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1.5.2026

BELT-UP AMATEUR PREMIER DIVISION – WEEK FOUR PREVIEW

After last week’s cup round, we are back into league action in the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division, and our Week Four ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to Carine Open Space, where Hamersley Rovers entertain Maccabi. (All games kick off at 3:00pm, unless stated) Both sides progressed in the Amateur League Cup, with wins against Spearwood Dalmatinac and Curtin University respectively, and they will both look to continue their solid starts to the new season, with both coming off wins in the last round. They played out two tight games last season, a 0-0 draw at Hamersley in week ten, before a goal from Callum Duguid gave Rovers a 1-0 win the return fixture in week 21.

Rovers secured their first win of the season against Kingsley last time out, and coach Antony Benetti said it was good to get a win on the board. “We've had an interesting start to the season and definitely feel like we had opportunities to have picked up a few more points leading into round four,” he said. “As a new group the challenge was always going to be to find consistency but what I'm proud of is we've always been competitive and that's largely due to the players commitment and belief in the direction we are aiming for. Now it’s a focus on turning effort into reward and with some players returning its added more competitiveness in our preparations. It's still very early into the season and we will be aiming to now build momentum.”

Benetti said Sunday’s clash soon be competitive, and one they are looking forward too. “Maccabi have started the year well and picked up important points. We know this weekend is a challenge and we are definitely up for it,” he explained. “Building a winning run in any competition is important and changes the landscape of the league very quickly. As usual our focus is on how we can impact the game and get maximum points. The league is tough and that always makes for competitive games, but we have confidence in what we need to do.”

Maccabi bounced back from their first defeat of the season at Noranda Emerald in week two, with a win against Ballajura, and coach Ricky Berelowitz said they need to build on it. “Yes, we are pleased so far but we started in a similar way last year and then lost six in a row,” he explained. “So, we’re not really looking at the table, we’re just trying to focus week by week and try and win every time we step out onto the pitch.”

They make the trip to Hamersley on Sunday, and with them winning last week, Berelowitz is expecting another stern test. “Hamersley are always difficult to play against so it will be a tough game as usual, but we’re confident going into every game that we can beat anyone on our day,” he said. “So hopefully the boys show up with the right attitude and desire and we can keep picking up points.”

In other games on Sunday, Olympic Kingsway host league leaders Wanneroo City at Kingsway Reserve, the visitors are still the only team in league to win all three opening games. Kingsley Westside entertain Kwinana United at Chichester Park, while Kelmscott Ross head to Kingfisher Park to meet Ballajura AFC. Swan United will look to bounce back after their defeat in the cup and build on their last league win against Kwinana, when they host bottom of the table Jaguar at the Swan Italian Club, Francis Street.

In the early game fourth placed Noranda Emerald welcome second placed North Perth United to the Noranda Sporting complex (1:00pm) The hosts were held to a draw at Kelmscott last week, and coach Ger Gaughan said it’s a game they are all looking forward too. “North Perth are still one of the best teams in this league and there’s a great mutual respect which definitely adds to the rivalry,” he said. “I know Chris will have the lads well up for this one, but we are feeling good in our new home and excited for the challenge.”

United were made to work for their win against Olympic Kingsway, and coach Chris Batten said it continued their good start, but knows they need to be on their game on Sunday. “The lads are looking forward to it. We had a pretty tough game last week against Ellenbrook in the cup on the Astro turf, and we gave the lads Tuesday off due to some knocks and niggles but they trained well last night,” he explained. “When the fixtures come out Noranda Emerald are always the first match you look for. They’re a very good team and as I’ve said previously there’s a really healthy rivalry between the sides.

“Ger and Shane are top coaches and any team they have been involved in are always well trained and drilled so we know we will be up against it on Sunday. We managed to get over the line in the night series tie, taking them to penalties after being 2-0 down so we do take some confidence out of that but I’m sure they’ll be out for revenge. Both teams are in good form so I’m expecting another very good game against them. We have a full squad to pick from apart from Barry Boggan who is suspended for the game, so there’s no excuses for Sunday.”

1.5.2026

HAHN AUSTRALIA CUP WA – ROUND OF 16 PREVIEW

The last 16 of the Hahn Australia Cup WA takes centre stage this weekend, as clubs battle it out to advance to the quarter-finals. (All games kick off at 3:00pm, unless stated) East Perth were the giant-killers in the last round, knocking out cup holders Stirling Macedonia, and they face another NPL side in this round, when they visit Dianella Reserve to meet Dianella White Eagles on Saturday evening. (5:30pm) East Perth skipper Chris Smith said the club is buzzing after the win against Stirling, and knows they face another stern test at Dianella.

“Always great for the club and as a team playing against a NPL club as you want to test yourself against the best. We were confident we could get some sort of result that day and credit to everyone we came away with a deserved win,” he explained. “We’ll go again on Saturday against another NPL team and we have nothing to lose going into the game. Dianella will be another big test and after only getting promoted they are already proving they are good enough to compete against the best in the NPL. As a club we look forward to another big day and hopefully we can do ourselves proud and see what happens at the end of the game.”

Dianella striker Albert Luwi was on target in their win at UWA Nedlands in the last round, and he knows cup games are a great leveller, so they need to be on their game from the first whistle, something they weren’t in the last round. “The win at UWA was a good result, although it was a bit of a slow to start the game, but once we got the first goal, we took control of the game and created a nice cushion for the second half and ultimately for the win,” the striker said. “We definitely know we going into a match that’s going to come with its challenges, and I guess we can use their last result as a reminder to approach this game with intent and focus if we do that, I’m confident we will walk away winners.”

The other Saturday evening game is an all-NPL tie, with Balcatta Etna hosting last seasons beaten finalists Olympic Kingsway at the Home Group Stadium, Grindleford Reserve. (5:15pm) Olympic arrive into this one top of the league, while Balcatta sit second bottom, but in the cup, anything can happen. We will have at least two State League sides into the quarter-finals, with Morley Windmills hosting Cockburn City at Wotton Reserve on Saturday afternoon, while Division Two league leaders Rockingham City head to the Ashfield Arena to take on Ashfield on Friday evening. (7:00pm)

A brace from Luke Salmon, gave Morley and upset win against Gwelup Croatia in the last round, and coach John O’Reilly said it was a deserved win, and he’s looking for more of the same against Rockingham. “The Gwelup game was special, and we played well in the first half and then second half I just let the boys play off the leash and they excelled,” he said. “This week we will take the challenge seriously from Cockburn, who have been strong contenders over the last two seasons.”

Rockingham were pushed all the way at Ellenbrook in the last round, and midfielder Chris Thackrey said they had to work hard to win the tie. “It was a great contest against Ellenbrook, they were very well organised and disciplined, with some quality players in the attacking areas. I am sure they will have a very good season this year with the playing group they have,” he explained. “For us, it was another game on the road, and we knew it would be a challenge, as those cup games most often are, and we put in a professional performance and got the job done “

Thackrey said it said be a great tie under lights at Ashfield, and they head into the game looking to keep building their momentum. “We expect another hard-fought contest at Ashfield in another game on the road against a team that has also started the league campaign very well,” he said. “It has the potential to be a fantastic cup clash under the lights at Ashfield. We will be looking to put in another professional performance with the same energy and hard work that has got us to this round and keep building the momentum.”

The other ties see NPL teams taking on State League sides. First on Friday evening Inglewood United head to the RedStar Arena to meet Perth RedStar. (7:00pm) Inglewood caused an upset in the last round, beating RedStar neighbours Sorrento, and defender Ciaran Salinger said it’s another test, but one they are looking forward too. “Yes, it was a very hard fought win the last round against Sorrento. Always a tough side to break down and your always guaranteed a physical game. Luckily, we had our finishing boots on that night and got the win,” Salinger said. “Always looking forward to playing another NPL side. Really give you a perspective into the character of our squad what levels we can push for. RedStar is a tough game for any team in the state, so it should definitely be an entertaining one.”

The RedStar eased into the last 16, with a come-from-behind win at Armadale, and skipper Blair Govan knows they will be in for a tough encounter. “Yes, we are expecting a tough game against Inglewood, I don’t think they’re league position gives a true reflection of their team and Glenn always organises his team really well so we know we are in for a tough one,” the defender explained. “But we have to focus on ourselves. This is an important part of the season for us and we will be looking to continue our good form this week.”

