Jason Mirco loses his footing under pressure from Liam Boland (photograph by Brett Klucznik)

Welcome to the unofficial, independent Western Australian Football (Soccer) Website. Here you will find all the latest football news from Western Australia, current tables for the state's top four Leagues, archived tables and results dating back to 1950, the Western Australian Club Directory which includes honour lists and divisional movements for each club and much, much more.

20.5.2012

STIRLING ON THE PROWL AT ARMADALE

Stirling Lions leapt into third in the Premier Division with this afternoon’s 2-0 defeat of Armadale at Alfred Skeet Oval. Andy Brown’s thunderbolt on the stroke of half-time sent the visitors on their way before Irish import Gareth McGlynn sealed victory. “It was paramount we did something after the loss in the Cup last week,” said Stirling captain Brown. “We’ve worked hard on the track and come out with a game plan and really we should have won by more. Armadale battled all day and it’s never an easy place to come to and get three points, we’re happy to get the win.”

It was an even opening with both sides going close to taking an early lead. Dennis Galan sent clear Anthony Lyons but he fired wide from 10-metres, and soon after at the other end Darren Francis’ close-range header was straight at Cory Hugo. Jack Adams’ reflexes were tested by Phil O’Callaghan as Stirling stepped up the pace leading into half-time. Lyons played through for Brown but he too was denied by Adams, while Jamie Tandy’s free-kick crashed into the crossbar. The goal Stirling sought finally arrived in the 44th minute, Galan’s cross was flicked on by O’Callaghan and at the back post Brown lashed into the top corner.

After the interval Stirling resumed the attack with Tandy shooting side from 16-metres before O’Callaghan’s curling shot was well saved by Adams. The pressure valve was released in the 57th minute, Tandy through ball sending clear McGlynn whose cool composure was matched by a clinical finish which made it two-nil. With the game fast slipping away, Armadale finally woke up. Joshua Maddison found Tom Bliss but his shot from the edge of the 18-yard box was claimed by Hugo. Alan Darlington played in Francis whose long-range strike curled past the post. Then in stoppage time Francis stretched Hugo with a fine attempt from the top of the area.

20.5.2012

RED STAR TABLE OFFER FOR BABALJ

Melbourne Heart officials are weighing up whether to accept a bid from Serbia’s biggest club, Red Star Belgrade, for exciting young striker Eli Babalj. 20-year old Babalj was his club’s top goal scorer last season so to lose him would leave a huge hole in the Melbourne attack. But the offer – believed to be in the vicinity of $500,000 – is likely to prove attractive to Sarajevo-born Babalj, who was raised Perth. An Australian youth international, Babalj is regarded as the nation’s brightest attacking talent to emerge since Mark Viduka whose glittering career took in time with Croatia Zagreb, Celtic, Leeds United, Middlesbrough and Newcastle United.

20.5.2012

BRENTNALL MAKES HISTORY

Sandra Brentnall has become the first female player in the world to be inducted into a Football Hall of Legends. 49-year old Brentnall wrote herself into sporting history by being elevated to legend status with the Football Hall of Fame WA at last night’s induction ceremony. Brentnall, who was an ever-present for Australian between 1979 and 1983, was welcomed into the Hall of Legends along with one-time Socceroos goalkeeper Robert Zabica. The pair became the fifth and sixth entrants into the Hall of Legends after inaugural members Gary Marocchi, Ron Adair, Robbie Dunn and John McInroy.

England-born Brentnall has the honour of scoring Australia’s first ever goal in ‘A’ international competition, against New Zealand in 1979. Over the four years which followed she made 11 ‘A’ appearances for the Matilda’s and scored eight goals – including a hat-trick in a 3-2 win over New Zealand in 1980 – at the highest level of women’s football. Her achievements flowed through to the local scene where Brentnall has been voted the league's Fairest and Best ten times in a remarkable 36-season career. Her club career took in spells with Girrawheen, Olympic Kingsway, Kiev, Ashfield, Gosnells City, Beeliar and Leeming Strikers.

One of WA’s greatest ever home grown talents, Zabica played a total of 27 ‘A’ appearances for Australia in a glittering senior career. After playing locally for Spearwood Dalmatinac, Cockburn United and Stirling Macedonia, Zabica sampled all the games highs and lows during a seven-season speel in the national league with Adelaide City, winning two National Soccer League titles and named the competitions’ Goalkeeper of the Year in 1992. After a brief spell with Perth Glory and a season in England with Bradford City he finished his playing days with Bayswater City, Inglewood United and Fremantle City.

Nine players were inducted into the Hall of Champions, headed by the state’s most-capped international Stan Lazaridis. Former Socceroos Tony Franken, Bobby Despotovski and Scott Miller also gained entry along with stars of the women’s game Julie Gorton and Judy Pettitt, who played many times for the Matilda’s. Wally Gardner was one of the finest ‘between the wars’ footballers, playing for the State on numerous occasions and representing Australia against the English FA in 1925. Willie McNally played with Adelaide City and gained 19 outings with the State team, while Allan Pottier turned out for St George and played for WA 25 times.

Hall of Merit for Players honours were bestowed on former Australia youth internationals Frank Faraone and Paul Tombides plus State representatives Peter Atkinson, Troy Bernard, Alf De Bono, Edmundo Faletti, Glenn Giudici, Ernie Hannigan, Steve Martin, Peter Murphy, Brian Newell, Mike Smith, Steve Stacey and Steve Tombides. Added to the Hall of Recognition were former referees Andy Gorton and Frank Moretti, coaches John Birighitti, Peter Faulks, Doug Stewart, stars of the southwest Giuliano Cantoni and Jimmy Mayers, and sports doctors Ken Fitch and Ken Maguire.

19.5.2012

PERTH GO CLEAR AT THE TOP

Perth SC claimed outright leadership of the Premier Division after grinding out a 2-1 win over ECU Joondalup at the Edith Cowan University campus. David Onoforo and Dom De Felice put the visiting side in a comfortable position before team mate Craig Simpson had the misfortune of turning the ball into his own net for Joondalup’s late consolation. “We’re very happy to come away with the three points today. Joondalup are no easy beats, we had to work for the full 90 minutes,” said Perth defender James Isaia. “The win puts us clear at the top but there is still a long way to go. We need to be on our game each week to make sure we are there at the end of the season.”

It was Joondalup that were quickly into stride with David Foster in the thick of the action. An early goalbound shot by Foster was blocked by Shaun Kilkelly and a couple of minutes later Adam Bachiller prevented the striker from getting on the end of a Scott Bushby through ball. Perth found their rhythm soon after but while Onoforo’s shot was too good for Andy Banks he was denied by the post. Bachiller finished into the net but was pulled up for offside and two minutes later Tanner Selyer’s low shot was tipped away by visiting ‘keeper Alex Dunn. It took until the 43rd minute for the deadlock to be broken, Isaia delivering a pin-point cross which Onoforo converted at the back post.

The second half opened with Joondalup again on the attack. Selyer picked out Busby but he blazed high before Foster’s long-range shot bounced awkwardly in front of Dunn, who regained possession as Selyer closed in. Having soaked up the pressure, Perth pounced in the 69th minute with De Felice volleying in a perfectly weighted ball from Natonio Naglieri. The gap should have been further increased but Onoforo blazed wide after being sent through by Isaia. Dunn somehow kept out Foster’s close-range effort from a Dale McCulloch free-kick. But there was little the Perth custodian could do in stoppage time when Simpson’s back pass looped over his head and into the net.

19.5.2012

BALCATTA STAY IN TOUCH WITH TOP FIVE

Balcatta halted their slide down the Premier Division table with a classy 3-1 win over Bayswater City at Frank Drago Reserve. Shane Nunes, Daniel Micevski and John Thornley were on target for Michael Roki’s side, which hovers just two points outside the top five. “We’ve had a pretty tough trot with a few early losses which really knocked our confidence and, hopefully today, we’ve seen a turning point,” Roki commented. “We still have a lot of ground to make up, but we’ve been working really hard and the performance today certainly reflected that … It was a solid team effort.”

The teams spent much of the opening exchanges sizing each other up. Gustavo Giron-Marulanda was a constant threat in the final third for Bayswater, ensuring the visiting defence remained on high alert. But it was Balcatta that went ahead after 14 minutes when Steve Burton’s free-kick dropped invitingly for Nunes, who slid the ball past surprised goalkeeper Tom Dixon. With this Balcatta sparked into life, Moe Atak providing some good width when going as Chris Thackray toiled away relentlessly in the engine room. Giron-Marulanda and Gustavo Catarcione maintained the pressure going in the other direction but neither player was able to find a way past ‘keeper Bobson Koroma.

