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THREE WA SIDES FIND OUT HAHN AUSTRALIA CUP OPPONENTS
The three WA representatives have found out their opponents in the Round of 32 of the Hahn Australia Cup, after the draw was made on Monday evening, with New Balance NPL WA pair Bayswater City and Fremantle City and Isuzu Ute A-League side Perth Glory all looking to progress in the national competition. The date and venue for the games will be confirmed in the coming days, with the Round of 32 fixture window running between Tuesday 14 and Wednesday 29 July., with the venues, date and kick off times to be confirmed.
The 2026 competition will see an updated structure with the removal of the Isuzu UTE A-League Men’s Qualification Round and Auckland FC and Wellington Phoenix FC no longer participating in the Hahn Australia Cup. This means that all current Isuzu UTE A-League Men’s clubs (10 in total) will enter the competition directly at the Round of 32 and only Australian teams will compete which aligns with AFC club competition qualification requirements for AFC Champions League Two. A further change to the competition pathway will see the 2025 Australian Championship winner, South Melbourne FC, receive direct qualification to the Round of 32, recognising their national competition success.
Bayswater, who beat Perth RedStar 3-2 in the State League Cup semifinal to make this stage, have got the big tie, hosting A-League side Sydney FC at Frank Drago Reserve, and coach Matthew Sparrow said it’s a huge challenge but one they are relishing. “It’s a fantastic draw for the club and one we’re all really looking forward to. Sydney FC are one of the biggest clubs in Australia and have been setting standards in the A-League for many years, so it’s a brilliant occasion for everyone involved with Bayswater City,” Sparrow said.
“We’ve worked hard to earn the opportunity through our cup run and the players deserve the chance to test themselves against that level of opposition. We’ll respect Sydney FC, but we’ll also back ourselves. We’ll prepare properly, embrace the challenge and look to make it a difficult night for them. Most importantly, it’s a great reward for our supporters and the wider club. Hosting an A-League side at home is something everyone can get excited about and we’re determined to give a good account of ourselves.”
Bayswater President Oriano Colli said it’s a huge honour to host the Sky Blues, and he knows the players will do the club proud. “For our members, volunteers, players, coaches, sponsors and supporters, it is recognition of the hard work that has gone into building our club over many years. Opportunities like this are what the Australia Cup is all about and we are excited to welcome one of Australia’s biggest clubs to our home ground,” Colli said. “It will be a fantastic occasion for our Baysie family, our local community and football in Western Australia, and we look forward to showcasing our club on the national stage.”
Fremantle City, who beat Olympic Kingsway 3-1 to reach the national stage, will head to Northern New South Wales to take on NPL NNSW Maitland FC. Assistant coach Dale Wingell said it’s a reward for the players, who have been great this season. "It was really exciting for the players and everyone involved at the club to get through to this round, and we’ve had a good week with two league wins and a win against Olympic in the State League Cup Final, “Wingell said. “I think the boys are really excited to get an away trip together... it's a new experience for a lot of players and one we’re all looking forward to.”
Fremantle President Tony Estrano said it continues the club success this season, and they look forward to the trip. “It’s fantastic news all across the ground... the Men's have made the State Cup Final... and the (Australia Cup) Round of 32, while the Women's NPL side play their State Cup Semi-Final next month as well, so all the senior teams and the club are buzzing,” he said. “We saw it tonight, the juniors cooking the barbecue for the Men's First Team was fantastic to see and they're really excited, so it’s going to be a wonderful road trip.”
Meanwhile Perth Glory will travel to Queensland to take on Lions FC. The two side have met in the cup before, when Chris Harold’s extra time goal gave them a 1-0 win in the round of 16 in 2015. The Lions are enjoying another strong season in the Queensland NPL, after winning the QLD NPL Championship for the last two years, and were also Premiers in 2022. They currently sit in second spot, three points behind leaders Peninsula Power, so it will be a tough test for Adam Griffiths’ side.
Full Draw: Tigers FC (ACT) v Western Sydney Wanderers, Kingsborough Lions United (Tasmania)v Melbourne Victory, Azzurri United (NT) v Macarthur FC, APIA Leichhardt (NSW)v Peninsula Power (QLD), South Melbourne (VIC) v Adelaide United, Marlin Coast Rangers (QLD) v Brunswick Juventus (VIC), Rochedale Rovers (QLD) v SD Raiders (NSW), Western Bears (Northern NSW) v Melbourne City, Bayswater City (WA) v Sydney FC, Maitland FC (Northern NSW) v Fremantle City WA, Lions FC (QLD) v Perth Glory, Cumberland United (SA) v Heidelberg United (VIC), Sydney United 58 (NSW) v Central Coast Mariners, FK Beograd (SA) v North Sunshine Eagles (VIC), Preston Lions (VIC) v Newcastle Jets, Sydney Olympic (NSW) v Brisbane Roar
POINTS SHARED AT KWINANA - AMATEUR PREMIER DIVISION - WEEK TEN REVIEW
Our week ten Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division ’Match of the Round’ has seen Kwinana United draw 1-1 with Hamersley Rovers at Kelly Park on Sunday afternoon, which keeps them in sixth and seventh place respectively on the table. “It was a great game. I think we were very unfortunate not to come out on top, a couple of disallowed goals and fantastic saves from Hamersley keeper kept it level,” Kwinana coach George Mann said. “There was some great banter on the sidelines and a match played in good spirits. I wish all the Hamersley players and coaches all the best for the remainder of the season.”
It was Hamersley who opened the scoring just before the break, when Ryan Charles beat his marker wide and cut the ball back from the byline for Scott Mathodi to finish. But ten minutes from time Kwinana levelled, Maddy Holman finding space in the box to head home. But sides pressed for the winner, but had to settle for a share of the spoils. “Disappointed to not get the three points, however the draw was likely a fair result on the day,” Hamersley coach Antony Benetti said. “I definitely feel that we weren't able to build a consistent rhythm with some of that down to opposition pressure, but we very much contributed. At the half time break Kyle (Davis) was unable to recover from a knock he took and that also contributed. It's a positive step forward however and we look to next week.”