Bayswater City face a tough trip to meet Joondalup City at Iluka District Open Space. Joondalup were too strong for Gosnells City in the last round to set up this tie, and skipper Liam Peacock said the lads are up for this one. “The boys are looking forward to the test against Bayswater City,” he said. “It’s cup football, and we’ll be looking to shock a few.” Bayswater edged out MUMFC in the last round in a tough game, and coach Matthew Sparrow said it will be another tough test on Saturday.”

“It’s always a tough trip away to Joondalup City, they’re a well-organised side and cup games always have that extra edge, so we’re expecting a real challenge on Saturday,” he said. “For us, it’s about building on the momentum we’ve created over the last few weeks. We’ve shown good character in recent games, but we know there are still areas we can tighten up, particularly in both boxes. We’ll go there with the right mentality, respect the opposition, but also look to impose ourselves on the game. The cup is something we take seriously, so we’re looking forward to it and hopefully progressing to the next round.

In the other ties, Fremantle City welcome Wembley Downs to Hilton Park on Saturday. (2:30pm) Wembley upset Subiaco in the last round, but coach Luke Thompson knows this is a huge challenge, but one they are looking forward to. “We are under no illusions on how tough a challenge Fremantle will be, but we are looking forward to it and hope to continue playing well,” he said. “As East Perth proved last round, anything can happen.” The final game sees Curtin University head to Nash Field to take on Western Knights. (2:30pm).

1.5.2026

STATE LEAGUE PREVIEW

We have a truncated Week Six in the State League Division One due to the cup games, with only two games being played on Saturday, and our ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to Stylish Park, Grindleford Road, where Quinns host league leaders Floreat Athena. (5:00pm) Floreat moved three points clear at the summit after a 3-1 come from behind win against Curtin University on Monday, and Joshua Willis was on target just before half time to get them back in the game and they went on with it, and he said they were slow out of the blocks and were punished on the day, something they need to address. “We started the game poorly, and got punished, this is something as a group we need to improve on,” he said. “My goal was needed, and I’m glad I could help the team but we increased the standard in the second half and got our rewards. Every game in this league will be tough as we’ve seen, and Quinns will be no different. But as a group I feel we are more determined than ever to put it right in terms of our performance.”

It's been a good start to life in Division One for Quinns after promotion last season, but last week suffered their first defeat on the road at UWA Nedlands, and midfielder Elliot Ireland said they never got going on the day, and will be looking to bounce back on Saturday. “Yes, it was a tough game, UWA are a good side and playing mid-week definitely had an effect on us, but in saying that for the standards we set we simply didn’t get going, and ultimately UWA deserved the win,” the midfielder said. “Floreat are another good side who have shown their intent to go right back up after their relegation. It’s definitely a challenge we look forward to, it’s the perfect game and opportunity for us to bounce back after the UWA result.”

The other game on Saturday sees Kingsley Westside host Subiaco AFC at Chichester Park. (3:00pm) Kingsley sit second on the table, and are unbeaten at home, while Subiaco sit 11th, and will be looking for a second win on the road, the last coming at Joondalup City in Week Three. The hosts beat Cockburn City 3-1 last week, with Raeez Pandor on the scoresheet, and he said they had to work hard for the points, and knows it will be the same on Saturday. “It was a tough fought game against Cockburn, but the team played as a unit,” he said.

“I thought we stayed disciplined, and kept the attacking pressure we were able to dominate through key periods until the end. Getting that win was important for us—not just for the points, but for building back a winning atmosphere within the squad. We’ve been solid at home, and we’re looking to continue that form this week. Subiaco may not have had the best start to the season, but they’re a side we expect a competitive match. Yet I’m confident in our quality and ability to perform. Pushing on toes for the top spots and keeping the pressure on Floreat.”

Subiaco were edged out 2-1 at MUMFC last week, and midfielder Tomas Despotovski thoughts they deserved something from the game. “It was disappointing to finish that game without taking anything from it, similar to our previous matches against Quinns and Inglewood. We played some good football in those games but unfortunately weren’t able to turn our performances into points,” he said. “We know it will be a difficult challenge playing away at Kingsley’s ground. They are in good form, which is reflected by their position in second on the table, but the boys and coaches are ready for the challenge. We’ve been putting in the hard yards at training and working hard to turn these recent results around.”

The other games in Week Six will be played on Wednesday evening (May 6) Gwelup Croatia meet Cockburn City at Macedonia Park, Mandurah City welcome Curtin University to the Poolmart Mandurah Stadium, Inglewood United head to the UWA Sports Park to meet UWA Nedlands, while Murdoch University Melville welcome Joondalup City to Len Shearer Reserve on May 20.

In Division Two, with the cup taking place, there isn’t any game with Week Six taking place next weekend. But we do have a Week Five catch up game when Canning City host Carramar Shamrock Rovers at Burrendah Park on Saturday afternoon (3;00pm) The hosts are still searching for a first win this campaign, and will be looking to bounce back from a heavy defeat at East Perth in the last round. Meanwhile, Rovers are unbeaten this season, and are coming off a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Wembley Downs, and skipper Kieran Harrison said they will be looking to get back in the winner’s circle on Saturday.

“I thought the Wembley game was a well-earned draw. They’re a good side, very well setup and I think they’ll have a good season. They were probably the better team in the first half but the second half was a lot more even once we got to grips with how they wanted to play. A draw was probably a fair result in the end,” Harrison explained. “You always know what you’ll get down at Canning, it will be a tough afternoon, I’m sure. I think anyone can beat anyone in this league regardless of form so the fact they’re yet to win doesn’t really matter. It will be a good game and we will do all we can to get the win.”

Canning coach Lee Hayward said the loss at East Perth was tough, but they have had two weeks to get it out of their system, and he’s looking forward to Saturday’s game. “Yes, it was a tough game out in our last game against East Perth. We actually had a better share of the possession but possession doesn’t win you games, and East Perth were ruthless in front of goal, and we struggled to deal with the directness of the game,” he said. “The boys have had two weeks of training to get ready for Carramar, and we are confident if we can dominate the ball and take our chances the wins will come, and hopefully that’s this week.”

1.5.2026

KALTAK AND MCKENNA TAKE OUT ‘MOST GLORIOUS PLAYER OF THE YEAR’

It was a successful night for Perth Glory defender Brain Kaltak, making a clean sweep of the awards at the clubs Most Glorious Players night at Perth’s Westin Hotel on Tuesday evening, while Tijan McKenna won the Women’s Most Glorious Player of the Year. The big defender won the 2025-26 Most Glorious Player of the Year, and also won the Members/Supporters and Players’ Player of the Year in what was his debut season with the club after moving from Central Coast Mariners.

The 32-year-old struggled early in his time at the club, but the Vanuatu international defender blossomed under the tenure of Adam Griffiths, and he thanked the coach for his improvement. “I thought I had a really good season, despite the slow start, but then I picked myself up, and I’ve been killing it ever since,” Kaltak told The West Australian. “A turning point was when Griff stepped in and he expected more from us.

“Big players they step up, lead the way, show the example of what we want to be like as a team. That changed the way I think, and it changed me as a senior player, there to lead by an example, and I think I did. He demanded more from us as senior players and he spoke clearly when it came to all the senior players. It’s been a big change, a shift from not just myself and my performance, but the other boys as well.” By seasons end, the defender ranked second in the league for clearances (173) and equal seventh for both blocks (22) and interceptions (33) and had helped Perth’s defence concede 17 fewer goals this season.

He believes Glory can move further up the table next season, and with the entirety of this year’s back four and goalkeeper Matt Sutton contracted for next year. Griffiths is out of contract, but Kaltak hailed the job he had done, and hopes he’s around next season. “It means a lot to have a good, supportive coaching staff and the players as well, where they push you forward, and they always, look after you,” he said. “When you have a good environment, it helps everyone to achieve their goals, or whatever we want to achieve.”

In other awards for the Men’s side, Young Socceroos Gio De Abreu won the DT38 Young Player of the Season, the 19-year-old midfielder, was outstanding in maiden year of senior football. Jaiden Kucharski won the Goal of the Year Award, for his stunning match-winner against Auckland FC in Round 15, although Seb Despotovski was unlucky with his stunner against Brisbane Roar in the final game of the season, while Tom Lawrence, Nicholas Pennington and Adam Taggart all shared the Bobby Despotovski A-League Men’s Golden Boot. The club also paid a special tribute to club legend Josh Risdon to mark his retirement from the professional game after an illustrious 16-year career in which he became Glory’s all-time A-League record appearances holder.