A tame start to the second half was punctuated on 59 minutes when Burton and Atak combined to get the ball to Micevski whose close-range finish was too good for Dixon. Giron-Marulanda seemed destined to reduce the gap via a dead ball until Bobson tipped his shot away from the top corner. Although lacking their usual fluency, Bayswater did pull a goal back in the 69th minute when substitute Joe Yoffe caught Koroma off-balanced by firing into the corner of his goal. But the home teams’ hopes of a comeback were ended eight minutes later when Thornley showed great composure in stepping around two defenders before angling in goal number three for Balcatta.

19.5.2012

SECOND HALF REVIVAL GETS SORRENTO THREE MUCH-NEEDED POINTS

Sorrento arrested their form slump by coming from behind to beat Floreat Athena 3-2 on a warm afternoon at Litis Stadium. Second half goals from Johnny Mirco and Mikey Aspin complimented Jason Mirco’s early penalty conversion and cancelled out a brace by Liam Boland. “The win puts us back in the mix for the title, especially with two big games coming up against teams around us,” said Gulls custodian Curtis Aspden, prefacing upcoming fixtures with Bayswater City and Balcatta. “It was a fairly even game. Floreat had chances and we had chances but overall we did just enough for the three points … we’re stoked with the result.”

Sorrento were out of the blocks quick to take a 6th minute lead, Jason Mirco blasting in from the penalty spot after Todd Harnwell was taken down by goalkeeper Brad Eiffe. Not to be outdone, Liam Boland restored parity just five minutes later by meeting a deep Jarred Smith cross which he expertly headed across Apsden. After this initial flurry genuine chances became scarce with neither defence letting their opponents within sight of goal. Smith looked like breaking the deadlock but his attempt was smothered off the boot by Aspden, who nine minutes later came off his line to thwart Boland after he latched onto a Jack Allen through ball.

The second half opened with Floreat again on the attack but Boland’s shot on the turn was too close to Apsden. But there was little the Sorrento custodian could do on 52 minutes when Boland angled into the far bottom corner following a fine counterattack that featured Mark Pritchard and Spencer Harris. Sorrento now came to life, Stuart Montgomery’s clipped effort was taken under the crossbar by Eiffe, who soon after courageously took the ball off Johny Mirco’s boot. The Gulls were put back on level terms by Aspin’s first time strike which rocketed into Eiffe’s net in the 68th minute after a Jason Mirco corner was cleared to the top of the 18-yard box.

It took Sorrento only a further six minutes before regaining the lead with Johny Mirco threading a low shot under the ‘keeper’s body after taking Ryan Pearson’s through ball in his stride. David Heagney had been on the park just two minutes when he provided the ball to Boland but the striker this time placed wide of the target. But the visiting side was by no means finished. A rasping drive by Johny Mirco was just inches over the bar before Todd Harnwell’s glancing header from a Jason Mirco corner met with the same end result. Floreat went agonisingly close to grabbing a point deep in stoppage time with an unmarked Harris heading against the upright from a corner.

19.5.2012

INGLEWOOD STEADY THE SHIP (with James Mooney, Football West)

Inglewood United put a stop to their three-game losing streak by downing Bunbury Forum Force 4-1 at 6PR Stadium. Michael Baczynski set the home side on their way with second half finishes by Aleks Jovic, James Sammut and substitute Scott Witschge sealing the points. “We needed the three points, we lost our last three league matches so it was vital that we got three points to stay close to the leaders,” Sammut said. “The goal just before half-time helped ... coming out in the second half one-nil down Bunbury had to chase the game, and we started breaking their lines.”

The day could have had a much different ending had Bunbury striker Aiden Downes been able to make more of a 1st minute one-on-one with goalkeeper Francis Soale, who stood tall to save at his opponents’ feet. Inglewood settled soon enough and threatened for the first time on 10 minutes, Dannie Richman’s shot on the run flashing the wrong side of the post. Jovic picked out Sammut with a cross but the Inglewood captain’s glancing header was saved by Ryan Montgomery, who later held a long-range attempt from David Perich. Half-time was looming when finally Inglewood broke through with Baczynski heading in a Sammut corner.

The second half was given a crackerjack start, Alex Caniglia’s shooting just wide before Downes’ called into action Soale. Inglewood then stepped up the game but Sammut was foiled by an offside flag and Jack Clisby the crossbar. Their pressure finally paid off on 55 minutes, Clisby crossing for Jovic to head in at the back post. Goal number three arrived ten minutes later as Baczynski released Sammut, who rounded Montgomery and tucked into the net. Bunbury gave themselves some hope on 75 minutes when Downes’ free-kick beat Soale. But this was Inglewood’s day and in the final minute debutant Witschge fired in from a scramble produced by Clisby’s free-kick.

19.5.2012

CAINE, FULLER SAVE THE KNIGHTS

A couple of stunning finishes from David Caine and Jesse Fuller earned Western Knights all the points by 2-0 over the National Training Centre at Nash Field. It took the hosts side just 4 minutes to open their account, Caine seizing on a loose ball which he drove into the top corner of Luke Radonich’s net. Chances on goal were few and far between in a tight game with Caine and Matthew Allen going close for the Knights lead before Riley Woodcock’s rasping strike clipped the crossbar. Fuller added to the hosts tally in stoppage time by volleying in a delightful cross from substitute Kyle King.

The NTC started the second half at full pace, Borbor Sambindi displaying great skill in beating several opponents only to pull his shot wide of the target. Sahr Musa missed to make the most of another great opportunity, the young attacker charging down the left wing before shooting straight at ‘keeper Kevin Miller. Jesse Makarounas was brought off the bench to hopefully inspire the NTC but that too proved fruitless with Miller keeping out his late attempt literally just moments after turning away a Jordan Dodd effort. The result puts some much-needed distance between the Knights and the drop zone, whereas the NTC remain winless after their first eight games.

19.5.2012

BOWMAN PROPELS WANNEROO BACK TO THE TOP (courtesy Wanneroo City)

Wanneroo City moved back to the Division One summit with this afternoon’s 6-0 thrashing of Fremantle Spirit at Kingsway Reserve. Craig Bowman lead the way with a hat-trick on a day when Brian Cairney, Rowdy Yates and Jay Marsden also found the net. “Our performance was very professional but there are lots of areas we can improve on,” Wanneroo captain Anthony Jones said. “We scored five of our goals from set pieces which was exceptional, but our final ball and crossing from open play left a lot to be desired. The clean sheet was very pleasing as they have some good attacking options and created some good chances.”

Much of the early running was in Fremantle’s direction and had it not been for a couple of last ditch tackles by Jay McDonald and Bowman then the visitors would have gone ahead. However, Wanneroo soon took control and from a Rowdy Yates corner Bowman turned in the opening goal. Five minutes later Cairney doubled their lead by rising unchallenged to head into the net at close-range. Fremantle goalkeeper Daniel Morgan turned away several shots before being breached for a third time, Bowman powering in a header from Yates’ lofted cross.

The goal of the game arrived on the hour, a lightning break by Josh Booysen leading to a cross-field to Guy McDonald whose lay-off was sent soaring into the far top corner by Yates from 20-metres. A crude tackle on Booysen gave the home side a free-kick just outside the box, Guy McDonald squaring the ball for Marsden whose miscued effort wrong-footed the ‘keeper to find the back of the net. With only a few minutes left on the clock Bowman sealed his hat-trick by nodding in a fine Andy O’Neill free-kick. There was still enough time for Sahar Konomanyi to break through but his shot crashed against the crossbar.

19.5.2012

SUPER SUB NARONGPHUNT LEADS ASHFIELD TO VICTORY

Ashfield kept the pressure on at the top of Division One by returning from Burrendah Reserve with a 2-0 win over Canning City. Second half goals by Reuben Tristao and Mladen Kovacevic, both laid on by substitute Nattapong Narongphunt, put Ashfield into second place, only one point behind leaders Wanneroo City. “We didn’t play to our best but we weren’t about to leave Canning without the three points,” said Ashfield attacker Karl O’Reilly. “Okwy Diamondstar and Brian Maybin made a big difference on the day, and our super sub (Narongphunt) changed the game by setting up both goals.”