We have a new league leader, with Kelmscott Roos moving one point clear after a hard fought 1-0 win against Kingsley Westside at Frye Park. “It was a game that we had full control of for 90 minutes, we moved the ball around with confidence and dictated the tempo throughout the game.” Kelmscott midfielder Gerard McGahey said. “We missed a few very good chances to make the game more comfortable for us, but credit goes to their stand in keeper who kept Kingsley in the game with a few very good saves one v one, which on another day would have went our way. We are happy to come out with the win and continue our good run of form, we have a good structure of how we want to play football and control the game and that confidence can hopefully only bring more positive results.”
The only goal of the came on 20 minutes. A free kick from McGahey on the left, was swung into the back post, Callum Husain got his head to the ball and put it back across the goal, and it fell nicely to Benn Lewis who hit it first time into the back of the net. Lewis said it was a big win to keep their momentum going. “We knew going into the game that it would be a tough match up against Kingsley, but we have been playing good, confident football and we continued with that on the weekend,” the defender explained. “We looked comfortable knocking the ball around, creating some great passages of play but unfortunately, we lacked our killer instinct to find the back of the net which made it a more tense match than it needed. Still, everyone fought hard for each other and we came away with the result we needed. Looking ahead now to Maccabi next week to finish off the first half of the season on a good note.”
North Perth United have moved up into second after a 2-0 win against Swan United at Woodville Reserve. “It was a perfect day for football at Woodville with a large crowd down to watch, and I thought we started very well and were on the front foot from the off. We played some brilliant football and defended excellent too. The forwards caused a huge number of problems to the Swan defence, but frustratingly enough Swan keeper Nick Stone didn’t really have to make a save,” North Perth coach Chris Batten explained. “At half time I spoke about continuing the good work we’d done in the first half, and again credit to the boys. They came out fast again, knocking the ball around well. Defensively we were solid and I didn’t really remember Luke our keeper having a save to make.
“We found a couple of goals, and after that we made a few changes, dominated the ball and saw out what was a very comfortable win in the end. Very proud of the lads and it was great to bounce back after a disappointing defeat last week. There are some good teams in this league, and we are up there with them.” The hosts made the breakthrough 20 minutes from time, when Conor Hartley was upended in the box after some brilliant footwork, and Conor Butler stepped up and drilled the resulting penalty into the top left corner of the net, giving Stone no chance. They sealed the points four minutes from time, when Alex Wild raced into the box and was taken out by a rash challenge. Once again Butler stepped and sent Stone the wrong way, to seal the three points.
Maccabi have moved five points clear of the relegation zone after a 3-0 win against Olympic Kingsway at Maccabean Memorial Oval. The hosts made a perfect start, with Henry Wilkinson-Derums turning home Dion Berman’s corner after only five minutes. They doubled their advantage just after the hour mark, Mike Kaye pressured the defender, and won the ball and played in Berman, who rolled it pasted the keeper. The home side then had Dean Gordon sent off, after receiving a second yellow card, but they added a third in the final minute.
Edan Sinai’s free kick on edge of the box, was saved, Jack valentine follow up was also saved, but third time lucky Robert Pattinson finished from close range. The visitors also ended the game with ten, with Robert Butterworth also shown a second yellow card and dismissed. “Delighted with the win and the performance, felt we really deserved it today after improving performances every week,” Maccabi coach Ricky Berelowitz said. “We’ll enjoy it, but know that we have to keep pushing to improve every week, it’s such a strong league at the moment so every week is very tough and so we’ll need to build on today to try get another three points this week.”
In the final game Ballajura AFC have made it back-to-back wins, with a 3-1 win against Jaguar at Herb Graham Recreation Centre. “We got off to a rough start with Jaguar scoring a superb left foot volley from the corner of the box early, which was obviously not what we wanted,” Shane Fitzgerald said. “We missed numerous chances in the first half, but re-grouped at half time and continued the push and got the three points I thought we deserved.” The hosts, who were looking for a first win of the season, where ahead early, with Duol Maduot firing home stunner on seven minutes.
Ballajura, who won their first Premier Division game ever last week against Kwinana, found the equaliser seven minutes into the second half. Daniel Clarkson pressed forward and won the ball on the halfway line, before racing through on goal and tucked it away neatly past Michael Dudek. The visitors hit the front 12 minutes later, Ali Asghar firing home a great half volley from the right-hand side of the penalty area. Ballajura sealed their first ever away win in the Division on 74 minutes, Zwae Tun finding space in the box and beating Dudek with a clinical header.
SUBIACO BEAT FW ACADEMY IN A TEN-GOAL THRILLER – NPLWA - WOMEN"S WEEK 12 REVIEW
We had a ten-goal thriller at the Sam Kerr Football Centre on Saturday lunch time, with Subiaco AFC beating the Hyundai FW Academy 6-4 in week 12 of the New Balance NPLWA Women’s competition. The hosts were ahead on ten minutes, Rutendo Kuzamba’s through ball sent Theodora Mouithys in on goal, and the Young Matildas striker finished clinically. She added her second ten minutes later, racing into goal, holding off her marker, before rounded Subiaco keeper Briana O'Dell and rolling the ball home. Subiaco were back in the game on 26 minutes, the referee pointing to the spot after a challenge by Messaline Mpunga on Savannah Olsthoorn, and Liana Cook scored from the resulting penalty, despite the keeper getting a hand to it.
Moments later the home side were also given a penalty, after Piper Dowe was bundled over in the box by Luana Ascenzo-Cabello, but Cate McAuliffe’s spot kick was saved by O’Dell. Subiaco were level seven minutes before the break, Cook sending Emma Hallowell down the right, and her pass picked out Laura Waltman, who finished neatly. The action continued in the second half, and Subiaco hit the front for the first time two minutes in, Waltman heading home Ella Mastrantonio’s corner from close range. It was 4-2 soon after, when Mastrantonio curled home from the edge of the box via the post, but the Academy side weren’t finished and pulled one back shortly after. McAuliffe’s through ball sent Savannah Glavovic clear, who held off her marker, before rounding O’Dell to score.
