victory. During training on Wednesday morning several senior players read the riot act to teammates in light of the 0-4 loss to Central Coast Mariners last the weekend. "They have hurt their pride, that's why they did it," coach Steve McMahon as way of explaining the outburst. "They were embarrassed over there, and I think it's good that they have responded the way they have."

At Members Equity Stadium on Sunday Glory face an in-form Victory side coming off a 5-0 Thrashing of Sydney FC. Despite Victory captain Kevin Muscat and Socceroo Archie Thompson being in sizzling form, McMahon says neither will attract any special attention from Perth's rearguard. "If we put too much energy into shutting individual players, others will step up and do just as much damage," commented the Glory boss. Simon Colosimo looks set to return to the Glory line-up at the expense of Steve McMahon Jr, who suffered a knee injury against the Mariners.

18.10.2005

VILLA LIFE SUITS LOWRY

Things could not be better for teenager Shane Lowry who's joined the ranks of English Premier League club Aston Villa. The 16-year old defender headed overseas a few months back to commence a three-year deal which is made up of a two-year Youth Training Scheme followed by one-year professional contract. Lowry has settled into life in the Midlands quickly and established himself as an integral part of the club's Youth team. "It's going really well here and I'm thoroughly enjoying it," commented Lowry. "The staff are excellent and I'm settling in well."

He may have been with the club only a short time but Lowry has already impressed the Aston Villa coaching staff, so much so that he recently made his Reserve team debut by coming off the bench late in the home draw with Blackburn Rovers. "It was a great experience, particularly to get on at Villa Park," added the former E.C.U. Joondalup player. "I usually play matches at Bodymoor Heath, so to play at the main ground was amazing. It was a larger crowd and a big step up and even though it was for a short time, I was delighted to get on."

18.10.2005

DANZE SPLITS WITH PALACE

One-time Australian youth international Anthony Danze has left English club Crystal Palace by mutual consent. The 21-year old midfielder made two appearances for the Eagles, both in the Carling Cup, since joining them as a free agent in 2004. "He did brilliantly for us in the time he was here," said manager Iain Dowie. "We really thought he would play a big part this year. He has had a lot of injuries and a lot of niggles and it just quite didn't work out for him."

18.10.2005

TARKA ON TRACK FOR COMEBACK (courtesy Perth Glory)

Perth Glory defender David Tarka insists he is not far away from returning to the A-League after undergoing a series of injections on his troublesome hamstring. The former Young Socceroo has not yet been able to play in the new national competition after undergoing an operation on his hamstring in pre-season. Tarka had hoped to be back in contention by the third round of the season but has recently seen a specialist who looks set to solve his long-term hamstring problems.

The Perth-born player had a series of injections to his muscle last Friday to release tightness and should resume jogging this week. "I am really glad with what has happened and the doctor who has treated me with these needles is very positive and up-beat about it and says it is going to come good," Tarka explained. "He went in with a series of needle injections, one at a time, and probably made twenty injections in total. Part of the muscle had been tight and the injections are a mixture of anaesthetic and saline to release that tightness."

While it has been frustrating for one of Glory's key players to have missed a third of the season already, Tarka is looking forward to a return in the near future but does not want to put a definite time frame on his comeback. "The operation was done on May 5 and they always said it would take three to six months to come back so I am still on target," he stressed. "You always want to come back sooner if you can. I am feeling good about how things are going now but I certainly couldn't be playing in the A-League at the moment."

The 22-year old was an important member of the Glory's first NSL Championship in 2002/2003 before heading to England to pursue a career with Nottingham Forest. Injuries and changes to coaching staff did not help Tarka's cause and he eventually elected to return home for a new adventure in the A-League. "When I left Perth before everything was going well but things have plateaued a bit now," he said. "I just want to prove to myself that I can reach my full potential and when I get there I will be happy. I have learned a lot about football such as coaching and other parts of the game while I have not been able to play [so] there have been some positives to take out of my time on the sidelines."

Tarka has been very impressed of what he has seen of the A-League so far and although keen to get involved on the pitch, he's remained very patient through difficult times. "It is everyone's dream to play at home in front of your friends and family without having to go overseas and now it is happening it is only going to get better and better," he enthused. "I am not going to say a time for when I am likely to be back. I have a rough estimation in my mind and I should start training full-on next week. If I feel any more tightness I may have to go back for more injections but it should only keep me out of training for a few days."

17.10.2005

SWAN FIND POSITIVES IN DISAPPOINTING CAMPAIGN (courtesy Swan I.C.)

Swan I.C. will look back on 2005 as a season of consolidation after a disappointing eighth placing by their first team in the Premier League. The shock mid-season resignation of Gary Marocchi rocked the club to its foundation, but into the breach came club legend Carlo Scali who successfully steered the club clear of relegation. "Although we finished in eight position this year - the same as the last two years - we did not perform anywhere near to our capabilities and the players want to put that right for next year," commented the Swan coach. "We had a few positives out of the season with some of the youngsters getting their first starts and performing well for us. We look forward to seeing them continue their development and adding to the team's depth."

The season had begun so well for the Swan Valley club who reached the Night Series final in which they were out-played by Inglewood United. The recruitment of several quality players over the off-season, amongst them Rob Monterosso, Michael Bushby, Scott Campbell, Damien Catalano and Jonathan Mathers, gave the Black and Whites faithful high expectations for the season ahead. "I believe that there is no other club in the league like Swan," commented Campbell who has no regrets about joining Swan. "This club has a terrific atmosphere where everyone is good mates. We need to make strides together on the park and begin to compete with the top clubs which I believe we can."

Unfortunately injury and poor form prevented Swan from reaching those pre-season expectations. However, the flip side of the coin reveals the smooth transition of several youngsters to senior ranks, namely David Perich, Jovo Pavlovic and Daniel Simcox. Additionally, the Reserves turned around a truly dreadful start to finish in fifth position. "It's always hard to change a style of play and with results not going their way team morale was low," said Michael Di Fulvio who took over as Reserves coach after six games. "To the boys credit they turned it around quickly and I couldn't have asked for more commitment from the player group. It was also exciting to see many Reserve team players progress to the first team."

The Swan Youth side continued the clubs success in Cup football with a Sebastian DeCotter goal against Sorrento earning the side the knock-out trophy. The junior set up at the club is on the improvement with the Under-12's winning the Premier League title by losing just one game all season. It's an exciting time for the club and with a great atmosphere both on and off the pitch they are confident of a much stronger showing next year. The addition of a couple more quality players will not only bolster their ranks and intensify competition for places, but also make Swan a much stronger proposition for next season.

17.10.2005

RETIREMENT DRAWS NEARER FOR MILLER

Not even a form revival is likely to change Scott Miller's plans to hang his playing boots at the end of the A-League season. Miller, one of only two remaining members of Perth Glory's inaugural squad, says that after over 200 national league games he's ready to call it a day. "This season will do me," Miller told David Davutovic of the "Sunday Times" newspaper. "The body's feeling really good and I'll see what the club thinks, but at this stage I'm treating every game as my last one. Bobby 's return makes you think that there may be another chance when you get to the end of the season. But at the moment, I'm trying to get as much enjoyment out of every game this season as I can."

