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24.9.2025
VICTORY TOO STRONG FOR GLORY
Melbourne Victory have swept their two-game Regional South West Series against Perth Glory, after a 3-0 win at Hay Park in Bunbury on Wednesday evening. A first half goal from Jing Reec, and second half strikes from Matthew Grimaldi and Oliver Dragicevic secured the win for Arthur Diles’ side. Glory huffed and puffed but couldn’t find a way past a tight Victory defence, which will be a concern with A- League kicking off in 23 days’ time, when they host Wellington Phoenix at HBF Park.
Post-Match, Glory head coach David Zdrilic said his side needed to be better in front of goal. “We just didn’t score a goal when we needed to. Melbourne Victory, when they had chances, they scored,” he said. “It was 1-0, we had a big chance, Blairy (Nathanael Blair) had a header, change of momentum and then they go to the other end and score, we need goals to change the game.”
Zdrilic said it was important to give his available players the chance to get match minutes under their belt, so that was pleasing. “We rotated, we gave minutes to guys who haven’t played a lot of football and that showed — Rhys Bozinovski, a new player, his first minutes in a while, Trent Ostler, he’s been out for a long time, and Tags hasn’t played for a while,” he explained. “We got overrun in the first half. In the second half, a lot of guys were playing out of position, but I thought we started the second half excellently. These are the games we have to have, as we haven’t played a game in a long time, so it was great to have a two-game hit-out and we know what we have to work on.”
Fresh from a 1-0 victory in Mandurah on Sunday, Victory were looking to wrap up the series, and Mark Birighitti saved to deny Grimaldi early. Glory’s cause wasn’t helped when Callum Timmins limped off on ten minutes, replaced by Brandon O’Neil. Then ten minutes later Victory found the opener, the lively Grimaldi’s low cross from the left was turned home by Reec. Glory hit back and from Sam Sutton’s cross, picked out debutant Rhys Bozinovski, who headed over the top. Victory should have added a second three minutes from half time, Reec the supplier, but Brazilian Santos failed to find the target, and at the break the visitors held a narrow lead.
Glory made wholesale changes at the break, with only Birighitti, Will Freney and Kaelan Majekodunmi staying on. The young Glory side went close to the equaliser early in the second half, Freney crossed to Nathanael Blair, but he couldn’t keep his header down. That miss came back to haunt them six minutes later, when Victory added a second, Grimaldi finishing clinically from the edge of the box. Glory had their chances, Joel Anasmo cutting the ball back to fellow substitute Seb Despotovski, but he fired over the top.
It was the best period of the game for Glory, the youngster putting pressure on Victory, and Khoa Ngo’s low shot was well saved by substitute keeper Jack Warshawsky. Glory huffed and puffed, but they couldn’t turn their chances into goals, with Warshawsky denying Blair, and the loose ball just evaded Despotovski. But in the final minute Victory showed them how to do it, making it 3-0, with 17-year-old Dragicevic firing home through a crowded area, to seal the win.
Perth Glory First Half: GK Mark BIRIGHITTI, 3 Sam SUTTON, 4 Scott WOOTTON, 8 Callum TIMMINS (6 Brandon O’NEILL 10’), 9 Jaiden KUCHARSKI, 18 Rhys BOZINOVSKI, 20 Trent OSTLER, 22 Adam TAGGART, 27 Will FRENEY, 28 Kaelan MAJEKODUNMI, 45 Brian KALTAK
Perth Glory Second Half: GK Mark BIRIGHITTI, 7 Nicholas PENNINGTON, 14 Nathanael BLAIR, 16 Gabriel POPOVIC, 19 Josh RISDON, 25 Sebastian DESPOTOVSKI, 26 Khoa NGO, 27 Will FRENEY (12 Taras GOMULKA 74'), 28 Kaelan MAJEKODUNMI, 31 Joel ANASMO, 33 Daniel JANKULOSKI – Subs not used: RGK Ryan WARNER, 17 Arion SULEMANI
Melbourne Victory Starting XI: GK Jack DUNCAN, RGK Jack WARSHAWSKY 66’), 2 Jason DAVIDSON (3 Adama TRAORÉ 74'), 8 Jordi VALADON (31 Daniel LAZAREVSKI 74'), 10 Denis GENREAU (9 Nikos VERGOS 66'), 11 SANTOS (44 George MIHAILIDIS 80’), 14 Matthew GRIMALDI (23 Keegan JELACIC 60'), 19 Jing REEC (29 Oliver DRAGICEVIC 74’), 21 Roderick MIRANDA (4 Lachlan JACKSON 60'), 22 Joshua RAWLINS (41 Malik OLUKHALE 80’), 28 Kayne RAZMOVSKI, 42 Xavier STELLA (27 Louis D’ARRIGO 46') - Subs not used: RGK Oskar VON SCHRENK
23.9.2025
TSHUMA READY FOR ASHFIELD CHALLENGE
There will be a new coach in the dugout at the Paintseal Arena next season, with Malcom Tshuma taking over from James Sammut at Ashfield for 2026. Sammut, who coached and played at the club for the last three years stepped down due to family commitments, and the appointment marks an exciting new era for Ashfield as they set clear direction, high standards, and a strong vision for their playing group. The 33-year-old said despite a tough couple of seasons, it’s a challenge he is looking forward too, and can’t wait to get started.
“I’m excited about the challenge ahead. It’s important that everyone at the club is aligned to moving towards a common goal. Achieving it is never a guarantee but my belief is you have to aim for something and the ethos across the club has to move in the same direction. Division Two is a very hard league with some tough teams but we have to believe in the goals we have as a club,” Tshuma explained. “No doubt the club has had some difficult times recently, I think Jimmy Sammit (former coach) did a great job keeping them in the league. Things are more stable now and with that brings new goals and the desire to get back into Division One was a major influence for me. It won’t be an overnight fix, but you have to try and everyone has to feel that energy.”
Ashfield President Mr Phil Kelly, said they are delighted to welcome Tshuma to the club, a coach with great experience. “This appointment is more than just a coaching change it is a statement of intent. Malcom embodies the ambition, professionalism and hunger that Ashfield needs to keep driving forward,” Kelly explained. “Our target is clear, we want to return to Division One, but just as important is maintaining the culture and environment we have built, where players, coaches and supporters feel proud to belong.”
His comments were echoed by Ashfield’s Operations of Football, Conor Rae, who said Malcom is the right man to lead the club forward. “I have known Malcom for a number of years, when we needed to start looking at options Mal was the first name that popped to mind especially with what we were trying to achieve,” Rae said. “He’s ambitious, driven and his vision for the club is exactly where we want to be. It’s no shock to anyone that Ashfield has ambition to be back in Division One and we believe this is the right stepping stone forward to do so."
Tshuma brings with him an impressive CV that spans both playing and coaching. He moved to Australia from Zimbabwe in 2006, and his first club was Forrestfield United in the u15s in 2007. He went on to captain the under 18’s, before taking his place in the first team in 2011. He then joined Armadale in 2013, and had two seasons at Alfred Skeet Reserve, before returning to Forrestfield in 2015. That’s when his coaching career took off, coaching the under 18’s for four seasons, before moving to Gwelup Croatia and coached the 18’s and 20’s at the club. He returned to Hartfield Park in 2022 as first team assistant coach, before doing a similar role at Balcatta Etna.
His stay at Grindleford Reserve, ended this this season, and he has taken time away from the game, but is now ready for the new challenge ahead. “It was a really tough season at Balcatta this year, so I have to recharge my batteries somewhat. Not for long though as there is quite a bit of work to do before pre-season commences at the tail end of the year,” Tshuma said. “Last season, Ashfield dropped points from winning positions in five or so games so we’re not that far off. Of course, we have to enter the market for players, which we think will help us bridge that gap and improve the squad, but there is still a long way to go so let’s see.
“Over the past decade, I’ve had the privilege of learning from some of WA’s most respected football minds, the late Rod Banjac, Graham Normanton, Richard Abrams, and Glen Grostate. Their mentorship has been instrumental in preparing me to take this next step and lead Ashfield moving forward. My focus now is on building a strong, unified squad during pre-season and laying the foundation for a project that will reignite the club. I’m under no illusions about the challenge ahead but it’s one that excites me and one I’m determined to share with the players, coaches and supporters at Ashfield. I look forward to getting to know everyone and welcoming the players back into pre-season."
23.9.2025
OVERY COMMITTED TO THE GREEN AND GOLD OF AUSTRALIA
Young Socceroos coach Trevor Morgan says teenager James Overy wants to play for Australia despite having turned out for Scotland at international level. Overy, 18, has slowly but surely risen up the ranks at Manchester United since penning a scholarship deal with the club in 2024, recently signing his first professional contract which ties him to the club for the long-term.
Part of the Red Devils’ academy set-up, the one-time Perth Glory youth product trained with United’s first team for the first time in May, and according to Morgan has also taken part in first-team sessions as recently as this month.
Overy has Scottish heritage through his mother and as recently as this year turned out for Scotland’s under-19’s team, sparking fears the Perth born-and-raised defender could be lost to Australia. But after the full-back played for Australia’s under-20 side at the UEFA Friendship Cup in June and was named in their extended squad for the looming FIFA under-20 World Cup, Morgan has put those fears to bed.
“James is an Aussie; he wants to play for us,” Morgan said. “There was a great opportunity (at the Friendship Cup) with Richie Garcia, who’s the assistant coach here, he took the team to that tournament. There’s a couple of reasons why James is with us now: he stood out for the national team in that tournament and secondly, he’s playing in a position where his qualities are useful to this team.”
Morgan said the “explosive, dynamic” Overy was performing at a high level in training ahead of the Young Socceroos’ World Cup campaign in Chile, which begins against Italy on Monday. “He’s quite clever, he’s got a range of pass, likes to take people on and the way they coach at Manchester United, he’s doing certain movements or taking up positions and options that very easily fit into this squad,” he said.
“His daily training environment is a very high level; whether it’s the coaching, the young players he’s with — or for example, last week he trained with the first team during and off the back end of the international break, so he was in and around first team players before he came into camp. At the moment, if he plays to the level we see, he’s a bit advanced of other boys his own age in terms of the exposure he gets, but he’s still here to learn.”
The eyes of the soccer scouting world will be on the marquee under-age tournament in Chile, looking to find the stars of tomorrow. Previous Golden Ball winners for player of the tournament include Lionel Messi, Paul Pogba and Sergio Aguero. Would a strong showing by Overy at the tournament see United coach Ruben Amorim throw him into the fray at English Premier League level?
“I guess Ruben has to answer that question. But you can’t do yourself harm by playing well at your own age group at a World Cup,” Morgan said. “If he can show who he is, it’s going to certainly mean when he goes back to his club, they’re looking to give him opportunities, because they want to help his pathway be an upward trajectory.”
22.9.2025
DRILIC FLAGS BACK THREE THIS SUMMER
Perth Glory coach David Zdrilic anticipates his side’s shift to a back three in pre-season will become a permanent change, but flagged the midfield set-up could be flexible. Glory went down 1-0 to Melbourne Victory in Mandurah yesterday after a Jordi Valadon strike from outside the box shortly after half-time. The two sides were evenly-matched throughout the game with neither able to conjure much in the way of scoring opportunities.
Glory were relatively comfortable defensively thanks to a new-look back three which had off-season recruits Brian Kaltak and Scott Wootton impressing alongside Kaelen Majekodunmi. The trio were supported by wing-backs Josh Risdon and Sam Sutton, with the latter enjoying a strong outing as Glory’s main outlet going forward.
“The players we have, it’s the best formation for the quality we have in the team,” Zdrilic said. “Last year, we were playing 4-2-2-2 and we finished the season really strongly, we were trying to build on the back of that but we weren’t able to get all the players we wanted. “The system lends to playing a back five, and then also the variability of the five in front of them.”
Against Victory, Perth fielded a central midfield trio of Brandon O’Neill, Callum Timmins and Will Freney to start, with Nicholas Pennington and Taras Gomulka featuring off the bench. With the arrival of Western United pivot Rhys Bozinovski last week, Glory now have seven players who can play in central midfield including Englishman Luke Amos, who missed the Victory game.
Whether Glory stick with a midfield three or opt for two central midfielders and a front three which incorporates captain Adam Taggart and winger Lachie Wales remains to be seen. “The squad lends to different dynamics, that’s the variation that we want to have,” Zdrilic said. “I thought the three and the two worked very well in the first half. We were very comfortable, we just want to create more chances to finish them off.”
21.9.2025
FROM ECU TO THE A-LEAGUE FOR DENCH
Former ECU Joondalup youngster Matthew Dench has signed for Brisbane Roar, after a successful trial at the A-League club. It’s been a football journey for the 21-year-old, starting at the Campus in Joondalup as a youngster, before joining the Perth Glory academy. He headed back to ECU in 2020 for a short stint under Kenny Lowe, before securing a move to Charlton Athletic in England. He played for the clubs under21’s before signing a pro-contract with the Addicks, and he is now ready to start his new chapter at the Roar.
Dench said his time at Charlton was tough, especially with covid, but he learnt so much in his time in the southeast of London. “I had four very enjoyable years at Charlton, two-years on a scholarship, before two-years on a professional contract, and I learnt a great deal,” he explained. “Although the football side was great, it was extremely hard being away from my family during Covid, but I got through it and was a great learning curve for me and one that made me stronger.”
The midfielder went out on loan to Billericay in 2023, and spent six weeks at the Isthmian League Premier Division side, before his time at the Valley came to an end at the end of 2024. He headed back down under and joined NPL VIC side Oakleigh Cannons, and Dench said it was a great club to be involved with. “I can’t speak highly enough of Oakleigh Cannons, they are a great club and have some great people involved there,” Dench explained. “They were so welcoming, and I felt part of a family. They encouraged me and I started 26 games, and I have a lot to thank them for and appreciate everything they did for me.”
The next challenge is at the Roar, and after a successful trial they signed him, coach Michael Valkanis said he is looking forward to see him progress at the club. “Matthew has been fantastic throughout his trial period with the club and it’s because of this that we are happy to have him on board this season,” Valkanis said. “He is an athletic, left-footed player who has to ability to pick a good pass and be impactful at both ends of the field. I look forward to watching him progress throughout the season.”
Dench said the hard work starts now, and he’s looking forward to making an impact at the club. “I’m proud to have signed for the Roar for the 25/26 season. It’s exciting to join the club during what is a new era here. I’ve worked extremely hard to get myself here and it’s because of this that I’m driven to give my all for the shirt and make the fans proud this season,” he explained. “Like you said it’s a new challenge for me, but I can’t wait to get started and hopefully making a difference. I have trialled for a couple of weeks, so have got to know the team a little. I will make the move from Melbourne to Brisbane this week, and I’m ready for the challenge.”
21.9.2025
VICTORY EDGE OUT GLORY IN MANDURAH
Perth Glory have started their 2025 Regional South West Tour against Melbourne Victory with a narrow 0-1 defeat at the Poolmart Mandurah Stadium, Peelwood Reserve on Sunday afternoon. The only goal of the game came early in the second half from Victory midfielder Jordi Valadon. Glory pressed late looking for the equaliser, the best effort fell to New Zealand defender Sam Sutton, whose cross shot hit the post, but it was Arthur Diles’ side taking the honours.
A bumper crowd was on hand on a sunny day in Mandurah, but Victory new signing Juan Mata was not involved, much to the disappointment of the 2,000 supporters. It was David Zdrilic’s side who opened the brighter. Sutton fired over the top early, before former Glory keeper Jack Duncan saved from debutant Jaiden Kucharski’s effort. Victory hit back midway through the half, new signing Denis Genreau’s cross was met be another former Glory player, Keegan Jelacic, who was also making his first start for the club, but his header was straight at Mark Birighitti. Glory went close again in the shadows of half time, Sutton’s in swinging corner was headed over the top by Josh Risdon, but at the break it was all-square.
Glory made a double change at the break, with Will Freney and Nathanael Blair replaced by Nicholas Pennington and new recruit Arion Sulemani. But it was the visitors who would find the opener three minutes in, Valadon finding space in the middle of the park and moved to the edge of the box and fired an unstoppable shot into the bottom corner past Birighitti. They went close to a second two minutes later, but Matthew Grimaldi failed to find the target.
The hosts began to take control, and Kucharski was denied by Duncan, and on 65 minutes Sutton’s cross shot beat Duncan, but the post came to the rescue of the Victory custodian. Victory then went close nine minutes later, Santos Rodrigues should have done better, but the Brazilian striker could only find the side netting. Glory ended the game well and had Victory on the backfoot, the best chance falling in stoppage time, Sutton’s corner wasn’t dealt with and substitute Josh Anasmo’s close-range effort was well blocked by substitute keeper Jack Warshawsky. The two sides will meet again in the second game of the Regional South West Tour at Hay Park in Bunbury on Wednesday evening (6:30pm)
Perth Glory: GK Mark BIRIGHITTI, 3 Sam SUTTON, 4 Scott WOOTTON, 6 Brandon O’NEILL (25 Sebastian DESPOTOVSKI 83'), 8 Callum TIMMINS (12 Taras GOMULKA 74'), 9 Jaiden KUCHARSKI (16 Gabriel POPOVIC 74'), 14 Nathanael BLAIR (17 Arion SULEMANI 46'), 19 Josh RISDON (31 Joel ANASMO 74'), 27 Will FRENEY (7 Nicholas PENNINGTON 46') (20 Trent OSTLER 74') 28 Kaelan MAJEKODUNMI, 45 Brian KALTAK – Subs not used: RGK Ryan WARNER, 26 Khoa NGO, 33 Daniel JANKULOSKI
Melbourne Victory: GK Jack DUNCAN (RGK Jack WARSHAWSKY 70’), 3 Adama TRAORE (2 Jason DAVIDSON 70’), 4 Lachlan JACKSON, 8 Jordi VALADON (42 Xavier STELLA 70’), 9 Nikolaos VERGOS, 10 Denis GENREAU, 14 Matthew GRIMALDI (28 Kayne RAZMOVSKI 62’), 21 Roderick MIRANDA (41 Malik OLUKHALE 62’), 22 Josh RAWLINS, 23 Keegan JELACIC (43 Oliver DRAGICEVIC 85’), 27 Louis D’ARRIGO – Subs not used: RGK Oskar VON SCHRENK, 19 Jing REEC, 31 Daniel LAZAREVSKI, 44 George MIHAILIDIS - Referee: Shane Skinner
20.9.2025
FREMANTLE STAY IN THE NPL, WHILE COCKBURN ARE PROMOTED TO DIVISION ONE
In the final two Interdivisional Playoff Finals on Saturday afternoon at the Sam Kerr Football Centre, Fremantle City have kept their place in the NPL next season after a 2-1 win against Joondalup City, while Cockburn City have bounced back to Division One, after back-to-back relegations, after they beat Kalamunda City on penalties, which sees Kalamunda go back down to Division Two. First up Cockburn and Kalamunda fought out a tight 1-1 draw, before the Cockerels prevailed 4-3 on penalties. “Great team performance by everyone involved today,” Cockburn Captain Euen grant said post-match. “Going a goal down early then getting one back a minute later, then missing a penalty late in extra time, to then go on to win in pens was a roller coaster of emotions. So happy for everyone involved with the club and looking forward to playing in Division One next year.”
Both these sides had won tight semi-finals against East Perth and Forrestfield respectively, and this one burst into life early, with Kalamunda opening the scoring on seven minutes. Nicolas Roca started and finished a sweeping move, the defender surging through the middle of the park, before finding Andrea Erbetta racing down the right, Roca had continued his run into the box, and fired home Erbetta’s cross. It was the perfect start for Kalamunda, but their lead only lasted sixty seconds. A long clearance from keeper Zayde Free was helped on by James Bourne to Oliver Palmer, who picked out Matthew Bowen on the left, he cut inside his marker and fired low past Jake Maley-Orr.
From then on it was tight affair with chances at both ends, but they couldn’t be separated and it was off to extra time. It was Cockburn who had the chance to win it in the second period of extra time, when they were awarded a penalty. A cross into the box by Ben Thorpe searching for fellow substitute Isaac Mcvittie, who was pulled down by David Ramella Gomez, and referee Tom Glavovic pointed straight to the spot. Bourne stepped up to take the resulting penalty, but Maley-Orr guessed the right way and made the save. So, we were off to the dreaded penalty shoot-out. Both sides scored their first three penalties, before Bourne made emends for his miss in extra time, firing home the fourth for Cockburn, meaning Ramiro Costes needed to score to keep them alive, but Free saved, to set of wild celebrations on and off the pitch.
“The penalty shootout was a true test of character for the team. The players showed great composure under pressure, and we're proud of how everyone stood up in such a high-stakes moment, especially as we missed one in extra time. Great performance from Zayde who saved to penalties. Credit to Kalamunda as well – they pushed us all the way and made it a memorable contest,” Cockburn coach Paulo Basto explained. “It was a fantastic team effort, and moments like these really highlight the spirit and resilience we’ve built this season. Massive thanks to all the supporters who came to watch and the outstanding commitment from the committee to see the team through the year. On to the next challenge next year in Div one...cant wait.”
Finally, in the NPL/Division One Final, Fremantle City were looking to keep their NPL status, took on Joondalup City, who were looking to reach the NPL for the first time, but it was Fremantle who prevailed, running out 2-1 winners in an entertaining game. “We had a single-minded goal from the time we knew we were in the playoffs and tonight we achieved that goal,” Fremantle coach Dale Wingell said post-match. “I thought we were outstanding tonight, especially in the first half. We knew they would come at us after half time and fair play to them they got one back. A real positive performance from the boys tonight, but in these games, you are looking for a match winner and Lucas Rossi was exactly that for us. The lads got the job done tonight and I’m sincerely happy for everyone involved at the club - Forza Freo.”
The port side made the best possible start, and found the opener on ten minutes. A neat through ball from Paul Zimarino sent Lucas Rossi in on goal, and he finished with aplomb past Joondalup keeper Joe Smith. They doubled their lead four minutes later, Cameron Edwards corner was only cleared as far as Charlie Chechlacz on the edge of the box, and his cross came off the head of Joondalup defender Liam Peacock, and Rossi’s header found the net. Mason Gallagher had the best chance for Joondalup, but he fired straight at Fremantle keeper Luke Radonich.
Joondalup did pull one back twenty minutes from time, Gallagher was brought down in the box by Charlie Betts, and referee Josh Mannella pointed straight to the spot. Gallagher picked himself up and sent Radonich the wrong way from the spot, to set up a tense finish, but Fremantle held firm to see out the game and keep their place in the NPL for next season. “We got the perfect start and got to a two-goal lead that proved to be enough,” Fremantle captain Hayden Stevens said post-match. “Once they scored, we found it hard to get some rhythm and they threw everything at us. But we ended up getting the result and retaining our status for next year.”
20.9.2025
NORTH BEACH AND MORLEY WINDMILLS SEAL RETURN TO THE STATE LEAGUE (Photos by Fotoenzo)
We will have two new teams in the State League next season, with North Beach and Morley Windmills taking their places after a drama thrilled Division Two/Amateur Premier Division Interdivisional play off finals on Saturday at the Sam Kerr Football Centre. In the early game North Beach, who finished second in the Amateur Premier Division, beat Swan United 1-0. “I can't describe how proud I am of the players for what they've achieved today, and for the club as a whole,” North Beach coach Nick Di Carlo said post-match. “There have been such high standards across the season, but in particular over the last two months, and it's been a pleasure to get the ultimate reward of promotion. The support today at the game from our members was incredible which really lifted the players across the line. We'll certainly be celebrating this one for a few weeks to come”
United had finished the season at the bottom of the Division Two table, but had this second chance, but were beaten by the only goal of the game on 28 minutes. A long ball from out of defence from Sam Richardson sent striker Alexander Kretowicz racing clear, but Rain Blauberg spotted the danger and came racing out to chest the ball away, but it went straight to James Ashford, who sent the ball back over the keeper’s head and into the empty net. Swan pressed late but couldn’t find an equaliser, and ended the game with ten men with referee Connor Richards sending off Peter Gama in the final minute.
