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SWANS GO BACK-TO-BACK WHILE JAGAUR WIN FIRST GAME OF THE SEASON – WEEK 13 REVIEW

Swan United have kept the pressure on the top four in the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division, after a 2-0 win against Hamersley Rovers in our week thirteen ‘Match of the Round’ at Carine Open Space on Sunday afternoon. “I’m really pleased with the performance. It was another positive step forward following last week’s win and showed some more progress,” Swan coach Lee Taylor explained. “After conceding too many goals in recent weeks, I was particularly pleased with the way we defended and fully deserved the clean sheet.

“We moved the ball well for periods and created enough opportunities to justify the three points. The impact from the bench was also excellent, with every player who came on making a positive contribution. We will keep working hard and look to build on this momentum again next week.” The visitors found the opening goal on 18 minutes a well worked corner routine was finished well by Chris Marshall in the middle of the penalty area. They sealed the points seven minutes from time, good work by substitute Dami Afolabi on the right saw him drive into the box and play the ball across goal for John Monterosso to finish at the back post.

North Perth United have maintained their lead at the of the table, with a hard fought 2-1 win against Kelmscott Roos at Frye Park. “We went in to the game with ten first team players missing and our left winger having to play in goal but strangely. We were still confident of getting a result. We tweaked our tactics a little and the boys were immense. We had a few Ressie boys up in to the squad and they were very good,” North Perth coach Chris Batten said.

“We allowed them to have the ball but to be honest they didn’t really trouble us. They did score with 25 to go but to a man, we defended and battled brilliantly. Probably my best result as a manager at North Perth. There’s not a lot of teams who take six points home and away against Kelmscott. They’re a tough side with some very good players. But we deserved the three points and we look forward to next week now. Could not have been prouder of the lads today.”

The visitors were ahead early, a great flick on from Tom Fowler from a Marcus Seydel long throw, found Thomas Carroll ghosting in at the back post to head into the corner of the net. North Perth created some good chances, and eventually doubled their advantage in first half stoppage time. A deep cross from club captain Eoin Haverty was controlled just outside the box by Fowler, who raced along the by line, past three defenders, before cutting the ball back to Scott McArthur to score from close range. Kelmscott were on the front foot after the break, and pulled one back just after the hour mark, with Callum Husain on target, but they couldn’t find an equaliser.

Wanneroo City move up to second after a hard fought 2-1 win against Kwinana United at Kelly Park. They were ahead on 20 minutes, Josh Allum made space down the left and put in a great cross where Alan Reidy volleyed it home. They added a second on the hour, a ball over the top sent Reidy through one on one with the keeper and he rounded him and finished into the bottom corner. The hosts pulled one back late, with Luke Tester scoring, which set up a tense finish, but Wanneroo held firm to take home the points. Wanneroo coach Kevin Flavin sad it was battling performance. “It was a great result, as Kwinana away is never an easy fixture, but the lads showed some great character in getting the three points today,” Flavin said. “Especially in the last five minutes as Kwinana threw everything at us to try get an equaliser, but everyone stood up and battled all the way to the final whistle.”

Noranda Emerald sit third, just two points behind the leaders, but were also made to work hard for the three points after a tight 2-1 win against Maccabi at Maccabean Memorial Oval. “Really pleased with the win. We got off to a good start, moved the ball well and created a few chances before finally making the breakthrough. Maccabi are a good side and we knew they'd have their moments, so it was important we stayed disciplined throughout,” Noranda coach Ger Gaughan explained. “We probably made it a bit nervier than it needed to be late on, but overall, I thought we deserved the three points. Another solid win on the road and the lads showed great character to see it out.”

The visitors were ahead on the half-hour mark, when keeper Gerard Doran played an inch-perfect pass through to Shane Hickey, who showed great composure to lob the on-coming keeper. They doubled their lead just before half-time, after some excellent build-up play involving Fionn McClure and Aaron McDaid, with the ball eventually falling to Conor Hogan who finished well into the bottom corner. Maccabi reduced the margin on 68 minutes, with Henry Wilkinson-Derums scoring. They had the opportunity to level late, when they were awarded a penalty, but Doran guessed the right wat to produce a great save to deny Dion Berman.

It’s been a tough season for Jaguar, but they have secured their first win of the season, beating Olympic Kingsway 2-1 at Kingsway Reserve. “Very cool to get our first win - the boys are back! We made it hard on ourselves as usual, and missed some chances that could have put the game beyond reach,” Jags keeper Michael Dudek said. “But we also rode our luck a bit at the end, with them thankfully also not capitalising a few times. I've heard comments flying around that the Jags are now bigger than Jesus. I'm not sure about that, but we have definitely risen again."

The Jags were ahead on 34 minutes, a ball down the left sent Israel Grese racing away, and he cut the ball back to Duol Maduot inside the box, who finished underneath the keeper from close range. They added second shortly after, Kuol Riak found Nasir Koml just inside the penalty area, and he beat his marker before dinking the ball over the on-coming Olympic keeper Ayden Van Zyl. The hosts were back in the game on the hour, a ball from the right was well saved by Dudek, but the rebound fell to Liam Mooney, who fired into an open goal. Olympic pressed for an equaliser, but couldn’t find a way past a tight Jags defence, the visitors celebrating a first win of the season.

In the final game the points were shared, with Kingsley Westside and Ballajura AFC playing out a tight 2-2 draw at Chichester Park. “The lads put in a great effort again, as last week I think we created quite a few opportunities but could not convert enough of them,” Ballajura coach Shane Fitzpatrick said. “Kingsley are a tough side to play against so a point is not a bad result for us. We look forward to Maccabi this Sunday.” The hosts matched their State League side, scoring in the first minute, Reece Lane lobbing the keeper from the edge of the box. But two minutes later Ballajura levelled, a great run by Ali Asghar saw him cut inside from the right and finish with aplomb. But the hosts hit the front again on 20 minutes, the referee spotting a handball, although Ballajura thought there was an offside in the build-up, but Lane made no mistake from the resulting penalty. Ballajura hit back again just before half time, and restored parity. Lucais King putting in a great cross for Daniel Clarkson, who lost his marker to head home. Both sides had chances after the break in a real arm-wrestle, but no one could find the target, and the points were shared.

BALCATTA RETURN TO FORM WHILE AZZURRI MARCH ON - WEEK 15 REVIEW

Balcatta Etna have put a disappointing couple of weeks behind them and consolidated third place on the New Balance NPLWA - Women’s table after a 4-1 win against the Hyundai FW Academy in their week 15 clash at Sam Kerr Football Centre on Sunday afternoon. “I can't argue with today's performance as I feel like it finally credits us with the result we deserved. The last few weeks have been difficult, we have been the better team on the park on multiple occasions this season but dropped unnecessary points, but we only have ourselves to blame,” Balcatta coach Peter Rakic explained. “Consistency has been our biggest downfall, and when we show our true potential.

