Julian Madaschi is one of four players to split with Floreat in an eventful week

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10.2.2012

FLOREAT PUT SIX PAST SPIRIT (with Bianca Redding, Football West)

Floreat Athena put a week of turmoil behind them by smashing Sunday League side Southern Spirit 6-2 under lights at Litis Stadium. Liam Boland scored twice with Bobby Wilson, Ludovic Boi, Mark Pritchard and substitute Chris Barbas also on the scoresheet in a polished performance highlighted by the exquisite skills of summer recruits Boi and Spencer Harris. "It's all games to us. It doesn't matter who we are playing, we always just try to play our game and try to implement the things that we have practised in training and talked about during the week," said winning coach Chris Barbas.

A disjointed start to the game had hot teams employing long ball tactics to very little benefit or effect. Floreat were enjoying the better of possession but neither Liam Boland nor Mark Zagami were able to capitalise on early openings. Controversy erupted in the 14th minute when Johnny Ferreira's mis-timed tackle was met with a hostile reaction from Kyle Moran, leading referee Kevin Taylor to red card both players. Spirit carved out their first real chance eight minutes later with Aaron Bahadori's attempt from the top of the 18-yard box drifting over the crossbar.

Floreat rebounded strongly to take a 28th minute lead, Mike Lawson delivering a deep cross which Boland headed it over goalkeeper Glen Sheldon. Felim Rugel and Bahadori responded with some smart play to see the ball back in the Spirit goalmouth but the pair were consistently outnumbered by a well-organised defence. Floreat were unlucky not to go two-up through an own goal, Sheldon tipping John Morton's deflected header away from his net. But their luck ran out six minutes from the break with Wilson nodding in from a corner.

The margin was increased two minutes into the second half when Boland slammed into the back of the net after being awarded a dubious penalty kick. Floreat continued to dominate with Lawson, Pritchard, Boi and Boland combining to find the gaps in a loose defence. Against the run of play Spirit pulled a goal back in the 63rd minute, Rugel firing over the head of young 'keeper Michael Craggs. This was met with an immediate response from Floreat with Boi skilfully firing in on the turn after being found by Wilson's long ball.

Pritchard broke through in the 69th minute to add himself to the scoresheet with a lovely dipping shot which found the top left corner. After a period of midfield possession, Floreat added a six goal as Boland fed Barbas who finished by slipping past Sheldon on 85 minutes. Bahadori reeled in the gap two minutes later by sending Craggs the wrong way from the penalty spot after a foul by Harris. However, it was little more than a consolation goal for the visitors had done well to keep check on a rampant Floreat line-up for much of the 90 minutes.

10.2.2012

MANDURAH EDGE OUT COCKBURN

Mandurah City got their pre-season campaign back on track with a spirited 2-1 victory over Cockburn City at Dalmatinac Park. Danny Dyson gave the Dolphins a first half lead with Rafael Insauralde seemingly sealing the points with just over quarter of an hour to play. However, a late penalty converted by Paul Natale ensured tension remained high right up to the final whistle. Mandurah’s first win of the tournament puts them level with Cockburn on three points, but trailing Group C leader Bunbury Forum Force who had six points and are best placed to progress to the next stage.

Jeff Bright was instrumental in many of Mandurah’s early attacks, the livewire midfielder causing all sorts of problems for the opposing defence. The visitors’ persistence paid off on 18 minutes when Dyson broke through right foot slice that stunned the Cockburn faithful. Bright should have doubled that lead ten minutes later but poor penalty kick was comfortably saved by Dejan Aleksic. In a big to spark his team into life, Cockburn coach Mike Lyons made a double change on the half hour but the ploy failed to produce dividends with Mandurah holding a one-nil lead at the interval.

Cockburn came out firing for the second half, desperate to get back into the match, and although there was some tidy football played they were unable to capitalise in front of goal. The result looked to be put beyond doubt on 74 minutes when Mandurah broke on the counter attack and from within a goalmouth scramble Rafael Insauralde sent the ball into the net. Nine minutes later Natale gave Cockburn a glimmer of hope by slotting in from the penalty spot after substitute John Hunter was illegally felled inside the 18-yard box.

10.2.2012

YOUNG INSPIRES BUNBURY COMEBACK

Bunbury Forum Force twice came from behind to snatch a 5-3 win from their outing with Rockingham City at Dalmatinac Park. English import Ashley Young underlined his immense talents with a brilliant second-half double to compliment earlier finishes by Jon Brooks, Danny Kane and Jamie Tandy. "We had a good result last week and an even better one this week," said Bunbury coach Nigel Wilcox, who team sit undefeated at the top of Group C. "I've got with a small squad in this Night Series because we've got a lot of injuries at the club. Rockingham played very well, they defended hard and made it very difficult to get behind them."

The game could have ended so much differently had Rockingham been able to make more of their early chances. Craig Tone eventually found them a deserved opener with a scorching left-foot strike after 13 minutes. However, the lead was to be short-lived as two minutes later referee Phil Traianedes pointed to the spot after spotting a handball with Brooks making no mistake, blasting straight down the middle to give goalkeeper Phil Herschell no chance. Rockingham continued to test the opposing defence and a minute out from the break were rewarded with Darren Lawler heading them back in front. But like earlier Bunbury hit back almost immediately, this time through a sensational free-kick by Kane.

Bunbury took their game up a notch after the turnaround thanks in part of the introduction of playmaker Young. They took the lead for the first time on 49 minute when Brooks free-kick found Tandy, who effortlessly tapped the ball in. Five minutes later it was Young's turn to get on the scoresheet with a brilliant left-foot drive to double Bunbury's advantage. Josh Senior pegged one back for Rockingham in the 81st minute, but Young's second five minutes later sealed another impressive win for Bunbury. A draw against Cockburn City next weekend will be enough to send Bunbury through to the Night Series quarter-finals for the first time.

10.2.2012

TEN-MAN SHAMROCK FEND OFF CANNING (with Tommy Doleman, Football West)

Shamrock Rovers edged closer to a place in the Night Series quarter-finals by defeating Canning 3-1 this evening at Litis Stadium. Ian Stack and David Lacey were on target in the opening half-hour to out Shamrock in a commanding position, however, a straight red card to David Murphy opened the door for Canning to come back into the game. A goal midway through the second half by Josh Findlater set up an exciting close to the game, which was settled by Sean Taylor's header three minutes from full-time.

A strong start by Canning had them on the front foot as Emelyn Whetnall's header looped onto the roof of the net. Shamrock gained control soon after and in the 16th minute Stack’s unstoppable shot from an acute angle slammed into the roof of the net after he’d been fed by Brian Farrell. Six minutes later that lead was doubled, Stack this time turning provider with a terrific cross which Lacey nodded in from 7-metres. Stack was causing Canning all sorts of problems down the right and he should have added a third goal but blazed high from a good position inside the 18-yard box.