The goals kept coming, and it was 5-3 on 65 minutes, Waltman’s shot was parried by the keeper, and Cook found the net from the rebound. Again, the academy youngster hit back, and Dowe saw her effort crash off the post ten minutes later, but they did reduce the margin ten minutes from time. McAuliffe sending Glavovic in on goal, and she finished with aplomb. It was game on again, but it would be Subiaco taking the points, when they scored a sixth late, skipper Mia Hargreaves crossing to Cook, who swept the ball home to seal the win and complete her hat-trick.
Perth Azzurri have moved six points clear at the top of the table, after a hard fought 1-0 win against Balcatta Etna at the Home Group Stadium, Grindleford Reserve on Saturday afternoon. Both sides had chances in a tight first half, Rebecca Bennet denying Kim McCartney and Louise Tana, before producing another smart save to thwart, Daisy McAllister, who had pounced on a short back pass. The hosts had their chances to, the best falling to Caitlin Doeglas, firstly getting on the end of Jamie-Lee Gale’s cross that was saved by Dayle Schroeder, before the former Glory striker saw her glancing header saved by the Azzurri custodian. But the stalemate was broken early in the second half, Charli Wainwright and Ella Lincoln combined, with Lincoln beating Bennett from a tight angle at her near post, her first goal since returning to the club from Perth Glory.
Fremantle City have moved to second after a thrilling 4-3 win against Sorrento at Percy Doyle Reserve on Sunday. The visitors found the opener early, Lacey Heys threading a perfectly weighted through ball to Ischia Brooking, who finished low past Amalia Caceres. But the Gulls levelled straight from the restart, Sophia Papalia ball found Stella Zampogna, whose first shot was saved by Cassia Souza, but the striker made no mistake from the rebound. The goals kept coming, and Fremantle regained the lead three minutes later, Tanika Lala sending Leyna Wood down the left, and her cross shot found the net. It was a great game for the neutrals, and just before the half hour Sorrento restored parity.
Georgia Cassidy’s free kick from distance, slipped through the hands of the Fremantle keeper Souza, giving the midfielder her first goal for the club. We had to wait a while for the next goal, and it went the way of the visitors on 53 minutes, a poor pass was pounced on by Ischia Brooking, who squared the ball to Lala at the back post, her first shot crashed off the post, but she scored from the rebound. Fremantle took control and added a fourth on the hour, an under hit back pass from Cassidy was picked up by Lala, her shot crashed off the post, but Heys was on hand to tap home the rebound. Sorrento scored a third late, with Ruby Walsh’s cross from the left headed home by Nikayla Hughes, which set up a tense finish, but Fremantle held firm to take home the points.
Also on Sunday, Perth RedStar have returned to the winner’s circle after a 3-0 win against UWA Nedlands at the UWA Sports Park. The visitors, who were beaten last time out in the league by the FW Academy, and were knocked out the State Cup by Fremantle, made the breakthrough midway through the first half, after the referee spotted a push on Renee Leota by Shalika Viandrisa, and Sarah Carroll sent Janina Sauer the wrong way from the resulting penalty. They added a second on the half hour, Leota bundling home from Jayna Ridley’s cross from the right. Grace Monteiro then saw her cross shot hit the bar, as RedStar pressed for a third after the break, and it came on 57 minutes, Jay Coleman finishing neatly from Nelli Johnson’s free kick.
REDSTAR WIN IT LATE AT GLORY TO MOVE BACK TO THE TOP = NPLWA – MENS WEEK 15 REVIEW
Perth RedStar have moved back to the top of the New Balance NPLWA table, after a dramatic 2-1 win against Perth Glory in week fifteen at the Sam Kerr Football Centre on Saturday afternoon. “I thought we deserved the win against a very good Glory team,” RedStar coach Callum Salmon said. “Proud of the players, we have an excellent group, and amazing from Goggsy (Gordon Smith), what a season he is having, a class guy on and off the field. Roll on Friday against Bayswater.”.
Glory, who have slipped to second bottom after the loss, found the opener two minutes before half time. Malise Mpunga picking out Louis Sollitt, who finished with aplomb past Liam Reddy, and he was injured in the goal celebration. But their lead only last three minutes, with Callum Salmon’s side levelling in stoppage time, a quick throw in caught Glory napping and Matthew George fired past Tomislav Petkovic. It looked like the points would be shared, but in stoppage time at the end of the game, RedStar won it. Geroge was the supplier this time, his deep cross from the right wasn’t claimed by Petkovic, and Gordon Smith headed home, before being swamped by his team mates.
Baywater City lost top spot, after they were held to a 4-4 draw in a thriller at Nash Field. “To score four goals away from home, you expect to win the game, so there’s definitely a bit of frustration from our point of view,” Bayswater coach Matthew Sparrow said. “The game had everything today, we found ourselves 2-0 up, then 3-2 down, then 4-3 down, and the players kept responding every time they were challenged. I thought we looked a real threat going forward and, on another day, we could easily have won it.
“Equally, there were moments where we could have lost it as well, so in the end it became a valuable point. The character and resilience the group showed was outstanding, but we also know we need to be better defensively because conceding four goals isn’t the standard we set ourselves. There are still lots of positives to take from today’s performance. We’ll work hard next week, and learn from the areas we need to improve and make sure we’re ready for another big challenge against RedStar at home.”
The visitors made a perfect start, and were ahead on 19 minutes. Luke Palmateer’s long ball picked out Cameron Teece, whose shot from distance beat Knights keeper Sam Rilley. They doubled their lead three minutes later, Pat Loughrey’s shot deflecting in off Jon Corness. The home side found a lifeline on the half hour, Leo Stolikas’ free kick picked out Daniel Walsh, and he poked the ball home. The Knights were level four minutes later, Luke Hewings sent Aaron Pike racing clear, and he rounded Bayswater keeper Jason Saldaris and fired home.