Both teams enjoyed spells in control throughout the first half but with neither able to convert the score remained nil-all at the end of 45 minutes. Canning threatened to break through after the break, Josh Findlater placing wide from distance before Sam Carrello’s curling effort was saved by John Perkins. The game changed with the introduction of Narongphunt, who on 73 minutes cut the ball back for Tristao to break the deadlock. Nine minutes later Narongphunt again tormented the home defence, this time setting up Kovacevic to seal the win. Canning’s woes were compounded with the late red carding of Emlyn Whetnall following a clash with man of the moment Narongphunt.

19.5.2012

HIGH FLYING SWAN ON THE RISE (courtesy Swan United)

Swan United moved up to third in Division One with this afternoon’s comfortable 4-0 win over Forrestfield United at Hartfield Park. Trent Wood opened the scoring against his former club before Tom Shepheard, Lucas Whitehouse and John Monterosso wrapped up the three points. “We were frustrated in the first half and couldn’t put three passes together but once we scored we relaxed and it all seemed to click in place,” said Swan coach John O’Reilly. “It could have been a few more today but Luke (Woodfin) was great for them today, he made some excellent saves.”

Forrestfield opened brightly with Francis Tindo converting a 3rd minute cross from Ben Fraser, however, the assistant referee deemed the latter’s delivery cross had gone out of play. Swan didn’t spark until the 23rd minute when Aaron Colli threaded into the path of Whitehouse but his shot from 10-metres was saved by Woodfin. The Forrestfield custodian twice denied Shepheard as Swan lifted the pace. Their persistence was rewarded on 35 minutes, Wood surged down the left before cutting into the 18-yard box, playing a one-two with Monterosso and scoring from a tight angle.

The second half was only a few minutes old when Brendan Knox’s corner was met by Whitehouse whose header was cleared off the line by Wade Fraser. Sixty seconds later Colli’s cross from the right was side-footed in by Shepheard from 5-metres. It difference became three goals in the 55th minute, Chris Atkinson’s long throw was helped on by Shepheard for Whitehouse to poke in at close-range. It was all one-way traffic but Woodfin stood tall to thwart Shepheard. Swan found a way through again in the 70th minute with Wood and Shepheard combining to release Monterosso, who slotted in goal number four.

19.5.2012

BRADY STUNNER GIVES MORLEY A MUCH-NEEDED BOOST

A stunning second half strike from Gavin Brady allowed Morley Windmills victory to a flat Dianella White Eagles 1-0 at Dianella Reserve. The home side dominated a frantic opening and should have gone ahead in the 4th minute but Andrew Kirr shot wide of the mark. With this the tone was set for the remainder of the half, Dianella enjoying by far the better of possession and territory as Morley defended doggedly. Michael Dudek was superb between the posts for the visiting side, keeping out shots from Damon Kalamaras and Simon Barber as the pressure mounted. Morley’s solitary advance on goal came from Adam Pygrum whose effort was comfortable saved by Matt Battigelli

Whatever Jason Van Rooy said to his players at the break clearly worked a treat. With Adam Pygrum and Simon Wilson anchoring the midfield, Morley gained to gain some traction with David Houston, Mark Grant, Chris Bradley and Luke O’Neill all going close to breaking through. The goal Morley deserved finally arrived in the 78th minute, Brady finding space inside the 18-yard box to curl past a diving Battigelli. The Dianella custodian ensured the gap didn’t blow out by saving from O’Neill, Houston and Bradley in the minutes later that followed. Dianella almost snuck a late equaliser but Dudek brilliantly pushed away a when Kris Spasesk shot from 15-metres.

19.5.2012

SUBIACO ZERO IN ON TOP SPOT (courtesy Subiaco AFC)

The gap at the top of Division Two has been cut to a single point following Subiaco AFC’s 4-0 thrashing of Kingsway Olympic at Rosalie Park. Goals from Joe Kresling, Jordan Rhodes, Ger Fitzgerald and Richard Astley puts Subiaco within touching distance of leaders UWA-Nedlands, who they face next weekend. “We scored four goals but we are capable of better,” Fitzgerald said. “We have to learn to be more potent in front of goal and finish our chances but overall it was pleasing result. We have been playing well as a team lately and we are all looking forward to playing UWA.”

Having controlled the game from early, Subiaco’s opening goal came about when Kresling poked in from close-range after the goalkeeper failed to take the ball cleanly. The margin was doubled via an indirect free-kick which Scott Wrightson touched to Rhodes whose superb curling shot was into the far top corner. Kingsway mustered very little in the way of a response with Frank Galvin’s marshalling of the home defence foiling the best attempts. The game was effectively ended as a contest before the break when Fitzgerald rose strongly to head in at close-range from a corner.

Kingsway gave a much better account of themselves after the break. And although the game developed into a between the boxes tussle it was Subiaco that looked the more likely to score thanks to the central influence of Rhodes and Simon Ralphs. A sustained period of pressure lead to their fourth goal, Kresling delivering the ball in from right for substitute Astley, who headed in powerfully after drifting in at the back post. There were plenty of further opportunities for Subiaco to add a few more goals but at the end of the day they would have been happy enough with the four-goal margin.

19.5.2012

POINTS SPLIT BETWEEN QUINNS AND FREMANTLE

George Mills netted late to salvage Quinns a 2-2 draw from their encounter with a depleted Fremantle United at Gumblossom Park. The port side looked set to claim victory after Levi Reichelt and Sam Ambrogio scored within minutes of each other before Mills opportunistic finish complimented Adam Buckley’s opener and earn the home side a point. Fremantle enjoyed the better of a tight first half in which Darren Monaghan, Joseph Harvey and Kurt De Souza squandered good chance to put them in front. An unfortunate clash of heads saw Taran Richmond leave the field early with a fractured eye socket, adding to to Fremantle’s injury woes.

Quinns got their noses in front just after the hour with Buckley’s flick from a Mills corner deflecting off defender Nathan Findlater on its way into the net. The game didn’t really come to life again until the 74th minute when Harvey’s shot came back off the crossbar and Reichelt was positioned to head in the equaliser. Five minutes later Fremantle had the lead, a sublime mazy run from the halfway line by Ambrogio being finished into the corner of the net. It was now Quinns turn to fight back and with just minutes left Mills tapped in at close-range after goalkeeper Peter Wile could only parry a powerful drive by Buckley.

19.5.2012

TEN-MAN MELVILLE GET THE BETTER OF JOONDALUP

Melville survived playing the closing stages a man down to triumph 1-0 over Joondalup City at Iluka Sports Ground. There was no real flow to an opening half hour in which both teams lacked cohension in the third of the pitch. Melville looked to have gone ahead through Kudzi Chigwanda’s header but Sasa Slavujevic’s corner was judged to have gone out before being met at the near post. The visitors went close again in the 28th minute with Slavujevic’s free-kick crashing into the crossbar. Joondalup found some rhythm late in the half but Mark Thornton’s effort was straight at Stewart Dalgarno. The half was drawing to a close when an assistant referee flagged for handball against a Joondalup defender and Simon El Chami made no mistake from the penalty spot.

Play ebbed and flowed from one end to the other in an entertaining start to the second half but, like earlier, the finishing touch was absent from both attacks. The game was turned on its head with twenty minutes to go the game, Melville’s Keith Nolan issued his marching orders for a dubious second yellow card. With this Joondalup seized control, pushing players forward in numbers to have Dalgarno and his defence under some intense pressure. A golden opportunity to restore parity was wasted when Steve Lane failed to hit the target from a few metres after a corner eluded all inside a crowded goalmouth. A minute from the end Lucais King latched onto through ball but Clayton Kendall’s timely challenge deflected the shot onto the bar.

19.5.2012

GLORY COMPLETE THWAITE SIGNING

Perth Glory has snapped up one the A-League’s most sought after defenders, Michael Thwaite, on a two-year contract. Thwaite, who has played professionally in Romania, Poland and Norway as well as Australia, is considered one of the competition’s best central defenders and was reportedly also being chased by Melbourne Victory. “It’s a fantastic coup to bring a quality player like Michael across to Western Australia,” Glory coach Ian Ferguson said. “He’s very comfortable in possession, he can switch the play, breaks the lines also can drive through the middle.”

Thwaite, who has six caps for Australia to his name, is delighted to be heading west following the demise of his former club, Gold Coast. “I’m relieved to finally know where I am heading,” 29-year old Thwaite said. “Within the Perth Glory squad I have previously played with eight or so of the boys and that was a big factor in my decision. “I also spent two years together with the captain Jacob (Burns) in Poland so it’s nice to have these combinations. It’s great to be heading to Perth.”

