7.2.2010

MANDURAH DO ENOUGH TO TAKE THE POINTS (with Chris Leitch, Football West)

Mandurah City opened their Night Series account and in the process took a step closer to the quarter-finals by dumping Armadale 2-0 this evening at Litis Stadium. The three points, which came courtesy of Luke Bower and Ryan Townsend goals, keeps the Dolphins in the hunt for a top-two finish, while Armadale's second successive loss has them staring at an early end to the pre-season tournament. The game itself was very much a battle of attrition with neither team covering themselves in glory.

Neither side created a lot in the way of genuine scoring opportunities in the first half hour. Jesse Fuller and Rafael Insurralde were on the end of a couple of promising moves by Mandurah, while Armadale's only opening came via a corner in which Jason Goodwin's header was blocked by a defender. The deadlock was finally broken on 39 minutes when Insurralde crossed to the far post where Bower tamed the ball before netting at close-range.

Armadale gave a much better account of themselves after the break, however, despite winning a succession of corners they created little to cause goalkeeper Phil Straker any real concern. Although similarly flat, Mandurah always appeared the more likely to score and on 69 minutes a well-flighted Insurralde corner was met well by Townsend who headed past Cyril Sharrock to put the game beyond doubt. The Dolphins fashioned further opportunities to increase the margin but had to settle for a two-goal win when referee Steve Gregory signalled full-time.

7.2.2010

FLOREAT QUALIFY FOR PLAY-OFFS

Floreat Athena maintained their perfect start to the year by seeing off ECU Joondalup 1-0 in the late game at Litis Stadium. Johnny Mirco got the game's only goal early in the second half, securing Floreat their second win in as many weeks along with a place in the Night Series quarter-finals. The opening passages were dominated by the host team, who played with an intensity not normally seen at this early stage of the season. John Migas provided the vital link between midfield and attack with superb support from Paul Vatistas, while Branimir Mikulic and James Isaia caused no end of trouble pushing down the right.

Referee Michael Tolmie dismissal an early penalty appeal after Mirco jinxed his way inside the 18-yard box where he was brought down by Scott Blackmore. Goalkeeper Andy Banks was in the thick of the action for Joondalup with several timely interceptions before spectacularly pushing James Isaia's powerful drive over the crossbar. It wasn't until midway through the half that Joondalup fashioned an opening of their own but Jamie Watt was unable to poke the ball past Alex Dunn, despite the striker getting three chances to do so.

Dunn was called into action again soon after, parrying wide Jon Higgins crisp first time volley from 15-metres. Floreat resumed their assault through Daniel Neiderberger, who cut in towards goal only for Banks to keep out his low shot. Mikulic got deep down the right before crossing to the far post where Mirco's header was off-target. Adam Bachiller should perhaps have done better when presented with a chance on top of the 6-yard box which he half-volleyed high. Joondalup almost went into the break on level terms, Phil O'Callaghan nipping in to steal possession from Dean Apelgren before playing it across Dunn, who was thankful to see Jovo Pavlovic behind him.

The pattern of the second half was similar to that of the first and on 56 minutes Floreat finally got their just reward. Bachiller's corner was cleared of the area as far as Apelgren, who quickly returned the ball into the box where Johnny Mirco's vicious low blast came to rest in the bottom corner. Joondalup went within inches of drawing level via O'Callaghan's cross that deflected off Apelgren and looped over Dunn, the 'keeper getting enough of a touch to push the ball onto the post with Pavlovic clearing the rebound. Following this Floreat decided to shut up shop and defend their slender lead, allowing Joondalup little time or space to create an equaliser in the remaining time.

7.2.2010

ALOISI GETS SYDNEY OVER THE LINE AGAINST GLORY

Perth Glory has slipped to fifth on the A-League table after a thrilling yet controversial 3-2 loss to Sydney FC at Parramatta Stadium. John Aloisi struck the winner three minutes from the end of regulation time to see off Glory, who’d twice come back from a goal down, but it was the strikers first goal that was the talking point after the game. Visiting coach David Mitchell accused referee Chris Beath of using technology to change his decision after he had originally signalled for a corner. “It was a goal - there was no question it wasn’t a goal - but I think it’d been decided it was a corner and I think they’ve showed it on the big screen and everyone’s ‘oh, it was a goal’,” said Mitchell. “The linesman didn’t indicate it was a goal at the time and the referee’s gone the same ... he’s changed his mind.”

The game started out positively for Glory, Naum Sekulovski’s 6th minute through ball sending clear Steven McGarry but the Scotsman shot straight at goalkeeper Clint Bolton. Sydney fashioned several good openings with Karol Kisel’s long-range shot whistling wide. On the quarter hour Aloisi flashed past the post, then Kisel curled a free-kick just beyond the far stick. Sydney deservedly went ahead on 23 minutes after Shannon Cole was felled inside the 18-yard box by Todd Howarth, referee Beath pointed straight to the spot from where Steve Corica duly converted. With a top four finish on the line, Glory lifted. Bolton was at full-stretch to save a volley from Danny McBreen, who ten minutes later was thwarted by Stephen Kellar’s last ditch tackle. Glory got their reward in stoppage time when McGarry’s free-kick was headed back across goal by Chris Coyne, Andrija Jukic touched it down for Srhoj to volley past Bolton at the near post.

Sydney grabbed their controversial second goal five minutes into the second half, Aloisi’s shot beat Aleks Vrteski and it appeared Chris Coyne had cleared the ball off the line. However, after consulting with his assistant and the fourth official referee Beath awarded a goal having deemed the ball to have travelled through a hole in the side netting. Scott Bulloch had a long-range attempt saved by Bolton as Glory sought an equaliser, while Sydney should have increased their lead on the hour but Alex Brosque fired wide from 5-metres. After going close twice, Glory drew level on 76 minutes when McBreen stabbed in at the far post a low cross by Bulloch. The game looked destined to finish that way until, with three minutes to go, Keller’s cross from the right picked out Aloisi who expertly headed across Vrteski to send the crowd of 8,532 into raptures. There was still time for Glory to snatch a point but McBreen’s long-range shot was superbly saved by Bolton, who in stoppage time blocked at the feet of Bulloch with Cole clearing the loose ball off the line.

7.2.2010

GLORY YOUTH BACK TO WINNING WAYS

Perth Glory Youth has defeated Sydney FC 1-0 through a first half goal by Brent Griffiths in the National Youth League clash at Seymour Shaw Park. Sydney goalkeeper Mark Pullman turned in a best on ground display with numerous classy saves only to be beaten by Griffiths’ opportunistic strike five minutes before the break. The game, which was moved from Parramatta Stadium due to heavy rain, was given a crackerjack start with Glory Youth fashioning the first chance inside sixty seconds. Anthony Skorich and Glen Trifiro carved out further openings for the visitors, while Iain Ramsay placed wide of Tim Doyle’s post after he’d been gifted possession by a defensive error. Long-range efforts by Tim McGowan and Trifiro were saved by Doyle and Pullman, respectively, before Justin Hayward headed just wide for Sydney. The deadlock was broken on 40 minutes when Griffiths poked into the net to punish Sydney’s failure to deal with a set-piece.