“I've always believed this group can beat anyone on their day, and today they showed that quality. Moving forward its momentum to build on, but also a hard lesson learned which gives us something to fight for in our push for the top four finals and the state cup. There's still so much to play for and we'll continue to give it everything until the final whistle blows.” It was a perfect start for the visitors, finding the opener on 21 minutes. Moments before Daisy McGreadie-Cole produced a stunning save to deny Caitlin Doeglas, but from the resulting Abbey Meakins corner, Frankie Murray bundled the ball home from close-range.

They doubled their lead 15 minutes later, Monique Godding’s cross from the left picked out Monique D'Opera at the back post who fired home. It was 3-0 before the break, when Zoee Spadano free kick from distance found the net. The Academy were back in the game early in the second half, Balcatta failed to clear their lines, and Ella Lange’s first-time effort from the edge of the box beat Rebecca Bennett. But Balcatta sealed the points just after the hour, Meakins finding the over lapping D'Opera, whose cross shot found the net over McGreadie-Cole.

League leaders Perth Azzurri march on, continuing their unbeaten season, after a 4-1 win against UWA Nedlands at La Vida Homes Stadium, Dorrien Gardens on Saturday evening. “We were really pleased with today's result. I thought we put in a strong performance from start to finish and worked hard for each other all over the pitch,” Perth’s Grace Warburton said. “UWA Nedlands put up a good fight equalising straight away, but I thought we created plenty of chances and took them well. It's a great result for the team, and hopefully we can carry this momentum into our next game.” Tom Glavovic’s side were ahead on four minutes, Daisy McAllister’s goalbound shot was turned into her own net by the unfortunate Phoenix Brownlie.

But UWA hit back, and levelled moments later, Chloe Gaspar’s free kick found an unmarked Shalika Viandrisa, who brought the ball down well and finished with aplomb past well past Dayle Schroeder, only the fourth goal conceded by the league leaders this season. The Azzurri regained the lead midway through the first half, Jessica Flannery crossing from the left, finding Warburton at the back post, who headed past Janina Sauer. They added a third early in the second half, when the referee pointed to the spot after Ruby Marshall was bundled over in the penalty area by Brownlie, and she picked herself up and converted the resulting penalty at the second time of asking. The points were sealed just after the hour, Flannery’s cross shot finding the corner of the net.

Subiaco AFC moved clear of the relegation zone, after hard fought 1-0 win against Sorrento at Percy Doyle Reserve. “Today’s win for us was very important. As it’s coming to the business end of the season every point counts especially when it is against a direct rival in terms of the table,” Subiaco’s Ella Mastrantonio said. “We have held our own this season and have been left reeling over a few results which could have gone our way if we could be more ruthless in front of goal, so a win of this nature is a big step forward for the remainder of the season.” The only goal of the game came on 21 minutes, after Emma Hallowell did well to harass Sorrento defender Ruby Walsh, and getting a foot to the ball to deflect it to Liana Cook, who laid it to the edge of the box and Savannah Olsthoorn swept the ball home. The hosts had a perfect opportunity to level when Claudia Hocking was fouled in the box by Ana Denona. But Briana O'Dell saved well to deny Georgia Cassidy ‘s spot kick, and help Subiaco leave with all three points.

In the final game Fremantle City remain second, after another strong performance, beating Perth RedStar 2-0 at Hilton Park. The hosts hit the front on 27 minutes, a poor pass from Ava Santos was pounced on by Tanika Lala, who raced forward, before slipping a neat through ball to Leyna Wood, who rounded the keeper to score. They sealed the points seven minutes from time, Samantha Brady’s cross from the right found Lala, who laid the ball to the edge of the box to Ischia Brooking, who finished clinically past Gabby Dal Busco.

FREMANTLE TOO STRONG FOR SORRENTO

Fremantle City have moved within two points of the top four, and built momentum for the Hahn Australia Cup round of 32 clash against Maitland FC in ten days’ time, after a 2-0 win against Sorrento in the rescheduled week 19 New Balance NPLWA – Men’s clash at Percy Doyle Reserve on Saturday afternoon. “We were in buoyant mood today and were dominant, and I felt we were in total control today with a reshuffled team,” Fremantle assistant coach Dale Wingell explained.

“We repelled everything that they could throw at us. We created plenty of opportunities which was pleasing to see and, on another day, they would have gone in for us. Defensively we were strong all over the park. It was one of those games where every single player absolutely bossed it for us, and we were able to get some minutes into our bench and clean sheet was icing on the cake. A great result and we roll onto next week.”

The visitors found the opener on 21 minutes, the lively Chad Nilson was brought down in the box and the referee pointed straight to the spot, and Nick Ambrogio stepped up and dispatched the resulting penalty. They doubled their advantage six minutes later, when a corner was whipped in by Charlie Chechlacz and Isaiah Wingell rose highest to head home. Chechlacz went close to a third on the hour, his shot crashing off the crossbar, before Iljas Ahmedov was denied by a great save from Ben Ratajczak.

Fremantle brought on new signing Michael Domfeh, and he was soon involved, alongside another substitute Paul Zimarino, sending Nilson in on goal, but Ratajczak made another smart save to thwart the winger. Sorrento were struggling in the final third, but did go close fifteen minutes from time, Keegan Chambers cross was inches away from Clay Gibbs, and moments later Will Richards raced into the box, but delayed his shot and the chance was gone. Fremantle were dangerous going forward and Domfeh went close down the other end firing over the top.

Then Josh Risdon sent Nilson racing down the left, and his shot was pushed away by the alert Ratajczak. Luke Radonich then produced a great save to his right to deny half time substitute Rene Kisesa, as Sorrento looked for a late lifeline. But they couldn’t find one, with Fremantle running out 2-0 winners. “With the boys on a great run it was important to keep it up,” Fremantle skipper Charlie Chechlacz said. “It’s also good to keep in touch of the teams above us heading into the end of the year.”