Perth-local local McKenna, was rewarded for a fantastic season, where she became Stephen Peters fix it player, excelling in several different positions and established herself as one of the most consistent performers in the squad. In other awards, keeper Teresa Morrissey was named Members’ Player of the Year and Players’ Player of the Year, and Rola Badawiya took out the Golden Boot and also won Goal of the Year for her fantastic Round Two strike against Brisbane Roar at HBF Park. While former Perth Azzurri player, Grace Johnston was named the Women’s Best Young Player Award.

1.5.2026

SUCCESSFUL NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS FOR WA BOYS

It was another successful National Championships for the West Australian teams, with both the Under 15’s and 16’s topping their respective 2026 Emerging Socceroos Championship tables. The 15’s were beaten in the Quarter-Finals by Victoria Blue, while 16’s reached the Champions Final, before losing narrowly also to NSW Navy. The under 16’s coach Neil Kilkenny said it was a great tournament and he was pleased with the boy’s attitude and character throughout.

“The boys did well to reach the final, but if I’m honest, at the same time I wanted to win it,” Kilkenny said. “I thought the boys showed real character to reach the final, in tight quarter and semi-final wins against Victoria Blue and South Australia. I was happy for Jack (English), who scored the winner in the semi-final, but to get past Victoria in the quarter-finals, who were one of the best two teams in tournament was brilliant, and it was a great squad effort.”

Kilkenny believes football in WA is up the up, and thanked Garth Naven for his support along the journey. “We are putting on high demands on the boys, and they are thriving, which is fantastic for WA football,” the former Socceroos, Leeds United and Perth Glory midfielder said. “It’s good signs, and hopefully we can keep pushing the levels, and I think I’m making a difference in WA football, obviously I have decent experience in the professional game, and hopefully I can pass on some detail to the younger generation. At the same time, I’ve got ambitions to coach as high I can, and I’m learning a great deal at Football West under Gareth (Naven), who has been brilliant to me and I can’t speak highly enough of him.”

The Under 16’s topped Group D, and started the group stage with a 3-0 win against NSW Reginal. Sorrento’s Saul Monger gave them the lead early, before Perth Glory’s Daniel Reilly doubled the advantage on the half hour, before his Glory teammate Samual Hatzaw sealed the game after the break. They played Queensland White in game two, and Perth Glory’s Dhaniel Brown scored the only goal in a 1-0 win. In the final game they needed a draw to top the group, and they found it after a 0-0 draw against Victoria Country.

They played one of the best teams in the competition in the quarter finals, and in a tight contest they played out another 0-0 draw, but the WA youngsters held their nerves to win the penalty shoot-out. That set up a semi-final against South Australia, and an early goal from Perth RedStar’s Jack English won it. In the Championship Final they played NSW Navy, and a brace from Dimitri Staveris, proved enough for the NSW outfit to win the title.

The under 15’s, who were coached by John Walmsley, and he was delighted with the squad’s performance. “Great effort from the team overall. To top the group without conceding a goal was a strong achievement and reflects how organised and difficult to play against we were. Preparation was a challenge this year with the April start and limited games leading in, but the players adapted really well,” Walmsley explained. “Winning four of six games, including some strong performances against quality opposition, was very pleasing. Hopefully it provides a platform for more of our players to be identified for national team opportunities this year.”

The 15’s topped Group C, and in game one an early goal from Perth RedStar’s Frankie Inzalaco, gave them a 1-0 win against NSW Reginal, and in game two goals from South West Phoenix’s Alex Sawyer, and FW Academy’s John Leonidas gave them a 2-0 win against Queensland White. They topped the group in style, with a 5-0 win in the final group game against Victoria Country. FW Academy’s Freddie Smith was the hero bagging a hat-trick, with his FW Academy team mates Adam Ikhlef and Jayden Dube also on the scoreboard. It set up a quarter final against Victoria Blue, and in a hard-fought game they were beaten 3-0. They played the 5th / 6thplay off against NSW Navy, and were beaten 1-0, with Noah Miladinovic goal early in the second half giving them the win.

29.4.2026

MCKENNA EYEING MATILDAS CAP AFTER MOST GLORIOUS PLAYER WIN

Perth Glory young gun Tijan McKenna wants to follow in the footsteps of her older sister, Leticia, and one day wear the green and gold of Australia. The 21-year old capped an impressive A-League season by winning the women’s Most Glorious Player award this week, despite playing out of position as a centre-back for most of the season.

Tijan’s prize adds to a wonderful month in the McKenna household after Leticia became the first West Australian to earn a Matildas caps in 17-years by turning out - and scoring on debut - against Kenya last month. The younger McKenna, who was called up but did not play for Croatia in December 2024, remains a strong prospect to also play for Australia somewhere down the line.

Tijan makes no secret of how great an inspiration her sisters achievements have been. “My eyes are set on the green and gold. It’s something I want to achieve in my lifetime and watching her do it, it does fuel me more, and I hope one day I can follow her footsteps,” McKenna said. “It was definitely a teary-eyed moment, a lot of tissues were needed.”

“I couldn’t be more proud. It was basically me watching my idol that I’ve known since day one, grow up and achieve the dream that I hope to one day achieve. But watching her, she’s the person that deserves it more than I know, and watching her succeed and come on her debut and score is something that I could never imagine and wish more for her.”

Tijan has been something of a turbo-charged jack-of-all-trades since returning to WA after stints at Brisbane Roar and Melbourne City. After playing roles at full-back and in her preferred central midfield, coach Stephen Peters turned to her to fill the void in central defence left by the injured Naomi Chinamma.

“Playing multiple positions is a positive and a negative at the same time. Being trusted in every position is great, but also having to learn and stick to the technique of each position is hard,” she said. “Playing centre-back, I definitely felt a bit more pressure on my back, and the mistakes I did make have been crucial, but I learned lot, and I wouldn’t change it. I’m grateful for the experience.”

28.4.2026

DEFENDERS KALTAK AND MCKENNA ARE THE MOST GLORIOUS PLAYERS

Towering centre-back Bran Kaltak has been rewarded for an outstanding debut season with Perth Glory by winning the men’s Most Glorious Player at the club’s end-of-season award’s night. It comes as homegrown young gun Tijan McKenna cemented her rise as one of Australia’s best prospects as she took out the women’s Most Glorious Player gong.

Kaltak became the 13th defender to win the men’s top prize in its 29-year history. The 32-year old overcame a slow start to rediscover the form which helped him play a vital role in Central Coast Mariners’ memorable treble win of 2024. As part of a much-improved Glory defence, Kaltak established a strong centre-back partnership with fellow recruit Scott Wootton.

McKenna built on taking out last seasons Players’ Player and Members’ Player of the Year awards by claiming top honours this term. The 21-year old featured at full-back and in central midfield before shifting to centre-back where her on-the-ball composure and last-ditch interventions was highlighted by her winning the A-League Women Player of the Month for December.

Kaltak also won the men’s Members’ and Players’ Player of the Year awards. Co-captain Adam Taggart shared the Golden Boot with Tom Lawrence and Nicholas Pennington. Tenacious midfielder Gio De Abreu was awarded the men’s Young Player of the Season. Jaiden Kucharski took home the men’s Goal of the Year trophy for his sizzling, injury-time winner against Auckland FC.

Teresa Morrissey’s excellent first season between the posts for Glory ended in her winning the women’s Members’ and Players’ Player of the Year awards. Ever-present full-back Grace Johnston collected the women’s Best Young Player trophy, while Rola Badawiya won the women’s Golden Boot and Goal of the Year for her round two strike against Brisbane Roar.

27.4.2026

FLOREAT GO TOP AFTER COME FROM BEHIND WIN AGAINST CURTIN

Floreat Athena have returned to the top of the State League Division One table, after a come-from-behind 3-1 win against Curtin University in the final week five game, at a wet E&D Litis Stadium on Monday afternoon. “It was tough conditions today, but we struggled to get going, and only did after they scored, but to score late didn’t really change my half time talk,” Floreat coach Alun Vernals explained.

“We had a good chat, and changed a few things and Harry scored a good goal to give us the lead, before a great strike from Rowan, against his former club, saw us take the points. We have a lot to work on before the clash at Quinns.” It was the visitors who found the opener on 18 minutes. Neat work down the right by Kieran Witt and Declan Tanna, saw them release Deikan Gloriod, he crossed to Gaspar Zuljevic, who played in Mighael Muller, who finished low past Joshua Hunter. The Floreat custodian then made a great save to keep the score at 1-0, as the visitors looked for a second.

