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Welcome to footballwa.net! Here you will find all the latest football news from Western Australia, current tables for the state's top four Leagues, archived tables and results dating back to 1950, the Western Australian Club Directory which includes honour lists and divisional movements for each club and much, much more.
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6.2.2026
COLAKOVSKI EARNS A POINT LATE FOR GLORY
A goal in stoppage time from substitute Stefan Colakovski has earned Perth Glory a 2-2 draw against Macarthur FC at Campbelltown Sports Stadium on Friday evening. Nicholas Pennington gave Glory the lead before the break, but the hosts responded in the second half and goals from Socceroo striker Mitch Duke and Callum Talbot in the space of 12 minutes looked to have turned the game in the hosts’ favour. But Glory’s never say die attitude was in full show and they earned a point with Colakovski firing home in the first half of stoppage time.
“It thought first half we performed quite strongly, and had a lot of good moments, but broke down in the final third,” Glory head coach Adam Griffiths said post-match. “The last 30 minutes, we lacked energy in wide areas and allowed them to get crosses and shots in, which was a little disappointing from my end, and we have to be better in those areas. We need to be brave on the ball, and control the game, and we didn’t do that. But in the end, we got a point with the bravery we showed late, we kept fighting and that was the best take-away from the game.”
Glory made three changers to the side that beat Auckland last week, with Adam Taggart out injured, replaced by Arion Sulemani, Gio De Abreu came in for the departed Rhys Bozinovski, while Trent Ostler dropped to the bench for Seb Despotovski. The hosts went close early, with Brian Kaltak almost turning the ball into his own net from Sime Gazan’s low cross, before Tom Lawrence’s free kick was saved low by Filip Kurto moments later. It was the visitors on top, and Sam Sutton ‘s long run ended with a shot, which was straight at Kurto.
Then on 36 minutes, Glory’s dominance was rewarded with the opener. Will Freney’s ball into the box was only cleared as far as De Abreu just outside the penalty area, his header back into the box found Pennington, who’s snap shot was fumbled into the net by Kurto. It was more than deserved for Glory, but the hosts weren’t finished and when Despotovski lost possession in the middle of the park the dangerous Anthony Caceres pounced, but Matt Sutton got down well to deny him, and at the break Glory led by the only goal.
Glory made a change at the break with Jaiden Kucharski coming on for Sulemani, and he went was involved four minutes in, finding De Abreu, but the youngster couldn’t keep his effort down. The visitors thought they had doubled their lead shortly after, Despotovski got on the end of Sam Sutton’s cross, but his effort was ruled offside. Then on the hour the hosts levelled, Callum Talbot’s cross from the right found Duke, his neat header at the front post beat Sutton.
Macarthur were buoyed by the goal and they hit the front on 72 minutes. It was Talbot again who was in the action, cutting in from the right and his shot deflected off Scott Wootton and into the net. The hosts continued to dominate and former Glory winger Chris Ikonomidis saw his effort crash off the woodwork, and the rebound fell to Harrison Sawyer, but his shot was superbly saved by Sutton. Sawyer then headed wide, as Macarthur looked to kill the game off.
Glory was hanging on, and the lively Luke Vickery’s shot beat Sutton in the final minute, but the post came to the rescue of the Glory custodian. It looked like Gllory would leave empty handed, but that all changed in the first minute of stoppage time. A long ball from Wootton sent Kucharski racing clear, Kurto came out and clattered the striker, but Colakovski was on hand to pick up the loose ball and fire home his first goal since returning to the club to seal a 2-2 draw.
The hard-fought draw moved Adam Griffiths’ men to within one point of the top six ahead of the weekend’s remaining games. “We had to dig in to take a point. We had a solid first half, but we were sloppy in possession and could have more,” Glory skipper Scott Wootton said post-match. “But we had a poor start to the second half, and didn’t come out the way we wanted to and conceded two poor goals. But we kept fighting till the end, which is a given for us, and we got the goal late. We reset now, look at what we did well and put right what we didn’t do so well, and we will train hard and prepare for another tough game against Newcastle.”
Macarthur Bulls: GK Filip KURTO, 3 Damien DA SILVA, 6 Tomislav USKOK, 7 Sime GRZAN (9 Chris IKONOMIDIS 46'), 8 Luke VICKERY (32 Will McKay 89'), 10 Anthony CACERES, 14 Kristian POPOVIC, 15 Mitchell DUKE (28 Harrison SAWYER 62’), 18 Walter SCOTT, 22 Liam ROSE (24 Dean BOSNJAK 61'), 25 Callum TALBOT, 26 Luke BRATTAN – Subs not used: RGK Alex ROBINSON, 5 Matthew JURMAN, 17 Oliver RANDAZZO
Perth Glory: GK Matt SUTTON, 2 Charbel SHAMOON, 3 Sam SUTTON, 4 Scott WOOTTON, 7 Nicholas PENNINGTON (20 Trent OSTLER 61'), 17 Arion SULEMANI (9 Jaiden KUCHARSKI 46'), 25 Sebastian DESPOTOVSKI (11 Lachlan WALES 61'), 27 Will FRENEY, 34 Tom LAWRENCE (67 Stefan COLAKOVSKI 70'), 39 Gio DE ABREU (8 Callum TIMMINS 87'), 45 Brian KALTA – Subs not used: RGK Mark BIRIGHITTI, 15Zach LISOLAJSKI - Referee: Alireza Faghani
6.2.2026
LEAGUE LEADERS PROVE TOO STRONG FOR GLORY
Perth Glory have missed the opportunity to move into the Ninja A-League top six, after they were beaten 1-0 by the in-form Wellington Phoenix at Sky Stadium on Friday afternoon in their week 16 clash. A goal in first half stoppage time by Makala Woods proved enough to secure the win, the hosts moving to the top of the table, on the other side of the equation, the loss is Glory’s third straight goalless game. That run has left them the second lowest scoring side in the Ninja A-League. However, the competition is so tight that they sit just two points outside of the top six.
“Yes, it’s a shame, they were up for the battle as much as we were, but one mistake in the game was what cost the loss in the end, which is quite annoying,” a disappointed Glory skipper Izzy Dalton said post-match. “We have to regroup, and look how we can score. We knew from the get go they have a really good team this year, and they have shown that in previous games. But the fact we’ve come to their ground and minimised their attacks, we have to take a lot of positives from that We will recover and rest up and look forward to the next one.”
Head Coach Stephen Peters made two changers to the side that drew against Sydney FC last time out, with Tijan McKenna and Natalie Tathem coming in for Mischa Anderson and Sarah O’Donoghue, who both dropped to the bench. The hosts were on the front foot, in the clubs Waitangi Day clash, and Teresa Morrissey was out smartly to deny Woods on ten minutes, and moments later Lucia Woods’ effort flashed wide after a low cross from Brooke Nunn. Glory weathered the early storm, and went close themselves midway through the first half.
Bronte Trew’s shot on the run was saved by Victoria Esson, and the midfielder fired wide shortly after. Wellington ended the half well, and Morrissey saved Marisa Van Der Meer’s header from Grace Jale’s free kick. But in the third minute of stoppage time their late pressure was rewarded with the lead. Lucía León harried McKenna off the ball deep in her own half, the ball spilt towards Onyi Zogg, but Woods won it and the American striker raced into goal to score.
Glory continued to struggle in the final third again after the break, while the hosts continue to threaten, with Morrissey out smartly to save at the feet of Brooke Nunn. Glory did have the ball in the net on 56 minutes, Susan Phonsongkham’s corner going in, but referee spotted a foul on Wellington ‘keeper Esson. The hosts continued to have chances, and Zogg made a smart goal line clearance after Jale headed goalward, before Woods fired narrowly wide.
Former Glory striker Jale went even closer 16 minutes from time, crashing a shot against the crossbar having been cleverly picked out by substitute Mackenzie Anthony. Despite dominating there was only one goal separating the two sides, and Glory pressed late forcing a number of corners, but they couldn’t find an equaliser. Glory return to action on Saturday 14 February when Canberra United head to Sam Kerr Football Centre (kick-off at 5pm).
Wellington Phoenix: GK Victoria ESSON, 4 Mackenzie BARRY, 5 Ellie WALKER, 7 Grace JALE, 14 Lucía LEÓN (30 Mackenzie ANTHONY 56'), 16 Marisa VAN DER MEER, 21 Lara WALL (11 Manaia ELLIOTT 46'), 23 Brooke NUNN, 24 Pia VLOK (27 Zoe BENSON 72'), 31 Makala WOODS, 32 Emma PIJNENBURG (15 Daisy BRAZENDALE 62') - Subs not used: RGK Aimee DANIELI, 20 Emma MAIN
Perth Glory: GK Teresa MORRISSEY, 3 Emma TOVAR, 5 Grace JOHNSTON, 6 Tijan MCKENNA, 10 Susan PHONSONGKHAM, 11 Natalie TATHEM (19 Sarah O’DONOGHUE 46'), 12 Bronte TREW, 17 Rola BADAWIYA (25 Ella LINCOLN 79'), 23 Isobel DALTON, 24 Julia SARDO, 29 Onyinyechi ZOGG - Subs not used: RGK Jessica SKINNER, 2 Mischa ANDERSON, 9 Gabby HOLLAR, 27 Charli WAINWRIGHT - Referee: Anna Marie Keighly
6.2.2026
NEW BALANCE NPLWA – MEN’S NIGHT SEREIS – WEEK THREE
The New Balance NPLWA Men’s Night Series group stage comes to an end this weekend, with top spots up for grabs in all three groups. Firstly, in Group A, we have three teams who are still in contention. On Friday evening (8:30pm), Bayswater City visits Alfred Skeet Reserve to take on Armadale, knowing a win will probably see them progress. They sit second on the table on goal difference a win will move them to seven points, while Armadale, who can’t progress, will go in search of their first win in the pre-season competition.
Bayswater defender Luke Palmateer said Friday will be a tough game. “Armadale are a tough side and have added both quality and experience to a solid squad. Having added so many new faces it will be surprising to see how they line up and decide to play this year. We will have to manage the game and be carefully aware to any changes tactically they make from the team we faced last year,” he said.
“Coming off a big loss to Fremantle last week also makes this challenging as we know John Baird will expect a strong reaction against us on Friday night. A win will take us through but we know we have to be at our best to get the job done.” If Bayswater slip up, Sunday’s clash between Fremantle City and Perth RedStar at Home Group Stadium, Grindleford Reserve, (5:30pm) will decide the group winner. City are top going into the game, with RedStar just one point behind them, so its winner takes all in this clash.
In Group B, top spot is up for grabs when Perth Glory takes on Perth Azzurri in the late game at Percy Doyle Reserve in Duncraig on Saturday evening. (7:30pm) Both sides are unbeaten to date, Glory sitting top on six points, while the Azzurri sit two points behind them, so a win is a must for both teams to top the group and seal a semi-final spot. Glory are coming off a narrow win against the Knights, while the Azzurri were held to a goalless draw by Dianella.
New Azzurri midfielder Amir Ajan is expecting another challenging contest. “Saturday against Glory will be a tough game, the boys have been preparing well and most are present at training with no injuries which is the most important thing when preparing for the season,” he said. “Everyone is competing well and getting game time so we have a full squad fit and ready for the season.
“Both teams are likely to play a nice brand of football so will be important to retain as much of the ball as possible and be effective especially with the warm weather.” The other game in the group is the early game at Alfred Skeet Reserve on Friday, when the Western Knights and Dianella White Eagles meet, both sides looking for a first win in the competition. (6:30pm)
Finally in Group C, leaders Olympic Kingsway sit three points clear, and know a win will send them through, when they take on hosts Balcatta Etna in the late game at Home Group Stadium, Grindleford Reserve on Sunday evening. (7:30pm) Balcatta who were beaten by Striling last week, can still progress, but need a win and other results to go their way, having an inferior goal difference. Olympic made it back-to-back wins against Sorrento last week, and even a draw will see them progress.
“Good to get more minutes in the boy’s legs,” Olympic assistant coach Ross Edwards said. “Balcatta have a lot of changes from last season, so they will present a different challenge this year. The night series is there to work on things and try new things and that’s what we will be doing. Obviously, a win will put us in the semis so that would be a bonus, and no injures too is a plus.” In the other game in group, Stirling Macedonia need a win, and hope Olympic slip up, when they take on Sorrento in the early game on Saturday evening at Percy Doyle Reserve. (5:30pm) The semi-finals will be the top team from each group, with the best runners-up joining them.
6.2.2026
STATE LEAGUE NIGHT SERIES – WEEK TWO PREVIEW
It’s week two of the State League Night Series, weather permitting, but we did have a game on Wednesday evening in Group D to complete the week one games, where Floreat Athena opened their campaign with a 4-1 win against Subiaco at Ashfield Reserve. First half goals from Declan Hargreaves and Harry Lewis had Floreat in control, but Ivan Skorich reduced the margin for Subiaco two minutes into the second half.
Floreat hit back with two quick goals late in the game from Harvey Tomlinson and substitute Moustafa Mohamed to take the points. “Good start from us, but I wasn’t happy with the first ten minutes of the second half where we conceded a sloppy goal,” New Floreat coach Alun Vernals said. “Our levels dropped and we’ve spoken about that not happening and staying focused.” The games in this group continue on Sunday at Wanneroo Reserve, when Subiaco meet North Beach in the early game while Floreat take on Balga in the late game.
In Group A at Luxwin Stadium, Hartfield Park on Friday evening, Quinns and Wembley Downs meet in the early game, while Forrestfield United will look to go back-to-back in the competition, when they play UWA Nedlands in the late game. In Group B at Ashfield Arena on Saturday, Kingsley Westside will also look for a second win in the competition, when they take on Gosnells City in the early game, while hosts Ashfield and Gwelup Croatia will go in search of a first win in the late game.
We head to the Endeavour Homes Stadium, Larkhill Sportsplex on Friday, for the Group C games, when Canning City and Cockburn City meet in the early game, both teams looking to put last week’s opening round defeats behind them, while hosts Rockingham City play Murdoch University Melville, with both teams looking to take control of the group with wins in the late game.
In Group E, Mandurah City meet Kalamunda City in the early game at Green Promo Park, Edinburgh Oval on Saturday, while Curtin University welcome Morley Windmills in the late game. Finally, in Group F at Proto DPS Inglewood Stadium on Saturday evening, Joondalup City face East Perth in the early game, while hosts Inglewood United welcome Carramar Shamrock Rovers in the late game.