Sorrento: GK Ben Ratajczak, 4 Manolo Veneracion (3 Jude Gauntlett 83’), 5 Ronan Dowling, 6 Scott Robertson, 8 Manase Abandelwa (18 Keegan Chambers 73’), 10 Jakub Prajza (14 Rene Kisesa 46’), 15 Will Richards, 16 Ryan McLaughlin, 17 Dean Cummings, 19 Clay Gibbs, 23 Ryan Inman (21 Alexander Jovanovic 88’) – Subs not used: RGK Sonny Inzalaco, 22 Luka Chokolich, 24 Christopher Niles

Fremantle City: GK Luke Radonich, 3 Josh Risdon, 4 Ben Steele, 7 Chad Nilson, 8 Charlie Chechlacz, 10 Nick Ambrogio (9 Michael Domfeh 68’), 11 Shubham Mokala, 13 George Festa, 14 Iljas Ahmedov (6 Cameron Edwards 68’), 15 John Chalmers, 17 Taj Bingwa (20 Paul Zimarino 68’), 19 Isaiah Wingell – Subs not used: RGK Tom Allan, 18 Takumi Kambai, 21 Lucas Rossi – Footballwa – Man of the Match: Josh Risdon (Fremantle City)

DOLPHINS CONTINUE TO MAKE A SPLASH AS FLOREAT REGAIN TOP SPOT – WEEK 16 REVIEW

Mandurah City have moved into third on the State League Division One table, after a come-from-behind 2-1 winners in our week sixteen ‘Match of the Round’ at Iluka Park on Saturday afternoon. "Coming into the game, we knew just how important these three points were for our season. Going away to Joondalup is always a tough challenge, but the lads gave absolutely everything from the first whistle to the last,” Mandurah coach Zac Headington explained.

“Their mentality was outstanding they stayed disciplined, showed resilience in difficult moments, and never stopped believing in what we were trying to achieve. Overall, I thought we fully deserved the three points. It's a massive credit to the entire group for the effort, commitment and mentality they showed today. This is a result they should be proud of, but we'll stay focused, keep working hard and prepare for the next challenge."

It was the home side who found the opener on 38 minutes, Taiga Kobayashi won possession in the middle of the park and his ball sent Harry Edwards racing clear, with the Mandurah defence looking for the offside flag, that never came, he dinked the ball over the oncoming Josiah Godfrey, the ball going in despite a goal line clearance attempt from Maxwell Worswick. Mandurah were level seven minutes into the second half, Sam Lovell flicking on a throw in from Kingston McGirr to Jordan Callaghan, who shot found the bottom corner of the net.

Mandurah won it 18 minutes from time, a long clearance from Worswick found substitute Charlie Breen, who held off his marker and crossed to Lovell, who made no mistake. “It was a massive win for the group. Going into halftime 1-0 down away from home, we knew we had to lift, and I thought everyone responded really well,” Mandurah keeper Josiah Godfrey explained. “We stayed positive, stuck together, and showed a lot of composure in the second half, and to come back and win 2-1 says a lot about this team. It’s another important three points for us and another positive step forward, but with plenty of football still to be played, we’ll keep our feet on the ground and focus on the next challenge.”

Floreat Athena have returned to the top of the table after a 4-0 win against Curtin University at Green Promo Park, Edinburgh Oval. “Another step forward for us in difficult conditions for both team with a less than average surface to play on,” Floreat coach Alun Vernals explained. “Once we got the first goal we settled very well and controlled the rest of the game, we now move on to Quinns next week.” The visitors found the opener on the half hour, Harry Lewis losing his marker in the penalty area to head home. They doubled their lead in first half stoppage time, Lewis’ free kick from the right was turned home by Jordan Langley. They sealed the points, with two quick-fire goals after the break. First on 55 minutes, Alec Radonich made a smart save to deny Langley, but Lewis was on hand to sweep the rebound home. Then seven minutes later, Lewis’ cross picked out Luis Adlard, who controlled the ball well and finished neatly past Radonich.

Quinns produced their best performance of the season, beating UWA Nedlands 2-1 at Stylish Park, Gumblossom Reserve. “We knew the challenge in front of us today. Playing the league leaders demands discipline, courage, and concentration for 90 minutes. The players delivered all three and earned a well-deserved 2-1 victory,” Quinns coach Nick Jennings explained. “The boys should be proud of their performance. Results like this don’t happen by chance. They come from the work the players put in every week. Today they trusted the game plan, competed for every ball, and showed the mentality needed to deservedly beat a very good side. But for some very bad decisions by three very poor officials the victory would have been far more emphatic and comfortable.”

Quinns were ahead on nine minutes, Christos Vaenas, managed to skip around a couple of challenges on the edge of the box as he drifted across the penalty box, and his curling effort found the top corner of the net with aplomb. They doubled their lead five minutes into the second half, a ball over the top by Elliot Ireland was misjudged by UWA keeper Tadgh O’Malley and Vaenas rolled the ball into an empty net. But UWA hit back immediately, and reduced the margin moments later, Lewis Nohar’s corner was headed home by Jake Sardelic. They pressed for the equaliser, but Quinns held firm to take home the points.

Gwelup Croatia have returned to the winner’s circle, and coach Taki Nicolaidis has won for the first time since returning to the club, beating Inglewood United 2-1 at the Croatian Sporting Complex, Wishart Street, “Super happy and proud of our team’s performance and most importantly getting the win,” Nicolaidis said. “The group have been very competitive in recent weeks without getting a result and I’m very pleased that they managed to get this one over the line.” The home side were ahead just before the break. Jack Bardsley won the ball and played it through to Jai Rawling, the ball was then intercepted by Luke Sprigg, and it was turned into his own net by an Inglewood defender. They added a second on 68 minutes, Omar Diarra made space down the right, and he played in Roberto Soares, who nutmegged his marker just outside the box and then curled the ball into the bottom corner. Inglewood found a lifeline nine minutes from time, Declan Hudson’s shot took a deflection, which looped over Rocco Liberti, but Gwelup held firm to take the points.

Kingsley Westside have bounced back from two straight defeats, coming home from Dalmatinac Park with a 2-0 win against Cockburn City. “A great performance and result away to Cockburn. I thought we started the game on the front foot and continued to be positive for the rest of the first half,” Kingsley coach Ben Andrews said. “Heading into the second half with a two-goal lead can often be dangerous, but I thought the lads were excellent in managing the rest of the game. They have had to really dig in over the past few weeks with a lot of players unavailable due to a variety of reasons, but they have all stuck together, worked hard and this result is well deserved for all their efforts.” It was a perfect start for Kingsley, ahead after only 20 seconds. Cockburn turned the ball over from the kick off, and Xavier Medica raced forward, his shot from the edge of the box was saved by Ben Radonich, and Paul Stewart was hand to score from the rebound. They doubled their lead, and sealed the points on the half hour, Jamie Gardiner sending Ben Ford in on goal, and he finished low past Radonich.