But Floreat were level in first half stoppage time, a superb ball from skipper Declan Hargreaves picked out Joshua Willis, whose first touch brought the ball down and he finished with a plomb low past Alec Radonich. The rain became heavier after the break, which made it difficult for both teams, but it was Floreat who hit the front on the hour mark. Mohammed Al-Zaidy’s pass found Harry Lewis on the right, and his first time shot flew past Radonich.

They sealed the points two minutes from time, Harry Lewis’ corner was only cleared to the edge of the box, and former Curtin midfielder Rowan Steed fired a low shot through a crowded penalty area and past Radonich. “I thought we started off well for the first 15 minutes but then conceded another goal early on.” Floreat skipper Declan Hargreaves said. “We got one back just before half time and then came out in the second half much better. But the lads know we need to be much better as a team.”

26.4.2026

UPSETS GALORE IN AMATEUR LEAGUE CUP SECOND ROUND

We had a few upsets in the Amateur League Cup on Sunday, with four Premier Division clubs losing to lower league opposition in the round two ties. Division Two side Belmont City were the big winners, after securing a 4-0 win against Swan United at Gerry Archer Sports Complex. Belmont coach Jordi Atienza was pleased with his side’s performance. “It was a very competitive match from the start, against a strong opponent playing two divisions above us in the Premier Division,” he said. “I thought we showed great defensive solidity and made the most of its chances. Swan United is a well-organised and physical team that doesn’t allow many opportunities, which makes the result even more valuable. A great result that keeps us moving forward and competing strongly in the cup.”

The hosts raced to a 2-0 lead, first Weverton Marques produced a great individual goal, before Itgel Battogtokh’s headed home a pinpoint cross from the left. Swan needed a good start after the second half to get back into the tie, but they found themselves 3-0 down on the hour, Heitor Silva winning the ball high up the pitch, and scoring. The icing was put on the cake 14 minutes from time, former Swan striker Matteus Carvalho with a neat finish.

Bayswater City also proved too strong for Premier Division side Kwinana United, the Division One outfit running out 3-2 winners in a tight encounter at Frank Drago Reserve. “A great game all-round from both teams. Kwinana are a great team and deserve a lot of credit,” Bayswater coach Ryan Tracey explained. “Our boys played amazing and I couldn’t be happier with the effort and commitment from everyone involved.” Bayswater were ahead early, Tom Pegrum played a great ball over the top to Jacob Flores, who took on his marker and squared it for Dominic Manno to tap home. But Kwinana were level on the hour, with Madison Holman on target.

But Bayswater hit back and regained the lead moments later. Straight from the kick off, they moved the ball forward, before Dominic Manno laid it off for Grant Mowatt and he turned his defender and made no mistake. They added a third soon after, a corner from Adam Fernandes picked out Gabriele Colli who headed home. Holman added his second for Kwinana from the spot 12 minutes from time, to set up a hectic finish, but Bayswater held firm to seal the win.

Cracovia also moved into the next round, coming home from Kingfisher Park with a 2-1 extra time win against Premier Division side Ballajura. “It was a really tough match for both sides going all the way into extra time. We knew how tough it would be from playing Ballajura in previous years, but all the boys were up for the challenge and very determined to get a result to continue our cup run,” Cracovia’s Daniel Conti explained. “Massive effort from our boys to put in the hard yards for the full 120 minutes and get ourselves a winner late on. We knew it was only a matter of time before our performances reflected on the scoreline so really happy to see the work pay off and to progress further into the cup.”

It was a tight first half with chances at both ends, but it was all-square at the break. But the visitors found the opener early in the second half, Adam Di Vincenzo found space out wide, and crossed into the box, the ball was only headed to the edge of the box, and Conti brought the ball down before finishing clinically into the bottom corner of the net. But twenty minutes later the hosts levelled, after swift counter attack, which was finished off nicely by Lucais King, which sent the game to extra time.

The home side were reduced to ten men in the second period of extra time, with James Grehan shown a second yellow card and sent off. Then moments later the visitors won it, Marc Eldridge raced forward, and found Luke Gambitta, who played in Joshua Gabriel, who raced one on one to score. Ballajura pressed late, looking for the equaliser, but Cracovia held firm to take their place in the hat for the next round. It’s been a disastrous start to the season for Jaguar, and it got worse on Sunday, well beaten 5-0 by Division One side Perth AFC at Len Packham Park, with Ashley Lamb scoring a brace.

Olympic Kingsway also bowed out, beaten by fellow Premier Division side Kingsley Westside 8-7 on penalties at Kingsway Reserve, after the game ended 1-1 at the end of normal time. The other Premier Division teams moved through, with a hat-trick from Ross Buckley saw Premier Division leaders Wanneroo City beat Sutherlands Park 8-0, while North Perth United beat Ellenbrook United 4-1 at Ellenbrook District Open Space. A brace from Isaac Koomson has helped Kelmscott Roos to a 4-0 win against Bassendean Caledonians at Jubilee Reserve, Callum Duguid bagged a double as Hamersley Rovers overcame Spearwood Dalmatinac 4-2 at Dalmatinac Park, while two-goals from Dion Berman saw Maccabi beat Curtin University 4-1.

“In the second half they lifted, which they always do, and managed to get the goal, which put us under pressure. We made a few tactical adjustments after that, and the boys responded really well. The group showed a lot of resilience to push through extra time, so overall, really proud of the character the boys showed. We are ready for the next round of the cup.”

Noranda-Emarald moved through after Woodville forfeited their game. In the other ties, goals from Jake Caulfield, Daniel Cumming, and a brace from George Wallis has seen Swan Valley beat Northern City 4-1 at the Swan Valley Sporting Club, while Southern Spirit edged out Balga 2-0 at Princess Road Reserve, with goals from Abdulla Rogers and Jake Dunkerley. Westnam United beat Subiaco AFC 3-1 at Rosalie Park, Chipolopolo beat Port Kennedy 5-2 at Camberwell Park, while East Perth have come from 0-2 down to beat Queens Park at Coker Park.

26.4.2026

THREE WAY TIE AT THE TOP OF THE NPLW-WOMEN’S TABLE

It’s tight at the top of the New Balance NPLWA – Women’s table, with three teams, Balcatta Etna, Perth Azzurri and Fremantle City, level on 14 points, only separated on goal difference. Azzurri have bounced back from back-to-back draws, after a come-from-behind 3-1 win against UWA Nedlands at the UWA Sports Park on Sunday afternoon. Azzurri keeper Dayle Schroeder said it was a tough game. “UWA have always been a challenging team for us to play, and with both fighting for points, it’s good to secure three,” Schroeder explained. “Conceding early in the game off a set piece is not our ideal way to start. Credit to our attack that responded really well with creating high pressure and forcing mistakes to pull back two goals in the first half. We kept pushing and creating chances and it paid off.”

The home side stunned their visitors on seven minutes, Chloe McGlinn’s free kick found the unmarked Maja Archibald, whose volley flew into the net, giving Schroeder no chance. But the Azzurri squared things up ten minutes later, UWA keeper Janina Sauer’s heavy touch in the penalty area was pounced on by Maja Archibald, who fired home into an empty net. Then sixty seconds later Tom Glavovic’s side hit the front. A quick long-throw caught UWA napping, and Daisy McAllister raced down the left, before crossing to the back post and to find the unmarked Ruby Marshall, who looked in an offside position, but the goal stood. The Azzurri sealed the points two minutes into the second half, a clearance from Sauer went straight to a Sam Mathers, whose first time ball found Jessica Flannery, whose first time shot flew over the head of Sauer.

It’s been a big month for the Azzurri keeper Dayle Schroeder, after signing a short-term injury replacement contract with A-League side, and she said it was a dream come true. “Debuting for Glory was a crazy whirlwind. I got brought in as an injury replacement the day before we flew out to Brisbane. The girls were top notch to bring me into the group and, I loved every second of it,” she explained. “Tee (Morrissey) getting injured in the last stages of the warm up was a shock, but it gave me my A-League debut. I wasn’t nervous, which I thought I would be, to be fair I really didn’t have time to. I was just thinking how I had to work for the team. The result of the game was challenging after fighting so hard and pushing to comeback twice. Every one of the staff and players supported me in and post-game. I’m grateful for Stephen (Peters) and the others that gave me this opportunity to represent Glory - It was a dream come true.”