6.2.2026
BULLS IN GLORY’S SIGHTS
Perth Glory will need to be at their best to overcome an inform Macarthur FC in their week 16 Isuzu Ute A-League clash at Campbelltown Sports Stadium on Friday evening. (4:35pm WA Time) They will go in search of a second win at the venue this season, after goals from Nicholas Pennington and Charbel Shamoon gave them a 2-0 win against the Bulls in week six. The hosts sit fourth, five points ahead of Glory, so another win would really boost Glory’s final’s chances.
Former Glory midfielder Mile Sterjovski’s side have lost just one of their ten games since the week six defeat, and have bolstered their squad, and Glory head coach Adam Griffiths is fully aware of the challenge that they will provide. “Macarthur’s a very strong team,” he said. “They’ve recruited more players since then [Round 6], with Mitch Duke coming in and they’ve got another couple of players that have really stepped up as well. They’re a dangerous team and a stronger team than they were in that last game, so it’s going to be a really big test for us to see how we can develop on that previous game and get the three points.”
Griffiths said the win against reigning Premiers Auckland FC last weekend has lifted the spirits in the camp, but he is looking for consistency as they head into the final straight of the season. “The mood in the group has been very positive, but we’ve been trying to re-set the players’ minds and make sure there’s no complacency,” the Head Coach said. “We’ve talked about consistency and that’s what we’re aiming for. The playing group knows how important every game is from here on in. Every single game is a winnable game, the group knows that and we’re going to be pushing that message and be ready for this week. Three points are up for grabs and we’re looking for that.”
In terms of early team news, meanwhile, Griffiths will be without the services of midfielder Rhys Bozinovski following the midfielder’s midweek move to Dutch side Heracles Almelo, but he said that several other players could potentially return to the matchday squad. “[Callum] Timmins has been training regularly, so he’ll be up for selection,” Griffiths said. “[Lachie] Wales is another one who’s trained well this week and is starting to look like a player we could use. The rest of the group is one week fitter, so that makes us one week stronger.”
Macarthur Bulls squad: GK Filip KURTO, GK Alex ROBINSON, 3 Damien DA SILVA, 5 Matthew JURMAN, 6 Tomislav USKOK, 7 Sime GRZAN, 8 Luke VICKERY, 9 Chris IKONOMIDIS, 10 Anthony CACERES, 14 Kristian POPOVIC, 15 Mitchell DUKE, 17 Oliver RANDAZZO, 18 Walter SCOTT, 22 Liam ROSE, 24 Dean BOSNJAK, 25 Callum TALBOT, 26 Luke BRATTAN, 28 Harrison SAWYER, 29 Zane HELWEH, 32 Will McKay - *Two to be omitted* - Unavailable: 11 Bernardo OLIVEIRA (injured), 19 Harry POLITIDIS (injured), 33 Dongwon JI (injured), 35 Henrique OLIVEIRA (injured)
Perth Glory Squad: GK Matt SUTTON GK Ryan WARNER, 2 Charbel SHAMOON, 3 Sam SUTTON, 4 Scott WOOTTON, 7 Nicholas PENNINGTON, 8 Callum TIMMINS, 9 Jaiden KUCHARSKI, 11 Lachlan WALES, 15 Zach LISOLAJSKI, 17 Arion SULEMANI, 20 Trent OSTLER, 22 Adam TAGGART, 24 Andriano LEBIB, 25 Sebastian DESPOTOVSKI, 27 Will FRENEY, 34 Tom LAWRENCE, 39 Gio DE ABREU, 45 Brian KALTAK, 67 Stefan COLAKOVSKI - *Two to be omitted* - Ins: TIMMINS, SULEMANI, LEBIB - Outs: 18 Rhys BOZINOVSKI (Left the club) - Unavailable: GK Cameron COOK, 6 Brandon O’NEILL, 31 Joel ANASMO (All Injured)
6.2.2026
IN FORM PHOENIX NEXT UP FOR GLORY
Perth Glory head over the ditch for week 16 of the Ninja A-League, when they visit the Sky Stadium on Friday morning to take on second placed Wellington Phoenix, in the first game of a Waitangi Day double-header in the New Zealand capital. (Kick off 11:00am) Glory lost ground on the top six after the scoreless draw against Sydney FC last week, while the Phoenix moved to second with a big 5-1 win against Newcastle in the last round. But with the table so tight, Stephen Peters’ side only sit two points out of the final’s places, and four points behind the Phoenix, so it’s a must win game for both sides.
Glory did beat the Nix earlier in the season at Sam Kerr Football centre, with Susan Phonsongkham scoring the only goal in a 1-0 win, but the head coach said that result is the past. “I think they’ve completely changed since that game, to be honest,” Peters said. “The make-up of the team defensively is still the same, but the introduction of the new strikers has given them a different profile. [Emma] Pijnenburg in the middle is a new one as well… so we can’t take much out of that previous game apart from the effort and intensity we created.
“We have to replicate that, but be a bit better with the football than we were at that stage of the season and we’re confident we can do that. They’re defensively very tight and actually have the best defence in the league. they tend to look to control games with their defence, but once they get on a roll, they’ve shown that they can put on goals quickly. Seven goals against Sydney and then five against Newcastle, so 12 in two games which is pretty scary. Outside of that, most of their games have been pretty tight, so they can do it at both ends and you have to be ready for both.”
But since that defeat, the Phoenix have turned their season around, with Bev Priestman’s side one of the form teams in the competition, and Peters knows it’s going to be a huge challenge for his side. “Bev has done a great job and we have to be on our guard and ready to fight,” he said. “They’re a very physically-imposing team and obviously it’s a bit of a travel for us, so it’s a very exciting challenge.
“If you want to be making Finals and competing in this competition, it’s the kind of game you’ve got to be ready for. My mantra on this is that we’re a better side when we’re on the front foot and getting in teams’ faces, so we’re not going to be sitting back waiting for them to come to us. We’ve got to get in their faces and let them know that we’ve arrived in New Zealand.”
The last time Glory heading to Wellington, they came home empty handed, with the hosts winning 2-0 in week ten last season. A tight first half burst into life two minutes into the second half with former Glory striker Grace Jale on target. The points were wrapped up with English striker Olivia Fergusson adding a second just after the hour. Peters is hoping to have Tijan McKenna available for the trip, but he will still be without Georgia Cassidy, who continues to struggle with a hamstring injury.
Wellington Phoenix women’s squad: GK Victoria ESSON, GK Aimee DANIELI, 3 Tiana JABER, 4 Mackenzie BARRY, 5 Ellie WALKER, 7 Grace JALE, 11 Manaia ELLIOTT, 14 Lucía LEÓN, 15 Daisy BRAZENDALE, 16 Marisa VAN DER MEER, 17 Ela JEREZ, 20 Emma MAIN, 21 Lara WALL, 23 Brooke NUNN, 24 Pia VLOK, 27 Zoe BENSON, 30 Mackenzie ANTHONY, 31 Makala WOODS, 32 Emma PIJNENBURG - *Two to be omitted* - Unavailable: 2 CJ BOTT (pregnant), 6 Tessel MIDDAG (injured), 9 Sabitra BHANDARI (injured), 10 Alyssa WHINHAM (injured), 18 Ella MCCANN (injured).
Perth Glory Squad: GK Teresa MORRISSEY, GK Jessica SKINNER, 2 Mischa ANDERSON, 3 Emma TOVAR, 5 Grace JOHNSTON, 6 Tijan MCKENNA, 9 Gabby HOLLAR, 10 Susan PHONSONGKHAM, 11 Natalie TATHEM, 12 Bronte TREW, 17 Rola BADAWIYA, 19 Sarah O’DONOGHUE, 23 Isobel DALTON, 24 Julia SARDO, 25 Ella LINCOLN, 26 Tanika LALA, 27 Charli WAINWRIGHT, 28 Clancy WESTAWAY, 29 Onyinyechi ZOGG - *Two to be omitted* - Ins: MCKENNA, WESTAWAY - Unavailable: 7 Megan WYNNE, 8 Georgia CASSIDY, 13 Naomi CHINNAMA, 20 Ella ABDUL MASSIH (All Injured)
5.2.2026
TATHEM OPENS UP ON RECOVERY FROM TORN ACL
Perth Glory jack-of-all-trades Nat Tathem said she tried not to compensate for anything in her game when she made her return from a torn ACL. Almost 10 months to the day after she suffered the serious knee injury, Tathem made her return to the pitch in Glory’s 0-0 draw with Sydney FC last week, earning praise from coach Stephen Peters for her 30-minute spell off the bench.
A season on from missing Glory’s ultimately-doomed late-season finals tilt, Tathem figures to be an important part of the team’s quest for a first finals berth since 2019. The 30-year old said her behind-the-scenes preparation and the game’s state when she came off the bench against Sydney meant she did not think too deeply about her knee upon her return.
“I’ve worked really hard on the pitch away from playing so I wasn’t really nervous about tackling or getting stuck in. Our staff do a good job of being able to replicate that in training for me,” Tathem said. “It was a transitional game, so that was probably the hardest part, being able to bring energy. Pre-injury, I was always a player who brings energy and gets stuck in, so I just tried to lock into that part of me and make sure we didn’t concede any goals.”
Tathem’s injury last year cost her a spot in Australia’s squad for the 2025 AFC Women’s Futsal Asian Cup, but she said she felt worse about missing the end of Glory’s finals challenge. “It added to it all for sure, because I really wanted to go away and represent my country. Hopefully that’s not off the table for me, hopefully that’s in my future,” she said.
“But the biggest downfall for me was, at that point in the season, we still had a chance to make the finals. I really felt coming off the pitch and getting injured that time of the season, it really felt it took away a lot from the team - I wasn’t myself.”
4.2.2026
PETERS HOPING TRAVEL CHANGE BODES WELL
Perth Glory coach Stephen Peters says his side are travelling a day earlier than usual to face Wellington Phoenix out of necessity. Glory flew to New Zealand on Wednesday for Friday’s game, breaking routine with their usual plans of flying a day early as they look to bank a second win of the season against second-placed Wellington.
And Glory also have the added bonus of extra rest heading into the game, coming off a nine-day break between matches following last Wednesday night’s 0-0 home draw with Sydney. The draw means Glory enter the round in eighth spot, but a win over Wellington would move them within a point of second spot.
With one of world football’s longest road trips staring Glory in the face this week, Peters said they had no other choice but to leave a day earlier. “It’s out of necessity. It’s 5500 km. That tells you the reasons why we need to be creative with what we’re doing there,” he said.
“We need to make sure we’re in a good space, fresh enough and energetic enough to take the game on. Every decision we’re making about away games is about making sure we give players the best opportunity to be the best version of themselves and take the game on.”
Peters said the extra rest after their mid-week fixture with Sydney gave them more opportunity to prepare. “It’s given us four training sessions versus two,” he said. “That gives us an opportunity to be more tactically aware of what Wellington’s doing as well, because got to watch their game on the weekend.”
Wellington have changed dramatically since Glory carved out a 1-0 win over them in December. “The make-up of the side defensively is still the same, but the introduction of the new striker has given them a new profile. (Emma) Pijnenberg in the middle is a new one as well,” he said.
“They’re a bit of a different side so we can’t take too much out of that game apart from the effort and intensity we created. We have to replicate that but be a little bit better with the football than we were at that stage of the season, which we’re confident we can be.”
4.2.2026
GRIFFITHS CHALLENGES MIDFIELDERS AFTER BOZINOVSKI DEPARTS
Perth Glory coach Adam Griffiths has challenged his side’s midfield group to take the vacant jersey left by the departed Rhys Bozinovski by the scruff of the neck. Bozinovski sealed a move to Dutch Eredivise side Heracles Almelo overnight, where he will link up with Socceroos attacking midfielder Ajdin Hrustic.
It comes just months after he first arrived in Perth as a free agent following the hibernation of Western United, where he made his name over the past four seasons. It is understood Glory received a transfer fee of more than $450,000 for the 21-year old central midfielder, who started 14 of 15 A-League games this season.
With Will Freney having similarly cemented a starting berth in the middle of the park, the other spot is now up for grabs. “For every single training session, every single player has to take the opportunity. If you get an opportunity to step into the first 11, you take it, and you make sure you put your best foot forward,” he said.
20-year old Freney has started nine games this season, while teenage academy graduate Gio De Abreu has also won over Griffiths. “Both of them have shown some really good things, and they’ve also got areas they need to improve,” Griffiths said of the young duo.
There are also experienced options for Griffiths to consider; Englishman Luke Amos was a fan favourite last season but has found himself out of favour, while Callum Timmins has returned to training and veteran Brandon O’Neill is also in the mix.
4.2.2026
STATE LEAGUE NIGHT SERIES WEEK ONE – REVIEW
The State League night series continued on Tuesday evening, after most games were postponed on the weekend because of the hot temperatures. First in Group A at Luxwin Stadium, Hartfield Park, newly promoted Quinns began their campaign with an entertaining 3-3 draw against UWA Nedlands. “A good first hit with plenty of new faces getting good minutes,” Quinns coach Nick Jennings said. “It was an evenly balanced game with a draw a far result.”
Quinns found the opener on ten minutes, with new signing Chad Samuels on target, but it was UWA who lead at the break, with goals from Joe McIness and Joe Roscoe. Quinns levelled just after the hour with Samuels adding his second, but shortly after McInness added his second to give UWA the lead. But nine minutes from time UWA’s David Molinari received a second yellow card and was sent off, and deep into stoppage time Quinns made their numerical advantage count with Jack Mahon grabbing the equaliser.
“It was really good to get going into some competitive football, it was always going to be a tough game, as Nick always sets up well and even though I feel we controlled most of the game we gave very poor goals away,” UWA coach Kris Donnell said. “Disappointed with our red card, as it put us on the back foot for the last part of the game, and we conceded a goal last kick of the game, but we take away a lot of learnings and look forward to Forrestfield now.”
In the other game in the group, Forrestfield United beat Wembley Downs 5-2. “Daryl and the coaching staff were really pleased with the performance from the lads this early on in the season. It’s not often you can go out and score four in the first half. We took a few minutes to settle in but once we scored the first, we looked pretty comfortable and created plenty of chances,” assistant coach Niall Hughes said. “I thought defensively we were solid but maybe switched off at times in the second half which Wembley managed to punish with two great strikes.