Resigned to the fact that he'll one day need a hip replacement, Miller has required a injection for a degenerative hip injury to play pain free this season. Retirement plans aside, the 33-year old admits it's been a challenge adapting to the system employed by new coach Steve McMahon. "If I'm just defending and not pushing forward, I don't have as much impact as I would normally and I think we play better when (the fullbacks) are pushing forward," Miller said. "That's also getting used to the coach's system. We were trying to keep the back four tight, but if (Jamie) Coyne and myself can help the midfielders out, then the opposition doesn't really know who to mark, so we've done that in the last few games."

16.10.2005

MARINERS ROMP TO VICTORY OVER GLORY

Perth Glory suffered their biggest loss to the A-League when Central Coast Mariners strolled to a 4-0 win at a rain-soaked Central Coast Stadium. The win was orchestrated by Andre Gumprecht and Tom Pondeljak who teased and tormented their former Glory teammates over the course of the afternoon. The Mariner's were quick out of the blocks and in teh 15th minute went ahead when Pondeljak played a clever low ball in between Ante Kovacevic and goalkeeper Jason Petkovic which Stewart Petrie tapped in to an unguarded net at the far post. Billy Celeski went close to equalising just before the break after a neat cut back from Adrian Caceres, but the midfielder was denied by Danny Vukovic who kept the ball out of his net with his legs. But other than that Glory posed little danger in their attacking third where the strike force of Bobby Despotovski and Damian Mori were effectively shut down by a resolute Mariners back line.

The Mariner's struck their second goal six minutes into the second half via a fine header from Petrie which resulted from a superb right wing cross by Pondeljak. Hiroyuki Ishida nearly pulled a goal back on 51 minutes with a cracking shot on the run which skimmed the crossbar. While Glory struggled to open up their opponents there was no such problem for the hosts. Dean Heffernan and Wayne O'Sullivan had shots go narrowly wide, before Heffernan found a way through with a far post header on 85 minutes. The icing was put on the cake by Mariners captain Noel Spencer who drilled the ball in from an acute angle in the 93rd minute. The Mariners move up to fourth place, while Glory drop to seventh.

15.10.2005

LAZARIDIS EYES A-LEAGUE ROLE (courtesy the "West Australian")

World Cup hopeful Stan Lazaridis wants to coach in the A-League and could be tempted by an offer to return from England as early as next year. The Birmingham City and Socceroos defender is keen to pass on his vast experience to some of Australia's future stars, while also seeing out his playing career in the new domestic competition. On the immediate horizon is Australia's World Cup qualifiers against Uruguay next month, but beyond that Western Australia's most successful soccer export would be open to taking on a player-coach role with an A-League club.

"I've said I'll come home and play in Australia, I just don't know when it would be. It could be next year, it could be the year after," said Lazaridis, who would prefer an assistant coaching role, rather than a manager's job, so he could get the most out of the final years of his playing career. "I'd like to put some of my knowledge to good use. I've got a lot of experience and I've played overseas and internationally for so long I'm sure I could be a help," he said. "But it depends what the owners are after. "

Lazaridis said he would probably decide in January whether his immediate future was with Birmingham, elsewhere in England or in Australia. His current Birmingham deal is up for renewal at the end of the English Premier League season, and Blues boss Steve Bruce could yet offer the 33-year-old a contract extension. If Lazaridis chooses to return to Australia, he will be in demand, with several clubs certain to see the value in the affable star. Perth Glory have made no secret of their desire to see Lazaridis play in Perth, but the defender also has links to Adelaide. His wife Mary is from the city of churches where Lazaridis started his National Soccer League career with West Adelaide.

But Lazaridis, who has played 68 times for the Socceroos since his debut in 1993, could probably take his pick of Australian clubs. Glory would do well to act quickly in this instance after being left behind in the race to sign many A-League stars before the start of the inaugural season. The tight purse strings which prevented Glory from pursuing with more vigour the likes of German import Andre Gumprecht and locally-grown striker Nick Mrdja, who both signed for Central Coast, would have to be loosened to get the in-demand Lazaridis.

His immediate aim, though, is to regain a regular starting place in the Birmingham side after recovering from groin surgery, in order to increase his chances of playing a key role in the Socceroos World Cup qualifiers. "I haven't felt like this for the last couple of months. It was pleasing to get back in against Arsenal and I'd love to start this weekend," he said ahead of Birmingham's clash with local rival Aston Villa at St Andrews tomorrow. "If I'm playing well and I'm playing every week with Birmingham it puts me in the frame for the Aussie team as well."

Lazaridis, who did not play in the Socceroos1recent 5-0 friendly win over Jamaica, acknowledged that he was down the pecking order under new coach Guus Hiddink. "I play a different style to what Guus wants and I have to adapt a bit. Maybe it's a lack of games I've played at Birmingham as well," he said. "Hopefully, I'll play in the qualifiers but the main priority is to qualify. All that matters is getting the results we need. I just hope, for the good of the game and for all the time and effort we've put into it, that we do it this time. And from a personal point of view, it would be great to finish off (my international career) by making it to Germany."

15.10.2005

MCMAHON STICKS WITH WINNING FORMULA (courtesy Perth Glory)

Perth Glory coach Steve McMahon looks set to stick with the same team that thumped Newcastle United Jets last week when his side travel to Central Coast Mariners on Sunday, meaning there'll be no place for big name pair Brian Deane or Simon Colosimo. Deane had an injection to his hip late this week and will rest over the weekend while Colosimo returned from training with the Socceroos squad with a minor knee injury which will keep him out of this weekend's fixture.

Both Deane and Colosimo should return to training next week ahead of the home clash with Melbourne Victory but Matt Horsley will return to the squad for the trip to Gosford. "Brian Deane has a hip problem and Simon has a knee problem but I was resigned to the fact that Brian wasn't going to travel," said McMahon. "He does not need to travel five or six hours to be on the bench. He had an injection in his hip yesterday and we need all of our players to be fully fit so Brian will rest this weekend and it will give another player, Matt Horsley, a chance to be in the squad."

While Colosimo has a minor injury, McMahon stressed that he may have missed out on selection anyway as a result of last weekend's excellent performance. "I was keeping with the same eleven regardless of injuries," he said. "After a 5-1 away win, I think the team deserves another chance." Asked whether he would be pleased with a point from the trip to the Central Coast, McMahon said: "Can we go away and have another good win? Yes we can. There's no reason why not and we will be going there for the three points."

14.10.2005

CHEERIO, CHEERIO, CHEERIO

The end of another season brings with it the inevitable retirement of some familiar faces. What makes five of this years leavers stand out from the crowd is that between them they’ll be taking close to eighty years and in excess of 1,500 senior games cumulative experience with them. The quintet in question are one-time Australian Schoolboys international Craig Surtees, 1997 Gold Medal winner Paul Lincoln, long-serving Stirling Lions attacker Rob Milevski, Western Knights crowd favourite Alex Christie and ever-reliable Sorrento defender Stuart Banks. And there could be a few more names added to that list with a number of players still contemplating whether or not they’ll strap on the playing boots for the winter of 2006.

It's the end of an era at Fremantle City where Surtees has been an integral part of the senior list for over a decade. Surtees made his first team debut for Kingsway Olympic in 1988, toured the United Kingdom and United States with the Australian Schoolboys the following year, and spent two seasons at Stirling Macedonia whom he helped to the 1990 Night Series. He joined Fremantle in 1992 and won the club's Fairest and Best on debut, and then again two years later. 1996 was spent with Dianella White Eagles - where another Fairest and Best came his way - before returning to Fremantle and gaining senior State honours against Indonesia. Surtees played an integral role in Fremantle capturing the Premier League crown in 2000 after which he scooped his fourth club Fairest and Best. The defender featured for the State against Red Star Belgrade (2001) and Iraq (2003), and was honoured by Fremantle last week with Life Membership.