In the final game the points were shared, with Subiaco AFC drawing 1-1 with Murdoch University Melville at Len Shearer Reserve. “Frustrated again for us, with a late equaliser,” MUMFC assistant coach Gavin Brown said. “We had chances to put the game to bed and didn’t take them and then Subiaco threw everything at us towards the end. That’s our seventh draw in 16 games so clearly, we’re close, but we’ve let too many points slide.” The visitors, who were looking for a second away win of the season, were ahead on 31 minutes, Tyler Nyabinde picked the ball up on the right-hand side, and raced forward, into the box before finding the corner of the net past Riccardo Mazzoleni. But six minutes from time Subiaco drew level. Ben Bathgate’s cross to the back post found George Wishart, whose looping header beat Duncan Lennon-Black.

ROCKINGHAM SCORE LATE TO BEAT MORLEY AS CANNING MOVE OFF THE FOOT OF THE TABLE – WEEK 15 REVIEW

Rockingham City have scored two late goals, and increased their lead at the top of the State League Division Two table after a 2-1 win against Morley Windmills in our week fifteen ‘Match of the Round’ at the Endeavour Homes Group Stadium, Lark Hill Sportsplex on Saturday afternoon. “First half we were well below par and Morley controlled it well and deserved their half-time lead. Second half we were better and needed to control the game better and gain a better foothold which we managed to do,” Rockingham coach Matthew Brook explained.

“To come back from 1-0 down at half time and take the three points shows the character of this group, but we know we can’t continue to put ourselves in this position and expect to keep grinding out results.” The visitors found the opener five minutes before the break, with Adam Tong scoring. But Rockingham drew level just before the hour mark, some patient football down the right, saw Robert Galvin found the overlapping Joe Moss with a touch of quality, and he squared it for Brian Patterson who tapped it in.

They hit the front on 77 minutes, a great through ball from substitute Harry Quigley found Tom Kinane, who raced in on goal and made no mistake finishing low and across the keeper into the bottom left corner. Morley ended the game with ten men, after Daire Austin was shown a second yellow card. “The first half was probably the poorest we have played as a unit all season, but credit where it's due with the dressing room we have,” Rockingham’s Graham Tough said. “We found a way second half to make up for the first half performance and got the three points. Another big week on the training pitch to get ready for an in-form Balga side.”

Carramar Shamrock Rovers remain unbeaten this season, but they had to settle for a 2-2 after East Perth scored deep into stoppage time to give both sides a share of the spoils in the Irish Derby at Hudson Park. “I felt we were comfortable in the first half we hit the crossbar twice and it was looking like we would need some luck to get on the score sheet, but we managed to take the lead into the break,” Rovers’ coach Adam Walsh explained. “We conceded an early goal in the second half but managed to get back in front again. Again, we felt comfortable but last ten minutes East Perth threw everything at us and got a goal for the risk. Lads dug deep yet again to keep us in the fight for promotion.

“Unfortunately, the referee disallowed a goal for offside and waved off two penalty decisions, offside was close but definitely made an error with the penalty decisions in my opinion. It sets up a massive game against Wembley next week, we are looking forward to it.” Rovers hit the front in the shadows of half time, Jackson Dongray heading home a free kick. But East Perth levelled eight minutes into the second half, with Adam Mclaughlin scoring. But Rovers regained the lead 13 minutes later, with Jack Reilly finishing neatly after a good move. It looked like the points were going home with Rovers, but deep into stoppage time East Perth restored parity, with Ceilum Coughlan Maher on target to give both sides a share of the spoils.

Forrestfield United have consolidated fourth place after beating Kalamunda City 2-1 in the local derby at Aero Ranger Maida Vale Reserve. “It was a good result for us to keep in touch of the top teams. We knew its make or break time at this point of the season and after an extremely disappointing game last week, and we owed it to ourselves to put in a better performance this week,” Forrestfield skipper Shaydon Passalacqua explained. “We have a very big injury list at the moment but the young guys who stepped in today really showed they deserve those selections when called upon.

“It was a hard-fought win, and at times this year we have dropped points from a winning position so it was great to finally get one back. Also, it was great to see Austin (Reynolds) back on the score sheet as he possesses some outstanding finishing abilities.” A tight first half sprung into life ten minutes into the second half, with the hosts scoring, after scramble in the box a shot deflected off a Forrestfield defender and beat Charlie Bayliss. But Forrestfield hit back and were back on level terms 13 minutes from time, Lucas Reid was brought down in the box, and he picked himself up to beat Jake Marley-Orr from the resulting penalty. Then shortly after the visitors won it. A lobbed through ball was taken down perfectly by Austin Reynolds, and he finished clinically. The hosts ended the game with ten, after Marley-Orr was sent off after racing out his box and bringing down Reynold.

Canning City have moved off the bottom of the table after a convincing 5-1 win in the ‘Frank Longstaff Trophy’ game against Gosnells City at Colleen Egan MLA Grounds, Walter Padbury Park. “It was a dominate performance and we probably should have scored a few more in my opinions, the boys have been playing well for weeks but have struggled to take our chances, today we did better in front of goal and got the three points,” Canning coach Lee Hayward explained. “Hopefully it kicks starts of the rest of our season, but we know it’s not going to be easy and we have to remain focused and up for every game.”

The visitors opened well, with Brian Mashingaidze hitting the post in the first couple of minutes, before Freeman Nyatsambo had an effort well saved by Lachlan Devine. But somewhat against the run of play it was Gosnells who opened the scoring, on 14 minutes, with skipper Aaron Coslani converting from the spot. But Canning levelled seven minutes later, Nyatsambo finding Mashingaidze to score. The big striker gave Canning the lead four minutes later, scoring directly from a corner. Mashingaidze then completed his hat trick from the spot. They sealed the points early in the second half, Ben Thorpe whipped in a great ball for Patrick Southall to head home, before Mashingaidze fired home his fourth late to seal a 5-1 win.

Meanwhile Wembley Downs remain third, four points off the leaders after goals either side of half time sealed a 2-0 win against North Beach at Charles Riley Memorial Reserve, which also sent the hosts to the bottom of the table. “I felt it was a professional performance today, and we managed the game well and got the job done,” Wembley coach Luke Thompson said. “North Beach were dangerous at set pieces and transition, so we had to be careful to manage that, but felt overall from our perspective that we did enough.”

Wembley were ahead in the final minute of the second half, Josh Waldock was played in down the line and battled to win the ball near the corner flag, before crossing the ball into the box where the ball was deflected into Toby Robertson’s path who made no mistake. They sealed the points five minutes into the second half, Rory Hannon was played in down the right, before a lofted ball in behind the defensive line found Robertson, who raced onto it and volleyed home. In the final game a first-strike half strike from Lal Cung proved the difference for Balga, sealing a hard-fought 1-0 win against Ashfield at the Ashfield Arena, and continued Balga’s good form, moving them up to fifth on the table.