Amazingly the hosts hit the front eight minutes into the second half, Woonsub Sim’s long throw wasn’t dealt with and Konstantinos Sparta volleyed home at the back post. It was end-to-end football and Bayswater restored parity on 63 minutes, Loughrey’s free kick was nodded back across goal by Coby Sutton and Borbor Sam headed home at the back post. But the Knights weren’t finished and regained the lead 15 minutes from time, Sparta heading on to Pike, who finished clinically past Saldaris. Then ten minutes later Bayswater drew level again, Teece’s cross from the byline was met by Sutton, who powered a header past Reilly.
Both sides pressed for the winner late, but couldn’t find one, and the hosts ended the game with ten men after Stolikas was shown a red card by referee Michal Jasinski. “We started the game well and I felt we were unlucky to find ourselves two goals down early in the game,” Knights coach Adam Kostrencic explained. “The boys showed very good character to get the game back on level terms and then lead the match twice against a side who has been in very good form. We finished off some great goals and I felt we did enough to win the game, unfortunately a couple defensive lapses let them back in and we couldn’t achieve the maximum points we were after.”
Armadale have bounced back from the heavy loss against Bayswater last week, and ended Sorrento’s recent good form, after a 3-0 win at Percy Doyle Reserve. “A massive 3–0 victory today, and one of our most complete performances of the season. The players were outstanding from start to finish, showing intensity, discipline, determination and real quality in all areas of the game,” Armadale coach John Baird explained. “The commitment and work ethic across the group was clear to see, and it was great to watch the team execute the game plan so effectively. Credit goes to the players, coaching staff and everyone working behind the scenes for the effort that continues every week. Results like this are built on hard work, belief and togetherness, and this was a well-deserved reward for the whole group. It’s a significant result, a great boost for confidence and an important step as we continue to build momentum for the season ahead.”
Armadale dominated the first half, but couldn’t find a goal, but that all changed ten minutes in to the second half. William Hayes’ ball found Scotlan Morrison, who beat his marker on the edge of the box and fired home past Ben Ratajczak. They added a second 14 minutes later, the hosts gave the ball away and Corey Sutherland found Luke Desmond, who drilled his shot home from just outside the box. The points were secured ten minutes from time, when Sutherland’s shot was turned home at the back post by substitute Leigh Griffiths. The only downside for the visitors was the late sending off of Zachary Pentony, who was shown a straight red card by referee Shane Skinner for kicking out at Jude Gauntlett.
Olympic Kingsway’s horror week has continued, after they were well beaten 3-0 by Stirling Macedonia at the Madman Arena, Kingsway Reserve. The hosts were knocked out of the cup on Tuesday, and found themselves behind in this one, on seven minutes. Referee Josh Mannella spotting a handball by Ollie Annis, and pointed straight to the spot, and Callum McKenzie made no mistake from the resulting penalty. They doubled their advantage in the shadow of half time, McKenzie adding his second spot kick after an off the ball incident behind play, which was seen by the assistant. They sealed the win just after the hour, Vinicius Magnusson’s cross from the left found Bayley Brown-Montgomery, who finished clinically past Adrian Sinagra. “It was a perfect performance by the boys today, they executed the plan from first to the last minute,” Stirling coach Ago Mujic said. “To be honest, I really don’t have much to say, except to congratulate my players on a good all-round performance, and we move on to next week.”
In the late game Balcatta Etna and Perth Azzurri have drawn 1-1 in the Ferrari Cup at the Home Group Stadium, Grindleford Reserve. “It was a great team effort as we played with lots of energy and wanted to be on the front foot,” Balcatta coach Basil Lenzo said. “Perth have been in fine form and have strength all over the park, and we played to the plan and as the game went on, we got stronger and probably should have won it at the end. We will keep working hard and keep fighting for points and I know the players are in for the fight.” The visitors were ahead on 20 minutes, David Ninkovich’s corner from the left was headed home, via the post by Charlie Fleming. Balcatta struggled in the final third, their best chances coming from distance, with Nicolas Falco and Jon Stynes firing wide. But Balcatta hit back after the break, and levelled on the hour, Adrian Pini’s corner was flicked on at the near post, and Jared Flavel hooked the ball home at the back post. Abdullahi Osman saw his effort hit the bar moments later, but both sides had to settle for a share of the spoils.
FLOREAT BACK IN THE WINNERS CIRCLE
Floreat Athena have bounced back from their defeat at UWA last week, with a 3-1 win against fellow promotion rivals Joondalup City in our week 13 State League Division One clash at Iluka Park on Saturday afternoon. “It was a very good team performance, especially after a few late fitness tests went against us prior to the match,” Floreat coach Alun Vernals said. “I thought we were clinical when we needed to be, whilst keeping things very tight at the back. So pleased and another tough away day ticked off.”
The visitors were ahead on seven minutes, a clearance from Joondalup defender Miklos Imre was blocked by Harry Lewis, who raced into goal and finished clinically into the far corner of the net past Joe Smith. They went close to a second five minutes later, but Smith saved Harvey Tomlinson’s shot at his near post. But it was Joondalup who levelled just before the half hour, Louis Hadfield finding Taiga Kobayashi on the right, he cut inside his marker and his shot deflected past Devon Lindemann.
Floreat were on the front after the break, and regained the lead three minutes in, Smith’s clearance was sent back by Ajang Yuot, and Tom Wassholm raced into goal, and lobbed the oncoming Joondalup keeper to score. The hosts looked for a quick response and Hadfield’s shot from distance was saved low by Lindemann. Then his long kick sent Wassholm racing clear again, but Smith stood tall to deny him. But on 53 minutes Floreat added a third to seal the game. Lewis’ corner was punched clear by Smith under great pressure from Tomlinson, the ball only found Declan Hargreaves on the edge of the box, whose low drive found the bottom corner, and the goal stood despite the protests of the Joondalup players, who thought the keeper was fouled.