Canning should have reduced the deficit soon after the break but having done all the hard work Findlater poked high of the crossbar. Murphy was then surprisingly sent off for a raised boot by referee Hugh Best. Canning made the most of the extra player and on 68 minutes were rewarded as Findlater tucked into the net after goalkeeper Eamon Barnes' attempted clearance fell into the path of the young attacker. Blake Readwin's last ditch tackle on John Hogan denied Shamrock another goal, while at the other end Dane Navarro and Mandela Bolbol wasted good openings. The game was made safe by Taylor' glancing header which came about through neat passing down the left.

10.2.2012

NIGHT SERIES PREVIEW

Premier League newcomer Bunbury Forum Force takes on Rockingham in tonight’s opening Night Series game at Dalmatinac Park. Although he’d like to get a win, Rockingham coach Steve Robinson says the game is not about getting a result for his team. “I want the players to relax and enjoy the experience, I’m not overly concerned at this stage with the result,” said Robinson. “Bunbury are a good side and I am hoping that we can at least compete against them and give them a game.” The late game features host club Cockburn City and Mandurah City (8.30pm).

There’s also a couple of interesting games at Litis Stadium on Friday, starting with Canning City against Shamrock Rovers (6.30pm). Canning leaked ten-goals in last weekend’s hit-out and there’s no doubt coach Richard Francisco will be looking for a much improved performance from his defensive unit against a Shamrock side gunning for win number two. It’s been a week Floreat Athena would much rather forget and what better way to do that than claim victory against Southern Spirit (8.30pm) and take another step towards defending their Night Series crown.

Saturday’s games at Macedonia Park appear on paper to be one-sided affairs with Bayswater City tipped to account for Fremantle Spirit (6.00pm) and Stirling Lions expected to meet little resistance from Subiaco AFC (8.00pm). Gosnells City are confident of getting more than the point gained last time out when they face Inglewood United (6.00pm) on the opening fixture at Alfred Skeet Oval. Armadale will need to be on their toes in the late game against new Division Two outfit Melville City (8.00pm).

Balcatta coach Michael Roki won’t be taking anything for granted when his team faces Morley Windmills at Wotton Reserve (8.00pm). “It would be a mistake to under-rate Morley after watching their spirited draw with Ashfield on Sunday,” said Roki. “Salv (Todaro) has his lads playing quite solidly and they will definitely be better off for their game, which was a lot more physical than our match with Joondalup City. Complacency on our part after a comfortable win is also a potential danger for us.” The early game pits Ashfield with Joondalup City (6.00pm).

The action at Dorrien Gardens gets underway with Perth SC against Dianella White Eagles (6.00pm). “Playing against Perth is a great opportunity for us to test ourselves against the champions on their home ground,” said Dianella coach Jamie Goodman. “The Perth side is full of quality players who can score goals so we might need to take a leaf out of Kingsway’s book and be prepared to get bodies in the way and battled hard for 90 minutes.” Kingsway Olympic and Wanneroo City (8.00pm) come together in the late game with both teams hopeful of opening their pre-season account.

Sunday’s round has ECU Joondalup matching skills with UWA-Nedlands, who are fresh from upsetting Sorrento, at Percy Doyle Reserve (5.00pm). “I was very impressed with UWA last week. When there is the type of David v Goliath clash, Goliath sometimes becomes complacent and we can’t do that on Sunday,” said Joondalup coach Paul Simmons. The late action at Percy Doyle Reserve has Sorrento squaring off with Quinns (7.00pm). Hartfield Park hosts Swan United verses Fremantle United (5.00pm) followed by Forrestfield United against Western Knights (7.00pm).

10.2.2012

FLOREAT ROCKED AS FOUR WALK OUT

Four senior players have split with Floreat Athena in what has been a tumultuous few days for the Premier League club. The sudden departures of captain Julian Madaschi and goalkeeper Alex Dunn along with siblings Paul and Michael Van Dongen has stunned Floreat’s loyal supporters, many of whom are struggling to recognise their team after a summer of upheaval. In the past few months Floreat have lost more than a dozen players, amongst them James Isaia, Calum O'Connell, former player-coach Ante Kovacevic, Miki Vujacic and Damien Catalano.

Dunn, who played juniors for Floreat, was first to jump ship last Friday by accepting an offer to join Perth SC, a move which had been rumoured for a number of months. The Van Dongen boys split from Floreat after training on Tuesday and Madaschi, who also came up through Floreat’s juniors ranks, followed suit the next morning with all three players understood to be disillusioned with happenings at the club. And rumour has it there could be further bloodletting on the horizon with several remaining players considering whether Floreat is where they want to be this winter.

10.2.2012

BABALJ UNHAPPY WITH MELBOURNE'S FALL FROM GRACE

Melbourne Heart's Eli Babalj is unhappy with both the form of his team and himself ahead of Saturday's clash with Newcastle Jets. When the New Year rang in Melbourne were sitting second on the A-League ladder, just two points behind leaders Central Coast Mariners, but a seven game winless run has slipped them down to fifth ahead of tomorrow's clash with Newcastle Jets. "2011 was good, 2012 has been disappointing because we haven't won yet," Babalj said. "We need to fix that and win on Saturday against Newcastle, which is a big game, sitting sixth and fifth."

Melbourne have scored just five in their last seven games and Babalj, who has not found the back of the net since early January, acknowledges he needs to shoulder some of the blame. "I'm not happy with the tally I've got so far but I guess I'll just have to work on it and hopefully the chances come and I take them as they come," Babalj said. "If I can score my goals and help the team to the playoffs, that's even better, but the team finishing in the playoffs is priority number one."

Babalj has the utmost of respect for Gary Van Edmond, whose Newcastle team are shooting for three wins in a row this weekend. "He's been a good coach for me, one of the best that I've had so far in my career," Babalj explained. "He helped me a lot at the AIS and I think I've got a good relationship with him but that's going to be put to the side when we play on Saturday. Hopefully I can score one against him but he's doing well at Newcastle at the moment. They're playing the game he really wants to implement there."

9.2.2012

FREMANTLE “WILL SURPRISE” IN 2012: TANESKI

Fremantle Spirit’s days of languishing towards the bottom of Division One are over according to Ljupco Taneski. Appointed head coach of the port side just under a month ago, Taneski has been busily assembling a squad with the quality and depth to be competitive in 2012. “We will definitely surprise a lot of teams this season, we will not be in the bottom two come seasons’ end,” promised Taneski, whose coaching background includes spells at Balcatta and Dianella White Eagles. “I’m hungry for success, as are the president, committee and players, and I feel we will wake this sleeping giant once again.”

The challenges Taneski has already faced would have made some walk away from the job. “The club really is starting from scratch in terms of the senior set-up,” he explained. “An invitation was extended to all players from last season but only three came back, and two of those have already moved on to other clubs. In a way this worked in my favour as I’ve been given a clean slate, I can choose what players I want to bring to Fremantle and shape the squad the way I want. I’m looking to add a few more experienced players to strengthen the team overall.”