BAKER AT THE DOUBLE TO SEND REDSTAR TO THE TOP OF THE TABLE

Perth RedStar have moved back to the top of the New Balance NPLWA – Men’s table after a come-from-behind 2-1 win against Olympic Kingsway, in today’s top of the table clash at the Madman Arena, Kingsway Reserve. Olympic led at the break, with Liam Boland converting from the spot, and it looked like they would take the points, but RedStar substitute Jack Baker had other ideas heading home two late goals to seal the comeback win.

“So happy and proud of the boys for a huge win at Kingsway today, it’s not often we go there and take three points and I thought result was thoroughly deserved in an even game,” RedStar coach Callum salmon said post-match. “Amazing performances from Aaron Black, two assists, and Jack Baker two huge goals when it mattered the most. We move on to Fremantle next, and we’ve got to keep winning.”

Both sides knew a win would see them leap clear at the top of the table, and it was the hosts who had the best early chance. A quick free kick from Reegan Mimnaugh sent Jon Leithead down the right, and his low cross found Boland, who shot was cleared off the line by the alert Blair Govan. RedStar hit back and Liam Murray, who had been lively early, saw his curling effort saved by Mark Birighitti, who was making his home debut for Olympic.

The hosts were creating the better chances, and neat one-two with Joe Hobson and Boland, saw the latter’s shot on the run deflected wide. They went close again on 24 minutes, Jawed Rezai’s cross from the right was fired wide by Harley Orr, and moments later Rezai’s cross picked out Hobson, but his first time shot drifted wide. Liam Reddy was called into action soon after, making a smart reaction save to deny Rezai, after a low cross from Leithead.

But on the half hour, the home sides pressure was rewarded with the opening goal, with referee David Bruce pointing to the spot after Murray brought down Rezai. Boland stepped up and converting the resulting penalty, despite Reddy getting a hand to it. RedStar looked for an immediate response, and a clever back heel from Riley Warland found Murray in space in the box, but he delayed his shot and had to rush his effort, which was tipped around the post by Birighitti. Then from the resulting corner Gordon Smith headed wide the back post. But at the break it was Olympic with a narrow lead.

RedStar were on the front foot after the break, but clear-cut chances were few and far between, the best fell to Warland, whose long-range shot was straight at Birighitti, and moments later a great last-ditch block by Jack Clisby denied Matthew George, who had found space on the edge of the box. Rezai continued to be a threat for Olympic, and his shot flashed over the top, as they searched for a second. Reddy was then called into action just after the hour mark, Rob Harker was sent clear by Younous Sow, and his cross was blocked but fell to Boland on the edge of the box, but his shot was well saved by the former Perth Glory custodian.

Callum Salmon went to the bench, with Baker coming on for Smith on 68 minutes, and he was to have a telling contribution for RedStar, levelling on 82 minutes. Fellow substitute Aaron Black’s corner from the left found the big striker, who lost his marker to head home. Then two minutes later he won it, Warland sending Black down the right, and his pinpoint cross to the back post found Baker, who headed home and raced off to celebrate with his teammates.

The hosts went close to the equaliser four minutes later, Harker racing clear from Hobson’s through ball, but his shot on the run was well saved by the alert Reddy. They had one last chance in stoppage time to take a point, with Rezal’s inswinging corner punched away by Reddy from under his bar, but at the final whistle it was the visiting supporters celebrating the victory, and send them three points clear at the top of the table, while defeat leaves Olympic four points adrift in third.

Olympic Kingsway: GK Mark Birighitti, 3 Harley Orr, 4 Oliver Annis, 9 Joe Hobson, 10 Liam Boland, 15 Jawad Rezai, 16 Jon Leithead, 17 Younous Sow (12 William Ferson 77’), 18 Reegan Mimnaugh, 19 Jack Clisby, 45 Rob Harker – Subs not used: RGK Kristian Rasano, 2 Oliver Stickells, 6 Aryn Williams, 7 Tyler Garner, 13 Luka Harvey, 20 Craig Barreiro

Perth RedStar: GK Liam Reddy, 2 Nick Walsh, 3 Riley Warland, 4 Blair Govan, 10 Matthew George, 13 Brandon O’Neill, 14 Gordon Smith (39 Jack Baker 68’), 18 Tom Hough, 19 Ryan Finnie, 20 Liam Murray (21 Benson Nsegetse 61’), 23 Jacob Evans (9 Aaron Black 61’) – Subs not used: RGK Luca Iovene, 6 Matthew Ntoumenopoulos, 16 George Losondo, 28 Will Carter – Referee: David Bruce

STATE RESERVES AND 18’S LEAGUE CUP SEMI-FINAL WRAP

The semi-finals of the State reserves and under 18’s League Cup were completed in midweek, and we wrap up all four games. First in the reserves, Olympic Kingsway proved too strong for Division One Quinns at Stylish Park, Gumblossom Reserve, running out 10-0 winners. Younous Sow bagged five goals on the night, with others to Craig Barreiro, Dominguez Rubina, Roberto Salas, Enzo Rancatore and skipper Thomas Sallis.

The other tie was a closer affair, with Division One Joondalup City upsetting NPL Perth RedStar 5-4 on penalties, after the game ended 1-1 at full time at Iluka Park. Sam Lawless gave the hosts the lead early, but Seth McGillivray levelled before the break. Neither side could find a winner, and it was City who held their nerve in the shoot-out. Joondalup coach Darren Veness was delighted with his side’s performance on the night. “We knew that playing against RedStar was going to be a very difficult task. However, being the cup and having beaten two NPL teams we knew we had as good a chance as any as long as we didn't give them time or space to play,” Veness explained.

“Scoring first, settled the team but then for a 20-minute spell RedStar played great football and pinned us back resulting in them equalising. They then got a penalty, but our keeper Brett Corey made a great save to keep it at 1-1. The second half, we made a few changes and continued to attack them, but just couldn't find the net. Penalties beckoned for the fourth time for us and Ryder King, Ollie Dobson, Tatenda Madziva, Rohan Patel and Teddy O'Shea all hit great penalties to put us in the final.”