After nineteen years of first team football 36-year old Paul Lincoln has called it a day. A teenage Lincoln introduced himself to the local scene in 1987 with Stirling Toscany, and a four-year stint at Bayswater City commencing 1990 allowed the attacker to fine-tune his goalscoring talents. He was a key member of the Stirling Macedonia which claimed two Premier League championships, three successive Night Series titles, a hat-trick of Top Four play-off crowns and one association Cup between 1994 and 1996. On a personal level, Lincoln's most successful season was with Spearwood Dalmatinac in 1997 when he received the State League’s highest accolade - the Gold Medal - and gained senior State honours. A couple of seasons at Floreat Athena preceded a move to Inglewood United where he was leading goalscorer twice in three years. Lincoln jumped at opportunity to join Swan I.C. in 2003, winning back-to-back association Cups (2003, 2004) and was their leading goalscorer on debut.

It was fitting that Rob Milevski scored the last goal of the 2005 regular season in his final appearance for Stirling Lions. A product of Stirling's youth system, Milevski made his first team debut shortly after returning from the National Schools Championships in 1990. Over the course of four seasons the lively attacker would play his role in the club winning Night Series (1991), association Cup (1992) and Top Four play-off (1992) titles. 1994 was spent with Western Knights, where he was the club's leading goalscorer, and the following year at Fremantle City. A second four-year spell with Stirling commenced in sensational style as the club captured the 1996 Night Series, association Cup and Top Four play-off trophies. 2000 began with a brief stay at Inglewood United after which he led the attack for Stirling Suns. Milevski returned to Macedonia Park for a third time in 2002, playing a key role in that year's First Division title win and a regular starter in subsequent seasons.

Western Knights have some big boots to fill following the retirement of seasoned campaigner Alex Christie. The defender-come-midfielder started out with Nunawading in 1988 and after bouncing around from club to club for some eight years decided to step up the intensity after winning the Best and Fairest at Westvale. A move west had immediate impact with Christie winning Stirling Macedonia's Best and Fairest and earning a place on the State team's 1997 tour of Sarawak. Two seasons with Fremantle City followed during which time he took home the club's Best and Fairest in 1998 and gained additional State honours. The winter of 2000 took Christie to the Western Knights where he was a key figure in a successful Cup campaign and, come seasons' end, joint recipient of the club's Fairest and Best. Further silverware in the form of Premier League championship and Top Five play-off winner’s medals came his way last season.

It was as a 17-year old that Banks stepped up to senior ranks with Sorrento in 1993. But after a single season in the Gulls first team he headed overseas to take up a four-year football scholarship at Campbell University (North Carolina, U.S.A.) for whom he twice gained selection for TAAC representative teams. A brief mid-1997 stay at Joondalup City paved the way for the defender's return to local ranks the following year with Sorrento. There was silverware to be had at both ends of 1999 as the northern suburbs club claimed the Night Series and Top Five play-off titles, and two year later Banks had the honour of being the first Sorrento captain to collect the Premier League championship. After gaining senior State honours in 2001, work commitments took Banks to New South Wales where he turned out for Manly Warringah and Canterbury Marrickville. He headed back to Perth last summer and, after beginning the season with Sorrento, ended his playing days helping E.C.U. Joondalup avoid relegation.

14.10.2005

GOLD MEDAL UP FOR GRABS (by Peter Simcox)

The glitz and glamour of local football will be on show when the 2005 Gold Medal awards ceremony is held at the Burswood International Resort Casino this Friday. After a superb inaugural season under Football West it's time for the code to come together and celebrate the achievements of clubs over the season and honour the state's best players. Each of the twelve Premier League clubs has players who will no doubt poll well and here's a look at each of the their leading lights ...

Double winners Perth SC have a number of players who'll poll well but the question is 'will they take votes off each other?' Antonio Naglieri capped a fantastic year by taking out the 'Man of the Match' in the Midland Brick Cup final, Robert Puca is probably the most naturally talented player in the League, and Aaron Cole is without a doubt the best defender in the state. Those three are tipped to poll strongly along with star strikers David Onoforo and Andreas Oliveira.

Sorrento, who were pipped at the post by Perth, are likely to also have several players taking votes off each other. The tireless efforts of Scottish import Paul McMullan on the left wing won't go unnoticed, likewise Gulls sharp-shooter Todd Harnwell who flourished as an out and out striker this year. Versatile defender Danny Hill is another who played well but he may have missed too many games to be a serious contender for top honours.

Western Knights are another club who had a good season. David Annall is undoubtedly one of the League's most underrated players and he was simply outstanding in the heart of the clubs defence. The Knights leading goalscorer, Stuart Montgomery, is another who has the potential to be up there along with defensive midfielder Claus Neilsen but both are likely to have been absent through injury to often to be amongst the leaders.

Inglewood United season began brightly by capturing the Night Series trophy, and ended it as Midland Brick Cup runners-up to Perth SC. The never say die attitude of skipper Shaun Kilkelly is sure to have attracted many referee's attention and has been installed as one of the favorites. If it's consistency your after you can't go past Kevin Griffiths, while the silken skills of Andre Sarpe should put him high on the leaderboard.

Floreat Athena has made great strides this season and a number of players from the inner city club will be in contention. Bajo Savic made a blistering start to the year and although he faded over the second half of the season his superb ball control and distribution will have him amongst the leaders. At the back Adrian Sutton consistently produced the goods in holding together a young and comparatively inexperienced defence, and goal ace Branimir Mikulic will also be there or thereabouts.

Cockburn City wil be the first to admit the second half of their season was a disappointment. Australian youth international Liam Lilly had a strong but unfortunately tradition show defender's don't poll that strongly - can Lilly swing that trend in 2005? John Mirco has been a consistent contributor throughout the season and is bound to poll well. Goalkeeper Alan Dunlop came back from a long-term shoulder injury to make his debut season for the Cockerels one to long remember.

Bayswater City's Scottish imports Ross Barnes and Stuart Fraser will be high in the votes for the Black and Blues but consistency may seriously hinder how high they finish on the leaderboard. The club's best chance is lively attacker Andy O'Neill who enjoyed arguably the best season of his young career, and could be the dark horse for the Gold Medal. Top goalscorer Bobby Klenkoski was also consistent and will be another who polls well.

Stirling Lions have a few players who'll rack up the votes. Darko Ilmanovski is another outsider for the medal, the experienced defender has shown the consistency this year which could make him a deserved winner. Of the clubs Irish imports Paul Dickson has been the pick with a solid contribution on the right side of defence, while Australia's Under-17 goalkeeper Alex Vrteski is another who's expected to pick up quite a few votes.

Armadale have only a handful of players who you'd consider stand a realistic chance of winning the Gold Medal. 19-year old Darryl Platten has been superb in the heart of the Reds defence and should attract his fair share of votes. On loan attacker Ben Rogers ended the season as the clubs top goalscorer and should poll well along with goalkeeper Nick Stone who's has been solid as a rock in his debut season at Armadale.

Swan IC skipper Damian Scali has had an outstanding season playing in numerous positions for the Black and Whites and will once again do well in the count. Jonathan Mathers overcame a quiet start to the year by turning on the style over the second half of the winter. Another who'll poll strongly is State goalkeeper Cory Hugo.