Parity should have been restored a minute after the restart but, after breaking free, Joel Chianese’s powerful shot from the edge of the 18-yard box rose over the crossbar. Chances continued to flow with Ramsay’s pinpoint cross onto the head of Hayward resulting in a heavy collision with Doyle. Minutes later, the Glory Youth custodian was replaced by Francis Soale, one of four substitutes made on the hour mark by coach Gareth Naven. Chianese created an opening for Dimitrios Petratos who miscued his effort with only the ‘keeper to beat. Sydney were dealt a huge blow when defender Anthony Golec collected his second yellow card for a needless trip on David Price with fifteen minutes to go. With this the visitors stepped up a gear and if not for four brilliant stops by Pullman the final margin would have been substantially greater. The win pushes Glory Youth back into second place, however, that may change with the boys from the west have played one game more than third-placed Adelaide United.

7.2.2010

CONTRACT SEALS YOUNG FAMILY REUNION

Newcastle Jets have this re-signed goalkeeper Neil Young for a further twelve-months. Young, 30, joined the Jets at the start of this season and has made the most of his opportunities, starting nine games and keeping three clean sheets in the process. Currently out of action with nose injury, the result of a collision with Gold Coast United striker Shane Smeltz, Young has been far removed from his wife and children in Perth whilst carving out a career in Newcastle. “It’s great,” said Young. “I couldn’t be happier, I can finally bring the family over, settle down and call Newcastle home.”

Despite enjoying the best six months of his football career, off the field it has been a roller-coaster ride for Young, who is over the moon with the imminent reunion with his wife, Lauren, and young sons Owen and Mitchell. “My kids went to kindy for their first day on Monday and I missed it, so it’s tough," an emotional Young said. “Before I got my first game it was pretty tough and I was finding it really hard to motivate myself to keep going. But my wife just rang me up and said, ‘Just get on with it and do what you do.’ She actually said, ‘Don’t quit, just go through with it for the rest of the year.’”

Coach Branko Culina shared the player’s delight, explaining that the Jets’ latest retention target is an important part of the squad that is being assembled for next season. “I think it’s pretty obvious that the club had a good run whilst Neil was in goals and he’s got the experience which is vital to us,” said Culina, who has re-signed seven players coming out of contract in recent times. “It’s been a difficult one though, you don’t want to rush with these decisions because you want to make sure, but by the same token you’ve got to take into consideration the situation that Neil was in. In the end, the club has decided to (re-sign him) earlier rather than later.”

6.2.2010

STIRLING SHOW THEIR TEETH

Stirling Lions kept their hopes of a Night Series quarter-final appearance alive with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Cockburn City in this evening’s opening game at Dorrien Gardens. The solitary goal of an exciting encounter arrived early in the second half via a Jordan Rhodes free-kick. “We looked solid tonight and created a number of chances and with a bit of luck we could have scored three, but overall I was delighted with the performance,” said Stirling coach Mick Lyons, who made five changes to the line-up which was comprehensively by Swan United last week. “The new lads fitted in really well, Bobby (Wilson) was solid at the back and Matthew (Stares) and Tom (Ingram) did well in midfield. We still have a few more to bring in, but we were pleased the way the side played tonight.”

Stirling fashioned the first chance of an evening opening after 14 minutes when a long-ball from Wilson found Jamie DeAbreu, whose cross picked out teenager Ndumba Makeche but his shot on the turn was straight at goalkeeper Dejan Aleksic. Cockburn went close themselves in the 28th minute, Aaron Dos Santos’ lob from the edge of the 18-yard box almost catching out a back-peddling Turvill who tipped over the crossbar at full stretch. Aaron Dos Santos soon after had a shot deflected wide, then Jason Dos Santos’ long-range attempt was saved low by Turvill as the Cockerels enjoyed their best period of the half. Opportunities presented at both ends in the minutes before half-time, DeAbreu was thwarted by Ryan Pretorius while Jason Dos Santos’ 16-metre strike was saved low by Turvill.

The second half had been in motion less than a minutes when Rhodes’ curling free-kick from wide on the left beat everyone to nestle in the back of the net, much to the delight of the Stirling supporters. Cockburn wanted an immediate response but, after a driving run down the down, Jason Dos Santos’ cross was pushed away by Turvill and Michael Pugliese mopped up. Stirling were unlucky not to increase their lead on 55 minutes when a Rhodes corner found Stares whose close-range shot was cleared off the line by Joe Brunetto. David Tarka headed just over the bar from an Adrian Webster cross, then substitute Josh Findlater was denied by Turvill’s brave smothering save as Cockburn sought to level. Tarka then came to his team’s rescue by blocking Ingram’s goalbound effort after DeAbreu’s long-range shot was parried by Aleksic. Stirling’s strong finish saw Makeche crash the ball against the bar while, in stoppage time, a free-kick from Wilson was parried by Aleksic and Paul Rechichi’s follow-up shot smacked into the post.

6.2.2010

ONOFORO SENDS PERTH INTO SEVENTH HEAVEN

Perth SC showed they have every intention of winning a fifth straight Night Series title by inflicting a 7-0 thrashing on Swan United in the late game at Dorrien Gardens. David Onoforo grabbed the first hat-trick of the season in a superb performance by Graham Normanton’s team, with Ian McMurray, Dom De Felice, Greg Sharland and youngster Robert Sciascia also finding the net. “I can’t ask for anything better than that. The goals we scored were tremendous and I thought we played some great football tonight which was pleasing,” said Normanton, before heaping praise on Sciascia. “Robert has come up through the ranks at our football club and he’s been overseas for a while but I’m glad to have him back. His finish tonight was top-class, he is a great addition to our squad for the season.”

Perth waited just 7 minutes before hitting the front, Sciascia delivering the ball into the 18-yard box where it evaded everyone but Onoforo whose effort looped up off a defender and cleared Cory Hugo to find the net. The one-way nature of the game should have seen Perth increase their lead five minutes later when Sharland charged down the left to send in a superb cross that Onoforo headed wide from close-range. Having weather the initial storm, Swan began pushing forward with their first opportunity arriving in the 28th minutes via a Brendan Craig corner that David McNally steered just wide at the back post. Perth’s lead was doubled on the half hour, Sciascia again providing the ball to Onoforo but this time his shot was blocked and De Felice was positioned to convert the rebound.

Not satisfied with a two-goal lead, Perth continued to pile on the pressure with a McMurray half-volley whistling just past the post. But McMurray didn’t have long to wait much longer before adding his name to the score sheet, Sharland’s pace taking him clear down the left to pick out the towering Scotsman who fired in from 5-metres with 36 minutes on the clock. There was little Swan could do to stem the tide and, six minutes later, Simon Wilson playing out of the middle of the park to Onoforo, he slipped in on for Sharland who finished clinically past a stranded ‘keeper. Swan’s best chance of the half came soon after, James Sammut and Roberto Lujan combining down the right with the latter’s cross finding an unmarked John Hunter but he blazed high at close-range.

It was more of the same as a second half began, Michael Black’s long-range attempt forcing a good save out of Hugo. Swan were really struggling to have an impact in their final third which was dominated by Shaun Kilkelly and Trent Kay. All the black and whites had to show for their endevours were a couple of long-range attempts by James Sammut that ‘keeper Jason Saldaris captured. Perth, on the other hand, were running rampant on in the 61st minute Sciascia fed Onoforo whose powerful shot cannoned back off the underside of the crossbar with substitute Andreas Oliviera’s follow-up shot blocked by Shane Webb. Within sixty second the margin had blown out to five goals as Oliviera and McMurray combined to put Onoforo in the clear with the State striker finishing neatly past Hugo.