Sorrento have won their first ever NPL game, after coming from 1-0 down to win 2-1 against Subiaco AFC at Rosalie Park. “We’re very pleased to secure Sorrento’s first win in the NPLW era, and it was also nice to return to Subiaco AFC and come away with nine points across the 18s, 21s and first team. Having spent a number of years there previously, it added a little extra significance to the result, but the main focus remains on what this group is building at Sorrento,” Sorrento coach Annie Farrell explained. “It was a positive reward for the hard work that has gone into a demanding pre-season period and for the steady progress we’ve been seeing week by week. From a performance point of view, the players carried out their tactical roles well.

“We defended strongly, stayed organised, and more consistently moved the ball with real purpose. We also created some promising chances early in the match, and in recent weeks we’ve felt that if we were more clinical in key moments, results could have looked different. Yesterday, we were able to capitalise when it mattered. There is still plenty for us to improve and work on, but we’re very happy with the direction the group is heading and the progress being made each week. We look forward to continuing that growth in the weeks ahead.” The home side found the opener on 22 minutes. A short corner on the left from Sara Klott caught Sorrento napping, and Poppy Derhun’s cross found the unmarked Catherine Curwood-Wagner, who headed home.

But in the shadows of half time Sorrento levelled, Nikayla Hughes sent Ruby Walsh racing down the left, and her low cross was turned home by Daisy Snowden. Both sides had chances to win it, and the hosts who had a perfect opportunity to win it eight minutes from time, when Niamh Taylor-Hughes was brought down by Tamzyn Aisbet, and the referee pointed to the spot. Derhun stepped up to take the penalty, but Amalia Caceres made the save. Then moment later, down the other end Sorrento substitute Jaalah Rudd was brought down in the penalty area by Mia Hargreaves, and again the referee pointed straight to the spot. Substitute Ellie-Jay Silver stepped up and sent Briana O'Dell the wrong way from the resulting penalty, to seal the historic win for the Gulls.

Balcatta Etna have continued their recent good form, beating the Hyundai FW Academy 4-0 at the Home Group Stadium, Grindleford Reserve. “It was a great win, to come off the back of a hard game against RedStar and bring that momentum into the Sundays game was great,” Balcatta defender Frankie Murray said. “We took our chances well and I think across the park played some good football which we can continue to build on.” Balcatta, who were coming off the 2-1 win against RedStar, made a perfect start, and where ahead on seven minutes. A ball over the top by Ella Marwick sent Jaime Duncanson racing onto the penalty area, and she was brought down by in the box, and skipper Abbey Meakins converted the resulting penalty.

They doubled their advantage, midway through the half, Caitlin Doeglas’ shot coming back of the post, and Meakins was well placed to head home the rebound. It was 3-0 before the break, a back past to keeper, who’s heavy first touch let in Doeglas, who rolled the ball home. They sealed the points with a fourth 12 minutes from time, Frankie Murray and Doeglas combined down the left, the latter finding Meakins on the edge of the box, and the skipper rolled her marker before firing home to seal her hat-trick.

In the final game Fremantle City have come home from the RedStar Arena will all three points, after a 2-1 win against Perth RedStar. The visitors had the better chances in the first half but failed to take them, the best falling to Phetchara Mayoe, who raced one-on-one with Gabby Dal Busco, but the RedStar keeper stood tall to save. But nine minutes into the second half they did make the breakthrough. A corner from Erin Siah, was played back out to her on the right, and her low cross wasn’t cleared, and the ball fell to Sam Brady, who swept the ball home.

But just after the hour mark, the hosts levelled, Lacey Heys brought down Klaudia Houlis on the edge of the box, and Nelli Johnson fired the resulting free kick, low past Cassia Souza. It looked like the points would be shared, but two minutes from time, it was Fremantle who won it. Abbey Green raced down the left, out-muscled her marker, before crossing low into the box, and the ball was deflected past Del Busco by the unfortunate Quyen Doan.

26.4.2026

KERR EQUALS RECORD AT CHELSEA

Sam Kerr moved level with Fran Kirby as Chelsea's all-time leading scorer in the Women's Super League with a brace in a 4-1 victory at Everton on Sunday. The former Perth Glory striker scored in both halves to take her tally to 63 WSL goals, as the Blues inched closer to a spot in next season's Champions League. They moved four points clear of third-placed Manchester United while Arsenal, in fourth, are a further point behind although the Gunners have three games in hand over both their rivals. The Matildas skipper put Chelsea in front after just six minutes when she latched on to Cuthbert's through ball and slotted home

But the visitors were pegged back not long after Yuka Momiki drew Everton level with a fantastic left-foot strike from 30 yards, but Keira Walsh and Alyssa Thompson spurned efforts to put Chelsea back in the lead before half-time but Kerr was not so charitable, doubling hers and the Blues tally two minutes after the break. Kerr collected Lauren James' pass and directed a first-time shot past Everton goalkeeper Courtney Brosnan for her landmark goal. She was denied the outright record and a hattrick when Maz Pacheco cleared her shot off the line, which looked over the line, while another Matildas player was on target, Ellie Carpenter scoring to make it 3-1, with Cuthbert was also on target.

Kerr, who joined the Stamford Bridge club from American club Chicago Red Stars in 2020, has demonstrated why Chelsea need to keep her on their book, with reports she could be returning to the USA next season, and coach Sonia Bompastor has made it clear that she wants to keep her Australian striker on board. “Sam deserves what’s happening to her,” she said. “She’s a great player, and she’s a great person as well — her performance today proved again today she’s one of the best of the world. I enjoy working with her; she’s really on board, she wants to learn, she wants to be on the pitch and help the team. She’s a good team player and having a player like her makes a big difference for the manager.”

26.4.2026

GRIFFITHS BELIEVES HE IS THE RIGHT MAN TO TAKE GLORY FORWARD

Perth Glory coach Adam Griffiths’ says he has the hunger and leadership qualities to take the team to another level as he prepares his pitch to remain in the job beyond the next month. Griffiths’ first season on the hot seat ended with a 10th placing and although Glory avoided a third straight wooden spoon, their finals drought was extended to a sixth year.

Griffiths arrived at the club as an assistant to support David Zdrilic in the off-season. But took over the role in the interim after Glory parted ways with Zdrilic after just two games. Three successive wins through November and December lead to Griffiths being appointed on a short-term deal to the end of the season. From his 24 games in charge, Glory won eight, drew six and lost 10, scoring 30 and conceding 33.

With the club to make their call on his future following a review in the coming weeks, Griffiths quipped his fate was “in the hands of the gods: (chairman) Ross Pelligra” but believed he was the best man to take Perth forward. “The mentality, and the hunger here from myself, is there. What we want to do is continue to embrace that, build on that, bring more players in that have the same hunger and desire to push forward, and then the momentum will slowly shift,” he said.

“Everything is about building and continuing momentum, each layer, each new player or a really strong pre-season physically can add that to where we want to go. We’re at that point now where we need to have that strong mentality and the hunger to go to another level. That’s what I’m expecting from this group. I’ve got the hunger and the leadership qualities to take us to another level.”

Griffiths can point to the fact he stepped into the role with no pre-season to prepare the squad, which he inherited. Glory’s best attackers - Tom Lawrence, Adam Taggart and Lachie Wales - all battled injury during the season. And the team’s 14 away points were the most the club have claimed in a season since 2020.

The counter-argument would be after Glory won six of 11 games mid-season to put them in the finals hunt, they went off the boil with an eight-game winless run. At times, their defensive resolve came at the expense of going forward and there were problems building through midfield, as demonstrated against Brisbane Roar when Glory claimed just 30% of possession.

While young midfielders Will Freney and Gio De Abreu showed plenty of promise, their lack of experience showed following the mid-season departure of Rhys Bozinovski to Heracles Almelo in the Dutch Eredivise. “I feel that those two have been doing a lot of work in the middle for the last eight games, and we’ve been working them quite hard and pushing them quite hard, so that energy level wasn’t there like it normally is,” Griffiths said.

“Our confidence to control the game was a little bit clunky but what was more important from my perspective, was the fact we had that fight and determination to stay resolute when the moments were tough, and that’s something that this club hasn’t had for a while. Yes, we want to have more ball possession, but we’ve played many games here at our home ground, where we’ve had 60 per cent possession, dominating teams, keeping them pinned in their own half, but not getting the goal.”