The win sealed a return to the State League for the first time since 1978, and skipper Luke Wearing was delighted. “It was a great effort from our boys, everyone gave everything and it showed, the hard work we’ve been putting in was rewarded with this massive result,” the skipper said post-match. “Nick has been outstanding as a coach and he deserves this and I know all the boys were out there thinking the same thing. Yes, it was a great year and we’re now looking forward to state league football next year.”
They will be joined in State League Division Two by Morley Windmills, who came from two goals down to beat Wanneroo City 3-2. “What a day, what a game,” Morley coach John O’Reilly said post-match. “The boys started well but the tactics were wrong and we ended up two down at half time. We had a rethink and shuffled the pack at half time and it really helped us get back on track. Second half we did enough to earn the extra time, and early in extra time we used the momentum to go ahead. After that it was hold on for dear life and enjoy the ride.”
It was Wanneroo who made the better start and opened the scoring on six minutes, Asa Sippits turned the ball home from close-range. Then five minutes before half time they added a second Boas Mtwale found Joshua Allum, who played a neat give and go with Finn Wilson Pidgeon, and Allum finished with aplomb past Windmills keeper Nick Stone. Morley were back in the game 13 minutes from time, Stephen Kirk’s free kick from the right was flicked on by Oliver Simpson and John Monterosso scored from close-range. It looked like Wanneroo had survived the drop, but seven minutes into stoppage time Morley levelled. A long ball wasn’t dealt with by Wanneroo, the ball falling to Andrew Ruane, who drilled the ball home from the edge of the box to set off wild celebrations on and off the pitch.
So, we were off to extra time, and seven minutes in Morley won it, and their place back in the State League. A long ball by Simpson was misjudged by the Wanneroo defence, and Mehdi Rabei pounced, racing into goal and finishing neatly. Wanneroo pressed looking for the equaliser, but Morley held firm to seal the 3-2 win. “It was a tough start to the game going 1-0 down early on, then to go 2-0 against the run of play when I felt we were getting on top hit us hard. At half-time, we knew we were not out of the game but that it was going to be hard. A few tactical changes from John, and the rest was in our hands,” Morley captain Stephen Kirk explained.
“The first goal was straight from the training ground on Thursday night, and Johnny is always there to put them away. We kept pushing as a team and got what feel we deserved with the last kick of the game. Going into extra time there were a lot of tired legs, boys cramping and a few went off with muscle injuries, so we had to push through and adapt, and we changed formation and it paid dividends with the winner. From that moment on we knew our job as a team. Stay compact, defend as a unit and leave everything on the pitch. I couldn’t be prouder of the lads on the pitch and the coaching staff who made all the right decisions. It’s been a tough year but we made it.”
19.9.2025
PR NIGHTMARE FOR GLORY
Wednesday’s highly anticipated ‘Challenge Cup’ between Perth Glory and the WA State side, has turned into a PR nightmare for the A-League club, after they made the late call to call the game off, after the state of the pitch at Dorrien Gardens on Wednesday evening. Both Football West and Glory had advertised the game, and they were expecting a big crowd to watch the new look Glory side, but the fans were left disappointed after Glory pulled the pin an hour before kick-off, following a pre-game assessment.
At this stage we are not aware if the referee called the game off, our Glory took it on themselves to call it off, with concerns, particular the state of the penalty box, which had two patches of sand on the six-yard box. The ground had held the NRL WA grand finals on September 6 and the divots appear to have been created by the rugby posts. This wasn’t a concern when the Perth SC NPLWA – Women’s first team and 21’s both played on the pitch three days later, against Balcatta Etna and Perth RedStar in the Top Four preliminary final, and had no problem.
Player safety is a huge concern in any sport, but the late notice caught a number of supporters out, but the whole story has still to be shared, but Perth SC were not too pleased and issued a stinging statement on social media and called the Glory’s decision “short-sighted and unilateral”. “The decision was done with zero consultation with our club,” the club stated on Wednesday night. “It has not only upset Perth SC members but all of the Perth Glory and WA football fans who turned up for the scheduled fixture. Perth Glory has a lot of work to do to reconnect and win the trust of the WA football community. It has taken several steps backwards in that process with its conduct this evening.”
However, with Glory playing two more pre-season games against A-League opposition Melbourne Victory over the coming week in Mandurah and Bunbury, it looked like they decided not take any chances and made the call to opt out of the match due to their concerns regarding the surface. It’s a bitter blow to the WA football supporters, and the WA state players and coaches, who were all looking forward to pitting their wits against A-League opposition. Will this end the ‘Challenge Cup’ games in future, only time will tell, but Glory haven’t made many friends with this decision.
19.9.2025
BOZINOVSKI HEADS WEST
Perth Glory have dipped into the Western United pool of players, and pulled out the highly-rated Australia under 23 midfielder Rhys Bozinovski on a two-year deal. The 21-year-old, who played in the Melbourne City youth side, and went on to play three seasons with United, and started 25 games for the hibernated United side last season. Bozinovski, who made his A-League debut as an 18-year-old in 2022, is regarded as one of the country’s brightest rising stars, and he will give the Glory midfield a boost, and give coach David Zdrilic some selection headaches in that area. Glory signed Callum Timmins and have Englishman Luke Amos, while they also have the experienced Nicholas Pennington and Brandon O’Neill, who can all play centrally.
The midfielder said after talking to the club he knew a move west would be best for the next stage in is football career. "As soon as I spoke with Stan Lazaridis, it was a no-brainer to come to Perth Glory," he said. "I see the club’s vision and ambition and what they’re headed towards and I want to be a part of the success. Personally, I want to continue to develop myself on the pitch. I will give the club everything and I want to continue to contribute as much as possible to this team’s success. I’m very excited to start this new chapter in my career and am ready to work hard and give it all for the club and the fans."
Glory Football Director Lazaridis believes that Bozinovski’s signing represents a genuine coup for the club. "There is no doubt in my mind that Rhys is a future Socceroo and we are absolutely thrilled to have secured his services," he said. "He was one of the very best midfielders in the A-League last season and aged just 21, he has an incredibly high ceiling in terms of just how good he can be. He’s a dynamic, box-to-box central midfielder and his goals and assists record shows that he’s a real threat in the final third. Rhys is a really exciting young player and I’m delighted that we managed to beat off stiff competition from a host of other clubs in order to get him on board for the next two years."
19.9.2025
PROMOTIONS SPOTS ON THE LINE IN INTER-DIVISIONAL PLAY OFF FINALS
It’s Football West Interdivisional Playoff Finals Day on Saturday, when the final promotion and relegation spots for next season will be decided, and we have four massive games at the Sam Kerr Football Centre, with so much on the line. The day starts with Swan United, looking to keep their State League status alive, when they meet Amateur Premier North Beach. (10:00am) Swan finished at the bottom of Division Two, and a loss on Saturday will see them slip out the State League for the first time, and coach Shannon Beniston said his side is up for the fight.
“We’ve built a strong squad with real depth and quality, and that’s been clear in our performances across the second half of the season. We pushed the League champions Quinn’s and Division One play-off contenders Cockburn right to the final whistle, with chances to win both matches,” he explained. “We’ve beaten the sides sitting 3rd, 4th and 5th, and held 6th to a draw, so that’s ten points out of 18 against the top six, that shows we belong at the top end of the league. Now, heading into the play-offs, our players understand what this opportunity means — not just for themselves, but for our supporters and the wider Swan community. We’ll be ready.”
North Beach were runners up in the Amateur Premier Division, and ended the season with seven straight wins, and will be looking to return to the State League for the first time since 1978. Coach Nick Di Carlo said their run in was like playoff games, which they needed to win, and Saturday will be more of the same. “Coming off the high of earning a playoff spot last weekend, we've had to turn our attention immediately to what is going to be such a great occasion for the squad, and the club as a whole,” Di Carlo. “I'm so proud of everyone who's been involved to get to this point, and we have no fear going into this hit out against a state league opponent. The last month for us has been the pressure of a final, knowing a loss ended our season and a win got us a step closer, so the players are adapting really well to play under high stakes pressure which conditions us nicely for this weekend.”
The second game on the day sees Wanneroo City, who are also looking to keep their State League place, take on Morley Windmills. (12:15pm) Wanneroo finished second bottom this season, after finishing at the bottom of the table in 2024, but they have the opportunity to stay in the state league, and defender Kane Fitch said they will be doing everything they can to achieve that. “Yes, obviously a huge game for the club with a lot to lose especially on our side but as a group of players we’ve got the club into this position and we need to perform and keep this club where it belongs,” Fitch said. “Morley like any team present their own set of challenges and finished the season strongly so they will have a lot of momentum heading into this weekend. We’ve hit the reset button this week at training worked on things to provide us with the best chance of winning and I’m confident we’ll finally this season give the club a performance that they deserve.”
Morley Windmills secured their place after a win against Emerald last week, and will be hoping to return to the State League, after relegation in 2023. They finished the season well, winning five of their last six games, and they will hope to secure promotion as they celebrate their 75-Year Anniversary. “We are delighted to have this opportunity, our goal for the season was to win promotion or as a minimum get a spot in the play off's, especially in our 75-year anniversary,” O’Reilly explained. “We are looking forward to this last challenge of the season, and I believe it has come at a good time for us, as we have been improving each week and I can feel the belief in this team.”
A spot in Division One is on the line in third game at the venue, with Kalamunda City playing Cockburn City. (2:30pm) Both sides had tough semi-final victories, Kalamunda edging out local rivals Forrestfield United, while Cockburn overcame East Perth, in two tight encounters. It’s been a couple of tough seasons for Cockburn, back-to-back relegations, but coach Kenny Palmer has come in and steadied the ship, and he said the club are now heading in the right direction. “It's been a long season and regardless of the outcome of this weekend’s game, we will take nothing but positives from the year we have had as a club. From all that has been accomplished by the President and the Committee off the pitch, to the foundations we have set on the pitch,” Palmer explained.
“Our run to the semifinal of the Night Series and to only miss out on automatic promotion by a couple of points, is testament to the direction the club is heading in. Having said that, our focus as a playing group will be no different on this occasion to every other game we have played since pre-season. We will be looking to get on the front foot and to focus on the execution of our game plan. We look forward to seeing all our members and supporters at the game for one last time this season and we hope to make it a day to remember.”
Kalamunda slipped in to the relegation spot after losing their last three games of the season, but a 2-0 win in the second leg against Forrestfield saw them into the final, and coach Kristian Usedo said it was a good team performance, and they will need another one on Saturday. “The boys did exactly what was asked of them, we maintained our shape, stayed patient, and when the chances arose, we capitalised on them. Keeping a clean sheet was just as important as scoring the goals it demonstrates the belief and focus this group has,” Usedo said. “Looking ahead to the game against Cockburn, they are a strong team, no doubt, but we’re not intimidated. We’ve built up momentum, the team's energy is high, and we’ve prepared for every scenario. If they choose to take the game to us, we’ll welcome the challenge, we’ll be ready.”
Finally, a spot in the NPL is up for grabs when Fremantle City meet Joondalup City. (4:45pm) Fremantle came from behind to beat Kingsley Westside on the away goals rule in the semi-final, as they look to maintain their place in the NPL, while Joondalup scored a 5-3 win on aggregate against UWA Nedlands, and they will be looking for a spot in the NPL for the first time, this after only joining the state league in 2012. Joondalup only lost once in their final eight games in the league, to be on the verge of a place in the NPL, and coach Guy McDonald knows there is a lot on the line. “Yes, it’s a huge day for the club and everyone is looking forward to it, and like you say there is a lot on the line for both clubs,” McDonald said. “At the end of the day though it’s a football match we have to get it right on the day. After seeing a few of Fremantle’s games and results they are a good side and are probably a bit unlucky to have finished second bottom. So, it will be a tough test but we will be ready and up for it come Saturday afternoon.”
A goal from Charlie Betts against Kingsley secured their spot, and Fremantle coach Dale Wingell said the players are up for the challenge, and will be leaving everything out there on Saturday. “We have learnt a lot about ourselves this season and now it comes down to a one-off game. We know “who we are” and the lads certainly know what is required,” Wingell explained. “Saturdays outcome will be a byproduct of our actions on the night. We are prepared for a challenging encounter and are determined to produce a positive performance.” It should be a great day of entertaining football for the neutrals, but a tense time for the eight clubs involved. You can purchase tickets at - megatix.com.au/events/PlayOff2025 - Adults $15 | - Concession $10 | Free entry under 18
19.9.2025
GLORY SNAP UP AMERICAN MIDFIELDER
Perth Glory have added American-born midfielder Emma Tovar to their squad for the new season, the 21-year-old is the third new visa arrival in Perth ahead of the Ninja A-League 2025-26 season, joining Rola Badawiya and Bronte Trew in committing to the club. Tovar, who was born in San Jose, California, has joined Glory from Spanish Liga F side Valencia, after three seasons at the club, and the midfielder can also play at the back, which will give coach Stevens Peters extra options moving forward.
Tovar, who was recently called up for the Philippines national squad, is looking forward to opening a new chapter with Glory, and can’t wait to get started. “The opportunity actually came through the Philippines national team coach Mark Torcaso who gave me the connection to [Glory Head Coach] Stephen Peters and Perth Glory,” she said. “He spoke very highly about the league and the club and so that made me more excited to get in touch and get to know more about not only Perth Glory, but the A-League as well.”
“Coming from Spain, I think the playing styles are very different and so I think not only am I going to learn a lot, I’m going to be able to take what I learned in Spain and bring it over to the A-League. I think the chemistry on and off the field is going to help a lot with us being successful in games and in the league. Finding our own rhythm and style of play is going to be really important and I think I can contribute to that and also learn a lot from the other girls.”
Football Director Stan Lazaridis said Tovar will be an excellent addition to Stephen Peters’ squad. “Emma has everything she needs to be a success in the ALW,” he said. “She’s very comfortable in possession and tenacious out of it, plus she brings that versatility in terms of being able to play in midfield or at the back. Playing regularly at such a high level in Spain has provided her with invaluable experience and really helped her hone her technical ability. We are confident that Emma will have an important role to play for Glory this season.”
16.9.2025
GLORY SET FOR BUSY WEEK
Perth Glory’s pre-season is in full swing, and they will have busy week, with three games, starting with the traditional annual Challenge Cup clash against the WA State Team on Wednesday evening at Dorrien Gardens, kick-off at 6:30pm and admission FREE. The WA side will once again by coached by former Glory Head Coach Ian Ferguson, who has just led Dianella White Eagles to the NPL as champions.
Ferguson has selected a strong squad, but he will be without any Bayswater City players, who are preparing for the inaugural Australian Championship. Following the meeting with the State Team, Glory will head south for the club’s Regional South West Tour when they will face Melbourne Victory at Mandurah’s Peelwood Reserve on Sunday 21 September (kick-off at 3pm) and then take on Victory again at Bunbury’s Hay Park on Wednesday 24 September (kick-off at 6:30pm)
State Team manager Alex Novatsis said it will good to see how the team goes, after their good showing recently against Indonesian club Persebaya. “The annual game against Perth Glory’s A-League side is always an enjoyable occasion, and there is added interest this time after the State Team performed so well against Persebaya recently,” Novatsis explained. “The players we have selected are excited to represent WA and want to put on a show. I’d like to thank the clubs for their support and we look forward to reclaiming the Challenge Cup.” The game will be streamed live and free on Streamer.com.au.
WA State Squad: GK Adrian Sinagara (Olympic Kingsway), GK Mateusz Zaniewski (Perth SC), Lebib Lebib, Aryn Williams, Jayden Gorman, Laat Mathiang, Josh Samson (All Olympic Kingsway), Pieter Jabobsz (Armadale), Franc Gamiz Quer (Dianella White Eagles), Jeramie Mba (Gwelup Croatia), Blair Govan, Oliver Leeming, Sam Pollard, Luke Bodnar, Theo Leeming (All Perth RedStar), Gordon Perkins (Perth SC), Brent Quick (Stirling Macedonia), Jack Hilaire (UWA Nedlands)
14.9.2025
KWINANA WIN AMATEUR DIVISION ONE TITLE, AND BALLAJUA GET PROMOTION
With one round to go in the Belt-Up Amateur Division One season, both Kwinana United and Ballajura AFC have both secured promotion to the Amateur League Premier Division, replacing Peel United and South Perth United, who were relegated. Kwinana will go up as champions after beating Port Kennedy last week, while Ballajura finished runners-up after a loss at Ellenbrook United.
Kwinana were ahead on 25 minutes, Wayne Carter finding space on the edge of the box and finished well. Tom Straker headed a second just before half time, and the central defender add two more after the break to seal the win. “Delighted for Tommy, he had the game of his life and scored three headers to give himself his first career hattrick,’ Mann said. “The celebrations were instant once we heard the Ellenbrook/Ballajura score. We had the time of our life’s and once again, I’m extremely lucky to have the club, coaches and players fully onboard with our plans.”
Kwinana return to the Amateur top flight after just a two-season absence. The red and whites were a major force back in the 1970s, spending much of that decade in the top tier of the WA professional league, their best finish came in 1974, when they finished fourth. They moved to the Amateur League in 1991. With big ambitions, the club now sits just one promotion away from a return to the State League. Head Coach Geroge Mann, who took over from Mark Purvis this season, said it’s been a hard-fought fight, but to get promotion is a great reward for the players, and to win the title has but the icing on the cake.
“Delighted, especially after narrowly missing out on promotion last year, it was nice to get the job done. It’s been excellent to go one step further and win both Firsts and Reserves titles. We really do have a fantastic project underway at Kwinana and I’m confident that we are heading in the right direction. All hands are on deck with the clubs’ best interests at heart. I just want to give a mention to Ballajura for battling with us all the way to the end. I wish them nothing but the best and I look forward to playing against them again next season.
Tom Walsh and Wayne Carter have been great form in front of goals for Kwinana, but defensively they have only conceded 25 goals, the least in the league, and Mann said it’s been a great team effort. “You’re right, Tommy and Wayne have been terrific, both complimented each other well all year, and our defensive record was definitely a collective effort, every player battled,” he explained. “When one player struggled, another player pulled their weight and vice versa. It’s the same scenario for our midfield who hustled on both ends of the field. None of this would have been possible without my captain, Tommy Straker and Vice captain, Matthew Stares. Incredible people, leaders and players.”
It's also been a great season for Ballajura, but the loss at Ellenbrook ended their title hopes. Formed in 1993, they joined the Amateur League three years later, and this will be their first ever appearance in the Amateur Premier Division. Coach Scott Urquhart said it’s exciting times for the club, and he is proud of everyone’s work at the club to make this happen. “It’s a fantastic achievement for the group, and I couldn’t be prouder of the players. To secure promotion with two games still to play shows the consistency, resilience, and togetherness they’ve shown all season,” he explained.
“Everyone works for each other and never gives in. It’s been a huge team effort – not just from the squad, but also from the club, committee, and the countless volunteers who put in so much behind the scenes. I’m very grateful to be part of this exciting time at the club. We have been excellent up front, but defensively we’ve also been outstanding. It’s too hard to pick individuals, but what makes me most proud is the contribution from the entire squad – not once this season have, we started with the same eleven. Every single player has stepped up when called upon, and that reliability has been crucial to our success.” From everyone at footballwa.net, once again congratulations to both clubs, and best of luck next season.
14.9.2025
DIVISION ONE/TWO TOP FOUR FINALS – REVIEW
The State League Division One season came to an end on Saturday, with the Top Four Cup Finals taking place, and in the Reserves Final, champions Dianella White Eagles hosted second placed Joondalup City at Dianella Reserve, and it was Joondalup who ran out 2-0 winners. “It was a testament to how the league had gone to have the top two teams in the final of the top four cup,” Joondalup coach Darren Veness said. “Knowing that we had already beaten Dianella at their home ground, we went into the game with a degree of confidence, however, knowing how many great goal scorers they had, we knew we had to be on top of our game, but we managed to stay firm and run out winners.”
The game started fast with both teams creating chances, but 15 minutes in, it was the visitors who made the breakthrough. Joondalup won possession in their own half, and two quick passes saw Gino Hampshire slotting home for the opening goal. Both teams continued to press, but on the half hour it was 2-0. Defender Ryder King received the ball and raced forward, before firing home from 20 meters, his shot flew past Dianella keeper Damjan Tesevic, and nestled in the corner of the net. Dianella pressed in the second half, and as expected they throw everything at Joondalup who held firm to secure the Top Four Cup.
In the under 18’s Top Four Final, UWA Nedlands and Subiaco met at the same venue, after champions MUMFC and runners up Gwelup Croatia were beaten in the semi-final. In another tight encounter, UWA Nedlands proved too strong, running out 2-0 winners. “It was an emotional game for me, as I was at Subi for nine years before moving over to UWA this season,” UWA coach Lee Benton explained. “We dealt with a lot of long balls during the game especially against the wind in the first half, but my boys continued to play our football under pressure as we have all season and we got what we deserved. Credit to Subi they fought hard and really made us work for it, but I’m pleased the boys got over the line after we finished the season really strong. Winning ten of last 11 league games 12/13 if you include semi and final and winning both semi and final with a clean sheet is incredible.”
It was tight contest between the local rivals, and the first half saw chances at both ends, but it was all square at the break. But UWA made a great start to the second half, finding the opening goal sixty seconds in, a corner wasn’t clear by Subiaco, and in the scramble, Sean Marshall poked the ball home. The game remained evenly poised, until three minutes into stoppage time, when UWA sealed the tie. With Subiaco pushing for an equaliser the ball was won on the edge of their box by substitute Harrison Delmotte, and he curled the ball towards fellow substitute Callum Quek-Gardner whose persistence paid off winning the ball off the Subi defender and laying the ball of nicely for Delmotte, who had continued his run, and he curled the ball into the top corner from just inside the box.
In the State League Division Two Top Four Finals, Wanneroo City hosted Quinns in the Reserves Final, after both had beaten the top two sides, East Perth and Forrestfield United in the semi-final. It was a goal fest in the first half, with all seven goals being scored, Quinns winning the cup 5-2. The visitors were ahead on eight minutes with Finley McDonald scoring, but Wanneroo hit back moments later with David Dimola on target. It was soon 2-1 to Quinns, Gavin Walker finding the net on ten minutes, but the Roos restored parity eight minutes later, with Jordan Costanzo scoring. But three late goals in the first half sealed the tie, Patrick Hughes making it 3-2 on the half hour, before another goal from Walker and one to Cameron Briggs gave Brian Flanigan’s side a big win.
The under 18’s Top Four Cup Final was a thriller with Wanneroo City beating Carramar Shamrock Rovers 3-1 on penalties, after the game ended 1-1. “A great performance from the boys, and they kept their nerve in the shootout,” Wanneroo coach Asa Sippits explained. “Our keeper Lukas Schuller has been amazing this season and showed his class saving three out of four penalties, but we showed great quality and nerve, and all of our penalty takers scored.” It was the top sides in the league, and it was a tight contest, and it was the champions Carramar who opened the scoring in the shadows of half time, with Ethan Rollason scoring.
It looked like that goal would win the game, but ten minutes from time the hosts levelled. They won a free kick 25 meters from goal, and defender Finn Boon fired home superbly, and we were off to penalties. Schuller saved Rovers’ first spot kick, and Ziad Sippits stepped up first for Wanneroo and sent the keeper the wrong way. Carramar second penalty also saved bottom corner with Schuller guessing the right way again. Luke Hotson took their second penalty, and the keeper went the right way but had no chance as was a great strike. Carramar scored their third, before Austin Stone took Wanneroo’s third, again sent the keeper the wrong way. Carramar needed to score their fourth, but Schuller made a stunning save, after going the wrong way, but his outstretched leg saved it, to set off wild celebrations.