UWA Nedlands remain top of the table, after two second half goals gave them a 2-0 win against Gwelup Croatia at the UWA Sports Park. “Another hard-fought game for us, and Gwelup were well organised, which was expected with Taki taking charge,” UWA coach Kris Donnell explained. “There were a lot of mature performances across the park today, and I’m delighted with the boys and the patience they showed throughout the game. Credit to Gwelup for making it a tough contest, but I was really pleased with the professionalism and composure the boys showed.” Both goals came after the break, the hosts finding the opener seven minutes in. Dean Hurley’s free kick found Jacob Turner, who lost his marker at the back post to head home. They sealed the points ten minutes from time, skipper Jordan Pokler ball into the box was well controlled by Hugo Perez, before finishing well.
Murdoch Uni Melville and Inglewood United have shared the spoils after a 1-1 draw at Len Shearer Reserve. “Overall, we’re pleased with the performance. Murdoch is never an easy place to visit, and they have plenty of quality throughout their squad. Before the game, a draw certainly wouldn’t have been the result we were aiming for, but considering the circumstances such as a depleted squad for various reasons, conceding within the opening few minutes and one or two boys making their debut today I’m proud of the character and resilience the boys showed to fight their way back into the match and earn a point,” Inglewood’s Gavin Byars explained. “I felt we created the better chances and had the majority of possession throughout the game, but unfortunately we weren’t quite clinical enough to turn our performance into three points.”
The hosts made the best possible start, and were ahead in the first minute, Liam Armstrong ball down the line found Takayuki Sone, who played the ball across the edge of the box to Gustavo Giron-Marulanda, who slipped Adrian Ciampini in to the box and his low cross was fired home by Seagh Harris. It looked like that would be the winner, but late in the second half Glen Grostate’s side levelled. Leon Giglia was brought down by Armstrong, and the referee pointed straight to the spot. Kian Mcguigan stepped and buried the resulting penalty, into the corner of the next to give both sides a point. “It was a hard physical game, but I thought we played some great stuff and had chances to go 2.0 up but unfortunately couldn't hold on,” MUMFC coach Marc Anthony said. “If we keep sticking to our beliefs and style, I’m sure we can climb the table.”
Kingsley Westside are up to fourth, after a 1-0 win against Curtin University at Green Promo Park, Edinburgh Oval. “Very happy with the three points and performance against Curtin. The first half was a bit of an arm wrestle with neither team having any real control, but we were a bit disappointed not to be leading with a couple of the chances that weren’t taken,” Kingsley coach Ben Andrews said. “The second half the lads went up a gear and were able to have Curtin under pressure for longer periods and although the goal didn’t come until late, a lot of credit to our lads who never panicked and kept playing to get the goal I believe they deserved.” The only goal of the game came five minutes from time, Noah Leasor finding fellow substitute Max Adamson, who held off a couple of Curtin defenders on the edge of the box before firing low past Alec Radonich.
Subiaco AFC are back in the winner’s circle, after a 2-1 win against Quinns at Stylish Park, Gumblossom Reserve. “A good solid win that we certainly needed,” Subiaco coach Jamie D’Arcy said. “Quinns is a tough place to go and getting three points was really important. The lads showed great character to fought back after they equalised, so it’s nice to finally get the win, and we move on Joondalup City next week.” Subiaco were ahead on ten minutes, Ivan Skorich sending Kaleb Morrison out on the right channel, and he finished clinically past James Bosdet. But Quinns equalised early in the second half, a poor back pass was pounced on by Chad Samuels, and he finished low past Riccardo Mazzoleni. But 20 minutes from time Marc Wingell’s side won it. Tomas Despotovski’s effort was punched clear by Bosdet, but it only found Oli Lebihan who fired home, to seal the three points.
In the late game Mandurah City have scored late, to earn a 2-2 draw at Cockburn City at the Poolmart Mandurah Stadium on Saturday evening. “We're disappointed not to come away with all three points against Cockburn, as we felt we did more than enough to win the game. We created some good opportunities and had long periods where we were in control, but that's football sometimes. We'll take the point and move on to the next challenge,’ Mandurah coach Zac Headington said. “There were plenty of positives to take from the performance. We extended our unbeaten run to six games, which is a reflection of the hard work and consistency the group has shown in recent weeks. The character and resilience displayed by the players was outstanding, particularly after going 2-1 down.
“To fight back and earn a point, and then dig in with 10 men for the closing stages, showed the growth within this squad. Earlier in the season, we've been in similar situations and ended up on the wrong side of the result, so it's pleasing to see the players finding ways to stay in the game and pick up something from difficult circumstances. We'll take the positives from the performance, continue to learn and improve, and keep pushing forward as we prepare for next week.” The home side hit the front on eight minutes, the referee pointing to the spot after Oliver Fields was brought down by Matthew Bowen. Hamza Hina kept his nerve and sent Radonich the wrong way from the penalty. But Cockburn levelled six minutes later, Euen Grant’s ball down the left sent Isaac Mcvittie racing away, and his low cross was turned home by Luka Caceres.
Cockburn hit the front on 68 minutes, Bowen’s cross fell to Andrew Rankin, who finished well from the edge of the box. It looked like Mandurah unbeaten run was coming to an end, but nine minutes from time they restored parity. Substitute Joe O’Brien raced into the box, his shot superbly saved by Radonich, but Jordan Callaghan fired home the rebound from close-range. The hosts ended the game with ten men, after Harry Collins received a second yellow card for a foul on Oliver Carr. “Taking a point in a 2–2 draw away from home against Mandurah was especially pleasing, given they are a very well-established, disciplined, and well-coached side. We struggled to build momentum in possession due to consistent opposition pressure and conceded too many corners, which prevented us from establishing any real rhythm,” Cockburn coach Terry Nicolaou explained.