ECU Joondalup were riddled by injury and inconsistency in 2005, but still have a few players to watch out for. Englishman Keith Brown gave everything in every game he played for the northern suburbs club. Defenders Jamie Kuzmanovich and Anthony Jones also played well this year but their chances will be hampered by the fact Joondalup had their backs to the wall for much of winter.

Players of Fremantle City will struggle to get the votes needed to be amongst the leader. That said, Jason Godfrey had good season in the middle of a defence which was continually under fire and he's sure to be amongst their best players. Youngster Jason Barrera should also pick up quite a few votes, likewise the club's top goal scorer Kevin Correia.

14.10.2005

GLORY GET MORE FROM MORI (courtesy Perth Glory)

Prolific marksman Damian Mori has extended his contract at Perth Glory with David Tarka's spell on the long-term injury list being extended. Tarka played the first half of Glory's friendly with Indonesia's Under-23 team on Tuesday but is still some way from being in contention for A-League match action. Having seen a doctor after that match, the club has been advised that the Perth-born defender should take more time over his rehabilitation.

With Tarka on the long-term injury list for another four weeks, Glory have been able to extend Mori’s temporary contract with the club up until Round 12 of the A-League season. "We are very pleased that we have been able to extend Damian’s contract," said coach Steve mcmahon. "The situation with David Tarka is that he is now only about 70% fit, he still has a little way to go and we want him to be 110% fit when he comes back. It has been difficult for David but he saw the doctor this week and the medical advice he received was that he should not be available for first team selection for another four weeks."

In the mean time, Damian Mori is training hard between work commitments in Adelaide and will join the squad on the way to Gosford this weekend. "The most important thing for us is to win games so I was very pleased to be a part of that last weekend and we need to continue that winning form," he said. "Scoring goals is part of the job of playing up front, just as keeping goals out is part of your job if you are a defender, so I hope I can carry on contributing in the same ways that I have been so far."

"Obviously I have enjoyed playing for the Glory again even though the circumstances have been difficult because I have commitments in Adelaide" Mori added. "I am able to train four days a week here (Adelaide) though, which is really good and the only disappointing thing is that I have not been around the Glory lads but I am excited about being able to play another four games," he added. Mori was the NSL's all-time top scorer, has netted more goals than any other player for Australia and scored 77 goals from 112 appearances in four seasons with Glory between 2000 and 2004.

13.10.2005

URUGUAY CONFIRMED AS SOCCEROOS' DATE WITH DESTINY

Australia's will meet Uruguay over two-legs for a spot at the 2006 FIFA World Cup finals tournament in Germany. Uruguay concluded the South American qualifiers as the fifth ranked nation to earn a home and away play-off against Australia. Uruguay will host the first leg on Saturday 12th November with the return match taking place at Sydney's Telstra Stadium four days later. The Uruguayans ended Australia's dreams of qualifying for the 2002 World Cup with a 3-1 aggregate win in November 2001.

Uruguay confirmed their appearance in the play-off matches with a dramatic 1-0 win over Argentina this morning in Montevideo. The result ensured they finished ahead of Colombia and Chile who were also in contention as possible opponents for the Socceroos. Despite the result four years ago Australia has had the better of the encounters between the two nations with the Socceroos winning three, drawing one and losing two of the six matches played since they first met in 1974.

13.10.2005

UNITED APPROACH TO JUNIORS DEVELOPMENT

United Soccer, a new training program designed to aid the development of West Australian youngsters, will be running a number of courses over the coming months. United Soccer aims to meet an increasing demand for activities such as fitness, and specialised training for individual or group based development outside of the normal winter season. Independent of all clubs, United Soccer boasts an impressive list of experienced and qualified coaches which includes Mitch Doherty, Rick Slade, Terry Goddard, Garry Church, Paul Corr and Fred Roberts. To find out more about what United Soccer can offer you visit www.unitedsoccer.com.au

13.10.2005

WAVES DESERVING OF MORE SAYS OXTOBY

The new-look Western Waves can hold their heads high after gaining sixth spot at last week's Women's National Football Championships. The Waves were edged out of a higher placing by Adelaide Sensation but with ten of their eighteen players making their first competitive appearances for the side coach Alistair Edwards was given plenty of food for thought. By week's end Brid Dawson, Olivia Kennedy and Carys Hawkins were amongst the debutants to pencil themselves in as future national league players.

Although the side registered only a single win from five games Waves captain Tanya Oxtoby said the team gave a very good account of themselves in Canberra. "I thought the squad did an exceptional job considering the format of the tournament and also when you take into account the number of injuries we suffered both before we left Perth and while we were over there," said Oxtoby. "All the girls showed improvement over the course of the week and the more games we played the better our performances as a team, although the results didn't truly reflect their efforts on occasions."

Oxtoby believes the difference between the semi-finalists and the rest of the field, which included the Waves, came down to one thing - experience. "The four teams that progressed featured players who have not only been involved in National Training Centre type programs for long periods, but also have a great deal of experience at that level," she commented. "A lot of our girls were playing at that level of intensity and physical strength for the first time which at the end of the day made a huge difference. In terms of effort and endevour we matched it all the way with the traditionally stronger states."

12.10.2005

TARKA HAPPY WITH FRIENDLY HIT-OUT

David Tarka passed another test on his way back to full fitness when he turned out in Perth Glory’s scoreless draw with the Indonesia Under-23 team at Litis Stadium this evening. The 22-year old defender came through the opening half of the friendly unscathed after being sidelined for the past six months with a persistent hamstring strain. Not surprisingly, Tarka admitted he was a little nervous going into the game. “I guess that’s just human nature,” he said. “I’ve done my hamstring three times in the past eighteen months so it’s going to take a long time to build my confidence up, but it held up well through the 45 minutes tonight and felt good.”

11.10.2005

ON THIS DAY … 1985

Around 130 people gathered at the Merlin Hotel on Friday 11th October 1985 to see West Perth Macedonia and State midfielder Ronnie Campbell take out the Gold Medal as the State League's Fairest and Best player. Amongst the evening's special guests were the winners of the prestigious Ledger Medal, the forerunner to the Gold Medal. In attendance were 1952 winner Frank McShane (South Perth, Victoria Park), legendary midfielder Ron Adair (North Perth, Maccabean, Azzurri) who won the award in 1953, 1954 and 1955, Noel Adair (East Claremont-Menora, North Perth) who was recipient in 1958, and Colin Beaman who took out the Ledger Medal the following year.

By the halfway stage of the 1985 count a breakaway group had developed led by Campbell (14 votes) and Matt Pearson (11) of Spearwood Dalmatinac. Inglewood Kiev’s Gary Marocchi (9) was third followed by John Davidson (8) and early leader Eric Marocchi (7). With one round of games remaining, the field had been narrowed to three players - Campbell, Pearson and Gary Marocchi. A best on ground performance by Campbell in the 5-1 thrashing of Kingsway Olympic enabled him to take out the state's top individual honour by three votes from Pearson (24) with Gary Marocchi (22) third. The minor placing were filled out by Gary Cole (17, Dalmatinac), Ricky Davis (16, Bayswater Inter) and Azzurri teammates Davidson and Huw Lake (both 16).