Taneski has been pleased with how Fremantle are progressing towards the season proper. “Considering we have only trained four times as a squad of 14, I am more than happy with how things are shaping up,” he said. “We are young, naturally fit and underestimated by everyone. We have a nice group of players that are hard-working and like to listen to the coaching staff. The signing of players like goalkeeper Kenny Ftynogiannis, Chris Beech, Dimce Taneski, Zoran Vrteski and Diego Garcia will provide the backbone for our young squad.”

Fremantle kicked off the year last weekend with a 4-0 loss to Stirling Lions, a result Taneski was “extremely happy” with. “A lot of people came to the game expecting Stirling to walk all over us but we proved them wrong by playing some decent football,” said the coach. “I was proud of the team and I feel we probably deserved a goal, we did break Stirling down at times. Overall it was a good spirited performance, we defended fairly well against a side that will be in the Premier League’s top five this season.”

There’s more top flight opposition for the port side this Saturday in the form of Bayswater City. “Mauro Marchione’s teams are always well-drilled and play good football so we will try to make sure they have a hard time making passes in midfield,” said Taneski. “I’m not looking for us to win – I’m looking for another good performance which will take us another step closer to finalising our game plan and building a foundation for the league. We can only put a team out to compete, and we hope to compete again on Saturday night.” Dunn, who played juniors for Floreat, was first to jump ship last Friday by accepting an offer to join Perth SC, a move which had been rumoured for a number of months. The Van Dongen boys split from Floreat after training on Tuesday and Madaschi, who also came up through Floreat’s juniors ranks, followed suit the next morning with all three players understood to be disillusioned with happenings at the club. And rumour has it there could be further bloodletting on the horizon with several remaining players considering whether Floreat is where they want to be this winter.

9.2.2012

STERJOVSKI DISMISSES SOCCEROOS RETURN

Perth Glory attacker Mile Sterjovski has no intention of coming out of international retirement to play for Australia in this month’s World Cup qualifier against Saudi Arabia. Sterjovski’s recent form has prompted suggestions he could be selected by Socceroos coach Holger Osieck for the upcoming game in Melbourne, however, the 32-year old says he has no interest in adding to the 43 caps he gained in a glittering career. “There are plenty of good young players coming through that can do a great job and I am happy with the way my life has gone and the decisions I have made, so definitely not,” he commented when asked about a return to the international arena.

9.2.2012

KNEE INJURY ENDS ROSINDALE’S SEASON

The season is over for Balcatta striker Ashley Rosindale before he so much as kicked a ball. Rosindale felt a niggle in his left knee early last year but played on to score a dozen goals as Balcatta finished on top of the Premier League table for the first time. After suffering a recurrence in pre-season training, Rosindale visited a specialist where scans revealed tears to his patella tendon and meniscus. “Both the specialist and surgeon said I will be out for the season,” said Rosindale. “As long as all the rehab goes to plan I will be back around this time next year.”

Rosindale, 26, was philosophical when discussing missing a year of football. “I am really disappointed but it is one of those things that happens to footballers. I have been pretty lucky with injuries up until now so this is just something I have to take on the chin,” he said. “I have my operation coming up in a couple of weeks. After that I will be on crutches for a few weeks before beginning rehab, which means lots of time spent on the bike in the gym and in the pool swimming. I will be focusing on my recovery so I can get back to playing as soon as possible.”

The loss of Rosindale is a big blow to Balcatta’s hopes of building on the minor premiership captured last year. “Anyone who lost Ash from their team would be devastated, just as we all are at Balcatta,” said coach Michael Roki. “Ash is a thinking striker who works tirelessly off the ball as well as when he has it. We will not only miss his goal scoring ability but also his creativity and ability to create opportunity for players around him. He had a great season in 2011 and I’m confident he will come back with great impact once he has fully recovered.”

Although he won’t be part of the on-field action this year, Rosindale is tipping Balcatta to be near the top of the Premier League table come seasons’ end. “We are looking extremely strong at the back having added Shane Nunes and Mark Walsh to the already existing strength,” said Rosindale. “Jason Barerra is returning after the ACL injury that ruled him out for the second half of last season, he brings a lot of creativity to the side. With the attacking players we have from last year plus the signing of John Thornley, who’ll partner Steve Burton up front, we will be extremely dangerous going forward. I can only see more quality football being played and success ahead for Balcatta.”

8.2.2012

MCCALLUM REFRESHED FOR ENGLISH ADVENTURE

Midfield ace Collette McCallum is looking forward re-igniting her career in England. After sitting out the recent W-League season, McCallum is feeling refresh and ready to tackle England’s Women’s Super League with Lincoln Ladies. “I’m excited to get into pre-season after having a few months off in the game,” said McCallum, who’ll be joined at Lincoln by fellow Australian international Laura Alleway. “We are training in Majorca, I’m looking forward to that as I haven’t been to Spain in a very long time.”

A quiet year on the international stage prompted McCallum to play abroad. “After we (Australia) didn't qualify for the Olympics this year, I was looking into either studying at university or looking overseas and playing,” explained McCallum. “Laura Alleway, who plays in the Australian women’s team as well, was interested in going too, so we both looked into the UK. Fortunately a few clubs were interested in us. At the end we decided on Lincoln. I’m really looking forward to playing there.”

Although football has taken McCallum all over the world she says leaving family and friends in Perth will be especially difficult this time. “It’s going to be very hard. My sister is pregnant and is 35 weeks so I'm just going to miss the birth of my niece,” McCallum explained. “I will also really miss my family and friends. My partner, who has supported me so much into this decision, is from London so he will be coming over for a bit.”

8.2.2012

HERD CLOSE TO RETURNING

Aston Villa midfielder Chris Herd is nearing full fitness after an ankle ligament injury saw him spend two months on the sidelines. The 22-year old started to consolidate his position in Villa’s first eleven with seven consecutive games alongside captain Stiliyan Petrov before succumbing to injury in December. “Herd is making very good progress,” Villa manager Alex McLiesh said. “He is now working one to one with the physio who is putting him through his paces. He is not feeling his injury at all now which is great news and the kid is really positive about getting himself fit again to try and challenge to get back into the team.” Herd recently signed a new three and a half year deal which secures his services at Villa Park until 2015.

8.2.2012

DUNN SIGNS WITH PERTH

Perth SC have stepped up their quest for a fourth straight State Champions title with the recruitment of goalkeeper Alex Dunn. Dunn, a former State Schoolboys representative, is in contention to make his Perth debut this weekend after agreeing to move across from Floreat Athena late last week. “Perth are probably the biggest club in WA, their record speaks for itself,” commented the 25-year old ‘keeper. “They are always challenging for trophies and as a player that’s what it is all about, you want to win trophies and be part of a successful team and club.”

Dunn, who’ll replace Victoria-bound Jason Saldaris’ on the Blues list, was preparing to keep goal in Floreat’s opening Night Series game when he was offered a move to Perth. “It wasn’t great timing but it was too good an opportunity to turn down, I know that had I not given Perth a crack I would one day regret it” Dunn said. “It all happened so quickly. I received the call from Perth on Thursday night and pretty much had to make my mind up in one day, had I played for Floreat on Saturday I would have been tied them for the Night Series.”