In the under 18’s Perth Glory proved too strong for Division Two side Carramar Shamrock Rovers, running out 10-0 winners at Grandis Park. Hedassiea Tesfay scored a hat-trick off the bench, with Kanato Etheridge bagging a brace, and singles to Jetagon Matassa, Miel Fuentes, Oliver Margiotta, Riki Hirobe and Joseph Carle. In the other tie, Stirling Macedonia beat fellow NPL side Perth RedStar 2-0 at Macedonia Park. Cruz Willson gave the home side the lead after only six minutes, before Oska Kawabata sealed the tie with a second early in the second half. Stirling coach Ed Cross said it was a great night, and great performance from his players, in front of a good crowd

“It was a closely fought game against a very well-drilled Perth RedStar side, and goal-scoring opportunities were at a premium throughout the night. Fortunately, we were able to take our chances when they mattered most,” Cross explained. “I was really pleased with the way the boys stood up to the challenge. Defensively, they had to work extremely hard for the full 90 minutes against a quality opposition, and I thought they showed great resilience, discipline and maturity to see the game out.

“The atmosphere at Macedonia Park was fantastic as well, with a great crowd supporting the team, and it made the occasion feel like a proper cup semi-final. We’re very proud to have reached the State Under-18s Cup Final this season, especially after falling at the semi-final stage last year. It’s a credit to the hard work and commitment the players have shown throughout the campaign.”

TIMMINS HEADS OVERSEAS ON LOAN

Perth Glory midfielder Callum Timmins has joined Cambodian Premier League side Phnom Penh Crown on a one-year loan deal. The Red Singha finished as runners-up last season, and will play in the AFC Champions League Two later this year. The 26-year-old joined the Glory Academy in 2015, and after a successful spell in the NPL, he signed a contract with the A-League club. The midfielder, who was born in Birmingham in the UK, left in 2019, and played for Balcatta Etna in the NPL, before helping ECU Joondalup to their first NPL title in 2020.

He returned to Glory the next season, and went on to play over 40 games, and scored two goals, but he left again in 2022, joining Newcastle Jets, where he had three seasons and played over 60 games. But a return home last season, saw him play 12 A-League appearances, seven of which were in the starting lineup. Timmins said the move on loan is a challenge he’s looking forward to, and after speaking to the coach, it was an easy decision. “I’m very excited to be here, and I spoke to coach Oleh Starynskyi before coming here and he told me the way he wants to play, and the history of the club, so yes excited to be here,” Timmons told the clubs media.

“For the upcoming season I think the team wants to win the league after finishing second last season, and also go well in the Asian Champions League.” The midfielder also had a message to the Phnom Penh supporters. “To the fans, it’s going to be a good year, and a successful one, so get yourself down to the game and be part of the team’s success this season, Timmins added.”

Glory Football Director Stan Lazaridis said Timmins will benefit from the experience of playing overseas for the first time. “This loan move is an exciting opportunity for Callum at this stage of his career and he is determined to seize it with both hands,” he told the Glory website. “He is a very popular character within the club and we wish him all the very best for his time in Cambodia.” – Good luck Callum!!!!

BELT-UP AMATEUR PREMIER DIVISION – WEEK THIRTEEN PREVIEW

We head into week thirteen of the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division, and it’s tight at the top of the table with only six points separating the top six, and two of them meet in our ‘Match of the Round’ with Hamersley Rovers entertaining Swan United at Carine Open Space (All games kick off at 3:00pm) The visitors returned to the winners circle last week against Ballajura AFC after three straight defeats, while Rovers drew at Wanneroo City to make it three straight draws and six games without defeat, so it sets up a thrilling game in the northern suburbs.

In their meeting earlier in the season the points were shared at the Swan Italian Club, Francis Street after 1-1 draw in week two. The hosts found the opener on two minutes. Mehrab Rahimi won possession high up the pitch and he found John Monterosso, who converted from six yards. But Rovers hit back to earn a point, after they were rewarded a penalty on 54 minutes, after Ryan Charles was brought down by Thomas Eddie. The defender was sent off, and Emmanuel Kankpeyeng stepped up and made no mistake from the resulting spot kick, to give both sides a share of the spoils.

Rovers coach Antony Benetti said if Sunday is anything like the games against Swan this season, it should be another great game. “We've had two tough battles with Swan already this year and expect the same this weekend,” Benetti said. “The league is extremely tight so every game is extremely important. The group has done it tough with a number of players out recently but we're starting to welcome them back which is creating that intensity you want in training. We restored a bit of pride last week however it’s now about getting back the consistency we showed for most of the season thus far. We are all looking forward to the game this weekend.”

Swan coach is looking to build on last week’s win, and like his Hamersley counterpart he has players returning to the squad and knows the importance of a win this weekend. “Last week’s win was an important one for us. After three consecutive defeats, it was vital that we responded in the right way, and I was pleased with the character the players showed to get the result,” Taylor explained.

“That said, one win doesn’t change anything on its own. We now need to build some consistency and carry that momentum into another difficult game against Hamersley. It was a tight game last time we played and they are a good side who will test us, so we’ll need another committed performance. The league is incredibly tight and every point is valuable, so we’re fully focused on continuing to improve each week and the players are looking forward to the challenge on Sunday.”

In other games this weekend, we have a top of the table clash as league leaders North Perth United head to Frye Park to take on second placed Kelmscott Roos, and with only goal difference separating the two sides it’s a huge three points for both. Wanneroo City hit the road, with a trip to Kelly Park to meet Kwinana United, Maccabi welcome Noranda Emerald to Maccabean Memorial Oval, while Olympic Kingsway host Jaguars at Kingsway Reserve, in a huge game at the foot of the table.

In the final game the improving Ballajura AFC visit Chichester Park to meet Kingsley Westside. The hosts are coming off a loss at Noranda last week, while Ballajura, who have been on the improve in recent weeks, were edged out at Swan United, and coach Shane Fitzpatrick said Sunday is a big game for them. “We will be heading into Sunday's game full of confidence knowing we need nothing less than three points,” Fitzpatrick said. “The lads had a great performance last week, but we came up short, so if we can just tidy up the little things and start finishing our chances we will pick up results second half of the season.”

YOUNG KEEPER JOINS GLORY

Perth Glory have added to their goalkeeping stocks, after the recent departures of Cameron Cook and Mark Birighitti, after signing young keeper Daniel Solsky on a one-year deal from NPL NSW side Wollongong Wolves. The 23-year-old, who was previously at Sydney FC, and Spanish side Marbella FC, was in impressive form for the Wolves in the league and the Australian Championship over the last two seasons, making 44 appearances and keeping 12 clean sheets.

The keeper is now excited for the next chapter of his football journey in the west. “I’m really grateful to Adam Griffiths, Stan Lazaridis and the coaching staff for believing in me and giving me this opportunity," he told the Glory website. “It’s something I’ve been working towards for a long time and I’m ready to come in, work hard and do everything I can to repay that faith.

“I’m really excited by the vision of the club and the direction Griff and the coaching staff are taking the group. From my experience so far, the culture at Glory has been first class and there’s a great feeling amongst all involved. I’m looking forward to working with high-quality coaches and players, pushing myself every day and continuing to become the best that I can be. My focus now is on contributing as much as I can and being part of a team that has a successful 2026/27 season."