Thwaite represented Australia at youth level before embarking on a five-year European adventure in 2004. His two seasons with National Bucuresti in Romania included a loan to Polish club Wisla Krakow and a Socceroos debut against Jamaica in October 2005. The defender joined Norwegian club SK Brann in 2008 but six months later returned to Australia on a loan arrangement with Melbourne Victory. In 2009 Thwaite signed for Gold Coast, making 82 appearances over three seasons and winning his clubs’ Player's Player of the Year in 2009/10.

19.5.2012

HALL OF FAME HONOUR FOR LAZARIDIS (by Jonathan Cook, the 'West Australian')

Stan Lazaridis struggles to single out the most memorable moment of his glittering career. His Socceroos debut against Kuwait in 1993 still sticks in the mind as does Australia's qualification for the 2006 World Cup. Then there are the moments from a club career that started with Kingsway Olympic and took him to the English Premier League with West Ham United and Birmingham City. "It's difficult to pinpoint one highlight because there have been quite a few but Australia making the World Cup was massive," Lazaridis told the 'West Australian'. "For me, after four World Cup campaigns, that night was very special."

Four years after he played his last competitive game for Perth Glory in 2008, Lazaridis will tonight add another scene to his personal highlights reel with induction into the Football Hall of Fame. He is one of nine players being granted Hall of Champions status at a ceremony that recognised the contribution of 32 West Australian greats, including former Glory stars Bobby Despotovski and Scott Miller. "When you get acknowledged with something like this it's special," said Lazaridis, who was inducted into the Football Federation Australia Hall of Fame in 2010. "This is the place I love, it's where I live and I'm a very proud West Australian, so I'm honoured to be in the Hall of Fame."

A career which started in the local competition with Kingsway, Floreat Athena and Stirling Macedonia took off after Lazaridis' performances for the State team. Almost 20 years ago he played for WA in a thrilling 3-2 win over visiting German team Werder Bremen and just a few months later signed for National Soccer League side West Adelaide. "It was fantastic to play for WA," said Lazaridis, who donned State colours on ten occasions, twice as team captain. "It wasn't representing Australia but it had that sort of feel. You played because you loved it, you wanted to do well and you wanted to win."

That attitude earned Lazaridis a move to West Ham in 1995 and four years later he joined Birmingham City. "I remember playing for Birmingham against Liverpool and I was walking to take a corner and the fans were singing," said Lazaridis. "I remember saying to myself 'don't ever, ever forget this moment'. It was amazing. I played with my heart and the Birmingham fans could see that." Lazaridis made a total of 395 league and cup appearances during his clubs career with West Adelaide, West Ham, Birmingham and Glory. At international level he made 60 'A' appearances for Australia after representing the nation at under-17 and under-20 levels.

18.5.2012

PREMIER DIVISION PREVIEW

Alfred Skeet Oval is the place to be on Sunday for the footballwa.net match of the week between form teams Armadale and Stirling Lion. Back-to-back wins have instilled confidence in the home team but goalkeeper Cyril Sharrock knows it won’t be easy making it three on the trot. “Our season seems to have turned around. The team has been working on being hard to break down and that worked well against Sorrento and Bunbury Forum Force,” Sharrock said. “Stirling will be a tough game but if Army shows as much fight and desire as we did in Bunbury then I’m sure we will take the three points.”

Stirling captain Andy Brown says last month’s thrashing at the hands of Perth SC has had a positive effect on his team. “The Perth game was a harsh lesson that has actually been beneficial for the team. Credit has got to be given to management for making positive adjustments following this game and the players have responded in the best possible way,” said Brown. “Sunday is a pretty critical game for both teams. Our full attention is on the league and to keep pushing for the finals berth that we are capable of.” Defender Michael Pugliese remains suspended but Irish imports Gareth McGlynn and Jason Gavin are back in contention.

Round seven commences on Saturday with a depleted Inglewood United at home to Bunbury Forum Force. The home side will be missing Kyle Fowler (knee) while there’s a good chance Ryan Clark (knee), Jon Devite (hamstring) and James Sammut (groin) will also be watching from the stands. ECU Joondalup are without Tommy Amphlett, Matt Italiano and Dave Calder for the visit of Perth SC, who has Greg Sharland out due to illness. Western Knights are confident of taking out all the points when the National Training Centre travels to Nash Field.

The pick of the Saturday action has Bayswater City at home to Balcatta. The past month has been tough on the visiting team and defender Jovo Pavlovic is well aware Balcatta need to start picking up points sooner rather than later. “This is our most important match of the season so far. Bayswater are a quality side, are in top form and fresh from not playing last weekend,” said Pavlovic. “We are starting to get players back on the track, David Micevski and Jason Barrera are back in training and pushing for a spot in the starting eleven.” All six Premier Division games – be they Saturday or Sunday - kick-off at 3.00pm.

18.5.2012

DIVISION ONE PREVIEW

Mike Brazil could be without a host of key players when Mandurah City takes on Rockingham City in tomorrow’s twilight fixture at Lark Hill Sportsplex (6.00pm). “Jeff Bright (shoulder), Craig Tone (ribs) and Ryan Townsend (knee) will be assessed by our physio before we make a decision on who plays,” said Mandurah coach Brazil, who is also without defender Jay Bonser due to suspension. “Our squad will certainly be tested in coming weeks but that opens the door for our youth players like Adam Evans, who has come off the bench in recent weeks and has not looked out of place.”

Three very important points are up for grabs at Ashfield Reserve when Shamrock Rovers lock horns with Gosnells City. Dianella White Eagles captain Matt Battigelli (ankle) and playmaker Andreas Theodosiades (back) could miss may the home fixture with Morley Windmills. The coaching staff at Canning City and Ashfield have a few decisions to make ahead of their meeting at Hossack Reserve. Simon Correia, Richard Burton and Daniel McCurdy are pushing to start for the home side, while for the visitors its attackers Jason Feathers and Alex Stamatiadis that are knocking on the door. Swan United welcome back David McNally, Chris Atkinson and Trent Wood for their trip to Forrestfield United.

Fremantle Spirit coach Moe Atekhis is looking to cause an upset when his team travels to competition leaders Wanneroo City. “Wanneroo will be on a high after their big win in the Cup, however, our boys won’t be holding back and will go out there and give it everything,” said Atekhis. “Every game is a big game for us, and we are confident we’ll put in good performance.” The port side have been bolstered by the return from injury of Tyrone Fenwick, Daniel Morgan and captain Kross Kamara plus the signing of Eddie Walsh and Andy Alvarez. The five afternoon Division One games kick-off at 3.00pm on Saturday.

18.5.2012

DIVISION TWO PREVIEW

Subiaco AFC should continue their fine run of form by taking all the points over Kingsway Olympic at Rosalie Park. The home side will miss the influence of defender Richard Astley (suspended) but are nonetheless expected to stretch their winning run to six games. Joondalup City will be out to make the most of their home ground advantage when Melville City drops in at Iluka Sports Complex. Quinns will fancy their chances at Gumblossom Park against a Fremantle United line-up missing goalkeeper Francisco Bervenott, Tim De Souza (both suspended), David Caputi (injured) and Paul Neff. All three Division Two games kick-off at 3.00pm on Saturday.

17.5.2012

IT’S TIME WE APPLIED OURSELVES SAYS BALCATTA’S ROKI

Michael Roki is not entirely happy. After guiding Balcatta to the top of the Premier Division last year Roki had high expectations of another solid performance this term. And it was looking as though that would be achieved until a month ago when a run of poor results sent Balcatta tumbling down the standings. “Our lack of form to date and a dash of misfortune has put us well off the pace,” commented Roki, whose team is positioned seventh after as many games. “We could be closer than six points off the league leaders if we had applied ourselves a bit more.”

It’s been slim pickings of late for Roki’s team who’ve scrapped together just four points – by holding Stirling Lions to a draw and defeating the National Training Centre – from five league outings. “We have conceded four relatively soft penalties in three of those games, against Stirling, Floreat Athena and Inglewood United, which has been unfortunate and left us with a huge mountain to climb,” said Roki. “On top of that we have just haven’t been able to find our rhythm due to a string of injuries to players, including Jason Barrera, Ash Rosindale and John Migas.”