Having committed to playing for Perth this winter, Dunn is now eager to establish himself as the clubs’ first choice ‘keeper. “I’d like to get into the team straight away but that depends on when the coaching staff to integrate me into the team,” said Dunn. “At Floreat I was first choice, and now I’m at a new club I will have to work even harder for that starting role. I’m sure Luke (Martino) will not give up the gloves without a fight, that competition will bring the best out of both of us.”

Dunn came up through the youth ranks at Floreat and admits leaving the club was possibly the hardest decisions he has had to make. “I had been at Floreat for nine years and formed a lot of great friendships with the fans and people around the club,” he explained. “The thing I will miss the most is the fans. All the amateur boys who come down and support us week in week out are probably the best supporters in the league and that is definitely something I will miss a lot … I’m sure I’ll cop it when Perth plays Floreat in Round One.”

Dunn watched his new team mates from the sidelines when they defeated Kingsway Olympic in the Night Series on Friday. “The team played very well, it should have been more than 1-0 but the Kingsway ‘keeper had a blinder and kept his team in the hunt,” commented Dunn, who is confident Perth will come out on top again when they play Dianella White Eagles on Saturday. “We obviously want to win every game we play but this one is vital, Dianella got a good result against Wanneroo but if we can beat them then it will put us clear top of the group.”

7.2.2012

FERGUSON WANTS MORE TIME WITH GLORY

Perth Glory can be an A-League powerhouse but coach Ian Ferguson says he needs a more than year-by-year contracts to make it happen. Ferguson comes out of contract at season's end but is almost certain to be offered a new deal on the back of Glory's eight-game unbeaten streak. However, the Scotsman wants more than just a one-year extension in order to ensure the progress made this season won't be lost. "If I get a new contract, I want a two to three year deal where we can try and take this club forward, where this club is going to be a top-six regular and not a yo-yo club," Ferguson said.

7.2.2012

CONTRACT CLAUSE LEAVES COYNE IN LIMBO, AGAIN

History is set to repeat with Sydney FC shying away from allowing Jamie Coyne to play the three A-League games required to trigger the second year of his contract. The 31-year old defender joined Sydney seven months ago after Ian Ferguson declined to give him the one game need to secure another season with Perth Glory. That led to a bitter parting of the ways and it now appears a similar scenario could play out with Sky Blues coach Vitezslav Lavicka opting for Rhyan Grant in the right-back role. Coyne, who remains on the outer for Sunday’s visit of Newcastle Jets, has made 14 appearances this season.

6.2.2012

GLORY THUMP GOLD COAST

Perth Glory stretched their unbeaten run to eight games by smashing Gold Coast United 4-0 under lights at Perth Oval tonight. Steven McGarry opened the scoring in the first half with Liam Miller and Travis Dodd widening the gap to three goals before Adama Traore headed into his own net late on. “It was a great, professional performance,” said Ian Ferguson post-game. “It’s always nice to get goals and four tonight … makes the goal difference a lot better.” The result tightens Glory’s grip on fourth place where they trail second-placed Wellington Phoenix by two points, while Brisbane Roar sit just one ahead.

An outclassed Gold Coast looked every bit a team battling for respectability at the bottom of the table, and the margin of victory could have been far greater had Glory made more of first-half opportunities. Jacob Burns had their first attempt on goal after 16 minutes but the captain’s shot cannoned off the crossbar. Two minutes later the hosts went ahead when Steve Pantelidis flicked on a corner to the back post where an unmarked McGarry nodded in. Shane Smeltz missed three one-on-one chances, sending one wide, hitting the post with the second and having the third saved by Chris O’Connor.

Glory flexed their title credentials with another confident second half performance, Miller tapping in from close-range after the visiting defence failed to respond to a Dodd cross. Jonas Salley nearly got Gold Coast back in the game but his header was cleared off the line. The points were made safe on 67 minute when Dodd beat his man at the near post off to head in a Sterjovski corner. And a bad night got even worse for Gold Coast in the 84th minute when Traore woefully miscued an attempted headed clearance to score an own goal.

6.2.2012

DE VANNA SIGNS WITH SWEDEN’S LINKÖPINGS

Swedish club Linköpings FC have confirmed the signing of Matilda’s striker Lisa De Vanna. Successful spells in the United States (magicJack) and Australia (Newcastle Jets) have whet De Vanna’s appetite for a return to Europe. "After playing in the WPS in 2011 I decided to play in Europe this year," commented DE Vanna. "I had many inquiries but after talks with Kate Gill, who was in Linköping last year, I decided (to play for the club). She spoke warmly about the organization, the driving force and the facilities in Linkoping, and it convinced me." De Vanna, who has been capped 75 times by Australia, previously played in Europe with English club Doncaster Rovers Belles (2006) and Swedish side AIK Fotboll Damer (2008).

6.2.2012

OLYROOS IN TROUBLE

Australia’s hopes of competing at the 2012 Olympic Games are hanging by a thread following yesterday’s 2-0 loss to Uzbekistan on a frozen pitch at the JAR Stadium in Tashkent. The loss leaves the Olyroos at the bottom of their qualifying group, trailing Uzbekistan (8 points), the United Arab Emirates (5 points) and Iraq (4 points). The group winner qualifies directly for London with the second-placed teams from each qualifying groups advancing to a playoff series. Australia must now defeat the United Arab Emirates (22 February) and Iraq (14 March) to extend their record of participating in every Olympic football tournament since 1988.

The Olyroos started strong with Mate Dugandzic and Oliver Bozanic getting early shots on target. Uzbekistan took a 27th minute lead when Oybek Kilichev set-up Kenja Turaev whose long-range shot gave goalkeeper Mat Ryan no chance. Jason Hoffman looked to have an equaliser but was dubiously ruled offside. Mitch Nichols also found the back of the net on the hour but his attempt was denied after the referee blew for an infringement in the lead-up. The game was put to bed by Oleg Zoteev’s sublime volley in the 85th minute. Goalkeeper Mark Birighitti was an unused substitute.

5.2.2012

RECORD WITHIN REACH OF GLORY

Perth Glory are eyeing a club record eight-game unbeaten run in the A-League when they tackle cellar-dwellers Gold Coast United tomorrow night at Perth Oval. Ian Ferguson's men have not only turned their season on its head but have also found their goal scoring boots with big wins over Melbourne Victory (4-1) and Adelaide United (3-0) in recent weeks. Shane Smeltz has scored the game's first goal in each of Glory's past three wins, and Ferguson will be hoping the New Zealand international can continue his run against Gold Coast.

Glory's current seven-game unbeaten streak is already their longest since the A-League's inception in 2005, although it is a long way short of the 15-game run without a loss in the 2002/03 National Soccer League season. Their recent revival is in stark contrast to Gold Coast's struggles this season, with Miron Bleiberg's men scraping together just three wins from 17 games, none of which have come in the past month. Making Gold Coast's task all the more difficult is they head west just five days after taking a point off Melbourne Victory in Tasmania.