“We have had a few new faces join us in the summer, so it was good to see them come in and show what quality they have and hopefully give a glimpse of what’s to come this season to all the fans who were able to make it down on a warm Tuesday night.” The hosts were ahead on 20 minutes, with Davin Park scoring, and a brace from Austin Reynolds helped them to 4-0 lead at the break. Substitute Rory Hannon pulled one back for Wembley on the hour, but Matt Evans added a fifth for the host moments later. Lachlan Chamberlain scored a late consolation goal for Wembley late on.
In Group B at the Ashfield Arena, in the early game Kingsley Westside secured a 2-0 win against Gwelup Croatia. “Tonight was a good early test to see where our fitness levels are at which was pleasing to see our energy levels stay high across the whole 90 minutes,” Kingsley coach Ben Andrews said. “The game itself was a proper pre-season game with both teams struggling to find any real rhythm so there’s lots to work to be done over the next few weeks to get ready for the season.
“But we are happy where we are tracking at this stage. We’ll get back to training on Thursday and look to keep improving. It was Kingsley who found the opener five minutes from the break, Shane Hulgraine converting a low cross from the left from Jonny Hulme. Gwelup were reduced to ten men on the hour, and Max Adamson capitalised on a mix up at the back to add a second ten minutes later, but. Kingsley were also reduced to ten men late in the game.
In the late game at the venue, hosts Ashfield drew 1-1 with Gosnells City. “Another good hit out for the team. We’re still building up our match fitness so from that perspective very happy to finish the game with a healthy squad,” Ashfield coach Malcom Tshuma said. “We played well in moments but have a lot to improve which really excites me at this stage of the season.” New signing Abdulla Dofash gave Gosnells the on 38 minutes, but Deng Dut converted from the spot to give both sides a share of the spoils.
In Group E the early game at Green Promo Park, Edinburgh Oval saw newly promoted Morley Windmills draw 1-1 with Kalamunda City. Morley found the opener on 20 minutes with an own goal, and Kalamunda levelled in first half stoppage time, with Agustin Ventre on target. In the late game at the venue Mandurah City beat hosts Cutin University 2-0. Ollie Fields gave the Dolphins the lead five minutes into the second half, with the returning Joey O’Brien sealed the tie with a second four minutes from time
“Very good team performance and display from the lads, that was our second 90-minute game since coming back from preseason so we know there’s a lot of work to do but our foundations are being laid and the lads take confidence from the result,” new Mandurah coach Zac Headington said. “We move on quickly to Kalamunda and look to put together another good 90-minute performance.”
Finally in Group F at Proto DPS, Inglewood Stadium, East Perth beat Carramar Shamrock Rovers 2-1 in the early game. “A good result, the boys dug in deep after conceding a silly goal,’ new East Perth coach Sully Sullivan said. “But that’s what's pre-season is about, all 16 players used so great run out for us.” Rovers found the opener on 15 minutes, with Wayne Guest scoring, but a double from Adam McLaughin secured the win for East Perth.
In the late game new Inglewood United coach Glen Grostate got off to winning start, as the hosts beat Joondalup City 4-1. “It was a good performance for our first hit out of the year,” Inglewood defender Ciaran Sallinger said. “It was a physical game, that I thought we controlled a lot of the ball, especially in the first half, and the boys were clinical in front of goal.” First half goals from Martin Coughlan and Charlie Nicholson set them on their way, while a brace from Declan Hudson made it 4-0. A late penalty from Luke Steer gave Joondalup a consolation goal. The Group D between Subiaco and Floreat Athena will be played tonight at the Ashfield Reserve (6:30pm), while in the other game in the group, Balga received a 3-0 win, after North Beach forfeited.
3.2.2026
MAYNARD-BREWER SAYS LOAN STINT AT STAGGIES HELPED HIM DEVELOP
Goalkeeper Ashley Maynard-Brewer insists his first stint in Scotland helped him grow, on and off the pitch. Now, Dundee United’s newest recruit has returned north of the border determined to cement his place as a long-term number one after penning a six-month deal, with the Tangerines holding a two-year option should he impresses.
Maynard-Brewer played 17 times for Ross County during the 2021/22 campaign, one of several loan spells he had after joining London club Charlton Athletic in 2015. The now 26-year old reflected positively on his time with County when, despite enduring injury, he helped the Staggies secure a top-six finish.
Ironically, the man who signed Maynard-Brewer for County, Malky Mackay, is now the director of football with United’s next opponents, Hibernians. “I had a previous experience on loan in Scotland, so I understood how competitive the league was and how good an opportunity it was,” Maynard-Brewer said.
I loved it last time. I know Ross County was really far away and a real contrast to London where I was living. But I found it refreshing after so many years in London to come up to Scotland. I loved playing games there and the experience outside of football was good as well.”
“I was lucky to have a manager, Malky Mackay, who really backed me and gave me a run of games. That combination of having a lot of responsibility as a player, while also living away from where I was comfortable, was really helpful for my development.”
Another loan spell with Gillingham followed that, before Maynard-Brewer got a crack at the gloves with Charlton. He made 52 appearances between November 2022 and the summer of 2025 and helped the Addicks return to the Championship. However, he was rarely first choice ’keeper and played only one game this season prior to joining United.
As such, Maynard-Brewer decided it was time to end more than a decade at Valley Parade. “I’m 26 now and I’ve had some good experiences at Charlton and Ross County, playing regular games,” he commended. “At the age I am, I need somewhere to play. I want the responsibility of being the first-team goalkeeper and really contributing to team performances.”
1.2.2026
OLYMPIC AND STIRLING WIN ON A HOT SUNDAY AT MACEDONIA PARK
The hot weather took its toll on all State League Night Series games on Sunday, all postponed due to the extreme temperatures in the Perth CBD, and all are to be played on Tuesday evening, but for some reason the NPLWA games went ahead on the same evening. With temperature hovering around 36 degrees at kick off in the early game at Macedonia Park, it was Olympic Kingsway who made it back-to-back wins after a 3-1 victory against current holders Sorrento.
“We started the game really well and took the lead early, with defender Lewis scoring his first goal for the club,” Olympic striker Liam Boland said. “A couple of good goals from Rob after the break secured the win, after Sorrento had drawn level. It was stinking hot and the intensity of the game dropped for the last 20 minutes, as you can imagine, but it was good to get another game under our belts with a lot of players missing.”
It was a perfect start to the game for David Tough’s side, and they were ahead after only two minutes. After some neat build up play, the ball ended with defender Lewis Brace on the left, and his cross shot beat Gulls keeper Ben Ratajczak and going in off the far post. But Andres Oliveira’s side were level 12 minutes later David Stokoe turning the ball home after Adrian Sinagra had saved his initial effort.
The hot weather took its toll after the break, with both sides making changes, but it was Olympic who regained the lead on 57 minutes, former Halifax Town striker Robert Harker finishing clinically into the bottom corner. Harker, who has joined the Green Machine from Hume City this season, added his second seven minutes later, volleying home powerfully after good work from half time substitute William Ferson.
The temperature had dropped a little for the second game at the venue, with hosts Stirling Macedonia winning their first game in the preseason competition, beating local rivals Balcatta Etna 2-0. “Over all very pleased with last two weeks performances, last week playing for 60 minutes with ten man and I thought we were very good,” Stirling coach Ago Mujic explained.
“Last night I thought we controlled the game for 80% of time and also clean sheet is massive for our confidence. The boys played very well against very well organised and very fit Balcatta side. There are things to work on this week and prepare the team for next weekend’s game against Sorrento.” The hosts began brightly and had Balcatta on the back foot, and they were ahead on 13 minutes, with Aston Montgomery heading home from a corner.
They should have doubled their lead on 68 minutes when they were awarded a penalty, but Callum McKenzie failed to convert. But that miss was forgotten seven minutes from time, when the hosts added a second. Stirling’s high press turned the ball over from a Balcatta goal kick, and some neat passing between the lines, and Pacifique Dufitimukiza was sent one-on-one with keeper Ryan Stevenson, but he unselfishly squared the ball to McKenzie, who scored from close-range.
31.1.2026
NGO ON TARGET ON DEBUT IN V-LEAGUE
Congratulations to Perth Glory youngster Khoa Ngo, who made a successful start to his V-League career with Cong An Ho Chi Minh City, grabbing the second goal ten minutes into the second half on his debut, in their 2-1 win against PVF-Cand on Sunday. English striker Lee Williams gave City the lead before the break, before Ngo put the game beyond the hosts. The Glory speedster is on-loan to V-League side for the rest of the season.
31.1.2026
SUPER SUB KUCHARSKI SEES GLORY STUN LEAGUE LEADERS
Perth Glory have come from behind to beat Isuzu Ute A-League leaders Auckland FC 2-1 at HBF Park on Saturday evening. The visitors led at half time in the week 15 clash, with Jesse Randall scoring three minutes from the break. But a late brace from substitute Jaiden Kucharski, including a stunning winner in the final minute gave the hosts the points, much to the delight of the Glory faithful. “That’s the job when you start on the bench, come on a make a difference in the game,” two goal hero Jaiden Kucharski said post-match.
“They had a long trip and are five hours behind us, so we needed a strong second half, and I thought all the boys put in and we got the result for it. I know I can score goal, I’ve done it before, it’s just about getting in the right positions, and luckily, I did tonight. The win tonight is massive, anyone on their day can beat anyone in this league, we haven’t had the best form at home, so hopefully we change that in the second half of the season. It started today, hopefully we can back it up next week.”
Griffiths made one change to the starting side that were edged out against the Wanderers last week, with Will Freney returning to the starting line-up, with Gio De Abreu dropped to the bench, while on the bench it was a return for Lachie Wales. Glory went in to the game with black armbands, as a mark of respect for young defender Tadi Kuzamba, who had a family bereavement this week, everyone at Footballwa sends our deepest condolences to the family.
The hosts, who beat Auckland in their last visit to the venue, opened brightly, and Scott Wootton headed over early, before the big defender headed straight at former Glory keeper Oli Sail moments later. Glory continued to take it to the league leaders and just after the half hour Brian Kaltak’s ball over the top was nodded down by Trent Ostler, but Adam Taggart could only fire straight at Sail. The visitors had plenty of possession, but were struggling in the final third, but that all changed on 42 minutes. New Zealand international striker Jesse Randell picked up the ball on the right, and drove towards the box, and he finished clinically past Matt Sutton.
Glory made a change at the break, with Stefan Colakovski coming on for Ostler, and he was straight into the action, bringing a smart save out of Sail on the hour. Griffiths sent on Kucharski and De Abreu moments later, and Kucharski was involved as Glory went close shortly after. The striker cutting the ball back for Tom Lawrencwe, but the Welsh striker was denied by the alert Sail. The hosts should have levelled on 66 minutes, Lawrence’s corner picked out Taggart at the back post, but the Glory skipper, who needs one more goal to become the clubs highest goalscorer, couldn’t keep his header down, with the goal at his mercy.
The visitors were forced into a change six minutes later, with Sail taken off on stretcher with a knee injury, he was replaced by Michael Woud. Glory continued to press, and Lawrence then sent a fierce free kick inches past the post as Glory went in search of the equaliser, and it duly arrived 15 minutes from time. A searching pass from Wootton found Kucharski, who brought the ball down well, and lobbed the oncoming Woud. The Shed were in full voice as the hosts pressed for the winner, but the visitors went close to regaining the lead six minutes from time.
A ball into the box found Logan Rogerson, but the striker headed over at back post. He should have done better with the chance, and that miss came back to haunt Steve Corica’s side, when on 90 minutes Kucharski showed him how to do it. Colakovski, who had looked lively since coming on, made space down the left, and he picked out the former Sydney FC striker on the edge of the box and he finished superbly past Woud, with a stunning strike, and raced off to celebrate with the supporters in the Shed. It proved to be the winner.
The win moved Glory up to ninth on the ladder, only two points out of the top six, while Auckland lost top spot to Newcastle Jets. Next up for Glory is against Macarthur at Campbelltown Sports Stadium, while Auckland return to New Zealand to play Sydney FC for the first of two bouts inside ten days. Footballwa Man of the Match Jaiden Kucharski, closely followed by Scott Wootton.
Perth Glory: GK Matt SUTTON, 2 Charbel SHAMOON, 3 Sam SUTTON, 4 Scott WOOTTON, 7 Nicholas PENNINGTON (9 Jaiden KUCHARSKI 59'), 18 Rhys BOZINOVSKI (39 Giovanni DE ABREU 59'), 20 Trent OSTLER (67 Stefan COLAKOVSKI 46'), 22 Adam TAGGART (15 Zach LISOLAJSKI 90+7'), 27 Will FRENEY, 34 Tom LAWRENCE, 45 Brian KALTAK - Subs not used: RGK Ryan WARNER, 11 Lachie WALES, 25 Sebastian DESPOTOVSKI
Auckland FC: GK Oli SAIL (RGK Michael WOUD 69'), 2 Hiroki SAKAI, 4 Nando PIJNAKER (3 Jake GIRDWOOD-REICH 27'), 6 Louis VERSTRAETE, 8 Felipe GALLEGOS (7 Cameron HOWIESON 85'), 9 Sam COSGROVE, 10 Guillermo MAY (27 Logan ROGERSON 69'), 15 Francis DE VRIES, 21 Jesse RANDALL (35 Jonty BIDOIS 88'), 23 Dan HALL, 77 LACHLAN Brook - Subs not used: 17 Callan ELLIOT, 22 Jake BRIMMER - Attendance: 7,528 – Referee: Shaun Evans
30.1.2026
NEW BALANCE NPLWA NIGHT SERIES – WEEK TWO – FRIDAY REVIEW
The week two New Balance NPLWA Men’s Night Series games began on Friday evening at Frank Drago Reserve, and in the early Group A game, Fremantle City secured their first win in the competition, with a comfortable 5-2 win against Armadale. The damage was down in the first half with the port side leading 5-0 at the break, helped by a hat-trick from Nick Ambrogio, and he said it was a clinical performance. “Great team performance to secure a strong 5–2 win against Armadale, the boys played with patience, quality in possession and some clinical attacking,” he said. “A strong all-round performance and a great result for the group.” Scott Miller’s side found the opener on 16 minutes, Charlie Chechlacz sent former Armadale winer Chad Nilson in on goal, and he was brought down, and Ambrogio converted the resulting penalty.