11.10.2005

WEEKEND WIN GLORY’S BEST PERFORMANCE SO FAR

Perth Glory’s weekend thrashing of Newcastle United Jets was their best performance of the season according to club stalwart Bobby Despotovski. The star striker, a veteran of 242 national league games, says he felt confident of a big Glory win from early in Saturday’s game. “We played well from the defence all the way to the attackers,” Despotovski told www.a-league.com.au. “Even when the result was one-nil, I think we were in full control of the game, so it was just a matter of time. Obviously when we came out in the second half, we scored that goal quite quickly, in the 46th minute, and that knocked them right back. From that point on, it was only a matter of how many we were going to score.”

“What we did well was actually take our chances,” said Despotovski when prompted as to what was different on the weekend compared to previous weeks. “This is the first time that our wide men actually put lots and lots of good balls into the box - and that was the main difference. If you don’t get the ball in the box, you have almost no chance to score. Hiro (Ishida) and Adrian Caceres on the left-hand side did extremely well to get down the touchline. In previous weeks, they cut back but this time they delivered good quality crosses and that showed on the scoresheet.”

With six goals in seven games Despotovski’s leads the way as the A-League’s top goalscorer, however, the striker is adamant there’s no secret to his success. “Year by year, as you get older, you get a little bit smarter,” he said. “(I play) a little bit more in the box now than chasing the ball around - that gives me a cutting edge I think. The previous years I had striking partners that actually helped my game a lot, and obviously on the weekend, he (Damian Mori) was playing and we scored three goals between us. We played (together) for the last four years and have a good understanding. To tell you the truth, he completes me as a player and I think I complete him as a player.”

As one of two players left from Glory’s inaugural 1996 squad - left-sided defender Scott Miller is the other - Despotovski shelved retirement plans to play in the A-League. And the 34-year old attacker says he may be tempted to continue his career beyond the current season. “I was planning to retire last year because the break was so long but I decided to go to Bonnyrigg (White Eagles) and keep myself fit. After I decided to go there I was always coming out of retirement that’s for sure ... If I play a full season this season and stay injury free, I might get another season after that. It all depends on the club. At the end of the day, if things are right I might stay with Glory. I don’t know, if Glory don’t want me, maybe I’ll play another season somewhere else.”

10.10.2005

SCHOOLBOYS DOWN KIWI’S TO RETAIN TROPHY

The Australian Schoolboy’s have retained the Trans-Tasman Cup courtesy of a 5-1 aggregate win over New Zealand. Australia opened the two-game series with a comprehensive 3-0 win last Thursday at Sydney United Sports Centre, and two days later secured the trophy by defeating the Kiwi’s 2-1 at the same venue. The two-game series against New Zealand gave the Australian coaching staff an opportunity to fine tune their squad for next January’s tour of the United Kingdom and Ireland.

All seven West Australian’s in the Schoolboys squad featured during the two-game series as assistant coach Damon Atthowe explained. “Scott Patterson, Wes Ryder and Goce Dilevski were in the starting line-up for the opening game,” said Atthowe. “Australia were by far the more organised side, New Zealand by contrast had trouble adjusting to the tempo at which the game was played and that was reflected by the three-nil half-time score.” Jason Trifiro opened Australia’s account, Ryder added a second with the final goal coming from Reece Veenhoven.

“The second game was much harder as the Kiwi’s had a better understanding of what was needed and upped their efforts accordingly,” continued Atthowe. “However, we scored first through David Houston ten minutes into the second half. New Zealand equalised and then put considerable pressure on us before Ben Gough got the winner pretty close to the final whistle.” Local quartet Tim De Souza, Houston, Andrew Pomfret and Brendan Ross were handed starting berths for the second leg match.

Next on the Schoolboys agenda is a trip overseas. “We’re now focused on the tour of the United Kingdom and Ireland,” commented Atthowe. “We’ll play five full internationals against the schools teams of England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland as well as the Welsh Colleges side. We’ve also got games lined-up against several club academies, those confirmed being Watford, Everton, Glasgow Rangers and Southampton. Negotiations are taking place for games against Chelsea, Fulham and Hamilton Academicals.”

10.10.2005

MORGAN IN LINE FOR SINGAPORE RETURN

Sorrento coach Trevor Morgan has been short-listed for the top job with Singaporean club Geylang United. Morgan, who lead the Gulls to their only Premier League title in 2001, is understood to be Geyland's preferred choice ahead of former Thai international Attapol Puspakom and Slovakian Josef Herel. "Geylang is among the top three or four clubs in Singapore and I would be delighted if I could aid them in their S-League campaign next year," Morgan told www.sleague.com. "I spoke to (chairman) Patrick Ang and other members of Geylang's management committee last week, but I haven't had an official word."

Should Morgan land the Geylang job it would be his second stint in Singapore. In 2002 he took up the reigns at Sengkang Marine and from scant resources put together a competitive side built around a direct style of play. Following that clubs' exit from the S-League in 2003 Morgan spent time in charge of Malaysian Super League side Sarawak before heading back to Perth. Upon his return in mid-2004 Morgan resumed control of Sorrento to guide the northern suburbs outfit to third place and within a game of the play-off final, while this year Sorrento challenged Perth S.C. for the regular season title only to stumble at the final hurdle and end as runner-up.

9.10.2005

SIXTH PLACE FOR WAVES

A young and experienced Western Waves squad finished in sixth position at last week’s Women’s National Football Championships in Canberra. The Waves started their Group B schedule with successive losses to Victoria Vision and New South Wales Sapphires White. The group phase ended on a positive note for the representative squad who held Northern New South Wales to a scoreless draw. In Friday’s minor play-off qualifier the Waves knocked over Canberra Eclipse 3-1 only to go down 0-1 to Adelaide Sensation in the play-off for fifth and sixth. Queensland Sting defeated New South Wales Sapphires Blue to win the tournament.

Victoria Vision steam-rolled the Waves 3-0 in the opening Group B match. It was a strong start from Vision whose early dominance was rewarded with the opening goal on 19 minutes from Rachel Lamb who was allowed time unleash an unstoppable volley that gave goalkeeper Leanne Trimboli no chance. Their second goal arrived four minutes into the second half when Maika Ruyter-Hooley headed in a corner at the near post, and the scoreline was complete with eleven minutes remaining through a well-placed Megan Archer header. To their credit the Waves created several chances throughout the game but for the better part were restricted to shooting from distance.

The Waves toiled hard before going down 1-3 to New South Wales Sapphires White in the second round of fixtures. The Sapphires opened the scoring on the half-hour when Michelle Carney’s shot was blocked by the legs of Trimboli and Leena Khamis nodded the follow-up into an empty net. The Waves increased their workrate which resulted in several good opportunities to level without success. Rhian Davies made it two-nil in the 61st minute and shortly after Alicia Cavanagh squeezed a close-range header between ‘keeper and near post to secure victory. The Waves pegged a goal back with thirteen minutes remaining when Katy Coghlan converted a one-on-one opportunity with a neat chip over the advancing ‘keeper.

A scoreless draw with a strong Northern New South Wales line-up earned the Waves their first point of the tournament. The Waves brushed aside their two previous losses and went at their more fancied opponent from the outset. Lindsey Jobling went agonisingly close to giving them the lead on 28th minutes with a sweetly struck shot that hit the up-right. But as the half wore on NNSW came into the game with Danielle Small’s header flashing wide and a 25-metre strike by Tracey Baker was well saved by Trimboli. The second half saw the stalemate continue and eventually the match finished 0-0 with the Waves having finally given a true account of their ability.