There was no let-up from Perth as they press forward in search of more goals. Their persistence was rewarded on 68 minutes when Onoforo played the ball out to Sciascia on the left, the winger drifted inside before deftly chipping Hugo from the edge of the box for a sensational solo goal. Swan still had no answers as Perth strung together their passes in a terrific display of attacking football that had the crowd applauding at every turn. The home supporters were on their feet again on 75 minutes when Wilson and Sciascia combined to find Onoforo, who completed his hat-trick with a low finish that was too good for Hugo. Swan coach Paul Lincoln was looking forlorn on the bench and it could have been much worse for his side on 84 minutes when Hugo moved swiftly to keep out a low shot on the run from Onoforo.

6.2.2010

GLORY UP THE ANTE IN FINALS RACE

Defender Jamie Coyne said Perth Glory are determined to continue their recent form against Sydney FC and keep alive their slim chances of securing the third spot on the A-League table when the two sides meet tomorrow at Parramatta Stadium. “The top six teams will contest the finals, with those in the first four places guaranteed a home final. the third-placed team wins its first final, it will host another final. Our aim was always not just to make the finals but to finish as high up as possible to get a home final and give us a better chance,” Coyne told Jonathon Cook of the ‘West Australian’ newspaper. “Over the last six games we’ve only lost one and we’ve put ourselves in a very good position after finding ourselves in a bit of trouble just before Christmas.”

6.2.2010

JOONDALUP LOSE POINTS

Football West have stripped ECU Joondalup of the three points they gained from to their opening round Night Series clash with Mandurah City. Last weekend’s game at Litis Stadium was won 3-2 by Joondalup, however, the match outcome has been recorded as no result after both clubs were found to have fielded a suspended player and subsequently issued a Notification of Rule Breach by the association. Joondalup have additionally been fined $330 for including on their match sheet Aryn Williams, who has a two-match suspension carried over from last season. Mandurah were also fined $330 for including Darren Lawler on the match sheet, despite him having a one-match suspension carried over from last season. Joondalup and Mandurah have the right to lodge a grievance against the penalty within seven days of receiving the breach notice from Football West.

6.2.2010

SORRENTO SNATCHES THRILLING DRAW WITH BALCATTA (with Chris Correia, Football West)

Sorrento staged a dramatic come back to grab a 3-3 draw with Balcatta in Friday's thrilling Night Series fixture at Clipsal Stadium. Balcatta looked have the game in the bag courtesy Joe Woodin and Lucas Whitehouse goals, however, with fifteen minutes to go Todd Harnwell breathed new life into the game with a rapid-fire double. Ashley Rosindale restored Balcatta's lead on 84 minutes, and when defender Daniel White was red carded the Gulls looked done and dusted. But within a minute substitute Jared Love popped up to grab Sorrento a vital point.

Balcatta made a promising start, Rosindale tricked his way past one defender before taking a heavy touch, then having retrieved possession the striker crashed his shot into the top corner of the woodwork. Early season rustiness saw the ball turned over with regularity throughout the first half hour and few genuine chances on goal. With 31 minutes on the clock Balcatta most of a swift counterattacking move with an unmarked Woodin beating goalkeeper Tom Woodhead from inside the 18-yard box. It was a deserved goal for Balcatta, who'd shown the greater composure in attack. The closest Sorrento came to scoring in the first half was an audacious long-range attempt by White that drifted to the left of the target with 'keeper Daniel Markovski out of position.

Midfielder Jason Mirco stung the gloves of Markovski with a blistering 25-metre strike as the Gulls opened the second half wanting a goal. However, it was Balcatta that found the net on 53 minutes via Whitehouse's precision finish into the bottom corner. Substitute Glen Thomas tried to lift Sorrento with a long-range effort which Markovski tipped over crossbar. Harnwell put his team back in the game after 75 minutes, the Gulls captain scrapping the ball over the line in a goalmouth scramble. A few minutes later Harnwell added a second with a deflected shot to set up a tense finish to the game.

Both sides had their fair share of opportunities to claim the lead. The pendulum swung in Balcatta's favour when Rosindale pounced on the loose ball and went past Danny Cain before shooting beyond Woodhead with just over five minutes left on the clock. The Gulls woes were compounded soon after when White earned himself an early show after collecting two yellow cards in quick succession. But there was still plenty of fight in the northerners, Love nodding into the net after the ball rebounded off the bar from an earlier shot by Harnwell.

6.2.2010

MONTGOMERY AT THE DOUBLE FOR THE KNIGHTS (with Chris Correia, Football West)

A brace from Stuart Montgomery has helped Western Knights defeat Inglewood United 2-1 in last night's late game at Clipsal Stadium. Following the high-scoring draw in the early game, the sides entered the game knowing victory was a must if they were to progress to the knock-out stage of the competition. The game had been in motion only 7 minutes when Matt Allen swung in a corner from the right, Francis Odong's towering header redirected it goalward and Montgomery was in the right place at the right time to flick the ball into the roof of the net.

Inglewood wasted a golden opportunity to equalise when Albert Osei-Tutu's hesitation to take a shot allowed the Knights to get numbers back. Montgomery widened the margin on 29 minutes, the striker chipping over Oliver Taseski after catching the Inglewood goalkeeper well off his line. The host club worked hard on pulling a goal back, Ashley Picker and Mladen Kovacevic combined to sent clear Osei-Tutu but his shot travelled just wide of the far post. Despite their efforts, Inglewood were unable to find the back of the net so it was the Knights that went into the break with a handy two-goal buffer.

Mladen Kovacevic went close with a free-kick from distance early in the second period as Inglewood began the task of getting back in the game. Rory Grant should have done better than put a free header over the crossbar not long after. Inglewood were thrown a lifeline on 74 minutes when Jakub Chudy's brought down Grant in a one-on-one, referee Paul Anderson pointed straight to the penalty spot with the striker sending his opponent in the wrong way. Inglewood never looked like getting a second with the Knights backline far too strong. The hosts final roll of the dice had Taseski join the attack for a Jason Colli corner, but Chudy captured the ball and Anderson soon signalled the end of the match.

5.2.2010

THINGS ARE HOTTING UP IN THE NIGHT SERIES

There are some big games across Round Two of the Bam Creative Night Series. The weekend opens this evening at Clipsal Stadium with Balcatta against Sorrento (6.30pm) where the winner will be all but assured of a place in the quarter-finals. The late game is a must-win affair for Inglewood United and Western Knights, who both went down last week.

Cockburn City are quietly confident of registering up their second win when they face off with Stirling Lions (6.00pm) on Saturday at Dorrien Gardens. Anything less than maximum points for Perth from the traditional derby with Swan United (8.00pm) could well spell disaster as Graham Normanton's side attempt to win a record-breaking fifth straight Night Series.

On Sunday the action switches to Litis Stadium where Armadale and Mandurah City (5.30pm) go in search of their first win of the campaign. Safe passage into the last eight will go to the victor of the late game between Floreat Athena and ECU Joondalup (7.30pm). Entry to the 2010 Night Series is $8 for adults and $4 for concession holders with children under the age of 15 admitted free.