14.9.2025
GLORY BRING IN SHARMOON FROM HIBERNATION
The A-League sides have started picking the eyes out of the beleaguered Western United, who were placed in hibernation for the upcoming A-League Men and Women's seasons, although they continue to fight both a court-imposed wind-up order and the withdrawal of their licence. Sydney FC on Tuesday confirmed they had landed exciting attacker Abel Walatee on a four-year deal, this follows teen defender Dylan Leonard joining Bundesliga outfit Schalke 04, star midfielder Angus Thurgate penning a three-year deal with Western Sydney and attacker Matt Grimaldi signing with Melbourne Victory.
Today it was announced Perth Glory have snapped up Iraqi defender Charbel Shamoon on a two-year contract. The 21-year-old, who can operate in a number of positions, has made 22 Isuzu UTE A-League appearances since debuting for Western United in February 2024. The defender is qualified to represent both Australia and Iraq, the Syrian-born Shamoon declared for the latter and made his senior debut in a World Cup Qualifier against Palestine earlier this year.
Shamoon is now ready to get started with Glory, and he believes that the club is heading up, after a couple of disappointing seasons, and it was a no-brainer to sign. “Glory is one of the biggest clubs in the whole league and I wanted to take a new opportunity interstate,” he said. “I spoke to [Glory Football Director] Stan Lazaridis and he sold me the idea of the future here and I really like what this club’s got planned ahead. It was a no-brainer to sign. My personal targets are to get more and more games in and as a team, make Finals and hopefully even win the whole league. I’ve done my own research and the team looks really good this year.”
Lazaridis is thrilled to have Shamoon on board, and he believes he will be a great pick-up for the club. “Charbel’s flexibility means that he can cover several defensive positions and also play as a six if required,” he said. “He played nearly 20 times in a side that finished third last year which shows the quality he has. He’s tenacious, likes to get forward and I’m sure our members and fans will really enjoy watching him play. We’d been tracking Charbel for some time and he’s a great pick-up for the club.”
14.9.2025
DRAMATIC END TO BELT-UP AMATEUR PREMIER DIVISION
It was a dramatic final day of the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division, with promotion playoff places and relegation spots still up for grabs, and when the dust settled, North Beach and Morley Windmills have earned a playoff spot, with Kelmscott Roos just missing out, while at the bottom South Perth United have been relegated, with both Jaguar and Kingsway Westside safe. We start at Carine Open Space, where North Beach needed a win against Hamersley Rovers to secure their spot, and they did it in style, running out 4-0 winners.
“Couldn't be happier for the boys and the club to finish runners-up this season in such a competitive league that went down to the final day and give us a playoff berth which is extremely exciting and deserving from the effort over the last 22 league games,” North Beach coach Nick Di Carlo explained. “We were at a crossroads at the half way point of the season and following a tough loss on the road two months ago, essentially told ourselves we need to go perfect from here on in to have any chance. We stuck with it and have won our last seven, which is a testament to the character of our players on and off the pitch. Couldn't be more thrilled for this next week and the occasion ahead.”
It was a nervy opening, with so much at stake, but on 20 minutes the visitors opened the scoring to get rid of some of the tension. Alex Kretowicz received the ball wide on the left and drove to the touch line, before his low cross was finished by Thomas Hart. That goal settled them down, and 15 minutes later they doubled their advantage. Hart received the ball just outside the box, took a touch out from his feet and struck a shot into the top corner which the keeper got a hand on but couldn't keep out. Then in the shadows of half time it was 3-0.
A corner was only cleared to the edge of the box, and the ball was sent back in and controlled well by Daniel Yelland-Hunter, before he volleyed into the bottom corner. The points were sealed on the hour, Josh Marocchi ball sent Alex Kretowicz through one on one with the Hamersley keeper and he finished calmly into the bottom corner. A delighted captain Luke Wearing, said it was another great team performance. “We continued our great form with another dominant performance and I couldn’t have asked much more of the boys on the field,” he said. “We take this into the playoff on the weekend and we will see if Swan can handle us at us at our best, we know it’ll be a tough game but we’re confident that our squad has what it takes.”
Kelmscott Roos visited Kingsway Reserve to take on Olympic Kingsway, knowing a win would see them take the other playoff place, but it wasn’t to be, the home side winning 2-0 to send coach Jason Stern off in style in his final league game at the club. “What a class day, I couldn’t have asked for a better final game in the league – it was a huge crowd with so many ex-players down. I grew up playing at Olympic Kingsway and to end it in home dugout with my good mate Richard Turvill after 27 years was special,” Stern explained. “We knew it was going to be a big one as Kelmscott had plenty to play for and we had one eye on the Cup Final, but the lads really wanted to win yesterday and send a number of people off in the right way.
“The lads were brilliant from all three squads - nice and loud as usual in the stands and on the pitch they were fantastic. Great to see the old boy David Gordon scoring the final goal of our league campaign to seal the win after a remarkable career. Also, I want to say a special thanks to the departing Iain White, Peter Karalis and Devin Guest for their amazing support over the last few years as our Reserves Coaches and Team Manager.” Olympic opened the scoring on the half hour, some neat play in the middle of the park released Nathan McManus down the right, and he cut the ball back to Charlie Bandeira was finished clinically after a great first touch. Kelmscott pressed for the equaliser, but they couldn’t find one, and 13 minutes from time the hosts added a second. Good work by James Green down the left found James Venton, and he crossed to the unmarked David Gordon who finished nicely.
Olympic captain Scott Bushby said it was a great to end the league season, and to send Stern off with three points. “The day couldn’t have gone much better to be honest, we had a plan going into the game to work on a few things, with the bigger picture of the cup final preparation and they worked well, attacking and defensively it was a good all-round performance and a very deserved win,” Bushby said. “To send Sterny off in his last home game with the club with a win was our number one priority for the day, as players it was the least, we could do for him. There was a brilliant turn out at the club, lots of past and present players and friends and family there for the big man, it was great to see.
“It’s unbelievable the years of the dedication and time and effort Sterny has gave this club in over 20 years and especially our group over the last nine years is unbelievable. Sterny and his wife Tania and his kids have given so much of their life to Kingsway, they all deserve so much credit to the culture and bond built within the group, not just footballing terms, on personal levels, it’s amazing what they’ve done. One last game in the cup final to hopefully send the big man off in style. Also, a mention to Iain white and Peter Karalis who have done a brilliant job with the reserves the last few years, and Devon our team manager, who’ll also all be stepping down after this season. We are always one group at Kingsway and they’ve played a big part in the groups success and had a good first season in the Prem.”
That result meant Morley Windmills needed to beat Emerald at Wotton Reserve to leapfrog Kelmscott, and take the final spot, and they achieved that, running out 2-0 winners. “The season has been a tornado this year, with many teams in the league taking points off each other, but we were able to find some form in the second half and some luck went our way,” Morley coach John O’Reilly explained. “But I feel we deserve the opportunity to be in a playoff final and we will give it everything we have got to try and be victorious.”
Morley were in control in this one after they found the opener on 20 minutes. A corner from Stephen Kirk found Andrew Ruane, who was starting for the first team after impressing in the reserves, and he headed home. They doubled their lead in the shadows of half time, the lively Ruane made space on the right and cut the ball back to Albert Amankwaa, who tapped home from close-range. “It was a very good team performance from the lads against a strong Emerald side,” Morley keeper Nick Stone said. “We put no pressure on ourselves to go out and get the job done and that’s what we did. It was also a great turn out as it was the clubs 75 anniversary and crowd got right behind us.”
At the bottom of the table three teams were still in danger of relegation at kick off, but it was South Perth United who dropped out of the league after they were beaten 4-2 by Kingsley Westside at Challenger Reserve, the win securing survival for Kingsley. “We made it hard for ourselves going down and the lads showed some real resilience to push on and get the result in some very challenging conditions,” Kingsley coach Sam Ellis said. “We showed some real fight throughout the game and could have scored more if we were more clinical but at the end of the day, we got the job done and will play Premier Division football next year.”
The hosts were ahead on 11 minutes, with Derek Coffie on target, but 12 minutes later Kingsley levelled. Good work from Jacob Lambert down the right, he delivered a great cross for Cameron Bishop who rattled the cross bar and Nathan Griffiths slotted home the rebound. Kingsley broke the game open with two late goals. First on 44 minutes a corner came in that caused havoc in the penalty area, and Jamie Kane swivelled to fire goalward and it took two deflections before finding the net. Then moments later it was 3-1, Sam Church whipped a free kick into the area that was parried by the keeper and Ross Forrester was on hand to head the ball home from close-range. Kingsley wrapped up the win eight minutes into the second half, a free kick was cleared to Nick Lowe and the midfielder struck a brilliant half volley from 25 meters, for his first league goal in over two-years. Coffie added a second for the hosts, but they ended the game with ten men, after Taban Lado was sent off.
Jaguar have survived the drop despite a 0-2 loss against champions North Perth United at the Herb Graham Recreation Centre, the win ended the season on a high for North Perth, winning title by 14 points and only conceding 16 goals all season. “It was a good game and we knew it would be a tough one with Jags having so much to play for, and it was end to end in the first half in tough conditions with a gale force wind,” North Perth coach Kevin Flavin explained. “Overall, we were delighted with the win and to keep another clean sheet and to only concede 16 goals this year in the league is a great achievement by the lads.”
The visitors were ahead early, some good build up play through the midfield ended with Cian O’Dwyer, who played in Caolin Coyle one-on-one with Jags keeper Michael Dudek, and he finished with aplomb. It was 2-0 just before the break, O’Dwyer made space down the flank, and crossed it into the box and Coyle headed it bottom corner, to seal the win. With the news that South Perth had lost, both teams were celebrating at full time. In the final game Peel United stay in the Premier Division has ended with a 2-2 draw against Maccabi at Bortolo Park in the early game. A first half goal from Aamon Zothner, and another on the hour by Dion Berman, had Maccabi in control, but Tom Hitchens pulled one back for the hosts four minutes later, and 19 minutes from time Mitchell Maden found a second, to give both sides a share of the spoils. So, the playoffs are set at the Sam Kerr Football Centre on Saturday September 20 – First up North Beach will play Swan United at 10:00am, while Morley Windmills meet Wanneroo City at 12:15pm, the winners will play in the State League next season.
14.9.2025
110 NOT OUT AS KERR RETURNS TO FOOTBALL
Matildas striker Sam Kerr has made a goal-scoring return after a 20-month injury absence, netting her 100th goal for English club Chelsea on Sunday afternoon in the UK. After being kept on the bench for the opening fixture of the Women's Super League against Manchester City, the WA superstar was finally unleashed as a late substitute in the Blues' 3-1 victory at Aston Villa. The 32-year-old, who has not played for the Blues since December 2023, and 634 days after her last appearance because of an ACL injury, immediately made her presence felt at Villa Park by scoring the third goal in their second-straight league win.
"I'm a goal-scorer, that's what I love doing, and those 100 goals represent a lot of hard work, dedication and sacrifices to get there," Kerr said after reaching the landmark in just 128 games for Chelsea. "I know people may think scoring 100 goals is just another thing, but for me, it's an amazing achievement and something I'll look back on for the rest of my life."
Chelsea coach Sonia Bompastor had hinted the Matildas captain would be in action, with a "hopefully we'll see" at her press conference before the game. Kerr's appearance off the bench in the 75th minute was a huge boost to the visitors, who were leading 2-1 at that stage thanks to Aggie Beever-Jones's second strike of the season, which was cancelled out by Ebony Salmon, before a Missy Bo Kearns own-goal.
The wait continues for Kerr's return to the Matildas, where she may resume the captaincy under new coach Joe Montemurro. They have fixtures scheduled against Wales at the Cardiff City Stadium, and against England at Pride Park, Derby, next month, with next year's Asian Cup being hosted in Australia in March. Montemurro, said the next two windows, in October (20-29) and November/December (24-2), will be crucial for their preparation for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026.
"Playing England in this October window is another key moment for the team as we continue to build toward the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026,” he said. “England are one of the top teams in the world, and facing a team of their quality, is a valuable opportunity for us to challenge ourselves. This match will provide a tough test that will help us assess where the team and players are at and identify areas for growth.
“It is important that we use these international windows to push our limits, develop deeper connections within the group, and continue setting the standards that will define our performance moving forward. The opportunity to play a quality side is important at this time in honing the teams’ skills and the style of play we are trying to develop as a team. It is also a great way to identify the players that are going to be crucial to our success at the AFC Women’s Asia Cup and beyond." Fixtures: Wales v Matildas - Date: Sunday, 26 October 2025 - Kick-off: 12:00am AEDT - England v Matildas - Date: Wednesday, 29 October 2025 - Kick-off: 6:00am AEDT
13.9.2025
BAYSWATER WIN LEAGUE AND TOP FOUR CUP DOUBLE
Bayswater City have won the 2025 NPLWA – Men’s Top Four Cup Final, after a 2-1 win against Olympic Kingsway at a wet and windy Sam Kerr Football Centre on Saturday afternoon. Pat Loughrey opened the scoring early, scoring after his initial penalty had been saved by Adiran Sinagra. Olympic had captain Mitch Oxborrow sent off midway through the seconds half, but Will Richards levelled for them moments later. But it was club captain Gordon Smith who won it late for Bayswater, coming off the bench to score, while Olympic ended the game with none players after Aryn Willimas was sent off.
“We weren’t at our best today, but cup finals are all about getting the result, and we did exactly that,” Bayswater coach Matthew Sparrow explained. “Credit to Olympic — they made it a tough game — but the boys dug deep and found a way to get over the line. To do the double is a fantastic achievement by everyone involved at the football club. I’m proud of the group and what we’ve accomplished together this season."
It was Olympic who started the brighter, Tyler Garner’s shot well blocked by Jackson Stephens, and moments later Lebib Lebib’s cross from the right found Jayden Gorman, whose header was deflected wide. But on 17 minutes it was Bayswater who found the opener. Declan Hughes’ free kick was headed back across goal by Chris Jackson, the ball hitting the arm of Harley Orr and referee Shane Skinner pointed to the spot. Loughrey stepped up to take the resulting penalty, and Adrain Sinagra guessed the right way to save, but Sean McManus was quickest to the rebound, firing across goal for Loughrey to score from close range.
Olympic almost hit back immediately, Oxborrow’s corner was met by Joe Hobson at the new post, his header superbly saved by the alert Lewis Italiano. Olympic had a penalty shout of their own, after Hobson’s flick looked like it hit the arm of Stephens, but the referee was well placed to wave away their protests. The heavy rain hit just before half time, but both sides had late chances, Orr heading wide at one end, before Jackson’s shot flashed just wide of the post at the other. Olympic did have the ball in the net in stoppage time, but Joshua Samson’s effort was ruled out for a foul by Hobson in the lead up, but at the break Bayswater held a narrow advantage.
The opening to the second half was tight, with referee Skinner having to show three yellow cards as the tackles flew in, and Davies, who was already on a yellow, was lucky not to see red for a lunging tackle on Williams. But on 65 minutes it was Olympic who were reduced to ten men after captain Oxborrow received a second yellow, and sent off. It was a bitter blow for David Tough’s side, but they nearly levelled three minutes later, Will Richards’ volley flashing inches wide, but moments later the ten-men did level. Bayswater lost possession playing out, and Hobson found Richards, who finished clinically, first time from the edge of the box.
They went close to the lead six minutes later, a quick break ended with Joshua Samson, his shot on the run was well saved by Italiano. But six minutes from time it was Bayswater who won it, Smith’s glancing header from Jon Corness’ cross nestled in the bottom corner. Olympic weren’t finished and Ollie Annis’ shot on the run was saved low by Italiano, but a second yellow card to Williams for a tackle on Smith ended their hopes, with Bayswater crowned Top Four Cup winners, to go along with the NPLWA – title.
“To play the Top Four Cup against the side who were competing for top honours in the league was the best way to showcase what this league has to offer. Credit to Kingsway they made it very difficult after we were able to convert the rebound from the penalty. The forward pressure they can put on us through Hobson, Gorman, Garner,” Bayswater defender Luke Palmateer said. “But it was fairy tale stuff for Gordon Smith to come on and with a glancing header deliver the goods with less than ten minutes to go. The two red cards against Kingsway helped us in securing the win, but they never gave up and must be commended with their level of competitiveness and drive to push us all the way. For us, it caps off a fantastic season in the domestic league and sets us nicely into preparing for the Australian Championships.”
Bayswater City: GK Lewis Italiano, 4 Luke Palmateer, 5 Patrick Loughrey, 6 Declan Hughes, 7 Sean McManus, 13 Gyles Davies (8 Gordon Smith 68’), 15 Jackson Stephens, 16 Jonathan Corness, 18 Christopher Jackson, 20 Sam Mitchinson, 30 Thomas Southgate (76’) - Subs not used: RGK Taylor Rae, 2 Alex Ishida-Livings, 10 Jason Mirco, 12 Anthony Bafobusha, 17 Charlie Garnham, 19 Phillip Radeski
Olympic Kingsway: GK Adrian Sinagra, 3 Harley Orr, 4 Ollie Annis (2 Jon Leithead 88’), 6 Aryn Williams, 7 Tyler Garner, 8 Mitchell Oxborrow, 9 Joseph Hobson (5 Laat Manyec 88’), 11 Will Richards (20 Luke Hewings 88’), 17 Joshua Samson, 19 Lebib Lebib, 25 Jayden Gorman (10 Liam Boland 69’) – Subs not used: RGK Kristian Rasano, 14 Fanuel Dawit, 15 Ronan Dowlin – Red Cards: Oxborrow 67’, Williams 90’ – Referee: Shane Skinner – Assistants: Arvin Shan, Adrien Liechti – Fourth Official: Stewart Beattie
13.9.2025
GLORY TAKE OUT 21S TOP FOUR CUP TO WIN THE TREBLE
Perth Glory Under 21’s has completed the NPLWA – title and Top Four Cup and State Cup treble, after a hard fought 4-2 win against Olympic Kingsway at the Sam Kerr Football Centre on Saturday afternoon. Glory looked in control, with goals from Cristiano Farfan and Damien Jallah giving them a 2-0 lead at the break. Olympic hit back with Scott Webster reducing the margin midway through the second half, but Oliver Evans regained Glory’s two goal advantage. Webster second goal in stoppage time give Olympic a chance, but substitute Achnaff Sayon sealed the tie seconds later.
“Very happy with the players on their professionalism, at a such young age to keep their concentration throughout the game to finish a spectacular season. Treble winners! I cannot fault their desire to improve and hunger for competition,” Glory coach Peter Dohnt said post-match. “Thank you to Kingsway for an exciting match that had everything you would expect from the two best teams in the league. The momentum swings and wild weather added to the spectacle. Credit to Scott (Stickells) and his team for pushing us all season. Big thank you to all our parents and supporters that have shown up each week to cheer us on. I’m grateful for the support staff that keep these players fit and healthy. I truly believe this crop of players can kick on next season and push into the NPL and beyond.”
It was an open game from the first whistle, with Olympic first to go close, Roberto Salas’ cross shot palmed away by Glory keeper Tomislav Petkovic. Glory hit back, and after good work down the left by Tadiswa Mutyavaviri, he cut the ball back to Tyler Nyabinde, who shot was tipped over the bar by Kristian Rasano. Nyabinde was a constant threat, and moments later his shot flashed across the face of goal. Then on 22 minutes Glory opened the scoring, the league’s top goalscorer Farfan curled home superbly from distance, for his 38th goal of a successful season for the striker.
Evans then fired over the top five minutes later, as Glory looked for a second. Olympic were also dangerous going forward, and after some hesitant defending, Younous Sow nipped in, but his lob over Petkovic drifted just past the far post. Olympic keeper Rasano then got down well to save Mutyavaviri low drive, and was alert to grab the rebound, with Farfan ready to pounce. It was end-to-end and Olympic went close again on 40 minutes, Jake Devey’s ball into the box was flicked on by Nathan Hale, but Webster couldn’t find the target. But in the shadows of half time Glory doubled their advantage. Tyler Fitch’s ball out to the right for Jallah, who drove into the box and finished low across Rasano.
It was a more subdued start to the second half, the best chances early falling to Nyabinde, who played a ball forward and raced away, but Rasano was alert to race out and clear the danger. The heavy rain hit on the hour mark, making it difficult for both sides, but Olympic were dangerous from corners, and from Thomas Sallis’ on 65 minutes, Alex Nicolaidis headed inches wide. Then two minutes later they pulled one back. Hale sent Devey down the right, and his cross into the box was turned home by Webster, and it was game on.
But Glory hit back three minutes later and regained their two-goal advantage. Lucas Mura found Alex Patrascu on the right, his ball into the box found Evans, who turned superbly, before a deft chip found the net, a stunning goal from the youngster. Both sides continued to create chances, Tristan Samson’s long-range shot was saved by Rasano, before Farfan hooked a shot wide down the other end. Olympic weren’t finished and Nicolaidis’ shot crashed off the bar, and Hale’s follow up shot drifted wide.
It looked like the action was over but in the third minute of stoppage time, Olympic found a lifeline. Sallis’ corner from the left was turned home by Webster at the front post. But any comeback was ended sixty seconds later, a clearance from Olympic keeper Rasano was headed forward by Jack Lennon, and Sayon held off his marker and burst into the box and finished low past Rasano to seal the win and the treble for Glory.
Perth Glory: GK Tomislav Petkovic, 27 Cristiano Farfan, 28 Damien Jallah (33 Jack Lennon 64’), 30 Henri Knight (25 Alex Patrascu 64’), 32 Issa Toure, 35 Liam Armstrong (24 Achnaff Sayon 77’), 36 Lucas Mura (31 Hudson Burn 77’), 37 Oliver Evans, 39 Tadiswa Mutyavaviri (38 Ross Micale 77’), 40 Tyler Nyabinde, 41 Tyler Fitch - Subs not used: RGK Aaron Black, 26 Andy Bushell-Hernandez
Olympic Kingsway: GK Kristian Rasano, 2 Jake Devey, 4 Ronan Dowling, 6 Tristan Samson (18 Craig Barreiro 81’), 8 Thomas Sallis, 10 Nathan Hale, 11 Roberto Salas (20 Kieren Smith 58’), 16 Younous Sow (9 Alex Nicolaidis 58’), 17 Scott Webster, 19 Cohen Lane (14 Aiden Rawlins 77’), 22 Lewis Brace - Subs not used: 3 Tatenda Madziva, 12 Oliver Stickells, 33 Jordan Marr – Referee: Andre Ferreira – Assistants: David Teo, Jow Williams – Fourth Official: James Langoya
13.9.2025
BAYSWATER DENY REDSTAR THE TREBLE IN 18S TOP FOUR CUP FINAL
Bayswater City have gained revenge for the under 18’s Cup Final loss against Perth RedStar, denying the champions a treble, after a hard fought 1-0 win against them in the Top Four Cup Final at the Sam Kerr Football Centre on Saturday morning. The only goal of the game came ten minutes into the second half with Luca Schuetz on target. But City will have keeper Nikola Ergic to thank for keeping their lead, the keeper making a stunning save late to see them home. “Super proud of the lads today, they played really well, and it was a great overall team performance,” Coach Paul Lincoln said. “Having not beaten them all season we knew it was going to be a tough game, so really happy for the players as they have worked so hard this year so to win a trophy it’s a reward for them.”
Bayswater, who were beaten 0-3 in the Cup Final two weeks ago, were on the front foot early, with Hadi Hussaini’s shot from the edge of the box deflected wide. RedStar hit back and from Jacob Watt’s through ball Jack Baker raced into goal, but Bayswater keeper Nikola Ergic stood tall to deny him. RedStar went close again on nine minutes, Baker seeing his shot well blocked by Malachi Marriott, the ball finding its way to Jared Lawther, who shot from the angle crashed off the post.
The lively Hussaini went close again on 21 minutes, beating his marker and running across the top of the box, before his shot whistled just wide of the far post, before Castel Brandli’s shot on the run was saved by RedStar keeper Jayden Ispiroglu. It was the best spell of the game for Bayswater, and Ispiroglu got down well to deny Hussaini’s long-range effort, as they pushed for the opener. The tight first half came to an end all-square, with all to play for after the break.