5.2.2012

ARMADALE ENTER NEW ERA WITH VICTORY (with James Wragg, Football West)

A revamped Armadale have started the new season on the right foot, defeating eastern corridor rivals Gosnells City 4-2 at Alfred Skeet Oval. Alan Darlington proved lively up front with two goals while fellow new signings Allan Claxton and David Caine also got on the scoresheet. “The first 20 minutes we played really well then we started to get a bit too comfortable having too many touches on the ball and doing things we don’t want to do,” said Reds coach Lee Bamber. “Second half we warned the boys that they would come out and put us under pressure which they did and we didn’t deal with it for 15 minutes. Then when we finally got it sorted we settled down and were comfortable again.”

It only took Armadale 4 minutes to open up the visiting defence, Ravi Kuppusamy’s shot was saved by Adriano D’Alo who was helpless as the onrushing Claxton sent the loose ball over the line. That lead was doubled on 16 minutes when Gosnells were caught napping at a speculative long ball which Kuppusamy gathered and squared for Darlington to tuck in. Gosnells found themselves three goals down six minutes later, Caine applying a clinical finish after getting on the end of Kuppusamy’s neat flick. Paul Harvey was presented a golden opportunity to reduce the deficit but failed to connect with an inswinging cross from the right. Darlington had the ball in the net again just before the interval but celebrations were cut short by an offside flag.

Gosnells got themselves back into the contest son after the restart, Ian Maguire running at the defence from near the halfway line before finishing expertly past Cyril Sharrock. Armadale’s lead would have been further deduced had Jamie Burns kept his composure instead of blazing high, while Paul Harvey failed to make anything of a couple of chances in the space of 30 seconds. Those misses were punished when Darlington swooped in at the far post to smash in Armadale’s fourth after Blake Adams parried shot fell kindly for the striker. Gosnells found their elusive second goal in the 83rd minute, Harvey lofting the ball into the path of Darren Gamble who lifted over Sharrock and into the net.

5.2.2012

MELVILLE GIVE INGLEWOOD A SCARE (with James Wragg, Football West)

There were goals aplenty at Alfred Skeet Oval where Inglewood United surviving a spirited comeback to see off Division Two newcomers Melville City 6-4. Michael Baczynski, Danny Richman and Brendan Craig scored twice each as John Brennan (2), Sasha Slavujevic and Keith Nolan tested the integrity of their top flight opponents. Inglewood started the brighter with close through David Perich and Craig each going close to grabbing the games’ first goal. However, against the run of play Melville struck first through Brennan, who pounced on a poor clearance to loft effort over stranded goalkeeper Alex Sutton on the quarter hour.

Stung into action, Inglewood were quick to re-establish control. Baczynski capitalised on a mistake by ‘keeper Stuart Delgarno to tap in from close-range, and a fast break in the 20th minute caught Melville napping as Ryan Clark set-up Richman who netted at the second opportunity after his initial shot came back off the woodwork. The gap was further widened in the 32nd minute, Richman benefiting from the great reaction of Craig who slid the ball back to him after his first shot was saved. Jason Colli’s pinpoint cross provided Richman a chance to complete his hat-trick but the midfielder’s diving header looped up over the crossbar.

Melville pulled a goal back soon after the break with Slavujevic converting a penalty awarded for David McNally’s foul on Lee McKay. Like earlier, Inglewood responded through Baczynski who netted his second after being picked out brilliantly by Ryan Clark. Melville’s never say die attitude saw them claw another goal straight back with Brennan tucking in the rebound from Sutton’s acrobatic a save to a fierce Simon El Chami shot. The game was level again just after the hour courtesy of Nolan, who was allowed to run unchallenged through the defence before expertly finishing into the bottom corner.

Unfortunately for Melville they were unable to hold over the closing stages as Inglewood piled on the pressure. There was more than a touch of controversy in the 63rd minute when Craig thumped in his first goal despite it appearing Delgarno had control of the ball. Eleven minutes later Craig capped a fine individual performance by putting the result beyond doubt, the winger running unchecked through the middle and onto James Sammut’s brilliant through ball to tucked it into the corner of Delgarno’s net. Both teams created several further half-chances before referee Phil Traianedes brought proceedings to an end.

5.2.2012

MORLEY, ASHFIELD END LEVEL

The points were shared in this evening’s late game at Wotton Reserve where Morley Windmills played out a 1-1 draw with neighbouring Ashfield. Ashfield were first on the board through Ryan Frisina with Matty Wood bringing the sides level after the half hour. There were chances at both ends of the park in the second period but with neither team able to convert each had to settle for a single point. “It was typical local derby, both sides gave it their all and a draw was probably a fair result,” said Morley boss Salv Todaro. “I was pleased with our performance, we’re working on our structure and fitness and we will only get better as the competition goes on.”

An attacking outlook from both teams produced some early chances with Joey Woodin’s shot deflected wide before a Frisina header came with the same end result. However, Frisina wasn’t to be denied and on 18 minutes he finished clinically past Steve Grant from 6-metres after meeting Darryl Warren’s cross from the left. It was very nearly two-nil minutes later, Frisina sent clear by Warren but this time Grant was out quick to spoil. Morley’s equaliser came against the run on play on 31 minutes, Lee Thomas crossing for Wood to volley in from 10-metres, albeit via the crossbar.

Ashfield came out from the break strongly with Okwy Diamondstar’s through-ball releasing Warren who flashed high from 10-metres. Morley went even closer midway through the half when Luke O’Neill’s low strike rebounded off the post after being teed up by Kevin Carmona. The closing stages were end-to-end as both teams went in search of a winning goal. Jake Cornell had a shot saved by Grant and Mladen Kovacevic’s corner was cleared off the line by Simon Wilson while at the other end Luke O’Neill and Andy O’Neill were both thwarted by goalkeeper Brad Eiffe. The final opening came in stoppage time with an unmarked Frisina placing wide.

5.2.2012

BIG WIN FOR BALCATTA

Balcatta showed no mercy in handing out an 11-0 thrashing to Division Two side Joondalup City in their Night Series meeting at Wotton Reserve. Steve Burton and John Thornley lead the way with four and three goals respectively, Daniel Micevski helped himself to a brace with Adam Tong and John Migas getting one apiece. “We’ve had a few friendly games and hadn’t had a win so it’s nice to get on the board,” said Balcatta coach Michael Roki. “We not getting carried away with the result, it’s still early but it was nice to see John Thornley settling in and I think he will be a great inclusion for us this season.”

Joondalup goalkeeper Willy Powley was called into action early to save from Micevski, and soon after his opposite number Bobson Koroma scooped up a long-range attempt by Craig Highet. Balcatta started to assert themselves and on 26 minutes Tong released Thornley who stroked confidently past Powley. With this the floodgates opened, Burton firing in the rebound after Powley blocked his penalty kick. Mo Atak laid on second goals for both Burton and Thornley before Micevski fired in on the end of a sweeping move. Thornley completing his hat-trick after good work by Micevski, and a long-range shot from Migas took the difference to seven goals by half-time.