They doubled their lead three minutes later, Chechlacz curling home superbly with a free kick. It was soon 3-0, Paul Zimarino slide-rule pass sent Ambrogio in on goal, and he finished past Alfie Brincat. Fremantle added a fourth seven minutes from half time, Nilson racing down the left and delivering a perfect cross to Shubham Mokala who made no mistake. Ambrogio completed his hat-trick in the final minute of the half, Mokala was denied by Brincat, but the rebound fell to the striker, and he made no mistake.
A shell-shocked Armadale pulled one back early in the second half, with player coach John Baird on target, before Luke Desmond added a second, but it was too little too late. In the late game at the venue, Bayswater City won their first game in the group, with a narrow 1-0 win against Perth RedStar. The only goal of the game came on 66 minutes, with Ollie La Galia on target. RedStar finished the game with ten men, after keeper Liam Reddy was sent off after picking up a second yellow card and in stoppage time.
In Group B at Dorrien Gardens, Perth Glory made to wins from two after coming from behind to beat Western Knights 2-1 in the early game. The Knights made a great start, and Jutin Tang gave them the lead after only seven minutes. Adam Kostrencic’s side held firm util the hour mark, when Maxim Uvarov levelled for the Glory youngsters, finishing after good work from Santiago Flores. It looked like the points would be shared, but two minutes from time Oliver Evans won it for Joe Heath’s side, firing home from the edge of the box.
“It was a game of two halves,” Glory coach Joe Heath said. “It was a really poor performance from us in the first half. We started the game slowly with no intensity and struggled to keep possession. We created some half chances but where wasteful in the final third. In the second half, we made changes and I felt like we dominated. Our intensity was much better out of possession and we created a lot more chances, and both our goalscorers were instrumental in turning the game around.”
In the late game at the venue Perth Azzurri and Dianella White Eagles have played out a 0-0 draw. The hosts had plenty of chances in the first half but found Peter Pilkadaris in good form between the sticks, while new recruit Chris Saldraris was solid at the heart of the back four. Dianella had their chances after the break, but it was Liam Driscoll, brother of Dianella keeper Joel, who came up with some crucial saves for the Azzurri. The hosts sit second in the group, one point behind leaders Glory, while the Eagles pick up their first point of the competition.
Dianella keeper Joel Driscoll, who watched on from the bench in this one, said it was strong performance from the side. “Solid performance from the boys, had to withstand a lot of pressure in the first half but ultimately came away from the game disappointed we didn’t get the win,” he explained. “We created plenty of chances in the second half and didn’t allow Perth to have any which is a massive positive to take out of the game.”
30.1.2026
STATE LEAGUE NIGHT SERIES – WEEK ONE FRIDAY – REVIEW
The 2026 State League Night series begun on Friday evening at Endeavour Homes Stadium, Larkhill Sportsplex, and in the Group C early game Murdoch University Melville beat Cockburn City 3-0. The Cockerels, who were promoted to Division One this season opened brightly, but it was MUMFC who hit the front on the half hour, with Edward Wynne-Willson on target. The striker added his second two minutes from the break, after good work from Sèagh Harris in the build-up.
Willson completed his hat-trick in first half stoppage time, and it proved too much, with Marc Anthony’s side securing the win. “It was a good early season challenge and we’re pleased to start with a positive result. Cockburn began better than us and we struggled to break their press early on.” MUMFC assistant coach Gavin Brown explained. “However, we were delighted that the boys kept trying to play and were rewarded with some good goals. Eddie scored a great hat trick, with real variety in his three finishes. The build up to the first and third goals demonstrated how we want to play and were great team goals, and Sèagh (Harris) created the second with some individual brilliance too.
“Probably the most pleasing part of the night was the introduction of some of our top young talents in the second half. They showed great energy as well as their ability and lifted everyone around them.” In the late game at the venue, hosts Rockingham City secured a 3-0 win against Canning City. Shaun Mukwevho opened the scoring midway through the first half, before Will Hayes added the second just after the hour. The points were sealed five minutes from time, with Robbie Galvin adding the third.
30.1.2026
2026 AUSTRALIA CUP WA DRAW
The draw for the Round Two and Round Three ties in 2026 Australia Cup WA was made today at the Football West headquarters. Here is the full draw - Round Two - Spearwood Dalmatinac v Twin City Saints (Kalgoorlie), Cracovia v Mindarie, Joondanna Blues v Wanneroo City, Dunsborough Town v Swan United, Ellenbrook United v Football Margaret River, Dalyellup Park Rangers v Kwinana United, Bunbury Dynamos v Stirling Panthers, North Perth United v Port Kennedy – Games to be played between Friday February 20 and Sunday February 22) – Byes: Chipolopolo, Easton Dardanup, Football Bhutan, Hamersley Rovers, Northern City, Peel United, Perth AFC, Queens Park, South Perth United, Swan Valley
Round Three – Carramar Shamrock Rovers v Bunbury Dynamos/Stirling Panthers, Curtin University v Quinns, Kalamunda United v Football Bhutan, Eaton Dardanup v East Perth, Ellenbrook United/ Football Margaret River v Swan Valley, Inglewood United v Peel United, Balga v Subiaco, Chipolopolo v Perth AFC, Spearwood Dalmatinac/ Twin City Saints v Rockingham City, Mandurah City v Murdoch University Melville, Ashfield v Queens Park, Cockburn City v North Perth United/Port Kennedy, UWA Nedlands v Floreat Athena, Canning City v Morley Windmills, Northern City v South Perth United, Joondalup City v Joondanna Blues/Wanneroo City, Dunsborough Town/Swan United v Forrestfield United, Cracovia/Mindarie v Gwelup Croatia, Gosnells City v Hamersley Rovers, Kingsley Westside v North Beach, Wembley Downs v Dalyellup Park Rangers/Kwinana United - Date’s TBC
30.1.2026
NPLWA MEN’S NIGHT SERIES – WEEK TWO PREVIEW
We head into week two of the New Balance NPLWA Men’s Night Series competition, and it begins on Friday evening. First in Group A, the early game at Frank Drago Reserve sees Fremantle City meeting Armadale (6:30pm) It was a tight opening week in the group, Fremantle played out a hard-fought draw with Bayswater City, while Armadale were narrowly beaten by Perth RedStar. The star of the show for Fremantle was keeper Luke Radonich, who produced a number of fine saves, including denying the hosts the win late, saving a penalty. He said it was an encouraging start to the competition.
“It was a good performance by the boys on Friday night. I thought we took a step forward and the performance was much better than we have put out the last couple of weeks which was positive,” the keeper said. “Still a while until the season starts, so if we can build on that performance this week against Armadale and continue to improve leading up to the season. We know Armadale will be another good test this week and another opportunity for boys to get minutes in the legs.” In the late game at the venue Callum Salmon’s Perth RedStar will look for two straight wins to start their campaign, when they take on hosts Bayswater City, Matthew Sparrow’s side looking to register their first after drawing the opener. (8:30pm)
Also on Friday, we head to Dorrien Gardens in Group C, and in the early game Perth Glory will go in search of another win, when they take on Western Knights (6:30pm) A ten-man Knights were edged out by the Azzurri last week, while Glory proved too strong for newly promoted Dianella. Midfielder Alfie Knight said it was good to get a first up win, but he is expecting another tough test on Friday. “I thought the boys played really well last week, it’s always good to get minutes in again and the result is also a bonus as well,” the youngster explained. “We’ve still a few things to work on in training this week and hopefully get the result this week to push us closer to a final spot.”
Glory Head Coach Joe Heath was pleased with the first up appearance in the competition. “Very pleasing to start the night series with a win, and to see promising signs from a team that is starting to gel together,” he explained. Some really nice opportunities created when in possession and all the players worked very hard for the win.” In the late game Ian Ferguson’s Dianella White Eagles will look to bounce back from last week’s defeat against Glory when they take on hosts Perth Azzurri, who will look for back-to-back wins, after Kenny Lowe’s side beat the Knights in the first week of competition. (8:30pm)
Finally, we head to Macedonia Park on Sunday for the Group C games, and Sorrento will look to get their night series title defence back on track when they take on Olympic Kingsway in the early game. (5:30pm) Andres Oliveira’s Gulls were edged out by Balcatta last week, while Olympic came from behind to beat Stirling, and David Tough said he was pleased to see some of the younger players in the squad get some game time. “Last week’s game was a great for the neutral because it really had everything. We had four players making their competitive debuts for the club and eight under 23s in the squad, which bodes well for the season ahead,” Tough explained.
“We started back in January with the aim of peaking for the first round of the league, so to come away with the three points so early in our preparation was very pleasing. There is still plenty for us to work on, but overall, it was a positive step. We are looking forward to the game against Sorrento. Andres is an excellent coach and I am sure he will have them well organised. With another week’s work, we expect to have more players available. In the late game it’s a local derby, with Ago Mujic’s Striling Macedonia hoping to bounce back from last week’s defeat against Olympic, but they take on Terry Nicolaou’s Balcatta Etna’s side, who came from behind to beat Sorrento last week. (7:30pm)
30.1.2026
STATE LEAGUE NIGHT SERIES WEEK ONE – GROUP A, B AND C PREVIEW
The 2026 State League Night Series starts this weekend, with six groups of four, with group winners and the two highest second placed teams progressing to the quarter-finals. Firstly, in Group A, we head to the renamed Luxwin Stadium, Hartfield Park on Sunday, and in the early game newly promoted Quinns meet UWA Nedlands. (5:30pm) UWA missed out on promotion to the NPL last season, Kris Donnell’s side beaten in the semi-final of the Promotion/Relegation play-offs, while Quinns won the Division Two title, and Nick Jennings’ side will be looking to start the pre-season on the front foot.
“We have had a steady but purposeful preseason, we’re not struggling with injuries and the boys are looking fit and sharp,” Quinns assistant coach Steven Flint said. “We are under no illusions about what is required to be competitive in Division One this year and it’s not a new environment for any of the players to be in, we know what is required to be competitive. It’s going to be a very tough league to be in, especially with quite a few clubs putting a lot of financial resources into their playing squads. Our first competitive hit out will be against a very good UWA on Sunday, a side that did very well last season. The lads are looking forward to the challenge and getting back to playing in proper games. In the late game at the venue, Forrestfield United host Wembley Downs (7:30pm)
Also on Sunday, we have the Group B games at Paintseal Arena, Ashfield Reserve. In the late game Gosnells City, who were relegated to Division Two last season, open their campaign against Ashfield (7:30pm) The hosts will have new coach in dug out, with Malcom Tshuma taking over, while for Gosnells coach Peter Allen, it’s been a re-build after relegation, but he has been pleased how the new look squad is gelling, and he can’t wait for the competitive games to start.
“Yes, I’m looking forward to the night series, pre-season is going well we’ve got a lot of young players in and looking to give them a chance to impress during night series,” Allen explained. “Each year the night series becomes more and more competitive and although we aim to win our games, we also are mindful that we’re building for that first game of the season in what will be a very competitive league.” In the early game at the venue Kingsley Westside, who missed out on promotion in the Promotion/Relegation play-offs last season, take on Gwelup Croatia. (5:30pm)
The Group C games begin on Friday evening at Endeavour Homes Stadium, Larkhill Sportsplex, and in the late game Rockingham City entertains Canning City. (8:30pm) Rockingham only just survived the dreaded relegation play-off’s last season, and Matthew Brooks goes into his first full season as coach, while Canning finished sixth, their best finishing position in the eight seasons in Division Two, and coach Lee Hayward said they are hoping to build on it this season. “We have seen a lot of change in players this year, so we are still in the process of getting to know each other and making it all gel together,” he explained.
“However, I’ve seen enough against Quinn’s and UWA to know we will be very competitive in Division Two this year. Against Floreat in our final match before Rockingham, we were a little short defensively but again, there was still a lot of positives to take from the game. The game against Rockingham will allow us to see where we are at against a team from our own division before we take on Cockburn and Melville. I know the guys are keen to get started, and having played a season down at Rockingham myself, Larkhill always has a good atmosphere, so it should be a good couple of weeks down there. In the early game in the group, Cockburn City meet Murdoch University Melville. (6:30pm)
30.1.2026
STATE LEAGUE NIGHT SERIES WEEK ONE – GROUP D, E AND F PREVIEW
In Group D newly-promoted North Beach begin life in the State League when they take on Balga at Wanneroo Reserve in the late game on Sunday evening. (7:30pm) Gerhard Janssen’s Balga finished fifth in Division Two, their best finish since 2019, while North Beach secured their place in the State League with a win in the play-off against Swan United. Coach Nick Di Carlo said it’s been a busy few months down at Charles Riley Reserve, but things are going well. “It's been a really exciting few months for our club as we had to quickly turn our attention to preparation for a debut season in the State League,” he explained. “We have been thrilled with the additions we have made to our squad, who have not just brought quality and experience, but have fit into the club culture.
“We've had some good tests in pre-season against State League One teams, and most importantly have seen improvement between games as well as grabbing some confidence boosting results. We'll be coming up against a well establish team in Balga this weekend who no doubt has aspirations to seek promotion after just missing out on the playoffs last season. It will be a good barometer for our progress in what is a really difficult group, but also the perfect preparation for a long an intense season. In the early game on Sunday, Floreat Athena begin life in Division One, when they take on Subiaco. (5:30pm)
In Group E, we head to Green Promo Park, Edinburgh Oval on Sunday evening, and in the early game the other promoted side Morley Windmills meet Kalamunda City. (5:30pm) Kalamunda were relegated last season, beaten in the playoff final by Cockburn City, while Morley return to the State League after relegation in 2023, securing their place in a dramatic 3-2 win against Wanneroo City. Morley coach John O’Reilly, who coached Armadale in the NPL for over six years, said Sunday will be a tough start for them, but one they are looking forward too.