RedStar went within inches of the lead early in the second half, Teddie Curran’s corner wasn’t dealt with and Aab Tamochan header at the back stick, was headed against the post. But on 56 minutes it was Bayswater who found the opener, Hussaini’s free kick found the unmarked Schuetz at the back post, who headed home. They went close to a second moments later, Schuetz sending Brandli in on goal, his chip beat Ispiroglu, but it was just over the top. RedStar thought they had levelled on the hour mark, a neat back heel sending Baker in on goal, and he finished well, but the flag was up for offside, but it was a very tight call.
Bayswater were in again seven minutes later, quick feet from Cian Sheridan saw him find Schuetz, his shot well saved by Ispiroglu. RedStar were pressing and they went close again on 76 minutes, a ball into the box found Aaron Mukundu, his overhead kick looked distended for the net, but a superb one-handed save by Ergic pushed the ball onto the crossbar and away to safety, it was a stunning save from the Bayswater custodian. RedStar had one last chance in stoppage time, winning a corner on the right, and even Ispiroglu came up for it. Jacob Watt’s corner was headed goalward by Jake Moore, and Ispiroglu hooked the ball towards goal, but Ergic saved, Bayswater holding on to take the cup.
Perth RedStar: GK Jayden Ispiroglu, 32 Jake Moore, 41 Teddie Curran (27 Aaron Mukundu 59’), 43 Jacob Watt, 46 Marcus Menara, 47 Cooper Maiden (18 Onree Desilva 70’), 49 Senna Leno, 50 Aab Tamochan (52 Bastian Dominguez Rubina 78’), 51 Harry Moffitt (44 Logan Szymanski 70’), 55 Jared Lawther (56 Event Kadenge 59’), 57 Jack Baker – Subs not used: RGK Oliver Clark, 40 Isaac Arigore
Bayswater City: GK Nikola Ergic, 2 Illias Jafari, 3 Daniel Baker, 5 George Pibworth, 8 Luca Schuetz, 9 Bailey Pilton 10 Hadi Hussaini, 11 Logan Hill (17 Zain Al-Zayadi 85’), 13 Castel Brandli (7 Abdulrahman Barham 89’), 14 Cian Sheridan (19 Aslan Mutlu 89’), 15 Malachi Marriott - Subs not used: 6 Luka Harvey, 12 Arnold Binja, 16 Chesyl Nyama, 18 Tinashe Washaya – Referee: Tom McGrath – Assistants: Cameron Everett, Callum Smith – Fourth Official: Arnold Walsh
13.9.2025
NPLAWA – WOMEN’S TOP FOUR FINALS CUP REVIEW
Balcatta Etna have ended the season with a second piece of silverware, following their Night series success, after they secured the NPLWA – Women’s Top Four Cup Final, with a scintillating second half performance to beat Perth RedStar 5-1 at the Sam Kerr Football Centre on Saturday evening. RedStar led at half time, with Renee Leota scoring just before the break, but whatever coach Peter Rakic said at half time worked, with Balcatta bagging five, with captain Abbey Meakins scoring four, the other scored by Jamie-Lee Gale.
“It was really nice to get back on the scoresheet after being a bit quiet in front of goal over the last few weeks. More importantly though, I’m just so proud of the girls for the performance we put in,” Balcatta captain Abbey Meakins explained. “It’s been a really challenging season at times this year, so to finish it off with such a deserved win makes it even more special. RedStar are such a strong finals team and always lift in the big moments, so we knew it was going to be tough to come back from 1-0 down. The way we responded after half time showed our character, and I thought we saved our best half of football for the final game of the season, which was a perfect way to finish.”
It had been a season of so close, but so far for Balcatta, and they showed their pedigree against the champions in midweek to reach the final, and they started on the front foot, Meakins firing wide, before Alyssa van Heurck headed wide. RedStar settled and went close themselves on the half hour mark, Leota’s shot straight at Rebecca Bennett. But in the shadows of half time, it was Chris Atturo’s side who found the opening goal. Kaitlyn Bellanca made space down the right, and her cross into the box found Leota, who got in front of her marker to head past Bennett.
Balcatta needed a good start after the break, and they did, levelling things up on 58 minutes. Carys Davis’s cross into the penalty area was met by Meakins, whose header was well saved by Gabby Dal Busco, but Meakins was on hand to fire the rebound home. Peter Rakic’s side were in control, and went close again on the hour, Dal Busco saving to deny Makins a hat-trick, before Gale’s effort flashed wide. But they did hit the front 20 minutes from time, a sweeping move down the left involving Gale and Meakins, the latter finishing with aplomb from the edge of the box.
But four minutes later Meakins did have her hat-trick, curling home a free kick into the top corner from the edge of the box. It was 4-1 moments later, Meakins turning provider this time, sending Gale in on goal, and she finished clinically past Dal Busco. But Meakins wasn’t finished, adding her fourth, and Balcatta’s fifth two minutes from time, finding space on the edge of the box, and van Heurck picked her out, and the midfielder completed a captain’s performance, firing low past Dal Busco to seal an emphatic win, and a stunning second half performance. It ended a season on a high for Balcatta, being involved in three cup finals, and winning two of them, and they will look to improve in the league next season, meanwhile for RedStar it was a first season without silverware, something they are not use to, but I’m sure they will be back bigger and stronger next season.
Balcatta coach Peter Rakic was lost for words post-match. "To be brutally honest I was lost for words at full time, the way they came out in the 2nd half and responded to being 1-0 down was incredible, and perhaps just goes to show how much they really wanted to finish such a difficult season on a high. I could see how disappointed they were after the first half, you could hear a pin drop in the change rooms, we often feel as though we play good passages of football and then we're punished for it, or we tend to be very effective in our build up play but lack any real threats at goal, it's always been a flaw in the way we approach the game," Rakic explained.
"On the other hand, the second half showed what we are capable of when it all comes together, with Abbey Meakins having arguably one of the best games of her career, you can't forget about the players around her who often do the dirty work to free her up in the areas we target, and we saw what happens when confidence started to build throughout the team. All in all, it was a pretty special experience to be a part of but you have to feel for Chris and the Redstar girls, they've pushed us all season and we've had some great encounters against eachother, such as the 2-1 result in the state cup, another game which demonstrated how tough they are to defeat in these big moments. Looking forward to a well earned break now and I know my girls are too."
Meanwhile in the Under 21 Women’s Top Four Final, Perth RedStar have beaten the Hyundai FW Academy for the first time this season, after a 3-1 win on Saturday morning. RedStar made a perfect start, and were two goals up at half time. First on 28 minutes, Alkira Mogridge was brought down in the box, and she picked herself up to fire home the resulting penalty. They doubled their lead in the shadows of half time, Lily Yates playing in Mogridge who kept her composure to score. The Academy were back in the game on 13 minutes from time, Ella Lange playing in Savanna Glavovic, who made no mistake. But it was RedStar who won it on 88 minutes, Niamh Devitt long-range free kick slipped through the hands of keeper Grace Sciascia-Walsh to seal the win.
“Conrad McKelvie and I are really proud of our girls, they had to overcome multiple season-ending injuries, and took on every challenge head on,” RedStar team manager Sonia Louise said. “The final was a tough battle with the only team we hadn't beaten all season and the girls were impressive in their focus and implementing our game plan that got them a deserved win.”
Perth RedStar: GK Gabby Dal Busco, 3 Andreia Teixeira (16 Niamh Devitt 71’), 5 Grace Monteiro, 6 Carla Bennett (10 Alkira Mogridge 87’), 9 Jayne Ridley, 11 Emily Dunn, 12 Kaitlyn Bellanca, 13 Abbey Woolley (7 Chloe Finnegan 87’), 14 Renee Leota, 17 Jay Coleman, 19 Caitlin Doeglas (4 Quyen Doan 55’) – Sub not used: 8 Zahlia Lornie, 38 Jayde O’Donohoe
Balcatta Etna: GK Rebecca Bennett, 2 Monique D’Opera, 3 Isabella Foletta, 4 Frankie Murray, 5 Carys Davis, 7 Liana Cook (17 Janelle St Pierre 54’), 8 Abbey Meakins, 9 Ella Marwick (6 Sofija Nikoloska 86’), 11 Alyssa van Heurck, 13 Jamie-Lee Gale, 19 Rachel Jarvis (14 Mia Hargreaves 52’) – Subs not used: RGK Isabella Comito, 15 Mia Britton, 16 Janet Gama – Referee; Jasmine Bremner – Assistants: Maria Avramita, Naum Kovaceski – Fourth Official: John Olaghere
13.9.2025
INTERDIVISIONAL PLAY-OFF SECOND LEG – REVIEW
The Interdivisional playoff finalists have been decided, after another four tight second leg ties on Saturday afternoon. Firstly, in the NPL/Division One playoffs, Fremantle City have kept their hopes of surviving the drop to the State League after a 1-0 win against Kingsley Westside at Hilton Reserve, making it 2-2 on aggregate, which saw the port side progress on the away goals rule. “As I said last week - It’s half time and we know what was required at home, and I thought the lads were tremendous today,” Fremantle coach Dale Wingell explained.
“We were composed throughout and when the game got chaotic, we remained calm. We got the job done yesterday, but there is still one more game to go. We train, plan and prepare ourselves for next week against Joondalup City.” The only goal of the tie came early in the second half, Charlie Chechlacz crossing from the right to the back post and Charlie Betts headed home. Kingsley pressed late, but couldn’t breakdown a tight Fremantle defence, well-marshalled by skipper Hayden Stevens. Kingsley ended the game with ten men, after referee Michal Jasinski showed a second yellow card to defender Ryder Leasor six minutes from time.
They will take on Joondalup City for the last NPL spot, after they secured their finals birth, after a 2-2 draw against UWA Nedlands at the UWA Sports Park, securing a 5-3 aggregate win. “We were the better side in the first leg and that gave ourselves some breathing space with a 3–1 win, and we knew getting the first goal would be important in the away leg and we did that,’ Joondalup skipper Liam Peacock explained. “UWA came at us, but we defended well and took our chances when they came. Now we’re looking forward to the play-off final against Fremantle City.” It was a tight affair with what was at stake, and the first goal was going to be vital, and it went the way of the visitors 15 minutes from time. Cameron Stratton’s free kick found Peacock, whose effort was saved by Tadgh O’Malley, but Mason Gallagher was on hand to blast home the rebound.
But UWA hit back three minutes later, the ball rebounding to Jack Hilaire, and the WA State midfielder drilled the ball past Luke Martino. The hopes of a comeback were quashed two minutes later, when defender Jordan Pokler was shown a second yellow card by referee Niall Gillmor and sent off. Joondalup then found a second in the 93rd minute, Jaxon Temata’s strong run took him clear and he finished with aplomb. UWA did score late to draw the game, a stunning free kick from Iljas Ahmedov, but it was just a consolation, Joondalup taking their spot in the final next week against Fremantle City for a place in the NPL for the first time.
In the Division One/Division Two playoffs, Cockburn City and Kalamunda City progressed to the final, after both won their home ties. First at Maida Vale Reserve, Kalamunda have kept their hopes of staying in Division One, overcame a first leg deficit to beat Forrestfield United 2-0 in the local derby, and securing a 2-1 aggregate win. It was another tight encounter, and both sides had their chances, but it was the hosts who found the opener on the hour. Cristian Zuluaga’s corner from the left was headed home by Andrea Erbetta at the near post. It looked like we going to extra time, but three minutes from time, Kalamunda scored the winner in similar circumstances. Zuluaga’s corner from the right this time, was headed in by substitute Farruh Mavlonov, much to the delight of the home faithful, the win takes them into next week’s final against Cockburn City.
The Cockerels sealed their progression, with a 2-1 home win against East Perth, to win the tie 4-2 on aggregate. “It was a strong team performance over both legs, and we’re really proud of the way the players handled the challenge against East Perth. We knew it would be a tough contest, but the group stayed focused, stuck to the game plan, and showed great character throughout,” Cockburn coach Paulo Basto explained. “Credit to East Perth who came at us in the second half but I thought we defended well and held off for the win. Now, with a place in the interdivisional playoff final secured, our attention turns fully to Kalamunda next weekend.
“We’re expecting another difficult match, but the squad is motivated and ready to give it everything. A big thanks to all the supporters who came down to support, it was great to see a lot of our juniors there. We hope to get the same support next week.” East Perth made a great start, levelling the tie after only 25 minutes, but they had a helping hand. A clearance from Cockburn keeper Zayde Free, hit Ryan McCready and rolled into an empty net. But Cockburn levelled seven minutes later, Luka Caceres crossing to the back post, and Oliver Carr made no mistake. The game was hanging in the balance, and it went the way of the hosts five minutes from time, James Bourne burst down the left, and his cross, come shot, nestled in the corner of the net. The action wasn’t over there, both sides reduced to ten men late, with referee David Bruce sending off Cockburn’s Rory McGrath and East Perth’s David Brookes.
12.9.2025
BELT-UP AMATEUR PREMIER DIVISION – ROUND TWENTY TWO PREVIEW
The Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division title has been won by North Perth United, but the promotion race is going down to the wire with spots in the playoffs on the line for three teams, North Beach, Kelmscott Roos and Morley Windmills. They will all be fighting for a place in the State League as we go into the final round of the season. (All games kick off at 3:00pm, unless stated) North Beach are the team in pole position, sitting second, one point clear of the chasing pack, and a win would seal their place in the playoff against Swan United, but defeat could see them miss out, and they face a tough game when they visit Carine Open Space to take on Hamersley Rovers.
Coach Nick di Carlo said his side have hit their straps recently, but knows they have to be switched on against a good Rovers side. “It's been an up and down season with its challenges along the way, but we've really hit our best the last 4-6 weeks and have put ourselves in a position to try end the season on a real high on Sunday,” he explained. “The squad is in a good place, and we know we have to switch on and go again against a quality Hamersley side. 3 points will give us another week together to improve and try and take the next step and hopefully round out a wonderful season for the club.”
Kelmscott Roos are third and they also hit the road, to take on cup finalists Olympic Kingsway at Kingsway Reserve. A win in this one would see the Roos take on Wanneroo City in the playoffs, but like North Beach it could all change with a defeat. “It’s an exciting prospect this weekend, we have it all to play for and it’s completely in our hands. We know what we need to do and just have to give it everything we got to get to where we want to be,” Kelmscott keeper Taylor Warwick explained. “Last week’s game, we showed a never die attitude and it rewarded us with a massive win. This season has been really difficult and we have never really found consistent form, but still find ourselves in a position where we can achieve something great for this club, so it’s a testament to the squads’ efforts and hard work each week. We all carry the weight of the club on our shoulders this weekend and will fight with everything we have got until the end.”
It’s also a special day for Olympic coach Jason Stern, who will coach his last league game at the club, and although it’s the last league game he has the cup final to look forward to. “This one will be emotional for me, after nine class years - with the best group of lads - this Sunday will be my last home game,’ stern explained. “We had a dream but never could’ve imagined what we’d achieve both on and off the pitch. It’s all down to the lads that have played, coached and helped out over the years, I’m just glad I was able to be a part of it all. Thanks for the memories, legends and hopefully one more to come with the Cup Final later this month against North Perth.”
Morley Windmills, who are in fourth, welcome Emerald to Wotton Reserve, needing a win and other results to go their way to take a playoff spot. But this game could turn the promotion playoffs on its head, if Emerald beat Morley and North Beach and Kelmscott loss, Emerald will finish second, and there will be no promotion and relegation from the State League, have you got all that? Morley coach John O’Reilly said all they can do is win their game and see what happens in the other games. “We can only focus on our own game this week. If we get the job done then we have a half chance to progress,” he said. “North Beach and Kelmscott have tough games also with Hammersley having there never give up fight in them and Jason Stern will want a win at Olympic to sign off on his successful tenure at the club. So, a big weekend for the neutrals, and a couple of state league clubs will be holding their breaths for 90 minutes.”
At the other end of the table the relegation fight continues, with Kingsley Westside, South Perth United and Jaguar hoping to avoid the drop alongside Peel United. Kwinana United and Ballajura AFC have secured promotion from Division One, so it will be big clash is at Challenge Reserve, were South Perth welcome Kingsley, both needing a result. “Win or draw and we know we’ll be safe,” Kingsley coach Sam Ellis said. “The lads know what they need to do and we have a strong squad available for Sunday’s game. We’ve beaten them once this season but we know they still pose a challenge.”
Jaguar have the toughest test hosting champions North Perth United at Herb Graham Recreation Centre. The hosts must win to keep their chances of survival alive. “Not an easy one but will be up for the challenge, it’s our final for the year,” Jags coach Syakir Shariff said. “The boys know what’s at stake for us and the club so hoping they are going to go out there and give it 100% and will see, should be a good game.” Meanwhile in the final game, Peel United host Maccabi at Bortolo Park (1:00pm)
12.9.2025
NPLWA – WOMEN’S TOP FOUR CUP FINAL PREVIEW
The NPLWA – Women’s Top Four Cup Final will see Balcatta Etna taking on Perth RedStar at the Sam Kerr Football Centre. (6:00pm) The game will be the final contest on Football West’s Top Four Finals Day, with five games - Secure your tickets from - megatix.com.au/events/top-four-cup - Balcatta beat the Hyundai FW Academy 4-3 after extra time in a thriller in the Minor Sem-Final. The Academy struck first with Emily Garnett on target, before Jamie-Lee Gale, Rachel Jarvis and Alyssa Van Heurck turned the game in Balcatta's favour. But late goals from Lacey Heys and Young Matildas striker Theo Mouithys sent the game to extra time, and with penalties looming, Balcatta won it with Jarvis bundling the ball home.
Balcatta, who also won the Night Series earlier in the season, will be looking to end a frustrating season on a high, and coach Peter Rakic said he’s been proud of the group. “As a team we are just happy we have the chance to play in the final after everything we've endured, win or lose, I'm so proud of this playing group for pushing through the adversity and earning themselves another opportunity to play for some silverware,” Rakic explained. “I believe it demonstrates the quality we've had all season, but our consistency has let us down.
“After the last couple of games there's a real sense of belief again so I know, they'll be determined to leave everything out there on the day. It will likely be the toughest game of the season, against an opponent that are well conditioned for finals football and often show up in the big games. We're certainly hoping we can put on a good display for women's football and create an atmosphere that drives both teams to fight for the final 90 minutes of the season.”
They have met three times this season, with Caitlin Doeglas scoring a brace to help RedStar to a 5-0 in round seven at the RedStar Arena. But Balcatta turned the tables in the next meeting in round 14, at the same venue, with Jamie-Lee Gale scoring a double. The third meeting came in the last round, with goals from Jayna Ridley, Alkira Mogridge and Renee Leota, gave Chris Atturo’s side a 3-1 win.
Perth RedStar went straight in to Saturday’s final, after beating champions Perth SC 3-1 on penalties in the Major Semi-Final. Ella Lincoln gave the Azzurri the lead, with Caitlin Doeglas equalising when she followed up to score after Dayle Schroder had saved Jayna Ridley's penalty. In the shoot-out, RedStar keeper Gabby Dal Busco was the star, saving Sam Mathers and Kim McCartney spot kicks, before Ruby Marshall fired over the top. RedStar coach Chris Atture said Saturday will be another tough encounter, like all three games against them this season. “Saturday marks another huge occasion for our group,” Atturo said. “We have enormous respect for Pete and his program – they are a well-coached, well-organised side and we’ve enjoyed some great battles with them this season.
“These are the games you want to be involved in as a player and coach – competitive, intense, and played at the highest standard. They have fantastic players spread across the park and they showed that on Tuesday night. I thought that performance showed real grit, and we know that we will need to be at our best if we are to beat them. Our group comes into this match with confidence and belief, off the back of a strong lead-up week where the players have worked hard and prepared with real focus. We know what’s required, and we’re excited to put our best football on display come Saturday.”
In the under 21’s Top Four Cup Final the champions Hyundai FW Academy will meet Perth RedStar (11:15am) They have met three times this season in the league, the Academy winning all three. They won 4-0 in round two at the RedStar Arena, with goals from Lola Price, Zoe Dumont, Milla Butler and Daisy Snowden, a 2-1 in round nine, before doubles from Mia Boudames and Ella Lange gave the Academy a 5-2 win in round 16.
Both sides have had to work hard to reach Saturday’s Final. Goals from Price and Savanna Glavovic, gave the Academy a 2-0 win against Perth SC in the Major Semi-Final to advance, meanwhile RedStar beat Balcatta Etna 2-1 in the Minor Semi-Final, with Freya Bibby and Lillia Pollard on target. In the Preliminary Final at Dorrien Gardens, RedStar came from behind to beat Perth SC 2-1. Macey McCready gave the Azzurri the lead, but late goals from Alkira Mogridge and Azelia Yavu-Kama won it.
12.9.2025
SORRENTO WIN WOMEN’S DIVISION ONE TITLE
Sorrento FC will be playing in the NPLWA -Women’s competition next season, after edging out Fremantle City and Mandurah City to win the Women’s League Division One. It was a tight contest, with only two points separating the three sides, but in his first season at the club Betim Ziba guided the club to the title, and he said it’s come a bit early, but delighted to win promotion. “It has been a great season. When I started, the plan was within three years to get promoted into NPLW, but I manage to achieve it in one,” Ziba explained. “This is my second Women's Division One title (won it in 2023 with Hamersley United), and being able to go to a new club and do it again, gives credit to myself, but also the team for their resilience and work rate - we are all very happy.”
The contribution of captain Christiane Astorp has been phenomenal, scoring and incredible 31 goals, to win the leagues Gold Boot, but it wasn’t a one player effort, he has been pleased with the whole squad. “I adapt a style that encourages my team to push high and attack. Having many different goal scorers and people who can score helps in hard games and contributes to the high scoring tally. Christiane Astorp is a great player who I’ve had the pleasure of coaching for three years now,” Ziba said.
“We know her ability and what she can do. Besides her goal scoring attributes, her experience, leadership and knowledge help the team and younger players also, but 31 goals in a season is an outstanding achievement. Two other players that have really impressed me have been Jessica Smith and Ella Kerman. Both players started in Metro Divisions, and have grown with me throughout the years. This year both ladies really made positive impacts in the team and consistently gave great performances, attitudes and a willingness to improve, like a number of players in my squad.”
Ziba has been delighted how he has been excepted at the Gulls, and after only a few years in the league, he has been really pleased with the great support from the committee to the Female Coordinator. “Before I came in, I spoke to the club about the current state of the team and my vision for the club moving forward. Instantly we strengthened the Division One team while adding a second Women's team also “I spoke to the club with my vision, which was eventually to win the league and get promoted to NPLW but more importantly create a female pathway from the juniors,” he explained.
“Already we have had junior players getting opportunities in both women's teams and make of a connected feeling between the juniors and women's. The club have been showing great support to all the above and we will continue to keep growing the Female side at Sorrento. President Nico Hoyle and Vice President Allan Hodgkinson have been very supportive and encouraging to the growth of Female Football at Sorrento. Special Mention to Bel Milne our Female Coordinator who helps and does a lot for the junior girl’s side.”
Hoyle said the work Betim has done in his time at the club is outstanding, and he hopes there is a big future ahead with female football at Percy Doyle Reserve. “Super proud of the work the girls and Betim have done over the last 12 months. It is a testament to the girls on the work they have put in over the season and the resilience they have shown,” the President said. “It is such a pleasure to have this group of girls at our football club. From day one they represented exactly what Sorrento is all about. They continued to have the belief they could achieve this league title and nobody else deserves it more. A big congratulations to Betim, coming into the club and winning the title in his first year. A big future ahead with female football at Sorrento FC.’