The Waves won their first game of the week-long tournament by accounting for hosts Canberra Eclipse 3-1 in the minor play-off qualifier. The Waves built on their previous performance with a stylish display that was worthy of a few more goals. April Mann put them ahead on the quarter hour, but within five minutes home team had levelled through an own goal. The match would be decided in the lead-up to the break as Carys Hawkins put away the Waves second after 38 minutes, and sixty seconds from half-time Olivia Kennedy found the target to take the margin to two goals. Despite both teams best effort there would be no addition to the scoreline in the second half.

It took a goal six minutes from full-time for Adelaide Sensation to sneak past the Waves and into fifth place in Sunday’s play-off match. In a tight game played in blustery conditions, the two sides traded attacks for much of the morning only to be thwarted by a combination of last ditch defending and sharp goalkeeping. With the game looking likely to be decided in extra-time Sensation pumped a long ball into attack which held up in the wind and was latched on to be Vicki Balomenos who crashed a first time shot into the net. The Waves hit back with a string of attacks but were unable to find an avenue to goal. The tournament was won by Queensland Sting who triumphed 5-4 on penalties over New South Wales Sapphires Blue.

9.10.2005

SOCCEROOS HIGH FIVE

Australia tuned up for next month’s World Cup qualifiers with a 5-0 thrashing of Jamaica at Craven Cottage in London this afternoon. In the team’s last hit-out before playing either takes on Uruguay, Colombia or Chile for a place at Germany 2006 coach Guus Hiddink’s preference for an attacking 3-4-3 formation paid off handsomely for the Socceroos. Mark Bresciano opened the scoring after 2 minutes with a curling shot beyond the reach of goalkeeper Shawn Sawyers. Australia’s second came in the 27th minute when Jason Culina threading a long crossfield pass to Archie Thompson who stepped easily inside his marker and rifled low into the net.

Two minutes into the second half Australia netted their third via Mark Viduka who made the most of some disorganised defending to score from 5-metres. It was four in the 58th minute as substitute John Aloisi scored with his first touch after pouncing on a loose ball from close-range. Australia’s final goal arrived with five minutes remaining as a shot by John Aloisi rebounded off the post and Joel Griffiths put the follow-up away. Having played just three times so far this season for Birmingham City, Stan Lazaridis watched the friendly as an unused substitute.

8.10.2005

FIVE STAR GLORY SHOOT DOWN JETS (by Peter Simcox)

Perth Glory produced their best performance of the season in thrashing a depleted Newcastle United Jets 5-1 this evening at Energy Australia Stadium. It was always going to be a tough night for the host club who had eight players absent through injury, suspension and international duty. A crowd of just 5,868 braved the blustery conditions which made it difficult for both teams. Glory looked the more likely to score with an early Damian Mori header kept out by Liam Reddy, and Billy Celeski's goalbound effort was cleared off the line. On the quarter hour Newcastle almost snatched the lead after a great exchange between James Monie and Labinot Haliti saw the latter's header looped over Petkovic who managed to save at the second attempt. With 33 minutes played Scott Miller pumped the ball deep into attack where Bobby Despotovski chested it into the path of Damian Mori who lashed the ball home from the top edge of the 18-yard box. Glory's dominance continued for the remainder of the period but with the Jets defending in numbers they found genuine opportunities limited.

The second half could not have started better for the visitors whose lead was doubled in the 47th minute when Jamie Harnwell reacted quickest to the loose ball after Reddy had blocked his initial header. The game was ended as a contest in the 52nd minute when Despotovski nodded in a terrific cross from Jamie Coynes. Despotovski tried his luck with an audacious chip from wide on the left which Reddy paddled over the crossbar. It became four-nil after 62 minutes when Despotovski found Ishida whose cross from the left was put away by Mori at the back post. Newcastle to pull a goal back ten minutes later as Haliti played a superb pass through the defence for substitute Franco Parisi to race through and slot past the advancing 'keeper. A fine shot from Nick Ward cannoned back off the post as Glory sought to add to their tally. The icing was put on the cake nine minutes from the end by Naum Selukovski who found the net with his first touch following a neat pass from McMahon.

7.10.2005

NAGLIERI VOTED THE TOP FLIGHTS BEST

The West Australian football family have elected Antonio Naglieri the footballwa.net Premier League Player of the Year for 2005. The creative midfielder becomes the third Perth S.C. player in four years to be voted the top flights best player by the local football family. Jamie Coyne (2002) and Shane Crampton (2003) won the award while wearing Blues' colours, while other previous recipients are Branimir Mikulic (2001) and Nick Ward (2004). footballwa.net would like to thank all players, coaches and supporters of the local game who took the time to vote in this year's award.

Naglieri made a smooth transition into life at Dorrien Gardens following his move from Cockburn City last summer. In quick time he established himself as an integral cog in the Perth midfield where his partnership with Robbie Puca would spear the side to Premier League title and victory in the association Cup final. Such was the club's dominance of season 2005 that the top four places in the footballwa.net Premier League Player of the Year were occupied by Perth players.

Naglieri tallied up 43 votes to scoop the footballwa.net Premier League Player of the Year by a single vote ahead of Andreas Oliveira. 36 votes put Robbie Puca not far behind with Golden Boot recipient David Onoforo hot on his heels with 34 votes. A distant fifth was Sorrento's Scottish import Paul McMullan with 18 which was one more than Bajo Savic who was a key figure in Floreat Athena's midfield. Danny Hill (Sorrento) picked up 16 votes and Stuart Fraser (Bayswater City) 14. Aaron Cole (Perth) and Western Knights teammates Claus Neilsen and David Annall ended level with 13 votes apiece.

7.10.2005

RAINS WINS FOOTBALLWA.NET FIRST DIVISION AWARD

Adam Raines has been voted the footballwa.net First Division Player of the Year for 2005. The 27-year old's non-stop work rate in the middle of the park for Balcatta made him the stand-out player in the eyes of the players, coaches and supporters of First Division clubs. An off-season recruit from Stirling Lions, Raines becomes the third player to win the only award to be voted on by the West Australian football family. The inaugural award was taken out by Boima Karpeh of Bayswater City while last year's it went to Wanneroo City attacker Scott Bulloch by a landslide margin.

It wasn't until the final days of voting that Raines' tally peaked at 34 votes to edged ahead of Bulloch who polled 31 votes. Mandurah City sharpshooter Christian Paschewitz made a last charge for the line before ending third on 29 votes. Up and coming defender Chris Currie (Wanneroo) scored 21 votes, followed by Jordan Rhodes (Mandurah) and Steve Suttie (South West Phoenix) with 19 votes each. Wanneroo goalkeeper Darren Williams (Wanneroo) and Gary Attrill (Mandurah) ended level on 16 votes, two more than Balcatta shot-stopper Jordan Conti. With 13 votes were David Moschilla (Balcatta) and Gerry McEwan (Wanneroo), while a further one off the pace were Glen Hallums (Rockingham City), Graeme Matthews (Mandurah) and Morley Windmills deadball expert Adrian McBride.

6.10.2005

STRIKERS EYE GOLD

Perth Strikers, arguably the state's most successful representative side ever, are off to Adelaide to take their place at the Australian Masters Games, the largest biennial multi-sport event in the country. Formed in 1994, the Strikers are the envy of Western Australia having won a medal at every event in which they've participated. Their record includes gold medals at the 1997, 1999 and 2003 Australian Masters Games as well as first place at the 2000 Asia Pacific Games.