In terms players, Roki considers his current squad pretty much on par with that of last season when Balcatta ended the regular season at the top of the Premier Division table. “We have a similar squad to last year and are capable of challenging the top couple of spots,” the coach said. “We are certainly still in the running but it will obviously now require a solid application to the second half of the season with minimal room for error. We have some problems to iron out but there is a lot of football yet to play this year and some key players to return to soon.”

The early form of Bayswater City and Floreat Athena has propelled them into the top three alongside perennial favourites Perth SC after a couple of months of competition. Few would have predicted such a strong start by Bayswater or Floreat, but Roki isn’t at all surprised. “Bayswater improved vastly last year under Mauro Marchione and he’s built on that squad,” Roki commented. “Floreat have lured a number of players from various teams to form a very effective attacking side. But whether they can be consistent over the 22 home and away games will determine if either side can be crowned Premiers.”

Balcatta, who beat Shamrock Rovers in the State League Cup last weekend, come up against Bayswater on Saturday. “They seem to be a fit, quick and confident team these days under Mauro and the new foreign players certainly boost the quality at the club,” commented Roki, who feels there are two players in particular capable of winning the game for Bayswater off their own boot. “Gustavo Giron-Maralunda is always a threat with his explosive pace and range of shooting, but Cisco Jorquera is an important playmaker for their team and maybe the key player for them when on song.”

Roki knows the relevance of Balcatta getting the win at Frank Drago Reserve this weekend. “Three points will obviously keep us in immediate contact with the top four, but just as importantly it will send a message that we are not going to relinquish the challenge for the title easily,” the coach said. “There is a big expectation that every Balcatta player will leave everything they have on the park this week in an effort to close the ground on any sides that stumble.” Balcatta go for broke against Bayswater from 3.00pm this Saturday at Frank Drago Reserve.

17.5.2012

AMPHLETT WANTS ANOTHER GO AT THE A-LEAGUE

Attacking midfielder Tommy Amphlett is determined he will play professionally again after being released by Perth Glory. Amphlett was used sparingly last season by Glory so was hardly surprised when told his services were no longer required by the A-League club. But the 23-year old says his passion isn’t diminished and he still has plenty to offer the game. “Yes I’m disappointed, but that’s football,” he commented. “I thought I started the season really well but then never got a look in the team. Now I’ve just got to look to the future. I believe I can make a real impact at that level, and I’m looking for an opportunity to show I can.”

Amphlett, who came up through the ranks of ECU Joondalup, joined Glory in November 2009 and just a few days later made his first A-League appearance against Sydney FC. “Your debut is always special,” he said when asked for the highlights of his three seasons with Glory. “Playing in front of big crowds every week, and training and playing with top players was great. I’ve learnt a lot from some experienced players, which I’ll never forget.” In total Amphlett played 27 times and ranks the 2011/12 Grand Final, which Glory lost 2-1 to Brisbane Roar, as an amazing experience. “It was fantastic, Suncorp was packed, and the atmosphere was unbelievable.”

After being released by Glory, Amphlett found himself courted by a couple of local clubs. In the end he opted for to Joondalup and made his return appearance in the club’s 3-3 draw with the National Training Centre earlier this month. “It’s great to back at ECU, and it’s nice to be straight back on the pitch playing,” he said. “Salv (Todaro) has bought some quality in since he’s been here as coach. It always takes a few games to get used to each other and also play to the system he has put into place. The training has been fantastic and really intense, so it’s looking good.”

Although he is enjoying being back in the State League Amphlett does not intend sticking around for too long. “I’m only playing for two months,” the former State team player said. “The plan is to keep fit at Joondalup and if nothing comes about in the A-League then I’ll head overseas at the end of June. There has been interest but no offer on the table yet, but I’m determined to keep going. I have the ability, I just have to go out there and prove it.” In the meantime be sure to catch Amphlett giving his all to pull Joondalup away from the bottom of the Premier Division.

17.5.2012

JAMIESON JOINS GLORY

Perth Glory has confirmed the recruitment of Australian international Scott Jamieson. The left-sided defender, who played the two most recent seasons with Sydney FC, is looking forward to opening a new chapter in his career in Perth. “I’m very excited to be heading to Perth,” 23-year old Jamieson said. “From the first time I had contact with Perth Glory it felt like a good fit. Now I’m looking forward to playing with a group of talented players and developing my game with an astute coaching staff."

Sydney-born Jamieson honed in skills with three seasons in the academy system at English club Bolton Wanderers before making his mark in Australia. His first port of call was Adelaide United where over two seasons he made 65 league and cup appearances, was awarded the A-League Young Player of the Year and made his Socceroos debut against Indonesia. In mid-2010 he was on the move again, this time linking up with Sydney where he gained 51 first team outings over two seasons.

Jamieson is the fifth player under the age of 23 to sign on the dotted line with Glory in recent weeks, following Brandon O’Neill (18), Chris Harold (19), Ndumba Makeche (20) and Adrian Zahra (21). “Scott is a player I have admired over the years,” coach Ian Ferguson said. “He’s a great addition to our squad and will make us stronger. We were very keen to add youth to our squad and it’s great we’ve now added five players under 23 who have A-League experience."

17.5.2012

RUKAVYTSYA RELEGATED

Nikita Rukavytsya’s Hertha Berlin has been relegated from the Bundesliga following a dramatic play-off game with Fortuna Dusseldorf. The promotion-relegation match had to be stopped twice, the second time due to a pitch invasion, before a 2-2 draw sealed Dusseldorf’s return to Germany’s top flight after a 15-year absence with a 4-3 win on aggregate. Rukavytsya played 72 minutes for Hertha but will spend the final year of his three-season contract back in the second tier after Hertha were relegated just a year after gaining promotion. The attacker, who was yesterday named in the Socceroos for three games next month, made 25 league and cup appearances this season.

16.5.2012

SUBIACO GO ON THE RAMPAGE (courtesy Subiaco AFC)

Subiaco AFC have narrowed the gap on Division Two leaders UWA-Nedlands to four points with this evening’s 5-2 thrashing of Melville City at Rosalie Park. Jordan Rhodes masterful display in the centre of the park was rewarded with a couple of second half goals before Joe Kresling, Ger Fitzgerald and Danny Malcolm blew the margin out. Subiaco started at full pace with the creativity and drive of Rhodes and Simon Ralphs opening the visiting side up on numerous occasions. However, it was Melville that was on the scoreboard first thanks to Simon El Chami, who tucked the ball in very much against the run of play. This only spurred Subiaco on further but despite several near misses they entered the break one goal behind.

This same pattern flowed into the second half, Subiaco’s tidy passing and quick movement piling pressure on a visiting defence in which goalkeeper Stewart Dalgarno was a man under siege. The inevitable equaliser arrived through another swift exchange, Malcolm playing a delightful pass into the path of Rhodes whose first touch allowed him to slot low into the bottom corner. With this the floodgates opened and not long after an opportunistic finish by Rhodes made it advantage Subiaco. Kresling and Fitzgerald then added themselves to the scoresheet before a stunning strike from Malcolm made it five-one. Subiaco emptied their bench soon after and it was only now that Melville were allowed back into the game with Lee McKay grabbing a late consolation.

16.5.2012

CANNING HAVE TURNED A CORNER SAYS WHETNALL

Emlyn Whetnall can’t hide his disappointment with Canning City’s slide down the Division One table. Canning started the season strongly, taking points from their first two outings before then slip off the pace with four straight losses. “We are very disappointed about those losses,” said Whetnall, who feels his team were unlucky not to get anything out of all four games. “We’ve played fairly well and not been outplayed by anyone in those games – with possibly the exception of Rockingham – and on a different day the results might have gone our way, but that’s football.”

Canning, who came within days of withdrawing from the State League during the summer, have been behind the eight ball since day one according to Whetnall. “When the season started we were already playing catch up. We had new coaches and several new players came on board only three weeks or so before the first game,” the defender said. “It was always going to take some time for everyone to get up to speed and gel. And our overall fitness wasn’t as good as other teams, conceding goals in the last ten minutes of games tend to support that.”

Whetnall believes Canning’s big win over Forrestfield United could be the catalyst for a change in their fortunes. “We’ve turned a corner with our fitness as a group as we’ve finished the last couple of games stronger,” he said. “The performances of the younger players was outstanding, guys like Steve Kane, Sam Carrello and Josh Findlater really stood out. But we aren’t getting ahead of ourselves, after last season the goal for the club was to be well clear of the relegation zone and anything above that will be a bonus this year.”