The challenge now is to prepare for the NPL, and Ziba said the hard work has already started, and he can’t wait. “We know moving to the NPLW is always going to be a big challenge, but it is one I have had time to think about since having the opportunity with Hamersley,’ he said. “While I won't say much, I have been preparing things, speaking to people and getting things ready. Our plan is not to go up and then straight back down, the plan will be to move up, stay up and then continue to build and grow until we are established as an NPLW name.”
12.9.2025
JENNINGS LEADS QUINNS TO PROMOTION
Quinns will play Division One football next season, three years after relegation, and after a ninth and eighth place finishes, the appointment of head coach Nick Jennings and his assistant Steven Flint has been the catalyst to the club’s success, and a win at Swan in round 21 sealed the title. Jennings said he didn’t know what to expect when he joined the club, but he learnt quickly the ambitious club had a good foundation and he’s just built on it.
“Going into any new club there is always pressure to perform both for coaches and players, but from day one of pre-season it was made clear by myself to the playing group, that our objective for the season was to win the league,” Jennings explained. “Actually, completing that objective was a real achievement given the quality of the teams we were up against, at various stages of the season both Cockburn and East Perth topped the table and it was a real ding-dong battle between the three of us all the way to round 21 when we were able to claim the title. The feeling for me was one of relief and also pride that the hard work of everyone at the club both on and off the field had been rewarded with a return back to State League One.”
Jennings said his squad have been outstanding this season, and everyone has played their part during the season, with injuries, suspensions and players away, and he couldn’t be prouder of the group of players. “It’s a difficult question to select individual players for praise in a team sport, but keeper Luke Martino pulled off big saves at key moments to win games and skipper Ben Johns was outstanding in every game, a real leader,” he said. “Having mentioned these two, it was a real squad effort. We had a big squad and players came in and out of the team, but no matter what, they stepped up to the plate and executed their roles for the good of the team always with the ultimate aim of winning the league.”
Quinns President Mr Vincent McMillan said the appointment of Jennings and his coaching staff was a fantastic decision, and they are now preparing for next season. “We have been delighted with Nick since he took the role on. The professionalism he brings to the club and the rapport he has with the players and staff is second to none,” he said. “We were extremely happy with the league win, obviously. From the first meeting with Nick, we outlined winning the title was our goal, and that never changed. All credit must go to Nick, Steve and Ben, plus the players who gave 100%, week in week out. We couldn't be happier with promotion back into Division One.”
Jennings arrive in WA in 2003, and started his football at Joondalup United, and after brief spell away in 2010 with Olympic Kingsway Amateurs as an assistant coach, and a year playing socially at Carramar Cougars Vets, he returned to the club and 2012, helping them out of the Amateurs, to the Division Two title in 2014, unbeaten, then third in Division One in 2015, before gaining promoted to the NPL 2016. He had a successful time at the club, and was left very disappointed how things turned out for them this season. “I have nothing but good things to say about Joondalup United and my many years first as a player and then as a coach,” Jennings explained.
“Being involved in the meteoric rise from the lower rungs of the Sunday league all the way through to the NPL was an amazing journey with some great people and some unbelievable players “Ultimately our success on the field and the lack of council support killed the senior section of the club, but even Joondalup council can’t take anyway the trophies and the good times we had on and off the pitch.”
The hard work starts now as Quinns prepare for life in Division One, and Jennings said it’s a team effort off the pitch, and they will be all working towards pre-season. “There’s no such thing as downtime in football, and I think the volunteers at clubs work harder planning and preparing during the off season,” he said. “As a coach it’s the same, one season as successful as it was ends, and you’re planning for the next one with only a couple of months to the start of pre-season, it’s full steam ahead and I’m looking forward to it.”
12.9.2025
NPLWA – MEN’S TOP FOUR CUP FINAL – PREVIEW
Saturday is a big day at the Sam Kerr Football Centre, with the NPLWA – Men’s Top Four Finals taking place, and the main event is the first team final, where champions Bayswater City take on last seasons champions Olympic Kingsway. (3:45pm) Secure your tickets from - megatix.com.au/events/top-four-cup - Bayswater have had the week off, after beating Olympic in the Major Semi-Final last Friday, with Chris Jackson’s goal giving them a 1-0 win at Frank Dragoe Reserve. Olympic bounced back on Tuesday evening, with a 4-0 win against Perth Glory, with goals from Joe Hobson, Jayden Gorman, Mitch Oxborrow and a Liam Boland penalty.
They have met twice in the league this season, a 0-0 draw in round seven at Kingsway Reserve, while Olympic won at Frank Drago, securing a 3-2 win in round 18, so if those games, and the semi-final is anything to go by, it will be another tight game. Bayswater will be eying another title, as they prepare for the inaugural Australian Championship starting in October, and coach Matthew Sparrow said it’s the best two sides in the league looking to lift the last trophy in WA this season, and he knows it will be another tight affair.
“The semifinal was a good win and a strong performance from the group, but it doesn’t count for anything if we don’t get the job done in the final. The focus now is fully on Saturday,” Sparrow said. “It’s only right that the two top teams this season meet in the final — both sides have earned it. It’s a great chance for us to do the double, but we know Olympic will come out firing. I’m sure the game will have a bit of everything — intensity, quality, and maybe even some drama. We’re ready for the challenge."
Olympic coach David Tough said the win in midweek against Glory was a good performance, and the difference was they took their chances. “It was a great team performance. We played on the front foot and didn’t give Glory time to settle. The big difference on Tuesday was that we took our chances, something we hadn’t done in the last couple of games,” Tough explained. “We’re all excited for the Top Four Cup Final against Bayswater. They’re a quality side, and we’ve had some great battles with them this season. It’s fitting that the top two teams are meeting in the final, and hopefully it’s a game worthy of the occasion.”
In the under 18’s Top Four Cup Final, will be a repat of the State League Cup Final, when Perth RedStar meet Bayswater City. (9am) On that occasion RedStar prevailed, with goals from Jack Moore, Jared Lawther and Jack Baker giving them a 3-0 win. The two sides also met in the Semi-Final, RedStar winning 3-2 thanks a late goal from Teddie Curran, while Bayswater beat Stirling Macedonia 4-2 on penalties in midweek to make Saturday’s Final.
In the Under 23’s Top Four Final, Perth Glory takes on Olympic Kingsway. (1:30pm). These two sides met in the Semi-Final, with Cristiano Farfan bagging a brace in the 5-2 win. In midweek Olympic secured their place in the final with a come-from-behind 3-2 win against Perth RedStar. They trailed 0-2 with 11 minutes to go, but late goals from Nathan Hale, Youmous Sow and Scott Webster saw them take their place in the Final.
12.9.2025
INTER-DIVISIONAL PLAYOFFS STILL IN THE BALANCE
It’s half time in the inter-Divisional playoffs, with all four games still finely balanced going into Saturday’s second leg. In the NPL/Division one playoffs, Kingsley Westside and Joondalup City hold the advantage, after home wins in the first leg, Kingsley beating Fremantle City 2-1, and the port side will look to turn things around when they host the return leg at Hilton Park. (All games kick off at 3:00) Fremantle captain Hayden Stevens said they will look to turn things around after a disappointing first leg. “We’re really looking forward to this game, we’re back at home and have a chance to put things right from last week. We made a lot of mistakes last week and rightly so got punished,” the defender explained. “They’re a hardworking side with some dangerous players. We know there is no second chance after this game, so only one result will do for us.”
Meanwhile in the other tie, Joondalup hold the advantage, after beating UWA Nedlands 3-1, and Kris Donnell’s side will also need to turn things around when they meet at the UWA Sports Park. UWA striker Iljas Ahmedov said Saturday is huge, and they want to continue their excellent season. “We’ve had a good season so far, and we’re focused on keeping that going. We know the challenge ahead is tough, but there’s a lot of belief in the team that we can turn things around. Training has been sharp, and it’s great to have a few players back from injury,” he explained.
“We’re fully prepared to give everything on Saturday. It’s important that we stick to our style of play and don’t get drawn into their game. We’ve been strong at home, and we want to put in a solid performance in our last home game. If we play with confidence, intensity, and stay disciplined while taking our chances, we believe we can get the result we need.”
Joondalup striker Harry Edwards, who was on target in the first leg win, said they will look to build on the win. “I thought the performance and energy from the lads on Saturday was top notch and was reflected in the final score. We will be looking to build off that result this weekend, that means bringing even more energy and going for it the whole game. Training this week has been good and intense and all the boys are looking forward to the huge game on Saturday.
In the Division One/Division Two, Cockburn City and Forrestfield United secured 2-1 wins in the first legs, so it’s all to play for. Cockburn welcome East Perth to Dalmatinac Park, East Perth captain Chris Smith said they will be doing all they can to seal a spot in Saturday’s final. “We know exactly what’s required after the first leg. Cockburn are a really good side, but we are disappointed we didn’t get more from the game last weekend,” Smith said. “It’s always a battle when we face them, and this Saturday will be no different. We have full belief in ourselves and the confidence to overturn the scoreline, everything is to play for.”
Cockburn coach Paulo Basto said Saturday’s game will be another tough encounter, but they are ready for the challenge. “Saturday’s return leg against East Perth will be another important test for us. While the first leg result gives us a positive platform, we know the tie is far from over. East Perth is a strong side and we expect them to come out determined, so our focus will be on maintaining discipline, sticking to our game plan,” Basto explained. “The group is motivated and looking forward to the challenge. Our aim is to build on from the first leg and deliver a performance that takes us through to the next stage.”
Meanwhile at Maida Vale Reserve Forrestfield heads into the local derby against Kalamunda United, with a narrow lead, and keeper Jordan Howell said a big performance is needed, and they are well prepared. “The squad is full of confidence following a strong first-leg performance and is eager to build momentum this weekend against Kalamunda,” the keeper said. “The club have young talent stepping up as regular starters who have been well guided by Captain Matt Evans and the senior leadership group, the team has shown real cohesion throughout the season. We will see the return of several players who will provide valuable attacking depth. While encouraged by last week’s result, the team remains focused on discipline and execution to ensure no easy goals are given away. The team is ready for the challenge and determined to finish the job.”
Kalamunda striker Farruh Mavlonov said the club are ready to turn last weeks result around. “It was a disappointing loss in the first leg, but we got an away goal which will be important,” he said. “We struggled to match Forrestfield’s energy and hunger, and the boys know we are capable of doing much better, myself included. We will give it everything on Saturday to get the win and stay up in Division One.” The winners of these four interdivisional games will meet next weekend at the Sam Kerr Football Centre, to see who will be playing in the relevant leagues next season.
11.9.2025
OVERY, PEARMAN AND BENNIE SELECTED IN YOUNG SOCCEROOS’ WORLD CUP SQUAD
A trio of West Australian’s finest young talent have been named in the Young Socceroos preliminary 23-player squad for the upcoming Under-20 World Cup. Manchester United’s James Overy and Queens Park Rangers duo Jaylan Pearman and Daniel Bennie have been selected in the YOung Socceroos squad for the tournament in Chile, which kicks off later this month.
The inclusion of Overy, who last year was named as one of the best 17-year olds in the world by The Guardian newspaper in their annual poll, comes after the full-back played for Scotland’s Under-19 side earlier this year. The teenager, who signed his first professional deal at Old Trafford in July, is eligible for Scotland at international level through his mother, but was born and raised in Perth.
Pearman and Bennie played important roles in Australia’s maiden triumph at the Under-20 Asian Cup earlier this year and the friends have been reunited at QPR in England this season. Bennie has been an unused substitute on three occasions in the Championship but recently signed a new contract and scored in their League Cup loss to Plymouth Argyle, a game in which Pearman made his club debut.
Coach Trevor Morgan will trim his squad to 21-players before Australia kick-off their campaign against Italy on 28 September in Valparaíso, Chile. The Young Socceroos will remain in Valparaíso for the second Group D fixture against Argentina (1 October) before travelling to Santiago to take on Cuba (4 October).
10.9.2025
CIRCATI GRATEFUL TO CAPTAIN SOCCEROOS (courtesy www.waoveryonder.au)
New Socceroos captain Alessandro Circati has expressed his gratitude over becoming the youngest national team captain in more than 40 years after helping his side to victory over New Zealand. The rising centre-back is the fourth West Australian to captain the Socceroos – after Ron Adair, Gary Marocchi and Trent Sainsbury – during the team’s 3-1 win in Auckland last night.
In the absence of regular leaders Mat Ryan and Jackson Irvine, coach Tony Popovic issued a bold statement by handing Circati, aged 21 years and 335 days, the armband. In just his seventh international appearance, the Parma defender became the fourth-youngest player to captain the Socceroos and the youngest since 19-year old Peter Raskopoulos led Australia against Taiwan in September 1981.
“It was a great honour. I know it doesn’t happen to everyone,” Circati said post-game. “It’s a big privilege of mine, and being 21 years-old, I’d like to think it reflects all the hard work which I’ve done off the field and on the field in the past years. I’m ever so grateful, but I say thanks to the boss and the boys as well most importantly.”
Mo Toure scored twice for Australia with Nestory Irankunda grabbing the remainder as Circati delivered an assured performance on the right side of Popovic’s three-man defence. The win secured the Soccer Ashes for Australia, who downed New Zealand 1-0 in the first game of the friendly series last Thursday in Canberra.
Circati was pleased with the Socceroos evolution across the two games. “In the first half, we were playing very well. We decided, maybe we take an extra risk, make the extra pass forward, try to get in behind and break them down,” he said. “We were very clinical; with the few chances we had, they were all either very dangerous or finished in the back of the net.”
With games against 2026 World Cup co-hosts the United States of America and Canada set down for next month, Circati said he was hopeful of further growing in comfort. “It’s still very fresh, things are still very new to me. With all the games we’ve played, we’re conceding minimal, we’re scoring quite a few,” he said.
“That’s the most important thing, the results, and we’re getting exactly that. So we’ll continue what we’re doing. It was my second camp with the new staff, just learning how things roll, how things are liked, learning to play with the boys because we don’t get these games very often, so when we do we really have to capitalise.”
9.9.2025
CIRCATI LEADS SOCCEROOS TO THE SOCCER ASHES
Former Perth SC defender Alessandro Circati has become just the third West Australian to captain his country, and youngest skipper in an ‘A’ international since Peter Raskopoulos in 1981, as he led the Socceroos as they retained the ‘Soccer Ashes’ after a 3-1 win against New Zealand in the second leg at the Go Media Stadium in Auckland on Tuesday afternoon, winning 4-1 on aggregate. Mohamed Toure gave Tony Popovic’s side the lead at the break, before Nestory Irankunda doubled their advantage early in the second half. Chris Wood halved the deficit for the All Whites, before Toure bagged his second on the hour, and he thought he had a hat trick moments later, but VAR denied him.
Toure said it was great to get his first start for his country, and pleased for Irankunda who also had a great game. “It's a surreal feeling starting my first game for the Socceroos," Toure said post-match. "Just playing and putting the jersey on is a big pride for me. I've known Nestory for a very, very long time, we live very close to each other and we're always hanging out. Now to see us both out here playing for the Socceroos is amazing. He's come a long way as a kid. He has a lot to learn, same as me, I'm also a kid, so we're both learning together and it's good to have a familiar face in camp, just to learn off each other.”
Popovic made six changes to the starting line-up from the team that defeated the All Whites in Canberra. Goalscorer Max Balard earned his first start after scoring the winner in that game, while Nestory Irankunda, Mohamed Toure, Aiden O’Neill, Lewis Miller and Kye Rowles made up the other changes. The hosts were on the front foot early, and Circati got back well to block Elijah Just’s effort, and Socceroos keeper Paul Izzo then saved Chris Wood’s shot on the half hour. Australia had defended deep, as the All Whites pressed, but three minutes later, in a rare attack, they went close to the lead.
Miller’s cross picked out Rowles, whose header was heading into the net, but All Whites custodian Max Crocombe produced a great save to deny him. But on 35 minutes the Socceroos did find the opener, Connor Metcalfe slid a neat through ball to Toure, who held off his marker and finished low past Crocombe. New Zealand went within inches of the equaliser four minutes later, Sarpreet Singh’s cross from the left took a deflection off O’Neill, and looped onto the bar, Tim Payne was quickest to the rebound, but his header was superbly saved by Izzo, but at half time the Socceroos held a narrow lead.
Izzo was at it again early in the second half, making a smart save from Ryan Thomas’s volley. The Socceroos held firm, and hit back, and doubled their advantage on 54 minutes. Balard sent Irankunda down the right channel, he beat two defenders before finishing with aplomb across Crocombe. But the All Whites were back in the game three minutes later, Francis De Vries finding Woods, and the Nottingham Forest striker took a good first touch and finished past Izzo, to end New Zealand’s goal drought against Australia. The Socceroos hit back again, and added a third on the hour, Metcalfe again the supplier, finding Toure, who wriggled his way from his marker and finished low past Crocombe.
That goal silenced the home crowd, and two minutes later Toure thought he had a hat-trick, Miller’s cross was turned home by the Randers striker, but after checking VAR the goal was ruled out with Miller straying offside. Both sides went to the bench, and the game lost its intensity, but Australia were in command. VAR was in the action again on 71 minutes, when a red card initially shown to All Whites defender Tyler Bindon for a challenge on Irankunda, but it was rescinded and downgraded to a yellow card. Irankunda went close to fourth, with a one of his special free kicks from distance, it beat Crocombe but the crossbar denied the Watford winger, but the damage had already been done, with the unbeaten run under Popovic continuing.
They are next in action against Canada in Montreal and United States in Colorado, in October. Popovic said Irankunda's strike was great, but was more impressed with the teenage winger's work rate. "He's a special talent and there's a special shot that he has and we'll talk about all the great things he does with the ball, but what's most pleasing for me is how hard he worked. That gets overlooked a fair bit," he said post-match. “What I've seen this year at Watford, the boy has maturity and understanding that you have to work for the team, you have to defend if you want to be the best player and the talent will show with the ball."
New Zealand: GK Max Crocombe, 2 Tim Payne (21 Callan Elliot 67’), 3 Francis De Vries (15 James McGarry 79’), 4 Tyler Bindon, 6 Joe Bell, 9 Chris Wood (7 Jesse Randall 67’), 10 Sarpreet Singh (24 Luke Brooke-Smith 79’), 11 Elijah Just, 14 Finn Surman, 19 Ben Old (18 Logan Rogerson 67’), 23 Ryan Thomas (20 Callum McCowatt 67’) – Subs not used: RGK Oli Sail, RGK Henry Merson Leonard Gray, 5 Michael Boxall, 7 Jesse Randall, 18 Logan Rogerson, 24 Luke Brooke-Smith,
Australia: GK Paul Izzo, (18 Joe Gauci 86’), 2 Milos Degenek, 3 Lewis Miller (5 Jordan Bos 64’), 4 Kye Rowles, 8 Connor Metcalfe (10 Ajdin Hrustic 86’), 9 Mohamed Toure (6 Martin Boyle 75’), 13 Aiden O’Neill, 14 Nestory Irankunda (7 Nicolas Milanovic 86’), 16 Max Balard (19 Patrick Yazbek 64’), 21 Cameron Burgess, 23 Alessandro Circati – Subs not used: RGK Tom Glover, 15 Noah Botic, 17 Ryan Teague, 20 Samuel Silvera, 24 Anthony Kalik, 25 Hayden Matthews – Referee: Dan Robertson (Scotland) – Attendance: 18, 213
9.9.2025
OLYMPIC BEAT GLORY TO REACH TOP FOUR CUP FINAL
Olympic Kingsway will take on Bayswater City in the NPLWA - Men’s Top Four Cup Final after a comprehensive 4-0 win against Perth Glory in the Preliminary Final at Kingsway Reserve on Tuesday evening. A first half goal from Joe Hobson had Olympic in charge at the break, before second half goals from Jayden Gorman, Mitch Oxborrow and a late Liam Boland penalty sealed the win. “We are happy to bounce back after the defeat Friday and put in a statement performance before the top four final. It was a strong team performance which everyone contributed to,” Olympic midfielder Joshua Samson said post-match.
“We are excited to be in back-to-back top 4 cup finals and it is a testament to the hard work by everyone associated with the club. Saturday will be another great opportunity for silverware and we will give it our all to finish the season on a high.” The Glory were coming off a penalty shootout win against Perth RedStar, while Olympic were edged out by Bayswater City in the semifinals, and it was the hosts who found the opener on the quarter hour. A diagonal ball by Oxborrow found Gorman on the left, and he slipped in Hobson, who beat defender and keeper to the ball and rolled the ball home.
The visitors went close to the equaliser seven minutes later, Seb Despotovski’s shot from the edge of the box was well saved by Olympic keeper Adrian Sinagra, but at the break it was 1-0 to Olympic. The next goal was going to be vital, and it went the way of the hosts seven minutes into the second half. Josh Samson made space down the right, and cut the ball back to Gorman on the edge of the box, and the former Glory striker finished clinically. They added a third on 65 minutes, Oxborrow curling home, and the hosts went in for the kill with Oxborrow’s long-range shot saved low by Ryan Warner, before the Glory custodian reacted well to save Aryn Williams volley.
But two minutes from time they did add a fourth. Boland sent Lebib Lebib racing down the right and he was brought down by Max Argent and referee Michal Jasinski pointed straight to the spot. Boland stepped up and sent Warner the wrong way from the resulting penalty to seal their place in Saturday’s final. “A great win, and we now move into back-to-back top four finals,” Olympic coach Ross Edwards said post-match. “We were on last night and played extremely well. The boys really came to play and the work rate and intensity was of the highest standard. This is what we expect.
“Perth Glory is a good team and are very well coached, and Joe and his coaching staff have done an excellent job. Over the years playing against them, you never knew what to expect. This year we have seen structure, organisation and a will to win and it has been very difficult to it’s a credit to them. The two best teams in the league this year will fight it out in the top four final, I don’t think you can ask for more than that. David (Tough) and I are delighted for the club, players, supporters and all the volunteers to be taking this team into our seventh final in four years.”
Olympic Kingsway: GK Adrian Sinagra, 4 Ollie Annis, 6 Aryn Williams, 7 Tyler Garner, 8 Mitchell Oxborrow (2 Jonathon Leithead 80’), 9 Joseph Hobson (5 Laat Manyec 80’), 11 Will Richards (20 Luke Hewings 80’), 13 Ryan Lowry (3 Harley Orr 33’), 17 Joshua Samson, 19 Lebib Lebib, 25 Jayden Gorman (10 Liam Boland 60’) - Subs not used: RGK Kristian Rasano
Perth Glory: GK Ryan Warner, 3 Daniel Jankuloski, 8 Khoa Ngo, 9 Louis Sollitt, 10 Seb Despotovski (36 Lucas Mura 80’), 11 Santiago Flores (15 Ruben Argent 57’), 14 Noah Ieraci (39 Tadiswa Mutyavaviri 70’), 19 Hayden Thomas, 20 Max Argent, 21 Adrian Pini (4 Maxim Uvarov 70’), 63 Tinomuonga Mutema (22 Max Naylor 57’) - Subs not used: RGK Jhett Warner, 12 Alfie Knight – Referee: Michal Jasinski – Assistants: Alex Ciccarone, Josh Mannella
9.9.2025
BALCATTA STUN CHAMPIONS TO REACH TOP FOUR CUP FINAL
Balcatta Etna have secured a place in Saturday’s NPLWA Women’s Top Four Cup Final against Perth RedStar, after beating league champions Perth SC 2-1 in the Preliminary Final at Dorrien Gardens on Tuesday evening. Former Perth Sc defender Alyssa Van Heurck gave the visitors the lead at the break, and although Kim McCartney drew the Azzurri level 12 minutes from time, it was former Perth coach Peter Rakic’s side who won it five minutes from time with the unfortunate Sam Mathers heading into her own net.
"We expected nothing less than a war and I think that's what we got. After so many frustrating weeks and lacklustre performances, it feels a little more evident now that the girls have their hunger back and they were keen to end the season on a high, despite the struggles we've had,” Balcatta coach Peter Rakic explained. “I'm proud of the true grit they showed throughout the entire 90, and I was pleased with our determination to continue playing to our strengths until we found a break through.