“Despite this, our defensive unit deserves significant credit for how they handled prolonged periods of attacking pressure. They remained organised, resilient, and committed throughout, consistently putting their bodies on the line to limit clear-cut opportunities and keep us in the contest. If not for Ben Radonich in goal, the result could have looked very different, with his performance keeping us firmly in the contest. Both of our goals came against the run of play but were executed with real quality by Luka Cáceres and Andrew Rankin. It was particularly pleasing to see both players make such an impact on their return to the starting line-up after several weeks out.”
ROVERS HELD AT GOSNELLS
Our week 12 State League Division Two ‘Match of the Round’ between Gosnells City and the unbeaten Carramar Shamrock Rovers at Walter Padbury Reserve, ended in a 0-0 draw. The hosts, who were looking to build on last week’s first win of the season, dominated the first half, by Rovers did after the break and both sides had to settle for a share of the spoils. “I thought we dominated them in the first half, and had a few chances to take the lead, but the early red card killed it for us,” Gosnells coach Peter Allan said. “It’s hard with ten men, but Alan and I were so proud of the lad’s effort and work rate, and we will take the point and build on it.”
It was the hosts on top in the first half, but they couldn’t find a goal. The best chances fell to Aden Hoddy, who heading wide when well-placed from a corner, before Aaron Coslani and Darren Francis failed to find the target. But the game burst into life in the first minute of the second half when Liam Cowie was shown a straight red card for dissent. Rovers pressed forward, but found Gosnells keeper Lachlan Devine in fine form, saving well to deny youngster Glenn Walsh. The hosts hit back and Sebastian Stenqvist shot on the run flashed over the top. Walsh went close again moments later, his header from a free kick drifted just wide of the target.
Walsh was a constant threat as Rovers searched for the opener, and his shot on the run was saved low by the alert Devine. The Gosnells custodian was having a blinder, and he react superbly to tip over Kieran Harrison’s volley from the edge of the box. It was one-way traffic as Rovers streamed forward, and Devine denied Jack Reilly, but with Rovers pushing player forward Gosnells went close to the lead, with Jakeb Seppings getting down well to save Jordan Lyall’s shot. The visitors were convinced they had a penalty late, but the referee waved away their handball claims. Rovers had one last chance in stoppage time, Harrison’s cross from the left picked out Nathan Diaz, but Devine again saved, to earn his side a hard-fought point.
“We had players missing through suspensions, so we leant on the younger lads to come up from reserves and they did well. We never really got into the game in the first half it was a little bit like the previous meeting with Gosnells. They were looked the better team in the first half with no real chances so myself and Leigh knew we could fix things at half time,” Rovers’ coach Adam Walsh explained. “We came out with more energy and pushed from the off to create some good chances. The sending off for Gosnells kind of hindered us as they did really well bed in and defended narrow to frustrate us. We had more than enough chances second half to get the win but the keeper pulled off some really good saves. Definitely after the second half performance it feels like two points dropped, but I'm happy with the response we got coming out second half, so some positives to take into next game.”
League leaders Rockingham City have bounced back from their defeat against East Perth last week, but they were made to work hard for their 1-0 win against North Beach at Charles Riley Memorial Reserve. “It was a scrappy encounter, neither team got a foothold in the game,” Rockingham’s Chris Thackray said. “Not much quality from ourselves and well below our standards, but we got the job done away from home.” The only goal came from an early in-swinging corner that was met by Graham Tough at the back post, whose header was denied by a combination of the goalkeeper and the crossbar; however, Robbie Duckmanton headed the rebound home.”
Wembley Downs are up to second after a 3-2 win against Canning City at Butlers Reserve on Saturday evening. “Pleased to get the three points, and we started the game excellently and full of energy and got reward for that. We were unable to maintain that though and credit to Canning for growing back into the game,” Wembley coach Luke Thompson explained. “We are being tested at the moment with squad depth due to injuries and world cup fever as I'm sure many other teams are to, so to keep recording positive results is very pleasing.”
It was a fast start from the hosts, Toby Robertson’s header crashing off the bar, and Mella Loding turned home the rebound. They added a second shortly after, Alex Galipo sending Robertson in on goal, and he finished clinically. But Canning was back in the game on 25 minutes, Charlie Watt firing home from distance. But the hosts hit straight back to make it 3-2, Tristan Sullivan’s cross from the right picked out Joshua Waldock, and he swept the ball home from the edge of the box. Canning scored a late consolation goal, with Brian Mashingaidze curling home a free kick from the edge of the box, but it was Wembley who took the points.
Ashfield remain fourth, after a hard fought 2-1 win against Kalamunda City at Aero Ranger Maida Vale Reserve. “We are continuing to grow as a team and to come from behind away from home is a massive step in our journey. Kalamunda are a really good team and to be honest they had the lion’s share of the first half,” Ashfield coach Malcom Tshuma explained. “We gathered ourselves at half time and I’m really proud of my players as they produced a performance deserving of the three points.” The home side were ahead on 20 minutes, with Andrea Erbetta scoring. But two minutes into the second half, Ashfield were level. Ashfield won the ball in midfield and a driving run from Ben Entwistle saw his shot come off the post before Kian Durant tapped in the rebound. Then 18 minutes from time Ashfield won it, a swift counter attack saw Hasen Asadi outpace his marker and lay it off for Michael Meangiri who slotted home.
The resurgence of Balga continues, after a 4-1 win against Norley Windmills at Princess Road Reserve. “Delighted to get the three points, against a strong and quality Morley Windmills side. The players continued our momentum, executed the game plan well, and played on the front foot with great energy, creating plenty of chances throughout the match,” Balga coach Amir Dzamastagic explained. “Credit to all the players for their work rate and commitment. Our focus now turns fully to Gosnells City SC as we look to keep improving and building momentum.” The hosts were in control early, and they were ahead on 18 minutes, when a well worked move down the left, was finished off by Jose Zuniga. It was 2-0 moments later, Ilya Nebylystya was quickest to react from a free kick. They added a third just after the hour mark, with Alen Patarov finishing neatly from just outside the box, before David Dimola capped off the performance with a composed finish over the goalkeeper. Morley scored a consolation goal late with Ali Gholami on target, but it was too little too late.