Joondalup’s night went from bad to worse two minutes after the restart when by Highet was issued his marching order after illegally halting Tong’s surge into the 18-yard box. To rub salt into the would Burton sentg Powley the wrong way from the spot. On 65 minutes Micevski firing in his second after getting on the end of a cross from the left by Black, and ten minutes later Burton sent the ball past Powley for the fourth time again further good work by the industrious Micevski. The final whistle could not come soon enough for Joondalup but before that would happen Tong completed the rout by heading in a Micevski cross tot the back post.

4.2.2012

TROPHY HOLDERS FLOREAT ENTER DOUBLE FIGURES (with George Tsadilas, Football West)

Floreat Athena opened their Night Series title defence with a 10-0 thrashing of Division One side Canning City at Litis Stadium. New singing Jake Geddes and Kyle Moran each bagged a hat-trick with Ludovic Boi, Mark Pritchard, Bobby Wilson and Callum Fransz also hitting the back of the net in a terribly one-sided encounter. “For us the score-line was irrelevant,” said Floreat boss Chris Barbas. “What was most important is that we went out with a game plan and stuck to it - that was the most pleasing part.”

Floreat settled the better after a scrappy opening to take a 14th minute lead through Boi, who side-footed neatly past goalkeeper James Partridge after Canning had failed to deal with a Mike Lawson cross. Eight minutes later Kyle Moran received a neat flick from Jake Geddes and from inside the 18-yard box chipped deftly into the far corner of the net. Geddes helped himself to Floreat’s third goal on 23 minutes as the hosts asserted their dominance with lengthy passages of possession, increasing the pressure on the Canning rear guard.

The gaps was increased to four goals in the 34th minute after Pritchard’s perfectly executed volley from 26-metres rattled the crossbar and feel at the feet of Geddes, who netted at close-range. Having been on the back foot for most of the half, Canning carved out a good opening in the 44th minute with Simon Correia slipping a through ball to Josh Findlater but his curling shot was off target. Geddes completed his hat-trick soon after to send his side into the break with a five-goal lead.

With the result sealed, Floreat came out for the second period as though it was a training run. Despite the drop in intensity, Pritchard added a sixth goal on 51 minutes with sublime curling effort while defender Wilson also got in on the act after 68 minutes. The closing stages saw Canning run raged as Moran netted his second on 84 minutes and soon after completed his hat-trick with a lovely shot into the top corner with the outside of his boot. Double figures were achieved in the final minutes of regulation time by Fransz.

4.2.2012

CONFIDENT OPENING BY SHAMROCK (with Sophie Hawkins, Football West)

Shamrock Rovers began their Night Series campaign with a dominant 1-0 victory over Southern Spirit at Litis Stadium. A well-placed header by Alan O’Mahoney on the stroke of half-time was all that separated the teams after 90 minutes with coach Andy Dickinson saying Shamrock are only just getting warmed up. “We've still got a lot of players who’ve not been involved yet so we’re still working through games, we do a lot of small sided games in training which helps with the fitness,” he said. “But it's always just got to be constant, it’s a long season. I noticed the fitness levels were a bit better but we’re still way off where we need to be.”

After some early nerves, Shamrock found their rhythm and on 13 minutes O’Mahoney had goalkeeper Glen Sheldon stretching to keep out his header. The bulk of first half possession was with Shamrock whose control over the middle of the park was matched by Spirit’s tireless work to restrict entry into the 18-yard box. Shamrock attacker Patrick Byrne was presented a good chance to break the deadlock only to be foiled by another diving save from Sheldon. As the half progressed Shamrock looked to exploit their opponents lack of defensive height and on 45 minutes that ploy paid dividends with O’Mahoney heading in from Ian Stack’s right wing cross.

The second half opened with Shamrock again on the attack but some terrific work by Sheldon ensured the difference stayed at a single goal. The differing fitness levels between the two teams was slowly revealed as the minutes ticked by, Shamrock strengthening their hold over the game as Spirit’s weary legs led to some sloppy tackling. Substitute George Spasojevic was fortunate to earn only a yellow card for a late challenge and from the resulting free-kick Sheldon saved from David Murphy. Gavin Mooney and Byrne could have added some gloss to the scoreline but in the end Shamrock had to settle for a one-goal winning margin.

4.2.2012

UWA-NEDLANDS GIVE SORRENTO A LESSON IN FINISHING

State League newcomer UWA-Nedlands pulled off an early season surprise by toppling Sorrento 2-1 in the late game at Percy Doyle Reserve. James Plowman and Steve Purton netted in the first half before Darcy Cosgrove grabbed a late consolation for Sorrento. “We are delighted with the win against a team and club we have great respect for,” said UWA coach Kevin Burton. “Our fitness held up well, we retained the ball well and looked dangerous going forward. It is a great opportunity and privilege to play against teams in this competition and hopefully it will serve us well in our quest to gain promotion.”

The early passages were controlled by Sorrento who could have been two goals the better had Brodie Martin been able to make more of his chances. Against the run of play UWA took the lead on 22 minutes after a well-worked corner saw Plowman volley in from close range following Brad Skea’s back post header. And it should have been two-nil soon after but Roberto Lujan slid his shot just wide. With this Sorrento sparked back into life and Ryan Pearson and Martin both had chances to bring the sides level. A 45th minute counterattack by UWA unceremoniously ended when Plowman was felled by Todd Ross whose next action was to pick Purton’s spot kick out of his net.

Sorrento continued to control the majority of possession after the turnaround but a lack of sharpness in front of goal proved their undoing. This was highlighted by Jared Love’s scuffed effort at a poorly defended corner, while another goalmouth scramble ended with substitute Shaun Timmins dragging wide. They weren’t rewarded until eight minutes from the end when Mike Aspin’s cross was bundled in by substitute Cosgrove. There were some nervous moments for UWA as the clock ticked down, none more so than when Steve McDonald’s header beat goalkeeper Kevin Towers but not the frame of the goal.

4.2.2012

JOONDALUP IN A CANTER (with Tommy Doleman, Football West)

Paul Simmons commenced his third spell as coach of ECU Joondalup with a 3-1 win over Division Two side Quinns FC this evening at Percy Doyle Reserve. Goals in the space of a few minutes by Jon Higgins and Luke Smith put Joondalup in a comfortable position before Aaron Maplestone looked to have ended the game as a contest just after the break. To their credit Quinns refused to let their heads drop and just before the hour John McNeil reeled in the gap with a well taken header.

New signing David Foster should have put Joondalup one-nil up early but somehow blazed high from 5-metres when he seemed destined to find the net. Quinns replied soon after with McNeil forcing a smart low save from Andy Banks. Higgins broke the deadlock on the quarter hour with a sensational long-range free-kick that kissed the inside of the post on its way in. Three minutes later it was two-nil as Smith timed his run into the 18-yard box perfectly to fire in after good on the right by Robert Croft. A youthful Quinns outfit continued to probe but it was Joondalup that came closest to scoring when Croft lifted over the advancing goalkeeper but wide of the target.