Only a handful of points separate positions one through six in Division One with Rockingham City and Cockburn City the teams that have particularly impressed Whetnall. “Cockburn are big, strong, fit and very well organised side, for me they’d be the early favourites for winning the league although we haven’t come up against Mandurah City or Ashfield yet,” he said. “Rockingham looked good the day we played them, but their results have been a bit up and down. I’m not sure if we just got them on a good day but they are certainly seemed capable of causing anyone in the league a problem.”

Canning’s next assignment has them on home soil this Saturday to third-placed Ashfield. “It’s going to be another tough game for us,” said Whetnall. “We will be missing Paul Van Dongen (broken leg) and Mick Van Dongen (broken foot) but that gives other players the opportunity to came in and impress. Going on results so far, not many people would give us a chance against Ashfield. But it’s eleven verses eleven on the day and I have every confidence in our group of players. It would be a great result to knock off one the competitions top sides.”

16.5.2012

BAYSWATER NOT GETTING CARRIED AWAY WITH EARLY SUCCESS: MARCHIONE

Mauro Marchione isn’t getting too excited about Bayswater City’s superb start to the home and away series. Bayswater share top spot in the Premier Division with arch-rivals Perth SC after two months of competition but coach Marchione knows there is still a long way to go if his team is to achieve their goal of a tip five placing. “We went through a hard pre-season to be competitive this year,” said Marchione. “Where we are at the moment tells us nothing special. The players and I are not excited. Actually we are training even harder to make sure we finish where we belong.”

The highlights of Bayswater’s first seven league outings have included claiming victory over Perth on their turf, and a six-goal demolition of then leaders Floreat Athena. “The fact that we beat Perth at Dorrien Gardens is a great thing for Bayswater and its supporters. But for me doesn’t really make any difference if we beat Perth or the NTC – all I look at is the three points,” Marchione said. “Against Floreat we wanted the win to go on top and we got it, mission accomplished. If it was any other team the approach would be the same.”

Wise off-season recruitment is certainly paying off Bayswater with the likes of Tom Dixon, Patrick Quinn Paul McCarthy and Gustavo Catarcione making an early impression. “The team is playing very well and the new players have gelled with the others in a fantastic way,” Marchione commented. “But I’m not surprised. I recruited professional minded men who are good players. The quality we have at the club now stems from where I took over at Bayswater. The goal has always been to play entertaining, attacking football, I knew that sooner or later that approach would bring us results”

Gustavo Giron-Marulanda has been nothing less than sensational for Bayswater this year and Marchione acknowledges he may not have the Colombian striker for the duration of the winter. “Gustavo is a complete player now. He has worked hard in the last two years on the tactical aspect of the game and today he works for the team,” said the coach. “Gustavo is ready to go professional and I’m helping him to go sooner rather than later, even though it will be a huge loss for us. We have a great squad and have players who can do the job if Gustavo leaves before the end of the season.”

On Saturday afternoon Bayswater, who defeated Dianella White Eagles in a friendly last weekend, square off with a Balcatta side that has won just once in their last five league outings. “The bad run they’ve had will end sooner or later and every game from now could be the one they collect all three points from, I just hope that happens after our game,” said Marchione. “At the moment we are playing good football, we are very fit and injury-free. So we’ve got no excuses – if we don’t beat Balcatta it will be because they have played better than us.”

16.5.2012

SOCCEROOS COACH SEES WILLIAMS IN DEFENCE

Socceroos coach Holger Osieck wants Rhys Williams to establish himself as a first-choice right back for the national team. The 23-year old Middlesbrough player has been called on by club manager Tony Mowbray to fill a number of roles this season but Osieck is adamant he is best suited to playing at full-back in the green and gold. "He's a very versatile player and versatility can kill a player as well," Osieck said. "I think he needs a certain position and right now I see him in the right full-back position in our team. I think he can do it best. But on the other hand he can also be an alternative in the central defence."

16.5.2012

POINTS SHARED BETWEEN FREMANTLE AND JOONDALUP

Fremantle United robbed Joondalup United of victory by scoring late to grab a 1-1 draw from this evening’s Division Two contest at Dalmatinac Park. Andrew Morrow popped up deep in stoppage time to cancel out Lucias King’s opening goal, however, the result was overshadowed by a broken leg sustained by Fremantle striker Dave Caputi late in the game. The port side looked like opening their account through a tight first half but could find no way past Matt Hill, who kept out shot from Angelo Canzurlo, Darren Monaghan, Michael DeSouza and Morrow. Joondalup weren’t without their chances, the best of which had Steve Lane’s explosive drive crash into the upright.

Joondalup gave a much better account of themselves after the break and on 63 minutes Lucais King’s glancing header from a Mark Thornton cross put the visitors in front. Fremantle were clearly stunned but slowly worked their way back into the game. With fifteen minutes to go a collision between Caputi and Hill while contesting a 50-50 ball left the Fremantle player with a broken leg. After a delay, Fremantle resumed the attack by pushing men forward in increasing numbers. The game was well into stoppage time when Morrow headed in the equaliser after Canzurlo nodded Joe Harvey’s far post delivery back across the face of goal.

16.5.2012

FEELY KEEPS UWA UNBEATEN

UWA-Nedlands extended their superb start in Division Two by edging out Kingsway Olympic 2-1 on a chilly evening at Kingsway Reserve. The hosts had Ben Towers to thank for keeping the game on an even footing with a couple of sensational saves, much to the frustration of James Plowman and Steve Purton. But UWA’s relentless pressure paid off when Rory Feely opportunistically lashed into the net from inside the 18-yard box. Kingsway fought back to equalise through Farrell Hedges powerful header from a Josh Rolls corner. However, Feely would have the last word when his shot on the turn evaded Towers to stretch UWA’s unbeaten run To seven games.

15.5.2012

THREE LOCALS IN LINE FOR GREEN AND GOLD HONOURS

Chris Herd is in line for his Socceroos debut after being called up for next month’s friendly with Denmark and the World Cup qualifiers against Oman and Japan which follow. Herd, 23, impressed for Aston Villa in the English Premier League this season and was in line for his first international cap last November before being struck down by injury. Hertha Berlin striker Nikita Rukavytsya makes his long awaited return to the squad after last being involved against Germany in March 2011, while Middlesbrough utility Rhys Williams also returns to the fold having been rested for February’s outing with Saudi Arabia.

The 26-player Socceroos to play Denmark (2 June), Oman (8 June) and Japan (12 June) is Mark Bresciano, Alex Brosque, Tim Cahill, David Carney, Nathan Coe, Adam Federici, Chris Herd, Brett Holman, Mile Jedinak, Joshua Kennedy, Harry Kewell, Neil Kilkenny, Robbie Kruse, Matt McKay, Mark Milligan, Lucas Neill, Jade North, Sasa Ognenovski, Nikita Rukavytsya, Mark Schwarzer, Matt Spiranovic, Archie Thompson, Carl Valeri, Luke Wilkshire, Rhys Williams, Michael Zullo. All players will be considered for the June friendly against Denmark, before the squad is reduced to 23 for the World Cup qualifiers against Oman and Japan.

14.5.2012

MORLEY STAND TO LOSE POINTS

Morley Windmills’ woes have been compounded by the deduction of three-points for a breach of competition rules. The Division One strugglers have been found to have played an unregistered player in the first two games of the season. Morley went down to Ashfield on the opening day of competition but seven days later claimed a 1-0 win over Fremantle Spirit. Pending an appeal by Morley, the result of the latter game will be overturned and the three points awarded to the port side. That will leave Morley pointless and bottom of the table, the position currently occupied by Fremantle.

13.5.2012

WATTS SIGNS ON WITH ILKESTON

Ilkeston manager Kevin Wilson has praised Jack Watts for his contribution to the clubs’ promotion push after announcing the attacker is to stay at the New Manor Ground. Watts, who will be 21 next month, has put pen to paper on a new deal, a move Robins’ boss Wilson views as significant for the club. “Jack has an excellent work ethic, certainly has a goal in him and his ability to adapt to a variety of positions was a big asset to us,” Wilson said. “Having him in the side enables us to change things if we want to and whatever role we give him, he’s always likely to pop up with a goal.”