The Strikers are confident of adding another medal to their already impressive haul when they line-up in Adelaide from tomorrow. "We've got a quality squad, the bulk of which has remained unchanged for the past decade and includes several former Australian internationals," explained Penny Tanner-Hoath. "To qualify for 'Masters' eligibility at the Games players must be over the age of thirty which is the peak age for some women footballers."

The Perth Strikers squad competing at the 2006 Australian Masters Games is Maggie Newton (Beckenham Angels), Lil Edmands (East Fremantle), Penny TannerHoath (Gosnells City), Sylvia Loreto (Mandurah City), Rita Berry (Northern Redbacks), Diane Reeves (Queens Park), Mhairi Angus, Beth Barnes, Anna Buckley, Alison Butler, Kerrie Corbett, Rochelle Sherwood, Sandra Szopski (Subiaco United) and Jill Mateljan. The squad is self-coached.

6.10.2005

TRAVEL NO PROBLEM IN QUEST FOR GLORY

Perth Glory aren't fazed at playing four of their next five games on away soil. The club will draw on a quirk of the new A-League season to take the sting out of a gruelling schedule that includes trips to Newcastle United Jets, Central Coast Mariners, Queensland Roar and Adelaide United, and punctuated only by a home meeting with Melbourne Victory. Glory are one of six A-League teams to have collected more points on their travels than at home over the opening six weeks of the season. The club's next opponent, Newcastle, is the only team to have more home points than away, although four of their six games have been at home.

Bobby Despotovski, whose four goals have put him on top of the leading goalscorer table alongside Sydney FC's Dwight Yorke, believe the tendency for visiting teams to take more risks has been paying dividends. "Teams playing away from home have nothing to lose and are attacking a bit more," the striker told Jonathon Cook of the "West Australian". After six games Glory are placed seventh in the eight-team competition but Depotovski, one of the club's longest serving players, isn't concerned by their current placing. "We're only three point out of second position, it's not a major drama," he said.

5.10.2005

STAY SHARP THIS SUMMER

Players from the northern suburbs wanting to stay match fit during the summer months should make enquiries to Bouncer Sports Centre in Joondalup. For sixteen-weeks commencing 16th October, Bouncer Sports Centre will host the Super Sunday Football season for men's, women's and mixed teams. "Come and enjoy the football atmosphere during the off-season in a competitive environment with the season concluding in February, before the outdoor leagues start up again," said tournament organiser Sam Miller. Teams interested in taking part in the tournament can contact Miller or Gerry McEwen on 9300 1600 for further information.

4.10.2005

CACERES COMPLETES GLORY SQUAD (courtesy Perth Glory)

Talented left-sided attacker, Adrian Caceres, has committed his immediate future to Perth Glory by extending his contract until the end of the inaugural A-League season. Caceres, who scored Glory's first goal in the new national competition, initially signed ahead of the 2005/06 season as cover for the injured Neil Teggart. The Irish striker's contract was later terminated by mutual consent after he returned to Northern Ireland, leaving an extra space in Glory's 20-man squad.

Born in Argentina and raised in Perth, Caceres was a popular figure in the Glory squads that won successive NSL championships in 2002/03 and 2003/04. "It's great to have got this sorted out, and I am very pleased that it has happened," Caceres said. "Now I can work hard in training not having to think whether there is a contract at the end of it. My heart has always been at Perth and I have always been a Perth Glory boy so it is good to extend my stay here. I am very excited that I was the first Glory player to score in the A-League but I want to do more than that and I have to work hard to earn more time on the pitch and hopefully score a few more goals."

Caceres' ability to play as an attacking midfielder, winger or striker means that he has the versatility McMahon appreciates in the player. "I think he gives us good options and deserves it (the contract) because he has worked hard and stuck with it," said the Glory coach. "Adrian is a good player and he knows that he now needs to show consistency. People here say that he has always been a good player coming off the bench but I don't want him to be a good player coming off the bench I want him to be able to start matches and show that he can be an effective player from the start."

3.10.2005

THE MAGNIFICENT SEVEN

Western Australian will have no less than seven players in the Australian Schoolboys when they meet New Zealand in the Trans Tasman Cup next week. Tim De Souza, Goce Dilevski, David Houston, Scott Paterson, Andrew Pomfret, Brendan Ross and Wesley Ryder each gained national team selection for their contributions to the State Schoolboys side that won the silver medal at the National Schools Championship earlier this year. The two-game series against New Zealand will act as a springboard for the Australian Schoolboys tour of January 2006 when they'll play internationals against England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

The 19-player Australian squad is Ben Cheyne (Australian Captial Territory), Nathan Burns, Evan Berger, Ben Gough, Stephen Kayes, Matthew Nemes, Toby Ryall, Ben Spruce, Jason Trifiro (New South Wales), Ramone Close, Reece Veenhoven (Queensland), Ersan Gulum (Victoria), Tim De Souza, Goce Dilevski, David Houston, Scott Paterson, Andrew Pomfret, Brendan Ross and Wesley Ryder (West Australia). The side is coached by John Romeo with former West Australian Schoolboys coach Damon Atthowe his assistant. The Schoolboys meet New Zealand at Sydney United Sports Centre on 6th and 8th October.

2.10.2005

WEEKEND IN SUMMARY

Perth S.C. have won the League and Cup double for a record sixth time. The Blues turned in a commanding performance this afternoon to defeat Inglewood United 2-1 and add the association Cup to their Premier League title. The opening goal arrived a minute into the second half when Matt Danskin's superb shot on the run gave Oliver Taseski no chance. Two minutes later the margin was doubled by Antonio Naglieri who netted from close-range after the goalkeeper had parried Andres Oliveira's effort. Inglewood's perseverance was rewarded four minutes from the end when Albert Osei-Tutu scored in a goalmouth scramble.

Sorrento claimed the reserves Cup by defeating Floreat Athena 3-0. The decider of the Under-18's knock-out competition went home with Swan I.C. for whom Sebastian DeCotter scored the only goal against Sorrento. Queens Park came from behind to down Balcatta 2-1 in extra-time and claim the women's Cup final. North Lake triumphed in the final of the amateur's Cup by toppling pre-match favourite University of W.A. 1-0

2.10.2005

PERTH ADD CUP TO LEAGUE TITLE

Perth S.C. completed the League and Cup double with a 2-1 victory over Inglewood United in this afternoon's association Cup Final at Members Equity Stadium. Two rapid-fire goals early in the second half set up Perth's win on a day when Inglewood left their scoring boots at home. It was a tentative start from both sides who while quick to get forward were also careful not to be caught short at the back. The first genuine opening arrived at the 8 minute mark when David Onoforo squirmed free of Daniel Kovacevic only to find Oliver Taseski up to the task in the Inglewood goal. It wasn't long after that Taseski denied Andreas Oliveira as Perth began to get on top. Inglewood's first clear-cut opportunity came in the 16th minute when Kevin Griffiths drilled the ball high after good work on the left by Louis Parkinson. While they were able to get forward with some regularity Inglewood could find few ways past a well-organised defence, and on the few occasions they did open Perth up there was no one on hand to send the ball goalward.