“It’s great to be back in Saturday football with Morley Windmills, and pre-season has seen a great mix of returning players and new players,” he said. “It will take us a few weeks to fully gel and become a cohesive unit, but that's what NS is for Kalamunda have been up and down last couple of years but have always been a strong threat since joining state football, so it should be a good opening game for all involved.” In the late game at the venue, Curtin University welcome Mandurah City. (7:30pm)
Finally on Sunday, the Group F games will be played at Proto DPS Inglewood Stadium, and in the early game East Perth takes on Carramar Shamrock Rovers. (5:30pm) Rovers improved on their 2024 position, finishing seventh, while East Perth missed out on promotion, beaten for the second consecutive season in the play-offs. New head coach Sully Sullivan said the transition has been good, and they are ready for another season. “The boys have been brilliant. We’ve really focused on continuity and building on the foundations we’ve laid over the last two seasons. The energy at training has been excellent, and while we’ve integrated a few new faces, the core of the group understands the standards we expect,” Sullivan explained.
“We’re looking forward to getting under the lights against Carramar. The Night Series is always a fantastic barometer to see where the squad is at physically and tactically. Carramar are always a tough, competitive outfit, so it’s the perfect test for us to blow off the cobwebs. For us, Friday isn't just about the result; it’s about establishing our rhythm and showing that we can maintain the levels we’ve set for ourselves recently. We want to start the year on the front foot and put ourselves in a strong position early.” In the late game on the night, hosts Inglewood United meet Joondalup City. (7:30pm)
29.1.2026
GLORY YOUNGSTER HEADS TO THE CHAMPIONSHIP
Perth Glory young defender Christian Pullella has completed a permanent move to English Championship side Queens Park Rangers for an undisclosed fee, and will initially link up with the Hoops Development Squad. The 18-year-old featured regularly for the Glory Academy side in the NPL WA and also earned international honours for Australia at Under-16 and Under-17 level. The youngster said it’s a great opportunity. “I'm feeling great, and I’m just happy to get everything signed and be part of QPR,” he said. “As soon as I heard they were interested, it was a yes from me, 100 percent.”
Pullella, who spent five years with Glory and has made four appearances for Australia U17s to date, said fellow Aussies - and former Glory players, Daniel Bennie and Jaylan Pearman have already made the move to W12, and he admits he has been in touch with the pair. “They both messaged me prior to coming,” he said. “They’ve had nothing but positive things to say about everyone here, so it’s really exciting to be part of it. I think the club's putting a lot of priority into the youth, their academy and the training facilities. They've also announced they're applying for Category 1 status, so they obviously value their academy very highly My first target is getting out on the pitch, and I just can’t wait to get started.”
Glory Football Director Stan Lazaridis wished the youngster good luck. “This move to QPR represents an exciting opportunity for Christian, and he’s decided to take it he said,” he said. “We would like to thank him for his contribution as a PGFC Academy player and wish him all the very best in this next stage of his football career.” Meanwhile, Rangers CEO Christian Nourry said Pullella is a good pick up for them. “Christian has performed well for the Australia youth national team over the last 18 months,” he said. “And he brings a balanced full-back profile to the Development Squad with the athletic potential to have a successful professional football career.”
29.1.2026
MAYNARD-BREWER HEADS TO THE TANGERINES IN SCOTLAND
Former ECU Joondalup Academy keeper Ashley Maynard-Brewer has completed a permanent move to Scottish Premiership side Dundee United for an undisclosed fee. The transfer brings an end to his 10-and-a-half-year association with Charlton Athletic having joined the club’s academy as a teenager. Since making his professional debut in 2016, the goalkeeper has made 87 appearances for the Addicks across all competitions, including 19 league starts during last season’s promotion-winning campaign. The keeper said he can’t wait to get started. “Really happy to get the deal done, and I’m super excited to be here,” Maynard-Brewer said. “Once I know Dundee United were interested in me, I was desperate to come up here and play. I played at Tannadice twice in my time at Ross County, and it was a great atmosphere so I’m looking forward to playing for the home team.”
Maynard-Brewer, who also had loan spells at Chelmsford City, Hampton and Richmond Borough, Dulwich Hamley and Dover Athletic, as well as 17 games at Ross County, reflecting on his time at the Addicks. "I feel extremely grateful to have been at this club for the last 10-and-a-half years. This club gave me the opportunity to come to the UK and become a professional goalkeeper. I was supported by some incredible people like Joe Francis, Steve Avory and Tracey Leaburn,” he explained. “I leave with some amazing memories like the play-off campaigns in 2018/19 and 2024/25 and the Carabao Cup run in 2022/23. This club is full of incredible people and I’ve been really lucky to have met so many of you. I wish the club the best in the future!"
Charlton Managing Director James Rodwell thanks Maynard-Brewer for his services. "We’d like to thank Ash for everything he has contributed to the club over more than a decade. He’s an excellent goalkeeper and an outstanding person, and a real credit to our academy,” he said. “With his contract coming to an end and the World Cup on the horizon this summer, he has reached a stage in his career where regular first-team football is important and this move allows him to do that."
The keeper will compete with Dave Richards for the starting spot at United following Yevhen Kucherenko's departure earlier this month. "He is a terrific young goalkeeper as far as we are concerned, he knows the league having spent a loan spell at Ross County four seasons ago," said United manager Jim Goodwin. "He is a lot more experienced now for the opportunities he has had at Charlton and we believe we are getting a really good goalkeeper to come in and compete for that first-place slot. We were light in that department anyway; it is a position we have been working hard on since the beginning of the window. I am delighted to get Ashley over the line."
29.1.2026
GLORY DEFENDER RELISHING LEAGUE LEADERS CHALLENGE
Perth Glory welcome Isuzu-Ute A-League leaders Auckland FC to HBF Park for the week 15 clash on Saturday evening. (6:45pm) Adam Griffiths’ side are coming off narrow back-to-back defeats against Brisbane and Wanderers, in games they had chances to win, which has left them tenth on the ladder, but in a tight season, they are only five points out of the final’s places. Auckland have carried on from where they left off last season, which saw them take out the Premiers Plate in their first season in the competition, and they head over the ditch in pole position, and have not been beaten on their travels this season, so it’s going to be a huge challenge for the hosts.
Glory defender Scott Wootton said despite back-to-back defeats, the players are working hard to turn things around. “The mood in the camp is good, considering a few disappointing results recently, but one thing we’ve got here is a great team spirit, and a good bunch of lads, so the atmosphere in the camp is good,” the big defender explained. “We have plenty of games left in the season, and loads of points to play for, and the coach’s message is to keep improving, keep playing we want to play in the game, but get better in certain moments, which will help us turn things around and move up the table.
“In the main we’ve been playing some really good stuff, controlling games and playing the way we want to play, but when we’re on top in games we to turn that dominance and territory into goals. We are creating chances, and I’m sure it will come sooner rather than later, and we’ll give someone a good hiding, hopefully that comes on Saturday. The most important thing is not to get too high when your winning, don’t get carried away, but on the flip side when things haven’t gone our way not get too down and try and stay level headed and try and be consistent.”
Wotton, who joined the club from New Zealand club Wellington Phoenix, said Saturday’s opponents have been the benchmark since they came into the competition, but he is confident they can get a result on Saturday. “Auckland have been the best team since coming into the competition, a very good squad and I think they’ve improved their squad from last season. We’re under no illusions it’s going to be a difficult game, but one we are relishing and looking forward too,” the 34-year-old English defender explained. “We’re confident we can beat any team on the day, and we have a really good squad as well. This league is so tight, and you see all the time, everybody is beating everybody all the time at the moment, so we go into the game confident.”
Head Coach Griffiths said his side need to make small improvements if they are to get their push up the table going, started against a good Auckland side on Saturday. “We had some good moments against Western Sydney, but we didn’t take them early and the momentum shifted in that last 20 minutes,” he said. “It was a bit of a lapse in concentration and we conceded late, so we just have to work harder and really focus on those areas and start to become more clinical in those moments.
“If we become clinical, we get more momentum and we start to dominate the game more. From our perspective, we feel that we’ve been very close in every game and I feel that we can beat anyone that we’ve played thus far. It’s about re-focusing every day on those micro-moments, honing in on them and seeing how we can improve. Auckland is a team that doesn’t give up much, so we’re going to have to be at our best in terms of those clinical moments this week more than ever. It’s about finding that consistency and if we do that, we can go on a little run.”
Griffiths is well aware the quality Auckland head coach Steve Corica has his disposal, and he knows what to expect. “Obviously Auckland present a new challenge,” he said. “Every game has its different challenges and understanding the opposition is key, especially in this tight league. They’ve got really good aggression in their pressing, they’re a good team and they have a winning culture which is something we want to build, to have that same winning mentality consistently. They’re going to be an aggressive and physical team. They want to win and so do we, so we need to have the mentality to match that intensity and then try to improve on the areas we struggled in last week. Steve Corica has an appetite for winning. He’s won leagues, he’s very respected and he’s consistent.”
The last time the Black Knights headed to Perth was in week 13 last season, when Glory caused an upset, beating the then leaders 1-0, with Jaylan Pearman bagging the winner on the half hour. Meanwhile in terms of team news, Griffiths confirmed that Lachie Wales could be in line to make a welcome return from his hamstring injury and that the squad suffered no fresh injuries in the away clash with Western Sydney Wanderers, while Luke Amos and Andriano Lebib, have also been added to the squad.
Perth Glory Squad: GK Matt SUTTON, GK Ryan WARNER, 2 Charbel SHAMOON, 3 Sam SUTTON, 4 Scott WOOTTON, 7 Nicholas PENNINGTON, 9 Jaiden KUCHARSKI, 10 Luke AMOS, 11 Lachlan WALES, 15 Zach LISOLAJSKI, 17 Arion SULEMANI, 18 Rhys BOZINOVSKI, 20 Trent OSTLER, 22 Adam TAGGART, 24 Andriano LEBIB, 25 Sebastian DESPOTOVSKI, 27 Will FRENEY, 34 Tom LAWRENCE, 39 Giovanni DE ABREU, 45 Brian KALTAK, 67 Stefan COLAKOVSKI - *Two to be omitted* - Ins: AMOS, WALES, LEBIB - Unavailable: GK Cameron COOK, 5 Riley FOXE, 6 Brandon O’NEILL, 8 Callum TIMMINS, 31 Joel ANASMO (All Injured)
Auckland FC Squad: GK Michael WOUD, GK Oli SAIL, 2 Hiroki SAKAI, 3 Jake GIRDWOOD-REICH, 4 Nando PIJNAKER, 6 Louis VERSTRAETE, 7 Cameron HOWIESON, 8 Felipe GALLEGOS, 9 Sam COSGROVE, 10 Guillermo MAY, 11 Marlee FRANÇOIS, 15 Francis DE VRIES, 17 Callan ELLIOT, 19 Oliver MIDDLETON, 21 Jesse RANDALL, 22 Jake BRIMMER, 23 Dan HALL, 27 Logan ROGERSON, 35 Jonty BIDOIS, 77 LACHLAN Brook
28.1.2026
GLORY AND SKY BLUES SHARE THE SPOILS
Perth Glory have missed the opportunity to leap into second place on the Ninja A-League ladder, after being held to a 0-0 draw by Sydney FC at Sam Kerr Football Centre on Wednesday evening. Both sides had their chances, but keepers Teresa Morrissey and Heather Hinz made some great saves, and they had to settle for a point. “It feels great to be back, I did my other knee five years ago, so it made it easier to make the timeline shorter knowing what to expect,” returning Glory midfielder Natalie Tathem said post-match. “I turned up each day to make sure I could control, so it feels amazing to be back, just unfortunate we couldn’t get the win, but we kept a clean sheet.”
Tathem said it’s disappointing not to get the win, but they move on. “At half time we spoke, we weren’t close to them and winning our duals, which is something we really pride ourselves on. But the wind does make a big difference at this field, and we didn’t use it to our advantage in the first half, so we have to learn from that and move on,” she said. “We see our home as a bit of a fortress, so we try and get them home wins, as travel for us every other week is a challenge. We had a lot of chances tonight to take the three points, but we move to Wellington next week.” Stephen Peters made two changes to the side beaten by Melbourne City on the weekend, with Mischa Anderson replacing the injured Tijan McKenna, while Rola Badawiya came in for Charli Wainwright, who dropped to the bench.
The hosts opened brightly and had the first opportunity after only five minutes, but skipper Isobel Dalton’s long-range shot was straight at Sky Blue custodian Hinz. The visitors, who were searching for a first win in seven games, hit back, and Jodi Ulkekul made space in the penalty area, but her low shot was saved by Morrissey. Moments later Susan Phonsongkham free kick was saved by Hinz, before the Sky Blues keeper tipped Badawiya’s effort around the post by Hinz.
It was end-to-end football, with both teams pushing for the opener. Riley Tanner cut in from the left, but her shot flashed across the face of goal, before Abbey Lemon shot flashed just wide of the post. But Glory started to take control, and Phonsongkham’s free kick looked distained for the net, but the alert Hinz tipped it over the top. Both sides had late chances, Ulkekul header from a Sarah Hunter cross, was saved by Morrissey, before Dalton’s first time shot from outside the penalty area whistled over the top, but at the break it was 0-0.
It more of the same after the break, Emma Tovar shot from the edge of the box was saved by Hinz, before Tanner’s shot from the angle was tipped over by Morrissey. The Glory custodian then got down well to deny to deny Mackenzie Hawkesby, this after good work by Tanner. Sarah Hunter then found space on the edge of the box, but her shot was again well saved by the busy Morrissey. Peters went to the bench just after the hour, with Tathem returning to the pitch after her long-term injury, replacing Sarah O’Donoghue.
Glory needed to lift, and Badawiya shot drifted wide of the post, before the striker was bundled over in the penalty area, but referee Page Malau-Aduli waved away their protests, before Hinz tipped over Tovar’s shot from distance. Glory made a doubled change with Gabby Hollar and Ella Lincon, replacing Badawiya and Bronte Trew on 77 minutes, and Lincoln went close moments later, but Hinz made a smart save to deny her. The hosts were finishing the game the better and Hinz saved Phonsongkham’s shot.
It looked like the only goal would win this one, but Morrissey and Hinz wouldn’t be beaten. First the Glory keeper denied substitute Amber Luchtmeijer eight minutes from time, before Dalton fired inches past the post at the other end. Glory emptied the bench in search of the winner, with Tanika Lala returning from injury, but after five minutes of stoppage time the final whistle blew, and both sides had to settle for a point.