25.4.2026

NPLWA – MENS – WEEK EIGHT REVIEW

Perth RedStar have gone level on points with Olympic Kingsway at the top of the New Balance NPLWA – Men’s table, after a 4-2 win against Balcatta Etna at the Home Group Stadium, Grindleford Reserve on Saturday afternoon. “Great to get the three points, we knew how tough Balcatta would make it and to be fair they were very organised and fit,” RedStar’s striker Gordon Smith explained. “But we continue our great form and look forward to the cup round next week against Inglewood United.”

Callum Salmon’s side were ahead early, Liam Murray raced past a number of Balcatta players down the right, before cutting inside and finishing clinically past Riley Stephenson. They doubled their advantage eight minutes before the break, Riley Warland curling home a free kick superbly. Balcatta were back in the game just after the hour mark, with Charlie Betts crossing to Matthew Tomassone, who made no mistake.

But RedStar regained their two-goal advantage 15 minutes from time, Ryan Finnie crossing to skipper Blair Govan, whose diving header beat Stephenson. The points were sealed eight minutes later, Warland picking out Aaron Black, who beat his marker before finishing with aplomb. Balcatta scored a consolation goal late, with a great strike from substitute Rene Kisesa.

Stirling Macedonia are third, coming from behind to beat a ten-man Armadale 4-2 at Alfred Skeet Reserve, the loss leaving the hosts still searching for a first win of the season. “Very important three points away to Armadale, we were not good first half, but second half the team was brilliant and we scored three goals to win the game,” Stirling coach Ago Mujic explained. “I thought the boys showed good character to come from behind and keep us in the mix on the top end of the table.”

Armadale made a great start, and were ahead on ten minutes, Corey Sutherland and Will Hayes combined down the right, the latter firing home at the second attempt. But their good start was halted on 26 minutes when Will Formston sent off by Referee David Bruce, for a last man challenge on Callum Mckenzie. Stirling made their numerical advantage count in the shadows of half time, Bayley Brown-Montgomery heading in Euan Cameron’s corner. But Armadale hit back immediately, when Craig Barker turned in Leigh Griffith’s free-kick in added time.

The visitors took control after the break, and were level just before the hour, Brown-Montgomery squaring the ball to McKenzie, who bagged his seventh goal of the season from close-range. They hit the front eight minutes later, Pacifique Dufitimukiza scoring after a free kick fell invitingly to him. They sealed the points six minutes from time, substitute Finlay Paterson, who was making his debut, getting on the end of McKenzie’s pass before finishing past Alfie Brincat.

Perth Glory have scored late to earn a hard-fought point, after a 2-2 draw against Dianella White Eagles at Dianella Reserve on Saturday evening. “Always a hard place to go to Dianella, we thought we could of came away with three points, but a point on the road isn’t too bad,” Glory’s Alfie Knight said. “We’ve been training all week on some certain things, and I thought we brought that into the game well. We have a week off this week to build again for a big game against Western Knights.”

The home side found the opener on three minutes, Ben Hinshelwood controlled the ball well, held off his marker and played a neat through ball to Hugo Snowden, who made no mistake. But Glory found the equaliser on 77 minutes, substitute Shaun Mutyavaviri raced on to a ball over the top, and rounded Joel Driscoll and rolled the ball into an empty net. But the Eagles regained the lead three minutes later, substitute Chris Saldaris’ header crashed off the post, and Franc Gamiz Quer turned home the rebound. It looked like that would seal the points, but four minutes from time, Glory restored parity. A corner fell to Daniel Jankuloski, who shot was turned in by Maxim Uvarov.

“We went into the game knowing how Glory would want to play and I think we prepared during the week for it very well, and tonight was a tough battle from the very first minute,” Dianella skipper Saša Njegic explained. “It felt like throughout the game we had our fair share of the chances to finish the game, but unfortunately, we didn’t have the end product. We are disappointed to not have walked away from the game with three points, but the one point goes a long way for us at this point in time. Lots of positives to take away from tonight’s game which we hope to take over into our cup clash against East Perth.”

In the final game, Sorrento have made it four straight wins, after a narrow 1-0 win against Fremantle City at Hilton Park. “Another gritty, resilient performance at what is always a hard place to go against a side with quality players,” Sorrento defender Scott Robertson explained. “Fremantle controlled most of the possession throughout but I thought we done an excellent job frustrating them and then catching them on the counter to create some good chances. It’s a style that suits us right now.

“Once we got the goal early in the second half, it was always going to be a big job defensively to deal with them chasing the game but we were solid. Another clean sheet and another game 16-year-old Alex Jovanovic has led the line with maturity beyond his years. We’re giving everything right now, and we have to continue this way.” The only goal of the game came ten minutes into the second half, winger Clay Gibbs made space down the right, before finding skipper Dean Cummings at the near post, and his clever back-heel beat Luke Radonich.

25.4.2026

JOONDALUP EDGE OUT MANDURAH AS THE TABLE TIGHENS UP

We have four team’s level on points, at the top of the State League Division One table, with Kingsley Westside, UWA Nedlands, Gwelup Croatia and Floreat Athena, who do have a game in hand, all level on ten points after some exciting week five games on Saturday. But first in our ‘Match of the Round’ Joondalup City have moved up to fifth, after a tough 2-1 win against Joondalup City at the Poolmart Mandurah Stadium. “Huge win away at one of the toughest places to go to in the league,” Joondalup coach Guy McDonald said. “After conceding early, the response from the boys was outstanding.

“The lads showed real character to turn it around. Louis with a brilliant brace to seal it, and a massive save from Joey Smith late on made all the difference. Couldn’t be any prouder of the team.” The host made a perfect start, and they were ahead on three minutes, with Zander Basile on target. But Joondalup were level before the break, Luke Steer raced in behind the Mandurah defence, before round the keeper and squaring the ball for Louis Hadfield to tap in. The visitors won it just after the hour mark, the lively Hadfield cut in from the left and finished clinically into the far corner from the edge of the box.

Kingsley Westside sit top on goal difference, after a 3-1 win against Cockburn City at Chichester Park. “Delighted to be back on the winners list after last week’s disappointment,” Kingsley coach Ben Andrews said. “We started the game really well, on the front foot and created some good early chances. Cockburn asked a few questions of their own but I thought the lads handled it really well and dug deep for the full 90 to ensure we got the points. It was important we bounced back in the right manner so we couldn’t be happier for the lads.”

The home side were ahead on six minutes, with Raeez Pandor converting from the spot, after Robbie Linford was brought down in the box. But Cockburn levelled 12 minutes later with a cracker from Matt Bowen. But Kingsley weren’t to be denied, and regained the lead, Max Adamson’s shot was saved by Ben Radonich, but Ben Wyeth headed home the rebound. But the points were sealed just before the hour mark, Linford knocked down a free kick and substitute Nicholas Koefler was on hand to score from close-range.

A ten-man UWA Nedlands have beaten Quinns 3-0 at the UWA Sports Park. The hosts lost keeper Tadgh O’Malley just before half time, but they managed to take all three points. “I thought the boys were outstanding in the second half, especially after going down to ten men in the first half, and they executed the half-time team talk perfectly,” UWA coach Kris Donnell said. “To come away with three goals and a clean sheet speaks volumes about the group’s character, discipline, and mentality.”

It was the home side who made the breakthrough on the half hour, with Hugo Matrin on target. But in the shadows of half time O’Malley received a second yellow card and was sent off. Luke Salas was sacrificed, with substitute keeper Jim Collins coming on. But the ten-men made a great start to the second half and doubled their lead two minutes in, with Joseph McInnes scoring. The striker sealed the points midway through the second half, McInnes adding his second.

Gwelup Croatia have made it three straight wins under new coach Toby Wright, after a 1-0 win against Inglewood United at the Proto DPS Inglewood Stadium. “Delighted for the players, they have worked so hard since I’ve come in,” Wright explained. “I thought we comfortably dealt with Inglewood’s trade mark, long throw in and took our chance when it came.” The only goal of the game came on the half hour, Nicholas Echeverria and Jamie Sinnott combined, the latter playing a long pass to Jeremie Mba who was at the half way line. He used his pace to beat his tightly marking defender and his raced around the keeper and slotted into an empty net.