The Division One Night Series bursts into life with games across the weekend at Hartfield Park in Forrestfield. Bayswater City and Dianella White Eagles get the action under way from 8.00pm tonight with Gosnells City meeting Rockingham City on the adjoining pitch. On Saturday it's Canning City against South West Phoenix and Forrestfield United verses Wanneroo City from 8.00pm.

The round concludes on Sunday when a very young Fremantle Spirit comes up against Queens Park from 7.00pm. The evenings other game, Morley Windmills verses Ashfield, has been postponed until next month. The top two sides from each of the six-team qualifying groups will progress to the play-off stage, with the tournament decider scheduled for Saturday 27 March. Entry to the 2010 Division One Night Series is $6 for adults and $4 concession, with under-15's free.

5.2.2010

DEPLETED GLORY HEADS TO SYDNEY

Perth Glory coach David Mitchell has confirmed he’ll be without five star players for Sunday’s top four clash with Sydney FC. Captain Jacob Burns, goalkeeper Tando Velaphi, Mile Sterjovski, Adriano Pellegrino and Viktor Sikora have all been ruled out because of injury. “That’s the good thing about having a little bit of depth while the players have been injured the balance has still been good. Going into the game the boys hold no fears,” Mitchell said. All five players are expected to be fit for next weeks match against Brisbane Roar, but with the finals approaching Glory are taking a no risks approach.

It’s the second time in five weeks Glory have meet Sydney, after the two teams played out a scoreless drew at ME Bank Stadium on 4 January. “I spoke to (Sydney coach) Vitezslav (Lavicka) after the game and he conceded they were on the back foot. We had chance after chance but just couldn’t finish them off,” said Mitchell. “They’ve got one of the best defences in the league and it’s not by coincidence they are close to the top of the league so it will be a difficult task for us but one we are going into with confidence.”

With four wins and a draw since Boxing Day, Glory have propelled themselves into fourth on the A-League table. “I think players are eager to play and looking forward to playing and when you’ve been winning the confidence grows within the team. Their is good harmony and we are pretty buoyant going into the game and as I say fourth spot is up for grabs now so it’s a big incentive for us,” said Mitchell, who is acutely aware Glory may end the regular season third, leapfrogging Sydney. “Obviously we’d have to beat them and then they’d have to lose their last game and then we’ll need to win both our games,” he added.

5.2.2010

CRUNCH GAME FOR GLORY YOUTH (courtesy Perth Glory)

Perth Glory youth go head-to-head with Sydney FC this weekend in a game vital to their finals dream. Having gone four games without a win, the Glory youngsters head into Sunday’s game with all guns ablaze as they look to secure a top four position. Rising star Glen Trifiro says that although the last few weeks have been tough on the squad, the boys are set to perform at their best this weekend. “It has been a tough couple of games with a few results going against us, especially ones where we thought we should have wrapped up the points,” Trifiro said. “We know this week is a very important game for us and we’ve been training harder than ever. Everyone is really keen to get out of this slump that we’re in.”

Although Glory Youth have been playing good football, defensive lapses at critical moments in the past few weeks have consequently led to some poor results. “To play so well and not walk away with the points is a bit tough to get a hold of. You can’t really put it down to anything in particular, but I think one of our main problems has been conceding goals. It’s those little lapses defensively in the whole squad that has caused us to concede,” said 20-year old Trifiro. “This week we’ve done a lot of work on our positioning defensively, closing the ball down and getting on the right side of players. There is no doubt there will be a much improved performance out there on Sunday.”

With the National Youth League heating up and only a few points separating positions two through to five, Trifiro is adamant Glory can get the result they are after against Sydney. “We’ve got a terrific team this year and we’ve all worked hard together,” said Trifiro, a one-time captain of the New South Wales Schoolboys team. “It’s tough when the competition is so close that winning eight or nine games isn’t enough to pull you away from the pack. I think we have been disappointed lately but at the same time we’ve been playing some good stuff so you can’t take that away from us as a squad.”

5.2.2010

VICTORY BOOST AS MRDJA SIGNS

Injury-struck Melbourne Victory have signed Central Coast Mariners hitman Nik Mrdja for their run into the A-League finals and the Asian Champions League campaign which follows. Mrdja, 31, could make his Mariners debut in tonights game with North Queensland Fury after marquee striker Archie Thompson was yesterday ruled out for four weeks with a foot injury and fellow forward Robbie Kruse continues to manage a shoulder injury. Meanwhile, the Mariners have confirmed Mrdja has agreed to remain with the club for a further two seasons, commencing the end of his spell with Victory.

Mrdja, who was played 17 games so far this season, scoring six goals, is delighted with both his new deals. "I have been really happy with the way I have playing, but as a footballer you always want to be at the top of your game, and getting regular game time over the next few months will help me get to where I want to be," said Mrdja. "The last Asian Champions League campaign was a great experience and I can't wait to be a part of it again, while at the same time, I'm keen to continue what I have started here at the Mariners."

4.2.2010

FLOREAT TO KICK ON INTO SEMIS

Goalkeeper Alex Dunn has no doubt Floreat Athena will book a Night Series quarter-final berth by claiming victory over ECU Joondalup at Litis Stadium on Sunday evening. "We're confident going into every game we play, no matter who it is against, and will be more so this weekend," said Dunn, who was a virtual spectator when Floreat opened their Night Series account with a 2-0 win against Armadale last weekend. "It's good for any team to get the first official win on the board. It injects a lot of confidence throughout the squad and, hopefully, we'll now go from strength to strength."

A stunning drive by captain John Migas early in the second half put Floreat one-up against Armadale before Daniel Neiderberger's penalty conversion eight minutes later sealed three much-deserved points. "We were expecting nothing less than a physical game from Armadale and we came out wanting to match them," Dunn commented. "I thought it was a very disciplined display by us. We controlled the game for the majority, which is credit to the boys patience and not trying to force an opening, and came away with a clean sheet."

The win is all the more impressive by the fact Floreat's pre-season commenced only three weeks earlier. "Early on, Ante (Kovacevic) put us through our paces with a fair bit of interval training to pick up fitness quickly. And it wasn't long before Rox (coach Michael Roki) got us working with the ball, which everyone likes to see early in the season," said Dunn. "Competition for spots is huge at the moment. We've all been told our performance levels need to remain high because there is plenty of depth in the squad that can come in and do the job."

Floreat would dearly love to get their hands on the Night Series trophy - they've been runners-up to Perth SC in both the last two seasons - but their current focus is on getting the better of Joondalup. "We expect a physical game against Joondalup, they're coming off a great comeback win (against Mandurah City) and will be very confident as well," said Dunn. "I know there are a number of boys in the Joondalup team who will be putting in a little bit extra against us for bragging rights as well, but as usual I think it will be a high intensity game and, hopefully, we can book our spot into the quarters."

4.2.2010

RESULTS SHOW BALCATTA WILL BE COMPETITIVE

Balcatta gave the strongest possible indication that they'll be no pushover this season after defeating Western Knights in last weekend's opening round of the 2010 Night Series. Ashley Rosindale's cracking strike from the top of the 18-yard box midway through the first half was enough to see off the current Premier League champions and bring a smile to the face of coach Salv Todaro. "The most significant factor in our win on Sunday was that we were very competitive and able to show that we can compete at this level," said Todaro, entering his third year at the helm of Balcatta.