Perth Glory: GK Teresa MORRISSEY, 2 Mischa ANDERSON (27 Charli WAINWRIGHT 87’), 3 Emma TOVAR, 5 Grace JOHNSTON, 10 Susan PHONSONGKHAM (26 Tanika LALA 87’), 12 Bronte TREW (25 Ella LINCOLN 77’), 17 Rola BADAWIYA (9 Gabby HOLLAR 76’), 19 Sarah O’DONOGHUE (11 Natalie TATHEM 63’), 23 Isobel DALTON, 24 Julia SARDO, 29 Onyinyechi ZOGG – Subs not used: GK Jessica SKINNER
Sydney FC Squad: GK Heather HINZ, 2 Madison AYSON, 4 Tori TUMETH, 5 Kirsty FENTON, 7 Amelia CASSAR (15 Mackenzie HAWKESBY 46’), 8 Hana LOWRY, 9 Jodi ULKEKUL (19 Skye HALMARICK 89’), 13 Riley TANNER, 14 Abbey LEMON (18 Amber LUCHTMEIJER 71’), 16 Willa PEARSON, 21 Sarah HUNTER – Sub not used: GK Tiahna ROBERTSON, 17 Claire CORBETT, 23 Rubi SULLIVAN – Referee: Page Malau-Aduli
28.1.2026
WA FOOTBALL HALL OF FAME TO HONOUR PAST PLAYERS
Western Australia have had many outstanding players over the years, with many representing the Socceroos and Matildas, and the Football Hall of Fame WA will be holding their seventh induction at the 2026 Hall of Fame gala dinner and presentation at the Riverside Room at Optus Stadium on Saturday 7th November 2026. More of the true greats of Western Australian association football will be inducted into the Hall of Fame, which encompasses the Hall of Legends, Hall of Champions, Hall of Merit and the Hall of Recognition. It's one of the highlights on the WA football calendar, when they pay tribute to the major contributors to the State’s rich history of the sport, which stretches well over 130 years.
Among the past winners was Sandra Brentnall, who became the first female footballer to be inducted into a Hall of Legends in 2012. The Hall of Fame has also recognised the significant international achievements of many players. Some of the Champion players who have already been honoured include former Socceroo stars Robbie Dunn (2005), Tony Franken (2012), Gary Marocchi (2005), Robert Zabica (2012), Chris Coyne (2016), Stan Lazaridis (2012), and Alistair Edwards (2008) plus WA's first football Olympian Con Purser (1996).
Other greats inductions include Scott Miller (2012), Bobby Despotovski (2012), current Football West CEO Jamie Harnwell (2016), Alan Beale (1996), Denis Barstow (2002), Alan Vest (2016), Ron Adair (2005), David Jones (1996) and Ray Ilott (1996), and former state greats include John O’Connell (1996), Willie McNally (2012), John McInroy (2005), Len Dundo (1996), John Davidson (1996) and Hugh Miller (1996). They are inviting the public to put names forward to who that would like to see inducted at the next induction event to be held in November this year. To download the nomination form please scroll to the bottom of the home page at footballhalloffamewa.com.au - Then click on the yellow button "CLICK HERE TO NOMINATE"
Please email the form to the Secretary at admin@footballhalloffamewa.com.au
28.1.2026
SECOND PLACE UP FOR GRABS IF GLORY CAN OVERCOME SYDNEY FC
Perth Glory will be looking to bounce back from their defeat against league leaders Melbourne City on Sunday, when they welcome Sydney FC to Sam Kerr Football Centre, in their week 10 Ninja A-League clash on Wednesday evening. (7:00pm) The 0-2 loss against City was Glory’s first home defeat in five games, and it left them in ninth position on the table.
But the league is so tight, with only two points separating second to ninth, so a win against the Sky Blues, will move them temporarily to second, so there is extra motivation for the Glory. The visitors have struggled this season, only winning two games, one being against Glory in week three, when goals from Bianca Galic and Riley Tanner secured a 2-0 win in the harbour city, so if Stephen Peters’ side want to keep their finals chances in their own hands, a win is crucial with eight games remaining.
Peters said it’s huge motivation to get to second place, and one they can’t let slip. “It’s very rare that you get two bites at the cherry to go to second spot which is what we’ve recently experienced, it’s all about the opportunity for us now,” the Head Coach said. “We can’t think about the negatives or the pressure; we’ve just got to think about the opportunity that’s presenting itself. We want to collect some points from this little spell that we’ve had.
“We played the Champions away, the Premiers at home and now we have Sydney FC who have been a very successful team in the history of the league straight after that. So, the challenge has been fantastic for us and the opportunity for us is huge. I just hope we can showcase the football that we’re capable of producing, along with the tough stuff that we’ve been known for in recent times. If we can do that, it’s going to be a good one for us.”
The last time the two sides met at the venue, was in week 11 last season when the points were shared after a 1-1 draw in front of a 1,139 crowd. Caitlin Doeglas, who was playing her first game since returning from NPL side Perth RedStar, gave the hosts the lead on 24 minutes, but in first half stoppage time the Sky Blues levelled, with Lucy Johnson on target. Both sides had chances to win it after the break, but both had to settle for a share of the spoils.
The Sky Blues arrive in tenth place, five points adrift of Glory, but they do have two games in hand. But their form is poor, not winning any of their last seven games, but are coming off a 0-0 draw against Victory last week, and Peters knows the quality Ante Juric’s side have, so he is expecting a stern challenge. “I think they’re defensively very good and are still a very difficult side to play against,” he said.
“They’ve had a 0-0 draw against Adelaide and a 0-0 draw against Melbourne Victory in recent times, two good sides and they obviously beat us earlier this season, so we have to make sure we’re not taking anything for granted. I think if we play the football, we’re capable of playing, we can put ourselves in a good space to get the three points.”
Peters is hoping to have some his walking wounded back for the game, but kept his cards close to his chest when asked about his squad for the clash. “There’ll be three or four different faces,” he said. “It’s more from a planning perspective because obviously it’s important that we don’t fatigue the same players. “Natalie Tathem’s very close and there have been a couple of other players who have been doing really well, like Tanika Lala, so we’ll see how we go.” Lala will return to the squad named today, but Tathem will be given another week, while Gabby Hollar and Olivia Wood have also been added to the extended squad.
Ante Juric has named his extended squad for the clash, and it’s a welcome sight as midfield Mackenzie Hawkesby is included in the extended squad for the first time since the clash against Wellington Phoenix last year. Shay Hollman, Indiana Dos Santos, Natalie Tobin and Madeleine Caspers remain sidelined through injury and pregnancy while Bianca Galic joins the unavailable list with an ankle injury. There will also be a return to the west for former Glory favourite Hana Lowry, who has recovered from her recent knee injury.
Perth Glory Squad: GK Teresa MORRISSEY, GK Jessica SKINNER, 2 Mischa ANDERSON, 3 Emma TOVAR, 4 Daisy MCALLISTER, 5 Grace JOHNSTON, 9 Gabby HOLLAR, 10 Susan PHONSONGKHAM, 12 Bronte TREW, 16 Olivia WOOD, 17 Rola BADAWIYA, 19 Sarah O’DONOGHUE, 23 Isobel DALTON, 24 Julia SARDO, 25 Ella LINCOLN, 26 Tanika LALA, 27 Charli WAINWRIGHT, 28 Clancy WESTAWAY, 29 Onyinyechi ZOGG - *Two to be omitted* - Ins: HOLLAR, WOOD, LALA - Outs: 6 Tijan MCKENNA - Unavailable: 6 Tijan MCKENNA, 7 Megan WYNNE, 8 Georgia CASSIDY, 11 Natalie TATHEM, 13 Naomi CHINNAMA, 20 Ella ABDUL MASSIH (All Injured)
Sydney FC Squad: GK Heather HINZ, GK Tiahna ROBERTSON, 2 Madison AYSON, 4 Tori TUMETH, 5 Kirsty FENTON, 7 Amelia CASSAR, 8 Hana LOWRY, 9 Jodi ULKEKUL, 13 Riley TANNER, 14 Abbey LEMON, 15 Mackenzie HAWKESBY, 16 Willa PEARSON, 17 Claire CORBETT, 18 Amber LUCHTMEIJER, 19 Skye HALMARICK, 21 Sarah HUNTER, 23 Rubi SULLIVAN, 24 Caley TALLON-HENNIKER - *One to be omitted* - Ins: HAWKESBY (return from injury) - Unavailable: 6 Shay HOLLMAN (leg),10 Indiana DOS SANTOS (knee), 12 Natalie TOBIN (pregnant), 26 Madeleine CASPERS (rib), 32 Bianca GALIC (ankle)
27.1.2026
PETERS EYEING SECOND SPOT
The last time Perth Glory beat Sydney FC at home in an A-League Women fixture, Samantha Kerr scored a brace for a team that featured Matildas greats Caitlin Foord, Alanna Kennedy and Lisa De Vanna. But just over seven years on from their win, Glory coach Stephen Peters has encouraged his charges to defy fatigue with the dangling carrot of second spot on the ladder.
Glory will head into tomorrow night’s clash with 10th-placed Sydney off the back of just a four-day turnaround. Despite Saturday’s away loss to table-toppers Melbourne City, Glory could jump into second and while games in hand and goal difference may mean they won’t stay there beyond the weekend, Peters said it was an opportunity they could not afford to let slip.
“It’s very rare you get an opportunity to have two bites of the cherry going into second spot, which is what we’ve recently experienced,” he said. “It’s all about the opportunity for us now. We can’t think about the negatives or the pressure; we’ve got to think about the opportunity that’s presenting itself and there’s an opportunity to put ourselves second on the ladder, which is incredible.”
Glory will have the weekend off before heading across the Tasman to face Wellington Phoenix next week for a game Peters says is critial ahead of the Asian Cup break. “We would probably put Melbourne City and Sydney FC in its own little block, and then the Wellington, Canberra and Newcastle games in a different block before the Asian Cup break,” he said..
“This is why I believe this game’s super important for us; we want to collect some points from this little spell that we’ve had. We’ve played the champions (Central Coast) away, the premiers at home, and then Sydney FC, who have been a very successful team in the league straight after that. The challenge has been fantastic for us, but the opportunity for us is huge.”
27.1.2026
DUNDEE UNITED COURTING MAYNARD-BREWER
Scottish Premier League club Dundee United are moving to bring in goalkeeper Ashley Maynard-Brewer from Charlton Athletic. The 26-year old shot-stopper has been on the books of the Addicks since 2015 but, with his contract due to expire at seasons' end, it's understood he's open to switching to Scotland.
Maynard-Brewer, whose career began at ECU Joondalup, made his senior Charlton debut in late 2018 and featured regularly for the club between 2022 and 2025. However, he has gained just a single outing this season and in recent times hasn't even made the bench for Nathan Jones' side.
With 87 league and cup appearances for Charlton plus a further 47 while on loan to the likes of Dover Athletic, Dulwich Hamlet and Ross County, Maynard-Brewer has a lot to offer. He has three caps for Australia at Under-23 level and was a member of the squad which went to the 2020 Olympic Games.
26.1.2026
NEWCASTLE LOSE FOR THE FIRST TIME UNDER OXTOBY
Tanya Oxtoby was left frustrated by her side's first-half performance against Charlton Athletic as Newcastle United fell to a first league defeat under the Australian manager on Sunday. United found themselves 2-0 down at half-time against the Women's Super League 2 table-toppers, but a double change at the break and an Oona Sevenius goal saw the Lasses command large portions of the second-half - albeit they were unable to take a positive result back to the North East.
Despite the result, Oxtoby was able to take a handful of positives from the game. "In the first half, our decision-making with the ball caused us problems," Oxtoby said post-match. "We know that structurally, they are a team who are tough. We played into their hands by giving the ball away in areas we knew they were going to be dangerous. I wanted us to be more patient and make Charlton work a little bit more, to allow us to get into shape and exploit our patterns."
After some small changes, however, Oxtoby saw her side come out for the second half looking much more competitive and pinning back the Addicks, although familiar issues continue to hamper United. "I think we're saying it every week at this point: in both boxes, for us, are areas we can continue to improve and focus on, and we'll keep working on that until we get it right," she explained.
"We tweaked a few things at half time, and in the second half, we adjusted our shape to try and get numbers higher up as well. I think all the finishers that came off the bench impacted that game, and that's what we ask of them, and of course, it's going to take a whole squad to achieve success. But I think we're saying it every week at this point: in both boxes, for us, are areas we can continue to improve and focus on, and we'll keep working on that until we get it right."
26.1.2026
FORMER GLORY PAIR IN AUSTRALIA DAY HONOURS LIST
Former Perth Glory CEO Tony Pignata and former Glory head coach Alen Stajcic are part of four distinguished members of the Australian football family who have been recognised in the January 26 Honours List for their contributions to the sport and their communities. Pignata was appointed CEO at the club in May 2018, and he spent four-and-a-half years in the role, during which time the club won its first ever A-League Premiership and made its debut in the Asian Champions League.
Pignata, who is now Football Tasmania CEO, received the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the Governor General's Australia Day Honours in recognition of his significant services to football in Australia. His contribution to the game spans playing, administration and senior executive leadership, with influence across grassroots, state and national levels of Australian football.
Stajcic was head coach at Glory from August 2023, before departing the club in June 2025, has been awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for his service to football as a coach. Stajcic, who departed his last club Western Sydney Wanderers last week, was the Head Coach of the CommBank Matildas from 2014-2019 and has played a significant role in the development of women’s football having held multiple roles within the Australian women’s national teams, the A-League and the Philippine Football Federation.
In other football honours, PFA founder and former CEO, Brendan Schwab, was the recipient of the Member of the Order of Australia (AM) and recognised for his significant service to professional sport as a lawyer, and as an advocate for athlete's rights. Schwab who co-founded the PFA in 1993, played a critical role in advancing the rights of Australian footballers through establishing collective bargaining for the Socceroos, Matildas, A-League and National Soccer League players.
Ian Holmes, former CEO of Soccer Australia, received the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for his service to football. Holmes has made significant contributions to football having served at various levels, including as President of the NSW Amateur Soccer Federation and CEO of Soccer Australia. His work was instrumental at national and state levels and his leadership and administration pivotal in shaping the sport’s growth and development in Australia.