Watts wore Wanneroo City colours on the local scene before taking up an offer to join Barnsley’s academy system in 2008. He joined Ilkeston Town for the 2009/10 campaign but when the club went into liquidation he had brief spells with Worksop Town, Buxton and Frickley Athletic. When Ilkeston re-emerged in mid-2011 Watts was one of the first player’s former Northern Ireland international Wilson wanted back to the club. “I obviously knew all about his potential from his spell with Ilkeston Town,” commented Wilson. “But he’s now bigger and stronger, learning all the time. He proved himself to be a real handful for defenders in the second half of last season.

Wilson believes Watts has the potential to play well above the Northern Premier League Premier Division, which is where Ilkeston will be next season. “Jack is one of a number of players who improved out of all recognition during the course of last season and if they stay together and keep working hard, there’s no telling what they could achieve as a group,” added Wilson. “I certainly wouldn’t rule out the possibility of them following Tyrell Waite by moving into the League (with Notts County) - if that’s what they want - and Jack certainly comes into the category.”

13.5.2012

GARCIA SYMPATHISES WITH SACKED MANAGER

Hull City’s dismissal of Nick Barmby has stripped the Tigers of a manager who had the club “in his heart” according to Socceroo attacker Richard Garcia. Just ten days after guiding Hull to a final standing of eighth in the Championship, Barmby’s short reign as manager was cut short early last week with the club board citing an erosion of “trust and confidence” as the primary cause for the sacking. Having been a team mate and player under Barmby throughout five years at the KC Stadium, Garcia admits the last few days has been difficult to comprehend.

Garcia, who is considering his playing options 128 appearance for Hull, is sorry to see the club discard one of their most passionate supporters. “I definitely feel sympathy for Nick because he loved the club,” the club veteran told the ‘Hull Daily Mail’. “He wouldn’t have come back at the age he did if he didn’t. He’s always had the city and the club in his mind and in his heart. That’s the sad thing, he’d have probably died for the club. To see someone with so much passion for the club have to leave must be very hard on him.”

Garcia says Barmby’s sacking is difficult to understand considering the rollercoaster season Hull endured. “The way we finished the season with a fairly young squad, it’s surprising,” Garcia added. “To get to where we did with a fairly small squad was an achievement in itself. There was the upheaval with a manager leaving in the middle of the season, which can ruffle a few feathers, but we kicked on. A month like March was tough and especially with the size of squad we had, it was always going to be hard. For where we finished the season I felt we’d done extremely well and things were looking positive.”

12.5.2012

STIRLING BOUNCED OUT BY WANNEROO

Division One club Wanneroo City are through to the State League Cup quarter-finals after toppling Stirling Lions 3-1 at Kingsway Reserve. Jason Marsden scored twice and Brian Cairney once as Wanneroo claimed their second top flight scalp, having eliminated Bunbury Forum Force in round one. “We’re delighted to still be in the Cup … I’m surprised there aren't more Division One sides still involved as the league is a decent standard,” said Wanneroo coach David Tough. “The most pleasing thing today was we tried to play football from start to finish - no one hid when Stirling put us under pressure.”

The first attempt on goal came from the visitors after only a few minutes via an Adam Luca free-kick that drew a diving save from Clint Davies. Wanneroo responded through Cairney but his shot was saved by Cory Hugo, who on 23 minutes was required to keep out Josh Booysen’s attempt. With the very next attack Stirling took the lead, Jamie De Abreu’s shot on the run was parried by Davies and O’Callaghan was placed to head in at close-range. But that lead lasted just eleven minutes before Guy McDonald swung a corner to the far post where Jay McDonald headed back across goal and Cairney was on hand to bundle into the net.

Chances on goal were few and far between in a cagey start to the second period. The all-important next goal came from Wanneroo on 62 minutes, Anthony Jones releasing Booysen whose cross was headed down by Guy McDonald for Marsden to finish low past Hugo. Any hopes Stirling held of getting back in the game were snuffed out when Michael Pugliese was given his marching orders in the 75th minute for a second yellow card. The game was made safe in stoppage time when Nick Timmings played clear Booysen, who rounded the oncoming ‘keeper and centred for Marsden to knock into the net.

12.5.2012

EL CHAMI STEERS MELVILLE TO VICTORY

Melville City marched into the State League Cup quarter-finals with a hard-fought 3-2 win over Armadale at Len Shearer Reserve. Striker Simon El Chami scored twice against his former club with Gary McVicker getting the remainder on a memorable day for the Division Two club. “We have been working hard to improve our game and now we are starting to see the results,” said Melville’s Clayton Kendall. “The guys responded well to the pressure after giving up a two-goal advantage to a team two division higher than ourselves. This result will give us more belief and builds momentum as we look to overcome a slow start in the league.”

Genuine goalscoring opportunities were scare throughout a tight first half in which Melville had perhaps the better of possession. But the first opening came the way of the home side with Blake Adams beating the offside trap and chipping oncoming goalkeeper Stewart Dalgarno, however, Kendall got back in time to prevent the ball entering the net. Melville looked the more likely team to score and that they did on 32 minutes, McVicker’s corner leading to a goalmouth scrambled in which El Chami struck into the roof of the net. That lead was almost added to late in the half when Kudzi Chigwanda swept the ball into the post on the end of a tidy counter attack.

Melville picked up the second half where they left off and on the hour John Brennan whipped a cross in behind the defence for McVicker to tuck into the net. It took only two minutes for Armadale to reply through Adams, who sent a low centre past Dalgarno. The Reds were quick to resume the attack, heaping pressure on the home side. They were rewarded for a second time in the 75th minute when Mark McClements’ thundering volley from 16-metres brought the teams level. The deciding goal arrived with twelve minutes to go, El Chami putting away his second goal on the counter attack. El Chami could have finished with a hat-trick but was denied in a late one-on-one with ‘keeper Jack Adams.

12.5.2012

FLOREAT SURVIVE A ROCKY ROAD

Floreat Athena were pushed all the way in seeing off a resilient Rockingham City 3-2 at Lark Hill Sportsplex. Rockingham took an early lead through Rafael Insaurralde but the teams entered the break level thanks to Jarrad Smith. Vincent Sweeney and substitute David Heagney put Floreat in a seemingly safe position before Papa Kpatar netted to set up a tense final few minutes. “It was a hard fought win. We made it harder than what it needed to be, but credit to Rockingham who battled for the full 90 minute,” said Smith after the game.

Rockingham’s attacking approach reaped rewards after only 10 minutes when Kpater found space on the left to cross for Insaurralde, who cheeky back heel beat Brad Eiffe. The margin was very nearly doubled a couple of minutes later with Kpater sent through one-on-one with Eiffe who stood tall to deny the livewire winger. Having weathered the early storm Floreat started to get more involved but had their best moves repelled by the home backline. That was until the 45th minute when Sweeney’s clipped ball over the defence was finished low into the net by Smith.

Heagney entered the action at half-time and within two minutes ran the ball deep before pulling back to Sweeney, who blasted in at close-range. The game looked to have been made safe in the 81st minute when Heagney finished clinically past goalkeeper Dave Keenan after being released by Sweeney’s inch perfect through ball. Unfortunately for Floreat, Kpatar hadn’t read that script and five minutes later he found space on top of the box to curl a fantastic shot beyond the gloves of Eiffe. Rockingham pressed hard in the remaining minutes but couldn’t find a way past a solid Floreat defence.

12.5.2012

HAMERSLEY THROUGH IN EXTRA-TIME

A couple of goals in extra-time earned Hamersley Rovers 1 5-3 win over Kingsley from a pulsating State League Cup encounter at Chichester Park. Two goals apiece by James Young and Logan Crawford plus an own goal sent Hamersley into the last eight for the second time in five years. “To be in the quarter finals is a real credit to the boys and we look forward to a day out against one of the big guns,” said Hamersley boss Craig Doble. “We dominated (the game) but couldn’t put our chances away. Every goal we conceded was an error on our behalf - if we want to go any further we will have to put that right”

A catastrophic start by Kingsley had them a goal down after only 9 seconds, a defensive mix-up leading defender G.Wyles to lob the ball over goalkeeper Kevan Towers and into his own net. Not to be outdone, Hamersley were guilty of poor defending in the 4th minute, gifting the ball to an opposing winger whose tidy cut back was sent into the net by Matt Gardner to make it one-one. As play ebbed and flowed from end to end it was Hamersley that enjoyed the better of possession, however, some threatening counter attacks kept Kingsley very much in the game. Although chances were plentiful, a combination of weak finishing, resolute defending and great goalkeeping meant the sides went into the break on level pegging.