In the final game, Forrestfield United have moved into fifth, with a 2-1 win against East Perth at Hudson Park. “It was great to show the character we have as a group and bounce back from two consecutive losses with a strong 2–1 win. East Perth is always a difficult place to go and get a result. They are a tough, physical side and we knew we would have to match their intensity, which I thought we did really well throughout the game,” Forrestfield skipper Matt Evans said. “We came back and went in front, and the remainder of the game was a fantastic contest and we had to dig deep defensively to see it out. It was a real team performance, with everyone contributing to earn an important three points away from home.”
The home side hit the front on the half hour, with Eoghan Rea on target. Forrestfield were back in the game seven minutes later, Emerson Di Mattina reacted quickest to the loose ball from a long throw-in to bring them level. Then just before the hour mark Forrestfield won it, a clever touch inside from Lucas Reid created space for Noah Appleby, who drove forward and tucked his finish into the bottom corner. “On behalf of everyone at Forrestfield, we’d also like to send our best wishes to Josh Gardner following the horrible broken finger he suffered in the second half. We wish him a speedy recovery and look forward to having him back with the group as soon as possible.”
MOKALA GIVES FREMANTLE THE POINTS
Our week fifteen New Balance NPLWA – Match of the Round between Fremantle City and Dianella White Eagles at Hilton Park was a tight affair, but a goal on the hour by pacy winger Shubham Mokala won it for the hosts, a win that moved them up to sixth on the table. It was a slow start to the game, with both sides struggling in the final third, but that changed 12 minutes in with Kristian Despotovski’s volley from the edge of the box flashing wide.
Fremantle hit back and after good approach work by Josh Risdon and Riley Woodcock, saw the later cross into the box and Iljas Ahmedov’s curling effort was deflected wide. From the resulting corner Ahmedov’s scissor kick flashed wide of the target. The chances kept coming, Asher Nelson’s shot was saved low by Luke Radonich, before the Fremantle custodian got down well to deny Miguel Restrepo moments later. Then Fremantle went close, a ball over the top by Ben Steele sent Mokala racing clear, but his lob over Dianella keeper Peter Pilkadaris drifted just wide of the far post.
The hosts were getting on top and Woodcock’s cross on 25 minutes was turned wide of the post by Ahmedov, before Chad Nilson’s shot was saved low by the alert Pilkadaris. Dianella’s best chance came on the half hour, Daniel Zivkovic’s snap shot was saved well by Radonich. The visitors finished the half the better, and Despotovski should have done better after losing his marker from Lachlan Collins’ cross, but he headed wide of the target, before Zivkovic’s shot was well saved by Radonich, and it was all square at the break.
Dianella went close again early in the second half, Despotovski’s volley beat Radonich, but the post came to the rescue of the Fremantle keeper. But on 61 minutes it was Fremantle who would find the opener. Skipper Charlie Chechlacz ball sent Mokala racing down the right, and he raced into the box, rounded the keeper and rolled the ball home. They went close to a second three minutes later, Woodcock’s free kick was saved by Pilkadaris. Dianella weren’t finished and skipper Sasa Njegic’s shot on the run was saved low by Radonich, before Despotovski’s header was straight at the keeper.
Dianella kept the pressure on late, as they searched for the equaliser, and their best chance fell in the final minute, Njegic’s corner picked out the unmarked Event Kadenge at the back post, but he couldn’t find the target. The win continues Fremantle’s excellent week, winning both league games and reaching the State League Cup final with a win against Olympic Kingsway, while the loss for Dianella leaves them ninth. Both sides are at home next week, Fremantle hosting Western Knights, while Dianella welcome Sorrento in the late game.
Fremantle City: GK Luke Radonich, 3 Josh Risdon, 4 Ben Steele, 7 Chad Nilson (10 Nicholas Ambrogio 78’), 8 Charlie Chechlac (22 Max Naylor 78’), 11 Shubham Mokala (17 Taj Bingwa 61’), 13 George Festa, 14 Iljas Ahmedov (16 Bill Orr 76’), 15 John Chalmers, 19 Isaiah Wingell, 23 Riley Woodcock – Subs not used: RGK Tom Allan, 18 Takumi Kambai, 20 Paul Zimarino
Dianella White Eagles: GK Peter Pilkadaris, 2 Lachlan Collins, 5 Franc Gamiz Quer, 7 George Ballah (16 Noah Kanzi 84’), 8 Asher Nelson, 9 Ben Hinshelwood (19 Noah Shamaki 75’), 10 Miguel Restrepo (21 Purvish Appadoo 63’), 11 Daniel Zivkovic (18 Event Kadenge 75’), 14 Kieran Colwell, 15 Sasa Njegic, 23 Kristian Despotovski – Subs not used: RGK Joel Driscoll, 4 Felix Locker-Waugh, 13 Jim Oranje – Referee: Stewart Beatie
FIRST HALF NIGHTMARE AS SOCCEROOS LOSS TO USA
After last week’s stunning win against Türkiye to start their World Cup campaign, the Socceroos have been brought back down to earth after a 0-2 loss against co-hosts USA at the Seattle Stadium on Saturday morning. An early own goal by Cameron Burgess set the tone for a poor first half from the green and gold, and a controversial second in the shadows of half time from Alexander Freeman made it two for the hosts. They were better in the second half, with Sassuolo striker Cristian Volpato impressing, but they couldn’t find a way back into the game, and now need a result in the final group game against Paraguay on Friday to move through to the next stage.
"I don't know if it was the occasion but we looked sluggish and heavy-legged," Socceroos coach Popovic said post-match. "They were quicker and more powerful. They won every duel and every second ball. When they do that, it makes it difficult to gain any momentum. The reaction second half was fantastic. At this level you can't give away that much in the first.” He was a little coy when asked about the referee in the game, and the offside decision for their second goal. “I'm not sure on that one," he said. "Unfortunately, that didn't go our way. Today wasn't the best day for the referee, and we felt frustrated.”