Joondalup extend their lead eight minutes after the internal through Maplestone, who tucked at the second opportunity after Anthony Cochrane blocked his initial shot. Six minutes later Quinns pulled one back, George Mills’ corner evading goalkeeper Andy Banks with O’Neil heading in unmarked from 5-metres. Joondalup had control of the midfield with Higgins at the heart of their best moments. A trademark free-kick by Higgins deflected narrowly wide off the defensive wall as they sought to extend their lead. As the heavy legs started to take their toll on players, Scott Bushby wasted a chance to score Joondalup’s fourth by skewing well wide of the target.

4.2.2012

SWAN MAKE THEIR POINT (with James Mooney, Football West)

Tom Shepheard scored at either end of the game to earn Swan United to a 2-0 win over Forrestfield United from the opening Night Series fixture at Hartfield Park. Black and whites coach John O’Reilly was happy with the result but feels his team have some way to go in order to reach their potential. “We could have been a lot more tidier today. There are a lot of things we have been practicing and you can see that they are starting to come together but it’s going to take another week or two to fine tune,” said O’Reilly.

Swan started the game with high intensity and almost had opened the scoring in the 1st minute through Trent Wood’s volley which forced goalkeeper Luke Woodfin into a smart save. As it was they would need to wait on four more minutes for Shepheard to place easily into the bottom corner after an attempted clearance fell at the attackers’ feet. This pattern was to continue throughout the half and although Swan enjoyed the better of possession there would be no further addition to their lead. By contrast, Forrestfield managed very few shots with their best being a Wade Farmer attempt into the side netting.

The roles were reversed after the break which saw a much revitalised Forrestfield now in control. Despite their increased tempo, Forrestfield found it hard to break down their opponents with Julian Kesakoff’s long-range effort that just cleared the crossbar the closest they came to equalising. Growing frustrations led to rash tackles by Farmer and Kesakoff who were duly booked by the referee. Shepheard made the result safe in stoppage time when he punished another failed attempt to clear from within the danger zone.

4.2.2012

MIRCO GETS KNIGHTS OVER THE LINE (with Nathan Drudi, Football West)

Western Knights claimed a 1-0 victory over Fremantle United from a fast paced encounter at Hartfield Park. Carl Medica conceded his teams’ performance was not what it should have been, however, the Knights coach was happy to get the win courtesy of Jonny Mirco’s strike shortly before half-time. “It was a patchy performance and there is a lot to work on and hopefully we will improve before the season starts,” Medica commented. “We want to improve our style and formation during the Night Series.”

The early signs were positive for Fremantle whose increased possession produced a couple of good openings for captain Will Pender which he was unable to capitalise on. The Knights began to gain momentum midway through the half and on 40 minutes that was rewarded with Mirco curling a free-kick into the top corner from 20-metres. There were chances at both ends of the park in the second period, Pender went close to equalising with a free-kick while Mirco squandered a golden opportunity to seal the win.

4.2.2012

FIVE-STAR COCKBURN SHINE

Cockburn City flexed their pre-season muscle with a resounding 5-2 victory over Rockingham City in the late fixture at Dalmatinac Park. Paul Natale, Jason Godfrey and Euan Grant had Cockburn in a commanding position before Sean Dash pulled one back just after the half hour. Further goals after the turnaround from Chris Smith and Devon Gibson sealed Cockburn the win with Rockingham’s Oscar Thompson netting in between.

Mike Lyons, coach of Cockburn, was pleased with the attitude and work ethic of his players but admits there is still plenty of room to improve. “I thought we started quite well. We went 3-0 up but then I thought we turned off a bit and let them back into the game,” Lyons said. “At 3-1 the next goal was really important and fortunately we got it. 5-2 was a pleasing result and I gave all 14 players a run so they have all had a little bit of fitness tonight.”

Cockburn came out all guns ablaze and with 9 minutes gone Natale converted past goalkeeper Brad Cruickshanks after Terrence Conner was taken down inside the 18-yard box. The hosts lead was doubled when Godfrey pushing the ball over the line in a goalmouth scramble five minutes later, and just before the half hour Grant added their third with his knee. Lively attacker Dash put Rockingham back in the game on 33 minutes when his cross flashed past a flat-footed Dejan Aleksic to make it three-one.

The second half had been underway six minutes when Smith stabbed into the back of the net to seemingly put the game beyond Rockingham. However, the side in green hit back through Oscar Thompson’s curling cross to set up an interesting last twenty minutes. Substitute Marco Aleksic went agonisingly close to bagging Rockingham’s third goal when his shot beat the ‘keeper but drift past the upright. Gibson sealed victory with four minutes remaining with a superb solo effort.

4.2.2012

BUNBURY IN A DIFFERENT CLASS

The Premier League’s newest entry, Bunbury Forum Force, gave their year a dream start by dumping Mandurah City 4-1 at Dalmatinac Park. Ashley Young, John Brooks, Steve Howson, Martin Ryan were each on target before Mandurah’s consolation arrived via Darren Broxton. “We’ve been working hard for the last four or five weeks and it was a good performance,” said Bunbury coach Nigel Wilcox. “We wanted to get the game done and dusted in the opening 15 minutes of the second half and everything went to plan.”

Mandurah were out early with Michael Grigo advancing out of midfield and playing into the path of Jeff Bright whose low strike was blocked by Ryan Montgomery. But it was Bunbury that drew first blood on 13 minutes when Ryan was clattered into by Phil Straker, prompting referee AParaskevas to point straight to the spot from where Young sent the Mandurah goalkeeper the wrong way. Genuine goal scoring chances were few and far with the respective defensive units doing well to halt the majority of attacks as they approached the 18-yard box.

The game was settled in the early minutes of the second half with Bunbury piling on three quick goals. On 51 minutes Young chipped expertly over the defence to an unmarked Brooks, who took one touch and knocked the ball past the advancing ‘keeper. Five minutes later Ryan won possession to race down the right before unselfishly squaring for Howson to drill into the top corner. Papa Hpartar should have pulled a goal back but his weak shot from 10-metres was straight at Montgomery.

Ryan extended Bunbury’s lead to four goals by tidily side-footing in from 8-metres after Jamie Tandy’s incisive centre from the right on 58 minutes. Broxton gave Mandurah hope of a late revival by scoring from close-range after Jeff Bright cleverly stepped over a low ball in from the right by Grigo. A towering header by Ryan Townsend paved the way for Hpartar to force a good save from Montgomery, who pounced on the loose ball moments before Jeff Bright arrived. But that would be the closest Mandurah came to scoring again before the referee whistled for the last time.

3.2.2012

STIRLING TOO STRONG FOR FREMANTLE

Stirling Lions opened their Night Series campaign with a 4-0 demolition of Fremantle Spirit in this evenings’ early fixture at Macedonia Park. Jason Gavin and Gareth McGlynn had Stirling two goals up by the break after which Mohamed Bangura turned into his own net and Phil O’Callaghan tallied up the hosts fourth of the game. “We’re delighted to win tonight, but they really made it hard for us,” said winning coach Doug Hesketh. “We probably scored too early, and we went a bit flat after that. We made a few changes in the second half and I thought we were better but credit to Freo, they did a good job tonight.”