25.1.2026
GLORY LET IT SLIP AS WANDERERS WIN IT LATE
Perth Glory conceded a stoppage time goal, to lose 0-1 in the week 14 Isuzu Ute A-League clash against Western Sydney Wanderers at CommBank Stadium on Sunday afternoon. It looked like Glory would leave with a hard-earned point, but two minutes into added time new Wanderers striker Ryan Fraser, who signed from English Championship side Southampton last week, came off the bench and fired home the winner for the hosts. “It hurts to concede so late, but we had some good moments in the first half, but we didn’t take those moments, and a very good Wanderers team made them three big changes, and we weren’t good enough in those moments and turned over the ball cheaply and the pressure kept coming,” Glory head coach Adam Griffiths said post-match.
“The easiest way to take the steam out of the game is to keep the ball, but we turned it over cheaply, and it makes it easy for players like Fraser to take control of the game. The whole team is working hard and we’re seeing the brand of football we want, but as I said it’s those critical moments we need to be better with the ball.” Glory kept the same team that were edged out by Brisbane Roar last week, while on the bench Jaiden Kucharski and Will Freney returned from injury, while new signing Stefan Colakovski was also added, but no room for English midfielder Luke Amos.
The officials said there would be two drinks break in each half, and it was the hosts who started brightly on a warm day in NSW, and Angus Thurgate’s shot from the edge of the box was deflected wide off Gio De Abreu, and shortly after Aidan Simmons fired over the top. Glory hit back after the first drinks stop, Tom Lawrence’s low cross found Adam Taggart on 21 minutes, but the Glory skipper could any fire straight at Lawrence Thomas.
Then moments later the Wanderers custodian made a smart save to deny a Lawrence’s free kick, as Glory pressed for the opener. Wanderers had a lot of possession, but struggled to find a clear-cut opportunity, the best falling to Brandon Borrello on the half hour, but he couldn’t keep his effort down. Glory ended the half the better and Taggart crossed to Nicholas Penningtion, and his first time shot was well blocked by the alert Lawrence. At half time it was all-square, the hosts with no shots on target, and it is all to play for after the break.
Glory made a double change at the break, with Freney and Seb Despotovski coming on for De Abreu and Trent Ostler and it was the visitors who went so close to the lead just before the hour mark, Sam Sutton’s corner fell to Taggart, and his shot on the turn flashed over the top. Wanderers new coach Gary van Egmond made a triple change moments later, and they started to get on top. First Sutton got down well to save one of them, Bozhidar Krav’s cross shot, then on 71 minutes they went even closer.
Fraser’s shot was well blocked by the alert Matt Sutton, the rebound falling to Thurgate, and with the goal at his mercy the midfielder blazed over the top. Wanderers were looking the likely team to score late, and Sutton made a smart save to thwart Phillip Cancar’s swerving effort. The visitors were hanging on, and substitute Awan Lual was next to go close, getting on the end of Kraev’s low cross, but his effort hit the post and away to safety. The home faithful thought they had a penalty two minutes from time, after Kraev’s header hit Brian Kaltak on the arm, but it was point-blank range and VAR ruled no spot kick.
Then in the final minute Alex Gersbach’s corner fell to Lual, but his shot crashed of the bar. It was all hands-on deck for Grifith’s side and Sutton produced a stunning save moments later to deny Fraser’s curling effort. It looked like they had survived the onslaught, but from the result corner the hosts won it. Sutton pounced clear, but it dropped to Fraser on the edge of the box, and the Scottish striker fired through the crowded penalty area and the ball deflected past Sutton to win it for the hosts. Glory did have a late chance to salvage a draw, but Colakovski was inches away from turning Lawrence cross home at the back post.
Western Sydney Wanderers: GK Lawrence THOMAS, 3 Alex GERSBACH, 5 Dylan SCICLUNA (39 Awan LUAL 86'), 8 Steven UGARKOVIC (7 Ryan FRASER 60'), 9 Kosta BARBAROUSES (17 Jarrod CARLUCCIO 90+6'), 14 Phillip CANCAR, 21 Aydan HAMMOND (25 Joshua BRILLANTE 60'), 22 Anthony PANTAZOPOULOS, 26 Brandon BORRELLO (23 Bozhidar KRAEV 60'), 31 Aidan SIMMONS 32 Angus THURGATE - Subs not used: RGK Jordan HOLMES, 19 Ruon TONGYIK
Perth Glory: GK Matt SUTTON, 2 Charbel SHAMOON, 3 Sam SUTTON, 4 Scott WOOTTON, 7 Nicholas PENNINGTON (67 Stefan COLAKOVSKI 78'), 18 Rhys BOZINOVSKI, 20 Trent OSTLER (25 Seb DESPOTOVSKI 46'), 22 Adam TAGGART, (9 Jaiden KUCHARSKI 84'), 34 Tom LAWRENCE, 39 Gio DE ABREU (27 Will FRENEY 46'), 45 Brian KALTAK - Subs not used: RGK Ryan WARNER, 15 Zach LISOLAJSKI, 17 Arion SULEMANI – Referee: Ben ABRAHAM
25.1.2026
BOLAND HAT-TRICK GIVES THE GREEN MACHINE A PERFECT START TO NIGHT SERIES
The week one games in the New Balance NPLWA Men’s Night Series were completed on Saturday evening and in the late game in Group C, we head a seven-goal thriller, with Olympic Kingsway coming from behind to beat a ten-man Stirling Macedonia 4-3 with Liam Boland scoring a hat-trick for the Green Machine at Percy Doyle Reserve. “The game would have been an absolute cracker as a neutral, there were great goals big tackles and lots of end-to-end moments,” Olympic defender Ollie Annis explained. “I thought we had the better of the first 15-20 minutes but Stirling were the better team for the rest of the half. They came out the second half with 10 men and controlled the first 15 minutes of it and ended up going ahead, but we calmed down and started to control large parts of the game and got on top of them to see out the win.”
Olympic, who won the pre-season competition in 2023, hit the front on 12 minutes, Boland bagging his first for the evening, firing home a free kick after Noah Ieraci was brought down on the edge of the box. They doubled their advantage nine minutes later, new English striker Robert Harker, who has signed from NPLVIC side Hume City, on target on his first competitive game for the club, curling home a free kick from the edge of the box after he was brought down. Stirling were back in the game eight minutes from half time, with striker Callum McKenzie scoring. But in the final minute Stirling were reduced to ten-men when Danny Douglas received a second yellow card.
But it didn’t deter Ago Mujic’s side, and they restored parity in first half stoppage time, with Samuel Dweh on target, then on 68 minutes, the ten-men hit the front, with Aston Montgomery making it 3-2. Olympic lifted and five minutes later Olympic were level, with Boland bagging his second, heading home at the back post from Annis’ corner, and the big striker won it three minutes later. Annis won a tackle in his own half and found Younous Sow, who raced forward and found Harker, who combined with Joe Hobson, and the striker crossed to Boland at the back post to complete his hat-trick
In the earlier game at the venue, Sorrento’s defence of their Night Series title has started in defeat, after a late goal from Jesse Fuller saw the Gulls go down 2-1 to Balcatta Etna. “I was pleased in the character of the squad, especially in the way we managed to overturned a difficult start to earn a well-deserved win,” Balcatta coach Terry Nicolaou said. “We struggled to settle early, defending deep, and rarely found any rhythm with Sorrento controlling the opening stages. We made two positional changes during the break which seem to work, as we showed much more energy, intensity, and structure, during our second-half performance.”
The hosts found the opener six minutes from the break, after some nice build up from the back ended with South Korean midfielder Kyung- Hwan, who drove inside his marker and fired home low from distance past Stefan Sotirovski. But twenty minutes into the second half Balcatta found the equaliser, with Darius Ghinea scoring after a well worked move. Both sides pressed for the winner, and it was Balcatta who found it four minutes from time, with skipper Fuller on target. “I’m really pleased with our performance but there’s still plenty to improve,’ Sorrento coach Andres Oliveira said. “Getting the chance to test five U23 players was a real bonus as well, and it gives us a clear picture of what’s coming through.”
25.1.2026
PETERS FURIOUS WITH REFEREEING
Coach Stephen Peters has unleashed on the officiating during Perth Glory’s 2-0 home loss to A-League Women leaders Melbourne City. A furious Peters gave referee Georgia Ghirardello both barrels during his post-game press conference after he was left apoplectic over a decision to not send off Melbourne City defender Alexia Apostolakis.
While Peters admitted his side were second-best on the day, he lambasted Ghirardello’s decision to not give Apostolakis a second yellow card after cynically grabbing Glory winger Susan Phonsongkham as she attempted to run after a long ball. With the City player already sitting on a yellow card, the match official waved away the offence.
“How Apostolakis stayed on the field is absolutely beyond me. I just don’t get it,” Peters said. “You’ve got a player on a yellow card who pulls a player back off the ball in front of the referee, and the card stays in their pocket. I just don’t understand it. The explanation I received is that the ball was too far away and she didn’t believe Susan was going to get to it.”
“I actually really like that referee, and it’s a shame — the interesting thing is, she sent a player off last week in Canberra, but today for some reason decided she wasn’t going to send the player off. Instead of going from playing against 10, we’ve gone to playing against 12. Absolute joke. It’s very difficult to accept.”
Peters insinuated City had received the rub of the green from the officials and the refereeing had been inconsistent. “McNamara shoulder charges Emma Tovar in the face, no yellow, Emma has to come off the field because there’s no yellow,” he said. “And then McNamara gets the same treatment in the second half, they go on, they treat her, she had a bloody nose or whatever, stays on the field, doesn’t have to come off. Why is there different treatment for two different teams?”
“I’m not making excuses for the loss, but it’s very frustrating when you’re trying to set your team up to play a game of football and the referee clearly decides we’re just going to apply the rules for one team and not for the other. And it’s Melbourne City — how are we supposed to compete against the best team in the league if the referee decides she’s not going to adjudicate the rules properly?”
23.1.2026
MATIDLAS STRIKER ENDS GLORY’S HOME WINNING STREAK
Perth Glory recent winning run at home has come to an end, after two goals from the Ninja A-League’s leading scorer Holly McNamara gave Melbourne City a 2-0 win at Sam Kerr Football Centre on Saturday evening. The hosts had won four games on the bounce, but they had no answers to McNamara, the Matildas striker making it 11 goals for the season with a goal in each half to move City five points clear at the top of the table. Glory needs to respond on Wednesday when they welcome Sydney FC to keep them in the finals mix.
“I thought we started pretty well in the first half and we were really up on them, but our second half wasn’t good today and we switched off in two moments and Melbourne City just used them,” Glory defender Onyinyechi Zogg said post-match. “But they are a top team, for me one of the best teams in the competition, but we will have to go over the video of the game. The press worked really well first half and we had some good moments, and at the end as well, but we need to take those chances. Sydney FC awaits on Wednesday evening, and that’s our next challenge.”
Glory head coach Stephen Peters named an unchanged side from last weeks hard-fought draw against Central Coast Mariners, and knew a win would move them up to second on the table. City started brightly and skipper Rebekah Stott header was saved by Teresa Morrissey after only three minutes. The hosts settled and Malena Mieres saved from Susan Phonsongkham’s free kick six minutes later. Glory suffered a blow on the quarter hour mark, with influential defender Tijan McKenna limping off and replaced by Mischa Anderson.
But it would be City who found the opener on 20 minutes. Danielle Turner picked out McNamara with a lofted through ball over the top, and referee Georgia Ghirardello played a great advantage after Turner was brought down in the process, and the Matildas striker held off her marker and lifted a composed chip over Morrissey to give the visitors the lead. The hosts were on the back foot, and City continued to dictate terms, and Scott’s effort flashed over the top, before Deven Jackson’s shot from the edge of the box whistled over the top, but City headed into the sheds with the advantage.
City went close to a second early in the second half, but Aideen Keane’s glancing header drifted wide. Glory were struggling in the final third, the best chance falling to Sarah O’Donoghue, but she fired straight at City ‘keeper Mieres on the hour. City on the other hand looked threatening, and it wasn’t a surprise when they doubled their lead 12 minutes later. Jackson did well in the middle of the park, before releasing Bryleeh Henry down the right, she surged into space and squared to McNamara, and the striker made no mistake, finishing clinically past Morrissey.
The hosts were down, but not out and substitute Ella Lincoln saw a shot blocked, before Zogg’s shot from distance hit the crossbar, but try as they might they were unable to get back into the game, and it was City leaving with the points. Glory host Sydney Fc on Wednesday, in their week ten catch-up game, and they have the bye next week, while City take on Adelaide United at Coopers Stadium on Friday. “It was a good team performance, and we kept the ball well,” City striker Holly McNamara said post-match. “We’ve fixed a few from the last couple of game, and we executed well tonight, so we are very happy with the result.”
Perth Glory: GK Teresa MORRISSEY, 3 Emma TOVAR (28 Clancy WESTAWAY 82'), 5 Grace JOHNSTON, 6 Tijan MCKENNA (2 Mischa ANDERSON 15'), 10 Susan PHONSONGKHAM, 12 Bronte TREW (25 Ella LINCOLN 62'), 19 Sarah O’DONOGHUE, 23 Isobel DALTON (17 Rola BADAWIYA 62'), 24 Julia SARDO, 27 Charli WAINWRIGHT (4 Daisy MCALLISTER 82'), 29 Onyinyechi ZOGG - Subs not used: RGK Jessica SKINNER
Melbourne City: GK Malena MIERES, 3 Danielle TURNER, 5 Taylor OTTO, 6 Leticia MCKENNA, 8 Alexia APOSTOLAKIS (12 Shelby McMAHON 62'), 9 Holly MCNAMARA (2 Ellie WILSON 83'), 11 Deven JACKSON, 13 Rebekah STOTT, 16 Karly ROESTBAKKEN, 21 Aideen KEANE, 22 Bryleeh HENRY (17 Kaya JUGOVIC 90+5') - Subs not used: RGK Melissa BARBIERI, 10 Izabella RAKO, 19 Keira SARRIS - Referee: Georgia Ghirardello - Attendance: 856
23.1.2026
NPLWA MENS NIGHT SERIES - FRIDAY REVIEW
The 2026 New Balance NPL Night Series kicked off with a bang on Friday evening, with four competitive games from Group A and B. First in the early Group A game at Alfred Skeet Reserve, Perth Glory beat newly promoted Dianella White Eagles 3-1. Louis Sollitt gave the Glory youngsters the lead five minutes before half time, before an own goal on 68 minutes doubled their advantage. Dianella, coached by former Perth Glory coach Ian Ferguson, hit back and reduced the margin seven minutes from time, with substitute Alfie Guya on target. But Glory made sure of the points three minutes later with substitute Santiago Flores adding the third.