“I believe Carys Davis needs more recognition for what she's achieved as a full back this year, her presence has consistently gotten the better of her opponents and she is often the unsung hero in these dog fight type of games. Collectively we're all just happy we have one more opportunity to take something out of this season, but we know what challenge lies ahead with RedStar who are well accustomed to playing in finals." The hosts were beaten by Perth RedStar in the semi-final, while Balcatta beat the Hyundai FW Academy in the other to set up this tie, and it was a tight opening with Rebecca Bennett making a smart save to deny Daisy McAllister early.
Balcatta settled and went close themselves just before the half hour, Lucy Jerram’s shot saved by Dayle Schroeder. But moments later the visitors made the breakthrough, Jamie-Lee Gale’s cross from the right was misjudged by the Perth defence, and Van Heurck nipped in and volleyed home. Balcatta went close to a second after the break, Gale racing in on goal, but Schroeder stood tall to save, before the Perth custodian saved well to thwart the lively Jerram. Perth pressed for the equaliser, and Ella Lincon found Louise Tana, but the substitute couldn’t find the target. Balcatta almost doubled their lead with Gale racing clear again, but she couldn’t keep her shot down. But 11 minutes from time the Azzurri levelled, McCartney curling home a great free kick, and it was game on.
But they weren’t level long, with Balcatta winning it on 85 minutes, Isabella Foletta’s free kick from the right was headed into her own net by Mathers, under pressure from Frankie Murray. Perth had one last chance to send the tie to extra time, but Ruby Marshall headed narrowly over the top from a corner. It means Perth’s season comes to an end, but a first NPLWA – Women’s title is still a good return for Tom Glavovic’s side, while Balcatta will hope to add the Top Four Cup to their Night Series crown in the final on Saturday.
“I’m really proud of the girls for our performance on Tuesday night. Everyone stepped up, played their role, and won their individual battles in what was a hard-fought win in the end,” Balcatta captain Abbey Meakins explained. “We thoroughly deserve our place in the final after what’s been a really challenging season, and we’re looking forward to fighting for another piece of silverware to finish the year off nicely. RedStar are such an experienced finals team, so we know it’s going to be a big challenge, but one we’re really excited for.”
Perth SC: GK Dayle Schroeder, 2 Violet Longmore, 5 Epril Nossent, 6 Hannah Collins (3 Tijan McKenna 84’), 8 Daisy McAllister, 10 Maja Archibald (9 Louise Tana 59’), 11 Matilda Boehm, 13 Sam Mathers, 14 Ella Lincoln (7 Ruby Marshall 46’), 15 Jessica Flannery, 17 Kimberly McCartney - Subs not used: RGK Emme Ingrey, 4 Georgia Cassidy, 12 Alanna Ottobrino
Balcatta Etna: GK Rebecca Bennett, 2 Monique D'Opera, 3 Isabella Foletta, 4 Frankie Murray, 5 Carys Davis, 8 Abbey Meakins, 9 Ella Marwick, 10 Lucy Jerram (12 Jaime Duncanson 65’), 11 Alyssa Van Heurck, 13 Jamie-Lee Gale, 19 Rachel Jarvis – Subs not used: 7 Liana Cook, 14 Mia Hargreaves, 15 Mia Britton, 20 Isabella Comito – Referee: Roland Turk – Assistants: Emily Funston, Ollie Mason-Walshaw
7.9.2025
KWINANA AND BALLAJURA SECURE PROMOTION
Congratulations to Kwinana United and Ballajura AFC, who have both secured promotion to the Amateur League Premier Division after Sunday’s results.
Kwinana return to the Amateur top flight after just a two season absence. The red and whites were a major force back in the 1970s, spending much of that decade in the top tier of the WA professional league. They also featured at that level in 1984 and 1990 before moving to the Amateur League. With big ambitions, the club now sits just one promotion away from a return to the State League.
Ballajura, meanwhile, are a much younger club. Formed in 1993, they joined the Amateur League three years later, and this will be their first ever appearance in the Amateur Premier Division.
With two games still to play and promotion already secured, both sides will now be eyeing the league title. Kwinana currently hold a one point lead with a superior goal difference. Kwinana travel to Port Kennedy this Sunday before finishing at home against Alkimos FC. Ballajura, meanwhile, face a tough trip to third-placed Ellenbrook United this weekend before closing out at home against the Quinns FC Amateur side. From everyone at footballwa.net, once again congratulations to both clubs, and best of luck in the championship race!
7.9.2025
BELT-UP AMATEUR PREMIER DIVISION - ROUND 21 REVIEW
North Perth Untied were crowned Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division champions on Sunday, receiving their title trophy following a 4-0 win against South Perth United at Woodville Reserve in round 21. It was a big day for the clubs’ reserves side too, also winning the title, and coach Jason Winter said it’s been great season for the club, and there is more to come, with both sides still in the cup. “A great effort from the lads again today, we had the league won two weeks ago but they just keep going winning, 4:0 this week and last week, they deserve this with their attitude all season,” Winter said.
“In 2014 I was a player with the first team when North Perth won the double, double, with the first team and reserves winning the league and cup, I’m hoping to do it as a coach this season.” The hosts found the opener on 32 minutes, with Dean O’Meara converting from the spot, and they doubled their lead two minutes later, Caolin Coyle firing home a free kick. They suffered a blow shortly after with Eoghan Rea sent off, but in the shadows of half time the ten men added a third, with a brilliant finish from Cian O’Dwyer. South Perth needed the points to keep them away from the drop zone, but they couldn’t break down a tight North Perth defence, and it was the hosts who added a fourth late, with a tidy finish from substitute Yanich Jordan.
The race for promotion to the State League took another twist, with North Beach leapfrogging over Morley Windmills after beating them 2-0 win in the top of the table clash at Charles Riley Memorial Reserve. “I couldn't be prouder or more excited for the boys today on what was a high pressure, high stakes fixture which has put our destiny into our own hands heading into the final round,” North Beach coach Nick Di Carlo explained. “We had to adapt early on as the game was moved to alternate pitch, which made the game tight and chances hard to come by as both teams were at the races defensively. Some brilliance from Luke Jones lifted the squad and some amazing defensive battles got the job done.”
It was second against third going into the game, with only one point separating them, and it was a tight first half, but neither could find the opener. But that all changed on 67 minutes, the hosts hitting the front. A ball was sent into the box after some nice link up play between Luke Jones and Clayton Arnex, it was cleared and fell to Jones who hit a stunning half volley from 20 meters, which flew into the top corner. This doubled the lead, and sealed the result three minutes later. Thomas Hart received the ball in midfield and played Alex Kretowicz in first time who rounded the Morley keeper Nick Stone, and converted from close range.
Kelmscott Roos are still in the mix, and all but ended Emerald’s runners up chances, after they beat them 4-2 at Parnham Park. “What a win. We gave it everything we could and finally got the reward for it,” Kelmscott keeper Taylor Warwick said. “We controlled the game at the start and took the lead from some good work, but unfortunately sat back and emerald took controlled and scored two good goals, but we regrouped at half time and put an emphasis on not giving up and throwing everything we had, and we got the reward. One more grand final next week with absolutely everything to play for.” The Roos were ahead in this one, on nine minutes. A quick break away from Chad Samuel saw him square the ball to Amos Doegolia who finished well.
But the hosts, have slipped in recent weeks, hit back with Shane Hickey levelling, and five minutes before the break Conor Gormley gave them the lead. But seven minutes into the second half Kelmscott restored parity. A clearance from Warwick sent Doegolia away, and he was dragged down in the box, and Isaac Koomson scored the resulting penalty. Kelmscott regained the lead twenty minutes from time Samuel’s broke down the right, and his cross wasn’t claimed by Gerard Crehan, and the ball fell to Doegolia whose shot on the turn found the net. They made sure of the points three minutes from time, Lemeo Reece picked the ball up on the left and played a great ball through for Ishmael Greywood who beat his marker and finished with aplomb.
At the other end of the table Jaguar have secured a massive three points in their fight to avoid relegation, beating Peel United 5-0 at the Herb Graham Recreation Centre. The home side were ahead on five minutes, a misplaced pass ended at the feet of Connor O’Driscoll, who made no mistake. They lead 3-0 at the break, with Driscoll completing a first half hat-trick. Driscoll added his and Jags fourth on the hour, getting on the end of a cross to score. It was soon 5-0, with Nader Khatat finishing clinically. Peel ended the game with ten men, with Levi Burns sent off after picking up two yellow cards. “We’ve put ourselves in a tough position, we’ve only got ourselves to blame and only got ourselves to get us out of it,” Jags coach Syakir Shariff explained. “So, I’m expecting everyone to put in a 100% next weekend and hopefully keep Jaguars in Amateur Premier for next season.”
Olympic Kingsway celebrated the memory of former captain Peter Jarvis, and continued their recent good form, beating Kingsley Westside 5-1 in the ‘Jarvy Cup’ clash at Chichester Park. “A good performance by the lads today, especially with a few rested completely and lots of sore bodies from Wednesday nights cup win. I thought we controlled large portions of the game, but Kingsley Westside did have a good spell towards the end of the first half, and we had to dig in and work hard to go into half time with a clean sheet,” Olympic coach Jason Stern explained. “Second half we were able to rotate some of the lads with tired bodies and secure a good win to pick up the Jarvy Cup. Shoutout to Chris Brady, Sam Ellis and the Kinglsey Westside club for getting behind the games this season in honour of Pete, it’s always a special game in our calendar.”
The visitors found the opener on 17 minutes, a ball into the box was turned into his own net by the unfortunate Craig Richards. They doubled their lead just before half time, Scott Bushby’s corner was headed back to him from the near post, and his first time strike from the corner of the box found the top corner of the net. They added a third nine minutes into the second half, some neat up build up ended with Nathan McManus, who played in Bushby who slipped it round the keeper. It was 4-0 on 76 minutes, Charlie Bandeira picked up the ball in midfield and slipped a pass into James Venton who finished well past the keeper. Kingsley pulled one back five minutes from time, Ross Forrester heading home a corner. But Olympic added a fifth shortly after, Kingsley turned the ball over trying to play out from the back and David Gordon won possession high up the pitch and the ball fell to Charlie Bandeira who made no mistake.
In the final game Hamersley Rovers have made it three straight wins and consolidated sixth place, with a hard fought 1-0 win against Maccabi at Maccabean Memorial Oval. “Very poor outing from us today, but happy to come away with three points, as we want to continue and finish the season as positive as possible,’ Rovers’ coach Curtis Delaney said. “Happy with the lads’ grit and hard work considering the huge numbers on the absence list.” It looked like the points would be shared but in the final minute Rovers won it. A counter attack saw Joe Woods hit a long ball, which turned the defence around, the Maccabi keeper committed early to come out of his box, and Callum Duguid, who had sprinted all but the entire length of the pitch to get there a split second before the keeper to snatch the victory at the death.”
7.9.2025
NPLWA – WOMEN’S TOP FOUR CUP – REVIEW
Perth RedStar is the first team into the NPLWA Women’s Top Four Cup Final after a 3-1 penalty shootout win against Champions Perth SC in the Major Semi-Final at the RedStar Arena in Joondalup on Sunday afternoon, after the game ended 1-1 after extra time. The game was originally scheduled for Saturday at the Proto DPS Inglewood Stadium, but the weather made the pitch unplayable. But in this one, Ella Lincoln gave the Azzurri a first-half lead, with Caitlin Doeglas equalising when she followed up to score after Dayle Schroder had saved Jayna Ridley's penalty. In the shoot-out, RedStar keeper Gabby Dal Busco was the star, saving Sam Mathers and Kim McCartney spot kicks, before Ruby Marshall fired over the top.
“It was a really tough game, which was made even more difficult by the conditions and the quality of opposition we faced. Perth is such a difficult side to break down, and as expected, they challenged us across every area of the pitch,” RedStar coach Chris Atturo explained. “To go all the way through to penalties really showed the resilience and mental strength of this group — they dug in when it mattered most and found a way to get the job done. Perth has weapons right across the park that can hurt you at any moment. I felt we managed those threats well and, importantly, limited their ability to create high-percentage opportunities. On the flip side, chances of our own were difficult to come by, but credit to the team — they stayed patient, kept working, and eventually found a way to bring things level.
"That persistence is something we’ve spoken about a lot, and tonight it came through. Once it went to the shootout, I had absolute confidence in the group. We had a variety of players ready and willing to step up, which really lifted our belief. Gabby, who goes about her work quietly, produced when it mattered most — and that’s just who she is. It was a gritty, character-driven performance that really reflected the identity of this team. We know we’ve got one last job ahead of us, and it will demand our very best. The girls have earned a full week of preparation, and come Saturday, we’ll be ready to give everything.”
The visitors were on the front foot early, with Daisy McAllister and Lincoln both heading wide of the target, before Jessica Flannery saw her effort drift wide of the post. But in the final minute the Azzurri hit the front, Sam Mathers finding Lincoln, and the Perth Glory striker held off her marker, before finishing clinically past Dal Busco. After a half time chat, RedStar lifted the tempo after the break, and Renee Leota was denied by Dayle Schroeder, but they couldn’t breakdown a tight Azzurri defence, well marshalled by captain Epril Nossent.
But on 70 minutes they had the chance to level after referee Manners Garatidye pointed to the spot. A free kick from Andreia Teixeira was well controlled by Leota, before she was bundled down by Violet Longmore. Ridley stepped up to take the resulting penalty, but Schroeder guessed the right way to save, but Doeglas was fastest to the re-bound to turn the ball into the net from the angle. In extra time, chances were few and far between, the best falling to Perth substitute Louise Tana, her cross shot beat Dal Busco, but the woodwork came to the rescue of the RedStar custodian.
So, we were off to penalties, Doeglas firing home the first for the hosts, before Mathers’ first was saved by Dal Busco. Ridley converted to make it 2-0 for RedStar, before Dal Busco pushed McCartney’s penalty onto the post and away to safety. Schroeder then saved Leota’s next penalty, and Tijan Mckenna converted hers to give the Azzurri a chance. But Alkira Mogridge made it 3-1 to RedStar, sending Schroeder the wrong way, and Ruby Marshall blazed over the top to seal the game for the hosts.
In the other game Balcatta Etna beat the Hyundai FW Academy 4-3 after extra time in a thriller at the Sam Kerr Football Centre on Saturday afternoon. The Academy struck first with Emily Garnett on target, before Jamie-Lee Gale, Rachel Jarvis and Alyssa Van Heurck turned the game in Balcatta's favour. But late goals from Lacey Heys and Young Matildas striker Theo Mouithys sent the game to extra time, and with penalties looming, Balcatta won it with Jarvis bundling the ball home. "It was an entertaining game to say the least, and it was proof that we must stay switched on for the entire 90 minutes because all it takes is one moment to concede a goal,” Balcatta coach Peter Rakic said. “The academy has pushed us in every match this year, so it's also a credit to them for always bringing a competitive edge to the pitch. "
Balcatta were coming off a loss in the cup final last week against Fremantle, and they found themselves behind in this one, on 11 minutes. Emily Garnett pounced on a loose ball on the right, and raced into the box, before finishing with aplomb past Rebbeca Bennet. But Balcatta hit back and levelled 12 minutes later, a great advantage from referee Stewart Beattie after a foul on Jarvis, allowed the midfielder to play a through ball to Gale, who finished low past Daisy McGreadie-Cole. Rakic’s side hit the front on 37 minutes, Jarvis pounced on a stray pass, before racing into goal to score, the ball hitting both posts before finding the net.
The game looked over on 67 minutes, when Balcatta added a third, Abbey Meakins sent Gale down the right, and the winger cut the ball back to the edge of the box to Van Heurck, who finished clinically. But eight minutes from time the Academy found a life line, Mouithys combined with Klaudia Houlis, who crossed to Heys, who made no mistake. The Academy restored parity two minutes later, Sakura Leong finding fellow Young Matildas teammate Mouithys, who held off her marker, before firing low past Bennett. We were off to extra time, and 12 minutes into the first period, Balcatta won it. Jaime Duncanson’s corner wasn’t dealt with and Jarvis bundled the ball home despite Daniella Santich’s attempted clearance. Balcatta will now take on Perth at Dorrien Gardens, in the Preliminary Final on Tuesday evening, the winner to take on Perth RedStar in the final at Sam Kerr Football Centre next Saturday evening.
6.9.2025
NPL/STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE INTER-DIVISIONAL PLAYOFF – REVIEW
A spot in NPLWA – Men’s competition is on the line over the next two weeks, with the NPL/State League Division One Inter-Divisional playoffs, which started on Saturday with the first legs, with Kingsley Westside and Joondalup City taking leads into the second legs next weekend. First at Chichester Park, Kingsley scored a 2-1 win against Fremantle City. “We are happy to take a small lead into the second leg,” Kingsley coach Ben Andrews said.
“I know it’s a cliche but it really was a game of two halves with both teams struggling to play into the wind. We were happy to go into half time at 1-1 despite playing into the wind and the lads backed themselves to get another goal once the conditions were on our side. We are aware it will be a very different game in the second leg but we are looking forward to getting down to Fremantle and putting in another good performance.”
The visitors, who slipped into the playoff spot in the NPL on the final day, fell behind after only six minutes. Elliot Tattersall’s corner was flicked on by Luke Doyle, and Max Adamson headed home from close-range. Fremantle levelled on 24 minutes, Sam Cook and John Chalmers combined on the right, the ball being played to Charlie Chechlacz, who cross into the box picked out Paul Zimarino, whose looping header beat Mason Stickels. But Kingsley regained the advantage, nine minutes into the second half.
Tattersall’s slide-rule through ball sent Adamson clear, the striker rounded Fremantle keeper Luke Radonich and fired home, to give them the advantage going into next week’s second leg at Hilton Park. “The first half we created so many chances but were really wasteful in our execution, but in the second half Kingsley played with determination and took advantage of their opportunity when it presented,” Fremantle coach Dale Wingell said. “In the bigger picture we are down 2-1 at half time. Our players know what is required in the second leg and we will be confident to remedy that back at home next Saturday.”
In the other game, Joondalup City have produced a great performance, defeating UWA Nedlands 3-1 at Iluka District Open Space, which gives them a big advantage going into next weeks return leg at the UWA Sports Park. “I can’t fault the boy’s performance today, everything I asked of them they did,” Joondalup coach Guy McDonald said. “It’s only halftime so we will remain focused and ensure we have another good week on the training track and be ready for next Saturday.
UWA Nedlands were edged for the title by Dianella by only one point, and they found themselves behind in this one, on six minutes. Mason Gallagher was sent down the right, and he cut inside his marker and fired past Samuel Assumption via the post, and they led by that goal at the break. But 11 minutes into the second half Joondalup doubled their advantage, Liam Peacock cross from the right was turned home by substitute Callum Stocks.
It looked tie over when they made it 3-0 ten minutes later, Sam McKearnen’s cross from the left wasn’t dealt with and Harry Edwards fired home. But nine minutes from time UWA found a lifeline, Iljas Ahmedov finding Jordan Pokler, whose long-range shot beat Joe Smith. “I thought we were very poor in and out of possession. We were unrecognisable as to how we have played the whole season and resorted to long ball for most of the game,” a disappointed UWA coach Kris Donnell explained. “Jordan’s goal keeps us in the tie and we will be looking for a big response from the squad. The boys returning from injury next week will be a lift for the group and were a big loss for the away leg.”
5.9.2025
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE/DIVISION TWO INTER-DIVISIONAL PLAYOFF – REVIEW
Both of the State league Division One/Division Two inter-divisional playoff first legs were tight affairs, with Cockburn City and Forrestfield United securing 2-1 wins to take into the second leg next Saturday. Firstly, at Cabrini Park, Cockburn overcame East Perth, the game switched from Hudson Park due to a waterlogged pitch. “Firstly, congratulations to Nick and the boys at Quinns on securing the automatic promotion spot. It's been a close battle all season between ourselves, Quinns and East Perth so we weren't expecting anything different in yesterday's game,” Cockburn coach Kenny Palmer explained.
“Under difficult conditions on a tight pitch, both teams had to work hard to try and gain the upper hand, but we look forward to building on yesterday’s performance in next week's game, where I'm sure our members and supporters will be out in their numbers for our final appearance of the season at Dalmatinac Park.” The Cockerels hit the front on 16 minutes, James Bourne was bundled over by East Perth keeper Peter Stewart, and referee Alex Novatsis pointed straight to the spot, and Bourne picked himself up and sent Stewart the wrong way from the resulting penalty.
East Perth levelled 18 minutes from time, a great ball down the left by Dave Brooks sent Gavin Dillon racing clear and he fired home from the edge of the box, giving Cockburn keeper Zayde Free no chance. But four minutes from time, Cockburn won it, Bourne’s cross from the right was turned into his own net by the unfortunate Aaron Doyle, the goal giving them a narrow lead into next weeks second leg at Dalmatinac Park. “The conditions were tough for both sides today, and while I felt we deserved more from the game, that’s the nature of football,” East Perth coach Colm Costello said.
“In the second half, the lads really raised their intensity, created several good chances, and pushed hard for the win. Credit to their goalkeeper, who pulled off some outstanding saves late on. It was unfortunate for Aaron Doyle to be on the end of the own goal – especially after a near-flawless second-half performance. These moments are part of the game, and there’s no blame on him. A special mention to Gavin (Dillon), who scored a well-deserved goal. There’s no time to dwell on the result. We regroup, refocus, and go again Tuesday as we prepare to come back stronger next week.”
In the other game Forrestfield United have come from behind to beat Kalamunda City 2-1 in the local derby at Crazy Domains Stadium, Hartfield Park. “Very happy with the first leg performance, especially without our two top goal scorers, but I thought our lads were excellent and good value for the win,” Forrestfield coach Daryl Platten explained. “We are only half way there though and a need to do more of the same next week. Well done to Cooper Holland on scoring his first goal for the first team, I've known the kid since he was 14 and all he wants to do is score goals, another golden boot in the reserves league this season and hopefully he can kick on now and establish himself in the first team. It’s going to be a massive game next week with two desperate teams trying to get to the final.”
Kalamunda, who were doing all they could to stay in division one, made the best possible start, ahead on 12 minutes. A long clearance wasn’t dealt with by the Forrestfield defence, and Andrea Erbetta beat the keeper to the ball and ran into an open net to score, much to the delight of the big away following. But in the shadows of half time Forrestfield found the equaliser. A ball forward was played on to Holland, who finished with aplomb past Jake Maley-Orr.
Both sides pressed for the winner, and it was the hosts who found the winner four minutes from time. A ball down the line by James Oliver caused confusion and substitute Sherwin Tucker beat Marley-Orr to the ball and finished from an acute angle, to gave them a narrow lead going into next weeks return game at Maida Vale Reserve. “Credit goes to Forrestfield they played us off the park yesterday especially the second half,” Kalamunda coach Kristian Usedo said. “We have a lot of work to do next week, but I am confident we will return stronger and get back to our best. We have some key players returning to the team, and the boys are disappointed with yesterday’s outcome. However, we are looking forward to playing at home next week.”
5.9.2025
GLORY KICK START PRE-SEASON WITH BIG WIN AGAINST STIRLING
Perth Glory have continued their pre-season with a 7-2 win against State League Cup winners Stirling Macedonia at Macedonia Park on Saturday evening. An early own goal from Asher Nelson set Glory on their way, before goals from Adam Taggart and new recruit Sam Sutton gave them a 3-0 lead. Sam Dweh pulled one back for the hosts just before half time, but further goals from Arion Sulemani, Zach Lisolajski, Andriano Lebib and Joel Anasmo secured a comprehensive win, with Callum McKenzie adding the second for the hosts.
Glory opened the scoring on two minutes, when Sutton’s corner was turned into his own net by the unfortunate Nelson. They went close to a second moments later, a neat ball from Will Freney sent Taggart down the channel, but his shot from the angle flashed across the face of goal. They did add a second on ten minutes, Lachie Wales cross was neatly scored by Taggart. The Glory skipper took a knock, and was replaced three minutes later, with Sulemani coming on for the Socceroos striker.