In the final game Murdoch University Melville have secured their first win of the season, after a 2-1 win against Subiaco AFC at Len Shearer Reserve. “Delighted with the win, although we made heavy work of it,” MUMFC assistant coach Gavin Brown said. “We had several good chances to make it safe and then the longer it stays at 2-1, the nervier it gets. Good to get the first win of the season and hopefully we can build on it and look upwards in the table now. It was a real squad performance today. Marc’s substitutes all made a big impact and got us across the line.”

MUMFC were ahead on 14 minutes, Eddie Wynne-Willson was brought down in the box, and the striker picked himself up to convert the resulting penalty. But Subiaco levelled just before half time, with Tomas Despotovski on target. But it would be the hosts who won it 15 minutes from time, Adam Fields shot was saved by Max Winton, but the ball rebounded off the unfortunate Subiaco defender Isaac Scellier and rolled into the net. The final game of the round will be played on Monday, with Floreat Athena hosting Curtin University at E&D Litis Stadium. (3:00pm)

25.4.2026

EAST PERTH MARCH ON AFTER WIN AT ASHFIELD

Our Week Five ‘Match of the Round’ in the State League Division Two has seen East Perth continue their recent good run, coming from behind to beat the inform Ashfield 3-1 at the Ashfield Arena on Saturday evening. “A great result against one of the best sides we have played this season,” East Perth coach Sully Sullivan explained. “A lot of work went into preparation, so hats off to Michael Yarker, he got it spot on. “We started slow, and conceded early, but that didn't stop us and we finally started to play to our strengths and our pressure paid off. I thought after the goal we dominated, and three points away from home is always good and we look forward to the cup next week.”

Ashfield, who went into this one unbeaten this season, found the opening goal on five minutes. A free kick was whipped in by Dougal Kindness, and it deflected off East Perth defender Adam McCarron and looped over the keeper and into the net. But East Perth levelled 20 minutes later, Ryan McCready finishing well from a free kick. The visitors then hit the front, McCarron making up for his own goal, powering a header home. They added a third in the shadows of half time, with McCready bagging his second. McCready went close to a hat-trick on two occasions after the break, but he had to settle for just the two. East Perth skipper Chris Smith said they showed great character to bounce back after an early set-back. “It was a great win and reaction from the team after conceding an early own goal,” he said. “We dominated the first half and it was about closing out the game in the second half which we did, now we look forward to the cup game next weekend against Dianella.”

Ashfield coach Malcom Tshuma said they will learn from the defeat. “We started the game well with an early goal but didn’t capitalise and credit to East Perth for getting themselves back into the game,” he explained. “We pushed hard in the second half but they were well organised and made it difficult for us to create clear cut chances so credit to them. No qualms about the defeat, we will learn from it and get better.”

In the other late game, Rockingham City have maintained their perfect start to the season after a 2-1 win against Wembley Downs at Butlers Reserve. “We knew it was going to be a very tough game, going away to a very good Wembley side, and that’s exactly what it proved to be,” Rockingham coach Matthew Brook said. “I could not be prouder of the character of the boys, and they put in a huge shift and managed to come away with another three points.

“At times we had to dig deep and defend well and I thought that’s exactly what we did. A massive credit to Luke and his team, they will be up there come the end of the season.” The visitors found the opener early, Tom Kinane found space down the left, he took a touch inside and put it into the top corner from just outside the box. But Wembley were level on the half hour, with Mella Loding on target. But on the stroke of half time Rockingham won it, a superb pass over the top by Graham Tough found Kinane, who raced forward and his cross into the box was turned into his own net by a Wembley defender.

It's been a tough week at Forrestfield United, after the departure of coach Daryl Platten, but new coach Edgardo Garrido has overseen a 3-2 comeback win against Morley Windmills at Luxwin Stadium, Hartfield Park. “Some would say it was a game of two halves, but we let two soft goals in where one of them looked offside, but we should have been more brutal to clear our line,” Garrido explained. “I felt we gave the ball away too many times in the first half, although we did create a good scoring opportunity and if it was finished this would have changed the course of the game. In the second half, we played with more intensity to win the ball higher on the pitch. This helped us to attack the wide areas and we were rewarded on the scoreboard. Our comeback was due to the intensity that our players showed in the second half as a team, we played more and was effective enough to turn it around.”

Morley made the better start and were ahead early, with Isaac Ntow scoring. They doubled their lead midway through the first half, with Ntow adding his second, and they led by that score at the break. But the hosts were back in the game on the hour mark, some neat combination from Rhys Loxley and Austin Reynolds, the latter crossing into the box, the clearance only landed to Loxley, who controlled the ball well before finishing clinically from a tight angle. It was game on when Forrestfield levelled, Joshua Bell finding Loxley, who drilled the ball home. Both sides had chances to win it, but it was the hosts who found the winner late. Good work out wide by Bell, saw him beat his marker and found substitute Lucas Reid who made no mistake.

We had a nine-goal thriller at Charles Riley Memorial Reserve, with Kalamunda City moving up to fourth after a 6-3 win against North Beach. “It was a bit of a rollercoaster today for me and Kris (Usedo), and we nearly lost the seatbelt,” coach Kyle Robertson said. “Two goals up at half time, cruising and in full control. Then for 10 minutes we decided to make life interesting and it was 3-3. A massive moment with JakeMaley-Orr pulling off an unreal save to keep it level, because it was getting a bit chaotic out there. Kris and I looked at each other and knew there was nothing we could do from the sideline. This one was on the boys to sort out themselves… and fair play, they did exactly that. Dug in, steadied things, and got the job done.”

The visitors were ahead on the half hour, with Andrea Erbetta finding Thang Sanpichung, who played a neat through ball to Angel Andres, who finished clinically. They added a second on the stroke of half time, Lorran De Almeida’s corner was turned home by Andres. The game looked over when Kalamunda added a third on the hour with another well-worked goal, Erbetta ball found Nicolas Roca, who sent De Almeida in on goal, and he made no mistake. But the hosts weren’t finished, and Galey Zangpo pulled on back moments later, before Mark Bailey added another on 67 minutes. Remarkably they were level 12 minutes from time, with Jayden Rowles on target, and it was game on. But the visitors regained the upper hand, and regained the lead six minutes later, Andres’ shot was deflected into the path of Alexandre Coelho who fired home. They added a fifth shortly after, Erbetta squaring the ball to Andres, and the striker capped of an outstanding performance to complete his hat-trick. They added a sixth late Domenic Mann sending Nikola Zmukic clear, and he finished well.

In the final game Balga have returned from Walter Padbury Reserve, with a 4-1 win against Gosnells City, who are still searching for their first win of the season. “We started the game well and used two of our five chances in the first 20 minutes by putting a lot of pressure on Gosnells,” Balga coach Gerhard Janssen explained. “Then the home team fought hard and came back into the game, and it was necessary to reorganise our midfield and pressed higher which led to a clear dominance in the second half. The result was a series of clear chances and this week we used our opportunities better than against Rockingham. Now we have to keep improving when we go and play against East Perth, who found their form lately.”

The visitors raced to a two-goal lead early, with Jose Zuniga curling effort deflected past Gosnells keeper Lachlan Devine, before Zuniga’s free kick from distance flew into the net. Gosnells reduced the margin on the half hour, with Darren Francis scoring after a long throw. But six minutes into the second half Balga added their third, Ilya Nyblystya pounced on a poor pass from Devine, and looped the ball into an empty net. They sealed the points 20 minutes from time, Christian Zuluanga’s long-range shot crashed off the bar, and Seamus Edwards was quickest to react and headed home. The final game of the round, between Caning City and Carramar Shamrock Rovers will be played next Saturday at Burrendah Park (3:00pm)

25.4.2026

GLORY WIN IT FOR RIZ

Perth Glory have ended their Isuzu Ute A-League season, and farewelled club legend Josh Risdon with a 2-1 win against Brisbane Roar at HBF Park on Saturday evening. Risdon, who called time on his professional career in midweek was brought on with 15 minutes to go and received a standing ovation from the Glory faithful. The hosts had taken the lead, with Gabriel Popovic converting a penalty, before Nicholas Pennnington missed from the spot on the half hour. The Roar levelled just after the hour with Dimitri Valkanis, but a stunning strike from Seb Despotovski sealed the win and gave Risdon the perfect send off.