Barely a minute had passed when Stirling captain Gavin pisted his teams’ first goal, the big defender heading in a well-flighted corner from Irish import McGlynn. Fremantle recovered quickly and soon after Diego Garcia’s powerful shot from the edge of the 18-yard box forced Cory Hugo into saving at full-length. Chances on goal then dried up and it wasn’t until Brad Parfitt tipped over Jamie De Abreu’s 29th minute shot that the game came back to life. Six minutes later referee Phil Traianedes overruled his assistant in awarding Stirling a free-kick, and although Parfitt got a hand on McGlynn’s shot the ball came to rest in the back of the net.

The port side made a strong start to the second period which was six minutes old when Zoran Vrteski’s long ball sent clear Garcia whose shot from 16-metres rose over the crossbar. Stirling were finding it hard to break down their opponents but on 70 minutes they found a way through, De Abreu surging down the right to deliver a low, hard cross which Bangura had the misfortune of turning past Parfitt. It was four-nil just three minutes later when new signings Craig Robson and Matty Barlow combined, the latter crossing from the right to O’Callaghan who made no mistake at close-range.

3.2.2012

CATARCIONE AT THE DOUBLE FOR BAYSWATER

Gustavo Catarcione scored twice on debut to lead Bayswater City to a 4-2 victory over Division Two outfit Subiaco AFC at Macedonia Park. Catarcione’s first half brace was complemented by finishes from Joe Yoffe and Paul McCarthy with Subiaco scoring late in each half through Jordan Rhodes and Niall Torpey. Although his side took out the points, Bayswater coach Mauro Marchione was not entirely happy. “I wasn’t happy with the performance tonight; we were too fancy tonight and not productive,” he said. “We missed five or six one-on-one’s with the ‘keeper, which was disappointing. We need to learn how to kill games off, but it’s still early days.”

Subiaco carved out the first real opening of the game when Simon Ralph played in Rhodes but the striker’s shot on 7 minutes flashed wide. Bayswater then began to assert their authority and three minutes later John Kearney lifted high from a David Sesay corner. That miss was forgotten on 18 minutes when Catarcione blasted in at close-range after meeting Sesay’s cross from the right. The margin was doubled sixty second later with Francisco Jorquera sending clear Catarcione who rounded goalkeeper Marcus Urban to fire into an empty net.

There was no let-up from Bayswater and on 27 minutes they conjured a third goal, Joseph Sieh’s delightful through ball putting in the clear Catarcione who again went past Urban but this time his angled attempt hit the post with Yoffe netting the rebound. Subiaco finally found some relief on the half hour, Danny Malcom putting the ball at the feet of Rhodes whose powerful shot from the edge of the 18-yard box flew into Tom Dixon’s net. Bayswater almost added a fourth late in the half through a Kearney free-kick which Urban did well to push around the post.

Bayswater picked up after the break where they left off, however, sloppy finishing robbed them of further goals. Those misses were almost punished on the hour when Scott Wrightson’s free-kick picked out Doug Anderson but his header was well saved by Dixon. Subiaco’s desire for a second goal proved their undoing on 72 minutes when Bayswater substitute Gustavo Marulanda’s defence splitting ball was hit into the net but McCarthy from 10-metres. To their credit Subiaco continued to press and deep in stoppage time Wrightson headed in a deserved consolation.

3.2.2012

DIANELLA HIT THE HEIGHTS

A first half brace from Andrew Kiir has given Dianella White Eagles a 2-0 victory over Wanneroo City from this evenings’ late game at Dorrien Gardens. Wanneroo looked sharp early but were unable to penetrate their opponents’ defences before Kiir opened his account midway through the first half. Dianella remained on the back foot but took a stranglehold on a fiery and physical encounter when Kiir doubled their lead just before the break.

Dianella’s defensive mettle was tested early as Wanneroo launched wave after wave of attack on the back of a dominant midfield display. Goalkeeper under siege Matt Battigelli showed great courage to remain on the park following a collision with Brian Cairney that left the Dianella player seeing stars. The game was turned on its head after 23 minutes as Andreas Theodosiadis skilfully set up Kiir, who finished strongly from 15-metres. Dianella broke through again in the 42nd minute when Andreas Theodosiadis’ shot was parried by Brynn Hindley who could only watch as Kiir tucked away his second goal.

Wanneroo emerged from the break determined to fight their way back into the game. Anthony Jones got on the end of a deep corner only for his header to be tipped around the post by Battigelli, who later parried a Garin Collins shot which was eventually cleared by his defence following a goalmouth scramble. Kiir should have completed his hat-trick but placed narrowly wide of the post in a one-on-one with Hindley. In typical pre-season fashion, genuine goal scoring opportunities dried up entering the final third of the game as players in both shirts began to feel the full effects of their first meaningful hit-out of the year.

3.2.2012

WASTEFUL PERTH SNEAK THE WIN

Matt Danskin ensured Perth SC made a winning start to their Night Series campaign by scoring the solitary goal in this evening’s 1-0 defeat of a spirited Olympic Kingsway outfit at Dorrien Gardens. Perth were rewarded for their attacking outlook when Danskin fired them in front midway through the first period, and although the side in blue dominated the remainder of the game there would be no addition to the scoreline due in part to Aaron Olow, who stood tall between the posts for Kingsway.

Although both sides created a number of early half chances it was Perth that looked the more likely to score. David Onoforo’s diving header was narrowly wide of the target after good work out wide by Adam Bachiller, who soon after was himself thwarted by goalkeeper Olow. Onoforo set-up Daniel Neiderberger for what seemed like a definite opener only for a Kingsway defender to clear off the line. Kingsway were similarly unlucky not to take the lead when the hosts failed to clear Elliot Rose’s cross and Lewis Flatt’s explosive drive from 25-metres cannoned off the junction of crossbar and post.

Onoforo was featuring prominently every time Perth pushed into their attacking third, ensuring there’d be not a moments rest for Kingsway’s rear guard. Onoforo manoeuvred his way around Olow and cut the ball back to Niederberger who was denied the game’s first goal by Jesse Higgins last ditch challenge. There would be no such luck on 24 minutes when over-lapping fullback Danskin kept his composure to rifle low past Olow in a one-on-one. Although eventful, there would be no addition to the scoreline before the interval due to a combination of rusty finishing, some desperate defending and an outstanding performance by Olow.

The second half was only five minutes old when Kingsway’s plight worsened with the red carding of Jamie Trandos, whose tackle was deemed to have robbed Neiderberger a goal scoring opportunity. The rest of the game followed much the same pattern as the first half with the bulk of the attack held by Perth and Kingsway playing on the counterattack. Olow ensured the final margin was not greater by brilliantly saving from Robert Scaiscia after a neat lead-up down the left. And in the closing moments substitute Adrian Caceres created space but was also unable to get the better of Olow.