With Naglieri and Robbie Puca controlling the middle of the park it was Perth that looked the more likely to go ahead. David Micevski was permitted to advance two-thirds the length of the pitch without being challenged before unleashing a searing shot which required a sharp response from Taseski. Neat work by Onoforo put the ball at the feet of Jeff Bright who sent his shot straight at the 'keeper, and shortly after Oliveira skidded a low drive narrowly wide of the park post. As the half came to a close Inglewood worked their way into the game through Shaun Kilkelly and Kevin Griffiths who asserted their influence in midfield. Unfortunately, a combination of poor finishing and a terrific goalline clearance would prevent Inglewood from going in front. Parkinson lifted a fine chance disappointingly high, then just a minute later Griffiths played a superb long pass to Jason Colli whose poor first touch made it easy for Gareth Deeg. The best chance of the half came with the very last play in which Kilkelly's powerful header was amazingly kept out of the top corner by Matt Danskin.

The match was turned on its head in a blistering three-minute spell that greeted the second half. Less than a minute after the re-start Perth had the lead courtesy of Danskin whose surging run into attack ended with a cracking left-foot strike that rose well beyond Taseski's reach and into the far top corner. Within minutes the margin had become two goals as Onoforo delivered a low cross into the area where Naglieri tapped in to an empty net from close-range after Taseski had blocked the initial shot from Oliveira. Although stunned, Inglewood pulled out all stops in an effort to get back into the game and while this resulted in their best period of the afternoon an inability to convert chances into goals would let them down. Colli spurned a golden opportunity to reduce the deficit by blazing over the crossbar with only the 'keeper to beat. Poor defending at a corner presented a great opportunity for Griffiths whose shot lacked power and directed was straight at Deeg. And when Deeg kept Darren Broxton's long-range bomb out the overwhelming feeling was this just wasn't going to be Inglewood's day.

Taseski did his part in keeping Inglewood's slender hopes alive by denying Oliveira who was allowed an unmarked header from Naglieri's corner. Minutes later the result looked to have been put beyond doubt when Onoforo netted from a couple of metres, however, following much discussion between Steve Muldoon and his assistant the goal was disallowed for offside. With nothing left to lose Inglewood threw caution to the wind and with only five minutes to play pulled a goal back. Broxton fired a low free-kick past the defensive wall which Deeg could only push away and in the scramble that ensued substitute Albert Osei-Tutu stabbed it over the line. The momentum was now with Inglewood but within minutes a lack of quality finishing would haunt them one final time as Colli teed up Osei-Tutu who sent his shot from 5-metres well over the bar, much to his teammates disappointment. That would be the final fling for Inglewood as Perth proceeded to lock the game down in their defensive third to ensure the association Cup would be spending the next twelve months at Dorrien Gardens.

It was a day to savour for Perth's Antonio Naglieri who's creativity in the centre of the park earned him the Man-of-the-Match award. While admitting Perth weren't quite at top gear coach Graham Normanton felt the result was fitting. "Overall, I thought we were worthy winners," commented the Perth boss. "It wasn't a great performance and Inglewood made it really hard for us by putting us under great pressure. If we had taken our chances we could have won by a few more, but by the same token Inglewood created a few chances near the end which made it a little uncomfortable for us." For Inglewood's assistant coach Gerry Wardle there was an elemental difference between the two teams. "Perth took their chances and we didn't," he said. "We lost the game in the five minutes after half-time when we lost concentration twice and were made to pay. All our boys gave everything today and we're proud of them, unfortunately it wasn't our day."

Inglewood United: Oliver Taseski, Daniel Stoitis, Daniel Kovacevic, Dean Apelgren, Rory Mouttet (Albert Osei-Tutu 71), Michael Baczynski (Daniel Neibergerger), Shaun Kilkelly, Darren Broxton, Kevin Griffiths, Jason Colli, Louis Parkinson
Perth S.C.: Gareth Deeg, Gianfanco Circati, Dino Djulbic, Michael Icanovski, Jeff Bright (Mark Pottier 63), Matt Danskin (Peter Lord 63), David Micevski, Robbie Puca, Antonio Naglieri, David Onoforo, Andreas Oliveria
Bookings: Icanovski (58), Broxton (77)
Dismissals: None
Referee: Steve Muldoon

2.10.2005

GOLDEN STRIKE SECURES WOMEN'S CUP FOR QUEENS PARK

An extra-time goal from Lindsay Eaton scored Queens Park the association women's Cup courtesy of a 2-1 defeat of Balcatta at Members Equity Stadium this morning. The game wasn't the all-action affair the healthy sized crowd had hoped for largely because between them the combatants had nine regulars absent due to representative duty. Balcatta came out of the blocks firing on all cylinders and seized the upper hand with just 2 minutes played thanks to a surging run through midfield by Elisa D'Ovidio who beat goalkeeper Julia McInerney. Pushing forward at every opportunity, Queens Park threw everything into getting back on level terms only to continually be turned away by a well-drilled defence that was marshalled superbly by veteran Jessine Bonzas.

The second half was dominated by missed opportunities at both ends of the park. D'Ovidio led the way for Balcatta and caused all kinds of stress for the Queens Park rearguard who also somehow survived a succession of corners pumped into the 6-yard box. However, it was far from one-way traffic with Queens Park often getting deep inside their opponents half and carving out a number of good chances of their own. As the minutes ticked by Queens Park increased the pace and a scramble for possession in the 61st minute ended with Temira Rowatt knocking the ball past the 'keeper to equalise. The closing stages were played at a frenetic pace as both finalists attempted to grab a late winner but it wasn't to be before the referee indicated that extra-time would be required.

While the conditions were perfect for spectators a sunny, cloudless sky had by this stage taxed the energy levels of all players. So it came as no surprise that after ninety minutes of football the pace dropped off considerably and ball control became somewhat relaxed. The opening period of extra-time produced several more chances with neither team able to get the decisive touch. The breakthrough came a minute after the turnaround when Lindsay Eaton completed a terrific passage of play to find the back of the net for Queens Park. In the warm conditions Balcatta tried desperately to equalise but found little penetration as Queens Park defended in numbers . The final whistle signalled the start of wild celebrations for Queens Park who'd captured their first trophy of the season.

2.10.2005

SORRENTO TAKE RESERVES CUP NORTH (by Kerry Slater)

Sorrento completed the League and Cup 'double' with an emphatic 3-0 victory over Floreat Athena at Litis Stadium. The northern suburbs side started strongly, controlling the midfield battle and creating some good chances for their forwards. Farrell Hedges saw two efforts fly just off target within 30 seconds of each other before Carlos Vega's shot was cleared off the line. Floreat didn't get into gear until midway through the half but created little which tested goalkeeper Chris Ramsey. The remainder of the period passed pretty much without incident, possibly a symptom of both sides worrying more about losing the game rather than trying to win it.

The second half started well for Sorrento but poor control let Dejan Gurovski after being sent through on goal. Steve Guest was presented with a golden opportunity to put Floreat one up not long after he was denied by a fantastic save from Ramsey. The breakthrough finally came on the hour when a handball inside the 18-yard box resulted in a Sorrento penalty which Brodie Martin slotted past Alex Dunn. Just a minute later the margin was doubled as Lewis Flatt clipped the ball over Dunn and Hedges got the faintest of headers to claim the goal.

Conceeding two goals in as many minutes knocked the wind out of Floreat's sails and from here on Sorrento ran riot. Good chances to put the game beyond doubt came the way of Hedges, Flatt, Dejan Gurovski, Vega and Craig Lewis, all of which either went wide or were kept out by a defence working overtime to keep the sides slimming hopes alive. The knock-out was finally delivered with just tw