“I didn’t feel any different coming into the ground, but it hit home when I walked out with the family, and to come on for the last 15 minutes, and play apart was nice, and now I want to soak it all up,” Risdon said post-match. “I’m very lucky to have the support behind me through my journey, and it’s nice to have them here to tonight and share it one last time, and I’m looking forward to the next phase of my life.” Glory went into the game unchanged from last weeks side that drew against Sydney FC

The crowd stood and cheered prior to kick off as Risdon came on the pitch with his wife and children, before the fans and players stood in silence as they observed the last post, celebrating Anzac Day. On to the football, and it Glory who made the breakthrough on eight minutes, Brian Kaltak hooked Pennington’s corner back into the box, and Marius Lode handled the ball and referee Tim Danaskos pointed to the spot. Popovic stepped up and sent Dean Bouzanis the wrong way from the resulting penalty.

The visitors lifted, but Glory held firm, and on the half hour, Glory received another penalty, after Despotovski was brought down in the box by Youstin Salas. Pennington took responsibility this time, but his spot kick hit the woodwork and away to safety. Popovic went close to a second in the shadows of half time, but the striker fired wide when well placed, but Glory held the advantage at the break.

Both sides had early chances in the second half, Michael Ruhs fired wide of the target, before Jaiden Kucharski’s cross picked out Popovic, but he headed straight at Bouzanis. But the Roar were now asking questions, and on 65 minutes Justin Vidic shot was parried by Matt Sutton, and Scott Wootton made a great block to deny Valkanis’ follow up shot. But from the resulting corner the Roar did level, Valkanis challenging Sutton and bundling the ball and the keeper over the line. It looked a clear foul, but the referee awarded the goal and VAR agreed with him.

The visitors went in search of another and Jay O’Shea’s curling shot beat Sutton, but the woodwork came to the rescue of the Glory custodian. The introduction of Risdon on 75 minutes got the crowd on their feet, and they were dancing in the aisles moments later, when Glory regaining the lead, and what a goal it was. Despotovski received the ball 25 meters out, chested the ball down before unleashing an unstoppable shot which flew into the top corner, and he raced off to celebrate with the Shed and active area. Vidic had the ball in the net with a tap-in for another Brisbane equaliser, but it was disallowed for Niall Thom being offside in the build-up.

Substitute Adam Taggart nearly made it three for Glory on the full-time whistle, Anthony Didulica’s blocked shot spilled to the Socceroo striker, but Valkanis did well do block the shot. Tempers flared late as Roar pressed for the equaliser, but Glory held firm. There were emotional scenes post-game as Risdon was joined on the pitch by his young family and given a send-off befitting of a true club legend. The win for the Glory see’s them finishing 10th, with Brisbane finishing in 11th.

“It was an entertaining game, and I thought we matched their physicality, which was something we spoke about prior to the game,” Glory coach Adma Griffiths said post-match. “I was a little disappointed in myself as I took the penalty off Despotovski and gave it to Pennington, and he hit’s the crossbar, and I was cursing myself all the way down the tunnel at half time, and I’m really happy he scored a bomb. You can see the fight in this group, the mentality, the togetherness is there, and there is so much more to give from this group.”

Perth Glory: GK Matt SUTTON, 2 Charbel SHAMOON (24 Andriano LEBIB 83'), 3 Sam SUTTON (19 Josh RISDON 76'), 4 Scott WOOTTON, 7 Nicholas PENNINGTON (22 Adam TAGGART 70'), 9 Jaiden KUCHARSKI (23 Anthony DIDULICA 75'), 16 Gabriel POPOVIC (67 Stefan COLAKOVSKI 70'), 25 Seb DESPOTOVSKI, 27 Will FRENEY, 39 Gio DE ABREU, 45 Brian KALTAK – Subs not used: RGK Ryan WARNER, 17 Arion SULEMANI

Brisbane Roar: GK Dean BOUZANIS, 2 Youstin SALAS GOMEZ, 3 Dimitri VALKANIS, 5 Marius LODE (39 Niall THOM 80'), 8 Samuel KLEIN, 13 Henry HORE, 16 Matthew DENCH, 17 Justin VIDIC, 19 Michael RUHS (27 Benjamin HALLORAN 69'), 31 Noah MAIERONI (26 James O’SHEA 19'), 44 Jordan LAUTON – Sub not used: RGK Macklin FREKE, 6 Austin LUDWIK, 10 George VRAKAS, 35 Mikael EVAGOROU-ALAO - Attendance: 6,901 - Referee: Tim Danaskos

25.4.2026

GREEN MACHINE WIN IT LATE AGAINST THE KNIGHTS

Olympic Kingsway have bounced back from last week’s first defeat of the New Balance NPLWA – Men’s season, and moved back to the top of the table after a come-from-behind 2-1 win against Western Knights in our Week Eight 'Match of the Round' at the Madman Arena, Kingsway Reserve. It was the visitors who dominated the first half, and they found the opener just after the hour with a stunning strike from Sam Barry, but Aryn Willimas levelled shortly after, and it was striker Rob Harker who won it in stoppage time.

It was the visitors, roared on by a vocal group of supporters, who opened brightly, and Jesse Lazzaro’s corner on four minutes picked out Aaron Pike at the back post, his header was saved low by Adrian Sinagra. They were in again moments later, Konstantinos Sparta burst into the penalty area, and his shot on the run flashed just wide of the far post. The hosts, who suffered their first defeat of the season at home last week, hit back and Daniel De Silva sent Liam Boland into the box, he cut the ball back to Ali Mohamed, whose shot was deflected over the top.

Boland was involved again on the quarter hour mark, sending Harker clear, but Regan Hutchinson got back with a great last-ditch tackle. It was the Knights creating the better opportunities, and former Olympic winger Luke Hwewings shot was deflected wide, and shortly after Sparta was given far too much space in the middle of the park, and he drove forward before his shot on the run was tipped over the top by the alert Sinagra.

The chances kept coming for Adam Kostrencic’s side, Sparta’s dink over Sinagra was wide of the target, then Hewing’s long-range shot was well saved by the Olympic custodian. But Olympic finished the half well, and Harker raced into the box, and his shot from the angle hit the post and away to safety. Then in stoppage time Harker’s shot from the edge of the box was saved low by Anthony Lance, but at the break it was all-square.

The hosts made a change at the break with Joe Hobson coming on for Noah Ieraci, and they started well, and Harker’s shot flashed wide of the post, before De Silva’s shot from distance flew over the top. But it would be the Knights who found the opener on 64 minutes. Dylan White picked out substitute Barry on the left, he cut inside his marker and fired home clinically past Sinagra. But their lead only lasted seven minutes.

Mitch Oxborrow’s free kick found Williams, who got in between two Knights defenders to head home. The goal lifted the Green Machine, and Hobson was denied by Lance six minutes later, before after an indirect free kick from inside the box, Oxborrow’s initial shot was straight into the wall, but his second effort crashed off the bar. The Knights were now holding on, as the hosts pressed for the winner, and Harker turned his marker on the edge of the box, but fired straight at Lance.

Lance made two smart saves to deny De Silva, as the home sides pressure built, and in the first minutes of stoppage time they found it. A mis-placed pass was picked off by Ollie Annis on the middle of the park, he fed Hobson down the left, who got to the by-line and squared the ball to Harker, whose shot on the turn hit the back of the net, much to the delight of the home faithful. The Knights pressed late, and sent players forward looking for the equaliser, but David Tough’s side held firm to seal the points. Footballwa – Man of the Match: Mitch Oxborrow (Olympic Kingsway)

Olympic Kingsway: GK Adrian Sinagra, 3 Harley Orr, 4 Ollie Annis, 6 Aryn Williams, 7 Tyler Garner, 8 Mitch Oxborrow, 10 Liam Boland (11 Bryce Bafford 63’), 13 Ali Mohamed (16 Jon Leithead 72’), 14 Noah Ieraci (9 Joe Hobson 46’), 28 Daniel De Silva, 45 Rob Harker – Subs not used: RGK Kaveen Waran, 12 Willliam Ferson, 18 Reegan Mimmaugh, 17 Younous Sow

Western Knights: GK Anthony Lance, 2 Regan Hutchinson, 4 Daniel Walsh, 5 Max Blackshaw (6 Noah Lummert 81’), 7 Dylan White (3 Luke Sprigg 95’), 8 Woonsub Sim, 14 Aaron Pike, 15 Konstantinos Sparta (10 Jack Sprigg 81’), 20 Luke Hewings (18 Sammy Barry 57’), 21 Jesse Lazzaro, 22 Kristian Santich – Subs not used: RGK Robert Sinclair, 16 Justin Tang, 17 Asher Hwight – Referee: Stuart Beattie