The second half followed much the same pattern, Hamersley probing to get in behind a deep sitting defence whereas Kingsley’s main avenue to attack was on the break. It was Kingsley that got what they wanted in the 70th minute when C.Cunningham got to the ball slightly ahead of ‘keeper Haig Kingston to stroke into the bottom corner. As Kingsley looked to defend their lead Hamersley rained shots down on Towers, the State amateur ‘keeper frustrating the visiting forwards on several occasions. Only a coat of paint denied Kingsley a third goal, Jayden Drummond’s effort hitting the upright and deflecting away from the net.

Young, who had spurned a series of earlier chances, made it two-all with an acrobatic finish after connecting with a corner whipped in from the right. Two minutes later Hamersley hit the lead from another corner, this one from the left with Young’s dead ball sneaking into the net despite a desperate attempt to clear off the line. Dave Howell could have put the game to bed soon after but failed to convert after being found by Crawford. That miss would come back to haunt the visitors as in the final minute of regulation time Gardner slotted past Kingston from the penalty spot following a crude tackle on Drummond.

Extra-time was pretty much a one-sided affair as Hamersley’s superior fitness came to the fore. The visitors were increasingly picking gaps in their opponent’s defences and when livewire Crawford broke through to finish across ‘keeper the game was as good as over. Sloppy tackling began to creep into the second period and after a rash of bookings Hamersley were reduced to ten men with Sam Long issued his marching orders following a disagreement with assistant referee David Currie. Crawford sealed victory when he broke the offside trap and out-paced the defence before slotting under the on-coming ‘keeper.

12.5.2012

LATE GOALS GET SORRENTO OVER THE LINE (with Nathan Drudi, Football West)

Sorrento dream up back-to-back State League Cups remains alive following their narrow 2-0 victory over ECU Joondalup at Percy Doyle Reserve. The game provided plenty of chances, including a missed penalty by the visitors, but it wasn’t until the final ten minutes that the outcome was decided by Todd Harnwell and Ryan Pearson. “To be fair to them, I thought ECU Joondalup played well, they got the penalty, but Curtis did well and saved it,” said Sorrento boss Paul Price. “If the penalty had have gone it, it would have been a different game.”

Joondalup did most of the early attacking early but could find few ways past their hosts solid defensive line. Sorrento almost went ahead against the run of play in the 20th minute, Stuart Montgomery stealing possession and dashing down the flank but the veteran’s shot was a tad wide. With this the home team came to life and Michael Aspin, Jason Mirco and Pearson each had chances to break the deadlock but placed wide. Joondalup had a couple of chances of their own just before the interval with attempts by Matt Italiano and David Foster travelling just past the target.

A positive start to the second half had Montgomery twice denied by Andy Banks in the Joondalup goal. The visitors were presented a great chance to edge in front when a rash tackle lead referee Matthew Cheeseman to point to the penalty spot, however, Tommy Amphlett’s effort was battered away by Aspden. The teams continued to trade blows until, with 81 minutes gone, James Morgan’s brilliant cross allowed Harnwell to slot in the opening goal. The result was put beyond doubt six minutes later when Pearson played a one-two with Morgan and lashed into the net from the edge of the 18-yard box.

12.5.2012

BALCATTA PROGRESS WITH EASE (with Tommy Doleman, Football West)

Doubles to John Thornley and Callum Roberts ensured Balcatta’s safe passage through to the next round of the State League Cup with a 5-1 win against Shamrock Rovers at Grindleford Reserve. Thornley scored twice and Roberts once in the first half to send the home side into the break three-one up, Alan O’Mahoney getting Shamrock’s reply. Balcatta’s class shone through in the second half with Roberts grabbing his second before Daniel Micevski added his name to the scoresheet. “We have aspirations to play good, attacking football and to score five and create many other opportunities was a good sign,” said Micevski post-game.

The writing was on the wall for Shamrock as early as the 7th minute when Thornley rounded off a good team move with a cool finish to open the scoring. But the visitors returned fire soon after, O’Mahoney heading in from a John Hogan free-kick. Neil Young ensured Balcatta remained in front by blocking Barry Triggs’ shot after he linked with Brian Farrell. It proved an important save as on the quarter hour Roberts curled brilliantly past Eamon Barnes after being afforded far too space inside the area. Balcatta were now beginning to control play and on the half hour Thornley picked himself up to send Barnes the wrong way from the penalty spot.

Farrell was presented a great chance to reduce the gap early in the second half but Young brilliantly blocked his spot kick as well as the follow-up. From this point on there was only one team in the game and on 54 minutes Roberts twisted and turned inside the area before firing in at the second attempt after his initial shot was blocked by a defender. Shane Nunes nearly added his name to the scoresheet but was thwarted by an acrobatic save from Barnes, who later prevented Thornley from completing his hat-trick. The icing on Balcatta’s cake in the 75th minute when Steve Burton’s cut back was met firmly by Micevski, who lifted his shot high into the net.

12.5.2012

ONOFORO PLAYS THE CAPTAIN’S KNOCK (with Ilija Mihalj, Football West)

A classy brace from captain David Onoforo sent Perth SC into the quarter-finals of the State League Cup at the expense of Western Knights, who went down 4-1 at Dorrien Gardens. Trent Kay got the ball rolling for the team in blue with Onoforo doubling their advantage before the break. Rapid fire goals by Robbie Scaiscia and Onoforo further increased the gap before David Caine grabbed the Knights a late consolation. “Even though we appeared a little fatigued, it was satisfying to see how many chances we created and put away,” Sciascia commented. “It was a good performance overall, and important for us to reach the quarters.”

The Knights made a positive start but found it difficult to pick holes in a water-tight home backline. By contrast, it took only 16 minutes for the visitors to be breached as a totally unmarked Kay headed past goalkeeper Kevin Miller after being the recipient of a delightful Antonio Naglieri free-kick into the 18-yard box. Perth continued to open up their opponents and had it not been for Miller the scoreline would have really blown out, the ‘keeper producing a pair of stunning saves to deny Onoforo. But there was little Miller could in the 32nd minute when Josh Wilkins made space to cut the ball back for Onoforo to score at the near post.

Daniel Trim went close to reeling in the gap soon after the break but his looping close-range header was just over Alex Dunn’s crossbar. There was no such wasteful at the other end of the park where in the 55th minute Sciascia cleverly finished off a move that involved Daniel Niederberger and Onoforo to make it three-nil. The home side were celebrating again three minutes later after Onoforo’s powerful shot from 15-metres found the target despite Miller’s best efforts. Wilkins should have added another but somehow turned Sciascia’s cross over at point-blank range. The Knights sole reply came in stoppage time when Caine’s sweetly struck effort from the edge of the area flew into Dunn’s net.

12.5.2012

FIRST HALF BLITZ PUTS INGLEWOOD INTO LAST EIGHT

Inglewood United came away from the Swan Italian Club with a 5-1 victory over Swan United from their second round State league Cup encounter. The visitors turned on the style with Dannie Richman netting twice amid goals by team mates Michael Baczynski, Aleks Jovic and Alex Caniglia to seal the win inside 30 minutes. “It came together for us today,” said winning captain Baczynski. “We’ve worked hard on keeping possession and being patient and when the opportunity arises we can create chances, like we did in the first half. We had the job done by half-time and didn’t want any injuries so we did what we needed to do in the second half.”

The visitors got off to the best possible start with Baczynski volleying into the top corner from a 1st minute centre by Richman. Swan regrouped and in the 10th minute Tom Shepheard headed in the equaliser after meeting a Rhys Loxley free-kick. But that was as good as it got for the home side. A minute later Jovic’s cross from the right was headed in at the back post by Richman. Goal number three arrived in the 21st minute, David Perich playing down the right to Caniglia whose cross was blasted in at the far post by Jovic. Richman released Caniglia to finish past Daniel Agudelo on 32 minutes. Shortly after Richman side-footed in unmarked from 7-metres after being found by Caniglia.

A shell-shocked Swan emerged from the break focused on clawing their way back into the game. In the 52nd minute Aaron Colli’s cross picked out Lucas Whitehouse whose goalbound effort was taken by Francis Soale. Jason Colli took Inglewood into attack in the 65th minute by crossing for Jovic, who volleyed narrowly wide. A Swan counter attack had Shepheard relay the ball to John Monterosso but his low shot from 11-metres was saved by Soale. Although the game was well and truly safe, Inglewood almost added a sixth goal when Scott Witschge raced down the right and pulled the ball back to Baczynski whose first time strike was wide.