A strong effort from players across the park was at the heart of Balcatta's win over the Knights. "Defensively I thought we were very sound and overall our discipline was excellent. In the first half I thought we created a couple of good scoring opportunities which we probably should have taken," said Todaro, who has set his team the pre-season goal of a Night Series quarter-final appearance. "That result has given the players a bit of extra confidence going into this weekend, and the season beyond that."

Todaro added experience and depth to his championship winning squad over the summer with some astute recruitment. One-time ECU Joondalup captain Anthony Jones heads Balcatta's list of ins, which also includes American import David Khuen, defenders Mark Walsh and Igor Ilikj, young midfielder Nicholas Tatsciore and attack-minded Tommy Jones. "All the new boys have settled in well, they all get involved in the training ground banter and are starting to gel with the others," said the coach. "They're all good lads with great attitudes and a big appetite for working hard."

Balcatta can book a Night Series quarter-final berth on Friday by taking maximum points over Sorrento, who last week scored late to defeat Inglewood United 2-1. "Every game in this year's Night Series is a mini-final and everyone wants to make it to the knock-out stages, so I expect another hard fought game against an experienced Sorrento outfit," said Todaro. "I have the utmost confidence in my player's ability and over the last twelve months the majority of this group have shown great commitment and fighting spirit, and the new players we have brought in have added another dimension to the team. It should be another good game."

4.2.2010

REGULAR GAME TIME IS LOWRY’S TARGET

Shane Lowry is determined to make the most of time at Leeds United. Lowry, contracted to English Premier League club Aston Villa, has gone out in loan to Leeds in an attempt to play regular the first team football which his parent club are unable to offer at the moment. Unable to break into the Villa first team, 20-year old Lowry recently spent three months on loan to Plymouth Argyle and last week agreed to Leeds’ request to sign him until 13 March. “There was no choice in my mind when Leeds came in for me,” said Lowry, who played 71 minutes of his Leeds debut against Colchester United last weekend. “It was just a bit of cramp. My last game for Plymouth was on December 19 and I haven’t really played a competitive game since then. Nothing beats playing games and I’ll be fine over the next few weeks.”

With his contract due to expire at the end of the season, Lowry expects to hold to talks with Villa about a new deal and would like to remain part of the set-up in Birmingham. However, he admits opportunities to impress manager Martin O’Neill would have been limited had he remained at Villa for the rest of this term. “My deal at Villa’s up at the end of the season so obviously I’ll need to sit down with them and talk about a contract but I want to do well here first, get a few games under my belt and see what happens,” Lowry explained. “I’m happy at Villa but if I’m going to be realistic at present, I’m not going to be playing for the first team down there. I’m only 20 and I've got time on my side but Villa are flying in the Premier League so this is all about getting games under my belt.”

3.2.2010

MORE GLORY FOR MITCHELL

David Mitchell has been given the green light for a third season in charge of Perth Glory after the club all but secured an A-League finals spot for the first time. Owner Tony Sage remained adamant throughout a three-match mid-season losing slump that Mitchell's position would be safe for another season if the team clinched a top-six place. "It's there in the contract in black and white. What I don't do is go back on my word," Sage said in reference to Mitchell's future. "In business it's about stability and when you look at successful clubs in AFL and NRL they've had stable coaching and management. That's what I want to bring to Glory."

3.2.2010

BURNS PLAYING IT SAFE

Team captain Jacob Burns will resist the temptation to make a swift return to action as Perth Glory again faces injury worries ahead of this weekend’s game at Sydney FC. It’ll be a case of all hands on deck for the club with Burns (hamstring) and Victor Sikora (hip) out of action while clouds of doubt loom above goalkeeper Tando Velaphi (thigh), Mile Sterjovski (back) and Adriano Pellegrino (knee). Burns is hopeful of returning for Glory’s final match of the regular season - at home to Brisbane Roar on Saturday week - but will not risk exacerbating the injury with finals on the horizon. “We’ve got great medical staff and we’ll be doing everything we can to get back as soon as possible without risking finals football,” Burns said. “As far as (hamstring) tears go it could’ve been a lot worse … I know that Sydney is out, for sure, and I’ll target Brissie. I’d like to get a game in before the finals but if I’m still feeling it at all it’s not worth the risk. Finals football is more important.”

2.2.2010

REFEREE SEMINAR HIGHLIGHTS DEVELOPMENT PATHWAYS (courtesy Football West)

The fourth annual Football West referees seminar was held on the weekend with over 150 referees from around the state in attendance. Covering recent changes in FIFA Laws of the Game, the FFA Draft National Referee Strategy and various administrative topics, the seminar was held at the Mountt Lawley Edith Cowan University campus on Sunday. Eddie Lennie, Referee Development Manager, was pleased with the growth in numbers from the previous seminars. “In the past four years, we have seen the number of referees increase steadily, and it is encouraging to see the number of young referees attending the seminar today,” he said. “There is a clear focus on the development pathway for our young referees, both male and female and the Football West Referees department are committed to raising the standards of match officials at all levels in the game both on and off the field.” Football West had over 440 registered referees in 2009 - the highest since the inception of Football West - and are expecting to eclipse this in 2010 with the upcoming referee recruitment campaign.

2.2.2010

SORRENTO SIGN EX-HULL GOALKEEPER

Former Hull City goalkeeper Tom Woodhead hopes to use a winter in the State League with Sorrento as a stepping stone to the A-League. Released at the end of last season by the Tigers, Woodhead was playing non-League at Bridlington Town before being offered an opportunity to resurrect his career in Western Australia. “This is too good an opportunity for me to turn down,” Woodhead told the Hull Daily Mail. “Trevor (Morgan) is first-team coach for Sorrento and rang me to invite me out to play for the year. Sorrento are the feeder club for A-League side Perth Glory and if I can establish myself with Sorrento, there’s a chance I could play for the Glory. I couldn’t say no to this chance. I don’t want to reach the end of my career and regret not going. It’s for a year, but I’ll see how I’m finding it after a month. It’s a long way to go for a game of football, but hopefully it will be worth it."

1.2.2010

MCGARRY KEEPS FOOT DOWN IN FINALS PUSH

New recruit Steven McGarry will keep his foot on the accelerator through the final two games of the season as Perth Glory presses for a fourth-place finish after all but securing a first A-League finals place. Glory's six-point buffer and 11-goal advantage over seventh-placed Brisbane Roar has put the club on the cusp of a first finals appearance with games against Sydney FC and Brisbane to come. "We're going to be chasing fourth place but we are not mathematically in the finals yet," McGarry told Jonathon Cook of the 'West Australian' newspaper. "We'll be going to Sydney to look to get that win and try and chase that fourth spot."

McGarry's arrival from Scottish club Motherwell a few weeks ago has coincided with a three-game winning streak that's taken Glory to fourth spot. "We've got a bit of momentum now and we've just got to keep it going," he said. "In football, when you're confident and you're winning, other teams start to fear you. But we know we've got to work hard as well. We know that things don't just happen." McGarry has committed to the end of the season but is keen to stay beyond the current campaign. Glory coach David Mitchell has been impressed by McGarry's midfield contribution, which has been crucial to the club's recent success.