Lazaridis believes that the Solsky’s signing will significantly strengthen the club’s goalkeeping unit, working with number one Matt Sutton and youth keeper Ryan Warner. "Daniel is a very talented young ‘keeper who we have had our eye on for some time and is highly rated by our coaching staff," he said. "He’s got a good physical presence about him, makes some really big saves and has the type of strong work ethic that will make him an excellent fit for our squad. "Daniel comes highly recommended by [Wollongong Wolves Head Coach] Luke Wilkshire and we look forward to seeing him continue to fulfil his huge potential in a full-time professional environment here at Glory."

TWO BIG RESCHEDULED GAMES IN NPL BYE WEEK

We have a truncated New Balance NPLWA – Men’s fixtures this weekend, with an official bye round. But we have two rescheduled games on Saturday, with the week fourteen clash between third placed Olympic Kingsway and second placed Perth RedStar at the Madman Arena, while there is a week 19 game between Sorrento and Fremantle City at Percy Doyle Reserve. (Both games kick off at 3:00pm) Firstly in the top of the table clash, a win for either Olympic or RedStar, will see them take top spot from Bayswater City, and games between the two sides have been tight in recent seasons. They met in week two this season at the RedStar Arena, and they played out a scoreless draw, and the last time they met at Saturday’s venue was in week 15 last season, when it was also a 0-0 draw.

RedStar bounced back last week, from their loss at Bayswater the previous week, with an own goal from Kade Fearnall giving them a 1-0 win against Stirling Macedonia. The signing of Perth Glory midfielder Brandon O’Neill has bolstered the midfield, while striker Aaron Black is also back from injury, and coach Callum Salmon said it’s a huge game for both sides, and it should be a cracker. “Looking forward to the weekend,” Salmon said. “Since Kingsway were promoted, the rivalry has been building every season and it’s a fixture that I think both clubs really look forward too. Both teams like to play football which is always a far more enjoyable game. Given how tight the league is the fixture is very important and we’re ready to fight for the three points.”

Striker Gordon Smith said they have had a good week on the track, and are looking to regaining top spot, but knows it will be a tough game. “We’re looking forward to the game. We know what Kingsway are capable of on their day, and going there is never an easy task. As a squad, we’ve had a good week of preparation, we’re focused, and we’re ready to give everything for 90+ minutes” Smith said. “Every game in the NPL is a challenge, and we know we’ll have to be at our best. If we stick to our game plan, work hard for each other, and take our chances when they come, we’re confident we can put in a strong performance and hopefully come away with the result we’re after.”

Olympic produced a stunning away performance last week, thrashing Armadale 6-1, with new signing Jawad Rezai grabbing a hat-trick on his debut, with others from Joe Hobson, Jonathon Leithead and Rob Harker. The club have been hit with a number of injuries recently, with the experienced Mitch Oxborrow, Aryn Williams and keeper Adrian Sinagra all missing, but they hope to get a few back this week. Olympic coach Richard Garcia said they are focused on the big game. “The team are looking forward to the challenge ahead on the weekend,” Garcia said. “The team are focused on pushing for the top spot in the league and the next step is Saturday’s game.”

Striker Liam Boland said RedStar are a good side, but he is confident they can get the job done. “We are all excited for this week’s game. RedStar have obviously shown how good a side they are this season, with not long left to go this season it’s a massive occasion for both teams,” Boland explained. “We are going into the game off of the back of a good performance at Armadale, which is never an easy place to play, and hopefully we can continue our form and push on for the remainder of the season and fight for silverware.”

Meanwhile, Fremantle City have brought forward their week 19 fixture with Sorrento, which will give them time to recover after their Hahn Australia Cup tie against Maitland FC in NSW on July 22. The port side sit just outside the top four, after a good run of form, the latest was a hard fought 1-1 draw with league leaders Bayswater last week. They have only lost twice in the league in the last ten games, and one of them was against Sorrento in week eight at Hilton Park, when a goal from Dean Cummings gave the Gulls a 1-0 win. The last time they met at Saturday’s venue was in week 16 last season, when Fremantle left with a 2-1 win.

The visitors were ahead on 18 minutes, Hayden Stevens ball sent Sam Cook down the left, he raced into the box and cut the ball back from the by-line to Charlie Chechlacz who found the net via a deflection. They doubled their lead nine minutes later, and neat give and go with Nick Ambrogio, saw Chechlacz race in into goal and finish neatly past Ben Ratajczak. Sorrento had the perfect opportunity to get back into the game after they were awarded a penalty on 72 minutes, but Cummings penalty was saved by Luke Radonich. The hosts did pull one back three minutes from time, Neil Kilkenny’s cross to the back post was sent back across goal by Phoenix Lee and Ryan McLaughlin bundled the ball home, but it was too little too late for the hosts.

Fremantle assistant coach Dale Wingell said its business as usual. “Another league game and another tough place to go and get a result. We'll prepare as we have all season, with the same focus, commitment, and attention to detail,” he explained. “The competition within our squad remains at a high level and every player is determined to make an impact in whatever way they can. We've prepared thoroughly for our opponents and we know what we'll need to do to give ourselves the best opportunity to come away with a positive result. Like every team, we've had to deal with injuries, absences, and illness, but there will be no excuses come Saturday. While there are other things on the horizon, our entire focus is on this weekend's fixture and producing the performance we're capable of.”

Sorrento sit ninth and are coming off three straight defeats, the latest a 0-2 defeat at Nash Field against the Knights. Gulls coach Andres Oliveira said they are determined to turn their fortunes around, but will need to be at their best. “We’re looking forward to hosting Fremantle City at Percy Doyle. They’ve been playing well, and credit to them for reaching the cup final and making their FFA Cup trip, achievements like that don’t happen by accident,” Oliveira explained. “We know they’re a well-structured side who can punish you if you switch off, so we’ll need to be disciplined and sharp across the full ninety minutes. For us, it’s about getting back to winning ways. I haven’t felt we’ve been outclassed at any point, but we’ve simply had circumstances fall against us but the group’s attitude has been outstanding all year, and the players are determined to turn this around.”

TOP OF THE TABLE CLASH AT ILUKA PARK – WEEK SIXTEEN PREVIEW

Joondalup City have continued their form from last season, and sit third on the State League Division One table and will look to keep tabs on the top two in our week sixteen “Match of the Round’, when they entertain fourth placed Mandurah City at Iluka Park on Saturday (All games kick off at 3:00pm, unless started) Both sides have been in good form recently, the Dolphins are unbeaten in their last eight games, while the Jacks have only lost one in their last six, so this one should be a great game. Last week Joondalup won the local derby 3-1 against Quinns, while Mandurah conceded late to draw at home to Gwelup. In their first meeting this season in week five, a brace from Louis Hadfield gave Joondalup a 2-1 win at the Poolmart Mandurah Stadium, while the last time they played at Joondalup was in week 17 last season when the hosts won 3-2.