In the late game at the venue 2024 winners Perth RedStar secured a 2-1 against hosts Armadale. “Happy to start night series with a win away at Armadale,” RedStar defender Blair Govan said post-match. “I thought Armadale were quite sharp at the start but once we got settled into the game there was a lot of positive stuff from us. Few things we know we can work on also, but it was good to get the first 90 minutes in for a lot of us as well.” Callum Salmon’s team found the opener on three minutes, Liam Murray crossing to new signing Gordon Smith, who headed home. Jon Baird’s Armadale hit back immediately, with Hamish van Dieken converting from the spot two minutes later.
The game was end to end, with both sides having their chances, but it was RedStar who won it on the half hour. A nice spell of possession saw RedStar find Ryan Finnie in space, and the former Scottish under-19’s international strode forward and finished with aplomb past new Armadale keeper David Keenan. The hosts pressed for an equaliser after the break, but failed to find it. “Overall, I’m pleased with a lot of aspects of the performance,” Baird said. “There were some strong individual displays and plenty of positives to take, but ultimately, we didn’t get the win, so there’s still plenty to work on moving forward.”
In Group B, Perth Azzurri got their campaign off with a hard fought 1-0 win against a ten-man Western Knights in the early game at Frank Drago Reserve. The Knights were reduced to ten after only 19 minutes, when Dylan White was shown a straight red card by the referee. Kenny Lowe’s side struggled to breakdown a resilient Knights side, but they did find the winner in the shadows of half time, with Jackson Morgan beating Sam Riley. In the final game at the venue, the points were shared, with Fremantle City coming from behind twice to secure a 2-2 draw against NPL Champions Bayswater City. “Really happy with our intent and endeavour. The lads worked super hard over the 90 minutes but did it with good level of quality. Our back four were relentless, (Our two 17yr old full backs played beyond their years),” Fremantle coach Dale Wingell explained.
“In the middle third we were tough, creative and calm, while in the front third we were disruptive, confident and willing. Bill and Taj took their opportunities when presented, and the players that came on continued seamlessly at the same level. Really pleasing reaction from previous week. Lots of positives to take out. You could see the players enjoyment out there tonight. Plenty of energy, great intent with a focused mindset. Hope to build on that next week.” The hosts hit the front after only four minutes, with new signing BorBor Sam on target. But Fremantle hit back seven minutes later, after some great interplay Bill Orr followed up on a John Chalmers shot that came back off the cross bar to bundle the ball over the line. Bayswater regained the lead on the half hour, Sam was the supplier this time after good work out wide, he picked out Pat Loughrey, who finished past Luke Radonich.
But seven minutes later Fremantle restored parity, a quick counter attack saw Taj Bingwa use his pace to carve out an opportunity, which he tucked away near post. City had the chance to win it after the break, when they were awarded a penalty, but Radonich, who made a number of outstanding saves in the game, got down well to save Loughrey’s spot kick. “It was an entertaining game and a fair result overall, although I thought we created enough chances to win the match on the night,” Bayswater coach Matthew Sparrow said. “Full credit to both sides for contributing to an open, competitive game. There’s still a lot for us to work on, as we know, and it is very early days, but there were plenty of positives to take from the performance, particularly going forward.”
23.1.2026
AMATEUR PREMIER DIVISION NIGHT SERIES
The 2026 Amateur Premier Division Night Series is locked in, with 12 clubs split across three groups and matches played under lights at Wanneroo City SC, Kingfisher Park and Kelly Park. The competition kicks off on Saturday 14 February, with group winners and the best runner-up progressing through to the semi-finals.
Group A will be based at Wanneroo City SC and includes Wanneroo City, Maccabi, and the amateur teams of Kingsley Westside and Olympic Kingsway. Wanneroo will be eager to make a strong start in the amateur ranks following relegation from the State League, with new coach Jason Winter having recruited well over the off-season.
At Kingfisher Park, Group B features newly promoted Ballajura AFC alongside League champions North Perth United, Swan United FC and Hamersley Rovers. All eyes will be on how Swan respond after their relegation, while North Perth’s depth will be tested after the loss of several key players.
Group C will be hosted at Kelly Park and sees newly promoted Kwinana United join Noranda Emerald, Kelmscott Roos and Jaguar Football Club. Emerald enter the series as the defending Night Series title holders and will again be one of the sides to watch.
A strong early-season test awaits all clubs as the countdown to the 2026 campaign begins.
23.1.2026
NPLWA MEN’S NIGHT SERIES – WEEK ONE PREVIEW
The 2026 New Balance NPLWA Men’s Night Series begins this week, with games on Friday and Saturday evening. First on Friday evening in Group A, Armadale host Perth RedStar at Alfred Skeet Reserve. (8:30pm) it will be the first competitive game at the club for new assistant coach Pete Taylor, who has joined head coach John Baird’s coaching staff this season, and he said he is looking forward to playing in front of the home supporters.
“It’s a brand-new chapter after so many years with Mandurah, so it’s been a little different but we’re excited to move into the competitive games with the league season not far away,” he explained. “We’ve been welcomed with open arms and we hope to show our appreciation through our performances. We’ve had a little snippet of the Army faithful in pre-season so we’re looking forward to hearing them throughout the night series and beyond.”
It's been a busy pre-season at Armadale, with a number of new signings at the club, and Taylor said they have worked hard and they are looking forward to a big clash against the 2024 Night series winners. “Pre-season has gone as planned. Theres been a big turnover so it’s been a pleasure getting to know everyone and we’ve gone unbeaten in three games so far. We’re far from finished preparing as we look to find the best combinations/chemistry and get everyone ready and firing for the first league game,” Taylor said.
“RedStar are an excellent team with a very good coaching group so it’ll be a nice gauge as to where we’re also at. Good luck to all involved and it’s great to get season 26 underway.” For RedStar they will go into the competition without the retired Daryl Nicol, but will be looking to start the competition with a positive result. The other Group A game is also on Friday evening, when Bayswater City welcome Fremantle City to Frank Drago Reserve. (8:30pm)
In Group B, newly promoted Dianella White Eagles begin life in the top flight on Friday evening, when they take on Perth Glory in the early game at Alfred Skeet Reserve. (6:30pm) The Eagles sealed promotion, after winning the Division One title last season, with striker Albert Luwi leading the way in front of goal, and he said there is a buzz around the club. “From top to bottom throughout the club everyone is super excited to be back in the top flight,” he said. “The night series is always a great way of seeing how we match up and the perfect occasion to get everyone match fit and ready for the season ahead where it matters the most.”
Dianella recently beat Glory in a pre-season friendly, and the striker said Friday is another important game as they prepare for the season ahead. “Yes, we beat Glory 2-0, but preseason can be a bit unpredictable sometimes especially while trying to incorporate the new additions,” Luwi explained. “I think the game on Friday will be a great watch, Glory are always an energetic bunch, so there will definitely be goals, we are definitely looking to put in a strong performance and get the win to start the competition.” The other game in Group B is at Frank Drago Reserve on Friday evening, as Perth Azzurri, who are fresh off winning the Coppa Italia, take on Western Knights. (6:30pm)
Finally in Group C, defending Night Series Champions Sorrento begin their defence in the early game against Balcatta Etna at Percy Doyle Reserve on Saturday evening. (5:30pm) It will be the first competitive game for new Gulls coach Andres Oliveira, and he said he and the players can’t wait to get started. “It’s an exciting moment for the group and for me taking charge first competitive match at Sorrento, and we are also aware of the standards the club set last year by winning the Night Series,” the coach explained. “We’re not focused on defending anything, we’re focused on building our own identity, competing with intent, and taking the first step in what we hope will be a strong season. The players have been excellent and we’re looking forward to getting started.”
Oliveira, who last coached in the NPL at Inglewood in 2023, said pre-season has gone well, and they are ready for a stern test against Balcatta. “Pre-season has been positive. The group is working hard, and we are progression week to week until the season starts. We have only had one game so far, against RedStar last week, and it gave us a clear picture of where we’re at and what the next steps to work on,” he said. “Balcatta are always competitive, so we’re expecting a tough match. For us, it’s about bringing our principles to life and a collective mindset. The Night Series is a great platform to test ourselves early, and this fixture will give us a strong indication of where we stand on our progression.” The other game in the group is also at Percy Doyle Reserve on Saturday evening, with a repeat of last seasons State League Cup Final, when Olympic Kingsway meeting Stirling Macedonia. (7:30pm)
23.1.2026
GLORY AIM TO BOUNCE BACK FROM ROAR DEFEAT
Perth Glory will aim to bounce back from last week’s loss against Brisbane Roar, when they visit the CommBank Stadium to take on Western Sydney Wanderers in week 14 Isuzu Ute A-League clash on Sunday afternoon. (4:00pm WA Time) The game has been put back from the original time of 2:00pm WA Time, due to the expected hot conditions in NSW on Sunday. The narrow loss last week saw Glory slip to tenth on the table, but they are only four points out of the top six, while the Wanderers poor start to the season sees them at the foot of the table, and coach Alen Stajcic was sacked in midweek, replaced by Gary van Egmond. It’s a must win for both sides, so it sets up an enthralling contest.
Glory Head Coach Adam Griffiths worked under van Egmond during his playing career, and he acknowledges that the coaching change adds an extra line to the pre-game narrative, but insisted his sides preparations have not been significantly affected by the prospect of a new-coach “bounce”. “We were wary of them anyway,” he said. “They’re a team that has been a little bit unlucky, and they’ve hit the crossbar a lot and they have a lot of quality players, so with a new coach it just adds a little bit of the unknown.
“I think there’ll be some form of change to make his mark and I expect it to be a difficult game away from home, but it’s a challenge that we’re looking forward to. He [van Egmond] is a very good coach who has won the league before and he knows the A-League very well, so it I’ll be nice to see a familiar face. Obviously, it makes things a little more difficult when you’re analysing the opposition, but a lot of the time we are focusing on ourselves and how we can improve and keep moving up in the right direction, so for us, it doesn’t change much.”
Glory midfielder Nicholas Pennington struggled with injury early in the season, but he is back to good form, and relishing playing under Adam Griffiths. “Yes, it was a tough pre-season for me, as I had a few problems with my groin, but I’ve worked really hard with the physio’s and they helped me get through it,” the midfielder explained. “All the hard work is showing now, and I’ve been able to contribute. We’ve been playing well and getting some good results, but I thought we deserved more, but half way through the season we are in a good position. We are playing some good football, and it’s a style of football you want to play in, high intensity, possession based, and it’s shown on the park.”
The Italian born midfielder said their form has improved, and they are confident going into the game on Sunday. “We feel we can win every game, and we showed that at Melbourne City, and we’re hoping to do the same against the Wanderers,” Pennington said. “Yes, they have been struggling, but they are a good team, with good players, but we know we can go there and win the game, and that’s the most important thing for us. I’ve been surprised this season with the Wanderers, but sometimes in football you don’t get the results, and things don’t go for you, and I think that is what has happened to them, but we know Sunday is going to be a real tough game.”
Glory will be hoping for a better result from the last time they played in front of the Red and black Bloc, the hosts running out 4-1 winners in week 21 last season. It started so well for the visitors, with Adam Taggart opening the scoring after only five minutes, but it went downhill from there. A brace from Aydan Hammond gave the Wanderers the lead at the break, before second half goals from Oscar Priestman and Bulgarian midfielder Bozhidar Kraev sealed a 4-1 win.
There was good news on the injury front, with a Will Freney, and Jaiden Kucharski returning to the squad, while new signing Stefan Colakovski has also been added to the ravelling party, but there is still no Lachie Wales. “There are a few players returning, “Will, JK and Lachie will become available, but the weeks not finished yet, so we’ll see how they finish the week,’ Griffiths explained. “Stef is the same as the others; he’s available now which his fantastic for us.
“We’re starting to bring back quality players into the squad who will challenge the players that are in there at the moment, so it’s exciting times. With these players coming back into training, it increases the intensity and makes sure that everyone’s on their toes, that’s the advantage of having a stronger squad. It means if everyone’s on their game, performance is going to increase.”
Western Sydney Wanderers squad: GK Lawrence THOMAS, GK Jordan HOLMES, 3 Alex GERSBACH, 5 Dylan SCICLUNA, 8 Steven UGARKOVIC, 9 Kosta BARBAROUSES, 11 Hiroshi IBUSUKI, 14 Phillip CANCAR, 17 Jarrod CARLUCCIO, 19 Ruon TONGYIK, 21 Aydan HAMMOND, 22 Anthony PANTAZOPOULOS, 23 Bozhidar KRAEV, 24 Nathan BARRIE, 25 Joshua BRILLANTE, 26 Brandon BORRELLO, 31 Aidan SIMMONS, 32 Angus THURGATE, 37 Alaat ABDUL-RAHMAN, 38 Jai ROSE, 39 Awan LUAL, 42 Jesse CAMERON, 45 Alou KUOL - Ins: 21 Aydan HAMMOND (Return from international duty), 23 Bozhidar KRAEV, 31 Aidan SIMMONS (return from international duty)
Perth Glory Squad: GK Matt SUTTON, GK Ryan WARNER, 2 Charbel SHAMOON, 3 Sam SUTTON, 4 Scott WOOTTON, 7 Nicholas PENNINGTON, 9 Jaiden KUCHARSKI, 10 Luke AMOS, 15 Zach LISOLAJSKI, 16 Gabriel POPOVIC, 17 Arion SULEMANI, 18 Rhys BOZINOVSKI, 20 Trent OSTLER, 22 Adam TAGGART, 24 Andriano LEBIB, 25 Sebastian DESPOTOVSKI, 27 Will FRENEY, 34 Tom LAWRENCE, 39 Giovanni DE ABREU, 45 Brian KALTAK, 67 Stefan COLAKOVSKI - *Two to be omitted* - Ins: KUCHARSKI, FRENEY, COLAKOVSKI - Outs: 30 Tadi KUZAMBA - Unavailable: GK Cameron COOK, 5 Riley FOXE, 6 Brandon O’NEILL, 8 Callum TIMMINS, 11 Lachie WALES, 31 Joel ANASMO (All Injured)
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If you have any additional information on Western Australian soccer that we have left out, or if you would like to get in contact, email Jacob at jacobauf1976@hotmail.com
since the 26th June, 2002
Last Update: 2nd September, 2025
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