The hosts went close themselves shortly after, Dweh’s shot was well saved by Mark Birighitti. Wales saw his effort whistle wide, before Glory added a third on the half hour, New Zealand import Sutton curling home a superb free kick from distance, giving Stirling keeper Nic Speca no chance. The lively Freney then tried his luck from distance, but it flashed the wrong side of the post. The hosts found a lifeline two minutes from the break, with Dweh on hand to sweep the ball home.
Glory increased their lead ten minutes into the second half, Sutton sending Kucharski away, and his low cross was turned home by Sulemani. They added a fifth moments later, Lisolajski heading home Sutton’s corner. It was six on the hour, moments after coming off the bench Lebib heading home another Sutton corner. Stirling pulled one back five minutes later, McKenzie was bundled over in the box, and he picked himself up to fire past Birighitti. The scoring was wrapped up two minutes from time, Khoa Ngo crossing for fellow-substitute Anasmo who made no mistake from close-range. Glory’s next pre-season is on Wednesday September 17, when they take on the WA State Team at Dorrien Gardens (kick-off at 6:30pm, admission FREE).
Stirling Macedonia: GK Nic SPECA, 4 Aston MONTGOMERY, 6 Dejan SPASEKI, 7 Asher NELSON, 8 Kade FEARNAL, 11 Leigh GRIFFITHS, 12 Shade STEWART, 14 Joshua BILALOSKI, 18 Danny DOUGLAS, 19 Callum MCKENZIE, 22 Samuel DWEH – Subs not used: RGK Tommy SPOTURE, 9 Euan CAMERON, 10 Sam WYNNE, 12 Kyeson BARKER, 13 Josh BOSEVSKI, 17 Alex TANEVSKI, 21 Pacifique DUFITIMUKIZA, 21 Luca MORELLI, 20 Marcus JOHNSTON
Perth Glory: GK Mark BIRIGHITTI, 3 Sam SUTTON, 4 Scott WOOTTON, 6 Brandon O’NEILL (8 Callum TIMMINS 46'), 9 Jaiden KUCHARSKI (26 Khoa NGO 60'), 11 Lachlan WALES, 15 Zach LISOLAJSKI (24 Andriano LEBIB 60'), 21 Adam BUGARIJA (31 Joel ANASMO 60'), 22 Adam TAGGART (17 Arion SULEMANI 13'), 27 Will FRENEY (18 Luke AMOS 46'), 45 Brian KALTAK – Subs noy used: RGK Tomislav PETKOVIC – Referee: Niall Gilmore
5.9.2025
GLORY SPOT ON TO MAKE PRELIMINARY FINAL
Perth Glory have kept their 2025 Top Four Cup alive, and ended Perth RedStar’s campaign, after a dramatic 4-2 penalty shootout win in the Minor Sem-Final at the RedStar Arena in Joondalup on Saturday afternoon. The game ended 2-2 after extra time, with Daryl Nicol giving the hosts the lead from the spot early in the second half, but two quick goals from Daniel Jankuloski and Seb Despotovski put Glory ahead. Nicol levelled, also from the stop, but in the shootout Glory prevailed.
The rain clouds had lifted for this one, and it was Glory, who won 5-0 at the venue in the regular season, who went close to the opener on three minutes, Louis Sollitt slipping in Despotovski, whose low shot flashed just wide of the far post. RedStar hit back and Pollard found Nicol in the penalty area and he got in front of his marker, but his shot flew across the face of goal, before Matthew George stung the palms of Glory keeper Ryan Warner.
RedStar started to get on top, and Nicol had another opportunity on 22 minutes, and indirect free kick was awarded for Warner holding onto the ball too long, and his shot from the set piece was headed off the line by the alert Jankuloski. The best chance of the half fell to the hosts just after the half hour, a great move saw Theo Leeming play a ball into George, who played it Nicol, whose first time pass sent Leeming in on goal, but Warner stood tall to save, but it was all-square at the break.
The hosts found the opener three minutes into the second half, Sam Pollard was bundled over in the box by Hayden Thomas, and referee David Bruce pointed straight to the spot. Nicol stepped up and scored the resulting penalty past Warner. But their lead only lasted eight minutes, Max Naylor’s corner was headed clear by Blair Govan, but it was helped back into the box by Despotovski and Jankuloski headed past Liam Reddy. The visitors were ahead two minutes later, Adrian Pini cut across the edge of the box, the ball falling to Despotovski, and his shot found the bottom corner past Reddy.
But RedStar restored parity on 68 minutes, George was brought down by Despotovski, and the referee awarded another penalty, with Nicol making no mistake from the spot. Substitute Santiago Flores went close to winning it for Glory, drifting into the box, but his shot whistled wide of the near post, before Adrian Pini was denied by a great last-ditch block by Sonny O’Shea. So, we were off to extra time, and chances were few and far between with both defences on top, the best fell to Glory, Reddy saving well to deny Naylor early, but it was to be decided on penalties.
Both sides missed their second spot kicks, Reddy saving Alfie Knight’s and Warner denied Liam Murray’s. Reddy then saw his penalty saved by Warner, to put Glory in control, and Maxim Uvarov won it sending Reddy the wrong way with the fifth. It’s a shame such a great game had to be decided on penalties, but Glory move on to a visit to Olympic Kingsway in midweek, the winner of that game will play Bayswater City in the Final at the Sam Kerr Football Centre next weekend.
Perth RedStar: GK Liam Reddy, 2 Nick Walsh (5 Benson Nsegetse 63’), 3 Blair Govan, 6 Sam Pollard (34 Seth McGillivray 90’), 8 Luke Bodnar, 9 Daryl Nicol, 10 Matthew George (13 Liam Murray 90’), 15 Theo Leeming (14 Oliver Leeming 90’), 17 Sonny O’Shea, 19 Ryan Finnie, 20 Andrew Palmer - Subs not used: RGK Luca Iovene, 4 Daniel Walsh, 11 Dennis Galan
Perth Glory: GK Ryan Warner, 3 Daniel Jankuloski, 5 Christian Pullella (4 Maxim Uvarov 90’), 9 Louis Sollitt (11 Santiago Flores 71’), 10 Sebastian Despotovski, 14 Noah Ieraci (15 Ruben Argent 90’), 19 Hayden Thomas (12 Alfie Knight 82’), 20 Max Argent, 21 Adrian Pini (39 Tadiswa Mutyavaviri 90’) 22 Max Naylor, 63 Tinomuonga Mutema - Subs not used: 36 Lucas Mura, 70 Jhett Warner – Referee: Dave Bruce – Assistants: Arvin Shan and Alex Ciccarone
5.9.2025
JACKSON SEALS TOP FOUR CUP FINAL SPOT FOR BAYSWATER
Bayswater City have booked their place in next weekend’s NPLWA – Men’s Top Four Cup Final, after a hard fought 1-0 win against Olympic Kingsway in the Major Sem-Final at a wet Frank Drago Reserve on Friday evening. A goal from City striker Chris Jackson secured the win, but it was a close game with Olympic hitting the woodwork twice as they chased the equaliser. David Tough’s side will now take on the winner of todays Minor Semi-Final between Perth RedStar and Perth Glory in midweek at Kingsway Reserve.
“Last night was always going to be a tough contest — first against second, and we knew we had to be switched on from the start, and the team delivered for the full 90 minutes. The defence was outstanding, as they have been all season, securing their 13th clean sheet of the campaign — and it’s clear to see why,” Jackson said. “Now we’ve booked our place in the final and are looking forward to finding out who our opponents will be. The focus remains on ourselves in training this week and being prepared to perform next Saturday in the final.”
The hosts went close to the opener after only three minutes, Olympic failed to deal with a cross and Thomas Southgate’s snap shot was well saved by Adrian Sinagra. The hosts were on top and Southgate’s cross was headed goalward by Jackson, but Aryn Williams cleared. But on 20 minutes they did open the scoring, good work on the right by Ollie La Galia, saw him race clear, his ball into the box was spilled by Sinagra, and Jackson was on hand to fire home.
Olympic almost levelled just after the half hour, Mitch Oxborrow sending Tyler Garner down the left channel, and he raced into the box, but Lewis Italiano stood tall to save, before Oxborrow fired over the top from the rebound. The conditions were terrible with the ball holding up in the waterlogged pitch, but both sides were giving it all, and La Galia saw his shot from the angle fizz just wide of the target nine minutes later. Both sides had late chances, Corness’ shot from distance flashed wide, then in stoppage time Garner’s ball into the box was flicked on by Wiliams, but the ball hit the far post and away to safety.
Oxborrow fired straight at Italiano early in the second half, as Olympic pressed for the equaliser. But Bayswater were also dangerous, Pat Loughrey curling a free kick just over the top, before Sean McManus’ shot from distance flew inches wide. Substitute Jayden Gorman saw his shot slide wide of the target, as the end-to-end football continued, with La Galia then denied by Sinagra at his near post. La Galia was a constant threat, and he broke down the right on 74 minutes, but his low cross was well cleared by Ryan Lowry, with McManus ready to pounce.
But moments later Olympic went within inches of the equaliser. A slide rule pass from Liam Boland sent Gorman racing down the left, his cross picked Joe Hobson, whose shot beat Italiano, but the ball crashed off the post and back into the grateful arms of the Baywater custodian. The chances continued, with Sinagra saving well to thwart la Galia, while Sinagra was alert again to save Gyles Davies’ header seven minutes from time. Olympic pressed till the end looking for the equaliser, but Bayswater held firm to move into the Final.
“It was a great performance from the boys in very tough conditions. We knew Kingsway would be tough competition as they have been all season, but the work rate and commitment from our boys was outstanding,” Bayswater assistant coach Matt Lenzo explained. “We now move into the top four cup final which we are hoping to add another trophy to cap off this season.”
Bayswater City: GK Lewis Italiano, 4 Luke Palmateer, 5 Patrick Loughrey, 6 Declan Hughes, 7 Sean McManus, 14 Oliver La Galia, 15 Jackson Stephens, 16 Jonathan Corness, 18 Christopher Jackson (12 Anthony Bafobusha 84’), 20 Sam Mitchinson, 30 Thomas Southgate (13 Gyles Davies 76’) - Subs not used: RGK Taylor Rae, 2 Alex Ishida-Livings, 8 Gordon Smith, 10 Jason Mirco, 17 Charlie Garnham
Olympic Kingsway: GK Adrian Sinagra, 3 Harley Orr, 4 Ollie Annis, 5 Laat Manyec (9 Joseph Hobson 72’), 6 Aryn Williams, 7 Tyler Garner (11 Will Richards 72’), 8 Mitchell Oxborrow, 10 Liam Boland, 13 Ryan Lowry, 17 Joshua Samson (25 Jayden Gorman 58’), 19 Lebib Lebib – Subs not used: RGK Kristian Rasano, 2 Jon Leithead, 14 Fanuel Dawit, 20 Luke Hewings – Referee: Steven Gregory – Assistants: Michal Jasinski and James Langoya
5.9.2025
SUPER SUB BALARD WINS IT FOR SOCCEROOS (Photo by Getty Images)
The Socceroos will take a 1-0 lead into second leg of the 2025 Soccer Ashes, after a narrow 1-0 win against New Zealand in front of a big crowd at the GIO Stadium in Canberra. The only goal of the game came three minutes from time, from substitute Max Balard, who became Socceroo #652 after coming off the bench two minutes earlier. It was a disjointed performance from the Green and Gold, defensively outstanding, with former ECU Joondalup’s Cameron Burgess and former Perth SC’s Alessandro Circati, both outstanding at the back, along with captain Milos Degenek and keeper Paul Izzo, who became Socceroo #650 on his debut in between the sticks, but lacked the cutting edge in the final third
Head Coach Tony Popovic selected a new-look starting eleven with Conor Metcalfe, Patrick Yazbek, Milos Degenek and Martin Boyle the only survivors from the starting side that saw them qualify for next year’s World Cup against Saudi Arabia in June. Izzo started in goal, while youngsters Nicolas Milanovic and Balard also debuted in this game when they were substituted on in the second half. On the bench was Hibernian defender Jack Iredale, the former ECU Joondalup defender selected for the first time.
It was a bitterly cold night in the nation’s capital, but Australia started brightly with Jordy Boss a constant threat down the left, and they went close to the lead early, Conor Metcalfe was able to release Bos down the left, his cross into the box was deflected onto the post by a Kiwi defender. But after that early scare the All Whites steadied and went close themselves on 11 minutes, with Sarpreet Singh seeing his shot from the edge of the box flash inches wide. They should have taken the lead seven minutes later, Chris Wood was sent one-on-one with Izzo, but the Australian custodian got down well to save.
Bos was causing the Kiwi’s all sorts of problems, and when he cut in from the left, after another good run, he couldn’t find the target. Both sides had late chances to take the lead into the sheds. First on 43 minutes Bos found Connor Metcalfe, and his powerful shot stung the palms of New Zealand keeper Max Crocombe. Then in the shadows of half Wood was picked out on the edge of the box, and his shot was arrowing for the bottom corner of the net, but Izzo produced a smart save to deny him, and at the break it was all to play for.
It was more of the same after the break, as both sides searched for the opener, the best falling to Martin Boyle, who pounced on a mistake from Tim Payne, racing into goal but as he was about to pull the pin, he lost his footing and the chance was gone. Izzo then produced another good save to deny Michael Boxall’s close-range effort. Both sides went to the bench looking for fresh legs, the biggest cheers of the night came for Nestory Irankunda, who came on 17 minutes from time, while Milanovic became Socceroo #651 as the 23-year-old Aberdeen midfielder made his debut.
The changes had an immediate response, and on 82 minutes, Mohamed Toure sent Lewis Miller down the right, his cross from the by-line found Irankunda, but the Watford winger couldn’t keep his header down. Then on 85 minutes Balard entered the fray, and what a start for the NAC Breda midfielder, two minutes later he won the game. Toure picked up the ball on the edge of the penalty area, creating space for himself after a set piece., before picking out Balard, who finished low into the corner of the net, to set off wild celebrates on and off the pitch. The All Whites went close to levelling moments later, James McGarry’s shot, was well saved by the alert Izzo. Australia is now undefeated in nine games and look ahead towards the second leg of the Soccer Ashes in New Zealand next week.
Australia: GK Paul Izzo, 2 Milos Degenek, 5 Jordy Bos, 6 Martin Boyle (9 Mohamed Toure 74’), 8 Conor Metcalfe (14 Nestory Irankunda 74’), 10 Ajdin Hrustic (7 Nicolas Milanovic 74’), 17 Ryan Teague (16 Max Balard 85’), 19 Patrick Yazbek (13 Aiden O’Neill 45’), 20 Samuel Silvera (3 Lewis Miller 45’), 21 Cameron Burgess, 23 Alessandro Circati – Subs not used: RGK Tom Glover, RGK Joe Gauci, 4 Kye Rowles, 11 Adrian Segecic, 22 Jack Iredale, 25 Hayden Matthews
New Zealand: GK Max Crocombe, 2 Tim Payne (21 Callan Elliot 64’), 3 Francis De Vries (15 James McGarry 70’), 4 Tyler Bindon, 5 Michael Boxall, 6 Joe Bell, 9 Chris Wood (17 Kosta Barbarouses 64’), 10 Sarpreet Singh (14 Finn Surman 75’), 11 Elijah Just (19 Ben Old 70’), 20 Callum McCowatt, 23 Ryan Thomas (16 Alex Rufer 64’) – Subs not used: RGK Oli Sail, RGK Henry Gray, 7 Jesse Randall, 18 Logan Rogerson, 24 Luke Brooke-Smith – Attendance: 25,000 - Referee: Don Robertson (Scotland)
5.9.2025
EVERTON V LIVERPOOL CHARITY MATCH
They say football is more than a game and that will be shown on Friday September 5 at the Endeavour Homes Stadium, Larkhill Sportplex in Port Kennedy at 6:00pm, when the WA football family will come together for a special cause. On the night an Everton XI take on a Liverpool XI for a great night of Football and Dancing as Gary Stevens' Everton XI take on Rhys Williams' Liverpool XI in an exciting Merseyside Derby that will help raise funds for the Liverpool Parade crash victims through the Liverpool Spirit Appeal and for the Stevens' Family Charity "Forever Four"
Proceeds raised from this Event will equally go to the Liverpool Spirit Appeal which is run by Community Foundations for Lancashire and Merseyside and Forever Four - a Special Charity set up by former Everton Great; Gary Stevens and his wife Louise and Family following the tragic loss of their young Son Jack. This event has been organised by PDC Events and Rockingham City Football Club.
Get your tickets now for two really special causes and ids go free. Early bird Tickets only $20 which include Match, Motown and Soul After-Party and the choice of a Jumbo Bacon Cheese-burger or Super Vienna Hotdog. Full bar service on the night. Tickets available at - https://www.evertonvliverpool.com.au/tickets-for-sale-for-everton-v-liverpool-charity-match-and-party
5.9.2025
PROMOTION BATTLE HEATING UP IN AMATUER PREMIER DIVSION
The battle for promotion from the Belt-Up Amateur Premier Division could be decided this weekend, with only two games remaining, only two points separate the three sides eligible to go up to the State League. In round 21, two of the sides, meet, North Beach and Morley Windmills at Charles Riley Memorial Reserve, and the other Kelmscott Roos takes on third placed Emarald at Parnham Park. (All games kick off at 3:00pm, unless stated)
Morley are in pole position, sitting second and one point ahead of North Beach, and a win on Sunday, could all but seal promotions, but they take on a North Beach side who are in red hot form. The last time they met at the venue was in round 16 last season, when Morley left with a 2-0 win. The hosts were on a six-game winning run, but found themselves behind just before half time, Ali Gholami racing in on goal, rounded the North Beach keeper Aaron Persse, and rolling the ball home. The visitors sealed the points just before the hour, Stephen Kirk chasing down a through ball to score.
The hosts, who last played in the State league in 1978, are on five game winning streak, and captain Luke Wearing said this game is huge for the club. “This Sunday is probably the biggest game in the club’s history and it couldn’t have come at a better time for us, we’ve recently hit top form as a squad and that showed in our win against Emerald on the weekend,” Wearing explained. “We know nothing but a win against a very strong Morley side will keep our promotion hopes alive, so we will be leaving it all out there Sunday.”
North Beach coach Nick Di Carlo said it’s two good teams going head-to-head, and three points is huge, and he is excited for the challenge ahead. “Sunday is going to be an amazing contest with so much at stake for both clubs,” he said. “We've really hit our straps the last month and having a clear goal in site has really helped the squad remain focused and motivated. This is new territory for our club and we're really excited for the challenge ahead.”
Morley will be looking to return to the State League after a two-year absence, and they go into the game on a four-game winning streak. Striker John Monterosso, who has bagged 15 goals this season, knows the importance of a win on Sunday, “Yes, three points are vital for both teams, especially with only two games left of the season. The team has trained well last week and we know North Beach will come out strong after some impressive results,” Monterosso explained. “We have an experienced squad so the pressure of each game won’t get to us. We have prepared well and we will be up for it.”
Morley coach Jon O’Reilly said it’s just another game, and they have prepared well and are ready for the challenge. “We don't look at the stakes. We just plan for the game as per normal. All year, my expectation of the players has been the performance, and the result is a by-product of that,” he said. “This week is no different. We have prepared well for this game and look forward to the challenge.”
Kelmscott Roos are fifth, only two points behind Morley and Sunday’s opponents Emerald, so they need a win to keep in touch. The Roos bounced back from their defeat at North Perth in round 19, with a hard-fought win at Kingsley, and they need to work just as hard to get the points on Sunday. Although Emerald have not applied for promotion, they will be chasing the runners-up spot behind Champions North Perth United, who also have not applied for promotion, so the points are huge for both. It’s been a tough couple of weeks for Emerald, docked three points in round 18 against Maccabi, a big defeat against North Beach last week, and being knocked out of the cup at Olympic in midweek, so they need to turn their form around if they are to challenge for the runners-up spot.
In other games, Champions North Perth United will be presented with their trophy on Sunday, after their game against South Perth United at Woodville Reserve. (1:00pm) The pair were supposed to meet in the Amateur Cup semi-final in midweek, but the game was postponed due to pitch problems at Challenger Reserve, and it will be played at a later date. Jaguar need a win to keep their hopes of avoiding the drop, when they entertain Peel United, who have already been relegated at the Herb Graham Recreation Centre. Kingsley Westside also need a win to keep them up this season, and they welcome Olympic Kingsway at Chichester Park, while in the final game Hamersley Rovers head to the Maccabean Memorial Oval to take on Maccabi.
5.9.2025
IT'S TREW GLORY SIGN STRIKER BONTE
Perth Glory have continued their recruitment ahead of the up-coming 2025/26 Ninja A-League season, signing striker Trew Bonte from Western Sydney Wanderers. The 23-year-old starred for South Coast Suns with 29 goals to her name in a single season, before signing Macarthur Rams, where Glory coach Stephen Peters was coach at the time, and helped them to New South Wales National Premier League title in 2024.
Bonte signed for the Wanderers last season, and made her A-league debut and went on to make 19 appearances and bagged four goals, and she is looking forward to building on her debut season with the Glory. “I’m really excited to be joining Perth Glory,” she said. “As a striker, my role is to score goals and I want to contribute as much as I can to help the team succeed this season. I am looking forward to working hard in pre-season and putting myself in the best possible form when the season kicks off and I can’t wait to get started.
“A quote that resonates with me is to ‘go about it the right way’ and that’s a message I carry with me in football and in life. For me, that means giving 100 percent whether it’s scoring goals, creating chances for my teammates or putting in the hard work off the ball. If I approach everything the right way, I know the rewards will come and I really believe we can achieve something special as a group this year. I believe we have a great group here at Glory and I’m looking forward to playing my part in what I think will be a really exciting season.”
Glory Football Director Stan Lazaridis believes that Bonte will provide another dangerous attacking option for Peters’ side. “Stephen knows how to bring the best out of Bronte and we’re really looking forward to seeing her continue the impressive development she showed with Western Sydney last season,” he said. “She has pace to burn, is very direct and has a real eye for goal. We’re building an exciting squad for what we are confident will be a strong ALW campaign this year and Bronte will have a key role to play.”
5.9.2025
NPL-WA -TOP FOUR FINALS SERIES – PREVIEW
NPL-WA Top Four Finals Series kicks off this weekend, and in Major Semi-Final on Friday evening Champions Bayswater City welcome runners-up Olympic Kingsway to Frank Drago Reserve. (7:15pm) Olympic are coming off the disappointment of a Cup Final defeat against Stirling Macedonia last week, while Bayswater have had the rest. Both these sides will look for the win to move straight into the final next week at Sam Kerr Football Centre. They have met twice in the league this season, a 0-0 draw in round seven at Kingsway Reserve, while Olympic became the only team to win at Frank Drago, securing a 3-2 win in round 18.
Mitch Oxborrow opened the scoring early for David Tough’s side, before Chris Jackson levelled for the hosts. But Olympic took control with an own goal from Tom Southgate and another to Laat Manyec had them in control at half time. Jon Corness pulled one back for Bayswater early in the second half, but they couldn’t find the equaliser. Bayswater will be eying another title, as they prepare for the inaugural Australian Championship starting in October, but I’m sure that’s the furthest from the mind of coach Matthew Sparrow, at the moment, the top four finals series will be a huge challenge, starting with Olympic.
“It’s been a fantastic season and a real credit to the whole squad, coaching staff, and everyone involved at the club. Coming in with a largely new group, we knew it would take a big effort to come together quickly, and I think that’s exactly what we did. From pre-season onwards, there was a real focus and hunger to push for the title, and the chemistry within the group built really naturally. To win the league for the first time since 2017 is something we’re all proud of, and earning a place in the inaugural Australian Championship just tops it off. We’ve laid a great foundation this year, and the challenge now is to keep pushing,” Bayswater coach Matthew Sparrows explained.