The visitors made a great start, with player/coach John Baird racing clear, and he finished with aplomb over the on-coming Joe Smith. But the home side were level seven minutes before half time, with Thomas Hunt, firing home superbly past Alfie Brincat. The hosts hit the front on 57 minutes, Edward Wilcock curling home a free kick from 20 meters. They added a third eight minutes later, Mason Gallagher sending Harry Edwards in goal to score. Mandurah reduced the margin two minutes from time, Baird sending Jordan Callaghan clear to score, which set up a tense few minutes, but Joondalup held firm to take the points.

Mandurah coach Zac Headington said they are looking forward to the challenge, and to see we’re they are as a team. “Joondalup have had another strong season and have shown why they're up near the top of the table, so we know it'll be a tough game away from home,” Headington said. “From our perspective, we've built some good momentum over the last couple of months and the group's unbeaten run has put us back into the playoff conversation. The players have worked hard to get themselves into this position, but with seven games still to play, we know there's plenty of work ahead. We'll approach Saturday with confidence, but also with respect for the quality of the opposition. If we can perform to the standards we've set recently, it'll be another good test of where we're at as a team.”

Joondalup coach Guy McDonald said it’s another tough game in a very competitive league again this season. “Looking forward to the game Saturday and backing up a really good second half performance at the weekend. We don’t focus on who’s above us or around us just, we just focus on trying to win the game in front of us,” McDonald said. “It’s always a tough game against Mandurah especially with them being the inform team in the league. Huge respect to Zac and how he has them playing as a team in his first season in charge. This league is so tough and relentless and we will be expecting another super competitive game Saturday in front of another decent sized crowd.”

In other games this weekend, league leaders UWA Nedlands head to Stylish Park, Grindleford Reserve to take on Quinns in the late game (5:00pm), while second placed Floreat Athena travel to Green Promo Park at Edinburgh Oval, to meet Curtin University, whose coach Troy Reid announced he will step down as head coach at the end of the season. Cockburn City welcome Kingsley Westside to Dalmatinac Park, while Subiaco AFC entertain Murdoch University Melville to Rosalie Park.

In the final game Gwelup Croatia welcome Inglewood United to the Croatian Sporting Complex, Wishart Street. United sit fifth after a good run of form and former Gwelup defender Ciaran Salinger, who returns from suspension for the match, said it will be a tough game. “We’re looking forward to another tough challenge, and Gwelup never an easy place to go,” Salinger said. “I’m sure they will be well structured and prepared for what should be a good game.”

Gwelup coach Taki Nicolaidis has been pleased with the improvement of his side in recent weeks, and the former Inglewood coach knows there is more to come from his chargers. “It’s going to be a tough game and a very important one as well,” Nicolaidis said. “Our last win was against Inglewood earlier in the season, and whilst our form since then hasn’t been great our performances have significant improved over the last few weeks. We will need to be at our best to overcome a string Inglewood side who have been in very good recent form.”

WINDMILLS AIM TO SEND ROCKINGHAM INTO A SPIN – WEEK FIFTEEN PREVIEW

Our week fifteen State League Division Two ‘Match of the Round’ takes us to Endeavour Homes Stadium, Lark Hill Sportsplex, where league leaders Rockingham City entertain Morley Windmills. (All games kick off at 3:00pm) The visitors returned to the winner’s circle last week with a win at North Beach, which moved them to eighth, while the hosts lost for only the third time this season, a 2-0 defeat at Kalamunda, but they remain one point clear at the top of the table. They met earlier in the season in week two, when a late goal from Shaun Mukwevho gave Rockingham a 2-1 win at Wotton Reserve, and the last time they met in the league in Rockingham was in Division One in 2018, when Morley ran out 2-0 winners, the year Rockingham won promotion to the NPL.

Morley coach John O’Reilly said they are hoping to build on last week’s win at North Beach. “Another stern test for us, but one we are relishing,” O’Reilly said. “Rockingham have been getting results this season, and the table doesn’t lie at this time of the season. They were beaten last week, but we won't be taking them lightly. We have trained well this week, and the lads are on a high after last week’s win, and a good performance. Our squad is getting stronger, with a few players back in contention, so the feeling in the group is very positive and they’re looking forward to the challenge.”

Rockingham coach Matthew Brook said his players are ready to turn last week’s result around, and get back to winning ways. “We are looking forward to welcoming John and Morley this weekend, in what we know will be another tough test,” Brook said. “Last week we didn’t quite get it right, but the character of this group is great and I know they will be ready to put in a performance this week. Back on our home turf is great with the support we get is always a lift and with five players returning for the run in we are ready to give it our best.”

In other games this weekend, second placed Carramar Shamrock Rovers welcome East Perth in the Irish Derby at Grandis Park, the visitors hoping to end a three-game losing streak. Wembley Downs make the trip to Charles Riley Memorial Reserve to take on North Beach, while Ashfield welcome Balga to the Ashfield Arena. Kalamunda City and Forrestfield United meet in a local derby at Aero Ranger Maida Vale Reserve, while in the final game Gosnells City entertain Canning City at Colleen Egan MLA Grounds, Walter Padbury Reserve, in the ‘Frank Longstaff Trophy’.

The first game ended 0-0 at Burrendah Park, so both teams will be looking for a win to claim the trophy. Gosnells were winners last week against East Perth and coach Peter Allen hopes to build on the win. “On paper I can see why it’s a big game, and add to that it’s a local derby, but as the old cliche goes it’s just another game for us,” Allen said “Our home form has been good lately and we want to build on last week’s win over East Perth, we also know there are no easy games in this league, so will be up for the challenge against Canning and have that Gossy fight ready.”

Meanwhile, Canning are coming off a good draw at the inform Balga last week, and coach Lee Hayward believes they are on the improve and Saturday is a huge game for both sides. “The boys are bang up for Saturday, we have been playing reasonably well over the past few rounds but haven't been able to get the points on the board,” Hayward said. “Last week we picked up a good point away to Balga, but we know we need to go to Gosnells and take all three points in a must win game. Gosnells had a good win against East Perth last week, so they will be up for it as well, but after recent performances and the way the boys have trained this week, I feel we are in a good position to go and win the game. We have to make sure we convert our chances though and with Hananai Ndembele back in contention, that should help with our fire power.”