Popovic surprised many with his team selection, with both Connor Metcalfe and Nestory Irankunda, who were outstanding in the last game, missing out for this one, replaced by Nishan Velupillay and Mathew Leckie. The Socceroos were on the front foot early and Mo Toure fired straight at USA keeper Matt Freese. But on 11 minutes it was the hosts who found the opener. Folarin Balogun pace down the left saw him find space, and his teasing cross was turned into his own net by the unfortunate Burgess.
The Socceroos looked for an immediate response and Leckie’s shot from distance fizzed over the top. But it was Mauricio Pochettino’s side who started to get on top, with the Socceroos giving the ball away on several occasions. Then two minutes from the break USA added a second. A free kick was sent to Sergino Dest at the edge of the box, and his shot was deflected and looped into the path of Freeman, who converted from close range. The goal was initially flagged for offside, and it was a tight call, but was given, after a long VAR review.
Popovic made a triple change at the break as he looked for a way back into the game, with Jason Geria, Metcalfe and Irankunda replacing Burgess, Velupillay and Toure. But the hosts continued to threaten, and Alessandro Circati was alert to get a last-ditch tackle on the speedy Balogun, who was through on goal. Volpato came on after the hour, to replace the injured Leckie and he was impressive. Moments later, a great ball from Metcalfe released Irankunda, whose cutback found Volpato in the box, but he couldn’t keep his shot down.
Clear cut chances were few and far between, but the Socceroos were better, and Volpato and Irankunda combined just after the hour for Metcalfe, but his shot was saved by Freese. They finished the game well, and the USA scrambled away a corner, before Geria’s shot was blocked. Then a cross from Jacob Italiano fell to Circati, who blazed over the top, the hosts holding firm to take the points. It was an improved second half, but it was a first half to forget, and we now look to stay in the competition next Friday against Paraguay with a win or a draw depending on the other results in the group.
USA: GK Matt Freese, 2 Sergino Dest (23 Joseph Scally 80'), 3 Chris Richards, 4 Tyler Adams, 5 Antonee Robinson (6 Auston Trusty 80'), 8 Weston McKennie (7 Giovanni Reyna 90+6'), 9 Ricardo Pepi (14 Sebastian Berhalter 74’), 13 Tim Ream, 16 Alex Freeman, 17 Malik Tillman, 20 Folarin Balogun (19 Haji Wright 90+6') Subs not used: RGK Matt Turner, RGK Chris Brady, 11 Brenden Aaronson, 12 Miles Robinson, 15 Cristian Roldan, 18 Max Arfsten, 21 Timothy Weah, 22 Mark McKenzie, 26 Alex Zendejas
Australia: GK Patrick Beach, 3 Alessandro Circati, 4 Jacob Italiano, 5 Jordan Bos, 7 Mathew Leckie (20 Cristian Volpato 71’), 9 Mohamed Toure (17 Nestory Irankunda 45’), 13 Aiden O’Neill, 23 Nishan Velupillay (8 Connor Metcalfe 45’), 19. Harry Souttar (c), 21. Cameron Burgess (6. Jason Geria 45’), 24. Paul Okon-Engstler (22. Jackson Irvine 78') – Subs not used: RGK Maty Ryan, RGK Paul Izzo, 2 Milos Degenek, 10 Ajdin Hrustic, 11 Awer Mabil, 14 Cameron Devlin, 15 Kai Trewin, 16 Aziz Behich, 25 Lucas Herrington, 26 Tete Yengi – Attendance: 66,925 Referee: Felix Zwayer
NORANDA-EMERALD BEAT LEAGUE LEADERS
A goal in the final minute from Conor Gormley, has seen Noranda-Emerald beat Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division leaders Wanneroo City 1-0 in the opening week ten clash at Players Place, Madeley on Friday evening. “We’re absolutely delighted with the win away to a top Wanneroo side,” coach Ger Gaugahan explained post-match. “We knew before the game it probably wasn’t going to be a classic and that if we were going to get the result, it would likely be a scrappy, hard-fought 1-0, and it was.”
A tight game burst into life late, and the hosts were down to ten men on 88 minutes when defender Kane Fitch was sent off after an off the ball incident. It looked the points would be shared, but two minutes later the visitors won it. The ball broke to Gormley just outside the box, and his half volley flew past Cian Flynn to seal the three points, and move them up to fifth on the table. “I thought every one of our lads was outstanding. They worked their socks off, battled for every ball and showed the sort of character you need to win games like that,” Gaughan added.
“When Wanneroo went down to ten men with about five minutes to play, the boys sensed an opportunity and really went for it, and thankfully we got our reward with a fantastic finish and a great moment for the group. We still had to survive one more Wanneroo attack after that, which probably had a few hearts in mouths, but thankfully we saw it out and got the three points. It’s a massive result for us against the league leaders, but it only counts for so much if we don’t back it up next week. Swan will be another really tough test and our focus turns straight to that now.”
Skipper Jamie Mclaughlin echoed the coaches’ comments, and said it was an important win. “Yes, a Friday night game under lights against the current league leaders was a game we were really looking forward to. Unfortunately, we’ve let a few results in the first half of this season slip away from us, but we weren’t leaving Wanneroo without three points this weekend,” McLaughlin explained. “It was a hard fought 90 minutes from both teams, but I thought we created all the main goal scoring chances throughout the game and for Conor (Gormley) to grab the winner in the final minutes after having a brilliant game just topped the night off. It was a great win for us on the night, but it is done now and we will focus on our next game against Swan.”
Wanneroo City: GK Cian Flynn, 3 Zak Thomas, 4 Robbie Sallis, 5 Kane Fitch, 8 Jack Wilson, 9 Loris Tommolini, 10 Jordan Cook, 11 Alan Reidy, 14 Benjamin Gammack, 16 Ross Buckley, 19 Sam Gammack - Subs: 7 Lewis Plackett, 12 Ben Toms, 13 Frankie Stammers, 15 Thierry Berard, 23 Julian Bian