“As for Saturday, Olympic Kingsway are a quality side, and we know they’ll be up for it regardless of last week’s result. They’ve shown all season they can compete with the best, and they’re one of the few teams who managed to get the better of us at home, so we’ll definitely respect that. That said, we’re coming into this match with a lot of confidence and belief. Top Four Finals football is always another level, and we’re excited for the challenge. It’s a great opportunity to keep our momentum going and hopefully take another step towards winning some more silverware.”
Both games in the league were tight affairs and Olympic midfielder Oxborrow said it will be more of the same on Saturday, as they look to bounce back from the cup final defeat. “Yes, it’s a great chance to bounce back after last week’s result, sometimes football games go your way but unfortunately that wasn’t the case last weekend,’ the former Perth Glory midfielder said. “Can’t take too much from the result last time we played at Frank Drago to be honest, finals are completely different than throughout the season. It will be a great contest just like all of our previous fixtures and I expect Friday night’s game to be the exact same.”
In the minor semi-final Perth RedStar welcome Perth Glory to the RedStar Arena in Joondalup on Saturday afternoon. (2:30pm) The winner of this game will take on the loser of the Major Sem-Final in midweek, to see who will play in the final. Glory were the big winners in the first meeting this season, Sebastian Despotovski bagging four goals in the 5-0 win in round five at the RedStar Arena, but RedStar had some revenge in the round 16 clash at the Sam Kerr Football Centre, with goals from Daryl Nicol and Sam Pollard giving them a 2-1 win.
RedStar have finished the season superbly, unbeaten in their last 15 games, and defender Blair Govan said they head into the finals in a confident mood. “Yes, it was a great second half to the season, really happy with where we are at right now, we’ve put ourself in a good place going into finals, hopefully we can keep it going,” Govan said. “We have always had good games against the Glory. Probably the hardest game to prepare for as you don’t know what sort of team they will play. So, we will just be focusing on ourselves, trainings been good everyone is fit and ready. Hopefully we can go out and do the job Saturday.”
Despotovski has been outstanding for the Glory this season, this after they just missed out on relegation last season, and he the players have worked really hard to get into this position. “The season has been a big improvement from last year that’s for sure, and we as a group are very happy with the position, we finished this time round,” he said. “Yes, it will be a big game for both teams on Saturday. We know RedStar are a very strong side and it will be a tough game but I am confident that my team will pull through.”
Glory coach Joe Heath echoed his striker’s views, and believes they are ready for the challenge. “We are very happy to be in a different type of playoff this year. It is a testament to how hard the players and the staff have worked this year as a group. It exposes our players to a different type of pressure, which is good for their development,” Heath explained. “These are the types of games you want to play in as a player and also as a coach. As you mentioned, it will be a tough contest, but exactly what we want, our players constantly being tested and pushed further. We look forward to the challenge.”
In the other NPL top four final games this weekend, Perth SC take on Peter RedStar in the Women’s Major Semi-Final at the Proto DPS Inglewood Stadium (3:00pm), while the Hyundai FW Academy welcome Balcatta Etna to the Sam Kerr Football Centre in the Minor Semi-final(4:00pm). In the Under 23’s finals, Perth Glory take on Olympic Kingsway in the Major Semi-Final at Frank Drago Reserve (11:15am), while Perth RedStar welcome Bayswater City to the RedStar Arena in Joondalup in the Minor Semi-Final (12:15pm).
In the 18’s Major Semi-Final, we have a repeat of last week’s State Cup Final, with Perth RedStar taking on Bayswater City at Frank Drago reserve (9:00am), with Olympic Kingsway taking on Stirling Macedonia in the Minor Sem-Final at RedStar Arena (10:00am). Finally in the Women’s 21’s, the Hyundai FW Academy meet Perth SC at the Proto DPS Inglewood Stadium in the Major Sem-Final !12:45pm, while Perth RedStar meet Balcatta Etna in the Minor Sem-Final at the Sam Kerr Football Centre.
5.9.2025
NPL/STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE – INTER-DIVISIONAL PLAYOFF – FIRST LEG PREVIEW
The league season may be over for most teams, but promotion and relegation places are to be played for in the inter-divisional playoffs, and the first-leg is on Saturday. Firstly, in the NPL/State League Division One Fremantle City will look to keep their NPL status alive after finishing second bottom, and they make the trip to Chichester Park to take on Kingsley Westside who finished fourth, their highest position since they came into the State League in 2020. (Both games kick off at 3:00pm) The hosts were only beaten once at home in the league this season, but did drew five, while Fremantle were beaten six times on the road, so it will be a tight affair, but with an NPL spot up for grabs it should be an entertaining game, and hopefully the wet weather isn’t as bad as expected.
Fremantle captain Hayden Stevens said the win at Armadale could have been their lifeline, but with Balcatta scoring late it sealed their fate, but he hopes the positive performance there will help them in the playoffs. “It was a good result, but we spoke before the game we’ve put ourselves in a position and knew that we were relying on others to potentially help us. The best part was we also could start the next two games off with a win and that’s exactly what we did,” he explained. “We know Kingsley’s home form is really strong and we’re expecting both games home and away to be very tough. We always focus on ourselves and nothing is changing going in to these games. If we play like we have been recently, and follow our processes hopefully the result side of it takes care of itself.”
Kingsley’s fourth place was their highest ever position in the State League, and defender Neil Gillies said they go into Saturday’s game full of confidence. “It’s been a great season for us and to top it off finishing in the top four, which no one probably expected before the season started. It was huge so we’re buzzing for the play offs now and we are feeling confident going into it. The lads and the coaching staff have been brilliant this year and overall, we definitely deserved a playoff spot,” he explained. “It’s always going to be tough playing against an NPL side and Fremantle have some good players so we know it will be difficult over two legs. We’ve only lost once at home this season so we definitely back ourselves there and hopefully we can get ourselves off to a good start and take a positive result into to the away leg.”
In the second game Joondalup City welcome UWA Nedlands to the Iluka District Open Space. The hosts finished third, their best finish in the State League, likewise second placed UWA Nedlands, and both will be looking for a spot in the NPL for their first time in their histories. They have met twice this season and both have been tight affairs, UWA winning 1-0 in round two, with Nicolas Falco on target in stoppage time, while a goal from captain Liam Peacock gave Joondalup the win in round 16, and it should be more of the same on Saturday.
Joondalup striker Harry Edwards said to reach the playoffs is a huge, and not many thought they would do it, but the players and coaching staff have worked hard and they have got their rewards, but they aren’t finished yet. “I think at the start of the season nobody would’ve expected us to be in the position we are, which just motivated us even more to perform. Since day one of pre-season, we had high expectations as a group and a real belief that we could do something special,” he explained.
“Taking the club to NPL would be a massive achievement and a reflection of all the hard work put in from everyone involved. UWA will definitely be a tough game, but these are the games you play for. They set up well and play some nice football so it will be a challenge we are looking forward to. As for us we were in this situation last year and know what we need to do as a group to get into the final, and that starts with putting a massive shift in on Saturday in front of what should be a great turnout if the weather holds up.”
UWA Nedlands pushed the Champions Dianella White Eagles all the way, missing out by only one points, and keeper Tadgh O’Malley said they have real belief and want to take the club into the NPL, but they face a tough test first up against Joondalup. “Absolutely, it’s been a fantastic season from the lads everyone doubted us but we haven’t done anything special yet. Our progress is real credit to Kris (Donnell) and the entire group. It’s the highest-ever finish for the club, but we can do better,” O’Malley explained.
“There’s a real belief and hunger in the squad to go one better, and everyone’s focused on taking that next step into the NPL. Joondalup’s always a tough place to go, and with both league matches being tight 1-0 results, we’re expecting another hard-fought contest. These two-legged ties can swing on minor moments, so a strong performance in the first leg is absolutely vital. We’re confident in our preparation and the group’s mentality. We have a couple of injuries in the group but so do they so it will be a tough battle.”
5.9.2025
STATE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE/DIVISION TWO – INTER-DIVISIONAL PLAYOFF – FIRST LEG PREVIEW
In the Division One/Division Two inter-divisional playoffs first leg sees East Perth welcoming Cockburn City to Hudson Park (Both games kick off at 3:00pm) They have played twice in the league this season, in round five at Hudson Park the Cockerels left with a 2-1 win, Aidan Zaeper gave the visitors the lead early, only for Ciaran Burnett to level early in the second half for the hosts, but a goal just after the hour from Rory McGrath gave Cockburn the points. Then in round 16 the points were shared in a 1-1 draw a Dalmatinac Park, Isaac McVittie gave the home side the lead, but an equaliser three minutes from time by Ryan McCready gave both sides a share of the spoils.
It’s a second season in the playoffs for East Perth, losing to Joondalup City last season, and striker McCready said they are ready to make emends. “Overall, it’s been another good season in the state league for us. We set out with the aim of winning the league after finishing second last year but credit to Quinn’s as they were the best team in the league throughout the season. It’s been a challenging season having lost so many players for different reasons throughout the year but we’ve all stuck together and the lads that have stepped in have done brilliant so that’s something we can be proud of as a club,” the striker explained.
“We’re still in a good position to win promotion so hopefully we can improve on last year and finish the season on a high. We’ve had two really competitive games against Cockburn this year and they probably play the best football in the league so we know it’ll be a tough test but it’s one we’re ready for and looking forward to. I’m sure Hudson Park will be bouncing on Saturday so we’ll try and use that to our advantage and take a positive result to their place next week.”
Cockburn defender Euen Grant said after back-to-back relegations, they are determined to take one step back up this season. “Yes, after two disappointing seasons, our objective is to get back into the first division. First off, congratulations to Quinn’s for winning the league and promotion, they pushed the pace all season. We know it’s not going to be easy, but hopefully in three weeks’ time we can join them there,” he said. “The two games against East Perth this season were tight, highly contested games. We know we’re going to have to be at our best technically and physically to qualify for the final. We have been playing well recently, so hopefully we can continue that into the finals series and ultimately achieve our goal for the season.”
In the other semi-final Kalamunda City will be doing all they can to stay in Division One, but they face a tough trip to Crazy Domains Stadium, Hartfield Park in the local derby first up. Kalamunda looked certain to avoid the playoffs, and a big win against Subiaco in round 19 looked like they had done enough, but three defeats in their final three games saw them slip down. Goalscoring has been their problem this season, only scoring 23, the second worst in the competition, but they have a talented squad, but need to be at their best to overcome and inform Forrestfield.
“Across the season there was a few results that we let slip away, with these finals we won’t allow that to happen. Its 100% or nothing for the next three weeks, we are well aware of that,” Kalamunda keeper Jake Maley-Orr said. “We are prepared for Saturday, and both Kyle and Kristian have done their homework on the last few games for the Forrestfield game. They've given us the tools needed to get through, we knew they are a great young team who have nothing to lose, so they will be tough, but the lads are up for the fight.”
Forrestfield United were the last team to secure their place in the playoffs, pipping Balga to take their place after a 3-0 win in the final game of the season at Wembley Downs, and defender Shaydon Passalacqua said they had to work hard to secure it, but they are ready for the derby. “Leaving it to the final game wasn’t necessarily the plan but the squad had the belief, the togetherness to show everyone that we deserve every chance at promotion. Credit to Wembley’s keeper who pulled out some phenomenal saves to keep it to a respectable score line for his team,’ he explained. “We know full well what Kalamunda brings and we as a squad are up for the challenge. We have nothing to lose and to go out and fight for promotion is what football is all about.”
5.9.2025
OLYMPIC BEAT EMERALD TO REACH AMATUER CUP FINAL
The semi-finals of the Belt Up Amateur League Cup were played on Wednesday evening, well one tie was, after the game between South Perth United and North Perth United at Challenger Reserve was postponed as the pitch wasn’t marked out and it will be played at a later date. The game that did go ahead was a seven-goal thriller, with Olympic Kingsway beating Emerald 4-3 at Kingsway Reserve. Olympic coach Jason Stern, who announced last week this is his last season as coach, said it was a great game and he was proud of his players.
“Don’t really know where to start with this one, but what a game of football. It was a proper cup tie with both teams really wanting it in front of a vocal crowd,” Stern said. “Our first half was excellent and we executed the game plan perfectly. To go in at half time at 2-0 was exactly what we wanted but we knew Emerald would come out firing second half. Going down 3-2 from three set pieces was difficult to handle, but as I’ve said many times this year the group always find something and they did again late in the game to grab a deserved win. I couldn’t be prouder of the lads and a Cup Final will be some way to finish the chapter for a few in our group.”
The home side found the opener on 27 minutes, after some good work down the right by Nathan McManus, the ball found Ben Rooney who cut in on his left foot and found the bottom corner. They doubled their lead six minutes later, a corner from Adam Taylor was bundled home by Liam Mooney, and they took a two-goal lead into the break. Emerald started on the front foot after the break and reduced the margin eight minutes in, a cross was headed home by Darragh Carroll. They were level four minutes later, a free kick to the back post was headed in by Donal Shanley.
Emerald hit the front just after the hour, a corner to the near post was glanced in by Stephen Kinsella. The game had taken a huge turn, but it wasn’t over there and on 74 minutes Olympic restored parity. An overlapping run by Matthew Catchick saw his low cross beat everyone and find James Venton unmarked to score on the back post. It was a cup thriller, and the game was in the balance, but it was Olympic who found the winner two minutes later. Great work on the left by Venton, and he whipped in a dangerous ball for Ben Rooney to head in at the back post. Emerald ended the game with ten men with Kinsella sent off after receiving a second yellow card late.
5.9.2025
GLORY SIGN FORWARD TREW
Perth Glory have added another option in the final third by snaring forward Bronte Trew. A-League Women coach Stephen Peters’ pre-existing ties with Trew in New South Wales played their part in enticing the 23-year old across to Perth, with the former Western Sydney Wanderers finisher signing on for next season.
Trew put away four goals in 19 outings for the Wanderers last season, having helped Peters’ Macarthur Rams to the championship-premiership double in 2024 with 16 goals in 27 games. Prior to joining Macarthur she was the leading goal scorer at South Coast Suns with 29 goals to her name in a single season.
Trew is eager to build upon her debut A-League Women’s season performance with Glory. “As a striker, my role is to score goals, and I want to contribute as much as I can to help the team succeed this season,” she said. “I am looking forward to working hard in pre-season and putting myself in the best possible form when the season kicks off, and I can’t wait to get started.”
“A quote that resonates with me is to ‘go about it the right way,’ and that’s a message I carry with me in football and in life. For me, that means giving 100 per cent whether it’s scoring goals, creating chances for my teammates or putting in the hard work off the ball. If I approach everything the right way, I know the rewards will come, and I really believe we can achieve something special as a group this year.”
5.9.2025
FORMER SOCCEROO KILKENNY EYEING COACHING CAREER FOLLOWING RETIREMENT
Neil Kilkenny is ready for the next stage of his career - and has his sights on coaching at the highest level possible. The one-time Socceroos midfielder hung up his boots after Sorrento’s final National Premier Leagues game of 2025 to bring down the curtain on a glittering career.
Part of the Perth Glory side that won the club’s first silverware of the A-League Men era with the 2018/19 premiers’ plate, Kilkenny played 84 games and scored 11 goals during his time out west. He was the club’s Most Glorious Player in 2019/20, helped Western United to an A-League Grand Final victory in 2022, played 15 times for the Socceroos and was a member of Australia’s 2011 Asian Cup and 2008 Olympic Games squads.
“I want to coach at the highest level possible. I’m ambitious and I want to pursue my career in coaching,” said Kilkelly, who sees his future in the dugout. “The character I am, I am very determined and focused on my goal and willing to work hard to achieve a career in football. I’ve been fortunate enough to play at the highest level and hopefully I can do the same thing with head coaching and management.”
Kilkenny has already taken his first steps into the coaching realm, heading up Football West’s academy as a football development officer and leading the WA Under-16 side to a silver medal at the Emerging Socceroos Championships in July. The 39-year old’s longevity in the game is a testament to the iron will and steely determination which defined his uncompromising on-field performances.
A member of Arsenal’s academy, he played 18 English Premier League games for Birmingham City and spent nine seasons and more than 300 matches in the ultra-competitive and unforgiving English Championship and League One, representing Leeds United, Preston North End and Bristol City. On returning to Australia, the combative midfielder played 160 games in the national league.
“I’ve got very good memories of Glory. I loved it there, I didn’t want to leave, if I’m honest,” he said. “I wanted to finish my career playing there and that was the idea. But this is football, this is life, and you have a new manager or coach that comes in and these things change.
“But it was really successful, I helped Glory win their first A-League trophy, which was a fantastic achievement for the whole squad. Often in football a negative can turn into a positive and I was fortunate enough to go to Western United and help them win their first A-League grand final. I’m really proud of my 20-year professional career and grateful for the playing career I’ve had.”
That is not to say Kilkenny has no regrets over his nearly 20-year professional career. “I would have loved to have represented Australia in the World Cup, but not everything goes your way in football, which made me focus on the next thing. I’ve played in nearly every major competition with the Australian national team, apart from the World Cup.”
But for now, Kilkenny is focused on the future much more than reflecting on the past. “Everyone wants to play this free flowing football, but ultimately, you can only play with the players you’ve got, so you’ve got to get the best out of the players. You have to be adaptable,” he said. “Technique is important, but obviously the mental resilience as well, because you have to have a lot if you want to get to that very highest level.”
5.9.2025
IREDALE PROUD OF SOCCEROOS CALL-UP
Hibernian defender Jack Iredale has spoken of his pride at being called up to the Australian national team ahead of this weeks double-header with Trans-Tasman rivals New Zealand. The centre-back is hopeful of making his Socceroos debut against the All Whites, and has joined up with fellow Hibee Martin Boyle in the Australian camp.
Iredale has featured in every Hibernian match so far this season, playing a key role in his clubs' domestic and European fixtures. “It’s another step in the direction I want to go,” said Iredale, who was added to the Socceroos squad following Fran Karacic’s withdrawal for medical reasons. “It’s obviously a very proud feeling to be involved in this camp.”
“I feel really fortunate to be here with the boys and, after my first day, I can’t wait to get going with the rest of the camp. Anyone that knows me and my football journey knows how much representing my country would mean to me. It is something I have always wanted. With this opportunity to be involved now in this camp, I’ve got to just put my best foot forward and be ready for whatever role is required.”
Iredale has been previously capped by Australia at Under-17 level, while dealing with three ACL injuries in his teenage years. Now 29, the defender strives to make his senior international debut with the Socceroos, and is thankful to have familiar faces around him to make his second camp with the national team a “comfortable” occasion.
“There are a lot of boys I remember from the last camp as well,” he said. “I went to primary school with Cam Burgess, so I’ve known him for about 20 years as well. Boyle and Millsy (former Hibernian player Lewis Miller) have made me feel very comfortable. Seeing all the players and staff I got to know in Abu Dhabi, it’s a really nice environment to come into.”
4.9.2025
KERR TO MAKE CHELSEA AFTER 18 MONTH LAY-OFF
Samantha Kerr is to play her first match in more than 18 months after Chelsea boss Sonia Bompastor confirmed Australia’s captain would feature in this weekend's Women’s Super League season opener against Manchester City. It will be Kerr’s her first appearance since suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury in January 2024 while on a training trip with the club.
“Sam Kerr is in the squad. We don’t know yet if she will start or not but she’s in the squad,” said Bompastor on Thursday. “She’s in a good place. She’s been training well. She’s physically in a good position, also mentally. It’s nice because she is one of the players everyone wants to see on the pitch. That’s nice for me, also, to have her in the squad, with her leadership and experience.”
Bompastor has pleaded for fans to be patient after Kerr’s long absence from the game. “At the same time, to be fair to her, she’s been away from the pitch for a long time so I think we still need to be patient,” Bompastor said. “That’s normal for her not to be at her best level yet. Hopefully soon, but that’s already a good step for her and for us for her to be in the squad.”
4.9.2025
HOW BUFFON PUT CIRCATI ON PATH TO THE SOCCEROOS
Socceroos star Alessandro Circati has revealed that advice from Italian goalkeeping great Gianluigi Buffon helped convince him to pledge his international allegiance to Australia rather than the Azzurri. Born in Italy, Circati moved with his family to Western Australia at the age of one, playing for Perth SC and Perth Glory.
Circati returned to Italy in 2021 to join Parma, where his performances led to his selection in the national under-20 team. A battle for his services at international level emerged, with Circati saying he went with his “heart” in choosing Australia, but only after a conversation with Buffon, the 2006 World Cup winner whose total of 176 caps remains an Italian national record.
“Buffon was at Parma at the time, (and) he was reading about it, what could possibly happen,” Circati explained. “I went up to him and I asked him, ‘Gigi, what would you do in this situation?’ The first thing he said to me was, ‘What do you feel inside? Forget about everything else. Forget about what pressure you receive from the club. Forget about the pressure you receive. Forget about everything. What do you feel internally?’
“I told him, and then five days later, I made the decision. Coming from him, you could see when he was representing Italy, he was probably one of the most passionate players in world football. Whatever he was telling me, I’m sure it was the truth. I wanted to hear his opinion, and I followed his opinion, and I’m very happy.”
2.9.2025
IREDALE EARNS SOCCEROOS CALL-UP
Hibernian defender Jack Iredale could win his first senior cap for Australia after being called into the Socceroos squad for their friendly series with New Zealand. The 29-year-old, who was included in a training camp but not selected for the most recent round of World Cup qualifiers, has been selected as a replacement for Fran Karacic, who has withdrawn for medical reasons.
Speaking with the Hibs Observer in July, Iredale spoke about his Socceroos hopes and his time in the training camp in the United Arab Emirates. "(Coach Tony Popovic) was really good, very honest with me," Iredale said. "By all accounts he seemed happy, I just was not quite at the level that he wanted – but he wasn't closing the door."
"He told me, 'This is what you need to do to get there', and I've taken that on board and I'm working towards what he's set out. The best chance I can give myself is to concentrate fully here at Hibs and playing European football. "Playing well is only going to help me, so that's now my full focus, to hopefully achieve those international dreams."
"Every player wants to play in the World Cup, but for me, it's not changed. I've always wanted to play for my country. It being in a World Cup year would be even more special, but even just to manage to pull that green and gold on one time would be a dream come true." Iredale will join Easter Road colleague Martin Boyle in the squad as well as fellow ECU Joondalup graduate Cameron Burgess, currently with Swansea City.
2.9.2025
ORR HAT-TRICK ENDS SEASON ON A HIGH FOR CANNING
The State League regular season is done and dusted after the final catch up game was completed on Tuesday evening, with Canning City finishing sixth on the table after a hat-trick from Bill Orr helped them to a 3-1 win against Ashfield at Willetton Reserve. Canning coach Lee Hayward said it was a good way to end the season. “It was good to get a win after finishing off the season well, however I think both teams had already put their feet up for the off season,’ he said. “I think it’s the highest finish Canning has had for a good few seasons, but we are a little disappointed with our season as we feel we should have done better as a group.”
Ashfield, who had already secured their place in the league next season, made the best possible opening the scoring on ten minutes, with Nathan Scully converting from the spot. Canning hit back, with inform striker Orr powering past two Ashfield defenders, before finishing past Kaan Kadi. Canning hit the front shortly after, Orr adding his second, cutting in from the right and finishing well. The icing on the cake just before half time, with Orr completing his hat-trick from the spot, to seal the game.
The promotion play-offs kick off this Saturday with the first leg semi-finals. Forrestfield United host Kalamunda City in a local derby at Hartfield Park, while East Perth face Cockburn City at Hudson Park. Both matches begin at 3pm, with the second legs to be played the following Saturday. The away goals rule will apply. At the other end, Wanneroo City and Swan United must wait for the conclusion of the Amateur Premier Division to learn whether they will be involved in play-off matches to preserve their State League status for 2026.
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