1.2.2010

CLASSY SHOWING BY NTC AT INSTITUTE CHALLENGE

Football West's National Training Centre squad has placed fourth at the second annual State Institute Challenge played in Canberra last week. Western Australia's brightest young talents put aside a slow start by winning three and drawing one of their last five games, only to be pipped for third by the Northern New South Wales Institute of Sport on goal difference. The efforts of Jordan Franken, Tom King, Brandon O'Neill and Riley Woodcock were recognised at the end of the week-long event with selection in the All-Star team which drew with tournament winners the South Australian Sports Institute.

After a narrow 1-0 loss to the New South Wales Institute of Sport on Monday, the boys from the west began to find their feet on day two with draws against the South Australian Sports Institute (2-2) and the Tasmanian Institute of Sport (1-1). A 2-0 win over the Victorian NTC on Thursday morning was followed by a 2-1 afternoon loss to the Queensland Academy of Sport. Friday produced wins against the Northern New South Wales Institute of Sport (3-2) and the Northern Territory (2-0) before closing out with scoreless draw against the Australian Capital Territory Academy of Sport on Friday.

The West Australian squad at the 2010 FFA State Institute Challenge was Nick Ambrogio, Alex Castiello, Jacob Collard, Kieran Colwell, Savo Cubrilo, Matthew Davies, Daniel Dols, Jordan Franken, Scott Galloway, Byron Hudson, Tom King, Jeese Makarounas, Joseph Moseray, Sahr Musa, Albert Ngeyo, Harry O'Brien, Brandon O'Neill, Adrian Petroski, Shane Pickering, Luke Radonich, Slobodan Vulin and Riley Woodcock. The State Institute Challenge pits nine State Institute and Training Centre teams from around the country against eachother in front of national team coaching staff.

31.1.2010

FOSTER GETS GULLS FLYING (by Chris Correia, Football West)

A late David Foster strike secured Sorrento a 2-1 victory over Inglewood United this evening at Clipsal Stadium. The win provided Sorrento a boost for the coming season after a disappointing 2009 when they missed out on finals football having been crowned League champions the year previous. The first half was a fairly scrappy affair, neither team creating a great deal in the way of clear-cut chances with Sorrento dominating possession. So it was against the run of play that Inglewood broke the deadlock in the 34th minute, big defender James Duncan sending a shot past new Sorrento goalkeeper Tom Woodhead. The Gulls' best chance feel to returning striker Foster, whose long-range blast forced a good save out of 'keeper Oliver Taseski.

Inglewood emerged for the second half with greater confidence. Alex Stamatiadis' 25-metre bomb appeared destined for the top corner before Woodhead came to the rescue with an acrobatic save. Stamatiadis later found space after the ball spilled to his way from a corner but the midfielder shot poorly at the near post. Sorrento soon found an equaliser through a great strike by Jared Love from outside the 18-yard box with under half an hour left to play. But the game was soon made difficult for both teams when a lighting tower failed, leaving visibility poor across the pitch. Foster tried to give Sorrento the lead but his header fell just short at the near post. However, in the final minute of regulation time Foster up for that miss when he fired into the net via the post following a deep Kris Dennis cross to snatch a Gulls victory.

31.1.2010

BALCATTA DRAW FIRST BLOOD (by Chris Correia, Football West)

Newly promoted Balcatta made a fantastic start to their 2010 campaign by downing Western Knights 1-0 in this evening's early Group C Night Series fixture at Clipsal Stadium. Ashley Rosindale's 31st minute strike was all that separated the two teams at the end of play. Balcatta came out firing with Rosindale an early concern for the Knights. Rosindale set-up Joey Woodin at the far post but he was unable to find the back of the net, and soon after the attacker played a delightful free-kick which Lucas Whitehouse headed across the face of goal to an unmarked Anthony Jones, who failed to connect with the ball.

Balcatta's hard work was eventually rewarded when Rosindale applied a lovely right-foot finish on the edge of the 18-yard box to break the deadlock. The Knights began to spark into life late in the half, with new signing Simon Versaico doing his utmost to inspire the team. Versaico found Paul Van Dongen deep in the 6-yard box but the Balcatta defence was alert to the danger. Andy O'Neill nearly cost his side dearly when he coughed up the ball to Knights striker Anthony Campbell, he cross to the far post where Stuart Montgomery just missed his chance to equalise.

Daniel Trim failed to convert a close-range header early in the second half, and not too long after Versaico flicked the ball just wide of the target after being found by Matt Allen. A cracking 22-metre strike by Versaico had 'keeper David Khuen on his toes but the shot travelled over the crossbar. Allen's set pieces posed a lot of problems for Balcatta, and on one such occasion the ball spilled for David Annall who lashed it just wide. Balcatta's good work was almost undone by a late free-kick from 25-metres but Allen's delivery just missed the goalmouth.

31.1.2010

MCBREEN DOUBLE PUTS GLORY ON THE BRINK OF FINALS

Perth Glory virtually secured their first ever A-League finals appearance with this afternoon’s 3-1 thrashing of Central Coast Mariners at ME Bank Stadium. New singing Daniel McBreen scored twice inside the quarter hour with Andrija Jukic adding a third after before the interval to move Glory into fourth place, six points ahead of Brisbane Roar with two gams to play. “I think it would be a Houdini act if they (Brisbane) got in from here. I think once we cement ourselves (in the six) we’ll go for fourth spot and if we get it, no one will want to place us that’s for sure,” coach David Mitchell said. The win was even more impressive given Tando Velaphi, Jacob Burns and Mile Sterjovski were all unavailable through injury.

McBreen gave Glory a dream start by final the net after just 48 seconds. A long clearance by acting captain Chris Coyne posed little danger for the Mariners until Pedj Bojic coughed up possession to McBreen, who past goalkeeper Danny Vukovic from 4-metres. The day only got better for Glory as, with 14 minutes gone, Andrew Clark conceded the ball to Scott Neville and the youngsters cross from the bye-line was tucked away at close-range by an unmarked McBreen. Needing victory to remain in final contention, the Mariners wasted little time in countering but Matt Simon’s header flashed wide.

Despite being two-down, the Mariners continued to press and on 25 minutes John Hutchinson’s corner from the left found Alex Wilkinson, his header was partially saved by Aleks Vrteski and Pellegrino was on the line to hook it to safety. Both teams fashioned some good openings leading into the break. In the 35th minute Bojic flashed the ball narrowly wide with a well struck free-kick, and soon after Neville’s cross found Jukic but his attempt was blocked by Chris Doig. Glory’s reward came in stoppage time through a well-rehearsed move in which Todd Howarth pulled a corner to the top of the box for Andy Todd, whose volley was glanced into the net by Jukic.

The Mariners started the second half with a bang as Brad Porter delivered a fine cross to Nik Mrdja, and although is header came back off the post newly introduced substitute Adam Kwasnik was placed to convert. This set the scene for a Mariners onslaught but, try as they did, there would be no comeback. On the hour Nicky Travis was afforded far too much time and his shot from 15-metres was tipped around the post by Vrteski. Bojic fed through to Michael McGlinchey who fired just over, and a Mrdja header after 73 minutes went the wrong side of the post. Glory stepped up the intensity in the final ten minutes with Jukic’s shot from 17-metres going just wide before a close-range Jamie Harnwell effort was deflected wide.

31.1.2010

STIRLING FRUSTRATED BY RED TAPE DELAYS

Stirling Lions president Don Evans is far from impressed by the paperwork delays that prevented his club from unveiling three new signings in Friday’s opening round of the Night Series. Local clubs have been frustrated by the lack of support from the transfer divisions at Football West and Football Federation Australia, leading Evans to vent his anger. “In this modern age of direct communication we clubs are hamstrung by red tape and lame excuses that drag a simple process into a 30-day waiting period, which is not acceptable,” Evans told Paul Tombides of the ‘Sunday Times’ newspaper. “A-League clubs are able to transfer players within 48 hours, why don’t we get similar respect?” Stirling had hoped to have import trio Bobby Wilson (ex-Notts County), Matthew Stares (ex-Grimsby Town) and Tom Ingram (ex-Quorn FC) cleared in time to play against Swan, who won the game 4-0.

30.1.2010

WATT A FINISH! (by Tim Lefort, Football West)

Jamie Watt struck in stoppage time to steal ECU Joondalup a 3-2 win over Mandurah City in this evening's early Group B fixture at Litis Stadium. A couple of first half goals by debutant Luke Bower had Mandurah in the box seat, however, Garin Collins and Jon Higgins put the northern suburbs side back in the game before Watt grabbed a last-gasp decider. "The first half we weren't winning anything, no second balls, nothing," said Joondalup assistant coach Gary Church, who was understandably delighted his teams second half display. "We needed to lift our game a bit and we did that. We came out and did the job we were supposed to do in the first half. For the first game, the first half we were a bit slow off the mark, but I thought the second half we played very well."

Joondalup goalkeeper Andy Banks was called into action after just 6 minutes, the off-season recruit showing great reflexes to tip Adam Farry's close-range effort behind for a corner. But apart from that, clear-cut chances were scarce early on and it was only via a mistake that the deadlock was broken. With 17 minutes gone teenage defender Aryn Williams misjudged a ball near the centre circle, allowing Rafael Insurralde to break down the left before sliding in a low cross that Bower side-footed in from 8-metres. Phil O'Callaghan did his best to restore parity but after turning his man directed a weak shot straight at Mandurah custodian Phil Straker.

Serious questions were being asked of the Joondalup defence after Mandurah doubled their lead in the 27th minute. Darren Broxton took possession in midfield and quickly spirited the ball through to Bower on the left, the young attacker strode forward before unleashing a blistering drive that crashed into the top corner, giving Banks no chance. An error by James Hesketh let in Watt at the other end but his low drive fizzed just beyond the far post, then a desperate goalline block by Chris Wylie denied Mandurah a third goal. Joondalup finished the half strongly with Straker saving from Higgins and O'Callaghan, who soon after steered wide from the edge of the 18-yard box.

Joondalup pikced up where they left off after the break with an in-swinging Higgins corner casuing all sorts of problems for the opposition defence before Straker scrambled the ball off the line. But there was nothing the Mandurah 'keeper could do in the 51st minutes when Collins scorching 28-metre drive soared into the top corner following a short corner move by Higgins. Six minutes later the team were level, this time Higgins lashing in from close-range after the Dolphins failed to clear a cross. O'Callaghan's frustrating evening against his former club continued when he was again off target as Joondalup pressed in search of the lead.

Bower turned provider soon after but his clever ball across the face of goal was agonisingly out of reach of substitute Michael Bobridge. Watt looked certain to put his side in front but his strike from point-blank range was somehow blocked, with Collins lashing the loose ball high. Insurralde's superb strike from distance didn't clear the crossbar by much, while Bushby and Watt squandered golden opportunities within a few minutes of each other. However, Watt soon made amends when he was on hand to head in at the far post from Higgins' deep free-kick, giving Joondalup a perfect start to their pre-season campaign.

30.1.2010

FLOREAT A CLASS ABOVE

Floreat Athena got their Night Series campaign off to the perfect start with a commanding 2-0 defeat of Armadale in tonight’s late game at Litis Stadium. State team player John Migas opened the scoring in the second half with a powerful effort before Daniel Neiderberger tucked away a penalty to make the points safe. “The team rode the physicality of the match well and generally controlled the game,” said pleased Floreat coach Michael Roki. “A tight defence and midfield restricted Armadale to very few real chances, whilst we probably should have increased the margin with several clean scoring opportunities that we created. A great confidence booster for us as I think we made a difficult game look relatively one-sided.”

Floreat started brightly, forcing a succession of corners that had Reds goalkeeper Cyril Sharrock under some early pressure. James Isaia should have opened the hosts account but after getting on the end of a Branimir Mikulic cross he headed off-target at close-range. Mikulic fashioned another opportunity, this time for Adam Bachiller who let himself down with a tame finish, while Johnny Mirco’s pace had him bearing down on goal when Mick Van Dongen applied a superb last ditch tackle. Armadale’s decision to play with a only Warren Grieve upfront often left the striker starved of support and, despite his best efforts, the Red’s failed to seriously test Alex Dunn. Half time was approaching when Dean Apelgren called Sharrock into action, the Reds custodian getting down well to his right to prevent the opening goal.

It was more of the same after the break, Mirco’s glancing header hitting the back of the net only to be disallowed for offside. Next it was the turn of Migas whose right-foot strike from the top of the area cannoned back off the crossbar. Floreat got the goal they so desperately sought just before the hour when a slick exchange between Bachiller and Isaia saw the ball laid into the path of Migas, who didn’t break stride in blasting into the roof of the net from 19-metres. Eight minutes later a clumsy challenge by Ben Kelly on Mirco resulted in a Floreat penalty which Neiderberger fired past Sharrock to seal victory. Floreat could have ended with a few more goals but Neiderberger headed wide at a Mikulic cross, while Sharrock did well to cut out Miki Vujacic's cross intended for an unmarked Neiderberger.

30.1.2010

MARINERS WIN A YOUTH THRILLER WITH GLORY

Bernie Ibini-Isei struck a late to snatch Central Coast Mariners a thrilling 3-2 win over perth Glory Youth in this afternoon’s game at Dorrien Gardens. Playing with the aid of a gusty breeze in the first half, Glory opened the scoring in the 8th minute when Branko Jelic took advantage of a fumble by goalkeeper Matthew Ryan to slot the ball into an empty net. With first team pair Jelic and Wayne Srhoj using the game to return from injury, Glory controlled the opening passages. However, the Mariners were given a golden opportunity to level when Brady Smith was brought down by a clumsy Sam Mitchinson tackle, however, goalkeeper Alex Pearson pushed Panny Nikas’ spot kick around the post. Glory almost made their visitors pay for the penalty miss late in the half but Hayden Doyle’s sensational 25-metre strike was narrowly high of the crossbar.

The move by Mariners’ coach Tony Walmsley to switch Ibini-Isei from the right flank to the left allowed the visitors to take control after the break In the 57th minute Glory failed to clear the danger as Jonathon Brown’s low ball was converted at close-range by an unmarked Dylan Macallister. The Mariners had barely finished celebrating when a miscued clearance of their own fell invitingly for Dean Evans to lash in from 20-metres and put Glory back in front. It became two-all with thirteen minutes remaining after Ibeni-Isei released Shane Huke whose cross from the left was slammed in by Nikas. Pearson did well to deny the Mariners in a goalmouth scramble, then Glen Trifiro was denied by a marginal offside call. With five minutes later Smith surged down the right and crossed to the near post where Ibini-Isei’s classy half-volley flashed past Pearson.

30.1.2010

LOWRY JOINS LEEDS

Third tier English club Leeds United has signed defender Shane Lowry on loan from Aston Villa until 13 March. 20-year old Lowry met his new team-mates for the first time on Friday and went straight into the squad for this evening’s game against Colchester United. Lowry has made two senior appearances for Villa and enjoyed a successful three-month loan spell with Championship side Plymouth Argyle earlier in the season. Lowry becomes the third Australian on Leeds’ books, joining defender Patrick Kisnorbo and midfielder Neil Kilkenny.

30.1.2010

INJURY CRISIS STRIKES GLORY

Perth Glory has been struck by an injury crisis at the wrong end of the season, with several big names set to miss tomorrow’s crucial clash against Central Coast. Topping the list is inspirational club captain Jacob Burns, who may also miss next week’s road trip to Sydney after scans this week revealed a hamstring tear. The club’s injury woes deepen with strikers Mile Sterjovski (back) and Daniel McBreen (calf) along with goalkeeper Tando Velaphi (quadriceps) fighting to prove their fitness. The trio adds to the already sidelined midfielder pair of Wayne Srhoj (knee) and Viktor Sikora (thigh).

Coach David Mitchell said a tough schedule had taken its toll on the squad and it would have to fight hard to earn a finals run. “We play Sunday, Sunday, Sunday then all of a sudden have a midweek game, then play on a Friday,” Mitchell said. “The boys had a tough two road trips to Melbourne and Adelaide and then to back it up on Friday (against Wellington) was really punishing. Jacob Burns is definitely out. It’s not good news and it’s probably due to last week. We’re not in the finals yet. We’re certainly in a prime position but we have to get into that mindset that we're not in there yet.” Glory can shore up a maiden A-League finals berth with a victory over the Mariners.

30.1.2010

SWAN MAUL YOUNG LIONS

A dominant second half performance has given Swan United an emphatic 4-0 victory against Stirling Lions in last night’s opening game of the 2010 Night Series at Dorrien Gardens. Captain Brendan Knox got Swan on the way by converting a first half penalty before Liam Boland scored against his former club, followed by late finishes by John Hunter and Brendan Craig. “Our preparation this season has been better and we’ve started the Night Series well,” said Paul Lincoln, coach of Swan. “We started slow tonight but we had a chat at half-time about a few things and I thought we dominated the second half and scored some great goals.”

The night began well enough for Stirling with Ndumba Makeche turning sharply to unleash a low shot that required a smart response from goalkeeper Daniel Agudelo. Makeche turned provider on 13 minutes, playing the ball out to the right where Jamie DeAbreu, after getting past Craig, sent in a cross which Agudelo captured. Swan eventually settled and on 17 minutes Roberto Lujan’s long-range attempt was held by Kevin Miller, and four minutes later Knox’s curling 18-metre free-kick beat the Stirling custodian but not the crossbar.

With the first goal of vital importance to both teams, there were chances at both ends. Claims for a Stirling penalty were dismissed on 24 minutes when Makeche raced past veteran defender Darko Ilomanoski who was alleged to have handled the ball, however, referee Michael Tolmie saw no reason to halt play. Ten minutes later Leo Harman’s cross from the right was miss-judged by Miller, who recovered in time to blocked John Mansaray effort. The decisive goal came on the stroke of half-time when Knox and Shane Webb combined to find James Sammut who was felled inside the area by Michael Pugliese, referee Tolmie pointed to the spot with Knox making no mistake.

Swan could not have wished for a better start to the second half, Leo Harman playing down the right for Webb whose cross at the back post was fired into the net by Boland at the second attempt with 50 minutes on the clock. Stirling wanted to hit back immediately but Tom Kennedy’s long-range shot was deflected wide by Craig, and moments later Agudelo moved well to keep put Jordan Rhodes’ effort from the edge of the area. Both sides made changes as legs began to tire and Stirling substitute Andy Brown fired wide from close-range on 70 minutes after being found unmarked by a Rhodes corner.

The game was ended as a contest ten minutes later when James Sammutt’s quick short corner caught the opposing defence asleep as Trent Wood’s inch perfect cross was powerfully headed in by Hunter from 6-metres. A similar move shortly after almost reaped Swan another but on this occasion David McNally’s header was captured on the line by Miller. It was only a matter of time before Swan got their fourth and with four minutes left Craig picked the ball up on the half way line and raced past three opponents before finishing low past Miller from the edge of the box.

30.1.2010

COCKBURN STUNS PERTH

Cockburn City withstood a second half comeback from Night Series trophy holders Perth SC to run out 2-1 winners in Friday’s late fixture at Dorrien Gardens. The Cockerels went into the break with a two-goal buffer thanks to Michael Grigo and, although Ian McMurray pulled one back for Perth, Scott Miller’s side hung on for the win. “We showed a great deal of character today which is also pleasing, but it’s only pre-season and the more we play the better we will get,” said Miller, whose line-up included former Perth Glory players David Tarka and Adrian Webster. “Before we ran out of legs in the second half, like I knew we would, I thought we knocked the ball around well against a good Perth team which is pleasing.”

It was Cockburn who began the brighter and on 4 minutes Jason Dos Santos picked out Webster whose long-range shot flashed over the top. Perth replied six minutes later, Robert Sciascia’s corner from the left was met by Craig Simpson but his header was cleared off the line by Ryan Pretorius. Cockburn slowly took control of the game with Webster particularly influential in midfield, and on 23 minutes they deservedly went ahead. Having burst down the left, Jason Dos Santos’ angled strike crashed off the post and rebounded to Grigo, whose initial shot was blocked but not his close-range follow-up.

Perth had finally been prised out of their shells and twice in quick succession they went within inches of drawing level. Just before the half-hour David Onoforo had a long-range grasscutter saved by Dejan Aleksic, then an unmarked Simpson headed wide from a Greg Sharland corner. Perth suffered a major setback in the 40th minute when Simpson was stretchered off with an ankle injury, leading to Simon Wilson’s introduction. As the half ended Cockburn wrestled back control with Grigo firing wide and Aaron Dos Santos high. The game in stoppage time when Grigo put away his second at close-range after Webster’s corner had been headed back across goal by Joe Brunetto.

The second half opened encouragingly for Perth, McMurray’s flick finding Onoforo but his long-range attempt was straight at Aleksic. Sciasia’s great approach work in the 54th minute saw him put the ball on the head of McMurray, who nodded just wide. Chances arrived at both ends of the pitch in a high-intensity game. Sciascia’s shot from distance was saved well by Aleksic, then moments later Jason Dos Santos’s effort was parried by Luke Martino with Pavle Biserko putting the follow-up wide. It was a different Perth side now and they really should have scored on 66 minutes, Sciascia picking out McMurray who somehow headed high from a few metres.

Perth finally got the reward their sought in the 80th minute when McMurray applied a clinical finish past Aleksic after being fed by substitute Andreas Oliviera. Pretorius and Shane Nunes were outstanding at the back for Cockburn as Perth attempted to snatch a late point. McMurray failed to hit the target on 86 minutes after getting on the end of a Sharland free-kick. With Perth pushing players forward looking to equalise, they were almost caught on the counterattack on a couple of occasions. Jason Dos Santos used his pace to release Webster but his dipping shot was high, and in stoppage time the same player flashed wide after Martino punched an Anthony Perriera free-kick to his feet.